Water bodies, watersheds and storm water

Upstream sources

Just as the lower St. Johns River is affected by runoff and treated sewage generated locally, the lower basin also is impacted by upstream sources, from the river’s middle and upper basins, as well as Lake George and the Ocklawaha River. These upstream sources contribute nitrogen and phosphorus to the already stressed lower basin.

However, work is under way to reduce the impacts of stormwater pollution from upstream sources. The St. Johns River Water Management District is partnering with local governments and advocacy groups throughout the river’s middle basin to address water quality problems from a regional perspective. Some of the accomplishments include developing better stormwater regulations and wetland protection rules, enacting more stringent rules for environmentally sensitive areas, retrofitting problem areas for water quality and flood improvements, and eliminating wastewater discharges.

Many areas of central Florida have implemented advanced wastewater treatment, a higher level of sewage treatment, and are already implementing reuse of reclaimed water.

While awareness of the need to protect the St. Johns River and its tributaries throughout the middle basin is heightened among governmental agencies, elected officials and the public, much more work still needs to be accomplished. By continuing to move forward with a comprehensive look at all of the water resource problems within the basin, establishing regional goals and strategies, prioritizing the needs, identifying funding and implementing improvements, our natural resources can be protected and enhanced.