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



 ON.






                                            COUPON BIGHT


                             AQUATIC PRESERVE                        MANAGEMENT PLAN

















                                                               1990

               QH
               90.75
               16                        DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
               C68
               1992
















                             DRAFT MANAGEMENT PLAN


                                     FOR


                         COUPON BIGHT AQUATIC PRESERVE


                                SEPTEMBER 1990














                               MR. TOM GARDNER


                              Executive Director


                    Florida Department of Natural Resources

                            Division of State Lands


                    Bureau of Submerged Lands and Preserves

















    C-


        Funds for this project were provided by the Department of
        Environmental Regulation, Office 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 CHAPTER CONTENTS



          Chapter                                                      Page


                1.  INTRODUCTION                                          1



               II.  MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY
                    A.  Statutory Authority                               7
                    B.  Administrative Rules
                        Governing Aquatic Preserves                       7
                    C.  Relationship to Other Plans    and Programs     12
                    D.  Other Management Authorities                    13



              III,  RESOURCE DESCRIPTION
                    A.  Location and Boundaries                         17
                    B.  Geology                                         17
                    C.  Physiography                                    ig
                    D.  Hydrology                                       22
                    E.  Water Quality                                   24
                    F.  Climate                                         25
                    G.  Biological Communities
                          1. Mangrove/Saltmarsh                         26
                          2. Marine Grassbeds                           45
                          3. Beach/Berm                                 55
                          4. Coral Patch Reefs                          62
                          5. Hardbottom                                 77
                    H. Designated Species                               78
                    I. Regional Land Use,    Development
                        and Associated Impacts
                          1. Regional Land Use and Development          93
                          2. Local Land Use and Development             94
                          3. Associated Impacts                        101


               IV.  MANAGEMENT AREAS
                    A.  Introduction                                   103
                    B.  Management Area classifications                103
                    C.  Minimum Criteria for Allowable Uses            106
                    D.  Resource Management Areas
                        (Boundary, Resource Description,
                         Allowable Uses and Criteria)                  112


                V.  SITE SPECIFIC MANAGEMENT ISSUES
                    A. Management Issues and Special Needs             127
                    B. Policy Guidelines                               132












               VI.  MANAGEMENT ACTION PLAN                            135



              VII.  MANAGEMENT COORDINATION NETWORK
                    A.   Federal Agencies                             153
                    B.   State Agencies                               155
                    C.   Regional Agencies                            159
                    D.   Local Governments/Agencies                   160
                    E.   Other Entities



             VIII. STAFFING AND FISCAL NEEDS                          165



               IX. RESOURCE AND ACTIVITY MONITORING PROGRAM           169



                    REFERENCES                                        171












                                 LIST OF FIGURES AND TABLES




                Figure  1.   Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve Boundary         .... 5
                Figure  2.   Florida Aquatic Preserves       .................   7
                Figure  3.   Aquatic Preserve Resource Maps        ............  27
                Figure. 4.   Adjacent Land Use Designations        ............  95
                Figure  5.   Management Area Maps      ......................    125



                Table   1.   Partial List of Mangrove/Saltmarsh Flora ..         30
                Table   2.   Partial List of Non-vascular Flora        ........  34
                Table   3.   Monroe County Fish Landings       ...............   38
                Table   4.   Partial  List  of Mangrove/Saltmarsh Fauna ..       39
                Table   5.   Partial  List  of Marine Grassbed Fauna       ..... 50
                Table   6.   Partial  List  of Beach/Berm Flora      ..........  57
                Table   7.   Partial  List  of Beach/Berm Fauna      ..........  60
                Table   8.   Partial  List  of Patch Reef Fauna      ..........  72
                Table   9.   Partial  List  of Protected Flora      ...........  89
                Table  10.   Partial  List  of Protected Fauna      ...........  91
                Table  11.   Management Coordination Network        ...........  162
                Table  12.   Anticipated Two-year Budget       ...............   167












                                 LIST OF APPENDICES




              Appendix A. Relevant Legislation  .................... 185
                           Chapter 18-20, F.A.C.





































         Copies of the legal description of the Coupon Bight Aquatic
         Preservel as well as copies of Chapter 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



              Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve is located in the lower half of
              the Florida Keys in Monroe County.       The aquatic preserve
              includes approximately 6000 acres of submerged lands in Coupon
              Bight and the Atlantic ocean in a narrow band parallel to the
              Newfound Harbor Keys south of Big Pine Key (Figure 1). There
              are currently 42 aquatic preserves throughout the state
              (Figure 2). Coupon Bight is one of three that are located in
              the Key's. (Lignumivitae Key Aquatic Preserve lies in the
              upper Keys and the Card Sound portion of Biscayne Bay Aquatic
              Preserve is located between north Key Largo and the Florida
              mainland.)   Coupon Bight is unique within the state system
              because it encompasses living coral reef formations.

              This management plan will also address several upland habitats
              contained within the Coupon Bight Buffer Project. To date, 99
              acres of transitional wetlands and tropical hardwood hammock
              uplands have been purchased by          the Conservation and
              Recreational Lands (CARL) Trust Fund.   Purchase of these lands
              was   deemed   necessary   because   of   their    environmental
              sensitivity, proximity to the aquatic preserve and to protect
              several species of endangered and       threatened plants and
              animals.

              The role of the Aquatic Preserve Program is to manage and
              protect the natural resources within the boundaries of a
              preserve through staff programs and    coordination with other
              state and federal resource management  programs. An integrated
              management plan encompassing all the legislatively delegated
              resource management and protection laws is essential in
              preserving the resource values of the preserve.            Local
              government will also be encouraged to   incorporate this plan's
              policy directives into the local government comprehensive
              plan.

              The rich mosaic of resource types within Coupon Bight Aquatic
              Preserve and the Buffer area contribute to the biological
              diversity and productivity of marine systems and enhance man's
              enjoyment of the area. The aquatic preserve was designated by
              the Florida Legislature in 1969 to conserve and protect these
              values. This plan is intended to be used as the primary tool
              for management of the preserve to attain these goals. It is
              designed to be site-specific in addressing resource management
              issues relative to lands within the preserve.

              The process of developing this management plan involved
              compiling an inventory of resource information, coordinating
              with other plans that have been developed for the area and
              state, and identifying resource and management issues related


                                             1









            to present and future uses of the preserve and adjacent
            uplands.    various management areas will be identified or
            delineated.   Supporting goals, objectives and policies were
            developed to be consistent with statutory authority and the
            overall intent of the Aquatic Preserve Program for helping
            ensure that the resources of Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve
            will remain for future generations to enjoy.      As additional
            resource information becomes available or as laws are
            implemented or revised, changes may have to be made to the
            plan to reflect those events.

            The Governor and Cabinet, sitting as the Board of Trustees of
            the Internal Improvement Trust Fund has been legislatively
            delegated statutory authority (Section 253.03, F.S.) to
            exercise proprietary control over state-owned lands and may
            assign management responsibilities for those lands to
            appropriate   governmental    agencies.       Development   and
            implementation of this management plan will be through the
            administrative support and the field staff of the Department
            of Natural Resources (DNR), Division of State Lands, Bureau
            of Submerged Lands and Preserves.

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

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

            Chapter III provides a description of the aquatic preserve and
            details the physical, biological and cultural components of
            the preserve. It also contains an overview of regional and
            local land use and associated impacts.

            Chapter IV delineates the management areas within the
            preserve. These areas are defined by taking into account the
            quantity and the quality of the biological resources in
            conjunction with the use of the adjacent lands.

            Chapter V presents specific needs and issues that are unique
            to the preserve that are not addressed through statute or
            code.

            Chapter VI outlines the program's goals, objectives, and    the
            tasks required to fulfill those needs within the preserve   for
            resource management, resource protection, research,         and
            environmental education.

            Chapter'VII identifies local, regional, state, and federal
            agencies, their authorities and programs, and how they relate
            and assist in protection and management of the preserve. It
            also identifies non-governmental organizations, interest
            groups, and individuals that have interests in or may assist
            in management objectives.


                                           2









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

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














































                                          3











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                                                                   LEGEND

                                                                   PAVED ROAD-HIGH TYPE

                                 LOCATION                          US NUMBERED HIGIWAY

                                                                   &AIUATIC PRESERVE                        MAP OF
                  K.MOLA                                                                  COUPON BIGHT AQUATIC PRESERVE
                                                                                                (AQUATIC PRESERVE NO.25)
                                                                                                   MONROE COUNTY. FLORIDA
                                                                                                           CREATED BY
                                                                                                   STATE OF FLORIDA. BOARD OF
                                                                                         TRUSTEES OF THE INTERNAL IMPROVEMENT TRUST FUND
                                                                                                        OCTOBER 21, 1969


                                                                                                        PREPARED BY CA.KNOX
                                                                                                      BUREAU OF HISTORICAL AND
                                                                                                  ENVIRONMENTAL LAND MANAGEMENT
                                                                                                          JANUARY.19"

                                      tl w.T



            FIGURE I




                                                                     5

















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                                       PRESERVES




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                 AQUATIC PRESERVES ARE ESTABLISHED
                   13Y THE FLORIDA LEGISLATURE AND
                      INCLUDE ONLY STATE OWNED                                                                                v
                    SOVEREIGNTY SUBMERGED LANDS.
                THE GOVERNOR AND CABINET SITTING                                                                                                     r-.-.
                    AS TRUSTEES OF THE INTERNAL
                    IMPROVEMENT TRUST FUND ARE                                                                                    -K
                     MANAGERS OF THESE AREAS.

                    FOR MORE INFORMATION REGARDING
                      AQUATIC PRESERVES CONTACT:

                DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
                 D141SION OF STATE LANDS

                    BUREAU OF AQUATIC PRESERVES                                                                                                       KIT


                       3900 COMMONWEALTH BLVD
                       TALLAHASSEE,FLORIDA 32303
                          CREATID IN CAMOL A. K@




              FIGURE 2














                                                                                               7












                                       CHAPTER II


                                 MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY



             A.  STATUTORY AUTHORITY

             The primary statutory authorities available to the staff for
             the management of aquatic preserves are found in Chapters 253
             and 258F Florida Statute (F.S.) .    In particular, Sections
             258.35-258.24 enacted in 1975 by the Florida Legislature
             represent the Florida Aquatic Preserves Act. These statutes
             set forth a standardized management criteria for all
             designated aquatic preserves and represent the primary laws
             governing the use of sovereignty submerged lands.         These
             authorities also clearly establish the proprietary management
             role of the Governor and Cabinet in their capacity as the
             Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund. All
             management responsibilities assig@ed to the Trustees may be
             fulfilled directly by the Governor and Cabinet or indirectly
             via staff through delegations of authority, management
             agreements, or other legal mechanisms. All references to the
             "Board" or the "Trustees" in this plan potentially include
             staff in addition' to the Governor and Cabinet themselves.

             Aquatic Preserve staff may be designated to review requests
             for use of state-owned lands and provide comments to the Board
             of Trustees, via the Division of State Lands and Department of
             Natural Resources administrative staff, relevant to the
             environmental impacts of a proposed use. The staff review is
             conducted within the confines of Section 258.:42, F.S., and in
             conjunction with other governmental bodies, comments and
             recommendations are presented to the Board as an agenda item
             for their deliberations.



             B. ADMINISTRATIVE RULES GOVERNING AQUATIC PRESERVES

             Chapters 18-20 and 18-21, Florida Administrative Code
             (F.A.C.), are two administrative rules directly applicable to
             the DNR's/Trustees' actions regarding uses of lands in aquatic
             preserves and other state-owned submerged lands.

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

             Chapter 18-20, F.A.C., addresses the aquatic preserves and
             derives its authority from Sections 258.35, 258.36, 258.37 and
             258.38, F.S., and is found in Appendix A. The intent of this
             rule is contained in Section 18-20.001, F.A.C., which states:

               11(l) All sovereignty lands within a preserve shall be
                    managed primarily for the maintenance of essentially
                    natural conditions, the propagation of fish and


                                           9









                     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 Section
                     258.392, F.S., and in 18-20.002,          F.A.C., were
                     established for the purpose for being preserved in an
                     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
                          the intent and provisions of. the act and these
                          rules, 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 toward 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:
                          sponges, soft coral, hard corals, submerged
                          grasses, mud flats, estuarine, aquatic and marine
                          reptiles,   game and non-game      fish    species,
                          estuarine, aquatic and marine invertebrates,



                                           10









                          estuarine, aquatic and marine 'mammals, birds,
                          shellfish and mollusks;

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

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


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

             Chapter 18-21, F.A.C., controls activities conducted on state-
             owned submerged lands and is predicated upon the provisions of
             Sections 253.12 and 253.03, F.S.     The stated intent of this
             administrative rules is:

                11(l) 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 the citizens of Florida;

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

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

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


             Chapter  18-21.0041 provides more specific statements regarding
             multi-slip docking facilities in the Florida Keys Marina and
             Dock Siting Policies and criteria. This section of the F.A.C.
             requires consistency and conformity with the "Principles for
             Guiding Development in the Florida Keys Area of Critical State


                                            11









             Concern" designation (Chapters 27F-8, -9, -10, -11, -12, -13,
             and -15, F.A.C.).      In summary, this rule. is intended to
             protect endangered, threatened and species of special concern,
             the Florida Reef Tract, other corals, wetland and submerged
             vegetation, and benthic communities. Additionally, this rule
             requires that facilities be located in areas with, adequate
             tidal flushing and adequate water depths to avoid dredging and
             other bottom disturbance.     More specific criteria require a
             minimum depth of -4 f eet and that depth be adequate in the
             mooring, turning and access channel areas, with greater depth
             requirements for those facilities intended for mooring of
             boats with drafts greater than 3 feet.       Specific structure
             design criteria are also contained with Chapter 18-21.


             C. RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER PLANS AND PROGRAMS

             As mandated in 18-20.001, 3 (a), F.A.C., this plan, as well as
             plans for other aquatic preserves have and are being developed
             as funding is made available. Presently, 14 management plans
             have been approved by the Trustees, which cover 21 of the
             State's 42 aquatic preserves. Former plans were designed to
             be generic in nature, with policies and management guidance
             generally applicable to all aquatic preserves. However, this
             plan and all future plans will be more site-specif ic and
             contain policy guidance and directives applicable to an
             individual preserve.      The former management plans were
             incorporated into rule in 1988. This and future plans will be
             similarly incorporated. As such, these plans carry the same
             authority as do Chapters 18-20 and 18-21, F.A.C.
             The Conceptual State-'Lands Management Plan, adopted on March
             17, 1981, and amended by the Trustees on July 7, 1981 and
             March 15, 1983, contain 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 management direction for the
             Aquatic Preserve Program.

             The State Comprehensive Plan, established by Chapter 187,
             F.S., provides board policy guidance for the development of
             management plans for the statewide system of aquatic
             preserves, Therefore, 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 Local Government Comprehensive Planning Act of 1975
             (Section 163.3163, F.A.C.) (as amended by Chapter 85-55, Laws
             of Florida, to the Local Government Comprehensive Planning and
             Land Development Regulation Act) requires that all.counties in


                                            12









              Florida have a Local Government Comprehensive Plan (LGCP) by
              1990.    Monroe County government is required to provide
              planning for various elements including: housing, physical
              facilities,    land use,     conservation,    and coastal      zone
              protection.    This plan has been developed to be consistent
              with present  conservation and coastal management elements of
              the local government plan and will endeavor to provide
              criteria and standards that will' be used in local plan
              revision. Monroe County's LGCP will be submitted in September
              of 1990.   When the LGCP plan is adopted, applicable policy
              statements will be incorporated into this management plan.


              D. OTHER MANAGEMENT AUTHORITIES

              Other Department of Natural Resources management authorities
              applicable to aquatic preserves include management and
              protection of fisheries and marine mammals as well as beach
              and shore preservation programs outlined in Chapters 370 and
              161, F.S., respectively. Land acquisition programs conducted
              under the Environmentally Endangered Lands (EEL) authorities
              of Chapter 259, F.S., and the Conservation and Recreation
              Lands (CARL) program, authorized by Chapter 253, F.S., will
              enhance management and protection of the natural resources
              within the aquatic   preserves.

              Chapter 403, F.S.,   which is an important adjunct to Chapters
              253 and 258, F.S., governs, in part, the State's regulatory
              programs affecting water quality and biological resources.
              The Department of Environmental Regulation (DER), through a
              permitting and certification process, administers this
              program.   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 land to have approval of
              the proposed use from the Trustees before commencing the
              activity.    An interagency agreement between DNR and DER
              provides an avenue for staff comments on the potential
              environmental impacts of projects in aquatic preserves through
              the DER permitting process.         Additionally, the DER has
              designated    through   administrative     rule,   a   series     of
              waterbodies as Outstanding Florida Waters (OFWs) . The DER has
              adopted stringent use criteria for these OFWs, The inclusion
              of all aquatic preserve waters within this classification
              greatly enhances the protective provisions of Chapter 258,
              F.S. As the designated 1130611 Coastal Zone Management Agency,
              the DER also provides a source of funding matched by federal
              monies for data collection and planning in various areas.
              Funding for this plan was provided, in part, from these
              sources.

              The DER's administrative rules of primary significance to the
              aquatic preserve management program are based upon the
              authorities contained in Chapter 403, F.S.          Chapter 17-3,


                                              13









             F.A.C., addresses water quality standards and establishes the
             OFW category.       Chapter 17-4, F.A.C., addresses permit
             requirements.

             Other opportun  ities f or environmental review and input into
             activities potentially affecting aquatic preserves are
             af forded by the Department of Community Af f    airs (DCA).     The
             DCA is statutorily responsible for administering the
             Development of Regional Impact (DRI) and Area of Critical
             State Concern (ACSC) designation. The DRI program, authorized
             by Section 380.06, F.S., was established by the Legislature to
             provide a review and monitoring procedure for those
             development projects potentially affecting more than one
             county. The Governor and Cabinet designated the Florida Keys
             as an Area of Critical State Concern on April 15, 1975.            A
             prime objective of the designation and regulations (or
             "Principles for Guiding Development" established for the Keys
             '1984)  was   to    strengthen    local   land    use    management
             capabilities. DCA has been working with the local governments
             in a cooperative intergovernmental effort to meet this
             objective. DCA also has the authority to approve or amend the
             local comprehensive growth management plan and implement land
             use regulation within the ACSC.

             The Department of State's Division of Archives, History, and
             Records Management (DAHRM) is legislatively assigned to
             preserve and manage Florida's archaeological and historical
             resources.    DAHRM holds title to the cultural resources
             loca'ted on state-owned lands, including state-owned submerged
             lands, pursuant to Chapter,267, F.S.

             The Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services (HRS) ,
             under their public mandate, administers two programs directly
             affecting the aquatic preserve management program.               The
             regulation of septic tanks is typically administered by the
             county health department.      The arthropod (mosquito) control
             program is implemented through the local Mosquito Control
             District (MCD).       Administration of these programs may
             potentially have significant impacts upon the aquatic
             preserve. Although there is no legislatively created vehicle,
             establishment of close working relationships between the
             aquatic preserve staff and HRS is a necessary element of the
             aquatic preserve management program.

             The   South . Florida Water      Management    District      (SFWMD)
             administers permitting programs for the local potable water
             supply, stormwater discharges, and some dredge and fill
             activities. Stormwater discharges in the area of the aquatic
             preserve may potentially affect certain management objectives.
             Close coordination with SFWMD permitting review is indicated
             when a particular project could pose threats to the quality or
             quantity of water introduced into the preserve.



                                             14









           Additional agencies and organizations that have inte rests or
           regulatory authority within the aquatic preserve or the
           adjacent uplands are listed in Chapter VII (Management
           Implementation Network) of this plan.
















































                                      15












                                       CHAPTER III


                                  RESOURCE DESCRIPTION



             The geology, climate, and hydrology of the Florida Keys have
             combined to create a unique environment suitable for
             colonization by tropical plants and animals that are highly
             specialized and limited to a relatively small geographic area
             on this continent. Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve encompasses
             a variety of habitats or communities that support many of this
             species.

             Detailed information on the resources (e.g., species lists,
             water quality data, archaeological and historical site
             information, life histories, supporting maps, cultural
             resource information, etc.) is listed in the following
             sections. The resource information presented in this chapter
             is intended to be generally descriptive of major management
             functions and resources in the area of the preserve.



             A. LOCATION AND BOUNDARIES

             Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve is located in the lower half of
             the Florida Keys archipelago.    Lying south of the main land
             mass of Big Pine Key, the preserve is bounded on the north and
             east by the extension of that land area and on the south by
             the twelve foot depth contour in the Atlantic Ocean.         The
             western boundary runs from the 12 foot Atlantic contour along
             the 6 foot depth contour of Newfound Harbour Channel in a
             northeasterly direction to the southwestern tip of Big Pine
             Key. The privately owned Newfound Harbor Keys lie between the
             interior waters of the Bight and the Atlantic portions of the
             preserve.    Only state-owned submerged lands are included
             within the boundary. Total area is approximately 6000 acres.

             Additionally, this management plan will address state-owned
             uplands acquired through the Conservation and Recreational
             Lands Coupon Bight Buffer project. Approximately 100 acres of
             mangrove/ saltmarsh and tropical hardwood hammock areas have
             been purchased to date.



             B. GEOLOGY

             Both the ancient and modern geology of the Florida Keys is
             reflective of the biological communities and the marine
             environment that have shaped and continue to influence the
             configuration of these islands and adjacent marine areas. In
             geological time, the area is still very young and the present
             epoch heralds further change as sea levels rise with the
             retreat of glacial ice fields.


                                            17






            The present geological formations began 100,000 years ago
            during the Pleistocene Era when sea level was approximately 25
            feet above present level. Corals and other marine organisms
            assimilated calcium carbonate from marine waters and
            constructed reef formations very similar to the living reefs
            of today.    As the plants and animals died, their skeletal
            remains became part of the fossilized patch reefs and sea
            floor that were exposed as sea level receded during the
            Wisconsin glaciation period.      The glacial fields bound up
            large volumes of the earth's water and sea level dropped to
            approximately 325 feet below present levels.        The exposed
            limestone was subjected to the erosive forces of wind, rain,
            and plants and began to take on its present appearance.
            During the recent Holocene period, sea level rose to 'its
            present level and is continuing a slow rise of about two
            inches every 100 years (Hoffmeister, 1974, Wanless, 1969).
            More recent calculations by Wanless (1989) estimate that sea
            level in Florida may be rising at 8-16 inches per 100 years.

            The geological formations of the Keys may be further
            subdivided into two distinct physiographic and geologic
            regions. The Upper Keys (from Soldier Key to the eastern edge
            of Big Pine Key) are distinguished by the elongate dome and
            linear configurations that are the remains of the ancient
            coral reefs. Elevations may rise 15-18 feet above sea level
            near the center of the northern most islands.       This porous
            aggregate of fossil skeletal remains is referred to as the
            "Key Largo limestone" formation.       Many of the fossilized
            remains are recognizable as the progenitors of species that
            inhabit the reef today (Multer, 1977) (Hof fmeister and Multer,
            1964).

            In the Lower Keys (Big Pine Key to Key "'West), the Key Largo
            limestone is overlain by the Miami limestone formation, or
            Miami oo.lite.    The Miami limestone was formed in a. high
            energy,, shallow water environment with low silt content and
            high levels of calcium carbonate. Spherical ooid films were
            cemented together in dense layers around a core material,
            usually a grain of sand (Multer, 1977).

            The geological interface of these two formations is exposed
            near the Long Beach area at the eastern boundary of the
            preserve. Some areas have been obliterated by road building
            and other earth moving activities.      Other areas have been
            exposed by the same activities and the construction of
            drainage ditches.    The submerged portions of the interface
            within the Coupon.Bight are difficult.to distinguish,-having
            been buried by layers of silt and detritus. Small ledges and
            outcroppings encountered while mapping community distribution
            in 1985 may be an indicator of the submerged portions of the
            interface.   observations by Howard et al., (1970) described
            the Key Largo limestone as underlying the southern one-third
            of the Bight.





                                           18









              Although the exposed portions of the interface are presently
              outside the boundary of the preserve, every effort should be
              made to encourage protection of this locally significant point
              of geological interest.

              The Miami limestone is not as porous as the Key Largo
              formation.   Acid etched solution features form depressions
              that retain freshwater. These freshwater lenses influence the
              biological communities. They support a variety of plants and
              animals that are not found in the Upper Keys and are more
              closely akin to communities on the mainland.           .This is
              especially true on Big Pine Key and No Name Key where
              pinelands and cattail (Typha) marshes are common upland
              features.



              C. PHYSIOGRAPHY

              Based upon biogeography and physical characteristics, the
              modern geologic environments of the preserve may be divided
              into three regions: lagoon, nearshore and patch reef. Each
              environment or region is significantly influenced by existing
              basement geology, as well as tidal circulation patterns and
              the biological communities that occur in each.

              1. Lagoon

              Coupon Bight is a shallow semi-enclosed basin approximately
              2.2 miles (3.5 kilometers) long and 1.6 miles (2.5 kilometers)
              wide and with an average 6 foot (1. 8 meter) depth near       the
              center.    Tidal circulation in the shallow-water bay is
              restricted by the land mass of Big Pine Key on the north      and
              east, to a lesser extent by the Newfound Harbor Keys on       the
              south, and the bay mouth bank at the western opening of       the
              Bight. The deep sediments associated with the bay mouth       bar
              are the result of hydrological transport and deposition from
              Newfound Harbor and Big Pine Channels.             Turtle grass
              (Thalassia testudinum) is a major influence in stabilizing the
              bank and in trapping additional sediments.

              The lagoon environment of t     he Bight is characterized by
              varying depths of sediments over bedrock. Exposed portions of
              the basement rock are colonized by sponges, small corals or
              algae. (This type on environment is referred to as hardbottom,
              hardgound or live bottom by various authors. For purposes of
              this management plan it will be referred to as hardbottom.)
              Areas of deeper sediments are colonized by marine grasses and
              algae.   Areas of thinner sediments are dominated by algae,
              sponges or sparse colonies of grasses6

              Major sediment constituents are fragments of calcareous algae,
              Foraminifers, rock and mollusk shells. Minor constituents of
              scleractinian corals, crustacean carapaces and echinoderm


                                             19









             ossicles, and pellets are also present.     The abundant coral
             skeletal fragments in the southern portion of the Bight are
             transported from the Atlantic nearshore to the south through
             the'tidal passes between the New Found Harbor Keys.          The
             sediment facies are generally reflective of the living biota
             that occur within the Bight today.     There are 55 species of
             Foraminifera and approximately 94 species of mollusks
             represented within the Bight (Howard et al., 1970) (Howard and
             Faulk, 1968).

             2. Nearshore


             The submerged  substrate seaward of the Newfound Harbor Keys
             slopes gradually from the shoreline to the edge of Hawks
             Channel.  As in the Bight, sediment depth over bedrock is a
             major factor in determining the distribution of community
             associations and individual organisms that shape the
             geophysical environment. The intertidal zone is typically a
             broad, shallow shelf of the exposed bedrock material with a
             thin veneer of sediment.      The crenelate, solution pocked
             surface is the product of the soluble nature of limestone and
             the burrowing and boring organisms that inhabit the intertidal
             ZOV. pponges,.worms, crustaceans, mollusks, and echinoderms
             ar major erosive agents in these areas.        As it is being
             eroded, crustose and filamentous algae bind sediments and as
             they Are alternately wetted and dried, form a karst-like layer
             over the underlying limestone in the intertidal zone
             (Ginsburg, 1953; Neuman, 1966; Robertson, 1963).

             Subtidal areas are typically colonized by hardbottom
             communities where sediment is thin.     Clear, shallow waters
             nearshore support impressive colonies of clubbed finger coral
             (Porites) and coraline algae near Cooks and Big Munson
             Islands.  Their skeletal remains form a large proportion of
             the sediment in the passes between the Newfound Harbor Keys
             and may be deposited in the Bight during storm events and high
             tides. In deeper water, sponges, gorgonians, algae and small
             colonies of stony corals tend to dominate.     This hardbottom
             community is the most common association in the Atlantic
             portion of the preserve. As in the Bight, the basement rock
             is dotted with shallow, sediment filled depressions that
             support sea grass beds of varying dimensions and density.

             3. Patch Reef


             Patch -reefs develop on hardbottom substrate where other
             environmental factors are favorable. These three dimensional
             features are elevated, solid frameworks of living organisms
             (and their skeletal remains) that are actively building the
             geological record of the future.         Major reef building
             organisms are the stony corals (Scleractinia) and coraline
             algae.



                                           20










              In the early stages of patch reef development, the f auna is
              dominated by pioneering species such as f inger corals (Porites
              spp.), rose coral (Manicina areolata) and golfball coral
              (Favia fragum). These are smaller nonreef building species.
              The corals assimilate and redistribute calcium carbonate in
              the f orm of an exoskeleton.   Over time, these corals live,
              die, erode, and recolonize the hardbottom, transforming it
              into a very different community.    They will consolidate the
              hardbottom, into a substrate dominated by coral and coral
              skeletal material.   The larger coral colonies then have a
              foundation for colonization. The primary frame builders of
              this stage of the reef are the starlet corals (Siderastrea
              sp.), star corals (Montastraea sp.) and the brain corals
              (Diploria-sp.). The more massive corals add vertical relief
              and numerous micro-habitats that offer sustenance to a vast
              array of other organisms (Japp, 1984).

              Many other organisms are instrumental in the geological
              formation of the reef. Some are active bioerosive forces that
              bore or feed upon corals and fragment the exoskeleton. This
              sediment is thus redistributed on the reef where other
              physical and geochemical agents consolidate loose sediments
              and provide additional substrate for reef expansion (Ginsburg
              and Schroeder, 1973). Exported sediment is redistributed in
              other marine areas or washed ashore to form beaches and berm.
              This course carbonate "sand" or rubble is remarkably different
              from the quartzous silica of other shorelines in Florida. The
              fine grained silica sands of riverine systems make up only a
              small proportion of the beach sediments in the Keys.

              The growth and distribution of patch reefs is governed by
              several other physical and biological factors. They are not
              arranged haphazardly but lie in areas that not only offer
              suitable substrate, but have access to.the photic zone, warm
              water temperatures, nutrients from the waters of Florida
              Straits and protection      from the    excessive sediments,
              temperature and salinity fluctuations        of Florida Bay
              (Hoffmeister and Multer, 1968).         Given optimum local
              conditions a coral colony may grow as much as 190 inches
              (482.6 cm) in a thousand years (0.2 inches or .5 cm/year)
              (Shinn et al., 1977).

              The amounts of calcium carbonate (CaC03) associated with coral
              reefs is a good indicator of this community's importance as a
              geological agent. As much as 163 metric tons of CaC03 can be
              fixed by a moderate sized reef shelf in a single year (Stearn
              et al., 1977) . Primary fixing agents are the stony corals and
              the crustose coraline algae. In warmer climates growth may be
              triple this annual rate (Adey, 1977). Thus, the patch reef is
              a significant engineer of both past and future geology in
              tropical waters.




                                            21












             D. HYDROLOGY


             The present geological landforms and the hydrological regime
             interact to influence the distribution of biological
             communities and ongoing process of deposition and erosion that
             sculpture the appearance of the area.       The islands of the
             Lower Keys are oriented on a perpendicular axis to the Upper
             Keys islands. The numerous north/south channels that separate
             the Lower keys allows the sediment laden waters of the Gulf of
             Mexico and Florida Bay to mix with the Atlantic Ocean.        The
             longshore currents and eddies that circulate from the north--@
             bound Gulf stream flow roughly parallel to the island
             shorelines in a southwesterly direction. Silt and sediments
             from the channels are transported by these currents.           As
             current velocity diminishes, sediments fall to the bottom
             forming bars-.or filling in depressions in the bedrock.

             The distribution of patch reefs within the preserve is
             affected by the proximity of the two channels east and west of
             the preserve boundaries and by the barrier created by the
             Newfound Harbor Keys.    Turbid waters from Pine Channel are
             diverted to the southwest by Little Munson and Big Munson
             Islands and the bay mouth bar on the west side of Coupon
             Bight.   Circulation of the waters from Coupon Bight is
             obstructed by bars that shoal the passes between the islands.
             The larger patch reefs lie in the "shadow" or sheltered area,
             seaward of Big Munson island, in those areas where the
             island's land mass acts as a barrier to the turbid, cooler
             waters of Florida Bay and Coupon Bight.

             Sediment laden waters from Spanish Harbor (Bogie) Channel are
             propelled along the shoreline of the Long Beach area at the
             eastern side of the preserve. Fewer patch reefs are located
             in that portion of the preserve as a result of the excessive
             sediments and fluctuating salinities and temperatures.        For
             this same reason, the best developed beach strand also occurs
             in this area. Fine sediments are sorted and transported, then
             deposited on the shoreline in the Long Beach area.

             Hydrological regime within Coupon Bight also plays a role in
             the distribution of biological communities in the lagoon.
             Water flow and circulation is governed almost entirely by the
             proximity to Big Pine Channel. Hydrological patterns affect
             the distribution of sediments and deposits reach maximum depth
             in the area of the bay-mouth 'bar at the edge of Big Pine
             Channel.   The bar acts as a barrier to circulation and a
             catchment for additional deposits of sediments from the
             channel.   The bay-mouth bar and the shoals between the
             Newfound Harbor Keys restrict tidal import and export of vital
             nutrients and creates conditions of highly variable salinities
             and temperatures within the Bight.          The more diverse
             biological communities occur in the northeastern corner of the
             lagoon where larger volumes of water from the channel are


                                            22









              circulated. As the circulation pattern diminishes toward the
              eastern portions of the Bight, the biological communities are
              correspondingly less diverse with distance f rom the channel
              (Howard et al., 1970).

              Wind plays a secondary role in the hydrological patterns in
              the lagoon. The shallow waters are easily agitated and fine
              sediments are easily suspended by wind-driven currents.
              Suspended sediments inhibit photosynthetic activity by
              reducing light penetration and thus may determine the variety
              and density of marine f lora.     Water near the center of the
              lagoon is frequently turbid and marine grass beds in deeper
              portions of the Bight are usually sparse even though sediment
              depths are adequate to support them (pers. obser.) .        Waters
              along most of the leeward shorelines of the New Found Harbor
              Keys are protected from wind/currents and tend to be
              relatively clear.    Grass beds in these areas are generally
              lush and expansive.

              Historically, Coupon Bight may have been open to additional
              circulation from Big Pine and Spanish Harbor Channels.         The
              restricted baylet at the northeast corner of the Bight appears
              to have been open to circulation currents from Spanish Harbor
              Channel and was most probably obstructed during the
              construction of U.S. Highway 1 or during the railroad era. An
              existing mangrove creek was connected to Spanish Harbor
              channel at the southeast corner of the Bight. This creek has
              been interrupted by the construction of the Long Beach and
              U.S. Highway 1 roadways and a marina/campground at the
              channel's edge. A similar creek, or slough, exists near the
              center of the north shoreline and angles toward the northwest.
              It has been interrupted by a series of residential finger
              canals and roadways before it connects to Pine Channel.

              Little researched information is available regarding the more
              recent events that have perpetuated or altered the hydrology
              of the Bight. The effects that these events have had upon the
              distribution and diversity of marine organisms is therefore
              purely speculative.     The gradual rise (or retreat) in sea
              level is yet another factor that will determine the future
              configuration of emergent lands and hydrological regime in the
              area.   Additional observation and research may reveal the
              patterns of biological succession that can be anticipated.

              Tide cycles are . semi-diel, having two highs and two lows
              within each lunar period.     Tidal flood enters the Bight via
              the channel north of the bay mouth bar and to a lesser extent
              through the passes between the Newfound Harbor Keys. Velocity
              gradually diminishes traveling eastward and is barely
              perceptible in the constricted baylets. Tidal ebb typically
              moves in the reverse direction (Howard et al., 1970). Tidal
              range is approximately 2 feet with higher and lower tides
              experienced durin g full and new moon phases. Low elevations


                                              23










            of adjacent wetlands contributes to frequent flooding during
            these events.



            E. WATER QUALITY

            The Florida Department of Environmental Regulation (DER) has
            designated waters of the . preserve as Outstanding Florida
            Waters (OFW) (17-3.041, F.A.C.). As such, these waters are to
            be afforded the highest protection possible. To qualify for
            this designation, water quality must be maintained within the
            established standards.   All activities that may potentially
            alter these standards are evaluated accordingly.

            Water quality data is limited in the area of the preserve.
            DER maintains a monitoring station west of Newfound Harbor
            Channel, outside the preserve boundary.        Data from this
            station is generally reflective of ambient conditions since
            1982. A summary of conditions for both ambient and impacted
            stations was published in "Report to the Environmental
            Regulation commission on the Proposed Designation of the
            Florida Keys as an Outstanding Florida Water" (DER, 1984). A
            short term study by Newfound Harbor Marine Institute
            (Unpublished, 1987) provides limited data. Present proposals
            for research include an extension of the previous study.

            Other research centered on the effects of septic tank effluent
            on ground and surface waters in the Big Pine Key area. This
            study  has   determined   that   septic   effluent    increases
            contamination in ground waters during the dry (winter) season
            and that horizontal subsurface transport introduces these
            effluents to contiguous (marine) surface waters during the wet
            (summer) period. Nutrient loading of surface waters is also
            indicated with the use of aerobic treatment units with shallow
            injection wells.    The non-saline wastewater effluent is
            buoyant and rises within the rock strata to mix with surface
            waters.  Continued increases in land use density and use of
            on-site sewage disposal systems (OSDS) are predicted to
            increase nutrient contamination of marine waters. (La Pointe,
            1989).

            Highly publicized reports on the recent decline of marine
            grass beds in the eastern portion of the Bight attribute the
            loss to water pollution from upland development (Estrin,
            1988). However, Howard et al., (1970) described.this area as
            having 'generally sparse' marine grasses and algae as early as
            1967. Howard further points out that 'the primary factor in
            biotic distribution (in the Bight) is the type of substrate
            present. I Extreme temperatures and highly variable salinities
            would also tend to inhibit grasses in this area.





                                          24












             F. CLIMATE

             The nearly  tropical climate is characterized by mild, dry
             winters and warm, humid summers. Prevailing trade winds from
             the east and southeast are occasIonally interrupted by winter
             cold fronts that move over the area from the north or
             northwest in the winter and infrequent tropical storms and
             depressions in the summer months (Warzeski, 1976).           The
             average rainfall at Key West is 39.8 inches per year with
             large peaks occurring in June and September (NOAA, 1965,
             1979). Rainfall increases from Key West to the Upper Keys by
             about five inches per year.     Summer thunderstorms and the
             occasional tropical storm provide the bulk of the rainfall,
             with minor amounts associated with the winter cold fronts.

             Annual average air temperature (measured at.Key West) is 77.5
             degrees Fahrenheit (F). Seasonal mean highs of 84.7 degrees
             F occur in July and August. Mean lows of 69.0 degrees F occur
             during December and January (NOAA, 1965, 1979).         Ambient
             temperatures are a direct influence of the Gulf Stream
             (Jordan, 1973). Neither frost nor freeze have been recorded
             for the area.      As with most maritime climates, average
             humidity is typically high.

             The tropical storms and hurricanes . that visit this area
             deserve more than a casual mention. They tend to have major
             effects on the biology and natural features of a large area
             and on the activities of the human populations that visit and
             inhabit those areas. The long term benefits and deficits to
             the natural environment are poorly understood. Ball et al.,
             (1967) and Craighead and Gilbert (1962) reported extensive
             biological and geological rearrangement and destruction of the
             coastal zone in South Florida and the Keys after the passage
             of Hurricane Donna in 1960.      The greatest destruction or
             erosion of shorelines occurred where shoreline vegetation   ' or
             shallow water marine grassbeds had been previously damaged or
             destroyed.   Recovery of these areas was hindered by these
             alterations, as erosion often continued after the initial
             onslaught of the storm (Multer, 1977).

             It is necessary to understand a hurricane's potential as a
             destructive agent and to be prepared for its occurrence. It
             is also necessary to plan development that will minimize
             destruction of natural communities.    Although these natural
             communities may be severely damaged by hurricanes, the corals,
             grass beds and mangroves provide a natural buffer that can
             reduce the severity of impacts      on coastal areas. - They
             demonstrate a capacity to recover when functional integrity
             has not been undermined by manmade alterations to biological
             and geological features.





                                           25












            G. BIOLOGICAL COMMUNITIES

            This section will discuss some of the plant and animal
            associations within the preserve.       Individual species are
            grouped in representative community types based upon dominance
            or absence of certain floral and faunal constituents. General
            descriptions and species lists are intended to be reflective
            of the community being discussed under each subheading. The
            listing of a species in one community does not limit its
            occurrence to only that community. Each community association
            is presented separately, but in reality they display an
            infinite variety of mixed. and interdependent associations.
            Major   community    associations     in   the    preserve     are
            mangrove/saltmarsh, coastalbeach or berm, marine grassbeds,
            hardbottom and patch reefs.         Figure 3 illustrates the
            submerged vegetation resources of the preserve.

            Subtle differences in geology, topography, microclimate and
            other physical parameters may determine the initial dominance
            of a particular association in an area, or the particular area
            may be modified by the existing biota and thus evolve or
            succeed into an entirely different association. The natural
            components of the environment are never static and usually
            progress in an orderly sequence of change from one sere to the
            next.   Each succeeding sere is generally more complex and
            diverse than the previous association.. Those communities that
            have reached a climax or balanced condition are usually most
            productive in terms of biomass and species diversity.

            Catastrophic events, such as hurricanes and man-made
            alteration of natural features disrupt orderly progression and.
            may set back the sere to an earlier stage that is less
            productive.    Many of the man-made disturbances will be
            discussed in the text.     .These changes not only inhibit or
            reverse succession but may replace entire associations with
            other less productive environments. The affected environment
            or community is not the only one to be diminished. All marine
            systems are interrelated and thus changes to one association
            will directly or indirectly affect a number of other related
            and interdependent associations.      The importance of marine
            productivity has been expounded upon since ancient times yet
            only recently has modern man begun to appreciate the intricate
            and vital role that these communities play in the larger
            ecological profile of our region and our planet.

            1. Mangrove/Saltmarsh

            Mangrove/ sa 1 tmarsh communities contribute substantially to the
            health and productivity of marine systems in the preserve.
            Shoreline stabilization, storm protection, filtration and
            stabilization of sediments, nutrient cycling and habitat
            diversity are only a few of the many functions that this



                                           26





                                                                                                                                         BIG PINE
                                                                                                                                             e- EY

                                                                            NL






                             lz

                                                                 '00




                                                                                                                                   r""le" U,7








                                                                                                       'M V



                                                 o
                                                                                                                                                                                   Y-












                                            Figure 3                 Resource Map




































































































                                                              28









               community performs. It is composed of two diverse groups of
               salt tolerant plants.

