06-21-2007, 12:10 AM
The U.S. Drought Monitor has declared the South Florida region to be in a state of "extreme" drought. After a very dry 2006 (third driest on record for the state) and a dry beginning to 2007, legendary bass fishery Lake Okeechobee stands at a record low of 8.89 feet, compared to the usual 13.23 feet. As a result, fish and fishermen are feeling the effects.
Droughts can reduce the aquifer level, allowing sink holes to form and drain lakes. Salinity increases in tidal creeks may stress fish, and low water levels can trap fish, resulting in fish kills from low dissolved oxygen, according to biologists.
During these times of low water levels, boaters need to exercise extreme caution to prevent striking an underwater object or the bottom. At the same time, no matter how shallow the water, there always is a drowning hazard. FWC officials strongly encourage boaters always to wear their life jackets while on the water.
There also may be access problems due to boat ramps being out of water and steep drop-offs at power-loading holes at end of boat ramps that are usable at current water levels.
Droughts can reduce the aquifer level, allowing sink holes to form and drain lakes. Salinity increases in tidal creeks may stress fish, and low water levels can trap fish, resulting in fish kills from low dissolved oxygen, according to biologists.
During these times of low water levels, boaters need to exercise extreme caution to prevent striking an underwater object or the bottom. At the same time, no matter how shallow the water, there always is a drowning hazard. FWC officials strongly encourage boaters always to wear their life jackets while on the water.
There also may be access problems due to boat ramps being out of water and steep drop-offs at power-loading holes at end of boat ramps that are usable at current water levels.