Manatee Pocket project in Martin County has new Web site

By R.J. Harrington
Originally published 02:34 p.m., August 11, 2008

PORT SALERNO - Once the dredging project in Manatee Pocket is completed next year, boaters hope the waterway will be as easy to navigate as the the project's new Web site, www.manateepocketproject.com.

The new site contains information about the Pocket, its history, the need for the dredging operations, funding data and a community forum.

"The enthusiastic and united voice of the community has been a key part of the progress we've made in terms of funding and grants. It shows our elected officials that the Manatee Pocket project is important to our residents," said Kathy Fitzpatrick, Martin County coastal engineer.

Fitzpatrick said the purpose of the Manatee Pocket Dredging Project is to restore a navigable waterway within the Manatee Pocket, while also preserving its rich history and improving its unique environmental habitat.

Dredging is estimated to begin next summer, she said, "and will span the length of the Manatee Pocket waterway, as well as Crooked Creek, Chapman's Creek, Salerno Creek and Manatee Creek."