St. Andrews State Park aquatic preserve management plan (draft), September 1990

[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]

ST ANDREWS STATE PARK

AQUATIC PRESERVE MANAGEMENT PLAN

1990

QH
90.75 DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
16
C68
1990

ST. ANDREWS STATE PARK

AQUATIC PRESERVE MANAGEMENT PLAN

(DRAFT)

SEPTEMBER 1990

Tom Gardner

Executive Director

Department of Natural Resources

This plan was prepared by
the Bureau of Submerged Lands and Preserves
Division of State Lands

Funds for this management plan were provided by the Department of
Environmental Regulation, Of kice of Coastal Management using funds
made available through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration under the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as
amended.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER I INTRODUCTION .............................. 1

CHAPTER II MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY
A. Statutory Authority ................... 9
B. Administrative Rules .................. 11
C. Relationship to Other Applicable
Plans & Programs ...................... 13

CHAPTER III DESCRIPTION OF AQUATIC PRESERVE
A. Location/Boundary ..................... 15
B. Physiography .......................... 15
C. Geology ............................... 15
D. Hydrology ............................. 16
E. Water Quality ........... ..... 17
F. Vegetation ............... ..... 17
G@. Fish and Wildlife ....... ..... 22
1. Fish/Shellfish ............ : ........ 22
2. Reptiles/Amphibians ...... ........ 24
3. Birds ............................. 25
4. Mammals ... *'** .... -* ... 26
* .. *'@ i *a
H. Endangered, Threaten d nd Species of
Special Concern ....................... 26
I. Cultural Resources ..................... 29
J. Regional Land Use, Development and
Associated Impacts .................... 29
1. Adjacent Upland Uses .............. 29
2. Uses of the Preserve .............. 29
3. Planned Use ....................... 30

CHAPTER IV MANAGEMENT AREAS
A. Introduction ................... ....... 33
B. Management Area Classifications ....... 34
C. Minimum Criteria for Allowable Uses ... 37
D. Management Areas ...................... 41

CHAPTER V SITE SPECIFIC MANAGEMENT ISSUES AND NEEDS
A. Management Issues and Special Needs ... 47
B. Policy Guidelines ..................... 48

CHAPTER VI MANAGEMENT ACTION PLAN
A. Resource Management ................... 50
B. Resource Protection ................... 51
C. Research ' *"****** 53
D. Environmental Education ............... 54

CHAPTER VII MANAGEMENT COORDINATION WETWOR
A. Federal Agencies ...................... 57
B. State Agencies ........................ 58
C. Regional Agencies ..................... 62
D. Local Governments/ Interest Groups ..... 63

CHAPTER VIII STAFFING AND FISCAL NEEDS .................. 67

CHAPTER IX RESOURCE AND ACTIVITY MONITORING PROGRAM
A. Resource Monitoring ................... 71
B. Activity Monitoring ................... 72
C. Accomplishments and Progress
Monitoring ............. ............... 72
BIBLIOGRAPHY ............................... 73

LIST OF FIGURES AND TABLES

Figure 1. Florida Aquatic Preserve System ............... 5

Figure 2. Boundary Map .................................. 7

Figure 3. Vegetation Map ................................. 19

Figure 4. Adjacent Land Use Map ......................... 31
Figure 5. Management Areas ............................... 45

Table 1. Endangered, Thre atened, and Species of Special
Concern ....................................... 27-28

Table 2. Management Coordination Network .....* .......... 64-65

Table 3. Estimated Budget ............................... 69

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix A. Relevant Legislation .......................... 75

Copies of the legal description of the St. Andrews Aquatic
Preserve, as well as copies ofo Chapters 253 and 258, F.S.,
and Chapter 18-21, F.A.C., may be obtained from:

Bureau of Submerged Lands and' Preserves
Department of Natural Resources
3917 Commonwealth Blvd.
Mail Station 140
Tallahassee, Florida 32399

CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

The St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve is located in
southern Bay County and represents one of the 42 aquatic
preserves in Florida (Figure 1) . This preserve was designated
by the Florida Legislature in 1972 for the purpose of
maintaining the preserve area in an essentially natural
condition. The preserve is approximately 25,000 acres in size
and includes only the sovereignty submerged lands located
below the mean high waterline. The preserve covers the
entrance to St. Andrews 'Bay and extends some 3 miles offshore
into the Gulf of Mexico (Figure 2).

The St. Andrews Bay system has long been recognized as an
exceptional water resource of the State. This area consists
largely of high energy zone areas, e.g. gulf sandy beaches, a
strong tidal inlet with jetties and sandy bay bottoms. A
moderate amount of shallow grassbed communities occur along
the bayside of Shell Island. Marine fishes, shorebirds and
various invertebrate marine life are predominant. The
preserve lies adjacent to St. Andrews Bay State Recreation
Area which receives heavy use. Portions of the preserve
adjoin exclusive residential developments and military
facilities. Water quality in and around the St. Andrews Bay
area has deteriorated in recent years from sewage discharge
@nd stormwater runoff. The inlet areal the Gulf, and the
inner bay area support some of the heaviest boating traffic
in northern Florida. Such intense use confirms the need for
an integrated management program by state, regional, and local
governments to accomplish a goal of long term resource
protection for the preserve.

This management plan developed for St. Andrews State Park
Aquatic Preserve is only one of many steps that will be
necessary to accomplish this goal. It is intended primarily
to serve as a useful guide to the manager and others in
maintaining the natural integrity of. the preserve. As more
information is learned about this preserve and ambient
conditions analyzed, management strategies outlined in this
plan may need to be adjusted.

The process of developing this management plan involved
collecting an inventory of resource information, coordinating-
with other plans that have been developed for the area, and
identifying resource problems and management issues relating
to the present and future uses of the preserve and adjacent
uplands. Supporting policies were developed to be consistent
with statutory authority and the overall intent of the Aquatic

Pres erve Program f or helping ensure that the submerged land
resources of the bay remain for future generations to enjoy.

Fourteen.m anagement plans, covering 21 of the 42 designated
aquatic preserves in the state, have been adopted by reference
into the existing aquatic preserve rule (Chapter 18-20,
Florida Administrative Code). This management plan will be
subsequently incorporated into rule following its approval by
the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund.
As such, the special criteria in this plan pertaining to use
of submerged lands will carry the same authority as current
rule criteria.

Specifically, this plan is divided into chapters according to
their management application:

Chapter I! cites the statutory authorities 'upon which this
resource management program and plan are built.

Chapter III provides a description of the St. Andrews State
Park Aquatic Preserve and details the physical and biological
components of the preserve as well as any cultural resources.
Additional information includes the current and future uses of
this preserve and use of the adjacent uplands.

Chapter IV delineates various management areas within the
preserve. These areas area defined by taking into account the
biological resources, the physical parameters, and the
aesthetic values, in.conjunction with the use of the adjacent
uplands.

@Chapter V discusses specific needs and issues particular to
the St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve. Policy
directives have been developed in addressing each need and/or
issue.

Chapter VI outlines site-specif ic goals, objectives, and tasks
required to meet the management needs of the preserve for
resource management, resource protection, research, and
environmental education.

Chapter VII identifies local, regional, state, and f ederal
agencies, their-authorities and programs, and how they relate
and assist in protection and management of this preserve. It
also identifies non-governmental organizations, interest
groups,and individuals that can assist in management.

Chapter VIII projects future staffing and fiscal needs
necessary for providing effective management and protection
of the preserve, as well as supporting research and
environmental education.

Chapter IX outlines' a monitoring program for recording and
reporting resource charges, and establishes a tracking system
for detailing the progress and accomplishments in resource
management.

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AQUATIC
PRESERVES

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AQUATIC PRESERVES ARE ESTABLISHED
BY THE FLORIDA LEGISLATURE AND
INCLUDE ONLY STATE OWNED
SOVEREIGNTY SUBMERGED LANDS,
THE GOVERNOR AND CABINET SITTING
AS TRUSTEES OF THE INTERNAL
IMPROVEMENT TRUST FUND ARE
MANAGERS OF THESE AREAS. /7
FOR MORE INFORMATION REGARDING
AQUATIC PRESERVES CONTACT:

DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
D141SION OF STATE LANDS

BUREAU OF AQUATIC PRESERVES

3900 COMMONWEALTH BLVD
TALLAHASSEE,FLORIDA 32303
CREAM a CAROL A. KNOX

FIGURE 1. Florida Aquatic Preserve System

FlGURE 2. Boundary Map

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DIVISION OF LAND UMOMMIENT
n 24 Is to 21 OCTOKR, 1970

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- - - - - - BITUMINOUS ROAD .. . ...... . .. ...

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INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY

AQUATIC PRESERVE

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AACUSONVILLE
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MAP OF
ST. ANDREWS STATE PARK AOUATIC PRESERVE
AOUATIC PRESERVE G-4)
0 DAY COUNTY. FLORIDA
CREATED BY
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STATE OF FLORIDA BOARD OF
TRUSTEES OF THE INTERNAL IMPROVEMENT TRIJIST FUND
gly WEST 36we OCTOBER 21,1969
RESOLUTION ADOPTED OCTOBER 21,1969

CHAPTER II

MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY

A. STATUTORY AUTHORITY

The fundamental laws providing management authority f or the
St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve are contained in
Chapters 258 and 253, Florida Statutes (F.S.) . These statutes
establish the proprietary role of the Governor and Cabinet,
sitting as the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement
Trust Fund, as Trustees over all sovereignty submerged lands.
In addition, these statutes empower the Trustees to adopt and
enforce rules and regulations for managing all sovereignty
submerged lands, including aquatic preserves.

In particular, Sections 258.35-258.42, F.S., enacted in 1975
by the Florida Legislature represent the Florida Aquatic
Preserves Act. These statutes set forth a standardized set
of management criteria for all designated aquatic preserves,
and represent the primary laws governing use of sovereignty
submerged lands within aquatic preserves.

The Legislative intent for establishing aquatic preserves is
stated in Section 258.36, F.S.: "It is the intent of the
Legislature that the state-owned submerged lands in areas
which have exceptional biological, aesthetic, and scientific
value, as hereinafter described, be set aside forever as
aquatic preserves or sanctuaries for the benefit of future
generations.11 This statement along with the other applicable
laws clearly mark. the direction for management of aquatic
preserves., Management will emphasize the maintenance of
essentially natural conditions, and will include only
sovereignty submerged lands, lands leased by the State, and
land specifically authorized for inclusion as part of a
preserve.

Management responsibilities for a quatic preserves may be
fulfilled directly by the Trustees or by staff of the Division
of State Lands of the Department of Natural Resources through
delegation of authority. Other governmental bodies may also
participate in the management of aquatic preserves under
appropriate instruments of authority issued by the Trustees.
The Division staff, however, serve as the primary managers who
]implement provisions of the management plans and rules
applicable to the aquatic preserves. Staff evaluate proposed
used or activities in the preserve, and assess the possible
impacts on the natural resources. Project reviews are
primarily evaluated in accordance with the criteria in
Sections 258.35-42 F.S., (Florida Aquatic Preserve Act), and

18-20, Florida Administrative code (F.A.C., Rules of Florida
Aquatic Preserves), and in accordance with the policies set
forth in this plan.

Staff comments on proposed uses are submitted for
consideration in developing recommendations to be presented
to the Board of Trustees. This mechanism provides a basis for
the Trustees to evaluate public interest and project merits
within the context of potential environmental impacts upon the
aquatic preserves. Any activity located on sovereignty
submerged lands will require a consent of use, a lease or
easement, or other approval from the Board of Trustees.
Consent of use may be granted on small projects from the
Division of State Lands in accordance with the authority
delegated by the-Board.

BACKG90UND
The laws supporting aquatic preserve management are the direct
result of the public's awareness and interest in protecting
Florida's coastal aquatic environment. The rampant dredge and
fill activities that occurred in the late 1960's had a
stimulating effect on this widespread concern.

In 1967 the Florida Legislature passed the Randall Act
(Chapter 67-393, Laws of Florida), which established
procedures regulating previously unrestricted dredge and fill
activities on state-owned submerged lands. That same year the
legislature provided the statutory authority (Section 253.03,
F.S.) for the Board of Trustees to exercise proprietary
control over state-owned lands. Also, in 1967, government
focus on protecting Florida's productive waterbodies from
development led to the Board of Trustee's establishment of a
moratorium on the sale of submerged lands to private
interests. In the same year, an interagency advisory
committee on submerged lands was created to develop strategies
for protection and management of state submerged lands.

In 1968, the Florida Constitution was revised, declaring in
Article II, Section 7, the State's policy of conserving and
protecting the natural resources and scenic beauty. That
constitutional provision also established the authority for
the legislature to enact measures for the abatement of air and
water pollution. Then, late in 1968., the committee issued a
report recommending the establishment of twenty-six aquatic
preserves.

On October 21, 1969 the Governor' and Cabinet acted upon the
recommendations of the Interagency Advisory Committee and
adopted by resolution eighteen of the water bodies as aquatic
preserves. Other preserves were individually adopted at
various times through 1989 including St. Andrews Bay in 1972.

B. ADMINISTRATIVE RULES GOVERNING AQUATIC PRESERVES

Chapters 18-20 and 18-21, Florida Administrative Code
(F.A.C.) , are the two administrative rules directly applicable
to the uses of aquatic preserves specifically, and submerged
lands in general.

1. CHAPTER 18-20, F.A.C.

Chapter 18-20, F.A.C.,(see Appendix A) specifically addresses
aquatic preserves and derives its authority from Sections
28.35, 258.36, 258.37, and 258.38, F.S. The intent of this
rule is contained in Section 18-20.01, F.A.C., which states:
11(l) All sovereignty lands within a preserve 'shall be
managed primarily for the maintenance of essentially
natural conditionst the propagation of fish and
wildlife, and public recreation including hunting and
fishing where deemed appropriate by the board and the
managing agency.

(2) The aquatic preserves which are described in 73-
534,Laws of Florida, sections 258.39,, 258.391,
258.392,and 258.393, Florida Statutes, future aquatic
preserves established pursuant to general or special
acts of the legislature, and in Rule 18-20.002, Florida
Administrative Code, were established for the purpose
of being preserved in essentially natural or existing
condition so that their aesthetic, biological and
scientific values may endure for the enjoyment of
future*generations.

(3) The preserves shall be administered and managed in
accordance with the following goals:

(a) to preserve, protect, and enhance these
exceptional areas of sovereignty submerged lands
by reasonable regulation of human activity within
the preserves through the development and
implementation of a, comprehensive management
program;

(b) to protect and enhance the waters of the preserves
so that the public may continue to enjoy the
traditional recreational uses of those waters such
as swimming, boating, and fishing;

(c) to coordinate with federal, state, and local
agencies to aid in carrying out the intent of the
Legislature in creating the preserves;

(d) to use applicable federal state, and local
management programs, which are compatible with
intent and provisions of the act and these rules,
and to assist in managing the preserves;

(e) to encourage the protection, enhancement, or
restoration of the biological, aesthetic, or
scientific values of the preserves, including but
not limited to the modification of existing man-
made conditions towards their natural condition,
and discourage activities which would degrade the
aesthetic, biological, or scientific values, or
the quality, or utility of a preserve, when
reviewing applications, or when developing and
implementing management plans for the preserve;

(f) to preserve, promote, and utilize indigenous life
forms and habitats, including but not limited to:
spongest Soft coral, hard corals,submerged
grasses, mangroves,, saltwater marshes, freshwater
marshes, mudflats, estuarine, aquatic and marine
reptiles, game and non-game fish species,
estuarine aquatic,and marine invertebrates,
estuarine, aquatic,and marine mammals, birds,
shellfish and mollusks;

(g) to acquire additional title interests in lands
wherever such acquisitions would serve to protect
or enhance the biological, aesthetic, or scientific
values of the preserve;

(h) to maintain those beneficial hydrologic and
biologic functions, the benefits of which accrue
to the public at large.11

2. CHAPTERS 18-21, F.A.C.

Chapters 18-21, F.A.C., controls activities conducted on
sovereignty submerged lands in general and is predicated upon
the provisions of Sections 253.03 and 253.12, F.S. The
general rules in Chapter 18-20, F.A.C., are supplemental to
the rules in Chapter 18-21, F.A.C., in the regulation of
activities in aquatic preserves. The stated intent of this
administrative rule is:

"(1) to aid in fulfilling the trust and fiduciary
responsibilities of the Board of Trustees of the
Internal Improvement Trust Fund for the Administration,
management, and disposition of sovereignty lands;

(2) to insure maximum benefit and use of sovereignty lands
for all citizens of Florida;

(3) to manage, protect, and enhance sovereignty lands so
that the public may continue to enjoy traditional uses
including, but not limited to, navigation,fishing and
swimming;

(4) to manage and provide maximum protection for all
sovereignty lands, especially those important to public
drinking water supply, shellfish harvesting,public
recreation,. and fish and wildlife propagation and
management;

(5) to insure that all public and private activities on
sovereignty lands which generate revenues or exclude
traditional public uses provide just compensation for
such privileges;

(6) to aid in the implementation of, the State Lands
Management Plan."

C. RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER APPLICABLE PLANS AND PROGRAMS

The State Comprehensive Plan, established, by Chapter 187,
F.S., provides long-range policy guidance for the orderly
social, economic and physical growth of the State. As such,
the State Comprehensive Plan provides direction for the
management of the physical resources within the state.

The goals, objectives and policies set forth in this aquatic
preserve management plan are designed to be consistent with
the goals and policies of the State Comprehensive Plan
pertaining to the water resources, coastal and marine
resources and natural systems.

The Conceptual State Lands Management Plan, adopted on Marc h
17, 1981, and amended by the Trustees on July 7, 1981 and
March 15, 1983, contains specific policies concerning spoil
islands, submerged land leases, "Outstanding Native Florida
Landscapes", unique natural features, seagrass beds,
archaeological and historical resources, and endangered
species. These policies provide some of the fundamental
direction for formulating management plans and policies of the
Aquatic Preserve Program-

The Local Government Comprehensive Plan (LGCP) for Bay County
is required by the Local Government Comprehensive Planning and
Land Development Regulation Act to have a comprehensive'
management plan with elements relating to different
governmental functions (i.e., housing, physical facilities,
conservation, land use, coastal zone protection, etc.) . These
plans, in effect, are intended to guide the future development
of the county. Recent statutory amendments require these
plans to be updated and for cities and counties to adopt land

development regulations and to conf orm to the criteria,
policies, and practices of their comprehensive plan.

