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    • 2-Day Mini-Season, Florida Lobster, July 25-27, 2019, Come to Key Lime Sailing Club, Key Largo, FL


      Key Lime Sailing Club in Key Largo, 305-451-3438, www.keylimesailingclub.com

      Key Lime Sailing Club, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, always has very special offers for their visitors! Key Lime Sailing Club is on the Inside Route side of Key Largo. Key Lime Sailing Club is a unique slice of KEYS ENJOYMENT…give it a try and let us hear about your experience.

       
      Mini Lobster Season
       
      Next week, July 24th and 25th, will be Florida’s Mini Lobster Season!
       
      Every July, the coastal areas of Florida are flooded with lobster hunters trying to get their share of this year’s bounty before the official lobster season kicks off.
       
      There are two Florida Lobster Seasons, the 2-day mini season and the 8-month regular lobster season. The mini lobster season is always the last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday in July. This year the mini season falls on July 24th and 25th. It begins at 12:01 am on Wednesday and ends at 12:00 midnight on Thursday. 
       
      The 8-month regular lobster season is always August 6 through March 31. 
       
      There is a specific way to catch a Florida lobster. To learn how, click here.
       
      You should always verify dates and regulations with Florida Fish and Wildlife.  Visit FloridaLobstering.com for more info.
       
      Learn to Sail Month
       
      The American Sailing Association wants to energize everyone to start sailing by proclaiming this July the first ever “Learn to Sail” month. 
       
      For every sailing lesson taken or purchased during the month of July at one of our 350+ certified sailing schools nationwide, the American Sailing Association will make a donation to Sailors for the Sea and their mission to save the oceans!
       
      Key Lime Sailing Club’s sailing school, the American Sailing Academy, is one of ASA’s certified sailing schools. Please contact Capt g at 305-896-5555 or captg@keylimesailing.com if you have any questions, or visit www.AmericanSailingAcademy.com for our course descriptions.
       
      Our Summer Season Rates are still in effect! From May 1st to August 15th, 2019, you can take advantage of an amazing summer vacation in the tropical Florida Keys for as low as $200 per night. 
       
      Here are our available dates and cottages for the next three months:
       
      Cottage rental includes unlimited use of a 22’ sailboat (for qualified sailors), kayaks, paddle boards, water toys, bicycles, snorkel and fishing gear at no extra cost.
       
      We also offer activities  such as ocean side sail and snorkel charters aboard a pirate shipbayside sunset cruisesailing lessons, and kayak eco-tours.
       
      Visit our website www.keylimesailingclub.com and send us a Request to Book! You can also call or text our reservation specialist at 305-451-3438 almost any time day or night!
       
      Win Stays at Key Lime Sailing Club
       
      To our guests and friends, get a chance to go back and vacation at KLSC without paying anything by sending us pictures of your stay here! Win our 8th KLSC Photo Contest and get a free 3 night stay. Check here for details.
       
      Got a talent for video making? Enter our KLSC Video Contest and get a chance to win a free 5 night stay! Check here for details.
       
      We at Key Largo Cottages at Key Lime Sailing Club love our guests and we will be happy to have you back again for another fun filled and relaxing Florida Keys vacation!
       
      Reservations is standing by @ keylargocottages@keylimesailingclub.com or call 1-305-451-3438
       
       
      Thank you and see y’all in the Florida Keys!
       
       
      Follow Key Lime Sailing Club and Cottages on Social Media: FacebookTwitterInstagramYoutube,
       
      Learn ASA Certified Sailing at American Sailing Academy. Call us at 305-587-3205.
       
      Enjoy a Snorkel or Sunset Cruise both bay side and ocean side as well as boat rentals from 22 foot to 68 foot. at Morning Star Sailing Charters. Call us at 305-451-7057.
       
      South Dade Marina, Wet and Dry Slips Available. Call 305-247-8730
       
      Key Lime Sailing Club and Cottages | 305-451-3438 | 99306 Overseas Highway, Key Largo Florida | www.keylimesailingclub.com
       
      Key Lime Sailing Club and Cottages | 99306 Overseas HighwayKey Largo, FL 33037
       
       

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Key Lime Sailing Club

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    • Summer / Winter Sailstice Discounts! Key Lime Sailing Club, Key Largo, FL


      Key Lime Sailing Club in Key Largo, 305-451-3438, www.keylimesailingclub.com

      Key Lime Sailing Club, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, always has very special offers for their visitors! Key Lime Sailing Club is on the Inside Route side of Key Largo. Key Lime Sailing Club is a unique slice of KEYS ENJOYMENT…give it a try and let us hear about your experience.

