APOPKA, Fla. — The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board voted Tuesday to adopt the Middle St. Johns River Basin Plan, establishing a long-term framework for restoration, water quality improvements and flood protection across central Florida.
Developed with local governments, environmental stakeholders and state agencies, the plan sets priorities for improving water quality, protecting Outstanding Florida Springs and strengthening flood management.
A public comment period helped shape the final document.
Related--> Workshop focuses on St. Johns River basin, aiming to protect this vital natural resource
The basin spans more than 2,000 square miles, extending along the St. Johns River from the Econlockhatchee River to north of Lake George. It includes lakes Harney, Jesup, Monroe and George; seven Outstanding Florida Springs; and the Econlockhatchee and Wekiva rivers, which hold special designations recognizing their ecological value.
Its waterways and wetlands support wildlife, recreation, water supply and flood protection while preserving the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
Related--> Blue algae health alert issued for Lake Jesup
Cammie Dewey, the District’s strategic planning basin coordinator, emphasized the partnerships behind the plan.
“This plan provides a clear path forward for protecting the Middle St. Johns River Basin’s valuable water resources and natural systems,” Dewey said. “Through strong partnerships and science-based decision-making, we can continue improving water quality, protecting our Outstanding Florida Springs and strengthening flood protection while preserving the natural resources that make this basin so unique.”
Related--> Stone Island residents prepare for flooding as St. Johns River levels rise
The plan is the third of four strategic basin plans supporting regional restoration. It follows the Indian River Lagoon/Upper St. Johns River Plan and the Ocklawaha River Basin Plan, both approved earlier this year.
The Lower St. Johns River Strategic Basin Plan will come before the board at a future meeting.
Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
©2026 Cox Media Group
