Illegal Rafting Enforcement, Operation Dry Water

[Marine Patrol]

As the 4th of July holiday approaches, the New Hampshire State Police-Marine Patrol Unit is asking boaters who frequent regulated rafting areas to assist us by complying with the anchoring requirements in these areas.

In recent years, the number of boaters using the rafting areas on our lakes has increased significantly. Areas on Lake Winnipesaukee such as Braun Bay, Small's Cove, and Wentworth Cove to name a few, have also seen an increase in violations of the state's rafting laws.

As many know, high concentrations of anchored boats in a confined area also creates safety issues for boaters and swimmers. Very recently, first responders were significantly delayed from reaching a person suffering from a medical emergency due to illegal boat anchoring practices. Propeller injuries, diving accidents, and alcohol related medical emergencies are also common in these areas.

This weekend, Marine Patrol Officers will be focusing on the enforcement of rafting regulations and Operation Dry Water, a national awareness and enforcement campaign focused on reducing the number of alcohol and drug related accidents and fatalities on the water. We are asking everyone to do their part by complying with state laws while sharing good times with family and friends.

Please see the attached rafting regulations and illustration to assist those wishing to anchor in a regulated area.

I wish you all an enjoyable holiday weekend on the water.

Safe Boating!!

Tim Dunleavy
Captain,
NH State Police
Marine Patrol Unit