Tampa Bay man-made islands serve as a refuge for shorebirds

Tampa Bay man-made islands serve as a refuge for shorebirds

Thousands of shorebirds gather off dredge disposal islands – islands around the Tampa Bay area created when material is dredged to make water deeper for ships. Environmental and port leaders are trying to create a balance between wildlife and industry.  Jeff Lietchy is the sanctuary manager for the Florida Coastal Island Sanctuaries with Audubon Florida.   “These have become really important features in the landscape that, really help sustain th…