• To restore the native aquatic plants in the upper river.
• To retain clear, blue water clarity.
• To maintain a serene experience in the Headspring use area.
• To increase presence of birds and other wildlife.

• During floods, which average once every two years for 7 days duration.
• During extreme low water caused by drought.
• When the 750-person carrying capacity is reached.
• When fallen trees block the river.
  

     Visitors are accustomed to proceeding to mid-point when the upper river is closed.

Current Problems:

• Cloudy, turbid water caused by wading and swimming.

• Barren spring run and damaged submerged plants caused by wading.

• Reduced photosynthesis caused by turbidity.

• Tuber congestion at Headspring use area disrupts tranquil state park experience for other visitors.

• Potential accidents during vehicle shuttles (one death and injuries).

• Potential vandalism of cultural resource sites bordering the east side of the upper river.

Solutions:

• Close upper river to tubing and swimming beginning January 1, 2019.

• Increase capacity at mid-point dock to 3,000 beginning 2019.

Benefits:

• Heal damage from trampling and restore the ecology of the upper river.

• Increase birds and other wildlife on the upper river.

• Perpetuate clear, blue, water clarity.

• Provide a tranquil state park experience at the Headspring use area.

• Provide a passive atmosphere for local community activities such as church socials, school classes, and family reunions.

• Enhance and increase kayaking and canoeing.

• Maintain current park revenue and attendance.

• Only need to tie tubes on cars at the last remaining vendor on CR 238.

• Eliminate potential vehicle accidents during vehicle shuttles (one death and injuries).

• Enhance protection of significant cultural sites along the east side of the upper rive including: Spanish mission, Timucuan village, railroad trestle, Ichetucknee post office, grist mill, blacksmith, and store.

• Staff will be available for visitor services and management of the river.

• Consistent with state parks mission: balancing recreation and preservation.

• Enjoy the opportunity to experience peace and solitude of a pristine spring run.

Advocates (businesses, NGOs):

• Ichetucknee Alliance

• Florida Paddling Inc.

• Florida Paddling Trails Association

• Aardvark’s Florida Kayak Company

• Adventure Outpost LLC

• Florida Springs Institute

• Apalachee Audubon

• Wild Florida Adventures

• River Rise Resort

• Santa Fe Canoe Outpost

  Jim Stevenson, February 22, 2019