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FLORIDA EAST COAST AND KEYS UPDATES

20 August 2010

North Palm Beach, new lower speed and no-wake zones

The following is from Waterway Guide Publisher Jack Dozier, a North Palm Beach resident (part time!)

8/20/10

After years of effort by area residents and authorities a new "No Wake" zone in now effective on the ICW in Palm Beach County from the Donald Ross Bridge mm1009.3 southward thru the PGA Bridge mm1012.6 and continuing to the Parker US Rt 1 Bridge mm1013.7, where it joins the previously established no wake zone to the confluence with Lake Worth mm1014.6. This week I observed the Palm Beach County Marine Police actively stopping speeding boaters who were mostly unaware of the new restriction. I spoke with an officer and at this time they are simply informing boaters of the new speed zone and are not issuing tickets. This is a grace period that will end at some point, possibly in about 30 days.

7/6/10

This posting from the 7th District USCG confirms the news report below.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will begin
installing signs marking a new boating safety zone on the Intracoastal Waterway in
Palm Beach County. The first phase of the project will mark a zone on the
Intracoastal Waterway from the Donald Ross Road Bridge continuing south of the
Parker Bridge. The work will begin after the 4th of July holiday; construction is
expected to last approximately two weeks.
The new zone begins 300 feet north of the Donald Ross Road Bridge and
continues south of the Parker Bridge where the Intracoastal Waterway enters the
Lake Worth Lagoon. The zone requires that boats operate at Slow Speed Minimum
Wake, which means that boats are fully off plane and completely settled into the
water.
"When we analyzed boating accident data for this area, it became clear that
slowing boats down through this stretch of the Intracoastal Waterway will better
protect the public. We were also a bit surprised to learn that traveling through here
at Slow Speed Minimum Wake takes no longer than the current mix of idle speed
zones broken up with short 25 MPH zones," said Captain David Schaeffer, FWC's
Division of Law Enforcement.


According to a report from WPTV, Channel 5 in West Palm Beach, the installation of signage marking a new boating safety zone on the AIWW will take place this week.

The zone will extend from the Donald Ross Road Bridge (mile 1009.3) to the Parker Bridge (mile 1013.7) and the signs will mark new slower speed and no-wake areas.

Waterway Guide would appreciate comments from local boaters on this issue.

........................................................................................................................

10 August 2010

St. Augustine Inlet, Salt Run, dredging

Taylor Engineering Inc. will be conducting dredging operations from August 12 to December 24, 2010 in Salt Run between the Conch House Marina Resort and the Lighthouse Boat Ramp turning basin.

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05 August 2010

Bakers Haulover Inet, ICW Mile 1080, shoaling update

8/1/10

The shoaling appears to be increasing as several vessels within the past week have run aground at mid to low tide. They included large vessels with 4 foot drafts and smaller I/O express cruisers. If you pass through this area please send us a report.

4/21/10

Beware of shoaling in the ICW in addition to the inlet. The following is a post from The Triton.

We know of more than 10 boats in the last week that have run aground in the main channel of the ICW, opposite Baker's Haulover Inlet. (The inlet itself has been catching boats for months too, but this is the marked ICW channel we are talking about) 

The sandbank is definitely creeping further west and the green markers have been moved farther west to accommodate this, but the red (western) markers seem to be placed ON the shoal instead of inside of it. 

Reports of 5 ft depth at mid to high tide from the middle of the channel to the western / red marker side - and since the channel is very narrow now with that encroaching sandbank.... it's tricky indeed. You can be a good 20ft from the red markers and suddenly have only 5ft under you. 

9/27/09

Severe shoaling has been reported in the vicinity of Biscayne Bay Buoy 6B, Biscayne Bay Buoy 7, Biscayne Bay Temporary Buoy 7A, and Biscayne Bay Temporary Buoy 7B, with reported
water depths of five (5) feet at high tide.

........................................................................................................................

03 August 2010

West Palm Beach, AIWW mile 1021.0, dredging

Vance Construction Company will be conducting maintenance dredging at Mile Marker 1021 in the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway located east of Good Samaritan Hospital in West Palm Beach. The drdeging will be conducted during weekdays only throughout the month of August. The tug MARK will be monitoring VHF CH 16.

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27 July 2010

Big Marco Pass - Gordon Pass, nav-aid destroyed

Big Marco Pass - Gordon Pass Daybeacon "14" reportedly has been destroyed and the remaining piling is exposed approximately 6 inches above the water.

If you have knowledge of this WG would appreciate your comments.

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13 July 2010

AIWW Tolomato River to Palm Shores, bridge work

Ed Note: The following is from the 7th District Local Notice to Mariners. I spoke with a representative of Misener Marine Construction this morning and you need to contact them relative to where their crews are working.


Misener Marine Construction, Inc. will begin work early this month to install scour protection at the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) spans and approach spans of the Jay Jay Rail Road Bridge over the Indian River, NASA Parkway Bridge over the Indian River and the Courtenay Parkway Bridge over the Haulover Canal. The scope of the work will require intermittent blockage of the ICW. Activities like placing stone, riprap, and marine mattresses will require two (2) barges positioned side by side at locations that will block vessel traffic through the ICW. Material barges, spud barges, push boats, and small vessels will be kept near each bridge and travel the ICW between bridges. Misener Marine plans to move barges and vessels out of the ICW channel during non-work days and non-work hours. Lighting will be maintained on all barges and vessels. The project schedule is July 01, 2010 through Aug 31, 2011. Information regarding exact dates and times of channel closures will be published once they become available. For additional information, please contact Misener Marine Construction,
Inc at (321) 783-9442.

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12 July 2010

Titusville, A. Max Brewer Bridge, AIWW mile 878.9, change in operating hours

In order to expedite bridge construction and not unduly restrict navigation; the Coast Guard Bridge Branch has authorized a temporary change in the opening schedule. Effective July 6, 2010 the bridge will open on the hour and half-hour from 7:00am to 7:00pm, seven days a week. At all other times it will open on demand. The new bridge is scheduled to be completed in April 2011.

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06 July 2010

Canaveral Barge Canal, AIWW mile 894.0, lock closure POSTPONED

7/6/10

This closure has been postponed until some time in 2011. The lock WILL REMAIN OPERATIONAL during the 2010 hurricane season. For details see the 7th District USCG Notice to Mariners.

6/2/10

The Canaveral Lock will be closed 8/3/10 through 9/11/10 and again 9/22/10 through 10/29/10 for dewatering to install a new Manatee Protection Systems. Both dates are tentative at this time. During the closing accessing the Atlantic Ocean via the canal will not be possible.

Waterway Guide will post additional information as it becomes available.

