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Weeki Wachee River Submerged Aquatic Vegetation Restoration Project Final Maintenance Report for Month Twelve
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BRIEF OVERVIEW
The twelve-month monitoring event for the Weeki Wachee River SAV Restoration Project was conducted on June 4, 2026. GrowSAV™ Herbivory Exclusion Devices exhibited light levels of biofouling consisting primarily of settled sediments, filamentous algae, and entrapped leaf litter.
Approximately 65% of protected planting units remained established within GrowSAV™ Herbivory Exclusion Devices following twelve months in the field. Unprotected planting units averaged approximately 10 cm in canopy height and, although generally shorter than protected vegetation, continued to exhibit lateral expansion throughout the restoration area. The persistence and continued expansion of surviving Mechanical Planting Units demonstrate successful long-term establishment and indicate that the restoration is continuing to develop through natural vegetative growth.
GrowSAV Devices will be left in place until the end of September 2026, protected and unprotected planting units will continue to be monitored during this time. Ruppia maritima (Widgeon grass) planting units will be installed at Site 5, where observed signs of increased salinity have been noted.
STRATEGIC PLAN INITIATIVES
N/A
FINANCIAL IMPACT
None at the time.
LEGAL NOTE
N/A
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RECOMMENDATION
For informational purposes only; No action is required from the Board.