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




                       Sapelo Island
          National Estuarine Research Reserve
                    Management Plan



























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                                    Sapelo. Island
                      National Estuarine Research Reserve
                                  Management Plan



                         Final Management Plan



                                     Prepared by the

                         Georgia Department of Natural Resources
                                  Atlanta, Georgia 30334

                                  ~qIn~Cooperation with the

                              U.S. Department of Commerce
                      National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
                                 Washington, D.C. 20235~


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                            With Review and Recommendations~'by the
                                Reserve's -Advisory Committee:


                   Dr. Vernon J. Henry, Chair      Dr. Forest E. Kellogg, III
                   Dr. Joe L. Key                  Mr. David Earl Lane
   ~2qC~)
                   Dr. Benjamin F. Lewis           Mr. Jerry McCollum
                                                   Mrs. Jane Yarn
                   Ms. Kathleen Varnell

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                                                        U S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NOAA
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                                             TABLE OF CONTENTS



              LIST OF FIGURES                                                                    iv



              LIST OF APPENDICES                                                                 iv



              FOREWORD                                                                           v



              EXECUTIVE SUMMARY                                                                  vi



              1.     INTRODUCTION



              Ii.    RESERVE ENVIRONMENT                                                         5

                     A.    Regional Setting                                                      5
                           1.     Georgia's Coastline                                            5
                           2.     Economy of Coastal Georgia                                     5
                     B.    Sapelo Island: Location and Access                                    8
                           1.     Location                                                       8
                           2.     Access                                                         12
                     C.    Resources                                                             12
                           1.     Environmental   Conditions                                     12
                                  a.     Climate                                                 12
                                  b.     Topography                                              12
                                  C.     Geology and Soils                                       12
                                  d.     Watershed and Hydrology                                 14
                           2.     Habitat Types                                                  16
                                  a.     Sand-sharing System                                     16
                                  b.     Coastal Marshlands                                      16
                           3.     Cultural and Historical Resources                              17
                     D.    Current Uses of the SINERR                                            18
                           1.     Recreation                                                     is
                                  a.     Boating
                                  b.     Wildlife -oriented Recreation                           18
                                  C.     Hiking                                                  19
                                  d.     Swimming and Beach Use.                                 19
                                  e.     Public Tours                                            19
                           2.     Residential Use                                                19
                           3.     Industrial Use                                                 19
                           4.     Research                                                       19
                                  a.     Ecological Research                                     19
                                  b.     Cultural Resource Investigations                        20
                                  C.     Wildlife and Fisheries Research.                        21
                                  d.     Current Research Goals                                  21
                           5.     Trend Monitoring                                               22









                          6.     Education and Interpretation                                   24
                                 a.    Onsite Activities                                        24
                                       i.     SINERR Tours                                      24
                                       ii.    Nature Trail.                                     25
                                       W.     Visitors' Centers                                 25
                                       iv.    Primitive Camping                                 25
                                       V.     Publications                                      25
                                       vi.    Exhibits                                          25
                                 b.    Offsite Activities                                       26
                          7.     Forest Management and Transportation                           26
                   E.     Existing Jurisdictions and Management                                 27
                          1.     Administrative Structure.                                      27
                                 a.    Game and Fish Division                                   27
                                 b.    NOAA.                                                    27
                                 C.    SINERR Advisory Committee                                27
                                 d.    Board of Regents                                         30
                                 e.    McIntosh County Chamber of Commerce                      30
                          2.     SINERR Staff                                                   30




                   ACTION PLAN                                                                  32

                   A.     Overall Management and Development       Concept                      32
                   B.     Resource Protection                                                   32
                          1.     General Context for Management                                 32
                          2.     General Policies                                               32
                          3.     Enforcement and Monitoring                                     34
                                 a.    State Land Ownership                                     34
                                 b.    General Regulatory Powers of the State                   34
                          4.     Habitat Management                                             36
                                 a.    Forest Resources                                         36
                                 b.    Landing Field                                            37
                                 C.    Coastai Marshlands and the
                                       Sand-sharing System                                      37
                          5.     Relationship to Other Program Areas                            37
                   C.     Research and Monitoring.                                              38
                          1.     Research Mission                                               38
                          2.     Monitoring Mission.                                            39
                          3.     Guidelines for Administering the
                                 Research and Monitoring Programs                               39
                   D.     Education and Interpretation                                          40
                                 Context for Management                                         40
                          2.     General Policies                                               '41
                          3.     Interpretive Message and Themes                                41
                          4.     Printed Materials                                              41
                          5.     Audiovisual Materials                                          41
                          6.     Signs and Exhibits                                             42
                          7.     Program Activities and Services                                42
                                 a.    Future Onsite Activities                                 42
                                 b.    Future Offsite Activities                                42



                                                        ii










                    E.     Public Access and Recreation                                      43
                           1.    Context for Management                                      43
                           2.    Access Policies                                             43
                           3.    Wildlife-oriented Recreation                                43
                           4.    Boating                                                     43
                           5.    Hiking and Camping                                          43
                           6.    Swimming and Beach Use.                                     44
                           7.    Land Acquisition                                            44



              IV. FACILITY DEVELOPMENT AND STAFFING                                          45

                    A.     Facilities                                                        45
                           1.    Meridian Dock                                               45
                           2.    Marsh Landing Dock                                          45
                           3.    Residences                                                  46
                           4.    Marine Institute                                            46
                           5.    R. J. Reynolds Mansion                                      48
                           6.    Game and Fish Division Regional Office                      49
                           7.    Landing Field                                               49
                           8.    Moses Hammock Hunting Camp                                  51
                           9.    Kenan Field Timber Dock.                                    51
                           10.   Orientation and Interpretive Center                         53
                           11.   Interpretive Trails                                         53
                    B.     Personnel Requirements                                            54
                           1.    SINERR Staff                                                54
                           2.    Marine Institute Staff                                      55
                           3.    DNR Research and Monitoring Staff                           55
                           4.    McIntosh County Chamber of Commerce                         55



              V.    ADMINISTRATION.                                                          56



              VI. LITERATURE CITED                                                           58










                                                 FIGURES
            Figure       Title                                                     Page
              1          National Estuarine Reserve Research System                  2
                         Sapelo Island Property Inventory                            4
              3          Schematic Cross-section of Coastal Georgia,.                6
              4          Hypothetical Cross-section of a Georgia
                         Barrier Island                                              7
              5          Barrier Islands of Georgia                                  9
              .6         Sap6lo Island's Major Geological Features                   10
              7          Sapelo Island Management Units                              11
              8          Meridian Dock                                               13
              9          Geologic Ages of Barrier Islands.                           15
              10         SINERR Organizational Chart                                 28
              11         Marine Institute and Nearby Facilities,                     47
              .112       Post Office Creek Tract                                     50
              13         Moses Hammock Hunting Camp                                  52


                                               APPENDICES
                                                                           Referenced on
            Appendix     Title                                                Page(s)
              A          Lease between DNR and Board of Regents-              20, 22, 30
              B          Operating Agreement': between DNR and
                         Board of Regents                                     20, 30
              C          Grant Award Agreement for SINERR Land
                         Acquisition                                          21
              D          Memorandum of Agreement                              27
              E          Members of SINERR Advisory Committee
                         and Task Forces                                      29
              F          Agreement between DNR and McIntosh County
                         Chamber of Commerce                                  30, 55
              G          Goals and Objectives for Research
                         and Monitoring                                       38
              H          Goals and Objectives for Education
                         and Interpretation                                   40
              I          Sapelo Island Access Policies                        43
              J          Estimated Costs for Recommended Improvements
                         in Research and Education at the SINERR              57
              K          Public Comments on the Management Plan               57
              L          Operating Policy for Tours                           24



                                                    iv








                                               FOREWORD


                   The Duplin River estuary fies between Sapelo Island and the mainland in
             coastal Georgia. It remains in a largely natural state. In late December 1976,
             the State of Georgia acquired and began protective management of this estuary
             and nearby lands. The U.S. Department of Commerce then added the site to
             the National Estuarine Sanctuary System. The Georgia  Department of Natural
             Resources (DNR) manages the area as the Sapelo Island National Estuarine
             Research Reserve (SINERR).
                   Sapelo Island was the second estuarine sanctuary designated as part of
             the national system. These protected estuarine areas are now known as the
             National Estuarine Reserve Research System. It includes 18 reserves
             representing areas of the United States which differ in their geology and
             biology. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration administers the
             national program for the U.S. Department of Commerce.
                   This plan describes the resources and management, of the SINERR. It
             includes general policies about resources and resource use. These policies will
             guide the staff who manage the site during the next several years. The plan
             also tells the public what the SINERR is and how DNR will manage it.
                   The draft management plan dated November 22, 1989, received public
             review through.January 1990. This final plan incorporates changes made as a
             result of comments received from individuals and organizations during the
             review period. Further public comment on this plan and the management of the
             SINERR are welcome at any time.



















                                                    v










                                         EXECUTIVE SUMMARY


                  The nation's estuaries are extremely valuable. Human activities such as
            dredging and filling have damaged many.estuaries in modern times. The United
            States Congress became concerned for these areas. The Congress enacted the
            Coastal Zone Management Act in 1972. In part., this Act offered federal aid to
            states to set up and manage natural field laboratories for research and
            education.
                  Georgia's Duplin River estuary lies in'McIntosh County. Throughout its
            history, it has received protection.by public and private landowners. It and
           .nearby lands have been the focus of archaeological and. ecological research since
            the early 1950s. In 1975, Georgia proposed the Duplin River estuary as a
            national estuarine sanctuary. The U.S. Department of Commerce (Commerce)
            studied and approved the State's proposal. The State completed land
            acquisition, and the site received designation- as the Sapelo Island National
            Estuarine Sanctuary in December 1976.
                  Since that time, Commerce has designated 17 other estuarine areas
            nationwide as part of the National Estuarine Reserve Research Program.     The
            National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) administers this
            system for Commerce. As part of the national program, Sdpelo Island
            represents the Carolinian biogeographic region. It is the focus for NERR
            support of estuarine, scientific research and education in Georgia.
                  The Duplin River estuary includes unspoiled coastal salt marsh and tidal
            creeks. Such areas are among the earth's most biologically productive systems.
            They formed at their present location five to ten thousand years ago. The
            ability of these marshes to produce food has attracted man since that time.
            More recently, other people have come for recreation and scientific research.
                  The SINERR has two primary purposes: to protect natural and cultural
            resources, and to allow scientists to investigate how such estuarine systems
            function. Public education and compatible recreation are also part of the
            SINERR's program. Three-thousand visitors a year now enjoy educational
            activities at the SINERR. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources
            (DNR), the University of Georgia and NOAA have a large public audience for
            programs about estuaries. The SINERR is an excellent location to present these

            programs.




                                                   vi








                   The 16,000 acres which make up Sapelo Island include the SINERR. The
             island has 10,572.44 acres of upland and 5,427.56 acres of marsh. Sapelo
             represents a direct investment of $4,835,000 in State and Federal funds. The
             Sapelo Island Research Foundation also gave the State of Georgia property
             valued at $3 million.
                   The SINERR occupies nearly one-third of Sapelo Island. Its 5,905 acres.
             contain the Duplin River, the estuary and a few small upland tracts. Commerce
             made a grant of $1.5 million to help buy 2,094 acres of the SINERR.
                   Primary management goals for the SINERR include:
                          (a)   maintaining the integrity of the SINERR for research and
                   educational programs,
                          (b)   protecting its lands and waters from stress and alteration,
                          (c)   promoting increased public access for nature interpretation
                   and low. intensity recreation, and
                          (d)   promoting and encouraging improved scientific understanding
                   of estuarine ecosystems.
                   DNR has administrative offices within the SINERR. The University of
             Georgia Marine Institute also has a major research center within the SINERR.
             Protective management techniques are in place. Visitor activities include
             guided interpretive tours, hunting, fishing, nature study, and camping.
                   DNR is the State's manager for the SINERR. Its Game and Fish Division
             manages wildlife and forest resources and enforces conservation laws. DNR
             also runs the ferry, which is the primary means of access to Sapelo Island and
             the SINERR. DNR operates visitor-use facilities and presents educational
             programs for visitors. DNR's Coastal Resources Division and Environmental
             Protection Division help with scientific monitoring.
                   The Marine Institute employs full-time scientists, technical and support
             staff. They perform ecological research within the SINERR. This research
             helps us understand how salt-marsh estuaries work. In 1987, the Director of
             the Marine Institute reported that 80% of its research was conducted within the
             SINERR.












                                                     vii









                                           1. INTRODUCTION


                                                                    6
                   An estuary s an area in which upland drainage mingles with the waters
             of an ocean, bay or other large body of water. In their natural condition,
             estuaries are extremely productive biological systems. Along the southeastern
             coast of the United States, fresh water from rivers and streams enters salty
             ocean water. The brackish areas where fresh and salt water mix support
             various plant species which tolerate salt. The plants vary depending on such
             factors as salinity, tidal range, solar radiation, soils, and annual temperature
             changes.
                   Estuarine areas have great, but often unrecognized, economic value. A
             Marine Institute publication lists several important functions of Georgia's coastal
             marshlands:
                         (a)   Marsh provides a home for oysters, clams and other
                   organisms that spend all of their lives in the estuary. Young shrimp,
                   crabs and some fish use the estuary as -a nursery ground.
                         (b)   Marsh protects the shorelines from erosion. It also cleans
                   coastal waters by filtering out many pollutants.
                         (c)   The death and decay of marsh grasses provide food for
                   plants and animals that live in the estuaries and just offshore.
                   Much of the nation's population lives within one-hundred miles of the
             coast. In many places, people have filled estuaries to provide upland for
             development. Dredging has occurred in other estuaries to improve navigation
             .and waterborne commerce. Water pollution has damaged yet others.
                   By 1972, the United States Congress recognized the importance of
             estuarine areas and the pressure to alter them. To protect remaining
             estuaries, the Congress enacted (and later amended) the Coastal Zone
             Management Act of 1972. The 'Act authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to help
             states set up estuarine field laboratories. The National Oceanic and
             Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) carries out this duty. The SINERR is one
             of 18 sites that comprise the National Estuarine Reserve Research System,
             shown in Figure 1.
                   Georgia's Duplin River estuary covers 3,300 acres between Sapelo Island
             and the mainland in McIntosh County. In January 1975, Georgia proposed to
             set up an estuarine sanctuary, using this estuary and nearby lands. To
             succeed, the State needed to acquire some privately owned lands. The







              V




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                                                                         Research System

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            Secretary of Commerce, with DNR's help, prepared an environmental impact
            statement which described the proposal and several alternatives.
                  After reviewing the alternatives and the public comments on them,
            Commerce approved the State's proposal. In June 1975, Georgia received funds
            from Commerce's National Estuarine Sanctuary Program to help purchase and
            manage the SINERR. Georgia matched these funds with State funds and other
            Federal monies. By December 1976, Georgia had bought 5,905 acres of land
            (Figure 2). Commerce then designated this expanse of water, marsh and
            upland as the Sapelo Island National Estuarine Sanctuary. Since its
            designation, NOAA and DNR have worked together to provide the resources
            needed to operate and manage the site. NOAA has contributed $250,000 to
            support management activities and programs on Sapelo. The State  matched
            these funds dollar-for-dollar. NOAA has also provided more than $100,000 to
            support research projects at the SINERR.
































                                                  3
















                                                           SAPELO, ISLAND PROPERTY INVENTORY



              TRACT (Carrent Use)          ACQ.                         ACREAGE                                      FUNDI14G

                                                           Upland        Marsh         Total          Price       Source of Funds
        C:
        M     Hog Hammock Community        Private           434.00                       434.00       N/A               N/A
        ba
              R.J. Reynolds W.M.A.         @1969           6,928.92        ---        6,928.92 $      567,961     Pittman-Robertson funds'
        I                                                                                                         I (U.S.. Dep't of Interior)
        M                                                                                             189,320     State ofGeorgia
                                                                                                      757,281      TOTAL'

              Sapelo, Island Nat'l         1969              711.10     3,100.00      3,811.10 $        58,289    Pittman-Robertson funds
                Estuarine Sanctuary                                                                                (U.S. Dep It of Interior)
                                           1976              739.00                   2,094.02      1,500,000     Nat'l Estuarine Sanctuary
                                                                                                                   funds (NOAA, Commerce)
                                                           1,450.10     4,455.02      5,905.12       1,519,430    State of Georgia
                                                                                                  $3,077,719       TOTALS

        1 4                 d Natural      1976            1,759.42         972.42    2,731.96    $ 500,000       Land & Water   Conservation
        :9    Sapelo Islan
                                                                                                                         U.
                Area                                                                                               Fund ( S Dep't-of Inter.)
                                                                                                      500,000.    State of Georgia
                                                                                                  $1,000,000-      TOTAL

              Sapelo Island Totals                        10,572.44     5,427.56     16,000.00,   $4,835,000*

              Meridian Dock                1969               86.00          60.00        146.00   Included in    1969 acquisition.
                                           1976                 9.08          9.26        18.34, Included in      1976 acquisition.

              Meridian Dock    Totals                         95.08          69.26        164.34**

                       *Does not include $3,020,000 of property value donated by the Sapelo'Island Research Foundation.
                     **Meridian Dock acreage is not included in the Sapelo Island total.









                                        II. RESERVE ENVIRONMENT


              A.    Regional Settin
                    1.     Georgia's Coastline
                           The Georgia coastline, about 110 miles long, is relatively little
              affected by man's recent activities, though man has been interacting with
              Georgia's coast for thousands of years. In general, the coastline in Georgia
              consists of a chain of barrier islands separated from the mainland by a four- to
              six-mile-wide band of coastal salt marsh (Figure 3). The barrier islands
              consist of an ocean-facing sand beach, a series of sand dunes, and a slightly
              elevated upland interior which is forested and ma Iy be dissected by sloughs.
              The salt marsh adjoins the islands' western edge in most places and extends,
              penetrated by many winding tidal creeks, to the mainland shore. Figure 4
              illustrates these characteristic features. At its eastern edge, the mainland is
              only slightly elevated above sea level, but it is protected from the direct force
              of storms by the marshes and islands which lie seaward.
                           At several points along the Georgia coast, major rivers empty into
              the ocean through sounds, which separate the islands. A sequence of salt,
              brackish and freshwater marshes follows the river channels upstream into
              regions of decreasing salinity.
                    2.     Economy of Coastal Georgia
                           Georgia's barrier islands and marshes have been less altered by
              development pressure than is the case in most other coastal areas. The
              economic and legislative history of the State help explain this fact.
                           Georgia's early economy depended chiefly on agriculture and the
              forest products industry. The collapse of agriculture during the Civil War led
              to an economic depression from which the region was slow to recover (Johnson
              et al., 1974). The forest products industry has been important in coastal
              Georgia's recent growth in prosperity. So too have commercial fishing and,
              increasingly, navigation and waterborne commerce, especially through ports at
              Savannah and Brunswick.
                           U.S. Highway 17, which connects the northeastern United States
              with Florida, was completely paved through coastal Georgia in 1928. Despite a
              growing flow of tourists during the post-World War II years, the Georgia coastal
              area gained few economic benefits from tourism, partly because many beaches
              were inaccessible to the general public. Most of the fourteen major barrier


                                                       5


















                                   EAST                                                                                                                                                                         WEST
             C:

                                                                                                                                                                                                             Freshwater
                                                                     St"                     Island Upland
                                                   Active            Dunes                                                                                                                                                   X
                                                                                                               an@
                                                   Dines                                                                                Tidal Riv r
                                                                                                                          Salt
                                                                                                                         Marsh                                    Soft Marsh
                                       Beach                                     S'o'
                                                                                                                                                                                 tne
             M
                                                                                                                                                                                @ 71%
                                                                                                                           hi iPid


                                                                                                                                       ESTUARY & MARSHES                                        MAINLAND
                                                                    BARRIER       ISLAND


             (D
             90i


             0





                                                                                          (Adapted from Georgia Department of Natural Resources, 1976,
                                                                                          Handbook:     Building in the Coastal Environment, pp. 24-25.)
                                                            Tmugh
                                                                                          "Kill                                                                                                                      4












                                                                                                                                                                                          Hypothetical
                                                                                                                                                                                     Cross-Section
                                                                                                                                                                                                        of a
                                                                                                                                                                                                  Georgia
                                                                                                                                                                                                  Coastal
                   0                   -40                                                                                                                                                            Island

                                       -30


                                       -20

                   M                   -10
                                       P
                                           X         An..
                                       AK               in'.

                                                                                                                                                Secoredwy                  a
                   0
                                                                                                                                                   Durve              "Diumnery
                   0                                                                                                                               Ridge
                                        TKN                        RWw                        SIOUO                                                                                     Be""
                                        Creek                      Beach                            Famt



                   W                                                               Dimensions and features vary from island to island.

