Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
The Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is part of the United States National Wildlife Refuge System, located in Kings Bay, in the town of Crystal [River, Florida|Crystal River], and consists of 20 islands and several small parcels of land. The refuge was established in 1983, to protect the West Indian manatee.
History
Originally named the Crystal River Manatee sanctuary. The history of the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge goes back before it was established in 1983. Prior to 1983 there were local advocates proposing the refuge be created to protect the Florida manatees within. Then in 1983 the U.S fish and wildlife services established the refuge to protect manatees that enter the springs to keep warm during the winter.
Management
The Crystal River NWR administration was changed from the Chassahowitzka [National Wildlife Refuge] Complex to the Crystal River Complex headquartered in Crystal River, Florida. The complex manages Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge, Crystal River Preserve State Park, as well as the three 'Tampa Bay Refuges'; Egmont Key NWR, Passage Key NWR, and the Pinellas NWR.
During the winter months, parts of the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge are subject to seasonal access restrictions to protect manatees. The refuge’s springs release 72°F water, attracting large numbers of Florida manatees during colder months. To protect the manatees from injury or disturbance, certain areas are closed to the public during these times.
Other efforts
Other than the initial efforts to protect manatees the Crystal River NWR, U.S Fish and wildlife services has expanded to restoring other animal populations that are decreasing, along with managing invasive species.