........................................................................................................................

23 June 2010

Key West, uncharted weather buoys

The Coast Guard has received a report of two US Navy Wave Data Gathering Buoys deployed uncharted in the following positions: 24-43N 081-52W, approx 10NM N-NW of Key West and 24-30N 081-56W, approx 7NM SW of Key West. All mariners are advised to stay clear of the buoys. For further information, contact NAVAIR at 305-293-4343.

Biscayne Bay, west of Bakers Haulover Inlet, severe shoaling

The following is taken from the 7th District Marine Safety Information Bulletin 10-004.

Severe shoaling is reported on Biscayne Bay along the AIWW west of Bakers Haulover Inlet. Current water depths reports at channel centerline at Biscayne Bay Buoy 6B are:

Mean Low Water - 3.9 feet
Mean High Water - 6.2 feet

Water depths were reported on June 16, 2010 and MLW/MHW depths may decrease as shoaling worsens.

The shoal has also caused the channel width at Biscayne Bay Buoy 6B to be reduced to 40 feet. The Army Corps of Engineers Jacksonville District advises the AIWW at Bakers Haulover is scheduled to be dredged on or about September/October, 2010.

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17 June 2010

FL: Bridge of Lions, AIWW mile 778, clearance discrepancy not resolved

6/17/10

Hi Chuck - Thanks as always for the information. Part of the confusion may 
lie with the new tidal datums that have been instituted during the last 
year or so which are 1.5 feet higher than in the past for this location. 
Global warming consequences. Of course the new bridge was designed before 
this new tidal datum was instituted, possibly resulting in the 
discrepancy.

David Roach

6/17/10

Bob,

I appreciate the e-mails you have sent this morning. I also appreciate your position, and the very real concern you present. The information I have provided to you is that which was provided to me by the project engineers and the contractor's personnel. I have forwarded the e-mails you sent this morning to the Senior Project Engineer and to the contractor, so they may hear directly from you the concerns which you have detailed for me. Thank you again for bringing this matter to our attention.

Sincerely,

Laurie Sanderson
Public Information Officer
Bridge of Lions Rehabilitation Project
(904) 825-3647

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6/17/10

Nothing says it better than some good old fashion on site observations and no one says it better than Captain Bob Mimlitch. Bob and Sue recently passed through the Bridge of Lions and passed on their excellent observations in hopes that it will help all of you passing this way until the "official" information is made available to the boaters.

I told some of you that I would report on the Bridge of Lions when we passed it northbound. Here are my findings:

Approaching the Bridge of Lions from the south.

The following two photos were taken on 15 June 2010 at 9:49am, as we passed under the bridge.



The south clearance gauge (tide board). After photo analysis, the clearance gauge reads 19.5', plus or minus an inch, which is clearance at "low steel". The sign also states 4' additional clearance at center. Thus clearance at center is 19.5' plus 4', or 23.5'. All drawbridges are governed by 33 CFR, which states:

§ 117.47Clearance gauges.
(a) Clearance gauges are required for drawbridges across navigable waters of the United States discharging into the Atlantic Ocean south of Delaware Bay (including the Lewes and Rehoboth Canal, DE) or into the Gulf of Mexico (including coastal waterways contiguous thereto and tributaries to such waterways and the Lower Atchafalaya River, LA), except the Mississippi River and its tributaries and outlets,
(b) Except for provisions in this part which specify otherwise for particular drawbridges, clearance gauges shall be designed, installed, and maintained according to the provisions of §118.160 of this chapter.

§ 118.160Vertical clearance gauges.
(a) When necessary for reasons of safety of navigation, the District Commander may require or authorize the installation of clearance gauges. Except as specified in §117.47(b) of this chapter for certain drawbridges, clearance gauges must meet the requirements of this section.
(b) Clearance gauges must indicate the vertical distance between ''low steel'' of the bridge channel span and the level of the water, measured to the bottom of the foot marks, read from top to bottom. Each gauge must be installed on the end of the right channel pier or pier protection structure facing approaching vessels and extend to a reasonable height above high water so as to be meaningful to the viewer. Other or additional locations may be prescribed by the District Commander if particular conditions or circumstances warrant.

The hand painted north clearance gauge (tide board). After photo analysis, the clearance gauge reads 22.5' plus or minus an inch, which it states is clearance at center, not "low steel" as required by 33 CFR. This nonstandard clearance gauge does not conform with 33 CFR.

The south side indicates 23.5' at center and the north side states 22.5'. There is a one foot discrepancy.

The listed clearance on the charts and according to the contractor rebuilding the bridge is 25' at center. Charted heights are based on clearance at Mean High Water (MHW). MHW for the tide station next to the Bridge of lions at the St. Augustine City Dock is listed as 6.41'. MHW reference: http://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/data_menu.shtml?stn=8720576%20St.%20%20Augustine,%20FL&type=Datums

This means that if you pass under the bridge at a low tide of zero, the clearance at center would be 25' plus 6.41', or 31.41'. We passed under the bridge with a tide of 4.0' so we should have had a clearance of 31.41 minus 4.0', or 27.41'. Said another way, we were 2.41' less than MHW, so 25' plus 2.41' or 27.41'.

When we passed under the bridge at 7:45AM on 28 April 2010, with a 4.5' tide the north clearance gauge read 22' at center, which was our boat's height with VHF antennas up. Because we were almost 2' below MHW, we expected 25' plus 2' or 27' at center. When we saw the north clearance gauge reading 22' at center, Sue ran to the upper helm and watched the antennas miss the bridge by less than a foot. If the listed 25' clearance was correct, we would have had 5.5' above our antennas.

Sue did not miss estimate our clearance as less than a foot instead of 5.5'. The north gauge appears to be correct, which means the listed clearance of 25' cannot be correct. The listed clearance may be off by as much as 4 or 5'.

According to Laurie Sanderson, the Public Information Officer for the Bridge of Lions, the Contractor still maintains that the listed clearance of 25' is correct.

I don't have all the answers, but I know the following calculations for clearance at center, based on a 4' tide, don't match:

South clearance gauge = 23.5'
North clearance gauge = 22.5'
Listed clearance = 27.4'

Something is still very wrong. Was the old bridge really 25' and the new bridge 20' or 21'?

Captain Bob Mimlitch
USCG 100 ton Master Captains License #1002684

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6/10/10

WG received the following update from Laurie Sanderson of the Bridge of Lions Rehabilitation Project.

Thank you for your patience regarding this issue. The contractor on the
Bridge of Lions Rehabilitation Project finished taking measurements today.
The tide gauge at the Bridge of Lions measures correctly. The measurement is
at low iron. You can expect approximately three extra feet of clearance at
the center of the bridge.