       
      LET Summer begin Friday June 21, The longest day of the year!
       
      What are solstices?
      Solstices are the longest and shortest daylight of the year days.
       
      The summer solstice happens on one day June 20 – 22 each year, with the longest daylight time and also marks the first day of summer. The winter solstice, happens on December 20 – 22, has the shortest daylight of the year and marks the first day of winter.
       
      Here is our Sailstice Discount you can take advantage of:
       
      * Book a reservation staying from 6-21-19 to 7-5-19 and receive 21% off our peak session rates. Valid for new reservations only.
       
      * NEW WINTER SAILSTICE now at Key Lime Sailing Club!
      Celebrate the shortest day of the year Dec. 21st 2019 by sailing the frozen winter in warm tropical waters of the FLORIDA KEYS. YES, Key Lime Sailing Club and Cottages coins the WINTER SAILSTICE. AND YES! Start off winter by sailing!
       
      * The DEAL
      Book your reservations within the next 5 days for a 5 night stay between Dec 15th and checking out Dec 22 2019 and receive 21% off Peak Season rates.
       
      WHERE WILL YOU SAIL ON HE SHORTEST DAY OF THE YEAR,
      Tell us on our face book page key lime sailing club and cottages.
       
      Want to improve or learn Sailing? We got you covered! VisitAmericanSailingAcademy.com or call Capt G. 305-896-5555 tell him u seen it in our email and get 10% off if you book a course in next 5 days.
       
      Register your winter sailing event on the Winter Sailstice Page for a chance to win a Vacation gift certificate and other nice prizes. Enter here.
       
      Our Summer Season Rates are still in effect! From May 1st to August 15th, 2019 you can take advantage of an amazing summer vacation in the tropical Florida Keys for as low as $200 per night in our cottages. 
       
      Here are our available dates and cottages for the next three months:
       
      Cottage rental includes unlimited use of a 22’ sailboat (for qualified sailors), kayaks, paddle boards, water toys, bicycles, snorkel and fishing gear at no extra cost.
       
      We also offer activities  such as ocean side sail and snorkel charters aboard a pirate shipbayside sunset cruisesailing lessons, and kayak eco-tours.
       
      Visit our website www.keylimesailingclub.com and send us a Request to Book! You can also call or text our reservation specialist at 305-451-3438 almost any time day or night!
       
      Key West International Guitar Festival: Bridges to Paradise
      Jun 21, 2019 – Jun 23, 2019 in Key West
       
      The festival features a fusion of master guitarists performing classical, jazz, Latin, blues, folk & contemporary music in historic venues throughout the island, in a series of world-class concerts. Food and wine events are to be paired with music throughout the island offering a culinary and cultural experience highlighted by a special event, “Virtuoso Chefs of Key West.” Featured artists include Mateo, Belle, Rolando Rojas and Larry Baeder. Tickets on sale April 6, online. Call 305-304-1437 or visit their website.
       
      Mango Fest Key West
      Jun 29, 2019 in Key West
       
      Mango Fest of Key West features all things mango including mango tasting, mango trees and mango daiquiris. The culinary competitions between local chefs and residents alike showcases the colorful abilities of what the mango, also known as the king of fruit, has to offer. The Vendor Village gives art collectors and foodies the experience of a festival atmosphere. Music is provided along with live radio broadcasts. From 10AM to 3PM, Bayview Park, 1400 Truman Ave. Visit their website for more info.
       
      You can check out more upcoming Florida Keys events at FLA-Keys.com.
       
      Win Stays at Key Lime Sailing Club
       
      To our guests and friends, get a chance to go back and vacation at KLSC without paying anything by sending us pictures of your stay here! Win our 8th KLSC Photo Contest and get a free 3 night stay. Check here for details.
       
      Got a talent for video making? Enter our KLSC Video Contest and get a chance to win a free 5 night stay! Check here for details.
       
