From the DNR Water levels on a number of Minnesota lakes and
rivers are expected to remain high during the Fourth of July
holiday week, so the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
(DNR) is urging boaters to slow down and use caution. “People
should always wear their lifejackets while boating, but
especially during times like this,” said Tim Smalley, DNR
boating safety specialist. “The waters are higher and moving
faster than people are accustomed to, and that can create
dangerous situations.” Recreational boaters should also be aware
that there are high water conditions on the Mississippi,
Minnesota and Lower St. Croix rivers resulting in hazardous
debris in the water. “River and lake debris could include trees
as well as man-made items. Debris will often float just at or
below the surface, so a boat traveling at high speed may not be
able avoid it in time. Hitting a deadhead or snag at high speed
could result in anything from a broken propeller to a ruined
lower unit -- or worse, serious injuries to boa