Refuge Repair and Restoration Efforts Continue Across Multiple Sites

​Recovery and restoration efforts continue to move forward throughout the Lower Suwannee and Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuges as staff, partners, and contractors work to address past hurricane damage and improve visitor access.

​One exciting milestone is the reopening of Seahorse Key for its first public open house since Hurricane Helene. The event is scheduled for July 3 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and will provide visitors an opportunity to once again experience one of the refuge's most iconic destinations.

​Several major projects are now underway or scheduled to begin in the coming weeks. A $1.3 million habitat restoration project is moving forward, while road rehabilitation and debris removal efforts are beginning with support from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service equipment operators from other refuges.

​The refuge is also partnering with the U.S. Department of Transportation on numerous infrastructure projects, including:

• Rebuilding the footbridge at Shired Island
• Resurfacing Fishbone Creek Road
• Restoring the Fishbone Creek parking area
• Repairing Salt Creek Road
• Replacing the Salt Creek observation platform and pier
• Replacing the Vista dock
• Repairing roads and resurfacing parking areas at Shell Mound
• Removing damaged portions of the River Trail boardwalk

These projects represent a significant investment in restoring public access, improving visitor facilities, and strengthening refuge infrastructure following recent storms.

​Despite operating with a reduced staff and budget, refuge personnel continue to make progress on a remarkable number of restoration and recovery initiatives across the refuge complex.