Lake Alert - Memorial Day Weekend Reminders

Memorial Day Weekend Reminders

Dear Neighbors,

With the “official” start to the summer boating season beginning this Memorial Day weekend, we wanted to share a few friendly reminders with our watercraft permit holders.

• Display Watercraft Permits – If you have purchased a watercraft permit for the 2023-24 boating season, please make sure it is displayed properly on your vessel. You can find directions for proper placement HERE.

• If you haven’t purchased a permit for either your powered or non-powered watercraft to use for Lake Bowen and/or Lake Blalock, please visit our Lake Bowen or Lake Blalock Wardens’ office to purchase. A listing of associated permit prices can be found on our WEBSITE. (Please note that permits for non-motorized watercraft (i.e. kayaks and paddleboards) are a $25, one-time fee that do not require renewal with each boating season.)

• Safety First! Before heading out on the water, please remember these important safety tips:

  1. Let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return.
  2. Check the weather.
  3. Ensure your watercraft is in good working order. Always do a test run before you go out on the lake, and ask any of our wardens to help you do a safety check.

• Be sure you have the following available on your watercraft:
  • Life Jackets – enough for each passenger, U.S. Coast Guard approved and in good condition. Life Jackets only work if you wear them, so be sure to keep a properly fitting floatation device on at all times when you are on the water.
  • USCG approved Type IV Retrievable floatation device – For watercraft greater than 16’.
  • Fire extinguisher – required by law, for gas powered watercraft.
  • Navigation lights – on between official sunset and sunrise.
  • Sound device – horn, air horn, or whistle.

And if you ever have any questions, please reach out to our watershed staff. They are more than happy to assist! Lake Bowen Wardens’ Office: 864-592-2240, Lake Blalock Wardens’ Office: 864-578-5442.

We hope you have a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day weekend and start to the summer season!

Most sincerely,

Spartanburg Water