Lake Apopka North Shore western recreational trails reopen this weekend

Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive remains closed

From the St. John's River Water Management District

The St. Johns River Water Management District continues to assess and repair areas of the Lake Apopka North Shore, which experienced damage due to Hurricane Irma. As water levels subside, the district will provide updates as needed on the status of repairs and recreation at the Lake Apopka North Shore.

The district is reopening to the public this weekend nonmotorized trails located west of the Apopka-Beauclair Canal. These trails are accessible from the Green Mountain Trailhead, Clay Island Trailhead and North Shore Trailhead (via the McDonald Canal Boat Ramp). The opening follows recent culvert and trail repairs. The Red Trail, off County Road 448A, and the McDonald Canal Boat Ramp remain open.

To ensure public safety, the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive and trails located east of the Apopka-Beauclair Canal remain closed due to saturated roads and high water levels, making many areas inaccessible to emergency vehicles.

Water levels southeast of Lake Level Canal Road and McDonald Canal Road have dropped another 0.18 feet since Nov. 29, 2017. However, water levels in many of the nearby fields are still higher than usual. The district continues to pump to reduce water levels on the east side of the property to reach levels that are more conducive to wetland plant preservation.

The district continues to make damage assessments. Repair plans and cost estimates will be presented to the Governing Board in a public meeting when that information becomes available.

For continuing updates on district operations and recreational announcements, visit the district’s website, www.sjrwmd.com.