Wisconsin law enforcement ramping up patrols for Operation Dry Water 🚤

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has announced an increase in the presence of conservation wardens and area law enforcement on state waterways as part of the national Operation Dry Water campaign.

The heightened enforcement period is scheduled for July 1-3. During this time, law enforcement officers will focus on educating boaters about safe boating practices and enforcing laws against operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

According to a DNR press release on Friday, June 23, statistics indicate that alcohol is a leading factor in boating fatalities with nearly 80% of boating fatalities being drownings nationwide, and the majority of these incidents being linked to alcohol use.

Since its inception in 2009, DNR noted that Operation Dry Water has resulted in law enforcement officers across the country taking actions against over 4,700 impaired boat operators.

In Wisconsin, operating a boat with a blood alcohol content of 0.08 percent or higher is illegal. Penalties for boating under the influence can include fines, imprisonment and loss of boating privileges.

Operation Dry Water is a national campaign coordinated by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators.

For more information on safe boating practices and the Operation Dry Water campaign, visit operationdrywater.org.