MIAMI — Temporary vessel restrictions will be in place for Fort Pierce Inlet beginning Friday as salvage operations resume to remove a barge that sank in late February.
A safety zone has been established around the sunken barge at the entrance of Fort Pierce Inlet at position 27-28’20”N, 080-17’13”W.
Coast Guard and partner maritime law enforcement marine units will remain on-scene during salvage operations. Mariners wanting to transit the inlet must contact law enforcement crews on VHF-FM Marine Channel 16 for directions on transiting the area safely. There will be a draft restriction of five feet while salvage operations are being conducted. Restrictions may vary throughout the salvage operation, and divers will be in the water day and night, so mariners should exercise extreme caution while transiting the area.
Anchor points for the salvage crane barge are marked with crown buoys and strobe lights. All vessels are prohibited from transiting between the crown buoys and salvage vessels.
Mariners may contact Coast Guard Sector Miami via VHF-FM Marine Radio Channel 16 or by calling 305-535-4472.