From St. Johns River Water Management District
The St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD) will temporarily close the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive the weekend of September 12–14 to complete critical slope-stabilization work along sections of the drive. The closure is part of ongoing efforts to maintain the safety and accessibility of one of the region’s most popular natural attractions. Visitors are urged to plan ahead and seek alternative routes during the work period.
This temporary closure is necessary to ensure public safety while crews install slope-stabilizing materials designed to prevent erosion and protect both the roadway and surrounding natural areas. Slope stabilization helps maintain the integrity of the drive, which winds through environmentally sensitive sections of the Lake Apopka North Shore, a key habitat for migratory birds, wildlife, and wetland ecosystems. The work will involve heavy equipment and materials, making it unsafe for vehicles and pedestrians to access the drive during construction.
Despite the closure of Wildlife Drive, the Lake Apopka Loop Trail will remain open to pedestrians, cyclists, and other non-motorized traffic. This trail offers an alternative way for visitors to enjoy the scenic views of Lake Apopka and its surrounding wetlands without disruption. Local residents and visitors can continue to use the Loop Trail for recreation, exercise, and wildlife observation during the maintenance activities.
The SJRWMD encourages the public to monitor updates on the project’s progress through announcements posted at www.sjrwmd.com/meetings and on its social media channels, including X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. High-resolution images and b-roll footage of Lake Apopka North Shore and Wildlife Drive are available through the District’s Media Library for those interested in visual updates of the area and the maintenance work.
Related: Orange County strengthens tree preservation rules to protect native Heritage and Specimen trees.
By conducting routine maintenance and infrastructure improvements like the slope stabilization on Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive, the District ensures public safety, protects valuable ecosystems, and promotes long-term sustainability of Florida’s water and natural resources. Visitors are encouraged to respect the temporary closure and enjoy nearby trails and recreational areas while work is underway.
The 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 managing groundwater and surface water supplies in the state. The District encompasses all or part of 18 northeast and east-central Florida counties. 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.
