[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



                                                1









             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.





                                            2







             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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                                       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

                                                             L3                   17                                                                PREPARED BY F.J. 14"181111
                                                                                                                                                    DIVISION OF LAND UMOMMIENT
                                                 n           24         Is         to        21                                                     OCTOKR, 1970

                                                                                                                                                    390
                                              30A               It                                                                                                   1           31
                                         rr     as           25 Lf 11   30          29         28                                  25                    as          128        27
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                            KACH
                                                             36
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                         EDKVIATER IIIULF SEACH
                                                                                                                                    PA AMA       GIT
                                  LOW IlEACH 144MORT
                                                                                T 4 3                                                                   30A

                                         PANAMA VTY KAGH                           5
                                                                                3112A                                                     30



                                                                                                         10                                                                        22



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                                                                                                                                                               44                  3
                                           CORPORATE LIMITS
                            011 el=        MILITARY NIESV. 30Y.
                            MOSSUM         STATE PARK                    G%
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                                           RAILROAD

                                       mum PAVED ROAO-NIGH TYPE

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

                                           U-1, 016"MAY

                                     . ...... STATE NIONWAY

                                           INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY

                                           AQUATIC PRESERVE


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                                                                       AACUSONVILLE
                                                                                                                                                                       Go




                                                                                                                                           MAP OF
                                                                                                              ST. ANDREWS STATE PARK AOUATIC PRESERVE
                                                                                                                              AOUATIC PRESERVE G-4)
                                                                               0                                                  DAY COUNTY. FLORIDA
                                                                                                                                           CREATED BY
                                                                                                                                                                           /-1"' 0




























                                                                                                                                 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



                                                 9









            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.




                                          10











               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;


                                           12









                 (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


                                              13









            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.









































                                          14












                                        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


                                             15









            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).






                                           16












              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



                                             17









             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,



                                            18




















                                                           V.- NN








                                                                                         m fil

                               0-


































                                                                                                                   W
                                                                                                     cn









                                                      43




                  FIGURE 3.    Vegetation Map



                                                                          19




























































































                                                              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



                                             21









            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


                                           22









               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.





                                              23









            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


                                           24









              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).



                                             25









            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'.



                                          26









              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





                                             27










            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.











                                           28
 











              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


                                            29









            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.




































                                          30



















                                                 31 Z


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                                                                   001v





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                                                                                                                              NNNN



















                                                                                              r4s
                                                                                              T55                              tA






                                                         (,VL,F OFfAEVMO


                                       .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


                                               33









            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



                                          34









                 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


                                             35









             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.




                                              36










              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@




                                             37









             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.


                                             38









                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.


                                            39









                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


                                             40









               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.





                                                41









               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
               ï¿½tate-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).



                                               42









              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).


                                            43








                                 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.










































                                         44



















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                073
                                                                                                                 OW2-
                        SFI/MFI   Single FaMily/MUlti-Family
                L. J1.            Primary Protection Area                                             C1 C4

                        PR1       Public Recreation
                                  Primary Protection Area

                        PR2       Public Recreation
                                  Secondary Protection Area

                        PI        Preservation
                                  Primary Protection Area                                               OW 2-

                        owl       Open Water
                                  Primary Protection Area

                        OW2       Open Water
                                  Secondary Protection Area
                                                                                                                       W 2-



























































































                                                             46












                                          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.




                                              47












            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.

















                                          48












                                        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.


                                             49











            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.




                                           50









              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.




                                             51









            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.





                                           52









              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.


                                             53









            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


                                           54









              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


                                               55









                               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.




                                           56













                                          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.



                                               57










            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


                                           58









                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


                                                 59









            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.




                                          60









              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


                                            61









            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.




                                          62










              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.
























                                            63






                                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".

































































































                                                              66












                                       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.






















                                            67




































































































                                                             68












                                            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

























                                                69



























































































                                                             70












                                        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


                                            71









            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.









                                          72












                                         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.





                                               73



























































































                                                             74







                                                                                    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

                                                                                               75
 






                               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.


                                                                                         76
 







                                                                                                                                           (R. 3/87)
                                  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.



                                                                                              77
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                               (R. 3/87)
                                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




                                                                                                 78
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                                                                                                                                                       (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




                                                                                         80
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																							(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




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                                                                                                                                                     (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



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                                     (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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