WV boaters to be aware of increased water patrols over Memorial Day weekend

HINTON (WVNS) – Many are planning to hit the lake for Memorial Day Weekend.

Boats will be making their way across the water all weekend, but boating laws are still going to be enforced. Just like rules and laws on roadways, boaters must follow rules and laws while in the water.

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To make sure boaters are following these laws, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources is increasing the number of water patrols this holiday weekend.

Sergeant Bob Johnson with the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources said it is important to be aware of your surroundings.

“We’ll have boats on every lake and then kayaks or canoes on every river or stream that’s navigable. Everybody is wanting to get out and explore the wild and wonderful West Virginia and some of them don’t wanna do it safely so we have to increase our patrols out here to keep everybody happy and safe,” said Sergeant Johnson to 59News.

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Sergeant Johnson said their patrols will be more aggressive rather than passive. This means that they will be actively moving on the water.

The WVDNR wishes for all West Virginians to celebrate Memorial Day weekend responsibly.

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