Oct 17, 2020by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment
Georgia Legislator Responds to Anchoring Restrictions
Since the release of GA DNR maps displaying restricted areas of anchorage, James H. Newsome and Ted Arisaka have pursued clarification on the implementation of the broad restrictions. Cruisers Net applauds James and Ted for their efforts on behalf of boaters’ rights. Well done gentlemen!

Georgia Rep Ron Stephens contacted James H. Newsome (as a representation of the boating coalition group) this afternoon and stated that he and the Commissioner have talked about our concerns with the maps showing the overbearing shellfish lease areas, and that DNR will make an internal rule change to address the problems we have pointed out.
DNR and Rep. Stephens will introduce legislative changes in the next session of the General Assembly to permanently correct the problem.
No timeline was given on how long the rule change will take. James asked if the map could be removed while we await the revised rules. Rep. Stephens contacted the Commissioner and was told that the map must stay up for now, but there will be no enforcement of anchoring violations in these areas. We assume this to mean other than the setbacks as defined in HB833 (150′ private docks, 300′ commercial marinas, & 500′ shellfish harvesting areas).
While this is welcome relief for boaters and cruisers, and we are hopeful for a quick rule change and resolution to this problem, we must also caution boaters that they should obey the directive of any local DNR Law Enforcement officer if approached while anchoring in one of these areas as defined by the map on DNR’s website.
We have seen instances in the past where information about recent directives has not trickled down to the local level. If necessary, read this information to the officer, but follow his/her instructions. And then please contact Ted Arisaka, Kim Russo, or James H. Newsome afterwards. We will forward your information to our contacts at Georgia DNR.
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Comments from Cruisers (1)

James H Newsome - October 17, 2020 - 6:55 am

Thanks much Larry for your support. I tried to be careful about the wording of my statement. The last thing I want to do is tell boaters that they should knowingly break the boating law pertaining to anchoring. However, based on my conversation with Rep Stephens, who was speaking with the DNR Commissioner Mark Williams, I was told that DNR has no intentions of enforcing anchoring restrictions in the newly announced commercial shellfish leased areas at this time.
I intend to anchor as usual, avoid anchoring near private docks and marinas, and avoid anchoring near any marked recreational and commercial shellfish areas. The legal setbacks from these areas are: 150' private docks, 300' marinas, and 500' shellfish beds. If I am approached by a GA DNR law enforcement officer, I will politely comply with their directive whether I believe they are right or wrong.
GA has very few DNR law enforcement officers working the coastal area. They do not have time, nor the inclination to harass boaters. We have been told repeatedly that enforcement is complaint driven. For example, if a marina or private landowner calls DNR and complains about a boat they believe is anchored to close to their dock, then a DNR enforcement officer will be dispatched. He/she will evaluate the situation and instruct the boater and homeowner appropriately. If there is a violation, the boater will be warned and asked to move. Take a screen shot of your GPS position for reference.
Use common sense, be courteous, and enjoy our beautiful coastal waters. Hopefully someday GA will get the public relations effort right.
Reply to James
Oct 16, 2020by: Larry Dorminy 3 Comments
Georgia HB 833 and Expanded Shellfish Areas – Update
Cruisers Net has joined other concerned boating groups in requesting clarification on anchoring restrictions as defined in GA DNR’s Liveaboard Anchoring Illustrative Map. Our thanks to Ted Arisaka and James Newsome for their research and diligence in seeking fairness for all boaters, locals and transients. To see the various layers with defined restrictions, click on Layers in the center of the bottom of the map linked above.

Commissioner Mark Williams, October 12, 2020
On behalf of the group of boaters who worked with the GA DNR to create replacement HB 833 earlier this year, we seek some clarification on its implementation. You may recall that during our conference call, we stated our concerns about the shellfish harvest areas and you directed your team to follow up with James Newsome as our representative on this matter. This has not occurred to date and we would like to avoid another confrontational situation such as when HB201 was developed without stakeholder involvement.
The areas designated as shellfish harvest area buffers in the current map on the GA DNR website (Ref 1) are greatly increased vs those previously defined.
· Is GA DNR CRD representing the green shaded areas as currently approved shellfish growing areas?
Terms and Conditions preceding the map state (emphasis mine) “Anchorage restriction areas means those areas within the estuarine areas of this state in any location that lies within 300 feet of a marina, 150 feet from a marine structure other than a marina, or within 500 feet of approved commercial shellfish growing areas and designated public harvest areas as determined by the department.”
· As much of the expanded shellfish growing areas include federally defined navigable waterways below the low water mark, has the US Army Corps of Engineers approved the designation USACE Nationwide Permit 48 (Ref 2 and 3) ?
· How much of the shellfish zones will be below the intertidal zone and be set aside for the mariculture technique utilizing cages suspended in the water column by floats?
· HB501 specifies that subtidal harvest zone leases must first be evaluated for impact against other public uses. (Ref 4). Has this been completed? If so, may we examine the evaluations? If not, what opportunity for public comment will you make available?
” Prior to offering a subtidal water bottoms lease, the department shall consider compatibility with other public uses of the marine and estuarine resources in proximity of the lease area that include, but are not limited to, navigation, fishing, swimming, and other forms of recreation.”
· GA DNR has adopted the federal framework of National Shellfish Sanitation Program (NSSP), requiring shellfish waters meet the NSSP requirements before being designated as approved. Have these assessments been completed for all indicated areas? (Ref 5)
The boating group members seek a balance of interest among public access, waterfront property owners, and a resurgent shellfish industry.
Your feedback to clarify the above points would be most appreciated.
Coalition is comprised of:
America’s Great Loop Cruisers Association
CruisersNet
DeFever Cruisers Association
Marine Trawler Owners Association
National Marine Manufacturers Association
Waterway Guide
Save Georgia’s Anchorages

