ECONOMICS

Saves taxpayers millions by removing a significant dam safety issue.

A team of economists, science and tourism experts have jointly outlined the strong economic benefits of breaching the Rodman/Kirkpatrick Dam to create a free-flowing Ocklawaha River, reconnecting Silver Springs and the Ocklawaha and St. Johns rivers. Engineers are projecting that the costs to bring the Buckman Lock and Rodman/Kirkpatrick Dam up to new dam standards may exceed $14 million. FDEP is currently finalizing a 2021 dam assessment report.

What the Economics Say

Returns a $50 million net benefit over 10 years

Removes an estimated $57 million dam safety risk 

Increases regional visitor traffic by a projected 28%

Improves Marion and Putnam Counties economy

Complete Economics Overview

See the eight-minute economic segment from our new documentary – The Great Florida Riverway.