'The intent of the Aquatic Preserve Program, and this plan, is
to guide county governments during their planning process,
towards developing local plan criteria and standards that will
be consistent with the objectives-of the program. Therefore,
if coordinated properly the management plan for an aquatic
preserve can serve as the. waterward extension of the City's
And County's Local Government Comprehensive Plan. Bay
County's plan underwent state review in early 1990.

CHAPTER III

DESCRIPTION OF ST. ARDREWS STATE PARK AQUATIC PRESERVE

A. LOCATIONZBOUNDARY

The St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve is located in
northwest Florida*,, just south of Panama City and just east of
Panama City Beach. The 25,000 acre preserve covers the entire
inlet to St. Andrews Bay. The northern boundary is an east-
west oriented line that runs from Courtney Point to just south
of Redfish Point. The southern boundary runs west from the
southwest point of the St. Andrews Recreation Area for
approximately two miles and extends approximately 3 miles out
into the Gulf of Mexico. The eastern boundary is located
approximately one-half mile east of Shell Island and extends
from Tyndall Air Force Base to three miles offshore.

Boundaries of the St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve
include only state-owned (sovereignty) submerged lands that
occur below the mean high water line (MHWL). Uplands and
artificial canals are excluded from the preserve.

B. PHYSIOGRAPHY

The St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve is located in the
Coastal Plain province. The. coastal region occupies a
physiographic division known as the Coastal Lowlands, which
are low in elevation and poorly drained.

White (1970), describes the general topography of this area
which was formed during the Pleistocene epoch, as being
composed of ancient marine terraces that run parallel to the
Gulf of Mexico shoreline. There are eight marine terraces in
Floridaf each formed at different sea levels. These terraces
were formed long ago by waves, currents and varying sea
levels. When the sea level remained stationary for long
periods, the waves and currents would erode the sea floor to
form a fairly level surface. When the sea level dropped, the
sea floor became a level plain or terrace. The Silver Bluff
terrace is present within the preserve boundaries at- an
altitude between sea level and ten feet above sea level, the
Pamlico terrace rises from five to twenty five feet above sea
level.

C. GEOLOGY

The St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve lies wholly within
,the geographical division known as the West Florida Coast
Strip, which extends from the mouth of the Ochlockonee River

west to the Mississippi River. This strip consists primarily
of coastal islands and narrow peninsulas along the coast. The
preserve is typical of the West Coast Strip. Much of the area
is occupied by beach sands and active dunes, with definite
indi cations that scrub. areas are being or have been invaded by
these wandering dunes.

The general soil type within the aqi1atic preserve is made up
of the. Kureb-Resota-Mandarin-' series. These soils are nearly
level to gently slop ing, with areas that are excessively,
moderately, and somewhat poorly drained. They are sandy, with
a depth of 80 inches or more. Some have organic stained
layers.

The, soil is not suitable for cultivated field crops, improved
pasture, or trees. Permeability is rapid with the water table
below 80 inches throughout the year. Equipment limitations
and mortality are the main concerns.

In the upland communities surrounding the St. Andrews State
Park Aquatic Preserve there are eleven distinct natural
communities that are present: Beach dune, Maritime hammock,
Mesic flatwoods, scrub, scrubby flatwoods, basin marsh and
marsh lake, wet flatwoods, coastal dune lake, estuarine tidal
Marsh, and marine unconsolidated substrate. More information
regarding the soil types in the preserve and surrounding
uplands, can be found in the USDA publication, Soil Survey of
Bay County Florida (1984).

D. HYDROLOGY

St. Andrews Bay is the receiving waterbody for the largest
drainage basin in Bay County. The area drained is from the
Apalachicola River west to the Choctawhatchee River. There
are nine ma3or streams that flow into St. Andrews Bay. The
streams draining the largest area are the Econfina and Bear
Creek. The flow into St. Andrews Bay is approximately 620
cubic feet per second (cfs), (Bay County Comprehensive Plan,
1989).

St. Andrews Bay is central in the St. Andrews Bay system. The
bay opens directly to the Gulf of Mexico through East and West
Passes. -Connecting embayments include North., West, and East
Bays, as we111 as Grand Lagoon and St. Andrews Sound. Though
the bay system may be classified as a positive estuary, the
preserve waters, owing to its proximity to the sea, rarely
drop below 30 parts per thousand (ppt) in salinity (Saloman
and Naughton, 1982).

E. WATER QUALITY

St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve was designated as an
"Outstanding Florida Water" (OFW), on March 1, 1979. Because
of their natural attributes, these waterbodies are assigned
additional protection through the Department of Environmental
Regulation. Chapter 17-3, F.A.C., addresses the water quality
standards by which OFW are managed. Permit applications for
activities that lower ambient water quality standards within
designated OFW are normally denied.

Although limited data exists on the quality of water in the
aquatic preserve, the Department of Environmental Regulations,
1986 Florida Water Quality Assessment, classifies the water
quality in St. Andrews Bay as "good". Water quality in the
adjoining bay waters are classified as "good" except for
Watson Bayou which is classified as "fair".

Relatively clear water is one of the characteristic features
of St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve. Several factors
contribute to the bay's clarity. First, incoming tidal water
is clear and major tributaries are spring fed. Second, the
surrounding upland is mostly forested, and local soils consist
of porous sand that contain little of the silt-clay that often
are responsible for turbidity in coastal waters. Third, tidal
marshes and seagrasses act as natural filters within the bay
that collect and stabilize suspended sediments and particulate
detritus (Schmidt and Clark, 1980).

F. VEGETATION

The predominate habitat type of the St. Andrews State Park
Aquatic Preserve is of subtidal and intertidal vegetation
communities, (Figure 3). The subtidal communities consists
primarily of seagrasses, although in some small areas and at
certain seasons algae is of importance. The intertidal
communities are salt marshes which are one of the most
valuable natural resources of the northeast gulf coast.

The subtidal vegetation in St. Andrews State Park Aquatic
Preserve is composed mostly of Turtle-grass (Thalassia
testudinum), Shoal-grass (Halodule wrightii), and Manatee-
grass (Syringodium filiforme). These are flowering plants
that produce oxygen, stabilize sediments, produce organic
carbon, provide nursery habitat, and provide foraging and
resting habitat for marine animals and sea birds. In the
shallowest areas (often in the intertidal zone) the dominate
species is shoal grass. Below the low-tide mark, down to
maximum depths of approximately ten feet, beds of turtle grass
dominate. Mixed in with the turtle grass (or sometimes
growing alone in pure stands) is the manatee grass. Although

not as abundant as the turtle grass, manatee grass is very
important to the bay system.

Since seagrasses rely on clear water for photosynthesis, they
are very susceptible to disturbances and impacts by man. Man
induced increases in turbidity associated with*dredging and
erosion of adjacent uplands can decrease the photic zone of
these plants or physically smother them with silts. Increased
nutrient levels can cause a proliferation of epiphytic algaes
to grow on seagrass leaves, causing reduction in
photosynthetic capabilities and unnatural rates of
defoliation. Industrial pollution and discharge which causes
changes of seagrass productivity and distribution can
seriously impair macro invertebrate and fish populations in
the affected areas (Livingston, 1975). Detailed studies of
submerged aquatic vegetation indicate that'selective removal
of dominant vegetation types by changes in water quality and
light transmission characteristics is associated with
alteration of the entire trophic organization of a particular
system. Implications are that, although generalized food web
relationships are generally stable in a given seagrass bed
from year,to year, relatively minor changes in water quality
can lead to sharp reductions in productivity and broad habitat
alteration (Livingston, 1984).

Studies conducted in St. Andrews Bay and other communities
world-wide underscore the importance of seagrasses and their
role in a healthy ecosystem. Saloman and Naughton, (1982),
summarized certain conclusions in the following statements
regarding benthic fauna of sand and seagrass habitats.

Species diversity is generally greater in seagrass
habitats than in adjacent, unvegetated habitats.

2. Ind ividual abundance and biomass are generally greater
in seagrass habitats than in adjacent, unvegetated habitats.

3. Inter-regional sand and seagrass habitats are generally
composed of statistically distinct faunal assemblages.

4. Lower species diversity and abundance in unvegetated,
nearshore habitats are largely due to habitat instability
caused by water movements and periodic exposure. Conversely,
greater species diversity and abundance' in seagrass habitats
are related to more favorable hydrological conditions,
sediment stability, more feeding opportunities, and protection
from predation.

5. Among various seagrass habitats, infaunal diversity and
abundance may be influenced by factors that*include degree of
seagrass development, type or types of seagrass present, water
depth and movements, salinity, season and latitude, turbidity,

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FIGURE 3. Vegetation Map

2'0

sediment properties, and activities of man that may influence
water quality and sediment composition.

6. As communities, seagrasses are of great biological
importance, because, in addition to infauna, diverse,
abundant, and highly productive @groups of both lower and
higher organisms are also nurtured by this unique and
cosmopolitan biotope.

Although algaes make up only a small portion of the subtidal
vegetation, they are often important where they occur. Most
algal growth will be found where hard-bottom, either natural
or man-made, exists. Man-made sites such as the dockage area
in St Andrew Sound, and the piers on Shell Island provide hard
materials upon which algaes can attach. While alive, the
algae beds provide oxygen to the water column. As the algae
beds die back each summer, they make a contribution to the
organic carbon load that gets recycled through the bay system
in the form of detritus. In addition to the.attached algal
species, there are several free-swimming species that drift
over the shallows, particularly in the early spring. This is
the time of year when the rooted seagrasses have reduced
@bove-seafloor growth and the algae provides cover for the
juvenile fishes utilizing the bay shallows.

Tidal marshes are a major component of St. Andrews State Park
Aquatic Preserve. At least five functions of salt marshes in
estuarine ecosystems have been proposed:

1. Detrital export
2. Nutrient export
3. Sediment trapping
4. Pollutant removal
5. Critical habitat for juvenile fish and shellfish

Marshes usually have distinct vegetation zonations. Smooth
cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) forms a border along the
open water within the intertidal zone. This fringe may extend
above mean high water (MHW) . Landward of the cordgrass is the
black needle rush (Juncus roemerianus) , usually comprising the
largest vegetated zone'and the bulk of the standing plant.

Tidal fluctuation is the most important ecological factor in
salt marsh communities. The frequency and physical action of
tidal flooding attributes to the fragmentation of vegetation
and the rate of decomposition. The additional nutrients,
sediments and detritus from the adjacent uplands filter into
the marsh contributing to this highly productive environment.
Tidal exchanges allow for the cycling of these nutrients and
gives marine and estuarine fauna access to the marsh. This
exchange or flushing action helps to make salt marshes one of
the most biologically productive natural communities in the

world, even to the degree of surpassing most intensive
agricultural practices.

G. FISH AND WILDLIFE

The wildlife value associated with highly productive salt
marsh communities is extremely important. The linking of
estuarine with freshwater environments forms a necessary
habitat for the feeding and breeding of many species. Ranging
from protozoa to mammals, the animal populations are of
considerable variety. Some species are restricted to this
semiaquatic semiterrestrial habitat, while others can be found
in the upland communities surrounding the preserve.

Marsh animals exhibit. zonation patterns similar to vegetation,
due to habitat preferences. Environmental parameters
affecting their distribution and zonation include salinity,
inudation, substrate character, pH, oxygen level, light,
humidity, and temperatureas well as fire and wind.

The frequency of tidal flooding or proximity to tidally
affected waters, as well as the availability of detritus, are
two of the principal factors influencing the species diversity
and density of aquatic and intertidal salt marsh organisms.
In addition to providing an area of abundant food, the
protective qualities of-salt marshes provide reproduction and
juvenile development habitat for many fish and animal species.

primary and secondary consumers such as amphipods, shrimp,
crabs, clams, oysters, snails, worms and fish feed on the
abundant supply of detritus, plankton, and animal protein that
is generated from salt marshes. Various rodents such as the
marsh rice rat and cotton mouse, and birds like rails,
willets, seaside sparrows, and-marsh wrens, all utilize salt
marshes for denning or nesting habitat. Other mammals such as
the raccoon, opossum, marsh rabbit, and wading birds like
herons, and egrets frequent the marsh edges primarily to feed.

Partial destruction of habitat often breaks up productive
ecological communities into smaller - isolated subunits by
destroying the vegetation which produces habitat continuity.
These linkages or corridors allow for the necessary movement
of wildlife that may be vital for specific breeding or
foraging activities. Habitat disturbance and destruction are
the major causes for decline and loss of species.

Fish/shellfish

Over 80 species of fish have been reported from creeks, ponds,
and open waters of Juncus marshes of the northeastern gulf,
dominated by physiologically euryhaline and holeuryhaline.
fish. The fish species include permanent residents which spend

their entire lives in the marsh, juveniles of nonresident
species, adult migrants, individuals foraging from outside the
marsh, and rare sporadic visitors (Stout, 1984). Residents
are dominated by cyprinodontidae (killifish) species. Most
resident species have protracted' or continuous spawning
seasons as evidenced by the year-round presence of juveniles.
Marsh resident species are typically opportunistic omnivores,
capable of utilizing different food depending on availability.
A relatively small number of species dominate the marsh fish
community on an annual basis. The marsh fish community
structure may be markedly influenced by the nursery role
played by these habitats. Nursery utilizers may be
represented by only juveniles on both tides or by adults as
well at high tides. Along with the resident cyprinodontidae
species, juveniles of four other species contribute
significantly to fish community structure. These species are
silversides, spot, mojarra, and anchovy. Two other are
seasonally abundant: striped mullet and pinfish (Stout,
1984).

Though many marsh fish species have little commercial
Amportance, their. diverse feeding habits and intense
utilization of marsh creeks make them especially important in
transferring energy from the marsh to the estuary and coastal
waters and thus to commercially valuable species. Nursery
species and marsh foraging species consume detritus, larva
organisms, and plankton at the base of the food web in the
marsh and then introduce this energy to the estuarine and
nearshore food webs when they leave the marsh. Foraging
carnivores also provide a trophic link between the marsh and
adjacent ecosystems (Stout, 1984; Durako, et al., 1985).

The fish species found within the estuarine and coastal waters
of St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve are represented by
more marine forms than would normally be found in other
northern Gulf of Mexico estuaries. These waters are
characterized by high salinity and low turbidity, similar to
the coastal waters of the Gulf of Mexico (Ogren and Brusher,
1977).

The ichthyofauna in St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve
waters, as in most estuaries, can be considered as transient
or resident species. Transient species are ocean-spawned.
species that utilize estuaries temporarily as a nursery ground
before migrating back to the sea as adults; species that move
regularly from one habitat to another within an estuary; and
stenohaline species that forage and/or spawn occasionally in
the lower reaches of estuaries. Residents include those
species that spend their entire life cycle-within the confines
of the estuary.

True resident species are usually restricted to one type of
habitat. The number of resident species is not as great as
the number of transient forms (Comp and Seaman, 1985).

Fish species found in St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve
inhabit a variety of habitats. Pompano, blue runner, and
whiting and other forage and juvenile species can be found in
the sandy surf-zone. Unveqetated, sand bottom 'habitats are
inhabited by burrowing types such as flounder, stingrays,
jawfishes and inshore lizard-fishes. Non-burrowinq types
consist, of the sand perch, pigfish, and spot. Mud bottom
habitats are preferred by mullet, croaker, silver perch, and
catfish. Anchovies and silversides are important forage
species and can be seen in the bay's shallowestwaters or at
the surface where they feed. The seagrass beds have a diverse
assemblage of fish populations including mullet, pinfish,
-needlefish, mojarra, seahorses, pipefish, blennies and gobies.
"Hard" habitats such as piers, docks, seawalls, and rock
jetties contain many of the "pretty" tropical species such as
cocoa damsels, angelfishes, parrotfishes, spadefishes, and
butterfly fishes. Wrasses, groupers, and snappers are also
found along these hard substrates (Shipp, 1986).

in Florida, the number of species actually harvested either
entirely or principally in the estuary is surprisingly
limited. But the estuary also plays a significant role in
production of many shellfishes and finfishes that ultimately
are harvested mainly at sea. In fact, about 50 commercial and
30-65 recreational species caught in the Gulf of Mexico spend.
at least some portion of their life cycle in estuarine waters
such as St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve. Many popular
estuarine-dependent species may be taken either offshore or in
@both the estuary and the gulf (seabass, jacks, snapperst
sheepshead, spot, mackerel, and flounders are examples) (Comp
and Seaman, 1985). Gulf menhaden, penaeid shrimp, blue crabs,
and mullet comprise about 86 percent of the estuarine
-dependent commercial landings, while spotted seatrout, red
drum, sand seatrout, tarpon and black drum make up
approximately 80 percent of the recreational landings (Durako,
et al., 1985).

Reptiles/Amphibians

-Only a few reptile species are adapted to the conditions of a
tidal Juncus marsh. Marsh reptile species have very limited
geographic distributions, except for the American alligator.
The American alligator inhabits river systems, bayous and
coastal marshes. The alligator's tolerance for salinity
varies with age; tolerance is,high for adults but salinities
much greater than five parts per thousand may be harmful for
the newly hatched young (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,
1987). The alligator would be a rare or occasional visitor to

the tidal marshes of St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve,
preferring to stay in the freshwater habitats.

Another reptile that may be a rare sight in the salt marsh is
the diamond-back terrapin. This turtle inhabits the marshes
and adjacent estuaries, nesting along sandy edges of the
marsh. A host of various snake and frog species occur in the
inland wetlands bordering the preserve.

Sea turtles (Atlantic loggerhead, greent leatherback,
hawksbill, ridley) may be found in and around St. Andrews
State Park Aquatic Preserve. Loggerhead turtles are listed
by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife. Service as threatened, all other
sea turtles are listed as endangered.

Birds

In and around St. Andrews State Park Aquatic 'Preserve a large
number of bird species occur throughout a wide variety of
habitats. Many of these species are area transients, using
this area as a resting place on their way to summer or
wintering grounds. Others are accidental visitors, far from
their natural home ranges. The majority of the species found
within the aquatic preserve are summer, winter, and/or annual
residents. Approximately one-fifth of these species are
dependant on the marine/ estuarine environment. These includes
the least tern, snowy plover, American oystercatcher, and
several species of herons, egrets, gulls and terns. Species
such as the American white pelican, brown pelican, and black
skimmer depend on the -gulf for food, and its environs for
shelter. Numerous other species depend on marine and
estuarine wetlands to fulfill life history requirements.
Predators such as the peregrine falcon, the bald eagle and the
osprey depend on large tracks of upland and wetland areas for
food and shelter.