Cc:      Walter Rabon, GA DNR Deputy Commissioner,
Doug Haymans, GA DNR Director, Coastal Resources Division
Reference:
1- https://gcmp.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=b5a616ad152a462bad0b73cdb5eeb107
2 – USACE Nationwide Permit 48  Commercial Shellfish Aquaculture Activities (Sections 10 and 404)
3 – Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Appropriation Act of 1899 https://www.epa.gov/cwa-404/section-10-rivers-and-harbors-appropriation-act-1899
4 – HB 501 lines 341-346 http://www.legis.ga.gov/Legislation/20192020/185110.pdf
5 – US Food and Drug Administration – National Shellfish Sanitation Program https://www.fda.gov/media/98328/download

October 15 update:
SGA (Save Georgia’s Anchorages) and Georgia resident James Newsome on behalf of our boaters’ coalition followed up on his letter to GA DNR Commissioner Williams with a call to Deputy Commissioner Rabon today.
James reports “GA DNR has acknowledged receipt of the email from the boating coalition group and is working on a response. Deputy Commissioner Rabon also agreed to host a conference call to discuss.”
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Comments from Cruisers (3)

James H. Newsome -  October 12, 2020 - 7:20 am

Thanks Larry and CN for joining our efforts to address this latest challenge to anchoring issues on the GA coast.
Reply to James

James H Newsome -  October 12, 2020 - 7:18 am

Larry, Thanks much to CN for joining our effort to address this latest challenge to anchoring issues in GA. Your support is greatly appreciated.
Reply to James

Ted Arisaka -  October 12, 2020 - 6:57 am

Thanks to Cruisers’Net for your support and helping to raise awareness of this issue to the marine community.
Reply to Ted
Oct 14, 2020by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
James H Newsome Responds to GA DNR Inquiry re Anchor Restriction Limits
James H Newsome was one of the authors of the original protests over Georgia’s ultra restrictive HB 201, see Coalition Comments on Georgia’s HB 201, which resulted in the less restrictive HB 833. This issue now is not with the HB 833 legislation, but with the GA DNR’s implementation of those regulations. If you boat and anchor in Georgia, we invite your comments, so please let us hear from you.

Once again, GA DNR rulemaking pertaining to navigation in the state’s coastal waters is causing confusion and frustration with recreational boaters and cruisers. The green colored “buffer regions around shellfish harvest and growing areas” which was recently announced on DNR’s web site appears to indicate that these entire areas are off limits to anchoring.
https://gcmp.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=b5a616ad152a462bad0b73cdb5eeb107

A coalition of boating groups and cruising publications has reached out to DNR for additional information and clarification of the maps, but we have not received a reply at this time. However, information forwarded to me from an unnamed DNR representative stated that shellfish cages will not be placed within 150’ of any Federally maintain channel, and that the Army Corp of Engineers may apply more restrictive criteria when shell fishermen apply for permits at the federal level.

How are boaters to interpret this information? Does this mean there are holes in DNR’s green colored areas that conflict with federal navigation law and are therefore not included in the restricted areas? 150’ from a Federally maintained channel essentially eliminates much of the ICW from inclusion in oyster bed designated areas, but 150’ from what part of the channel, the middle, the edge?

At a minimum we are looking at 300’ from the center of the channel or essentially the length of a football field. With the elimination of the Magenta Line where is the center of the channel? Aids to Navigation (ATON) certainly cannot be used as indicators of the center channel.

A buffer for navigable channels, or exclusion from shellfish growing and harvesting areas, will exclude most of the marked channel in GA or at least a large part of it. So why has DNR colored these areas green when their own rule clearly excludes them for incorporation into shellfish beds? Would it not have been better to post accurate information for boaters to reference rather than confuse everyone again?

Also, define “(ii)” below. Bottom leases may be granted in areas with minimum width of 200.’ Does this mean that eligible areas must be at least 200’ wide, or does it mean that areas under 200’ cannot be leased?
“(6) Leasing of State-Owned Water Bottoms Terms, Siting, other Considerations.
(a) The term of a state-owned water bottoms lease shall not exceed ten years and is subject to such provisions, requirements and conditions as determined by the Department. Leases may be renewed for additional terms if the lessee is in compliance with the terms of the current lease.
(b) Subtidal water bottoms leases shall be sited in accordance with the following criteria: (i) In Approved Shellfish Growing areas as determined by the department;
(ii) In areas with a minimum width of 200 feet at mean low water;
(iii) In areas with a minimum depth of not less than 6 feet at mean low water; and….“

Boaters in coastal waters depend on ATON and charts as roadmaps for navigating an already confusing waterway. We should not be required to reference inaccurate and non-conclusive maps on a difficult to find web site link to legally comply with GA law and rulemaking. This is a confusing and overbearing burden on boaters.

