Due to the downed aircraft on Lake Hartridge that was reported Tuesday (3/7/2023), we ask for the public’s assistance regarding boat and vehicle traffic.

On behalf of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the City of Winter Haven, Winter Haven Police, Winter Haven Fire, Polk County Fire Rescue, NTSB and the FAA, we request for all citizens who boat the Chain of Lakes to please avoid boating into the area of Lake Hartridge, the north area of the Chain of Lakes.

Recovery efforts of the downed aircraft continue.

Notification will be sent as soon as it is clear for boat traffic to continue into Lake Hartridge thru the north section of the Chain.

Additionally, we ask for citizens to please refrain from going to the Lake Hartridge Boat Ramp to include the Lake Hartridge Nature Park due to the increased law enforcement activity.

We will send out notification when the park is clear for the public use.