Within the marsh community system, birds comprise one of the
large herbivore groups and they also play a significant role
in both the immediate marsh and estuarine food web. The
Juncus marsh supports year round residents (e.g., clapper rail
and great blue heron), summer-nesting species (e.g., least
bittern), migrants (e.g., short-billed marsh wren, sedge wren
and American widgeon) , casual feeders (e.g., great egrets) and
summer visitors (e.g., white ibis). No species of bird is
endemic to the marshes of the northeastern gulf area.
However, five subspecies of marsh birds are restricted to
marshes of the Gulf of Mexico: the s Ieaside sparrow,
Ammodranus martimun Juncicola, is found from Taylor County to
St. Andrews Bay, Florida and one marsh wren Cistothorus
palustris mariane, from Charlotte Harbor, Florida to Mobile,
Alabama (Stout, 1984).

Many coastal birds nest in freshwater deltas and use the
Juncus marsh habitats as secondary breeding and dispersal
areas. The marsh provides an ideal 'environment for breeding
birds. The,dense vegetation and the isolated nature of many
marsh tracts restrict access by predators, especially the
raccoon. Small fish, as well as an abundant invertebrate
population, provide food for both adults and young fledglings
(Stout, 1984).

$ammals

M,ammals of the Juncus tidal marsh may be categorized into
three groups: (1) marsh residents, (2) inhabitants of the
marsh/upland interface, and (3) upland mammals entering the
marsh to feed (stout, 1984).

Resident mammals are few; nutria, round-tailed muskrat and
marsh rabbits make up this group. The marsh rabbit is the
largest mammal to be commonly found and though quite
nocturnal, tide level variation may make them move to some
extent during the day (Stout, 1984).

The marsh rice rat is the most abundant of all coastal marsh
mammals. This rat is a good swimmer and may be observed
feeding in the lower marsh. The Hispid cotton rat is more
terrestrial and prefers the higher, less frequently flooded
marsh/upland interface (Stout, 1984).

Predator species include the raccoon, mink, long-tailed
weasel, and.river otter who only visit the marsh for feeding.
All of the predators have mixed diets of small mammals, such
as the rats, birds, benthic invertebrates, and fish found in
the tidal creeks (Stout, 1984).

Marine mammals such as the bottle-nosed dolphin and West
Indian manatee travel the waters of St. Andrews State Park
Aquatic Preserve. Bottle-nosed dolphins are regular visitors
to the preserve, often feeding on the smaller fish inhabiting
the preserve waters. Manatees have been seen within the
aquatic preserve by personnel from St. Andrews State
Recreation Area.

H. ENDANGERED, THREATENED AND SPECIES OF SPECIAL CONCERN

Found in Table 1 is a list of animal species assumed to be
found at or in the vicinity of St. Andrews State Park Aquatic
Preserve. These species have been given legal protection
pursuant to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
Endangered Species Act of 1973, and/or the Florida Game and
Fresh Water Fish Commission (FGFWFC) regulations'.

Listed species may be classified as endangered (E) , threatened
(T), of special concern (SSC), or under review for such
listing. Endangered species are those threatened with
extinction if the deleterious factors affecting their
populations continue. These are species whose numbers have
already declined to such a critically low level, or whose
habitats have been so seriously reduced or degraded that
without active assistance, survival is questionable.
Threatened species populations, although not as critically
stressed as endangered species, are also jeopardized. Species
of special concern are those that warrant special attention
even though they do not fit the other categories. These
species may be especially vulnerable to certain types of
exploitation or environmental changes, and may have
experienced long term population declines. Species of this
category may also have potential impact on endangered or
threatened populations of other species.

TABLE 1

Endangered, Threatened and Species of Special Concern
Likely to Occur in St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve

COMMON NAME/SCIENTIFIC NAME FGFWFC USFWS

BIRDS:

American oystercatcher
Haematogus palliatus SSC

Artic peregrine falcon
Falco veregrinus tundrius E T

Bald eagle
Haliaeetus leucocephalus T E

Brown pelican
Pelecanus occidentalis SSC

Least tern
Sterna antillarum T

Piping plover
Charadrius melodus T T

Southeastern snowy plover
Charadrius alexandrinus tenuirostris T UR2

MAMMALS:

Choctawhatchee beach mouse
Peromyscus polionotus allophrys E E

West Indian manatee
Trichechus manatus latirostris E

REPTILES:

American alligator
Alligator mississippiensi SSC T(S/A)

Atlantic green turtle
chelonia mydas mydas E E

Atlantic loggerhead turtle
Caretta caretta caretta T T

Atlantic ridley turtle
Lepidochelys kempi E E

Gulf of Mexico sturgeon
Acipenser oxyrhynchus SSC UR2

Saltmarsh topminnow
Fundulus jenkinsi SSC

------------------------ ------------------------------------

----------------------------------------------------------

FGFWFC Florida Game & Fresh Water Fish Commission
USFWS United States Fish & Wildlife Service
E Endangered
T Threatened
T(S/A) Threatened Due to Similarity of Appearance
SSC Species of Special Concern
UR2 Under review for federal listing, but substantial
evidence of biological vulnerability and/or threat
is lacking.

I. CULTURAL RESOURCES

The presently known cultural resources of St. Andrews State
Park Aquatic Preserve occur at three sites identified as
having some cultural significance. These sites are recorded
in the Florida Master Site File (F.M.S.F.) as 8By86, 8By87 and
8By170. All three sites have identified midden components.

8By86 and 8By87 are located directly on the shoreline of
Spanish Shanty Cove, and are subject to natural forces acting
at those locations. 8By86 has experienced erosion due to wave
action. 8By170 is apparently completely inundated.

Artifacts (shards) recovered from 8By86 and 8By170 have been
identified as relating to the Fort Walton'period of aboriginal
culture. 8By86 has been recognized as a village site. 8By87
has both prehistoric and historic components, the former being
a midden deposit and the latter being a refuse dump-

The three recorded sites containing cultural resources in St.
Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve are in good to fair
condition. Each site retains a considerable degree of
integrity, and none is known to have been looted.

J. REGIONAL LAND USE, DEVELOPMENT AND ASSOCIATED IMPACTS

1. ADJACENT UPLAND USES

The upland properties immediately adjacent to the St. Andrews
State Park Aquatic Preserve are presently zoned for
Residential, allowing single and multi-family use; Recreation,
owned by the State of Florida, Division of Parks and
Recreation; Conservation, owned by several individuals; and
Public/Semi-Public, which are part of Tyndall Air Force Base
(Figure 4). The largest tracts are in Public/Semi-Public and
Recreation.

It should be noted that the Residential area is already
developed into single family and some multi-family use with
no vacant areas left. The conservation areas are owned by
private individuals but it is highly doubtful that these areas
will be developed.

2. USES OF THE PRESERVE

The uses of the St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve can
be divided into two general categories:

Public/recreation - St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve
is located adjacent to St. Andrews State Recreation Area which
provides easy access to the preserve through a boat ramp and

public swimming areas. Popular recreational activities
include fishing, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, water-
skiing, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Boat tours to Shell
Island are also a popular activity and are provided by private
businesses on the mainland.

Private - private uses are reflected in the presence of
several small, private docks associated with adjacent upland
single-family residences.

3. PLANNED USE

Because the residential zoned areas are already developed, no
further development pressures are expected adjacent to the
preserve. Passive recreation in the Recreation, Public/Semi-
Public and Conservation areas are expected with only access
docks planned for ingress-egress.

31 Z

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.Residential

Conservation

Recreational
Public/semi-Public

CHAPTER IV

MANAGEMENT AREAS

A. INTRODUCTIO

This chapter divides the St. Andrews State Park Aquatic
Preserve into separate management areas where general or
special rule criteria and allowable uses are defined for each
area. The management areas are classified and delineated
based on the types and locations of existing and planned uses
of the adjacent uplands, as well as on the types, occurrence
and characteristics of the natural and cultural resources on
submerged lands. The various management areas delineated may
be classified similarly or differently as these factors vary
in the preserve.

The purpose of this chapter is four-fold: 1) to provide a
better understanding of the general and special rule criteria
designed to preserve and protect resources and habitat, 2) to
identify the types of allowable uses on state-owned submerged
lands within the aquatic preserve, 3) to provide local
planners with a guide for land use decisions, and 4) to
provide the staff of the Bureau of Submerged Lands and
Preserves and other agencies with a continuity of direction in
regards to the management of aquatic preserves. As such, this
intent will afford habitat protection while sending some
measure of predictability for allowable public and private
uses in the aquatic preserve.

Prior to providing the criteria for specific resource
management areas, it is important that the intent,
jurisdiction, and limitations of Florida's Aquatic Preserve
Program be reiterated. Section 258.36, F.S., states that "it
is the intent of the Legislature that state-owned submerged
lands in areas which have exceptional biological, aesthetic,
and scientific value... be set aside forever as aquatic
preserves or sanctuaries for the benefit of future
generations." The program has jurisdiction over the use of
state-owned submerged lands within the boundaries of a given
preserve. Activities which are not within the boundaries of
the aquatic preserve (i.e., adjacent upland land uses) or
which do not directly affect the state-owned submerged land
(i.e., regulation of commercial fishing or water quality) are
not within the jurisdiction of the Aquatic Preserve Program.

There are a number of differences between the rules governing
uses of state-owned submerged lands within an aquatic preserve
relative to those not within an aquatic preserve. The
principle difference is that submerged lands within an aquatic
preserve must be managed with the intent of protecting them
for future generations. Consequently, any proposed use must

be shown to be in the public interest before it can be
authorized, and an applicant must demonstrate that no other
alternative exists which would allow the proposed activity to
be constructed or undertaken outside the boundaries of the
aquatic preserve.

B. MANAGEMENT AREA CLASSIFICATIONS

A key component of the management program for an aquatic
preserve is the division of the preserve into. management
areas. The classification of'management areas in an aquatic
preserve is based upon both resource value of submerged lands
within the preserve, and the existing or anticipated future
land use on the adjacent uplands as designated in the local
government comprehensive plan(s). As in the delineation of
upland land uses through zoning, the intention of delineating
a preserve into management areas is to guide development
activities on the state-owned submerged lands to areas where
it is more appropriate, and to provide standards by which
proposed uses and activities must comply with. The intent of
these management area classifications is to make potential
development activities compatible with resource protection
goals.

Designated land uses are incorporated into the classification
of management areas because use of the adjacent uplands has a
direct bearing on the intensity of demand,for uses of state-
owned submerged lands. The Aquatic Preserve Program has no
jurisdiction over the designated use of the adjacent uplands.
The incorporation of the designated land use into the
management area classification is primarily an acknowledgement
of how local government has chosen to have a certain area
developed; however, this upland designation also serves as a
tool in designating compatible uses of the submerged lands in
accordance with upland uses. Specific land use categories to
be incorporated in the classification of management areas
include:

Agriculture (AG): This category represents state-owned
submerged lands adjacent to land designated on an approved
Future Land Use Map for a county and/or municipality as
agriculture. It is intended to accommodate private areas
with sparse populations used primarily for agricultural
and/or forestry purposes.

Single-Family (SF): This category represents state-owned
submerged lands adjacent to land designated on an approved
Future Land Use Map for a county and/or municipality as
single-family residential. It is intended to include areas

using the adjacent portion of the aquatic preserve solely
for private recreational activities.

Multi-Family (MF) : This category represents state-owned
submerged lands adjacent to land designated on an approved
Future Land Use Map for a county and/or municipality as
multi-family residential. It is intended to include areas
where more than one private residence are using the adjacent
portion of the aquatic preserve solely for private,
recreational activities. The associated residences include
townhouses, trailer parks, condominiums, apartments, and any
other group of multi-family dwellings. They may also
nclude a group of single-family property owners, as in the
case of a homeowners association, that desires to construct
any of the above-mentioned structures for the mutual benefit
of the group.

Commercial- Industrial (CI): This category represents state-
owned submerged lands adjacent to land designated on an
approved Future Land Use Map for a county and/or
municipality as commercial or industrial. The category is
also intended to incorporate uses associated with structures
that charge fees or generate revenue. Examples of
commercial uses includes marinas that charge fees; yacht
clubs that charge membership fees; private businesses such
as fish houses; and, establishments such as restaurants.

Public Recreation (PR): This category represents state-
owned submerged lands adjacent to land designated on an
approved Future Land Use Map of a county and/or municipality
as public usage or preservation and which is utilized for
the purposes of public recreation. It is intended to
include both areas where structures are used by the general
public at no charge and federal, state, county, or municipal
parks that charge a nominal fee., Military structures, while
not always open to the public, are considered in this
category since the military serves the public.

Preservation (P): This category represents state-owned
submerged lands adjacent to land designated on an approved
Future Land Use Map of a county and/or municipality as
preservation. Upland ownership can be either public or
private.

open-water (OW): This category represents state-owned
submerged lands within an aquatic preserve which are of a
distance of greater than 500 feet from land.

Classifications of management areas are also derived from the
resource value of the state-owned submerged lands adjacent to
the upland property. Each of the land use classifications
noted above is assigned a second code lettei to define the
resource value of its submerged bottoms. The methodology used

f or determining thb resource value shall be consistent with
the latest procedure approved by the Bureau of Submerged Lands
and Preserves.

If an area within . the preserve is designated as a Primary
Resource Protection Area (PRPA), then it will be assigned a
resource value of 19101. A PRPA essentially combines Resource
Protection Areas 1 and 2. a .s defined in Section 18-
20.003(31), and 18-20.003(32), F.A.C. Resource attributes
which would warrant the assignment of PRPA include the
presence of:

1. Non-exotic and non.-evasive aquatic/wetland vegetation (e.g.,
marine and freshwater grasses, attached algae, mangroves,
marsh vegetation, cypress, and mixed hardwoods) that covers
more*than 1% of the surveyed area;

2. Harvested bivalves (hard clams and oysters with a clam
frequency greater than 20% within the surveyed area or with
oyster bars with a total surface area density greater than
5 square meters;

3. Unvegetated soft-bottom communities (e.g., infaunal
invertebrates) with a Shannon-Weaver Diversity Index greater
than 1.00;

4. Hard-bottom communities (e.g., corals, worm reefs, rock
outcrops) that,have a frequency greater than 5% within the
survey area;

5. Species designated as endangered, threatened, or of special
concern (as contained in the.latest update of the Florida
Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission's and U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service's listsi that use the area for habitat
(e.g., feeding, mating, breeding, refuge, or nesting);

6. Nesting sites for solitary or colonial birds.

Submerged areas that are characterized by the absence of the
above resource attributes will be designated as a Secondary
Resource Protection Area (SRPA), and will be assigned a
resource value of 11211. A SRPA is a Resource Protection Area
3 as defined by Section 18-20.003(33-), F.A.C.

As stated previously, resource values are to be incorporated
into the classification of management areas. For example, if
an area within the preserve is determined to have a primary
resource protection area, and if the adjacent land is zoned as
a single-family residential neighborhood, it would be,
classified as a SP11 management area.

Minimum criteria has been outlined for a number of uses and
activities that can occur in the aquatic preserve. The
minimum criteria provided in Chapter 18-20, F.A.C. applies to
the uses and activities allowed for each management area.

criteria more restrictive than that listed in Chapter.18-20
F.A.C. will be used if the biologica'l and physical condition's
of an area warrant it. These areas will be referred to as
special management areas, and will be labeled with an
additional letter. Again, as an example, if an SF/l area
needs additional restrictive criteria, it then becomes a
special management area and would be classified as SF/Ia.
Upon approval of this management plan by the Board of
Trustees, the St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve
management plan will be incorporated into Chapter 18-20,
F.A.C., rule by reference; therefore, new or more restrictive
criteria in this plan will have the force and effect of rule
upon adoption of this plan into rule.

C. MINIMUM CRITERIA FOR ALLOWABLE USES

Chapter 18-20, F.A.C., (Appendix A), provides the minimum
standards in regard to utilization of the state-owned
submerged lands within an aquatic preserve. The minimum
standards for each allowable use are detailed below:

Private residential single docks:
Section 18-20.004(5)(a), F.A.C., provides that all docks
within an aquatic preserve shall meet the following standards
and criteria.

1. No dock shall extend the lesser of 500 feet waterward
of the mean or ordinary high water line or 20% of the
width of the water body at that particular location.

2. Areas of significant biological, scientific, historic,
and/or aesthetic value require special management
considerations Modif ications to docks in these areas
may be more re;trictive and are determined on a case-
by-case analysis.

3. The number, lengths, drafts, and types of vessels
allowed to utilize the proposed facility may be
stipulated.

4. Where local governm ents have more stringent standards
and criteria for docking facilities, the more stringent
standards for protection and enhancement of the aquatic
preserve shall preVail@

in addition, Section 18-20.004(5)(b), F.A.C., provides that
private residential single docks shall conform to the
following specific design standards and criteria:

1. An access dock must have a maximum width of 4 feet.

2. Must be designed and -constructed to ensure maximum
light penetration.

3. May extend from the shoreline to a maximum depth of
-4 feet mean low water (MLW).

4. When the water depth is -4 f eet MLW at an existing
bulkhead, the maximum dock length f rom the bulkhead
shall be 25 feetf subject to modifications
accommodating shoreline vegetation overhang.

5. Wave break devices shall be designed to allow for
maximum water circulation and built in such a manner
as to be part of the dock structure.

6. The maximum size of the terminal platform shall be 160
square feet.

7. Dredging is strongly discouraged.

Private-residential multi-slip docks:
In addition to meeting the standards for all docking
facilities noted above, Section 18-20.004(5)(c), F.AX.,
provides that private residential multi-slip docks shall
conform to the following specific design standards and
criteria:

1. The area of sovereignty submerged land preempted by
the docking facility shall not exceed the square
footage amounting to ten times the riparian waterfront
footage of the affected water body of the applicant,
or the square footage attendant to providing a single
dock in accordance with the criteria for private
residential single docks, whichever is greater. A
conservation easement or other such restriction
acceptable to. the Board must be placed on the rip'arian
shoreline, used for the calculation of the 10:1
threshold, to conserve and protect shoreline resources
and subordinate/waive any further riparian. rights of
ingress and egress for additional docking facilities.

2'. Docking facilities and access channels shall be
prohibited in Resource Protection Areas 1 and 2, except
as allowed pursuant to Sections 258.42 (3) (e) (1) , F.S. ,
while dredging in Resource Protection Area 3's shall
be strongly discouraged.

