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    • Oct 15, 2020by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      LNM: US Navy Testing, West of Destin, FL, Northern Gulf

      As stated below, this test area is approximately 15 NMs west of Destin, FL. This testing is a continuation of testing begun in August.

       

      FL – GULF OF MEXICO – DESTIN PASS – U.S. Navy Testing

      Continuing until approximately November 1, 2020, the U.S. Navy will be conducting test operations in an area generally located approximately 15 nautical miles west of Destin Pass, FL. The test area will include items on the ocean floor and/or moored near to the waters surface that are obstructions to navigation, extending from the beach out to approximate depth of 40 feet. These items will be guarded and/or buoyed while deployed for the duration of the test period. Additionally, helicopter operations will be conducted in the test area. The support/guard vessels
      include M/V TYSON B., which will be on station in the testing area during the test events. It is requested that vessels maintain a 1 nautical mile distance from the test area, while operations are in progress. Mariners should contact these support vessels via VHF-FM Channel 16, heed instructions given and stay a minimum of 1 nautical mile from the test vessels on station. U.S. Navy equipment has been deployed in the test area and will remain through the duration of the tests.
      Test area bound by the following approximate positions;
      North East corner: 30-23-12.0N 086-47-38.0W (30°23.2000N / 086°47.6333W, 30.386667 / -86.793889),
      North West corner: 30-23-01.0N 086-49-40.0W (30°23.0167N / 086°49.6667W, 30.383611 / -86.827778),
      South West corner: 30-20-44.0N 086-49-28.0W (30°20.7334N / 086°49.4666W, 30.345556 / -86.824444) and
      South East corner: 30-20-57.0N 086-47-18.0W (30°20.9500N / 086°47.3000W, 30.349167 / -86.788333) .

      Charts  11383 11385 11388   LNM 41/20

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    • 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.
       
      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:  
       
       
      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

      1 Facebook Likes, 1 Facebook Reactions

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    • Oct 11, 2020by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      US Hurricane Trends – Specialty Fuel Services

      Hurricanes cause approximately $28 billion in damages to the United States economy per year, according to government estimates. In addition, the U.S. government expects to pay about $18 billion per year in hurricane relief and recovery. Since 2006, Specialty Fuel Services has been supplying emergency fuel to locations affected by unexpected catastrophic events. Editor’s note: be sure to see the list of resources at the end of this article.

       

       

      US Hurricane Trends
      specialtyfuelservices.com

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    • Oct 8, 2020by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Elevate Your Travel Experience With Makers Air, Staniel Cay, Bahamas

      Welcome to the Staniel Cay Yacht Club, your own paradise in the middle of the beautiful Exumas.

      staniel

      Staniel Cay Yacht Club, a longtime CRUISERS NET SPONSOR  and a favorite destination for cruisers in the Exumas, is excited to be welcoming guests as coronavirus restrictions are eased. With commercial airlines limiting and cancelling flights regularly, Makers Air is continuing to schedule flights with every safety precaution in mind. Growing from its initial operations servicing Staniel Cay, Makers Air is today’s premier air service to and from the Out Islands of the Bahamas.

       
      Click Here For Sky High Savings At Chub Cay Resort and Marina and Makers Air
       
       
      Book Two Nights at Chub Cay Resort and Marina and Get Your Third Night Free if you fly with Makers Air!
       
      Out Island Travel does not have to be stressful or inconvenient.  We understand your individual needs and can provide an array of options to ensure everyone in your group is covered.  Let us remind you what travel should feel like! 
       
       
       
       
      Get Hooked On Chub Cay
       

      Whether you are fishing the pocket, exploring what lies beneath with Chub Cay Divers, or wining and dining poolside, this is one destination you should not miss!  With daily flights direct from Fort Lauderdale, it has never been easier to enjoy this private island paradise.  Contact Makers Air and Chub Cay today to book!  And as always, have a Chub-Tastic Day!

       
       
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      2331 NW 55th Ct Hangar 19
      Fort Lauderdale, FL | 33309 US

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    • Oct 7, 2020by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Beyond the Lens with National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, beginning Oct 20

      Ever wonder how the experts capture that perfect photo to convey the wonders of our ocean and Great Lakes? Join the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation for a series of virtual seminars and intimate discussions with world class photographers on October 20th, October 27th and November 10th.