                                                                                   A semi-stable dune or dune ridge is constant in terms of position on the shoreline,
                   I *                                                             but functions as part of the sand-sharing system.
                   Ps
                                                                                   A stable dune or dune ridge is a dune which has reached its peak elevation and is
                   M                                                               covered with woodland vegetation.

                                                                                Source:    Clement, C. D., 1971, "Recreation on the Georgia Coast: An Ecological
                                                                                           Approach". Georgia Business: Vol. 30 no. 11, p. 1-24. Adapted by Mr.
                                                                                           J. R. Richardson.








             islands were in the hands of wealthy individuals who used them as retreats and
             maintained privacy by not building causeways. Today, only four--Tybee, St.
             Simons, Sea Island and Jekyll--have road access from the mainland. Seven of
             the major barrier islands are in State or Federal ownership. They are used for
             public recreation and wildlife purposes.
                         Estuarine areas have received substantial protection 'through State
             ownership and legislative actions. The various forces--from historical accident
             to deliberate regulation- -which led to the protection of Georgia's coastal
             resources also created the opportunity to establish the Sapelo Island National
             Estuarine Research Reserve (SINERR).


             B.    Sapelo Islind:.Location and Access
                   1.    Location
                         Sapelo is one of Georgia's barrier islands (Figure 5), so called
             because they absorb wind- and wave energy which would otherwise strike the
             mainland.  The ' State of 'Georgia owns nearly all the island, a total of 16, 000
             acres. About 10,600 acres are high ground; the rest is marsh (Figures 6 and
             7). Four and one-half.miles of salt marsh, estuarine and tidal creek systems
             separate Sapelo from the mainland. The Department of Natural Resources
             (DNR) provides access to the island by ferry.
                         The SINERR is located in McIntosh County, 7.5 miles northeast of
             Darien, Georgia. Its core is the Duplin River estuary, a tidal drainage system
             entering Doboy Sound from the north. Although the Duplin River watershed
             occupies'most of the SINERR, the SINERR also contains various forest types,
             sand dunes, a section of ocean beach, and developed areas.
                         DNR, which manages the SINERR, also manages more than half of
             the Sapelo Island upland as the Richard J. Reynolds Wildlife Management Area
             (WMA). The State-owned Reynolds WMA covers 6,,929 acres of high ground.
                         The third DNR-manage4 area on Sapelo is the Natural Area, a
             2,732-a6re tract encompassing 1.5 miles of ocean beach, sand dunes and upland
             lying east of the Duplin River watershed. It provides public recreation
             opportunities, including hunting, fishing, beach use, and picnicking.
                         The Hog Hammock community, a 434-acre privately owned tract,
             adjoins the Reynolds WMA and the Natural Area. It is home to 65 residents
             descended from slaves  on a 19th-century Sapelo plantAtion.









                                                     0




                                          *Pembroke
                                    C.
                                        r,f,               Savanna
                                                                                      Tybee
                                                BRYAN CHATHAM                         Island
                                             46%
                                                                                  Skidaway
                                      LIBERTY                                      Island
                                                                            Wassaw Island
                                      N     Hinesville
                                                                           Ossabaw Island





                                                                       St. Catherines Island
                                                  MCINTOSH

                                          Cr


                                                                  Sapelo Island

                                                       rien
                                      r/GLYN

                                                                Sea Island


                                         Brunswick
                                                           St. Simons Island


                                                          Jekyll Island

                                   0 R;,,,e,
                                161a W oodbine
                             j\!@MDE
                                   At.                  Cumberland. Island
                                         V. q R,
                                                                              0        10
                                                                                 miles








                                   FIGURE 5: Barrier Islands of Georgia


                                                     9





                                           SAPELO                                                          ISLAND

                                                               WINTOSH                                     COUNTY



                                                                                                                                                                                                   BLACKBEARDISLAND

                                                                    SCALE

                                                   0                           6000 FEET
                                                    LJ-1--J








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                                                                                                                                                    10












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                                                        FIGURE 7: Sapelo Island Management Units








                 2.    Access
                       The State-owned mainland departure point for Sapelo Island
            (Figure 8) lies a seven-mile, half-hour ferry ride to the west of the SINERR.
            This 164-acre tract of upland and marsh in McIntosh County, Georgia, borders
            a tidal stream known as Hudson Creek. Access, parking and security facilities
            are located on an 18-acre parcel acquired in 1976. The mile-long entrance drive
            connects to Georgia Route 99, about 7.5 miles north of Darien and 22.5 miles
            from Brunswick. The "Sapelo Queenil provides regular access between Meridian
            Dock and Sapelo Island, making three round trips a day Monday through
            Friday, and two trips on Saturday. Other boats operated by DNR, the Marine
            Institute and Sapelo residents also frequently use Meridian Dock.
            C.   Resources
                 1.    Environmental Conditions
                       a.    Climmte
                             Coastal Georgia's climate is classified as subtropical. It
            consists of brief, mild winters and humid, warm summers. In 1981,
            Brunswick's 30-year annual average temperature was 68.91F., according to
            U.S. Weather Service figures (National Climatological Center, 1981).
            Sporadic, intense summer showers account for much of the Sapelo area's annual
            precipitation, which averaged 51.7 inches for the 1972-1982 period. During the
            same time, Brunswick's precipitation averaged 48.2 inches per year. In 1978,
            NOAA's National Weather Service calculated Brunswick's 30-year average annual
            precipitation as 54 inches (National Climatological Center, 1978).
                       b.    Topography
                             Sapelo Island consists of broad, nearly flat areas separated
            by gently sloping ridges (Figure 6). Its elevation ranges from sea level to
            perhaps twenty feet on the higher sand dunes (Johnson et al., 1974).
                       C.    Geology and Soils
                             Sapelo Island is the fourth largest of Georgia's barrier
            islands. These islands are composed of sands brought to the coastal area by
            rivers, such as the Savannah and the Altamaha, whose headwaters arise in the
            Georgia piedmont and mountains. Island formation begins when wave and tide
            action heap up sand in a longshore ridge. If the ridge is stable enough to
            endure inundation during warm climatic periods, when reduced glaciation raises
            sea levels, then a lagoon is formed between the dune ridge and the mainland,
            and sediments are trapped there (Johnson et al., 1974). Under certain


                                               .12









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            conditions, marsh develops in this lagoon, while part of the dune ridge remains
            above sea level and gradually becomes inhabited by plants and animals capable
            of surviving in this fairly rigorous environment.
                              Sapelo, like most of Georgia's other barrier islands, formed
            during two consecutive high stands of the sea. Rising water, waves, winds
            and currents moved the island's sediments inshore from the continental shelf.
            Carbon dating of shells found in Sapelo Island sediments indicates that the main
            part of the island formed some 30,000 years ago (Pleistocene), while the
            seaward portion (Nannygoat Bea  ch) is fairly young, dating some 4,000 to 5,000
            years before the present (Holocene; see Figure 9). Sapelo Island shorelines
            and beaches change constantly, eroding in some places and accreting in others,
            in response to seasonal patterns of winds, waves and tides and occasional
            hurricanes.
                        d.    Watershed and Hydrology
                              The Duplin River drains;a tidal bay about six miles long, into
            which there is little upland runoff. It is more accurately described as a large
            tidal creek than a river (Kinsey, 1982). The 7.5-mile long river has an
            estuary of 3,296 acres, of which 15% is submerged at mean low water (Johnson,
            et al., 1974). Rain falling directly on the estuary is its only major source of
            freshwater. Ti dal flow creates most of the Duplin River's current.
                              Mean tidal range at Sapelo Island is 6.8 feet; spring tide
            range is about eight feet (National Ocean Survey, 1983). The twice-daily tides
            differ generally by less than a foot and a half. The difference between daily
            lows is usually less than half a foot.
                              As reported in Johnson et al. (1974), Ragotzkie and Bryson
            studied the Duplin River in 1955. They found the water surface to be
            relatively narrow at mean low water. When the water rises to six feet above
            mean low water, however, it begins to leave the banks and flow in a sheet
            across the marsh. Between one-third and two-thirds of the water which a
            rising tide pushes into the estuary flows into the marsh. Fairly small increases
            in tidal height impel significantly increased volumes of water into the estuary.
            The tidal flow is consequently turbulent, promoting turbidity and thorough
            mixing of fresh with salt water. Flushing is also incomplete, as there is little
            fresh water entering the system. Much water in the estuary merely oscillates
            back and forth, rather than draining away to be replaced (Kinsey, 1982).



                                                   14














                                                                                              TYBEEISLAND
                Geologic Ages of
                 Barrief IslaMs                                                         WASSAW ISLAND

                 JgHoloiccene deposits
                  *Pieistocene deposits                                        OSSABAW ISLAND




                                                                          ST. CATHERINES ISLAND




                                                                       BLACKBEARDISLAND




                                                                  SAPELO ISLAND




                                                              LITTLE ST. SIMONS ISLAND


                                                              SEA ISLAND

                                                            ST. SIMONS ISLAND



                                                        JEKYLLISLAND



                                                       LITTLE CUMBERLAND ISLAND




                                                     CUMBERLAND ISLAND






                                                                                          0 5 10
                                                                                                     rNles
                Source:   Hoyt, J. H., 1968, "Geology of the Golden Isles and Lower Georgia
                          Coastal Plain," in The Future of the Marshlands and Sea Islands of
                          Georgia. Edited by D. S. Maney, F. C. Marland, and C. B. West.
                          Published by the University of Georgia Marine Institute and the
                          CAPDC. pp. 18-34.
                                        FIGURE 9: Geologic Ages of Barrier.161ands

                                                                  15









                    2.     Habitat Types
                           a.    Sand-sharing System
                                 Fine quartz sands Make up the beaches and dunes on
              Sapelo's seaward side. These sands are shared with      offshore sand bars, which
              accumulate sand pulled off the island by storms and seasonal winds and which
              return the sand to the beach and dunes at other times. Johnson et al. identify
              four zones in the beach-and-dune area:

                           Shoreface: the narrow zone seaward from the low tide shore line
                    permanently covered by water, over which the beach sands and gravels
                    move with wave action.
                           Foreshore: the lower shore zone between ordinary low and high
                    water levels.
                           Backshore: the upper shore zone beyond the reach of ordinary
                    waves and tides, extending to the base of the dunes.
                           Dunes: ridges of windblown sand.
              Waves, currents and wind constantly change the shape of these landforms.
              Characteristic plant and animal communities have developed in response to the
              salt spray, soils, wind, strong sunshine and high temperatures which pose
              special challenges to life in these zones.
                           b.    Coastal Marshlands
                                 The salt marsh-estuarine ecosystem is typically an area of
              high environmental stress. Tidal inundation becomes important for those flora
              and fauna inhabiting the intertidal zone. Salinity, drainage, dessication and
              temperature are considered to be the major factors limiting the diversity of the
              salt marsh (Cooper, 1974). Despite the low diversity of the salt marsh, it is
              believed to be one of the most productive natural areas on earth (Schelske and
              Odum, 1962).
                                 The primary basis for the food chain in the salt marsh is
              detritus originating mainly from the dominant vascular plant, smooth cordgrass
              (Spartina alterniflora). All life. requires fresh water to carry on metabolic
              processes. The plants of the marsh have mechanisms which allow them to
              extract fresh water from the salty estuarine waters. Smooth cordgrass has a
              very efficient mechanism to handle salt and therefore can withstand twice daily
              inundation by the tides. Other plants, such as sea oxeye (Borrichia
              frutescens), groundsel bush (Baccharis halimifolia), and iva (Iva frutescens)
              prefer to grow in sandy areas which are inundated less often. Other common


                                                       16








            marsh plants include glasswort (Salicornia virginica), needle rush (Juncus
            roemerianus), and salt marsh spike grass (Distichlis spicata).
                               Non-vascular plants are also abundant in the salt marshes of
            Georgia. Most non-vascular plants are microphytes. with the largest groups
            being the pennalean diatoms, mainly Navicula species. The diatoms, which
            account for less than 10% of the primary production, give the marsh muds their
            distinctive golden-brown hue. Macrophytic non-vascular plants are uncommon
            in the marshes. The major types are Ulva lactuca, an Entermorpha species,
            and several species of rhodophytes.
                               A large number of consumer species inhabit the salt
            marsh-estuarine ecosystem. The major groups are: zooplankton, benthic
            invertebrates, insects, fishes, reptiles, birds, and mammals. Benthic
            macroinvertebrates are the most conspicuous of the consumers. This group
            includes the fiddler crab (Uca species), marsh mussel (Geukensia demissa),
            marsh periwinkle (Littorina irrorata), and oyster (Crassostrea virginica).
            Consumers of past and present economic importance are included within the
            invertebrates (oysters, crabs and shrimp), fishes (chiefly menhaden, shad,
            and red drum) and mammals (raccoon, mink and otter).
                               All the consumers are important in an estuarine ecosystem's
            functioning and must be considered whenever plans are made to alter that
            system. Changing one component tends to have larger effects elsewhere
            throughout the system. For this reason, modifications within the Duplin River
            estuary will be made only after careful evaluation and assurance that they are
            consistent with the goals and objectives of the SINERR.
                   3.    Cultural and Historical Resources
                         The SINERR is rich in archaeological resources. There are tabby
            ruins at Hanging Bull, slave quarters at Longrow Field, and a known but
            unmapped prehistoric site. Little Sapelo Island, the marsh, and Mary, Jacks
            and Pumpkin hammocks have not been surveyed for archaeological resources.
                         Long Tabby, DNR's main administration building, is the remains of
            Thomas Spalding's sugar works, which flourished during the first third of the
            19th century. The former curing and boiling house was eventually adapted for
            office use. Ruins of the sugar mill are located just north of Long Tabby. To
            its west lie the foundation of the storage house and the remains of Spalding's
            dock in Post Office Creek.




                                                    17









                         Kenan Field is the site of a 150-acre prehistoric village,
             featuring evidence of 589 shell middens, two earth mounds, and at least two
             complex community structures (Crook, 1980). It has been extensively
             surveyed, but study of this site is not complete.   No evidence of community
             structures such as those at Kenan Field has yet been uncovered elsewhere on
             the Georgia coast. This site provides a first view of a Savannah Phase
             aboriginal site and will be a point of comparison with similar sites which may be
             uncovered elsewhere. Since Kenan Field had agricultural use in recent times,
             archaeological evidence in the surface layers has been disturbed. DNR has
             consulted with the State Archaeologist to develop ways of managing the forest
             without further altering the archaeological record.
                         Another large archaeological site is located below the surface in a
             pecan orchard just south of the road to the southwest of South End House.
             Moses Hammock and the airport also contain subsurface archaeological sites.
             These sites have been tested but not exhaustively studied. Current use of
             these tracts does not affect the archaeological resources.
             D.    Current Uses of the SINERR
                   This section describes current uses and program activities within the
             SINERR. The action plan appearing in Chapter III describes how the State and
             NOAA will jointly manage and enhance programs for the SINERR.
                   1.    Recreation
                         a.     Boating
                                The Duplin River is an approved oyster harvesting area, as
             a result of the excellent water quality within the estuary. A federal
             navigational servitude extends over the waters surrounding Sapelo Island.
             Within the SINERR, the general public enjoys pleasure boating and recreational
             fishing, including clam and oyster harvest. DNR has not measured the level of
             these activities within the SINERR.
                         b.     Wi1d1ife-oriented Recreation
                             I  DNR holds eight managed deer hunts on Sapelo each year.
             During two other periods (January through mid-March and mid-September
             through mid-October) hunters may freely travel in the portion of the SINERR
             which extends north of Barn Creek. Hunters who stay on Sapelo Island use
             the Moses Hammock campsite.
                                Many SINERR visitors enjoy wildlife observation. Most
             visitors will see alligators, deer, squirrels, crabs and a profusion of bird life.


                                                     18








              Many will also see raccoons, otters and snakes on the island and porpoises in
              the river. Wildlife observation and photography are significant recreational
              activities in the SINERR.
                          C.     1111ring
                                 Hiking includes guided nature walks led by SINERR staff,
              primarily on the nature trail, and foot travel by hunters. Groups of students,
              scouts and others with educational purposes who use the Cabretta campsite
              sometimes hike into the SINERR guided by SINERR staff or the group's leaders.
              General recreational hiking is not authorized within the SINERR.
                          d.     Swimming and Beach Use
                                 The public also uses for recreational purposes the wet beach
              and other lands which the tides flood twice daily. Swimming is permitted within
              the SINERR. The public tours include a short period at the beach for walking
              and beachcombing, but not for swimming. The beach experience is
              nevertheless an important recreational activity for tour participants.
                          e.     Public Tours
                                 The guided public tours of the SINERR have recreational as
              well as educational benefits. Because the upland areas of the SINERR are
              accessible.to the general public only during hunts and guided tours, however,
              recreational use of the SINERR is limited.
                    2.    Residential Use
                          Sapelo Island's population currently numbers about 100 people.
              Ten permanent DNR employees and dependents live on the island. On average,
              25 full-time residents, including permanent staff, researchers, and their
              families, are associated with the Marine Institute. The Hog Hammock
              Community, which lies outside the SINERR, has 65 residents. Most residential
              use except for Hog Hammock lies within the SINERR. Existing residences are
              described in Section IV. A. 3 below. The South End House receives overnight
              use for conferences and other professional events.
                    3.    Industrial Use
                          There is no industrial land use within or adjacent to the SINERR.
                    4.    Research
                          a.     Ecological Research
                                 In 1953, R.J. Reynolds, Sapelo's owner, invited the
              University of Georgia to establish a program of scientific research which could
              benefit from the island's resources. Scientists from the world over have since


                                                     19









             come to the University of Georgia Marine Institute, attracted by the opportunity
             for studying estuarine and marine resources. Research at the Institute has
             generated more than 600 publications. Many current theories about general
             ecology and the flow of energy in natural systems are based on research
             conducted here by the renowned ecologist Dr. Eugene P. Odum and others who
             have used the Marine Institute's facilities over the years. Important studies
             concerning the geological development of barrier islands and associated
             shoreline processes also were carried out at the Marine Institute.
                                The Marine Institute is funded and staffed through the
             University System of Georgia. As with any other research facility, some of the
             financial support for the research is dependent upon funding which is available
             from sources such as the National Science Foundation and NOAA's Sea Grant
             and National Estuarine Research Reserve programs.
                                Staffing includes researchers, technicians, lab assistants,
             research vessel operators, administrative support staff and
             building-and-grounds crew. The staff now averages one visiting and eight
             full-time scientists, supported by six to. eight technicians. Students,
             researchers and visiting scientists also use the Marine Institute's facilities.
                                In 1976, the State of Georgia acquired from the Sapelo Island
             Research Foundation the south-end lands which were designated as the SINERR
             and those which became the Sapelo Island Natural Area. When DNR became the
             manager of these lands, it and the Board of Regents entered into a 50-year
             lease (Appendix A) and an agreement (Appendix B) whereby the Marine
             Institute's basic scientific research program could continue to use 1,500 acres
             of the SINERR without interrupting its research. SINERR designation offered
             permanent protection for the Duplin River estuary and related lands, ensuring
             that they would continue to be available indefinitely for basic science.
                          b.    Cultural Resource Investigations
                                Archaeological research on Sapelo Island since 1898 has
             identified many prehistoric and historic occupation sites. Since 1969, research
             has provided information to DNR's Game and Fish Division so that activities
             which disturb the so:H, such as setting up the hunting camp, would have a
             minimal effect on Sapelo's cultural resources.
                                In most cases, the archaeologists have made detailed maps of
             their findings. In some circumstances, they have made carefully controlled
             surface collections of artifacts. In order to characterize the sites, they have


                                                      20









             conducted limited excavations in certain areas. Much mapping, test excavation,
             and detailed definition of other sites remains to be done on Sapelo and within

             the SINERR.
                                Archaeological research at Sapelo Island has largely been
             survey work rather than extensive excavation. Comparatively little surveying
             has been done on the marsh islands, in the marsh itself, or within Sapelo's
             upland areas in the southern half of the SINERR.
                          C.    Wildlife and Fisheries Research
                                When the State of Georgia acquired the north end of Sapelo
             Island in 1969, DNR began wildlife and forest management activities designed to
             improve habitat diversity and increase populations of game and nongame wildlife
             species. DNR's Game and Fish Division has performed various survey,
             inventory and research tasks which are necessary for professional wildlife
             management.. Game and Fish personnel have surveyed participants in managed
             hunts, regarding their satisfaction with the hunts. Deer and wild turkey are
             inventoried periodically. In 1975, Game and Fish personnel undertook a
             three-year research p  roject to determine the size and structure of the turkey
             population, habitat used for nesting and brood rearing, and the role of
             predators in nesting success.
                                DNR's Coastal Resources Division has periodically sampled
             various fish populations within the Duplin River estuary. Until March 1988, the
             Division performed quarterly trawls to characterize the composition of the
             larger species of fish, crustaceans and larger bottom-dwelling animals in the
             Duplin estuary. The-Division has ended this task, since the data it provided
             were not useful for management purposes.
                          d.    Current Research Goals
                                The management policy for the SINERR is designed to
             promote and encourage attainment of the scientific objectives at the SINERR.
             The primary scientific objectives of the SINERR are established by the 1976
             grant award agreement between NOAA and DNR (Appendix C). They are:
                          (a)   To enable a better understanding of estuarine ecosystems.
                    Studies may include productivity measurements, distribution and life
                    history studies of estuarine organisms, energy flow dynamics, modeling,
                    etc., as well as physical, chemical and hydrographic studies;