      We at Key Largo Cottages at Key Lime Sailing Club love our guests and we will be happy to have you back again for another fun filled and relaxing Florida Keys vacation!
       
      Reservations is standing by @ keylargocottages@keylimesailingclub.com or call 1-305-451-3438
       
       
      Thank you and see y’all in the Florida Keys!
       
       
      Follow Key Lime Sailing Club and Cottages on Social Media: FacebookTwitterInstagramYoutube,
       
      Learn ASA Certified Sailing at American Sailing Academy. Call us at 305-587-3205.
       
      Enjoy a Snorkel or Sunset Cruise both bay side and ocean side as well as boat rentals from 22 foot to 68 foot. at Morning Star Sailing Charters. Call us at 305-451-7057.
       
      South Dade Marina, Wet and Dry Slips Available. Call 305-247-8730
       
      Key Lime Sailing Club and Cottages | 305-451-3438 | 99306 Overseas Highway, Key Largo Florida | www.keylimesailingclub.com

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Key Lime Sailing Club

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    • Dinghy Dock Closed, Tarpon Basin, Key Largo, FL, Inside Route Mile 1140


      Our thanks to Martin and Cindy Dahm for this report of another door closed to cruisers. Will anchoring in the Basin be next?  See https://cruisersnet.net/690 for more comments from Martin Dahm. Tarpon Basin lies on the east side of the Waterway in the northeast corner of Buttonwood Sound.

      My wife and I have been anchored at Tarpon Basin in Key Largo for the last 3 weeks and have been using the dinghy dock at the Murray E. Nelson government building without any issues. However yesterday we returned from running errands ashore and found the attached signs had been posted in the parking lot and in several places on the dock. As of April 15, 2019 no one will be able to tie up to the dock, trees or moor within 25 feet of the dock. Overnight parking will also be prohibited. I suppose you could still use the dock to drop someone off and then pick them up later, but no can leave their dinghy tied up anywhere on the property. Looks like Monroe County is rolling up the welcome mat for the cruising community.
      Best Regards,
      Martin and Cindy Dahm
      S/V Just One Dance
      Lagoon 380 S2

       

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Florida Keys Anchorage Directory Listing For the Tarpon Basin Northern Anchorage

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Florida Keys Anchorage Directory Listing For the Tarpon Basin Southern Anchorage

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Florida Keys Anchorage Directory Listing For the Tarpon Basin Interior Anchorage

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Tarpon Basin Anchorages

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      Comments from Cruisers (5)

      1. Davy J -  April 8, 2019 - 5:53 pm

        When I saw the first photo I wondered, how many cruisers have their car parked overnight at the county property? These are not cruisers, but they sure are ruining it for those of us who are.

        Reply to Davy
        • Cruisers' Net -  April 8, 2019 - 2:35 pm

          Amen to that. No matter what part of the proverbial “public” you work with, there will always be some that will spoil the amenities offered, and all will suffer.

          Reply to Cruisers'
      2. BILL MARETT -  April 8, 2019 - 8:22 am

        It isn't the water, it's the land; or more specifically, the abuse of the shoreside facility by unthoughtful live-aboards. The county center had become a garbage dump, bathrooms were constantly fouled, and the parking lot had become an ersatz boatyard. Efforts were made to educate users of these issues, but the problems continued to be exacerbated. When we cruisers take advantage of community resources, we have to be responsible, and most of us are. Yet, some who decide that they want to "live off the grid" have taken the generosity of the public too far and the results are that we all lose some of the benefits that we as taxpayers and visitors should enjoy. This should be a lesson to us all.

        Reply to BILL
    • USACE Additional Public Meeting, March 20, Marathon, FL

      This additional meeting in Marathon follows earlier ones scheduled in February, see Public Meetings on Lake Okeechobee Operations.

      News Release: Corps announces public meeting in Florida Keys for Lake Okeechobee System Operating Manual; public scoping comment period extended to April 22
      https://www.saj.usace.army.mil/Media/News-Releases/Article/1775631/corps-announces-public-meeting-in-florida-keys-for-lake-okeechobee-system-opera/

      Contact 
      Erica Skolte
      561-340-1527
      561-801-5734 (cell)
      Erica.A.Skolte@usace.army.mil

      The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville District announces an additional public scoping meeting in the Florida Keys regarding the development of the new Lake Okeechobee System Operating Manual (LOSOM). This will be the final meeting in a series of National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) public scoping meetings held throughout south Florida. After the scoping comments are analyzed, series of workshops will be announced in the future. The public scoping comment period will be extended through Monday, April 22, 2019.