       
      Ever wonder how the experts capture that perfect photo to convey the wonders of our ocean and Great Lakes?  What kind of technique, experience, and, yes, luck yield the beautiful images that transport us to faraway atolls and underwater seascapes?
       

      Join the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation for a series of virtual seminars and intimate discussions with world class photographers on October 20th, October 27th and November 10th to celebrate the launch of America’s Marine Sanctuaries: A Photographic Exploration, publishing on October 20 from Smithsonian Books, and the upcoming 50th anniversary of the National Marine Sanctuary system.

      Buy Tickets
      Each of the three sessions will feature an expert ocean photographer sharing their stories of getting the perfect shot, finding their inspiration, and answering your photography questions. Tickets will be limited for each session.

      Oct. 20: Keith Ellenbogen, underwater photographer, Stellwagen Bank

      Oct. 27: Melody Bentz, photographer, Hawaii

      Nov. 10: Stephen Frink, underwater photographer, Florida Keys

      Tickets can be purchased for individual sessions or as a package, and include an option to receive the America’s Marine Sanctuaries book at a reduced price.

      Photo credit: Stephen Frink

      Register today to join us for this special access event. Mark your calendars – we will see you on October 20th, October 27th, and November 10th!

      Learn More About the Event
       

      About America’s Marine Sanctuaries: A Photographic Exploration

       Our ocean, rivers, and lakes inspire feelings of awe, serenity, and a desire to know what can be found in their mysterious waters. America’s Marine Sanctuaries gives you an intimate and immersive look at our nation’s marine sanctuaries, and it will be sure to enchant you.

      The fourteen underwater gems that make up the National Marine Sanctuary System are celebrated for their beauty, history, and importance in this striking volume. The full-color photographs allow you to dive right into the waters where sunken wartime ships and wildlife are protected. Whether you love maritime history, scenic coastlines, or cute creatures like otters and dolphins, this book offers something for everyone.

      America’s Marine Sanctuaries is a testament to the ocean’s incredible ecosystems and landscapes, from kelp forests to deep-sea canyons. The marine sanctuaries, which range from the Hawaiian Islands to Stellwagen Bank off Massachusetts, ensure that our ocean waters, coasts, and Great Lakes are preserved. This book is a gorgeous reminder of what’s at stake in our efforts to conserve the world’s most critical and beautiful environments.

      Buy the Book!
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      Copyright © 2020 National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, All rights reserved.
      Our mailing address is:

      National Marine Sanctuary Foundation

      8601 Georgia Ave, Suite 510

      Silver Spring, Maryland 20910

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    • Oct 3, 2020by:   Larry Dorminy 1 Comment

      Great Dismal Swamp – The Life of a Lockmaster by Kathy Bohanan Enzerink

      Until his recent untimely death, Robert Peek served as Lockmaster of Deep Creek Lock on the Dismal Swamp Canal for 24 years. See In Memorium Robert Peek. Our thanks to Donna Steward, Director of Dismal Swamp Welcome Center and longtime friend, for sharing this 2012 Facebook article on a typical day in Robert’s life.

       

      Great Dismal Swamp – The Life of a Lockmaster
      Kathy Bohanan Enzerink

      1 Facebook Likes, 1 Facebook Reactions

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Jean claude Fontaine -  October 7, 2020 - 1:01 pm

        It was a very nice person we enjoyed this lock and it is parts of our best lock souvenir. Rest in peace

        Reply to Jean
    • Oct 2, 2020by:   Larry Dorminy 4 Comments

      Death of a Legend – In Memorium Robert Peek

      The stories of Robert Peek’s “customer relations” are indeed legendary throughout the cruising community. Here is a man who loved his job and did not hesitate to share that love with boaters locking through Deep Creek Lock. Our thanks to Donna Stewart of Dismal Swamp Welcome Center for this notice and to Kim Russo of AGLCA for sharing Robert’s obituary.

       

      Our hearts are heavy, as we mourn the loss of our dear friend and colleague, Deep Creek Lockmaster Robert Peek. Please keep his beloved wife Jackie and family, friends and co-workers in your thoughts in this time of loss. No one will ever fill his shoes.

