Biological surveys of Turkey Creek indicate that the stream has a healthy population of benthic macroinvertebrates with ample habitat, scoring as healthy on the Stream Condition Index. Since 2003, habitat condition and macroinvertebrate diversity has increased thanks to land conservation in the watershed. The Turkey Creek Hammock Preserve has reduced the influence of stormwater in the creek by reducing erosion. Turkey Creek does contain a high abundance of fecal coliform. It is also above the standard set by FDEP for Numeric Nutrient Criteria because of high phosphorus levels likely due to the soils the creek cuts through. For more information on water quality, download the Turkey Creek Fact Sheet.

 Did you know?

Stream or river banks are called riparian areas so the plants that grow on these banks are called riparian vegetation.

The creek can be viewed and enjoyed through hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, and more at the San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park.

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• Turkey Creek flows on through natural forested areas as it enters San Felasco Hammock State Preserve from outside the park boundary, flows through the park, finally dropping into swallows, which drain back into the aquifer via a sinkhole in Sanchez Prairie.

• Turkey Creek arises from groundwater seepage originating several miles northeast of the property.

• Turkey Creek is a meandering stream with small tributaries flowing in from adjacent wetlands. It is generally tannic in color, but can be clear in low water flow periods.

Turkey Creek in 2003 had a macroinvertebrate community dominated by snails, water bugs, and midge larvae. The macroinvertebrate community in Turkey Creek improved in 2009 and includes a variety of beetles, dragonflies, damselflies, mayflies, and amphipods.