Dickinson County, Iowa — Dickinson County Emergency Management is removing the 5 mph speed limit on the Iowa Great Lakes, effective Wednesday morning.
From the Dickinson County Emergency Management Commission……………
Back on July 3, the Emergency Management Commission met in emergency session to discuss the ongoing flooding situation and lake levels. The Commission opted to enact the emergency 5 mph rule on all lakes in Dickinson County a day early in anticipation of the rain forecast and holiday traffic.
On Tuesday, July 10, the Emergency Management Commission met to discuss the current status of the lake levels in Dickinson County. At today’s meeting, a motion was made and passed to continue with the plan as originally established by the Commission. What this means for boaters:
Effective immediately:
Big Spirit and Little Spirit Lake – All boats must travel 5mph or less within 600 feet of shore
East & West Okoboji, Upper and Lower Gar, and Minnewashta – A lake-wide 5-mph rule remains in effect. Lake levels must remain below 6.54’ (30”) for 72 hours before returning to the 600-foot 5mph rule. Barring additional rain or a rise in lake levels, the 5mph rule is set to be removed at 9:15 a.m. Wednesday, July 10. An additional press release will be issued at the time that this occurs.
Silver Lake, Center Lake, and all other lakes in Dickinson County not previously mentioned here will have no restrictions other than the permanent 300-foot rule outline by Iowa Law.
With rain in the forecast later this week, everyone is advised to monitor the Emergency Management website at www.dcem.us for any changes to these restrictions.
*Barring additional rain or rise in lake levels, the 5mph rule is set to be removed at 9:15 a.m. Wednesday, July 11th.
