Unique Features of St. Andrew Bay
- Inflow of freshwater is minimal and originates primarily from the spring-fed flow of Econfina Creek
- The presence of river sediments typical of most estuaries is practicality non-existent in St. Andrew Bay
- Without these deposits, the bay remains deeper than most north F lorida bays, lacks river-carried turbidity, and has minimal flushing from freshwater land drainage
- Because of its location on the Gulf of Mexico, the Bay has minimal tidal exchange.
- The vertical difference of the maximum tidal range (spring tides) is just over two feet (0.7m)
- Lack of a river-driven impact and minimal tides results in water that is generally saltier than most estuaries and has unusually good clarity allowing maximum light penetration and marine plant photosynthesis.
- These conditions allow exceptional growth of seagrass beds and a high diversity of marine animals.
St Andrews Bay Watch is actively involved in scientific research and monitoring to protect our estuary.
Examples of our recent scientific efforts are found below: