Purpose: To restore 350 acres of waterfowl habitat on Alligator Lake through installation of a water diversion structure, installation of 2 water control structures in existing levees, and plugging an existing drainage well. Water will be retained in the north basin when the remainder of the lake is drained due to an active sinkhole. Management of impoundments would emphasize production of emergent plants that are important waterfowl foods, such as wild millet and smartweed. Regulation of water levels would be the principle tool used to manage plant communities. Habitat restoration on Alligator Lake will specifically benefit ring-necked ducks, blue-winged teal, and wood ducks. This project is managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to maintain high quality wetland habitat for wintering and resident waterfowl, while providing public hunting opportunities.

Photo of Alligator Lake

Location: Partially within city limits of Lake City, FL (Columbia County)

Acres Impacted: 350 acres

Habitat Type: Emergent Marsh
Moist-Soil Wetlands

Partners: USDA - Natural Resources Conservation Service
Suwannee River Water Management District
Florida Department of Transportation
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Ducks Unlimited, Inc

Timeline: Construction was completed in summer 2000

DU Contact: Craig LeSchack
Director of Conservation Programs - Florida
3896 Leeds Avenue
Charleston, SC 29405
(843) 745-9110
cleschack@ducks.org