In 1983, Lake Jackson needed help.
Its once-clear waters spawned nuisance plants and algae blooms as it filled with nutrients and sediments from stormwater runoff. Interstate 10 (I-10) and a business corridor had been constructed in its basin with few runoff controls in place. Nutrient concentrations rose, oxygen concentrations fell and native herbaceous plants died. A layer of organic muck built up on the sandy lake bottom smothering fish habitat
To remedy this, the Northwest Florida Water Management District engineered a treatment demonstration project in the lake’s Meginniss Arm basin. The result is a 95 percent reduction in discharge of most pollutants to one of Tallahassee’s most popular recreational and historical attractions.
The Lake Jackson, Carr Lake and Mallard Pond ecosystem is a valuable biological, aesthetic and recreational resource of Leon County and the State of Florida. This ecosystem was designated as the Lake Jackson Aquatic Preserve for the primary purpose of preserving and maintaining the biological resources in their essentially natural condition. The expansive freshwater marshes and native submerged vegetation provide exceptional fish, waterfowl and wading bird habitat. Lake Jackson is internationally known for sport fishing and its trophy largemouth bass. In addition, the lake generates several million dollars annually for the Tallahassee and Leon County area.
