Idle-speed, no-wake zones may take effect on the St. Johns River

Idle-speed, no-wake zones may take effect on the St. Johns River

Torrential rain brought by Tropical Storm Fay may cause elevated water levels in many of the state’s rivers, including the St. Johns 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 St. Johns River.

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-24.109, which can be accessed at MyFWC.com (click on "Law and Code Manual").

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

Boaters also are urged to be on the lookout for hazards concealed beneath the surface of the elevated water such as markers, posts, tree stumps, and telephone and electrical wires.

Boaters can learn about the conditions of the St. Johns River by logging onto MyFWC.com/boating/. Report damaged markers to 1-866-405-BUOY.