Obstacle course in Cortez waters

A derelict vessel begins to sink June 2 in Sarasota Bay near Cortez, raising concerns from boaters who must navigate the sunken or derelict vessels in the area. Some in Cortez have called for expediting the removal of derelict vessels and tighter management of the bay communities. Islander Photos: Courtesy Katie Tupin

A sunken derelict vessel is tagged June 1 with a warning buoy and red sticker in Sarasota Bay near Cortez. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers use stickers to tag wrecked vessels, identifying the craft as under investigation for removal. Removal is not immediate, as the FWC must first seek out the registered owner. Vessels can become derelict due to neglect, abandonment or through a storm event.