Operation ‘Dry Water’ to start Friday

DNR partners to increase boating while intoxicated law enforcement

A group of state, federal and local law enforcement agencies will partner to focus enforcement of Iowa’s boating while intoxicated law as part of the June 28-30 national Operation Dry Water campaign to draw public attention to the hazards of boating under the influence.

“More than 70 percent of Iowa’s boating fatalities in 2012 involved alcohol and many of those victims were innocent bystanders,” said Susan Stocker, boating law administrator and education coordinator for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.  “We will increase patrols, conduct check points, administer breath tests and inform the public on the hazards involved on the waters across Iowa as part of Operation Dry Water.”  

Operators may not think they are under the influence, but their judgment, reaction time, balance and vision indicate that they are, Stocker said. 

“The effects of alcohol can be intensified when combined with wind and wave action and an extended time spent - Read More Via e-Edition