Once again, it appears DNR has used the green brush rather liberally, and green does not mean “go,” it means “stop” don’t anchor. But where?

Thanks,

James H Newsome
s/v CaiLeigh Anna – Coastal Cruising With Hugh & Suze
ICW Free Docks
Contributing Writer – Southwinds Magazine
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Oct 13, 2020by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
GA DNR Responds to Inquiry re Oyster Cages Placement
Ted Arisaka and Brad Pickle of Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association have been seeking clarification on the anchoring restrictions implied in Liveaboard Anchoring Illustrative Map. See New Georgia Shellfish Harvest Area Permit Status Inquiry and Georgia HB 833 and Expanded Shellfish Areas.
Response from GA DNR to Brad. The answer he received does not correlate with what is shown on the DNR website maps.
Ted

Good morning. I heard back from my contacts at GA DNR regarding placement of oyster cages within the AIWW and here is their response-
“Oyster cages will not be placed within 150ft of any federally-maintained channel. The ACOE may apply more strict criteria as shellfishermen go through their process, also.”
They also sent me the Shellfish Rule which is attached.
Brad

The pertinent lines from the rules (Shellfish Rule 391-2-4-.19) are:
(c) Any boundary of a subtidal water bottom lease shall not be within the following:
(i) 150 feet of a federal project, such as a federally maintained channel;
As Ted stated, this GA DNR rule does not correlate with what is shown on the DNR website maps.
Larry
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Oct 12, 2020by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
New Georgia Shellfish Harvest Area Permit Status Inquiry
Efforts on behalf of boaters regarding Georgia’s anchoring restrictions continue with this letter by Ted Arisaka to the USACE. See Georgia HB 833 and Expanded Shellfish Areas.
US Army Corps of Engineers
Savannah District
Regulatory Division
.
Dear Sirs:

I am a recreational boater who enjoys the coastal waters of our East Coast and in particular, the coastal waters of Georgia. I have followed with interest, the evolution of Georgia’s regulations around navigation / anchoring in their estuarine waters, starting with House Bill 201 in 2019 and replacement House Bill 833 in 2020.

As a result of HB833, GA DNR has updated their definitions of no-anchoring zones as published on their website:

https://gcmp.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=b5a616ad152a462bad0b73cdb5eeb107

Among the various zones, one in particular, “shellfish harvest” areas (shaded in green) have expanded dramatically between 2019 and 2020. These shellfish harvest areas are portrayed as “approved” on the GA DNR website and among the multiple requirements for approval is to receive a permit from US ACE for those areas in navigable waters. If one examines the published maps, there are many areas in navigable waters as well as established channels demarcated by Aids To Navigation by USCG and charted by NOAA. This also includes portions of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, which as you know is important not just for recreational boaters but also for commercial navigation.

The reason for my email is to inquire as to the status of USACE approval of these shellfish harvest zones.

Thank you,

Ted Arisaka
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Sep 11, 2020by: Larry Dorminy No Comments

Join us for Virtual CoastFest 2020! 9/30-10/2, Georgia DNR

The Coastal Resources Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources invites students, teachers and the public to Virtual CoastFest 2020, being held Wednesday, Sept. 30, through Friday, Oct. 2, at www.CoastalGaDNR.org/CoastFest.

Join us for Virtual CoastFest Sept 30 – Oct. 2!

While in-person CoastFest will not be held due to COVID-19, the Division will offer a series of live-streamed events highlighting its programs all three days at 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 2 p.m each day. Virtual attendees will have the opportunity to interact with Division staff and ask questions about how they conserve Georgia’s coastal resources for present and future generations.

“For 26 years, we’ve looked forward to meeting our friends and neighbors from across the region at CoastFest,” said Tyler Jones, the Division’s CoastFest coordinator. “We’ve had to get creative to work around COVID-19 this year, and we’re excited to offer a virtual way to continue that tradition and provide an opportunity to peel back the curtain and show everyone what we do at Coastal Resources Division.”

Live-stream topics on Wednesday, Sept. 30:

9:30 a.m.: “All Aboard the R/V Anna: A look at the Division’s 60-foot shrimping vessel and the fisheries management work conducted aboard.”
11 a.m.: “One Fish, Two Fish, Old Fish, New Fish: Discover how biologists and citizen scientists team up to better understand coastal fish populations.”
2 p.m.: “The Shoreline Comes Alive: Learn what local communities and individuals are doing to protect property and restore wetland ecosystems.”

Thursday, Oct. 1:

9:30 a.m. “Our Changing Beaches: Beaches are constantly shifting, impacted by both gentle and tumultuous processes. Find out how the processes work and how people can adapt.”
11 a.m. “Safe to Swim: Educate yourself on beach water quality, and how the Division partners with other agencies to keep the public safe.”
2 p.m.: “Building Homes for Fish: Dive deep with our marine biologists to learn how the Division is building artificial reefs to create essential fish habitat.”

