RESTORATION PLAN FOR KINGS BAY TOPIC OF THIS WEEK'S MEETING

Florida DEP Banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Aug. 12, 2014

CONTACT: DEP Press Office, 850.245.2112, DEPNews@dep.state.fl.us

RESTORATION PLAN FOR KINGS BAY TOPIC OF THIS WEEK'S MEETING

~Department reviews potential projects to improve Kings Bay water quality ~

CRYSTAL RIVER – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection invites local governments, scientists, environmentalists, agricultural producers and other interested parties to a restoration plan development workshop for Kings Bay and Crystal River.

WHAT:      Meeting to Discuss Kings Bay and Crystal River Restoration Plan

WHEN:      Thursday, August 14  

                  10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

WHERE:    Crystal River City Hall

                  City of Crystal River Conference Room

                  123 North West Highway 19

                  Crystal River, Florida 34428

“DEP wants to ensure that the local public and stakeholders are involved in our restoration efforts,” said Tom Frick, director of the Division of Environmental Assessment and Restoration. “These meetings provide the foundation for constructive communication throughout the restoration plan development process.”

Excess nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorous have caused an imbalance in the water quality in Kings Bay and Crystal River. This is the case in many springs across Florida, resulting in the development of algal mats and other complications. At this meeting, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services will discuss best management practices (BMPs) for agricultural producers in the basin. Agricultural best management practices are practical, cost-effective methods and strategies that producers can utilize to reduce the amount of pesticides, fertilizers, animal waste and other pollutants reaching Florida’s waters. Frequently, implementation of BMPs results in both benefits to the environment and cutting costs for the producer.

Kings Bay is the sixth-largest spring system in Florida and is adjacent to the city of Crystal River. The spring system constitutes a vital cultural and economic resource for the state. Kings Bay is also the largest winter refuge for manatees on the Florida Gulf Coast and is considered a National Wildlife Refuge. It is a popular ecotourism destination for wildlife viewing, diving, snorkeling, fishing and boating. The system was designated an Outstanding Florida Water by the state of Florida.

The meeting announcement, location, agenda and other information can be viewed here.