REGIONAL— Minnesotams could find that launching a boat this spring is more difficult than usual due to low water levels on many lakes and rivers. The lack of snow this winter and persistent dry conditions have left lakes without the normal spring recharge. 
“With unusually low water levels, people launching larger boats and pontoons with longer trailers will need to pay extra special attention to ramp lengths and depths,” said Nancy Stewart, DNR water recreation consultant.
In addition to repair work now underway, DNR crews will use the month of April to install docks. For DNR public access sites, dock-in dates are shown on LakeFinder(mndnr.gov/lakefinder); search for the lake then click on water access sites noted on the lake map to find dock details on the water access site webpage. 
Spring boaters should always anticipate and prepare for cold water conditions. This year, they should also watch out for obstructions such as rocks and sand bars that typically are not an issue for spring boaters.   
Stewart offers the following tips for launching boats in low water conditions: 
• Launch slowly.
• Have a spotter in the boat while launching so trailer tires and boat axles don’t fall off the last plank where an existing blowhole might be present.
• Have hip boots or waders and a life jacket as it might help to get in the water and guide the boat or check the ramp for firmness and water depth.
• Lower the motor only after making sure there is enough water depth.
• Use a lake map as a guide to avoid shallow areas and watch for obstructions.
• Boaters who encounter problems at a DNR public access site can contact their local DNR office or the DNR Information Center at 888-646-6367. For public water access maps, state water trail maps and boating information, go to the DNR’s public water access webpage (mndnr.gov/wateraccess).