A state agency announced Minnesota’s deadliest counties for impaired driving Friday, and Mower came in 24th out of 87.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety publicizes the 13 deadliest counties each year and then provides enhanced DWI patrols in the areas the following year. In 2009, the deadliest county designation goes to Hennepin, the state’s most populous county and home of Minneapolis.

According to department statistics, there were 60 alcohol-related deaths and 174 alcohol-related serious injuries in Hennepin County between 2006 and 2008, resulting in $80 million worth of medical and other costs.

By comparison, Mower County saw one alcohol-related death and 18 alcohol-related serious injuries during the same time.

Hennepin and the other 12 “deadliest counties” accounted for more than half of the state’s alcohol-related deaths in the three-year span and will receive extra patrols throughout 2010.

“Sustained, increased DWI patrols are a necessary strategy in the fight against the illegal and deadly behavior of impaired driving,” Jean Ryan, alcohol programs coordinator at the DPS Office of Traffic Safety, said in a press release. “Minnesota can put the biggest dent in our alcohol-related deaths and injuries by directing resources to these areas.”

Minnesota’s deadliest counties for impaired driving

1. Hennepin

2. Ramsey

3. Anoka

4. St. Louis

5. Dakota

6. Wright

7. Stearns

8. Rice

9. Olmsted

10. Washington

11. Scott

12. Sherburne

13. Otter Tail

24. Mower