               The saltmarsh vegetation is represented by a large group of
               herbaceous and woody plants that lie landward of the fringing
               mangroves.  Members of this plant community are often included
               in what is referred to as the "buttonwood" or "transition
               zone".  It  is distinguished by an open canopy of buttonwood
               (Conocapus  erectus) trees and low growing species that are
               tolerant of periodic tidal inundation and extreme fluctuations
               in salinity. Plants in this community may also be intermixed
               with. mangroves and beach/berm communities and form a rich
               mosaic of vegetative types.          A partial list of the
               mangrove/ saltmarsh plants is presented in Table 1. Endangered
               and threatened species are noted.

               Mangroves are a pan-tropical species, occurring on seventy-
               five,percent of the worlds tropical coastline (McGill, 1959).
               Of the 72 species recognized by Chapman (1976), only three
               species occur in Florida.     Red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle)
               and white mangrove (Languncularia racemosa) grow along low
               energy shorelines from the Florida Keys to near Cedar Key on
               the west coast (Rehm, 1976) and north to Ponce de Leon Inlet
               on the east coast (Teas, 1977).      Black mangrove    (Avicennia
               germinans) extends-farther north on the east coast    to near 30
               degrees north latitude and along the Gulf coast to Louisiana
               and Texas (McMillan, 1971).         These tropical trees are
               sensitive to fluctuating temperatures and prolonged periods of
               cold or frost (Davis, 1940). Prolonged temperatures below 66
               degrees F may be lethal or cause stunted growth forms (Waisel,
               1972).    Accordingly, the largest mangrove forests (90%
               according to estimates by the Coastal Coordinating Council,
               1974) are located in the more southern areas of the state,
               primarily in Lee, Collier, Dade, and Monroe Counties. Monroe
               County encompasses approximately 234,000 acres (95,000 ha.) of
               mangroves, the majority lying within the boundaries of
               Everglades National Park and the small islands in Florida Bay.

               of the six mangrove forest types described by Lugo and
               Snedaker (1974), only the fringing forest and the scrub (or
               dwarf mangrove) forest are well represented in the preserve.
               The fringing mangroves occur along the intertidal shoreline
               surrounding the emergent islands and are especially abundant
               on the leeward sides of these islands that are protected from
               prevailing easterly winds and waves.      The scrub or I'dwarfol
               mangrove forests occur in many of the constricted baylets on
               the eastern shoreline of Coupon Bight and within the impounded
               wetlands to the north of the Bight.







                                              29













                                       TABLE 1


                   A PARTIAL LIST OF THE MANGROVE/SALTMARSH.FLORA


         Beach orach                              Atriplex arenaria
         Black mangrove                           Avicinnia germinans
         Saltbush                                 Baccharis sp.
         Saltwort                                 Batis maritima
         Sea oxeye daisy                          Borrichia spp.
         Saffron plum                             Bumelia celestrina
         Gray nicker                              Caesalpinia crista
         Seven-year apple                         Casasia clusifolia
         Saltgrass                                Distichlis spicata
         Seagrape                                 Coccoloba uvifera
         Buttonwood                               Conocarpus erectus
         Geiger                                   Cordia sebetena         (E)
         Clamshell orchid                         Encyclia cochleata      (T)
         Butterfly orchid                         Encyclia tampensis      (T)
         Seaside gentian                          Eustoma exaltatum
         Sedge                                    Fimbristylis castanea
         Wild cotton                              Gossypium hirsutum      (E)
         Seaside heliotrope                       Heloiotropium
                                                        curassavicum
         Seaside hibiscus                         Hibiscus tillaceus
         Manchine6l                               Hippomane mancinella
         Keys spider lily                         Hymenocallis latifolia(T)
         White mangrove                           Languncularia racemosa
         Herbaceus sea lavender                   Limonium carolinianum
         Christmas berry                          Lycium carolinianum
         Sea lavender                             Mallotonia gnaphalodes(E)
                                                 =Tournefortia anaphalodes
         Wild dilly                               R-anilkara bahamensis
         Gutta percha mayten                      Maytenus Phllanthoides
         Poisonwood                               Metopiu toxiferum
         Key grass                                Monanthochloe littoralis
         Prickly pear cactus                      Opuntia stricta         (T)
         Knot grass                               Pasnalum distichum
         Purslanes                                Portulaca spp.
         Red mangrove                             Rhizophora mangle
         Rouge berry                              Rivina humilis
         Glasswort                                Salicornia spp.
         Sea purslane                             Sesuvium yortulacastrum
         Virginia dropweed                        aR@robolus virginicus
         Sea blight                               Suaeda linearis
         Bay cedar                                Suriana maritima        (E)
         Mahoe                                    Thesoesia populnea
         Air plants                               Tillandsia spp.



            All except T. usproides are endangered (E), threatened (T), or
         commercially exploited (C).)


                                         30









              Local distribution    0 f ma ngroves is affected by several
              physical parameters. Wave energy and substrate are probably
              most significant within the preserve.         Fringing mangrove
              forests reach optimum development on low energy shorelines
              with fine sediments.      Fine sediments deposited in shallow
              depressions in the caprock provide sufficient depth for
              propagules to become rooted.       other areas lack sufficient
              sediment depths or are buffeted by waves or swift currents
              that would bury seedlings or sweep them away. This type of
              environment is especially prevalent along the Atlantic
              shoreline of the Newfound Harbor Keys.       Although all three
              mangrove species are present, the mangrove fringe is usually
              not wide and may only occupy the extreme seaward edge of the
              shoreline. Constant wave energy scours the rocky intertidal
              zone and longshore currents deposit course calcarious sand
              fragments that form a beach/berm along the more exposed
              shorelines. This shifting substrate offers few opportunities
              for mangrove propagules to become established and those that
              survive are continually threatened with being submerged by
              additional sand or swept away by storm waves.

              Recent loss of several white and black mangroves on the
              Atlantic side of the Long Beach area may be directly
              attributed to storm surge associated with minor hurricanes
              (Kate and Elaina) that passed near the Keys in 1985.         Close
              examination of affected trees revealed that sediments were
              eroded and large portions of the root systems of these trees
              were exposed as a result.      Leaves withered and died within
              four to six weeks after the storms and were still attached to
              the trees months after the event. In some cases only      portions
              of the trees exhibited extreme signs of necrosis.            Those
              individuals that suffered only partial excavation of     the root
              systems showed signs of resprouting or retention of       landward
              portions of the canopy one year after the storms.
              Survivability of these individuals is precarious, as     they may
              be further stressed by desiccating forces (sun and      wind) or
              toppled by winds.

              Tidal regime in coastal areas also plays an important part in
              mangrove dominance of the shoreline. The advance and retreat
              of marine waters facilitates import of necessary nutrients
              into the community and exports organic carbons and other
              compounds to marine systems. Tides are also instrumental in
              dispersing the buoyant seeds and propagules.

              Ambient marine salinities benefit mangroves in several ways.
              Competition from less tolerant terrestrial plants is minimized
              and soil salinities are moderated by daily flushing. Unlike
              their   terrestrial   counterparts    mangroves    have    evolved
              mechanisms to exclude or excrete salt from plant tissues. The
              red mangrove can exclude salt at the root surface (Scholander,
              1968).    Black and white mangroves secrete salt through
              modified glands on the leaf or trunk and by storing salt in


                                             31











             succulent leaves and fruit that fall from the tree.           Most
             halophytic plants are believed to use these mechanisms or a
             combination of them to dispose of excess salt (Teas, 1979).

             Excessive soil or water salinity, however, can stress
             mangroves. Salinities above 65 parts per thousand (ppt) can
             kill red mangroves (Cintorn et al., 1978). Salinities at or
             above 80 ppt may stunt white and black mangroves, especially
             in combination with high water temperatures (Lugo and Zucca,
             1977). Impounded mangroves are frequently subjected to this
             type of stress. As normal tidal circulation is interrupted,
             water temperatures may exceed 100 degrees F and evaporation
             increases salinity to debilitating levels. Highly fluctuating
             temperatures and salinities combined with low sediment
             deposition, and low nutrient import create an extremely
             inhospitable environment.    The result is a dwarfed or scrub
             mangrove forest (after Lugo and Snedaker, 1974). All three
             species may be represented but are seldom more that 5 feet
             tall.   They are often referred to (locally) as "spider"
             mangroves.     Impoundment may be the result of natural
             topographic features (e.g., coastal berms) or caused by
             ditching and other manmade alterations to drainage patterns.
             Dwarfed mangroves occur over extensive areas of the wetlands
             adjoining the east and north shorelines of Coupon Bight.

             Excessive temperatures and salinities (greater than 100 ppt)
             are also thought to be responsible for the relatively barren
             .salt ponds or salinas that persist in many areas (Teas, 1979).
             Although these hypersaline areas may be inhospitable for most
             vascular plants, they perform other functions and should not
             necessarily be considered wasteland. They serve as valuable
             repositories for storm water@ runoff and sediments.          These
             shallow water environments also support a broad range of algae
             that serve as a food source and provide cover for an equally
             diverse faunal community.       Large numbers of larval fish
             species, gastropods, and crustaceans utilize this environment
             and are in turn valuable food reserves for many of the wading
             birds when other feeding areas may be flooded during high
             tides or inaccessible during periods of unfavorable winter
             weather (Sprunt, pers. com.)

             The mangrove/ sa ltmarsh association is a major component of the
             preserves resources, both in distribution and ecological
             value.  This community is the most common interface between
             the upland and the marine environment. As such it contributes
             to the diversity and productivity of the larger ecological
             units.  Major contributions from this community involve the
             complex and often poorly understood detrital food webs that
             are an integral part of tropical and temperate marine systems.
             Nutrients from both marine and terrestrial sources are
             assimilated and recycled in the vegetative tissues of the
             mangroves and everpresent root and mud algae.-            Primary
             productivity is difficult to partition because.all levels of


                                            32









             the community have not been thoroughly researched.       it is,
             however, a widely accepted hypothesis that the organic carbons
             exported by mangrove systems are a major source of energy for
             many biologically and economically important species of
             invertebrates and fishes.

             Carbon and other nutrients from terrestrial sources (Carter et
             al., 1973), rainfall (Lugo et al., 1980), and from marine
             sources are assimilated and recycled in the form of plant
             material that is fed upon by a host of arboreal, epiphytic,
             infaunal, and pelagic life forms.         Energy pathways may
             originate from several different sources within the community.
             Sea grasses and benthic algae are trapped and broken down into
             particulate matter that is used by large numbers of consumers
             (Brook, 1975). Senecsed mangrove leaves are attacked by fungi
             .(Fell et al., 1975) and bacteria (Casagrande and Given, 1975)
             that colonize the leaf surface.       As the leaf surface is
             fragmented, plant starches and proteins are broken down or
             converted to other compounds that are more easily consumed and
             assimilated by other microscopic life forms that break down
             the plant material to even smaller fragments. As more surface
             area is actually made available, the biotic community expands,
             thus increasing the net available energy. As these smaller,
             protein rich particles are consumed, the resulting energy is
             passed on to higher order consumers (Odum, 1971; Odum and
             Heald, 1972; Odum and Heald, 1975; and Odum et al., 1982).

             Epiphytic and benthic algae that live on and near the mangrove
             roots also contribute substantially to the energy transfer to
             higher trophic levels.    Rehm (1974) recorded 74 species of
             red, brown, green and blue-green algae associated with
             mangrove areas. This-abundant resource is actively grazed by
             numerous faunal species on site or may die to become part of,
             the detrital food web.    The net primary production of prop
             root epiphytes and mud algae may equal emergent leaf
             production in some areas (Lugo et al., 1975).

             The contributions of plankton to local marine energy budgets
             are difficult to evaluate. This dynamic group is subject to
             abrupt changes in density depending upon season, currents and
             nutrient levels.   Although quantitive research has not been
             done specifically for mangrove estuaries, the importance of
             planktonic food chains has been well documented for other
             regions and it may be assumed that there are large numbers of
             invertebrate grazers that benefit from this community
             component.   The abundance of phytoplankton and zooplankton
             within the immediate area of mangroves would indicate that
             this energy source is important to many larval food webs
             (Odum, 1970). Table 2 contains a partial list of non-vascular
             plants    and   phytoplankton    of   the    mangrove/saltmarsh
             association.





                                            33












                                          TABLE 2


             A PARTIAL LIST OF THE NON-VASCULAR MANGROVE/SALTKARSH FLORA



           FUNGI
                Genera                   Location                Reference

                Nigrospora               Leaf                    Fell, et
                Phyllostica               go                     al., 1975,
                Pestalotica               if                     1980
                Phytophora                                          it
                Drechslera
                Gloeosporium
                Lulworthia


           ALGAE

                Monostroma               High water              Taylor,
                Rhizoclonium             mark on red             1960
                                         and black mangrove

                Bostrychia               Just below high
                Catenella                water mark on red
                Caloglossa               prop roots

                Acanthorphora            Submerged on            Almodovar
                Caulerpa                 red prop roots          and Biebl
                Hypnea                                               1962
                Laurencia
                Spyrida
                Valonia
                Wrangelia
                -Centroceras
                Dasya                                            Taylor,
                Dictyota                                          1960
                Halimeda                                            of
                Murrayella                                          go                  I
                Polysiphonia                                        to
                Wurdemaniia                                         to
                Boodleopsis              Mud near roots             if                  I
                Cladophoropsis                of                    go
                Enteromorpha                  if                    of
                Vaucheria


           PHYTOPIANKTON


                Chaetocerus              Water column            Mattox,
                Thalassothrix                 It                  1949
                Nitzschia                     it                 Wood, 1965
                Skeletonema                                      Walsh, 1965
                -Rhizosolenis                                    Bacon, 1970


                                             34









                 Disploneis               Benthic                 Wood, 1965
                 Mastogloia               sediments                  if
                 Pluerosigma                   It                    it
                 Peridinium             Water  column             Odum et al.,
                                                                   1982
                 Gymnodinium.

            (From Odum et al., 1982)


              Faunal components of the mangrove/saltmarsh community are as
              diverse as the floral counterpart.      This community provides
              food, cover, spawning, nesting and resting habitat for many
              species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish and
              invertebrates. Many species are dependent upon this community
              during all or part of their life cycle. This interdependency
              may be critical for several endangered and threatened species
              that will be discussed in subsequent sections.
              Animal life that graze directly upon a6oreal leaf material
              include large numbers of insects including the olethrautid
              moth (Ecdytolopha sp.) and beetles (principally, Poecilips
              rhizophorae) (Onuf et al. , 1977) . Simberlof f and Wilson (1969)
              list 200 species of insects that are assoicated with mangrove
              communities. The mangrove tree crab (Aratus pisonii) is also
              a primary consumer of mangrove leaves (Beever et al., 1979).
              other invertebrate fauna of the emegent mangrove/ sa ltmarsh
              include large numbers of gastropods.      The snails (Littorina
              sp., Cerithidea sp..and Melampus sp.), isopods (Ligea spp.),
              and fiddler crabs (Uca spp.) are especially plentiful (Odum. et
              al., 1982). These invertebrates are in turn a staple to many
              species of birds.

              The striking avifauna is often the most noticeable in the
              mangrove/saltmarsh association. Many species depend upon the
              community for feeding, nesting and resting sites.            Large
              wading birds, such as the egrets, ibis, spoonbill, herons and
              the open-water piscivorous birds, such as the osprey and
              pelican are especially dependent upon mangrove areas. Others
              are only occasional or seasonal visitors. Odum et al., (1982)
              list 181 species that may be expected to use the mangrove
              community.

              Other macrofauna that utilize the mangrove/saltmarsh include
              a number of terrestrial and aquatic reptiles, amphibians and
              mammals.     Among the marine turtles, only the Atlantic
              loggerhead (Caretta caretta caretta) is relatively common in
              the preserve. This species may use mangroves as nursery areas
              (Odum. et al., 1982).    The Atlantic hawksbill (Eretmochelys
              imbricata) and the Atlantic green turtle (Chelonia mydas) are
              known to feed upon mangrove roots and leaves (Ernst and
              Barbour, 1972; Carr and Goin, 1955) and may occasionally
              frequent mangrove areas in the preserve. The Atlantic ridley


                                              35









             (Lepidochelys. kemipii) is an occasional visitor to shallow
             coastal areas of south Florida (Carr and Goin, 1955). Green
             turtles were once plentiful in the Keys and were an important
             commercial f ishery until populations were nearly extirpated
             f rom overharvesting and egg collecting.      Recent ef forts to
             reintroduce this species may prove beneficial.

             Other reptiles include several species of snakes and anoles,
             a turtle, a terrapin, and two crocodilians.       Of the snakes,
             only one, the mangrove water snake (Nerodia fasciata
             compressicauda) is entirely dependent upon mangrove/saltmarsh
             areas. The others are transitory in habit and may utilize a
             variety of environments, as do the turtle and terrapin. The
             American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) is primarily
             an inhabitant of freshwater areas but may venture into
             -mangrove areas more frequently than past observations would
             indicate, especially during periods of drought (Jacobsen,
             1983).   The American crocodile (Crocodylus actus) is more
             commonly associated with the mangrove fringed shorelines
             adjoining deeper waters, such, as natural creeks, canals,
             barrow pits or basins. It is a rare visitor in the preserve.

             Amphibians are generally not well represented due to the
             plausity of freshwater areas that are usually necessary for
             reproduction.      Those listed are suitably adapted to
             reproducing during the brief rainy period and may utilize
             brackish water pools for this purpose. The giant toad (Bufo
             marinus) and the Cuban treefrog (Hyla septentrionalis) are
             introduced species that have expanded their range considerably
             in the last several* decades (King and Krakauer, 1966; King and
             Krakauer, 1968; and Krakauer, 1970).

             The mammals of the mangrove/ saltmarsh include a number of
             subspecies that are unique to the Lower Keys.           Like the
             reptiles, they utilize a broad range of habitat types. All,
             except the silver rice rat (Orvzomys argentatus) and the
             Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana) , are frequent visitors
             to the mangrove/ saltmarsh areas.     The rice rat may utilize
             saltmarsh areas that adjoin fresh or brackish marshes
             (Spitzer-Goodyear, pers. com.).      The opossum is generally
             confined to small populations in close proximity to human
             habitations. Recent signs of range expansion in other areas
             of the Keys may also be duplicated on Big Pine Key, as urban
             populations expand.     This marsupial and the raccoon are
             extremely versatile omnivores and are known to forage
             mangrove/saltmarsh habitats (Layne, 1974).

             The Key deer (Odocoileus virginianus clavium) is a frequent
             visitor to the preserve mangrove/saltmarsh.      The deer use a
             variety of habitats and the mangrove fringe offers excellent
             cover for foraging and a corridor for movement between the
             Newfound Harbor Keys and Big Pine Key.        Fresh water ponds
             located in the Cactus Hammock in the Long Beach area are


                                            36









              readily accessible and deer sightings are common throughout
              the year.

              The marine life of the mangrove/saltmarsh is by far the most
              diverse group of organisms in this association. Detritus and
              plankton are primary food sources for a large number of
              invertebrate fauna that attach themselves to prop roots, live
              in adjacent muds, or swim in the water. Courtney (1975), Tabb
              et al., (1962), and Odum and Heald (1972) reported extensive
              lists of invertebrates that are associated with mangroves.

              The prop root complex is also important to many species of
              fish.   Ample food and close proximity to cover that offers
              protection from predators is essential for large numbers of
              juvenile and adult fish.       Many complete their life cycle
              within the mangrove community.       Others are dependent upon
              mangroves during juvenile stages and migrate to grassbeds
              and/or coral reefs when mature.              Still others are
              opportunistic vagabonds that utilize avariety of habitats and
              may be only seasonally or locally abundant. The proximity of
              other habitat types greatly increases the overlap of species
              from the other communities.

              Many species of invertebrates and fishes that utilize the
              mangrove/ sa ltmarsh are important to local recreational and
              commercial fisheries. Important species of local commercial
              fisheries include; pink shrimp (Penaeus duorarum), stone crab
              (Menippe mercenaria), spiny lobster (Panulirus argus), jacks
              (family Caranigadae), jewfish (Epine-pelus itajara), grunts
              (family Pomadasyidae) , grouper (Dpinepelus spp.) , seabass
              (family Serranidae), snapper (Lutianus spp.), mullet (family
              Mugilidae), red drum (Sciaenops ocellata), ladyfish (Elops
              saurus), spotted sea trout (Cynoscion nebulsus), and menhaden
              (Brevoortia Patronus).

              These species represent a major portion of the annual seafood
              landings in Monroe County and are an integral part of the
              local economy.     Finfish from the above groups represented
              $2,472,866 of the landings value for the county in 1985.
              Shrimp, spiny lobster and crabs represented $32,781,414 or
              (92%) of the total value of all species taken. Total landings
              for all species represented approximately 39 million dollars
              to the local economy (NMFS, 1985).        These figures reflect
              commercial dockside landing prices and do not include income
              derived from local support facilities (fuel, repair, dockage,
              tackle, etc.).

              Table 3 provides Monroe County commercial landing statistics
              data for finfish and crustaceans landed at local docks in-1984
              and 1985. These figures were extracted from the NMFS annual
              report and include only finfish that are dependent upon
              mangrove and seagrass associations during part or all of their
              life cycle.     They do not include landings for sharks.


                                              37









              Although there were approximately 219,149 pounds harvested in
              1985 . (and many sharks are closely associated with mangrove
              areas), the data cannot be fairly apportioned as to species.
              Neither do the f igures include deepwater pelagic species or
              sponges that are landed locally.

              Many of the commercial species are also important to local
              recreational fisherman.         Additionally, tarpon (Megalops
              atlantica),    snook    (Centropomus    undecimalis),      barracuda
              (Sphyraena barracuda) and bonefish (Albula vulpes) are avidly
              pursued by local enthusiast as well as thousands of annual
              visitors.     Unfortunately, statistics        are not currently
              available for recreational landings and       income. Although the
              pounds landed would not approach the commercial statistics,
              conservative estimates would indicate that local income from
              hook and line enthusiasts is probably in excess of 50 million
              dollars a year.      Once again, the total value of support
              services cannot be separated from local income statistics.

              The statistics themselves do not and cannot reflect the many.
              values of this important resource. They cannot, for example,
              assign a dollar figure to the aesthetic and ecological values
              associated with mangrove/ saltmarsh habitats.         Nor can they
              relate the cost or efficiency of the intricate transfer of
              energy from one organism to the other.         They can, however,
              provide some rudimentary knowledge of the importance of this
              habitat to the many species that enrich our culinary pleasure
              and our local economy.         They also reaffirm man's close
              association with and dependency on the vital marine food web
              that emanates from mangrove and saltmarsh estuaries.




                                           TABLE 3


                                 NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES
                          MONROE COUNTY FISH LANDINGS 1984-1985



                             1984                                     1985
          Category        Pounds         Value($)         Pounds          Value ($)
          ----------------------------------------------------------------
          Finfish        2,808,582      3,145,376         2,326,927        .2,472i866

          Crabs          1,783,314      3,407,821         1,738,179        3,569,105

          Lobster        5,926,266     14,838,419         5,421,52.4      13,070,966

          Shrimp        10,776,329     15,219,687         10,494,228      16,141,343

           (Reference: NMFSISEFC, 1984, 1985)




                                              38









             Table 4 includes a partial list of the major invertebrate
             groups and the vertebrate fauna of the mangrove/ saltmarsh
             association. For additional information on specific species,
             the reader is directed to the noted references. odum. et al.,
             (1982) provide comprehensive lists of habitat types and diet
             preferences for fish and birds.from published literature.




                                        TABLE 4


                     PARTIAL LIST OF THE MANGROVE/SALTKARSH FAUNA



          INVERTEBRATES


          Zooplankton
          This extensive group includes single-celled protozoans and the
          larvae and eggs of the invertebrates and fish listed below.

          Jellyfish (Scyphozoa)
               Unside-down jellyfish           Cassiopeia xamachana
          Marine worms (Annelida)              Armandia agilis
                                               CirrWE-U-ius sp.
                                               Lumbrineries maculata


          molluscs
               Blackhorn snail                 Batillaria minima
               Ladderhorn snail                Cerithidea scalariformis
               Periwinkle                      Littorina spp.
               Saltmarsh snail                 Melampus coffeus
               Bleeding tooth                  Nerita spp.
               Predatory snail                 Pisania tincta

          Crustaceans (may comprise 70% of zooplankton)
               Barnacle                        Chthamalus stellatus
                                               Lithortrya dorsalis
               Copepod                         Acartia spp.
               Searoach                        Ligia spp.
               Wood borer                      Sphaerom terebans
               Pistol shrimp                   Alpheus spp.
               Pink shrimp                     Penaeus duorarum
               Shore shrimp                    Palaemonetes spp.
               Cleaning shrimp                 Periclimenes spp.
               shrimp                          Synalpheus fritzmuelleri
               Spiny Lobster                   Panulirus argus
               Hermit crab                     Pagurus spp.
               Hermit crab                     Clibanarius sp.
               Blue crab                       Callinectes sapidus
               Crab                            Cyclograpsus sp.
               Shore crab                      Pachygrapsus spp.


                                           39









                mangrove tree crab              Aratus visonni
                Marsh crab                      Sesarma sp.
                Fiddler crab                    Uca spp.
                Stone crab                      Menippe mercenaria

          Holothurians
                Sea cucumber                    Holothuria floridana

          (References: Odum et al., 1982)
          See Simberlof f , 1976; Simberlof f and Wilson, 1969 f or comprehensive
          list of insects



          VERTEBRATES


          Fishes


                Nurse shark                     Ginalymostom a curratum
                Blacktip shark                  Carcharbinus limbatus.
                Lemon shark                     Negaprion brevirostris
                Bonnethead                      Sphyrna tiburo
                Smalltooth sawfish              Pristis Dectinata
                Guitarfish                      Rhinobatos letiginosus
                Lesser electric ray             Narcine brasiliensis
                Southern stingray               Dasyatis american
                Yellow ray                      Urolophus iamaicensis
                Spotted eagle ray               Aetobatus narinari
                Ladyfish                        Elops saurus
                Tarpon                          Megalops atlantica
                Bonefish                        Albula vulpes
                Scaled sardine                  Harengula Pensacolae
                Atlantic thread herring         Opisthonema oglinum
                Bigeye anchovy                  Anchoa lamprotaenia
                Bay anchovy                     Anchoa mitchilli
                Inshore lizardfish              Synodus foetens
                Sea catfish                     Aruis felis
                Gulf toadfish                   Opsanus beta
                Skilletfish                     Gobiesox strumosus
                Shortnose batfish               OgcoceRhalus nasutus
                Key brotula                     Oqilbia cavorum
                Halfbeak                        Hyporhamphus unifasciatus
                Redfin needle fish              Strongylura notata
                Timucu                          Stronqylura timucu
                Houndfish                       Tylosurus crocodulus
                Sheepshead minnow               Cyprinodon variegatus
                Rainwater killifish             Lucania parva
                Rivulus                         RivuYu-s marmoratus
                Mosquitofish                    Gambusia affinis
                Mangrove mosquitofish           Bamvusia rhizophorae
                Sailfin molly -                 Poecilia latipinna
                Reef silverside                 Allanetta harringtonensis
                Rough silverside                Membras marinica
                Tidewater siverside             Menidia beryllina


                                           40











                Lined seahorse                   Hippocampus erectus
                Dwarf seahorse                   Hippocampus zosterae
                Pipefish                         Syngnathys spp.
                Snook                            Centorpomus undecimalis
                Black seabass                    Centropristis striata
                Sand perch                       Diplectrum formosum
                Jewfish                          Evinephelus itaiara
                Red grouper                      Epinephelus morio
                Nassua grouper                   Epinephelus Striatus
                Barred hamlet                    Hypolectrus Puella
                Gag                              Mycteroperca microlepis
                Bronze cardinalfish              Astrapogon alutus
                Conchfish                        Astrapogon stellatus
                Bluefish                         Pomatomus saltatrix
                Cobia                            Rachycentron canadu
                Whitefin sharksucker             Echeneis neucratoides
                Blue runner                      Caranx crysos
                Jack crevalle                    Caranx hippos
                Bar jack                         Caranx ruber
                Atlantic bumper                  Chloroscombrus chrysurus
                Leatherjacket                    Oligoplites saurus
                Florida pompano                  Trachinotus carolinus
                Permit                           Trachinotus falcatus
                Lookdown                         Selene vomer
                Mutton snapper                   Lutjanus apodus
                Schoolmaster                     Lutlanus apodus
                Gray snapper                     Lutjanus griseus
                Dog snapper                      Lutianus jgcu
                Lane snapper                     Lutianus synagris
                striped mojarra                  Diapterus Plumieri
                Mojarras                         Eucinostomus spp.
                Grunts                           Haemulon spp.
                Pigfish                          Orthopristis chrysoptera
                Sheepshead                       Archosargus probatocephlus
                Sea bream                        Archosargus rhomboidalis
                Grass porgy                      Calamus arctifrons
                Saucereye porgy                  Calamus calamus
                Pinfish                          Lagadon rhomboides
                Blue croaker                     'Bairdiella batabana
                Silver perch                     Bairdiella chrysura
                Spotted seatrout                 Cynoscion nebulosus
                Southern kingfish                Menticirrhus americanus
                Gulf kingfish                    Menticirrhus littoralis
                Atlantic croaker                 Micropogon undRlatus
                Black drum                       Pogonias cromis
                Red drum                         Sciaenops ocellata
                High hat                         Eguetus acumin!Atus
                Atlantic spadefish               Chaetodipterus faber
                Sergeant major                   Abudefduf saxatillis
                Slippery dick                    Halichoeres bivittatus
                Parrotfishes                     Sparisoma spp.
                Mullet                           Mugil spp.
                Great barracuda                  Sphyraena barrslcuda


                                            41









               Mottled jawfish                 Opistognathus maxillosus
               Bluethroat pikeblenny           Chaenoysis ocellata
               Marbled blenny                  Paraclinus marmoratus
               Banded blenny                   Paraclinus fasciatus
               Blackbelly blenny               Stathmonotus hemphilli
               Florida blenny                  Chasmodes saburrae
               Seaweed blenny                  Blennuis marmoreus
               spotted dragonet                Callionymus pauciradiatus
               Gobys                           Gobionellus spp.
                                               Gobiosoma spp.
                                               Lophogogius sp.
                                               Microqobius spp.
               Spanish Mackerel                Scomberomorus'maculatus
               King Mackerel                   Scomeromorus cavalla
               Barfish                         Scorpaena brasiliensis
               Plumed scorpionfish             Scorpaena grandicornis
               Searobins                       Prionotus spp.
               Eyed flounder                   Bothus ocellatus
               Spotted whiff                   Citharichthys macrops
               Fringed flounder                Etropus crossotus
               Gulf flounder                   Paralichthys albigutta
               Southern flounder               Paralichthys lethosticma
               Dusky flounder                  Syacium Papillosum
               Lined sole                      Achirus lineatus
               Scrawled sole                   Trinectes inscriptus
               Hogchoker                       Trinectes maculatus
               Blackcheek tonguefish           Symphurus plagiusa
               Orange filefish                 Aluterus schoepfi
               Fringed filefish                Monacanthus ciliatus
               Planehead filefish              Monacanthus hispidus
               Gray triggerfish                Balistes capriscus
               Queen triggerfish               Balistes vetula
               Scrawled cowfish                Lactophrys quadracornis
               Trunkfish                       Lactophrys trigueter
               Puffers                         Sphoeroides spp.
               Burrfish                        Chilomycterus spp.

          (List modified from Odum et al., 1982)

               Locally important species of commercial, sport and bait
          fisheries.

         Amphibians and Reptiles

               American alligator            Alligator mississippiensis
               American crocodile            Crocodylus acutus
               Keys mud turtle               Kinosternon baurii baurii
               Mangrove terrapin             Malaclemys terrerin
                                             rhizophorarum
               Atlantic loggerhead           Caretta caretta caretta
               Atlantic green turtle         Chelonia mydas mydas
               Atlantic hawksbill            Eretmochelys imbricata
                                             imbricata



                                          42









                Atlantic ridley                 Lepidochelys ke-mpii
                American anole                  Anolis carolinensis
                Cuban anole                     Anolis sagrei
                Southern black  racer           Columber constrictor haasti
                Big Pine Key ringneck           Diadophis'punctatus acricus
                Eastern indigo snake            Drymarchon corais couperi
                Rat snake                       Elaphe guttata quttata
                Mangrove water snake            Nerodia fasciata
                                                compressicauda
                Florida brown snake             Storeria dekayi
                Florida ribbon snake            Thamnophis sauritus sackeni
                Giant toad                      Bufo marinus
                Southern toad                   Bufo terrestris
                Treefrog                        Hyla squirella
                Cuban treefrog                  Hyla septentrionalis

           (References:   Carr  and Goin, 1955; Duellman and Schwartz, 1958;
           Ernst and Barbour, 1972; Paulson, 1966)


            Birds

                Great egret                   Casmerodius albus
                Snowy egret                   Egretta thula
                Cattle egret                  Bubulcus ibis
                Great white heron             Ardea herodia occidentalis
                Great blue heron              Ardea herodias
                Reddish egret-                Dichromanassa rufescens
                Louisiana heron               Hydranassa tricolor
                Little blue heron             Florida caerulea
                Green heron                   Butorides striatus
                Black-crowned night   heron   Nycticorax nycticorax
                Yellow-crowned night heron    Nyctanassa violacea
                White ibis                    Eudocimus albus
                Roseate spoonbill             Ajaia ajaja
                Semiplamated plover           Charadrius semipalmatus
                Black-bellied plover          Pluvialis sguatarola
                Ruddy turnstone               Arenaria interpres
                Spotted sandpiper             Actitis macularia
                Solitary sandpiper            Tringa solitaria
                Greater yellowlegs            Tringa melanoleucas
                Lesser yellowlegs             Tringa flavipes
                Dunlin                        calidris alpina
                Least sandpiper               Calidris minutilla
                Semipalmated sandpiper        Calidris pusilla
                Western sandpiper             Calidris mauri
                Short-billed dowitcher        Limnodromus griseus
                Black-necked stilt            Himantopus mexicanus
                Brown pelican                 Pelecanus occidentalis
                Double-crested cormorant      Phalacrocorax auritus
                Mallard                       Anas platyrhynchos
                Blue-winged teal              Anas crecca carolinensis
                Red-breasted merganser        Mergus serrator


                                             43









               Ring-billed gull             Larus delawarensis
               Laughing gull                Larus atricilla
               Least tern                   Sterna albifrons
               Royal tern                   Thalasseus maxima
               Belted kingfisher            Megaceryle alcyon
               Magnificent frigatebird      Fregata magnificens

               Red-shouldered hawk          Buteo lineatus
               osprey                       Pandion haliaetus
               American kestrel             Falco sgarverius
               White-crowned pigeon                   leucocephala
               Mangrove cuckoo              Coccyzus minor
               Red-bellied woodpecker       melanerves carolinus
               Gray kingbird                Tyrannus domincensis
               Great crested flycatcher     Myriarchus crinitus
               Eastern phoebe               Sayornis phoebe
               Mockingbird                  Mimus polyglottos
               Catbird                      -5umetelia carolinensis
               Brown thrasher               Toxostoma rufum
               White-eyed vireo             Vireo griseus
               Black-whiskered vireo        Vireo altiloquus
               Red-eyqd vireo               Vireo olivaceus
               Black-and-white-warbler      Mniotilta  varia
               Yellow-throated warbler      Dendroica  dominica
               Yellow warbler               dendroica  petechia
               Tellow-rumped warbler        Dendtocia  coronata
               Prairie warbler              Dendroica  discolor
               Palm warbler                 Dendroica  palmarum
               Yellowthroat                 Geothlypus trichas
               American redstart            Setophaga ruticilla
               Northern parula              Parula americana
               Red-winged blackbird         Aqelajus phoeniceus
               Boat-tailed grackle          Ouiscalus major
               Cardinal                     Cardinalis cardinalis


         (References:    Robertson  and Kushlan, 1974; Sprunt, 1954; Bent,
         1932)

         Mammals
               Virgihia opossum             Didelphis virginiana           +
              @Keys marsh rabbit            Sylvilacfus Palustris hefneri
              .Silver rice rat              Oryzomys argentatus            +
               Key cotton rat               Siqmodon hispidus exsputus
               Black rat                    Rattus rattus
               Raccoon                      Procyon lotor auspicautus
               Key deer                     Odocoileus virginianus clavium

         (References:   Layne, 1974; Humphrey and Barbour, 1979; Spitzer and
         Lazell, 1978;  Lazell, 1984)

         + = Species    not currently recorded in preserve but available
         habitat and proximity of known populations suggest presence.


                                           44











             2. Marine Grassbeds

             Marine grassbeds are a major feature in the aquatic resources
             of the preserve. Seagrasses stabilize sediments, baffle wave
             energy, cycle nutrients, and provide substrate for a complex
             f loral and faunal community.    Abundant food and cover make
             this an important resource for invertebrates and a nursery
             area for many fish species. However, biological productivity
             is not limited to the area of distribution.       Marine energy
             cycling is enhanced as detrital material and nursery species
             are dispersed to other areas. Species from geographically and
             physiologically isolated habitats, such as, the patch reef and
             the mangrove communities also forage in the seagrass
             community.   Thus, marine grassbeds function as an interface
             between other communities and enrich the ecological diversity
             and productivity of all marine systems.

             Dominant marine grasses in the preserve are turtle grass
             (Thalassia testudium) and Cuban shoalweed (Halodule wrightii) .
             Shoalweed is typically a pioneer species that colonizes
             disturbed sites and areas where water depth (too shallow or
             too deep) or substrate is less favorable for turtle grass.
             Turtle grass is a climax species (Phillips, 1960), and as such
             is usually considered to be the primary producer in this
             community.    Turtle grass meadows are most expansive were
             sediments are deepest over the bedrock.          Manatee grass
             (Syringodium filiforme) and several species of Halophila may
             also be present within the turtle grass beds.

             Seagrasses are flowering plants that have evolved to a totally
             marine existence.      They have adapted physiological and
             chemical mechanisms that facilitate photosynthesis, growth,
             maintenance and reproduction while completely submerged.
             Unlike their terrestrial counterparts seagrasses lack stomata
             on the leaf surfacesf thus gases are slowly diffused through
             the leaf tissue. oxygen is stored in interstitial cell spaces
             and passed to root structures and rhizomes when needed (Zieman
             and Wetzel, 1980). The release of gaseous bubbles from leaf
             surfaces is often the source of the faint popping sounds heard
             when grass flats are exposed at low tide. Stored gases also
             make the leaf blade buoyant, keeping it vertical to the
             substrate and allow a much larger surface area to be exposed
             to solar radiation.

             Certain plant nutrients are derived from the sediments, while
             others are taken from the water column. Nitrogen f ixation can
             occur in the rhizomes, on the leaf surface and in some cases.
             may be transferred between the leaf surface and epiphytes on
             the leaf (Harlin, 1971).       Nitrogen and carbons are also
             derived from the particulate organic matter from dead plant
             material, and animal excretion. This highly efficient use of
             relatively limited nutrients and sunlight are the basis for a



                                            45









              level of productivity often compared to the coral reef s and
              mangroves.

              The study of seagrass reproduction has evolved primarily as a
              means to restore or -mitigate those areas that have been
              adversely    impacted    by   man's    activities     or    natural
              disturbances. Marine grasses may reproduce both sexually and
              vegetatively.    Vegetative reproduction originates from the
              root or rhizome of the plant.        Vegetative starts (plug or
              turion) are usually preferred for transplanting as they become
              established more quickly and survive longer.               However,
              relative cost of this type of restoration may be prohibitive
              for large areas.     Cost ranged from $27,000 to 86,500/ha to
              revegetate one area in the Upper Keys (Lewis et al., 1981).
              This technique has also caused much controversy, as many-
              scientists and environmentalists have questioned the possibly
              negative impacts to donor (source) areas.         Donor areas are.
              slow to recolonize and large scale removal may cause a more
              serious disturbance than it is intended to remedy.

              Sexual reproduction in marine grasses is less clearly
              understood. Orpurt and Boral (1964) observed flowering turtle
              grass in the Keys during April and fruiting until September.
              Seed production and seedling survival, however, may vary
              considerably from year to year. Lewis (1980) while monitoring
              a revegetation project near Craig Key, reported a, "prodigious"
              seed crop in the intertidal area of Lower Matecumbe Key during
              1979.   Previous observations by Moffler (from Lewis, 1980)
              indicated little fruiting occurred in 1975 and Phillips
              reported large numbers of seedlings in the same area in 1960.
              Periods of high seed production certainly offer the
              opportunity    to   harvest    and   propagate    seedlings     for
              revegetation of disturbed areas but cost may again be
              prohibitive.    Thorhaug and Austin (1976) reported costs of
              $42,000-$280,000/ha (depending on desired plant cover) for
              collection, propagation, planting and overhead for restoration
              efforts. Survival rates for transplanted seedlings are also
              very low, less than 30% (Zieman, 1982).

              Marine grassbed distribution is influenced by physical and
              chemical factors similar to those described for mangroves.
              Temperatures and salinities are usually well within the
              tolerance limits  of the species listed. Optimum temperatures
              (68-86 degrees F) and salinities (24 ppt to 35 ppt) for turtle
            .grass (Phillips,   1960), occur throughout the aquatic preserve
              waters with the exception of the constricted baylets on the
              eastern portion   of Coupon Bight.     These shallow waters are
              often subjected   to extreme fluctuations of salinity during
              extended periods  of drought and during the rainy season. They
              are also subject to more abrupt temperature changes than
              normally observed in deeper waters and therefore are usually
              devoid of grasses.



                                              46









              The three most important parameters determining grassbed
              distribution in the preserve are light intensity, current
              velocity,    and   sediment    depth.       Like   their     emergent
              counterparts, marine plants must have access to sunlight to
              carry on the photosynthetic process.           Unlike terrestrial
              plants, the water column lies between the source and
              recipient.     Water depth and clarity affect the amount of
              sunlight that reaches the leaf surface.         In this area water
              depth is less important than water clarity.            Shading f rom.
              docks and, turbidity in the water column inhibit photic zone
              access.     High turbidity and water velocity in and near
              channels inhibit sea grass colonization. Access channel and
              prop dredging are also sources of excessive turbidity. These
              impacts are usually localized and not normally of a duration
              or intensity to cause extensive light reduction but have
              other, more severe, consequences.

              variations in temperature, salinity, turbidity, and sediment
              deposition are closely related to current patterns in the
              preserve. Tidal currents and topographic relief influence the
              rate of accretion (or erosion) of sediment deposits. Sediment
              depth and stability are instrumental in the establishment and
              distribution of marine grassbeds.         Areas with low current
              velocities and adequate sediment depths are more readily
              colonized. This often accounts for the "patchy" distribution
              of lush turtle grass in the preserve. Turtle grass requires
              sediment depths from 3 inches (Scoffin, 1970) to 20 inches
              (Zieman, 1972) for optimum growth.           These conditions are
              exemplified in the sheltered waters leeward of the Newfound
              Harbor Keys, on the eastern half of the bay-mouth bank in
              Coupon Bight, and in the natural depressions in the sea floor.
              In profile, these colonized depressions often appear as
              "domes".    As the plants entrap additional sediments,            the
              depression fills and appears elevated as more sediments are
              added.     Areas with thin sediments may be more readily
              colonized by the less selective shoalweed or species from the
              hardbottom community.

