HOMOSASSA, Fla. — A few big tourist attractions have made their grand return to Citrus County. The monkeys of Historic Monkey Island are finally home after recent renovations.
Hundreds — if not thousands — of visitors gather to catch a glimpse of the little celebrities on the island along the Homosassa River each year. It’s an attraction that is helping the local economy.
“They’ve settled in nicely and they seem to be enjoying it, almost like they never left,” says Blake Lowman, caretaker at the Florida Cracker Riverside Resort.
Historic Monkey Island is probably known by no one better than Blake Lowman, who works not only at the resort but is also the island’s caretaker.
“The community just absolutely loves and adores this island. It’s a piece of history here,” he said. “People have grown up with it. It was here before I was born, and it’s just cool to be a part of that legacy and keep it going forward for future generations.”
The island’s long-term guests — known as Ralph, Emily and Ebony — were moved so that renovations could be made to their home.
“Basically, the whole island got redone,” said Lowman. “The biggest thing is these perimeter polls here to keep unauthorized, unwanted boaters and kayakers out from getting too close.”
And just like most Floridians, they now have air conditioning. A requirement, Lowman says, by the USDA and FWC.
“The A/C has to come on if it’s above 85 degrees for a consecutive of four hours and vice versa on the heat,” said Lowman. “If the temperature drops below 45 for a consecutive of four hours, the heat has to be turned on and that is a requirement.”
It took some time to finish, but an improvement that was mandatory for the island’s longevity.
“Tourism, now, is a huge draw basically because of the location,” Lowman says. “Having the springs, having the river, easy access to the gulf is really a fishing destination and starting to pick up on the tourism side of it.”
Ensuring future generations can enjoy the island, too.
Those with Historic Monkey Island will be holding a special fundraiser Thursday night. Funds will help maintain the island and the monkeys — including food and upkeep.
Calvin Lewis
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