No-Boating Zone Enacted on Big Sioux River in Sioux Falls

PIERRE, S.D. – To protect the public during a city construction project, Gov. Dennis Daugaard has enacted a No-Boating Zone, effective at 8 a.m. on Monday, June 18, on a portion of the Big Sioux River in Sioux Falls.

 

No boating will be allowed from the Minnesota Avenue bridge downstream to the Cliff Avenue bridge.

 

The order will be in effect until rescinded by the Governor. 

 

The city of Sioux Falls is repairing its sanitary sewer system between Minnesota Avenue and Cliff Avenue.  The construction may result in hazardous boating conditions on that stretch of the Big Sioux River. As a precaution, city officials have requested temporary closure of boating on that stretch of the river. 

       

State law gives the Governor authority to prohibit or restrict recreational use or navigation on any portion of a river, lake or stream in order to protect the public peace, health, or safety, according to Jeff Vonk, Secretary of the state Department of Game, Fish and Parks.

 

A violation of the public waterway restriction is a Class 2 Misdemeanor, punishable by up to 30 days in jail, a fine of $500, or both.

 

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