Tropical Storm Fay's torrential downpours flooded many of Florida's creeks, rivers, canals and other waterways, and high wind gusts blew debris into the water. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is urging boaters to watch out for navigation hazards now that the storm has passed and people resume using waterways.
Though there has been a lack of rainfall through most of the state, in some areas where water has risen significantly, hazards previously on dry land or shallow water may be wholly or partially submerged and not obvious to boat operators.
In addition, overhanging branches, deck furniture, boat gear or any number of objects may have dropped or blown into the water. FWC spokesmen said a boater may never know what he or she strikes, but the resulting damage can be great, and even life-threatening.
If the conditions are extremely hazardous, the FWC, in conjunction with local, federal and other state agencies, may close a portion of a waterway to prevent death, injuries or property damage. In some cases, the FWC will restrict vessel operation to idle-speed, no-wake, so boaters can assess conditions and avoid dangers.
Vessel operation at speeds greater than idle-speed, no-wake can endanger people in or near the river where shorelines have become unstable and unfamiliar. Shorelines and property on shorelines already buffeted by Fay's winds and resulting waves, may be damaged further by a boat's wake.
Information on reporting debris and other information on boating and waterways is available at MyFWC.com/boating/
