Navigational locks on Kissimmee River reopen to boat traffic

Posted 10/26/22

Boaters are advised to be careful on the Kissimmee River due to high water levels and fast currents ...

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Navigational locks on Kissimmee River reopen to boat traffic

Posted

The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) re-opened five navigational locks along the Kissimmee River and in the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes.on Oct. 26.

The S-65, S-65A, S-65D and S-65E boat locks along the Kissimmee River and the S-61 Southport boat lock were closed for public access to assist with alleviating high water conditions in the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes after Hurricane Ian. 

Boaters are encouraged to exercise caution on Kissimmee Lake/Kissimmee River (C-38 Canal) due to high water levels. Boaters may encounter rapidly flowing water and submerged hazards. Boaters are advised not to navigate near the State Road 60 Bridge toward the S-65 structure. There are possible obstructions in the water including debris and floating vegetation. 

The S-69 Weir is a new water control structure within the restored Kissimmee River floodplain that delivers water downstream to the C-38 Canal. It is located within the river between U.S. 98 and the CSX Railroad Bridge. It is approximately 2,000 feet north of the CSX Railroad Bridge. All recreators are advised to remain at least 1,500 feet away from the weir at all times. To bypass the weir, recreators should stay in the main Kissimmee River Channel and not deviate from the existing channel. With high river levels, the S-69 Weir may be difficult to see on the Kissimmee River. There are fast water conditions upstream of the weir and large volumes of water can quickly pull watercraft towards the structure in a matter of seconds. Water flow can also pull watercraft/swimmers and drag them below the water with such force they cannot escape.   

In addition, there is a temporary change in operations for the S-310 Boat Lock in Clewiston:

  • The boat lock will be open daily from 5:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.
  • The boat lock will close each night from 8:00 p.m. - 5:30 a.m. and boaters will not be able to lock through the structure. 
Kissimmee

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