3. Water depths adjacent to and within the facility shall
have a minimum of one foot of clearance between the
deepest draft of a vessel and the bottom at MLW.

4. Main access docks and connecting.or cross walks shall
'not exceed 6 feet in width.

5. Terminal platforms shall.not exceed 8 feet in width.

6. Finger piers shall not exceed 3 feet in width and 25
feet in length.

7. Pilings may be utilized as required to provide adequate
mooring capabilities.

8. Specific provisions of Section 18-20.004 (5)(d)#'
F.A.C., for commercial industrial, and other revenue
generating/income related docking shall also apply to
private residential multi-slip docks.

Commercial-Industrial docking facilities and marinas:
Section 18-20.004(5)(d), F.A.C., provides that commercial,
industrial, and other revenue generating/income related
docking shall conform to the following specific design
criteria and standards:

1. Docking facilities shall only be located in or near
areas with good circulation, flushing, and adequate
water depths.

2. Docking facilities and access channels shall not be
located in Resource Protection Areas 1 or 2; however,
main access docks may be allowed to pass through
Resource Protection Areas 1 or 2 that are located along
the shoreline, to reach an acceptable Resource
Protection Area 3, provided that such crossing will
generate minimal environmental impact.

3. The siting of docking facilities shall take into
account the access of the boat traffic to avoid marine
grassbeds or other aquatic resources in the surrounding
area.

4. The siting of new facilities within the aquatic
preserve shall be secondary to the expansions of
existing facilities when such expansion is consistent
with other standards.

5. The location of new facilities and expansion of
existing facilities shall consider the use of upland
dry storage as alternative to multiple wet slip
docking.

6. Marina siting will be coordinated with local
governments to insure consistency with local plans and
ordinances.

7. Marinas shall not be sited within state . designated
manatee sanctuaries.

8. In any area with known manatee concentration s, manatee
warning/notice and/or speed limit signs shall be
erected at the marina and/or ingress and egress
,channels, according to Florida . Marine Patrol
specifications.

Exceptions to the standards and criteria for any docking
facility may be considered, but only upon demonstration that
such exceptions are necessary to ensure reasonable riparian
ingress and egress.

Piers:
Follow standards of private residential single docks or
private residential multi-slip docks in accordance with the
appropriate dock requirement for each management area's
designated uses. In addition, the following applies to all
piers:

1. no temporary or permanent vessel mooring shall be
permitted; at least one well displayed "no docking"
sign shall be placed and maintained on each side of
the pier; and railings shall be placed around the
entire perimeter of the pier; and,

2. dredging is strictly prohibited when associated with
pier construction or maintenance.

Ramps:
May be permitted only on a case-by-case basis, after site
inspection to assess the type and amount of shoreline or
benthic vegetation or other habitat that would be impacted;
the amount of filling of submerged lands required; and, the
accessibility to the ramp from water or land access.

Sale, legse, or transfer of lands, (Private Leases):
Section,18-20.004(l)(b), F.A.C., provides that there shall be
no further sale, lease or transfer of sovereignty lands within
an aquatic preserve unless such transaction is in the public
interest. Section 18-20.004(2), F.A.C., specifically defines
The public interest test (see Appendix A for a copy of Chapter
18-20, F.A.C.). -Section 18-20.004(l)(e), F.A.C., states that
lease, easement, or consent may be authorized for only the
following activities: a public navigation project; maintenance

of an existing navigation channel; installation or maintenance
of navigation aids; creation or maintenance of a
commercial/industrial dock, pier, or marina; creation or
maintenance of private docks; minimum dredging of navigation
channels attendant to docking facilities; creation or
maintenance of shore protection structures; installation or
maintenance of oil and gas transportation facilities;
creation, maintenance, replacement, or expansion of facilities
required for the provision of public utilities; and, other
activities which are a public necessity or which are necessary
to enhance the quality or utility of the preserve and which
are consistent with the Florida Aquatic Preserves Act (Section
258.35, F.S., through Section 258.46, F.S.). Section 18-
2 0. 004 (1) (f ) , F. A. C. , provides that structures to be built in,
on, or over sovereignty lands are limited to those necessary
to'conduct water dependent activities.

Utility Easements:
Section 18-20.004 (3) (c) , F.A. C. , provides that utility cables,
pipes, and other such structures shall be constructed and
located in a manner that will cause minimal disturbance to
submerged land resources such as oyster bars and submerged
grassbeds and do not interfere with traditional uses. It will
be the policy within the aquatic preserve to encourage the
placement of utilities in designated corridors, or existing
easements.

spoil Disposal:
Section 18-20.004(3)(d), F.A.C., provides that spoil disposal
within an aquatic preserve shall be strongly discouraged and
may be approved only where the applicant has demonstrated that
there is no other reasonable alternative and that the spoiling
activity may be beneficial to, or at a minimum, not harmful to
the quality and utility of the preserve.

D. MANAGEMENT AREAS

In this section, management areas have been delineated for the
St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve (Figure 5).
Boundaries, descriptions, and allowable uses are listed for
each area. Due to changes that may occur from rezoning of
adjacent uplands, and altering biological conditions on
submerged lands, the final decision on approving, modifying
or denying uses of the submerged lands within the preserve
will be made based on field surveys and assessments of project
sites.

In addition to what is listed for allowable uses, certain
activities ate generally permissible in all management areas,
in accordance with general rules. These include shoreline
stabilization, maintenance dredging, and maintenance of
.channel markers.

The determination of management area classifications have been
based on information presented earlier. In the event that a
site visit concludes that the management area for a specific
site is different from that shown on the map in Figure 5, the
determination made during the site visit will be judged as the
correct determination.

KANAGEMENT AREA SP-MFZI
(single family - multi-family/
primary resource protection area)

13oundaries: This management area is def ined as all state-
owned submerged lands from MHWL out 500 feet in T4S/R15W,
Section 14 (Alligator Point north to Courtney Point).
bescription: This area is characterized by sparse to dense
sedgrass beds in shallow and deeper water. There are several
single-family residences with docks or piers and one improved
canal associated with this area.

Note: This management area classification combines the
two upland categories because of a number of
single-family and multi-family residences
intermixed throughout this area.

Allowable Uses: Utility easements (in designated corridors),
private residential single docks (a single tt-io-slip dock built
in accordance with standards and criteria for private
idential single docks); piers.
resi

MANAGEMEWT AREA PR/1
(public recreational/primary resource protection area)

Boundaries: This area management area is defined as all
�tate-o,@ined submerged lands from MHWL out 500 feet in
T4S/iZ15W, Sections 22 (southwestern edge of jetties north to
Grand Lagoon) , southeastern edge of jetties north and the
r
entire bayside length of Shell Island to the eastern tip of
the island (excluding all privately owned uplands) , all of
Tyndall from T4S/R14W, Section 18 (Redfish Point) to the
eastern boundary of the Preserve (Southeastern end of Section
33).

Description: This area is characterized by sparse to dense
seagrass beds, expansive salt marshes, bird nesting areas, and
important cultural resources.

Allowable Uses: Utility easements (in designated corridors)
public docks (a single two-slip dock built in accordance with
the standards and criteria for private residential single
docks), ramps.

MANAGEMENT AREA PRZ2
(public recreational/secondary resource protection area)

Boundaries: This management area is defined as all state-
owned submerged lands from MHWL out 500 feet on the Gulf side
of the Preserve from the western end of the Preserve to the
eastern tip of Shell Island.

Description: This area is characterized by high energy
beaches and hard sa nd bottoms.

Allowable Uses: utility easements, public docks (meeting the
requirements of a private residential multi-slip dock) , ramps.

MANAGEMENT AREA P11
(preservation/primary resource protection area)

Boundaries: This management area is def ined as all state-
owned submerged lands from MHWL out 500 feet in T4S/R15W,
Section 23 and 25 where the uplands are privately owned.

Descriptio This area is characterized by sparse and dense
seagrass beds and salt marshes.

Allowable Uses: A single two-slip dock built in accordance
with standards and criteria for private residential single
docks.

MANAGEMENT AREA QW/1
(open water/primary resource protection area)

Boundaries: This management area is defined as all state-
owned submerged lands of St. Andrews Bay, which are 500 feet
waterward of MHW, within the aquatic preserve.

Description: This area is characterized by relatively clear,
deep waters with turtle and manatee grass.

Allowable Uses: Utility easements (in designated.corridors).

KiNAGEMENT AREA OW12
(open water/secondary resource protection area)

'Boundaries: This management area is defined. as all state-
owned submerged lands of the Gulf of Mexico, which are 500
feet waterward of MHW, within the aquatic preserve.

Description: This area is characterized by relatively clear,
deep waters with hard sand bottoms.

Allowable Uses: Private leases, utility easements i(In
designated corridors), spoil disposal.

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CHAPTER V

SITE SPECIFIC MANAGEMENT ISSUES & NEEDS

This chapter deals with management issues and policy
guidelines involving specific activities and environmental
processes that directly af f ect the biological integrity of the
preserve. The issues that are specific to this area include,
but are not limited to, increasing boat and jet ski traffic,
dredging of adjacent submerged lands and, cooperation with
Tyndall Air Force Base. Policy guidelines relative to these
issues are intended to provide additional management direction
not set forth by Chapter 258, F.S., Chapter 18-20, F.A.C., or
Chapter IV of this plan.

A. MANAGEMENT ISSUES AND SPECIAL NEEDS

1. Boat and Jet Ski Traffic

As the population of Florida grows, the traf f ic f rom boats and
jet skis is expected to increase. This trend poses a number
of problems, both from the standpoint of the expected impacts
on the biological resources and f rom related safety issues.
The biological aspects include: (1) an increase in
turbidity, with the resultant loss of seagrasses sensitive to
lowered levels of incident light penetration, (2) cutting of
seagrasses by propellers and "prop dredging", and (3)
pollution from refueling jet skis on beaches and shallow bay
areas.

safety issues primarily revolve around the dramatic increase
in jet ski use in recent years. By their very nature, jet
skis are*fast and highly maneuverable, making them a potential
hazard for boaters and swimmers.

2. Dredging of Adjacent Submerged Lands

As boat traffic grows in the area there is an increased. demand
for boat docks/slips in the adjacent areas. Grand Lagoon is,
rapidly being developed and dredged to accommodate more boats.
Turbidity from the dredging can have a disastrous affect on
water clarity that results in a loss of seagrasses.

3. Tyndall Air Force Base

Tyndall Air Force Base is a major land holding adjacent to the
preserve, owning all the lands on the northeast end of the
preserve and the eastern end of Shell Island. The lands are
used mainly for recreational purposes.

B. POLICY GUIDELINES

This section of the plan contains a number of management
policies that address the issues identified as being
particular to the St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve.
Adoption of these policies will provide specific direction for
managing those issues not addressed directly by statue or
rule. The major policy guidelines for these issues include:

1. Promote recognition of the fact that seagrasses provide
valuable habitat and a food source for organisms essential
to the biological integrity of the preserve. This
biological integrity translates into a significant economic
fisheries value to this region.

2. Protect beaches from pollution by jet skis by prohibiting
refueling except at commercial docks and marinas that have
been approved as fueling sites which incorporate procedures
and equipment for spill prevention and clean-up.

3. Protect boaters and swimmers from traffic by designating
the channel from Grand Lagoon through the jetties as an
idle-speed zone. Prohibit jet skis from around the swimming
area at the jetties.

4. Reduce the impact of turbidity on seagrasses by prohibiting
new dredging for the sole purpose of accommodating boats
with drafts greater than the mooring capabilities of a given
site.

5..Develop a. cooperative status with Tyndall Air Force Base
personnel regarding present or future uses of the preserve.

6. Promote the mutual exchange of environmentally sound
information and ideas relating to such issues as military
maneuvers and/or other operations that may require direct
utilization or otherwise impact th e preserve.

CHAPTER VI

MANAGEMgNT ACTION PLAN

The objective of this chapter is to establish guidelines that
allow for the management and protection of the aquatic
preserves natural resources 'for the benefit of future
generations (Section 258.35, F.S.).

Before an effective program can be designed to manage and
protect natural resources, it is' necessary to recognize the
type of resources present, their location, function, and
importance. Additional efforts should concentrate on
identifying those activities or parameters that affect these
resources, either positively or negatively. This information
will form the foundation from which action will be initiated
to manage and protect these resources. The strategies used in
managing an aquatic preserve must consist of a variety of
components such as resource management, resource protection,
research, and environmental education.

In general, the management role of the. aquatic preserve
program includes:

* providing information on the ecological functions and their
economic importance.

* overseeing activities that affect or could affect the
natural resources of the preserve.

* ensuring that accurate biological and physical information
is considered in permit-related issues and planning
decisions.

* ensuring that all statutes and rules regarding the preserves
natural resources are complied and that violations are
enforced by appropriate authorities.

* Conducting on-site surveys for specific activities.

* Coordinating with other resource management and enforcement
agencies.

* educating the public on the inherent values associated with
natural resources.

* conducting or cooperating with other entities to conduct
pertinent re@search projects.

* developing a comprehensive management program that can be
periodically updated.

A. RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

The overall goals of resource management within aquatic
preserves are:

conducting and maintaining resource inventories,

assessing the impact of human activities on the resource,

cooperating with other agencies in water quality
improvement,

participating in local land use decisions that may affe ct
the submerged resources.

GOAL A.1: Conduct and Maintqin Resource Inventories

Obi ective A. 1. 1: To conduct and maintain a resource inventory
of submerged and emergent vegetation.

Task A.1.1.1: Conduct a detailed inventory of submerged
and emergent vegetation by using LANDSAT
imagery, aerial photography and ground
truthing efforts.

Task A.1.1.2: Conduct inventory once every two years.

Objective A.1.2: To conduct an inventory of - all animal
species, including designated species, and their habitats.

Task A.1.2.1: Conduct an inventory-of all animal species,
with emphasis on designated species, that
feed, roost, loaf, breed, or nest in the
preserve, as well as their associated
habitats by using data from existing
literature and current research studies.

Task A.1.2.2: Conduct inventory once every two years.

GOAL A.2: Assess the Impact of Human Activities

objective A.2.1: To inventory and assess the effects of human
activities on the natural resources and possible needs for
restoration:

Task A.2.1.1: Conduct a survey of all structures and
activities in the preserve, to determine the
extent and relationship betWeen, human impact
and the degradation of the natural resources.

Task A.2.1.2: Conduct inventory once every two years.

GOAL A.3: Coordinate With other Agencies To improve Water
Quality

Objective A.3.1: To coordinate with DER and water management
districts on improving water quality in the preserve.

Task A.3.1.1 Maintain a file, and periodically assess data
received from DER on water quality for the
preserve. If water quality decline is
indicated, consult with DER to determine
source of degradation and evaluate possible
actions to improve the water resources.

Task A.3.1.2: Coordinate with the local mosquito control
district(s), to review arthropod control
plans submitted in compliance with Section
388.4111, F.S., and to monitor arthropod
control activities for compliance with the
management plan.

GOAL A.4: Participate in Local Land Use Decisions

objective A.4.1: To coordinate with local planning
departments, regional planning councils, and the Department
of Community Affairs to develop/revise/evaluate Local
Government Comprehensive Plans and amendments.

Task A.4.1.1: Contact local planners and establish your
role as a field representative and source of
assistance in the development of policies
that.concern state-owned submerged lands.

B. RESOURCE PRdTECTION

In order to maintain the biological,integrity of the aquatic
preserve, it is imperative to protect the resources that
comprise the system. The primary thrust of resource
protection is the protection of the various habitats that make
up the preserve. The goals of the Aquatic Preserve Program
with regard to resource protection therefore include:

* protection of existing.submerged and emergent vegetation.

* protection of animal species, particularly designated
species, and their associated habitats.

GOAL B.1: Protecti on of Submerged and Emergent Vegetation

Obiective B.1.1: To minimize potential damage to vegetation
through the review of applications for use of state-owned land
in the aquatic preserve.

Task B.1.1.1: Develop a standard format for surveying the
biological resources at the project site.
The report shall include the following
information:

a) location of the area surveyed, including
the majority of the potentially affected
area.

b) assessment of the submerged bottoms and
affected shorelines physical and
biological features.

c) the definition of Primary and Secondary
Resource Protection Areas will be used
to determine if significant resources
exist within the expected area of
impact.

Task B.I.1.2: Coordinate with appropriate DNR staff in
order to process the field comments in a
timely manner.

Task B.1.1.3: Coordinate with other appropriate agencies
that have regulatory authority for these
projects.

Objective B.1.2: To ensure that structures and projects that
have been built or are occurring have been authorized and are
in compliance with authorized conditions.

Task B.1.2.1: Report activit'ies that do not appear to have
been authorized to the appropriate DNR
enforcement agent.

Task B.1.2.2: Coordinate with the appropriate DNR staff to
receive copies of all letters of consent,
easements agreements, lease agreements, and
other forms of authorizations.

Task B.I.2.3: Report variations. from the authorized
conditions to the appropriate DNR enforcement
agent.

Task B.1.2.4: Coordinate with other appropriate agencies
that have regulatory authority for these
projects.

objective B.1.3: To ensure other human uses of the preserve
do not degrade the submergent or emergent vegetation.

Task B.1.3.1: Seek to establish local government ordinances
that will serve to further protect the
vegetative resources.

GOAL B.2: Protection of Animal species, Particularly
Designated species, and their Associated Habitats

Obiective B.2.1: To comply with objective C.2.1 through the
implementation of Tasks C.2.1.1 and C.2.1.2.

Objective B.2.2: To ensure that these habitats are given
maximum protection through the permit-review process.

Task B.2.2.1: Recommend modifications to proposed projects
in order to take into account known habitat
of designated species whether that habitat
is on the adjacent upland or over state-
owned submerged land.

C. RESEARCH

The effective management of any biological system relies
almost entirely on information relating how a system
functions. Research is the foundation upon which this
information is based.- The goals of the research program for
the Aquatic Preserves Program is primarily geared toward
applied research, rather than toward basic or theoretical
research. The goals of the research program are:

* to gain a better understanding of what factors are essential
to the continued biological 'integrity of the major habitats
within the aquatic preservet

* to gain a better understanding of what factors govern the
continued survival and propagation of designated species
that use the aquatic preserve for any portion of their life
cycle.

Goal C.1: Integrity of Major Habitats

objective C.1.1.1: To determine the primary factors that
affect the survival of species associated with salt marshes
and seagrasses.

Task C.1.1.1: Pursue, information search by examining
existing literature and any current research
studies.

Task C.I.I.2: Assess the need for research on the major
habitat types within the preserve.

