Help Us Restore Kings Bay!
Toxic Blue-Green Algae is Invading Citrus County
Lyngbya (Ling-bee-ah) is cutting off freshwater flow from the springs and darkening our once crystal-clear waters. Even worse, the algae is depleting the dissolved oxygen supply and killing off food sources for manatees, turtles, fish and all kinds of wildlife.
We are in the fifth year of restoration. During the past five years of restoration activities, over 700 spring vents have been unclogged, over 52 acres of canals have been cleaned, 95%+ Phosphorous and 50%+ Nitrogen pollution was removed from treated water, and over 130,000 native “Rock Star” eelgrass plants have been planted on the canal bottoms. Explore the website and follow us on social media to learn more about the amazing results of the Kings Bay Restoration Project!
Latest From The Project
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!
Past Updates 2021
See past updates on our cleaning progress.
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.
Our Supporters
“Before the restoration project, the water clarity has been declining in my canal over the past few years. I was seeing less wildlife and it was beginning to look stagnant. After Save Crystal River’s project began, I started seeing a difference almost immediately. Now that my canal is finished, the water is clearer, I have seen more birds and fish and it seems to be making a very positive impact. I cannot wait to see more in the future. It makes me want to get out and enjoy it more.”
“It’s beautiful, clear, and healthier looking for sure. Wonderful project making a difference over time. Imagine how healthy out ecosystems will become if we continue supporting and spreading programs like this.”
“See what can be fixed if we just come together and do it right!!! Congratulations to everyone who helped in this wonderful conservation project!!! May it continue for generations to come!!!”
“Crazy idea planting grass in the Bay, they said!?!?! No way is it going to work, they said?!?!? Well, congratulations to Save Crystal River, the locals who have worked so hard and the manatees that reap the rewards!! This incredible project proves that humans can make positive changes!!”
Kings Bay is such an important part of our ecosystem. We want this to continue so we have healthy rivers for all the animals, mammals, and people. It’s one of the best reasons to live here. We appreciate all you’re doing!
I have been guiding for 3 years out there. I Lived here for 26 years and what a difference it has made!! 2 years ago the only grass you could find was in cages and everything was darker. Now there is grass everywhere in hunters and it’s doing awesome!! Job well done!! It’s working!!!