In regard to the clearance at mean high water posted on your website and on
other websites frequented by mariners, the Florida Department of
Transportation is concerned about making changes to the commonly accepted
mean high water measurement, because it may be the U.S. Coast Guard's
jurisdiction. However, we do maintain that the tide gauge at the Bridge of
Lions is accurate and measures at low iron.

I know this is not all of the information you were hoping for, but this is
the best information we can provide at this time. Thank you again for your
patience and your assistance on this issue.

Sincerely,

Laurie Sanderson
Public Information Officer

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

5/19/10

Laurie Sanderson of the Bridge of Lions Rehabilitation Project informed WG that after their meeting yesterday the contractor and all parties involved would be taking detailed measurements and adjusting for tides, etc. and will provide everyone with a definitive answer to the bridge clearance questions. In the mean time, anyone transiting the bridge should assume the lower clearance of less than 25 feet and check carefully the tide boards for passage. As usual, if in doubt, wait for an opening. We shouldn't be in that big of a hurry anyway, right?

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5/17/10

There have been some reports from Boaters passing through the new Bridge of Lions in St. Augustine, Florida that the bridge clearance for the new bridge does not match the charted clearance. Since the Bridge of Lions is a replacement bridge it was suppose to have the same clearance as the old bridge. But apparently this is not the case and after a discussion with Laurie Sanderson of the Bridge of Lions Rehabilitation Project, there is indeed a discrepancy.

According to the on site contractor, the new bridge clearance is indeed 22 feet MHW, and not the 25 feet MHW shown on the charts. The discrepancy is up for discussion at a special meeting tomorrow, Tuesday May 18,2010, for clarification. We will send out any more information as it becomes available to us, but in the mean time, caution should be taken when transiting the bridge until a definitive answer is found. Be Careful out there.

Chuck Baier,
General Manager
www.waterwayguide.com
cbaier@waterwayguide.com

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03 June 2010

Matanzas Inlet area, AIWW mile 792.2, possible shoaling

We received this post today without the senders name or email address. We have been unable to verify the information and request that anyone who might have additional information to post it.

At 0400 on Tuesday the Coast Guard came on the radio with a warning about 3\' depths at low tide in the Matanzas inlet area (where I was to transit the next day. I went through in about the center of the channel and saw no less than 9 feet - and I know there is not that much tide (it was about exactly half tide when I went through) so I am thinking someone is misleading the CG and they are reporting bogus info.

Ponce de Leon Cut, AIWW mile 844, shoaling

June 3, 2010

We received this post from an unknown source today. It confirms the post of May 11th.

I hailed SeaTow as I approached the Ponce inlet area and they told me that at red \"18\" just north of the Geo. Musson bridge there was shoaling toward the center channel (red/green) mark and to stay close aboard the red \"18\". I did and had no problem even though it was about an hour after low tide when I was there.


May 11, 2010

May 9th,2010 at 12:30 p.m. Going north on the ICW just past the George E. Musson Coronado Beach Bridge at mile marker 845, went aground at R18 and GRC in 4 feet of water. If heading north stay close to the red marker 18. If you go in the middle of the channel you will go aground. Stay clear of the red and green marker before 18Red.

Capt. Margaret M. Wagner

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02 June 2010

North Palm Beach to Miami, North Atlantic Ocean: SFOMF Buoy Deployment.

The United States Navy, South Florida Ocean Measurement Facility (SFOMF) will deploy a 27 inch WaveRider Buoy in approximate position 26-03.139N 080-5.698W, 2.5 NM S-SE of Port Everglades Inlet. The buoy will be tethered to a clump weight on the seafloor. The buoy is lighted with an amber light displaying 5 group flashes every 20 seconds. The deployment is scheduled to during the week of June 8th to June 16th and will be deployed for 3 months. When deployed, this buoy will be a hazard to navigation. All vessels are advised to steer clear of this hazard.

Lemon Bay to Paggage Key Inlet, Gulf of Mexico: FIT Buoy Deployment.

The Florida Institute Technology will deploy a research instrumentation surface buoy and a bottom mounted ADCP system just off the coast of Manasota Key from June 2-14, 2010. This is a yellow buoy with a yellow flashing light (2.5 - 4.0 sec intervals between flashes). When deployed, this buoy is a hazard. All mariners are advised to steer clear of this hazard.

Titusville, A. Max Brewer Bridge, AIWW mile 878.9, construction & waterway closure

Good news.......the new high level bridge will take out another draw bridge and delay point on the AIWW.

Bad news......the waterway will be closed during the daytime for a few days.

The following is from the 7th District Local Notice to Mariners 22/10.

The A Max Brewer Bridge, Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway mile 878.9, Titusville, Brevard County, Florida is being replaced with a high-level fixed bridge. This work will continue through April 2011.

Channel Restrictions/Bridge Regulations:

1. On June 8, 9, 15 and 16, 2010: Lane Construction will be restricting the channel by half of channel width, due to bridge construction next to the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. The contractor will be advising the mariner as to which of the two channels surrounding the swing span to use via the bridge tender and signage.

2. From June 29 through July 1, 2010 - 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. each day, the contractor has been authorized to close the waterway due to the placement of the center channel beams across the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. In the case of weather delays, the contractor may need to continue this operation on July 6 and 7, 2010. Once the beams are in place the minimum vertical clearance will be 65 feet at Mean High Water. The clearance gauges for the new high-level fixed bridge will not be placed on the new bridge until the old swing bridge is removed.

3. In order to expedite bridge construction and not unduly restrict navigation; the Coast Guard Bridge Branch will be authoring a temporary change to the scheduled operation of the A. Max Brewer Bridge. Starting on July 6, 2010, the A Max Brewer Bridge will be allowed to open on hour and half-hour from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., seven days a week. Mariners that wish to comment on this temporary change may email Michael.b.lieberum@uscg.mil.

To learn more about the project go to www.maxbrewerbridge.com

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19 May 2010

St. Lucie Inlet, AIWW mile 988.0, shoaling

5/19/10

The Coast Guard has received a report of shoaling in the St Lucie Inlet approximately 100 yds west of St Lucie Inlet Light 3 (LLNR 10000) and on
the north side of the channel adjacent to St Lucie Inlet 4 (LLNR 10003). All mariners are advised to transit the area with caution.


5/12/10

St Lucie Inlet (Staurt, FL) is shoaling to 2-3 ft at low tide on north side of inlet 60 ft inside north jetty. Shoal extends into channel. Favor center channel or south side (green) when transiting inlet.

Patrick Davis

Key West Harbor, hazard to navigation

The Coast Guard received a report of a submerged concrete barrel object in approximate position 24-34.001N 081-47.273W. All mariners are advised to transit the area with caution.

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09 May 2010

AIWW miles 940.0 to 955.0, cruising report

Passed through this area yesterday, May 8, 2010, at mid-tide. Stayed in the middle of the channel the entire 15 miles. Never saw less that 10' of water.

Sal and Frank Bulkley
Fine Romance

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05 May 2010

Jensen Beach, AIWW mile 981.4, anchorage depths

Depths of 9 feet 4 hours before low tide were observed on May 4, 2010.

Ted Stehle
Waterway Guide Lady

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04 May 2010

Matanzas Inlet Area, AIWW mile 791.0, shoaling update

5/4/10

Coast Guard Jacksonville is reporting shoaling to a depth of 3 feet at MLW in the area of mile 793.0. They are providing no details relative to navigational aids. Any cruisers transiting this area are requested to submit a report to Waterway Guide.

Ted Stehle aboard Waterway Guide Lady off shore.


4/27/10

Passing Mantanzas inlet today we saw no less than 11' at a +4' tide level.
That would give 7' at a Zero low tide.
I do not know when the markers were adjusted but the green marks clearly
show the proper channel. The greens are so far to the west of the channel
that they appear to be out of position.

In any case the passage is not a real danger or concern any longer.

Greg and Susan Han
Key Biscayne, FL
Allegria -- Krogen Whaleback #16

4/19/10

Came thru this section today at dead low tide and a sail boat was aground
crosswise in the middle of the marked channel opposite can Green 81c!
Heading northbound we went west of the grounded vessel but still further
then 50' from the shore and saw 4.5'(true depth). Then I proceeded directly
to the shore line described below and found 8-12'. It appears that you are
way outside (west) of the marked channel. The below instructions are right
on!

Joe Pica
Carolyn Ann

Ed Note. Joe is refering to Jime Healy's post of 3/24. Scroll down to see that post.

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03 May 2010

Ft. Pierce, AIWW mile 960.0, damaged nav aid

A Coast Guard broadcast states that Daymarker 170 has been damaged and is leaning over at a 45 degree angle.

Ft. Pierce, AIWW mile 956.0, damaged nav aid

The coast guard reports that the sign board on Daymarker 156 is missing.

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28 April 2010

Canaveral Barge Canal, AIWW Mile 894.0, maintenance closure

Canaveral Lock will be closed for dewatering to install a new Manatee Protection System on both the east and west gates. The two closure periods are tentatively scheduled for August 3 - September 11, 2010 and September 22 - October 29, 2010. For further information, please contact US Army Corps of Engineers at
(904)232-2103.

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15 April 2010

Halifax River, AIWW Mile 839.0 approx., shoaling

Stay well clear of 68A on the Halifax river. We draw 5'4" & bumped hard about 30 ft off the marker (in the channel.)

Peter Chapin

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12 April 2010

City Point Bridges, AIWW Mile 894.0, painting update

Posted from the 7th CG District Notice to Mariners.

4/12/10

Ed. note: LNM 0714 contains a notice that while the painting on this bridge continues, work is being done outside of the channel and no restrictions are in place.

1/21/10

Astron General Contracting is painting the SR 528 (Bennett Causeway) Bridge across the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway mile 894.0, Canaveral, Florida. They are currently working outside the channel limits; but are expected to reduce the vertical clearance on the center span by five feet from January 14 through February 12, 2010.

Ed. Note: This is a fixed vertical clearance of 65'. We have reports that the clearance has been reduced to 56'

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10 April 2010

Matanzas Inlet Area, AIWW mile 791.0, caution, severe shoaling, several cruising reports

4/10/10

Thanks to Ted and Nancy for this report.

We passed through this section of the ICW at low tide yesterday. We draw 4'10".
Never saw anything less than 7.9' EXCEPT between navaids 81A and 80B at the
mouth of the river. Saw 6.9' momentarily there. We anchored in the river just below the Fort. Excellent holding. The current really smokers through there so put out extra rode.
We have all chain rode and put out 90'.

One sailboat ran aground yesterday after 1130 am...other passed through
uneventfully..This morning I noted another sailboat aground

FAVOR THE RED SIDE OF THE CHANNEL.

Nancy McCarley
M/Y Aloha Friday
DF 44

4/8/10

The following in from the District 7 Local Notice to Mariners 14/10 dated 4/6/10.

Due to Shoaling Matanzas River DBN 110 (LLNR 39673) has been temporarily replaced with a Lighted Buoy in approximate position 29-33-54.1N 081-11-07.6W. The old structure (DBN 110) is still in place marked with a Quick Flash Light. Mariners are advised to use extreme caution while transiting the area and view the Local Notice to mariners Editions for shoaling information.


Many many thanks to the following cruisers who took the time to send in their reports on this critical area.

3/25/10
Matanzas Inlet ..AIWW Mile 791.0 ..ran aground last tuesday .. draw 3 ft. and was in the center of the channel ..STAY FAR AWAY FROM THE GREEN MARKERS .. Now on land in St. Augustine Marine Center ..both prop's damaged ..shafts are "OK" still big bucks .. what can we do about this ??? Its crazy !!!! tom

3/24/10
Matanzas Inlet is severely shoal! Thanks to the crew of Palmetto Moon - and especially the lazy cat, Alex - for their great information posted earlier this week. Sanctuary and crew came through that shoal area yesterday at noon, just off low tide. Their information was excellent and right on the money.

To repeat, STAY WELL TO THE RED SIDE OF THE CHANNEL! THE CONTROLLING DEPTH ON THE RED SIDE OF THE CHANNEL IS 6FT OR BETTER.

Headed north, as you approach the shoal area, stay to the west and pass close to Red Nun R82. Ahead of you there will be a sweeping curve to the east, and you will be looking at a relatively high (for Florida) sand bank. That sand bank has large area of clear, white sand at the top, and an area of scruff growth to it's east. Looking north, it also has a graceful, sweeping curve to the east. Head for the east end of the clear, white sand while keeping your stern aligned on Red Nun R82. Run to within 50' - 70' of shore. Yes, 50' or so; and yes, that seems very close to shore! Then, follow the curve of the shore line at that same 50' - 70' distance, all the way around until you finally reach Red Nun R80B. 50' is probably better than 70'...
Southbound, start at R80B and hug the sweep of that shore line at a distance of 50' - 70'. When you come around to a point in line with R82, head for R82.

STAY WELL TO THE RED SIDE OF THE CHANNEL. Mid channel carries less than 4' at MLW, and the green side carries less than that. And oh, by the way, the marked channel is narrow in this area, so a matter of just a few feet does matter.

