MIAMI – Several boaters were spotted early Thursday morning at the Watson Boat Ramp in Miami, trying to secure their spots on the water before things get too busy.
That included one group of jet skiers who say they normally like to hang out on some of the islands that will be closed this year until the big fireworks show at night.
But now, because of these closures, they say they aren’t sure where they will end up.
“A lot of people come out and one of the most famous islands, which is Picnic Island, a lot of people used to go and do parties. I understand the reason why they closed for littering, but at the end of the day, it’s our fault and we have to fix on that,” one man said.
The city of Miami confirmed in a news release Wednesday that its four spoil islands, Osprey Island, Morningside Island, Pace Picnic Island and Willis Island, on Biscayne Bay, would remain closed for the Fourth of July “in an attempt to further disallow contamination and littering throughout the bay and the islands.”
The spoil islands have been closed since Memorial Day weekend.
“The Miami Police and Parks and Recreation Departments are collaborating to raise public awareness about the detrimental impacts of littering and will enforce existing laws and regulations,” the news release stated. “This is a temporary measure to evaluate and restore the natural beauty in our City and our waterways.”
Miami police told Local 10 News days after the spoil islands initially closed that conditions on the islands have been noticeably different.
“It was clean,” MPD Marine Patrol Lt. Oriel Tameron said. “I saw marine life.”
Anyone trespassing onto the islands will be subject to arrest and city officials say the police department’s Marine Patrol unit will “enforce zero-tolerance measures against those seen trespassing.”
“On March 14, 2024, the City Commission enacted the ‘Leave No Trace’ legislation,” the news release stated. “This new policy represents a significant step forward in promoting responsible recreation and environmental stewardship on Biscayne Bay and safeguards the delicate ecosystem long-term.”
Boaters are urged to seek alternate destinations for the time being.
City officials say signage will be posted at the four spoil islands and measures will be taken to restrict access.
Meanwhile, the city of Miami Beach says its popular Flagler Monument Island will be closed as well for the holiday as boaters have a history of littering there as well.
As a precaution, the city is closing the island starting at 6 a.m. Thursday. It will reopen at 6 a.m. Monday.
Officials haven’t confirmed when Miami’s spoil islands will reopen to the public.
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