The 4th of July is just around the corner. If you are heading to the Mississippi River for a boating or camping trip, heed this reminder. No fireworks are allowed on the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge. This is because of their disturbance to wildlife as well as the litter they leave behind.
The Refuge includes most islands and beaches on the Mississippi River from Wabasha, MN, to Rock Island, IL. If you are not sure if you will be within the Refuge, please contact the Refuge office at 815-273-2732, or check the maps located at www.fws.gov/refuge/upper_mississippi_river.
Federal law enforcement officers will be patrolling the refuge, looking for fireworks as well as glass bottles, which are also banned on refuge beaches.
- The fine for glass bottles is $175.
- The fine for fireworks possession and use is $225.
Officers also remind people of the importance of wearing their PFD’s (Personal Flotation Devices) while on the water.
