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As part of what’s being billed “Operation Dry Water,” law enforcement officials from various agencies say will be out on the water looking for impaired boaters on Minnesota lakes and rivers this Fourth of July weekend.

“Our lakes and rivers are going to be busy, probably extremely busy, which is great,” said supervisor of the Department of Natural Resources Enforcement Division’s Marine Unit, Eric Sullivan. “We want everyone to have fun out on the water, but you can also expect the lakes will be busy with DNR conservation officers and our partner law enforcement agencies across the state, because safety is our number one priority."

Sullivan said law enforcement views impaired boating just as it views impaired driving on roadways.

“If you’re under the influence and operating a boat or vehicle, we will find you,” said Sullivan. “There are no warnings and no second chances. You will be arrested, you will go to jail, and you will face serious consequences.”

The DNR said nearly half of all fatal boating accidents in Minnesota involve alcohol. The legal limit for boating while impaired is at .08.

“You might think that just having one drink before driving a boat isn’t a big deal, but it changes everything,” Sullivan said on the shore of Lake Minnetonka Wednesday. 

The agency also demonstrated an underwater drone it uses to help recover drowning victims.

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State officials are reminding Minnesota boaters not to drive intoxicated this holiday weekend. They say enforcement efforts will be out in full force.

Law enforcement warns boaters to drive sober this holiday weekend

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