DNR seeking comments on proposed alcohol ban

The Department of Natural Resources is accepting comments on a proposed rule to ban alcoholic beverages at state parks, state recreation areas and public access beaches on the Iowa Great Lakes during the July 4 holiday.

Beer and wine could still be consumed at the campgrounds, picnicking areas loutside of the beach area, rental shelters and lodges during the period of the ban.

The DNR asserts that excessive alcohol consumption during the midsummer holiday has damaged resources and presented a safety risk to the both the public and DNR personnel.

Public comments will be accepted through July 13, and a public hearing will be held at 6:30 p.m. that same day at Gull Point Lodge, West Okoboji Lake, 1500 Harpen St., Milford. Written comments may be sent to Sherry Arntzen, State Parks Bureau, Wallace State Office Building, 502 E. Ninth St., Des Moines, IA 50319-0034. They can also be emailed to sherry.arntzen@dnr.iowa.gov.

The DNR requests that “Chapter 68 Comments” be written in the subject line.