With four of the five great lakes surrounding us, 10,000 inland lakes and ponds, and a 35,000 mile web of rivers, streams, and wetlands, it is important to know the rules of the water road. Here is what we think you need to know if you’re heading out on the boat anytime soon.

Large crowds gathered Saturday on Lake St. Clair despite the order banning large outdoor gatherings. It was Raft Off 2020, an event held by the same group that hosts Jobbie Nooner -- another large boating event that was held normally this year despite an increase in coronavirus cases at the time. Aug. 8, 2020: Michigan coronavirus (COVID-19) cases up to 86,889; Death toll now at 6,250Gov. Gretchen Whitmer ordered a ban on outdoor event with more than 250 people. As of Aug. 8, St. Clair County has 684 confirmed coronavirus cases and Macomb County has 9,976.

Lake St. Clair’s infamous Jobbie Nooner is still on for Friday despite a recent increase in Michigan’s coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and hospitalizations. How easily the virus spreadsHow easily a virus spreads from person-to-person can vary. Some viruses are highly contagious (spread easily), like measles, while other viruses do not spread as easily. Prevention & TreatmentThere is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). People who think they may have been exposed to COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider immediately.