East public access point closed at Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area

The east public access point located along State Road 60 (shown above) will be closed weekdays through the end of February.

PALATKA, Fla. Feb. 9, 2022 — The east public access point into the Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area located in Indian River County will be closed weekdays beginning Feb.9 through the end of the month. During this time, Florida Power and Light will be replacing aging power-poles on the south and west sides of the District’s property. The access area will re-open for public use on weekends. As an alternative, visitors can utilize the main entrance located at Lake Cara (shown above) which will remain open throughout construction.

Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area was acquired as part of the Upper St. Johns River Basin Project as a long-term flood control project to revitalize the upper basin. The Upper St. Johns River Basin Project reclaimed drained marshlands by creating reservoirs and replumbing existing canals. The goals were numerous: to improve water quality, reduce freshwater discharges to the Indian River Lagoon, provide for water supply, and restore or enhance wetland habitat.

The diversity of plant communities within the property has been shaped by both people and nature. Natural communities include dry prairie, pine flatwoods, hardwood swamp and freshwater marsh.

Stay updated on construction and property closures at this location and all District public lands by visiting www.sjrwmd.com/lands/recreation/announcements and by following the District’s social media.