Research shows steady manatee presence in Fort Pierce

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (CBS12) — New research affirms the ongoing reliance of manatees on Moore’s Creek in Fort Pierce as a passive thermal basin.

The peer-reviewed scientific article was published Thursday, titled “Persistent long-term habitat use by Florida Manatees at Fort Pierce, Florida from 1997 to 2020,” which investigates the sustained presence of manatees in the area adjacent to FPUA’s Manatee Center in Fort Pierce.

“This study underscores the importance of citizen science and decades of research in confirming Moore's Creek as a crucial habitat for manatees.” Dr. Beth Brady, Senior Science and Conservation Associate at Save the Manatee Club said. “Manatees visit the creek for freshwater and temporary warmth, even after the closure of the power plant.”

Historically, the clean, warm water discharged by the now-defunct Henry D. King Power Plant into Moore’s Creek created a 'thermal refuge,' attracting manatees, especially during winter months. Following the decommissioning of the power plant in 2008, speculation arose regarding the impact on manatee presence in the area, according to a Fort Pierce Utilities Authority news release.

Volunteers at the Manatee Center, known as 'Roving Naturalists,' dedicated over 20 years and 7,000 hours to monitoring manatee visits to Moore’s Creek. Their observations contributed to the research on the influence of water temperatures and environmental factors on manatees and Fort Pierce’s role in their habitat.

Results indicate that despite the power plant's closure, manatees persisted in returning to Fort Pierce waterways due to Moore’s Creek's designation as a 'passive thermal basin.' During winters, manatees seek refuge in warm waters to avoid stressors and health risks associated with cold temperatures.