Restoring Florida’s Largest Lake
Restoring Lake Okeechobee
A Responsible, Science-Backed Approach to Muck Removal
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Florida’s Ongoing Commitment to Lake Okeechobee
Lake Okeechobee is Florida’s largest freshwater lake and a critical part of the state’s water system, supporting wildlife, flood protection, downstream waterways, and millions of residents. Restoring the lake is essential to protecting both Florida’s environment and economy.
Florida has a long history of addressing water quality challenges in Lake Okeechobee through restoration, monitoring, and infrastructure investments. Over the years, Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and its partners have advanced projects focused on nutrient reduction, stormwater treatment, habitat restoration, and watershed protection.
This effort builds on that legacy, reflecting Florida’s continued leadership in pursuing long-term, adaptive, and innovative solutions that improve water quality while protecting sensitive ecosystems. DEP’s support of this project underscores the state’s commitment to responsible environmental stewardship grounded in science, transparency, and public accountability.
The Challenge
Understanding the Muck Problem
Muck is a soft, organic layer that forms as plants, algae, and natural materials decompose on the lake bottom. As it breaks down, muck releases excess nutrients, particularly phosphorus, that fuel harmful algal blooms, cause harm to fish and wildlife, and degrade water quality.
Removing nutrient-laden muck is a critical step toward restoring Lake Okeechobee’s ecological health.
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The Process
How the Restoration Works
Targeted Muck Removal
Muck is carefully removed from priority areas to support the lake’s natural filtration process.
Natural Treatment
Nutrient-rich sediment and fine particles that reduce water clarity and aquatic vegetation will be diverted into constructed biofiltration ponds, similar to stormwater treatment areas, where nutrients are naturally absorbed and filtered. This engineered system is designed to replicate and accelerate natural processes.
Cleaner Water Returned
Once treated, cleaner water is safely returned to Lake Okeechobee.
Continuous Monitoring
Water quality is monitored throughout the process in full alignment with state DEP and SFWMD standards.
Beneficial Reuse
Dehydrated sediment is reused in approved applications so nutrients do not re-enter the lake.
Proven Results
Previous Water Restoration Projects
Kings Bay Restoration
Through its scientifically-validated technologies, Sea & Shoreline restored over 100 acres of Kings Bay to a vibrant, functioning ecosystem that supports both wildlife, submerged aquatic vegetation, and community recreation.
This project and many others have become national models for spring and river restoration.
Our Approach
Our Natural, Localized Solution
Thanks to the funding and leadership of the DEP, as well as partnerships with the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD), Army Corps of Engineers, and local governments, our science-backed approach will remove excess phosphorus by permanently removing the muck from the lake.
Reduce nutrient buildup
Use natural treatment systems
Ensure continuous, real-time monitoring and testing
Provide ideal environment for submerged aquatic vegetation
Benefit local communities through repurposing
Why It Matters
Cleaner Water in Lake Okeechobee Supports
Healthier fish and wildlife
More submerged aquatic vegetation
Improved water quality in downstream waterways
More resilient wetlands
A stronger Everglades
Long-term economic and recreational benefits
Project Details
Where the Work Is Happening
Work will initially focus on approximately 40 acres in the eastern portion of Lake Okeechobee.
Project Timeline
This initial phase of the project is expected to last approximately 18 months. Activities are expected to occur during daylight hours, with schedules coordinated to minimize impacts to the public, wildlife, and ongoing lake uses.
Potential Hazards
Potential hazards include operation of heavy equipment and marine vessels, and physical hazards commonly associated with construction activities. No hazardous or experimental chemicals will be used.
Safety & Environmental Safeguards
The project will include clearly marked work zones and navigational controls, continuous water-quality monitoring, compliance with all DEP, SFWMD, and federal environmental regulations, and adaptive management.
About
About Sea & Shoreline
Sea & Shoreline is a full-service aquatic restoration firm with over a decade of experience rehabilitating both freshwater and marine ecosystems.
We are committed to long-term, sustainable solutions that support healthy aquatic habitats and wildlife, with a proven track record of successful restoration projects. Our unique approach to restoration involves the use of seagrass to naturally revitalize these habitats. Through in-house cultivation and scientifically validated technologies, Sea & Shoreline helps restore Florida’s waters so communities and visitors can enjoy them now and throughout future generations.
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