LIVE OAK, FLA., APRIL 10, 2023 – The state of Florida has its newest State Geological Site.
Last month, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) recognized the Suwannee River Water Management District’s Jennings Bluff Tract in Hamilton County as its seventh State Geological Site. These sites have been identified by FDEP’s Florida Geological Survey to be significant to the scientific study and public understanding of Florida’s geological history.
"We've always known that Jennings Bluff was special, this designation just makes it official and not a hidden gem any longer,” said Hugh Thomas, executive director of the District. “To be one of seven sites in Florida, and the only site amongst water management districts, speaks to the uniqueness of the area."
The Jennings Bluff Tract is unique, partly due to being home to the Dead River. Water flowing into the Dead River swallet goes underground and into the Upper Floridan aquifer, then travels south for approximately 10 miles, where it then discharges into the Suwannee River through both Holton Creek Rise and the Alapaha River Rise.
Additionally, Native American archaeological items found on the site have contributed to the area’s significance to Florida’s history.
You can learn more about the Jennings Bluff Tract and other State Geological Sites by visiting the Florida Geological Survey website.
The mission of the Suwannee River Water Management District is to protect and manage water resources using science-based solutions to support natural systems and the needs of the public. The District holds true to the belief of water for nature, water for people. Headquartered in Live Oak, Florida, the District serves 15 surrounding north-central Florida counties.
For more information about the District, visit www.MySuwanneeRiver.com or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter.
###