District recognizes July as Lakes Appreciation Month

Lake Apopka marks the headwaters of the Ocklawaha River and chain of lakes.

PALATKA, Fla., July 9, 2024 — Florida boasts over 4,200 natural lakes, and nearly 1,500 nestled within the boundaries of the St. Johns River Water Management District. Today, the District’s Governing Board recognized July 2024 as Lakes Appreciation Month, aligning with the North American Lake Management Society (NALMS) and organizations nationwide to spotlight the significance of lakes and their benefits.

“The action taken by the Governing Board today reenforces our collective commitment to preserving and protecting Florida’s priceless natural resources,” said Erich Marzolf, Director of Water Resources at St. Johns River Water Management District.

The St. Johns River features numerous expansive lakes along its course, including Blue Cypress Lake at its source, and Washington, Harney, Jesup, Monroe and George lakes along its journey to the ocean.

NALMS initiates this annual proclamation to raise awareness of the importance of lakes, highlighting their role in water conservation, recreation, and how they serve in aquifer recharge, as well as helping to reduce the force and effects of flooding. In addition, NALMS conducts its annual Secchi Dip-In each July. Started in the United States, the Secchi Dip-In is now an international effort in which volunteers produce a “snapshot” of water transparency in lakes around the world.

For information about waterways within the District, visit www.sjrwmd.com/waterways. Join the conversation at #sjrwmd #NALMS #loveourlakes.

To find other NALMS activities and contests to celebrate our lakes visit Lakes Appreciation Month – North American Lake Management Society (NALMS) website.