Programs & Projects :: Environmental :: St. Johns River Corridor
St. Johns River Corridor
The St. Johns River is the longest river in Florida and one of only a few rivers in the nation that flows north. During its entire 310-mile course, draining one-sixth of the State (8,700 square miles), the river drops only 30 feet. From its headwaters in marshes southwest of Cape Canaveral, the St. Johns evolves into a series of lakes, finally maturing into a river averaging 2 miles in width for its final one hundred miles to the Atlantic Ocean.
Water quality issues such as point and nonpoint source pollution are key concerns for the St. Johns. Because of increasing development pressures, efforts continue to manage growth, preserve and enhance natural resources, and increase recreational opportunities. This is the goal of the St. Johns River American Heritage River effort, which will showcase the river in order to increase public awareness of the need to protect this valuable resource.
The St. Johns River American Heritage River effort is coordinated by a watershed-wide Steering Committee supported by three sub-watershed advisory committees. Each committee includes representatives of the various stakeholder groups supporting river revitalization.
Highlights of the American Heritage River Plan:
Acquisition and preservation of environmentally sensitive lands - Improvement of water quality - Recreational development including hiking trails, park improvements, and boating access - Wetland restoration and protection - Development of cultural and environmental sites and learning centers
Keystone Projects:
St. Johns River Eco-Heritage Corridor. A conceptual corridor being developed along the entire length of the river to celebrate the cultural, historical, natural and outdoor recreational significance of the St. Johns River. - The Preservation Project, Jacksonville. A project to manage growth in the City of Jacksonville through acquisition of environmentally sensitive lands, in partnership with state, federal and private partners.
For more information about the St. Johns, please visit the St. Johns River Eco-heritage Corridor website.
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