Idle speed no wake zones may take effect on the Suwannee and Santa Fe rivers

Idle speed no wake zones may take effect on the Suwannee and Santa Fe rivers

Torrential rain brought by Tropical Storm Fay may cause elevated water levels in many of the state’s rivers, including the Santa Fe River and the Suwannee River. When the water reaches a certain level, idle speed, no wake zones go into effect. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is cautioning boaters to become familiar with the temporary zone changes of the Suwannee and Santa Fe rivers.

Idle speed, no wake is defined as the lowest speed needed to maintain steerage and forward motion. The zones are identified in Florida Administrative Code 68D-24.020, which can be accessed at MyFWC.com (click on "Law and Code Manual").

Boaters can learn about the conditions of the Santa Fe and Suwannee rivers by logging onto http://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/index.asp?nid=253 .

The FWC, along with other law enforcement agencies, will be enforcing the zones.

Information on other boating related matters is available on MyFWC.com/boating/. Damaged markers can be reported to 1-866-405-BUOY.