Published: August 23, 2024
Bartow, Fla. (Aug. 23, 2024) – Polk County reopened the Lake Hancock boat ramp today. The ramp, located off U.S. Highway 98, was closed on Aug. 7 due to high water flows created by Tropical Storm/Hurricane Debby. Conditions were unsafe for boaters.
The boat ramp may be closed again if there is significant rain in the areas that drain to Lake Hancock.
The Southwest Florida Water Management District operates the Lake Hancock water control structure to reduce flooding impacts in the surrounding communities by allowing water to flow downstream to the Peace River. Closing the boat ramp is sometimes necessary to allow the District to operate as needed and to ensure that boaters are not in an unsafe situation.
Currently, Lake Hancock’s water levels have subsided enough to allow for boating. Water levels and conditions will continue to be monitored throughout the rainy season.