Operation Dry Water taking place on area lakes this holiday weekend

Wisconsin DNR conservation wardens will once again join law enforcement agencies nationwide for Operation Dry Water, an annual campaign to prevent boating while impaired to keep waters safe for all this holiday weekend, July 3-5.

The campaign is made to increase awareness of the dangers of operating a boat while impaired due to alcohol consumption. Alcohol use remains a leading known contributing factor in recreational boating fatalities nationwide. In 2025, one-third of Wisconsin’s 15 fatal boating incidents involved alcohol.

As part of Operation Dry Water, wardens will focus on public education, compliance checks and efforts to identify and remove impaired boat operators. Boaters can expect to see an increased law enforcement presence on the water and at boat launches.

The Wisconsin DNR urges boaters, operators and passengers to boat sober, wear a life jacket and respect others on the water.