Why is Jug Hole Closed to divers Except for Winter?

[Kelly Jessop]

I think this is a question for the NFSA (North Florida Spring Alliance). Ichetucknee has three areas, Jug Hole, the tube and kayak launch area, and the Springs swimming area. There is a fence at the end of the Jug Hole area to keep kayaks, from coming into the Jug Hole spring. Signs clearly indicate to non-divers where to go to swim or tube. That said, why does the park restrict diving to October thru March? Is there any sound reason for this policy. Couldn't a discussion be opened to open up Jug year round?
By the way, I was there March 22nd and there was no one manning the ranger station so the key for the cart was not available. It appeared to me that rangers only manned the gate on weekends. And so without the key we didn't feel like hauling our side mount tanks and equipment 1/3 of a mile to and from Jug. I've walked it previously with BM doubles and it is at best a challenge.

Have you ever tried to access the park during the summer tubing season? You ought to see the line of cars 1 hour before the park opens,they meet their limit sometimes by 8:30am.
I worked hard to get Jug Hole reopened because it was closed because of the grass surrounding the opening. Divers weren't causing the problem,but there was pretty strong concern. During the tubing season the park is very active,and they have to control the traffic,so I really don't think they will open it up during the summer,but I can ask.

[kensuf]

Have you ever tried to access the park during the summer tubing season? You ought to see the line of cars 1 hour before the park opens,they meet their limit sometimes by 8:30am.

Hey Kelly,

The past two summers have had minimal traffic during the weekend. Seriously, my wife and I have gone there on some major weekends (Memorial day) later in the morning (10AM) and had no problems with parking or finding grills to cook lunch on at the south entrance. We've gotten to the north entrance as late as 9:30 and still been allowed in a few times.

One of the main concerns with the north entrance during the summer though is the amount of parking. It still fills up by ~9:30, and there's very limited parking. Your best bet may be to argue for a week-day diving permit, but keep weekends free for tubers.

Best of luck to you,

Ken