Yesterday (3/23/2010), we saw a short mound area that showed 6 ft depth, but all the rest of the red side thru that 1/2 mile or so carried 8 ft or more.

Someone asked about getting into the anchorage at Ft. Matanzas on the Matanzas River. We did not do that, but the shoal area is on the ICW, immediately south of the anchorage entrance, and not on the Inlet itself. If you like that anchorage, I'd start from a point east and north of R80B, and sound my way in carefully. That part of the ICW seemed normal to me, and I would ass/u/me that access to the anchorage at the old fort might be normal also. Be careful in this whole area!

Note: those who have done this route before know that the whole 15 mile route from Matanzas Inlet to St. Augustine is shoal. Give the markers in that are plenty of leeway. If you run from marker to marker, there are places on long, sweeping curves where shoals extend into what you might mistake as the channel. Keep a sharp eye on where the channel is actually charted, and you'll be ok. Short cut those areas and you may well wind up aground. One of those areas caught a blow boat yesterday.

Hope this helps.

Jim

Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary


3/23/10
Hello Chuck,

We came through the ICW passing Matanzas and ran aground soft twice.
There was already a sailboat aground and that made me slow down to idle.
Our boat is an Halvorsen Atlantique 50 with a 6.5 ft draft with full
tanks. Lucky me the tanks were only half full .

3/10/2010; Northbound; Marker "Red 82 stay to red --- "Green 81c", "Green
81b" stay far away to the western shore --- "Red 80a" hug close ---
"Green 81a" stay away to western shore --- "Red 80"stay close ! I found
my way drifting in the faster moving water, at times I only had 4 inches
under the keel. It is a real mess and I will not attempt that stretch
again until it is dredged. I just came back from the BVI and going into
the ICW gives me the chills !

At this time I would also like to thank you 
for your great guides specially the new one for the Bahamas, I hope that
one day you will get one for the rest of the Leewards and Windwards since
there are very few not so good guides available. I will be back in
Deltaville tomorrow and explore the Chesapeake this summer before heading
back down to the Leewards for winter.

Thank you again
Stephan


3/20/10

Patricia k went through at high and we agree that it is very deep at
the red cans. But south of the cans are 2 green cans. We stayed on the
red side (no red marks) and saw 8 feet. That is at high. Another nb
boat said he saw 7 feet at high mid channel at the green cans.

Pat Kolvek


3/20/10

We transited the ICW northbound at the Matanzas inlet today, March 19, at high tide aboard our boat the "Laurel Ann", a 42' Symbol with a 4' draft. We hugged the red side from markers Green 81D to Red 80, staying way off the greens, and saw no less than 8.2 feet. Friends behind us went a little wider to the red side and saw no less than 10 feet. We transited the same area going south on January 22nd and bumped bottom at mid-tide at Green 81D because we came over into the middle of the marked channel too soon.

Mark and Laurie Chesnut

3/19/10

I went through there on Monday the 15th and that day the CoastGuard
was periodically making announcements that the shoaling was so severe
that there was 3 ft. reported at low tide. The bridge operator at
Crescent Beach called me after I went through the bridge and gave me
specific instructions about staying very close to the red markers
(specifically near to Green 81B) and I was about 30 feet or so from
the beach (white shelly sand on the west shore) and I saw as little as
8 feet at full high tide (I went through at about 1030).
Hope this helps - however a dredge might help more...

Linda Amstutz

PS - Thanks for your timely and helpful updates - isn't the age of
email cool?

3/19/10

On March 18th I joined 4 other boats in a raft-up in Matanzas Inlet. We arrived at high tide and left in an ebbing mid-tide. Staying towards the reds, we saw no less than 7 feet.

Barry Kipnis


3/19/10

Waterway Guide has just received this update from Geoff and Pepper Holmes aboard Rosetta, a 42' Grand Banks with 41/2 foot draft. If you are in the area please send us your report.

The Jacksonville Coast Guard is warning boaters about bad shoaling at the Matanzas Inlet crossing. Rosetta traveled through the area on 3/18/10 and saw no less that 14 feet by hugging the red markers. The local tow operator said he has assisted some 35 boats in the past few weeks who attempted to transit the area by staying in the middle of the channel between the red and greens and subsequently went aground.

2/20/10

Please add this update for the ICW in FL where ICW meets the Matansas River leading to the Matanzas Inlet at Buoys G81A - G81C. The markers are WRONG and following them will result in running aground. I traveled through this area on Wed. Feb. 17 heading south and began having problems at G81A but was able to continue until I ran hard aground at G81C. I have a 6' draft and was approx. 2 hours past high tide.
Tow Boat US informed me they have towed approx. 40 boats this year because the deep water is on the WSW side of the area and not where the buoys are located. Another sailboat came through headed north and ran aground between my boat and G81C. They were able to produce enough heel with their jib to break loose. They tried again on the WSW side (hugging the shore) and had no problem. I had no such luck and had to wait until the next high tide and it was still an effort by Tow Boat US to break me loose.

Reported by Janetta Walls on s/v Sea Flame

Ed Note: As we report in the 2010 Southern Guide, the channel in this area shifts frequently. There is no magenta line on the chart and the markers may not be in their charted locations. It appears from the report above that the channel has shifted, however, the markers have not been relocated.

........................................................................................................................

08 April 2010

Cotton Key, AIWW mile 1158.0, hazard to navigation

A 23ft vessel with a red and reflective hull is overturned and aground in position 24.57N 080-39.24W approximately 1.5NM west of Cotton key. All mariners are advised to stay alert and transit the area with caution.

Anclote Key, hazard to navigation

A 14ft pleasure craft with (1) outboard engine is anchored and unlit in position 28-09.7N 082-49.1W approximately 1NM east of the south tip of Anclote Key. All mariners are advised to use extreme caution whole transiting the area.

Canaveral Barge Canal, SR401 Bridge, temporary schedule

Coastal Marine Construction, Incorporated is scheduled to repair and paint the SR 401 Bridge across the Canaveral Barge Canal mile 5.5, Cape Canaveral, Florida. The work will start on March 5 and continue through September 30, 2010 and will be conducted from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., seven days a week.

The temporary schedule will be changed to:

The drawspan of the SR401 Drawbridge, mile 5.5 at Port Canaveral must open on signal; except that from 6:30 a.m. to 8 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 5:15 p.m., Monday through Friday except Federal holidays, the drawspan need not be opened for the passage of vessels. 
From 8:01 a.m. to 3:29 p.m. and 5:16 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. this bridge will open a single-leaf unless a four hour notice is provided to the bridge tender for a double-leaf opening.
From 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., the drawspan must open on signal, if at least three hours notice is given. The
drawspan must open as soon as possible for the passage of public vessels of the Unites States and tugs with tows.

