St. Johns Riverkeeper is proud to be a founding member of the Reunite the Rivers Coalition, which represents thousands of members from across Florida. Our collective mission is to restore a free-flowing Ocklawaha River, reconnect the Silver and St. Johns Rivers, and elevate regional benefits for all.
The Rodman/Kirkpatrick Dam, built more than 50 years ago, resulted in the clearing and flooding of approximately 7,500 acres of floodplain forests, and submerged over 20 springs and 16 miles of the Ocklawaha beneath a massive pool of water.
The federal government halted the boondoggle canal project for which the dam was built, yet the obsolete dam remains after all these years – damaging water quality, wildlife habitat and fisheries.
It’s About Dam Time to Reunite the Rivers.
We’re asking supporters of a free-flowing river to take action now.
Sign the pledge to support and advocate for the restoration of the Ocklawaha River during the 2026 Florida Legislative Session. State decision makers need our support now more than ever to make Ocklawaha River restoration a reality in 2026. Your voice will make a difference.
Working together we can ensure that the Ocklawaha River is restored, and new recreational amenities and economic opportunities are created benefitting Silver Springs, the St. Johns River, fish, wildlife, manatees, and the people of Florida.
Sign the Pledge
Breaching the dam and restoring the Ocklawaha River, the largest tributary of the St. Johns, will:
- Restore Forested Wetlands
- Improve Water Quality
- Increase Freshwater Flow to the St. Johns
- Restore Habitat for Manatees and Fisheries
- Expand Recreation Opportunities
Learn more About the Benefits of Restoration
Join us in person, get energized and learn more in advance of the 2026 legislative session! The Reunite the Rivers Coalition will be gathering at Azalea City Brewing in historic downtown Palatka on Friday, November 7, 2025 from 5-8 p.m. There will be live music, food trucks, and a screening of the documentary “Lost Springs.” Learn more and RSVP on Facebook.