TWRA’s Operation Dry Water aims to curb drinking, drug use while boating

JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) is highlighting its Operation Dry Water (ODW) campaign as the July 4 holiday draws closer.

ODW is a year-round boating under the influence (BUI) enforcement initiative that brings a heightened awareness and law enforcement presence to waterways during the Independence Day holiday.

From July 4-6, the TWRA and regional law enforcement agencies will take to the water to keep a close eye on those boating.

TWRA spokesperson Matt Cameron told News Channel 11 that intervening in those boating while under the influence of drugs or alcohol saves lives.

“You know, boating under the influence is the leading contributing factor to fatal boating accidents across the nation,” he said. “So if we can identify and apprehend and remove and impaired operator from the waterways, we’re probably going to save some lives out there.”

Cameron said boaters across the Tri-Cities will notice an increase in officer patrols on lakes and rivers.

“Boating under the influence is a 100 percent preventable crime that will not be tolerated by wildlife officers,” Lt. Col. Matt Majors of TWRA’s Boating and Law Enforcement Division said in the release. “It is very selfish and irresponsible to endanger your life or the safety of others by consuming alcohol or drugs and operating a boat.”

According to the TWRA, operating a boat with a blood-alcohol content of .08% or higher is illegal in Tennessee, the same as driving a car. Penalties for a BUI could include fines, jail, boat impoundment and the loss of boat driving privileges. TWRA said officers on the water this 4th of July will have breathalyzers equipped ready to check boaters.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.