Federal Register #2026-17198

National Park Service final rule revising personal watercraft regulations at Gulf Islands National Seashore

This opportunity concerns a regulatory update by the National Park Service regarding personal watercraft (PWC) use at Gulf Islands National Seashore. - Government buyer: - National Park Service (NPS), Department of the Interior - No OEMs or vendors are involved; this is a regulatory action, not a procurement - No products or services are requested - Key regulatory changes: - Flat wake speed zones reduced to 300 yards from shorelines in Mississippi and 150 yards in Florida - Codification of existing closures for PWC use at West Petit Bois Island and the Fort Pickens ferry pier - Changes based on environmental impact analysis and public comments - Aim to balance environmental protection with recreational access and improve compliance/enforcement - No part numbers, quantities, or procurement requirements - Notable requirements: - Revised speed zone distances - Codified closures for specific areas - No contract value or period of performance, as this is not a procurement

Description

The National Park Service has issued a final rule revising special regulations governing the use of personal watercraft (PWC) at Gulf Islands National Seashore. The rule reduces the distance of flat wake speed zones from certain shorelines, setting them at 300 yards in Mississippi and 150 yards in Florida, and codifies existing closures at West Petit Bois Island and the Fort Pickens ferry pier. These changes aim to balance environmental protection with recreational access, improving compliance and enforcement of speed zones. The rule is effective September 23, 2026, and is based on extensive environmental impact analysis and public comments.

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