Ocklawaha River

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The 110 mile long Ocklawaha River flows north from Central Florida until it joins the St. Johns River near Palatka, Florida. The Gores Landing Unit of Ocklawaha River WMA consists of almost 3,000 acres (12 kmĀ²) along the Ocklawaha River in eastern Marion County. The Ocklawaha River Basin is a primary tributary of the St. Johns River Water Management District. The river was used extensively for steamboat transportation in the 1800s and early 1900s. It has suffered severe ecological damage from fertilizer runoff, dredging, pollution and rerouting. The river narrowly escaped becoming part of the Cross Florida Barge Canal.

The river is a great place to canoe, kayak and fish. Portions of the river remain mostly undisturbed by man. The natural landscapes and lush wildlife and growth of the outlying area are mostly hydric hammocks and flatwoods with scrub pine ridges and sugar sandy soils. Abundant wild life is present including wild turkey, white-tailed deer, and wading birds in this area. Outdoor recreational activities include hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, horseback riding, and paddling although there are few established trails.

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[edit] References

St. Johns River Water Management District (2003). "Ocklawaha Chain of Lakes fact sheet".

Florida Office of Greenways and Trail's (2006). "Regulations Summary for Gores Landing Unit".


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