Enviro-Tech Systems, Inc. completed this environmental restoration project for the Southwest Florida Water Management District in conjunction with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection as part of the Surface Water Improvement and Management Program. The 2,600-acre Coral Creek Ecosystem is co-owned by SWFWMD and FDEP, managed by FDEP, and is part of Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park.
“Spoonbills were not generally detected in this area until development began and we anticipate continued use of the marsh by both of these wading bird species when the project has been completed.”
Plans, Permits, and Environmental Protection
ETS developed a Site-Specific Health, Safety, and Environment Plan, Dewatering Plan, Hurricane Plan, and Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan. A Notice of Intent and Generic Permit for Stormwater Discharge from Large Development Activity were obtained through FDEP.
Restoration Activities
Work included survey, turbidity and erosion control, clearing and grubbing, excavation, selective exotic vegetation removal, controlled burning, backfilling canals, hydroseeding, upland and wetland planting, and quarterly nuisance vegetation treatment. ETS also worked closely with an environmental engineering firm to locate, protect, and coordinate the relocation of 10 gopher tortoises.
Regional Ecological Benefits
The completed project provides a net benefit to regional aquatic resources and wildlife by restoring historic hydroperiods and overland sheet flow, improving water quality, enhancing shallow-water habitat for the endangered wood stork, and improving essential fish habitat in estuarine waters.