                                                     21









                        (b)   To make baseline studies by defining the natural conditions
                  in this sanctuary, and by monitoring the sanctuary to detect subsequent
                  changes;
                        (c)   To develop policy and management criteria, and to use the
                  Duplin River estuarine ecosystem as a control with which changes in
                  other estuaries can be compared as they may undergo development as
                  coastal zone management programs are implemented; and
                       .(d)   To aHow any qualified scientist to conduct research,
                  provided that such research is compatible with (i) other research being
                  conducted in the Reserve, and (H) the management and other scientific
                  objectives of the Reserve as set out above.
                              DNR's 50-year lease with Regents (Appendix A) ensures the
            research program wffl continue without interruption. The Commissioner of DNR
            has also invited aU institutions in the University System of Georgia to perform
            research on Sapelo Island and on other DNR lands, including Ossabaw Island.
                              Ecological research- in the SINERR is performed chiefly by
            Marine Institute faculty, staff and associated scientists. Faculty research
            interests include:
                        - Carbon, nutrient and energy flow studies in estuarine and coastal
                  systems,
                          Biogeochemistry of nutrients, trace metals, organic carbon, and
                  organic sulfur compounds,
                        - The role. of microbes and other tiny animals in nutrient and
                  energy recycling,
                          The productivity and trophic fate of microbes which drive the
                  cordgrass -decomposition system,
                          Population dynamics of estuarine microplankton, and
                          Population and community dynamics of estuarine macrofauna.
            The main laboratory building houses offices and laboratories for resident and
            visiting scientists, two modern instrument rooms and a flowing-seawater
            laboratory. Eighteen research sites are active within the SINERR at present.
                  5.    Trend Monitoring
                        Trend monitoring, as distinct from other kinds of research, is the
            systematic collection of data over a long period of time. It provides information
            on existing conditions--e.g., temperature, tide height, crab populations --and
            on how these conditions change. Many environmental factors vary cyclically


                                                   22








            with time; examples include rainfall,* sediment deposition and removal, dissolved
            oxygen levels, and populations of plants and animals within the estuary. Some
            of the cycles are decades long. Studies designed to characterize aspects of the
            Duplin estuary should,continue until these cycles can be identified.
                        In the long run, such studies and other research findings permit
            comparisons among estuaries which can help isolate the causes of changes in
            estuarine systems. Trend monitoring can also help the SINERR Resident
            Manager measure the effectiveness of DNR's management practices and
            determine if changes are necessary. Despite these benefits, comparatively little
            of the research performed in the Duplin estuary since 1950 has been trend
            monitoring. Predictable sources of funding for long-term monitoring have not
            been available. However, there are some continuing monitoring efforts at the
            SINERR.
                        NOAA's National Weather Service Cooperative Weather Station,
            established in 1957 near the Marine Institute laboratory, reports daily high and
            low temperatures and daily rainfall. Other meteorological data collected by the
            Marine Institute since 1955 include barometric pressure, and wind speed and
            direction.
                        The Marine Institute has placed equipment which continuously
            monitors physical conditions at Marsh Landing and at Flume Dock, near Moses
            Hammock. The Marsh Landing station has instruments to measure air
            temperature and humidity, solar radiation, wind speed and direction, rainfall,
            and water pH, salinity and temperature. The Flume Dock station has the same
            instruments, except for the rain gauge, Data collection began late in 1984 by
            electronic recording.
                        DNR's Environmental Protection Division in 1985 placed a monitoring
            station in the Duplin estuary to collect data on a number of water-column and
            tissue -accumulation parameters. EPD added another station in 1988. These
            stations measure factors including dissolved oxygen, pH, conductance,
            chlorophyll, 5-day biological oxygen demand, coliform bacteria concentrations,
            water color and alkalinity, nitrogen (several measures), phosphorus, organics,
            and metals. These are two of fourteen stations throughout Georgia's estuaries.
            The other twelve generated data between 1972 and 1983, and have done so again
            since 1985.






                                                   23









                  6.    Education and Interpretation
                        a.    Onsite Activities
                              DNR provides public 'education and interpretation at the
            SINERR, chiefly through tours guided by DNR staff. At present, all visitors
            participate in some type of organized activity or program. Tour participation
            now averages 3,000 people per year. The tour capacity is limited during busy
            months by bus seating and staff levels.
                              i.    SINERR Tours
                                    Each Wednesday and Saturday morning, SINERR
            personnel take visitors on a three-hour driving tour of the SINERR, with stops
            at points of educational interest. The guide provides an interpretive narration
            during the tour. These tours expose visitors to marsh, upland and beach
            environments and generate discussion. The tours are an introduction to the
            SINERR, but they have a broader purpose as well: to acquaint visitors with
            barrier islands. in general and with Sapelo's resources in particular. The
            discussion of upland and beach ecosystems and of the Hog Hammock community
            takes place outside the SINERR, for the most part.
                                    During the summer season (the first Friday after
            Memorial Day, through the first Friday after Labor Day), a third tour takes
            place on Friday mornings. Another tour occurs on the last Thursday of each
            month, and a six-hour walking tour is given on the last Saturday.
                                    The Game and Fish Division offers special tours to
            groups such as school classes and civic organizations. These tours are
            conducted on days other than regular tour days and last approximately six and
            one-half hours. During these tours such subjects as marsh ecology, food
            webs, wildlife management, estuarine research, sand-sharing systems, and
            beach ecology are discussed in more detail than the half-day tours allow.
            These groups use equipment such as refractometers, cast nets, plankton nets,
            and seine nets to obtain a first-hand look at the estuary. These tours are
            tailored to the members' ages and areas of interest.
                                    DNR must sometimes reschedule a tour, if it conflicts
            unavoidably with other management needs. When this occurs, DNR as soon as
            possible notifies the affected individuals or group of the change. The policy
            for rescheduling tours appears in Appendix L.





                                                  24










                                ff.    Nature Trail
                                       SINERR visitors currently use one self-guided nature
             trail in the Natural Area, which lies along a sand road parallel to the beach. It
             is marked by numbered posts which correspond with numbers on the trail
             brochure. The trail provides visitors a chance to learn at their own pace.
                                W.     Visitors' Centers
                                       Two visitors' centers provide public information. One
             is located at Meridian Dock where visitors meet the Sapelo ferry. Visitors can
             learn some general facts about the island and the SINERR before boarding the
             .ferry. Another visitors' center/exhibit room is located at the Game & Fish
             Division offices on Sapelo Island. This center serves as a theatre for films and
             slide shows, and as a lab when working with classes of students.
                                The Marine Institute is one stop on tours of the SINERR.
             The ground floor of the laboratory contains exhibit space which displays
             organisms found in the SINERR and information about coastal geology and
             research projects.
                                iv.    Primitive Camping
                                       The nature trail and beaches give visitors an
             opportunity for passive recreational activities. Viewing wildlife and habitat
             adds to the learning experience. During warm weather, classes and other
             groups participate in seining and cast-netting along the beach. Primitive
             camping on Sapelo Island for organized groups is available on a very limited
             basis. The camp is currently located near Cabretta Beach in the Reynolds
             WMA. During their stay, such groups are exposed to the variety of plants,
             animals and habitats found along  the coast.
                                V.     Publications
                                       DNR has developed several brochures and fliers which
             inform the general public about the SINERR, surrounding coastal areas, and
             educational activities offered through the SINERR. Most of them are somewhat
             outdated and need revision.
                                vi.    Exhibits
                                       The SINERR now has three exhibit areas: interpretive
             graphics at Meridian Dock, several cases of preserved estuarine animals at the
             Marine Institute, and a few graphic materials and hands-on exhibits at DNR's
             office at Long Tabby. These exhibits were developed at different times; they
             lack consistent themes and design standards.


                                                      25









                                      Though the Meridian Dock exhibits are the most
             modern, they need updating. The exhibit area in the Marine Institute
             laboratory is also a main hallway used by Institute staff. Tour visits interfere
             with research., since the exhibit area was not intended for use by groups as
             large as the tours. The exhibits in DNR's office are teaching aids rather than
             professionally designed exhibits.
                         b.    Offs1te Activities
                               A mainland exhibit area is available to the public at the
             Brunswick headquarters of DNR's Coastal Resources Division. Exhibits,
             including aquaria, displays and programs offered at this office also serve as an
             introduction to the SINERR program.
                               The Resident Manager occasionally gives slide presentations
             and other talks at local schools and meetings of civic organizations, as time
             permits. A 20-minute film entitled "The Spirit of Sapeloll is the main audio-
             visual material which DNR uses. It provides an excellent overview of Sapelo
             Island's people and resources, including much information about the SINERR.
             The Education Coordinator also assembles slide shows for presentations to
             school groups and community organizations.
                               SINERR staff members and the DNR Communications Office
             encourage media coverage of the SINERR and its programs. Many reporters
             and writers have visited, Sapelo, Island and the SINERR. DNR periodically
             sends news releases to all media, publicizing programs and special activities
             offered at the SINERR.
                   7.    Forest Management and Transportation
                         DNR manages forest resources on Sapelo, Island, including those
             within the SINERR. Forest management practices are discussed in detail in
             Section III. B. 4. a below.
                         Several roads through the SINERR give island residents and
             visitors access to the island from Marsh Landing dock. The grass airstrip,
             used for official purposes, receives about one flight per week.
                         DNR manages forest resources and transportation activities so they
             are consistent with the primary purposes of the SINERR as a national estuarine
             sanctuary, namely research and education.






                                                    26









            E.    E@dsting Jurisdictions and Management
                  1.     Admini trative Structure
                         a.    Game and Fish Division
                               The Director of DNR1s Game and Fish Division is the overall
            SINERR Advisory Committee liaison and coordinator (Figure 10). He indirectly
            supervises the Regional Game Management Supervisor for Georgia's coastal
            region, to whom the SINERR Resident Manager reports. The Resident Manager
            implements on a day-to-day basis DNR's policies, plans and procedures for the
            SINERR. His office is located on Sapelo Island. Three permanent Game. a  nd
            Fish Division employees assist the Resident Manager: the Interpretive
            Assistant, who is assigned full-time to SINERR duties, a Wildlife Technician III
            and a Wildlife Technician II. A mechanic also supports the SINERR by making
            equipment repairs and providing logistics for the camping area at,Cabrfitta.
            DNR1s Coastal Resources Division and Environmental Protection Division assist
            with baseline monitoring.
                         b.    NOAA
                               DNR manages the Reserve in conformance with the applicable
            NOAA regulations for the National Estuarine Reserve Research System (NERRS)
            and with a memorandum of agreement between the two agencies (Appendix D).
            The Resident Manager consults with NOAA personnel regarding the NERRS
            policies and program guidance. The State matches on an equal basis all federal
            financial assistance which the NERRS system provides. NOAA reviews and
            approves such projects under the terms of the grant award. NOAA provides
            direct support for land acquisition, reserve operations, research, education
            and monitoring projects.
                         C.    SINERR Adv1sory Committee
                               The Commissioner of DNR named an eight-person Advisory
            Committee to make recommendations to DNR regarding several broad functions
            at the SINERR:
                         a overall management principles and practices,
                         - research and monitoring,
                         - educational and interpretive programming, and
                         - public access and recreation.







                                                   27











                                                                                     GOVERNOR




                                                                                    @AT7                                                        BOAM OF NATIURAL
                            BOARD OF REGENTS                                                                                                       RESOURCES






                                                                                                                                                   COMMISSIONER
                              PRESCENT, UNN.                                                                                                       OF NATURAL
                                OF GEORGIA                                                                                                         RESOURCES



                                                                                           F-
                              OFFICE OF VICE                                       ENVIRONMENTAL                    GAME AND FISH                    COASTAL                     FIE=f!ON
                              PRESIDENT FOR                                          PROTECTION                        DIVISION                    RESOURCE
                                 RESEARCH                                              DIVISION                                                      DIVISION                   AND HISTORIC
                                                                                                                                                                                SITES DIVISION




                              MARNE SCIENCE                                                                             GAME                                                   STATE HISTORIC
                              PROGRAM OFFICE                                                                         MANAGEMENT                                                 PRESERVATION
                                                                                                                       SEClION                                                     OFFICER





                                                                                                                       REGION VII                                                   STATE
                              MARINE INSTITUTE                                                                        SUPERVISOR                                               ARCHAEOLOGIST







                                                                                         SINEAR                                                      VALDLJFE
                                                                                        RESIDENT
                                                                                        MANAGER                                                    BIOLOGIST III






                                                                                                                                                     WLDUFE
                                                                                                                                                   TEOHNIICIAN "I






                                                                         INTERPRETIVE                                                                      FE
                                                                          ASSISTANT                                                                        LAN 11







                                                                                                                                               IC                 UTILITY WORKER
                                                                                                 TOR
                                                                                       O2@













                                                           FIGURE 10: SINERR OrganiZatiOnal Chaft


                                                                                                   28








             The SINERR Advisory Committee's members are as follows.:
                    0    Dr. Vernon J. Henry, Chairman, Department of Geology, Georgia
                         State University
                    a    Dr. Forest E. Kellogg, III, Research Associate, Southeastern
                         Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study
                    0    Dr. Joe L. Key, Vice President for Research,     University of Georgia
                    0    Honorable David Earl Lane, Chairman, Board of Commissioners,
                         McIntosh County
                         Dr. Benjamin F. Lewis, Founder and former Chairman, Hog
                         Hammock Community Foundation
                         Mr. Jerry McCollum, Executive Director, Georgia Wildlife
                         Federation
                         Ms. Kathleen Varnell, Secondary Schools     Science Consultant,
                         Georgia Department of Education
                         Mrs. Jane Yarn, conservationist and citizen member
             Biographical information for these individuals appears in Appendix E.
                                In general, the SINERR Advisory Committee will meet once a
             year, though it held two meetings during 1989, its first year. At the inital
             meeting, the Advisory Committee received a briefing on current issues from
             NOAA, DNR and the Marine Institute. Dr..Benjamin Lewis discussed the Hog
             Hammock Community. The Committee also toured the SINERR and other parts of
             Sapelo.
                                DNR named two technical task forces to prepare
             recommendations to the Committee. One addressed research and monitoring;
             the other reviewed educational and interpretive programming. The task force
             members are listed in Appendix E, following the Committee members'
             biographies.
                                The recommendations took the form of mission statements,
             goals and objectives for each program area, and included practical ideas for
             implementation. The Advisory Committee received the task force
             recommendations at its second meeting and approved them with few changes.
                                DNR will continue to rely on the task forces and Advisory
             Committee for guidance and advice during implementation. These volunteer
             groups are integral to successful implementation of this plan.
                                The meetings of the task forces and Advisory Committee are
             open to the public. Persons who wish to receive individual notice of these
             meetings should contact any,staff member at:



                                                     29










                         Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve
                         Sapelo Island, Georgia 31327
                         Phone: (912) 485-2251
                         d.    Board of Regents
                               The 50-year lease and the operating agreement (Appendices
             A and B) between the Board of Regents. and DNR guide the use of State-owned
             facilities leased to the Board of Regents. These documents and the SINERR
             goals and objectives establish the management and research responsibilities of
             the two agencies on Sapelo Island.
                         e.    McIntosh County,Chamber of Commerce
                               A separate agreement between the McIn  tosh County Chamber
             of Commerce and DNR (Appendix F) lets the Chamber help provide public
             access to Sapelo Island by handing reservations for public tours. The Chamber
             of Commerce does not operate the tours. The tours are planned and conducted
             by the Education Coordinator and the Interpretive Assistant.
                   2.    SINERR Staff
                         The following positions are.currently assigned to the SINERR

             program:
                         Resident Manager: The Resident Manager oversees administration of
             DNR's plans, policies and procedures for the SINERR and has day-to-day
             responsibility for managing the SINERR. The Manager directly supervises the
             Education Coordinator (to be hired in State Fiscal Year 1990) and the Wildlife
             Technician III, who manages the Reynolds WMA. The Manager has primary
             responsibility for communication with NOAA's Office of Ocean and Coastal
             Resource Management and with the Marine Institute. The Manager also serves
             as the primary law enforcement officer on Sapelo Island.
                         Interpretive Assistant: The Assistant acts as a guide on many
             interpretive tours. The Assistant also helps schedule visitor use of Sapelo
             Island; develop, prepare and distribute educational and informational materials;
             and design and construct exhibits.
                         Wildlife Technician III: The Wildlife Technician III supervises the
             day-to-day operations at the Reynolds WMA; supervises hunting and fishing
             within the SINERR; directs the habitat-, forest- and wildlife-management
             activities occurring within the SINERR; and directs wildlife-related research.
             This position also supervises the Wildlife Technician II.




                                                    30









                         Wildlife Technician 11: The, Tech II, at the direction of the Tech
            III, helps administer managed hunts; carries out habitat, forest and wildlife
            management activities, including prescribed burning and the construction and
            maintenance of wildlife openings; performs wildlife surveys; and prepares
            necessary maps associated with the other duties.
                         Mechanic: The Mechanic keeps the SINERR equipment in operating
            order and helps with logistics for the camping groups.







































                                                   31











                                             III. 'ACTION PLAN


             A.     Overall Manaaemeut and Development Concept
                    The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has prepared this plan after
             consulting with many individuals, organizations and governmental agencies.
             There is agreement that resource protection is the highest priority for SINERR
             management. Protection of the Duplin River estuary accomplishes three major
             purposes which are central to the existence of the SINERR:
                          - It allows scientists to learn how an unaltered estuary functions.
                          o It allows educators to communicate the benefits of estuaries to
                    governmental and private managers of coastal resources and to the
                    general public.
                          * It allows the Duplin River estuary to continue providing the
                    environmental benefits in the future which it has provided in the past.
                          SINERR management can.be divided into five broad program areas:
             resource protection, research andmonitoring, education and interpretation,
             public access and recreation, and land acquisition. These will be discussed in
             detail in the sections which follow. Facility development, staffing and
             administration are required to carry out the program activities. They will be
             discussed separately.
             B.     Resource Protection
                    1.    General Context for Management
                          Protection of the SINERR's resources is necessary if the area can
             continue to serve the scientific and educational purposes for which it was
             designated. The resource protection program includes:
                          - Publicizing and enforcing existing regulations which govern uses
                    in the SINERR.
                            Managing visitor use to minimize adverse effects.
                            Restoring selected areas where former land uses have altered
                    habitats. '
                          - Revising regulations as needed, in light of new scientific
                    knowlege about estuaries.
                    2.    General Policies
                          The State holds fee simple title to nearly all the lands and waters
             within the SINERR. It therefore has broad administrative authority to regulate



                                                      32









            uses within the SINERR to ensure resource protection. In practice, DNR
            regulates uses in the SINERR in accordance with guidelines to which the State
            and NOAA have agreed and -with the applicable program regulations.
                         The primary management goals for the SINERR, as set forth in the
            grant award conditions, are:
                         (a)  To maintain the integrity of the Reserve for research and
                  educational purposes and to protect it from both internal and external
                  sources of stress which may alter or affect the nature of the ecosystems.
                  The management policy sh  all be designed to reduce, minimize or avoid
                  artificial or manipulative management control or techniques, to promote
                  and protect natural processes and systems, and to promote and encourage
                  attainment of scientific objectives.
                         (b)   To manage the Natural Area for overall DNR objectives,
                  where the objective is to preserve the scenic or natural values, including
                  the areas of physical or biological importance and wildlife areas, in such a
                  manner that it complements and is compatible with the purposes of the
                  Reserve and under such rules and regulations as the Board of Natural
                  Resources may promulgate. These areas must be open to the general
                  public for outdoor recreation use to the extent that the natural attributes
                  of the areas will not be seriously impaired or lost.
                         To further these objectives and the management goals of the
            SINERR, DNR regulates uses of SINERR lands. Among the allowed uses are:
            research, including archaeology; education and nature interpretation; and
            low-intensity recreation, including hunting, fishing, wildlife observation and
            esthetic enjoyment. Othe r uses are allowed on a restricted basis within the
            upland areas of the SINERR: residential use; motor vehicles; the use of
            pesticides, herbicides, blocides and fertilizers; prescribed burning; and
            commercialtimber harvesting. The SINERR Resident Manager regulates these
            uses in accordance with provisions of the designation agreement, applicable
            NOAA program regulations, and direction from the Director of the Game and
            Fish Division.
                         Uses prohibited within. the SINERR include all restricted uses listed
            above   unless. they are specifically authorized by the Resident Manager;
            dredging; mineral removal; control of predators through. use of poisons;
            depositing fill in any marsh or estuary; chemical or pollutant discharge except
            as permissible under Georgia water quality laws; and other alterations of the


