When the Waters Fall: The Rodman Reservoir Drawdown and the Future of the Dam

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In the fall of 2025, one of the periodic drawdowns of Florida’s iconic Rodman Reservoir began again. The Reservoir is home to the Kirkpatrick Dam, sometimes referred to as the Rodman Dam. In 1968 the gates closed, spreading the waters of the Ocklawaha River over 9,400 acres and the Reservoir was formed. Today, the lowering of the reservoir's water levels provides a glimpse of what the river may have looked like before the Dam was constructed.

The History of the Rodman Reservoir

For decades, periodic drawdowns have been a reminder of what the Ocklawaha River once was, a free-flowing tributary of the St. Johns River with a network of clear springs. The Dam was constructed as part of the Cross Florida Barge Canal project, a federal project intended to create a shorter shipping route across the state. Although the canal construction was halted in 1971, the Kirkpatrick Dam has remained operational, keeping the Rodman Reservoir permanently flooded. When President Nixon called off the project, the Kirkpatrick Dam, the reservoir, and other historic structures were left intact.

The Rodman Drawdown

Every few years, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection coordinates a controlled drawdown of the Rodman Reservoir. This routine management practice lowers the reservoir’s water level so nuisance vegetation can be managed and the health of the man-made system can be maintained. Beginning in October 2025, the drawdown lowered the water about 7 feet and will last through March 2026; refilling will begin in April 2026. During the 6 month period, the fish concentrate in deeper water and the nuisance vegetation is exposed allowing it to die off without the use of chemicals.

As the water recedes, several notable features become visible:

Cypress Roots. The drawdown exposes the intricate root systems of cypress trees, which play a vital role in the aquatic ecosystem.
Fish Migration. The area is a fishing destination and, during the drawdown, bass and other species can easily be spotted swimming alongside the river banks.
Sandy Shores. The lowering water levels reveal sandy shores around the reservoir, temporarily providing new habitat for various wildlife.
Ancient Tree Stumps. Numerous ancient tree stumps surface, offering a glimpse into the vast area that was flooded when the Dam was originally placed into operation. It's also a reminder to be a cautious boater when the reservoir is refilled. No one like prop or boat damage.
The Historic River. What makes the drawdown special is its ability to expose the historical flow of the Ocklawaha River and its natural springs, ones which are usually hidden beneath the reservoir's waters.
Exposed Lost Springs. Cannon Spring is one of the "lost spring" that becomes visible during the drawdown. When the water pressure from the reservoir is reduced, the crystal clear waters naturally begin to bubble up.

Remaining Historic Structures

Remains of historic structures can be still be found along the river. They include the base of the old Eureka swivel bridge, the halted Eureka lock, the CR 316 bridge (constructed in 1969 with 65 feet of clearance over water) and more. The Eureka lock was intended to facilitate the passage of barges between different water levels in the canal system. This "lock to nowhere" is still standing and is a reminder of the project's abrupt halt. The tall CR 316 bridge was intended to provide a safe clearance for taller vessels and the various supporting structures were constructed on land in an area that would have been flooded. These structures remain integral to the historical landscape and illustrate the magnitude of the planned project. They draw numerous visitors eager to experience the canal's history firsthand.

2026 Legislative Action

In early January 2026, Florida lawmakers introduced a set of companion bills aimed at transitioning from discussions to actionable restoration planning. House Bill 981, proposed by Representative Wyman Duggan, and Senate Bill 1066, sponsored by Senator Jason Brodeur, instructs the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to create a formal plan to restore the Ocklawaha River, which would ultimately involve removing the Rodman Dam. Understanding the importance of eco-tourism and recreations, in the bill, the legislation also mandates collaboration with state agencies and local governments to develop an outdoor recreation plan associated with the project. As of January 2026, both bills are progressing unanimously through their committees with bipartisan support.

A Political and Environmental Crossroads

When the Cross Florida Barge canal project was shared with the community in the 60's, there was public outcry from land owners, farmers, and businesses who did not want their river dammed and lands flooded. 65 years later, the community is still concerned about how government decisions may alter the landscape.

Proponents of dismantling the dam claim that breaching Rodman would restore over 20 submerged springs and reconnect them to the Ocklawaha River. Restoring the natural river flows would benefit wildlife, including fish and manatees, while also enhancing water quality and ecosystem resilience. They also see the extensive budget that is required to maintain the structure could be used to grow the local economy and increase recreation. Overall, they see this as an opportunity to reverse the long-standing damage caused by the unsuccessful federal project, the Cross Florida Barge Canal.

Supporters of keeping the reservoir, and opposing the dam's removal, have shared the impoundment has become a cultural and economic benefit. They value the reservoir for its importance as a major recreational bass fishery, enhancing eco-tourism and increasing local business income. Additionally, many community members feel a heritage bond with the reservoir. To address these issues, the proposed bill requires the the creation of an outdoor recreation plan to strengthen local ecotourism and the nature-based economy while simultaneously restoring the river.

Experience the Drawdown

No matter your position on the restoration of the Ocklawaha, the 2025 drawdown presents a unique opportunity. This event offers a rare visual reminder of what the river once was and what the future may bring. We encourage you to visit during this time to see the conditions for yourself and to gain a deeper appreciation for the local history and natural beauty of the area. Wander along the river, enjoy the sights, and embrace the history as we see it today.