Since the mid-1960’s Floridians and Florida Defenders have been fighting to save, protect and finally restore the beautiful subtropical Ocklawaha River and its surrounding floodplain forest. This effort has become just as much a part of the Florida scene as the canopied river itself. In the 1970’s it symbolized a newly awakened national concern for the protection of our natural environment. Today, the restoration of the Ocklawaha River symbolizes the effort of Floridians to ensure that the unique and spectacular natural heritage of Florida is preserved for all Floridians. It is a symbol of what we could lose and what, in our wisdom, we have learned to value and cherish.
- In 1968, construction of the Cross Florida Barge Canal began by damming the Ocklawaha River and flooding over 9,000 acres of floodplain forest.
- A federal court granted an injunction in 1971 to halt construction of the Barge Canal, and President Nixon called for reassessing the project.
- In 1990, the Barge Canal was officially deauthorized, and efforts could begin in earnest to restore the Ocklawaha River.
Check out the efforts of the Ocklawaha River Project online at http://www.fladefenders.org/ocklawahariver.php
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