Friday, Oct. 2:

9:30 a.m.: “Going Green for Our Future: Learn how you can capture rainwater and prevent pollution runoff in your backyard and community.”
11 a.m.: “Fishing Basics 101: Grab your fishing pole and join our marine biologists as they show you how to fish along the Georgia coast, including knot tying, types of bait and techniques.”
2 p.m.: “Touch Tanks Live: Tune in live as we show off some of the coolest creatures that swim in our estuarine environment, and ask our biologists questions.”

The CoastFest Art Contest, featuring art from students across the region, will still be held as usual, and the artwork will be on display at the Marshes of Glynn Library on Gloucester Street in Brunswick from Tuesday, Oct. 6, though Tuesday, Oct. 13. Prizes and ribbons will be awarded as in the past. This year’s art contest theme is “Our Marvelous Marshes,” and students are encouraged to submit art that highlights the estuarine ecosystem that makes the Georgia coast so unique. The winner of the 2020 CoastFest Art Contest will have his or her art featured on the 2021 CoastFest T-Shirt.

New this year, the Division is holding an essay writing contest. Students from elementary, middle and high school are encouraged to write a 400-500 word short essay from the prompt: “What makes the Georgia Coast unique and what did I learn about it at Virtual CoastFest 2020?” First, second and third place awards will be given to Georgia students in elementary, middle and high school. Schools may submit their top five essays for judging by the Division’s staff and its partners in conservation. Teacher, homeschooling parents and students can find more information, including submission guidelines and deadlines, at www.CoastalGaDNR.org/CoastFestEssay.

Winners of both the art and essay contests will be announced Oct. 16 by press release and notification to the schools.

CoastFest 2020 T-shirts, featuring art by Maleah Lavarias of Needwood Elementary School will be sold online. Sales will be available from a link at www.CoastalGaDNR.org/CoastFest between Monday, Sept. 21, and Friday, Oct. 9. The cost is $10 plus shipping and handling. Please allow four to six weeks for delivery. The shirt is kelly green and features a mosaic sea turtle on the back with Virtual CoastFest 2020 logo on the front breast.

The CoastFest website will also feature short videos from previous exhibitors, allowing them to highlight their programs and missions.

Anyone with questions about Virtual CoastFest 2020 may contact Tyler Jones at 912-262-3140 or tyler.jones@dnr.ga.gov.

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Aug 9, 2020by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Shared Photo – Saturday Sail

Saturday Sail – St. Marys, GA
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Jul 27, 2020by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 31.1277,-81.40299999
Another Update: Capsized Golden Ray, St. Simons Sound, GA, near AICW Statute Mile 677

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The wreck of the capsized PCTC Golden Ray may take more than a year to remove from St. Simons Sound, Georgia, the U.S. Coast Guard told local leaders recently.
Maritime Executive

7/27/20 Golden Ray Salvage Delayed Due to COVID-19 Outbreak, Weather Risk
Maritime Executive
7/9/20 Barge Crew at Golden Ray Site Tests Positive for COVID-19
Maritime Executive
3/4/20 Contractors Install Protective Barrier for Golden Ray Salvage
Maritime Executive
2/28/20 Overturned Cargo Ship Soon To Be Sliced Up And Removed From Georgia Sound
KPBS
2/27/20 Competing Golden Ray Salvors Face Court
Maritime Executive
2/3/20 Environmental Protection Barrier to be Built Around Golden Ray
Maritime Executive
12/13 Lightering of Fuel from Golden Ray Complete
11/23 Removal of Grounded PCTC Golden Ray Could Take One Year
Maritime Executive
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Jul 20, 2020by: Larry Dorminy No Comments

Georgia’s Sublime Ocean Sanctuary

Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary protects Georgia’s special live-bottom wildlife habitat in the Atlantic Ocean and along the southeastern U.S. coast, an area teeming with diversity and an abundance of marine life.

GRAY’S REEF FOUNDATION

The Sublime Sanctuary of the Sea

Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary near Savannah, Georgia, is indeed a “shining example of oceanic conservation and a vital research hub for marine science”, but did you know that you can explore it for yourself? Grab a copy of the July edition of Savannah Magazine to see why this southern sanctuary is also a national ocean treasure.

(Photo credit: P. Whitfield/NOAA -scalloped hammerhead)

Open Season in South Atlantic Waters

Did you go fishing during the recent South Atlantic Red Snapper open season? Share your catch photos and stay current with state and federal fishing regulations on the FishRulesApp. Best practices for fishery conservation and tips for safe handling of marine species are included. Know before you go, and fish on!

Director’s Note:
Thank you to our friends at OCEANA for organizing #protectourcoast advocacy day with GA Congressional Representatives, and to Congressman Buddy Carter for taking time to speak with us.Gray’s Reef Foundation Director Jody Patterson, Board Chair Cathy Sakas, and Board Trustee Lane Johnson joined retired military officers and environmental advocates in requesting a reenactment of the moratorium on new oil and gas leases along the Outer Continental Shelf.The House Appropriations committee released their FY21 Interior funding bill, and it included provisions to reenact this moratorium. If it passes the House floor then it’s off to the Senate. Stay tuned and we’ll stay engaged!