                                                   33.










             natural environment or cultural resources which are inconsistent with the
             purposes for which the SINERR was established. Prohibited uses are those
             which are not specifically authorized and which are inconsistent with the
             purposes for which the SINERR was established and is managed under this
             plan.
                   3.    Enforcement and Monitoring
                         Resource protection for the SINERR is based on three sources of
             authority:
                   ï¿½ Federal grant award conditions and Federal law:
                         - Estuarine Research Reserve grant and applicable
                          program regulations
                         - Land and Water Conservation Fund grant
                         - Pittman-Robertson Fund grant
                         - Federal historic preservation requirements
                   ï¿½ State ownership and management of all SINERR.lands
                   ï¿½ State regulatory authority over resource uses
                    which could affect the SINERR
                         a.    State Land Ownership
                               The Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OCGA), in Sections
             27-1-6 through 27-1-20, empowers DNR to enforce conservation laws and
             protect resources on State property.
                               The State, acting through DNR, "reserves to itself the
             exclusive right ...of exploring, excavating, or surveying all prehistoric and
             historic sites" on State-owned lands, except for property under the jurisd iction
             of the Board of Regents (OCGA Sec. 12-3-52(a)). The State Archaeologist
             directs and coordinates archaeological research on State-owned lands and
             cooperates with the Board of Regents in research on land under its control
             (OCG Sec. 12-3-53). DNR encourages archaeological research throughout the
             SINERR and Sapelo Island prior to any land-disturbing activity or any
             alteration to'a structure or landscape.
                         b. , General Regulatory Powers of the State
                               The State also regulates certain resource uses on all lands in
             Georgia, whether State-owned or not. Several State environmental laws have
             special relevance to the SINERR. The Coastal Marshlands Protection Act of
             1970 authorizes DNR to regulate the alteration of coastal marshlands (bCGA
             SOa@i 12-5-200 et seq.). This authority, plus the State's claim to own all
             marshlands except those for which a Crown or State grant can be proved,



                                                   34









              allows DNR to prevent detrimental alteration of marsh in the vicinity of the
              SINERR. The Shore Assistance Act of 1979 (OCGA Sec. 12-5-230 et seq.)
              regulates alterations of coastal sand dunes, beaches, sandbars and shoals, to
              maintain their recreational value and their ability to protect real and personal
              property and natural resources from the damaging effects of floods, winds,
              tides and erosion. The Game and Fish Code', a compilation of laws regarding
              fish, wildlife, and protected plants (OCG Title 27), allows DNR to regulate the
              time and place of taking animals and fresh- and salt-water fish species.
              Another State law protects sea oats, a species of plant which is important to the
              stability of the sand-sharing system (OCGA   Sec. 12-5-310 et seq. ).
                                Several State laws protect water quality. The Water Quality
              Control Act requires a permit for discharge of pollutants into Georgia waters
              and sets standards for wastewater treatment. The Erosion and Sedimentation
              Act of 1975 requires permits for land-disturbing activities, defined as any land
              change which may result in soil erosion and the movement of sediments irito
              State waters or onto lands within the State. The Georgia Health Code requires
              a permit to construct any type of individual sewage disposal system and
              regulates the kinds and designs of systems which may be used.
                                The State of Georgia claims owmership to the high water mark
              in all navigable tidewaters. As authorized in OCGA Sec. 50-16-61, the
              Governor has general supervision over all the properties of the State, with
              power to make all necessary regulations for the protection of those lands.
                                The Resident Manager enforces the Game and Fish Code and
              administrative policies of DNR. The Manager and other SINERR staff travel
              throughout the SINERR on a daily basis. They observe human use and visible
              evidence, if any, of changes which such use may have on the SINERR. They
              recommend changes which may be required to protect SINERR resources
              adequately from overuse by residents and visitors.
                                Education is an important part of law enforcement.
              Brochures, signa'ge and interpretive programs which DNR develops for the
              SINERR will describe the resources and the regulations which are in place, to
              protect them. At present, the public visits the SINERR primarily on guided
              tours and managed hunts. Controlling public use and its impacts is not
              difficult under these conditions, but tour guides can teach visitors to minimize
              the local impacts of their presence at tour stops. The tour guides also learn



                                                     35









             much about visitors' awareness of estuarine resources- -information which helps
             in designing brochures, signage and other educational tools.
                    4.    Habitat Management
                          a,     Forest Resources
                                 Special condition l.e(2)(d) of the SINERR grant award
             authorizes commercial timber harvesting at commercial maturity in the area of
             the existing pine plantation. The forest resources are harvested on Sapelo
             Island using best management practices and in accordance with an approved
             timber management plan. Following this harvest, the area is to be managed
             with the objective of encouraging succession to a typical climax oak forest.
             DNR will perform commercial harvest of pine trees on upland areas within the
             SINERR about every eight years, depending on forest conditions. Harvest will
             be timed to prevent destructive outbreaks of disease, pests or fire. Consistent
             with special condition I.c(l), DNR will minimize manipulative management of
             these forests. Areas in which pines are harvested will not be planted back to
             pines. Instead, succession to climax hardwood stands will be encouraged on
             suitable sites.
                                 The major insect threat to pine forests on Sapelo Island is
             the southern pine beetle. Minor outbreaks can be addressed by removal of the
             affected trees, but major infestations may require that an entire stand be
             removed to prevent spread to adjacent stands. Trees under stress are most
             susceptible to this pest. Thinning mature stands to a basal area of 70-80
             square feet per acre is very effective as a control. During thinnings, trees
             infected with fusiform rust or other diseases can also be removed. Such
             preventive measures will help protect the forest on Sapelo, Island.
                                 A major threat to life and property is wildfire, which occurs
             when litter on the forest floor burns uncontrollably, destroying trees or
             improvements. The danger is greatest in pine forests, which produce a large
             amount of combustible litter each year. . ldve oak leaves, by contrast, are
             relatively incombustible, but a live oak forest interspersed with pines or
             adjacent to pine stands can be damaged if enough pine tinder has accumulated.
                                 Wildfire can be effectively prevented by the technique of
             controlled burning, in which fires are set while the litter build-up is still
             slight. Controlled burning is feasible during periods of high humidity and low
             wind speed, when a "cool" fire can be maintained.



                                                       36









                                The Resident Manager will ensure that the SINERR forests.
             are inspected as often as necessary to evaluate their health and the amount of
             combustible material which is on the forest floor. The DNR forester, after
             coordinating with the Resident Manager, will schedule thinnings, major cuts,
             and controlled burns as required to minimize the risk of disease, insects or
             wildfire to Sapelo's forests and improvements.
                                The hardwood forests within the SINERR will be excluded
             from harvest. Individual trees which die will be left as feeding, nesting and
             perch sites for the many types of wildlife which use them.
                                As part of the SINERR's research program, DNR will
             encourage scientists to submit proposals to study possible effects of the forest
             management program on the SINERR's aquatic resources. Such applied
             management studies are a major objective of the National Estuarine Reserve
             Research System.
                         b.     Landing Field
                                DNR will mow the landing field as needed to keep it usable
             for the infrequent aircraft use it now receives. Every several years DNR will
             burn it to prevent the accumulation of combustible litter. Burnings will be
             scheduled to allow monitoring of nutrient flows into the marsh, to determine
             what effects planned upland burning may have on the estuary.
                         C.     Coastal Marshlandia and the Sand-sharing System
                                The Coastal Mars.hlands Protection Act and the Shore
             Assistance Act are important pieces of legislation for the protection of marsh
             and the sand-sharing system statewide. State ownership of the SINERR
             ensures that the Duplin River estuary and the beach will not be altered by
             developmental activity.
                   5.    Relationship to Other Program Areas
                         Resource protection depends upon the findings of scientific
             research, the translation of relevant findings into management guidelines,
             enforcement, and educating SINERR users about the need for continued
             resource protection. In turn, resource protection is necessary for success in
             research and monitoring, the educational and interpretive programs, and
             continued recreational and other benefits derived from the Duplin River
             estuary. DNR recognizes the central role of resource protection in managing
             the SINERR.





                                                    37









            C.     Research and Monitoring.
                   1.    Research Mission
                         DNR has adopted the Advisory Committee's recommended mission
            statement for the SINERR research and monitoring program. The SINERR
            Advisory Committee has recommended it in this form:
                         (a)   Provide long-term protection to the SINERR, to support and
                   promote basic and applied scientific research.
                         (b)   Provide researchers and managers with baseline data on
                   certain physical, chemical and biological parameters obtained through an
                   onsite monitoring program.
                         (c)   Communicate the significant results of research to the public
                   and to coastal managers and decision-makers, through a program of
                   information and education.
                         DNR has also adopted the recommended research and monitoring
            goals and objectives. They appear in full in Appendix G. The research goals
            are as follows:

                         Cultural-resource research:. Assess the cultural resources within

                   the SINERR.
                         Water processes: Increase knowledge of the basic processes
                   involving water movement, water mixing and natural variations in water
                   parameters within the SINERR.
                         Sediment processes: Increase knowledge of how sediments are
                   transported and transformed within the SINERR.
                         Nu trients and other chemical inputs: Increase knowledge of the
                   natural variability of nutrients and other chemical inputs to the salt
                   marsh, and of the mechanisms by which the undisturbed salt marsh within
                   the SINERR functions.
                         Primary and secondary production, and fishery habitat require-
                   ments:.Improve knowledge of life cycles of important species which
                   depend upon salt-marsh estuaries, and quantify the importance of the
                   salt marsh and related upland areas.
                         Management -related research: Evaluate the effects of management
                   decisions on the health and stability of the SINERR's ecosystem.
                         Data storage and retrieval system:@ Establish a comprehensive
                   database of baseline and research data, which allows rapid access to




                                                    38








                   historical and future research and monitoring information gathered within
                   the SINERR.
                   2.    Monitoring Mission
                      . DNR has adopted the following goals for trend monitoring, as
             recommended by the SINERR Advisory Committee:
                         Meteorological monitorin : Collect meteorological data on an hourly
                   basis at several locations in the SINERR.
                         Hydro gical monitorin : Collect hydrological data at various
                   sampling sites in the SINERR.
                      , Biological monitorin : Collect biological data at various sampling
                   sites within the SINERR.
                         Data management, analysis and reportin : Make historical
                   monitoring data available to scientists, and analyze the data collected to
                   enable SINERR managers to detect unusual changes within the SINERR.
                   3.    Guidelines for Admini tering the Research and Monitoring Programs
                         DNR recognizes that the monitoring program is a very long-tenn
             undertaking. DNR and the Marine Institute will coordinate their monitoring
             efforts to ensure that data collected are useful, compatible, timely, stored in an
             easily. retrievable manner, and accessible to all interested parties, including
             scientists and resource managers. The current level of data collection will be
             regarded as a practical minimum. DNR and NOAA will discuss additional
             monitoring tasks which may become desirable as research needs change.
             Single-event monitoring, such as..sampling runoff from prescribed burns within
             SINERR forests, will occur to give managers information about the effects of
             management practices.
                         The SINERR research objectives describe areas of research which
             DNR and NOAA believe would be valuable to explore. The SINERR will s   olicit
             research proposals from the Marine Institute and other research entities to.
             submit to NOAA for competitive funding under the Reserve Program and other
             sources of funds. Scientists who perform research within the SINERR with
             funds from sources outside the Reserve Program will notify DNR of the scope
             and timing of such projects.
                         DNR and the Marine Institute have the authority to approve
             research performed within the SINERR. The Marine Institute must authorize
             research proposed to be done under its auspices or within the Regents lease at
             the south end of the SINERR. DNR must authorize research performed within


                                                   39









             the lands under its control. DNR also coordinates peer review of research
             projects for which NOAA funds are requested, and NOAA too must approve
             these projects. The research objectives describe the general areas within
             which research is desired. They enable DNR to set research priorities with the
             help of the SINERR Advisory Committee and to work with the Marine Institute to
             communicate to the research community opportunities which will be consistent
             with desired research projects. They also help NOAA, DNR and the Marine
             Institute to set priorities for the use of research funds or other scarce

             resources.
                         It is anticipated that the State Archaeologist and the faculty and
             students of West Georgia College will take the lead in performing archaeological
             survey work on Sapelo, as they have done in the past. DNR will request the
             State archaeologist to coordinate closely, as necessary, with the University of
             Georgia regarding archaeological efforts on lands within the Board of Regents
             lease.
             D.    Education and Interpretation
                   1.    Context for Management
                         The SINERR serves a valuable educational purpose. The site-gives
             the public a chance to learn about the complex nature of an estuarine system,
             how it functions and how humans affect it. DNR has adopted the following
             mission statement for education and interpretive programming, as recommended
             by the SINERR Advisory Committee:
                   Communicate to various publics, through the SINERR, the value of
                   estuarine areas and the roles they play in the quality of life, so that
                   informed decisions can be made about the use of estuarine areas.

                   2.    General Policies
                         DNR has adopted the Advisory Committee's recommended goals and
             objectives for education and interpretive programming. These appear in
             Appendix H. The goals are as follows:
                         Content: Through SINERR programs, develop the message that
             Georgia's coastal area is a product of natural forces, modified by human
             activities which require effective, long-term management.
                         "Multiplier" Audiences: Concentrate educational and interpretive
             resourc es on reaching audiences who will communicate their knowledge about
             estuarine and other coastal resources to many other people.



                                                   40









                         The General Public: Communicate with the general public through
             effective educational and interpretive programming.
                         Educational and Interpretive Resources: Extend the SINERR's
             educational and interpretive program by cooperating with other organizations
             which perform related tasks.
                         Program Evaluation: Evaluate, through the SINERR annual report,
             the effectiveness of the educational and interpretive program and its effect on

             SINERR resources.
                   3.    Interpretive Message and Themes
                         The content goal states the message for the SINERR: the coastal
             area is a product of natural forces, modified by human activities which require
             effective, long-term management.. To communicate this message, DNR will use
             the following themes in its educational and interpretive programming: a
             description of the SINERR's natural history, the human activities which have
             occurred within the SINERR and how these activities have modified the natural
             system, and how decisions are made about the use of Georgia's coastal

             resources.
                   4.    Printed Materials
                         Current publications would benefit from a review and possibly
             revision. Additional publications will be developed to reach specific "multiplier"
             audiences: press packets and news releases for media, summ ries of
             management -related research findings for public officials, and a periodic
             newsletter for "alumni" of visits to the SINERR. Information provided. in such
             publications will reach more people than will the publications given to individual
             members of the general public.
                         Placing printed curriculum materials in primary and secondary
             schoo Is will reach tomorrow's citizens with important knowledge about estuarine
             resources. DNR will work with educators to develop classroom materials similar
             to Project WILD activities- -materials which can be used in @the classroom alone,
             or as part of a class visit to the SINERR.
                   5.    AudIOVWual Materials
                         DNR will develop additional audiovisual materials, as a means of
             reaching more people with existing staff. An arcbive of slides and presentation
             texts will be prepared for personal delivery by SINERR staff, by volunteers, or
             (with audiocassette narration) for useby classroom teachers and by members of
             community organizations in their meetings. DNR will also develop three ten-


                                                    41









              minute videotapes: a SINERR overview for elementary-school students, a similar
              overview for older audiences, and an introduction to the history and
              significance of the research which the Marine Institute has performed at Sapelo'
              Island since 1953.
                     6.    Signs and Exhibits
                           Signage in the Meridian Dock exhibit area introduces the visitor to
              the SINERR. DNR.wifl place interpretive signs on the Sapelo Queen to continue
              this introduction. Signage at Marsh Landing Dock will describe the monitoring
              station there. DNR will also develop a new nature trail which interprets the
              upland forest, estuarine area and beach-and-dune systems through which the
              trail passes. Interpretive signage   will appear at key locations on the trail.
                           DNR plans to build an interpretive center in the SINERR. It will
              include an exhibit area to replace, visitor use of the exhibit areas at the Marine
              Institute and Long Tabby. DNR will add to the professionally designed exhibits
              at Meridian Dock and the. interpretive center which convey the educational and
              research themes at the SINERR. Outdoor exhibits will be placed at several
              locations, including the Marsh Landing dock, to interpret the monitoring station
              there. One or more traveling exhibits will be developed for use in schools and
              other offsite locations.
                           .These exhibits will be designed and built under the guidance of the
              Education Coordinator. The Interpretive Assistant will use them as part of the
              guided activities for tour groups. The exhibits will serve self-guiding groups,
              as well.
                     7.    Program Activities and Services
                           a.     Future Onsite Activities
                                  DNR will build an interpretive center on Sapelo Island, which
              an interpretive- trail will connect to Marsh Landing dock and Nannygoat Beach.
              DNR will place a primitive campground in the Natural Area, connected to the
              interpretive trail. These facilities are described in detail in Sections IV.A.10
              and IV.A.11. The center and trail will-serve groups guided by DNR staff and
              by DNR-trained leaders. The campground will serve organized groups guided
              by leaders whom DNR has trained.
                           b.     Future Offsite Activities
                                  DNR will develop and distribute curriculum materials for
              classroom use. These will introduce the SINERR to students preparing to visit



                                                        42








              the island, but they will be designed. to serve groups who will not visit, as
              well.
                                 DNR will evaluate current SINERR 'publications to determine
              what revisions are needed. DNR will also decide whether new SINERR
              publications are required for the general public or. special markets.
                                 Once the Education Coordinator has taken charge of
              educational and interpretive programming onsite, the Resident Manager will be
              able to make more offsite presentations about the SINERR and estuarine
              resources generally. The Coordinator will assist by preparing program
              materials for the Manager. The Coordinator will also make presentations offsite
              as needed.

              E.    Public Access and Recreation
                    1.    Context for          8
                          Estuarine education must be enjoyable to be effective. Recreation
              within the SINERR has teaching value, and the educational program has a
              recreational component. DNR will manage most recreationa    I use of the SINERR
              to increase its educational value@; Management will be designed to avoid adverse.
              effects on the estuary and on research projects.
                    2.    Access Policies
                        ' 'Adcesst to Sapelo Island uplands will be closely regulated., DNR has
              prepared access policies which generally allow island residents, their visitors,
              and individuals engaged in official. state business to use the uplands. Official
              state business* includes authorized SINERR tours, group camping, and public
              hunting. A copy of these policies appears as Appendix I.
                    3.    Wildlife-oriented Recreation
                          Hunting, fishing and wildlife observation will continue to be a part
              of SINERR programming.
                    4.    Boating
                          Recreational boating will continue within the SINERR.
                    5.    Hiking and Camping
                          The planned nature trail will lead from Marsh Landing dock
              eastward past the proposed interpretive center and end at Nannygoat Beach.
              It will pass through upland forest, estuarine, and dune-and-beach
              environments, with interpretive signs and exhibits at suitable locations. The
              trail will serve groups who prefer a closer look at the SINERR than is possible
              on the driving tours.  All users will be members of groups which are


                                                      43









              accompanied by DNR staff or a leader trained. by DNR. There are no plans to
              allow unguided recreational hiking within the SINERR. Such use could damage
              estuarine resources and research projects.
                          The Cabretta camping area is beginning to show signs of overuse,
              particularly in the fragile dune areas. DNR plans to build a primitive camping
              area with restrooms in the Natural Area for use by educational groups. The
              Cabretta campground will then be closed to regular use.
                          The new camp will be accessible from the trail but some distance
              away from it, to separate the campers from day-use groups. The camping
              groups must also have leaders trained by DNR to use these facilities.
              Requiring that group leaders be trained will enable DNR to reduce staff time
              now spent with camping groups, and it will minimize, the risk of misuse by
              group members.
                    6.    Swimming and Beach Use
                          Swimming and beach use at the SINERR will continue at present
              levels, but DNR will not increase its emphasis on these activities.. Groups
              using the proposed campsite and nature trails will make more recreational use of
              the beach than the SINERR tours are capable of doing.
                    7.    Land Acquisition
                          State ownership of the SINERR lands is an important protection
              tool. The State owns nearly all of this property. The only known title
              exception concerns the lighthouse tract, about 200 acres at Sapelo's south end.
              An heir of one of R. J. Reynolds' wives has asked DNR to make a settlement of
              a one-half undivided interest she claims in this tract. DNR is negotiating with
              the heir's representatives to resolve the claim.
                          From time to time, other individuals have claimed title to lands
              within State ownership boundaries. DNR will evaluate the evidence presented
              to support these claims and will request assistance from other agencies as
              required to resolve them.












