🚂🌊 A Look Back at Florida’s Travel History!

Check out this historic map of the Plant System — a vast network of railways and steamship routes that connected Florida, Georgia, and even Cuba in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

What’s especially fascinating? Many of these early railways and river routes followed the same natural corridors that shape Florida today — including the St. Johns River, the state’s longest river. 🌿

Before highways existed, the St. Johns River served as a major transportation lifeline. Communities, trade, and travel relied on this slow-moving, north-flowing river long before the rail lines were built. 🚢

Today, the St. Johns River Water Management District works to protect the very lands and waters that supported these early routes — ensuring healthy waterways, restored wetlands, and resilient ecosystems for future generations. 💧✨

Florida’s history runs right through our rivers.
And we’re proud to help protect them. 💙

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🥾🌿 Florida Hiking Trails Month – Trail of the Week

Now’s the perfect time to hit the trail.

✨ This Week’s Trail:
The White and Red Trails at Black Creek Ravines Conservation Area in Clay County offer scenery you won’t find just anywhere in Florida.

The White Trail overlooks one of the property’s unique ravines — a rare landscape feature in north Florida that adds elevation and dramatic views to your hike.

The Red Trail leads to a stunning bluff along Black Creek, rising about 30 feet above the water and offering a breathtaking panoramic view. It’s the perfect reward at the end of your hike.

By protecting special places like this, SJRWMD helps safeguard water resources while preserving diverse natural habitats.

Ready to explore north Florida’s ravines and river views?

🔗 Plan your visit at the link.
sjrwmd.info/BlackCreekRavines

💧 Florida water — it’s worth saving.

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🚨 Burrell Lock UPDATE 🚨

Operational testing at Burrell Lock is now underway. District staff have begun locking vessels through the structure as part of the testing process.

We appreciate the public’s patience as we work through initial operations. While boats are being accommodated, additional adjustments and fine-tuning are still underway to ensure the lock functions safely and efficiently.

Boaters are encouraged to follow on-site instructions and allow extra time during this testing phase

✨ Tag or share with boaters who frequent the Burrell Lock! 🚤

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