DUI boat patrol to ply Lake Roosevelt

GRAND COULEE — The National Park Service (NPS), in partnership with local law enforcement agencies, will be participating in “Operation Dry Water” from July 3-5.

Operation Dry Water is a national campaign to educate boaters about the dangers of boating under the influence of drugs or alcohol. During this time, boaters at Lake Roosevelt will see an increased law enforcement presence from NPS, Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife Police, and local Sheriff offices during this effort to promote safe recreation on Lake Roosevelt.

“We take boating under the influence very seriously. That’s why we participate in this nationwide campaign,” said National Park Service Park Ranger Chris Dodds, “We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable time.”

According to the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA), alcohol is the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents. NSBLA reminds boaters that if they boat under the influence, their voyage may be terminated, the boat may be impounded, and the operator may be arrested. Penalties vary by state but can include fines, jail and loss of boating or even driving privileges.

The federal blood-alcohol content legal limit for operating a vessel under the influence is .08.