TALLAHASSEE — Restoration of the Ocklawaha River will have to wait another year, as Gov.
Ron DeSantis ultimately cut the project from the 2025–26 Florida budget. The state legislature
had earmarked $6.25 million to begin planning the long-anticipated restoration of the Ocklawaha
River—an action long sought by anglers, conservationists, and community leaders across
northeast Florida.

The Ocklawaha is the largest tributary of the St. Johns River that, together with the Silver River,
forms a three-part waterway touching twelve counties. Its restoration is expected to improve
water quality, enhance fishing and river- and springs-based recreation, support native fish and
wildlife, and reduce flood risks…