Historically, the community's interaction with the St. Johns River has focused on using the river without considering how best to protect it. The result is a fragile system in need of care and repair. How can we continue interacting with the St. Johns River in ways that benefit both people and nature?

Ted Pappas chaired this 2005 study on the St. Johns River, Jacksonville's most visible and valuable natural asset. As one of the communities defining features, the river and its tributaries touch nearly every neighborhood. Like its past, Jacksonville's destiny is inextricably linked to the St. Johns River. Today's community and its leaders will decide upon the future of the St. Johns River - its health, how the community benefits from its use, and to what extent it is further developed.

Jim Overton chaired the task force

Results of Advocay efforts:

• The City made key decisions to allow for increased public access to the river.
• A new Marine Science Research Institute at Jacksonville University is underway to study the ecology, flora, fauna, hydraulics, microbiology, and avian life of the river.
• Consideration is being given to transforming the Waterways Commission from an advisory committee to a regulatory body.
• Mayor Peyton announced the River Accord Partnership bringing together local and regional stakeholders who will contribute more than $700 million over the next 10 years to improve and maintain the health of the St. Johns River.