T&T: Anchoring in the grass

[Rich Gano]

I would like us not to all get wound around the axle about environmental
issues here, but references in the anchoring discussion about sharpening
anchors and other devices to cut through sea grass remind me of the problems
we have down here with maintenance of the sea grasses.

These shallow areas of grass-covered bottom have long been identified as the
nurseries of the Gulf fisheries and need protection.  Long prop scars used
to cris-cross these areas making it difficult for the grass to maintain a
hold.  Pollution is certainly another significant factor.  There has been a
recent concerted effort by some local organizations, with backing from
government grant money, to replant areas where the grasses have for one
reason or another been decimated.  Nowadays I see signs posted every hundred
feet or so in the water off our favorite destination barrier island saying
something to the effect that this is a delicate sea grass area - not a
prohibition on anchoring, etc, just a moral reminder sort of thing.  Behind
these signs at certain times of the year, at the high water mark, are signs
PROHIBITING human and dog and mechanized activity due to tern nesting.  I do
not know what would happen if a Florida water cop were to find you anchored
inside one of these grass warning areas.

I have avoided grassy areas for the simple reason that long ago I
experienced a danforth anchor dragging and clogged with a big ball of grass.
Now I have added incentive to do so.

Some of you may boat in areas where there is so much grass that boaters'
anchors and props cannot significantly harm the huge bio-mass.  Some may
boat in areas where there is no option but to anchor in grass.  Such is not
the case in Florida.

Rich Gano
CALYPSO (GB-42 #295)
Southport, FL