Monroe County Wins Federal Approval for Man of War Mooring Field

Monroe County has secured permits from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary to build a mooring field near Wisteria Island off Key West.

The moorings will address unmanaged anchoring that damages seagrass beds, creates navigational hazards, and leaves derelict vessels blocking waterways throughout the Keys.

County Commissioner Craig Cates said the permits bring the project closer to construction. "Receiving both permits provides additional safe, managed mooring opportunities for the boating community," he said.

Once installed, a state law takes effect that limits vessels to 90 consecutive days of anchoring within 10 nautical miles of the mooring field. The restriction targets long-term unanchored boats that become derelict.

Monroe County is also building a mooring field for the Boca Chica basin. The county has not announced a construction timeline for either project.