                                                    44










                              IV. FACILITY DEVRWPMENT AND STAFFING



             A. FaciUties
                   1.    Meridian Dock
                         Development on this tract includes a 25x6O-foot wooden platform on
             pilings with a floating dock attached; the asphalt entrance drive and unpaved
             parking for 75 vehicles; two garages, for 3 and 16 cars; and a multipurpose
             building-
                         The Meridian Dock tract will continue to be the.primary point of
             departure from the mainland. This purpose will guide its use and development.
             Parking and traffic flow have become less satisfactory as SINERR visitation has
             increased. A contributing factor is the use of buses to transport some tour
             groups to Meridian Dock. DNR will redesign parking to improve traffic
             circulation.
                          All visitors to the SINERR have an opportunity to view the
             introductory exhibits in'the multipurpose building. These exhibits have become
             outdated. DNR will evaluate and renovate exhibits in the visitor center at
             Meridian Dock. DNR will also prepare exhibits such as interpretive graphics to
             place on the ferry for visitor use.
                   24    Marsh Tanding Dock
                         The Marsh Landing dock is a partially roofed structure without
             sides, built on a wooden platform supported by wooden pilings, and connected
             by ramps to a floating dock. Facilities at the dock include a dock house,
             water-well pump house and restrooms. About three-tenths of a mile to the
             southeast, on the upland, are a frame residence with a garage and utility
             building.  These are occupied by one of the two DNR vessel captains.
                         An asphalt road connects Marsh Landing with the rest of Sapelo
             Island. It runs southeasterly across Sapelo, ending at Nannygoat Beach.
             Connecting roads provide access to the rest of the island.
                         DNR will continue to operate Marsh Landing as the primary
             passenger access point for Sapelo,Island. DNR will maintain in operational
             condition the residence, dock and support facilities at Marsh Landing. It win
             be necessary to redesign parking at Marsh Landing to improve traffic
             circulation. The proposed nature trail will begin at Marsh Landing. Visitors
             will walk to the interpretive center to be built in Skeet Field, about one-half



                                                    45








             mile east of the dock. Here they will: receive an orientation about SINERR
             resources and uses, including guidelines for their group's activities.
                   3.     Residences
                          Four DNR residences face the estuary's east side just north of
             Barn Creek, and another is located near the greenhouse at the south end of the
             island.
                          The Marine Institute's Director lives in Azalea Cottage, near the
             Marine Institute (Figure 11). Permanent staff at the Marine Institute occupy
             two residences at Post Office Creek. A garage, a utility building and two
             docks serve these houses. Five staff houses, a small group of mobile homes
             and a utility building occupy a tract known as Shell Hammock, which overlooks
             Doboy Sound. Several apartments and a dormitory in the Marine Institute
             laboratory complex, and a second group of mobile homes nearby, house visiting
             researchers and students.

                   4.     Marine Institute
                          The Marine Institute is located on. a 1,500-acre parcel of upland,
             marshland,  sand dunes and beach which. encompasses almost the entire   southern
             end of Sapelo Island (Figures 7 and 11). This parcel also contains most of the
             major structures on Sapelo, Island. It was subject to the 50-year lease between
             DNR and the Board of Regents. The other 75 acres leased by the Marine
             Institute lie within the Natural Area. The lease provides that the Marine
             Institute will use the premises to conduct scientific research and educational
             activities.
                          Five staff houses, a small trailer complex, and a utility building
             occupy a tract of high ground known as Shell Hammock, which overlooks Doboy
             Sound just west of a diked enclosure built by R. J. Reynolds. To the east of
             this enclosure lies the hub of research activity: the Marine Institute
             Laboratory, which occupies a large brick dairy barn also built by Reynolds.
                          Support facilities for the laboratory include:
                          - a general-purpose storage building, two equipment storage
                   buildings, two garages, two gas and oil storage structures, and a filling
                   station for retail fuel sales to all island residents,
                          ï¿½ one inoperative power plant', and a microwave building and tower,
                          ï¿½ a carpenter shop and two m achine shops,





                                                    46








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                         ,-"7S`a1'dinP,(
                                     Pi

                                                                                                                                               21-25    Shell Hammock staff houses                   40     apartment building
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        53
                                                                                                                                               26       utility building                             41     "Jage                                       54
                                                                                                                                               27       trailer housing areas                        42     filling station                             55
                            Au.                                                                                                                28       Marine Institute storage                     43     gas &   oil storage                         56
                                                                                                                                               29       microwave building & tower                   44     oil storage                                 57
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        58
                                                                                                                                               30       auxiliary power plant                        45     power plant (inop.)
                                                                                                                                               31-32    equipment storage                            46     bast house                                  59
                                                                                                                                               33       carpenter shop                               47     dormitory                                   so
                                                                                                                                               34       machine shop                                 48     South End    House                          61
                                                                                                                                               35       marine railway building                      49     pump house                                  62
                                 U"                                                                                                                     machine shop                                 50     laundry                                     63
                                                                 SHELL                                                                         36
                                                                                                                                                                                                     51     electric/plumbing shop                      71
                                                                                                                                               37       Marine Institute lob                         52     mobile radio eqpt. bldg.                    73
                                                            HAMM0CK\sI'                                 y                                      36       wrap
                            to                                                                                                                 39       CaFfillp hOUN/OffiCe                                                                            79
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                           ï¿½ a marine railway, support building, and boat hoist,
                           ï¿½ two residential structures: a building with four apartments and a
                    30-bed dormitory,
                           - two administrative/ storage buildings, and
                           - two small house trailer complexes.
              The Marine Institute uses docking facilities at the south end of Sapelo for heavy
              freight and fuel.
                           The  Marine Institute will continue to use and maintain the
              structures on this tract for scientific, educational and residential purposes as
              stipulated in the approved lease and operating agreement between DNR and the
              Board of Regents. The tours will pass the laboratory complex but will no
              longer visit the exhibit space in the laboratory building. This will give the
              visitors a view of the facilities without disturbing the Institute's scientific
              work.
                    5.     R.J. Reynolds Mansion (South End House)
                           East of the laboratory complex about three-tenths of a mile is R. J.
              Reynolds' former mansion, the South End House, including a pump house and a
              mobile radio equipment building. The South End House is the most imposing
              structure on Sapelo Island. It can provide lodging for 25-30 people. The
              two-story structure, a composite of homes constructed by three former owners
              of Sapelo Island, was clearly designed for entertaining. It has two swimming
              pools, a ballroom, a bowling alley, and murals by Athos Menaboni, a noted
              Georgia artist. The Marine Institute now administers this house for conferences
              and other professional gatherings.
                           A paved road runs southeasterly from the South End House and
              ends on Nannygoat Beach beside a restroom, a boardwalk- dune crossing, a
              raised picnic pavilion, and three small cabanas. A large prehistoric
              archaeological site is located below the surface in a pecan orchard just south of
              the road, southwest of South End House.
                           The South End House needs repairs to make it suitable for
              continued occupancy. Its wiring and plumbing date from the 1930s and it
              contains asbestos. DNR and Regents have agreed to determine what would be
              required to preserve the building and restore it for day use as an historic site
              managed by DNR. According to a preliminary study by consulting architects
              and engineers, such reuse is feasible.



                                                       48









                          DNR and Regents will propose to restore the Main House for day
              use only if the current conference activities can be relocated suitably. A
              second preliminary study suggests that Long Tabby and surrounding buildings
              may be adaptable for conferences without loss of meeting, dining or sleeping
              space. If DNR and Regents agree on a plan for all these changes, they will
              have to seek funds from the General Assembly to carry it out.
                    6.    Game and Fish Division Regional Office
                          The regional office and several residences occupy a 28-acre upland
              tract which lies between the northwest end of the landing strip and Post Office
              Creek, just south of Riverside Canal (Figure 12). The creek takes its name
              from the Sapelo Island post office, which is located on this tract. DNR's
              administrative center is here.' Permanent staff at the Marine Institute occupy
              residences at Post Office Creek which are known as Ashantilly and the airport
              residence. A garage, a utility building, and two docks complete the list of
              structures located here.
                          Long Tabby, measuring about 25x100 feet, is DNR's main
              administration building@ It contains modest resource exhibits and an
              audiovisual room which is also used as a laboratory when school groups are
              visiting.
                          Associated with Long Tabby are three storage buildings, a wood
              shop and an unusable swimming pool. Boat traffic at the docks consists chiefly
              of inboard and outboard vessels less than 27 feet in length, which make one or
              two trips a day.
                          DNR will continue using the Post Office Creek tract for
              administrative, educational, residential and related purposes. It will maintain
              the docks and other structures in operational condition. A new regional
              administrative center is being built in Brunswick. It is scheduled for
              completion during 1990. When it is ready for occupancy, the Game and Fish
              regional office will move to Brunswick.
                          Long Tabby will continue to serve as the SINERR administrative
              office until the proposed interpretive center is built. When DNR no longer
              maintains offices in Long Tabby, the building can be put to other uses. DNR
              and the Marine Institute will discuss possible uses of the building.
                    7.    Lending Field
                          This 170-acre upland tract lies on Sapelo Island's west side about
              one-half mile northeast of Marsh Landing (Figure 12). It consists of a


                                                     49



















                                                                                                                                                                                            ..........
                                                                                                                                                                                                          RIVERSIDE                      C A N A L
                                                                                                   :4
                                                                                                                                                                                                             ZZ


                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   Z:z






                                                                        ow                                                  ------



                                                                                                                      'o
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                                                                                                                                                                                               t
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                                                                                                                                              co,


                                                                           41






                                                                  Ashantilly                       16       Marsh Lending restdq@
                                                            2     st0rage building                 16       garegisfutilitt,
                                                            3     .0
                                                                  "O:d-rk sftp                     17       pt tfice
                                                            4          go  building                         Pump house                                                   CL
                                                            9     k,tcah*n                         11:      lavato isill
                                                        10        Long Tabby                       20   -                                                              L-    I
                                                                                                            d.., house,
                                                            I     airport MidewA                   so       Aftrsh Lending dock
                                                        :2        garage/utility                   so
                                                        13                                                  Barn Crook dock
                                                                  anstri hanger                    70       Long Tabby dock
                                                        14        Punipph=                         74       Ashantilly dock
                                                                                                   75       sioviontning pool



                                            sit--
                                                            *     I                            *.    @,% -    (   .                          ",,
                                10                          R%             \
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                                                                                                                               p


                                                                                                            FIGURE 12:                  Post Office Creek Tract




                                                                                                                                                                                                         C7


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                                                                                                                                            50     In









             north-south grass airstrip with landing lights, a short taxiway and a 75x75-foot
             steel hangar. The Federal Aviation Administration limits access to aircraft
             which have specific State business and which must obtain prior permission from
             the SINERR Resident Manager. The most frequent users of the airstrip are
             DNR1s Game Management and Law Enforcement personnel, and Marine Institute
             staff. Because of its surface and length, the strip generally serves only
             helicopters or small, fixed-wing, propeller- driven aircraft. The average
             number of flights using the strip is les's than one a week. This level of .
             operation appears to have no adverse effects on the Duplin River estuary.
                          An untested archaeological site appears to underlie the airstrip.
             The State Archaeologist has determined that, aircraft operation is not likely to
             harm this cultural resource. Testing would require digging, which would make
             the airstrip's surface unsafe for fixed-wing operations. DNR will continue
             restricting aircraft traffic using the field to persons having DNR permission
             and having legitimate State business on Sapelo, Island, when boat travel i6 not
             feasible. The landing surface will be maintained in a usable condition.
                   8.     Moses Hammock Hunting Camp
                          Hunters on Sapelo Island stay at a camping area on Moses
             Hammock, a small island near the Duplin River's upper end which is con    nected
             to Sapelo by an earthen causeway (Figure 13). It consists of a grassy clearing
             under trees, where the hunters pitch their tents. Amenities include a dock, a
             hunter checking station, a generator house, a well, a cooler and restrooms.
                          DNR will continue to use the Moses Hammock camping area for
             hunters. DNR will monitor use of the camping area for possible effects of such
             use on the Duplin River estuary.
                   9.     Kensin Field Timber Dock
                          This 10-acre tract of upland and marsh lies on the west side of
             Sapelo Island, about two miles north of Marsh Landing. It is the point from
             which timber harvested on the Reynolds WMA leaves by barge for the mainland.
             The only improvement is a dock which extends 90 feet from shore, with a
             15x50-foot working platform and two loading ramps. The barge loads timber
             harvested on the island at this area.
                          The timber barge travels at any stage of the tide. The tug and
             barge may vary in size and length, according to the contractor's daily
             requirements. Normally, the barge measures about 25xlOO feet. The mainland
             offloading point is on private property at Valona, Georgia. DNR will continue


                                                     51






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                                                               A    14









              using the Kenan Field timber dock to remove timber harvested on Sapelo Island,
              using sound protective practices.
                    10.    Orientation and Interpretive Center
                           So far, DNR has used guided tours as the core of the SINERR
              interpretive program. This approac   h has made it easy to keep group members
              away from fragile resources and research projects, and it has been possible to
              adapt the contents of each tour somewhat to address the members' interests.
              Many visitors come away from the SINERR tours feeling a personal sense of
              involvement with the SINERR.
                           This approach is very labor-intensive, however. DNR could inform
              only 3000 tour visitors about the SINERR during 1988. SINERR staff need to
              develop materials and programs to take offsite. Time is too limited for a
              significant level of offsite activity at present.
                           With proper training, some individuals can become docents to guide
              their own groups once they arrive at the SINERR. DNR will use the
              interpretive center and trail to train volunteer leaders and to orient and
              educate qualified self-guiding visitor groups.
                           DNR will build a center for orientation and interpretation near
              Marsh Landing. It will include exhibits about the SINERR and the Marine
              Institute, a small theater for audiovisual presentations and lectures, classroom
              and laboratory space, an information and sales area, and public restrooms.
              SINERR staff will have offices in this building. The Sapelo Island post office
              will also be housed in the center.
                    11.    Interpretive Trails
                           After receiving an orientation in the center, visiting groups win
              continue on a system of interpretive trails. Trailside graphics and outdoor
              exhibits will teach visitors about estuarine systems, research and management
              by pointing out resources and management activities. The group leader will
              have received training to provide more information and answer some questions
              which group members are likely to ask.
                           DNR will first build one trail which interprets the island's
              geological development, the estuarine environment, the upland forests, and the
              beach and dune system. , DNR will monitor the trail to protect against overuse
              and to determine the need for improvemen   ts. If the trail proves to be effective
              when used by self -guided groups with a trained leader, DNR will evaluate the
              possibility of extending the trail into a system.


                                                       53









                             DNR and the Marine Institute are discussing possible locations for a
                camping area not far from Nannygoat Beach. The Cabretta campsite is showing
                signs of overuse, and an alternate campsite would be desirable. Connecting a
                camping area to the interpretive trail with a side trail for use only by the
                campers will enable them to carry their own equipment rather than requiring
                DNR personnel to  'transport them.. It will also give the campers easy acce    ss to
                the interpretive resources of the center and the trail.


                B.     Personnel Requirements
                       1.    SINERR Staff
                             The Resident Manager will continue to have day-to-day
                responsibility for managing the SINERR. The Interpretive Assistant will
                continue to handle tour scheduling and to present tours. The Assistant will
                also orient visitors and give interpretive programs at the center and, on some
                occasions, in the camping area and on the trail. The Wildlife Technician III,
                the Wildlife Technician Il and the Mechanic will continue their present duties.
                             DNR will hire a Marine Educator qualified to implement the
                educational and interpretive program. DNR will consider having this person
                interpret the Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary as well as the SINERR,
                since the two programs are closely related, geographically and conceptually.
                             The Marine Educator will develop and present training programs to
                certify volunteer guides, who then are authorized to lead groups in the
                SINERR. These guides will include teachers and instructors, members of
                conservation and civic organizations, docents to guide the general public on
                walking tours, and students from the Governorl.s intern program. The Marine
                Educator will refine the content of the general public tours and add more
                discussion of the Marine Institute's research programs. The Marine Educator
                will help DNR's cinema unit develop three brief video programs for use at the
                orientation center and offsite.

                             The Marine Educator will extend offsite activities in several other
                ways. With help from the Marine Extension Service and other sources, the
                Educator will develop curriculum materials for classroom use. The Educator win
                seek the assistance of the Department of Education to distribute these
                educational materials and video programs to public school systems, private
                schools and colleges.



                                                          54









                         The Marine Educator will extend public outreach of the SINERR
             educational program. He or she will help develop the slide archive and presen-
             tation texts which the Educator and the SINERR Coordinator will use offsite.
             The Educator will develop exhibits and informational 'materials for placement at
             appropriate mainland locations. The Educator will develop @ publications for use
             by multiplier audiences such as the media, public officials and "alumni" of visits
             to the SINERR.
                         DNR has used one student intern each year for SINERR activities.
             It will now seek one student intern per quarter for the SINERR.
                  2.     Marine Institute Staff
                         The numbers of Marine Institute employees and associated scientists
             will vary to some degree with funding. The permanent managerial and research
             staff are expected to remain at about nine persons. DNR encourages the hiring
             of a public -information officer/ research coordinator for the Marine *1 fistitutewho
             can translate SINERR research findings for use in the SINERR educational
             program. This person may also help coordinate research projects and programs
             in the SINERR. NOAA and the Marine Institute will explore funding such a
             position, in cooperation with the DNR.
                   3.    DNR Research and Monitoring Staff
                         The State Archaeologist and employees of the Environmental
             Protection Division, the Coastal Resources Division and the Game and Fish
             Division will continue to perform research and monitoring tasks as described in
             the earlier sections on cultural-resource research and monitoring.
                   4.    McIntosh County Chamber of Commerce
                         The McIntosh County Chamber of Commerce operates a welcome
             center in Darien, Georgia. It will continue to publicize SINERR tours, notify
             DNR of tour participants, sell tour tickets and send tour information to people
             who have made reservations, as specified in the agreement between the
             Chamber and DNR (Appendix F).












                                                   55











                                          V. ADMINISTRATION


                   Establishing the Sapelo, Island National Estuarine Research Reserve
             (SINERR) required cooperation between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
             Administration (NOAA) and other federal, State and local agencies. In 1969,
             the State received funds from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to buy lands
             and waters at Sapelo Island. Some of the upland and all of the marsh so
             acquired were later included in the SINERR. In 1976, the Department of
             Natural Resources (DNR) received funds from NOAA. These funds helped set
             up the SINERR. Since that time, other NOAA g-rants have supported operations
             and research in the SINERR.
                   All agencies involved have important duties regarding the SINERR. The
             U.S. Department of Commerce administers the National Estuarine Reserve
             Research program through NOAA's Marine and Estuarine Management Division.
             NOAA provides policy guidance from the national program perspective. The
             SINERR may request. financial support from NOAA's various categories of
             reserve funding. Through these grants, NOAA personnel work directly with
             the Resident Manager to accomplish the program objectives of the grant.
                   Pursuant to Sections 312 and 315 of the Coastal Zone Management Act,
             NOAA may periodically conduct perform nce evaluations on the operation and
             management of the SINERR. These evaluations ensure that the SINERR is
             meeting applicable grant conditions and national policies. The evaluations also
             acknowledge and support ongoing programs which address SINERR management
             needs.
                   DNR has direct responsibility for managing the SINERR. It manages the
             site in accordance with applicable NOAA policies, grant award conditions, this
             management plan and the Regents lease and.operating agreement. Through the
             Reserve program, DNR prepares annual reports on SINERR activities. When
             combined with grant performance reports and site visits by NOAA, these annual
             reports provide the basis for program evaluations.
                   The Board of Natural Resources prepares specific policies for DNR and
             the SINERR. It also approves DNR's budget requests, including funds and
             positions for the SINERR.
                   DNR also relies on the SINERR Advisory Committee for professional
             advice about research, education and management of the SINERR. The
             Committee reviews goals and activities each year and recommends useful


                                                   .56








            changes. The technical task forces prepare'recommendations for the Advisory
            Committee to consider. The Committee gave its first recommendations to DNR in
            1989. Estimated costs to carry out the proposed improvements appear in
            Appendix J.
                  Public comment is an important source of ideas for managing the SINERR.
            DNR made a draft of this management plan available for public review from
            November 1989 through January 1990. , Many individuals and organizations made
            comments at two public meetings, one in Darien, Georgia, on December 6, 1989,
            and one on Sapelo Island on January 10, 1990. DNR also received written
            comments about the plan. Appendix K summarizes these comments.and the uses
            which DNR will make of them in SINERR programs.
                  Since 1953, the University of Georgia has done research within the Duplin
            River estuary. T  he Georgia Board of Regents is the University's parentI
            organization. In.1976, the Board of Regents received from DNR a fifty-year
            lease and an operating agreement for the,south end of Sapelo.
                  Permanent staff and visiting scientists perform'research at the Marine
            Institute. They publish research findings in professional journals. The
            Institute"also hosts meetings of scientists, educators and students on Sapelo
            Island.,

























                                                   57









                                        VL REFERENCES. CITED


            1.    Anonymous. Climatological Data Annual Summaries, 1972-1982. National
                  Climatological Center, U.S. Department of Commerce, Asheville, North
                  Carolina.