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Jul 1, 2020by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
GADNR Anchorage Administrative Order Rescinded
The passage of HB833 makes the GADNR Commissioner’s Anchorage Administration Order unnecessary and the Order has been rescinded effective July 1. More thanks to Save Georgia’s Anchorages.

The Commissioner has rescinded his AO from December.

https://coastalgadnr.org/sites/default/files/crd/pdf/1566_001.pdf
James H. Newsome
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Jun 24, 2020by: Larry Dorminy No Comments

Georgia Beach Week 2020 Cancelled

Due to the importance of public safety, the annual BeachWeek events, typically scheduled for the week leading up to Independence Day, has been canceled.

Brunswick, Ga.

Wed, 06/24/2020

The Department of Natural Resources Coastal Resources Division (CRD) is taking precautions to keep the public safe and prevent the spread of Covid-19. Due to the importance of public safety, the annual BeachWeek events, typically scheduled for the week leading up to Independence Day, has been canceled.

With summer in full swing, Georgia beaches throughout the coast continue to be popular destinations for visitors and residents. Therefore, CRD encourages the public to visit our website at https://coastalgadnr.org/BeachWeek2020 to learn more about the sights and sounds on Georgia’s coast. You will also find links to our partners sites to allow you to dive a little deeper.

Did you know that Georgia is home to 100 miles of shoreline, 380,000 acres of saltmarsh, and 14 barrier islands which buffer the mainland from the Atlantic Ocean? Five major freshwater rivers feed the Georgia coast, forming an extensive estuarine ecosystem. This network delivers vast amounts of freshwater to the coast and creates a range of habitats that support diverse wildlife. Although relatively undeveloped, the coastal Georgia landscape is changing nonetheless. New residents are drawn by the region’s natural beauty and abundance of recreational opportunities. Through a combination of wise management, stewardship, and collaboration, everything we love about coastal Georgia can be conserved for generations to come.

For more information about Beach Week 2020 activities contact Jennifer Kline, Beach Week Coordinator at (912) 264-7218.

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Jun 24, 2020by: Larry Dorminy 2 Comments
New Georgia Anchoring Bill Passes the Senate!
This is good news for Waterway cruisers in Georgia. Our thanks to Kim Russo for this announcement posted on AGLCA’s Forum.
Minutes ago the Georgia State Senate passed legislation that will undo the disastrous anchoring regulations that took effect in that state on January 1st of this year. HB 833, sponsored by Georgia Representative (and Gold Looper!), Ron Stephens, passed the Georgia House on March 12th, but didn’t make it to the Senate floor for a vote before the General Assembly adjourned for COVID-19 quarantine. The lawmakers have returned, and the bill passed the Senate today by a vote of 48-1.
HB 833 takes back some of the widespread power the previous law afforded DNR to regulate anchoring. In short, HB 833 removes the ability to require permits for all overnight anchoring, removes the requirement to keep records of pump outs, and perhaps most importantly, removes the requirement that boats not anchor within 1,000 feet of water front structures and within 300 feet of marinas. Instead, the new law changes those set-back distances to 150-feet from waterfront structures, 300-feet from marinas, and 500-feet from commercial shellfish beds for short-term anchoring, which is defined as anchoring in the same place for up to 14 cumulative nights per calendar year. Long term anchoring (over 14 days in the same place) will require a permit.
The bill now requires a signature from the Governor, which is expected soon. Once signed, the new law takes effect immediately.
This is a big win for the boating community and a great example of what our membership can do with our collective advocacy efforts.
Kim Russo
Director
America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association
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Comments from Cruisers (2)

Cruisers Net - June 25, 2020 - 8:36 am

A big thanks to you two Wally and James.. huge thanks.
Reply to Cruisers

James H. Newsome - June 24, 2020 - 8:58 am

Thanks CN for all your support publicizing this issue.
Reply to James
May 29, 2020by: Larry Dorminy 6 Comments 32.0097,-80.99889999
Georgia’s New Anchoring Regulations Claim a Victim in Turner Creek, GA AICW Statute Mile 585.5

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Our thanks to Ted Arisaka of Save Georgia’s Anchorages for passing along this Facebook 5/28 post from Jayne Salvo Gorham. Turner Creek which intersects the Waterway south of Thunderbolt is a small low-traffic area with two small marinas allowing access to Wilmington Island and Savannah.
Well, today we ran afoul of Georgia’s new anchoring law. We went to anchor in Turner Creek near Thunderbolt and anchored in one of the spots recommended in the cruising guides near the town and marinas. We anchored well clear of any of the marinas but apparently one of the marina operators immediately made a call to the Georgia DNR to complain and an officer came out in her car and raised us on her bull horn. We talked to her on the telephone and she told us we were definitely not allowed to Anchor within 1000 feet of any dock of any kind which pretty much eliminates all of the creek. There was one spot way up the creek under the bridge where we could be a thousand feet away from anything and it turns out it was a relatively nice place after all.
Although the officer was very professional and polite, it is quite clear that Georgia is very hostile towards Cruisers who dare to Anchor in sight of their dock
We were planning to go ashore and spend some money in the town, but not anymore.
Jayne Salvo Gorham
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Comments from Cruisers (6)

R. Holiman -  June 4, 2020 - 10:59 am

One idea, would be to establish anchoring reciprocity agreements from state to state, like with so many other things. That way, if you lived in a state that prohibited anchoring, you could expect the same treatment, when you went somewhere else. Because, you know a lot of the people in Georgia who support these anchoring regulations, probably like anchoring in other states. They just don't want you to do it in their state.
Reply to R.

