LAKE JESUP

'Lake Jesup' is one of the largest lakes in Central Florida, one of many that make up the St. Johns River. Located in the heart of Seminole County along the middle basin of the St. Johns, the lake encompasses an area of approximately 16,000 acres (65 km²), including open water and floodplain. The lake is considered to be one of the most alligator infested bodies of water in the state and boasts one of the longest free-standing bridges, part of the Seminole Expressway, which bisects the lake.
Decades of abuse and neglect have turned Lake Jesup into the state's most degraded lakes. Wastewater discharges directly into the lake, stormwater discharges from surrounding tributaries, the construction of berms that segregated the lake from parts of its floodplain and a causeway that reduced the lake's connection with the St. Johns River have all taken a significant toll on the ecosystem. The discharges have resulted in significant algae, frequent fish kills and a thick layer of muck more than 9 1/2 feet deep in some areas sitting on the bottom of the lake that now averages only six feet in depth. The berm constructions further aggravates the problem by limiting the lake's ability to cleanse itself.
Several area small businesses operate lakeside restaurants, fish camps and airboat tours in an effort to encourage local tourism.

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External links

External links

★ Friends of Lake Jesup

★ Lake Jesup Wilderness Area