Operation Dry Water Launches to Catch Drunk Boaters Over Fourth of July Holiday Weekend

(KNSI) — The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is launching Operation Dry Water to help keep the state’s lakes and rivers safe over the Fourth of July holiday.

Local conservation officers are joining the nationwide saturation enforcement effort to bust drunk boat drivers. According to the DNR, boating while intoxicated is the leading contributing factor in accidents and fatalities on the water.

For those caught operating a boat under the influence, the consequences extend far beyond just boating privileges. DNR Marine Unit Lieutenant Eric Sullivan explained that the penalties are severe and wide-reaching. “Here’s the bottom line. Drunk boating is drunk driving. If you’re caught, you can lose your privilege to operate a boat, a car or other recreational vehicles.”

This year, Sullivan wants the public to know officers are taking an especially hard line. “If you are under the influence and operating a boat or vehicle, we will find you. There are no warnings and no second chances. You will be arrested. You will go to jail. And you will face serious consequences.”

The goal is to make the water safer for everyone by removing anyone operating under the influence during one of the busiest boating weekends of the year.

The campaign runs through July 7th.

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