Kent W Hassell -  May 29, 2020 - 4:20 pm

If the poster's push pin locator is correctly placed, she was indeed in violation of the regulations. We just had our boat hauled at that marina / yard…Sail Harbor…with excellent results I might add…and her locator pin is right off the end of the Sail Harbor's docks. And the Creek is very narrow. The Aqua Map icon should be removed from that location. There is another anchoring icon a bit further up the creek toward the bridge where there is bigger water. Sorry she got flagged, but she should have been more courteous to Sail Harbor's facilities.
Reply to Kent

Ted Arisaka -  June 15, 2020 - 2:00 pm

Hi Kent:
The marker shown on this cruisersnet post is not where they were anchored. I contacted the OP and she messaged me her GPS coordinates both before and after she was asked to move by the GA DNR. It appears they were in compliance with the 300ft setback required in "Marina Zones". My colleague, James Newsome, in our grassroots group "Save Georgia's Anchorages" contacted GA DNR and posted this positive outcome over on our facebook page.
[James H. Newsome] "As a follow up on this incident, I forwarded 2 charts to DNR along with a brief summary opinion of why we thought the DNR officer and marina owner were wrong.
"Assuming the boater's accounting of the incident is correct, and it certainly appears credible, we believe she was inaccurately advised by the DNR officer to abandon her anchored position. Additionally, the officer stated that the boater could not anchor within 1000' of any dock. This is not correct. The marina zone allows boaters to dock closer than 1000' but not within 300' of a marina."
Pictures of the chart by Ted Arisaka will be included in replies to this comment.
I discussed this situation with the Deputy Commissioner for GA DNR yesterday and he agrees with our assessment of the incident. He also commented that the officer has been contacted and the Commissoiner's AO, which established the setbacks, has been reviewed with her in an effort to prevent a future occurrence. He also said that the marina owner was contacted and informed that the boater was legally anchored and should not have been made to move.
Deputy Commission Rabon and I agreed that while a mistake was made it was encouraging that all parties involved were cordial and acted in a responsible manner. I acknowledged that our boating organizations are working to educate cruisers and advise them of the current situation with the anchoring laws in GA.
As a further update, we are hopeful that GA's HB833, legislation to replace HB201, will pass the Senate in the final phase of the General Assembly which will reconvene mid-June. DNR and our coalition of boating groups strongly support this legislation."
Reply to Ted

Jim Shipp -  May 29, 2020 - 4:01 pm

AICW Statute Mile 858.5 is not in Georgia:
Georgia’s New Anchoring Regulations Claim a Victim in Turner Creek, GA AICW Statute Mile 858.5
Editor: Jim is correct, it should read 585.5. My bad!
Reply to Jim

Richard Gano -  May 29, 2020 - 2:39 pm

We took the opportunity in April 2020 to just skip the entire state of GA when coming south by going outside to Jacksonville from the last passable inlet in SC.
Reply to Richard

Ted Arisaka -  May 29, 2020 - 10:32 am

What is unfortunate is that the DNR Officer apparently only cited the 1000ft setback from structures requirement and seemingly not aware of the 300ft-1000ft "marina zones" that allow anchoring and take precedence. Our group Save Georgia's Anchorages intends to provide some feedback to the DNR on this matter. Thanks Cruisers'Net for broadcasting this story.
Reply to Ted
May 28, 2020by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment 31.8609,-81.08359999
Good News Report from Hell Gate, GA AICW Problem Stretch Statute Mile 602

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Our thanks to Bill King for confirming the success of last year’s dredging of this Problem Stretch, which, for the time being at least, seems not such a Problem Stretch.
BTW…on the north-bound transit, came through Hell Gate (GA) last week at dead low tide. I know it was dredged but I did not expect to see 9’-plus all the way through following the USACE survey route.
Bill King
Stuart, Florida
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s AICW Problem Stretches Listing For Hell Gate
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
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Nelms F Graham - January 10, 2021 - 6:05 am

Went thru the Gate on 1/9/21 at low tide. Lowest observed depth was 7.6 ft.
Reply to Nelms
May 18, 2020by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 30.7705,-81.47079999
Updated Report from Cumberland Island, off GA AICW Statute Mile 711

