Lake Seminole Florida
Once tidal flats, Lake Seminole was created in the 1940’s by impounding a portion of
Long Bayou. Lake Seminole has been used extensively for recreational purposes including
water-skiing, wakeboarding, boating, and fishing; however, over the past two decades
fishing, water quality, and healthy vegetation have declined significantly.
The lake averages 5 feet above National Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD 27). The lake is
divided into a north lobe and south lobe by an area called The Narrows.
The south lobe of the lake is home to Lake Seminole County Park which includes a boat
ramp, playground, picnic areas, walking trails, and a gazebo. The park also comprises a
significant portion of vegetated shoreline necessary to breakdown excess nutrient
compounds before they enter Long Bayou, Boca Ciega Bay, and the Gulf of Mexico via John's
Pass.
A recent water quality and habitat rehabilitation effort has been conducted as part of the
Lake Seminole Watershed Management Plan built upon decades of limnological research by the
Pinellas County Dept. of Environmental Management. The restoration included a shoreline
cleanup and removal of invasive, exotic plants, and restoration with natives on public
lands. Future endeavors include an alum-injection system to deactivate excess nutrients
caused by urban runoff, and the dredging of public portions of the lake.
Several residential properties surround the lake, many of which are condominiums and
mobile home parks. Houses are only found on the Northern section of the lake.
Boating Restrictions: Access permitted to vessels of all sizes, but boats drawing more
than 3ft. draft will find navigation difficult.
Normal, safe operation is permitted in all areas except:
- An "idle speed - no wake" zone extends 100 ft. from all shorelines
- A "slow speed - minimum wake zone" extends from immediately south of the
bridge at the Narrows northward to 110th Ave
- All canals which spur off The Narrows are "idle speed - no wake".
Tags: lake seminole waterskiing water skiing park fishing
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