From the St. Johns River Water Management District
In Summary:
The Apopka–Beauclair Lock, a key water-control and navigation structure linking Lake Apopka to Lake Beauclair, will close temporarily beginning December 8 for maintenance. The lock plays an essential role in regulating water levels, reducing downstream flooding risk, and supporting boat travel between the lakes. District officials say the work is necessary to ensure safe, reliable operation and thank the public for its cooperation during the brief closure.
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The St. Johns River Water Management District (District) will temporarily close the Apopka-Beauclair Lock in the Upper Ocklawaha River Basin beginning Monday, December 8. The lock is expected to reopen on Friday, December 12, pending the successful completion of scheduled maintenance.
Related: A guide for new boat owners.
The Apopka–Beauclair Lock and Dam serves as a water-control and navigation structure within the Upper Ocklawaha River Basin, specifically connecting Lake Apopka to Lake Beauclair (part of the Harris Chain of Lakes).
The lock and dam regulate how much water flows out of Lake Apopka into Lake Beauclair.
This helps maintain stable water levels throughout the Harris Chain of Lakes and protects surrounding communities from flooding or excessive drawdown.
By controlling discharge from Lake Apopka, the structure helps reduce downstream flooding risks during heavy rain or hurricane events.
The lock allows boats to safely travel between Lake Apopka and Lake Beauclair, which sit at different elevations. Without the lock, water level differences would make navigation unsafe or impossible.
Flow control helps with circulating water within the chain of lakes, managing nutrient loads leaving Lake Apopka, and supporting long-term restoration goals for the basin
The St. Johns River Water Management District uses the structure as part of broader efforts to restore water quality in Lake Apopka and the Upper Ocklawaha River Basin.
The closure is necessary to perform critical infrastructure maintenance to ensure the continued safe and reliable operation of the lock. This work is part of the District’s ongoing efforts to maintain and enhance the efficiency of Florida’s waterway systems.
The District recognizes that this closure may cause inconvenience and appreciates the public’s understanding and cooperation during this essential maintenance period.
Stay updated on the latest news regarding any District announcements at www.sjrwmd.com/meetings-announcements.
Key Points:
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The Apopka–Beauclair Lock will close Dec. 8–12 for scheduled maintenance by the St. Johns River Water Management District.
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The lock regulates water flow from Lake Apopka to Lake Beauclair, stabilizing lake levels and helping prevent flooding.
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It also supports navigation between lakes of differing elevations, making boat travel safe and accessible.
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Flow control at the lock aids in nutrient management, water circulation, and long-term restoration efforts in the Upper Ocklawaha River Basin.
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The District says the temporary closure is necessary for critical infrastructure upkeep and encourages the public to monitor updates on its website.
About the St. Johns River Water Management District
St. Johns River Water Management District staff are committed to ensuring the sustainable use and protection of water resources for the benefit of the people of the District and the state of Florida. The St. Johns River Water Management District is one of five districts in Florida that manage groundwater and surface water supplies. The District encompasses all or part of 18 counties in northeast and east-central Florida. District headquarters are in Palatka, and staff are also available to serve the public at service centers in Apopka, Jacksonville, and Palm Bay.
For more information about the District, please visit www.sjrwmd.com.
