ST. PETERSBURG, Fla.—The Coast Guard is advising boaters to avoid New Pass Entrance Channel, Sarasota County, Florida, and seek alternative routes until dredging operations and a new Federal Aids to Navigation system is put into place later this summer.
The Coast Guard has completed removal of six buoys, and marked the channel as dangerous, due to shallow water.
“Until the projects are completed, we urge boaters to seek an alternative route to the Gulf of Mexico,” said Chief Warrant Officer Darren A. Pauly, aids to navigation officer at Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg.
If mariners or recreational boaters see any aids missing, damaged or in the wrong position, they are requested to immediately contact the U.S. Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg Command Center via VHF-FM marine band radio channel 16, or by phone at (727) 824-7506.
Additionally, boaters may use the new Coast Guard App to file a buoy or aid discrepancy with us as well.
Visit the U.S. Coast Guard Navigational Center to view the latest Local Notice to Mariners for the 7th Coast Guard District, which includes the most up-to-date maritime navigation information.