Lake Okeechobee Levels and Lock Schedules

[AnchorageGuy]

Some very good news for boaters planning to cross Lake Okeechobee in the future. Due to all of the recent rain in South Florida, the Lake levels have finally risen above 12 feet. As of today...

U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville District
Lake Okeechobee and Navigation Depth Report
Data Ending 2400 hours 17 OCT 2011

Today's Lake Okeechobee Stage = 12.10 (Feet-NGVD29)
Today's Route 1 Navigational Depth ≈ 6.04 Feet Today's Route 2
Navigational Depth ≈ 4.24 Feet Bridge Clearance = 51.00 Feet S-308
Tailwater Elevation = 12.50 (Feet-NGVD29)

In addition, The lock tender at the Franklin Lock has informed me that the St. Lucie and Franklin Locks are opening every two hours from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. and will continue on that schedule until the Lake reaches 12 1/2 feet. At that time it is probable that the locks will go back to on demand schedules. Of course continuation of these schedules will depend on the Lake levels.
Chuck

[Lattitude Adjus]

What is "Tailwater Elevation"??

We are going to cross on Thursday or Friday the 8th or 9th of December 2021.

Any other suggestions? We will be in a 480 Sedan Bridge drawing right around 4 feet.

TY,
Vince

[GordMay]

Originally Posted by Lattitude Adjus

What is "Tailwater Elevation"??
TY,
Vince

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, Vince.

“Tailwater” refers to waters located immediately downstream from the lock [or dam, bridge, culvert etc].
"Elevation" refers to the surface of the water.

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