Lake Istokpoga

Lake Istokpoga, at 27,692 acres, is the fifth largest lake in the state of Florida. The lake is generally shallow, averaging only 4 to 6 feet in depth. The major tributaries to Lake Istokpoga are Josephine Creek and Arbuckle Creek, which are located in the northwest and north areas of the Lake, respectively. Water is discharged from the Lake through two major outlets: the Istokpoga canal that flows to the Kissimmee River and the S-68 Canal that flows through a series of canals to both Lake Okeechobee and the Kissimmee River. A reduction of high lake levels has provided the catalyst for development around shores of the Lake, including agriculture (citrus and caldium farms), pasture land, residential and commercial establishments. Many areas adjacent to the Lake that once flooded seasonally or infrequently are now drained. The lake is treasured by local residents for its recreational and scenic qualities. It is also an important regional resource that is being studied as part of the Kissimmee River Restoration Project and the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Project (CERP).

This website and related documents outline the methods and technical criteria used by staff for the South Florida Water Management District to develop minimum flows and levels for Lake Istokpoga.

Please click on the related links to find out more about Lake Istokpoga, the minimum flows and levels being developed for the Lake, project status, and reports that are available.

For more information on the Lake Istokpoga MFL project and its current status:

Technical Questions Lake Istokpoga Contact: John Zahina,
MFL Projects Supervisor: John Maxted