“Operation Dry Water” on Minnesota Lakes This Weekend

“Operation Dry Water” kicks off on Friday as hundreds of officers will be out on the water across the entire state looking for impaired operators. The DNR has a simple message -Get caught drinking and boating, and you could get jail time.

According to the DNR, 42% of fatal boating accidents in the last 5 years were alcohol related. In Minnesota, a blood alcohol level of .08 or higher while operating a boat is against the law.

Officers say they hope this campaign will help boaters make better decisions. Adam Block, a conservation officer with the DNR said they have a zero tolerance policy. “You will not get a warning. You will be arrested.”

In addition to jail time, violators could be fined and possibly lose their boat.

The crackdown starts Friday and runs through Sunday.