The Picayune Strand Restoration Project was the first Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Project (CERP) to begin construction. Restoring Picayune Strand includes the plugging of 48 miles of canals, removing 260 miles of crumbling roads and constructing three major pump stations, all of which will restore more than 55,000 acres of natural habitat in an area once partially developed for an intended sprawling residential area.
The Picayune Strand Restoration Project is being conducted in partnership with the South Florida Water Management District. When completed, the project will restore historic water flows that benefit coastal estuaries, recharge the aquifer and protect water supply, while maintaining current levels of flood protection.
Ecological benefits are already being seen at Picayune Strand as a result of the restoration work done to date. Native plants and animals are returning to the area, including the wood stork and endangered Florida panther. By restoring the hydrology in the area, the completed Picayune Strand Restoration project will also directly benefit the southern Gulf Coast estuaries, improving juvenile fish habitats and increasing fish and bird populations, as well as recreational opportunities in the area.