The Latest on Crystal River
CONSERVE PROTECT
RESTORE ADVOCATE
Restoration Work Resumes April, 2021
We are excited to announce that work will be resuming as Manatee Season comes to an end on April 1st, 2021!
Why has Crystal River Become Saltier?
Crystal River has become saltier because of saltwater intrusion. As developments pump freshwater out of the aquifer for drinking or irrigation, the saltwater aquifers under the freshwater aquifers begin to seep into the freshwater and contaminate it. Draining the aquifer not only leads to contaminated waters, but it also decreases spring venting and causes devastating sinkholes.
Riverbed Scars
You’ve probably seen those sandy lines along the river floor, running through the eelgrass (see picture above). These scars are caused by boat propellers. Scars can also be formed by using hooked anchors that uproot native eelgrass and leave sandy patches in the riverbed. While many boaters believe scraping the bottom is no problem, it takes time for eelgrass to grow back. Often, Save Crystal River will intervene and patch the scars before they fill with gunk and detritus.
Growing and Planting Eelgrass
The ability to transform an algae-based aquatic ecosystem into a plant-based system is the key to making Crystal River crystal clear. Eelgrass is vital to the health of our river. Interested in how it's done?
Scalloping in Crystal River
In the summer, tourists flood to Crystal River to spend their days scalloping in the Gulf of Mexico, but due to over-catching and degrading water quality, the number of bay scallops has greatly decreased over the past ten years.
EELGRASS EFFECT: Then & Now
Long gone are the days spent driving around the Bay to find a manatee. Now we are looking for ones in clear water WITHOUT other boats near them. We can’t remember the last time that a tour struck out finding manatees to swim with. We’ve become spoiled.
Seasonal Changes Produce Healthier Eelgrass Beds in Kings Bay
If you have swam, boated, or paddled around Kings Bay this winter, you have probably seen an unusual amount of eelgrass blades floating throughout the canals. A closer look may have even revealed that some of the robust eelgrass beds you have grown accustomed to seeing might be looking a little thinner than usual. No need for concern!
Why are Springs Blue?
Next time you’re out at Three Sisters or any other spring, think about how the water you’re swimming through, or paddling on, is rainwater, filtered and cooled through rock, colored by minerals, and reflecting dissolved earth crystals and the blue sky. You’re not only swimming through the water we drink and wash our hands with, but also one of nature’s miracles. No wonder the manatees love it!
UPCOMING IN SEPTEMBER
Save our Waters Week is an annual activity where the waters of Citrus County receive love and attention. We remove debris and restore the condition of the ecosystem. Join in!
Information on this years activities coming soon! We’ll see you on the waterfront!
Have a question?
Contact us!
Because Save Crystal River is a grass roots organization working to restore our waters, we want to hear from others who support efforts to restore our waters. So please reach out in whatever way is best for you. Call us, send and email, and then like us on Facebook.
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