County supports St Johns River blueway designation

Historic City News learned that at their regular business meeting on Tuesday, the St Johns County Board of County Commissioners unanimously voted to support the St Johns River Alliance’s initiative to designate the entire St Johns River as a paddling trail or blueway.

Paddling trails raise environmental awareness, create a sense of place, promote good health through outdoor recreation, boost eco-tourism and encourage young people to experience the outdoors.

Recognizing the importance of this significant natural resource, St Johns County has already designated the St Johns River as a blueway in the St Johns County Blueways, Greenways, and Trails Master Plan.

The alliance’s petition to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection Office of Greenways and Trails for the designation would help with future State grant applications. The title would not require additional funding at publicly owned boat ramps, launching facilities, or parks along the St Johns River.