Arcadia cleaning up as Peace River floodwaters recede

DESOTO COUNTY, Fla. (WWSB) - Floodwaters along the Peace River continue to drop in Arcadia, and cleanup is underway at Jungle Doria’s Wildlife Park, where about 100 animals had to be evacuated.

The impacts of the flooding from recent storms are still being felt across DeSoto County.

Cleanup at the park

Floodwater poured into the park when the Peace River rose, forcing the family to move about 100 animals. The family is now bringing many of them back.

Owner Krystalynn Doria said the flooding “truly feels like it came out of nowhere compared to when we have a hurricane.”

Doria said the park needs help with tasks such as cleaning up crates.

“There is a lot of cleanup around the park, things floating around, debris everywhere,” Doria said. “We need to tighten up to get presentable to open to the public.”

The family hopes to reopen this week and is asking for the public’s help.

Former city administrator weighs in

Terry Stewart, Arcadia’s retired city administrator, said he is grateful the flooding did not reach hurricane levels.

“While it is concerning and difficult for a lot of people, it doesn’t begin to approach what happened during Ian,” Stewart said.

Stewart said this is when Arcadia’s spirit shows. He said he and his wife could have gone anywhere after he retired.

“We love Arcadia, and that’s why we decided to stay here,” Stewart said. “People support one another and help one another.”

Parks remain closed

Some places remain off limits as people clean up. Brownville Park and Boat Ramp, Morgan Park, and DeSoto Veterans Park and Boat Ramp are still closed.