Our journey along the Withlacoochee River begins in the cypress domes and forested wetlands of the Green Swamp. Four rivers emerge from this large oasis between Tampa and Orlando. It is an area of ecological and hydrologic importance because of its ability to store surface water and slow floodwaters while sustaining flow to multiple rivers and streams. The Green Swamp also supplies water to the aquifer, which isn’t too far below the land’s surface in this area.
The Withlacoochee River is unique because it’s one of two rivers in Florida that runs northward. From its headwaters in the Green Swamp, this blackwater river meanders 160 miles before discharging into the Gulf of Mexico near Yankeetown in Levy County.
The Withlacoochee River flows clear during low water periods when groundwater is the main contributor. However, it is considered a blackwater river. Its waters are filled with tannins, leaf detritus and other organic materials. As flows increase from rain, the water darkens due to runoff from adjacent wetlands and swamps.
