30324933, 68D-24.109 - Florida Administrative Rules, Law, Code, Register

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Florida Department of State and Division of Library and Information Services

Notice: 30324933

Notice of Proposed Rule

Department:

FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Division:

Vessel Registration and Boating Safety

Chapter:

BOATING RESTRICTED AREAS

Overview

RULE:

68D-24.109

Withlacoochee River Boating Restricted Areas

PURPOSE:

These amendments reflect updated National Weather Service (NWS) data collection methods for existing boating-restricted areas (designated as Idle Speed No Wake during times of flooding) along the Withlacoochee River. The NWS has designated an “action stage” for three of the four water level gauges FWC monitors on the river. The action stage represents the level of a rising stream at which mitigation measures become necessary in preparation for possible significant hydrologic activity. Action stages will replace the current outdated numerical measurements to allow for consistency and simplicity. For the fourth gauge, the rule will be amended to reflect NOAA’s revised data collection methods. In addition, amendments will remove all Withlacoochee River closure provisions from this rule as Florida law does not authorize the Commission to establish closure areas.
SUMMARY: National Weather Service’s modifications to data collection and reporting will be reflected in the rule with the amendments. All closure restrictions on the river will be removed.

SUMMARY:

National Weather Service’s modifications to data collection and reporting will be reflected in the rule with the amendments. All closure restrictions on the river will be removed.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY:

327.04, FS; 327.40, 327.46, FS.

LAW:

327.46, FS.

PRINT PUBLISH DATE:

12/16/2025 Vol. 51/242

COMMENTS:

From 12/16/2025 To 1/6/2026 (21 Days)
The public comment period for this notice has already expired.

REFERENCE MATERIALS:

No reference(s).

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