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Our thanks to Fred Braman for this excellent report and chart from Cumberland Island. Cumberland Island National Seashore is a National Park on the east shore of the Waterway’s passage through Cumberland Sound south of Jekyll Island. There are only dinghy docks on the island, which extends over 16 NM from St. Andrew Sound to the Georgia State Line. The Park’s website is https://www.nps.gov/cuis/index.htm. Anchorages may be restricted by Georgia legislation.
Just a note that may be of interest. I visited Cumberland Island last week. The island is as delightful as ever. Only open to private boaters who can get there. Dinghy docks are open at Sea Camp anchorage as are rest rooms and showers in the camping area. No ferries are operating and tour boats are prohibited. The Ranger Station is closed as are attractions like the Ice House Museum and Plum Orchard tours. But the beaches and trails are open, mostly why we go to this delightful place anyway. Happy to answer emailed questions at fredbraman@hotmail.com.
Here is a chart for the Cumberland Sea Camp anchorage. Note that on older chart packs and chart plotters (like mine), Red 34 is Red 40. This series of markers were renumbered years ago. As soon as you turn inside Red 34, look for a shoal marker to port heading in. It marks a sandbar that comes off the tip of the island to the north. Once you spot it, give it plenty of room to port and pick up the first dock complex on shore near a little white building. That’s Dungeness Dock. Head right for it and once near it, follow the shore up to Sea Camp. Don’t wander too far from Cumberland’s shore. There is a sandbar to the west of the main anchorage area. If it starts to get too shallow for comfort, turn towards the island where the deep water is. It sounds more complicated than it is. It’s really straight forward. Plenty of room for dozens of boats. I try to anchor a little to the north of Sea Camp Dock where it gets a little shallower. Depths in most places around 18 ft. Hope this helps.

Fred Braman

Photo by Sonny Reeves
Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Dungeness Greyfield Channel Anchorage
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Dungeness Greyfield Channel Anchorage
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May 5, 2020by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Anchorage Problems in Georgia
Our thanks to Ted Arisaka of Save Georgia’s Anchorages for calling our attention to this article on anchoring restrictions in Georgia, a topic that dominated cruisers’ news in the fall. Enter “anchoring” in our Search Window for related discussions.
Anchorage Problems in Georgia
Charles J Doane, April 20, 2020
Sail Magazine
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Apr 23, 2020by: Larry Dorminy No Comments

Coastal Georgia 2019 Ecosystem Report Card

The Report Card is an important tool for planning restoration activities and conservation.

CRD releases annual ‘Report Card’, Georgia Coast scores well

BRUNSWICK, Ga. (April 22, 2020) — The Coastal Resources Division (CRD) today released the 2019 Coastal Ecosystem Report Card, which gave Georgia’s coast a score of 80 percent, or “A-.”

The Report Card is an important tool for planning restoration activities and conservation. It provides resources managers and the public with a transparent, timely, and geographically detailed assessment of the ecological health of coastal Georgia. Coastal Georgia health is defined as the progress of indicators toward scientifically-derived thresholds or goals. The twelve indicators in the report card examine aspects in human health, fisheries, and wildlife.

The coast’s good score this year can be partially attributed to positive gains in indicators including fecal coliform, Red drum and sea turtle hatchlings. This year’s grade was calculated using data primarily collected by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) Coastal Resources and Wildlife Resources divisions.

“Another year of good scores for Georgia’s coast continues to show that conservation efforts by DNR, as well as nongovernmental partners, is paying off,” said Doug Haymans, director of CRD. “While there is always more work that can be done, compared to other ecosystem report cards in the United States, coastal Georgia has a very high score. Much of this can be attributed to the relatively undeveloped coastal landscape in Georgia and good stewardship by the people of Georgia.”

Ecological report cards are considered a public friendly way to provide a timely and geographically detailed assessment of ecosystems and rivers. Report cards provide a numeric grade or letter that is similar to a school report card, allowing for quick and understandable results to a broad audience.

However, the Report Card scoring is based on a twenty-point scale (100-80% = A, 80-60% = B, etc). This is the scale accepted for ecosystem health report cards (such as the Chesapeake Bay and Mississippi River) as it is able to provide a clearer picture of health. Following the typical school grading scale overall (<60% = F, 60-70% = D, etc.) would result in consistently similar grades, but does not provide information about small improvements or declines in ecosystem health. The equally divided grading scale allows for evaluation of small changes in ecosystem health, even at the very poor, poor, and moderately poor ranges.

To read the 2019 Coastal Georgia Ecosystem Report Card, visit www.CoastalGaDNR.org/ReportCard, or click here.

Members of the media may contact CRD’s communications specialist, Tyler Jones, at 912-230-9709 or tyler.jones@dnr.ga.gov