      Robert of Deep Creek Lock squeezed 18 boats in the lock yesterday – we were like sardines in a can. I found the whole thing quite hilarious! Arnold Parkinson

      Robert smiling.

      Robert getting ready to play his conch shell, for which he was famous. Phil and Karen Barbalace

       

      Robert Leslie Peek Obituary
      Sturtevant Funderal Home

      Comments from Cruisers (4)

      1. Penny Leary Smith -  October 5, 2020 - 5:39 pm

        I am sending this email to inform you Robert Peek who has been the lockmaster at the Deep Creek Locks in Deep Creek Va on the Dismal Swamp Canal died October 1, 2020.

        Robert was an icon with the boaters for years. His caring personality and dedication will always be remember. If you could info the boating community through your publication this would be greatly appreciated.

        I am Penny Leary Smith (retired) former Director of the Dismal Swamp Canal. Please feel free to contact me for any further information. Thanks.

        Penny

        Reply to Penny
      2. Bob Volkwein -  October 4, 2020 - 9:08 pm

        We first met Robert in 2013 as M/V Yinzer passed through his lock. As we departed the lock, he saw that our Homeport was Pearl Harbor, HI. He picked up one of his conchs and yelled “I bet you know what this is” as he blew it. In Hawaii, in bygone years, the blowing of a conch signaled the coming of royalty. Several years later we took two of our younger grandchildren (ages 8 & 10) on the Albemarle Sound loop and as we returned to the Chesapeake stopped for the night at the free dock located between the Great Bridge bridge and his lock. I told Robert via channel 13 that we were spending the night there and that I had two apprentice conch shell blowers onboard. He naturalling inviting us over for coffee and pastries the next morning. The children took our shells with them. He said that the “blow hole” was too big for the children lips so he picked up a couple of smaller shells and promptly made ones sized for them. We will always remember and cherish the moment.

        Bob Volkwein
        M/Y Yinzer, Mainship 390

        Reply to Bob
      3. Mike Camarata -  October 2, 2020 - 3:25 pm

        If you met Robert once, you were a friend. For life. We met, chatted with and were invited to breakfast several times. He was generous with his time, his knowledge and, of course, coffee and danish. Because of storms, dredging and lock repairs we were unable to take the Dismal for couple of years. We were looking forward to seeing Robert this year. Shocked and saddened by this news. It is a terrible loss for the entire boating/cruising community. Our best wishes and condolences to Jackie and his entire family.

        Mike and Carol
        Improbability

        Reply to Mike
      4. Donna Steward -  October 2, 2020 - 12:39 pm

        You all are in the boating world and know the giant shoes Robert Peek wore for our beloved Dismal Swamp Canal. He was lockmaster, host, grounds keeper, maintenance man, historian, ambassador, entertainer, and most importantly, genuinely caring of his boaters. Everyone was a friend, and he wins a trophy for Hospitality. Everyone knows Robert, and if you didn’t, you wanted to meet him.

        So you all know how devastated we are in sharing the news of his sudden death yesterday morning. I like to picture him laughing with God, having a cup of coffee and sweet breakfast treat, debating a few matters and having a good laugh while enjoying the heavenly companionship. I’m sure he has reeled in a few angels who could not stay away from the engaging conversations. Robert is just that way. He was a dear friend, and he will never be replaced.

        Please remember his beloved wife Jackie and their family in this time of shock and loss. Also his co-workers at US Facilities and the Norfolk District USACE. If you would like to send any form of condolences please send them to:

        Jackie Peek and Family

        c/o US Facilities, Inc.

        2509 Reservation Road

        Chesapeake, VA 23322-5217

        We have been assured they will be given to Robert’s family. Jackie has given me permission to tag her on our Facebook page, although we are working out those wrinkles. So anything you share from our page she will have knowledge of. Please feel free to tag us with comments. There are already thousands of people who have seen the post late yesterday afternoon.

        Our sympathy goes out to you, as well. We know Robert had many friends in the boating community who are feeling the loss, too. Please feel free to share this message with anyone you feel would care to know. On a personal note, I took this image of Robert when he was assisting with Paddle for the Border, and my husband, daughter and grandson are on the boat with him. His genuine laughter is just contagious, and his conch is front and center. One of my favorites.

        Donna

        Reply to Donna

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