While folks were enjoying various Independence Day festivities in the Magnolia State over the holiday weekend, officers with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) were working to keep the state’s waterways safe.
Through the “Operation Dry Water” campaign, a nationwide effort to raise awareness of the dangers of boating under the influence, a heightened presence of MDWFP conservation officers trekked the state’s waters throughout the Independence Day weekend.
Throughout the enforcement period, officers reported:
- 287 citations (36 being alcohol and drug-related)
- 13 boating under the influence citations
- 7,775 boaters contacted
“We had an outstanding holiday weekend, ensuring safe boating practices for everyone on the water,” MDWFP Boating Law Administrator Major Chris Clark said. “Whether you are a seasoned operator or new to boating, we encourage you to make responsible choices to help prevent accidents.”
MHP reports 4 fatal crashes over Independence Day enforcement period
