Update on Little Wekiva River

The Little Wekiva River remediation continues to be a work in progress. As Seminole County completes most of its work on the phase 1 remediation project, the river is flowing. Neighbors met recently with the County for updates. Additional planting of native trees and shrubs will commence soon, and a contractor will be coming through to remove any fallen trees or branches or other impediments to flow. Gabion baskets at both ends of the project area remain in place to slow the intrusion of further sediment that remains nearby upstream of the project area, although sediment is getting through. The remaining upstream sediment continues to divert some flow to an area in the flood plain west of the river which continues to limit flow in the river.

Seminole County is working with St. Johns River Water Management District to monitor the river including monitoring further sediment that is coming into or through the project area. There is ongoing study and consideration of seeking funding for a permanent sediment trap upstream of the project area that would be maintained to avoid further catastrophic level sedimentation.

Currently the remediated area remains navigable by canoe and kayak. But there remains much to accomplish. The longer term work to return to Little Wekiva River to its extraordinary pre-2019 glory and secure its future remains ongoing. The County, FOWR and community are all in this effort for the duration.

Jeanette Schreiber

Images by Jeanette Schreiber