Guidance put out Friday by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources states that recreational motorized boating is prohibited under Governor Whitmer’s stay-at-home order.

The guidance, included in a “frequently asked questions” section on the MDNR and governor’s websites, states that kayaking, canoeing, and sailing are permitted outdoor activities, although those pursuing those activities must practice social distancing and people from different households may not boat together. The use of a the use of a “motorboat, jet ski or similar watercraft,” however, is prohibited.

“The DNR has received many reports about heavy use of boat launches across the state and the subsequent congregation of people at these launches in violation of social distancing requirements, and in a manner that threatens public health,” the MDNR wrote. “In addition, people who use motorized watercraft typically need to procure secondary services for their craft, such as parts and gasoline, that could unnecessarily increase contact with others and spread disease. The hope is that the prohibition on the use of motorized watercraft will reduce the movement of, and contact among, people with the intent of slowing the spread of the coronavirus.”

First Published April 11, 2020, 2:06 a.m.