Urge Governor DeSantis to Restore the Ocklawaha

The Florida Legislature has approved $6.25 million in the 2025–2026 state budget to finally begin the restoration of the Ocklawaha River after over 50 years of struggle. Now it’s up to Governor DeSantis to approve the funding.

Why It Matters:
Restoring the natural flow of the Ocklawaha River would reopen at least 20 springs, currently drowned by high water from the Rodman Reservoir; restore over 15,000 acres of wetlands; and provide critical warm-water winter habitat for hundreds of Florida manatees. It would also improve water quality, support native fish and vegetation, and bring long-term benefits to local communities.

But Its Crucially Needed Restoration Is At Risk
Unfortunately, anti-restoration groups are working hard to urge Gov. DeSantis to use his line-item veto power to remove this critical funding from the budget. They are asking people from across the nation, many of whom have never fished, paddled, or even set foot near the Ocklawaha, to write and call the governor opposing Ocklawaha restoration. We need to counter their opposition by showing Governor DeSantis that real Floridians overwhelmingly support restoring this vital ecosystem, which will benefit local communities, businesses, and the environment across Northeast Florida.

Take Action Today:
Use the sample letter below or create your own to urge Governor DeSantis to approve this essential funding. Personalize it with your connection to the river or your concern for manatees and Florida’s environment. Every voice counts!

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I am writing to respectfully urge your approval of the $6.25 million in funding to initiate the Ocklawaha River restoration, which was included in the 20252026 state budget by the Florida Legislature.

The failing Kirkpatrick Dam blocks the natural flow of freshwater from the Ocklawaha and Silver Rivers to the lower St. Johns River, weakening the health of this 217-mile river system. Funding for Ocklawaha River restoration presents a historic opportunity to deliver lasting benefits to Florida's communities, economy, and environment--including meaningful improvements for manatees.

Restoration would:

1. Provide essential warm-water winter habitat for hundreds of manatees by restoring access to at least 20 springs currently submerged by the Rodman Reservoir. Springs such as Marion Blue Spring, Hasty Greene Spring, and the Cannon Spring Complex could each support 100 or more manatees, offering warm refuge and access to nearby food sources.

2. Reopen manatee access to the Silver River and Silver Springs, which could also support significant winter manatee use if adequate protections are in place. Currently, these vital habitats remain largely inaccessible to manatees due to the dam's obstruction.

3. Restore natural freshwater flow to the St. Johns River and estuary, contributing an additional 150 to 276 million gallons per day of cool, fresh water. This will help maintain temperature and salinity balance in the estuary, counteracting saltwater intrusion and supporting aquatic vegetation.

4. Improve water quality by restoring over 15,000 acres of forested wetlands currently flooded or stressed by the Rodman Reservoir. These wetlands will act as natural filters, enhancing bio-filtration and protecting spring and river health.

5. Support submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) communities in the St. Johns River estuary--vital habitat and a key food source for manatees and other aquatic species.

6. Boost local economies, creating hundreds of jobs and generating approximately $200 million in cumulative economic benefits through ecotourism, restoration work, and increased outdoor recreation.

7. Reconnect aquatic habitats along the Florida Wildlife Corridor--from the Ocala to Osceola forests--benefiting wide-ranging species like the Florida panther and manatees.

8. Restoration would eliminate downstream flood risk for Welaka communities if the designated "high-hazard" Kirkpatrick Dam were to fail and provide protection in the form of a 7,500-acre restored floodplain forest that could absorb floodwater.

Please approve the $6.25 million in the 20252026 state budget to initiate the Ocklawaha River restoration. This investment will help restore ecological balance, improve public safety and water quality, and strengthen Florida's reputation as a leader in conservation and natural heritage and enhance recreational opportunities for Floridians and visitors alike.

Thank you for your leadership on behalf of Florida's people and environment.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
[Your Email]