Boat & Water Safety

The Boat & Water Safety program:

  • provides the public with safety information and education programs, and coordinates the efforts of other safety agencies and groups throughout the state.
  • collects and interprets statistical data on boat and water accidents and boating in general. Minnesota has the highest per capita boat registration figure in the country.
     

    • Image from the cover of the Minnesota boating guide.Minnesota Boating Guide  Adobe Acrobat Reader is required to download this file.
    This booklet summarizes Minnesota's boating laws and regulations.
  • handles the free mandatory boating and safety education program for 12 through 17-year-olds; water surface use management; informational programs on boat and water safety; and in-service training programs for safety and enforcement personnel. Order the MN DNR's Boating Safety course free home-study packet or take the Boat Minnesota This link leads to an external site. course online with a one-time fee of $20 to take the final exam.
     
  • Publications

DNR News

05/30/2013: Boat and water safety leader to retire from 41-year DNR career Full story

05/21/2013: Cold water dangerous to boaters this Memorial Day weekend Full story

04/24/2013: Warm weather, cold water can be dangerous mix for boaters, paddlers Full story

05/12/2011: Early season anglers face cold water danger Full story