S-61 lock, C-35 canal on south Lake Toho now open

The South Florida Water Management District lock on Lake Tohopekaliga and the C-35 canal opened on Friday morning — if braving the chill on the water this weekend and upcoming week would be in your plans.

The S-61 lock at the south end of Lake Toho and C-35 canal to Cypress Lake will remain open through Feb. 6 to coincide with a BASS Tournament taking place. The action will give boaters access to Cypress Lake for the first time since 2017.

To enable access, the contractor of the ongoing shoal project will pin its dredge pipe against the east canal bank and the dredge will remain in the water over the shoal area.  The dredge will be marked and lighted in accordance with Florida Statutes.  Law enforcement will be on the scene on January 28th and Feb. 3-5.

Boaters accessing the area are asked to proceed slowly in proximity to the construction operations.

Removing the shoal began in late 2021 and the canal has been closed to all but official and emergency navigation. The contractor is now expected to complete the project in February.

The District will ensure that the S-61 Boat Lock is fully staffed for the planned opening of the C-35 Canal.