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Contact: Matt Johnson, 786-335-3679
HOMESTEAD, Fla. --- Biscayne National Park is partnering with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies during Columbus Day weekend, October 10-12, 2015. As part of the effort to protect park resources and the safety and welfare of visitors, reduced navigational speeds will be enforced by the U.S. Coast Guard in the Intracoastal Waterway. Columbus Day weekend is traditionally the most dangerous weekend of the year for those visiting the park by boat. “We hope that visitors safely enjoy this national treasure over the holiday weekend,” said Superintendent Brian Carlstrom. ”The wonders of the park are best experienced safely and responsibly.”
Special regulations are in effect during Columbus Day weekend. A 15 knot speed limit will be enforced by the U.S. Coast Guard in the Intracoastal Waterway from Rickenbacker Causeway to Elliott Key. Boats are directed into a marked anchorage area on the northwest side of Elliott Key. No more than five boats may be rafted together in this area. A minimum of 100 feet is required between single vessels or groups. This allows access for emergency services.
There is zero tolerance for boating under the influence of alcohol, excessive noise, possessing illegal drugs or promoting unauthorized commercial activities. Failure to obey the rules may result in arrest, fines up to $5,000, and the risk of injury, death or property and resource damage. Visitors are encouraged to maintain proper safety and navigation gear, use a sober skipper, prevent littering and not operate boats at night. Boaters should be alert for swimmers or those operating boats under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Safety inspections and “boating under the influence” checks are conducted throughout the weekend by a variety of law enforcement agencies.
The park is hosting a special event in commemoration of Lancelot Jones Day from 11:00 a.m. to Noon on Monday, October 12, 2015, at the Dante Fascell Visitor Center. State and county representatives and commissioners are joining park staff to speak about the importance of the Jones family to the park and the region.
For more information about Biscayne National Park visit nps.gov/bisc or follow the park on Facebook facebook.com/biscaynenps, Twitter twitter.com/biscaynenps or Instagram instagram.com/biscaynenps.
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About the National Park Service. More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America's 408 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at www.nps.gov. |
Last updated: October 8, 2015