      The public is invited to provide input during a public scoping meeting on Wednesday, March 20, 2019, from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Marathon Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, BOCC Room (second floor), Marathon, FL 33050.

      “We had excellent turnout at the public scoping meetings in Lehigh, Okeechobee, Clewiston, Stuart, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach and Miami Gardens. More than 1,700 people came out to listen and provide comments on the things that are most important to them. We heard a lot of feedback regarding the priorities and concerns of people from all around the lake and south of the lake,” said Lt. Col. Jennifer Reynolds, Deputy Commander for South Florida. “We added a meeting in the Keys to ensure we have covered all the areas that might be affected by our lake and system operational decisions. It’s important to listen to the people who live, work and recreate near Florida Bay, at the south end of the system. It’s all connected.”

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    • FWC: Notice of Public Meetings

      Let’s hope you never find yourself in the position of having to prove your vessel seaworthy. Obviously, these “input” meetings have more to do with restricting anchoring than with derelicts. See Anchoring Legislation.

       


      Notice of Public Meeting

      The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Division of Law Enforcement, will be holding meetings to seek the input of the public in the process of rulemaking. Per direction of the Florida Legislature, FWC will be seeking public input on developing the process that law enforcement officers use to determine that a vessel has an effective means of propulsion for safe navigation. This rule will allow a law enforcement officer to conduct an evaluation of a vessels propulsion capabilities to determine whether or not the vessel is at risk of becoming derelict. This evaluation process will be part of s 327.4107, F.S., through incorporation by rule.

      Please see the dates and times scheduled for these public meetings below:

      March 11, 2019 Pinellas County Commission Chambers 6:00pm 8:00pm 315 Court Street, Clearwater, Florida 33756

      March 12, 2019 St. Augustine City Commission Chambers 6:00pm 8:00pm 75 King Street, St. Augustine, Florida 32085

      March 14, 2019 Pensacola City Council Chambers 11:00am 1:00pm 222 W. Main Street, Pensacola, Florida 32502

      April 2, 2019 Bernstein Park Meeting Facility 6:00pm 8:00pm 6751 5th Street, Stock Island, Key West, Florida 33040

      April 3, 2019 Murray Nelson Government Center 6:00pm 8:00pm 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, Florida 33037

      April 4, 2019 Palm Beach County Vista Center, Rooms E-58/E-59 6:00pm 8:00pm 2300 North Jog Road, West Palm Beach, Florida 33411

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Dave Bennett -  March 5, 2019 - 6:34 pm

        If it is a sailboat, it does not need an engine. So will they inspect the sails?

        Reply to Dave
    • FWC Implementing Enhancements to 2019 Aquatic Plant Management

      What does plant management have to do with boating? The necessary steps to correct or slow invasive plant growth may affect channel depths (see Lake Depths) as well as limit anchoring availability in treated areas. 

      FWC implementing enhancements to Aquatic Plant Management Program

      The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is moving forward with implementing a variety of enhancements to the agency’s Aquatic Plant Management Program. FWC staff recently completed a series of listening sessions that provided the public with an opportunity to provide feedback about management activities on Florida waterbodies with a focus on invasive plant management. Based on the input provided at these meetings, the FWC will begin implementing a number of improvements including:  

      • Accelerating the development of habitat management plans for individual lakes.
      • Forming a Technical Assistance Group consisting of staff, partners and stakeholders.
      • Improving the timing of herbicide-based invasive aquatic plant treatments.
      • Exploring ways to better integrate and increase the strategic use of mechanical aquatic plant harvesting.
      • Exploring new methods and technologies to oversee and increase accountability of aquatic plant control contractors.
      • Developing pilot projects to explore better integrated plant management tools.
      • Improving agency communication regarding plant management activities.

