Boat Ramps In Orange County: When Will They Open?

Boating enthusiasts in Orange County, Florida, were delighted to learn that boat ramps were open to the public again ahead of Memorial Day weekend in 2020. The ramps had been closed due to the pandemic, and while residents were eager to get back out on the water, social distancing restrictions were in place to keep everyone safe. In March 2023, boat ramps in the town of Windermere, including the three within the town's limits, were opened after being closed following Hurricane Ian in September 2022.

Orange County boat ramps open after Hurricane Ian

After Hurricane Ian struck in late September 2022, Orange County closed its boat ramps to prevent further damage. The county also issued a precautionary lake advisory following Hurricane Nicole in November 2022, urging citizens to refrain from recreational water activities and avoid contact with water bodies.

The closure of the boat ramps continued for several months, and in February 2023, residents began expressing their concerns. Finally, on March 21, 2023, the town of Windermere announced the reopening of the Orange County boat ramps, including the three within the town's limits. These are the Orange County public Lake Down ramp, the resident-only ramp at Fernwood Park (Lake Butler), and the resident-only ramp at Lake Bessie.

To use the boat ramps in Windermere, residents are required to purchase a boat pass for $35 from the town administration building. The pass includes a key to the Lake Bessie ramp and a unique code for the Fernwood Park ramp and/or the pedestrian gate. Due to the anticipated high demand for park passes, town officials recommend that residents come prepared with the necessary paperwork, proof of residence, and payment.

It is important to note that social distancing restrictions may still be in place at the boat ramps, and deputies will be patrolling to ensure everyone's safety. Additionally, commercial boats are not permitted to use the ramps for entrance or picking up individuals from the town docks.

Social distancing restrictions in place

As of May 2020, Orange County boat ramps are open to the public with social distancing restrictions in place. These restrictions have been implemented to ensure the safety of residents during the COVID-19 pandemic. While residents are now able to access the water, it is important to adhere to the following guidelines:

• The number of people on the boat ramps will be limited.
• Boaters must follow rules posted by Orange County, including maintaining a distance of six feet from others and avoiding congregating on the lake.
• Beaching of watercraft is not permitted.
• Deputies will be patrolling the ramps and waterways to enforce these rules and ensure the safety of residents.
• The marine unit of the Orange County Sheriff's Office will be out on the waterways to monitor social distancing. They will communicate with those who are not practising proper social distancing and urge them to follow CDC guidelines.

It is important for residents to follow these social distancing restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and ensure the safety of the community. By practising social distancing and adhering to the rules put in place by local authorities, residents can enjoy the boat ramps while minimising the risk of infection.

Lake Down, Fernwood Park, and Lake Bessie boat ramps

On March 21, 2023, the town of Windermere, Orange County, announced the opening of its boat ramps, including Lake Down, Fernwood Park, and Lake Bessie boat ramps. The boat ramps were closed after Hurricane Ian in September 2022 and remained shut even after Hurricane Nicole in November 2022, when a precautionary lake advisory was issued.

The Lake Down ramp is open to the public, while the Fernwood Park (Lake Butler) and Lake Bessie ramps are for residents only. To use the boat ramps, Windermere residents must purchase a boat pass for $35 from the town administration building. This pass includes a key to the Lake Bessie ramp and a unique code for the Fernwood Park ramp and/or the pedestrian gate. Passes are not discounted if access is desired for only one ramp, and there is no charge for those who only need a Fernwood pedestrian gate code.

The town of Windermere recommends that residents come prepared with the necessary paperwork, proof of residence, and payment when purchasing the pass. Due to the anticipated high demand for passes, residents are encouraged to remain patient and follow any instructions provided by town officials.

For further information or clarification, residents can refer to the official website of the Town of Windermere or contact the relevant administrative departments.

Boat passes required for Windermere residents

As of March 21, 2023, all Orange County boat ramps are open, including the three located in Windermere: the Orange County public Lake Down ramp, the resident-only ramp at Fernwood Park (Lake Butler), and the resident-only ramp at Lake Bessie. These boat ramps were closed following Hurricane Ian in September 2022 and Hurricane Nicole in November 2022.

Boat passes are required for Windermere residents who wish to use the town's boat ramps. These passes can be purchased for $35 at the town administration building, located at 614 Main St, starting from March 28, 2023. The passes include a key to the Lake Bessie ramp and a unique code to the Fernwood Park ramp and/or pedestrian gate. Due to the anticipated high demand for passes, residents are advised to come prepared with the necessary paperwork, proof of residence, and payment.

The purchase of passes is not discounted for access to only one ramp, and there is no charge for residents who only require a Fernwood pedestrian gate code. Commercial boats are not permitted to use the ramps for entrance or picking up individuals from the town docks. For any queries regarding the passes, residents can email or call (407) 876-2563 Ext. 5327.

It is important to note that social distancing restrictions may apply to the use of boat ramps, and the number of people on the ramps may be limited. Orange County has enforced rules such as no congregating on the lake, maintaining a six-foot distance, and no beaching watercraft. Deputies will be patrolling to ensure these rules are followed, and boaters are urged to follow CDC guidelines.

Commercial boats prohibited from using ramps

On March 21, 2023, the town of Windermere in Orange County announced the opening of its boat ramps, including the three located within the town's limits. This followed a long period of closure after Hurricane Ian hit at the end of September 2022. The town, together with its counterparts in the county government, championed a "No Wake Lake" zone to help prevent additional damage. In November 2022, Orange County issued a precautionary lake advisory following Hurricane Nicole, and citizens were asked to refrain from any recreational activity in the waters.

While the boat ramps are now open to the public, residents of Windermere who wish to use the town's boat ramps are required to obtain a boat pass, which can be purchased at the town administration building. These passes include a key to the Lake Bessie ramp and a unique code to the Fernwood Park ramp and/or the pedestrian gate. It is important to note that commercial boats are prohibited from using the ramps for entrance or picking up individuals from the town docks. This was highlighted in an email sent by Windermere Police Chief Dave Ogden, who also mentioned that any issues regarding this should be reported to the WPD as soon as possible.

The opening of the boat ramps in Windermere, Orange County, is a welcome development for residents, especially those who enjoy recreational boating and fishing. However, it is crucial to follow the rules and regulations put in place, including social distancing guidelines and restrictions on commercial boat access, to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.

The Windermere boat ramps provide access to beautiful waterways and offer opportunities for outdoor recreation. With the purchase of the necessary passes and adherence to the rules, residents can take advantage of these amenities while also supporting the town's efforts to maintain and manage its natural resources sustainably.

In summary, while the boat ramps in Windermere, Orange County, are now open to the public, it is important for residents and visitors alike to respect the rules and regulations in place, including the prohibition of commercial boats from using the ramps. By doing so, everyone can contribute to the preservation of the town's natural environment and ensure the continued enjoyment of these spaces for years to come.

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