This project restored habitat, including critical manatee habitat, and increased safety for visitors.
Project Overview
The District restored the shoreline around Three Sisters Springs to repair the eroded shoreline and prevent future erosion. These improvements benefit the Crystal River/Kings Bay spring system by restoring habitat, including critical manatee habitat and increasing safety for visitors.
Background
The shoreline surrounding the springs was eroded and undercut from years of manatee and human activity. The erosion caused sediments to enter the spring vents and shoreline trees to collapse, which resulted in loss of habitat. These conditions also were a safety concern.
Project Details
The shoreline around the springs was stabilized by filling undercut bank areas with soil bags and reinforcing the shoreline with limestone boulders. In addition, a variety of native wetland plants were installed on the restored shoreline. These plants provide additional shoreline stabilization, help reduce the impacts of stormwater runoff and improve the appearance of Three Sisters Springs.
Project Partners
Project partners include: the District, the City of Crystal River, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
The Three Sisters Springs property is co-owned by the District and the City of Crystal River. It is managed by the City of Crystal River and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Project Timeline
Construction began in April 2016 and was completed in November 2016.