Gulf Islands National Seashore updates personal watercraft wake zones

The National Park Service has announced adjustments to wake zones for personal watercraft operating along the Gulf Islands National Seashore, which stretches across the Panhandle including waters off Pensacola and Santa Rosa County.

According to WKRG News 5, the changes to the regulated wake zones are intended to better manage recreational boating activity in the protected marine areas. The seashore encompasses roughly 150 miles of pristine coastline and waters that see significant seasonal boat traffic from both local residents and visitors.

The National Park Service manages these zones to balance recreation with environmental protection, including safeguarding seagrass beds and marine habitats that are critical to the Gulf's ecosystem. Personal watercraft operators in the area should review the updated regulations before heading out on the water.