Boaters navigating to and from Lake Okeechobee should be advised that the South Florida Water Management District (District) closed certain boat locks at the end of their normal operating hours Tuesday, April 15, 2025. 

Water levels in Lake Okeechobee are expected to fall below 12 feet NGVD or 10.70 feet NAVD. The following boat locks will temporarily cease operations and they will be closed to navigation until specific water levels are met. 

• The S-135 Boat Lock at the J&S Fish Camp in Martin County.
• The G-36 Boat Lock on Henry Creek in Okeechobee County.
• The S-127 Boat Lock at Buckhead Ridge in Glades County.
• The S-131 Boat Lock at Lakeport in Glades County.

The S-193 Boat Lock at Taylor Creek in Okeechobee County will be open only on Saturdays and Sundays from 5:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. If the lake level reaches 11 feet NGVD or 9.70 feet NAVD, the S-193 Boat Lock will close on the weekends as well. 

Anglers and boaters may also access local waterways through other public boat ramps. Visit FWC Boat Ramp Finder to find one near you.

To get the latest information on navigation through District structures and waterways, visit SFWMD.gov/Navigation and follow the District on Facebook and X.