Navigation Notice Issued for Okeechobee Waterway in Wake of Government Shutdown

navigation channel near Route 2 remains temporarily closed due to a floating tussock hazard

FLORIDA • USA – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Jacksonville District has issued Notice to Navigation 2025-022 for the Okeechobee Waterway, effective October 2. The Corps confirmed that all navigation locks along the waterway remain open and staffed during the ongoing government shutdown. These operations are considered mission-essential to ensure the safety of boaters, regulate water levels, and manage flood risks.

Although staffing levels have been reduced, crews continue to operate locks to maintain safe passage for vessels and to support water management efforts throughout the region. The Corps emphasized its commitment to maintaining navigational safety and operational continuity even under limited federal activity.

In coordination with previous Notices to Navigation 2025-020 and 2025-021, officials report that the navigation channel near Route 2 remains temporarily closed due to a floating tussock hazard. Mechanical equipment is currently being used to remove the debris. Boaters are urged to exercise caution when traveling near the affected areas.

Up-to-date information on Lake Okeechobee’s current water levels can be accessed online HERE.

Lock operations continue to be available daily, with contact numbers provided for each location:
• St. Lucie Lock & Dam: 772-287-2665 or 863-662-9148
• Port Mayaca Lock & Dam: 561-924-2858 or 863-662-9424
• Julian Keen, Jr. Lock & Dam: 863-946-0414 or 863-662-9533
• Ortona Lock & Dam: 863-675-0616 or 863-662-9846
• W.P. Franklin Lock & Dam: 239-694-5451 or 863-662-9908
• Canaveral Lock: 321-783-5421 or 863-662-0298 (available from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.)

For further information, the Corps advises boaters to contact Kriss Zeller, Chief of Navigation, at 772-380-6928 or visit the official website.

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