Newsroom

January brought little relief from the dry conditions across the District, with rainfall totals remaining sparse during what is typically one of the region’s drier times of year. Nearly all the area received below-average precipitation, and the entire District is experiencing some level of drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. A water shortage has been declared for portions of the District, including Duval County and parts of Alachua, Baker, Bradford and Marion counties.

The District is conducting a 100-acre prescribed burn today south of the field station at J.P. Hall Bayard Point Conservation Area in Clay County to reduce hazardous fuel loads, lower the risk of wildfire and maintain fire-dependent natural communities.

The District will open the seasonal interpretive drive at Emeralda Marsh Conservation Area, located in Lake County, for vehicular access from Feb. 20 through May 24. During this period, the drive is open each Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to sunset.

The St. Johns River Water Management District (District) Governing Board voted today to declare a Phase I Moderate Water Shortage for Duval County and portions of Alachua, Baker, Bradford and Marion counties.

Prescribed fire helps reduce the possibility of dangerous wildfire while enhancing land’s environmental quality.

The District is providing advance notice of temporary, recurring closures of the Headwaters Boat Ramp, including the kayak launch, at the Fellsmere Water Management Area (FWMA) to support scheduled maintenance and restoration activities.