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Mar 11, 2020by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Update on Georgia Anchoring Legislation
Cruisers Net joins Ted Arisaka of Save Georgia’s Anchorages in thanking you for your support of their efforts to correct the restrictions on anchorages in recent legislation. Keep your fingers crossed!
Your emails imploring Georgia legislators to support Rep Stephens HB833 have been successful. Today March 10, 2020, HB833 was voted on favorably in The Rules Committee and will proceed forward to the full House floor for vote Thursday.
Following an anticipated favorable disposition in The House, it will go to The Senate on legislative day 28, aka “Crossover Day”.
Ted Arisaka, Save Georgia’s Anchorages
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Feb 28, 2020by: Larry Dorminy 4 Comments
Don’t Drop Anchor in Georgia from Trade Only Today
Trade Only Today of Soundings joins the fray to highlight the very restrictive legislation recently enacted in Georgia. See Georgia Anchoring Advocacy Fund.
Don’t Drop Anchor in Georgia
Fighting the good fight for boating and boaters never ends.
BoatUS is leading a push against a new Georgia regulation restricting overnight anchoring within 1,000 feet of any structure, such as public and private docks, wharves, bridges, piers and pilings, except in areas near a marina.
How did boaters get hammered this way? There was little notice or engagement with recreational boating groups by the Georgia legislature in approving House Bill 201. It was then quietly signed by Gov. Brian Kemp.
The legislation directed the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to develop rules regarding the anchoring of vessels in estuarine areas of the state. DNR proposed a rule that has rightfully raised serious concerns in the boating community.
“This 1,000-foot offset needlessly eliminates anchorages all over the state,” says Chris Edmonston, vice president of government affairs for BoatUS. “It will affect numerous boaters, many of whom transit Georgia waters as part of the annual migration along the Intracoastal Waterway. There is no reasonable safety or waterway-management reason for taking such a significant swath of state waters away from the boating public.
“Boating and fishing,” Edmonston adds, “are the second largest outdoor recreational activity in Georgia, bringing in more than $500 million a year in economic activity. Eliminating scores of anchorages will put a severe damper on this very important economic driver to many coastal areas that gain from boater spending.”
He went on to acknowledge the so-called “Marina Zones” that will allow boaters to anchor as close as 300 feet to marinas or facilities that provide fuel, dinghy access, provisions, vessel maintenance or other services. But that won’t reduce the negative economic impact of this poorly crafted legislation and resulting rules.
Perhaps the most persuasive argument is the BoatUS position that the final rule runs counter to the Public Trust Doctrine as codified in Georgia law. It states:
“The State of Georgia, as sovereign, is trustee of the rights of the people of the state to use and enjoy all tidewaters which are capable of use for fishing, passage, navigation, commerce and transportation, pursuant to the common law public trust doctrine.”
BoatUS submits that anchoring is an integral part of navigation.
Georgia dealers, employees and boaters should join the efforts of the grassroots group Save Georgia’s Anchorages, which was created in response to the law.
BY NORM SCHULTZ
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Gregory Yount -  February 28, 2020 - 3:16 pm

As poorly as Georgia maintains the ICW, this is just one more reason to bypass the state when traveling north/south. It's a shame as I have always loved anchoring in the marshes of Glynn, visiting Savannah, etc.
Instead, I will take my tourist dollars elsewhere. That will also impact marinas such as Thunderbolt, Isle of Hope, etc.
Too bad they are so short-sighted, all to coddle some wealthy interests.
Reply to Gregory

James Newsome -  February 28, 2020 - 8:30 pm

"As poorly as GA maintains the ICW." Could you be a little more specific?
Reply to James

Bruce Morrison -  February 29, 2020 - 6:59 am

James Newsome…Areas like “Hells Gate” mm 600 , or “ The Little Mud River” to name a couple.

C. W. Fowler -  February 28, 2020 - 9:05 am

BoatUS is always supportive but certainly did not "lead" this effort.
Reply to C.
Feb 27, 2020by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
REMINDER: Georgia Anchoring Advocacy Fund, AGLCA
To contribute to securing lobbying efforts on behalf of boaters, please open the link below. Cruisers Net joins America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association in urging you to get involved to repeal Georgia’s restrictive anchoring legislation.
Georgia Anchoring Advocacy Fund
To make a contribution, please visit www.greatloop.org/georgia.
Thanks!
-Kim
Kim Russo
Director
America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association
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Georgia Legislator Responds to Anchoring Restrictions

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Georgia HB 833 and Expanded Shellfish Areas – Update

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James H Newsome Responds to GA DNR Inquiry re Anchor Restriction Limits

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GA DNR Responds to Inquiry re Oyster Cages Placement

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New Georgia Shellfish Harvest Area Permit Status Inquiry

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Join us for Virtual CoastFest 2020! 9/30-10/2, Georgia DNR

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Shared Photo – Saturday Sail

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Another Update: Capsized Golden Ray, St. Simons Sound, GA, near AICW Statute Mile 677

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Georgia’s Sublime Ocean Sanctuary

GRAY’S REEF FOUNDATION

The Sublime Sanctuary of the Sea

Open Season in South Atlantic Waters

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GADNR Anchorage Administrative Order Rescinded

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Georgia Beach Week 2020 Cancelled

Brunswick, Ga.

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New Georgia Anchoring Bill Passes the Senate!

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Georgia’s New Anchoring Regulations Claim a Victim in Turner Creek, GA AICW Statute Mile 585.5

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Good News Report from Hell Gate, GA AICW Problem Stretch Statute Mile 602

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Updated Report from Cumberland Island, off GA AICW Statute Mile 711

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Anchorage Problems in Georgia

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Coastal Georgia 2019 Ecosystem Report Card

CRD releases annual ‘Report Card’, Georgia Coast scores well

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Update on Georgia Anchoring Legislation

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Don’t Drop Anchor in Georgia from Trade Only Today

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REMINDER: Georgia Anchoring Advocacy Fund, AGLCA

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