Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Herschel T. Vinyard Jr. today committed $2 million to restoration efforts for Lake Jesup by partnering with the St. Johns River Water Management District and Seminole County on construction of the Black Hammock Creek water quality improvement system.
This project will restore the natural landscape and improve water quality draining from the creek and into Lake Jesup, reducing phosphorus by 2,200 pounds per year. Other projects identified in the 2010 basin management action plan for Lake Jesup have already realized reductions of 9,000 pounds of phosphorus, which is 50 percent of the plan’s 15-year targeted goal of phosphorus reductions. Through partnerships between the Department, the St. Johns River Water Management District and local governments, we are ahead of schedule.
Governor Rick Scott said, “ Florida has the best beaches and waterways in the world – and this commitment of $2 million for Lake Jesup further ensures that we continue to prioritize and enhance water quality in the state. Families everywhere treasure Florida’s incredible environment, and we are working hard every day to protect our lakes, rivers and waterways so future generations can enjoy everything our state has to offer. ”
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Press Release, October 26, 2012