We have just returned from a wonderful few days at Camp Chowenwaw and our Black Creek Paddling Festival. We were treated to an outstanding presentation regarding the history of the area by the Bartram Trail Society, paddles on Black Creek and Peters Creek, and a wonderful evening of music. Many thanks to Clay County for their sponsorship of this event.

Join us on January 16-21, 2023 at our basecamp at Collier-Seminole State Park in Naples. During that event we will hear from speakers from Rookery Bay and others who will offer wisdom about the 10,000 Islands region, often called a 'Paddlers' Paradise'. For one night in Naples we will be entertained by J.Robert, a local legend.

We will be staging a kinder, gentler version of the Florida Keys Challenge – February 15-21, 2023. We have partnered with Florida State Parks and an educational non-profit, and we will offer both short and long paddle choices, as well as an interesting educational component. Paddlers will explore beautiful Coupon Bight and stay in cabins for two nights on this trip.

Included in this issue are: "1972-2022: Florida and the Clean Water Act at 50"; "Florida's Remote 10,000 Islands” by Doug Alderson; "A Big Win in the Nestle Lawsuit" by Ryan Smart, and "Wildlife in Florida: Where, When and How to See an Array of Creatures".

Happy New Year! We look forward to seeing you on the water soon.

The year 1972 was a turning point for water in the United States. People began to grasp that sewage-filled bays, massive fish kills and flaming rivers were not inevitable costs of progress—but avoidable consequences of weak or non-existent pollution controls. The year saw some of the most significant environmental laws in American history, including Clean Water Act at the federal level and the state Water Resources Act here in Florida. The results, which took decades, were dramatic.[Read More…]

When Florida’s coast dips into the remote Ten Thousand Islands, the white sandy beaches end and a maze of undeveloped islands and tidal creeks begin. It is a world unto its own. Once serving as a refuge for Seminole Indians followed by recluses and outlaws, the Ten Thousand Islands and Everglades is now a haven for wilderness lovers, and there is a rich history to explore.

Historic landmarks remain, such as Chokoloskee’s Smallwood Store where proprietor Ted Smallwood once traded with dugout-paddling Seminole Indians. The Indians swapped pelts and silver money for tools, guns and staples.[Read More…]

From the Florida Springs Council: Yesterday afternoon we learned that the 1st District Court of Appeals unanimously ruled that the Florida Springs Council has a right to challenge the Seven Springs/Nestle bottling permit, reversing a previous decision by ALJ Francine Ffolkes.

This ruling stymies attempts by Seven Springs attorneys to prevent the FSC from litigating on behalf of our members to protect the Santa Fe River. This win means that our case now moves forward in the Division of Administrative Hearings.

There's still a long way to go, but this ruling is a major victory for springs advocates. [Read More …]

From the coral reefs of the Keys to the cypress swamps of the Panhandle, Florida's diverse habitats are home to an incredible cavalcade of wildlife. Nowhere else can you see reclusive alligators, playful manatees and beautifully plumed water birds all in a single day.

Hike through our enchanted forests - havens for black bears, Florida panthers and bobcats. Canoe or kayak along riverbanks dotted with exotic waterbirds, or relax on a guided nature cruise. Take a moonlit summer walk with nesting sea turtles; dive sunlit waters for a colorful show of sea life. [Read More …]

Support Paddle Florida and our GREEN dish program by purchasing our NEW Paddle Florida Coffee Mug for $30 (add $10 to have it shipped to you), or we can bring it to you on your next trip!

* Powder-coated finish, double-wall stainless steel 18oz tumbler that has a clear push-on acrylic lid.

* Vacuum insulation helps keep a drink hot or cold for hours.

How To: Cold Water Paddling
From Jim Greenhalgh at The Ensign

Click here for the article.