Issue:

Cape Coral Spreader Canals

Chiquita Lock Removal

Chiquita Lock is the last of several control structures originally installed in Cape Coral to control storm-water runoff. These systems were designed to store water for natural treatment along the mangrove fringe, mimic the natural sheet flow of water from north to south, and prevent saltwater intrusion into our groundwater.

These control structures were mandated to be installed by a court-ordered consent decree due to Cape Coral’s developers digging many canals without the proper state and federal wetland permitting.

Over the years, the City of Cape Coral and Florida Department of Environmental Protection have allowed mangrove breaches on the western wall to go unmitigated and the lock to fall into disrepair. This is now the argument for the lock serving no purpose. In reality, it is an inconvenience to boaters, and the primary motivation for removal is an expected boost in property values for property owners behind the lock.

A city born from the water may not always doing its best to protect it.

Ceitus Boat Lift & Barrier

A scenario just like Chiquita Lock has already played out in the Northwest Spreader System of Cape Coral. After years of discourse and court battles, the City removed the Ceitus Barrier as a convenience to boaters.

In the years since, Matlacha Pass has been named an impaired water body and dramatic silting has taken place directly downstream of the Northwest Spreader System’s exit directly into the Matlacha Pass Preserve.

Continued development in N. Cape Coral with plans such as the D&D Boat Ramp site and the major Seven Islands District will continue to put greater pressure on these delicately balanced estuary habitats.

Current Status

In 2019, several petitioners challenged the City of Cape Coral’s application and FDEP’s Notice of Intent To Issue an Environmental Resources Permit to permanently remove the Chiquita Lock. After 3 days of hearings, an Administrative Law Judge sided with the citizens and denied the FDEP permit. However, the City of Cape Coral immediately authorized more monies for legal and environmental consultants and it appears they are intent on trying again.

Please stay tuned to Calusa Waterkeeper’s social media or email newsletters for future updates.

CWK Chiquita Lock Position Paper

Chiquita Lock & Ceitus Barrier

State Judge Recommends Chiquita Lock Remain in Cape Coral

Dec 13, 2019

The decision on the Chiquita Lock has been the topic of controversy for months. Boaters have complained about the wait times at the lock. Getting in and out of this spot can get busy, especially during season. But a state judge’s 50-page recommendation says the wait is worth it.

Chiquita Lock Removal Set for Hearing that Pits Cape Coral Against Conservationists

Apr 10, 2019

A water control structure in Cape Coral will be the focus of a hearing this week as environmental and civic groups aim to keep the city from completely removing the Chiquita Lock. The lock was designed to retain freshwater so that it has a period of time to wash through an adjacent mangrove system, which helps clean the water.

Removing Chiquita Lock Without a New Barrier a Mistake

Dec 14, 2018

So much is at stake if we simply destroy this facility and large earthen barrier. Engaging in the fight for clean water this summer, we’ve seen evidence our state agencies have not always had the best interests of our ecosystems and health in mind.

A Case for Barriers in Cape Coral’s Spreader Waterways

Nov 15, 2018

Calusa Waterkeeper volunteer Jason Pim created this video for us showing the silting that resulted in Matlacha Pass once the Ceitus Barrier was removed from Cape Coral’s North Spreader waterway.

Cape Coral Leaders, Residents & Environmental Watchdogs at Odds over Chiquita Lock Removal

Nov 10, 2018

Concerned Cape Coral residents and environmental watchdogs are at odds with the City of Cape Coral and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection over the potential removal of the Chiquita Lock located on the Southwest Spreader system.

Removing Chiquita Lock an Environmental Disaster

Jan 11, 2018

The City of Cape Coral seeks a permit from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to permanently remove the Chiquita Lock, just as it removed the Ceitus Boat Lift 10 years ago with serious impacts to the Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve.