The Southwest Florida Water Management District will be restoring the shoreline around Three Sisters Springs to repair the eroded shoreline and prevent future erosion. These improvements will benefit the Crystal River/Kings Bay spring system by restoring habitat, including critical manatee habitat, and increasing the safety for people. Our team explored these springs during the Glades to Gulf Expedition last year and witnessed a massive, record-setting gathering of manatees converging at this warm-water refuge.
"Surrounding the crystal waters of Three Sisters Springs, visitors could easily spot exposed tree roots and an eroded shoreline. The erosion has caused sediments to enter spring vents and trees to collapse. It has meant a loss of habitat and dangerous conditions for visitors.
That’s why the District is restoring the shoreline around Three Sisters Springs.
A floating platform was placed inside the spring to allow access to the shoreline, which is surrounded by trees. Equipment and materials were lowered onto the platform by a crane and from the platform, a skilled operator is placing limestone boulders along the shoreline.
Before the boulders are put in place, first the undercut areas of the bank are being filled with soil bags and smaller rocks. This combination will help reinforce the shoreline and prevent future erosion. In addition, a variety of native wetland plants will be installed on the restored shoreline. Over time, these plants will help with shoreline stabilization, reduce the impacts of stormwater runoff and improve the appearance of Three Sisters Springs.
Construction is expected to be complete by November 2016 when manatee season begins. For safety, the entire property and all access to the springs will be closed to the public during construction." -watermatters.org
Check out the video above and the WaterMatters blog to learn more about this project.
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