Stretching from the Georgia border all the way down to Indian River County, the St. Johns River Water Management District spans nearly 13,000 square miles across 18 counties. Given the region’s vast size and diverse water resources, the District adopted an innovative approach in 2024 to better protect and manage the waterways, springs and natural systems within its jurisdiction.
Ocklawaha River Strategic Basin Planning Coordinator Jim Peterson (right) speaks with Friends of Lake Apopka Executive Director Joe Dunn.
To better address the unique environmental needs and challenges across the region, the District is divided into four strategic planning basins. Each basin is led by a dedicated manager to develop actionable initiatives to support the environment while also meeting the needs of local communities.
Drawing upon research, science, data, modeling and stakeholder input, the program actively engages in collaborative efforts with local and state partners to clearly identify and implement project opportunities.
As part of this ongoing effort, the District has opened the public comment period for the draft 2026 Ocklawaha River Basin Plan. The draft plan updates priorities and projects to improve water quality, support ongoing restoration efforts and guide water resource management across the basin.
Public input is an important part of the planning process and will help ensure the final plan reflects community needs, local knowledge and regional priorities. The District held a public meeting on May 6 to provide an overview of the draft plan and answer questions from attendees.
The draft document and an online public comment form are available on the District’s website at sjrwmd.com/documents/plans/#basin.
Public comment will be accepted through June 3, 2026, and feedback received during this period will help inform revisions before the plan is finalized.
Residents, community partners and interested parties are encouraged to review the draft and share their input.
For more information about the District’s efforts in the Ocklawaha River Basin, visit www.sjrwmd.com/waterways.
