Lessons from the Ocklawaha

The campaign to “Free the Ocklawaha” is moving forward, offering lessons for other parts of Florida. Dammed in 1968, the iconic Ocklawaha River once connected Silver Springs to the St. John’s River and the Atlantic Ocean. Free the Ocklawaha River Coalition Chair Margaret Spontak provides an overview of the campaign and recent polling. Florida Springs Council President Casey Fitzgerald summarizes the environmental benefits of restoration along the 215-mile Great Florida Riverway including Silver Springs and the 20 “lost” springs. Dominic Calabro, President & CEO of Florida TaxWatch, discusses their recent economic analysis of removing the dam and restoring the flow. St. Johns Riverkeeper Lisa Rinaman wraps up with a brief review of lessons learned and next steps. The session will conclude with a question-and-answer period, moderated by Vivian Young, AICP.