The Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed spans more than 60,000 acres in Lee and Collier counties, providing natural flood protection, water purification, critical aquifer recharge, and important habitat for species including the Florida panther, snail kite, and wood stork.
Restoring Southern CREW Hydrology
Historic sheet flow in the region had been drastically altered by residential communities and agricultural operations, leaving the area prone to flooding. Over a decade, the South Florida Water Management District acquired approximately 4,000 acres in Southern CREW to protect residents and property from flooding while improving environmental conditions. In 2016, with ETS as prime contractor, the District undertook a project to restore the natural hydrology of 1,000 acres.
Environmental Construction Scope
ETS cleared and burned trees and brush along ditch and canal alignments, degraded berms and roads, removed spoil piles, backfilled ditches and canals, developed ditch and canal plugs, built low-water and culvert crossings, and developed a wood stork foraging area.
Protecting Natural Resources
ETS applied extensive experience in environmentally sensitive areas to meet the client’s goals while conserving and improving natural resources. Partnerships with government agencies have enabled ETS to deliver water quality, restoration, and conservation projects that protect Florida’s environment for future generations.
