To date we have

• Removed 200+ million pounds of Lyngbya

• Removed 95% of phosphorous and 50% of nitrogen pollution in restored areas through specialized filtration

• Open 300+ previously unidentified spring vents

• Planted 110,000+ native “Rockstar” eelgrass plants.

Based on our most recent Johnson Engineering report, success in our restored areas is obvious. We are now seeing in our pilot project Phase 1A (where it all began!) a massive increase in at least 13 different species, the highest population being the amphipod Hyalella Azteca. These prey species attract fish, birds and waterfowl, and many of our native species. Several tests and comparisons have shown an abundance in established restored areas, while almost nonexistent in unrestored areas. The Hyalella Azteca are not the only aquatic species making a comeback. Fish communities are also responding positively to the restored areas. Striped mullet, bluegill, Atlantic needlefish, spotted sunfish, and snook has all been observed in increasing numbers along with an abundance of juvenile largemouth bass. This indicates that successful reproduction is occurring in restored areas. Link to Johnson Engineering Report: https://kingsbayrestorationproject.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/2018-Biological-Assessment-Phase-1A.pdf

Where the Eelgrass Grows

Before the eelgrass plants take a dive into their new home they are cultivated by our contractor, Sea & Shoreline, in their nursery. This is a crucial step in ensuring our eelgrass plants are the correct species to survive the rising salinity levels and thrive in our unique environment. This grassroots quickly, and that makes it tough for the animals to rip it out by the root right away! 

What to expect next

Our current project phase, 2B2, is outlined in a video on our website at https://kingsbayrestorationproject.com/neighborhood-update/ which should bring us into the Fall of 2020 if funding stays consistent. That webpage is also updated weekly with information on the current project location and status. We are also currently working on maintenance in the Hunter Springs Area and our pilot project area. This has been funded by the county as well as the City of Crystal River. More information on that can be found here https://kingsbayrestorationproject.com/cleaning-hunter-springs/.

It may be important to note that our eelgrass, like most plant life, does experience some seasonal changes. As we head into Fall/Winter and manatee season we do expect to see a decline in the abundance of grass. This is due to all of the hungry manatees coming to enjoy our magnificent springs and aquatic vegetation, but also our eelgrass experieinces a winter 'dormant' stage. As the sandy bottoms of the Bay start to show again, rest assured that we have seen this cycle several years now and the grass continues to come back every summer without fail. The root systems stay in tact under the sand. More info on the seasonal changes can be found here

 https://kingsbayrestorationproject.com/seasons-of-eelgrass/.

The human effect

We all work hard to reduce our footprint and become good stewards of our ecosystem. The biggest human interference we have experienced during our restoration project has been anchoring in eelgrass beds. Anchor scars happen easily and quickly if we are not mindful of our actions. One dropped anchor can damage 1 sq ft of eelgrass which adds up significantly if you consider how many boats are on the waterways at any given time and multiply if by how many times a boat moves and re-anchors on average. These scars can take up to ten years to repair themselves, if they ever repair at all. Boaters have gotten used to a previously dead bottom where we could anchor anywhere. Now, with the flourishing eelgrass beds we need to look at  changing our habits. Anchor in areas without eelgrass or use an eelgrass friendly anchoring method like a spud or hydraulic anchor. Also, please be mindful of the tide. It is easy to end up in a shallow area and trimming your prop will help to reduce scars. Small changes will make a big difference, and WOW is the difference in King's Bay EXCITING!