      As discussed at the FWC Commission meeting on Feb. 21, in Gainesville, it was worthwhile to temporarily pause aquatic herbicide treatments while the public meetings were in progress. Now the meetings have concluded, it is essential for the FWC to resume its aquatic plant management program and to implement enhancements identified by the public. The FWC uses an integrated plant management approach that includes chemical, mechanical, biological and physical methods to control invasive plant species.

      Research and decades of experience show that chemical control, using herbicides approved for use in aquatic systems, achieves the best results for addressing many of Florida’s toughest invasive plant infestations such as water hyacinths and hydrilla. However, many participants in the meetings encouraged the FWC to manage waterbodies in ways that would reduce the use of herbicides. Therefore, the FWC is re-committing to employing methods that minimize the quantity of herbicides needed to achieve the desired level of control.

      “During the listening sessions we heard a diversity of concerns and opinions. Waterfront property owners, boaters and community officials stressed how important it is for the FWC to quickly resume control of the worst plants such as hydrilla before they grow to a point that makes lakes virtually unusable,” said Kipp Frohlich, Director of the FWC’s Division of Habitat and Species Conservation.

      “We also heard from anglers and waterfowl hunters that some hydrilla can be beneficial. Finding the balance, that manages a system in a way that pleases all the diverse user groups of Florida’s lakes, is very difficult. Nevertheless, we are committed to continue our work with stakeholders to better understand their needs and strive to manage our aquatic resources in ways that benefit the greatest number of people,” said Frohlich.

      While the listening tour has ended, the FWC continues to welcome suggestions from stakeholders. People can provide comments by emailing InvasivePlants@MyFWC.com.

      For more details on aquatic plant management visit MyFWC.com/AquaticPlants.

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    • Donations Sought to Fight Anti-Anchoring Legislation in Florida

      The battle with Florida legislators over anchoring privileges has been going on for years and the restrictions on anchoring appear to be raising their ugly heads…AGAIN! For earlier discussions, see Right to Anchor, Restrictive Anchoring, Continued Discussion. Please donate if you can.

       

      We want to thank each of you who has made contributions to help keep Florida anchorages open to cruisers. While contributions from our members and members of SSCA, DeFever Cruisers and MTOA are appreciated, presently, the total contributions are running short of our expectations.

      This year, SEVERAL FLORIDA CITIES ARE ACTIVELY ENGAGED IN A HOST OF ANTI-ANCHORING, ANTI-CRUISING BILLS including but not limited to the Cities of Melbourne and Hollywood. These bills can result in the elimination of specific anchorages that you currently enjoy.

      Our coalition and the lobbying firm representing us in Tallahassee are working closely with BoatUS lobbyists to stop local governments from passing legislation which would allow them to regulate anchoring in their jurisdictions, but we need your help. Please do not assume that our lobbying efforts can proceed without your help. We can win but it takes resources and commitment throughout the upcoming Legislative Session.

      We know that a law passed in Florida will set the precedent for the same maritime treatment in other states along the I95/AICW corridor.

      WHETHER YOU CRUISE IN FLORIDA OR NOT, WE NEED YOUR HELP TO STOP THIS ASSAULT ON OUR RIGHTS TO CRUISE AND ANCHOR IN FLORIDA AND BEYOND.

      Please contribute today!

      Thanks to all of you for your support!

      -Kim
      Kimberly Russo
      Director
      America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association
      krusso@greatloop.org
      843.879.5030

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    • FWC Interactive Daily Sampling Map for Red Tide

      The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission Interactive link is at the bottom of this posting.


      FWC will provide interactive Daily Sampling Map for red tide

      The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will provide an enhanced, interactive map updated daily of water samples to inform the public on the status of naturally-occurring red tide throughout the state.

      The online Daily Sampling Map will be offered in addition to FWC’s current Wednesday and Friday updates on the status of Florida’s red tide blooms. This will provide the public with more immediate and accurate red tide data, as researchers process the many water samples from across the state.

      “We are pushing out all we can, when we can, in the spirit of providing the most timely and beneficial information to the public and partners,” said FWC Executive Director Eric Sutton. “We will continually expand efforts to assist during this difficult event.”

      The FWC works with a large network of partners, including private organizations, local governments and citizen volunteers, to continue research and sampling efforts and has conducted meetings and phone calls to develop a course of action for affected areas. This strong collaboration is critical to response efforts in coastal communities throughout the state.

