 |
||||||||
 |
||||||||
|
||||||||
|
Crystal River National Wildlife RefugeBy Times staff writer© St. Petersburg Times published January 11, 2002 BASIC FACTS: Established in 1983 Encompasses 46 acres Composed of 20 islands and several small parcels of land surrounded by Kings Bay Helps preserve the most significant, naturally occurring warm-water refuge for the manatee and provides critical habitat for approximately 25 percent of the endangered manatee population. Approximately 600-million gallons of fresh water flow daily from more than 30 natural springs at a constant temperature of 72 degrees An estimated 100,000 visitors daily Refuge administered with a five-person staff by the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge OBJECTIVES INCLUDE:Protect critical wintering habitat and individuals of the Crystal River herd of the endangered West Indian manatee Provide habitat and protection for other wildlife species including wading birds, raptors, alligators and fish Provide wildlife-dependent recreation and environmental education for the public PUBLIC USE OPPORTUNITIES:Diving and snorkeling Wildlife observation Sport fishing Nature photography Motorized and nonmotorized boating MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES:Law enforcement Designated manatee sanctuaries Nov. 15 through March 31 Designated slow and idle boat speed zones Aerial manatee surveys Aquatic vegetation surveys Water quality monitoring Manatee education center (at Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park) Manatee watch volunteer program Manatee rescue team Partnerships FOR MORE INFORMATION:James Kraus, refuge manager Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge Complex 1502 SE Kings Bay Drive Crystal River, FL., 34429 Phone: (352) 563-2088 Fax: (352) 795-7961 E-mail: FW4_RW_Chassahowitzka@fws.gov
 © 2006 • All Rights Reserved • St. Petersburg Times
490 First Avenue South • St. Petersburg, FL 33701 • 727-893-8111 
|
Citrus Times |