              In addition to the previ    ously noted marine grasses, several
              species of algae are also commonly found in this community.
              Benthic    algae   include    Halimeda.    Penicillus,     Caulerpa,
              Rhipocephalus, and Udotea species. These calcareous algae are
              instrumental in producing organic carbons and calcium
              carbonate. that are incorporated into the sediments (Zieman,
              1982).     Benthic algae are also early colonizers of fine
              sediments and their rhizoid holdfasts may stabilize these
              sediments so that seagrasses may become established on
              otherwise   unoccupied Areas (Williams, 1981).         Drift algae,
              primarily Laurencia, is also a common component of the
              grassbeds.

              Seagrass leaves provide substrate for a wide range of
              epiphytic algae.       Some 66 species have been recorded to


                                               47










              utilize seagrasses for attachment (Ballantine and Humm, 1975).
              While access to the photic zone is enhanced by this
              arrangement, the encrusting of the leaf surface may
              effectively reduce photosynthesis in the host plant (S*and-
              Jensen, 1977). The overall loss of photosynthetic production
              may be off-set by the increased habitat for marine fauna and
              a corresponding increase in.animal and plant protein.

              The faunal constituents of the marine grassbeds range from the
              microscopic zooplankton that drift with the . currents,
              epiphytic biota that live upon the grasses and the pelagic
              invertebrates, fishes and mammals that utilize these areas.
              Trophic structure presents ample food for a variety of
              specialized feeders. Herbivores that feed directly upon the
              algae or seagrasses include a wide variety of invertebrates.
              Most notable are the crabst queen conch,       and sea urchins.
              Vertebrate herbivores include the green,        loggerhead, and
              hawksbill turtlest and a wide variety of fishes.            Zieman
              (1982)-lists 63 species that utilize seagrass in their diet.
              Many of these species also consume varying amounts of detritus
              and epifauna as they forage.

              Detrital feeders make up a large percentage of the grassbed
              fauna and may well represent the primary pathway of energy
              transfer to higher tropic levels (Zieman, 1982). This group
              is composed of many small organisms that feed upon the
              decomposing plant and animal material in the vicinity of the
              grassbeds.   Corals, sponges, tube worms and shrimp filter
              detritus and plankton from the water column.        others glean
              material from the sediments and leaf surfaces.           Exported
              detritus becomes available to an even wider range of'consumers
              in more remote areas.   'Carr and Adams (1973) found detrital
              feeders to be A major food source for at least one feeding
              stage in 15 of 21 juvenile marine fishes studied.
              commercially important detrital feeders       include the pink
              shrimp (Penaeua duorarum), spiny lobster     (Panulirus argus),
              and mullet (Mugilcurema).

              Higher order consumers include the myriads of fishes usually
              associated with grassbeds, as well as many that are more
              commonly associated with coral reefs and mangrove areas. Some
              spend early development stages in the shelter of the sea
              grasses and move to other habitats when mature. Still others,
              by alternating periods of diurnal and nocturnal    activity, may
              utilize grassbeds for foraging at night and seek shelter in
              mangroves or coral reefs during the day. This partitioning of
              time and" resources serves to eliminate competition between
              similar species and affords a much greater number of niches in
              the ecological structure of the community.            Fishes of
              recreational and commercial interest include most of those
              from the annotated list for the mangrove/ sa 1 tmarsh in Table 4.




                                             48









              Marine grassbeds are heavily utilized by several bird species.
              The abundant marine fauna of this community are the staple
              food for most of these birds (Kushlan, 1978). Heron, egrets,
              and spoonbills exploit fish, crustaceans and other marine
              organisms in shallow water grassbeds and upon exposed grass
              flats during low tides. open water piscivorous birds include
              the cormorant, osprey, pelican, and gulls.

              Mammals that utilize marine grassbeds include the manatee and
              the bottle-nosed dolphin. The manatee, although not formerly
              recorded as a resident species in the preserve,        may well
              frequent the area on occasion and is well known        for it's
              predilection for aquatic plant life. It is assumed that the
              abundant seagrasses would provide a welcome repast     for this
              nomad.   Bottle-nosed dolphin are occasional visitors of the
              aquatic preserve and undoubtedly take quantities of schooling
              fish as opportunity permits.    Consult Table 5 for a list of
              animal species commonly associated with the marine grassbed
              community.

              Major impacts to the marine grassbed community in coupon Bight
              Aquatic Preserve are associated with human activities. Direct
              removal of grassbeds by prop souring and channel dredging are
              most noticeable.     Although the single prop scar may be
              comparatively insignificant, the cumulative impact from
              repeated scaring, which is evident on the bay-mouth bank in
              Coupon Bight, is of concern. Zieman (1976) estimated recovery
              f or these areas may take from      2-5 years and the natural
              @ecovery process may be further inhibited by rechanneling and
              increased erosion.

              Dredging (and the spoiling of material) permanently eliminates
              grassbeds in most cases.     Almost continual turbulence from
              prop wash and erosion of channels inhibits re-colonization
              efforts.    More stringent regulations on dredging "access
              channels" have generally been effective in reducing this type,
              of activity. However, intentional "prop dredging" (using boat
              propeller wash to cut a channel) has been observed and will
              most probably continue to be a sporadic activity.

              The cumulative effect of docking facilities must also be
              considered. Docks interrupt light penetration and "shade out"
              yegetation. As with prop scaring, the individual site may be
              insignificant but is compounded when the total area influenced
              (by all facilities) is tabulated.        The loss in primary
              productivity must then be multiplied by the "dock life" to
              comprehend the possible net loss in biological productivity
              over several years or decades.

              The effects of septic effluent and upland run-off in marine
              communities is often difficult to 'detect given the highly
              variable physical and chemical parameters of both the effluent
              and the community being studied.        But recent and future


                                             49









             technological improvements and additional research (and
             monitoring) may well scientifically validate the general
             assumption that all nearshore environments are subjected to
             measurable amounts of pollution from these sources when in
             close proximity to poorly planned development. Remedial and
             corrective actions will be time consuming and will require
             coordination with the appropriate agencies to insure that
             continued urbanization does not undermine the functional
             integrity of our marine resources.

             The value of marine grassbeds cannot be evaluated by any
             monetary formula presently available.            In the opening
             paragraphs of this section, the comparatively high cost (and
             relatively, low success) of restoring or mitigating damaged
             grassbeds     were    discussed.        Further    research      and
             experimentation are to be encouraged in hopes of discovering
             more successful and cost efficient methods ofreplanting and
             encouraging expansion of marine grassbeds.           However, the
             preferable alternative to costly and often futile restoration
             is to protect this dynamic and productive resource from
             further damage.      To achieve that goal, preservation and
             protection of marine grassbed communities shall be a priority
             in the designation of management areas and the management
             procedure and policies in Chapters IV and V of this plan.



                                          TABLE 5


                         A PARTIAL LIST OF MARINE GRASSBED FAUNA



          INVERTEBRATES


          Corals

          Golfball coral                       Favia fragum
          Rose coral                           Manicinia areolata
          Small finger coral                   Porites furcata

          Sponges

                                               Aiptasia sp.
                                               Bartholomea sp.
                                               Condylactis sp.
                                               Stoichactis sp.

          Annelids

                                               Ammatryipane  sp.
                                               Arenicola cristata
                                               Eurythoe sp
                                               Hermodice sp.
                                               Eunice longicerrata


                                              50









                                             Lysidice sp.
                                             Nereis sp.
                                             Phascolion sp.
                                             Onuphis magna
                                             Sipunculoidea sp.
                                             Sthenelais sp.
                                             Terebellides stroemi


           molluscs
                Gastropods                   Anachis sp.
                                             Aplysis sp.
                                             Astrea sp.
                                             Bittium varium
                                             Caecum sp.
                                             Cardita floridana
                                             Cerithium sp.
                                             Crepidula sp.
                                             Cvmatum sp.
                                             Fasiolaria tuliva
                                             Mitrella lunata
                                             Modulus modulus
                                             Pluroploca gigante-a.
                                             Rissoina sp.
                                             Strombus gigas
                                             Tegula sp.
                                             Tridachia sp.
                Pelecypods                   Vasum sp.
                                             Americardia sp.
                                             Anadara sp.
                                             Antigona sp.
                                             Atrina
                                             Cardita floridana
                                             Chione cancellata
                                             Codakia orbicularis
                                             Laevicarduim laevigatum
                                             Lucina vennsylvanica
                                             Telling radiata
                Amphipods
                                             Cymadus compta
                                             Gammarus mucronatus
                                             Melita nitida
                                             Grandidierella sp.
                Cephalopods                  Octopus briareus


          Crustaceans

                Shrimp and lobster
                                             Alpheus normanni
                                             Hyppolyte Pleuracantha
                                             Latreutus focorum



                                            51










                                            Palaemonetes spp.
                                            Penulirus argus
                                            Penaeus duorarum
                                            Periclimenes spp.
                                            Thor floridanus
                                            Tozeuma sp.

               Crabs
                                            Calappa sp.
                                            Callinectus   sp.
                                            Clibanarius   sp.
                                            Dardanus sp.
                                            Glyptoxanthus sp.
                                            Libinia sp.
                                            Macrocoeloma sp,
                                            Microphrys sp.
                                            Mithrax sp.
                                            Pagurus sp.
                                            Petrochirus   sp.
                                            Pilumnus sp.
                                            Pithos sp.
               MantiIsshrimp                Pseudosquilla sp.


         Echinoderms

               Starfish
                                            Echinaster sp.
                                            Oreaster reticulata


               Sea urchins
                                            Diadema antillarium
                                            Echinometria sp.
                                            Lytechinus variegatus
                                            Trinneustes ventricosus

         Holothurians


               Sea cucumber
                                            Actinopyga agassizi
                                            Holothura floridana
               Sea hare


                                            Aplysia dactylomela



          (From Bock, 1971 and Zieman, 1982)
              Species of commercial interest



                                           52










           Fishes

                Nurse shark                   Ginglymostoma curratum
                Lemon shark                   Negeprion brevirostris
                Bonnethead                    Sphyrna tiburo
                Smalltooth sawfish            Pristis pectinata
                Southern stingrayf            Dasvatis americana
                Ladyfish                      Elops saurus
                Tarpon                        Megalops atlantica
                Bonefish                      Albula vulves
                Scaled sardine                Harengula Vensacolae
                Atlantic thread herring       Opisthonema oglinum
                Anchovies                     Anchoa spp.
                Inshore lizardfish            Synodus foetens
                Sea catfish                   Arius felis
                Gulf toadfish                 Opsanus beta'
                Skilletfish                   Gobiesox strumosus
                Hardhead halfbeak             Chridorus atherinoides
                Needlefishe                   Hyporhamphus unfasciatus
                Goldspotted killifish         Flordichthys carpio
                Rainwater killifish           Lucania parva
                Sheepshead minnow             Cyprinodon variegatus
                Rivulus                       Rivulus marmoratus
                Sailfin molly                 Poecilia latipinna
                Reef silverside               Allanetta harringonenesis
                Hardhead silverside           Atherinomorus stipes
                Dwarf seahorses               Hippocampus zosterae
                Dusky pipefish                Syngnathus floridae
                Fringed pipefish              Micrognathus crinigerus
                Snook                         Centropomus undecimalis
                Gag                           Mycteroperca microlevis
                Jewfish                       Evinephalus itaiara
                Cobia                         Rachycentron canadum
                Jacks                         Caranx spp.
                Permit                        Trachinotus falcatus
                Florida pompano               Trachinotus  carolinus
                Leatherjacket                 Oligoplites  zaurus
                Lookdown                      Selene vomer
                Snappers                      Lutianus spp.
                Silver blenny                 Eucinostomus gjLla
                Grunts                        Haemulon spp.
                Pigfish                       orthopristis chrysoptera
                Porgies                       Archosargus spp.
                Pinfish                       Lagodon rhomboides
                Red drum                      Sciaenops ocellata
                Silver perch                  Bairdiella chrysura
                Spotted seatrout              Cynoscion nibulosu
                Southern kingfish             Menticirrhus americanus
                Atlantic spadefish            Chaetodipterus faber
                sergeant major                Abudefduf saxatilis
                Slippery dick                 Halichoeres bivittatus
                Hogfish                       Lachnolaimus maximus
                Parrotfishes                  Scarus spp.


                                              53









                                           Sparisoma spp.
              Mullet                       mugil spp.
              Barracuda                    Sphyraena barracuda
              Blennies                     Paraclinus spp.
                                           Chaenopsis spp.
                                           Blennius sp.
              Dragonet                     Callionymus Parciradiatus
              Gobies                       Bathygobius sp.
                                           Gobiosoma spp.
                                           Microqobius spp.
              Scorpionfishes               Scorpaena spp.
              Searobin                     Prionotus spp.
              Lined sole                   Achirus lineatus
              Tonguefish                   Symphurus Plagiusa
              Filefish                     Monocanthus ciliatus
              Cowfish                      Lactophrys guadricornis
              Trunkfish                    Lactophrys trigonus
              Southern puffer              Sphoeroides nephalus
              Burfish                      Chilomvcterus schoepfi

         (Adapted from Zieman, 1982).
             Important sport, commercial and bait species


         Reptiles

              Green sea turtle             Chelonia mvdas
              Loggerhead sea turtle        Caretta carretta carretta
              American crocodile           Crocodylus acutus


          Birds

              Roseate spoonbill            Ajaja alaia
              Great blue heron             Ardea herrodias
              Great white heron            Ardea occidentalis
              Great egret                  Casmerodius albus
              Little blue heron            Florida caerulea
              Reddish egret                Dichromanassa rufescens
              Louisiana heron              Hydranassa tricolor
              Bald eagle ,                 Halieaeetus leucocephalus
              Red-breasted merganser       Mergis serrator
              osprey                       Pandion haliaetus
              Brown pelican                Pelecanus occidentalis
              Double-crested cormorant     Phalacrocorax auritus


        Mammals

              Bottle-nosed dolphin         Tursions truncatus
              Manatee                      Trichechus manatus



         (From Kushlan, 1976, 1978)



                                          54










             3. Beach/Borm

             The beach and berm community of the preserve exhibits several
             major differences when compared to other coastal areas of
             Florida. Classic strand beach and dune formation is a dynamic
             process of deposition and erosion of fine-grained silica sands
             that are transported by riverine systems and littoral drift
             along much of the Florida coastline. Beaches generally tend
             to have a broad sloping profile with one or several dune lines
             landward of the beach face. Width of the beach and height and
             arrangement of dunes are typically reflective of the wave
             energy and direction exerted upon the shoreline. Substantial
             changes in topography are usually evident from season to
             season as winter storms erode the beach and gentler wave
             action deposits sands during summer.     Prevailing winds are
             also instrumental in transporting and depositing sand that
             adds to or subtracts from the dune formations (Bascom, 1964).
                               1
             Substrate and depositional environment are quite different
             along the shorelines of the preserve. Topography of the sea
             floor and the island themselves are typically outcroppings of
             limestone rock.   The intertidal zone is often a broad rock
             ledge that parallels the shoreline. Nearshore patch reefs and
             the gradually sloping bottom tend to dissipate wave energy and
             those wave crests reaching shore are reduced to gentle eddies
             throughout most of the year. This low energy environment is
             not conducive to expansive beach development, as much of the
             suspended sediments are dropped well off-shore.           Finer
             sediments and organic materials that are washed near shore are
             deposited in shallow depressions in the caprock and often
             support colonies of mangroves or marine grassbeds.

             Also noticeably lacking are the fine-grained sands so typical
             of classic beach and dune strands. Major component material
             of,the beach and berm areas in the preserve are the fragmented
             remains of corals, cast-off shells, and calcareous algae. The
             larger, angular fragments are sorted by wave action and
             deposited on the beach crest or berm during storm events. The
             relative size and weight of the fragments inhibits extensive
             dune formation because they are less subject to erosion or
             deposition by winds.   The berm areas are almost solely the
             result of storm events that have repeatedly deposited these
             fragments  in parallel ridges along the shoreline.        These
             ridges are more accurately referred to as coastal berms. The
             height and width of many of the berms are testimony to the
             frequency and severity of some of those storms. Although the
             geophysical nature of the dune and berm are different, they
             perform much the same function in the natural environment.
             They dissipate wave energy during storms and act as a barrier
             to protect communities that lie landward of the beach.

             The most extensive beach development is along the Atlantic
             shoreline of the Newfound. Harbor Keys and Long Beach.      The


                                           55









             beach face is relatively narrow along most of the shoreline
             but reaches optimum development on the Long Beach, Cooks, and
             Big 'Munson Island shorelines.    Lower energy shorelines are
             colonized by mangroves. Berm development is much more common
             and varies in width and height dependent upon the exposure of
             the shoreline.    The southerly shorelines of the Newfound
             Harbor Keys have well developed berms that are in excess of 50
             feet wide and 2 to 4 feet in height over much of their length.
             The berm gradually becomes lower and terminates in mangroves
             on the leeward shoreline. The comparatively low profile would
             be breached during a moderate storm surge.            The berm
             constitutes the only available "uplands" on these islands and
             has been developed for residential use on Long Beach and Cooks
             Island.

             Lower, narrower berms are located along the northern shoreline
             of Coupon Bight.       Prevailing winds and currents are
             instrumental in forming these coastal- ridges that barely
             extend above the tide line. They are frequently inundated and
             are usually colonized by mangroves and saltinarsh vegetation.

             1@lant communities of the beach and berms are influenced by the
             pioximity to tidal influence. Plants near the beach face and
             low berms are subjected to intense sun and wind, high salinity
             tidal wash, and a shifting substrate.             Physiological
             adaptations to prevent moisture loss from salt, sun, and winds
             are evident in the succulent, shortened leaves of sea purslane
             (Sesuvium portulacastrum), saltwort (Batis maritima), and
             glasswort (Salicornia sp.).      Other plant species possess
             thickened or involute leavest surface hairs, or spines that
             slow moisture loss and inhibit grazing.        Low, vertically
             spreading growth habits offer optimum leaf surface for
             photosynthesis and a low profile to damaging winds. Extensive
             horizontal and vertical root systems of           the grasses
             (Distichlis sp., Spartina sp., and Panicum sp.) intercept
             available moisture and nutrients in ti@ls arid environment to
             stabilize and enrich the soil for additional plant colonizers.
             Black and white mangroves are also frequently encountered in
             this zone.

             Portions of the berm above the reach of normal tides support
             a variety of herbaceous and woody plants including black
             mangrove and many of the saltmarsh species. Highest portions
             of the berm are vegetated with coastal plants, as well as many
             from the tropical hardwood hammock community.      Many of the
             plant species of this community are rare, endangered,
             threatened or species of special concern           because @ of
             development pressure on this resource.        (See section on
             Endangered and Threatened Species.)     Native plants of the
             beach and berm community are listed on Table 6.





                                           56













                                       TABLE 6


                        A PARTIAL LIST OF THE BEACH/BERM FLORA


          Chaff flower                      Alternanthera maritima
          Beach orach                       Artiplex arenaria
          Saltmarsh aster                   Aster tenuifolius
          Black mangrove                    Avicennia germinans
          Saltbush                          Baccharis sp.
          Saltwort                          Batis maritima
          Sea oxeye daisy                   Borrichia sp.
          Saffron plum                      Bumelia celestrina
          Gumbo limbo                       Bursera simaruba
          Gray nicker                       Caesalpinia crista
          Jamaica caper                     Capparis cynophyllopora
          Limber caper                      Capparis flexuosa
          Goatweed                          Capraria biflora
          Seven-year apple                  Casasia clusifolia
          Sandspur                          Cenchrus incertus
          Barbed-wire cactus                Cerus pentagonus
          Marine ivy                        Fi7ssus trifolata
          Spurges                           Chamaesyce spp.
          Snowberry                         Chioccoca alba
          Pigeon plum                       Coccoloba diversifolia
          Sea grape                         Coccoloba uvifera
          Silver thatch palm                Coccothrinax argentata
          Buttonwood                        Conocarpus erecta
          Geiger                            Cordia sebestena
          White stopper                     Eugenia axillaris
          Spanish stopper                   Eugenia foetida
          Blue mistflower                   Eupatorium incarnatum
          Garber's spurge                   Euphorbia garberi
          Seaside gentian                   Eustoma exaltatum
          Wild cotton                       Gossypium hirsutum
          Blolly                            Guapira discolor
          Seaside hibiscus                  Hibiscus tiliaceus
          Seaside heliotrope                Heliotropium carassavicum
          Wild hibiscus                     Hibiscus pilosus
          Manchineel                        Hippomane mancinelia
          Keys spider lily                  Hymenocallis latifolia
          Railroad vine                     Ipomoea Des-caprae
          Joewood                           Jacauinia keyensis
          Bahama morning glory              Jaguemontia pentantha
          Black ironwood                    Krugiodendron ferrum
          White mangrove                    Languncularia racemosa
          Wild sage                         Lantana involuctata
          Beach bamboo                      Lasiacis divaricata
          Herbaceus sea lavender            Limonium carolinianum
          Christmasberry                    Lyciu carolinianum
          Wild dilly                        Manilkara bahamensis
          Gutta-percha mayten               Maytenus Phyllanthoides
          Poisonwood                        Metopiu toxiferum


                                           57









           Key grass                           Monanthochloe littoralis
           Prickly pear cactus                 Opuntia stricta
           Corkystemmed passionflower          Passiflora suberosa
           Joint grass                         Paspalum vaginatum
           Beach carpet                        Philoxerus vermicularis
           Blackbead                           Pithecellobium keyense
           Cat's claw                          Pithecellobium unquis-cati
           Purslane                            Portulaca oleracea
           Indigoberry                         Randia aculeata
           Darling plum                        Reynosia septentrionalis
           Rougeberry.                         Rivinia humilis
           Glassworts                          Salicornia spp.
           Scaevola                            Scaevola plumieri
                                                (= Mallotonia gnaphalodes).
           Sea purslane                        Sesuvium portulacastrum
           Teaweed                             Sida rhombifolia
           Bahama nightshade                   Solanum bahamense
           Pride-of-Big-Pine                   Strumfia maritima
           Sea blight                          Suaeda linearis
           Bay cedar                           Suriana maritima
           Mahoe                               Thespesea populnea
           Keys thatch palm                    Thrinax morrisii
           Spanish moss                        Tillandsia usenoides
           Pearlbery                           Vallesia antillana
           Hog plum                            Ximenia americana
           Wild lime                           Zanthoxylu fagra

           (Source:  Author's botanical field notes.)


             The plant communities of the beach/berm area play a major role
             in stabilizing the shoreline and offering a first line defense
             to waves and winds during storms (Sensabaugh, 1975).           They
             dissipate wave energies and protect upland plant communities
             and property from the adverse effects of winds and salt spray.
             Alteration of the berm or the plant communities may subject
             the shoreline to erosion and will subject less tolerant plant
             species to the desiccating influence of wind and salt spary.
             Removal of the plant community may also prepare the soil for
             invasive exotic plants that offer little value in stabilizing
             shorelines or as wildlife habitat (Mazzotti et al., 1981).

             Exotic plant intrusion is fairly localized with Australian
             pine (Casuarina equisetifolia) and Brazilian pepper (Schinus
             terbinthifolius) occurring on distrubed sites.          Latherleaf
             (Colubrina asiatica), an invasive, exotic vine, has also
             become well established. Disturbance       from land clearing or
             tropical storms may aid the proliferation of these undesirable
             plants.

             Animal life of the beach and berm community represents a wide
             array of arboreal, terrestrial, and aquatic fauna. Infauna of
             the    sand/shell    beach    include    numerous    species     of


                                              58









             invertebrates.    marine worms, crabs, snails and clams are
             periodically inundated by tides that provide detritus and
             plankton from the sea. These creatures are in turn fed upon
             by a host of wading and probing birds. Numerous insects and
             crabs also forage the grass wrack along the shoreline.

             The.avifauna is a mixture of seasonal and resident species of
             various habits.   The wading and shore birds include many of
             those associated with the mangrove/saltmarsh communtiy.
             Passerine species incude the many migrant visitors, as well as
             the vireos, flycatchers, warblers, cardinal, and grackles that
             are year round residents.        The white-crowned pigeon (a
             threatened species) is also a frequent visitor to the beach
             and berm community where it feeds upon the fruit of
             poisonwood, snowberry, and other native plants.          Aerial
             searching birds would include the red-shouldered hawk,
             kestrel, night hawk, and others that are opportunistic and
             make use of any suitable area.

             Reptiles include the American and Cuban anoles, and several
             threatened sub-species of snakes and possibly the Keys mud
             turtle. The American crocodile is also potentially a visitor
             of the berm areas within the Bight. These areas would offer
             loafing beaches for the shy crocodile as they are well away
             from human habitation. Those berms with vegetative cover and
             marl soils are also potential nesting sites for the crocodile.

             The Atlantic loggerhead turtle   is a confirmed visitor to the
             Atlantic beach and berm areas.     This threatened species is
             known to nest here and efforts to collect data on the number
             of nests and hatching success in now underway.        Hopefully
             future   data   and   observation  may   also   establish    the
             presence/ absence of other endangered sea turtles, including
             the Atlantic green turtle, which historically may have nested
             here. The introduced Australian pine has the potential to be
             a direct threat to turtle nests.       Moisture-seeking roots
             invade nest cavities and enmesh the turtle eggs.           Upon
             hatching, the newborn turtles may not be able to extricate
             themselves from the root "net" and may perish inside the nest.
             The relative lack of pristine beaches in the Keys requires
             that the remaining areas be left in a natural condition and
             free of exotic plants so that the sea turtles may continue to
             nest here.

             Mammals of the beach and berm community include several
             species of herbivorous rodents and the marsh             rabbit
             (Silvilagus palustris hefneri) that feed upon leaves, fruit,
             and seeds and seek out nest sites in the dense foliage
             (Lazell, 1984). The silver rice rat (Orvzomys.argentatus), an
             endangered spcies, has not been positively confirmed for this
             area but studies indicate that proximity of suitable habitat
             to the beach and berm may make this area attractive to the



                                            59










             species for occ  asional foraging (Spitzer-Goodyear, per.
             comm.).

             The nocturnal ramblings of the raccoon and opossum also
             include foraging on the beaches and berms. The possibility of
             a easily obtained meal usually awaits in the seagrass wrack on
             the shoreline where, fruit, crustaceans, molluscs, and other
             tidbits need only be uncovered. The largest native mammal of
             the lower Keys is also primarily nocturnal or crepuscular in
             habit. The tiny Key deer (also an endangered species) forages
             over a wide range of habitat types. The mangrove areas in the
             preserve are heavily utilized by the deer and recent
             observations indicate that the berm areas are also a favored
             area for bedding and foraging.    The berm in the Long Beach
             area also serves as a dry corridor between the Newfound Harbor
             Keys and mainland portion of Big Pine Key.      Numerous deer
             trails and signs of foraging are evident over much.of the berm
             throughout the year (pers. obser.).

             A partial list of beach and berm fauna is provided in Table 7.




                                        TABLE 7

                       A PARTIAL LIST OF THE BEACH/BERM FAUNA



          INVERTEBRATES


               Snails                       Batillaria sp.
                                            Littorina sp.
                                            Nerita sp.
               Marine Worms                 Nereis sp.
                                            Lumbrineris sp.
               Land crab                    Cardisomaguauhumi
               Hermit crab                  Coenobita clypeatus
               Mole crab                    Emerita Talpoida
               Ghost crab                   Ocypode guadrata
               Clam                         Anomalocardia sp.
               Numerous inscets



         VERTEBRATES

         Reptiles and Amphibians

               Florida Keys mole skink      Eumeces e. egregius
               Five-lined skink             Eumeces Tnexpectatus
               Ashy gecko                   Sphaerodactylus cinereus
               Reef gecko                   Sohaerodactylus n. notatus
               American anole               Anolis carolinensis
               Cuban anole                  Anolos sagrei steinegeri


                                           60









                Mangrove water snake            Natrix fasciata compressicauda
                Rough green snake               Opheodrys aestivus
                Eastern indigo snake            Drymarchon corals goupari
                Red rat snake                   Elaphe guttata guttata
                Keys mud turtle                 Kinosternon b. bauri
                Atlantic loggerhead   turtle    Carretta carretta carretta
                American crocodile              -Erocodylus acutus
                Green tree frog                 Hyla cinerea
                Squirrel tree frog              Hyla scruirella
                Cuban tree frog                 Hyla sententrionalis
                Southern toad                   Bufo terrestris
                Giant toad                      Bufo marinus
                Narrow-mouthed toad             Gastrophryne carolinensis

            Birds

                Great blue heron                Ardea herodia
                Great white heron               Ardea fierodias occidentalis
                Little blue heron               Florida caerulea
                Great egret                     Casmerodius albus
                Turkey vulture                  Cathartes aura
                Red-shouldered   hawk           Buteo lineatus
                American kestrel                Falco sparverius
                Semipalmated plover             Charadrius semipalmatus
                piping plover                   charadrius melodus
                Wilson's plover                 Charadrius wilsonia
                Black-bellied plover            Pluvialis sauatarola
                Ruddy turnstone                 Arenaria interpes
                Willet                          Catoptrophorus semipalmatus
                Least sandpiper                 Calidris minutilla
                Dowitchers                      Limnodromus sp.
                Semipalmated sandpiper          Calidris Dusilla
                Sanderling                      Calidris alba
                Herring gull                    Larus argentatus
                Ring-billed gull                Larus delawarensis
                Laughing gull                   Larus atricilla
                Foster's tern                   Sterna fosteri.
                Least tern                      Sterna albifrons
                Royal tern                      Sterna maxima
                Sandwich tern                   Sterna sandvicenjg@jj
                Black skimmer                   Rynchops niger
                White-crowned   pigeon          Columba leucocephala
                Ground dove                     Columbina passerina
                Mangrove cuckoo                 Coccyzus minor
                Belted kingfisher               Megaceryle alcyon
                Gray knigbird                   Tyrannus domincensis
                Brown thrasher                  Toxostoma rufum
                Blue-gray gnatcatcher           Pilioptila caerulea
                Black-whiskered vireo           Vireo altiloquus
                Yellow-rumped warbler           Dendroica coronata
                Prairie warbler                 Dendroica discolor
                Plam-warbler                    Dendroica valmarum
                Common yellowthroat             Geothlypis trichas


                                               61









                 ouse sparrow                Passer domesticus
                Red-winged blackbird         Agelaius phoeniceus
                Common gackle                Ouiscalus quiscula
                Cardinal                     Cardinalis cardinalis


          Mammals

                Oppossum                     Dildelphis marsunialis
                Raccoon                      Procyon lotor
                Marsh rabbit                 Sylvilagus palustris hefneri
                Hispid cotton rat            Sigmodon hispidus
                Key deer                     Odocoileus virginianus-clavium


           (From: Schomer and Drew, 1982;   and field observations.




             4. Coral Patch Reef

             There are reef-like buildups as far north as Georgia on the
             Atlantic coast, but three dimensional, living, coral reefs are
             restricted to the tropical waters of the Florida Keys in North'
             America.

             Narrow tolerances in such factors as substrate, light,
             temperature and sediment limit distribution within the broader
             geographic zone, as well as within a local area.         Corals
             develop best where bare limestone sea floor is in close
             proximity to the Gulf Stream that provides nutrients and
             stable temperatures. The bare limestone provides a point of
             attachment for the early colonizers.     As the pioneers die,
             their skeletal remains furnish new ground for additional
             colonization.   This process of building up and tearing down
             keeps the community in a constant state of change and imparts
             a distinctive character to the geological profile of the area.

             The Florida Reef Tract parallels the Florida Keys island chain
             and reaches optimum development in the deeper waters, seaward
             of Hawk's Channel and landward of the Straits of Florida. The
             Florida Keys archipeligo lies between the large lagoonal
             system of Florida Bay and the oceanic waters of the Atlantic
             and Gulf Stream.     The configuration of the island chain
             significantly influences the configuration of the reefs
             (Ginsburg and Shinn, 1964).     The reef tract is actually a
             narrow band of disjunct reefs with many horizontal gaps in the
             linear configuration.     The gaps or breaks in the reef
             correspond with the creeks, cuts or passes between the islands
             of the Keys that act much like river deltas.       These tidal
             passes facilitate mixing of the waters of Florida Bay with
             oceanic currents.





                                            62









                     Bay is a shallow receiving basin for run-off from the
             mainland. Water temperatures and salinities are extremely
             variable and suspended sediments are fine and easily
             transported. Outgoing tides carry these waters out to the reef
             tract. Where tidal channels cross the Keys and the line of the
             reef, there is a gap in the reef because reef building corals
             cannot tolerate the excessive sediments and fluctuating
             temperatures and salinites.

             Japp (1984) divides the reefs into four types, based upon
             physical habitats and community structure patterns.          The
             seaward most community is the bank reef.        This community
             receives the most beneficial nutrients, displays the most
             diverse associations, and exhibits the most highly developed
             super-structure. Many of the massive, reef building corals in
             this community do not occur in the other community types.
             They thrive in the deep, clear waters and can withstand the
             wave surge that constantly washes the seaward edge of the
             formation. The seaward spur and groove configuration and the
             abundance of elkhorn corals (Acropora palmata) are distinctive
             (Shinn, 1963; Shinn et al., 1981).    Looe Key Reef is a good
             example of the bank reef formation and exhibits well developed
             spur and groove formations.

             The transitional reef is, as the name implies, between
             development from patch reef to bank reef. This community has
             fauna from both the bank reef and the patch reef or may     also
             resemble well developed hardground in some areas.            The
             transitional reef often exhibits a tendency to spur and groove
             formation and may in time or under more favorable    conditions
             (higher sea level) develop into the more diverse    bank reef.
             This type of formation also occurs on artificial     substrate,
             such as sunken ships or other debris used to construct
             artificial reefs (Japp, 1984).

             Patch reefs are smaller, isolated versions of the bank reef.
             These domed or horseshoe- shaped mounds usually lie landward of
             the main reef and seaward of Hawk's Channel in the area
             commonly referred to as the "reef flan" (Marszelak, 1982).
             This community assumes many variations in size, dominant
             species, and degree of diversity. Patch reef development in
             nearshore waters (landward of Hawk's Channel) is known to
             occur in only a few locations in the Keys.

             The patch reefs in the preserve are in depths from 6 to 12
             feet (2 to 4 meters) scattered along a more or less parallel
             axis to the Newfound Harbor Keys. The two largest are located
             within .6 mile (1 km.) of Big Munson Island shoreline near the
             western boundary of the preserve. A large cluster of smaller
             patches is located due south of Cooks and Hopkins Islands.
             Other, even smaller, more isolated patches may consist of only
             one or two large coral heads (colonies) surrounded by
             gorgonians and sponges. Most are typically ringed by sand and


                                           63









             rubble halos that are created by the foraging activities of
             f ish and sea urchins.    These unique patch reef s lie in the
             "shadow" of the Newfound Harbor Keys and are thus protected
             from the sediments and variable temperatures and salinities of
             'Big Pine Channel and Coupon Bight.

             Species diversity and density generally increase in proportion
             to the size of the patch reef.      Larger patches provide more
             niches for invertebrates and fishes.       Large heads of star
             coral (Montastrea annularis,. M. cavernosa) starlet corals
             (Siderastrea spp.) and to a lesser extent, the brain coral
             (Diploria labyrinthiformis) provide crevices and vertical
             relief.that may rise to within a few inches of the surface.
             Encrusting corals, algae, soft 'corals and sponges colonize
             interstitial spaces.

             The presence of a large coral head inside Coupon Bight is a
             unique occurrence. This colony is approximately 2 feet high
             and 3-4 feet wide. The deep cleft near the center divides it
             almost in half.      Several fish species and a few small
             gorgonians and sponges (and in one observation, a small
             loggerhead sea turtle) make up the entire community. If the
             existence of the nearshore patch reef community on the
             Atlantic can be described as marginal (Japp, 1984), this small
             community may well be described as extraordinary. The lagoon
             environment is subjected to extreme variations in temperature,
             salinity and turbidity that presumably would inhibit large,
             hard coral formation, yet this colony survives and has
             expanded under the most adverse conditions.       The origin of
             this colony is a subject of much speculation.

             The fourth type of coral community is the live bottom or
             hardground (referred to in this plan as hardbottom) .         This
             association is dominated by scattered colonies of corals,
             gorgonians, sponges, and algae that colonize exposed portions
             of the limestone bedrock or reef ruubble. Hardbottom
             communities are extremely diverse in distribution and numbers
             of organisms within a given area.       They may contain reef-
             building   species    but   other    environmental     conditions
             (substrate, water depth, sediment loads, currents, etc.) do
             not favor more extensive patch reef development at the present
             time.   As environmental or biological conditions change,
             portions of the hardbottom could evolve to patch reefs or be
             displaced by marine grassbeds.       Grassbeds are frequently
             dispersed throughout this community on substrates with deeper
             sediments.   (Although generally included in the coral reef
             communities, the hardground community is a major component of
             the preserve's resources and is discussed in a separate
             section of this chapter.)

             The major structural and biological foundations of the patch
             reef community are the colonial corals that.separate calcium
             carbonate from sea water and construct a stony skeleton..


                                            64










              Corals are members  of the phylum Cnidaria which includes such
              organisms as jellyfish, sea anemones, and hydrozoans.        Two
              classes of Cnidaria are principal colonial forms associated
              with or responsible for producing reefs, the Hydrozoa and the
              Anthozoa. The Hydrozoa are represented by the fire corals or
              stinging corals.    The Anthozoa contain two subclasses, the
              Octocorallia, the soft corals (e.g. whipcorals, sea feathers
              and sea fans) and the Zoantharia.       Within the Zoantharia
              subclass is the order Scleractinia, containing the true stony
              corals (brain coral, star coral, etc.) (Barnes, 1974). -The
              characteristics common to each subclass are the capability to
              secrete a calcareous skeleton and functional autotrophy (self-
              production).

              The Scleractinia are the reef builders.          Although many
              colonies are only several inches in diameter, larger forms may
              reach dimensions of up to 8 feet, often referred to as coral
              'heads'. The living coral tissue inhabits only the external
              surface of the head. The individual polyp secretes a cup or
              calice that provides shape and protection for the individual.
              As the colony grows, the calices of members of the same
              species   join    and  the   colony   assumes   a    distinctive
              configuration and coloring.    Thus the particular species is
              often easily identifiable by the visual appearance of the
              colony as a whole.       Some appear relatively smooth and
              spherical, such as the starlet coral (Siderastrea siderea),
              and others may be grooved, such as the brain coral (Diploria
              labyrinthiformis), or still others may form finger-like
              projections, such as the finger corals (Porites spp.).

              Over many generations, stony corals    have laid down massive
              limestone skeletons and sediments that add relief to the sea
              floor and may rise to within a few feet or even inches of the
              water's surface.    Major reef building species of the patch
              reef community within the preserve are star coral (Montastraea
              annularis) , cavernous star coral (M. cavernosa) , starlet coral
              and the brain corals.    Table 8   provides a partial list of
              faunal species of the patch reefs. ,

              Coral tissues are host to dinoflagellate zooxanthellae
              (microscopic algae) that live symbiotically within each coral
              polyp.   Zooxanthellae, like other plants are capable of
              producing their own food.     Using solar energy,    they build
              protein, carbohydrates and other complex compounds  from carbon
              dioxide,    nitrates,  and   phosphates   obtained    from   the
              surrounding sea water and the host. The algae provide self-
              sustaining   nourishment   and   contribute   to   the    oxygen
              requirements of the coral  host. The corals capture plankton
              and other mobile fauna with their tentacles and their
              metabolic waste products provide some of the basic structural
              compounds for the algae in return.            If environmental
              influences (heat, cold, disease, pollution, etc.) are adverse,
              the coral polyps may expel the zooanthellae and the coral


                                             65









             colony will die. This symbiotic relationship is only one of
             many that occur in the patch reef community.

             Other fauna include the "soft" corals or gorgonians. The sea
             whips (Pseudopterogorgia acerosa), sea fingers (Briareum
             asbestinum), and sea fans (Gorgonia flabellum) are only a few
             that colonize reef rubble and are a major element of the
             hardbottom area that often adjoins the patch reef community.
             Each of these individual colonies supports a characteristic
             flora and fauna of their own. Grazing often eliminates these
             (and other) species closest to the reef and creates the "halo"
             of bare rubble and course sediment that encircles a patch
             reef. The sediment and reef rubble is eventually cemented by
             physical and biological agents and becomes suitable substrate
             for reef expansion (Ogden et al., 1973).

             Infaunal organisms that inhabit the patch reef include boring
             and burrowing sponges (Cliona sp.), gephyrid worms, urchins
             (Centrechinus and Echinometra spp.), and numerous bivalves,
             barnacles and crabs.     The corals provide some of these
             organisms with substrate for attachment and access to
             nutrients. Several species of invertebrates and fishes feed
             directly upon coral polyps and are a major component of the
             biologically erosive forces that tear down the the reef as it
             is being built. Still others, such as the encrusting corals,
             play important roles in consolidating reef rubble and
             sediments for colonization by other organisms.

             The macrofauna of the reef are more colorful and diverse than
             in any other marine environment. The coral formations provide
             protection and shelter for small shrimp, crabs, fish, and
             several species of lobster, including (Panulirus argus), the
             spiny lobster of commercial interest. The larger predators of
             the reef include the often spectacularly colored schools of
             fishes that prey upon invertebrates and smaller individuals of
             their own kind. The most frequently observed larger predators
             on the reef include the barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda) and
             moray eel (Gymnothorax spp.). The nurse shark (Ginglymostoma
             cirratum), primarily a scavenger, is a common shark of the
             shallow water patch reefs and is seldom a threat to man,
             unless stepped upon or harassed.

