WHY SHOULD YOU LEARN TO "READ" WATER COLOR?

Many boaters do not realize that coral reefs and seagrass beds in the Florida Keys can be growing within inches of the water's surface whether they are located close to shore or several miles from shore.
The following navigation tips are provided to make your boating experience easier and safer and to insure that others will be able to enjoy the same spectacular and irreplaceable marine communities.

BROWN, BROWN RUN AGROUND

Reef formations that grow close to the water's surface and shallow sea grass beds will make the water appear brown. Such areas should be avoided to keep from running aground and damaging both your boat and these sensitive habitats.
WHITE, WHITE YOU MIGHTS and bars and shallow rubble areas appear white. These areas can be deceiving and may be much shallower than they appear. Navigate with caution around these areas.

GREEN, GREEN NICE & CLEAN

Green water usually indicates an area free of shallow reefs or seagrass beds. Navigation of small, shallow draft boats in these areas is generally safe. However, larger, deeper draft boats should exercise caution. All boaters should carry and consult the appropriate NOAA marine chart.

BLUE, BLUE CRUISE ON THROUGH

Deep water areas, such as the ocean side of a reef may appear blue. Navigation in these areas is free from hazardous contact with reefs or seagrass beds. Remember, however, that coral reefs rise abruptly from deep water so give yourself plenty of room to maneuver.

 

IF YOU RUN AGROUND:

Turn off your engine immediately. Do not attempt to use your engine to power off the reef or grass flat, which could damage your boat as well as these important habitats. If possible, raise your lower unit or outdrive and allow your vessel to drift free from the shallow area. If you cannot drift free, radio Coast Guard, Sanctuary Patrol or Marine Patrol on VHF Channel 16 to provide you with assistance.

CORAL REEFS are an essential marine habitat that fish and many other marine creatures need to live, eat and reproduce Corals grow very slowly, some at a rate of 2 centimeters per year. Boat groundings can instantly pulverize coral, leaving areas open to infection by disease and devastating a thriving coral reef community.

Damage to seagrass beds can be equally devastating. Seagrass beds act as a nursery and feeding ground for numerous organisms. They also filter excess nutrients and trap sediments, thereby providing the clean, clear water essential for coral reefs. By running aground or even motoring in very shallow water, boats can scar seagrass beds. These narrow sand channels can grow wider and wider, decreasing the seabed's ability to protect the reef and provide a healthy community for marine creatures.

 

DO NOT APPROACH THESE MARKERS!

REEF LIGHT TOWERS
Prominent metal A-frame structures with a number posted on them.

SHOAL MARKERS
Solitary steel I-beams, standing approximately 10 feet, usually with a diamond-shaped DANGER sign attached.

Many extensive shallow reef areas are marked by Reef Light Towers or Shoal Markers. You can determine where the shallow edge of these areas is located. Along the reef, there will often be a series of breaking waves. Along the edge of seagrass flats, you will frequently see a ripple effect or surface water texture change. Shallow sandbars will appear glassy.

Source: http://florida-keys.fl.us/boating.htm