Update: Water levels remain above average at Lake Apopka North Shore

In some areas, water levels are about three feet above the desired level.

MAITLAND, Fla., Oct. 13, 2017 — Repairs are underway at the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake Apopka North Shore, which experienced damage due to Hurricane Irma. As water levels subside and assessments are completed, the district will provide a weekly update on the status of repairs and recreation at the Lake Apopka North Shore.

• Water levels in several areas of the property remain above average. On the land immediately east of Lake Level Canal Road, water levels are about three feet above the desired level.
• Initial repairs to stop the flow of lake water through the levee breach continue to hold. Due to wet conditions, the additional work necessary to complete the temporary repair was postponed. The work is required to help stabilize the roads/levees so that they can support the necessary heavy equipment.
• Power has been restored to all pump stations. The district continues to monitor water levels on the Ocklawaha Chain of Lakes. Once lakes Apopka, Dora and Beauclair all return to normal levels, the district will begin slowly pumping water from the Lake Apopka North Shore. No pumping occurred during the past week.
• Planning for restoration work continues. On Oct. 10, the district’s Governing Board approved contracts for two restoration projects for Lake Apopka: a rough fish harvest from Lake Apopka and a project that supports the recovery of submersed aquatic plant species in Lake Apopka.
• On Oct. 11, the district hosted a public meeting to present information on restoration, recreation and other activities in the area, including the Lake Apopka North Shore.
• Understanding that the North Shore is a popular outdoor recreation destination, the Red Trail, off County Road 448A, and the McDonald Canal Boat Ramp are open.
• To ensure public safety, and minimize potential damage to saturated roads, no other openings are planned at this point due to flooding and the continued presence of heavy equipment. The Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive and nonmotorized Lake Apopka Loop Trail remain closed. As soon as the district determines that the public can safely access an area, it will open.

For continuing updates on district operations and recreational announcements, visit the district’s website, www.sjrwmd.com. More information about lake levels is available at www.sjrwmd.com/data/hydrologic/#controlled.