            2.                 1976. - Handbook:. Building in the Coastal Environment.
                  Georgia Departmeni'of Natural Resources, Atlanta. 119p.

            3.                 1983. Tide,Tables for the East Coast of North and South
                  America.   National Ocean Survey, U.S. Department of Commerce,
                  Rockville ,Maryland.
            4.    Cooper, A  W. 1974. Salt Marshes, pp. 55-98. In: H.T. Odum, B.J.
                  Copeland, and E.A. McMahan, (ed.s.), Coastal Ecological Systems of the.
                  U.S., Vol.. II, The Conservation Foundation, Washington, D.C.

            5.    Crook, M.R., Jr. 1980. Archaeological Indications of Community
                  Structures at the Kenan Field Site, pp. 89-100. In: D.P. Juengst
                  (ed.), Sapelo Papers: Researches in the History and Prehistory of SApelo
                  Island, Georgia, West Georgia College Studies in the Social. Sciences, Vol.
                  XIX., Carrollton. vii+114p.

            6.    Johnson, A.* H-. Hillestad, S.. Shanholtzer and.F. Shanholtzer. 1974.
                  An Ecological Survey of the Coastal Region of Georgia. National Park
                  Service, Scientific Monograph Series, No. 3."', 233p.

            7.    Kinsey, B. 1982. A Sapelo Island Handbook. University of Georgia
                  Marine Institute, Sapelo Island. 48p.

            8.    Richardson, J.R. 1975. Map adapted from Richardson, J.R., and S.
                  Worthington, 1975, Terrestrial Ecology of the Georgia Barrier Islands,
                  pp. 35-111. In: The Value and Vulnerability of Coastal Resources,
                  Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Atlanta. 321p.

            9.    Schelske, C.L. and E.P. Odum. 1962. Mechanisms Maintaining High
                  Productivity in Georgia Estuaries. Gulf Caribb. Fish. Inst. Proc. 14:
                  75-80.




















                                                   58






                    Sapelo Island
       National Estuarine Research Reserve
           Management Plan Appendices



























        National   Sapelo Island
        Estuarine
        Research
        Reserve
        Program
                                                                  rM


































        U.S. Department of Commerce
                                                               Cn
































                                          Appendix A:


                             Lease between DNR and Board of Regents







                                      STATE OF GEORGIA,

                                      COUNTY OF FULTON:


                                                               LEASE AGREEMENT


                                           THIS LEASE AGREEMENT made this 21st day of December
                                      1976 by and between the DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESPIRCES, on

                                      agency and department of the State Government of Georgia, acting

                                      for and on behalf and  in the name of the State of Georgia, whose

                                      business address is 270 Washington Street* S. W., Atlanta, Georgia

                                      30334 (hereinafter sometimes referred to either as "the Lessor"

                                      or as "the Department*) and the BOARD OF REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY

                                      SYSTEM OF GEORGIA, an agency of the State Government of Georgia,

                                      whose business address is 244 Washington Street, S. W., Atlanta,

                                      Georgia 30334 (hereafter sometimes referred to either as 'the

                                      Lessee" or an the "Board of Regents*).

                                                             W I T N E S S E T H:
                                                             - - - - - - - - - -
                                           WHERAS,  by virtue of that certain December 8, 1975 Option

                                      To Purchase Properties, as amended, granted by the Sapelo Island

                                      Research Foundation,  Inc. (hereinafter referred to as the Founda-

                                      tion"), the State of Georgia acting by and through the Department,

                                      has an option to purchase all of the real property, together with

                                      all personal property located thereon (which is owned by the Foun-

                                      dation); said real property constituting &,portion of what is

                                      known as Sapolo Island and Meridian Dock Landing (except for that

                                      area known as Hog Hammock); all of said properties being More

                                      particularly described in said Option, and (except for said per-

                                      sonal property) being hereinafter collectively referred to as

                                      *the South End Properties"; and

                                           WHEREAS, since July 1. 19S3 Regents, acting by and through
                                      the University of Georgia, a unit of the   University System of

                                      Georgia, and pursuant to agreements between Regents and the

                                      Foundation, has conducted an institute being located on the

                                      southerly portion of the South End Properties which are located


                                                             Page 1 Of 18 Pages



                                                             Pages 1 Of 61 Pages






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                                         ou Sapolo Island; and

                                             WHEREAS. the real property facilities utilized by the Regents

                                         in the conduct of said institute are subject to the terms of

                                         said Option and

                                             WHEREAS. subsequent to the exercise of said Option. if any,

                                         and a purchase by the State of Georgia pursuant thereto, if

                                         any, all said real property and facilities, as well as the

                                         personal property of the Foundation located thereon and therein.

                                         shall be owned by the State of Georgia and shall be within the

                                         custody, control and management of the Department; and

                                             WHEREAS, the State of Georgia. the Foundation. the Depart-

                                         ment and Regents mutually desire that Regents continue to utilize

                                         said properties (both real and personal) and facilities in the

                                         conduct of said institute for scientific research and educational

                                         activities;

                                             Now, THEREFORE, pursuant to the authority vested in the

                                         State of Georgia and the Department by Co. Laws 1974. page 273

                                         (Ga. Code Ann. 543-1707). in order to enable the Board of Regents 

                                         to continue said scientific research and educational activities

                                         without interruption subsequent to the purchase. if any, of the

                                         South End Properties by the State of Georgia, and in consideration

                                         of the mutual covenants. conditions. obligations and agreements

                                         herein contained. the parties hereto do hereby agree an follows:

                                             1. DEFINITIONS. The following words and terms when used

                                         In this lease agreement. shall have the following meanings unless

                                         other meanings are otherwise clearly apparent from the context:

                                             A. The work 'land" shall mean the real property referenced

                                             in paragraph 2 hereof. and more particularly described in

                                             EXHIBIT "A" hereof, together with all structures and other

                                             improvements located under. on or above the land as of the

                                             effective data Qf this lease agreement.

                                             b. The word "premises".shall mean the land. together with

                                             all and singular the rights, members and __________________

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                                           thereunto belonging, or in any wise apimrta in qiqwi. -iqii.iqi I It%-

                                           facilities (as the word "facilities" is defined herein and
	
                                           the personalty (as the word "personalty" in defined herein,

                                          all as more fully described in EXHIBIT "A".

                                           C.. The word 'facilities" shall mean any and all structures

                                           and other improvements which are now (as of the effective

                                           date hereof) or which may hereafter be located upon the land

                                           described in EXHABIT "A".

                                           D. The word 'Personalty" shall man all    of the personal

                                           property located on the land described in EXHIBIT "A"

                                           hereto and which will be conveyed to the State of Georgia   by

                                           that certain BILL Or SALE OF PERSONAL PROPERTY, the form

                                           of which is attached to said Option as EXHABIT "D-1" there-

                                           to and a copy of which is labeled EXHABIT "c", attached

                                           hereto and by reference incorporated herein.

                                           Z. The words "terminate" or *termination" shall mean the

                                           end of this lease agreement whether due to the expiration

                                           of the term hereof or to an earlier end of the term,

                                           whether by reason of an uncured default hereunder or other-

                                           wise.


                                           2. LAND & PERSONALTY LEASED. Lessor, for and in considera-

                                      tion of the rents herein reserved, and the covenants. agreements,

                                      duties and obligations heroin made and agreed to be performed,

                                      observed and kept by the Lessee. and subject to the provisions,

                                      terms and conditions hereinafter set forth,   and subject to the

                                      disputed outstanding claim of an undivided one-half interest in

                                      that area of the South End Properties commonly known and referred

                                      to as the "Lighthouse Tract" by Marianne O'Brian Reynolds Meyers

                                      and subject further to those title exceptions set forth in said

                                      December 8, 1975 option as amended. as   Permitted Title Exception.

                                      as well as to any other exceptions to title which may   be waived

                                      by the State Of Georgia  prior to its purchase of said South

                                      End Properties, has let. leased and demised and by these present=

                                      does let. lease and demise unto the Lessee and the Lessee

                                                        Page 1 of 10 Pages
                                                                                                    A-3
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                                     does hereby take. lease and hire from the Leasor,

                                     upon the covenants, agreements, duties and obligations heroin

                                     made and agreed to be performed, observed and kept by the

                                     Lessee. and subject to the provisions hereinafter set forth.

                                     and land more particularly described om EXHIBIT "A" attached

                                     hereto, incorporated in and by reference made a part hereof,

                                     together with the personalty.

                                           3. TERM. This lease agreement shall be for a term of So

                                     years beginning an the effective date hereof. unless sooner

                                     terminated as hereinafter provided.

                                           4. EFFECTIVE DATE. The effective      date of this lease agree-

                                     ment if any there be. shall be the second calendar day following

                                     (and  not including) the day upon which the State of Georgia,

                                     acting by and through the Lesser, shall accept delivery of one

                                     or more warranty deeds, conveying to the State of Georgia the

                                     South End Properties. notice of the effective date hereof shall

                                     be given to the parties by the State of Georgia Department of Law.

                                           5. ESTATE FOR YEARS. It is the specific intent and agree-

                                     ment of the parties hereto that this lease agreement, as of the

                                     effective date hereof. grants and conveys from the Lessor and

                                     vests in the Lease* an estate for years in the promises.-

                                           6. RENTS. Lessee covenants and agrees to pay as rental

                                     during the full term of this lease agreement, the sum of $1.00

                                     per year, said sum to be paid on the effective date of this lease

                                     agreement and an or before the anniversary thereof for each

                                     year thereafter during the  term hereof.

                                           7. PURPOSES FOR WHICH THE PREMISES ARE LEASED. it is

                                     understood and agreed by and between the Lessor and the Lessee

                                     that the promises are leased solely for the purpose of enabling

                                     the Lessee to conduct scientific research and educational activity

                                     projects. Lessor agrees that it will cooperate with and will

                                     aid and assist Lassoe's scientific research and educational


                                                       Page 4 Of IS Pages

                                                       Page 4 Of 61 Pages



                                                                                                     A-4
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                                  activities by taking such action as shall be coasonably

                                  necessary to provide security for Lessee's scientific research

                                4 and educational activities projects against damage. destruction

                                  or other interference at interruption. Lessor further hereby

                                  agrees that Lessee my permit persons. other than personnel oc-

                                  Less** to use the promises an a limited basis; provided that any

                                  such use is restricted to uses in furtherance of the conduct of

                                  said scientific research and educational activities. Except

                                  as may be herein otherwise provided. no other use whatever

                                  shall be made of the promises by any person. including the Lessee,

                                  without the prior written consent of the Lessor.

                                       a. mAnprENANCE APQ USE OF PRFXISVS.

                                       A. Losses accepts the land in its present   condition as

                                       suited for the use intended by the Lessee. Lessee shall not

                                       commit or suffer to be committed any waste upon the promises

                                       and Lessee shall, at its own cost and expense, maintain the

                                       premises in good order and repair. Upon termination of

                                       this lease. the promises shall be returned to the Lessor

                                       in as good or better condition than when received pursuant

                                       hereto, natural woor and tear of the facilities and per-

                                       sonalty excepted. Lessee agrees that all personal property

                                       of Lessee an the promises is located thereon at Lessee's

                                       own.risk and Lessor shall not be liable for any damage

                                       thereto or loss thereof.

                                       B. Notwithstanding Lessee's obligations to maintain the

                                       premises. an net forth En !;uIJ(I-aroiqr-tph II(A) Aiuvl-,

                                       @shall not be obligated to maintain the roads.-r0ad ditches,

                                       bridges. and tide gates at bridges, all of which the Lessor

                                       hereby agrees to maintain in good order and repair during

                                       the torm hereof.





                                                   Page 5 Of le Pages

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                                               C. Xt shall be the responsibility Of Losses. at its own

                                               cost and expense. at all time during the term her oaf. to

                                               pay the premium  and to take such other actions as may be

                                               necessary to cause the promises to be insured against loss

                                               or damage by fire or other casualty. Lessor acknowledges

                                               and agrees that said insurance shall be obtained by Lessee

                                               through the State of Gmwqia insurance program: provided

                                               howevert that said insurance shall insure both the Lessor aml

                                               the Lessee as their respoctiv* interests in the premises

                                               any appear. Lessee agrees that it will not do or permit

                                               to be done in. on. upon. from. to or about the premises,
                                               any act or thing whioh would inval idate any insurance

                                               contract-pertaininq to the premises.
                                        FA
                                               0. In the event the facilities shall be wholly or partially

                                               damaged or dostroyedby  fire, lightning, windstorm, hurrican,

                                               tornado. cyclone, hail, explosion. riot. civil convwtion.

                                               aircraft. smoke. land vehicle. boiler explosion or any other

                                        I      like or different type or kind of catastrophe during the

                                               to= of this leas* agreement, Losses shall, unless the partic;

                                               shall mutually agree otherwise, at its sole cost and expense

                                               and within a*reasonable period of time following such

                                               damage or destruction, repair. restore or replace the

                                               damaged or destroyed facilities in accordance with plans

                                               and ipecifications which shall be developed by the Lessee.

                                               but Which shall be subject to the approval of the Lessor.

                                               In the event that Lessor and Lessee shall mutually agree

                                               that any such damaged or destroyed facilities should not

                                               be repaired or replaced. all insurance proceeds received

                                               by the Lessee on account of such damage or destruction shall

                                               be paid by the Lessee to Lessor. Notwithstanding the fore-




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                                          going to the contrary. if the facilities shall be whoLly

                                          or partially damaged or destroyed an a result of any of

                                          the.'catastrophas hersinabove mentioned during the last

                                          fLve (S) years of the term hereof. it  shall be the option

                                          of Lessee, by notice to the Lessor within thirty (30) days

                                          of the date of settlement of the claim for such damage or

                                          destruction. to pay over to Lessor the entire sum of in-,

                                          surance proceeds payable an account of such loss or dams.  go,

                                          or to repair or rebuild the damaged ok destroyed facilities

                                          Ln accordance with plans and specifications developed by the

                                          Leaseis and approved by the Lessor.

                                          Z. In tho event of damage or destruction of any of the lease

                                          personalty as a result of any of the aforementioned catas-

                                          trophies, Losses shall repair or replace the same or shall

                                          pay over any insurance proceeds payable to Lessee upon such

                                          loss or damage to the Lessor, at the option of the Lessor.

                                          F. It is understood and agreed between the parties that the

                                          term *waste" as used in subparagraph S(a) above, shall not
                                          include -he *fellinq of trees by the Losses if necess Ltated

                                          by Losses's scientific research and educational activities

                                          and so long as such falling is consistent with accepted (in

                                          the reasonable opinion of the Lessor) forestry management

                                          practices and Lessor hereby expressly reserves the right to

                                          onter upon the promises for the purpose of applying such

                                          accepted forestry management practices.  includinq..but not

                                          limited to the felling of trees when. in  the reasonable

                                          opinion of the Lessor, such entry and application of forestry

                                          management practices are necessary in order to protect the
                                          property within Lessor's custody, control and manaqcmcllt.
                                          G. Lessee covenants and agrees that it shall no*t, Without

                                          the prior writtbn consent of the Lessor, utilize the Mariiie



                                                      Page 7 Of 19 Pages
                                                          Page 7 Of 61 Pages
                                                                                                    A-7
















                                          Railway. designated by the number "79" on EXHIBIT "D" hereto.

                                          for any craft except craft being use, by the Lessee directly

                                          In connection with and in support of Lessee's scientific

                                          and educational research. However, Lessor and Lessee agree

                                          that Lessor shall have. upon request and if available, the

                                          right to utilize the Karin* Railway for the drydocking, re-

                                          pair and maintenance of craft used by the Lessor in connec-

                                          tion with its custodial duties and obligations with respect

                                          to the South End Properties. as well as that property earlier

                                          acquired by the State of Georgia and located on the northern

                                          portion of Sapelo Island (said South End Properties and said

                                          northern portion being hereinafter collectively referred to

                                          as "the Sapelo Island area*).

                                          H. Lease* shall be solely responsible for and shall pay

                                          promptly when due any and all charges for utilities incurred

                                          or assessed in connection with Lessee's use and occupancy of

                                          the promises.

                                          9. MUTUAL USES OF PREMISES.

                                          A. Marina Railwav. Use of the Marine Railway by the Forties

                                          shall be as set forth in paragraph 8(G) hereinabove.

                                          B. Marine Laboratorv AAUDITORIUM.  Lessee hereby agreed that

                                          it will permit Lessor. upon request, and if available. to

                                          use the Marine Laboratory Auditorium.

                                          C. "Big House". Lessee agrees that subject to Lessee's in-

                                          ternal policies and regulations, it will permit the Lessor,

                                          upon Lessor's request and if available and upon payment by

                                          Lessor to Lessee of a user fee therefor. to utilize that

                                          building designated by number "48" on EXHIBIT "B" hereto,

                                          commonly known and referred to as the "Big House", for

                                          official functions of the Lessor.



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                                           0. South End Boat nanin     ntilkhrad. Lessee cuvenantr. anti

                                     k     agrees to permit Lessor at all times during the term hereof

                                           Wua* the bulkhead located at th* South End Bodt Basin

                                           fat Lessor's docking purpor-en.

                                           9. Residences. Lease* covenants and agrees to permit the

                                           Lessor to utilize. for occupancy by Lessor's personnel,

                                           upon Lessor's request and if available, not more than one

                                           (1) residence and related outbuildings) located an the

                                           leased promises, on a temporary basiso The specific terms

                                           of such use and occupancy shall be such as are mutually

                                           agreeable to the parties' respective resident r4.-prc-.--,,ntativt,:;

                                           provided however that in any event. Lessor shall be solely

                                     d     responsible for.maintaininq said residence in good order

                                           and repair at all times, during any occupancy thereof by

                                           Lessor's personnel. All other housing facilities located on

                                           the leased promises shall be used and occupied exclusively

                                           by personnel of the Lessee (and their immediate families.

                                           if any), and by Le see's official visitors (and their im-
                                           mediate families, :f any).

                                           F. Wildlife Management. Lessor hereby reserves the right

                                           and Lessee hereby agrees that Lessor, its members, officers,

                                           agents and employees, have the   right at all times during

                                           the term hereof, to enter upon   the leased premises and to

                                           conduct wildlife surveys, research and manaqement, to trap

                                           wildlife: to collect birds and mammals for scienti!ic study

                                           and to remove and dispose of diseased or injured wildlife.

                                           Lessor further hereby reserves the right for itself, its

                                     0     members,  officers. agents. employees and authorized (by

                                           Lessor) visitors, and Lessee hereby agrees that r,cssor. its
                                     4     members, officers, agents, employees and authorized (by
                                           Lessor) visitor's, shall have the right, as frequently as


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                                                            Page 9 Of 61 pages
                                                                                                      A-9















                                                 my be necessary, to enter upon the leased promises for

                                                 purposes of fulfilling the requirements of federal grant pro-

                                                 grams. Provided however, that the foregoing reservation

                                                 by the Lessor of the right to enter upon the premises is

                                                 not intended nor shall be construed as in any way limiting

                                                 or modifying Lessor's obligations, as set forth in paraqraph

                                                 7 hereof, to provide security for Lessee's research projects.

                                                 and the exercise of the right hereinabove reserved by Lessor

                                                 shall at all times be only such as shall be reasonably

                                                 necessary and shall not unreasonably interfere with Lessee's

                                                 use of the promises for scientific research and educational

                                                 activities.


                                                 10. LAW ENFORCEMENT. The Lessee hereby acknowledges that

                                           Lessor will patrol all of the Sapelo Island Area, including the

                                           leased premises. for law enforcement and security purposes; pro-

                                           vided, however. that nothing contained herein shall be deemed or

                                           construed to limit in any way the law enforcement powers of

                                           either the Lessor or the Lessee under the laws of the State     of

                                           Georgia.

                                                 11. COVENANT OF OUIET ENJOYMENT. Lessee paying the rents

                                           heroin reserved and fully performing. observing and keeping the

                                           covenants. agreements. duties and obligations by it to be per-

                                           formed obbserved and kept, may peaceably Possess. enjoy and use

                                           the leased promises during the term of this lease agreement free

                                           from any claim or interference by Lessor. except as herein pro-

                                           vided.  or from anyone claiming by. under or through Lessor.

                                                 12. DISPOSITION OF FACILITIES AND PERSONALITY.  In the

                                           event that at any time during the term hereof, the Lessee shall

                                           determine that any of the leased facilities or personalty is no

                                           longer of any vslue Lessee's program of scientific

                                           research and educational activities. the Losses shall notify the

                                           Lessor in writing of Lessee's determination and shall recommend

                                           to Lessor the disposition of such facility or such personality.
                                                              Page 10 of 18 Pages   Page 10 of 61 Pages
																		
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                                            or both. upon the written authorization of Lessor, Lessee shall

                                            proceed with  the authorized disposition in a timely manner..