      Additional information is at MyFWC.com/RedTide.

      Click Here for Red Tide Map of Florida Gulf and Atlantic Coasts

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    • A Boater Grieves the Loss of Anchorages

      Sadly, as Steve Ramsay bewails, what seemed unthinkable ten years ago is now a reality, not only in Florida, but along much of the east coast: free, public anchorages are becoming pay-for-use municipal mooring fields. (Enter “mooring” in the Search window above for a perspective on the battle that was waged against mooring fields in Florida several years back.) While welcomed by some who see the moorings as an alternative to ever rising dockage fees, those of us who boat on a budget and find the moorings restrictive, along with the prohibitive cost of boating in general, are in agreement with Steve, to the point that we can no longer afford to spend much, if any, time cruising. Steve is replying to A Disturbing Message about Anchoring.

      Like so much of our culture today, it is a case of the “HAVEs” versus the “HAVE NOTs.” We hear you Steve!

      I moved here from New England and as a boater since age 2, I am very disappointed with the availability of moorings here (Tampa area). Boating is such a healthy outdoor activity for the whole family. Go to New England, you will see boats on moorings as far as the eye can see, and they only have a 4 month season. I had planned on buying a 24 ft. sloop, but I am afraid I will have to abandon the idea altogether. Personally, at $400 per month for a mooring, I am forced to leave my favorite past time to a high end class of people who will continue to enjoy sailing as much as I did. I have been priced out. It seems like boating here is discouraged rather that encouraged and fully advocated for.

      Comments from Cruisers (2)

      1. edd Jennings -  July 31, 2019 - 9:37 am

        It seams to me that the big marinas are really controlling the cost of docking more so than ever, in St. Petersburg the safe harbor group will get control of the city docks soon, that means they have a monopoly controlling all the docks and moorings in St. Petersburg.
        As for anchoring I don’t have any problems with this except that Most anchorage’s have bad boat that are in kept and in danger of abandonment also there is a problem with pumping out this is a federal regulation that is always over looked
        Anchorage for transit moorings and dingy docks is a good idea for everyone at a minimum price if not totally free.

        Reply to edd
      2. Jerry -  September 28, 2018 - 12:36 pm

        You are absolutely correct,Steve. I traveled in a trawler from North Carolina to Louisiana for many years and enjoyed the many towns and anchorages along the way. Not nearly as many anchorages as there used to be. And many more restrictions on the ones that are left. Florida, especially , seems to discourage boating. Especially transient boating. I got tired of the hassle and high cost of marinas, moorings, and dockage and got out of boating. It’s not affordable for the average pocketbook anymore. It’s just one more thing that belongs to the people with a lot of money. The middle class will soon be no more.
        My opinion,
        Jerry

        Reply to Jerry
    • FWC: Derelict Vessel Removal Grants Available in Florida


      DERELICT VESSEL REMOVAL GRANT 2018-2019 OPPORTUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT

      The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is announcing the first opportunity to apply for Derelict Vessel Removal Grants for the 2018/2019 budget year.  The application period for the Bulk Derelict Vessel Removal Grant Program will begin on September 3, 2018, at 8:00 AM (EST), and end on October 17, 2018, at 5:00 PM (EST). Applications received after October 17, 2018, will not be eligible for consideration in round one. All removal applications must be complete and authorized for removal in the Statewide Derelict Vessel Database as well as demonstrate proof that due process was provided for each vessel’s owner. At a minimum, this would include an opportunity for the vessel owner to challenge the derelict vessel determination, either in criminal court or in an administrative hearing. Vessel cases not demonstrating that these opportunities have been offered to the owners of the vessels will not be considered for state funding assistance. A Letter of Authorization to remove and dispose of the vessel, issued by a law enforcement agency must be included in the application. Should funding be available for a second or subsequent round of applications, new announcements will be made.  The grant guidelines and application form may be downloaded at: http://www.MyFWC.com/DVGrant.  

      You may also receive the guidelines and application by contacting Phil Horning at (850) 617-9540 or email DVGrant@MyFWC.com. 

