JAXPORT joins state initiative to strengthen habitat in the St. Johns River
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- JAXPORT joins state initiative to strengthen habitat in the St. Johns River
The Jacksonville Port Authority (JAXPORT) has joined a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) project to boost submerged aquatic vegetation in the St. Johns River. Lake George is the second largest lake in the state at approximately 46,000 acres in size and historically contained thousands of acres of submerged plants which provided important habitat for native fish and wildlife.
The restoration site in Lake George was identified by FWC biologists as the most suitable location to maximize the ecological benefit of broader aquatic vegetation recovery efforts across the river basin. JAXPORT is a supporting partner in the project alongside the FWC and the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida (FWFF).
Submerged aquatic vegetation plays an important role in river ecosystems, providing habitat, food and shelter for fish, crabs, manatees and other wildlife.
“A single acre of submerged aquatic vegetation can support tens of thousands of fish and millions of invertebrates, providing essential habitat for growth and reproduction,” Nick Wiley, FWFF Executive Director said.
FWC biologists documented large reductions in aquatic vegetation in portions of the St. Johns River following impacts from hurricanes Matthew in 2016 and Irma in 2017.
JAXPORT’S support of the project provides funding to the FWFF for eelgrass to fill a three-acre restoration site in Lake George. “We’re proud to support the FWC’s efforts in the St. Johns River basin,” said JAXPORT CEO Eric Green. “Healthy aquatic habitats support fish and wildlife and contribute to the long-term sustainability of this important regional resource.”
With funding from the FWFF, the FWC installed a temporary 1,500-foot protective fence to allow the vegetation to establish before being exposed to grazing pressure. The fencing will be removed once plants inside fenced areas on Lake George mature enough to withstand natural conditions.
“Partnerships like these are an essential part of conservation success in Florida,” said FWC Executive Director Roger Young “We are thankful for the support of JAXPORT and the Foundation in helping restore critical habitats that benefit Lake George and the St. Johns River ecosystem.”
The Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida is a nonprofit organization that supports conservation of Florida’s fish, wildlife and natural habitats in partnership with public and private organizations, including FWC.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is dedicated to managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term benefit, and for the people of Florida.
JAXPORT supports environmental stewardship through energy-efficient terminal design, equipment modernization and partnerships that advance conservation and environmental education throughout Northeast Florida. The port also partners with Jacksonville University on regional initiatives including the Connected St. Johns River program and manatee awareness efforts.
