“Restoring the Ocklawaha is bigger than the Ocklawaha — it would help restore the St. Johns River Estuary." - Lisa Rinaman, St. Johns Riverkeeper.
St. Johns Riverkeeper
The mission of St. Johns Riverkeeper is to defend the St. Johns River and advocate for its protection. We envision a clean and healthy River for current and future generations. St. Johns RIVERKEEPER is a privately-funded, independent and trusted voice for the St. Johns River and the public to whom it belongs. We are a 501(c)(3) environmental advocacy organization and rely on the support of our members, donors, and volunteers to accomplish our mission. Learn more at StJohnsRiverkeeper.org.
Benefits to the St. Johns River:
- Water Quality - Restoring over 15,000 acres of forested wetlands will greatly enhance bio-filtration and improve the ecological function of the St. Johns River Ecosystem.
- Dilution of Increased Salinity - Restoring the natural flow of the Ocklawaha River to the St. Johns River will offset a portion of the increased tidal force from the dredging that will push the saltwater wedge further upstream by adding 150 million gallons of water per day.
- Habitat Connectivity - Restoring natural migration patterns by allowing eel and migratory Atlantic fish, like shad, striped bass, channel catfish and mullet, to access the upper parts of the river and Silver Springs. Bring back wildlife, such as black bears and the endangered manatee by restoring land and water connectivity and providing additional habitat.
- Expansion of Recreation Opportunities - In addition to providing greater unique outdoor experiences including, kayaking, nature-based boat tours, and nature photography, the freeing the Ocklawaha River will benefit Silver Springs (the largest spring system in the St. Johns River Watershed and a major recreational haven) which is currently impaired from nutrient pollution and a severe reduction in flow.