Task C.1.1.3: Encourage researchers to conduct studies in
the preserve that will benefit the overall
management of the resources.

Goal C.2: Survival and PrORagation of Design ated BRecies

objective C.2.1: To determine which portions of the preserve
serve as habitat for designated species.

Task C.2.1.1: Coordinate with the Game and Fresh Water Fish
Commission, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service, the Audubon Society, and any other
relevant group to determine which designated
species use what portion of the aquatic
preserve for various aspects of their life
cycle.

Task C.2.1.2: Establish a system of seasonal monitoring
sites to determine the preserves use by
designated species, particularly by birds.

Obiective C.2.2: To determine the patterns and trends in
manatee use of the aquatic preserve4

Task C.2.2.1: Promote and, and whenever feasible,
participate in research on the factors that
affect the continued survival of manatees.

Task C.2.2.2: Coordinate with and, if necessary, lend
assistance on a local level to the Division
of Marine Resources manatee- -related research
program.

D. ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION

Unless the public knows the importance and value of a
resource, it cannot be expected to use that resource wisely.
The integrity of the salt marsh system is a resource that can
have both direct and indirect impacts on the public's
enjoyment of the aquatic preserve. Without a biologically
"healthy" aquatic system, water quality will deteriorate,
fisheries will fail due to loss of habitat, and many species

of wading birds will disappear. One of the primary aims of
the aquatic preserve program, therefore, is to educate the
public as to the importance of the factors that affect the
integrity of the preserve. The public may include students;
waterfront property owners; user groups, such as developers
and marine contractors; special interest groups, such as
Audubon and boating clubs; and local, regional and state
government agencies that are involved in making decisions
regarding the aquatic preserve.

The overall goal of the environmental education element is to
instruct individuals as to the importance of preserving@ our
natural resources so that they may consider all issues prior
to making decisions that affect these resources. In general,
the intent of this element is to educate the public and make
them responsible users of the preserve. Two DNR publications,
Environmental Education in Florida: Needs and Goals, and A
Guide for Environmental Education, are notable reference !s
available for the preserve -manager to aid in accomplishing
this goal.

GOAL D.1: Public Education Toward Wise Resource Use

Objective D.1.1:. To establish and conduct environmental
educational programs for public and private schools and to
provide assistance to other educational centers and
organizations*

Task D.1.1.1: Notify the county school boards on the
Aquatic Preserves Program education efforts
and the availability of its staff to assist
or provide guidance for educational programs.

Task D.1.1.2: Coordinate with and assist local educational
centers and other facilities, (such as St.
Andrews State , Recreation Area), on their
interpretive programs.

Task D.1.1'.3: Provide off-site classroom instruction and
field trips to the aquatic preserve, for the
schools and any interested parties.

Task D.1.1.4: Target educational programs towards audiences
that will have the greatest potential impact
on aquatic resources (e.g., boating clubs,
homeowners associations, developers, etc.).

Task D.1.1.5: Conduct or assist in informal seminars,
classes, or workshops for public discussion
of the current resource management issues,
resource utilization, and regulatory
activities. Public forums such as these

should involve private and public
resource users.

Objective Q.1.2: To produce educational literature and
;materials that inform the public of the preserves natural
resources and the importance of preserving and protecting
these resources.

Task D.1.2.1: Set up educational display at St. Andrews
State Recreation Area distributing brochures
and other educational materials about the
preserve.

Task V.1.2.2: Maintain and expand a specimen collection of
species . commonly found in the aquatic
preserve. This collection is to be used by
public and private schools in their
educational programs.

Task D.1.2.3: Develop brochures, pamphlets, and/orbooklets
that describes to the public both the purpose
of and activities conducted by aquatic
preserve field staff, and also presents
general information of the preserve's
ecosystem.

Task D.1.2.4: Develop at the field office a reference
library of material relevant to the areas
natural resources.

Task D.1.2.5: Submit newspaper articles and radio
announcements designed to educate the general
public about the ecological functions and
economic importance of the natural resources
within the preserve. This approach may be
the vehicle with which to disseminate the
findings of recent research efforts to the
public.

Objective D.1.3: To provide informal workshops to instruct
other environmental educators of the preserves natural
resources.

Task D.I.3.1: Schedule biannual instructional workshops
designed to teach other environmental
educators.

Task D.I.3.2: Participate in environmental education
conferences and seminars to further increase
teaching skills, and to become familiar with
other education programs.

CHAPTER VII

MANAGEMENT COORDINATION NETWORK

This chapter briefly presents a general overview of the
various federal, state, regional, and local 'agencies that
regulate or hold any interest in the management or use of the
st* Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve. One of the goals and
objectives of the Aquatic Preserve Program is to coordinate
with these agencies to achieve. common goals relevant to the
management and protection of resources in the preserve. Table
2 provides the manager with a quick reference matrix of those
agencies with specific jurisdictions in the preserve.

A. FEDERAL AGENCIES

A number of federal agencies have property interests, land and'
wildlife management programsf research activities,
construction 'activities, and regulation programs that deal
either directly or indirectly with aquatic preserves.

In accordance with the federal consistency review process the
Bureau of Submerged Lands & Preserves reviews the federal
programs and activities as to how they affect the objectives
of the Aquatic Preserve Program. This review is coordinated
through the Florida Department of Environmental Regulation's
Office of Coastal Management in order to enforce the
provisions of the Federal Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972,
as amended.

The U.S. Army CorRs of Engineers (COE) has jurisdiction over
inland navigable waters under the Rivers and Harbors Act of
1899. A revision of the Rivers and Harbors Act in 1968
extended the Corps jurisdiction allowing them to consider the
fish and wildlife, conservation, pollution, aesthetics,
ecology and other relevant factors of a project. The Corps
regulatory program expanded in 1972 with the Federal Water
Pollution Control Act Amendments, also known as the Clean
Water Act (CWA). Section 404 of this act controls dredge and
fill activities by the Corps and has since been extended to
wetlands from Amendments to the CWA in 1977.

Th e U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) monitors for boating safety and
navigational problems; operates search and rescue missions;
conducts surveillance of narcotics contraband; and enforces
maritime laws. The USCG also regulates construction of
bridges, causeways, and aerial utilities that may pose
navigation hazards. In the inland waters a volunteer group
called the Coast Guard Auxiliary performs boating safety
inspections and search and rescue missions.

The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has
jurisdiction over surface waters in the state. Enforcement
authority was given under the Clean Water Act of 1972 and
broa'den under the 1977 revision. In general EPA is responsible
for pollution control and abatement, including: air, water,
noise, solid waste, toxic waste, and radiation. They review
permits issued by DER for the treatment, disposal and storage
of hazardous wastes. Authority is divided between EPA and the
U.S. Coast Guard in regarding the discharge of oil or
hazardous substances into surface water.

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) performs surveys and
research pertaining to topography geology, and the mineral and
water resources, and collects and publishes water resource
data.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has responsibility
for fish and wildlife as authorized in the Coastal Resources
Barrier Act, National Environmental Protection Act, Migratory
Bird Act, Endangered Species Act, and Fish and Wildlife
Coordination Act. "Under provision of the Fish and Wildlife
Coordination Act, the Fish and Wildlife Service must be
consulted before the Corps of Engineers can submit a plan for
Congressional approval. The USFWS comments on the impacts of
-proposed projects on endangered species, migratory birds and
other fish and Wildlife and their habitats" (Barile et al.,
1987). They are directed to prepare environmental impacts
assessments or statements for proposed projects by the Corps,
and are authorized to issue "Jeopardy opinion" against any
proposed project which will negatively effect an endangered
species (Barile et al., 19,87).

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) under the U. S.
Department of Commerce, records commercial fish landings,
enforces national fishery laws, and protects vital f ishery
habitats.

B. STATE AGENCIE9

Many state agencies have property interests, land and wildlife
management programs, research activities, regulatory authority
and construction activities within the preserve. Additionally,
DNR administers other programs which may affect the resources
and watershed of the preserve.

The DeRartment of Natural- Resources (DNR) Jurisdiction include
state la'nds, sovereignty submerged lands, and marine resources
which include marine research projects.

The Division of Marine Resources has several programs
beneficial to aquatic preserves. The Marine Research
laboratory in St. Petersburg has several projects including

resource protection area mapping, a survey of the status of
oyster bars, and f ishery habitat utilization studies which
generate valuable resource management information. They also
administer a permitting program for the collection certain
marine species and the use of certain chemicals. The Aquatic
Preserve Program receives notification of issuance of permits
within the preserve. Marine Resources also conducts a variety
of research projects, including those aimed at manatee and
marine turtle protection.

The Division of Law Enforcement's Marine Patrol enforces
statutes relating to marine resources, fishery management
laws, boating safety, vessel titling/registration and illegal
narcotics.

The Division of State Lands, is granted authority under
Chapters 18-20 and 18-21 F.A.C., "Sovereignty Submerged Land
Management" which gives DNR the responsibility to regulate
commercial and residential docks and other structures and
activities conducted on submerged lands. In addition to the
work related to aquatic preserves, the Division of State Lands
is charged with overseeing uses, sales, leases, or transfers
of all state-owned lands. The aquatic preserve staf f interact
with other staf f of State Lands in all transactions concerning
submerged lands within the preserve including acquisition of
privately titled submerged lands or contiguous uplands
important to the integrity of the preserve. Land acquisition
is conducted through the Conservation and Recreation Lands
(CARL) program, authorized under Chapter,253, F.S.

The Division of Resource Management is responsible for the
management of aquatic plants, mineral resources, oil and gas
exploration, and geologic studies. Under Chapter 16C F.S.,
responsibility is given for various aquatic plant control
programs, including permitting for mechanical, biological, and
chemical control of aquatic plants. Permits are also
necessary under Chapter 16C-52 F.S, "Aquatic Plant
Importation, Transportation, Cultivation and Possession", for
any persons cultivating, vegetating, or collecting aquatic
plants. The Division of Resource Management also supervises
state Navigation Districts and Canal Authority.

The Division of Beaches and Shores is responsible for managing
erosion control, hurricane protection, coastal flood control,
shoreline and offshore rehabilitation, and the regulation of
work activities likely to affect the physical condition of the
beach and shore (Chapter 161, F.S.)

The Marine Fisheries Commission (MFC) manages marine life by
regulating the harvesting of all marine life except designated
species. Their authority covers gear specification,
prohibited gear, bag limits, size limits, species that may not
be soldf protected species, closed areas, quality control

codes, harvesting seasons, special considerations related to
egg-bearing females, and oyster and clam relaying. The MFC is
required to make annual recommendations to the Governor and
Cabinet regarding marine fisheries research priorities, which
can in turn directly influence research efforts and priorities
at the preserve.

The Depar tment of Environmental RegMlation (DER) is
responsible for regulating air, water, noise, wastewater,
stormwater, and hazardous waste pollution through a permitting
and certification process. DER also serves as the state
contact for the initiation of dredge and fill applications in
conjunction with the COE and DNR. The permitting process is
a key management tool for the protection of the.preserve.

The DER's rules significant to the Aquatic Preserve Program
are Chapters 17-301, 17-3021 17-41, and 17-312, F.A.C.
Authority for these rules is based in Chapter 403, F.S.
.Chapter 17-301 and 17-302, F.A.C., addresses water quality
standards with the most stringent category being "Outstanding
Florida Waters" (OFW). Special protection for OFW's is found
in 17.302.700, F.A.C. As an OFW, ambient conditions, instead
of prescribed values, become the water quality standards for
the waterbody. As an aquatic preserve, Yellow River Marsh was
automatically designated an OFW in 1979. Chapter 17-4, F.A.C.
addresses permit requirements, and Chapter 17-312, F.A.C.
covers dredge and fill activities.

Section 253.77, F.S., as amended by the Warren S. Henderson
Wetlands Protection Act of 1984, requires that any person
requesting use of state-owned lands shall have prior approval
of the Board of Trustees. An interagency agreement between
DNR and DER provides for DNR staff comments into the DER
permitting process for environmental impacts in aquatic
preserves.

The DER Office of Coastal Management is charged with
coordinating activities related to coastal management and
reviewing federal actions for consistency with the state
Coastal Management Program. The Office of Coastal Management
also awards grants for research and management planning.

The Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services MRS)
has responsibilities to protect the public's health by
overseeing functions that involve water supplies, on site
sewage disposal, septic tank cleaning, and solid waste
control. Authority for these responsibilities are found in
Chapter 154, 381, and 386, F.S. and in the 10D Series of
F.A.C., known as the "Sanitary Code". The local county DHRS
office (County Health Department), has jurisdiction overseeing
these responsibilities.

Also affecting the public's health and the Aquatic Preserve
Program is the arthropod (mosquito) control program, which is
usually administered through the local mosquito control
district. DNR staff are involved in the management programs
developed by the Florida Coordinating Council on Mosquito
Control, and subsequent policy recommendations resulting from
this groups will be evaluated for their potential effects on
the aquatic preserve.

The Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission (FGFWFC)
authority is provided in the rules and regulations of Chapters
39.101 and 39.102, F.A.C. This authority involves. the
implementation of specific regulations and their enforcement,
-for all wildlife. The Office of Environmental Services
reviews projects which may affect local fish and wildlife
habitat. FGFWFC is the state coordinator of the non-game
Wildlife and Endangered Species Program in Florida. The
Division of wildlife is also responsible for designating
Critical Wildlife Management Areas to protect designated
species. They also oversee habitat restoration and fish re-
stocking of freshwater rivers and lakes. And, the FGFWFC has
law enforcement officers that patrol the aquatic preserves.

The Department of State (DOS), Division of Historical
Resources MR) has the responsibility granted under Chapter
267, F.S., regarding the preservation and management of
Florida's archaeological and historical resources. This
responsibility includes those cultural resources located on
state-owned lands, including aquatic preserves.

The DeRartment of Transportation (DOT) has responsibilities
that include right of way and surface water run-off in the
areas of roads, bridges and causeways. The DOT also updates a
state-wide aerial photographic survey every four years,
rotating on a district basis.

The DeRartment of Community Affairs (DCA) and the Regional
Planning Councils (RPC) are authorized under Section 380.06,
F.S., for administering the Development of Regional Impact
(DRI) program. The DRI process was established to provide a
review and monitoring procedure for development projects
potentially affecting the health, safety or welfare of
citizens of more than one county.

The Department of Community Affairs also oversees the
development of Local Government Comprehensive Plans (LGCP) for
both counties and municipalities, as required by the Local
Government Comprehensive and Land Development Regulation Act,
Chapter 163, Part II, F.S. Subsection 163.3202(5), F.S.,
provides that DCA shall adopt rules for the review of local
government land development regulations. Local governments
are required to adopt land development regulations which are
consistent with the adopted local comprehensive plan within

one year after submission of the local comprehensive plan for
review by the Department pursuant to subsection 163.3167(2),
F.S.

The Office of Planning and Budgeting of the Executive office
of tjh-e Governor, in conjunction with the DER's Coastal Zone
Management Section, is responsible for administering project
reviews applicable to Florida's Coastal Management Program
Federal Consistency evaluation process. This process includes
all projects in the state that involve federal permitting,
federal assistance or direct federal activities. Each project
must undergo this additional review to determine if the
project is consistent with established programs, policies and
rules of the state. This includes projects affecting
resources in aquatic preserves.

C. REGIONAL AGENCIES

In addition to state and federal agencies, two regional
agencies have *a major role in the use and management of the
preserve: These organizations conduct activities that are on
a broader scale than are those of the local governments, but
they are on a smaller scale than the state level.,

Northwest Florida Water Management District (NWFWMD)
The Water Management District administers permitting programs
for consumptive water use, management and storage of surface
water well drilling and operation, regulation of artificial
recharge facilities, and works of the district. This includes
withdrawal of water from rivers, streams, and wells. The
types of water use.s permitted by the NWFWMD which could affect
the preserve include irrigation and public water supply. The
water management district is also involved in various studies
on water supply and management that may be of use to the
preserve.

Northwest Florida Regional Planning Council (NWFRPC)
The Northwest Florida Regional Planning Council serves as a
regional planning body for the local government of Santa Rosa
County. Among its duties are: aides local governments with
planning expertise; is the regional representative for the DRI
review process; serves as a regional clearinghouse for state
and federal projects to the state and federal levels; assists
local governments in getting- grant aides; and prepares and
administers the Regional Policy Plan.
The DRI review of projects which affect the preserve will be
reviewed by both the central office staff and field personnel.
DRI's for marinas or subdivisions adjacent to the preservel
and commercial or industrial developments will be reviewed
closely for their potential impact on the preserve.

D. LOCAL GOVERNMENTSIINTEREST GROUPS

Local governments are the incorporated cities and counties
that border the preserve. The entire St. Andrews State Park
Aquatic Preserve is bounded by Bay County. Panama City and
Panama City Beach lie in close proximity to the preserve's
boundary.

Field personnel are the liaison with local governments, and
they will provide input into modifications of local government
policies and practices to insure conformance with the
objectives of the aquatic preserve management plan.

Private Interest Groups and Public
Effective management of the preserve will be enhanced by
continued support from organized groups, associations, and
individuals. Citizen support organizations are particularly
valuable through the provision of technical, non-technical,
and financially assistance. The administrative and field
staff will actively solicit the organization of and
participation from citizen support organizations at this
aquatic preserve.

The relationship of non-governmental entities to the preserve
will include the coordination of activities such as scientific
research, environmental education, and other activities
relating to the protection, management or improved
understanding of the preserve. Field staff will be active in
communicating with the above groups.

TABLE 2: MANAGEMENT COORDINATION NETWORK

LOCAL AGENCIES REGIONAL AGENCIES

LGT Local Governments (Cities, Towns, RPC Regional Planning Council
municipalities) WMD Water Management Districts
CGT -County Governments FIN Florida Inland Navigation District
LDD Local Drainage Districts
MCD Mosquito Control Districts
ICD Inlet Commissions/Districts
SWC Soil and Water Conservation Districts

STATE AGENCIES FEDERAL AGENCIES

DCA Florida Department of Community Affairs CG United States Coast Guard
DER Florida Department of Environmental Regulation COE United States Army Corps of Engineers
DNR Florida Department of Natural Resources EPA United States Environmental Protection Agency
GFC Florida Game and Freshwater Fish Commission FWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service
DOS Florida Department of State NMF National Marine Fisheries
DOT Florida Department of Transportation GS United States Geological.Survey
FMP Florida Marine Patrol
FSG Florida Sea Grant
MFC Marine Fisheries Commission,
DAC Florida Depattmentof Consumer and Agricultural
Services
HRS Florida Department of Health and Rehabilitative
Services

Source: modified from the Indian River Lagoon Joint Reconnaissance Report, 1987

Local Regional State Federal
LGT CGT LDD MCD ICD SWC RPC M.111 FIN DAC DCA DER DNR GFC 11RS I)OS POT FMP FSG NIFCICG COE rPA FWS NW GS
... ... ...... . ... ... ...
Dredge and Fill Permitting
. . ... ........ ...

