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Weeki Wachee River Submerged Aquatic Vegetation Restoration Project Maintenance Reports for Months Ten and Eleven
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BRIEF OVERVIEW
The tenth and eleventh monthly maintenance events for the Weeki Wachee River SAV Restoration Project occurred on March 23 and April 9, 2026. The GrowSAV™ Herbivory Exclusion Devices exhibited light levels of biofouling, consisting mainly of settled sediments, filamentous algae and entrapped leaf litter. The estimated success rate of V. neotropicalis within GrowSAV™ Herbivory Exclusion Devices has remained consistent with approximately 65% of the devices exhibiting successful growth. Unprotected units remain short, due to increased grazing pressure, but continue to display signs of lateral expansion throughout the river. Increased expansion is expected as we continue into warmer months.
Supplemental planting units installed at site 5 (near Roger’s Park) were observed in approximately 10% of the GrowSAV™ Herbivory Exclusion Devices. A dense Chaetomorpha bloom was observed, covering almost 90% of the total area. Chaetomorpha blooms when there are excess nutrients in the system and prefer higher salinity levels.
The Chaetomorpha bloom will continue to be monitored, any algae that builds up within the devices will be removed. It is recommended that Ruppia maritima is added at site 5, as it has a higher salinity tolerance. Maintenance will continue for the remaining month, with the next event taking place in May 2026.
STRATEGIC PLAN INITIATIVES
N/A
FINANCIAL IMPACT
None at this time.
LEGAL NOTE
Not Applicable.
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RECOMMENDATION
For informational purposes only; No action is required from the Board.