             Many of the larger predators are important species for local
             fisheries.  The groupers (Epinephelus spp. and Mycteroyerca
             spp.), snappers (Lutjanus spp. and Ocyurus chrysurus), grunts
             fflaemulon spp.) and jacks (Caranx spp.) account for a large.
             percentage of the commercial finfish landings in the county.
             Spiny lobster is also a prime target and the harvest averages
             4-5 million pounds a year (NMFS, 1981, 1985, 1986). Ballyhoo
             (Hemiramphus brasiliensis),. a small omnivorous species, is
             also an economically important bait fish that inhabits coral
             reef areas.




                                           66









              Trophic levels and dependency upon other communities may be
              highly specialized. Zooplankton is an important energy source
              for larval stages of most of the reef species and a primary
              food source for several adult species. The adult anchovies,
              herrings, silversides, cardinalfish, chromis, and others are
              schooling species that feed upon zooplankton.         other f ish
              species of the coral reefs depend upon marine gras.sbeds for
              feeding during juvenile life stages.        The grassbeds also
              provide cover for the fry and fingerlings.       As they become
              larger and can no longer hide in the grass, they seek refuge
              and feed from the relative safety of the reef.        Conversely,
              many adults of a species utilize the reef for temporary refuge
              and feed almost exclusively in the grassbeds. The nocturnal
              foraging of the grunts and snappers is a good example of this
              type of energy partitioning.      These f ish rest on the reef
              during the day and f eed in the grassbeds at night.          These
              species and others facilitate the dispersal of energy from one
              community to another in the form of standing biomass and
              imported" nutrients in feces that are dropped over the patch
              reef (Zieman, 1982).

              The productivity of coral reefs has been compared to that of
              tropical rain forests and considered by some to be the most
              productive ecosystem on earth (Sournia, 1977).           Although
              qualitative research for south Florida reefs has not been
              extensive   enough   to   be   conclusive,    some    interesting
              comparisons seem to reinforce this supposition.       The annual
              overall productivity of a small reef in the Pacific was
              estimated to be 846 grams dry weight per square meter (g dry
              wt/m2) with a net gain of 2 g Carbon/m2 per day (Odum and
              Odum, 1955).      In comparison, red mangrove leaf biomass
              averages between 700 and 800 g/m2 (Odum and Heald, 1975) and
              leaf biomass of turtle grass on Florida's east coast may
              average 125-800 g dry wt/m2 (Zieman 1975; from Japp, 1984)

              The primary productivity of each of these different
              environments is further enhanced when in close proximity to
              each other.   The transfer of nutrients between organisms is
              often quicker and with less opportunity for loss of energy in
              the transfer from one level to another. The snapper may rest
              during the day and forage the grassbeds in relative safety
              during the night. The grouper and moray need not expend large
              amounts of energy to pursue and capture prey.       They lie in
              wait in safety and concealment for the unwary meal.      Many of
              the reef species need not ambulate at all. They need     only to
              extend their tentacles to capture sustenence. Thus,      the net
              effect of coral reef ecology is to provide a highly      diverse
              and efficient energy resource within a relatively        compact
              area.


              Plants of the patch reef are almost exclusively represented by
              the coraline  algae.    Small mounds of coral rubble or bare
              skeleton provide attachment for Hamimeda, Rhizocephalus,


                                             67









             Udotia and Caulerpa species. A large group of filamentous and
             boring algae are also present but less conspicuous than the
             fleshier, upright forms (Humm and Wicks, 1980).          Densely
             consolidated    substrate,  grazing,   and   competition     with
             sedentary faunal organisms generally limits the abundance of
             floral species.

             These small patch reefs are subject to stress from several
             sources. Extreme or extended drops in atmosheric temperatures
             during winter cold fronts quickly cools shallow waters and as
             surf temperature falls, some die-off of corals and other
             species is usually evident. Inversely, warming of nearshore
             waters is evident during late summer and early fall. Coupled
             with low tides and calm waters, upper portions of'coral heads
             may be severly stressed.    Sediments from adjacent areas may
             also blanket the reefs during heavy storm activity.        Heavy
             sediment loads can literally smother the coral community.

             Environmental changes that favor proliferation of one species
             of  organism    may   well   signify   the  doom   of    others.
             Phytoplankton blooms (red tides) may cause heavy fish
             mortality. Black band disease and coral 'bleaching' are now
             prevalent phenomena in the Keys' reef and investigative
             studies have only begun to determine the causes and possible
             remedies for these maladies. The patch reefs    *in Coupon Bight
             Aquatic Preserve are existing in marginal conditions and
             excessive pressures from human activities may be the deciding
             factor*in their survival.


             Cultural and Historic Significance of Coral Reefs

             Modern technology has placed this once mysterious world within
             the reach of a population that can experience first hand it's
             profound beauty and biological richness. However, these same
             conveniences have placed additional stress on an extremely
             sensitive ecosystem that exists at the northern most limits of
             it's range.   The activities of man are potentially the most
             destructive to the reefs. Many have been destroyed and others
             are precariously balanced between survival and extinction.
             overuse, overharvesting, carelessness and - ignorance of the
             physical and biological requirements of the system are the
             major causes of decline of the reefs in many areas.         Both
             direct and external impacts are of imminent concern to those
             who manage for and benefit from this bountiful resource,
             Hopefully, through education and protective measures this rare
             and sensitive resource may be preserved for the enjoyment and
             enrichment of many generations to come.

             The coral reef communities of the Florida Keys are truly a
             unique resource for several reasons. They have played a very
             important part in the biological, geological, historic and
             cultural makeup of this small geographic area and they


                                           68









             represent the Keys' most valuable economic and natural
             resources.      Culturally, this      intricate assemblage      of
             invertebrates   and fishes represents many things to many
             people.     It  has been a dreaded navigational hazard to
             mariners, and  object of artistic and scientific interest and
             a bountiful provider of sustenance to many cultures, both
             ancient and modern.

             The early native Indians and Bahamian fisherman exploited the
             abundant fish and turtles and salvaged the cargos of
             unfortunate sailing ships that were dashed upon the
             treacherous reefs. The somewhat sketchy but colorful exploits
             of the pirates who plundered the treasure laden ships of the
             Spanish fleets were also to become an indelible page in the
             Keys' history. Later, the descendants of these enterprising
             sailors and the immigrants from the Bahamas and Cuba were to
             become permanent colonizers of this chain of islands.          The
             ever present threat to navigation, the tropical growing
             climate and the rich bounty of the sea were the mainstay of a
             culture devoted to ship salvage (or "wreckers"), citrus and
             pineapple plantations, and the sponge, turtle and fishing
             industries. (Carter, 1976) (Eyster, 1987)

             The 1900's brought many changes to both the culture and their
             utilization of the areas natural resources.          A chain of
             lighthouses on the reef edge guided vessels on a safer course.
             Blight and more productive ports in Cuba soon usurped the
             agricultural markets and delining numbers of turtles and
             sponging grounds eliminated those industries as sources of
             subsistence. Motorized vessels and improved fishing methods
             were to become. the basis for an ever expanding fishery.
             Flagler's railroad and a developing tourist industry on the
             mainland soon lured hundreds and then thousands to the
             tranquil splendor of the Keys.      The railroad was eventually
             replaced with a roadway and bridges after the Labor Day
             @urricane of 1935. The Overseas Highway would accommodate ever
             increasing numbers of sightseerers and fisherman.          Coupled
             with the tropical climate and year round abundance, both the
             commercial and sport fisheries flourished (Martin, 1949; Dean,
             1982).

             In the last half of this century, improved snorkel and scuba
             equipment has added an even more exciting dimension to the
             local tourist industry. A short, comfortable boat ride will
             deposit visitors in the clear, warm waters to observe the
             natural wonders of the reef first hand.       The awe inspiring
             formations and animated fish are even accessible to many
             others who are less adventuresome and           'may prefer the
             experience of observing from the comfort of one of the many
             glass-bottomed boats that make several daily trips to the reef
             tract.    Commercial dive operations, tour boats, , and other
             tourist accommodiations cater to several million visitors a
             year. The dive industry contributes substantially to the local


                                             69










            economy and employs a substantial number of the local and
            seasonal residents.   Whether it be snorkeling, photography,
            diving, fishing or academic study, the visitor is almost
            always assured of a most unique And rewarding experience.

            Income from the sport (recreational) fishery is a major
            contributor the ' local economy.    Income from recreational
            fishing includes guide 'services, charter boats, bait, fuel,
            food, ice and taxidermy services that are procured from local
            businesses. This income is generally lumped with the tourist
            industry data and it is therefore difficult to assign a dollar
            amount to these services but the Keys have been recognized as
            a major sportfishing destination for nearly a century.

            The commercial fishery is probably the third most important
            industry in the county.    Commercial harvest of lobster and
            finfish alone represented nearly $12,000,000 to Monroe County
            in 1980 (NMFS, 1981) and more than fifteen and a half million
            dollars in 1985 (NMFS, 1985).        Boat yards, fuel, ice,
            transportation and processing facilities are accessory
            industries that employ additional workers who are indirectly
            dependent upon the fishery.

            commercial harvesting of tropical fish, sponges and "live
            rock' are also expanding industries.    'Live rocks' (or reef
            rock, mat rock, etc.) are fragements of limestone with the
            living organisms attached. These 'mini environments, support
            algae, soft and hard corals, as well as, many of the epifaunal
            and infaunal species associeated with the coral reef and
            hardbottom communities. The live rock is typically harvested
            in shallow waters and exported to saltwater         .  aquarium
            enthusiasts.  Especially prized are those with anemones and
            feather duster worms attached.     One firm in Monroe County
            estimated that their annual export of 'live rock' is 80,000
            pounds per year.   There are approximately 60 firms in south
            Florida that are involved in this industry and it is predicted
            to expand by 10-15% each year. The long-term impacts to local
            resources at this rate of harvest is of concern (Young, 1989;
            Wheaton, 1989).


            Impacts Associated with Resource Use

            The financial interests of both the fisheries and tourist
            industries are inextricably linked to the presence and
            products of the reef tract. Yet many scientists, fisherman,
            divers, and environmentalists have expressed concern for the
            past and present pressures and stresses exerted upon this
            unique environment. Some reefs have been reduced to mounds of
            inanimate rubble by the activities of treasure salvors and
            negligent or accidental vessel grounding. Still others have
            been impoverished by coral and tropical fish collecting,
            spearfishing, and the indiscriminate destruction of corals.by


                                          70









             careless or uniformed divers and snorklers who stand on, touch
             or break coral formations that have take decades to form.

             Careless boat operation in shallow water and damages from
             misplaced boat anchors are a *maj or concern in many of the more
             popular areas (Davis, 1977). Pleasure boat registrations for
             Dade County doubled in the period between 1964 and 1978.
             Registrations f or Monroe County quadrupled during the same
             time period and that pattern is likely to continue as the
             regional population increases (Mathis et al., 1979). Many new
             arrivals to the area may be first time boat owners and most
             are ill equipped for navigation in the shallow waters and
             around the barely submerged reefs. Without major efforts to
             educate the boating public, improved navigational aids, and
             additional mooring buoys, damage from boat groundings and
             anchoring in the coral will undoubtedly increase in proportion
             to the number of boats utilizing an area.

             Lobster trap placement and retrieval also account for
             considerable damage to corals. Traps may be placed on corals
             or so near the patch reefs,that buoy lines are entangled and
             chaff coral heads with wave movement.          Wave surge from
             tropical storms and hurricanes transport traps and they are
             often dragged into coral formations when placed in close
             proximity to the seaward side of the reefs.        This type of
             damage was typical in the preserve after the passage of a
             minor storm (Kate) in November, 1985. Mechanized trap pullers
             are also a problem. Traps being retrieved are dragged along
             the bottom and corals may be broken and large heads completely
             overturned.    This type of damage is unfortunately, quite
             common.


             The more obvious disturbances are not the only threat to this
             underwater resource.      As thousands of new residents and
             tourists come to south Florida and the Keys, so does new
             construction of homes, resorts, roads, marinas, and facilities
             for disposal of the tons of solid and liquid wastes of an
             expanding population. Upland run-off contains heavy metals,
             petroleum, pesticides and other chemicals that pollute
             nearshore waters and are dispersed to the reef either by waves
             and currents or through the food chain. Heavy metal (mercury,
             zinc, lead, and cobalt) concentrations in sediments and corals
             have been reported off southeast Florida by Manker (1975).
             Evidence from studies on the effects of petroleum hyrocarbons
             has determined that these substances are detrimental to corals
             and that massive or chronic concentrations would also be
            .harmful to other organisms (Japp, 1984). Other chemicals may
             be quickly diluted and dispersed, therefore more difficult to
             detect and the long-term effects more diffiuclt to predict.

             Septic effluent is also transported well    away from the point
             of origin and this customary method of sewage disposal has
             caused much controvery and concern for the health of the


                                            71










             reefs. The porous limestones of the Keys do hot retain the
             effluent Jong enough for adequate decomposition to occur
             (Bight et al., 1981).      Tidal activity, currents, and wind
             easily transport seepage from surface water drainage and
             contaminated sediments to nearshore and offshore areas.
             Likewise, the deep and shallow well injection of inadequately
             treated sewage has proliferated without sufficient knowledge
             of the particular geological features of the injection site
             (La Pointe, 1989). Deep strata test boring has been primarily
             limited to the mainland of Florida and little testing has been
             done in the Keys.    Information on the vertical and lateral
             movement of injected materials and the final disposition of
             these substances and their mutant byproducts is speculative
             without further research.

             The  geologic    strata,   tidal regime,     currents,    thermal
             stratification, chemistry and marine flora and fauna all
             interact with human occupation of the coastal zone.           The
             ultimate effect upon the biological resources are at best
             poorly understood and long-term research and monitoring will
             reveal the foresight or folly of present activities, trends
             and attitudes towards the protection and conservation of the
             coral reefs and the productivity of all marine systems. The
             true value of this unique resource cannot be fully appreciated
             by its many benefactors without some knowledge of the delicate
             balances and natural processes and relationships that exist
             within this community association. Neither can the long term
             survival of the reefs, as we know them, be guaranteed without
             adequate research to determine the point at which the system
             can realistically recover from natural catastrophe and the
             cumulative impacts of man.




                                         TABLE 8


                        A PARTIAL LIST OF THE PATCH REEF FAUNA



          VERTEBRATES


         Mammals

               Atlantic bottle-nosed dolphin              Tursipps truncatus

         Reptiles

               Atlantic ridley turtle        Lepidochelys kempi
               Atlantic hawksbill turtle     Eretmochelys imbricata
               Loggerhead turtle             Caretta caretta caretta
               Green turtle                  Chelonia mydas





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           Fishes

                 Ocean surgeon                Acanthurus bahianus
                 Doctorfish                   Achirurgus sp.
                 Blue tang                    Achirurgus coeruleus
                 Barred cardinalfish          Apogon binotatus
                 Flamefish                    Avogon maculatus
                 Belted cardinalfish          Apogon townsendi
                 Trumpetfish                  Aulostomus maculatus
                 Orangespotted filefish       Cantherhines Pullus
                 Slender filefish             Monacanthsu tuckeri
                 Bar jack                     Caranx ruber
                 Queen angelfish              Holacanthus ciliaris
                 Gray angelfish               Pomacanthus arcuatus
                 Roughead blenny              Acanthemblemaria aspera
                 Wrasse blenny                Hemiemblemaria simulus
                 Neon goby                    Gobiosoma oceanops
               .Bridled goby                  Coryphopterus glaucofraenum
                 Masked goby                  coryphopterus personatus
                 Goldspot goby                Gnatholepis thompsoni
                 Hovering goby                Ioglossus helenae
                 Herrings                     Clupeidea
                 Bermuda chub                 KyPhosus sectatrix
                 Spanish hogfish              Bodianus rufus
                 Slippery dick                Halichoeres bivittatus
                 Yellowhead wrasse            Halichoeres granoti
                 Hogfish                      Lachnolaimus maximus
                 Clown wrasse                 Halichoeres maculipinna
                 Puddingwife                  Halichoeres radiatus
                 Bluehead wrasse              Thalassoma bifasciatum
                 Schoolmaster snapper         Lutianus anodus
                 Mutton snapper               Lutianus anelis
                 Gray snapper                 Lutjanus griseus
                 Yellowtail snapper           ocyurus chrysurus
                 Spotted goatfish             Pseudupeneus maculatus
                 Glassy sweeper               Pempheris schomburoki
                 Sergeant major               Abudefduf saxatilis
                 Yellowtail damselfish        Microspathodon chrysurus
                 Dusky damselfish             Pomacentrus  fuscus
                 Beaurgregory                 Pomacentrus  leucosticuts
                 Bicolor damselfish           Pomacentrus  parititus
                 Threespot damselfish         Pomacentrus  Planifrons
                 Cocoa damselfish             Pomacentrus  variabilis
                 Porkfish                     Anisotremus  virginicus
                 Tomtate                      Haemulon  aurolineatum
                 Caesar grunt                 Haemulon  carbonarium
                 Smallmouth grunt             Haemulon  Chrysargyreum
                 French grunt                 Haemulon  flavolineatum
                 Spanish grunt                Haemulon  macrostomum
                 White grunt                  Haemulon  plumieri
                 Bluestriped grunt            Haemulon  sciurus
                 Midnight parrotfish          Scarus co'elestinus
                 Blue parrotfish              Scarus coeruleus


                                              73









               Striped parrotfish          Scarus croicensis
               Rainbow parrotfish          Scarus quacamaia
               Queen parrotfish            Scarus vetula
               Redband parrotfish          Sparisoma aurofrenatu
               Redtail parrotfish          sparisoma chrysopterum
               Redfin parrotfish           Sparisoma rubripinne
               Bucktooth parrotfish        Sparisoma radians
               Spotlight parrotfish        Sparisoma viride
               Cubbyu                      Eguetus umbrosus
               Reef croaker                Odontoscion dentex
               Barred hamlet               Hypoplectrus puella
               Butter hamlet               Hypoplectrus unicolor
               Graysby                     Epinephelus cruetatus
               Red grouper                 Epinephelus morio
               Nassau grouper              Epi@ephelus atriatus
               Black grouper               Mycteroperca bonaci
               Harlequin bass              serranus tigrinus
               Sucereye porgy              Calamus calamus
               Jolthead porgy              Calamus balonado
               Great barracuda             Sphyraena barracuda
               Sharpnose puffer            Canthigaster rostrata

         INVERTEBRATES

         Porifera (Sponges)
               Variable sponge             Anthosigmella varians
               Tube spong                  Callyspongia vaginalis
               Chickenliver sponge         Chondrilla nucula
                                           Chondrosia coll6ctrix
                                           Cinachyra cavernosa
               Boring sponge               Cliona spp.
               Heavenly sponge             Geodia gibberosa
               Finger sponges              Haliclona spp.
               Vase sponges                Ircinia spp.
                                           Neopetrosia longlevi
               Loggerhead sponge           Spheciosphongis vesparia
                                           spongia graminea
               Fire sponge                 Tedania ignis
                                           Tethya.sp.
               Candle sponge               Verongia longissima


         Cnidaria

           Hydrozoa
               Encrusting stinging coral   Millepora.alcicornis

           Scyphozoa
               Moon Jelly fish             Aurelia aurita
               stinging jellyfish          Dactylometra guinque irrha
               Comb jellyfish              Mnemiopsis spp.
               Portugeuse man-of-war       Physalia Physalis
                                           Sertularia inflata


                                           74









                 By the wind sailor             Velella velella

               Anthozoa
                Octocorallia (soft corals)
                 Corky seafingers               Briareum asbestinu
                 Eunicea                        Eunicea knighti
                                                Eunicea succinea
                 Venus seafan                   Gorgonia flabellum
                 Common seafan                  Gorgonia ventalina
                 Sea rods                       Plexaura flexuosa
                                                Plexaurella dichototoma
                                                Plexaurella fusifera
                                                Plexaurella nutans
                                                Pseudoplexaura flagellosa
                                                Pseudoplexaura porasa
                 Purple sea plume               Pseudonterogorgia acerosa
                 Slimy sea plume                Pseudonterogorgia americana
                 Angular sea whip               Pterogorgia anceps

               Hexacorallia
                 Actiniarians (Sea anemones)    Bartholomea annulata
                                                BundosomA cavernata
                                                Condylactis gigantea

               Madreporarians (Stony corals)
                 Sheet (lettuce) coral          Agaricia spp.
                 Ivory tube coral               Cladocora arbuscula
                 Knobby brain coral             DiPloria clivosa
                 Grooved brain coral            Diploria labyrinthiformis
                 Smooth brain coral             Diploria strigosa
                 Flower coral                   Eusmilia spp.
                 Golfball coral                 Favia fragum
                 Rose coral                     Manicina areolata
                 Mountainous star coral         Montastraea annul!,gris
                 Cavernous star coral           Montastraea cavernosa
                 Large flower coral             Mussa angulosa
                 Ivory bush coral               Oculina diffusa
                 Mustardhill coral              Porites asteroides
                 Finger coral                   Porites furcata
                 Clubbed finger coral           Porites porites
                 Rough starlet coral            Siderastrea radians
                 Smooth starlet coral           Siderastrea sider!t-a


               Annelida
                                                Arabella sp.
                 Tube worm                      Cistenides sp.
                                                Eunice spp.
                 Green, bristle worm            Hermodice carunculata
                                                Loimia sp.
                 Banded feather dusters         Sabella spp.




                                                75













              Mollusca
                                                Adoria sp.
                 Cerith                         Cerithium spp.
                 White ark                      Barbatia sp.
                 Chiton                         Chiton sp.
                 Scallop                        Chlamys spp.
                 Triton                         Cyvmatium spp.
                 cowrie                         Cypraea spp.
                 spiny lima                     Lima lima
                 Burrowing mussel               Lithophaga spp.
                 Miter shell                    Mitra spp.
                 Tulip mussel                   Modiolus amercanus
                 Murex                          Murex spp.
                 Joubin's octopus               Octopus joubini
                 Octopus                        Octupus vulgaris
                 Pectin                         Pectin sp.
                 Pearl oyster                   Pinctada radiata
                 Pin shell                      Pinna carnea
                 Reef squid                     Sepioteuthis sepioidea
                 Slender chiton                 Stenoplax floridana
                 Queen conch                    Strombus gigas
                 Fighting conch                 strombus pugilis
                 Hawk wing                      Strobus raninus
                 Speckled tellin                Tellina listeri


              Arthropoda
                 Barnacles                      Balanus spp.
                                                Lepsas spp.
                 Snapping shrimp                Alpheus spp.
                 Cleaning shrimp                Lysmata intermedia
                 Spiny lobster                  Panulirus argus
                 Pink shrimp                    Penaeus sp.
                 Pederson's cleaning shrimp     Periclimenes pedersoni
                 Slipper lobster                Scyllarides nodifer
                 Squilla                        Squilla sp.      
                 Banded coral shrimp            Stenopus hispidus
                 snapping shrimp                Synalpheus spp.
                 Star-eyed hermit crab          Dardanus venosus
                 Sponge crab                    Dromidia sp.
                 Blue crab                      Callinectes sapidus
                 Stone crab                     Menippe mercenaria
                 Spider crab                    Mithrax sp.
                 Hermit crabs                   Paguristes spp.
                 Hermit crabs                   Pagurus spp.
                 swimming crabs                 Portunus spp.
                 Decorator crab                 Stenocionops furcata
                 Arrow crab                     Stenorhynchusseticornis



               Echinodermata
                 Agassiz's sea cucumber         Actinopyga agassizi
                 Furry sea cucumber             Astichopus multifidus


                                               76
 









               Basket starfish              Astrophvton muricatum
               Sea star                     Astropecten spp.
               Sea biscuit                  Clypeaster rosaceus
               Lonq-spined  sea urchin      Diadema antillarum
               Boring urchins               Echinometra spp.
               Slate-pencil urchin          Eucidaris tribuloides
               Sea cucumber                 Holothuria floridana
               Brittle star                 Ophiocoma echinata
                                            Ophioderma sp.
               Bahama starfish              Oreaster reticulatus

             Chordata (Tunicates)           Ascidea sp.
                                            Didemnum amethysteum
                                            Styela sp.
                                            Symplegma sp.



          (Opersko, 1973; Opresko,  et. al., 1976; Schmall and Tilmant, 1980;
          Kisslinq IN Multerf 1977; Voss, 1976; Jaap, 1984; Voss, 1982 and
          Kaplan, 1982)


             5. Hardbottom

             This community association is referred to as live bottom
             (Jaap, 1984) or hard bottom (Voss, 1982; Marzalak et al.,
             1977; and others). It is generally included as a subcategory
             of the coral reef habitats, as described by these authors, but
             will be treated as a separate community association within
             this plan and in the resource maps, as it is a major
             constituent of the aquatic preserve's resources. Large
             portions of the Atlantic sea floor and smaller portions of the
             lagoon    bottom  are   representative   of   this    community
             association. Marine grassbeds, sand, and mud bars are usually
             intermixed with the hard bottom, occupying shallow depressions
             in the limestone.    Distribution of macrofauna is generally
             scattered in random patterns and is never as compact or
             diverse as are qrassbeds or coral reefs. Never the less, this
             community association supports a diverse. invertebrate and
             vertebrate fauna and is a valuable nursery area for many sport
             and commercial fish species (Jaap, 1984).

             The flora and fauna of this association are highly variable
             and contain many species of the patch reef association but are
             not three dimensional  'reef building communities.      Species
             composition is usually dominated by algae and invertebrate
             species such as soft corals, sponges, and small stony corals.
             The algal species are well represented by the calcareous
             greens, Acetabularia, Batophora, Halimeda, and Udotea spp.
             These species are instrumental in binding sediments and the


                                            77









             formation of calcareous sands that are the byproducts of their
             skeletal remains. They are also a food source for herbivorous
             fish and invertebrates.   The brown Sargassum is also common
           ..and supports a relatively complex microcommunity within it's
             delicate leaves and nodules.

             The soft corals (octocorals or' gorgonians) are visually
             dominant.    The most common species are the sea whips
             (Pterociorgia spp.) , sea fan Gorgonia ventalina), sea rods
             (Plexaura spp.),@and the sea plumes (Pseudopterogorgia spp.).
             Stony corals found in. the live bottom communities include
             clubbed finger coral (Po ites porites.), porous coral (1!.
             asteroides), starlet coral (Siderastrea radians), rose coral
             (Manicina areolata) , lobed star coral (Solenastrea hyades) ,
             and smooth star coral (S. bournoni). These species vary from
             a few inches to a foot in height. Colonies of clubbed finger
             corals may cover several square meters in the clear, shallow
             waters near shore and their skeletal remains are a large
             constituent of the "sand" beach and the bars between the
             islands.

             The sponges are also well represented in the hardbottom
             community.   Dominance of this group in areas of the lagoon
             prompted Lineback (1968) to refer to those areas as the "sandy
             botton-sponge community". the most prevalent species are the
             chicken liver sponge (Chondrilla nucula) , vase sponge (Ircinia
             campana) , cake sponge (.1. etherea) , stinking sponge (I.
             felix), the little blue heavenly sponge (Dysidea etherea), the
             large loggerhead sponge (Sphec-iosloongia vesparia) , and the
             tube 'sponges (Aiplysina cauliformis and Callispongia spp.) .
             Both sponges and octocorals are host or prey to a wide variety
             of organisms that live on or in their framework. Both groups
             glean sustenence from the surrounding water and in doing so
             act as filtering mechanisms to remove minute particles and
             nutrients from the water.

             Motile fauna of the hardbottom include many invertebrates and
             fishes of both the patch reef and seagrass communities. This
             area provides microhabitats for many juvenile fishes as well
             as infaunal organisms that tunnel the shallow sediments.
             Marine turtles are also quite frequently observed feeding or
             resting in these areas. The hawksbill turtle is especially
             fond of sponges which may comprise as much as 95 percent of
             it's diet (Weiss, 1988).

             The reader is referred to previous sections on coral reefs and
             marine grassbeds for additional information and species lists.



             H. DESIGNATED SPECIES


             The many resource types within the preserve support a rich and
             varied population of plants and animals.    Previous sections


                                           78










              have enumerated the many material and aesthetic values accrued
              to man in conserving and protecting these resources.          This
              section will discuss the often critical importance of these
              resources to other species of plants and animals that are
              endangered or threatened with extinction throughout part or
              all of their geographic range.          In most cases, their
              endangerment is the direct result of man's exploitation of the
              natural resources of an area.            Excessive harvesting,
              collecting, landclearing, construction, dredging, treasure
              salvage, ditching, the use of pesticides, and the introduction
              of exotic plants and animals have contributed to the decline
              of many of these species and will continue to stress recovery
              capabilities for most of them.

              It shall be a major objective of this plan's management policy
              to identify, map, and protect the endangered and threatened
              species habitat within the preserve boundary and provide input
              in decisions that would affect known habitat of these species
              on adjacent lands and in marine areas. To the maximum extent
              possible (where biologically and economically feasible),
              disturbed habitats will be restored to benefit endangered and
              threatened species.     Educational programs for the general
              public, organizations, and governmental agencies shall be
              prepared and disseminated in hopes of informing and enlisting
              support for the conservation and protection of vital habitats.
              The small islands in and adjacent to the preserve are host to
              a large number of endangered and threatened plant species.
              Most are tropical species of West Indies origin and one is
              endemic to the lower Keys.      A preponderance of the listed
              species occur within the mangrove/ saltmarsh and beach/berm
              communities. The numbers and degree of endangerment may well
              reflect the stress imposed by development in these areas.
              Equally devasting pressure is exerted by plant collectors and
              poachers whose primary objectives are the epiphytic orchids
              (Encyclia spp.), air plants (Tillandsia spp.), cacti (Cereus
              spp.', Opuntia spp.) , and palms (Thrinax and Coccothrinax
              spp.).    Entire areas may be stripped of these plants.
              Displacement by exotic (introduced) plants is also a problem
              where soils have been disturbed.

              The often maligned manchineel (Hippomane mancinella), a
              threatened species, has been totally eliminated from much of
              its former range in the upper Keys and in many areas of the
              lower Keys.   The often exaggerated toxic properties of this
              once abundant tree were reason enough to exclude it from
              inhabited areas. Several large specimens still survive in the
              more remote wetland areas of Big Pine Key.           Other less
              threatening or less conspicuous plants include the endangered
              geiger tree (Cordia      'sebestena), wild cotton (Gossypium
              hirsutum ) , sea lavender (Mallotonia gnaphalodes) and bay
              cedar (Suriana maritima) . Garber's spurge (Chamaesyce garberi
              syn. Euphorbia garberi) is presently classfied as endangered
              on the state list and its occurence is limited to four known


                                             79










             locations, one of which is near the preserve boundary on the
             north.

             A second.large group of endangered and threatened plants are
             found in the pineland communities of the lower Keys.           One
             endangered species, the Big Pine Partridge Pea (Cassia
             keyensis) , is endemic to the lower Keys pinelands.          other
             endangered and threatened plants from this community include
             the ferns (Acrostichum spp., Anemia sp., Pteris sp.,
             Ophioglossu    sp., and Vittaria sp.), and the silver palm
             (Coccothrinax argentata).        Plant poaching, filling of
             freshwater wetlands, and land clearing are primary threats in
             these areas.     Exclusion of fire in the "fire dependent"
             community may also be deleterious to many of the understory
             plant species. As more development occurs within a pineland,
             fire is excluded to protect property.       The result is often
             negative for the community as a whole and may eliminate
             endangered and threatened species as the community succeeds to
             a hardwood sere (Gunderson et al., 1983).

             Endangered and threatened hardwood hammock species, or small
             colonies of these species are generally dispersed randomly.
             throughout a hammock. This 'clumping' is often overlooked by
             those who clear land for development.       The generally small
             building lots are usually cleared of all vegetation to provide
             a buiding site and yard area. This practice may eliminate an
             individual or an entire colony of an already limited species.

             Table 9 providesa partial species list of plants considered
             to be endangered or threatened by 1) Florida Department of
             Agriculture and Consumer Services, the official State list
             (Preservation of Native Flora of Florida Act, Florida
             Statutes, Section 581.185, 1978) ; 2) Rare (R) , endangered (E) ,
             threatened (T), and spceies of special concern (SSC) from the
             Florida Committee on Rare and Endangered Plants and Animals
             (FCREPA) list: and 3) Rare and Endangered Biota of Florida
             series (P.C.H. Pritchard, ed.).       one cactus on the list,
             (Cereus robinii) is currently designated as endangered by the
             U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and 16 plants from the list are
             under review for federal listing.

             The plant communities within and adjacent    to the preserve are
             host to an equally diverse number of endangered and threatened
             animals. These areas provide food, cover, and nesting habitat
             for a broad range of resident animals and are equally
             important to several transitory species.. Table 10 lists all
             species -that could be expected to utilize various habitats
             within the preserve.

             The endangered Key deer (Odocoileus virginianus claviu ) is
             known to utilize many habitat types during daily or seasonal
             movements but is limited to only a few of the lower Keys
             islands, Big Pine having the largest population. They are


                                            80









             excellent swimmers and -are known to traverse open water
             between islands (Silvy, 1975).        Klimstra et al., (1980)
             estimated mid-1970's population to have been approximately
             350-400 animals. The Key Deer National Wildlife Reguge
             esitmates current populations to be 250-300 animals (Holle,
             1987). The deer travel over great distances to procure water
             and forage and disperse over a wider range during rut and
             fawning seasons. Loss of habitat and high annual mortalities
             from road kills, fence intanglement, free roaming dogs and
             drowning are major impediments to the deer's survival. Most of
             these factors are directly the result of human occupation of
             the area and will most probably be compounded as more of Big
             Pine Key is developed. Conservation and management of this
             species cannot be accomplished without close coordinatio   n and
             cooperation with local government planning and other resource
             management plans.

             The crepuscular or nocturnal Key Vaca raccoon (Procyon lotor
             auspicatus), a threatened, endemic subspecies, is also an
             excellent.swimmer and utilizes a broad range of habitats for
             foraging.    other than road kills, this species has few
             confrontations with man and may in fact benefit from man's
             occupation of an area.      Cultivated fruit and garbage are
             perfectly acceptable in their diet.

             originally recorded from the island of Key Vaca (Marathon)
             where urban development has displaced much of its former
             habitat, the raccoon has expanded its range to other islands
             near Big Pine Key.     The Key Vaca raccoon is not currently
             documented for the preserve area but close proximity to known
             habitat (No Name Key) and the raccoon's amphibious skills
             would indicate the extremely high probability of eventually
             encountering this nomad (Lazel, 1984).

             The endemic and endangered Silver rice rat (Orvzmoys
             arentatus) utilizes freshwater and marine wetland areas for
             foraging, cover, and nesting (Spitzer and Lazell, 1978).        A
             common saltmarsh plant (Batix maritima) is a known food plant
             and an indicator of preferred habitat when in close proximity
             to freshwater (Spitzer, 1983).      The rice rat has not been
             formerly recorded within the preserve. However, the area has
             not been extensively trapped to confirm presence/absence and
             available habitat would justify further population studies for
             this rodent (Spitzer-Goodyear, pers. com.)

             other species that are dependent upon freshwater wetlands and
             upland habitats include several species of reptiles.          The
             threatened Big Pine Key ringneck snake (Diadophis punctatus
             taeniata) and Florida brown snake (Storeria dekayi victa) are
             endemics that are especially dependent upon freshwater
             wetlands within the adjacent hammocks and pinelands (Paulson,
             1968 and Weaver, 1978a) . A threatened subspecies, the Florida
             ribbon snake (Thamnophis sauritus sackeni) and the threatened


                                            81









             Eastern indigo (Drymarchon corais c    ouperi) utilize a variety
             of habitats includi   'ng mangroves and saltmarsh areas (Weaver,
             1978 (a)) .    The Red rat snake (Elaphe auttata cruttata) is
             listed as a species of special concern in the lower Keys.
             Loss of suitable habitat is probably the single most. important
             influence on their survival.           Public education may be
             beneficial in erasing the age old predjudice towards snakes in
             general.   All of these snakes are non-poisonous and all are
             beneficial to man, in that they feed upon insects and rodents
             that are considered vermin..           Yet most of them are
             systematically eliminated from the environs of man out of fear
             or ignorance and the introduction of domestic pets.

             The Key mud turtle (Kinosternon bauri bauri) and the American
             alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) utilize fresh and
             brackish wetlands for feeding, resting and raising their
             young. The endangered mud turtle is an elusive creature that
             is often difficult to find even in it's known habitat.
             Bottoms of ponds and solution holes are often carpeted with
             thick layers of mud and leaf litter -that offer excellent cover
             for this small turtle (Weaver, 1978 (b)). During periods of
             dought the turtle may burrow into crevaces or tunnel under
             rocks to conserve body moisture and await the rains that
             replenish the pond (Dunson, 1981).           The Alligator, once
             threatened with extinction has been successfully bred and
             reared in captivity.      The success of alligator farming has
             reduced the pressure on wild populations and the state now
             considers the wild alligator as a species of special concern.

             The American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) is an infrequent
             visitor in Coupon Bight.      Reported sightings are usually a
             case of mistaken identity (Alligator) but several reports (one
             with photographs) are reliable.        The proximity of several
             other individuals on Bahia Honda Key and sporadic reports of
             an individual near Key West would seem to indicate that
             certain crocodiles are nomadic and may cover great distances
             and frequent certain areas on a regular basis. The crocodile
             usually shuns' areas of. human occupation and boat traf f ic
             (Moler, per. com.) and may well find the shallow water bays
             and channels of the Bight a a welcome haven from these
             disturbances.

             Although no amphibian species are presently listed, it is
             anticipated that future research and study of local freshwater
             areas may reveal morphologically or physiologically unique
             species.    The introduction of exotic species, such as the
             Giant marine toad (Bufo marinus) and the Cuban treefrog (Hyla
             septentrionalis) may possibly pose a threat to the smaller
             native species but the alteration of wetland environments is
             a much greater threat (Krakauer, 1970).

             The avifauna of the area represents the largest group of
             listed species.     All except two species on Table 10 are


                                             82









             dependent upon wetlands for  their survival. The Little blue
             heron (Egretta caerulea), Snowy egret (Egretta thula), Reddish
             egret (Egretta rufescens) , Tricolored (or Louisiana) heron
             (Egretta tricolor) , and the Roseate spoonbill (Ajaja aja1a)
             are currently listed as species of special concern.       These
             colonial nesters were easy prey for the plume hunters of the
             early part of the century. Entire rookeries were annihilated
             as plume hunters killed the adult birds in breeding plumage
             and left chicks to die or fed them to their hogs.       As the
             demand for plumes declined, the real estate boom began in
             south Florida.   Thousands of acres of wetlands were drained
             for agriculture and residential development.           Depleted
             breeding stocks and ever vanishing habitat brought these
             species and others to the brink of extinction.         Loss of
             habitat, water management practices on the mainland, and the
             introduction of pesticides into the food web may still imperal
             the survival of many.

             The Roseate tern (Sterna dougallii) and Least ern (Sterna
             antillarum) are known to nest in the area and both are now
             listed as threatened species. The roseate population consists
             of approximately 250-300 nesting pairs and they nest almost
             exclusively in the lower Keys (Robertson, 1978). Both terns
             favor unvegetated beaches, berms and spoil islands for
             nesting. Unfortunately, spoil islands and beaches are usually
             prime   targets   for   development   or   other    alteration.
             Development   activities and ground nesting        are seldom
             compatible.   The decision to remove dredge spoil to restore
             historic water flow must also be weighed against the possible
             disruption of nesting habitat.

             The Southeastern snowy plover (Charadrius          alexandrinus
             tenuirostris) is a summer visitor to our beaches  and shallow-
             water wetlands but does not nest here (Wofdnden,  1978). This
             threatened species has suffered descimation in     many of the
             Caribbean countries.       Excessive hunting pressures and
             destruction of habitat are instrumental in population declines
             (Arendt et al., 1979; Wiley,1979).

             The White-crowned pigion, a threatened species, is also hunted
             for sport and food in many of the Caribbean countries.
             Excessive hunting pressures, egg collecting and removal of
             tropical hardwood forests have seriously depleted resident
             populations in at least two countries.              Cooperative
             agreements, closed seasons and complete protection in several
             areas have slowed the decline of this species.         Resident
             populations in the Keys are protected from hunting but efforts
             must continue to stem the loss of tropical hardwood trees that
             the pigeon depends on for food.          Poisonwood (Metopium
             toxiferum) is a favored food during the fruiting period. As
             the name implies, this tree has certian toxic properties that
             irritate sensitive human skin (and may cause more severe
             complications for hypersensitive persons) and it is frequently


                                           83









              eradicated f rom.   human environs.    Other less objectionable
              hammock trees and shrubs, such as, Pigeon plum (Coccoloba
              diversifolia), Snowberry (Chiococca alba), stoppers (Eugenia
              spp.), Wild coffee (Psychotria nervosa) and wild figs (Ficus
              spp.) are also staple foods.       However, few of these plant
              species are given explicit protection under local landclearing
              ordinances. The pigeon feeds in the hammocks and nests in the
              more remote mangroves.      It is shy and sensitive to human
              habitation or disturbance in both areas (Robertson and
              Kushlan, 1978; Sprunt, per. com.).

              The endangered Peregrin falcon (Falco peregrinus) is a winter
              visitor to the Keys.       Pesticides in the food chain were
              instrumental in the decline of this raptor.        Elimination of
              certain insecticides and reintroduction of      the peregrin are
              proving successful in reestablishing this species in the
              former range. ' Perched upon utility wires      or hovering over
              open areas, it can overtake and capture other birds in
              midflight. It may be encountered in variety of habitats from
              September to May (Snyder, 1978)..

              open-water piscivorous birds include the endangered Bald eagle
              (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) and the threatened Eastern brown
              pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis carolinensis).          The eagle
              population has suffered a 50% decline over the last 30 years.
              Florida populations have dropped from 1,000 to less that 350
              breeding pairs. Currently, only 2-4 pairs are thought to nest
              between Key Vaca and the Marquesas (Robertson, 1978). Eagles
              do not presently nest in the preserve but suitable feeding
              habitat may attract an occassional visitor.

              The Eastern brown pelican has suffered a similar fate on a
              national level.    A massive die-off in Texas and Louisiana
              during the 1960's prompted the federal government to list the
              pelican as an endangered species until 1984. It appears that
              local populations have remained fairly stable and the pelican
              has been deleted from the endangered category and it is now
              considered to be a species of special concern in Florida.
              There are 19 breeding colonies of brown pelicans in the Keys.
              This represents 38% of the Florida population (Schreiber,
              1978).   The pelican prefers more remote mangrove areas for
              nesting and will often join other colonial species.

