Law enforcement in the region will be on the lookout for people drinking and boating this weekend.
It’s part of operation dry water, a nation-wide enforcement event to prevent drunk boating. Sherriff’s departments, Game Wardens, and the Corps of Engineers are some agencies that will be taking part.
Iowa Boating Law Administrator Susan Stocker says law enforcement will be out in force on lakes and rivers. Boaters can expect checkpoints, patrols and breathalyzer tests. Stocker says around 34 percent of boating fatalities in the US are alcohol-related. In Iowa that number is much higher.
Stocker says people forget that drinking and boating is illegal because boating is recreational. She says boaters forget drinking while out on the water can be more dangerous.
Stocker says being around water leads to worse dehydration.
A blood alcohol content of .08 or above is considered intoxication. In Iowa the first BWI offense is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, and at least 48 hours in jail, with boat operating privileges taken for one year.
Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota are also partners with Operation Dry Water.
