The St. Johns River is in trouble and a local nonprofit has said enough is enough. Mighty River Recovery continues to work full-time to end the documented decline of the river, while unifying outdoor users. The group is entirely focused on restoring Florida’s largest freshwater resource.
Once known as the “Bass Fishing Capital of the World”, the St. Johns can no longer lay claim to that title thanks, in large part, to declines in fish and wildlife habitat.
A factor of water quality problems and antiquated management, the St. Johns now retains less than 10% of its historical submerged vegetation, a key component in a healthy ecosystem. Without the “grass”, gamefish numbers and associated tourism have plummeted.
Mighty River Recovery was created to combat the long-term decline of this valuable resource. Founded in 2024, the group works exclusively on water quality and habitat issues, while outlining the downside of aggressive management. “A big component of our work,” said executive director Joe Balog, “is raising awareness of the damage caused by long-term herbicide use.” Often termed “spraying” by outdoor enthusiasts, herbicide treatments have gone largely unchecked for over 60 years on the St. Johns River system. “During that time,” Balog added, “we’ve seen documented declines all across the watershed leading to today’s unparalleled loss of habitat. Management must adapt to accommodate this changing, stressed system. Plants can help us with our problems; yet our managers continue to view them as the enemy.”
Mighty River Recovery began comprehensive studies in early 2025; many of their research stations can be seen throughout the river’s middle basin. They’re expanding the program in 2026 and presenting organized, scientific data to the management and political community while insisting on change.
“Incredibly enough, the St. Johns River has no long-term management plan on the books with the Florida FWC,” Balog said. “While everywhere we look, habitat is declining. It’s time for a new way forward and a group laser-focused on renewal and protection of this resource. We’re that group.”
Membership to Mighty River Recovery is free and vital to their mission. Learn more at www.mightyriverrecovery.org