Since 1982 the Friends of the Wekiva River have worked to protect, preserve, and restore the natural functions and beauty of the Wekiva River system.
As a result of our
leadership and the cooperation of our river partners, the Wekiva is designated a Florida Outstanding Water, a Florida Canoe Trail, a Florida Wild and
Scenic River, and a
National Wild and Scenic River with over 70,000 acres of state-protected lands in the basin. Despite this ample recognition, the Wekiva River and its
fragile ecosystem face numerous threats.
These include the fragmentation and loss of habitat, declines in spring flow, degradation in water quality, and wildlife mortality on the roads.
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2013: Focusing on Springs and Rivers
LETTER FROM OUR PRESIDENT:
We looked at the gains of “Speak Up Wekiva,” as having added momentum to FOWR’s energies. This year’s legislative session has called on all those energies, plus some! In probably the most anti-environmental session of late, bills have sought to undo environmental protections of 30+ years. Threatened have been wetlands and coastal areas, the water management districts and DEP’s authority to oversee permits for water withdrawals, local agencies authority to regulate fertilizer, and more. FOWR members and our colleagues in other organizations, associated with the Florida Conservation Coalition, have written letters, made phone calls and testified before committees.
Many thanks to all the volunteers who help clean up trash and take out exotics from the rivers. The IDEAS group from UCF spearheaded Act Up Wekiva, moving forward with the Speak Up Wekiva campaign and had an energetic bunch cleaning up the Little Wekiva. The Lake County Water Authority sponsored a clean up day on Blackwater Creek. See our volunteer page for upcoming events where you can help.
The Wekiva River
Get to know it!
Events & Programs
Next Board Meeting: June 6, 2013 at 6:00 PM See events
The Friends of Wekiva River have been working closely with the Rotary Club of Seminole County South to form the Wekiva River Promise. The project is to educate on the effects of nitrates and promote personal stewardship to ensure the enjoyment of the River for years to come!
