FWC creates Weeki Wachee Springs Protection Zone
FWC photo by Karen Parker of biologists searching for turtles on the Weeki Wachee River.
At its July meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved a final rule, establishing a 5.61-mile Springs Protection Zone that restricts the beaching, mooring, anchoring and grounding of vessels on the spring run area of the Weeki Wachee River, extending from the spring boil within Weeki Wachee State Park, to the Rogers Park Boat Ramp. This Springs Protection Zone does not limit public access to the spring or spring run. Vessel operators will be prohibited from anchoring, mooring, beaching or grounding a vessel within the 5.61-mile protected zone. With limited exceptions, most tubes and rafts would not be considered vessels under Florida law.
Before approval, and following the direction provided at the FWC's May 2023 meeting, staff members with the FWC's Boating and Waterways division coordinated with Hernando County officials, the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD), and the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to determine if Weeki Wachee Spring met the criteria for the creation of the Springs Protection Zone. Three public meetings were held, two specifically in regard to the Weeki Wachee Springs Protection Zone, and the FWC then sought public comment for interested parties, through June 30, 2023, before approval. Evidence presented was evaluated by the FWC, DEP, SWFWMD, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Coast Guard.