Published June 17, 2025
MetroParks rangers to participate in national boating safety campaign Fourth of July weekend
As part of a national effort to raise awareness about the risks of impaired boating, Five Rivers MetroParks rangers will join law enforcement agencies across the country in supporting the National Association of Boating Administrators’ annual Operation Dry Water campaign. The campaign aims to reduce accidents — sometimes resulting in severe consequences — due to impaired watercraft operation through education, outreach and heightened law enforcement presence on waterways, lakes and beyond.
Operation Dry Water weekend is July 4 to July 6. During this time, MetroParks rangers and marine patrol will be at Eastwood Lake and other MetroParks locations offering and conducting vessel safety checks and ensuring sober operation of watercraft, from motorized boats to kayaks.
“Alcohol continues to be the leading known contributing factor in recreational boating deaths and plays a significant role in serious boating incidents,” said MetroParks Ranger and Ohio Safe Boating instructor Michael Waller. “Impairment from alcohol or any drug — whether legal or illegal — can significantly hinder judgement, coordination and reaction time on the water.”
During the 2024 Operation Dry Water campaign, officers across the nation removed 548 impaired boat operators from the water, helping to prevent life-threatening incidents.
“As the holiday weekend approaches, we want to encourage everyone to have fun on the water in a way that keeps themselves and other recreationalists safe,” said Waller. “This is a priority for MetroParks rangers year-round.”
Indeed, safe boating should be observed year-round and includes practices beyond avoiding consumption of alcohol or drugs, such as:
- Life jacket safety
- Proper vessel maintenance
- Meeting the requirements of Ohio’s Boater Education Law
- Boating with a buddy and leaving a float plan
- Knowing your limits with regards to boating and paddlecraft skills
Five Rivers MetroParks offers many educational and hands-on programs throughout the year that explore these topics, including MetroParks’ annual Ohio Boater Education course and kayak certification programs. Programs that introduce the basics of paddling on flatwater and moving water are also hosted by MetroParks certified and trained outdoor recreation professionals throughout the year.
Current program offerings can be viewed at metroparks.org/programs.
Additional resources can be found at the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the American Canoe Association’s websites:
- Ohio Boater Safety Guide (www.ohiodnr.gov)
- Best Practices for Paddlers and Paddlesport Programs (www.americancanoe.org)
A conservation agency, MetroParks also encourages those celebrating over the holiday weekend – and during occasions throughout the year – to follow Leave No Trace principles by disposing of waste properly.
Litter left in the parks, on bodies of water and in the rivers can have a detrimental effect on habitats and wildlife.
Where to boat and paddle in your Five Rivers MetroParks
Five Rivers MetroParks is home to 833 acres of ponds and lakes, and 16 acres of waterways. Locally, there are also 270 miles of river corridor to explore, 42 of which MetroParks maintains. Discover an adventure on the water that suits your vessel or paddlecraft by visiting metroparks.org.
“When selecting a lake, pond or section of our rivers to paddle, it is imperative to look out for signs that indicate potential safety concerns, such as low-head dams or poor water quality,” said Waller. “Our region offers so many beautiful adventures to have on the water, but being safe is the first step and we’re here to help the public with that.”
Learn more about Five Rivers MetroParks rangers at metroparks.org/safety.