.. ..... .. ........
.... . ... .......
Docks, Fishing Piers, Seawalls .....
.. ........ .. .... ... .......
... ........ ........ ........ ........ ....
Marinas
Submerged Lands Management
101 1 1 1
Habitat Protection
Ntangroves/Wetlands Protection
Seagrass Protection
Habitat Restoration

.. ........
Mangrove /Wetlands Restoration . .. ....

.... ........
Seagrass Restoration I F
. ........ .......
... ........ ........ ..
Resource Inventory ... ....
X
Manatees/Porpoises
Endangered Species
........ ..
..... ........ ..
Shellfish/Aguaculture
T.
Public Awareness/Education

Research

. .........
Fisheries Research .0

M
Fisheries Management ......
Recreational Fishing
Commercial Fishing
IX
Wildlife Management
Mosquito Impoundments
flistorical/Archeological Sites
Water Quality 010
... ..... .
x.
. ....... ....... .
Source Pollution
Nonpoint
Point Source Pollution
........ ........ ..
Oil/Chemical Spills
.... ........ ....... ... ..
T.
Drainage/Freshwater Control
W ... ..... *..,:
....... ......
Emergency Response

.. . ......
Upland Development

...... . ..... . ..... . ....
Land Use Planning .... ....
Navigational/Boating
...... .. . .... ...
J.0
al Areas
.1 Recreation At ....
Bridges and Roads J. 0".

CHAPTER VIII

STAFFING AND FISCAL NEEDS

Historically, the Aquatic Preserves Program has been largely
dependent on federal coastal zone grant funds for both its
operation, and as a result, the funding of both field
positions and central office positions has been limited.

In order for the St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve to
be managed in accordance with goals, objectives, and tasks set
@orth in this plan, adequate funding, staffing, and equipment
is essential. Currently there is no legislative funding for
staffing at the Preserve. Instead, management is conducted on
a part-time basis by the manager of the Alligator Harbor
Aquatic Preserve and permitting is handled by District staff
in Pensacola. It is anticipated that the above program can be
implemented with one full-time employee for the most part to
the St. Joseph Bay Aquatic Preserve and a full-time
secretarial assistant. This estimate does not include staff-
time or expenses by DNR and other state agency employees
involved intermittently in the various tasks necessary to
manage and conserve the* natural resources of the aquatic
preserve. An annual review of the accomplishments of the
program relative to the tasks listed in Chapter VI will help
to determine if the initial staffing estimate is adequate to
meet the legislative intent of the program.

A budget covering projected staff time, equipment, travel and
other expenses for this area is found in Table 3. The budget
is required to fulfill the short-range needs of the preserve
as described, in this management plan, and accomplish the
Department of Natural Resources goal of on-site management of
all aquatic preserves by 1991, as expressed in the Agency
Functional Plan.

TABLE 3

ESTIMATED BUDGET FOR THE FIRST.TWO YEARS FOR
ST. ANDREWS STATE PARK AQUATIC PRESERVE

SALARY FIRST YEAR SECOND YEAR

ES II (including benefits) $ 32,010 $ 32,970
Secretary Specialist 16,324 16,814
Subtotal $ 48,334 $ 49,784

OPERATING CAPITAL OUTLAY

Vehicle $ 15,000
Boat/Motor/Trailer 12,000
Office Equipment 3,500
Computer 2,600
Subtotal $ 33,100

OPERATING EXPENSES

Office Rent, Gas, Phone $ 19,000 $ 21,000.

TOTAL COST $100,434 $ 70,784

CHAPTER IX

RESOURCE AND ACTIVITY MONITORING PROG

To ensure that this management plan is effectively
implemented, on-site staffing is imperative. The position of
a preserve manager will be necessary in order to institute
programs targeted at (1) monitoring the status of natural
resources, (2) monitoring usage of the aquatic preserve, and
(3) tracking progress and accomplishments that are directed at
retaining the original integrity and value of the p .reserve.

A. RESOURCE MONITORING

It is important to understand whether the efforts of the
Aquatic Preserve Program and other federal, state, and local
efforts to protect the natural resources of St. Andrews State
Park Aquatic Preserve for future generations are working.
Therefore, it is essential that the status of the natural
resources be monitored on a continued basis. Features which
should be monitored include, but should not be limited to,
trends in water and sediment quality, areal coverage,
location, and health of salt marshes and seagrass communities,
recreational and commercial harvesting of marine resources,
and development trends on adjacent uplands. As Resource
management Goal A.1, A.2, A.3, and A.4 of the St. Andrews
State Park Aquatic Preserve Management Action Plan (Chapter
VI) provides, the preserve manager shall biannually prepare a
report describing the state of the environment of the aquatic
preserve. This report will be the heart of the resource
monitoring program. It should discuss the findings of the
resource monitoring program, most recent water quality data
and any trends in water quality; any changes in resource
community boundaries; status of designated species within the
aquatic preserve; perimit applications within the preserve;
land development trends on adjacent uplands; and any
enforcement actions necessary.

To monitor changes in the natural resources, use of a regional
geographic information system (GIS) is highly recommended. A
GIS is a computer-based system that is used to capture, edit,
display, and analyze geographic information. The first GIS
programs were developed about 20 years ago to manage large
collections of natural resource and environmental information.
Since their development, they have been used in other areas
such as utilities mapping, inventory management, and land use
planning; however, their most important function continues to
be natural resource management.
Future use of a GIS system at the St. Andrews State Park
Aquatic. Preserve could include the periodic inventory,
compilation, and analysis of temporal and spatial data

concerning the present state of the natural resources within
the preserve. Historical aerial photography *could be
computerized f or comparison with later data to conduct a
temporal analysis of resource abundance. 'Detailed monitoring
of any re-vegetation or restoration ef forts could also be
computer analyzed. The on-line access to these natural
resource date bases will facilitate informed management
decisions concerning the use and protection of submerged lands
and their resources. Cooperation and file sharing is possible
with other agencies handling data with identical or similar
systems.

B. ACTIVITY MONITORING

As human interaction in and around the aquatic preserve
increases, additional pressures are to be expected in the form
of recreational and development activities. Monitoring the
.type of use of activities. and their compatibility, their
frequency of occurrence, as well as proven and expected
detrimental effects on the preserve's natural resources, will
provide a foundation to amending the policies of the aquatic
preserve to protect its natural resources.

C. ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND PROGRESS MONITORING

For this management plan to be effectively implemented, it is
necessary to monitor the accomplishments of the on-site
program on a regular basis. Therefore as noted above, staff
of the St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve will be
required to biannually submit a report to the main office and
the Bay County Commission on the state of the natural
environment of the preserve, what was done in the previous two
years towards the tasks listed in Chapter VI, and what are
needs and directions of the preserve for the coming two years.
This report should be closely keyed to the tasks "listed in
Chapter VI and will serve as the basis for judging the
adequacy of staffing and funding estimates listed in Chapter
VIII.

Specific information which should be included in the biannual
state of the preserve report includes any noted change in
acreage or health of seagrasses and salt marshes; number of
permits applied for, issued, and denied; whether any
exemptions to standards were granted; number of structures
built adjacent to the preserve; and whether any violations
were uncovered.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Comp, G.S. and W. Seaman, Jr. 1985. Estuarine Habitat and
Fishery Resources of Florida. Florida Aquatic Habitat
Fishery Resources. William Seaman, Jr. Editor. Florida
Chapter of American Fisheries Society. p. 337-436.

Comprehensive Land Use Plan. 1989. Bay County, Florida.

Durako, M.J. and J.A. Browder, W.L. Kruczynski, C.B.
Subrahmanyam, R.E. Turner. 1985 Salt Marsh Habitat and
Fishery Resources. Florida Chapter American Fisheries
Society. p. 189-280.

Livingston, R.J. 1984. Historic Trends of Human Impacts on
Seagrass Meadows in Florida. p. 145-146.

Livingston, R.J. 1975. Impacts of kraft pulp-mill effluents
on estuarine and coastal fishes in Apalachee Bay, Florida,
USA. Mar. Biol. p. 19-48.

Orgren, L.H., and H.A. Brusher. 1977. The Distribution and
Abundance of Fishes caught with a Trawl in the St. Andrew
Bay System, Florida. Northeast Gulf Science Vol. 1, No.
2., p. 83-105.

Saloman and Naughton. 1982. Benthic Faunal Assemblages of
Shallow Water Sand and Seagrass Habitats, St. Andrew Bay,
Florida. USFWS, 1982. 3pp.

Schmidt, W., and M.W. Clark. 1980. Geology of Bay County,
Florida. Florida Department of Natural Resources, Bureau
of Geology, Bull. No. 57.

Shipp, R.L. 1986. Dr. Bob Shipp I s Guide To Fishes of the
Gulf of Mexico. Marine Environmental Consortium of Alabama.
Daulpin-Island Sea Laboratory. 256pp.

Stout, J.P. 1984. The Ecology of Irregularly Flooded Salt
Marshes of the Northeastern Gulf of Mexico: A Community
Profil 'e. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Biological Report
85(7.1). 98pp.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1987. Threatened and.
Endangered Species Accounts. Atlanta, Georgia.

White, A. William. 1970. The Geomorphology of the Florida
Peninsula. Geological Bulletin No. 51. Florida Department
of Natural Resources, Bureau of Geology. Tallahassee,
Florida.

APPENDIX A
Relevant Legislation (R. 3/87)
V. 9, p. 692-20 18-20.002

CHAPTER 18-20 (c) To cordinate with federal, state and local
FLORIDA AQUATIC PRESERVES agencies to aid in carrying out the Intent of the
18-20.001 Intent Legislature in creating the preserves:
18-20.002 Boundaries and Scope of the (d) To use applicable federal, state, and local
Preserves. management programs, which are compatible with
18-20.003 Definitions. the intent and provisions of the act and these rules,
18-20.004 Management Policies, Standards arid to assist in managing the preserves;
and Criteria. (C) To encourage the protection, enhancement
18-20.005 Uses, Sales, Leases, or Transfer of or restoration or the biological, aesthetic, or
scientific values of the preserves, including but not
Interests in Lands, or Materials, limited to the modification of existing manmade
Held by the Board. (Repealed) conditions toward their natural condition, and
18-20.006 Cumulative Impacts. discourage activities which would degrade the
18-20.007 Protection of Riparian Rights. aesthetic, biological, or scientific values, or the
(Repealed) quality, or utility of a preserve, when reviewing
18-20.008 Inclusion of Lands, Title to Which applications, or when developing and implementing
Is Not Vested in the Board, in a management plans for the preserves;
18-20.009 Preserve. (r) To preserve, promote, and utilize indigenous
Establishment or Expansion (if life forms and habitats, including but not limited III:
Aquatic Preserves. sponges, soft coral, hard corals, submerged grasses,
18-20.010 Exchange of Lands. mangroves, & all water marshes, fresh water
18-20.011 Gifts of Lands. marshes, mud flats, estuarine, aquatic, and marine
18-20.012 Protection or Indigenous Life reptiles, game and non-game fish species, estuarine,
Forms. aquatic and marine invertebrates, estuarine,
18-20.013 Development of Resource quatic and marine mammals, birds, shellfish and
Inventories and Management
Plans for Preserves. mollusks;
18-20.014 Enforcement. (g) To acquire additional title interests in lands
18-20.015 Application Form. (Repealed) wherever such acquisitions would serve to protect or
18-20.016 Coordination with Other enhance the biological, aesthetic, or scientific values
Governmental Agencies. or the preserves;
(h) To maintain those beneficial hydrologic and
18-20.017 Lake Jackson Aquatic Preserve.
Library References: Riparian right to navigable waters. biologic functions, the benefits of which accrue to
the public at large.
L Henry Dean. 55 Fla. Bar J. 247. 250 (Mar., 1981). (4) Nothing in these rules shall serve to
18-20.001 intent eliminate or alter the requirements or authority of
(1) All sovereignty lands within 2 preserve shall other governmental agencies, including counties
be managed primarily for the maintenance of and municipalities, to protect or enhance the
essentially natural conditions, the propagation of preserve, provided that such requirements or
fish and wildlife, and public recreation, including authority are not inconsistent with the act and this
hunting and fishing where deemed appropriate by chapter.
the board, and the managing agency. Specific Authority 120.53, 258.43(1) FS. Law.
(2) The aquatic preserves which are described in implementation 258.35 258.36 258.37, 258.39).258.393 FS.
Chapter 80-280 Laws of Florida.-New 2-23-81.
73-534, Laws or Florida, Sections 258.39,258.391, Amended 8-7-85, Formerly 16Q-20.01,Transferred from
258.392 and 258.393, Florida Statutes, future 16Q-20.001.
aquatic preserves established pursuant to general or
special acts of the legislature, and in Rule 18-20.002 Boundaries and Scope of the
18-20.002, Florida Administrative Code, were Preserves
establishcd for the purpose or being preserved in an (1)These rules shall only apply to those
essentially natural or existing condition so that their sovereignty lands within a preserve, title to which is
aesthetic, biological and scientific values may vested in the board, and those other lands for which
endure for the enjoyment of future generations. the board has an appropriate instrument in writing,
(3) The preserve shall be administered and executed by the owner, authorizing the inclusion of

managed in accordance with the following goals: specific lands in an aquatic preserve pursuant to
(a) To preserve, protect, and enhance these Section 2(2) of Chapter 73-534, Laws of Florida,
exceptional areas of sovereignty submerged lands by Sections 258.40(l) and 258.41 (5), Florida Statutes,
reasonable regulation of human activity within the future aquatic preserves established through
preserves through the development and general or special acts of the legislature, and
implementation of a comprehensive management pursuant to Rule 18-20.008, Florida
program; Administrative Code. Any publicly owned and
(b) To protect and enhance the waters or the maintained nnavigation channel authorized by the
preserves so that the public qmay continue to enjoy United States Congress, or other public works
the traditional recreational uses of those waters such project authorized by the United States Congress,

as swimming, boatinq, and Fishing; designed to improve or maintain commerce and
navigation shall be deemed to be excluded from the

R. 3/87)
1820.002 INTERNAL IMPROVEMENT TRUST FUND V. 9, p. 692-2P

provisions of this chapter, pursuant it) Subsection 181, pages 363-366. And in the Official Records of
258.40(2), Florida Statutes. Furthermore. all lands Flaqler County in Book 33, paces 131134.
lost by avulsion or by artificially induced erosion 4. Tomoka Marsh Aquatic Preserve, as
shall be deemed excluded from the provisions of this described in the Official Records of Flagler County
chapter pursuant to Subsection 258.40(3), Florida in Book 33. paces 135-138, and in the Official
Statutes. Records of Volusia County in Book 1244, pages
(2) These rules do not apply to Boca CCiega Bay, 615-618.
Pinellas County or Biscayne Bay Aquatic 5. Wekiva River Aquatic Preserve as described
Preserves. in Section 258.39(30). F.S.
(3) These rules are promulgated to clarify the 6. Mosquito Lagoon Aquatic Preserve, as
responsibilities of the board in carrying out its land described in the Official Records or Volusia County
management functions as those functions apply in Book 1244, pages 619-623, and in the Official
within the preserves. Implementation and Records of Brevard County in Book 1143, pages
responsibility for environmental permitting or 190-194.
activities and water quality protection within the 7. Banana River Aquatic Preserve. as described
preserves art vested in the Department of in the Official Records fir Brevard County in Book
Environmental Regulation. Since these rules arc 1143, pages 195-198. less those lands dedicated to
considered cumulative with other rules, a person the U. S. A. prior to the enactment of the art, until
planning an activity within the preserves should such time as the U. S. A. no longer wishes to
also consult the other applicable department rules maintain such lands for the purpose for which they
(Chapter 18-21, Florida Administrative Code, for were dedicated, at which time such lands would
example) as well as the rules of the Department of revert to the board, and be managed as part of the
Environmental Regulation. preserve.
(4) These rules shall not affect previous actions 8. Indian River - Malabar to Sebastian
of the board concerning the issuance of any Aquatic Preserve, as described in the Official
casement or lease; or any disclaimer concerning Records of Brevard County in Book 1143, pages
Sovereignty, lands. 199-202. and in the official Records or Indian
(5) The intent and specific provisions expressed River County in Book 368, pages 5-8.
in 18-20.001(e) and (f) apply generally to 211 9. Indian River - Vero Beach to Fort Pierce
existing or future aquatic preserves within the scope Aquatic Preserve, as described in the Official
of this chapter. Upon completion or a resource Records of Indian Rover County in Book 368, pages
inventory and approval of a management plan for a 9-12, and in the Official Records of St. Lucie
preserve, pursuant to 18-20.013, the type County in Book 187, pages 1083-1086.
designation and the resource sought to be preserved 10. Jensen Beach to Jupiter Inlet Aquatic
may be readdressed by the Board. Preserve, as described in the Official Records of St.
(6) For the purpose of clarification and Lucie County in Book 218, pages 2865-2869.
interpretation, the legal description set forth as 11. North Fork, St. Lucie Aquatic Preserve, as
follows do not include any land which is expressly described in the Official Records of Martin County
recognized as privately owned upland in a in Book 337, pages 2159-2162, and in the Official
pre-existing recorded mean high water fine Records of St. Lucie County in Book 201, pages
settlement agreement between the board and a 1676-1679.
private owner or owners. Provided, however, in 12. Loxahatchewee River - Lake Worth Creek
those instances wherein a settlement agreement was Aquatic Preserve, as described in the Official
executed subsequent to the passage of the Florida Records of Martin County in Book 320, pages
Coastal Mapping Act, the determination or the 193-196, and in the Official Records or Palm Beach
mean high water line shall be in accordance with the County in Volume 1860, pages 806-809.
provisions of such act. 13. Biscayne Bay - Cape Florida to Monroe
(7) Persons interested in obtaining details or County Line Aquatic Preserve, as described in the
particular preserves should contact the Bureau of Official Records of Dade County in Book 7055,
State Lands Management, Department or Natural pages 852-856, less, however, those lands and
Ressources, 3900 Commonwealth Blvd., waters, as described in Section 258.165, F. S.,
Tallahassee, FL 32303 (telephone 904-488-2297). (Biscayne Bay Aquatic Preserve Act of 1974), and
(a) The preserves are described as follows: those lands and waters within the Biscavne
1. Fort Clinch State Park Aquatic Preserve, as National Park.
described in the Official Records or Nassau County 14. Lignumviate Key Aquatic Preserve, as
in Book 108, pages 343-346, and in Book I 11, page described in the Official Records (if Monroe County
409. in Book 502, pages 139-142.
2. Nassau River - St. Johns River Marshes 15. Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve, as Preserve, as
Aquatic Preserve, as described in the Official described in the Official Records of Monroe County
Records of Duval County in Volume 3183, pages in Book 502, pages 143-146.
547-552, and in the Official Records of Nassau 16. Cape Romano - Ten Thousand Islands
County in Book 108, pages 232-237. Aquatic Preserve, as described in the Official
3. Pellicer Creek Aquatic Preserve, as described Records of Collier County in Book 381, pages
in the Official Records of St. Johns County in Book 298-301.

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V. 9, p. 692-2Q FLORIDA AQUATIC PRESERVES 1820.003
17. Rookery Bay Aquatic Preserve, as described negotiate an arrangement with any such private
in Section 258.39(31). FS. upland owner by which such land may be included
18. Eastern Bay Aquatic Preserve as described in in the preserve.
Section 258.39(28), Florida Statutes. 33. Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve as described in
19. Pine Island Sound Aquatic Preserve as Section 258.393, Florida Statutes.
described in the Official Records or Lee County in 34. Future aquatic preserves established
Book 648. pages 732-736. pursuant to general or special acts of the legislature.
20. Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve, as Specific Authority 120.53, 258.43(1) FS Law
described in the Official Records of Lee County in Implemented 258.39. 258.391, 258.392. 258.393. 258.40.
Book 800, pages 725-728. 258.41, 258.42 258.43, 258.44, 258.45 FS. History-
21. Gasparilla Sound - Charlotte Harbor New 2-23-81, Amended 8-7-85. Formerly 16Q-20.02,
Aquatic Preserve, as described in Section 258.392, Transferred from 16Q.20.002.
F.S. 18-20.003 'Definitions. When used in these
22. Cape Haze Aquatic Preserve as described in rules, the following words shall have the indicated
Section 258.39(29), F.S. meaning unless , the context clearly indicates
23. Cockroach Bay Aquatic Preserve, as otherwise:
described in Section 258.391, F.S. (1) "Act" means the provisions of Section 258.35
24. St. Martins Marsh Aquatic Preserve, as through 258.46, F.S., the Florida Aquatic Preserve
described in the Official Records or citrus County Act.
in Book 276, pages 238-241.
(2) "Activity" means any project and such other
25. Alligator Harbor Aquatic Preserve, as human action within the preserve requiring board
described in the Official Records of Franklin approval for the use, sale, lease or transfer of
County in Volume 98, pages 82-85. interest in sovereignty lands or materials, or which
26. Apalachicola Bay Aquatic Preserve, as may require a license from the Department of
described in the Official Recrods of Gulf County in Environmental Regulation.
Book 46. pages 77-81, and in the Official Records of (3) "Aesthetic values" means scenic
Franklin County in Volume 98, pages 102-106. characeristics or amenities of the preserve in its
27. St. Joseph Bay Aquatic Preserve, as essentially natural state or condition, and the
described in the Official Records or Gulf County in maintenance thereof.
Book 46, pages 73-76. (4) "Applicant" means any person making
28. St. Andrews State Park Aquatic Preserve, as application for a permit, license, Conveyance of an
described in the Official Records or Bay County in interest in state owned lands or any other necessary
Book 379, pages 547-550. form of governmental approval in order to perform
29. Rocky Bayou State Park Aquatic Preserve, an activity within the preserve.
as described in the Official Records of okaioosa (5) Beneficial biological functions means
County in Book 593, pages 742-745. interactions between flora, fauna and physical or
30. Yellow River Marsh Aquatic Preserve, as chemical attributes of the environment, which
described in the Official Records of Santa Rosa provide benefits that accrue to the public at large,
County in Book 206, pages 568-571. including, but not limited to: nutrient, pesticide and
31. Fort Pickens State Park Aquatic Preserve as heavy metal uptake; sediment retention; nutrient
described in the Official Records of Santa Rosa conversion to biomass; nutrient recycling and
County in Book 220, pages 60-63, in the Official oxygenation.
Records or Escambia County in Book 518, pages (6) "Beneficial hydrological functions" means
659-662, less the lands dedicated to the U. S. A. for interactions between flora, fauna and physical
the establishment or the Gulf Islands National geological or geographical attributes of the
Seashore prior to the enactment of the am, until such environment, which provide benefits that accrue to
time as the U. S. A. no longer wishes to maintain the public at large, including, but not limited to:
such lands for the purpose for which they were retardation of storm Water flow; storm water
dedicated, at which time such lands would revert to retention, and Water storage, and periodical release;
the board and be managed as pan or the preserve. (7) "Biological values" means the preservation
32. For the purpose of this section the and promotion of indigenous life forms and habitats
boundaries of the Lake Jackson Aquatic Preserve, including, but not limited to: sponges, soft corals,
shall be the body of water in Leon County known as hard corals, submerged grasses, mangroves,
Lake Jackson in Sections 1, 2, 3, 5, 10, 11 and 14, saltwater marshes, fresh water marshes, mud flats.
Township I North. Range I West and Sections 11, marine, estuarine, and aquatic reptiles, games and
12, 13, 14, 15, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, 28, 29, 32, 33, 34, non-games fish species, marine, estuarine, and
and 35, Township 2 North, Range I West lying aquatic mammals, marine, estuarine, and aquatic
below the ordinary high water line. Such lands shall invvertebrates, birds and shellfish.
include the submerged bottom lands and the Water (8) "Board" means the Governor and Cabinet
column upon such lands, as well as all publicly sitting as the Board of Trustees or the Internal
owned islands, within the boundaries of the Improvement Trust Fund.
preserve. Any privately held upland within the (9) "Channel" means a trench, the bottom or
boundaries of the preserve shall be deemed to be which is normally covered entirely by water, with
excluded therefrom; provided that the Board may the upper edges of its sides normally below water.

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18-20.003 INTERNAL IMPROVEMENT TRUST FUND V. 9 p. 692-2R

(10) "Commercial, industrial and other revenue (22) "Preserve" means any and all of those areas
generating/income related docks" means docking which are exceptional areas of sovereignie lands
facilities for an activity which produces income, and the associated water body so designated in
through rental or any other means, or which serves Section 258.39, 258.391, and 258.302 F.S.
as an accessory facility to other rental, commercial including all sovereignty lands, title to which is
or industrial operations. It shall include. but not be vested in the board, and such other lands as the
limited to docking for marinas, restaurants, hotels, inward may acquire for approve for inclusion and the
motels, commercial fishing, shipping, boat or ship water column over such lands, which have been set
construction, repair and sales. aside to be maintained in an essentially natural or
(11) "Department" means the State of Florida existing condition of indigenous flora and fauna and
Department of Natural Resources, as administrator their supporting habitat and the natural scenic-
for the board. qualities and amenities thereof.
(12) "Division" means the Division of State (23) "Private residential single dock means a
Lands, which performs all staff duties and functions dock which is used for private, rcreational or
related to the administration of lands title to which leisure purposes for a single family residence.
is, or will be, vested in the board, pursuant to section cottage or other such single dwelling unit and which
253.002. F.S. is designed to moor no more than two boats.
13) "Dock" means a fixed or floating structure, (24) "Private residential multi-slip dock " means
berthing buoyant vessels either temporarily or recreational or leisure purposes for multi-unit
indefinitely. residential dwellings which shall include but is not
(14) "Essentially natural condition" means limited it) condominiums, townhouses, subdivisions
those functions which support the continued and other such dwellings or residential areas and
existence or encourage the restoration of the diverse which is designed to moor three or more boats.
population of indigenous life forms and habitats to Yacht clubs associated with residential
the extent they existed prior to the significant developments whose memberships or utilization or
development adjacent to and within the preserve. the docking facility requires some real property
(15) "Extreme hardship" means a significant interest in the residential area, shall also be
burden, unique to the applicant and not shared by included.
property owners in the area. Self-imposal (25) "Public interest" means demonstrable
circumstances caused to any degree by actions of any environmental, social, and economic benefits which
person subsequent to the enactment of the Act shall I
would accrue in the public at large as a result of a
not be construed as an extreme hardship. Extreme proposed action and which would clearly exceed all
hardship under this act shall not be construed to demonstrable environmental, social, and economic
include any hardship which arises in whole or in costs of the proposed action. In determining the
part from the effects of other federal, state or local public interest in a request for use, salt, lease, or
laws, ordinances, rules or regulations. The term transfer or interest in sovereignty lands or severance
may be inherent in public projects which are shown of materials from sovereignty lands, the board shall
to be a public necessity. consider the ultimate project and purpose to be
(16) "Fill" means materiais from any source, served by said use, sale, least or transfer of lands or
deposited by any means onto sovereignty lands, materials.
either for the purpose of creating new uplands or for (26) "Public navigation project" means a project
any other purpose, including spoiling of dredged primarily for the purpose of navigation which is
matterials. For the purpose of this rule, the authorized and funded by the United States
placement of pilings or riprap shall not be Congress or by port authorities as defined by
considered to be filling. Section 315.02(2), F.S.
(17) "Lease" means a conveyance or interest in (27) "Public necessity" means the works or
lands, tiitle to which is vested in the board, granted In improvements required for the protection of the
accordance with specific terms set forth in writing. health and safety of the public, consistent with the
(18) "Marina" means a small craft harbor Act and these rules, for which no other reasonable
complex used primarily for recreation. alternative exists.
(19) "Oil and gas transportation facilities" (28) "Public Utilities" means those services,
means those structures necessary for the movement provided by persons regulated by the Public Service
of oil and gas from the production site to the Commission or which are provided by rural
Consumer. cooperatives, municipalities, or other governmental
(20) "Person" means individuals, minors, agencies, including electricity, telephone, public
partnerships, corporations, joint ventures, estates, water and wastewater services, and structures
trusts, syndicates, Fiduciaries, firms, and all other necessary for the provision of these services.
associations and combinations, whether public or (29) "Quality of the preserve" means the degree
private, including governmental entitiess. of the biological, aesthetic and scientific values of the
(21) "Pier" means a structure in, on, or over preserve necessary for present and future enjoyment sovereignty lands, which is used by the public or it in an essentially natural condition.
primarily for fishing, swimming, or viewing the (30) "Rescue management agreement" means
preserve. A pier shall not. include a dock. a contractual agreement between the board and one

(R. 3/87)
V.9, p. 692-2S FLORIDA AQUATIC PRESERVES 18-20.004

or more parties which ddoes not create an interest in water and where the use of the water or sovereignty
real property but merely authorizes conduct of lands is an integral pan of the airway.
certain management activities on lands held by the Specific Authortiy 258.43 (1) FS Law Implemented
luxnard. 258.37, 258.43 (1) FS. History - New 2.25-81 Amendent
(31)"Resource Protection Area (RPA) I" 8-7-85. Formerly 16Q-20.03. Transferred from
Areas within the aquatic preserves which have
resources of the highest quarlity and condition for 18-20.004 Management Policies, Standards
that area. These resources may include, but are not and Criteria. The ollowing management policies.
limited in corals; marine grassbeds; mangrove standards and criteria are supplemental to Chapter
swamps; salt-water marsh; oyster bars; 18-21, Florida Administrative Code (Sovereignty
archaeological and historical sites; endangered or Submerged Lands Management) and shall be
threatened species habitat; and, colonial water bird utilized in determining whether to approve,
nestin sites. approve with conditions or modifications or deny all
(32) "Resource Portection Area 2" - Areas requests for activities on sovereignth lands in
within the aquatic preserves which are in transition aquatic preserves.
with either declining resource protection area 1 (1) GENERAL PROPRIETARY
resources or new pioneering resources within (a) In determining whether to approvee or deny
resource protection area 3. any request the Board will evaluate each on a
(33) "Resource Protection Area 3" - Areas case-by-case basis and weigh any factors relevant
within the awuatic preserve that are characterized under Chapter 253 and/or 258. Florida Statutes
by the absence of any significant natural resource The Board, acting as Trustee for all state-owned
attributes. lands, reserves the right to approve, modify or reject
(34) "Riparian rights" means those rights any proposal.
incident to lands bordering upon navigable waters, )b) There shall be no further sale, lease or
as recognized by the courts of this state and common transfer of sovereignty lands except when such sale,
law. lease or transfer is in the public interest (see Section
(35) "Sale" means a conveyance of interest in 18-20.004(2) Public Interest Assessmant Criteria).
lands, by the board, for consideration. (c) There shall be no construction of seawalls
(36) "Scientific values" means the preservation waterward of the mean or ordinary high water line,
and promotion of certain qualities or features which or filling waterward of the mean or ordinary high
have scientific significance. water line except in the case of public road and
(37) "Shore protection structure" means a type bridge projects where no reasonable alternative
of coastal construction designed to minimize the rate exits.
of erosion. Coastal construction includes any work (d) There shall, in no case, be any dredging
or activity which is likely to have a material physical waterward of the mean or ordinary high water line
effect on existing coastal conditions or natural shore for the sole or primary purpose of providing fill for
processes. any area landward of the mean or ordinary high
(38) "Sovereignty lands" means those lands water line.
including, but not limited to: tidal lands, island, (c) A lease, easement or consent of use may be
sandbars, shallow banks, and lands waterward of authorized only for the following activities:
the ordinary or mean highwater line, to which the 1. a public navigation project;
State of Florida acquired title on March 3, 1845, by 2. maintenance of an existing navigational
virtue of statehood, and of which it has not since channel;
divested its title interest. For the purposes of this 3. installation or maintenance of approved
rule sovereignty lands shall include all submerged navigatinal aids;
lands within the boundaries of the preserve, title to 4. creastion or maintenance of a
which is held by the board. commerical/industrial dock, pier or a marina;
(39) "Spoil" means materials dredged from 5. creation or maintenance of private docks for
sovereignty lands which are redeposited or reasonable ingress and egress of riparian owners;
discarded by any means, onto either sovereignty 6. minimum dredging for navigation channels
lands or uplands. attendant to docking facilites;
(40) "Transfer" means the act of the board by 7. creation or maintenance of a shore protection
which any interest in lands, including easements, structure;
other than sale or lease, is conveyed. 8. installation or maintenance of oil an gas
(41) "Utility of the preserve" means fitness of transportation facilities;
the preserve for the present and future enjoyment of 9. creation, maintenance, replacement or
its biological, aesthetic and scientific values in an expansion of facilities required for the provision of
essentially natural condition. public utilities; and
(42) "Water dependent activity" means an 10. other activities which are a public neccessity
activity which can only be conducted on, in, over, or or which are neccessary to enhance the quality or
adjacent to water areas because the activity utility of the preserve and which are consistent with
requires direct access to the water body or the act and this chapter.
sovereignty lands for transportation, recreation (1) For activites listed in paragraphs
energy production or transmission, or source of 18-20.004(1)(e)1.-10 above, the activity shall be

(R. 3/87)
18-20.004 INTERNAL IMPROVEMENT TRUST FUND V. 9, P. 692-2T

designed so that the structure or structures to be 2. provide boating and marina services (repair,
built in, on or over sovereignty lands are limited to pumpout, etc.);
structures necessary to conduct water dependent 3 improve and enhance public health, safety,
activities. welfare, and law enforcement;
(g) For activities listed in paragraphs 4. improved public land management;
18-20.004(1)(e)7., 8. 9. and 10. above, it must be 5. improve and enhance public navigation

demonstrated that no other reasonable alternative 6. improve and enhance water quality;
exists which would allow the proposed activity to be 7. enhancement/restoration of natural habitat
constructed or undertaken outside the preserve. and functions; and
(h) The use of state-owned lands for the purpose 8. improve/protect
of providing private or public road access to islands endangered /threatened/unique species.
where such access did not previously exist shall be (e) COSTS:
prohibited. The use of state-owned lands for the 1. reduced /degraded water quality;
purpose of providing private or public water supply 2. reduced/degraded natural habitat and
to islands where such water supply did not function;
previously exist shall be prohibited. 3. destruction, harm or harassment of
(i) Except for public navigation projects and endangered or threatened species and habitat,
maintenance dredging for existing channels and 4. preemption of public use,
basins, any areas dredged to improve or create 5. increasing navigational hazards and
navigational access, shall be incorporated into the congestion;
preempted area (if any required lease or be subject to 6. reduced/degraded aesthetics; and
the payment of a negotiated private casement fee. 7. adverse cumulative impacts.
(j) Private residential multi-slip docking (d) EXAMPLES OF SPECIFIC BENEFITS:
facilities shall require a lease. 1. donation or land, conservation casements,
(k) Aquacuiture and beach renourishment restrictive covenants or other title interests in or
activities which comply with the standards of this contiguous to the aquatic preserve which will
rule chapter and Chapter 18-21, Florida protect or enhance the aquatic preserve;
Administrative Code, may be approved by the 2. providing access or facilities for public land
board, but only subsequent to a formal Finding or management activities;
compatibility with the purposes of Chapter 258. 3. providing public access easements and/or
Florida Statutes, and this rule chapter. facilities, such as beach access, boat ramps, etc.;
(1) Other uses of the preserve, or human activity 4. restoration/enhancement of altered habitat or
within the preserve, although not originally natural functions, such as conversion of vertical
Contemplated, may be approved by the board, but bulkheads to riprap and/or vegetation for shoreline
only subsequent to a formal finding or compatibility stabilization or re-establishment of shoreline or
with the purposes or Chapter 258, Florida Statutes, submerged vegetation;
And this rule chapter. 5. improving fishery habitat through the
(2) PUBLIC INTEREST ASSESSMENT establishment of artifial reefs or other such
CRITERIA projects, where appropriate;
In evaluating requests for the sale, lease or 6. providing sewage pumpout facilities where
transfer of interest, a balancing test will be utilized normally not rrequired, in particular, facilities open
to determine whether the social, economic and/or to the general public,
environmental benefits clearly exceed the costs. 7. improvements to water quality such as
(a) GENERAL BENEFIT/COST removal of toxic sediments, increased flushing and
CRITERIA: circulation, etc.;
1. any benefits that are balanced against the 8. providing upland dry storage as an alternative
costs of a particular project shall be related to the to wetslip; and
affected aquatic preserve; 9. marking navigation channels to avoid
2. in evaluating the benefits and costs of each disruption of shallow water habitats.
request, specific consideration and weight shall be (3) RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
given to the quality and nature of the specific (a) All proposed activities in aquatic preserves
aquatic preserve. Projects in the less developed, having management plans adopted by the Board
more pristine aquatic preserves such as must demonstrate that such activities are consistent
Apalachicola Bay shall be subject to a higher with the management plan.
standard than the more developed urban aquatic (b) No drilling of oil, gas or other such wells
preserves such as Boca Ciega Bay; and, shall be allowed.
3. for projects in aquatic preserves with adopted (c) Utility cables, pipes and other such
management plans, consistency with the structures shall be Constructed and located in a
management plan will be weighed heavily when manner that will cause minimal disturbance to
determining whether the pproject is in the pubiic submerged land resources such as oyster bars and
interest. submerged grass beds and do not interfere with
(b) BENEFIT CATEGORIES: traditional public uses.
1. public access (public boat ramps, boatslips, (d) Spoil disposal within the preserves shall be
etc.); strongly discouraged and may be approved only

(R. 9/88)

V. 9, p. 692-2U FLORIDA AQUATIC PRESERVES 18-20.004

structures shall be constructed and located in a 3. the dock will extend out from the shoreline no
manner that will cause minimal disturbance to further than to a maximum depth of minus four
submerged land resources such as oyster bars and 4. feet (mean low water),
submerged grass beds and do not interfere with A. when the water depth is minus four 4) feet
traditional public, uses. (mean low water) at an existing bulkhead the
(d) Spoil disposal within the preserves shall be maximum dock length from the bulkhead shall be
strongly discouraged and may be approved only 25 feet, susubject to modifications accommodating
where the applicant has demonstrated that there is shoreline vegetation overhang;
no other reasonable alternative and that activity 5. wave break devices, when necessary, shall be
may be beneficial on, or at a minimum, not harmful designed to allow for maximum water circulation
to the quality and utility of the preserve. and shall be built in such a manner as to be part or
(4) RIPARIAN RIGHTS the dock structure;
(a) None of the provisions or this rule shall be 6. terminal platform size shall be no more than
implemented in a manner that would unreasonably 160 square feet; and
infringe upon the traditional, common law and 7. dredging to obtain navigable water depths in
statutory riparian rights of upland riparian conjunction with private residential, single dock
property owners adadjacent to sovereignty lands. applications is strongly discouraged.
(b) The evaluation and determination of the (c) Private residential muiti-slip docks shall
reasonable riparian rights or ingress and egress for conform to the following specific design standards
private, residential multi-slip docks shall be based and criteria:
upon the number of linear feet of riparian shoreline. 1. the area of sovereignty, submerged land
(c) For the purposes of this rule, a private, preempted by the docking facility shall not exceed
residential, single docking facility which meets all the square footage amounting to ten times the
the requirements or Rule 18-20.004(5) shall be riparian waterfront footage of the affected
deemed to meet the public interest requirements or waterbody of the applicant, or the square footage
Rule 18-20.004(l)(b), Florida Administrative attendant to providing a single dock in accordance
Code. However. the applicants for such docking with the criteria for private residential single docks,
facilities must apply for such consent and must meet whichever is greater. A conservation casement or
all or the requirements and standards of this rule other such use restriction acceptable to the Board
chapter. must be placed on the riparian shoreline, used for
(5) STANDARDS AND CRITERIA FOR the calculation of the 10:1 threshold. to conserve and
DOCKING FACILITIES protect shoreline resources and subordinate/waive
(2) All docking facilities, whether for 2 single or any further riparian rights or ingress and egress for
multi-slip residential or commerical, shall be additional docking facilities;
subject to the following standards and criteria: 2. docking facilities and access channels shall be
1. no dock shall extend waterward or the mean prohibited in Resource Protection Area I or 2,
or ordinary high water line more than 500 feet or 20 except as allowed pursuant to Section
percent or the width or the waterbody at that 258.42(3)(e) I., Florida Statutes, while dredging in
particular location whichever is less; Resource Protection Area 3 shall be strongly
2. certain docks may fall within areas of special discouraged;
or unique importance. These areas may be or 3. docking facilities shall only be approved in
significant biological, scientific, historic and/or locations having adequate existing water depths in
aesthetic value and require special management the boat mooring, turning basin, access channels,
considerations. Modifications may be mart and other such areas which will accommodate the
restrictive than the normally accepted criteria. Such proposed boat use in order to insure that a minimum
modifications shall be determined on a case-by-case of one foot clearance is provided between the deepest
analysis and may include, but shall not be limited to draft of a vessel, and the bottom at mean low water;
changes in location, configuration, length, width 4. main access docks and connecting or cross
and height; walks shall not exceed six (6) feet in width;
3.the number, lengths, drafts and types or 5. terminal platforms shall not exceed eight (8)
vessels allowed to utilize the proposed facility may feet in width;
also be stipulated; and 6. Finger piers shall not exceed three (3) feet in
A. where local governments have more stringent width and 25 feet in length;
standards and criteria for docking facilities, the 7. pilings may be utilized as required to provide
more stringent standards for the protection and adequate mooring capabilities; and
enhancement or the aquatic preserve shall prevail. 8. the following provisions or Rule
(b) Private residential single docks shall 18-20.004(5)(d) shall also apply to private
conform to the following specific design standards residential multi-slip docks.
and criteria: (d) Commercial, industrial and other revenue
1. an), main access dock shall be limited in a generating/income related docking facilities shall
maximum width of four (4) feet; conform to the following specificesign standards
2. the dock decking design and construction will and criteria:
insure maximum light penetration with full 1. docking facilities shall only be located in or
consideration or safe,), and practicality; near areas with good circulation, flushing and
adequate water depths;

(R. 9/38)
18-20.006 INTERNAL IMPROVEMENT TRUST FUND V. 9 p. 692-2V

2. docking facilities and access channels shall be Coockroach Bay April 21, 1987
September 6, 1983
prohibited in Resource Protection Area I or 2, Estero Bay
except as allowed pursuant to Sections Charlotte Harbor
258.42(3)(e), Florida Statutes; while dredging in (Cape Haze.
Resource Protection Area 3 shall be strongly Gasparilla
discouraged; Sound-Charlotte
3. the docking facilities shall not be located in Harbor, Matlacha
Resource Protection Area I or 2; however. main Pass and Pine Island
access docks may be allowed to pass through Sound) May 18, 1983
Resource Protection Area I or 2, that are located Indian River-Malabar
along the shoreline to reach an acceptable Resource to Vero Beach January 21, 1986
Protection Area 3, provided that such crossing will Indian River Lagoon
generate minimal environmental impact; (Vero Beach to Fort
4. beginning July 1, 1986 new docking facilities Pierce and Jensen
may obtain a lease only where the local governments Beach to Jupiter
have an adopted marina plan and/or policies Inlet) January 22, 1985
dealing with the siting or commercial /industrial Loxahatchee
and private, residential multi-slip docking facilities River-Lake Worth
in their local government comprehensive plan; Creek June 12, 1984
5. the siting of the docking facilities shall also Nassau River St.
take into account the access of the boat traffic to Johns River Marshes
avoid marine grassbeds or other aquatic resources in and Fort Clinch
the surrounding areas; State Park April 22, 1986
6.the siting of new facilities within the preserve North Fork of the St.
shall be secondary to the expansions or existing Lucie River May 22, 1984
facilities within the preserve when such expansion SL. Joseph Bay June 2, 1987
is consistent with the other standards; St. Martins Marsh September 9, 1987
7. the location of new facilities and expansion or Terra Ceia April 21, 1987
existing facilities shall consider the use or upland Wekive River August 25, 1987
dry storage as an alternative to multiple wet-slip Specific Authority258.43(1) FS Law implemented
docking; 258.41, 258-42, 258.43(l), 258.44 FS. History-New
8. marina siting will be coordinated with local 2-25-81, Amended 8-7-85, Formerly 16Q-20.004,
governments to insure consistency with all local Transferred from 16Q-20.004, Amended
plans and ordinances; 18-20.005 User, Sales, Leases, or Transfer of
9. marinas shall not be sited within state Interests in Lands, or Materials, Held by the
designated manatee sanctuaries; and Board.
10. in any areas with known manatee Specific Authority 258-43(1) FS. Law Implemented concentrations, manatee warning/notice and/or 253.02, 253.12. 238.42 FS. History-New 2-25-81,
speed limit signs shall be erected at the marina Repealed 8-7-85. Formerly 16Q-20.O5 Transferred from
and/or ingress and egress channels, according to 16Q.20-005.
Florida Marine Patrol specifications. 18-20.006 Cumulative Impacts. In evaluating
(c) Exceptions to the standards and criteria applications for activities within the preserves or
listed in Rule 18-20.004(5), Florida Administrative which may impact the preserves, the department
Code, may be considered, but only upon recognizes, while a particular alteration of the
demonstration by the applicant that such exceptions
preserve may constitute 2 minor change, the
are necessary to insure reasonable riparian ingress cumulative effect of numerous such changes often
and egress. results in major impairments to the resource of the
(6) MANAGEMENT AGREEMENTS preserve. Therefore, the department shall evaluate
The board may enter into management a particular site for which the activity is proposed
agreements with local agencies for the with the recognition that the activity may, in
administration and enforcement of standards and conjunction with other activities adversely affect the
criteria for private residential single docks. preserve which is part of a complete and interrelated
(7) In addition to the policies, standards and system. The impact of a proposed activity shall be
criteria delineated in subsections (1) through (6), considered in light of its cumulative impact on the
the provisions or the following management plans preserve's natural system. The department shall
apply to specific aquatic preserves and are include as a part or its evaluation of an activity:
incorporated herein by reference. Where regulatory (1) The number and extent of similar human
criteria in 18-20, F. A. C., may differ with specific actions within the preserve which have previously
policies in the management plans listed herein, the
general rule criteria shall prevail. affected or are likely to affect the preserve, whether
considered by the department under its current
Date Adopted authority or which existed prior to or since the
Alligator Harbor September 23, 1986 enactment or the Act; and
Banana River September 17, 1985 (2) The similar activities within the preserve

(R. 9/88)
V. 9, p. 692-2W FLORMA AQUATIC PRESERVES 18-20.012

which art currently under consideration by the aquatic preserve system subject to confirmation by
department; and the legislature.
(3) Direct and indirect effects upon the preserve (2) The board may, after public notice and
and adjacent ppreserves, if applicable, which may public hearing in the county or counties in which the
reasonably be expected to rsult from the activity; proposed expanded or new preserves is to be located,
and adopt a resolution formally setting aside such areas
(4) The extent in which the activity is consistent to be included in the system.
with management plans for the preserve, when (3) The resolution setting aside an aquatic
developed; and preserve area shall include:
(5) The extent to which the activity is (a) A legal description of the area to be included.
permissible within the preserve in accordance with A map depicting the legal description shall also be
comprehensive plans adopted by affected local attached.
governments, pursuant to section 163.3161,F.S. (b) The designation or the type or aquatic
and other applicable plans adopted by local, state, preserve.
and federal governmental agencies; (c) A general statement or what is sought to be
(6) The extent to which the loss of beneficial preserved.
hydrologic and biologic functions would adversely (d) A statement that the area established as a
impact the quality or utility of the preserve; and preserve shall be subject to the management criteria
(7) The extent to which mitigation measures and directives of this chapter.
may compensate for adverse impacts. (e) A directive to develop a natural resource
Specific Authority 258.43(1) FS Law Implemented inventory and a management plan for the area being
258.36, 258.43, 285.44 FS History-New 2-25-81. established as an aquatic preserve.
Formerly 16Q-20-06. Transferred from 16Q-20-0006. (4) Within 30 days of the designation and
18-20.007 Protection or Riparian Rights. establishment of an aquatic preserve the board
Specific Authority 285.43(1) FS Law Implemented shall record in the public records of the county or
238.123. 238.124(8). 258.44 FS. History-New 2-25-81 counties in which the preserve is located a legal
Repealed 8-7-85. Formerly 16Q-20-07. Transferred from description of the preserve.
16Q.20.007. Specific Authority 258.43(1) FS Law Implemented
258.41 FS History-New 2-25-81, Formerly 16Q-20-20.09.
18-20.008 Inclusion of Lands, Title to Which Transferred from 16Q.20.009.
Is Not Vested in the Board, in a Preserve.
(1) Lands and water bottoms which art within 18-20.010 Exchange of Lands. The board in its
designated aquatic preserve boundaries, or adjacent discretion may exchange lands for the benefit of the
there to and which are owned by other governmental preserve, provided that:
agencies, may be included in an aquatic preserve (1) In no case shall an exchange result in any
upon specific authorization for inclusion by an land or water area being withdrawn from the
appropriate instrument in writing executed by the Preserve; and
agency. (2) Exchanges shall be in the public interest and
(2) Lands and water bottoms which are within shall maintain or enhance the quality or utility of
designated aquatic preserve boundaries or adjacent the Preserve
therein, and which are in private owner-ship, may be Specific Authority 258.43(1) FS Law Implemented
258.41(5), 258.42(1) FS History-New 2-25-81
included in an aquatic preserve upon specific
authorization for inclusion by an appropriate Formerly 16A-20-10, Transferred from 16Q-20-010.
instrument in writing executed by the owner, 18-20.011 Gift of Lands. The board in its
(3) The appropriate instrument shall be either a discretion may accept any gifts or lands or interests
dedication in perpetuity, or a lease. Such lease shall in lands within or contiguous in the preserve to
contain the following conditions: maintain or enhance the quality and utility of the
(a) The term of the lease shall be for a minimum preserve.
period of ten years. Specific Authority 258.43(l) FS. Law Implemented
(b) The board shall have the power and duty to 238 42(5) FS. History-New , 2-25-81, Formerly
enforce the provisions of each lease agreement, and 16Q-20.11. Transferred Own 16Q-20.011.
shall additionally have the power to terminate any 18-20.012 Protection of Indigenous Life
lease if the termination is in the best interest of the Forms. The taking or indigenous life forms for sale
aquatic preserve system, and shall have the power to or commercial use is prohibited, except that this
include such lands in any agreement for prohibition shall not extend to the commercial
management of such lands. taking of fin Fish. crustacea or mollusks, except as
(C) The board shall pay no more than $1 per year
for any such least. prohibited under applicable laws, rules nr
regulations. Members or the public may exercise
Specific Authority 258.43(1) FS Law Implemented
258.40, 258.41 FS History-New 2-25-81 Formerly their, rights to fish so long as not contrary to other
16Q-20-08 Transferred from 16Q-20-008 statutory and regulatory provisions controlling such
activities.
18-20.009 Establishment or Expansion of Specific Authority 258.43(1) FS Law Implemented
Aquatic Preserves. 258.43(1) FS History-New 2-25-81 Formerly
(1) The board may expand existing preserves or 16Q-20-12 Transferred from 16Q-20-012.
establish additional areas to be included in the

(R. 9/88)
18-20-017 INTERNAL IMPROVEMENT TRUST FUND V. 9, p. 692-2X
18-20.013 Development of Resource 18-20.017 Lake Jackson Aquatic Preserve. In
Inventories and Management of Plans for addition to the provisions or Rules 18-20.001
Preserves. through 18-20.016. the following requirements
(1) The board authorizes and directs The division shall also apply to all proposed activities within the
to develop a resource inventory and management Lake Jackson Aquatic Preserve. If any provisions of
plan for each preserve. this Rule are in conflict with any provisions of Rules
(2) The division may Perform the work to 18-20,001 through 18-20.016 or Chapter 73-534.
develop the inventories and plans, or may enter Into Laws of Florida, the stronger provision for the
agreements with other persons to perform the work. protection or enhancement of the aquatic preserve
In either case, all work performed shall be subject to, shall prevail.
board approval. (1) No further sale, transfer or lease of
Specific Authority 258.43(1) FS Law Implemented sovereignty lands in the preserve shall be approved
253.03(7), 253.03(8) FS History-New 2-25-81, or consummated by the Board, except upon a
Amended 8-7-85, Formerly 16Q-20-13 Transferred from showing of extreme hardship on the part of the
16Q-20-013. applicant or when the board shall determine such
18-20.014 Enforcement. The rules shall be sale. transfer or lease to be in the public interest.
enforced as provided in Section 258.46. (2) No further dredging or Filling of sovereignty
Specific Authority 258.43(1) FS Law Implemented lands of the preserve shall be approved or tolerated
258.46 FS History-New 2-25-81 Formerly 16Q-20-14 by the Board or Trustees except:
Transferred from 16Q-20-014. (a) Such minimum dredging and spoiling as may
18-20-015 Application Form. be authorized for public navigation projects or for
Specific Authority 253.43(1) FS Law Implemented preservation of the lake according to the expressed
258.43 FS History-New 2-25-81 Repealed 6-7-85 intent or Chapter 73-534, Laws of Florida; and
Formerly 16Q-20-15. Transferred from 16Q-20-015. (b) Such other alteration of physical conditions
as may be necessary to enhance the quality or utility
18-20.016 Coordination with Other of the preserve.
Governmental Agencies. Where a Department or (3) There shall be no drilling nr wells,
Environmental Regulation Permit is required for excavation for shell or minerals, and no erection or
activities on sovereignty lands the department will structures (other than docks), within the preserve,
coordinate with the Department of Environmental unless such activity is associated with activity
Regulation to obtain a copy or the joint Department authorized by Chapter 73-534, Laws of Florida.
or Army/Florid Department or Environmental (4) The Board shall not approve the relocations
Regulation ppermit application and the biological or bulkhead lines within the preserve.
survey. The information contained in the joint (5) Notwithstanding other provisions of this act,
permit application and biological assessment shall the board may, respecting lands lying within the
be considered by the department in preparing its Lake Jackson basin:
Staff recommendations to the board. The board may (a) Enter into agreements for and establish lines
also consider the reports of other government delineating sovereignty and privately owned lands;
agencies that have related management or (b) Enter into agreements for the exchange and
permitting responsibilities regarding the proposed exchange sovereignty lands for privately owned
activity. lands;
Specific Authority 253.43(1) FS Law Implemented
258.43 FS History-New 2-25-81. Formerly 16Q-20-16 (c) Accept gifts or land within or contiguous to
Transferred from 16Q-20.016. the preserve.
Specific Authority 258.39(26) FS Law Implemented
258.39(26), 258.43 FS History-New 8-7-85. Formerly
16Q-20.017, Transferred from 16Q-20,017.

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