              The Osprey (Pandion haliaetus), which is not currently listed,
              may well reach threatened status if present populations
              continue to decline. The locally limiting factors are thought
              to be availability of suitable nesting habitat and adequate
              food during the nesting season.      The osprey is tolerant of
              human occupation but like the eagle, prefers large, dead trees
              that rise above the surrounding canopy for nesting.
              Hurricanes and landclearing have removed many of these
              suitable trees and the osprey has opted for nesting on utility
              poles and elevated platforms.        The possible addition of


                                              84









             artificial nesting platforms is being investigated as a means
             to encourage more osprey nesting.      Continued protection of
             mangrove rookeries and the mangrove/detritus food chain are
             vital for the eagle, pelican, osprey and the many wading birds
             that depend upon fish and marine invertebrates for food.

             Qualitative information on marine fishes and invertebrates are
             conspicuously absent from the literature.     Of those listed,
             only the Common snook (Centropomus undecimalis) has been
             extensively studied. This species is a prized sport and food
             fish and much controversy currently rages regarding the
             reasons for it's decline and the appropriate measures for
             ensuring a return to former abundance.      Pesticides spraying
             (EPA, 1981), habitat destruction and overharvesting are the
             primary concerns.     Egg and larval stages of most marine
             species are adversely affected by insecticides. Removal of
             larger fish, through uncontrolled commercial or sport fishing,
             depletes brood stock.      The effects of both were quickly
             evident.   Destruction of mangroves and marine grassbeds are
             additional stresses that have negatively affected the snook
             statewide.

             Discontinued spraying for mosquitos over aquatic preserves and
             federal refuges may have already contributed to higher hatch
             success for snook., The long term data will undoubtably prove
             this policy beneficial. Closing certain areas to commercial
             net boats and imposing closed seasons and strict size limits
             for both commercial and sport fisheries may also reverse the
             previous trend. Current reports from professional guides and
             sportfisherman indicate that this is the case and that more
             f ish are being taken in the Keys.     Those over or under the
             size and over the bag limits should be returned to the water,
             uninjured.

             The threatened Key silverside (Menidia conchorum) is an
             endemic of shallow open bays in the Big Pine Key and Cudjoe
             Key area.   It was formerly reported near Key West but this
             population  is thought to have been extirpated.      This small
             (adults up to 2 inches long) fish is primarily a marine
             species but will tolerate freshwater (Gilbert, 1978).       This
             and other listed fish species are adversely affected by
             modification or loss of habitat. Alteration of mangroves and
             marine grassbeds eliminates habitat and often creates
             turbidity that smothers eggs and clogs gills. Preservation of
             these and other species requires that disturbances in marine
             wetlands be kept to a minimum and that these areas be
             protected from upland drainage that introduces silt and
             pollution into nearshore habitats.

             The marine turtles have suffered depredation similar to that
             described for the wading birds.     The Atlantic green turtle
             (Chelonia mvdas mydas) was once a mainstay to Keys fisherman.
             Shortly after the turn of the century, most of these turtles


                                            85









            had been eliminated from local waters. overharvesting and egg
            collecting in other parts of the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico
            have continued to stress survival for all marine turtles.
            With the exception of the Atlantic loggerhead (Caretta caretta
            caretta) and the Hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata imbricata) ,
            those listed would be considered as. rare or occasional
            visitors to the preserve area. The endangered hawksbill may
            be observed occassionally in coral reef and hardbottom areas
            and the threatened loggerhead is a frequent visitor to the
            preserve.

            Loss or modification of suitable nesting beaches and nest
            predation are major concerns in the local management of
            loggerhead turtles.    Present efforts to locate and document
            turtle nesting sites within the preserve are proving
            successful.     Nests that are not threatened by tidal
            inundation, vehicular traffic, poaching, or predation are left
            to their f ate.    Those nests that are in danger of being
            destroyed are relocated to an in-ground hatchery at Sombrero
            Beach by properly permitted individuals. Upon hatching, the
            turtles are released at or near their point of origin. The
            local Save-a-Turtle program and similar programs throughout
            the state have been highly successful in returning large
            numbers of hatchlings to the sea, in hopes that the survivors
            may return to our beaches in the future. The cooperation and
            vigilance of local citizens has contributed significantly to
            this effort.

            The endangered West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus
            latirostris) is an occasional visitor to the preserve area.
            Individual animals or small groups are often reported to
            appear in residential boat basins and canals during the winter
            months   and   occasionally during summer.          Cool    water
            temperatures farther north may prompt this migration out of
            the usual winter range.     Well meant offerings of food and
            fresh water will often entice the manatee to linger in these
            areas for longer periods.    This practice should be strongly
            discouraged, as it increases the manatee's exposure to danger
            from boats. Although there are no designated "manatee areas",
            boaters should be cautious and reduce speed when manatees are
            in an area.    Heavy penalties are imposed for harassing or
            negligently injuring or killing this highly endangered
            species.

            Invertebrates that warrant special status include several
            terrestrial and marine species. The four insects listed are
            currently under review for federal listing.               Marine
            invertebrates of special interest include several     species,of
            corals. These species (as well as those from the      deep-water
            reefs) have been subjected to collecting and 'habitat
            destruction in many areas of the Keys.      The corals are the
            structural components of the reef and as such are vital to its
            survival. The labrynthes of the reef offer food and cover to


                                           86









             a large variety of interesting and biologically significant
             species. The corals themselves are subject to many forms of
             disease and injury or necrosis from a variety of external
             forces but man's influence may be most instrumental in the
             decline or damage to corals in some areas.

             Major damage to coral communities stems from the unimformed
             boating and diving public. Improperly placed boat anchors and
             poor navigational judgement account for considerable damage to
             corals that may take decades to repair. Divers and snorklers
             who touch or stand on living corals also inflict wounds and
             weaken a colony, leaving it open to infection or decimation by
             predators. As previously noted, local damage to corals also
             involves lobster trap placement and retrieval methods.
             Chaffed, broken,, or overturned colonies are subject to
             disease, infection, and displacement by other organisms.

             Other activities that are generally detrimental to coral
             communities include nontraditional and traditional hook and
             line fishing methods and fish and invertebrate collecting.
             Hook and line fishing introduces monofilament line and lead
             weights that chaff and damage corals much the same as the bouy
             lines on lobster traps. Monofilament line is also a hazard to
             marine turtles.   once entangled, the turtle may   suffer deep
             lacerations or complete amputation of a flipper.
             The use of chemicals has often had catastrophic results on
             local coral populations.       Results may only     temporarily
             interupt local fauna (as in the case of Rotenone) or leave
             more permanent voids when employed on a regular basis, as was
             customary with sodium hypochloride and other chemicals in the
             Indio-Pacific regions. The use of these chemicals may result
             in a high mortality of sessil invertebrates or cause the coral
             polyp to expell the symbiotic zooxanthellae (Johannes, 1975).
             Similar chemicals are frequently employed by fish and
             invertebrate collectors.

             Although state law (F.S. 370.110) prohibits the taking of hard
             corals (Millepora spp. and the Scleractinia) and a few species
             of sea fans (Gorgonia ventalina and G. flabellum) from State
             waters, many of the octocorals (g  .orgonians), tropical fish,
             molluscs, crustaceans, anemones, and other invertebrates are
             less stringently regulated.    Permits are required for these
             activities but monitoring and regulating collectors is
             difficult, if not impossible, given the broad geographic
             extent of the State's marine waters.      Local collecting is
             still conducted by both professional and amatuer aquarists,
             often with little regard for federal or state sanctuary or
             preserve boundaries.    And with even less consideration for
             non-target species when pursueing specimens. overharvesting
             is also a potential problem. Intensive collecting of a single
             species may eliminate that species from a small patch reef.
             The ecological repercussions are problematic but each organism
             fills a particular biological niche and mass alteration of


                                           87









             community structure would af f ect other organisms that interact
             with the target species (e.g. predator/prey, parasitic,
             symbiotic, and mutualistic relationships).

             other forms of chemical pollution are potential 'threats to
             coral colonies.      Sewage leachate, petroleum hydrocarbons
             (PHC), pesticides, and heavy metals are all lethal to corals
             in concentrated application.         Lower concentrations are
             extremely difficult to trace in marine systems and qualitative
             research on long-term, low level, chronic pollution is equally
             difficult to conduct in the natural environment. Long term-,
             low level concentrations of PHC's have been correlated to low
             reproductive success in corals (Loya and Rinckevich, 1980).
             Similar alterations to biological processes have been
             documented for heavy metals and pesticides in other organisms.

             The concern  for an individual endangered species may prompt a
             concerted effort for preservation and has proved successful in
             a limited number of dases.       The Peregrin falcon and the
             Alligator are such examples. other efforts have proved only
             marginally successful'. The American bison was reduced from 25
             million to less than 600 individuals in three decades. Today,
             their offspring number in the thousands but most are confined
             to only a small portion of their former range within National
             Parks and preserves.      Similarly, the Florida manatee has
             benefited from designated sanctuaries and captive breeding
             efforts but the steady growth of recreational power boats
             still imperils this slow moving siren throughout much of it's
             already diminished range. The most recent population estimate
             indicates that there may be less than 1,000 individuals
             statewide.

             Other wildlife species have not faired so well. The Florida
             panther and the Key deer once lived side by side in the Keys.
             The panther has been extirpated from the islands and much of
             Florida. The deer now numbers less than 300 individuals and
             many are skeptical about its continued survival in the path of
             development.   Much the same skepticism exists regarding the
             endemic species discussed,-as well as the American crocodile
             and the Bald eagle.    The onslaught of human populations and
             development leave little hope for many of these animals.
             Designated refuges and preserves, stringent laws and a
             "conservation ethic" are possibly all that seperate them from
             extinction.













                                            88













                                         TABLE 9


               FLORAL SPECIES OF THE COUPON BIGHT AQUATIC PRESERVE AREA
                    THAT ARE CLASSIFIED AS ENDANGEREDr THREATENED
                               OR COMMERCIALLY EXPLOITED



          Scientific Name                  Common Name                Status
                                                                    FDA    USFWS

          Acacia chorioDhvlla            Tamarindillo                E
          Acrostichum aurem              Golden leather fern         E
          Acrostichmu danaeifolium       Giant leather fern          T
          Anemia adiantifolia            Pine fern                   T
          Argythamnia blodgettii         Blodgett's wild mercury            UR
          Aristida floridana             Florida three-awned grass   E      UR
          Campyleneurum Phyllitidua      Strap fern                  T
          Cassia kevensis                Big Pine partridge pea      E      UR
          Catesbaea parviflora           Small-flowered lilythorn    E
          Cereus gracilis                Prickly apple cactus        E      UR
          Cereus pentagonus              Dildoe cactus               T
          Cereus robinii                 Tree cactus                 E      E
          Chamaesyce garberi             Garber's spurge             E      T
            (= Euphorbia garberi)
          Chrysophyllum olivaeforme      Satinleaf                   E
          Clusea rosea                   Balsam apple                E
          Coccothrinax argentata         Silver palm                 C
          Cocos nucifera                 Coconut palm                T
          Cordia sebestena               Geiger tree                 E
          Cupania glabra                 Cupania                     E
          Encyclia boothiana             Dollar orchid               E       UR
          Encyclia cochleata             Clamshell orchid            T
          Encyclia tampensis             Butterfly orchid            T
          Ernodia littoralis             Beach creeper               T
          Euphorbia porteriana           Keys hairy-podded                   UR
             var.keyensis                    spurge
          Gossypium hirsutum             Wild cotton                 E
          Hippoman mancinella            Manchineel                  T
          Hymenocallis latifolia         Spider lily                         UR
          i-acauinia keyensis            Joewood                     T
          Limonium carolinianum          Narrow-leaved sea                   UR
            var.anqustatum                     lavender
          Linum arencila                 Sahd flax                   E       UR
          Mallotonia gnaphalodes         Sea lavender                E
           (= Tournefortia gnaphalodes)
          Melanthera parvifolia          Small-leaved melanthera             UR
          ophioglossum valmatum          Hand fern                   E       UR
          opuntia 6ompressa              Prickly pear cactus         T
          opuntia cubensis               Prickly pear cactus         T
          opuntia spinosissima           Semaphore cactus            T       UR
          opuntia stricta                Prickly pear cactus         T
          Ppuntia tricantha              Three-spined prickly pear           UR



                                           89









         Phyllanthus pentaphyllus      Florida five-petaled               UR
                                            leaf flower
         Salvia blo!ftcfetti           Blodgett's sage                    UR
         Scaevola plumieri             Scaevola or Inkberry        T
         Strumpfia Maritima            Pride-of-Big-Pine           E
         Suriana maritima              Bay cedar                   E
         Swietenia Mahogani            West Indian mahogany        T
         Thrinax.floridana             Florida thatch palm         C
         Thrinax microcarRa            Brittle thatch palm         C
         Tillandsia balbisiana         Reflexed wild pine          T
         Tillandsia circinata          Twisted air plant           T
           (= T-paucifolia)
         Tillandsia fasciculata        Wild pine or Air plant      C
         Tillandsia flexuosa           Banded wild pine            T
         Tillandsia setacea            Needle-leaved air plant     T
         Tillandsia utriculata         Giant air plant             C
         Tillandsia valenzuelana       Soft-leaved wild pine       T
         Tragia saxicola               Florida Keys noseburn              UR
         Vanilla barbellata            Wormvine orchid             E
         Vittaria lineata              Shoestring fern             T


         Note:


         FDA     Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
                 (list published in Preservation of Native Flora of Florida
                 Act, Section 581.185-187, Florida Statutes)..
                 E = Endangered
                 T = Threatened
                 C = Commercially Exploited

         USFWS   United States Fish and Wildlife Service (list published in
                 List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants, 50
                 DFR 17.11-12).
                 E   Endangered
                 UR   Under review for federal listing


















                                         90












                                        TABLE 10


                 FAUNAL SPECIES OF THE COUPON BIGHT AQUATIC PRESERVE
                AREA THAT ARE CLASSIFIED AS ENDANGEREDj, THREATENEDr OR
                                  OF SPECIAL CONCERN



          Scientific Name             Common Name                   Status
                                                               FGFWFC   USFWS


          INVERTEBRATES

          Ataenius superficialis       Big Pine Key Ataenius
                                                beetle                     UR
          Belocephalus micanopy        Big Pine Key Conehead
                                                katydid                    UR
          Belocephalus sleighti        Keys short-winged conehead
                                                katydid                    UR
          Cycloptilum irregularis      Keys scaly cricket                  UR

          Diploria clivosa             Knobby brain coral
          Diploria labyrinthiformis    Grooved brain coral
          Diploria strigosa            Smooth brain coral
          Montastrea annularis         Small star coral
          Montastrea cavernosa         Large star coral
          Siderastrea siderea          Starlet coral


          FISH


          Centropomus undecimalis      Common snook              SSC
          Menidia conchorum            Key silverside            T
          Rivulus marmoratus           Rivulus                   SSC
          Starksia starcki             Key Blenny                SSC

          REPTILES

          Alligator mississippiensi    American alligator        SSC
          Caretta caretta caretta      Atlantic loggerhead
                                              turtle             T         T
          Chelonia mydas mvdas         Atlantic green turtle     E         E
          Crocodylus acutus            American crocodile        E         E
          Dermochelys coriacea         Leatherback turtle        E         E
          Diadophis Dunctatus acricus  Big Pine Key ringneck
                                                snake            T         UR
          Drymachon corais couperi     Eastern indigo snake      T         T
          Elaphe guttata guttata       Red rat  snake            SSC
          Eretmochelys i. imbricata    Atlantic hawksbill
                                                turtle           E         E
          Eumeces egregius egregius    Florida Keys mole skink   SSC       UR
          Kinosternon bauri bauri      Key mud  turtle           E         UR
          Lividochelys kempi           Atlantic ridley turtle    E         E
          Thamnophis sauritus sackeni  Florida ribbon snake      T



                                           91












          BIRDS

          Ajaja ajaja                   Roseate spoonbill         SSC
          Charadrius alexandrinus       Southeastern snowy plover T         UR
          Columba leucocephala          White-crowned pigeon       T        UR
          Egretta caerulea              Little blue heron         SSC
          Egretta rufescens             Reddish egret             SSC       UR
          Egretta thula                 Snowy egret               SSC
          .Egretta tricolor             Louisiana or Tricolor
                                                heron             SSC
          Falco peregrinus              Peregrine falcon          E         T
          Falco sparverius  paulus      Southeastern Kestrel      T         UR
          Haliaeetus leucocephalus      Bald eagle                T         E
          Pelecanus occidentalis        Brown pelican             SSC
          Sterna antillarum             Least tern                T
          Sterna dougallii              Roseate tern              T

          MAMMALS


          Odocoileus virginianus clavium Deer                     E         E
          Orvzomys argentatus               Silver rice rat       E         UR
          Procyon lotor auspicatus          Key Vaca raccoon      T         UR
          Trichechus manatuslatirostris     Indian manatee        E         E



          Notes:


          FGFWFC==Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission
                   (list published in Section 39-27.03-05, F.A.C.)
                   E = Endangered
                   T = Threatened
                   SSC = Species of Special Concern

          USFWS===United States Fish and Wildlife Service (list published
                   in List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants,
                   50 CFR 17.11-12).
                   E = Endangered
                   T = Threatened
                   UR = Under review for federal listing

              Rare and Endangered Biota of Florida. P.C.H. Prichard, series
              Editor. Vo. 1-6. University Presses of Florida, Gainesville,
             .FL, 1978. (Species listed are Threatened.)












                                           92











             I. REGIONAL LAND USE DEVELOPMENT AND ASSOCIATED IMPACTS

             1. Regional Land Use and Development

             The south Florida region may be interpreted to include a
             variety of locations or features depending upon:       political
             subdivision, county lines, geological formations, climate,
             watershed or any number of other natural or artificial
             boundaries.    For purposes of this discussion, the south
             Florida region will. include Monroe, Dade, Broward, Palm Beach,
             Hendry, Glades, Charlotte, Lee, Collier and the southern
             portion of Martin counties.    This delineation is based upon
             their proximity to the aquatic preserve. All counties except
             Glades and Hendry, which are principally agricultural lands,
             are coastal areas with substantial population densities. All
             are within a five hour driving time of the preserve.

             As an ecological unit the south Florida region is often
             characterized as the Kissimmee-Okeechobee, Everglades-Florida
             Bay-Coral Reef system. Water quality, accumulation, aquifer
             recharge, retention, dispersal and use are the common elements
             that unit this region. Water needs of agricultural and urban
             development must be balanced with the need to maintain or
             restore quality, quantity and periodicity of water flow to the
             larger environmental complex and for aquifer recharge.
             Pollution, depletion, flooding, drought, salt water intrusion,.
             alteration or loss of environmentally sensitive wetlands, and
             priority of use are ongoing issues that must be addressed by
             the public and various management entities.

             Potable water for the Florida Keys is provided by pipeline
             from well fields in south Dade County and thus links the Keys
             with the Biscayne Aquifer.    overland water flow moves south
             from the Kissimmee River basin, Lake Okeechobee and the
             Everglades to enter Florida Bay and eventually waters of the
             Gulf Stream and the Atlantic ocean. Because these systems are
             interconnected" the impacts to one part of the system will
             eventually impact all of the system, depending upon severity
             and/or duration. The aquatic preserve lies 'down stream' of
             this complex system in the Coral Reef zone. It is linked to
             the larger region both environmentally and economically.

             The Keys have historically been a haven for respite from the
             heavily developed urban areas along the east coast of Florida
             and the northeastern states. From the early days of Flagler's
             railroad to the present, a large proportion of the visitors to
             Keys are from the neighboring counties to the north. Many are
             seasonal visitors or part time residents.       Interstate road
             system and international airports connect the  islands with the
             region and the world.

             U.S. Highway I links Key West with the other islands and the
             mainland of Florida with a series of 43 bridges and several


                                            93










             causeways. This is the only arterial roadway into or out of
             the Keys.    Key West International Airport lies 30 miles
             southwest of the preserve.    Miami International Airport is
             approximately 130 miles northeast via U.S. 1 and the Florida
             Turnpike. Marathon Airport on Key Vaca offers local commuter
             service to Key West, Miami and several other cities in the
             region.

             From earliest recorded history, the Keys have been an
             important maritime area. European trade routes and Caribbean
             basin traffic have linked the islands with the rest of the
             world. Ports in Miami and Key West continue that tradition.
             They are major points of cultural and economic exchange.
             Cruise ships and tours provide additional access for the
             millions of tourists who visit the area annually.

             Fisheries were probably.one of the primary enticements to the
             early explorers and settlers of the Keys. Sponges, turtles,
             finfish, conch and spiny lobster supported many families and
             entire villages in some areas. All but protected turtles and
             queen conch are still a mainstay to the local commercial
             fisheries.   Although this industry employees a relatively
             small proportion of the population, it is probably the third
             most important industry in the Keys.      Economies are also
             stimulated by the facilities and services related to
             recreational fishing and accommodations for participants from
             throughout the region.

             Geographically and historically, the region     'has been a
             strategic location for national security interests. The U.S.
             Navy, Coast Guard and Air Force staf f and manitain several
             facilities throughout the Keys.       Local populations and
             economies are affected by the presence of these facilities.
             Many of the retired staff have remained as residents after
             service.

             The combination of climate, clear clean waters, coral reefs,
             abundant fish and wildlife and accessibility are the main
             attractions to both visitors and residents of the Florida
             Keys. The Keys are the most popular diving destination in the
             region and state and possibly, the continent.     Millions of
             visitors generate billions of doll'ars to the local economies
             of the Keys and the region.     Dive shops, schools, boats,
             lodging, apparel, restaurants, marinas, car rentals, airlines,
             photography and sundry other shops and businesses are geared
             to the needs and services for this industry.

             2. Local Land Use and Development

             A major portion of the land area adjacent to Coupon Bight
             Aquatic Preserve is undeveloped or is developed with low
             density commercial and residential use (Figure 4).    Such is
             not the case for most of Big Pine Key. Intense commercial


                                          94














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                                                               96









              proliferated along the US 1 corridor through the center of the
              island. Big Pine is also the fastest growing residential area
              in the lower Keys.         Population on Big Pine/Bahia Honda
              increased from 806 in 1970 to 2,377 residents is 1980 (194.9%)
              (Monroe County, 1984).        The .1990 census is predicted to
              witness a similar increase for the last decade. .

              (Note:   Bahia Honda Key is now entirely under management by
              the Florida Park Service. Residents on the island include only
              minimal park staff).

              Population growth has placed pressure upon natural resourcest
              infrastructure and services. Destruction of Key deer habitat
              and the freshwater resources of the island are o        'f paramount
              concern.    To provide compatible use with conservation of
              species and their habitats, Monroe County designated the Big
              Pine Key area as an area of Critical County Concern in 1986.
              This designation provides for a Focal Point Plan to be
              prepare 'd to address these issues.        In 1989 this planning
              process began. Limited progress has been made to date (Monroe
              County, 1990).

              It should also be noted that most development is serviced by
              septic tanks rather than central sewage in the Coupon Bight
              vicinity.     Only one commercial facility has a secondary
              treatment plant. Some new development in wetlands is being
              required to install        secondary treatment       plants which
              incorporate boreholes for injection of effluents.

              The land area south of US 1 and north of Coupon Bight is
              typically     developed    with    residential,      institutional,
              commercial and limited industrial uses. The Long Beach area
              and the Newfound Harbor Keys south of the Bight are
              principally low density residential or undeveloped.

              For purposes of this management plan, adjoining uplands will
              be limited to four categories based upon type and intensity of
              use. These designations do not reflect any particular zoning
              or planning area districts as applied by Monroe County
              government. Low density residential will include properties
              and facilities intended for private single family use.
              'Institutional use applies to those areas that are primarily
              used by private entities engaged in education, research,
              religious or civic activities. Commercial and.industrial uses
              will be treated as Commercial/Industrial as intensity of use
              is similar. The Undeveloped areas category will include       ' those
              lands that are mangrove and transitional wetlands, mangrove
              islands and pinelands or hammocks that are publicly owned.
              It will also include privately owned lands that are deemed
              unsuitable    for    development     because    of    environmental
              sensitivity or lack of facilities improvements.




                                               97










             (a) Low Density Residential:    Four improved (access roads and
             utilities in place) subdivisions lie north of the Bight and
             south of the US I roadway.      They contain approximately 400
             lots intended for single family use. Cahill Pines and Palms
             was developed by dredging six dead end canals in the area of
             the mangrove slough at the western shoreline of the island.
             Half of the main access canal and the western most canal
             connect to the waters of Pine Channel. Those in the east are
             plugged canals with no access to open water. Buildout on the
             199 lots is approximately 60% at this time. Water quality in
             the canal systems is anticipated to be generally poor due to
             poor design, restricted circulation, septic leachate and
             hydrogen sulfide generated from 'mangrove muck sediments in the
             area.


             Piney Point subdivision extends to the southwestern tip of the
             island. As with Cahill, most of this area was developed from
             dredged spoil material.      Development is almost exclusively
             limited to the shoreline of Pine Channel with several short
             dead end canals perpendicular to the shoreline and west of Big
             Pine Avenue.    Several lots east of this roadway have been
             developed with homes. All of    the properties in this area have
             been targeted for purchase      under the Coupon Bight Buffer
             Project (CARL). Twenty lots     and two large parcels have been
             purchased to     date.     Ten privately owned, undeveloped
             residential lots adjoin the northern shoreline of the Bight.
             Negotiations for these properties is ongoing.

             Pine Key Yacht Club Estates does not, as the name implies,
             abut open water.     This 183 lot subdivision was platted in
             upland habitats with only the southern portion adjoining the
             saltmarsh    buttonwood    and   impounded    mangrove     slough.
             Improvements are minimal, with the few developed sites
             primarily restricted to the northern one-fourth of the
             subdivision, closest to US 1.

             Improvements and development in the Kinercha subdivision is
             similar to the Yacht Club, with most residences clustered near
             the US  1 roadway.     Dirt roads that are heavily overgrown
             provide access to the saltmarsh and mangrove wetlands to the
             south.   Illegal building, land clearing, dumping, poaching,
             camping, wild fires and other activities are evident in these
             areas because of accessibility and remoteness.

             Two 'paper' subdivisions are also within this area. Tropical
             Park and Silas Knowles, each with 240 lots were platted with
             little* regard for access or natural features and landforms.
             Both lie partially within the extensive area of saltmarsh and
             mangrove wetlands adjoining Coupon Bight. Random dirt trails
             and mosquito ditches crisscross the wetlands in these areas.
             They have also been targeted for purchase by the CARL program.




                                             98









             Low density residential development south of the Bight is
             concentrated in Long Beach Estates and on Cooks and Hopkins
             Islands. Long Beach Estates is divided into five sections, A-
             E.   The only naturally occurring 'uplands' in this area
             consists of the low, narrow coastal berm that parallels the
             Atlantic Ocean in Sections A-C.    Access is provided by Long
             Beach Road that effectively separates the berm from the
             mangrove wetlands of the Bight. Section A contains 50 lots,
             50% of which are platted on undeveloped, privately owned
             submerged lands.    The remaining lots are approximately 75%
             built out. Section B contains 47 lots. one third are platted
             on privately held submerged lands. Buildout is near 50% on
             the remaining lots. Section D is a 9 acre parcel of private,
             undivided and undeveloped submerged land. Section E contains
             ill platted, undeveloped lots on privately owned submerged
             lands. A 3500 foot access channel, turning basin and dead end
             canal have been dredged from privately owned submerged lands
             to provide access to Coupon Bight.      Depths. in the channel
             range from 6 to 10 feet. Depths in the basin and canal are
             much deeper. Dredged material was most probably used to fill
             the mangrove wetlands that once existed in this area.

             The Atlantic side of Cooks Island was platted with 20 parcels
             intended for single family development. Some of those parcels
             have been resubdivided and approximately 7 are developed with
             residences.   As with Long Beach, construction is limited to
             the coastal berm. The north shoreline adjoining the Bight is
             unplatted, privately owned mangroves.      A single dirt road
             provides access between the parcels. Electricity is available
             through an aerial transmission line that extends from Long
             Beach to Little Munson Island over the waters of Coupon Bight.
             However, no service is presently provided to Cooks Island
             residents because the transmission line is privately owned by
             interests on Little Munson Island (City Electric, pers. com.) .
             Potable water is provided via individual rain water cisterns
             or brought to the island via boat.     Sewage is handled with
             cesspools, outdoor privy and make-shift septic tanks. Private
             single family docks provide access to Atlantic waters of the
             preserve.

             Hopkins Island is developed with one residence and a small
             interior boat basin.    Water and sewage are provided by the
             same means as on Cooks Island. Access to the waters of the
             Bight and the Atlantic are afforded by a mangrove-concealed
             canal and a 'wheel channel' between Hopkins and Cooks Islands.
             The 'wheel channel' is also used by residents of Cooks Island
             to gain access to Coupon Bight. No additional development is
             anticipated on this island because of its small size.

             (b) Institutional Use: Areas north of Coupon Bight and south
             of US 1 include a marine institute, a church and cemetery.
             The institute is located on the southwestern tip of Big Pine
             Key. It is a private educational facility that offers various


                                           99










              terms and courses of study for children and adults.
              Facilities include administrative and dormitory buildings,
              classrooms, cafeteria and a marina. Most activities are water
              oriented and outdoor classrooms are conducted at the marina
              and in adjacent waters, including those of the preserve. This
              facility also hosts visiting research scientists and intern
              staff from various colleges and universities.

              The church and cemetery are adjoining properties near the
              northeast corner of the Bight.   The cemetery is not, as the
              name implies, used for in-ground burials, as geology and
              parcel size are not suitable for this activity.      A modest
              crematorium is located on the property. Ash is consigned to
              clients for dispersal or stored in vaults on the site. The
              church is also of modest proportions with typical buildings,
              parking and open space.

              Big Munson Island is maintained by the Boy Scouts of America
              who operate a primitive adventure camp on the property. There
              are no permanent improvements on the island, nor is any future
              development planned (S.Wampler, pers. comm., 1990)

              (c) Commercial /Industrial: Industrial activity is confined to
              the north side of the Bight. A large barrow pit operation is
              conducted on 34.87 acres that adjoin the northeastern corner
              on the US. 1 roadway.    Two low, narrow berms separate the
              actual pit and related slurry from the preserve waters. The
              pit size doubled between 1979 and 1982 and covered
              approximately 10.5 acres.   By 1989 the dredged area covered
              approximately 17.2 acres of former wetlands.            Further
              development of the pit is limited by the proximity    of US I
              roadway and the church to the east and north. Expansion into
              the wetlands west of the pit is prohibited by DER permits.

              A small industrial park lies one quarter mile west of the
              barrow pit. on Industrial Boulevard. Activities and facilities
              include a automotive junk yard, concrete batch plant,
              construction supply and storage yard and an animal control
              impoundment and cremation furnace.          This area      also
              accommodates small commercial shops and offices. Total area
              is approximately 10 acres, about half of which occupies former
              wetlands or adjoins existing wetlands near the Bight.

              Commercial development is principally limited to the US 1
              corridor with some expansion to the south toward the Bight.
              Activities and facilities are principally tourist and resident
              support retail sales, accommodations, restaurants and offices.

              South of the Bight there are two commercial resort facilities.
              A fishing lodge and campground is located at the eastern end
              of Big Pine Key with a mix of permanent mobile home sites,
              campsites and motel rooms. A dead end canal and turning basin
              offer access to Florida Bay or the Atlantic via Bogie (Spanish


                                           100









             Harbor) Channel. This facility is just outside the preserve
             boundary but many guests frequent the area.

             Little Munson Island was originally developed as a small
             private fishing camp, known locally as Sheriff's Island. It
             was recently sold and has been redeveloped as a resort with
             accommodations, restaurant and multiple docking facilities.
             Guests are transported to the island from Little Torch Key.
             Cisterns and transport provide potable water. Electricity is
             provided by a privately owned aerial transmission line that
             traverses Coupon Bight from Long Beach.         No additional
             development is anticipated on the island.

             (d) Undeveloged Lands: The remaining portions of those lands
             surrounding Coupon Bight and on the Newfound Harbor Keys may
             be considered as undeveloped lands.       Minor encroachments
             include vehicle and foot paths, illegal dumping, mosquito
             ditches, mosquito spraying , small barrow pits and an
             abandoned oil drilling platform. The majority of those lands
             still in private ownership are identified for purchase though
             the CARL fund.   Publicly owned lands include those already
             purchased under the Buffer Zone project, F.D.O.T. right-of-
             way and federal lands in the Cactus Hammock and adjacent areas
             along US 1.

             Purchase of additional undeveloped lands has been identified
             as necessary to: 1) protect sensitive wetlands that are vital
             to the health and productivity of the aquatic preserve; 2)
             protect valuable and very limited habitat for endangered and
             threatened species and; 3) maintain the aesthetic qualities of
             one of the more pristine areas in the lower Keys.     To this
             end, purchased lands will be maintained in or restored to
             their natural condition, where feasible.          Any future
             development of these lands should be limited to that necessary
             to provide logistic support for the on-site management of the
             resources. Other use of and access to these lands should be
             limited to Department supervised environmental education and
             research.

             3. Associated Impacts

             On a regional level, impacts to the preserve may be evaluated
             both from the economic and environmental perspectives.
             Visitors and part time residents contribute substantially to
             the local economy and tax base. Monies distributed for goods
             and services support existing businesses and foster new
             development of businesses and residences.        The natural
             resource and aesthetic values of the preserve are more
             difficult to define but are none the less important to the
             local economy.

             Environmentally, the influx of visitors and new residents
             place added potential for increasing use and development that


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             directly affect the aquatic preserve.         Increased use by
             boaters, fisherman, divers and snorkelers    may stress certain
             resources of the preserve and in some cases will require new
             or revised evaluations of the compatibility of these
             activities with the long term conservation of biological and
             aesthetic values for which the preserve was established.
             Maintenance of water quality, listed species habitat, viable
             fisheries,   healthy   benthic communities     and a     quality
             recreational experience may be adversely affected by excessive
             numbers or types of activities in the relatively small area of
             the preserve.    At the minimum, a system of monitoring the
             types and intensity of use must be established to anticipate
             some of these  impacts.

             commercial and residential development also impacts the
             quality and utility of the preserve.       Excessive or poorly
             planned development may negatively impact water quality,
             vegetation, listed species, and the biological and aesthetic
             qualities for which the preserve was established. Monitoring
             of these activities and active participation in local planning
             efforts are seen as one avenue of addressing these concerns.

             As control of regional or local populations, economies,
             planning and politics are beyond the scope of this management
             plan, many of these existing and anticipated impacts to the
             preserve will be addressed by the legislated statutes and
             rules and within the following chapters of the plan.


























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                                       CHAPTER IV


                                    MANAGEMENT AREAS



             A, INTRODUCTIOW

             This chapter of the plan divides Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve
             into separate management areas and establishes the general or
             special rule criteria for allowable uses associated with each
             management area.   The intent is four-fold:    1) to provide a
             better understanding of the general and special criteria
             designed to preserve and protect biological resources and
             habitat through the management of activities and structure
             design, 2) to identify the types of allowable uses on state-
             owned lands within a preserve, 3) to provide both the Bureau
             of Submerged Lands and Preserves' staff and other agencies a
             continuity of direction in the management of the preserve, and
             4) to provide local planners with a guide for land use
             decisions.

             Section B of this chapter will establish management area
             categories based upon upland land use and relative values of
             adjacent aquatic preserve resources. Section C delineates
             minimum criteria for allowable uses in the preserve, as
             established by statute and rule. Section D delineates each
             mangement area as to boundaries, description of resources and
             allowable uses, specific criteria and the rationale for each
             designation.


             B. MANAGEMENT AREA CLASSIFICATIONS

             The management areas are determined by identifying and
             delineating relatively homogenous areas of (1) adjacent upland
             uses, and 2) natural resources in the aquatic preserve. The
             upland use classifications acknowledge the local government's
             decision as to how a specific upland area can be used or
             developed. By necessity, the classification of management
             areas in this system is broader than county zoning or planning
             areas (e.g., Commercial/ Industrial (CI) compared to the Monroe
             County Urban Commercial (UC) and Suburban Commercial Planning
             Districts). The land use categories employed in this
             management plan are intended to group similar uses relative to
             the types of structures and activities that may be associated
             with each and to establish the types of uses and activities
             that may be authorized on state-owned submerged lands within
             the preserve. Thus a portion of the aquatic preserve that is
             adjacent to an upland area characterized by detached single-
             family residences in an improved subdivision would be
             identified as Single-family or SF prefix. specific land uses
             to be incorporated in the classification of management areas
             include:


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                Single-Family Use (SF)    This category is defined by  state-
                owned lands adjacent to lands designated by the local
                government LandUse Plan as single family residential. Use
                of the aquatic preserve is solely for private, recreational
                activities. This category will not include family fisheries
                operations that are conducted upon a residential property.
                Fishing is considered a revenue generating activity and will
                be considered a commercial use.

                Multi-Family Use (MF):     This category represents state-
                owned lands adjacent to uplands designated in the local Land
                Use Plan as multi-family residential. This designation may
                include preserve lands adjacent to a group of single family
                property owners, as in the case of a homeowners'
                association, that may share common areas and amenities for
                the mutual benefit of the group.

                Commercial-Industrial-Institutional Use (CII): This broad
                category represents state-owned lands adjacent to lands
                designated for these uses in the local Land Use Plan. It is
                also intended to incorporate structures or facilities on or
                over state-owned lands whose use involves the charging of
                fees or generation of revenue.      Exceptions to this are
                federal, state or county owned properties that may charge
                a nominal fee, these facilities are considered a public use.
                Examples of CII uses are marinas that charge fees, business
                concerns, such as, dive shops, guide services, boat rentals,
                industry, and private educational facilities, that depend
                heavily on their direct access to the aquatic preserve in
                order to function, and establishments such as hotel/motels
                and restaurants, that use their direct access to the aquatic
                preserve -as an economic enhancement.        The structures
                associated with this category are many and diverse,
                including docks, marinas, ship stores, fishing piers, boat
                ramps, mooring buoys, utilities and pilings.

                Single-family-Commercial Fishery Use (SF-CF) : This category
                may include structures associated with commercial fishing,
                lobstering or crabbing, even though these activities may be
                conducted from a residence. A facility in the SF-CF category
                will be considered a commercail use and will be required to
                obtain a   submerged lands lease pursuant to Chapter 18-
                21. 005 (1) (b) .

                Public Lands Use (PL)      This category includes aquatic
                preserve areas adjacent.   or adjoining: facilities owned
                and/or operated by state,  federal or local agencies for use
                by the general public at   no charge or for a minimal fee;
                public services, such as  roadways and utilities; and open
                waters beyond 500 feet from riparian shorelines or 100 feet
                from privately owned submerged lands. Certain lands within
                this category may have restricted or limited access
                depending upon season and/or management objectives and


                                           104









                 existing resources.      Examples are identified rookeries,
                 critical habitat of endangered species, patch reefs,
                 controlled research areas, and areas being restored.

              The natural resources portion of the classification system is
              established by evaluating the quality of a particular
              submerged or emergent resource within the preserve. Resources
              will be identified either as a Primary Resource Protection
              Area (PRPA) or a Secondary Resource Protection Area (SRPA).
              The methodology used to determine this resource value shall be
              consistent with the latest methodology approved by the Bureau
              of Submerged Lands and Preserves. Discrepancies in Management
              Area Maps and actual resources on a site will be decided by
              onsite surveys and evaluation by preserve staff.

              The Primary Resource Protection Areas are those areas
              recognized as having the greatest value to th            'e overall
              biological integrity and diversity of the preserve. They are
              assigned a value of 111". A PRPA essentially combines Resource
              Protection Areas 1 and 2, as defined in Sections 18-
              20.003(31), and 18-20.003(32), F.A.C. Resource attributes
              which determine a PRPA include:

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

              2. harvested bivalves (e.g., hard clams and oysters) with a
                 clam frequency of 20% or greater within the survey area or
                 oyster bars with a total surface area gre        .ater than five
                 square meters;

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

              4o hard-bottom communities (e.g., corals, soft corals, spongest
                 algal beds) that have a frequency greater than 5% within the
                 survey area;

              5. species designated as endangereed, threatened, or of special
                 concern (as contained in the most recent updates of the
                 Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission and the U.S.
                 Fish and Wildlife Service) that occupy or use the area for
                 habitat (e.g., feeding, breeding, refuge or nesting); and

              6. nesting sites for solitary or colonial birds.

              State-ow*ned lands that are characterized by the absence of the
              above resource attributes will be identified as a Secondary
              Resource Protection Area (SRPA) and assigned a resource value


                                              105










             of 11211. A SRPA is a Resouce Protection  Area 3, as define by
             Section 18-20.003(33), F.A.C.

             As stated previously, re source values are to be incorporated
             into the classification of management areas. For instance, if
             an area within the preserve is determined to be a Primary
             Resource Protection Area with a value of 1 and the adjacent
             uplands is zoned as single-family (SF), then this management
             area would be classified as SF11.



             C. MINIMUM CRITERIA FOR ALLOWABLE USES

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

             All Dock Structures: Section 18-20.004(5)(a), F.A.C., states
             that all docking facilities within an aquatic preserve shall
             meet the following standards and criteria:

             1. no dock shall extend waterward of the mean or ordinary high
               water line more than 500 feet or 20% of the width of the
               waterbody at that particular location, whichever is less;

             2. areas of significant biological, scientific, historic,
               and/or    aesthetic   value   require   special    management
               considerations. Modifications to docks in these areas may
               be more restrictive and shall be determined on'a case-by-
               case basis;

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

             4. where local governments have more stringent standards and
               criteria for docking facilities, - the more stringent
               standards for the protection and enhancement of the aquatic
               preserve shall prevail;

             5. all docking structures will access a depth of -4 feet at
               mean low water (MLW).

             Private Residential Single Docks: Section 18-20.004 (5) ) (b) ,
             F.A.C., states that private residential single docks, as
             defined by Section 18-20.003(23),    F.A.C., shall conform to
             the following specific design standards and criteria:

             1. any main access pier shall be limited to a maximum width of
               four feet;

             2. must be designed and constructed to ensure maximum light
               penetration;


                                           106









             3. terminal platform must access a minimum of -4 feet depth at
                MLW;

             4. when the water depth is -4 f eet MLW at an existing bulkhead,
                the maximum dock length from the bulhead shall be 25 feet,
                subject to modifications accommodating shoreline vegetation
                oveihang;

             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 to obtain navigable water depths is strongly
                discouraged.

