Protecting the Gem of North Florida
Santa Fe Lake Dwellers Association Inc. is a non-profit, grassroots organization of friends and neighbors dedicated to the enjoyment and protection of Lake Santa Fe in north central Florida.
Lake Santa Fe is designated by the State of Florida as an Outstanding Florida Water which, according to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, means it is “worthy of special protection because of its natural attributes.” The lake covers approximately 5,856 acres and, along with the 7,046-acre Santa Fe Swamp at the north end of the lake, is considered the headwaters of the Santa Fe River, the largest tributary of the mighty Suwannee River.
The intent of the state’s Outstanding Florida Water designation is to “prevent the lowering of existing water quality.” Many scientists feel that we cannot sustain our high water quality indefinitely on Lake Santa Fe, unless we all undertake steps to curb the impact we are having on our precious lake. Isn’t this what unites us all – the need to protect the quality of our water?
Whether you live on Lake Santa Fe, or visit it regularly, you surely appreciate the natural beauty of our lake ecosystem. The responsibility for the present and future health of our lake depends on every one of us, as caretakers of our Outstanding Florida Water. Please take a few moments to explore this web site, intended to be both interesting and informative. Perhaps by increasing our awareness, we will more fully understand the delicate balance between our activities and the health of our lake.
We encourage residents, neighbors and friends of Lake Santa Fe to join our membership and participate in SFLDA’s informative events and activities.
The SFLDA is promoting water safety throughout the entire lake area! Please click here to support our funding effort to assist the Melrose Fire Department with costs associated with the new Marine Rescue Unit.
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REGULAR EVENTS OF SFLDA
See the SFLDA News and Events page for our current newsletter and details on upcoming events.
SFLDA Annual Meetings
Each summer the Santa Fe Lake Dwellers Association has its annual business meeting at the Trinity Episcopal Church on S.R. 26 in Melrose. This is always a fun and informative meeting for local lake issues. At previous meetings we have had informative talks from Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission biologists in charge of Aquatic Plant Management and Permitting, who spoke about problem plants, such as torpedo grass, and methods to tackle these and other invasive plants, and how to get a removal permit. Other speakers from the Alachua County Extension Office and Master Gardeners presented information on local landscapes.
Winter Social
Every winter we have a Social with less business and more time for interaction among members. The Annual Chili and Cornbread Supper is held at the Trinity Episcopal Church in Melrose. Among the many interesting programs for this annual event have been films and presentations on springs, lake geology and water resources. It is always a lovely evening of fellowship and good food.
Fourth of July Boat Parade
A long-standing tradition on Lake Santa Fe is the annual 4th of July Boat Parade. Typically the circumnavigation begins at 11 am. Boats gather at the entrance to the Lake Santa Fe Boat Ramp, Alachua County, at the south end of Big Lake Santa Fe. The circumnavigation goes counter-clockwise along the shore of both lakes. Anyone interested can simply decorate your vessel and come along. Docks provide a great place for viewing.Or when the red, white and blue boats motor by, feel free to jump in your own vessel and join the parade!
Thanks to MBCA for helping organize this event.