Des Moines, Iowa – An annual campaign to boost enforcement of Iowa’s boating while intoxicated law is underway. Susan Stocker, boating law administrator and education coordinator for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources says “Operation Dry Water” got underway this Saturday, July 1st, and runs through Monday, July 3rd.
Stocker says the statewide operation will consist of increased patrols, check points, and breath tests will be administered, along with informing the public about the dangers of drinking and boating.
Stocker says wave action can enhance the effects of alcohol.
She adds it’s important passengers be sober as well and that everyone on board have their head on a swivel.
The Iowa Great Lakes ranked at the top of the list in 2022 in Iowa for arrests for boating while intoxicated, with 7. The total last year statewide was 36. During Operation Dry Water last year, the DNR and its partners contacted more than 1,425 vessels and 5,253 boaters resulting in 533 citations or warnings.
(Courtesy Community First Broadcasting station KUOO in Spirit Lake)
