AquaTech Eco Consultants, in partnership with Ecosphere Restoration Institute, recently completed 100 acres of submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) restoration across Florida. This effort, funded through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Grant LPA0282, is one of the largest and most ambitious SAV initiatives in the state's history. SAV plantings occurred across four of the five water management districts and eleven counties in the state of Florida. Restoration efforts involved the implementation of innovative survey and planting techniques, sourcing robust SAV species like Vallisneria, Halodule, and Thalassia to maximize survival rates and promote healthy growth, and employing a collaborative approach, partnering with key stakeholders, including Aquaticus Plants, FDEP, United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Water Management Districts, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Martin County, and others, to ensure restoration efforts and submerged resource management goals aligned. Further, AquaTech aims to be at the forefront for obtaining all required state (i.e., FDEP), federal (i.e., USACE), and local (i.e., Tampa Port Authority) permits for SAV restoration by designing projects with a high chance of success while minimizing and avoiding impacts to submerged resources and species. Specifically, AquaTech has embraced FDEP’s new General Permit for Seagrass Restoration to streamline and expedite SAV restoration projects. By utilizing advanced planting techniques, being proficient at obtaining permits, and aligning projects with submerged land management strategies, AquaTech continues to be a leader in restoring Florida's valuable aquatic ecosystems.

AquaTech’s efforts have facilitated the restoration of vital habitat for many of Florida’s ecologically, recreationally, and commercially significant species, including the manatee, sea turtles, speckled sea trout, bay scallops, and others. The positive ecological impact of this project extends beyond the immediate restoration area. By revitalizing these aquatic habitats, the initiative contributes to enhanced biodiversity, improved water clarity, and increased recreational opportunities. This restoration work is essential for the long-term health and sustainability of Florida’s aquatic ecosystems. AquaTech and EcoSphere have received additional LPA0282 funding to restore an additional 70 acres to continue these statewide efforts, driving meaningful and long-term improvements to Florida’s critical habitats and waterways.