Perfect Holiday boating weather puts reefs at risk for anchor damage.
If you are anchoring off the south Florida coast to watch fireworks, go fishing or diving be aware of where you drop your anchor.
Anchoring on the reef kills coral and is illegal. The Florida Coral Reef Protection Act allows for fines starting at $150.00 per square meter of coral damage and escalating up to $250,000 per occurrence.
Use mooring buoys where available or anchor in sand, never on the reef.
HELP PROTECT OUR REEFS.
If you see illegal anchoring activity; report it.
Florida now has an easy to use online way to report violators. Visit the SEAFAN report form at: http://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/943503/SEAFAN-Report-Form-BR-BR-Updated. You will need the anchored boat’s location and FL registration number.
More info:
Palm Beach County Mooring Buoy Program
Broward County Mooring Buoy Program
Also see:
Stiff penalties for careless boaters
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Reblogged this on Danielle's Dives Blog and commented:
Thought this was very appropriate with the holiday week bringing out the boaters in mass to park and watch fireworks. Think before you drop your anchor…please! I love out reefs!
By: daniellesdives on July 3, 2012
at 10:25 am