Lori and I have decided to become river rats and purchase 5 acers on the Suwannee River just south of Branford, Fl. The property has 250ft of water front and overlooks a 340 acre conversation area called Stuart's Landing which hopefully will never be developed. Completely surrounded by nature, and not another neighbor in sight was exactly what we are looking. The property comes with a small cabin that we will rebuild to our liking. We have no plans to move there full time. Our plan is to purchase a used pontoon boat and 2 jetski's. We will rebuild the current static dock and add a floating dock over time. There are plenty of wild turkey, deer, few bears, otters. The area is perfect for the aging boaters. The boat, and equipment is much cheaper and easier to maintain than salt water gear. Our property is near dozens of springs, and the gulf.
The Suwannee River is considered one of the few large rivers in Florida that is still natural, meaning that only natural processes change it. The 246-mile river flows from the Okefenokee Swamp in Georgia to the Gulf of Mexico in Florida, cutting the state in half. It's a federally designated wild river and is unique because its flow has not been altered by dams or other water-controlled structures. The river's flow has been shaped over millions of years as it's cut through limestone rock and layers of earth.
Florida is often referred to as the freshwater spring capital of the world. The state boasts more than 1,000 freshwater springs, which collectively form the largest concentration of springs on Earth. These springs are renowned for their clarity, beauty, and biodiversity. They provide essential habitats for numerous plant and animal species and offer recreational opportunities such as swimming, snorkeling, diving, and kayaking. The Springs average water temp is 72deg which is a big difference from our 86deg water in the aug months in palm beach. The banks of the suwannee are mostly sand and cypress trees. I feel that the constant flow, and cool temp of the spring water is not desirable for alligators.