             Private Residential Multi-Slip Docks: Section 18-20.004 (5) (c) ,
             F.A.C., states that private residential multi-slip docks, as
             defined by Section 18-20.003(24), F.A.C., shall conform to the
             following 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 waterbody 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
                riparian 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 (= PRPA) , except as
                allowed pursuant to Section 258.42(3)(e)l, F.S., while
                dredging in Resource Protection Area 3         SRPA) shall be
                strongly discouraged;

             3.water depths adjacent to and within the proposed mooring
                area shall have a minimum clearance of one foot between the
                deepest draft of the vessel and the submerged bottom at MLW;

             4. main acccess piers and connecting walks shall not exceed six
                feet in width;

             5. terminal platforms shall not exceed eight feet in width;

             6. finger piers shall not exceed three feet in width and 25
                feet in length'


                                            107









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

             9. specific provisions of Section 18-20.004 (5) (d) , F.A.C., for
                commercial, industrial, and other revenue generating/ income
                related docking facilities shall also apply to private
                reidential multi-slip docks.

             Commercial-Industrial Docking Facilities and marinas:     section
             18-20.004(5)(d), F.A.C., states that commercial, industrial,
             and   other    revenue   generating/income    related     docking
             facilities, as defined by Section 18-20.003(10), F.A.C., shall,
             conform to the following specific design criteria and
             standards:

             i.docking facilities shall only be located in or near areas
                with good circulation, flushing, and adequate water depths;

             2. docking facilities shall not be located in Resource
                Protection Areas 1 and 2 (= PRPA); however, main access
                piers may be allowed to pass throught Resource Protection
                Area 1 or 2 that are located along the shoreline to reach
                an acceptable Resource Protection Area 3 (=SRPA), provided
                that such crossing will generate minimal environmental
                impact;

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

             4. the siting of new facilities within the preserve shall be
                secondarey to the expansion 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
              ..an alternative to multiple wet slop docking;

             6. marina siting will be coordinated with lcoal governments to
                ensureconsistency with local plans and ordinances;

             7. marinas shall not be sited within state designated manatee
                sanctuaries;

             S. in any areas with known manatee concentrations, 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. The following special criteria and


                                           108









            standards are also applicable for use of state-owned submerged
            lands in the Keys.

            Florida Keys marina and Dock Bitings Criteria: Section 18-
            21.0041(l) establishes general policies and specific criteria
            for applications for leases, easements or consent to use
            sovereignty submerged lands in Monroe County for muli-slip
            docking facilities. Section 18-21.9941(l) (a) provides that
            special attention and consideration shall be given to the
            following:

            1. the proximity to and potential adverse impacts on any rare,
               threatened or endangered species, or species of special
               concern, or their habitat, or on any portion of the entire
               Florida Reef Tract and other corals;

            2. eliminating any adverse impacts on wetland or submerged
               vegetation or benthic communities; and

            3. requiring adequate tidal flushing and/or circulation; and

            4..maintaining or enhancing water quality at levels within or
               above State water quality standards; and

            5. requiring adequate water depths to avoid dredging and other
               bottom disturbance; and

            6. requiring consistency and conformity with local government
               land use plans, zoning and other land use or development
               regulations; and

            7. requiring consistency and conformity with Chapters 27F-8,
               27F-9, 27F-10, 27F-11, 27F-12, 27F-13, and 27F-15, F.A.C.,
               as amended, "Principles for Guiding Development in the
               Florida Keys Area of Critical State Concern."

            Section 18-21.0041(l)(b) 1. provides for a moratorium on all
            leases in the upper Keys until such time as rules are adopted
            for a Keys-wide aquatic  preserve or until the Monroe County
            Comprehensive Plan with marina sitings policy is adopted,
            whichever occurs first.

            Section 18-21.0041(l)(b) further requires that:

            2. no docking facilities shall be approved which require either
               dredging or filling to provide access by canal, channel,
               road, or any other means, except for maintainance dredging
               of existing canals, basins, or channels, providing such
               maintenance does not exceed currently acceptable water
               depths;

            3. docking facilities shall only be approved in locations
               having adequate water depths in the boat mooring, turning


                                          109










              basin, access channels and other such areas to accommodate
              the proposed boat use;

              a. a minimum depth of -4 feet MLW shall be required;

              b. greater depths for those facilities designed for or
              capable of accommodating boats having greater than a 3 foot
              draft, so that a minimum of one foot of clearance is
              provided between the deepest draft of a vessel and the
              bottom;

              c. depth requirements shall also apply to the area between
              the proposed facility and any natural or other navigation
              channel, inlet or deep water. Where necessary, marking of
              navigational channels may be required. At the Board's
              discretion, the conditions of the lease may stipuldte the
              number, lengths, drafts and types of vessels to be moored
              in a facility.

            4. Requirements for the size of the dock:

              a. no dock shall be shall exceed 500 feet in length, unless
              the Board determines that it is not contrary to the public
              interest;

              b. no dock shall preempt more than 20% of the affected
              waterbody;

              c. a dock intended for the use of a private residence, which
              is not subject to obtaining a lease, shall not exceed 4 feet
              in width,, terminal platform shall not exceed 160 square
              feet, the width of which shall not exceed 8 feet;

            5. Special conditions for new or expanded docking facilities
              for 10 or more boats require that water quality standards
              be maintained, monitored, and that violations of same are
              to be corrected and establishes penalties for failure to do
              so;

            6. New or expanded docking facilities will identify ways to
              improve, mitigate or restore adverse environmental impacts
              caused. by previous activities and encourages marina
              development. to locate in already developed or disturbed
              areas;

            7.Docking facilities for 10 or more boats shall be required
              to have a lease;

            8. All applicants will be required to provide documentation to
              show that there is an economic demand for the number of boat
              slips requested, if the number is not consistent with the
              Department's Projections of Marina Needs for Monroe County;



                                         110









             9. multi-slip docking facilities shall not be considered for
               approval if located over a benthic community, except main
               access docks that may cross benthic communities to reach
               acceptable areas. This shall not preclude applications for
               consent of use for the purpose of using the minimum amount
               to obtain reasonable ingress and egress; and

             10@the Board may grant special considerations to the approval
               of leases or other consent to use state lands for projects
               which are approved by the Department of Community Affairs
               which are for the purpose of furthering the commercial
               fishing village or commercial fishing enterprise zone
               concept.

             Sale, Lease, or Transfer of Lands:    Section 18-20.004(l)(b),
             F.A.C., states 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 a lease,
             easement, or consent of use may be     authorized for only the
             following activities: (1) a public     navigation project; (2)
             maintenance   of   an   existing    navigation    channel;     (3)
             installation or maintenance of approved navigational aids;     (4)
             creation or maintenance of a commercial/ industrial dock, pier,,
             or marina; (5) creation.or maintenance of private docks; (6)
             minimum dredging of navigation channels attendant to docking
             facilities; (7) creation or maitenance of oil and gas
             transportation    facilities;    (9)   creation,    amintenance,
             replacement, or expansion of facilities required for the
             provision of public utilities; and (10) 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 (Sections 258.35 and
             258.46, F.S.). Section 18-20.004(l)(f), F.A.C., states 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., states
             that utility cables, pipes, and other such structures shall be
             constructed and located in a manner that will cause minimal
             disturbance to submerged resources (e.g., seagrass beds,
             corals) and do not interfere with traditional uses. It will be
             policy to place additional utilities within designated
             corridors or existing easements unless no other reasonable
             alternative exists.

             Spoil Disposal: Section 18-20.004(3)(d). F.A.C., states that
             spol 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



                                           ill









             that the spoil  ing activity may be beneficial to, or at a
             minimum, not harmful to the quality or utility of the
             preserve. It will be the policy to prohibit spoil disposal
             onto a PRPA within the aquatic preserve.

             Piers: Piers shall be constructed in accordance with the
             minimum criteria provided by Section 18-20.004(5)(b),,F.A.C.
             In addition, the following conditions apply to all piers: (1)
             the entire structure will be elevated to a minimum of 5 feet
             above the MHWL, (2) hand rails will be installed around the
             perimeter of the structure, (3) at least one "Docking
             Prohibited" sign in English and Spanish language will be
             posted and maintained on each side of the pier, (4) no
             temporary or permanent mooring of vessels will be permitted,
             and (5) dredging is prohibited when associated with pier
             construction and/or maintenance.

             RamRs: Boat ramps will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
             Factors to be evaluated will include: (1) the extent of
             alteration or elimination of natural resources or habitat
             (e.g., seagrasses, shoreline vegetation, nesting areas), and
             (2) accessibility to the ramp from water and land routes
             (e.g.-, adequate water depths over sovereignty submerged
             lands). In no event shall dredging or filling of sovereignty
             lands in a PRPA be authorized.

             Additional criteria for the repair, replacment, and expansion
             of existing structures are provided for in Chapter 18-21,
             F.A.C. Replacement and expansion of structures must comply
             with the minimum criteria provided for in Chapter 18-20,
             F.A.C.

             Criteria more restrictive than those listed in Chapter 18-20,
             F.A.C., will be used if the biological and physical conditions
             of an area warrant it. As an example, docks may limited in
             size to protect seagrasses and coral beds. Areas requiring
             more stringent criteria will be referred to as special
             management areas and such areas will be labeled with the
             additional letter $fail on resource maps. Again, as an example,
             if management area SF11 requires more restrictive criteria,
             then this special management area would be classified as
             SP/la.



             D. MANAGEMENT AREAS

             In this section, each management area is       delineated with
             boundaries, descriptions, and allowable        uses. specific
             criteria and supporting rationale for each special management
             area is also provided. Final determination of allowable uses
             will be made by the Bureau of Submerged Lands and Preserves
             staff on a case-by-case basis. Figure      5-is amapof all
             management areas within the preserve. The  purpose of providing


                                           112









             this map is to give some general guidance and an understanding
             of where the management areas lie within the preserve.

             Some of the management areas are subdivided to reflect
             specific upland uses in association with differing boundaries.
             As and example, two or more upland parcels may have little or
             no upland development, yet each parcel may have a different
             designated use.    Other management areas may have a specific
             activity occurring within that is not reflective of the
             overall upland use. For instance, an upland parcel consists
             of a motel with a large dock that is adjacent to marine grass
             beds.    The dock may have preceded the aquatic preserve
             designation, therefore it would be unreasonable to remove the
             facility.     Conversely, future expansion of commercial
             activities will not be allowed to expand in the management
             area because of the presence of marine grasses.

             The Multi-family Residential Management          Area   (MF)    is
             established to recognize that certain Monroe County Land Use
             Districts allow attached residential dwelling units as a minor
             conditional use (e.g., Native Area District, Sub Urban
             Residential, Sub Urban Commercial). The Single-family-
             Commercial Fishery (SF-CF) is also established to recognize
             certain activities that are conducted from a residence within
             the Fishing Village Districts or as grandfathered in an
             Improved Subdivision District.

             It should be noted that the following described boundaries
             include only state-owned submerged lands and uplands.
             Privately held submerged lands and riparian uplands are
             exluded from the boundaries, as provided for in Section 18-
             21.0041(3).


                                 MANAGEMENT AREA PL11 a
                    (public lands/primary resource protection area)
                                 special management area

             Boundaries: This management area includes all sovereignty
             submerged lands within the Coupon Bight portion of the
             preserve and all submerged lands. on the Atlantic shoreline
             beyond 500 feet from riparian shorelines of Long Beach Estates
             and the New Found Harbor Keys, exluding those areas described
             in Management Areas SF and CII. This management area will also
             include all lands acquired under the Coupon Bight CARL project
             administered by the' Division of State Lands.

             Description:   The lagoon area is characterized by fringing
             mangroves, mangrove islands, hardbottom and marine grassbed
             associations. The shallow baylets and mangrove areas provide
             feeding and refuge habitat for wading and diving birds. State
             and federally owned lands adjoining the Bight exhibit
             beach/berm, salt marsh, buttonwood, pineland and tropical


                                            113










             hardwood hammock associations and are prime habitat f or the
             endangered Key deer and other species. The Atlantic portion is
             characterized by hardbottom, marine grassbeds, sand/mud banks
             and coral formations.

             Present upland development adjoining the area north and east
             of the Bight (except Management Areas CII) is limited to
             abandoned mosquito ditches, dirt roads, an isolated residence
             and an abandoned drilling platform. Existing land use
             classification is Native Area and Offshore Island, both of
             which allow single family dwellings. All lands immediately
             adjoining the Bight are included within the proposed Coupon
             Bight CARL project boundary. On the southwest tip of Big Pine
             Key, lots in Piney Point are zoned Improved subdivision and 3
             of the unpurchased lots are developed with single-family
             residences that do not have riparian access. The remaining
             lots adjoining the Bight are undeveloped but have access to
             improved roads and utilities.

             Other upland uses on the eastern shoreline of the Bight
             include state owned highway right-of-wayand private lands
             zoned as Native Area by local government. The federally owned
             Cactus Hammock preserve provides a small parking area and
             nature trails.

             A private utility easement traverses open waters of the Bight
             from Long Beach Estates to Little Munson Island. The northern
             shorelines of the New Found Harbor Keys are undeveloped
             (except Management Area CII) fringing mangroves with Native
             Area or Offshore Island zoning. Submerged resources in this
             .area are typically lush grassbeds.

             There are no leases, easements, conveyances or development on
             submerged lands in the Atlantic portion of this management
             area.


             Allowable Uses:    Private residential single docks; utility
             easements; mooring buoys; navigation aids; and boardwalks
             built according to the minimum criteria for single family
             docks and incorporating the specific criteria below.

             specific Criteria: The access pier of a dock shall be elevated
             to minimum of 4 feet above the mean high water line (MHWL)
             with the terminal platform elevated to a height sufficient to
             allow safe access into and out of a moored boat; trimming or
             removal of fringing mangroves shall be limited to the minimum
             required for the access pier of the dock or boardwalk to reach
             open water. Handrails and/or signage may be required to
             discourage docking at the access pier or other portions of the
             dock that traverse waters of less than -4 feet MLW.

             Boardwalks shall be limited to the riparian upland, withthe
             exception of sovereignty submerged lands adjacent to public


                                          114









             lands, in which case they shall      meet the minimum design
             criteria for single family docks and be constructed in such a
             manner as to allow maximum light penetration, natural flow of
             waters and have hand rails to prevent pedestrian access to
             traversed wetlands. Boat docking or mooring within 500 feet of
             a boardwark is prohibited and "Docking Prohibited" signs will
             be displayed on the waterward face(s) of the structure. The
             only exception to the 4 feet width shall be to accommodate
             public access for documented handicapped use.      If a public
             boardwalk is intended for handicapped use, it will be allowed
             to have 3 feet wide by 6 feet long by-pass(es) at 300 feet
             interval(s) on one or the other side of the main walkway.

             off shore structures will be limited to mooring buoys and
             navigational aids that will be established in the vicinity of
             the patch reefs to discourage boat groundings and anchor
             damage.  The design and placement of mooring buoys shall be
             supervised by appropriate field staff and all aids to
             navigation shall be Coast Guard approved.

             Rationale: The dock criteria are designed to limit impacts to
             important marine resources, such a mangroves, corals and
             marine grasses.   Dock widths, heights and terminal platform
             coverage are necessary to prevent shading of these resources.
             Minimum depths are necessary to prevent scouring of bottom
             features and to prevent excessive suspension of sediments by
             prop wash. Public access elevated board walks are preferable
             to use of foot trails that compact soils, create erosion
             channels and destroy saltmarsh vegetation in wetland areas.
             Heights and widths of boardwalks are intended to reduce
             shading and to eliminate obstructions to Key deer and natural
             water flow.



                                  MANAGEMENT AREA SFZ1
                   (single family/primary resource protection area)

             Boundaries: This area includes those sovereignty submerged
             lands near the center shoreline of Coupon Bight on Big Pine
             Key, the Atlantic shoreline of the Newfound Harbor Keys and
             the platted shoreline of Long Beach Estates from the MHW line
             out to 500 feet from shore.

             Description:   Submerged lands are characterized by fringing
             mangroves, scattered grass beds, coral banks, coral heads and
             hardbottom communities.    Riparian shorelines are typically
             beach/berm and altered     saltmarsh buttonwood or mangrove
             wetlands. Marine turtles frequent the beach/berm shorelines
             of Long Beach Estates and Cooks Island for nesting. This area
             also provides resting and foraging habitat for the endangered
             Key deer and numerous bird species.




                                           115










             Allowable Uses:    Private residential single docks; mooring
             buoys; and shoreline stabilization incorporating special
             provisions below.

             Shoreline Stabilization: Projects shall be limited to the use
             of native wetland or beach/berm vegetation. No new seawalls,
             rip rap, fencing or other structures shall be authorized on
             state-owned submerged lands and will be discouraged on
             riparian uplands. Removal of veget9tion and/or alteration of
             shoreline contours shall be strictly discouraged.        As with.
             docks,   existing   structures    will   be   investigated    and
             encroachments upon sovereignty lands will evaluated within the
             context of whether prior authorization and/or permits were
             secured and whether-the structures are in conformance with the
             provision of Chapter 18-21.004(l) (Management Policies,
             Standards, and Criteria) and (2) '(Resource Management) for
             state-owned submerged lands.

             Non-conformincf Docks: All existing docks not. presently in
             conformance with minimum criteria established in Sections 18-
             20.004(5) and Section 18-21.0041(b) shall be investigated.
             Those built prior to March 10, 1970 and having obtained all
             other valid permits, shall be designated a non-conforming use.
             Upon application to repair more than 50% or replace these non-
             conforming structures, any approved application shall reflect
             adherence to the present single family criteria or it shall be
             denied.

             Those structures built after March 10, 1970 and prior to
             September 30, 1984, having acquired other valid permits and
             authorizations but are not in compliance with these criteria
             shall be deemed not in compliance with single family criteria.
             Those docks found not in compliance shall be required to be
             brought into compliance within I year (365 days) of adoption
             of this plan and after appropriate notification to affected
             owner.


             Those structures erected after September 30, 1984 and not in
             compliance with these criteria, or other structures undertaken
             without benefit of permit or authorization, or authorized
             structures not in conformance to approved design and placement
             shall be deemed not in compliance with single family criteria
             and shall be cited as a violation of Chapter 18-21.0041
             (Florida Keys Marina and Dock Siting Policies and criteria)
             and the provisions of this management plan. Such structures
             deemed to be in violation shall be brought into compliance
             within 90 days of adoption of this plan and after proper
             notice to the riparian owner.

             Rationale: Dock criteria are established to provide optimum
             protection of submerged resources and still provide riparian
             access to waters of the preserve.       Preservation of native
             shoreline vegetation and topography are essential to the


                                           116









              conservation of several endangered and threatened wildlife and
              plant species and to provide some degree of protection f rom
              wind and waves associated with tropical storms.


                                    MANAGEMENT AREA MF
                                    (multi-family area)

              Boundary: This management area.is tentatively established to
              accomodate facilities for the exclusive use of riparian
              property owners within the SF/1 and/or PL/l management areas
              should multi-family use be approved for riparian uplands
              adjoining the preserve. This management area may include a
              dock for a group of single-family homeowners, such as a
              homeowners association, which may wish to construct a dock for
              the mutual benefit of the participating riparian property
              owners. The designation of this management area does not
              encourage a greater density or intensity of land use but is
              intended to discourage the proliferation of single-family
              docks and would therefore ameliorate the cumulative impact of
              these structures on certain valuable resources. Inclusion of
              any or all riparian property owners, not currently having a
              dock is encouraged. There are currently no specifically
              designated areas in the preserve. Applications for multi-
              family docks will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

              Description: Locations for private residential multi-slip
              docks would typically be in Primary Resouce Protection Areas
              adjoining riparian lands in the Native Area, Sub Urban
              Residential and Sub Urban Commercial Land Use Districts. A
              proposed facility would be for the private recreational use of
              affected riparian owners.

              Allowable   Uses:   private   residential    multi-slip     docks
              (restricted)
              S@e@ific Criteria: Applications for MF/1a shall adhere to the
              minimum criteria established for private residential multi-
              slip docks in Section 18-20(5)(c)1-8 and the more stringent
              criteria for the Florida Keys in Section 18-21.0041(l)(a) and
              (b). Fueling facilities, covered structures, commercial use
              (including family fisheries), fish cleaning tables, non-water
              dependent activities and live aboard vessels shall be strictly
              prohibited.

              Additionally, facilities designed for more than 10 vessels
              shall be required to obtain a submerged lands lease.
              Conditions to a lease may include, but are not limited to: 1)
              installation and maintenance of navigational aids, where
              deemed necessary to avoid patch reefs, large coral heads and
              grassbeds; 2) installation and maintenance of appropriate
              signage informing the owners of the importance of the natural
              resources of the aquatic preserve; and 3) specific design


                                            117









             criteria for access piers to reduce impacts to shoreline
             vegetation, topography and endangered/threatened species and
             thier habitats.

             Rationale: The restrictive criteria are intended to reduce
             impacts to shallow water habitats while     providing riparian
             access to waters of the preserve. Several patch reefs and
             numerous large coral heads lie within one half mile of the
             Atlantic shorelines of Long Beach Estates and the New Found
             Harbor Keys. A single multi-slip dock and navigational aids
             marking access to safe waters would significantly reduce
             impacts in these areas. A proliferation of single docks on
             each lot would disrupt the foraging and resting activities of
             the Key deer and - wading birds, as well as, the nesting
             activities of marine turtles. Numerous individual docks would
             also negatively impact marine grassbeds, corals, and shoreline
             vegetation.


                                MANAGEMENT AREA CIIII a
                          (commercial-industrial-institutional/
                           primary resource protection area)
                               , special management area

             Boundary:   This managemnt area will include all sovereignty
             submerged lands adjoining the U.S. 1 right-of-way and barrow
             pit at the northeast corner of Coupon Bight from the MHWL to
             200 feet from shore.

             Description: Adjoining uplands are composed of saltmarsh,
             buttonwood, beach/berm and impounded mangroves. Submerged
             lands are shallow baylets with fringing mangroves, marine
             grassbeds, hardbottom and mud/sand flats. Water depth is less
             than two feet on high tide. This area provides a valuable
             corridor for movement for the endangered Key deer from the
             north to south on Big Pine Key and hosts. a multitude of
             resident and migratory bird species.

             Allowable Use:    Private residential single docks: utility
             easement (limited)

             Specific Criteria: Activities in this management area will be
             limited to the following: 1) improvements or repairs to U.S.1
             right-of-way and existing public utilities; 2) restoration of
             lands acquired by the CARL program to their natural topography
             and condition; .3) applied research directed specifically
             towards restoration of these habitats or the preservation of
             endangered or theatened species; 4) protection of wading bird
             nesting and feeding areas; 5) conservation of listed plant
             species; 6) limited access for Department supervised public
             environmental education; and 7) minimal public facilities to
             conduct these activities.









             Rationale: All undeveloped lands within this management area
             are part of the proposed CARL Buffer Project and are primarily
             jurisdictional wetlands.     South or west expansion of the
             barrow pit into wetlands is prohibited by FDER permit.
             Existing uses and activities are negatively impacting
             wildlife, vegetation, topography, rates of water flow and the
             quality of water entering the Bight. These activities are not
             water dependent and can be conducted outside the aquatic
             preserve. Submerged lands are shallow baylets with fringing
             and dwarf mangroves, not suitable for navigation or docks.


                              SUB-MANAGEMENT AREA CIIII a
                          (commercial-industrial-institutional/
                           primary resource protection area)
                                 special management area
             Boundary: This management area encompasses a narrow easement
             for the existing aerial electrical transmission lines that
             traverses lands of the preserve from the western end of Long
             Beach Estates to Little Munson Island. This overhead line is
             privately maintained by the resort facility on Munson Island.

             Description: The submerged resources in the area are primarily
             lush marine grassbeds.    The aerial line presents a visual
             encroachment on the aesthetic resources of the preserve. It
             also presents a potential hazard to public safety, navigation
             and bird life.

             Allowable Use: Commercial Utility Easement (Limited)

             Specific Criteria:      The existing aerial line shall be
             maintained in safe condition to prevent accident or injury to
             the public and resources of the preserve. Any application to
             replace or substantially repair all or portions of the line or
             poles shall be evaluated by the anticipated impacts to marine
             grassbeds.    In no event shall dredging be authorized to
             access, repair or replace the line.      Tug, barge or other
             equipment to access or operate in the area shall be of a draft
             that does not substantially disturb or prop dredge the bottom.
             Applications for such work shall be required to contain a
             description of the types, draft and numbers of vessels or
             equipment to be used and a detailed plan and time frame for
             restoring and replanting areas that may be damaged.      Owners
             will be encouraged to seek an alternate means of supplying
             electricity to the island.     Expansion or upgrading of the
             facility (involving more or larger poles or supplying service
             to other properties) will be discouraged.

             Rationale:   The line and poles traverse extremely shallow
             waters with lush grassbeds and narrow passes between Long
             Beach and all of the Newfound Harbor Keys.         Conventional
             marine construction equipment could inflict serious damage to
             marine grassbeds in the area. The overhead lines are depicted


                                           119










              as a navigational hazard on charts for the area. Passes are
              too shallow for sailboat (fixed keel) traffic but small
              sailboats do anchor leeward of the islands. Winds and waved
              associated with major storms'could knock down poles or bring
              down portions of the power line into waters of the preserve
              creating hazards to navigation and public safety.


                                  MANAGEMENT AREA CIIZ2 a
                          (commercial-industrial-institutional/
                           secondary resource protection area)
                                  special management area

              Boundary: Those submerged lands included within Sovereignty
              Submerged Lands Lease No. 441230285 and the intervening area
              between the two parcels to a distance of 300 feet from the
              MHWL of the north shoreline of Little Munson Island (a.k.a.
              Sheriff's   Island,   Munson,    and   Little   Palm     Island).
              Additionally, those submerged lands from the MHWL to 55 feet
              from shore on the southern shoreline of said island for a
              distance of 1000 linear feet as an approved modification to
              the above lease.

              Description: This management area is established to recognize
              the existing commercial use on Little Munson Island,
              consisting of a small hotel/motel, restaurant, two private
              docks, 800 feet +/- perimeter dock, boat basin, rip rap
              shoreline and amenities associated with a resort operation.
              Anticipated uses of the existing facilities on sovereign lands
              include private dockage for guests and employees of the
              facility, commercial tours, fishing, snorkeling, swimming,
              diving and other water dependent activities associated with
              the docks.

              The specific boundary includes all state owned submerged lands
              currently under lease for the in water structures. The area
              between the two docks on the north shoreline is included
              within the management area since submerged resources are
              relatively sparse as a result of past use and the exposed
              nature of the shoreline. Natural resources within this
              boundary include scattered mangroves, scattered grassbeds,
              hardbottom and mud/sand banks. The remaining submerged lands
              adjoining the island and this management area are in
              Management Area PL/l and shall be managed accordingly.

              Allowable Uses:' Commercial-Industrial Docks (limited)

              Specific Criteria:    Existing facilities and use shall be
              confined to the leased area and management area boundary.      No
              expansion or new facilities will be authorized and all
              conditions of the existing lease shall be honored.      No live
              aboards and no fueling facilities are authorized.          Boats
              greater than 26 feet in length are strictly prohibited on the


                                            120









             South perimeter dock and all boats moored at either of the
             three docks are required to maintain at least one foot
             clearance between the deepest draft of the vessel and the
             bottom, as provided by Chapter 18-21.0041(l)(b)3(a).         All
             portions of docks over waters less than - 4 f eet MLW shall
             have hand rails or signage to discourage boat mooring in those
             areas.


             Seaplanes, individual internal combustion water craft (jet
             ski, jet boat, etc.) and ultra light air craft are not
             considered traditional uses within the preserve and typically
             encroach upon other management areas and other traditional
             uses. Therefore,rentals or use of sea planes or ultra light
             air craft from the management area will be expressly
             discouraged. Jet skis and jet boats are expressly prohibited.

             All commercial activities, other than the water dependent
             activities listed above must be contained on the riparian
             uplands.   .Concerts, conventions, exhibitions, competitions
             (races, contests, games, etc.), tournaments, entertainments,
             advertising, and other events or activities that would
             generate boat density beyond the mooring capacity of the
             existing dock facilities are discouraged and shall be.
             conducted outside the aquatic preserve.

             Rationale:   The island and immediate vicinity have been
             traditionally used as a small private fish camp.           Areas
             immediately adjoining the island have been severely impacted
             by past dredging, boating and erosion. The area south of the
             island is an expansive, shallow and productive marine
             grassbed. The area to the east of the island is composed of
             fringing mangroves and lush grassbeds. The area to the west
             and north provides access to deeper waters in New Found Harbor
             (Pine) Channel and a dredged access channel.

             Restrictions and prohibitions of certain aircraft and
             watercraft are deemed necessary to preserve the biological and
             aesthetic qualities of the preserve. Boats with greater than
             3 feet draft disturb bottom features, suspend sediments with
             prop wash and are imminently more inclined to prop dredge
             marine grassbeds in the vicinity of the island. Sea planes,
             jet boats, jet skis and ultra light aircraft are disruptive to
             feeding and resting activities of wading and diving birds that
             frequent shallow waters in the preserve.     Operation of sea
             planes and individual water craft in shallow water also
             disturbs marine grassbeds and young mangroves and is most
             often in direct conflict with other traditional activities
             such as fishing, swimming, and snorkeling.        Ultra light
             aircraft similarity disturb bird life and disrupt feeding
             activities of certain types of fish thereby encroaching upon
             feeding success of the birds and interfering with recreational
             f ishing activities.   Key deer are easily panicked by low
             flying aircraft and all aircraft over both the Key Deer Refuge


                                           121










             and the Great White Heron Refuge a  re restricted to 500 feet
             altitude by federal law. The aesthetic enjoyment and privacy
             of other preserve visitors and residents of the area are also
             encroached upon.

             Restrictions and prohibitions of certain commercial activities
             is deemed appropriate for several reasons.         The listed
             activities are of a nature that would invite broad public
             participation, thereby generating excessive boat traffic in
             the vicinity, creating potential hazards to the navigation and
             disrupting or interfering with other traditional uses and the
             marine resources of the preserve. These activities are either
             not water dependent or could be as effectively conducted
             outside the aquatic preserve.


                                 MANAGEMENT AREA SF-CP
                        (single family-commercial fishery area)

             Boundary: No designated Fishing Village Land Use Districts
             presently adjoin the aquatic preserve. This management area is
             tentatively established to accomodate existing or future
             designations of single family fisheries enterprises that are
             conducted from a residence that may involve use of a dock on
             or over state-owned submerged lands.

             Description: This management area may potentially include
             several locations in Management Area SF/la or PL/la that
             exhibit marine grassbeds, mangroves, beach/berm and hardbottom
             habitats. It shall apply to any future proposed use and to
             existing uses where the riparian owner has properly filed for
             grandfathering with Monroe County and/or where a riparian
             owner holds an occupational license to conduct such activities
             on said property.   Existing and proposed facilities will be
             reviewed on a case by case basis to evaluate impacts to state-
             owned submerged lands.

             This management area designation shall not apply to privately
             held submerged lands where such activities are conducted,
             except by negotiated agreement with the Board of Trustees and
             the affected owner (Chapter 258.40(l), F.S.).          However,
             fishing facilities, vessels and structures on privately owned
             submerged lands shall not encroach upon, damage resources of
             or preempt use of state owned submerged lands in the preserve.

             Allowable Use: Private Residential Single Docks, Commercial-
             Industrial Docks (Limited)

             Specific Criteria: All existing and proposed docks on state-
             owned submerged lands within the management area conducting
             fisheries operations shall conform to the single family dock
             design criteria previously established. Additionally, riparian
             owners having docks in this management area or in other


                                          122










            management   areas that  are not presently under lease shall
            make application for a lease within 120 days of adoption of
            this plan and after appropriate notice by the Division to
            affected owner.

            Those docks that do not presently conform to the single family
            criteria shall be assessed according to the compliance/
            conformance criteria set forth for Commercial/Industrial
            docks. Those docks found to be not in compliance and/or those
            found to be in violation of authorized permits or lease shall
            be brought into compliance as outlined for Management Area
            SF11 within one year of adoption of this plan and after
            appropriate notification of affected owner.

            The following criteria shall also apply to these facilities
            and activities:    1) liveaboard vessels, fueling facilities
            and/or fuel storage are expressly prohibited; 2) dipping or
            storage of traps shall be confined to riparian uplands with
            appropriate buffers to contain run-off on site; 3) there shall
            be a minimum of 1 foot clearance between the deepest draft of
            vessel(s) and the bottom at MLW; and 4) in-water holding pens
            or trap storage, mechanical loading of traps and/or mechanical
            off loading of catch in not authorized.

            Rationale: Residential family fisheries are recognized as a
            traditional land use in residential subdivisions where
            grandfathered by Monroe County and in the Commercial Fishing
            Village District.     All revenue generating/income related
            activities on state-owned submerged lands are required by rule
            Chapter 18-21.005(i)(b) to lease preempted lands. The single
            family dock criteria is intended to provide riparian access
            while providing maximum protection of marine resources within
            the preserve.























                                          123




























































































                                                             124












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                                                               126












                                        CHAPTER V


                             SITE SPECIFIC MANAGEMENT ISSUES


             The f irst part of this chapter deals with management issues
             involving specific activities, as opposed to permitted
             structures, that directly affect the biological integrity of
             the Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve.       The issues that are
             specific to this area include, but are not limited to:
             conflicting uses, increasing air and watercraft traffic, the
             protection of designated species and their habitat, the
             protection of bird feeding and resting areas, research needs,
             damage to marine resources, acquisition of environmentally
             sensitive lands, and boundary extension.      other issues may
             arise as future use intensifies and these will be identified
             as they develop.

             The second part of this chapter  establishes policy guidelines
             for these issues.    These policy guidelines are intended to
             provide additional management direction and supplement those
             set forth by Chapter 258, F.S. , Chapters 18-20 and 18-21,
             F.A.C., or Chapter IV of this plan.


             A. MANAGEMENT ISSUES AND SPECIAL NEEDS



             1. CONFLICTING USES

             To some extent many of the issues identified in this section
             are directly related to uses that may fulfill one individual
             or groups needs but are in conflict with another's activities
             (or safety) and/or the legislative intent for establishing the
             preserve. Activities that compromise or damage resources may
             not always seem significant unless cumulative impacts are
             taken into account. Any of the following activities should be
             evaluated for the long-term cumulative impacts.

             Vessel mooring for extended periods shades submerged grasses
             and may create hazards to navigation.       Liveaboard vessels
             often compound impacts with wastes and sewage that are
             introduced to surrounding waters, whether intentional or
             accidental.   Boat operation and anchorage in shallow water
             disturbs bottom communities and resuspends sediments that
             affect light penetration to vegetation and coral. (Policy
             Guidelines 1, 2, 6, & 13.)

             Anchoring on or near coral formations causes considerable
             damage from anchors and anchor lines that break or chaff
             corals. Lobster trap retrieval methods inflict similar damage
             when traps are dragged over the bottom or traps are set too
             close to coral formations and lines become entangled. Divers


                                           127









              (scuba and snorkel) can and do damage corals and othe    r marine
              life.   The inexperienced and uninformed touch and stand on
              formations, inflicting wounds and opening a colony to
              infection or predation. (Policy Guidlines 1, 6 and 12.)

              Spear fishing and marine life collecting are believed to have
              seriously altered species, age and size class distribution on
              the patch reefs in the preserve. Removal of large predatory
              fish encourages a proliferation of grazing omnivores that feed
              on algae, as well as corals. Removal of the 'aquarium size'
              fish and invertebrates alters food webs and ecological
              partitioning on the patch reef. Diversity and the long term
              stability of these environments are compromised.             Spear
              fishing may also bring other divers and fishermen into close
              proximity to one another, creating the potential for serious
              or fatal injuries. (Policy Guidelines 1, 7, 8 & 10.)


              2. INCREASED AIR AND WATER CRAFT USE

              The past use of seaplanes in the preserve has given rise to
              heated outrage by many of local fishermen and residents and
              is extremely disruptive to bird life and the Key deer. , The
              north half of Coupon Bight (southern boundary of the Great
              White Heron National Wildlife Refuge) is federally restricted
              air space.   There is no locally specified air port district
              which allows this type of activity, nor is there a designated
              federal landing area in the vicinity.. The use of commercial
              or private seaplanes and ultra light air craft are not
              compatible with the traditional uses recognized for the
              preserve.   Nor are these uses compatible with the, resource
              management goals outlined in Chapter VI of this plan. (Policy
              Guideline 14.)

              Logically, the numbers and types of watercraft within any
              given body of water must be compatible with the available
              space and existing water depths.        Additionally, one must
              consider the purposes for designating the preserve; to manage..
              primarily   for the maintenance of essentially natural
              conditions, the propagation of fish and wildlife and public
              recreation.   As populations increase so do the numbers and
              types of watercraft in the preserve.      Increased pressure on
              limited resources and space invariably generates conflicts
              with other visitors and the intent of the preserves. management
              philosophy for the natural resources. Preservation of natural
              conditions is critical to maintaining fish and wildlife
              habitats. If preserve visitors are to experience safe areas
              for swimming and snorkeling, quiet areas for fishing and
              wildlife obse@rvation, some regulation of boating traffic is
              essential. (Policy Guidelines 1, 2, 4, & 10.)





                                             128












             3. PROTECTION OF DESIGNATED SPECIES AND THEIR HABITAT

             The Great White Heron and the Key Deer Refuges were federally
             established to provide minimum habitat for these two
             designated species.     Designated animal species are not
             sedentary but traverse and utilize a wide variety of habitats,
             many of which are not included within the refuge boundaries.
             These and other designated species are frequent visitors to or
             'residents' of Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve. (Policy
             Guidelines 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11,*14, & 15.)

             Key Deer:   Habitat and corridors for movement from the New
             Found Harbor Keys and the Cactus Hammock Preserve to the main
             deer population on Big Pine Key must be maintained and
             protected to the greatest extent possible. To that end, all
             activities in the preserve will be reviewed within the
             provisions of the Key Deer Recovery Plan and will be subject
             to recommendations from the Key Deer Refuge Management Plan.
             Proposals to rehabilitate disturbed wetlands will also
             evaluate such activities as to they would positively or
             negatively impact the deer.        For example, backfilling
             abandoned mosquito ditches may reduce mortality of young deer
             that fall or are chased into the ditches and drown.
             Conversely, some of the ditches may retain fresh. water that
             is vital for the deer during the winter dry season.

             Listed Bird Species:   Colonial wading and diving birds nest
             in close proximity to the preserve and use the area
             extensively for feeding and resting.     The shallow baylets,
             mangroves and saltmarsh buttonwood areas are especially
             attractive to them. Destruction of grass beds and mangroves,
             boat traffic in shallow waters and vehicular traffic in the
             saltmarsh buttonwood areas disrupts or destroys vital habitat
             and inhibits expansion of nesting areas. Ground nesting birds
             are equally subject to disturbance from foot and vehicular
             traffic.

             Marine Turtles:    The li mited beach/berm habitats in the
             preserve are the    only suitable nesting areas for these
             globally depleted reptiles.      Roads, buildings and other
             structures eliminate much of this needed area. Beach lighting
             during the nesting season disorients hatchlings and may
             contribute significantly to mortality when young turtles crawl
             onto roadways instead of towards the water. Exotic plants and
             mechanical beach 'cleaning' may also damage nests or
             discourage nesting crawls.    Entanglement with nets, traps,
             buoy lines and fishing lines, ingested plastics, poaching
             (eggs or turtles) , and wounds from boat propellers are also
             serious problems.

             Other Listed Wildlife Species: As new species are listed or
             as more information becomes available about the life histories
             and habitat needs of presently listed species, certain


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            activities and management policies may need to be     established
            or revised to ref lect these changes.     For the present, all
            state owned lands will be maintained in their 'essentially
            natural condition,' as listed species' affinity for these
            types of areas has been demonstrated.

            Listed*Plant Species: To the greatest extent possible, state
            owned lands within the preserve should be protected from land
            clearing, mangrove trimming and topographic alterations that
            would   negatively    impact   habitats    for, these     plants.
            Collecting, vehicular and foot traffic, altered water flow and
            herbicides represent serious impacts to the plants*themselves
            and the habitat required for their survival.             Pineland
            communities that would benefit from ecological burning should
            be identified and appropriate measures taken to institute a
            fire regime when deemed necessary.     Restoration of historic
            plant communities and eradication of invasive exotic plants
            would also enhance habitat for these species and wildlife.


            4. DAMAGE TO SUBMERGED RESOURCES

            Damage may be due to natural events, such as hurricanes or
            disease but is most often the direct result of man's
            activities in or adjacent to the preserve.      Tropical storms
            may erode or bury grass beds, topple coral formations or
            blanket them with sediments. These are natural cyclic events
            that have occurred for thousands of years and are far beyond
            the management authorities of any governmental entity. But as
            previously noted, the capabilities for recovery of these
            communities may be inhibited by the activities of man.

            Inexperienced boaters and careless boat operation in shallow
            waters are responsible for propeller scouring or dredging of
            marine grass beds and damage to corals.       This is the most
            visible sort of-damage. Less visible is the damage caused by
            careless divers and snorkelers who touch corals or the
            alteration of community structure from collecting fish and
            invertebrates.( Policy Guidelines 1, 4, 5, 6, & 7.)


            5. RESEARCH NEEDS

            Current research will hopefully provide a better understanding.
            of the origins, processes, extent and severity of black band
            disease on coral reefs and the extensive mortality of marine'
            grassbeds in Florida Bay. Since both of these phenomena (and
            others) are a regional concern, and since the coral and
            grassbed communities are habitat for a broad range of
            commercially and biologically significant species, all efforts
            to identify affected areas and garner funding support for
            research are considered a major priority.



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             Water quality research and monitoring are also a priority.
             The shallow, semi enclosed configuration of Coupon Bight is
             not conducive to good flushing or tidal exchange. Knowledge
             of. the sources, concentrations and long term effects of
             pollutants that enter waters of the preserve are needed.
             Chronic or episodic 'release of polluted water into the Bight
             could devastate the lagoon. (Policy Guideline 9.)


             6. ACQUISITION OF ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE LANDS

             An extensive area of saltmarsh buttonwood and mangrove
             wetlands lies to the north of the Bight. As noted in Chapter
             III, most of this area has been targeted for purchase under
             the CARL program. Several mangrove islands and several tracts
             of privately held submerged lands should also be included
             within this program.    These areas are presently undeveloped
             and only minor alterations of natural features has occurred.
             The islands are potential colonial nesting bird habitats. The
             submerged land areas are in effect 'out holdings' within the
             boundary of the preserve. Present Monroe land use regulations
             provide for a broad range of activities within the Off Shore
             Island and Native Area Districts. These uses and activities
             are not compatible with the intent or the management
             objectives of the aquatic Preserve. (Policy Guidelines 3 &




             7. BOUNDARY EXTENSION

             Large coral heads and significant hardbottom and grassbeds lie
             seaward of the present Atlantic boundary. These areas are in
             waters from -12 to -18 foot depths. Extension of the boundary
             to -18 foot contour -would create a buffer zone adjacent to the
             patch reefs.    Marking of the boundary at this point would
             alert boaters to the submerged reefs before they are too near
             to avoid them.( Policy Guideline 12.)


