Seventeen people attended the meeting at the SJRWMD. There was substantial discussion keyed by SJRWMD staff as to the reasoning for both the length and depth of the drawdown. Representatives of the GFC supported and recommended the drawdown as outlined in the agenda.

Generally, GFC representatives stated that a 3 month drawdown was the minimum time required to accomplish the desired objectives. They also stated that drawing the reservoir down to eight feet would be the optimum, although they did not recommend that depth. They had no problem with a drawdown to 11 feet and supported Dave Bowman's recommendation.

After receiving the concurrence of GFC representatives, Jeff Elledge, director of permitting for the SJRWMD stated he would process a change in our current permit to allow the drawdown to go to 11 feet instead of the current authorized 13 feet. They will attempt to schedule this for the November meeting of the SJRWMD board, for the December meeting if that is not possible*. It was suggested that we consider amending the length of the permit at this time as the current permit would expire after the next drawdown. SJRWMD understands that OGT (Office of Greenways and Trails) will proceed with the drawdown next month as planned. The current schedule anticipates reaching 13 feet on 12/24/98, by that date the issue will have been addressed by the SJRWMD board and the OGT will continue to 11 feet or hold at 13 feet. They have no objection to this procedure and stated that OGT currently is permitted for a drawdown as outlined in the current permit.

There was discussion of the urgent need for some interaction with the public to advise and educate on the timing and reasoning for the drawdown. It was noted by GFC representatives that much attention had already been generated by the articles in the Save Rodman Reservoir Newsletter. They stated that they had received quite a number of calls concerning the drawdown. They had not received any opposition to procedure but questions as to the rules and regs. during the drawdown and questions as to access to the reservoir. GFC will participate in the public notification and education process which will be scheduled immediately.

Past drawdowns have used the old Kenwood Road and boat ramp which appears during the drawdown. OGT staff will maintain access at the Kenwood boat ramp and through Buckman Lock. The Eureka boat ramps will not be affected and will allow access as well. The boat ramp at Rodman campground will not be usable.

Dave Bowman did a superb job of designing, outlining, and presenting the drawdown proposal. It was evident during the meeting that his knowledge, experience and expertise are recognized. OGT is fortunate to continue to have him available as a resource on the Greenway. With the exception of Dave, OGT does not have the knowledge, experience, expertise, or staff to manage Rodman Reservoir and Lake Rousseau The proper agency for this task is the GFC.

Finally OGT was reminded that the current permit cannot be used to effect a restoration effort, this year or any other year

* The SJRWMD Board of Governors meetings are scheduled for November 10/11 and December 8/9.

Two other topics were discussed: fishing regulations during the drawdown and maintenance projects.

The GFC held an open house for the public at the GFC Youth Camp in the Ocala National Forest on October 30 from 3:00 to 7:00 PM. It was an informal opportunity for the public to ask question of the GFC biologists about the drawdown. Forms were available to allow citizens to submit written comments or requests concerning the drawdown. The specific temporary regulations that will be in force have not yet been decided.

There are several projects the OGT has had on hold for some time. The drawdown will provide a window of accessibility to the reservoir that will allow some of these projects to be worked on more easily then when the reservoir is full: