Crystal River has received a grant to help restore its once-pristine waters.

Lawmakers approved a $1.6 million grant for the Kings Bay Pilot Restoration Project. The project aims to clean up invasive algae that has overrun Kings Bay, destroying native vegetation and damaging the ecosystem.

According to state Sen. Charles Dean, students of Citrus County sent nearly 7,000 letters to Tallahassee showing support for the plan.

The work will now begin on the project.