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Whitmer prohibits motorized boating.
LANSING — The Michigan Department of Natural Resources announced today that the use of motorized watercraft is now prohibited, under orders of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
A press release from the DNR states:
Under the governor’s revised “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order 2020-42, physical outdoor activity such as kayaking, canoeing, and sailing remains permissible. However, the use of a motorboat, jet ski or similar watercraft is not permitted for the duration of the Executive Order, which is currently set to expire at 11:59 p.m. on April 30, 2020. Prohibition on the use of motorized watercraft is reflected in the governor’s Frequently Asked Questions document that explains and interprets Executive Order 2020-42 – https://www.michigan.gov/…/0,9753,7-406-98178_98455-525278-…
The DNR has received many reports about the heavy use of boat launches across the state and the subsequent congregation of people at these launches in violation of social distancing requirements and in a manner that threatens public health. In addition, people who use motorized watercraft typically have to procure secondary services for their craft, such as parts and gasoline, that could unnecessarily increase contact with others and spread disease. The hope is that the prohibition on the use of motorized watercraft will reduce the movement of people within the state and potential contact among people, with the intent of slowing the spread of the coronavirus.
As an additional reminder, any outdoor activity permitted under the order must be done in a manner consistent with social distancing, and individuals should use only their own equipment when boating to prevent the transmission of the virus through the touching of shared surfaces.
Please recreate locally and responsibly. Long-distance travel is prohibited unless it is for a purpose considered critical under the governor’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order.
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