........................................................................................................................

25 March 2010

Jupiter Inlet, dredging

Many Waters Inc. will conduct dredging operations approximately April 2 through April 30, 2010 in the Jupiter Inlet and along the shoreline south of the inlet. The dredge "POTOMAC III," a 40ft Tender Boat, and a 26ft Crew Boat will be in two shifts 24 hours per day and all vessels will be lighted and marked. The dredge will monitor VHF-FM 156.55 and channels 13 and 16. For further information please contact Ms. Catherine Lawhun, Project Assistance at (352) 447-5691or (352) 219-4502. All mariners are advised to use extreme caution while transiting the area.

Ft. Lauderdale, AIWW dredging proposal

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Palm Beach County, Florida has issued a Public Notice of proposed dredging on the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway between S.E. 17th Street Causeway and the Dania Cut-Off Canal. The Public Notice Permit Application Number is SAJ-2007-06237 (IPDWP).
If you have any questions concerning this application, you may contact David Pugh at the DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY, JACKSONVILLE DISTRICT CORPS OF ENGINEERS, REGULATORY DIVISION SOUTH SECTION, 4400 PGA BLVD, SUITE 500, PALM BEACH GARDENS, FLORIDA 33410, or by electronic mail at david.w.pugh@usace.army.mil, or by telephone at 561-472-3514. For complete text of Public Notice:
http://www.saj.usace.army.mil/Divisions/Regulatory/pnwebshare/Florida_Public_Notices/20100316-SAJ-2007-06237.pdf

........................................................................................................................

24 March 2010

AIWW and OWW, Crossroads, dredging completed

3/24/10

On 2/11 I bumped bottom entering the St. Lucie River from the ICW, 4.5 draft. As of 3/20, I found 12 feet at the same entry and am told dredging took place.

Manatee Pocket, just off the St Lucie entry is getting a major dredge project. See manateepocketproject.com

Have also been told St Lucie Inlet has been dredged in the last two years and is currently still open. Have not personally verified this.

Bill Fetsch

2/21/10

The dredging at the entrance to the St Lucie River just west of the ICW (the Crossroads) has been completed and minimum depths at MLW are 8 ft. Floating markers "2" and . "3", along with "4" and "3A". have been relocated to mark the dredged channel.

Jack Dozier
WaterwayGuide.com
DozierMarine.com

2/12/10

Good news. Dredging of this area has now been completed. We went through this
area this morning and saw over eleven feet all the way. The dredge is now
working on the ICW just south of St Lucie inlet.

Richard
Chez Nous

........................................................................................................................

15 March 2010

Cresent Beach Bascule Bridge, AIWW mile 788.6, construction meeting

ST. AUGUSTINE The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has scheduled an open house for information on the work underway at the Crescent Beach Bridge on State Road 206. Lane closures, detours and channel restrictions will all be necessary during the 300-day project, which includes cleaning and painting the steel structure and replacing some of the rivets and bolts.

The informal meeting will be Tuesday, March 16, between 4 and 7 p.m., at the Crescent Beach Baptist Church, 885 State Road 206 East, about two miles west of the Crescent Beach Bridge. Those interested are encouraged to come by anytime during those hours to ask questions or discuss details with construction personnel working on the project. No formal presentation will be made.

The biggest impact to motorists is expected while crews paint parts of the bridge that can only be accessed when the bridge is up. During this time, the bridge will be closed and all traffic detoured across the Matanzas River using the Mickler O'Connel Bridge on State Road 312. Bridge closures are only allowed during the hours of 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Most work will be visible from beneath the bridge by boats traveling through the channel and may require channel restrictions or closures, which will be coordinated with the U.S. Coast Guard.
The fishing pier beneath the east end of the bridge will also be closed during construction for safety.
Coastal Marine Construction Inc. of Venice, began work in February and should be finished by the end of 2010, barring unforeseen conditions such as bad weather. The project cost is $927,109.95.

For additional information regarding this project, contact the Public Information Office at 800-475-0044 or sdmancil@pbsj.com. For information about FDOT projects around Northeast Florida, visit www.northfloridaroads.com.
###

Flagler Beach, AIWW mile 809.1, Cement Plant Anchorage, cruising report

Thanks to Charles for this report.

Tried to get into a canal yesterday at R20, mm812.9. Was unable to get the Monk into the canal because of shoals. Went on to the Cement Plant at mm809.1, We have stopped there several years and it is still a good protected anchorage.

Charles Hardin
Martha Ann

........................................................................................................................

10 March 2010

Cape Canaveral, GPS signal may be unreliable

The GPS navigation signal may be unreliable do to testing on GPS frequencies used by shipboard navigation and handheld systems. Systems that rely on GPS such as E-911, AIS and DSC, may be affected within a 5NM radius of position 28-28-10.5N 080-34.44W Cape Canaveral, Florida. Testing will be conducted on the following dates and times: March 6-24, 2010 (0000Z-2359Z). More information is available at the
Coast Guard Navigation Center website www.navcen.uscg.gov. GPS users are encouraged to report any GPS service outages that they may experience to the Navigation Information Service (NIS) by calling (703) 313-5900 or by using the NAVCEN website to submit a GPS problem report.

........................................................................................................................

03 March 2010

Indian Key, Channel Five, AIWW mile 1172, hazard to navigation

The Coast Guard received a report of a vessel catching fire and was destroyed leaving (2) 3ft x 3ft portions of burned fiberglass debris in approximate position 24-50.158N, 080-47.00W and is marked by a Mooring Buoy approximately (0.3NM) south of the Channel Five Bridge. All mariners are advised to stay alert and transit the area with caution.

........................................................................................................................

28 February 2010

Palm Bay, Rock Point Anchorage, AIWW mile 925.3, cruiser report

Tonight we are anchored behind the first spoil island per Skipper Bob. Holding is excellent. Wakes from the ICW are not a problem, but there would be little wind protection from any direction except NE to SE. There are narrow uncharted shoals running due east to about 200 feet off the southern tip of both the spoil islands.

Bill and Kathleen Root
m/v Tucandu

North Lake Worth Anchorage, AIWW mile 1014.2, cruising report

Very quiet and well-protected. We entered by turning east just south of G27 per Skipper Bob and following the channel around behind the condos. there were quite a few boats there, mostly sailboats, but we found plenty of swinging room in the northeast corner. Holding was excellent, but winds were light. Anchor came up clean.

Bill and Kathleen Root
m/v Tucandu

Indian River, AIWW mile 940.0 to 955.0, intermittent shoaling

We encountered intermittent severe shoaling on the green side of the channel, some to 4.5 feet, at SM 955 marker G 153, SM 950 marker R130-R132 and SM 941 - SM 935, particularly marker R64-R62. Suggest favoring the reds in this entire area.

Bill & Kathleen Root
m/v Tucandu

........................................................................................................................

26 February 2010

Key Largo, Tarpon Basin, AIWW mile 1140.0, new dinghy dock

Many thanks to Capt. Sterling for this great news.

Tarpon Basin , Key Largo now has a Dinghy dock! The Government center is allowing boaters to use the docks on Tarpon Basin, MM1140 on the ICW, for shore access.

........................................................................................................................

24 February 2010

Bridge of Lions, AIWW mile 777.9, March/April restrictions/closures, update

Several reports have come in regarding being able to pass under the bridge during this closue period. Two reports are below. We thank this cruisers for their reports.

3/24/10

"We passed under the Bridge of Lyons Bridge on April 6, at 0900. The bridge and CHANNEL were officially closed. The Bridge Tender will not give any advice regarding passing under the bridge via channels other than the main channel. We passed under using the channel adjacent to the main channel, on the East side. We have 23' air draft, and the channel was 30' deep.
"The key here is to notify the bridge Tender that You intend to pass under, using an adjacent channel, and be aware that He will not agree or disagree. We watched at least 8 boats pass through before we made passage. The water was 30' deep under the bridge in the channel that we used. Note that there is a strong current under the bridge.

Lorenzo Johnson
Lil' David"

Sanctuary and crew arrived here at St. Augustine yesterday afternoon,
3/23/2010. We are staying at the municipal marina through the weekend for
reasons unrelated to the ICW closures.

The Bridge of Lions is now open to road traffic, and apparently has been for
the last week or so. The ICW construction closures this week and next involve
the removal of the temporary road span used during reconstruction.

The staff at the municipal marina gave me the following information. Standard
disclaimers apply. The center span carries 24' closed. The two portals
immediately adjacent to the center span (1st on east, first on west) each
carry 23' and 9" or so. The second adjacent portals (2nd east and second
west) from the center span carry 22'. There is at least 15' of water depth at
all of these center portals.

If you can clear the center span and there are no barges or construction
platforms in it, you are allowed to use it. I'd suggest advising the bridge
tender on VHF 09 if you do intend to come through. AT THE CAPTAIN'S
DISCRETION, you are also free to use the other portals if they are clear of
construction equipment. In fact, we saw boats - including a local sight
seeing boat - come through the 2nd west portal.

The transient dock at St. Augustine Municipal Marina is almost empty, so there
is PLENTY of space here right now. The ICW here will be open as usual this
weekend, Saturday and Sunday.

Note: THERE HAVE BEEN SOME OPENINGS DURING THE DAY, as they are testing out
the bridge gates and the bridge mechanism, but I'm not sure you can count on
that unless you're actually at the bridge when it opens.

That's what I know. Hope it helps.

Jim

Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary
Currently at St. Augustine, FL

This schedule was sent to us by the Bridge of Lions Rehabilitation Project Public Information Office.

March 22, 2010 to March 27, 2010 - Channel fully closed from 8 pm Monday evening 3/22 until 8 am Saturday morning 3/27. No openings.

March 29, 2010 to April 3, 2010 - Channel fully closed from 8 pm Monday evening 3/29 until 8 am Saturday morning 4/3. No openings.

April 5, 2010 to April 10, 2010 - Channel closed from 8 pm to 8 am each night. Scheduled openings daytime 8 am to 8 pm.

April 12, 2010 to April 17, 2010 - Channel closed from 8 pm to 8 am each night. Scheduled openings daytime 8 am to 8 pm.

........................................................................................................................

20 February 2010

Ft. Pierce, AIWW mile 964.9, channel report

For the past two years' transits through this area and today at low tide, we saw no less than 11.6 ft. between N. Ft. Pierce Bridge and the Inlet and thru the 65 ft. bridge.

Sarah Southworth
Moonlight Serenade
Beneteau 50
6'3" draft

........................................................................................................................

19 February 2010

Sombrero Key to Sand Key, Boca Chica Channel, sunken vessel

The Coast Guard has received a report of an upper shell of a 12ft white fiberglass hull with blue pin stripe partially submerged in position 24-33.58N 081-43.38W.

........................................................................................................................

14 February 2010

St. Johns River, Julington Creek, sunken vessel

A 28ft sailing vessel has sunk in Julington Creek in approximate position 30-07.9N 081-38.2W. The mast is visible at the waterline and is a hazard to navigation. 

AIWW mile 792.2, Matanzas River, shoaling

Shoaling that extends half-way across the channel has been reported in the vicinity of the following aids:

Matanzas River Buoy 81A
Matanzas River Buoy 81B
Matanzas River Buoy 81C
Matanzas River Buoy 81D

........................................................................................................................

05 February 2010

FL east coast OK for cruising after containers sink, update

2/5/10

The Coast Guard received a report January 26, 2010 that 30 cargo containers fell overboard in position 24-06-8N 081-39.8W. One container has been reported adrift in position 28-55.144N 079-48.188W approximately 45 nautical miles northeast of Cape Canaveral and drifting north
with the Gulf Stream. All mariners are advised to stay alert and transit the area with caution. Chart: 11480

2/1/10

Many cruisers were concerned that cruising the FL coast or going to the islands might be hazardous after 30 containers fell off a freighter early last week. Such is not the case.

Representatives of the U.S. Coast Guard state that about 23 of the containers were believed to have sunk off the Keys and five were found partially submerged in Biscayne National Park. The remaining two were believed to have also sunk

To view picutres of the container ship in port click here.

To read a report by the Palm Beach Post News, click here.

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01 February 2010

AIWW & OWW, Manatee Pocket, dredging to begin

According to a report from Darryl Schmiermund of Hinckley Yacht Services in Stuart, the long awaited dredging project is about to begin. In an email to WG, Darry stated:

" Please pass along to your marine community that the Manatee Pocket is also about to start any day. This will provide a marked 10 deep MLW channel all the way into this beautiful Pocket. I have sat on the committee for this for 3.5 years and now it's becoming a reality. "

Darryl Schmiermund
General Manager
Hinckley Yacht Services
Stuart, FL

........................................................................................................................

31 January 2010

AIWW mile 744.7, Atlantic Beach Bridge, caution

MM 744.7 At high tide, tall mast boats should use caution at the
Salamander Ldg "65" ft. bridge. When nearby bridges had 63.5 ft.
clearance, this one only had 62.5 ft. clearance!