      Applications that meet the requirements for the Rapid Removal Grant Program may be submitted at any time after the opportunity announcement start date, but no later than November 23,2019, at 5:00pm (EST) (based on available funding). Rapid removal cases must meet requirements of published guidelines as well as due process requirements.  Total funding allocated for derelict vessel removal for fiscal year 2018-2019 was $1,000,000. Applications may be mailed to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Boating and Waterways Section, Derelict Vessel Grant Program Administrator, at 620 S. Meridian Street – Room 235, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1600 or emailed to DVGrant@MyFWC.com.

      For further information, please contact:

      Phil Horning, Derelict Vessel Program Administrator, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Division of Law Enforcement, Boating and Waterways Section, (850) 617-9540 or email Phil.Horning@MyFWC.com

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    • Excellent Explanation of Florida Restrictive Speed Zones, plus comments

      We think you will appreciate the new comments from Dan, Glenn and Bill on Jim Healy’s article on wake originally posted by Claiborne in 2011.

      Jim Healy

      The very informative message below is copied from the Trawlers and Trawlering Mail List. This free list is an excellent adjunct to Cruisers’ Net, and we highly recommend it. Thanks to Captain Jim Healy for giving one of the best and most thorough descriptions of restrictive speed zones I have ever seen!

      Florida does by far the best job of identifying speed zones as any other US State. By far. (Canada is best of all, but I digress.) Florida Law defines three categories of marine speed limits: 1) “Idle Speed, No Wake,” 2) “Slow Speed, Minimum Wake” and 3) “Normal, Safe Operation.” There are several variations of “Slow Speed, Minimum Wake:” everything from 25MPH nights, 30MPH days, to date restrictions, etc. Many, many “Slow Speed, Minimum Wake” signs have small print that says “channel exempted” or “channel included.” Or, within 300 feet of the west (or) east shore.” Or, “within 300 feet of the bridge.” Or, effective dates. Take a pair of binoculars and make sure you read the small print. That small print can save you travel hours and personal anxiety.
      In almost all Manatee areas (narrow channels with shallow waters where the animals are likely to be in the deeper channel areas), you will see long stretches of “Slow Speed, Minimum Wake.” One that’s about 6 miles long runs from below New Smyrna Beach to Mosquite Lagoon. The good news is, there are actually relatively few “Idle Speed, No Wake” zones, and Florida in general does not abuse them. Remember, the best way to get compliance is when people
      generally agree that the rules are “right.” If people comply because it’s the right thing to do, enforcement is not required. So, “Idle Speed, No Wake” zones
      in Florida are generally short, and virtually always surround narrow bridges and boat ramp launch areas.
      Florida State Law defines “Slow Speed, Minimum Wake” as “fully settled in the water,” not making a wake that would cause harm to other nearby boaters, and minimum wake. For trawlers that travel at hull speeds of 7.5 kts, “Slow Speed, Minimum Wake” is essentially not much different from your normal speed. All I do is back off 200-250 rpm or so to make sure my wake doesn’t break at the crests. That’s where I’m fully compliant with the law.
      NOTE: This set of distinctions is NOT well understood, even by other boaters, so from time to time, people will yell at you. I always wave back in friendship.
      One such area is the bascule bridge tender at the Haulover Canal. Another is the area of Peck Lake, just above Hobe Sound (Jupiter Island). And yet another is at the Royal Palm bridge in Palm Beach County. They’ll yell at you that you’re in a “No Wake” zone. Not true; the zones are clearly marked “Slow Speed, Minimum Wake.” When you remind them of that (high power, channel 13 or 16, so the whole world hears), they go quiet, or mumble and mutter. But, these areas are heavily patrolled, especially on weekends, and none of the police agencies (FWC, sheriff, metro) will quibble with you. In fact, they often operate (non emergency mode) with wakes larger than your own. We’ve never been stopped, and we always wave and get friendly waves back. Good judgement is important, too, since some min wake areas are more sensitive than others.
      The pearl is, Florida “Slow Speed” zones are designed to protect Manatees by controlling heavy, powerful sportfish and sea-ray types that are fast, selfish and have exposed wheels; Manatee can easily avoid trawlers and slow cruisers. And of course, sail boats. So except for the immediate area of South Florida between Ft. Lauderdale and Miami, you will rarely be inconvenienced by “No Wake” zones.
      A good guide in South Florida is to watch what the local 12 – 18 foot day boaters are doing. They are a useful indicator in unfamiliar territory. If they’re ripping along, you’re OK. If they’re dawdling along, check the signage.
      Jim
      Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary
      Currently at Franklin Lock, Alva, FL, southbound

