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| New metal roof on the Bay House |
KML has made huge strides in the last 4 months recovering from wind and water damage in the wake of Hurricane Irma. We were quickly able to accommodate visitors in our dorms and with boat trips, assisting researchers from multiple universities, in the recovery and re-deployment of their instruments for long-term studies as well as on-going reef assessments.
In November, the crew from FIO's RV Weatherbird came down and helped clean and repair 'The Shallows' (large seawater mesocosym). They all rolled up their sleeves and pitched in to haul out gravel, muck, and debris left from the storm; a truly messy and back-breaking task. We should have water flowing there soon, once electrical outlets are replaced and seawater pumps can be installed.
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| Bay House: water damage to bedroom ceilings repaired and a fresh coat of paint |
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| Bay House: kitchen and living room ready for visitors |
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| Walk-thru Lab 1: flood damage repaired, new dry wall painted, and KML staff building new supports for counter tops |
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| Main Dry Lab: flood damage repaired, new drywall painted, and awaiting new cabinetry, counter tops, and sinks |
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| Dry Lab 2: flood damage repaired and awaiting new cabinetry and counter tops |
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| New fence installation in progress |
We have come a long way since the wee hours of September 10, 2017 but the Keys still have a long way to go on the road to recovery. Residents are all trying to find a new 'normal' and it will likely take years. Mountains of debris have been removed but piles still remain, lining the highway; sobering reminders of Nature's fury.
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| Long Key State Park is open for day use but campsites remain closed. Mountains of sand, removed from US 1, now are piled on the shoreline. Turtle nesting season will be a challenge this year. |
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Conch Key, 4 miles south of KML, sustained major damage to many homes
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| Driving toward Marathon and closer to the eye of the storm, Grassey Key is still lined with building debris, appliances, and even a damaged boat |
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| Sunrise on Long Key |
But we are #KeysStrong!
