5/15/2007

May 14, 2007
Contact: Tara Alford, (850) 410-0656, ext.17169

FWC to post “No-Anchor Zone” signs in Newfound Harbor (Pine Channel)

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) passed a rule in December 2006 creating a no-anchoring zone for masted vessels in Newfound Harbor (Pine Channel), south of U.S. 1 between Big Pine Key and Little Torch Key. In an effort to enforce this new rule, the FWC will post signs and buoys in the affected area.

Construction is scheduled to begin May 18, with an expected completion date of May 22. Once signs are in place, the FWC will educate the public and issue warnings for the first 30 days. After that, violators will receive tickets.

During inclement weather, masted vessels have come in contact with the power lines, knocking out power in other portions of the Keys. The signs and buoys will inform boaters that anchoring masted vessels is prohibited in Pine Channel.