South Florida - Wednesday October 12, 2022: The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) is urging boaters to use extreme caution near the S-69 weir (pictured) in Kissimmee River in Okeechobee County.
All recreators are advised to remain at least 1,500 feet away from the S-69 weir at all times.
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.
A weir is low head dam is a barrier across the width of a river that alters the flow characteristics of water.
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.
Anglers and boaters may also access local waterways through other public boat ramps. Visit FWC Boat Ramp Finder to find one near you.
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. (27°20'39.9"N 81°02'05.3"W)
To get the latest information on navigation through SFWMD structures and waterways, click HERE.