Historic modifications to St. Lucie River, most notably digging of the Okeechobee Waterway (C-44 Navigational Canal), connections with the C-24 and C-23 drainage canals, and the associated water control structures, have had impacted water quality throughout the river basin. Intermittent freshwater discharges from Lake Okeechobee have negatively affected the river itself and the connected Indian River Lagoon. The impact takes several forms.
Historical changes to St. Lucie River, including the excavation of the Okeechobee Waterway (C-44 Navigational Canal) and connections with C-24 and C-23 canals, have had a significant impact on water quality within the river basin. The periodic release of freshwater from Lake Okeechobee has also harmed both the river itself and the connected Indian River Lagoon.