             8. DEVELOP ARTHROPOD CONTROL PLAN

             Past and present mosquito control activities have and will
             continue to impact resources within the aquatic preserve.
             Ditching and drainage have severely altered natural water
             flow, vegetation and habitat quality in the preserve. Aerial
             or ground application of insecticides and carrier substances
             for aerial mosquito control may introduce toxic substances
             into waters of the preserve.     Coordination and cooperation
             with the local mosquito control district to develop a mutually
             acceptable management plan is imperative to protect human
             health and welfare and the aquatic resources of the preserve.
             (Policy Guideline 15.)



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             B. POLICY GUIDELINES

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

             l.Promote recognition of the fact that marine grassbeds and
               corals provide valuable habitat and food sources for a
               variety of organisms essential to the biological integrity
               of the preserve. This biological integrity translates into
               significant economic value to this region, especially in
               terms of recreation, tourism and fisheries.

             2. Reduce the impacts of marine grassbed prop dredging and
               coral damage by establishing no (motor) boating zones by
               seeking appropriate rule changes and/or in combination with
               local government ordinances, and by establishing navigation
               aids where needed.

             3. Promote the acquisition of privately owned mangrove wetlands
               and submerged lands to enhance the available habitat for
               endangered, threatened and species of special concern and
               to maintain scenic vistas and aesthetic qualities of the
               preserve.

             4. Protect valuable feeding and resting areas for birdlife and
               Key deer by prohibiting jet skis and (motor) boat operation
               in shallow waters, by seeking appropriate rule changes.

             5. Protect all biological resources by prohibiting fueling
               facilities and fuel storage in the preserve, by seeking
              ..appropriate rule changes.

             6. Protect coral patch reefs from boat anchor damage and
               overuse by establishing a mooring buoy system on larger
               patch reefs.

             7. Protect the biological diversity and ecological balance of
               the patch reefs, hardbottom and marine grassbed communities
               by seeking legislation that would prohibit or substantially
               regulate collecting of algae, fish and invertebrates in the
               preserve.

             8. Protect public health and safety, as well as biological
               resources by seeking legislation to eliminate spearfishing
               in the preserve.

             9. Identify specific research needs And actively seek support
               on a Division level for research funding.



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         10.  Promote the protection of marine and upland resources by
              disseminating    literature   and   conducting     environmental
              education activities, both on and off site.

         11.  Promote acquisition of privately held, environmentally
              sensitive lands to protect upland and marine resources.

         12.  Support extension of the Atlantic preserve boundary to the -
              18 foot contour to protect large coral formations and provide
              a buffer zone to the patch reefs.

         13.  Protect   water   quality,   aesthetic   values   and    benthic
              communities by seeking appropriate legislation to prohibit
              liveaboard vessels and restrict transient mooring inthe
              preserve.

         14.  Reduce impacts to Key deer, feeding and nesting birds and
              aesthetic appreciation of the preserve by seeking appropriate
              federal and state code, statute or rule changes to prohibit
              commercial and private aircraft from flying less than 500 feet
              over or landing in the preserve.

         15.  Reduce or eliminate adverse impacts to biological resources
              of the preserve by coordination and cooperation with Monroe
              County Mosquito Control District and the Department of Health
              and Rehabilitative Services to develop a mutually acceptable
              arthropod control management plan for the preserve area,
              pursuant to Chapter 388.411, F.S.




























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                                      CHAPTER VI


                               14ANAGEMENT ACTION PLAN


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

            Bef ore an effective program can be designed to manage and
            protect natural resources, one must complete an inventory of
            the resources, establish what their functions are, decide the
            importance of these functions, and where these resources are
            located. Additional efforts will consist of 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 management strategies for an
            aquatic preserve program must consist of a variety of
            components such as resource management, resource protection,
            research, and environmental education.

            In general, the role of the program in management of the
            aquatic preserve includes: 1) providing information on the
            ecological functions and economic importance of resources
            within the preserve, 2) overseeing those activities that
            affect the natural resources, 3) ensuring that accurate
            biological  and physical     information   is. considered    in
            permitting and planning decisions, 4) ensuring that all
            statutes and rules regarding the preserves natural resources
            are complied with and that violations of these provisions are
            investigated   and  corrected   by   appropriate    enforcement
            agencies, 5) conducting on site surveys for specific
            activities, 6) coordinating with other resource management and
            enforcement agencies, 7) educating the public on the inherent
            values associated with natural resources, 8) conducting or
            cooperating with a comprehensive management program that can
            be periodically updated to reflect the dynamics of natural
            systems and the changing needs of man and the resources. To
            achieve those ends this section of the plan establishes goals
            and identifies the supportive objectives and develops policy
            statements and tasks to accomplish those goals.


            A. RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

            The overall goals of resource management within aquatic
            preserves are:     1) conducting and maintaining resource
            inventories, 2) assessing the impact of human activities on
            the resources, 3) establishing habitat restoration programs,
            and 4) cooperating with other agencies in assessing, improving



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             and/or maintaining conditions that are conducive to preserving
             the resources and water quality.


             GOAL A.l:   CONDUCT AND MAINTAIN RESOURCE INVENTORIES

             Oblective A.1.1: To conduct and maintain a resource inventory
             of submerged resources for the aquatic preserve.

                Task A.1.1.1: Conduct an inventory of marine grassbeds,
                algal beds, coral banks, patch reefs and hardbottom areas
                by using LANDSAT imagery, aerial photography, and.
                groundtruthing efforts every three years.

                Task A.1.1.2: The data base generated from these
                inventories will be used to create and maintain biological
                resource maps that will be consulted when assessing a
                proposed activity or evaluating potential impacts from
                manmade or natural events not otherwise anticipated.

                Task A.1.1.3: These inventories will be available to
                public agencies involved in resource management and land
                planning.

             Objective A.1.2: To conduct and maintain a resource inventory
             of emergent vegetation and habitats for the preserve lands.

                Task A.1.2.1: Conduct and maintain an inventory of
                mangroves, buttonwood/saltmarsh, beach/berm and other
                shoreline vegetation in and adjacent to the preserve by
                using LANDSAT imagery aerial photography and groundtruthing
                efforts every three years.

                Task A.1._2.2: The database generated from these
                inventories will be used to create and maintain biological
                resource maps that will be consulted when assessing a
                proposed activity or evaluating potential impacts from
                manmade or natural events not otherwise anticipated.

                Task A.1.2.3: These inventories will be available to
                public agencies involved in resource management and land
                planning.

             Objective A.1.3:      Conduct and maintain inventories of
             designated species and their habitats for the preserve.

                Task A.1.3.1: Conduct and maintain inventories of
                designated species and their habitats by using data from
                existing literature, managing agencies, field observations
                and current research studies every three years or more
                often if deemed necessary.




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                Task A.1.3.2: Coordinate with appropriate management a nd
                enforcement agencies to ensure that preserve management
                decisions and public actions or activities are compatible
                with the viability and management of a species or habitat.

             objective A.1.4.:    To conduct and maintain inventories of
             wading and diving birds and their habitats in the preserve.

                Task A.1.4.1: Conduct and maintain inventories of coastal
                waterfowl and migratory bird species that feed, nest, roost
                and loaf in the preserve and adjacent areas by using
                existing literature, bird counts, field observations, and
                current research studies every three years, or more often
                if deemed necessary.

                Task A.1.4.2:     Coordinate with appropriate management,
                enforcement and research agencies to ensure that preserve
                management decisions and public actions or activities are
                compatible with the.viability and management of a species
                or habitat.

                Task A.1.4.3: Coordinate with public or conservation
                agencies that may be conducting similar inventories of
                species, populations, life histories, migration patterns
                and habitat needs where mutual benefits in knowledge and
                management objectives are to be gained.


             GOAL A.2: ASSESS THE EFFECTS OF HUMAN ACTIVITIES/ CUMULATIVE
             IMPACTS

             Ob! ective A. 2. 1: To inventory and assess the ef f ects of human
             activities on the natural resources of the preserve.

                Task A.2.1.1: Survey and inventory human activities in
                the preserve every three years. This survey shall contain
                at a minimum:

                a) types of structures (dock, pier, seawall, rip-rap,
                   piling, mooring buoy, utility pole, etc.);

                b) design-of structures (width, length, height above MHW,
                   square footage of access pier and terminal platform,
                   number of pilings, number and size of finger piers,
                   construction material (wood, boulder or concrete),
                   deck spacing, material treatment (pressure and/or
                   chemical treated), type of anchorage for buoys or
                   pilings, etc.);

                c) the water depth at the terminus of the structure and/or
                   relation to MHW line for shoreline stabilization;

                d) number of boats using a structure;


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               e) functional condition of the structure;

               f) any accessory facilities and ancillary uses associated
                  with the structure;

               g) the structure's use category (e.g., single family,
                  commercial, etc.);

               h) an inventory of the biological  resources within the
                  preempted area and within 25 feet of the structure or
                  activity;

               i) a survey of all dredged areas includingt.
                  1) the location, length, width, and depth of the dredged
                     area;
                  2) depth of profiles of the surrounding area;
                  3) traditional use of the area;
                  4) biological resources in the dredged and surrounding
                     area;
                  5) whether the dredged area is a private or public
                     project;
                  6) review of information on pre-existing resource
                     conditions;
                  7) potential alternatives to alleviate the need for
                     maintenance dredging (shoreline stabilization, wave
                     baffles, etc.); and
                  8) whether channel markers may be needed to direct
                     traffic away from adjacent submerged resources.

               j) asurvey of all shoreline stabilization projects,
                  including:
                  1) location and total length of riparian shoreline;
                  2) length of the shoreline stabilization;
                  3) design of project;
                  4) review of existing and pre-existing biological
                     resources in the vicinity of the structure;
                  5) whether the project is effective in stabilizing the,
                     shoreline; and
                  6) whether toe rip-rap or mangrove plantings may improve
                     upon the effectiveness of the structure.

               k) adetermination as to whether the structure or activity
                  complies with the applicable statute or rule and with
                  lease, easement or consent of use conditions, where
                  appropriate;

           Objective A.2.2: To assess cumulative impacts of activities
           and structures an the resources of the preserve.

               Task A.2.2.1: All activities and structures will be
               surveyed as outlined in Policy A.2.1.1 and appropriate files
               kept and updated every three years to establish net loss or
               gain of resources as related to structures and activities..


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                Task A.2.2.2: Files shall contain at the minimum:
                a) size, configuration and preempted area of the structure
                   and related use;

                b) a survey of the biological resources within the preempted
                   area and within 50 feet of the preempted area;

                c) condition and extent of those resources as related to
                   previous surveys (grassbeds expanding or declining, prop
                   scouring, establishment of different type of community,
                   etc.);

                d) whether existing use is consistent with type use
                activity authorized.


             GOAL A.3:    HABITAT RESTORATION

             Objective A.3.1: Restore or enhance suitable habitats or
             resources where feasible.

                Task A.3.1.1: Using resource inventories generated from
                Goal A.1., identify those resource areas that have been or
                are being negatively impacted by external influences. These
                influences may include, but are not limited to; prop scars,
                spoil banks, dredged areas, boat grounding areas, clearings,
                dumping, mosquito ditches, erosion, abandoned traps or
                vessels, exotic vegetation, and roads.

                Task A.3.1.2: Prioritize potential restoration areas
                according to severity of impact to the immediate resources
                and to the overall functional integrity of the preserve.

                Task A.3.1.3: Develop procedures and guidelines for
                addressing the priority areas for restoration, such as
                exotic plant removal, beach clean-up, removal or'planting
                of spoil banks, revegetating grassbed or mangrove areas,
                enhancing listed-species habitats, removal of derelict ,
                vessels and abandoned traps, filling in mosquito ditches,
                reestablishing historic water flows, etc.

                Task A.3.1.4: Investigate and contact other agencies,
                groups, institutions, and individuals who may be available
                to provide scientific, logistic, financial, enforcement,
                manpower or other support in accomplishing the habitat
                restoration or enhancement.

                Task A.3.1.5: Monitor and review progress on restoration
                projects.
                    ill: Monitor restoration procedures while in progress
                    and restored areas on at least an annual basis.





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                     (2): Maintain ac'curate records of the project
                     including but not limited to:
                        a) type of project;
                        b). anticipated results;
                        c) benefits to the resource;
                        d) location, date, parties involved, duration of
                           project;
                        e) completion date;
                        f) monitoring schedule;
                        g) results or changes observed;
                        h) additional maintenance or monitoring required;
                        i) estimated cost of project in time and funding;
                        j) an assessment of the success of the project or
                           an explanation of why anticipated results were
                           not achieved;
                        k) recommendations as to how the project could or
                           should be improved upon; and
                        1) if the procedure could or should be used for
                           future or similar projects.


             GOAL A.4.:    RESTORE, ENHANCE OR MAINTAIN WATER QUALITY

             Objective A.4.1.: Coordinate with appropriate agencies to
             improve and/or maintain water quality in the preserve.

               Task A.4.1.1: Acquire, maintain and review all records of
               water quality data for the preserve area.

               Task--A.4.-1.2: Coordinate with regulatory and management
               agencies in identifying and managing areas within the
               preserve that may be contributing to sedimentation or other
               undesirable impacts to waters of the preserve (mosquito
               ditches, compaction of soils and channelization of run-off
               from roads, previous land clearing, etc.).

               Task-A.4.1.3: Report suspected or identified instances of
               violations to appropriate regulatory and enforcement
                 agencies.



             B. RESOURCE PROTECTION

             In order to  maintain the biological integrity of the aquatic
             preserve, it is imperative to protect the resources that
             comprise the system. In-most cases, it is not feasible, nor
             is it desirable, to provide protection for individual species
             that are a part of the various habitats that make up the
             preserve.    Therefore, the goals of resource protection
             outlined in  this element will be directed toward protecting
             the habitats that are vital to the survival of the species and
             in conjunction with other habitat types are the functional
             basis of biological integrity and stability within the


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              preserve.    These goals include: 1) protection of submerged
              resources (patch reefs, coral banks and heads, grassbeds and
              hardbottom habitats), 2) protection of emergent vegetation
              (mangroves, saltmarsh/buttonwood, beach/berm and tropical
              hardwood hammock habitats) , and 3) protection of designated
              species habitats.

              GOAL B.1.:    PROTECTION OF SUBMERGED RESOURCES

              Objective B.1.1.: Minimize potential damage to submerged
              resources through out the review of applications for use of
              state-owned lands in the aquatic preserve.

                Task B.1.1.1.: Develop a written description of a
                scientifically based, standardized method to inventory the
                minimum, this method will contain the following information:
                   a) The area to be surveyed will be described:
                       1) as a polygon, and
                       2) it will include a buffer zone surrounding the
                          project of sufficient size to include a majority
                          of the potentially affected area.

                   b) How the survey is to be performed:
                       1) The  submerged bottom, including:
                           i.   a description of all communities/habitats,
                          ii.   a description of the bottom type,
                          iii.  depth profiles,
                          iv.   tidal amplitude and stage,
                           v.   a physical description of the surrounding
                                waterbody,
                          vi.   adjacent and adjoining uses, and
                          vii.  distance to navigation channels:

                       2) The  shoreline, including:
                           i.  a description of   the vegetation,
                          ii.  a description of   the shoreline type,
                          iii. a description of   existing structures,
                          @v.  a description of adjoining and adjacent
                               uses,
                           v.  presence/absence   of listed animal species or
                               their habitat or   whether known to occur in
                               the area; and
                          vi.  presence/absence   of other wildlife or their
                               signs.

                  c) A definition of a Resource Protection Area (RPA).
                       This definition will be used to determine if
                       significant resources or habitats exist within the
                       area of expected impact. An RPA will include, but
                       is not limited to:

                       1) Marine grassbeds,
                       2) algal beds,


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                      3) mangroves and saltmarsh/buttonwood associations,
                      4) hardbottom communities,
                      5) coral banks or heads,
                      6) patch reefs,
                      7) beach/berm,
                      8) listed species or  their habitat, and
                      9) nesting sites for  solitary or colonial  birds.

                Task B.1.1.2.: Coordinate   with the appropriate regional
                DNR staff to process field staff comments to applications
                for use in a timely manner.

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

             objective B.1.2.:    Ensure that projects and activities that
             have been built or are occurring have been authorized.

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

                Task B.1.2.2.: Coordinate and cooperate, when possible,
                with other appropriate agencies that have regulatory or
                enforcement authority for these projects or activities.

                Task B.1.2.3.:      Maintain records of reports and
                subsequent actions taken by regulatory and enforcement
              .agencies. At a minimum, these records will contain:
                    1) Date, lociation first observed and observers name;
                    2) Date reported to appropriate agency, agency name,
                       and reporters name;
                    3) Action taken by agency; and
                    4) Resolution of report, if known.

             Oblective B.1.3.: Ensure that projects and activities are in
             compliance with the authorization granted.

                Task B.I.3.1.: Coordinate with the appropriate regional
                DNR staff to receive copies of all letters of consent,
                easement agreements, lease agreements, and other forms     of
                authorization.

                Task B.1.3.2.: Report variations from the authorized
                conditions to the appropriate DNR enforcement agent.

                Task B.1.3.3.: Coordinate and cooperate, when possible,
                with other appropriate agencies that have regulatory or
                enforcement authority for these projects or activities.

             Objective B.1.4.: Ensure that projects and activities do not
             degrade submerged resources of the preserve.


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               Task B.1.4.1.: Seek authorizations to establish no
               motorized vessels or personal watercraft zones in areas of
               shallow water.

               Task B.1.4.2.: Require that all dredge projects use
               current turbidity control practices.

               Task B.1.4.3.: Establish a mooring buoy system near the
               larger patch reefs in the preserve.

               Task B.1.4.4.:    Inventory and report all abandoned
               vessels and traps to the Florida Marine Patrol and
               encourage removal in a timely manner.

               Task B.1.4.5.:  Encourage or require the establishment
               of channel markers, where appropriate, to protect marine
               grassbeds and corals from boating damage.

               Task B.1.4-6.: Seek appropriate legislation to prohibit
               spear fishing in the preserve.

               Task B.1.4.7.: Seek appropriate legislation and rule
               changes to prohibit the harvesting of live rock, tropical
               fish and marine invertebrates within the preserve.

               Task B.1.4.8.: Promote the acquisition of privately held
               submerged lands within the preserve.


            GOAL B.2.:   PROTECTION OF EMERGENT VEGETATION AND HABITATS

            Oblective B.2.1.: Minimize potential damage to emergent
            vegetation and beach/berm through the review of all
            applications for use of state-owned land in the preserve.

               Task B.2.1.1.: Field staff will develop a written format
               describing a scientifically based, standardized method to
               inventory the emergent vegetation and characteristics of a
               project site and it shall include, at a minimum, the
               following information:
                  a) Description of the area to be surveyed:
                     1) legal description of the subject property;
                     2) as a polygon; and
                     3) with a buffer zone surrounding the project of
                        sufficient size so as to include a majority of
                        the potentially affected area.
                  b) Detailing how the survey is to be performed:
                     1) a description of the vegetation with notations
                        as listed plant species within the project site
                        and buffer zone;
                     2) a description of geological features or
                        formations, including the following, if
                        beach/berm is present:


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                            i.  length and width of beach/berm on
                                riparian shoreline;
                           ii.  approximate height of the ridge crest;
                                and
                          iii.  distance from MHW to the ridge crest:
                       3) a description of existing structures or uses;
                       4) a description of  adjoining or adjacent uses;
                       5) presence/absence  of listed animal species, their
                          or whether known  to occur on the site;
                       6) presence/absence  of other wildlife species or
                          their sign. ,                                               I

                Task B.2.1.2.: Coordinate   with other DNR staff in order
                to process surveys and related comments in a timely
                manner.

                Task B.2.1.3.: Coordinate with other appropriate agencies
                that have regulatory authority for these projects.

                Task B.2.1.4.: Coordinate and cooperate, whenever
                possible, with other agencies or conservation organizations
                that have specific management objectives, research projects
                or other interests in the area of a project, or that may
                own lands adjacent to the project site, including but not
                limited to:.
                   a) Key Deer National Wildlife Refuge;
                   b) Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge;
                   c)-Florida Came and Freshwater Fish Commission;
                   d) National Audubon Society; and
                   e) Trust for Public Lands.

             objective B.2.2.: Ensure that structures and activities t    hat
             have been built or are occurring have been authorized.

                Task B.2.2.1.: Report activities that do not appear to
                have been authorized to the appropriate DNR enforcement
                agent.

                Task B.2.2.2.: Coordinate and cooperate, whenever
                feasible and appropriate, with other agencies that have
                regulatory or enforcement authority for the project or
                activity.

             Objective B.2.3.: Ensure that structures and activities that
             have been authorized are in compliance with the conditions of
             the authorization.

                Task B.2.3.1.: Coordinate with the appropriate regional
                DNR staff to receive copies of all letters of consent,
                easement agreements, lease agreements and other
                authorizations for the use of state lands.





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               Task B.2.3.2.: Report variations from the authorized
               conditions to the appropriate DNR enforcement agent.

               Task B.2.3.3.: Coordinate and cooperate, when feasible
               and appropriate with other agencies that have regulatory
               or enforcement authority for these projects or
               activities.



            GOAL B.3.:   PROTECT LISTED SPECIES AND THEIR HABITAT

            Obiective B.3.1.: Determine which portions of the aquatic
            preserve serve as habitat for listed species.

               Task B.3.1.1.: Assimilate a working library of relevant
               literature and information on listed species expected to
               occur in the preserve.

               Task B.3.1.2.: Coordinate with the Florida Game and Fresh
               Water Fish Commission, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the
               Audubon Society, and any other relevant group or agency to
               determine which listed species use what portion of the
               aquatic preserve for various aspects of their life cycle.

               Task B.3.1.3.: Coordinate and cooperate, whenever
               possible, with appropriate agencies and groups to conduct
               monitoring, inventories, habitat evaluations or other
               activities that relate to the status or distribution of
               listed species or their habitat.

               Task B.3.1.4.: During the course of routine field w9rk
               and patrols, preserve staff will observe and record,
               whenever practical, sightings, locations, activity and
               other information relevant to a listed species.

               Task B.3.1.5.: Report all manatee sightings to the
               Marathon office of the Division of Marine Resources.

            Objective B.3.2.: Protect all listed species of plants and
            animals.

               Task B.3.2.1.: Be familiar with listed species,
               identification, status and relevant laws pertaining to
               listed species.

               Task B.3.2.2.,: Report, without delay, any incidence of
               harassment, poaching, killing, taking or other unlawful
               activity, including unleashed dogs and artificial feeding
               stations, to the appropriate enforcement agencies.

               Task B.3.2.3..: Maintain a current list of agencies and
               individuals who enforce relevant laws and those who are
               permitted or otherwise authorized to rescue, attend, hold,


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                 rehabilitate or salvage listed species or their remains.

                 Task B.3.2.4.: Coordinate and cooperate with appropriate
                 management and enforcement agencies in identifying any
                 activity or project that may potentially affect a listed
                 species.

             Obiective B.3.3.: Protect habitat of listed species.

                 Task B.3.3.1.: Ensure that potential impacts to listed
                 species habitats are identified in' the review of projects
                 or activities. Such potential impacts may include, but
                 are not limited. -
                    1) Modification or obstruction of beach/berm;
                    2) Dock or beach lighting;
                    3) Fences or other obstructions; and
                    4) Removal of vegetation, except invasive exotics..

                 Task B.3.3.2.: Coordinate and cooperate, whenever
                 possible, with appropriate management and enforcement
                 agencies to evaluate potential impacts to listed species
                 as a result of a proposed project or activity.

                 Task-B.3.3.3.: Recommend, where appropriate,
                 modifications' to a proposed project or activity that
                 would eliminate or minimize encroachment upon the habitat
                 of listed species.

                 Task B,3.3.4.: Seek appropriate state statute and rule
                 changes to exclude personal/individual watercraft from
                 listed species habitat, including jet ski, water taxi, jet
                 boat, and similar types of motor powered watercraft.

                 Task B.3.3.5.: Seek appropriate federal statute changes
                 and enforcement to regulate use of ultra-light, private and
                 commercial Aircraft over and in the aquatic preserve.

                 Task B.3.3.6.: Coordinate and cooperate with appropriate
                 DNR and other enforcement agencies in the investigation of
                 potential violations of state or local codes or ordinances
                 that impact listed species habitats.


             C.  RESEARCH

             Effective management of a biological system relies almost
             entirely on information as to how that system functions.
             Research is the progenitor of this information. Great strides
             have been made in marine grassbed and mangrove ecology, yet
             large gaps remain in understanding the functions of the
             various components of these systems and how they interact with
             on another.   Coral reef ecology is a fledgling science that
             has blossomed,only with the improvements in SCUBA equipment.


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            Understandably, there is much yet to be learned about all of
            these systems. The goals f or research in the aquatic preserve
            will be directed toward primarily applied research programs,
            rather than basic, or theoretical research.

            The goals of the research program are (1) to gain a better
            understanding of what factors are essential to the functional,
            biological integrity of the major habitats within the aquatic
            preserve and (2) to gain a better understanding of the factors
            that govern the continued survival and propagation of
            designated species that use the various habitats of the
            preserve.


            GOAL C.1.: MAINTAIN OR ENHANCE THE FUNCTIONAL INTEGRITY OF
            HABITATS

            Oblective C.1.1.:      Determine the primary factors that
            influence
            the survival of marine grassbeds and algae.

               Task C.1.1.1.: Pursue and support research directed
               toward identifying physical, chemical and/or pathogenic
               sources of marine grassbed damage.

               Task C.1.1.2.: Pursue, at the bureau level, funding to
               conduct research on the effects of dock/pier shading on the
               various species of marine grasses and algae of the preserve.

               Task C.1.1.3.: Pursue, review and support, where deemed
               practical, research directed toward protecting or restoring
               marine grass beds.

            Obiective C.1.2.:      Determine the primary factors that
            influence the distribution, -survival and productivity of
            mangrove habitats.

               Task C.1.2.1.: Promote and support research on the
               physical, chemical, and pathogenic factors that influence
               mangrove habitats.

               Task C.1.2.2.: Pursue funding, at a Department level, t o
               investigate the ecological functions of impounded 'dwarf
               mangroves.

               Task C.l..2.3.: Pursue funding and support research
               projects directed toward restoration of artificially
               altered mangrove systems.

               Task C.1.2.4.: Promote and support research on the
               effects of mangrove trimming.





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              Objective C.1.3.: Determine the primary and secondary factors
              that affect the species of the hardbottom and coral patch
              reef s.


                Task C.1.3.1.: Promote and support research that
                identifies the physical, chemical and pathogenic factors
                that influence coral growth, recruitment and mortality.

                Task C.1.3.2.: Promote and, whenever feasible,
                participate in compiling an inventory of the benthic infauna
                present in hardbottom and patch reefs in the preserve.

                Task C.1.3.3.: Seek, at a Department level, funding for
                research on the effects of spear-fishing on the size/class
                range, distribution and dominance of coral/algal grazing
                fishes and predatory fishes on the patch reefs.

                Task C.1.3.4.: Seek, at a Department level, funding for
                research on the effects of tropical fish and invertebrate
                collecting on the species, size range, distribution,
                density, and diversity of populations on patch reefs.

                Task C.1.3.5.:   Seek, at a Department level, funding for
                research on the  effects of sponge harvesting on hardbottom
                communities.

                Task C.1.3.6.:   Seek, at a Department level, funding for
                research on the  effects of trap placement and retrieval
                methods on the submerged resources of the preserve.

                Task C.1.3.7.:   Review and accept, where appropriate,
                experimental research proposals for the culture of
                hardbottom sponges in the preserve.


             GOAL C.2.:    SURVIVAL AND PROPAGATION  OF LISTED SPECIES

             Objective C.2.1.: . Determine which portions of the preserve
             serve as habitat for designated species.

                Task C.2.1.1.: Pursue, at a Department level, funding for
                research on the distribution of listed species in the
                CARL Buffer Zone project.

                Task C.2.1.2.: Support, and when feasible, participate in
                research to establish critical habitat areas for listed
                species of plants and animals in the preserve.

                Task C.2.1.3.: Support and pursue funding for research on
                the distribution, life cycles and habitat needs of listed
                species of fishes, reptiles, insects and mollusc of t h e
                preserve.




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                Task C.2.1.4.: Coordinate with appropriate agencies,
                organizations and universities/colleges to promote applied
                research projects for listed species.

                Task C.2.1.5.: Participate, whenever feasible, with
                agencies or organizations that survey or monitor listed
                species in the preserve.

                Task C.2.1.6.: Cooperate with the Division of Marine
                Resources in monitoring and reporting manatee sightings and
                information.

                Task C.2.1.7.: Cooperate with the Division of Marine
                Resources in monitoring and reporting marine turtle nesting
                and strandings.

                        _C11: Preserve staff or volunteers who
                        participate in strandings and salvage activities
                        shall be properly trained and permitted and shall
                        maintain accurate records and make timely reports
                        of all activities in the preserve.



             D. ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION

             Public awareness and involvement is potentially the most
             valuable tool a resource management program may utilize. The
             public is often not aware of the resources of the preserve nor
             of the various impacts that human activities have upon those
             resources.   The 'public' may be students, property owners,
             user groups (e.g., divers, fishing enthusiasts, boaters,
             etc.), special interest groups (realtors, developers and
             contractors), conservation or preservation organizations, and
             local, regional and state government agencies that are
             involved in making planning or regulatory decisions affecting
             the preserve.

             The many values derived from marine habitats, including water
             quality, viable fisheries, recreation and open space, attract
             many visitors and residents to the preserve area. These same
             values may be irreparably harmed, if the public is not
             environmentally sensitive or informed. Therefore, one of the
             primary aims of the aquatic preserve program will be to
             educate the public as to the importance of the resources and
             to enlist public support and participation in the protection
             and conservation of those resources for present and future
             generations to enjoy.

             GOAL D.1.:   PUBLIC EDUCATION TO PROMOTE WISE RESOURCE USE

             Objective D.1.1.:     Coordinate and provide assistance to
             existing environmental education programs at public and
             private schools.


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               Task D.1.1.1.: Notify the county school board and      private
               schools of the preserves programs and the availability of
               its staff to assist or provide guidance for their existing
               environmental educational programs.

               Task D.1.1.2.: Participate in the development and
               utilization of the Monroe County Environmental Story
               teaching aids for public and private schools in the county.

               Task D.1.1.3.: Seek funding to develop an educational
               display and literature for the.preserve.

               Task D.1.1.4.: Seek funding and staffing to establish and
               conduct classroom programs and field trips in the preserve.

            Obiective    D.1.2.:      Produce   environmental     educational
            literature and materials that inform the adult public of the
            preserve's natural resources and the importance of preserving
            and protecting those resources.

               Task D.1.2.1.: Seek funding for the development of
               educational literature, materials and staffing for
               presentations to:
                 1) Homeowners' associations;
                 2)  Civic and church groups;
                 3)  Special interests (realtors, consultants,
                     developers, contractors, utilities, etc.);
                 4)  Boating/sport shows and special events;
                 5)  Camping facilities and tourist resorts;
                 6)  Marinas, tackle shops and boat ramps;
                 7)  Agency and local government staffs;
                 8)  Environmental educators; and
                 9)  Conservation,'preservation, conference, and research
                     groups.

               Task 1.2.2.: Development media articles and presentations
               for local radio, television and publications      to    inform
               the general public of the preserve, its resources and of
               relevant protection needs, programs and research findings.

               Task 1.2.3.: Seek support, development and education of a
               Friends of Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve volunteers group
               to assist with environmental education programs and special
               environmental projects.

               Task 1.2.4.: Coordinate with other resource management
               agencies and, where appropriate, co-sponsor exhibits,
               programs or other public contact activities.

            Obiective D.1.3.: Pursue coordination with organizations and
            agencies and, where appropriate, assist in the development of
            special programs for physically and mentally challenged adults
            and children.



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                Task 1.3.1.:   Contact appropriate agencies to determine
                the need for special programs.

                Task 1.3.2.: Seek funding for development and staffing of
                needed programs.

             Obiective D.1.4.: Seek funding for development and staffing
             of a permanent environmental education facility for the
             preserve.

                Task D.1.4.1.: Seek funding for development, maintenance,
                and staffing for permanent displays, specimen collections,
                a reference library and interpretive programs.

             Obiective D.1.5.: Provide environmental education workshops
             to instruct other environmental educators.

                Task D.1.5.1.: Pursue development and funding for
                biannual instructional workshops for environmental, science,
                and other interested teachers and instructors.

                Task D.1.5.2.: Encourage aquatic preserve staff and
                volunteers to attend conferences and seminars to further
                teaching skills and become familiar with other education
                programs.







































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                                       CHAPTER VII


                             MANAGMENT COORDINATION NETWORK



             This chapter presents a general overview of the various
             federal, state, regional, and local agencies that regulate or
             hold any interests in the management or use of Coupon Bight
             Aquatic Preserve. The success of the aquatic preserve
             management plan is dependent upon coordination with these
             agencies to achieve many of the goals and objectives of
             resource management and protection. A breakdown of the
             specific jurisdictions is presented in Table 11.



             A. FEDERAL AGENCIES

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

             In accordance with the federal consistency review process, the
             Bureau of Submerged Lands and Preserves reviews many of the
             federal programs and activities as to their affect on the
             management objectives of the aquatic preserve programs. 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.

             U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
             The 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.. Locally,
             their personnel administer and manage wildlife refuge and
             preserved lands, review dredge and fill projects, and are
             charged with the protection and recovery of endangered species
             and bird rookeries.

             U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE)
             The COE has jurisdiction over the navigable -waters of the
             United States under the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899. A
             revision of the Rivers and Harbors Act in 1968 extended the
             COE jurisdiction, allowing them to consider impacts to the
             fish and wildlife, conservation, pollution, aesthetics,
             ecological and other relevant factors of a proposed project.
             The COE regulatory programs were 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 and has since been extended to
             wetlands from Amendments to the CWA in 1977.


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             U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)-
             The USGS performs surveys and research pertaining to
             topography, geology, mineral and water resbuces of the United
             States. USGS also collects and publishes water resouces data.

             U.S Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
             The EPA has jurisdiction over surface watew of the state.
             Enforcement authority was.given under the Clean Water Act of
             1972 and broadened under the 1977 revision. In general, EPA
             is responsible for pollution control and abatement, including:
             air, water, noise, solid waste, toxic waste, and taddiation.
             Under Section 104 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response,
             Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA), as amended
             by the Sperfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986
             (SARA), EPA may initiate studies, clean-up, and pursue
             restitution of incurred expenses for pollution violations and
             damages. Authority is divided between EPA and the U.S. Coast
             Guard regarding the management of oil or hazardous substances
             discharged into surface waters. They also review permits
             issued by DER for the treatment, disposal and storage of
             hazardous wastes.


             U.S. Coast Guard (USGS)
             The USGA regulates boating safety, enforces maritime law,
             operates search and rescue missions, and surveillance and
             interdiction of contraband importation. USGS also regulates
             construction of bridges, causeways, and aerial utilities that
             may pose navigation hazards and the placement and maintenance
             of public navigation aids. Joint responsibility for response
             to the discharge or spillage of oil or other hazardous
             substances into surface waters is shared with EPA.

             National Marine Fisheries Service (NMF)
             The NMF is under the U.S. Department of Commerce and records
             commercial fish landing, enforces national fishery laws, and
             protects vital fishery habitats. Under the Endangered Spcies
             Act, this agency may also regulate activities and enforce
             marine turtle and mammal protection legislation.

             National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
             Under the Department of Commerce Office of Coastal Zone
             Management, NOAA administers to programs of -local interest.
             The National Marine Sanctuaries (NMS) program oversees the
             management of Looe Key and Key Largo National Marine
             Sanctuaries, as well a several National Marine Esturies in the
             region. NOAA also administers the Hurricane Center in Fieri,
             which monitors and issues bulletins on tropical weather L--or
             the north and south Atlantic and the Caribbean Basin.








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B. STATE AGENCIES

Many state agnecies have property interests, land and wildlife
managemnt programs, research activities, regulatory authority
and construction activities with the preserve. Additionally,
DNR administers programs which may affect the resources and
waterwheds of the preserve.

Department of Natural resources (DNR)
Several Divisions within the Department perform various
functions of administration, regulation and enforcement of
laws and programs related to natural resources and/or their
use.

The Division of Marine Resources has several programs
beneficial to the management of aquatic      . The Marine
Research Laboratory in St. Petersburg and the Marethon Field
Office have several projects which include resource protection
area mapping, fishery habitat utilization sudies, conch
reintroduction programs and spiny lobster research. The 
programs and marine turtle data gathering. They also
asminister a permitting program for the collection of cartain
marine species and the use of certain chemicals.

The Division of Law Enforcement's Marine Patrol, whose legal
authority is granted under Chapter 370, F.S., enforces Florida
laws relating to marine resources, fishery laws, boating
safety, vessel titling/registration, contraband interdiction,
and the protection of endangered and threatened species.

The Division of State Lands, under the provsions of Chapters
253 and 258, F.S. performs the staff duties related to the
acquisition, administration and disposition of public lands on
behalf of and with the approval of the Governor and Cabinet,
sityting as the Board of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund.
Staff duties include review and recommendations to the Board
regarding applications for the use, sale, lease or tansfers
of all state-owned lands and enforcement of the provisions for
unauthorized use of those lands. Under Chapter 15-21, F.A.C.,
the Division is charged with management of sovereignty
submerged lands and spoil islands.

Aquatic preserves were established under Chapter 258, F.S.
Originally administered by the Division of Recreation and
Parks, the administration of aquatic preserves was transferred
to the Division of State Lands in     . Specific management
policy, standards and criteria for most aquatic preserves are
contained within Chapter 18-20, F.A.C.

The authority for this Conservation and Recreational Lands
program (CARL) is also derived from Chapter 253, F.S. This
program is the primary vehicle for the acquistion of private

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            lands that are deemed to be environmentally sensitive or that
            may serve as potential lands for future recreational needs.
            Recent passage of the Conservation 2000 legislation will
            greatly enhance funding for targeted purchases.

            The Division of Resource Management is responsible for the
            management of aquatic plants, mineral resources, oil and gas
            exploration, and geologic studies. It also supervises state
            Navigation Districts and the Canal Authority.

            Department of Environmental Regulation (DER)
            The DER administers programs regulating air, water, noise,
            wastewater, stormwater, and hazardous waste pollution through
            a permitting and cetification process. Chapter 376, F.S.
            directs DER to cooperate with DNR in offering consultation,
            enforcement, prosecution, and technical advise in pollutant
            discharge, control and removal.

            Chapter 403, F.S. enumerates the DER responsibilities in the
            areas of water and air quality, facilities siting, resource
            recovery and management, pollution control and wetland
            permitting. This chapter serves as the authority for the
            initiation of dredge and fill applications in conjuction with
            COE and DNR. The authority to regulate activities and protect
            water quality granted in Chapter 403 is facilitated by the
            Water Quality Standards established in Chapter 17-3, F.A.C.
            This chapter of the admininstrative code sets forth specific
            criteria for surface water classifications and permitting
            criteria for those classifications. The Special Protection,
            'Outstanding Florida Waters (OFW) classification is assigned to
            waters of the aquatic preserve and most waters of the Florida
            Keys. The OFW classification affords the highest protection
            for state waters.

            Chapter 17, F.A.C. also contains sections governing permitting
            procedure and 'criteria for facilities, dredge and fill
            projects, stormwater discharge, and deepwater ports.

            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.

            Chapter 253.77, F.S., as amended by the Warren S. Henderson
            Wetlands Protection Act of 1984, reuqires that any request for
            the use of state-owned lands shall have prior approval of the
            The Trustees. An interagency agreement between DNR and DER
            provides for DNR staff comments into the DER permitting
            process for indentifying environmental impacts to the
            resources of the aquatic preserve.




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              Department of Community Affairs (DCA)
              DCA reviews Developments of Regional Impact (DRI), designates
              Areas of Critical State Concern            (ACSC),   and approves
              comprehensive    plans.    The   DRI   process    involves     major
              development projects that have impacts on a larger area than
              is covered by just one county and involves a regional review
              from neighbo ring local governments and from state agencies.

              The ACSC program is intended to protect the areas of the state
              where development has endangered or may endanger resources of
              regional or statewide significance. Under an ACSC designation,
              the local governments are required to notify the DCA of any
              application for a development permit. The Florida Keys portion
              of Monroe County were designated as an ACSC in 1979. In 1984,
              under authority granted in Chapter 380, F.S. and defined in
              Administrative Rule 27F-8, the Boundary and Principles for
              Guiding Development for the Florida Keys Area of Critical
              State Concern were adopted to conserve and protect the
              natural, environmental, historic and economic resources, and
              other values of the lands and waters of the Florida Keys. The
              Florida Keys ACSC designation and the Principles for Guiding
              Development are intended to remain in place until -,-:;uch time as
              Monroe County shall have developed a comprehensive growth
              management plan and future development regulations as required
              by Chapter 163, F.S. Such plan shall be consistent with the
              State Comprehensive Plan, State Statutes, Codes and rules.
              Conformance to the minimum criteria established in Chapter 9J-
              5, D.A.C. is also required.

              Monroe County is currently involved in this planning process
              and is expected to submit a completed plan by September 1990.
              The Coastal Management and Conservation Elements of the future
              plan are the most significant to the management goals and
              objectives of the aquatic preserve. These elements should
              establish goals and objectves that are consistent with those
              of this plan. Cooperation and coordination in developing the
              plans is critical to the successful development and
              implementation of either plan.

              Department of Transportation (DOT)
              The DOT is involved with aquatic preserves where they maintain
              the U.S. 1 or Overseas Highway and the bridges and causeways
              that abut the preserve boundary. Leases or permits for the use
              of state-owned rights-of-way are coordinated through the DOT.
              Applications for these uses are not generally circulated for
              field review. Local cooperation is vital to establish lines of
              communication regarding projects that may affect the preserve.
              The DOT also administers funding for environmental restoration
              projects, which has in the past been available for aquatic
              preserve projects.





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            Department of State/Division of Historical Resources (DHR)
            Under Chapter 267, F.S. DHR is granted responsibility for the
            preservation and management of the state's archaeological and
            historical resouces. This responsibility includes those
            cultural resouces located on state-owned lands. All activities
            that may.potentially affect a known or suspected resouce must
            be coordinated with and/or approved by the DRH.

