Myakka Act protects wild and scenic river values

The Myakka River is a cherished local natural gem.

Recognizing the river’s outstandingly remarkable ecological, wildlife, and recreational values, which are unique in the State of Florida, in 1985 Senator Bob Johnson introduced a bill to protect the river. 

Our state legislature agreed these values give significance to the river as one which should be permanently preserved and enhanced for the citizens of Florida, both present and future. 

To that end, they designated the 34 miles of the Myakka in Sarasota County as Florida’s only state-designated wild and scenic river. Since, in accordance with the Myakka River Wild and Scenic Designation and Preservation Act of 1985, state and local commitments to protect the river help minimize adverse impacts to the river’s outstandingly remarkable values in Sarasota County. 

Preservation of large areas of land on the river’s banks help maintain its timeless beauty and ecological integrity. Importantly, The Act also resulted in state and county restrictions of activities which would negatively impact its values.

Prohibited activities include filling, excavation, disturbance of native vegetation, and storage of materials, as well as new coastal construction, such as bridges over the river, docks, retaining walls, and roads. 

An important layer of protection for the river in Sarasota County is The Myakka River Protection Zone — an upland buffer that extends 220 feet on each side of the Myakka River. 

Besides enhancing wild and scenic views, these buffers help preserve the edge between land and water, as well as the river itself. 

Plants in the buffer zone can uptake and store nutrients, which reduces their transport to the river and potentially mitigates algal blooms. The roots of grasses, shrubs and trees provide bank stability, which helps prevent erosion and silt buildup in the river.

Buffers also support a healthy ecosystem by providing habitat and food sources for a variety of species. And by slowing down runoff and absorbing excess water, wide buffers reduce the risk of flooding.

Finally, buffers contribute to cleaner, healthier water in the Myakka River because they filter pollutants and regulate water temperature. They therefore support not only our natural communities but human ones too.

Friends of Myakka River exists to support Myakka River State Park and the Wild and Scenic Myakka River. Together, we're protecting and sharing Myakka's Magic, to the benefit of future generations, and our own. Follow us @FriendsofMyakkaRiver