Utah cracks down on impaired boating during busy holiday weekend

DNR Law Enforcement will be increasing Boating Under the Influence checks this holiday weekend. Photo: Department of Natural Resources

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — Boaters heading to Utah’s lakes and reservoirs over the Fourth of July weekend can expect an increased law enforcement presence as the Utah Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division participates in Operation Dry Water, a national campaign aimed at preventing boating under the influence.

From July 3–5, Natural Resource Officers will conduct additional on-the-water patrols, compliance checks, and targeted enforcement.

The annual campaign comes as holiday boating traffic reaches one of its busiest periods of the year. According to the department, alcohol remains the leading known contributing factor in recreational boating fatalities.

“Our officers will be actively enforcing BUI laws to help ensure a safe holiday weekend for all waterway users,” Lt. Brian Kurta said in a statement. “Boating under the influence is completely preventable, and it puts everyone at risk.”

Officials said boaters should expect increased patrols and sobriety checks in high-traffic recreation areas throughout the weekend.

Under Utah law, it is illegal to operate a vessel with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.05 percent or higher. Violators may face arrest, fines, and other legal consequences.

The department is also reminding recreationists that impairment affects both vessel operators and passengers, increasing the risk of crashes, injuries, and fatalities. Officials encourage everyone on or near the water to wear a life jacket and designate a sober operator before heading out.

Jordanelle State Park and other reservoirs throughout the state are participating in the free Life Jacket Loaner program and have stations near the water for boaters.