            Department of Health and Rehabilitative Serveces MRS)
            HRS administers numerous programs to protect public health by
            overseeing functions that involve water supplies, sewage
            disposal and solid waste control. Authority for these
            responsibilities are found in Chapters 154, 381, and 386, F.S.
            and in the,10D series of F.A.C., known as the Sanitary Code.
            HRS is also responsible for mosquito control activities under
            Chapter 388, F.S. and may delegate that authority to a local
            mosquito control district (MSD).

            Mosquito control and spetic tank permitting are of immediate
            concern to the managment of the aquatic preser. The Monroe
            County MSD administers the local program through ground and
            aerial application of larvicides and adulticildes. Chapter 1OD-
            54, F.A.C. requires that any arthropod (mosquito) control
            activities conducted by local MSDs on environmentally
            sensitive public lands, such as parks, aquatic preserves and
            similar properties be coordinated in advance by the
            .responsible mosquito control agency with '@the Executive
            Directory of DNR, GFC, and the regional directory of the
            USFWS. This chapter also establishes areas, types, rates,
            timing and equipment standards for control activities.

            HRS administers the permitting and placement of spetic tanks.
            under Chapter 1OD-6, F.A.C. This chapter establishes standards
            for onsite sewage disposal systems (OSDS) . Part II of that
            chapter establishes specific standards for OSDS installation,
            operation and monitoring in the Key Largo Limestone or Miami
            (Oolite) rock formations.

            Marine Fisheries Commission (MFC)
            The MFC manages marine life by regulating the harvesting of
            all marine life, except listed species. Their authority covers
            gear specifications, bag limits, size limits, species that may
            not be sold, protected species, closed seasons or areas,
            quality control codes, special considerations related to egg
            bearing females, and the harvest and relaying of oyster and
            clams. The MFC makes annual recommendations to the Governor
            and Cabinet regarding marine fisheries research priorities an(:
            changes to existing laws.

            Game and Fresh Water Fish  Commission (GFC)
            The GFC, authorized under  Chapters 39.101 and 39.102, F.A.C.
            implements and enforces specific regulations to protect all



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               wildlife and their habitats. As such, the GFC is the state
               coordinatory for species designated for protection in Florida.


               C. REGIONAL AGENCIES

               In addition to federal and state          agencies, two regional
               agencies have functions and programs that may affect the
               aquatic preserve. These organizations conduct activities that
               are on a borader scale than are those of the local
               governments.

               South Florida Water Management District (WMD)
               The WMD was estalished by Chapter 61-69, Laws of Florida, as
               a public corporation for carrying out Chapter 378, F.S> and
               operates under and is governed by provisions of Chapter 373,
               F.S. Chapters 40D-4 and 40D-40 were adopted to ensure
               continued protection of the water resources of the district
               including wetlands and other natural resources. The statutes
               resulted from passage of Chapter 84-79, Laws of Florida, also
               known as the Warren G. Henderson Wetlands Protection of of
               1984.

               The WMD adminsters permitting programs for consumptive water
               u-,e, management, strom water discharge, storage of surface
               water, well drilling -and operation, water level control,
               regulation of artificial recharge facilities, and works of the
               district. The WMD is also responsible for defeloping Surface
               Water Improvement Management (SWIM) plans as authorized by
               Chapter 87-97, Laws of Florida and Chapter 373, F.S. The SWIM
               plans are designed to improve, restore and manage surface
               waters.

               South Florida Regional Planning Council (RPC)
               The RPC serves as a regioanl planning body fcr the local
               government of Monroe County, as well as incorpcrated areas in
               the Keys and other south Florida counties and munllcipal areas.
               The RPC duties include: aid to local governmu-.1t planning
               efforts; regional representative for the DRI process; regional
               clearing house for state and federal projects and programs;
               providing information from the lcoal governments to the state
               and federal levels; assisting local governments in securing.
               grants in air; and preparing and administ@@-rl_ng -,-.he Regional
               Policy Plan.

               The DRI review of projects which affect th@i                will be
               reviewed by both the field staff and central ollfi(-@@ personnel.
               DRIs for marinas, major developments,. -Aubd_4,v:3.@4:*Lcns, and
               commercial or industrial developments adjacent to the preserve
               and will be reviewed closely for their potential i-_'i'.,pact on the
               preserve.





                                               159










              D. LOCAL GOVERNMENTIAGENCIES (LGT)

              Local government consists of unincorporated Monroe County and
              the incorporated areas of Key Colony Beach, Layton and the
              City of Key West. The incorporated areas are governed by a
              city commission and the unincorporated areas are governed by
              a five member County Commission. Previous efforts to
              Ancorporate the island of Big Pine Key failed to garner voter
              support. However, there is a small consensus of opinion that
              this issue is not dormant and the proposal may again surface
              for referendum.

              As previously noted, the Florida Keys portion of Monroe County
              has been designated as an Area of Critical State Concern and
              both incorporated and unincorporated areas are in the process
              of formulating Comprehensive Growth Management Plans.

              Relationship to Local Manaaement Plans
              The Florida Keys Comprehensive Plan of 1986 (Volume II,
              Analysis and Policy Element) established several Areas of
              Critical County' Concern (ACCC) and      .Marine Resouce Areas of
              Particular Concern       (APC),   including    Coupon   Bight     and
              Lignum.vitae Key Aquatic Preserves. Management policies for
              Coupon B ight are directed toward cooperation with DNR and
              regulation    of   land    and    water   activities    to    enstire
              compatibility with maintenance and preservation of the
              -preserve. Septic tanks are discouraged and storm water
              management and low intensity uses are encouraged.

              Generic designations for Marine Resouce APCs include marine
              grassbeds, coral.formations and fringing mangroves, including
              associated vegetation within 50 feet of the landward edge of
              those mangroves. Management policies mandate that these biotic
              communities be preserved to the fullest extent possible and
              that creation and restoration of these communities will be
              encouraged whenever feasible and necessary.

              Local govern  ments are required by the Local Government
              Comprehensive Planning Act of 1975 (Se6tion 163.3163, F.S.),
              as amended by Chapter 85-55, Laws of Florida, to the Local
              Government Comprehensive Plannind and Land Development
              Regulation Act (LGCP) , to have a management plan with elements
              relating to different governmental functions (i.e., housing,
              physical facilities, conservation,       land use, coastal zone
              protection, etc.). Recent statutory     amendements require these
              plans to be updated and for counties    to adopt land development
              regulations and improve coastal management protection. The
              coastal management element of the LGCP, along with the land
              use and conservation elements, establishes long range pl&ns
              for orderly, and. balanced development, with particular
              attention    to   the     identification    and    protection      of
              environmental resouces in the planning area. conformance with
              the criteria, policies, and practices of a local government


                                              160









             comprehensive plan is required for all development within the
             local government jurisdication.

             Monroe County is currently revising and formulating new goals,
             objectives and policies that are intended to fulfill the
             requirements for the LGCP act and the criteria of 9J-5, F.A.C.
             The intent of the aquatic preserve management program, and
             this plan, is to guide county efforts during the planning
             process towards developing local plan criteria and standards
             that will be consistent with and complimentary to the
             objectives of the aquatic preserve program.











































                                           161






                                TABLE11: '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
     N)

             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 Department of 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
                                                                                                          I.Gr CGT I I.DD IMCD ICD SWC I RPC JVNIII                  FiN    DAC DCA DER              DIN R GFC 11IRS Dos Dor IF,%IPIFSG_ NIFC                   C G      COE     EPA    FWS   NMF GS
                                Dredge and Fill Permitting                                                0 01                1                                                              0       0      0
                                     Docks, Fishing Piers, Seawalls                                       0       01          1                      1:,:                                    0       0
                                     Marinas                                                              0       01          1                                                      0       0       0
                                Submerged Lands Management                                                                                                                                        10
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          ... ....... ....  W..
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         .. . ........ ...... ......
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        X".
                                Ilabitat Protection                                                       0                                                                         -0       0       0      0                             0               0
                                                                                                                                                             ... ... .. ..                                                                                                       ......
                                iNfangroves/Wetlands                       Protection                     0       0                                   ..6.1w;                       10       0       0      0
                                Seagrass Protection                                                       0       0                                                                  0       0       0
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   . . . . ......
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              .... .. .........
                                Habitat Restoration                                                               0
                                                                                                                                                                                     0       0       0      0                       01                           . . ...
                                                                                                                                                                                     W
                                Nlangroves/Wetiands                        Restoration                            0             0
                                Seagrass Restoration                                                                                                                                 0       0       0
                                Resource Inventory                                                                                                                                   0       0       0      0                                     0 0
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                ........ .....-
                                                                                                                                                      x
                                Manatees/Porpoises                                                                0                                                                                  0
                                Endangered Species                                                        0       01                                                                 0                                                    0       010                                   0,
                                                                                                                                                                                                  10        0            1      10
                                                                                                                                                                               W
                                                                                                                                                                                             010
                                Shellfish/Aguaculture                                                             01            0
                                Public Awareness/Education                                                        0                                                                  0       a       0      0                             0       010
                                                                                                                                                                  .. ........
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           .. ...... ..
                                Research                                                                                        0                                                            0       0      0                   1                 01
                                                                                                                                                                                     0               0      0
                                Fisheries           Research                                                                                                                                                                                      0 0
                                Fisheries           Management                                                                  0
                                                                                                                                                                                     W
                                                                                                                                                                                                  .0.                                             0 0
                                     Recreational Fishing                                                                                                                            0               0      0                             0       0 0

                                                                                                                                                           . .. . .....
                                     Commercial Fishing                                                                                                                                              0                                    0       0.0
                                Wildlife Management

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     X
                                                                                                                                                                         ..  10      0
                                Mosquito Impoundments                                                             01            0                                                                    0
                                flistorical/Archeological Sites                                           0       01                                 1                               0            10                       0
                                                                                                                                                                               0     0       0
                                Water Quality                                                             0       01          10                                                                     0              0                     0
                                                                                                          0       01
                                     Nonpoint Source Pollution                                                                                  0 1:                                 0       0       0              0              0
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         .0      w.    Alk
                                     Point Source Pollution                                               0101                1                                                      0       0       01             0                   1              1
                                                                                                                                                                                     0       0       01                                   0                                                    x
                                     Oil/Chemical Spills                                                        101           1

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 X.
                                Drainage/Freshwater Control                                               0       0       01                   0 1:":.*                              0
                                                                                                                                                                               0             0       01
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                .... .......
                                Emergency Response                                                                0                                          X: .... .......         0       0       0      0
                                Upland Development                                                                0
                                                                                                                                                     ......... .....

                                                                                                                                                                      ......                                                                                         XX                     . .. ..   -.X.:.:
                                Land Use Planning                                                         0       0                                                                  0                                                                                                                .... ...
                                Navigational/Boating                                                      0       0                     0                                                                                                 0 0
                                                                                                                                                                                                     0     At
                                                                                                                                                           x
                                Recreational Areas                                                        0       01          1                                                                                                                   0
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     d                        ....... ....
                                                 and Roads
                                Bridges                                                                                                                                                                                             0.
                                                                                                                101           1                                                     Toofoo
































































































                                                             164













                                       CHAPTER VIII


                               STAFFING AWD FISCAL NEEDS



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

             In order for the Coupon Bight  Aquatic Preserve to be managed
             in accordance with the goals, objectives and policies, set
             forth in this plan, adequate funding, staffing and equipment
             is essential. It is anticipated that the management and
             administration of the three aquatic preserves in the Keys
             (Coupon Bight, Lignumvitae Key and Biscayne Bay-Card Sound
             portion) could be accomplished with one field office staffed
             with five full time employees and     a part-time maintenence
             mechanic. 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, which would include Coupon Bight
             Aquatic Preserve, is found in Table 12. The budget is required
             to *fulfill the short range needs of the preserve as described
             in this management plan, and to accomplish the Department goal
             of on-site management for all aquatic preserves by 1991, as
             expressed in the Agency Functional Plan.

























                                           165









                                                              99T












                                         TABLE 12


           ANTICIPATED TWO-YEAR BUDGET FOR COUPON BIGHT, LIGNUMVITE KEY AND
           THE CARD SOUND PORTION OF BISCAYNE BAY   AQUATIC PRESERVES



           SALARY                          1ST YEAR   2ND YEAR
             ES III (with benefits)        $ 36,463   $ 37,921
             ES II (with benefits)           32,109     33,393
             ES I (with benefits)            26,784     27,855
             Secretary (with benefits)       15,745     16,375
             Environmental educator          26,784     27,855

                Subtotal                   $137,885    $143,399




           OPERATING CAPITAL OUTLAY
             Vehicles (3 @ $12,000 each) $ 36,000
             office equipment                11,500
             Computer                          5,000
             Education materials               2,500

                Subtotal                   $ 55,000




           OPERATING EXPENSES
             Rent/Gas/Phone/Supplies       $ 28,000    $ 32,000
             Education supplies                1,500       1,600

                Subtotal                   $ 29,500    $ 33,600






           TOTAL COST                      $222,385     $176,999



















                                            167













                                       CHAPTER IX


                        RESOURCE AND ACTIVITY MONITORING PROGRAM



             To   ensure   that  this   management   plan   is    effectively
             implemented, on-site staffing is imperative. Additional
             staffing will be necessary in order to institute programs
             targeted at 1) monitoring changes in the natural resources,
             2) recording use activities, 3) tracking progress and
             accomplishments that are directed at retaining the original
             integrity and value of the preserve,. and 4) preparing and
             conducting environmental education activities.

             A. RESOURCE MONITORING


             To monitor changes in the natural resources, a geographic
             information system (GIS) will be necessary. 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 application continues
             to be natural resource monitoring and management.

             Future use of a GIS system would include the periodic
             inventory, compilation, and analysis of temporal and spatial
             data concerning t@e present state of the natural resources
             within the preserve. Historical aerial photography could be
             computerized for comparison with later data to conduct a
             temporal analyxix of resource abundance. Detailed monitoring
             of revegetat ion/ restoration efforts could also be computer
             analyzed. The on-line access to these natural resource data
             bases will facilitate informed management decisions concerning
             the use and protection of lands and their resources.
             Cooperation and file sharing is possible with other agencies
             handling such data with identical and similar systems. Similar
             environments and relationships between various resources may
             be compared and analyzed to gain a more integrated approach to
             protection and management.

             B. ACTIVITY MONITORING

             As human interaction in and around the preserve increases,
             additional pressures are to be expected in the form of
             recreational and development activities. Monitoring the types
             of use and their compatibility, their frequency of occurrencel
             as well as, proven and expected detrimental effects on the
             preserve's natural resources, will provide a foundation for
             developing any additional future plan amendments and
             restrictions required to protect these resources. Periodic


                                           169









             boat counts, user question  naires and structure inventories are
             various methods that may be employed to gather relevant data
             on activities and user group profiles.

             C. PROGRESS MONITORING

             For this management plan to be effectively implemented and
             evaluated, it is necessary to monitor the accomplishments and
             progress on a regular basis. Sharing this information with
             other units and agencies, will help develop a team approach to,
             problem solving and implementing management strategies.

             The compilation of the monitoring program will be directed to
             the central office in Tallahassee in the form of a field
             office annual report. This information will then go into the
             development of a stat6-wide status report on the Aquatic
             Preserve    Management      Program    @focusing    on     resource
             restoration/deterioration, compatible and non-compatible use
             activitiesf and will aid in developing more appropriate
             management strategies system wide.

             The field office annual report should     detail the following:

             1. The state of the natural environment of the aquatic
               preserve.

               a.    Through the use of the resource inventories and the GIS
                     system, document the status of biological resources
                     (e.g., seagrass loss or gain).

               b.    Identify the current number of structures/ act iv it ies
                     either started or completed in the preserve. These
                     structures/activities will be categorized as follows:
                     1)    authorized projects (e.g., private residential
                           single docks, multi-family, commercial),
                     2)    unauthorized projects, and
                     3)    projects not in compliance with the original
                           authorization

             2. A list of accomplishments of those        policies and tasks
               outlined in Chapter VII.

               a.    Each task will be listed and the     activities required
                     to complete that task will be detailed. If the task
                     was not done or not completed, an explanation will be
                     given. If the explanation was due to insufficient
                     funding/staff, then this fact will be detailed so that
                     an update of Chapter IX can be made.

             3. Any new goals and/or objectives will be reflected in an
               update of Chapter VII.




                                             170











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                                              183


0





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

                                                       CHAPTER 18-20                                (c) To coordinate with federal. state. and local
                                           FLORIDA AQUATIC PRESERVES                               agencies in 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                   and in assist in managing the preserves;
                                                  and Criteria.                                     (e) To encourage the protection, enhancement
                                                                                                   or restoration or the biological, aesthetic, or
                                     18-20.005    Uses, Sales, Leases, or Transfer 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 or Lands, Title to Which
                                                  Is Not Vested in the Board,                      applications, or when developing and implementing
                                                  Preserve.                                        management plans for the preserves;
                                     18-20.009    Establishment or Expansion of                     (l) To preserve, promote, and utilize indigenous
                                                  Aquatic Preserves.                               life forms and habitats, including but not limited to:
                                     18-20.010    Exchange of Lands.                               sponges, soft coral, hard corals, submerged grasses,
                                     18-20.011    Gifts of Lands.                                  mangroves, salt water marshes, fresh water
                                     18-20.012    Protection of Indigenous Life                    marshes, mud flats, estuarine, aquatic, and marine
                                                  Forms.                                           reptiles, game and non-game fish species, estuarine,
                                                                                                   aquatic and marine invertebrates, estuarine,
                                     18-20.013    Development of Resource                          aquatic and marine mammals, birds, shellfish and
                                                  Inventories and Management                       mollusks;                 
                                                  Plans for Preserves.                      
                                     1820.014     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.                           of the preserves;
                                                                                                    (h) To maintain those beneficial hydrologic and
                                                                                                                                               
                                     18-20.017    Lake Jackson Aquatic Preserve.                   biologic functions, the benefits of which accrue to
                                     Library References: Riparian rights to navigable waters.
                                                                                                   the public at large.
                                     I 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 or
                                       (1) All sovereignty lands within a 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            preserves 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) F.S.  Law
                                       (2) The aquatic preserves which are described in            Impiemented 258.35,258.36,258.37,258.39,258.393 F.S.,
                                                                                                   Chapter 80-280 Laws of Florida. History-New 2-23-81.
                                     73-534, Laws of 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
                                     18-20.007, Florida Administrative Code, were                  Preserve.
                                     established for the purpose of 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 preserves shall be administered and                 executed by the owner, authorizing the inclusion or
                                     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(1) and 258.41 (5), Florida Statutes,
                                     reasonable regulation or 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 navigation channel authorized by the
                                     preserves so that the public may 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, boating, and fishing;                            designed to improve or maintain commerce and
                                                                                                   navigation shall be deemed to be excluded from the

                                                                                            185
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0



				       (R. 3/87)
                               18-20.002                         INTERNAL IMPROVEMENT TRUST FUND                                     V. 9, p. 692-2P

                               provisions Of this chapter, pursuant to Subsection           181, pages 363-366, and in the Official Records of
                               258.40(2), Florida Statutes. Furthermore, all lands          Flagler County in Book 33, pages 131-134.
                               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, pages 135-138, and in the Official
                               Statutes.                                                    Records of Voiusia County in Book 1244, pages
                                  (2) These rules do not apply to Boca Ciega 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 of Voiusia 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 are vested in          the Department of           in the Official Records of Brevard County in Book,
                               Environmental Regulation.       Since these rules are        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 act, 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
                               easement or lease; or any disclaimer concerning              Records or Brevard County in Book 1143, pages
                               sovereignty lands.                                           199-202, and in the Official Records of Indian
                                  (5) The intent and specific provisions expressed          River County in Book 368,pages 5-8.
                               in 18-20.001(e) and (i) apply generally to all                  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 River County in Book 368, pages
                               inventory and approval or a management plan for a            9-12, and in the Official Records ofr 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.                             Presecrve, as described in the Official Records of St.
                                  (6) For the purpose or 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 privateqly owned upland in a                   in Book 337, pages 2159-2162, and in the Official
                               pre-existing recorded mean high water line                   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. Loxahatchee 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 of the                193-196, and in the Official Records of 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 presereves 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
                               Resources,      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 Biscayne
                                     
                                  1. Fort Clinch State Park Aquatic Preserve, as            National Park.
                               described in the Official Records of Nassau County              14. Lignumvitae Key Aquatic Preserve, as
                               in Book 108, pages 343-346, and in Book 111, page            described in the Official Records of Monroe County
                               409.                                                         in Book 502, pages 139-142.
                                  2. Nassau River - St. Johns River Marshes                    15. Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve, as
                               Aquatic Preserve, as described in the Official               described in the Official Records of Monroe County
                               Records of Duval County in Volume 3183, pages                in Book 502, pages 143-146.
                               547-552, and in the Official Records of Nassau                  16. Cape Romano - Ten Thousand Islands
                               County in Book 108, pages 232-237.                           Aquatic Preserve, as described in the Official
                                  3. Pellicer Creek Aquatic Preserve, as described          Records of Collier County in Book 381, pages
                               in the Official Records of St. Johns County in Book          298-301.



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                                  V. 9, p. 692-2Q                        FLORIDA AQUATIC PRESERVES                                           18-20.003

                                      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. Estero 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(l) F.S. 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 F.S. History-
                                                                                              New 2-23-81. Amended 8-7-85, Formerly 16Q-20.02,
                                      21. Gasparilla Sound  - Charlotte Harbor                Transferred from 16Q-20.002.
                                  Aquatic Preserve, as described in Section 258.392,
                                  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 of 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 Records 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 Voume 98, pages 102-106.                 characteristics 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 of 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 Okaloosa                (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 AquaLiC Preserve as         heavy metal uptake; sediment retention; nutrient
                                  described in the Official Records or Santa Rosa             conversion to biomass; nutrient recycling and
                                  County in Book 220, pages 60-63, in the Official            oxygenation.
                                  Records of 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 of the Gulf Islands National              geological or geographical attributes of the
                                  Seashore prior to the enactment of the act, 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 or 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 part of 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 1 North, Range 1 West and Sections 11,             marine, estuarint, 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 1 West lying                aquatic mammals, marine, estuarine, and aquatic
                                  below the ordinary high water line. Such lands shall        invertebrates,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 of 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 of
                                  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 normall below water.


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

                                    (10) "Commercial, industrial and other revenue              (22) "Preserve" means any and all of those areas
                                 generating/income related docks" means docking               which are exceptional areas of sovereignty lands
                                 facilities for an activity which produces income,            and the associated water bocy so designated in
                                 through rental or any other means, or which serves           Section 258.39, 258.391, and 258.392, 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,        board may acquire or 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" meantsthe Division of State                 (23) "Private residential single dock" means a
                                 Lands, which performs all staff duties and functions         dock which is used for private, recreational 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 a other such single dwelling unit and which
                                 253.002, F.S.                                                is designed to moor than two boats.
                                    (13) "Dock" means a fixed or floating structure,            (24) "Private residential multi-slip docks" means
                                 including moorings, used for the purpose of                  a docking facility which is used for private
                                 berthing buoyant vessels either temporarily or               recreational and leisure purposes for muiti-unit
                                 indefinitely.                                                residential dwellings which shall include but is not
                                    (14) "Essentially natural condition" means                limited to 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 or indigenous life forms and habitats to          Yacht     clubs     associated     with      residential
                                 the extent they existed prior to the significant             developments, whose membership or utilization of
                                 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-imposed                     (25) "Public interest" mcans 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          would accrue to the public at large as a result of a
                                 not be construed as an extreme hardship. Extreme             proposed action, and which would clearly exceeed 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 effect of other federal, state or local        public interest in a request for use, sale, 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 materials from any source,              served by said use, sale, lease, 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 or navigation which is
                                 materials. For the purpose or 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, title 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, telepone, 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 entities.                    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               of it in an essentially natural condition.
                                 primarily for fishing, swimming, or viewing the                (30) "Resource mananagement agreement" means
                                 preserve.  A pier shall not include a dock.                  a contractual agreement between the board and one


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		V.9.p. 692-25		FLORIDA AQUATIC PRESERVES			(R.3/87)
													18-20.004

	or more parties which does not create an interest in real property but merely authorizes conduct of certain
	management activities on lands held by the board.
		(31) "Resource Protection Area (RPA) 1"- Areas within the aquatic preserves which have resources of the
	highest quality and condition for that area. These resources may include, but are not limited to corals; marine 
	grassbeds, mangrove swamps; salt-water marsh; oyster bars; archaeological and historial sites; endangered or
	threatened species habitat; and, colonial water bird nesting sites.
		(32) "Resource Protection Area 2" -Areas within the aquatic preserves which are in transition with either
	declining resource protection area 1 resources or new pioneering resources within resource protection area 3.
		(33) "Resource Protection area 3"-Areas within the aquatic preserve that are characterized by the absence
	of any significant natural resource attributes.
		(34) "Riparian rights" means those rights incident to lands bordering upon navigable waters, as recognized
	by the courts of this state and common law.
		(35) "Sale" means a conveyance of interes in lands, by the board, for consideration.
		(36) "Scientific values" means the preservation and promotion of certain qualities or features which have
	scientific significance.
		(37) "Shore protection structure" means a type of coastal construction designed to minimize the rate of 
	erosion. Coastal construction includes any work or activity which is likely to have a material physical effect on 
	existing coastal conditions or natural shore processes.
		(38) "Sovereignty lands" means those lands including, but not limited to: tidal lands, islands, sandbars,
	shallow banks, and lands waterward of the ordinary or mean highwater line, to which the State of Florida acquired
	title March 3,1845, by virtue of statehood, and of which it has not since divested its title interest. For the
	purposes of this rule sovereignty lands shall include all submerged lands within the boundaries of the preserve,
	title to which is held by the board.
		(39) "Spoii" means materials dredged from sovereignty lands which are redeposited or discarded by any means, 
	onto either sovereignty lands or uplands.
		(40) "Transfer" means the act of the board by which any interest in lands, including easements, other than
	sale or lease, is conveyed.
		(41) "Utility of teh preserve" means fitness of the preserve for the present and future enjoyment of its
	biological, aesthetic and scientific values, in an essentially natural  condition.
		(42) "Water dependent activity" means an activity which can only be conducted on,in,over,or adjacent to,
	water areas because the activity requires direct access to the water body or adjacent to, water areas because
	the activity requires direct access to the water body or sovereignty lands for transportation, recreation, energy
	production or transmission, or source of water and where the use of water or sovereignty lands is an integral
	part of the activity.
	Specific Authority 258.43(1) FS. Law Implemented 258.37,258.43(1) FS. History-New 2-25-81. Amended 8-7-85. 
	Formerly 16Q-20.03. Transferred from 16Q-20.003.

		18-20.004 Management Policies, Standards and Criteria. The following managment policies, standards and
	criteria are supplemental to Chapter 18-21, Florida Administrative Code (Sovereignty Submerged Lands Management(
	and shall be utilized in determining whether to approve, approve with conditions or modifications or deny all 
	requests for activites on sovereignty lands in aquatic preserves.
		(1) GENERAL PROPRIETARY
		(a) In determining whether to approve or deny any request the Board will evaluate each on a case-by-case
	basis and weigh any factors relevant under Chapter 253 and/or 258. Florida Statutes. The Board, acting as Trustees
	for all state-owned lands, reserves the right to approve, modify or reject any proposal.
		(b) There shall be no further sale, lease or transfer of sovereignty lands except when such sale, lease
	or transfer is in the public interest (see Section 18-20.004(2) Public Interest Assessment Criteria).
		(c) There shall be no construction of seawalls waterward of the mean or ordinary high water line, or 
	filling waterward of the mean or ordinary high water line except in the case of public road and and bridge
	projects where no reasonable alternative exists.
		(d) There shall, in no case, be any dredging waterward of the mean or ordinary high water line for the
	sole purpose of providing fill for any area landward of the mean or ordinary high water line.
		(e) A lease, easement or consent of use may be authorized only for the following activities:
		1.  a public navigation project;
		2.  maintenance of an existing navigational channel:
		3.  installatioin or maintenance of approved navigational aids;
		4.  creation or maintenance of a commercial/industrial dock, pier or a marina;
		5.  creation or maintenance of private docks for reasonable ingress and egress of riparian channels
		attendant to docking facilities;
		6.  minimum dredging for navigation channels attendant to docking facilities;
		7. creation or maintenance of a shore protection structure;
		8. installation or maintenance of oil and gas transportation facilities;
		9. creation, maintenance, replacement or expansion of facilities required for the provision of public
		utilities; and
		10. other activities which are a publci necessity or which are necessary to enhance the quality or 
		utility of the preserve and which are consistent with the act and this chapter.
		(f) For activities listed in paragraphs 18-20.004(1)(e)1.-10. above, the activity shall be




									189

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

	designed so that the structure or structures to be built in, on or over sovereignty lands are limited to
	structures necessary to conduct water dependent activities. 
		(g) For activities listed in paragraphs 18-20.004(1)(e)7.,8.,9., and 10, above, it must be demonstrated 
	that no other reasonable alternative exists which would allow the proposed activity to be constructed or 
	undertaken outside the preserve.
		(h) The use of state-owned lands for the purpose of providing private or public road access to islands
	where such access did not previously exist shall be prohibited. The use of state-owned lands for the purpose of
	providing private or public water supply to islands where such water supply did not previously exist shall be
	prohibited.
		(i) Except for public navigation projects and maintenance dredging (or existing channels and basins, any
	areas dredged to improve or create navigational access shall be incorporated into the preempted area of any 
	required lease or be subject to the payment of a negotiated private easement fee.
		(j) Private residential multi-slip docking facilities shall require a lease.
		(k) Aquaculture and beach renourishment activiteis which comply with the standards of this rule chapter
	and Chapter 18-21, Florida Administrative Code, may be approved by the board, but only subsequent to a formal
	finding of compatibility with the purposes of Chapter 258, Florida Statutes, and this rule chapter.
		(l) Other uses of the preserve, or human activity within the preserve, although not originally contemplated
	may be approved by the board, but only subsequent to a formal finding of compatibility with the purposes of 
	Chapter 258, Florida Statutes, and this rule chapter.
		(2) PUBLIC INTEREST ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
		In evaluating requests for the sale, lease or transfer of interest, a balancing test will be utilized
	to determine whether the social, economic and/or environmental beneficts clearly exceed the costs.
		(a) GENERAL BENEFIT/COST CRITERIA:
		1. any benefits that are balanced against the costs of a particular project shall be related to the 
	affected aquatic preserve;
		2.  in evaluating the benefits and costs of each request, specific consideration and weight shall be given
	to the quality and nature of the specific aquatic preserve. Projects in the less developed, more pristine 	
	aquatic preserves such as Apalachicola Bay shall be subject to a higher standard than the more developed urban 
	aquatic preserves such as Boca Ciego Bay; and,	
		3. for projects in aquatic preserves with adopted management plans, consistency with the management plan will
	be weighed heavily when determining whether the project is in the public interest.
		(b) BENEFIT CATEGORIES:
		1. public access (public boat ramps, boatslips, etc);
		2. provide boating and marina services (repair pumpout, etc);
		3. improve and enhance public health, safety, welfare, and law enforcement;
		4. improved public land management;
		5. improve and enhance public navigation;
		6. improve and enhance water quality;
		7. enhancement/restoration of natural habitat and functioins; and
		8. improve/protect endangered/threatended/unique species.
		(c) COSTS:
		1. reduced/degraded water quality;
		2. reduced/degraded natural habitat and function; and
		3. destruction, harm or harassment of endangered or threatened species and habitat;
		4. preemption of public use;
		5. increasing navigational-hazards and congestion;
		6. reduced/ degraded aesthitiecs, and
		7. adverse cumulative impacts.
		(d) EXAMPLES OF SPECIFIC BENEFITS:
		1. donation of land, conservation easements, restrictive covenants or other title interests in or 
	contiguous to the aquatic preserve which will protect or enhance the aquatic preserve;
		2. providing access or facilities for public land management activities;
		3. providing public access easements and/or facilities, such as beach access, boat ramps, etc.;
		4. restoration/enhancement of altered habitat or natural functions, such as conversion of vertical 
	bulkheads to riprap and/or vegetation for shoreline stabilization or re-establishment of shoreline or 
	submerged vegetation;
		5. improving fishery habitat through the establishment of artificial reefs or other such projects, where
	appropriate; 
		6. providing sewage pumpout facilities where normally not required, in particular, facilities open to 
	the general public;
		7. improvement to water quality such as removal of toxic sediments, increased flushing and circulation, 
	etc;
		8. providing upland dry storage as an alternative to wetslip; and
		9. marketing navigation channels to avoid disruption of shallow water habitats.
		(3) RESOURCE MANAGEMENT.
		(a) All proposed activities in aquatic preserves having managment plans adopted by the Board must 
	demonstrate that such activities are consistent with the managment plan.
		(b) No drilling of oil, gas, or other such wells shall be allowed.
		(c) 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 grass beds and do
	not interfere with traditional public uses. 
		(d) Spoil disposal within the preserves shall be strongly discouraged and may be approved only



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                                                                                                                                        (R.9/88)
                                V. 9, p. 692-2U                      FL0RIDA AQUATIC PRESERVES                                        18-20.004

                                structures shall be constructed and located in a              3. the dock will extend out from the shoreline ran
                                manner that will cause minimal disturbance in              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                4. 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 mail be approved only             25 feet. subject to modifications accommodating
                                where the applicant has demonstrated that there is        shoreline vegetatiOn overhang;
                                no either reasonable alternative and that activity            5. wave break devices, when necessary, shall be
                                may be beneficial to, or at a minimum. not harmful         designed to allow for maximum water circulation
                                in the quality and utility of the preserve.                and shall be built in such a manner as to be pan of
                                   (4) RIPARIAN RIGHTS                                     the dock structure;
                                   (a) None of the provisions of 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 right or upland riparian                conjunction with -private residential, single dock
                                property owners adjacent to sovereignty lands.            applications is strongly discouraged.
                                   (b) The evaluation and determination of the                 (c) Private residential multi-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 severeignty, submerged land
                                   (c) For the purposes or this rule, a private,           preempted by the docking facility %hall not exceed
                                residential, single docking facility which mects all       the square footage amounting in ten times the
                                the requirments or Rule 18-20.004(5) shall be           riparian waterfront footage of the affected
                                deemed to meet the public interest requirements of        waterbody of the applicant. or the square footage
                                Rule 18-20.O04(1)(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
                                   (a) All docking facilities, whether for a single or     any further riparian rights or ingress and egress for
                                multi-slip residential or commercial, 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 of the width or the waterbody at that              258.42(3)(c)l., Florida Statutes, while dredging in
                                particular location whichever is less;                     Resource Protection Area 3 shall be strongly
                                   2. certain docks may fall within areas or 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 more                  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 deter-mined on a case-by-case       of one foot clearance is provided between the deepest
                                analysis. and may include, but shall not be limited in     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 of                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 of the aquatic preserve shall prevail.            8. the      following     provisions     or     Rule
                                   (b) Private residential single docks shall              18-20.O04(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 1. any main access dock shall be limited to a             generating/income related docking facilities shall
                                maximum width of four (4) feet;                            conform to the following specific design 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 of safety and practicality;                 near areas with good circulation, flushing and
                                                                                           adequate Water depths;



                                                                                           -191
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			(R.9/88)
			18-20.006				INTERNAL IMPROVEMENT TRUST FUND		V.9,p.692-2V

		2. docking facilities and access channels shall be prohibited in Resource Protection Area 1 or 2, except
		as allowed pursuant to Sections 258.42(3)(e)1.,Florida Statutes; while dredging in Resource Protection
		Area 3 shall be strongly discouraged;
		3. the docking facilities shall not be located in Resource Protection Area 1 or 2; however, main access
		docks may be allowed to pass through Resource Protection Area 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;
		4. beginning July 1, 1986 new docking facilities may obtain a lease only where the local governments
		have an adopted marina plan and/or policies dealing with the siting of commercial/industrial and private
		residental, multi-slip docking facilities in their local governement comprehensive plan;
		5. the sitting of the docking facilitis shall also take into account the access of the boat traffic to
		avoid marine grassbeds or other aquatic resources in the surrounding areas;
		6. the sitting of new facilities within the preserve shall be secondary in the expansions of exisiting
		facilities within the preserve when such expansion is consistent with the other standards;
		7. the location of new facilities and expansion of existing facilities shall consider the use of upland
		dry storage as an alternative to multiple wet-slip docking;
		8. marina siting will be coordinated with local governments to insure consistency with all local plans
		and ordinances;
		9. marinas shall no be sited within state designated manatee sanctuaries; and
		10. in any areas with known managee concentrations, 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. 
		(e) Exceptions to the standards and criteria listed in Rule 18-20.004(5), Florida Administrative Code, 
		may be considered, but only upon demonstration by the applicant that such exceptions are necessary to 
		insure reasonable riparian ingess and egress.
		(6) MANAGEMENT AGREEMENTS
		The board may enter into management agreements with local agencies for the administration and enforcement
		of standards and criteria for private residential single docks.
		(7) In addition to the policies, standards and criteria delineated in subsectioins (1) through (6), the
		provisions of the following managment plans apply to specific aquatic preserves and are incorporated 
		herein by reference. Where regulatory criteria in 18-20, F.A.C. , may differ with specific politics in the
		management plans listed herein, the general rule criteria shall prevail.
						Date Adopted
		Alligator Harbor		September 23,1986
		Banana River		September 17,1985
		Cockroach Bay		April 21, 1987
		Estero Bay			September 6, 1983
		Charlotte Harbor
		(Capte Haze,
		Gasparilla
		Sound-Charlotte
		Harbor, Matlacha
		Pass and Pine Island
		Sound)			May 18, 1983
		Indian River-Malabar	
		to Vero Beach		January 21, 1986
		Indian River Lagoon
		(Vero Beach to Fort
		Pierce and Jensen
		Beach to Jupiter
		Inlet)			January 22, 1985
		Loxahatchee
		River-Lake Worth
		Creek				June 12,1984
		Nassau River-St.
		Johns River Marshes
		and Fort Clinch
		State Park			April 22,1986
		North Fork of the St,
		Lucie River			May 22,1984
		St. Joseph Bay		June 2,1987
		St. Martins Marsh		September 9,1987
		Terra Ceia			April 21,1987
		Wekiva River		August 25,1987
		Specific Authority 258.43(1) FS. Law Implemented 258.41, 258.42, 258.43(1), 258.44 FS. History- New
2-25-81. Amended 6-7-85. Formerly 16q-20.004, Transferred from 16q-20.004, Amended 9-4-88.
	18-20.005 Uses, Sales, Leases or Transfer of Interests in Lands, or Materials, Held by the Board.
Specific Authority 258.43(1) FS Law Implemented 253.02, 253.12, 258.42 FS. History- New 2-25-81,
Repealed 8-7-85, Formerly 16q-20.05, Transferred from 16q-20.005.
      18-20.006 cumulative Impacts In evaluating applications for activities within the preserves or which may impact the preserves, the department
recognizes that, while a particular alteration of the preserve may constitute a minor change, the cumulative effect fo numerous such changes often
results in major impairments to the resources of the preserve. Therefore, the depatrment shall evaluate a porticular site for which the activity is 
proposed with the recognition that the activity may, in conjunction with other activities adversely affect the preserve which is part
of a complete and interrelated system. The impact of a proposed activity shall be considered in light of its cumulative impact on the
preserve's natural system. The department shall include as a part of its evaluation of an activity:
      (1) The number and extent of similar human actions within the preserve which have previously affected or are likely to affect the preserve, whether
considered by the department under its current authority or which existed prior to or since the enactment of the Act; and
      (2) The similar activities within the preserve		
		




                                      






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

                                            which are 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 preserves, if applicable, which may               public hearing in the county or counties in which the
                                            reasonably be expected to result from the activity;            proposed expanded or new preserve is to be located,
                                            and                                                            adopt a resolution formally setting aside such areas
                                               (4) The extent to 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 of aquatic
                                            and other applicable plans adopted by local, state.            preserve.
                                            and federal governmental agencies;                                 (c) A general statement of what is sought in 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.                                (c) A directive to develop a natural resource
                                            Specific Authority 258.43(1) FS. Law Implemented               inventory and a management plan for the area being
                                            258.123,258.124(8),258.44 FS. History--New 2-25-81,            established as an aquatic preserve.
                                            Repealed 8-7-85, Formerly 16Q-20.07, Transferred from
                                            16Q-20.007.                                                        (4) Within 30 days of the designation and
                                               18-20.007 Protection of Riparian Rights.                    establishment of an aquatic preserve, the board
                                            Specific Authority 258.43(1) FS. Law Implemented               shall record in the public records of the county or
                                            258.123,258.124(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
                                                                                                           238.41 FS. History--New 2-25-81, Formerly 16Q-20.09,
                                               18-20.008 Inclusion or 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
                                            thereto 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.
                                            thereto, and which are in private ownership, may be            Specific Authority 258.43(1) FS. Law Implemented
                                            included in an aquatic preserve upon specific                  258.41(5), 258.42(1) FS. History--New 2-25-81,
                                            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 Gifts of Lands. The board in its
                                               (3) The appropriate instrument shall be either a            discretion may accept any gifts of lands or interests
                                            dedication in perpetuity, or a lease. Such lease shall         in lands within or contiguous to 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(1) FS. Law Implemented
                                               (b) The board shall have the power and duty to              258.42(5) FS. History--New 2-25-81, Formerly
                                            enforce the provisions of each lease agreement, and            16Q-20.11, Transferred from 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 of 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            prohibited under applicable laws, rules or
                                            for any such lease.                                            regulations. Members of 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           Plans for         addition to the provisions of 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 Borard, 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 of Trustees except:
                                        Transferred from 16Q-20.014.                                         (a) Such minimum dredging and spoiling as may
                                                                                                          be authorized for public navigation projects or for
                                           18-20.015 Application Form.                                               
                                        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 8-7-85.                 intent of Chapter 73-534. Laws or 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 of                         (3) There shall be no drilling or wells,
                                        Environmental Regulation permit is required for                   excavation for shell or minerals, and no erection of
                                        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 of the joint Department               authorized by Chapter 73-534. Laws of Florida.
                                        of Army/Florida Department of Environmental                          (4) The Board shall not approve the relocations
                                        Regulation permit application and the biological                  or bulkhead lines within the preserve.
                                        survey. The information contained in the joint                       (5) Notwithstanding otherr 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 governmental                   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 253.43l) FS. Law implemented                     (c) Accept gifts or land within or contiguous to
                                        259.43 FS. History--New 2-25-81, Formerly 16Q-20.16,              the preserve.
                                        Transferred from 16Q-20.016.                                      Specific Authority 258.39(26) FS. Law Implemented
                                                                                                          238.39(26). 258.43 FS. History--New 8-7-85. Formerly
                                                                                                          16Q-20.017. Transferred from 16Q-20.017.





















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