Newsroom

While recent rainfall has brought welcome relief to portions of northeast and central Florida, the St. Johns River Water Management District (District) is reminding residents, businesses and large water users that drought recovery will take time.

The Headwaters Boat Ramp, including the kayak launch, at the Fellsmere Water Management Area (FWMA) will be temporarily closed August 3–6 as the District continues the series of scheduled monthly closures to support maintenance and habitat restoration activities.

Students across the District will have new opportunities to explore Florida’s waterways, conduct scientific research and connect with the environment through the Blue School Grant program.

The District is conducting a 1,230-acre prescribed fire on the western portion of Hal Scott Regional Preserve and Park in Orange County, situated in the Middle St. Johns River Basin. Its purpose is to reduce hazardous fuel loads, improve habitat for the red-cockaded woodpecker and maintain fire dependent natural communities.

The St. Johns River Water Management District has opened the public comment period for the draft 2026 Middle St. Johns River Basin Plan.

The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 680-acre prescribed fire on the northern portion of Hal Scott Regional Preserve and Park in Orange County, situated in the Middle St. Johns River Basin. Its purpose is to reduce hazardous fuel loads, improve habitat for the red-cockaded woodpecker and maintain fire dependent natural communities. Crews will also burn the remaining portion of a management unit where a 300-acre wildfire occurred Monday night, helping secure the entire area and reduce the risk of future wildfire activity.