MARYLAND – Maryland Natural Resources Police will increase patrols and target impaired boaters during the busy Independence Day weekend as part of the nationwide Operation Dry Water campaign.
The annual enforcement effort runs from July 3 through July 5 and includes high-visibility patrols, vessel safety inspections and enhanced enforcement on waterways across the state.
"The Fourth of July holiday is one of the busiest times on Maryland's waterways, and everyone on the water has a role in keeping one another safe," Maj. Catherine Medellin, Maryland's boating law administrator, said in a statement. "If you'll be behind the helm, make the responsible choice to stay sober this holiday weekend and throughout the boating season."
According to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, alcohol was a contributing factor in two of the state's seven fatal boating accidents in 2025. During last year's Operation Dry Water campaign, Natural Resources Police arrested nine people for operating a vessel under the influence of alcohol.
Officials encourage boaters to designate a sober operator, wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket and ensure all required safety equipment is on board before heading out. Boaters are also urged to check weather conditions, file a float plan or let someone know where they are going and when they expect to return.
Operation Dry Water is a national campaign coordinated by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators to reduce boating under the influence and improve safety on the water during one of the busiest boating weekends of the year.
