(WWJ) While it's still OK to canoe, officials say motorboating is not permitted in Michigan under the "Stay Home, Stay Safe" Executive Order.
According to the Michigan Department of Recreation, non-motorized boating, such as canoeing, kayaking and sailing, falls within the outdoor activities are allowed at this time. However, the use of a motorboat, jet ski or any similar watercraft is not permitted for the duration of the Executive Order, which is currently set to expire at 11:59 p.m. April 30.
Michiganders should also note that any outdoor activity, including boating, must be done in a manner consistent with social distancing (staying at least six feet apart from people outside your household), and individuals should use only their own equipment to prevent the transmission of the virus through the touching of shared surfaces. In addition, persons not part of a single household may not boat together.
The DNR says charter and fishing guide operations that involve boats, canoes and other marine vessels also are not currently permitted.
In addition to the DNR Law Enforcement Division, Michigan State Police and local law enforcement agencies have full authority to enforce the provisions of the order, the DNR said.
State harbors are closed through at least May 15. There are no services available, including bathroom buildings, electrical, fuel, pumpouts, etc. and no slip reservations can be made. Fishing licenses will remain available for purchase online.
The purpose of the order is to slow the spread of COVID-19, which has killed at least at least 1,281 people in Michigan.
Questions? Get more information from the DNR at this link. Read Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's "Stay Home" order here.
