How Does Marine Wildlife Impact the Marine Construction Process?

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May 15
3 min read

Protecting Manatees, Seagrass, and Coastal Ecosystems While You Build in South Florida

When building a dock, seawall, or boat lift in South Florida, you’re not just working with tides, permits, and materials—you’re building alongside one of the most diverse and protected marine ecosystems in the country. From gentle manatees to thriving seagrass beds, marine wildlife plays a significant role in shaping how, when, and where construction can take place.

At Atlantic Harbor Marine Construction, we understand the importance of balancing functionality with environmental responsibility. Here's how marine wildlife can impact the construction process—and how we ensure your project is completed responsibly and in full compliance with environmental regulations.

Permitting and Environmental Regulations

Any waterfront project in Florida typically requires permits from multiple agencies, including:

Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP)
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Local municipalities and marine planning departments

These agencies assess the impact of your proposed project on marine wildlife and habitats before issuing permits. If protected species or sensitive areas are present, additional approvals, surveys, or mitigation efforts may be necessary.

✅ We handle permitting for you, including all required environmental assessments and agency coordination.

Manatees, Seagrass & Coastal Wildlife: Why They Matter

South Florida’s waters are home to vulnerable species and critical habitats that influence every step of the construction process.

🐾 Manatees

Florida manatees are a federally protected species. During migration and mating seasons (typically November through March), specific restrictions apply:

Construction near known manatee zones may require Marine Mammal Observers (MMOs) on-site.
Pile driving must pause if a manatee enters the work zone.
Slower equipment and low-impact techniques may be mandated.

✅ At Atlantic Harbor, we plan project schedules around these seasonal windows and work only with certified observers when needed.

🌿 Seagrass Beds

Seagrass is essential for the ecosystem and is also protected. These lush underwater meadows provide food and shelter for fish, turtles, and manatees.

If seagrass is present:

Projects may need to elevate dock structures to allow light to reach the beds.
Floating turbidity curtains may be used to prevent sediment disturbance.
Your project may need to be redesigned to avoid impacting root systems.

✅ We conduct seagrass surveys in coordination with permitting agencies and help you minimize or eliminate impacts.

🐟 Other Protected Habitats and Species

Mangroves stabilize the shoreline and are protected—removal or pruning requires permits.
Sea turtles may influence lighting and access restrictions during nesting season.
Fish spawning zones can limit dredging and pile driving during certain months.

Seasonal Construction Restrictions

Certain activities are restricted based on wildlife migration and breeding patterns. Common limitations include:

No pile driving during manatee season in certain zones
Reduced noise levels or use of alternative machinery
Avoidance of sea turtle nesting beaches from May through October

✅ We build flexible timelines and transparent expectations into your proposal from day one.

Wildlife-Friendly Design Options

Being environmentally mindful doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. We integrate wildlife-friendly elements into your marine structure, such as:

Elevated docks for seagrass and light passage
Natural riprap to support oyster, crab, and fish habitats
Drainage systems that filter runoff into the water
Optional habitat shelves in seawall design for added marine life support

✅ These solutions protect the environment and add value to your property.

Why It All Matters

Protecting marine wildlife is not just about following the law—it’s about preserving the natural beauty and ecological health of South Florida’s coastline. When construction is done thoughtfully, you:

Prevent project delays or fines
Enhance the sustainability of your property
Support the longevity of your investment
Leave a positive impact on your community and environment

Build Responsibly with Atlantic Harbor Marine Construction

At Atlantic Harbor Marine Construction, we take pride in building strong, lasting structures without harming the marine environments we work in. We’re here to guide you through every step of the process—from permitting and planning to construction and inspection—while making sure your project supports both your goals and the wildlife around it.

📞 Call us at 954-564-3715

🌐 Visit www.AtlanticHarborMC.com

📩 Schedule a free consultation today