                                            provided however. notwithstanding Lessor's recommendation and/or

                                            Lessor's authorization, Lessee shall take only such action with

                                            respect to such facility or personalty or both as Lessee shall

                                            be authorized by law to take and only in a Manner authorized

                                            by law.

                                                 13. INGRESS AND EGRESS. Lessor hereby expressly covenants

                                            and agrees that the Lessee shall. at all times during the

                                            term hereof, have such right of ingress and egress to and from the

                                            leased permises, over the Sapelo Island area, as shall be necessary

                                            to the Lessee's full use and enjoyment of the leased premises.

                                            In connection herewith, the parties acknowledge that certain Opera-

                                            tin Agreement also entered into by the parties on the date first

                                            above written. which.Operating Agreement shall be effective as

                                            of the effective date hereof and which supplements the terms

                                            hereof in providing, among other things, the rendering by each

                                            of the parties hereto to the other of certain services necessary

                                            for the mutual enjoyment by the Lessee and the Lessor of the res-

                                            pective portions of the Sapelo Island area possessed, used and

                                            occupied by each. Said Operating Aqreem nt is hereby incorporated

                                            and made a part hereof; a copy of the same being labeled EXHIBIT

                                            "D" and attached hereto. it is expressly understood and agreed

                                            by and between the parties that the terms and provisions of said

                                           Operatinq Agreement shall at all times be subject to and controlled

                                            by the terms of the Lease Agreement.

                                                 14. TERMINATION BY LESSEE. In the event that at any time

                                           during the term hereof the Lessee shall determine that it is no

                                            long feasible for Lessee to continue its proGram of scientific

                                            research and educational activities upon the leased premises,

                                            Lessee may terminate this lease agreement upon 90 calendar days

                                            written notice to Lessor of Lessee's determination. Upon

                                            the termination of this lease aqreement, the Lessee shall promptly
                                                              Page 11 of 18 Pages                               A-11
 







                                     vac      the primises removing all of Lessee's           , personal 

                                     property. and trade fixtures. if any. therefrom. Any holding

                                     over of the promises by the Lessee after the termination of this

                                     agreement shall cause the Losses to be a tenant at sufferance

                                     and not a tenant at will.

                                           15. DISPOSITION OF PROPERTY ON TERMIATION. Upon termina-

                                     tion  of this lease agreement all rights and interests of the Lesse

                                     in the premises shall wholly cease and determine and the premises,

                                     including but not limited to, all facilities and leased person-

                                     alty, as well as all fixtures. objects and.articles or whatever

                                     nature attached to the premises shall thenceforth constitute the

                                     unencumbered property of the State of Georgia, under the custody

                                     and control of the Lessor. without further act or conveyance

                                     by the Lessee.

                                           16. GENERAL CONDITIONS, COVENANTS, AGREEMENTS, PROVISIONS,
                                               TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THIS LEASE AGREEMENT.

                                           A. The captions which appear preceding the text of each

                                           paragraph of this lease agreement are for the purpose of

                                           convenience only and shall be completely disregarded in

                                           construing this lease agreement.

                                           B. Whenever the signular or plural number. or masculine,

                                           feminine or neuter gender is used in this lease agreement,

                                           it shall apply to, extend to and include the other.

                                           C. All time limits stated herein are of the essence of this

                                           lease agreement.

                                           D. It is mutually covenanted, understood, and agreed by and

                                           between Lessor and Losses that each of the covenants,

                                          provisions, duties, obligations. terms and conditions of

                                           this lease agreement shall apply, extend to, be binding

                                           upon and insure to the benefit of not only the Lessor and the

                                           Lessee but. subject only to the provisions of paragraph 19

                                           hereof, to the successors and assigns of the Lessor and to

                                           the successors and assigns Of Lessee and shall be deemed

                                           and treated an covenants real. running with the premises


                                                        Page 12 of 18 pages
                                                            Page 12 of 61 Pages
                                                                    
                                                                                                    A- 12
 















                                             during the term hereof. Subject only to the provisions

                                             of paragraph 19 hereof, whenever a rference to the Lessor

                                             or Lessee is made, such reference shall be deemed to include

                                             the successors and assigns of the Lessor and the successors

                                             and assigns of the Lessee.

                                             E. No failure of Lessor or Lessee to exercise any right or

                                             power given to Lessor or Looses under this lease agreement,

                                             or to insist upon strict compliance by the other party

                                             vith its covenants, agreements, duties and obligations

                                             under this lease agreement, and no custom or practice of

                                             the Lessor or the Losses at variance with the covenants,

                                             agreements, duties, obligations, terms and conditions provide  d

                                             for in this lease agreement, shall constitute a waiver of

                                             either Lessor's or Lessee's right to demand exact and

                                             strict compliance by the other party with the party's cove-

                                             nants, agreements, duties, obligations, terms and conditions

                                             of this lease agreement.

                                             F. The word "notice" as used in this paragraph 16(G) shall

                                             include not only notices in the general sense, but also

                                             statements, demands, requests, consents, approvals and au-

                                             thorizations. Any notice given by either Lessor or Lessee

                                             to the other Shall be in writing and shall be served by

                                             sending by United States Certified Mail, postage prepaid

                                             to the party to be notified addressed as follows:

                                             To Lessor                   Commissioner
                                                                         Department of Natural Resources
                                                                         270 Washington Street. S.W.
                                                                         Atlanta. Georgia



                                             with a copy to:             Regional Came Supervisor
                                                                         Game and Fish  Division
                                                                         Department of Natural Resources
                                                                         Sapolo Island, Georgia 31327

                                             To Lessee.                  President
                                                                         University of Georgia
                                                                         Athens, Georgia 30602

                                             with a copy to:             Director
                                                                         University of Georgia
                                                                         Marine institute
                                                                         Sapelo Island. Georgia   31327

                                             The day upon which any notice is no mailed shall be treated
                                     
                                             as the date of service thereof. Lessor and Lessee may from time
                                                               Page 11 of 18 Pages Page 13 of 61 Pages   A-13
 















                                         to time by notice to the Other designate a different address

                                      -,..to which-notice hereunder shall be sent.

                                             0. Zxcept only for causes beyond the Lessee's control,

                                      P      and except as provided in paragraph 14 hereof, Lessee shall

                                             occupy the premises continuously throughout the term of

                                             this lease agreement and shall not for any cause whatever

                                             desert, abandon or cease its use of the premises.

                                             X. Lessor reserves unto itself, its successors and assigns,
                                             all mineral rights of any nature what;olvcr. However, L#-,r.:;ur

                                             covenants and &graea that any exploration for or extraction

                                             of any such minerals shall be conducted from surface points

                                             outside the boundaries of the leased premises (unlesx other-

                                             wise authorized in writing by the Lessee) and in such m-Anner

                                             as will avoid damage to the premises or substantial inter-

                                             ference with Lessee's operations on the premises.

                                             17. ASSIGNFMNT AND SUBLETTING. Except by operation of law,

                                         neither party hereto, without the prior written consent of the

                                         other party first having been had and obtained, shall assign or

                                       h sublet to any other person, firm, association, corporation,

                                         agency, department, political subdivision, or any other legal

                                         entity, this loase agreement or any interest herein or any right

                                         or privilege appurtenant hereto. Any such assignment or sub-

                                         letting without the consent of the other party shall be void and

                                         shall, at the option of the other party, and upon notice to tha

                                         assigning or subletting party of the other party's election to

                                         exorcize this option, terminate this lease agreement. Any assignee

                                         or subless" of an interest of either party hereto shall have

                                         power of assignment and subletting on the same conditions and

                                         subject to the same restrictions as heroin imposed.
                                                  18. ARBITRATION. Whenever during the term hercof, a
                                       r disagreement or dispute shall arise between the parties arising
                                         out of or in connection with this lease agreement which disagree-'

                                         ment or dispute the parties' respective resident representatives,






                                                          Pago 14 Of 18 Pages
                                                               Paqq 14 Of @l Pages                    A- 14












                                    after good faith negotiations, have been unable to resolve, the
                                    parties' respective resident representatives shall submit said

                                    d
                                    isaqreament or dispute in writing to the President of the Uni-
                                    varsity of Gsorgia and to the Commissioner of the Department of
                                    Natural Resources. In the event that said named individuals are

                                    unable, after good faith negotiations for a period of 30 days*

                                    to resolve such disagreement or dispute, either of said individuals

                                    my, by notice in writinq to the other submit such disagreement
                                    or dispute to the Governor of the State of Georgia, who shall
                                    act as arbiter and whose findings and conclusion the parties

                                    hereto agree shall be final and bindinq upon the parties.

                                              DEFAULT. In the event that either of the parties

                                    shall fail or, pursuant to paragraph 20 hereof, be determined by

                                    the Governor to have failed, fully to perform all of the cove-

                                    nantA, agreements, obligations, provisions, terms and conditions

                                    of this lease agreement by it to be performed, such failure shall

                                    constitute an event of default hereunder. Upon written notice

                                    of said dafault by the other party, the defaulting party shall

                                    have 30 days (or such other period as may be specified in camd

                                    onotice, but in any event not less than 30 days) from the date

                                    of said notice within which to cure said default; provided how-

                                    ever that in the event that a dispute as to whether a default

                                    has occurred has been submitted to the Governor for arbitration

                                    pursuant to paragraph 20 hereof, said,period for c6re shall not

                                    commence to run until that the party alleged to be in default

                                    has been determined 1)y the Governor to be in default. Upoll

                                    failure by the defaulting party to cure such default within

                                    the applicable period, the other 11.ULY May, by 110tiee Lo Llic

                                    defaultin q party, immediately or at any time thereafte r but only

                                    during the continuance of such default, terminate this .0ase,

                                    agreement. Upon such termination, the non-defaultinq party may
                                    avail itself of any and all zemedies as are now or may hereafter

                                    by law be authorized.







                                                     Page 15 Of 18 Pages
                                                               15 (If 61                           A-15












                                         20. SIPVrRAnTTrff. Notwithstanding any of the provisions

                                     hereof to the contrary. the performance of each of the parties
                                   P
                                     hereto of its respective obligations hereunder is subject to the

                                     authorization of the respective parties. under the laws of the

                                     State of Georgia. so to do. In the event that a court of comps-

                                     tent jurisdiction shall make a final determination that any

                                     undertaking of either of the parties hereto. required by a pro-

                                     vision hereof. exceeds the power and authority of the obligated

                                     party, or that any other provision hereof is otherwise Invalid,

                                     In whole or in part, then such provision or portion of such

                                     provision shall be void and of no legal force and effect and

                                     shall be severed from this lease agreement; and the other

                                     provisions hereof shall not be affected by such invalidity

                                     and severance and shall continue in full force and effect.

                                         21. ENTIPF AGRMIL-;T. Except only for the hereinabove

                                     referenced Operating Agreement, this lease agreement constitutes

                                     the full. complete and entire agreement between the LeE3or and

                                     ,the Lessee: no agent, officer or representative of the Lessor

                                     or of the Lessee has authority to make or has made. any state-

                                     ment, agreement. representation or contemporaneous agreement, oral
                                     lor written. in connection herewith, modifying. addinIq to. or

                                     changLig the covenants, agreements, provisions, obligations,
                                     ;terms and conditions of this lease agreement. No modification
                                     lor amendment of this lease agreement shall be bind.inq unless such
                                     Imodification or amendment shall be in writing, signed by both

                                     the Lessor and the Lessee, attached to this lease agreement,

                                     incorporated in and by reference made a part hercor.

                                          IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES.

                                     9actinq for and on behalf of in the name of the State of Georgia.

                                     and the BOARD OF REGENTS Or THE UNIVERSITy OF GEORGIA, each by

                                     otheir proper officarsguly authorized therounto so to do, have

                                     ,,caused these presents to be signed. scaled and delivered, all
                                     0
                                     Soon the day, month and year first above written.
                                                                                                    A- 16
                                                       r.,qu it, or in mat).u.,


















                                                                     DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES


                                        Signed, sealed and delivered
                                        in the presence of (as to the BY: A=4q@8qv 2qCN     q@6qnl I A. _L0q@q@
                                        signature of Joe D. Tanner,      JOE D.TANNER, Commissioner
                                        Commissioner);                   in charqe of the Department of
                                                                        Natural Resources




                                        WITNESS



                                        NOTARY PUBLIC                           LESSOR

                                        My Commission Expires%
                                        q4q"qeqi

                                        (NOTARY SEAL)

                                                                     BOARD OF REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY
                                                                     SYSTEM OF GEORGIA
                                        Signed. scaled and delivered
                                        in the presence of (as to the BY"
                                        signatures of both John W.      J0HN W. HOOPER, Vice-Chancellor,
                                        Hooper and Joe B. Lawley):      Board of Regents of the Univer-
                                                                        sity systems of Georgia

                                                                     ATTEST:
                                        WITNESS                             JOE B. LAWLEY                                                                                    d
                                                                            of Reqents of the University
                                        NOTARY PUBLIC                       System of Georgia

                                        My Commission Expires                    (SEAL)
                                        Notary Public, Georgia State at       
                                        my Commission Expires Ar - ,, 6 1. 0:qfqt

                                        (NOTARY SEAL)                               LESSEE



                                           IN WITNESS WHEREOF. the State Properties Commission has
                                        caused these presents to be duly executed in its name this 21st

                                        day of December,1976 for the purpose of approving

                                        the terms and conditions of this Lease Agreement.

                                                                     STATE PROPERTIES COMMISSION
                                                                     By: q_q.12qe6q/6qw8qrq.
                                        Signed. sealed. and delivered     Name:  GEORGE BUSBEE, GOVERNOR
                                        in the presence of: (as to        Title:  Chairman
                                        the signatures of both Gover-
                                        nor George Busbee, Chairman  ATTEST:  q:qt0ql44q@76q)76q@0qOqa
                                        and.-Secretary Of State Ben W         Name: BEN W. FORTAON, JR.
                                        FORTAON, Jr., Secretary)              Title: Secretary of State
                                                                                        

                                                                            (SEAL)
                                        WITNESS
                                                                                                  
                                                                                                 
                                                                                                    
                                        NOTARY PUBLIC


                                        my




























                                                                            qloqtqarqy Puqblqiqc
                                         qfqlqwqe8q@ qP6q   sql8q@ qM qk6q                                           A-
                                         0q_4q_q_q6-q.q.q.q;q&qAq*q'           page 17 Of 61 Pages
                                        ;84qr4y
 















                                            IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Governor George Busbee, as Governor

                                      of the State of Georgia, and under the Provisions Of Title

                                     91-402 of the 1933 Code of the State of Georgia. as general

                                       supervisor of all of the property of the State Of Georgia, has

                                       duly executed this Less* Agreement this 21 st day of

                                                      1976 for the purpose of acknowledging the terms

                                    A  and conditions of this Lease Agreement.


                                                                                             
            												           L.S.
                                                                  GEORGE BUSBEE
                                                                  governor of the State of Georgia

                                     I Signed. sealed and delivered in
                                     I the presence of


                                       Witness
					
                                       Notary Public
	                                            
                                       My Commission Expires:
                                         I*qFWY f,
                                           Cq@-


                                       (NOTARY SEAL)
































                                                        Page 18 Of 10 Pages
                                                              page 18 of 61 Pard                       A-18
 














                                                           AXHIBIT

                                                 DESCRIPTION OF THE PREMISES LEASED


                                       All that certain tract or parcel of land 4ituate, lying and
                                   being on the southern portion ce that island known as Greater
                                   Sapolo Island, Kclntosh'County, Georgia, containing 1,575 acres,

                                   more or less, of upland and marshland, together with all high

                                   tidal marshes, low tidal marshes, lowlands, coastal beaches,

                                   beachland, hammocks, bluffs, fields, patches, bottoms, bogs and
                                   waters appurtenant, adjoining and adjacent to eachr said parcel
                                   being shown and delineated on that certain-map of the southern

                                   portions of Greater Sapolo Island, prepared for the Department

                                   of Natural Resources, by S. Higgins, dated August, 1976, as

                                   revised on September 15, 1976 and on September 28, 1976 and en-

                                 i titled "EXISTING FACILITIES", which map is labeled EXHIBIT "B",

                                   attached herato and by reference incorporated in and made a part

                                   hereof; said patcol being more particularly described as follows:

                                   BEGINNING at the point of intersection of the centerline of March

                                   Landing Road and the extreme east end of the Harsh Landing Dock,

                                   said POINT OF BEGINNING being designated by the letter -A- on

                                   EXHIBIT OBO hereof; thence in a southeasterly direction along and

                                   with the centerline of said Marsh Landing Road (being a paved road

                                   except at Central Canal) approximately 4,100 feet to the intcrsec-

                                   tion of said March Landing Road with a shall road; said point of

                                   intersection being designated by the letter "So on EXHIBIT B.

                                   hereof: thence along the centerlina of said paved road in a gen-

                                   arally southerly direction approximately 2,300 feet to the inter-

                                   section of said paved road with the contarline of a dirt road

                                   locally known and referred to as "the Autobahn*; said point of

                                   intersection being designated by the letter 'C* on NXIIISIT "n"

                                   hereof; thence continuing along the contorlinc of naid paved road

                                   in a southeasterly direction approximately 3,400 fact to the inter-

                                   section of the centerline of said paved road with the centcrlinc




                                                   Pago I Of 3 Pages

                                                       P49a 19 Of 61 Pages
                                                                                                  A- 19












                                         of Root Patch Road; said point of intersection being designated

                                         by the latter "D" on EXhabit "D" hereof and being a Point approxi-

                                         mately 600 feet north of the Azalea Cottage (designated by the

                                         number "53" an said EXHIBIT "B"); thence due east approximately

                                         2,000 feet to a point near the marsh. said point being designated

                                         by the letter "E" on said EXHIBIT "B"; thence due south approxi-

                                         mately 3,000 feet to a point on the Beach Road: said point being

                                         designated by the letter "F" an said EXHIBIT "B"; thence in a

                                         southeasterly direction with the centerline of said Beach Road

                                         approximately 2,500 feet to the man low water marsh of the At-

                                         lantic Ocean said point being designated approximately by the

                                         letter "G" on said EXHIBIT "B"; thence continuing southerly,

                                         westerly, northwesterdly, and northerly with the mean low water

                                         line of the Atlantic Ocean. Doboy Sound and the Duplin River,

                                         respectively, approximately 4.5 miles to the POINT OF BEGINNING,

                                         TOGETHER WITH: All those certain buildings, structures, fences,

                                         roads, equipment, fixtures, wells, pipelines, docks and other

                                         facilities located in. on or above the hereinabove described

                                         parcel of real property and waters and adjacent, and adjoining there-

                                         to, (said facilities being designated by the numbers "21" through

                                         "66", inclusive, and by numbers "71". "73", "79" and "80" on

                                         EXHIBIT "B" hereof) and, in addition thereto, the South End

                                         Bulkhead. the South End Boat Basin. and various utility sytems

                                        (said facilities not being designated by number an said EXHIBIT

                                         "B", and further in addition thereto, any other miscellaneous

                                         facilities located in. or upon the hereinabove described parcel

                                         of real property AND TOGETHER WITH ALL items of personal property
                                                                              
                                         located in, on, or around said hereinabove described buildings,

                                         facilities, other structures and improvements, including, but not

                                         limited to household furnishings, tools and equipment, said person

                                         al property being more particularly described in that inventory

                                         labeled EXHIBIT "C", attached to and made a part of this EXHIBIT

                                         "D" and this Lease Agreement. EXCITING, however, from the promises


                                                              Page 2 of 61 Pages                A-20
 											  Page 20 of 61 Pages











                                   above  described, the disputed outstanding claim of an udivided on,

                                   half  interest in that area of the above-described premises common-
                                  
                                  ly known and referred to as the "Lighthouse Tract" by Marianne

                                  O'Brien Reynolds Meyers AND FURTHER EXCEPTING from the premises

                                   above described,  those exceptions set forth as "Permitted Title

                                   Exceptions" in that certain December 8, 1975 Option to Purchase

                                   Properties, as amended, granted to the State of Georgia by the

                                   Sapelo Island Research Foundations, as well as any other exception:

                                   to the title to the South End Properties which may be waived by

                                   the State of Georgia prior to its purchase-of the said South End

                                   Properties.
















































                                  
                                                     Page 3 Of 3 Pages
                                                     Page 21 Of 61 Pages

                                                                                                  A-21
 








                                                                                                                                     STATIE      OF'GEORCIA                                        .000,

                                                                                                                                                                                                                     \J




                  -7.



                 -slam






                                                                                                                            4t

                                                                                                                                              f
                                                                    soon
                                              Z 'I I

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      let








                                                                                                                                                                                   .17


                                                                                                                                                               Ak

                                                       low





                                                                                      .. ..........


