Locks and Dams of the St. Lucie Canal and Lake Okeechobee
The management of water levels and navigation in the region surrounding Lake Okeechobee relies on a sophisticated network of locks and dams. These structures serve as critical infrastructure, balancing the needs of maritime transport with the necessity of flood control and environmental protection.
Key Facts
- Navigation and Flood Control: Most structures were built to facilitate boat travel and manage water overflow.
- Lake Okeechobee Management: Specific dams are designed to regulate the water levels of Lake Okeechobee.
- Environmental Protection: Certain locks, such as the W.P. Franklin, are essential for preventing saltwater intrusion.
- Historical Timeline: Construction of these key sites spans from 1935 to 1977.
The Infrastructure of the St. Lucie Canal
The St. Lucie Canal utilizes several locks and dams to maintain regulatory flow and ensure safe passage for vessels. These structures allow operators to manage the volume of water moving from the lake toward the coast.
St. Lucie Lock and Dam
Established in 1941, the St. Lucie lock was primarily designed for navigation and flood control. To enhance these capabilities, a connecting spillway—a structure used to provide controlled release of water—was added in 1944. This spillway allows for regulatory flow control through the canal to effectively manage the water levels within Lake Okeechobee.
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Port Mayaca Lock and Dam
Constructed in 1977, the Port Mayaca Lock and Dam serves a triple purpose: facilitating navigation, permitting the raising of water levels in Lake Okeechobee, and moderating the impact of higher lake stages along the St. Lucie Canal.
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W.P. Franklin Lock and Dam
The W.P. Franklin Lock and Dam was built in 1965. Beyond navigation and flood control, this structure plays a vital role in water control and the prevention of saltwater intrusion, which occurs when saline water moves into freshwater aquifers or surface waters.
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Lake Okeechobee Navigation Hubs
Several other locks provide essential access and safety measures for the waters surrounding the lake.
Ortona Lock and Dam
The Ortona Lock and Dam were constructed in 1937 for navigation. The history of this site dates back to 1934, when the locks were dredged by Captain James B. Cox, who also worked on the Hoover Dike, with Robert Pierce serving as the engineer. The position of lockmaster was first held by Jack O'Day, followed by Captain Cox.
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Moore Haven Lock and Dam
Built in 1935 for flood control and navigation, this site is now known as the Julian Keen Jr. Lock and Dam. This name change became official on June 18, 2021, as per Notice to Navigation 2021-014.
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Summary of Lock and Dam Infrastructure
| Structure Name | Year Built | Primary Purposes |
|---|---|---|
| Ortona Lock and Dam | 1937 | Navigation |
| Moore Haven (Julian Keen Jr.) | 1935 | Navigation, Flood Control |
| St. Lucie Lock and Dam | 1941 | Navigation, Flood Control, Lake Level Management |
| W.P. Franklin Lock and Dam | 1965 | Flood Control, Water Control, Saltwater Intrusion Prevention, Navigation |
| Port Mayaca Lock and Dam | 1977 | Navigation, Lake Level Management |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the spillway at the St. Lucie Lock?
The spillway, built in 1944, is used for flood and regulatory flow control through the St. Lucie Canal to help manage the water levels of Lake Okeechobee.
Which lock prevents saltwater intrusion?
The W.P. Franklin Lock and Dam, constructed in 1965, is specifically designed to prevent saltwater intrusion along with its other water control and navigation functions.
What is the current name of the Moore Haven Lock and Dam?
As of June 18, 2021, the Moore Haven Lock and Dam has been renamed the Julian Keen Jr. Lock and Dam.
Who were the early figures associated with the Ortona Lock and Dam?
The locks were dredged in 1934 by Captain James B. Cox and engineer Robert Pierce. The first lockmaster was Jack O'Day, succeeded later by Captain Cox.
How does the Port Mayaca Lock and Dam affect Lake Okeechobee?
It permits the raising of water levels in Lake Okeechobee and helps moderate the effects of higher lake stages along the St. Lucie Canal.