Caloosahatchee River

The Caloosahatchee River is a key waterway in southwestern Florida, stretching about 60 miles from Lake Okeechobee to the Gulf of Mexico. It plays a vital role in regional ecology and water management, receiving freshwater from Lake Okeechobee through the C-43 Canal and discharging into the Caloosahatchee estuary. The river supports local ecosystems, provides recreational opportunities, and supplies water for agriculture and towns. However, managing the flow of fresh water is complex, as too much fresh water can harm estuarine environments, while too little can impact water supply and ecosystem health.