Alachua County deputies prepare for crowded waterways this Memorial Day weekend

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) — Alachua County sheriff’s officials say with fewer lakes open this Memorial Day weekend, they expect some waterways to see heavier than normal traffic.

Deputies are reminding boaters to slow down, wear life jackets, and never operate a boat while impaired.

Water levels at Newnans Lake are low because of the drought, and the lake is closed to any boating activities. The lake would normally be packed with boaters this Memorial Day weekend.

Alachua County sheriff’s deputies say that could push more people to other lakes that are still open, creating more crowding on those waters.

Deputies say they’ll be patrolling other lakes throughout the holiday weekend, watching for reckless boating and making sure people have proper safety equipment on board.

“The state states that any child six and under must have a life jacket and you must also have a category one, two or three Coast Guard approved life vest for every person on board,” said Sgt. Andrew Davis, dive team and marine operations commander. “They do not have to wear it while you’re underway or stationary. It just has to be on the boat in case of emergencies.”

Deputies say lakes like Lake Santa Fe are still open, and they expect those areas to be extra busy throughout the weekend.

Deputies say their biggest message is simple: celebrate responsibly and slow down on the water. Children under the age of six should wear life jackets.

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