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Tampa Electric’s Big Bend Power Station is a popular spot to catch a glimpse of manatees seeking refuge during colder months.
The docile sea giants gather near the station, where the industrial power plant creates pockets of warmth in the water. The annual gathering grabbed the attention of National Geographic, in a feature highlighting Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center.
More than 60% of manatees utilize Florida’s industrial power plants during the cold season. In line with Tampa Electric’s conservation efforts, it hosts the annual Run for the Manatees 5K in January to raise manatee safety awareness and support seagrass restoration.
– Staff Report, Florida Politics