Operation Dry Water: Heightened Boating Enforcement July 3-5

As boating traffic increases over the Fourth of July weekend, North Dakota Game and Fish Department, along with other law enforcement agencies, will increase on-the-water patrols and enforcement as part of Operation Dry Water, a national campaign focused on preventing boating under the influence. From July 3–5, officers will take part in the initiative in partnership with the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators and the U.S. Coast Guard. 

Alcohol use remains the leading contributing factor in recreational boating fatalities. As part of Operation Dry Water, Game and Fish will focus on public education, compliance checks, and enforcement efforts designed to identify and remove impaired vessel operators from the water. Boaters can expect an increased law enforcement presence, including targeted patrols and sobriety checks in high-traffic areas.

"The Fourth of July weekend is one of the busiest times of the year on the water," said Jackie Lundstrom, Department enforcement operation supervisor, "Boating under the influence is completely preventable, and it puts everyone at risk. Our wardens will be actively enforcing BUI laws to help ensure a safe holiday weekend for all waterway users."

Regardless of whether you are operating a vessel or riding as a passenger, alcohol- or drug-impaired boating increases the risk of incidents, injuries and fatalities. In North Dakota, it is illegal to operate a vessel with a blood alcohol concentration of .08% or higher. The department urges boaters to always boat sober and utilize a life jacket when on or near water.

Visit operationdrywater.org or gf.nd.gov for more information about safe boating.