Sarah Southworth
s/v Moonlight Serenade

........................................................................................................................

26 January 2010

Marathon, Boot Key Harbor, Boot Key Bridge

The Boot Key Bridge, Marathon, Florida is tentatively scheduled for demolition in June 2010. The work will require two months to complete.

........................................................................................................................

18 January 2010

N. Palm Beach, Parker Bridge (US31), AIWW mile 1013.7, single leaf operation

Due to continuing bridge repairs, the Parker (US 1) Bridge across the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway mile 1013.7, Palm Beach, Palm Beach County, Florida is on single-leaf operations. A double-leaf opening is available with a four-hour notice to the bridge tender. This work is expected to be completed by October 30, 2010.

Note: Closed vertical clearance is 25'

Ft. Lauderdale, Atlantic Blvd Bridge, AIWW mile 1056.0, single leaf operation

Due to continuing bridge repairs, the Atlantic Boulevard Bridge across the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway mile 1056.0, Fort Lauderdale,, Broward County, Florida is on single-leaf operations. A double-leaf opening is available with a two-hour notice to the bridge tender. This work is expected to be completed by May 30, 2010. 

Note: Vertical clearance is 15'.

........................................................................................................................

28 December 2009

St. Augustine, Salt Run Channel, dredging

F and A Marine, Inc., has commenced maintenance dredging in the Salt Run Channel, St Augustine, Florida. This operation will began at the Intracoastal Waterway and proceed to the Conch House Marina Resort, St Augustine, Fl. One (1) mechanical dredge with barge and one (1) push tug will be on scene. This operation continues until completion on or about March 24, 2010. For further information please contact Mr. George Frenz at (904) 753-7177.

Note: The Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway is not affected.

........................................................................................................................

14 December 2009

Matanzas Inlet Area, AIWW Mile 793.0, channel update

We transited this area the week of December 6th and experienced depths of no less than 8 feet MLW. Very easy to cross. Since this area is subject to frequent channel shifts follow the buoys carefully.

Jack Dozier
Waterway Guide Lady

Palm Valley Cut, AIWW Mile 747.0 - 759.0, cruising report

Dredging is taking place in the northern half of Palm Valley Cut. 12ftMLW except for about the final 1/2 mile which should be completed this week.

Jack Dozier,
Waterway Guide Lady

Canaveral Barge Canal, AIWW Mile 894.0, cruising report

Depths were a minimum of 8 ft the full length when we transited the week of December 4.

Jack Dozier,
Waterway Guide Lady

........................................................................................................................

28 November 2009

Indian River, ICW Mile 988.0 (approx.), dredging

A and E General Contractors has commenced maintenance dredging in the Indian River (South Section), Crossroad Section of the IntracoastalWaterway in the vicinity of Indian River (South Section) Light 240 (LLNR 45915.5), with completion date on or about January 24, 2010.

The boundaries for this project are:
North Limits: 27deg 10-56.400N 080 deg 10-54.333W
South Limits: 27deg 09-34.791N 080 deg 10-35.230W
West Limits: 27 deg10-41.906N 080 deg 11-02.163W

The dredge NESSIE, crew boat NEAT #1, push tugs MISS BELLE #1 and various barges will be on scene and moored outside the channel at the Spoiled Island (DMMA M-5). All barges, boats and the dredge will be lighted in accordance with Coast Guard regulations. The floating pipeline will have a single light every fifty (50) feet. The dredge NESSIE will monitor VHF Channel 13 and 16, with working channel 10 and 22A. For further information p[lease contact Mr. Butch Elliott at (904) 545-0377.

........................................................................................................................

25 November 2009

ICW Mile 840.0, Indian River, bridge height boards

The height boards for the ICW fixed bridges in the Indian River Lagoon S of the Ponce de Leon Inlet appear to have been "adjusted" downward to reflect lower clearance levels. The USCG is investigating as of 24Nov09. Details may be found by clicking here.

Joe Rocchio

........................................................................................................................

21 November 2009

Fernandina, dredging

Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company, LLC, will commence maintenance dredging in the Entrance Channel, Kings Bay, Georgia and Fernandina Beach Harbor, Florida.
The dredges LIBERTY ISLAND and TERRAPIN ISLAND will be onscene and monitoring Marine Radio VHF Channels 13 and 16. For conplete text see enclosure number 12 of the LNM or contact Mr. Dave Allen at (630) 574-3000.

........................................................................................................................

02 November 2009

NASA Railroad Bridge, Mile 876.6 - Possible Delays

Cruisers are reporting that construction on the NASA Railroad Bridge, ICW Mile 876.6, is resulting in unpredictable daytime closures Monday through Friday until 5 p.m. While the Coast Guard was unable to provide any further information on the closures, Titusville Marina is apparently confirming that construction is ongoing and delays are possible at any time. 

The bridge is normally left open unless a train is approaching. 

........................................................................................................................

13 May 2009

AIWW Mile 728.0, Nassau Sound, shoaling

We found skinny water north of Nassau Sound at Mile 728, Green Day Mark #43. The shoal that lies east of G43 is building into the channel. We admit to traveling at near MLW and at that time found and parked for a while on less than 6' about 150' off the G43. There is as little as 3' closer to the marker. We suggest favoring mid-channel to the red quarter at this place.

Wes and DeAnn Birdsong
s/v Liberty
Tayana 37 6' draft

........................................................................................................................

29 April 2009

FL Upper Gulf Coast - Cedar Key, shoaling

Shoaling is reported in the width of the channel in the vicinity of Cedar Keys Northwestern Channel Light 19  and Cedar Keys Northwestern Channel Daybeacon 20. The reported water depths are between 3-5 feet at MLW.

Venice Inlet - Siesta Key, shoaling

Shoaling has been reported for the width of the channel between Venice Inlet-Siesta Key Light 4 and Venice Inlet-Siesta Key Light 5. The reported depths are between 4-8 feet.

........................................................................................................................

25 February 2009

Everglades City, Indian Key Pass, shoaling

Local Notice to Mariners 0809 for the 7th District reports that shoaling has been reported in between Indian Key Pass and Barron River in the vicinity of Everglades City, Florida.

Waterway Guide would like to have a first person report that we can post.

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22 February 2009

Indian River, hazard to navigation

 The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWCC) has reported that Indian River (North Section) Daybeacon 25  has been destroyed and is partially submerged at approxiamate postion 28 deg 38-09.832N 080 deg 48-24.414W. The aid will be charted and marked with a Temporary Wreck Buoy (Wr 25) until rebuilt. All mariners are requested to proceed with caution and be on the lookout for possible floating debris.