      What you write makes sense, but unfortunately law enforcement does not always use common sense. I have been stopped in my sailboat in a `Slow Speed, Minimum Wake’ zone while creating at most a 6-inch wave which I produce at my usual cruising speed. The most infuriating thing was that moments before I was pulled over I was seriously waked by a whole string of powerboats going full tilt through the same area. Luckily, when I angrily confronted the police officer with this information he let me go. His take was that even on a sailboat throwing almost no wake we must slow down significantly in these zones.
      John Kettlewell

      I have to disagree with Jim. Here on the West Coast you better be going slower than 7.5 kts in a min wake zone. I have personally asked three FWC law enforcement officers how they define min wake and none gave me an answer other than go very slow. They did not have any definition and most just shrugged their shoulders. Even the definition you quote just says `minimum wake’ at the end. I usually slow down to 1300 RPM or around 4 knots. Even at that speed I have had sheriffs boats pull along side of me and told to go slower. At anything over 5knts on the West Coast, you’ll get a ticket.
      Dick Goldfarb

      Comments from Cruisers (5)

      1. Norman Mason -  April 20, 2018 - 1:27 pm

        Jim’s analysis is ,as always, excellent. The Florida DNR and local law enforcement may understand the difference in “slow speed minimum wake” vs. “idle speed no wake”. The Coast Guard, however, does not. I was stopped by the Coast Guard going into Fort Pierce. I was running 1000 rpm, and a speed of about 5.5 knots in a “slow speed minimum wake” zone. My Monk 36 was fully settled in the water, with minimum wake. I showed the USCG boarding party the Florida DNR definitions. This was to no avail, as he said there was “no difference”. Except for the fact we determined somehow that we had gone to high schools that played each other in sports, I would have been cited with a Federal violation. There was no discussion of any difference in his opinion. He finally let me off with a warning.
        I wish there was some way to resolve this issue, but now, If the speed zone is relatively short, regardless of what it is marked, I run at idle speed. The zone south of New Smyrna Beach, marked” Slow speed minimum wake” is one I would probably run 5 knots, because it is so long.
        Norman Mason
        Peggy Sue, Monk 36, currently cruising St. John’s River, FL
        California, MD
        April 20, 2018

        Reply to Norman
      2. Bill Marett -  April 18, 2018 - 4:45 am

        “the area of Peck Lake, just above Hobe Sound (Jupiter Island).” … “But, these areas are heavily patrolled, especially on weekends, and none of the police agencies (FWC, sheriff, metro) will quibble with you.”

        Unfortunately, that has not been my experience. I’ve been stopped while slightly above idle speed by FWC, and on another occasion had a siren and blue lights with a “back down” wave. Each time I explained that I was traveling at 800 rpm, with idle at 600. No ticket, but was followed to the “resume safe normal operation” sign. Moral: it all depends . . .
        Bill Marett

        Reply to Bill
      3. glenn -  April 15, 2018 - 5:51 pm

        Slow also means very small wake.
        Here is quote from the FWS boaters handbook

        Areas where vessels must be fully off plane and completely settled in the water. Any wake created by a vessel in one of these zones must be minimal (very small). If your vessel is traveling with the bow even slightly elevated while in one of these zones, it is not proceeding at “Slow Speed” as required by law.

        Reply to glenn
      4. Dan -  April 14, 2018 - 2:29 pm

        That is the problem with the FL law. Although it is defined, it really is subjective. If a cop is having a bad day, his judgment could be much more restrictive. In other states, I think they pretty much say slow speed or no wake is defined as 5 MPH. In that case, its pretty much non-subjective.

        Reply to Dan
        • Bill Marett -  April 18, 2018 - 9:18 am

          ” In other states, I think they pretty much say slow speed or no wake is defined as 5 MPH. In that case, its pretty much non-subjective.”

          The problem with a specific speed limit is that larger boats can’t go that slow. I do 6kts [7 mph] at idle, sport fishers do even more – even with trolling valves. So the best that we can get is the off plane, fully settled in the water, minimal wake standard; despite its subjectivity.

          Reply to Bill
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