St. Paul The weeks-long lack of rain in most places in Minnesota has caused lakes, rivers, wetlands, and streams to shrink significantly this summer.

Exposed shoreline has become an inviting place for all-terrain
vehicle operators to run their machines. However, that’s now
illegal, due to the damage such operation can cause.

The 2003 Minnesota Legislature passed a package of new ATV
regulations, including a provision that makes it illegal to operate
a vehicle anywhere below the ordinary high water mark of unfrozen
lakes and rivers listed in the state’s Public Waters Inventory.
Several wetlands also are included. Call local DNR offices for more
information.