To protect the public, Gov. Dennis Daugaard has enacted a No-Boating Zone on a short section of the Big Sioux River, effective at 8 a.m. on Monday, May 7, 2012.

The No-Boating Zone will be in effect for a portion of the Big Sioux River located in the city of Sioux Falls, starting at the Minnesota Avenue bridge and continuing downstream to the Cliff Avenue bridge.

The no-boating order will be in effect until rescinded by the Governor.

The city of Sioux Falls is currently working on repair of its sanitary sewer system between Minnesota and Cliff avenues. The construction may result in hazardous boating conditions on that stretch of the Big Sioux River. As a precaution, Sioux Falls officials requested temporary closure on that portion of the Big Sioux 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, said Jeff Vonk, Secretary of the South Dakota 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.