                                                                                                                                              v
                                                                                                                                              Lip,



                                                                                                                                                                               EXHIDIT *U*



                                                                                                                                                                                             I-A. 0+ W



                                                                                                      V1.CINITY      MAP                              MAW -REVIRNS
                                                                                                                                                                        ""Me                         EXISTING F
                                                                                                                                                   28

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          A-22






























                                         Appendix B:


                             Operating Agreement between DNR and

                                       Board of Regents









                                      COUNTY OF FULTON:


                                                       OPERATING AGREEMENT

                                           THIS AGREEMENT, made and entered  into this 21st day of

                                           December, 1976, by and between tqhe DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL

                                      RESOURCES. an agency of the State of Georgia. acting for and

                                      on behalf of the State of "erg", (hereinafter referred to as
                                      "Department") and whose business address is 270 Washington

                                      Street. S.W., Atlanta, Georgia 30334 and the BOARD OF REGENTS

                                      OF THE UNIVERSITY SYSTEM OF GEORGIA, an agency of the State

                                      of Georgia. whose business address is 2" Washington Street,

                                      S. W. Atlanta, Georgia 30334 (hereinafter referred to as

                                      "Regents").

                                                       W I T N E S S E T H


                                          WHEREAS, by virtue of that certain December 8, 1976 Option

                                      To Purchase Properties. an amended, granted by the Sapelo

                                      Island Research Foundation. Inc. (hereinafter referred to as "the

                                      Foundation"), the State of Georgia, acting by and through the

                                      Department. has an option to purchase all of the real property.

                                      together with all buildings. structures and other improvements

                                      located thereon and together with all personal property located

                                      thereon. (which is owned by the Foundation); said real property

                                      constituting a portion of what is known as Sapelo Island and

                                      Meridian Dock Landing (except for that area known as Rog

                                      Hammock): all of said properties being more particularly des-

                                      cribed in said Option. and (except for said personal property)

                                      being herein after collectively referred to as *the South End

                                      Properties"; and

                                          WHEREAS, since July 1. 19S3. Regents. acting by and through

                                      the University of Georgia. a unit of the University System of

                                      Georgia. and pursuant to agreements between Regents and the Foun-

                                      dation. has conducted an institute for the purposes of scientific

                                      research and educational activities, said institute' being located

                                      on Sapelo Island and

                                                        Page I Of 17 Pages
 








                                   NURVJ, the    real property, facilities and cortaim of the

                              personalty currently utilized by the Regents in the conduct of

                              said institute are subject to the terms of said option: and

                                   WHERMS. subsequent to the exercise of said option, if any,

                              and a purchase by the State of Georgia pursuant thereto, if any.

                              all said real property and facilities, as well as personal pro-

                              party located thereon and therein, shall be owned by the State

                              of Georgia and shall @oe within the custody, central and managemen

                              of the Departniont; and

                                   WZCRZhS* the State of Georgia, the Foundation, the Departmen-

                              and Regents mutually desire that Regents continue to utilize

                              said properties (both real and personal) and.facilities in the

                              conduct of said institute for scientific research and educational


                              activities; and

                                   WJMRZKS, for the Vurpos* of enabling the Regents to continue

                              said scientific research and educational activities, the Depart-

                            Q ment, acting for and on behalf of the State of Georgia, as lessor,

                              and Regents. as lessee. have as of the date hereof entered into

                              a lease agreement for a. torm of SO years, leasing to the Regents

                              certain promises, including real property, improvements and other

                              facilities and personalty therein described,- said lease agreement

                              to be effective on the second calendar day following (and not

                              including) -the day upon which the State of Georgia, acting by

                              and through the Department, accepts delivery of warranty deeds

                              from the Foundation conveying all of its interests in Sapelo

                              Island. except Hog Hammock Subdivision. and Meridian Dock Landing.

                              (and being hereinafter referred to as the "Lease Agreement") ; and

                                   WHEREAS. both the Department. in  the performarti:e of its

                              management and custodial responsibilities with respect to Sapelo

                              Island, and Regents. in its use and occupancy of the premises


                                                 Page 2 Of 17 Pages







                            it leased to it, will benefit from certain mutual understandings

                            V
                              and agreements regarding services which my be supplied by each tt

                              the other and -further by agreements respecting the use by Regents

                              of real property and facilities within the custody and control

                              of the Department and not leased to Regents; and

                                   WMMS, the    parties do further mutually desire to supplement

                           ill the term of the Lease Agreement with certain express under-
                              standings and agreements and to establish & framework for @heir

                              common occupancy of Sapelo Island, Georgia:

                                   now, Ml MFORZ, pursuant to, the authority vested in the pa--,,

                              iss by Article VIX, Section V1, Paragraph I of the Constitution

                              of the State of Georgia (Ga. Code Ann. 52-5901). for and in
                              consideration of the sun of One Dollar ($1.00) -by each party to

                              the other in hAnA paid, at and before the signing, sealing   and

                              delivery of these presents, and in further consideration of the

                              mutual covenants, agreements and provisions herein contaimed

                              and the. benefits by each to be derived therefrom and for other

                           P, good and valuable consideration. the parties do hereby agree

                              as follows:


                                   X. TRANSPORTATION.


                                   A. Department covenants and agrees that it will, at all

                                   times during the term of this agreement. provide regularly

                                   scheduled twice daily (except Sundays and holidays) boat

                                   transportation between Sapelo Island and the mainland of

                                   McIntosh County for commuting Regents personnel. personnel

                                   of Regents who are resident on Sapelo Island (and their

                                   families) and.for visitors authorized by Regents to7visirt

                                   Regents' leased. premises on Sapelo Island. Such transpor-

                                   tation shall be between the Marsh Landinq.Dock an Greater

                                   Sapelo. Island and Meridian bock Landing on the mainland of

                                   McIntosh County.-said docks being designated by the numbers

                                   660 and 078" respectively on that certain August 1976 map

                                   of the,. southern portion of Greater Sapelo island prepared
                                                                                          B-3
                                                Fago 3 Of 17 Pages







                                    for the Department Of NaturAl Resources by S. Higgins, as

                                    revised an September 15, 1976 and September 28, 1976 and

                                    entitled OCCIST110 FACILITIES"# said map being labeled

                                    ZMMZT GAN, attached beretc, and by reference incorporated

                                    in and made a part hereof# (for a foo, if any be charged.

                                    to be agreed upon by the parties'   respective resident

                                    representative). Department further agrees that it will

                                    provide such passenqer beat transportation to and from
                                   -Sapelo Island and the mainland an Saturday* as may be

                                    necessary in connection with public education program

                                    of eith   the Department or the Regents or both, subject

                                    to the availability of a boat and crew.

                                    Department heLreby further agrees that it will provide

                                    personnel necessary to restrict such passenger boat trans7

                                    portation as hereinabove provided and to oversee and control

                                    visitors to Sapelo Island.

                                    B. Regents covenants and   agrees that it will provide
                                    barging service for fue'l, supplies and equipment for both

                                    parties heroto; said barging service to be supplied with
                                    such frequenc-? as 9hill reasonably fulfill the needs of

                                    the parties. (for a fee, if any be charged therefor , to

                                    be agreed upon by the parties' respective resident repro-

                                    sentatives).

                                    C. Regents further agrees that it will permit Department

                                    personnel and visitors authorized by the Department to

                                    travel, on a space-available basis, (for a fee. if any     be

                                    charged therefor, to be agreed upon by the parties' res-

                                    pective resident representatives) , on scheduled trips of    the
                                    Regents' research boats to and Arom' the mainland and Sapelo

                                    island.




                                                 'Page 4 Of 17 Pages


                             k                                                               B-4






                                        D. Department agrees that Regents personnel   and other persc

                                        authorized by Regents my utilize the airstrip located

                                        an the southern portion of Sapelo Island (designated as the

                                        sLanding FieldO on WMIBIT W); provided however, that
                                        Regents.and any such persons authorized by Regents shall

                                        first obtain permission and clearance for such use from

                                        the Department's agent or employee in charge of the air-
                                        strip at such times.' Department hereby further agrees

                                        that it will maintain the Landing Field lighting system as

                                        it exists as of the effective date hereof; provided how-

                                        ever* said'abligation to maintain shall not obligate the

                                        Department to install a now or replacement lighting system.

                                        IX. MAIL SERVICE. Department covenants and agrees that it

                                        will, during the tam hereof, but only for so long as the

                                        Department shall maintain a contractual agreement with the

                                        United States Postal Service so to do. provide mail service

                                        between the-mainland of McIntosh County and the Sapelo

                                        Island Post Office (said Post Office being designated by the

                                        number 017" an MMIBXT W). Regents agrees that it will,

                                        upon request by the Department. and subject to the availabil

                                        ity of the same ( for a fee. if any be charged therefor,

                                        to be agreed upon by the parties' respective resident repre-

                                        sentatives), provide a boat, without crew, to be utilized

                                        in emergencies occuring in connection with Department's

                                 b      provision of mail service.

                                        111. DOCKAGE    STORAGE


                                        A. Department hereby expressly agrees and gives its per-

                                        mission to RWgents, for the duration of this agreement. to

                                        dock its boats at the Meridian Dock and  the Marsh Landing

                                        Dock; provided however. Regents expressly recognizes and

                                        acknowledges that said docks shall also be utilized through-

                                        out the term hereof by the Department and provided further


                                                      Page 5 Of 17 Pages                     B-5








                                    that the parties agree that Regents' space utilization

                                    at said docks shall not be less than Regents' level of

                                    utilization as of the effective date hereof. Notwithstanding

                                    Regents* utilization of such dockage space pursuant hereto.

                                    it hereby expressly agreed by the parties that said

                                    docks shall be maintained in good order and repair at the

                                    sole cost and expense of the Department during the term

                                    hereof.

                                    B. Department hereby agrees and gives its permission to

                                    Regents to utilize and to occupy and possess, exclusively.

                                    during the term hereof that dock known an Boys Camp Dock

                                    (also known as the Long Tabby Dock and designated by

                                    number "70" on EXHIBIT "A"). It in expressly agreed by the

                                    parties that maintenance of said Boys Camp Dock in good

                                    order and repair shall be the responsibility of and shall

                                    be at the sale cost and expense of Regents for the duration

                                    of Regents' possession and occupancy.

                                    C. Department hereby agrees and gives its permission to

                                    Regents to possess and to use and occupy, exclusively,

                                    during the term hereof, the large garage at Meridian

                                    Dock (designated by number "76" on EXHIBIT "A"). It   is

                                    expressly agreed by the parties that the maintenance of

                                    .said Meridian Dock large garage in good order and repair

                                    shall be the sole responsibility and shall be at the sole

                                    cost and expense of Regents for the duration Regents'

                                    possession and occupancy thereof.

                                    D. Department hereby agrees and gives its permission to

                                    Regents to possess and to use and occupy, exclusively,

                                    during the term hereof. that dock known as Ashantilly Dock

                                    (designated by the number "74" on EXHIBIT "A"). It is ex-

                                    pressly agreed by the parties that maintenance of said



                                                 Page 6 Of 17 Pages

                                                                                       B-6
 





                                   Ashantilly Dock in good order and repair shall be the

                                   responsibility of and shall be at the sole cost and

                                   expense of Regents for the duration of Regents' possession

                                   and occupancy thereof.

                                   a. Department hereby further agrees that it will permit

                                   Regents to use and occupy storage areas within buildings

                                   and other facilities in the custody of the Department and

                                   located outside of the premises leased to Regents under the
                                   Lease Agreement specifically including but not limited to

                                   the Airport Hangar (designated by the number 0130 on

                                   EXHIBIT "A") .




                                                The parties hereby agree that arrangements

                                   for such storage space, including but not necessarily

                                   limited to, the location(s), the period(s) of occupancy,

                                   the materials and/or equipment to be stored, the exclusivity

                                   or non-exclusivity of such occupancy and security measures.

                                   if any, shall be such as shall be mutually agreeable to the

                                   parties* respective resident representatives.

                                   P. Department hereby further agrees that it will permit

                                   Regents to utilize the parking areas adjacent to the

                                   Meridian.Dock and the Marsh Landing Dock; the details of

                                   such usage to be such as shall be mutually.agreeable to the

                                   Parties' respective resident representatives.

                                   M RESMENCE FACILITIES. Department and Regents hereby

                             acknowledge and agree that. as of the date hereof, there are, or

                             may be Regents personnel possessing, using and occupying the

                             following residences and related facilities, to-wit:

                                   (1) that residence and dock known as Ashantilly and

                                   Ashantilly DocV, respectively, (and designated by numbers

                                   01" and 074", respectively, on EXHIBIT "A" hereof), together

                                   with all related facilities;

                                                                                        B-7

                                                Page 7 Of 17 Pages








                                        (2) that residence and outbuilding known as the Airport

                                        Residence and the Airport Residence rsaraqe and Utility

                                        Building, respectively, (and designated by numbers all-

                                        and 4220, respectively, an said EMIBZT "Ao)l and

                                         Department hereby covenants and agrees with Regents that

                                   it vill permit such personnel of Regents. who are. as of the

                                   effective date hereof, possessing. using and occupying said herein

                                   above specified residences and related facilities to continue

                                   tc;passess. and use and occupy said residences and related facil-

                                   Lties. At such  time as said Regents personnel shall vacate -     .

                                   said residence(s) and related facilities the absolute possession,

                                   custody and cot trol of said residenc*(s) and related facilities

                                   shall be in the Department. Provided, however, that it 13

                                   *Wessly understood and agreed that such vacation of the resi-

                                   dances and related facilities may not occur -simultaneously for

                                   all of said Regents personnel and provided further that it is

                                 i mutually understood and agreed between the parties that the

                                 P-Department may, at any time following the vacation of any of said

                                   residences and related facilities by the Regents personnel occupy

                                   inq said residence(s) and related facilities as of the effective

                                   date hereof, pursuant to this agreement. permit such residence(s

                                   and related facilities to be possessed, used and occupied by oth.

                                   personnel of Regents upon such terms and conditions as shall be

                                   mutually agreeable to the parties' respective resident managers.
                                   The parties do hereby furt@er agree  that durinq the period of an-

                                   occupancy of said residences and facilities by Regents personnel

                                   they shall be maintained in good order and repair at the-sole

                                   cost and expense of Regents.

                                       V. SANITATION SERVICES. Department      covenants and agrees

                                   that it will at all times during the term   hereof provide and

                                   maintain a site for a sanitary land fill   to be utilized by the



                                                                                             B-8






                               Department and by Regents (in connection with both the premises

                               1"sed to Regents under the Lease Agreement and the real property

                               and facilities used and occupied by Regents pursuant hereto).

                               fte term of such mutual usage by the parties of said sanitary

                               land fill, as well as the collection of trash and garbage and any

                             0 other related sanitation services shall be such as shall be

                                                          parties' respective resident represen-
                               mutually agreeable to the

                               tatives.

                                   VX. MUXPMELVT SHARnW. It is understood and agreed by

                               and between the parties hereto that-"Ch my permit the other to

                               use# an a temporary basis, equipment and/or vehicles such as

                            b  road graders, bulldozers, et cetera, in order to facilitate

                               either party in its respective operations an Sapalo Island.

                               The lending of any such equipment shall be on such terms an-'

                               conditions asshall be mutually agreeable to the parties'
                               res7pective resident managers.

                                   VIX. RESEARCH   ACTIVITIES OF REGENTS.


                                   A. It is hereby acknowledged and agreed by the Department

                                   and Regents-that personnel of Regents are. as of the date of

                                   this agreement, and may be, an of the effective date hereof,

                                   conducting scientific research and educational activities

                                   at sites on Sapelo island located    outside of the boundaries

                                   of the premises described in the Lease Agreement, which

                                   sites are an of the date hereof, or will be, as of the

                                   effective date hereof, under the custody, control and

                                   management of the Department. It is further acknowledged,

                                   understood and  agreed by and between the Departiient and
                            P      Regents that, during the term of the Lease Agreement,
                                   Regents may,. in its reasonable-judgment, determine that.




                                                  Page 9 Of 17 Pages



                                                                                             B-9







                                   for certain scientific research projects or educational

                                   activities there are no suitable sites located on the

                                   leased promises or that there my be sites more suitable

                                   than those located on the leased promises. Department

                                   therefore hereby covenants and agrees that it will permit

                                   Regents personnel to continue to use  and occupy the sites

                                   within Department's custody, control  and management upon

                                   which scientific research activities  or educational

                                   activities are being conducted by Reqqnts personnel  as of

                                   the effective date hereof. until such -activities are

                                   concluded. Department further hereby consents and agrees

                                   that Regents personnel shall have; at all times during

                                   the term hereof. the right of ingress*and egresr-to and

                                   from the leased premises over the lands within the Depart-

                                   ment's custody, control and management for  purposes of loca-

                                   ting suitable sites for the conduct of particular scientific

                                   research and educational activities and upon its prior

                                   written consent, Regents may utilize such sites for such

                                   periods as may be necessary to complete the scientific

                                   tosearch there undertaken.- It in the understanding of  the

                                   parties and the intent of the Department that such consent

                                   shall not be unreisonably withheld, provided that Regents

                                   shall fully and accurately describe the nature and- extent

                                   of the scientific research and/or educational activities

                                   to be undertaken, any special needs of Regents in connection

                                   therewith. e.g. security, equipment, access, etcetera,

                                   and shall identify'-the location of the site selected in a.
                                   written request to the Department for said site. and provided

                                   further that such activity shall not be inconsistent with

                                   the obligations which the Department has or  may have under

                                   federal grant cenditions, or with the Department's general

                                   game and fish management obligations by law imposed upon



                                                 Pngn 10 Of 17 Pages                      B-10





                                   the Depart-Msnt with respect to the lands upon which

                                   such sites shall be located. Requests by Regentro for such

                                   site or sites shall be sent bi United States Certified

                                   or Registered Mail and addressed to the Commissioner of the

                                   Department of Natural Resources, Room 815, Trinity-wash-

                                   ington Building, 270 Iftshington Street, S-We, Atlanta,
                                   G*orgia, 30334(or io such other address an the commissioner

                                   of the Department of Natural Resources may hereafter desig-
                                   nate in writing to ihe Regents' resident representatives).

                                   with a copy of each such request addressed to the Department'

                                   resident representative at his address as hereinafter set

                                   forth. Requests for such site or sites shall be sent no

                                   later 0- 30 days in advance of Regents' need therefor

                                   and Department hereby agrees to act upon any such request

                             L     within said 30 day period.
                                   B. Department hereby covenants and'agrees that it will

                             k     take such action and measures as shall be reasonably

                                   necessary to provide and maintain security for the sites

                                   upon which Regents is conducting such scientific research

                                   projects and/or educational activities.

                                   C. In order to enable Department to fulfill its obligations

                                   pursuant to subparagraph B. above, to provide and maintain

                                   security for Regents' scientific research and educational

                                   activities, sites, Regents hereby covenants and agrees that

                                   it will, within 30 days of the effective date hereof, and

                                   an or about the anniversary thereof each  year during the

                                   term of this agreement, submit to the Department a list of-L
                                   Regents' scientific researich and educational activities

                                   being conducted at sites outside the leased premises; said






                                                 Page 11 Of 17 Pages



                                                                                          B-11





                            r


                                   list to briefly describe said projects and activities and

                                   to identify (by location) the sites th4reof - This paragraph

                                   in not intended, nor shall the $am* be in any way construed,

                                   to limit or otherwise to modify the provisions of subpara-

                                   grapb Aof this paragraph VIZ.

                                   D. The parties hereto agree that they will, during the term

                                   hereof. furnish to each other copies of studies or reports

                                   prepared by the parties concerninq scientific and/or

                                   educational objectives or accomplishments within their

                                   respective areas of interest on Sapelo Island; provided

                                   hot,inver that the agreement herein contained shall be subject

                                   to requirements imposed an either party by patent or copy-

                                   right agreements, including but not limited to agreements

                                   with the federal government concerning patents or copy-

                                   rights an inventions and materials resulting from federally

                                   funded research.


                                   VIII. INSURANCE. It is hereby understood and agreed between

                              the parties that, notwithstanding the use and occupancy by

                              Regents of buildings and facilities under the custody and control

                              of the Department. fire and extended casualty insurance coverage

                              for said buildings and facilities shall be maintained by the

                              Department at the cost and expense of the Department. Provided

                              however. Regents co venants and agrees that no use.shall be made

                              of the buildings and facilities nor act done upon the premises

                              which would cause a cancellation of such insurance and Regents

                              further agrees not to keep or permit to be kept in, on, or about

                              said buildings and factlities,. any article or articles which may

                              be prohibited by standard form fire insurance  policies. In.:the

                              event of the damage or destruction. by fire or other casualty,

                              of any of the facilities used and occupied by Regents pursuant

                              hereto, whether such%use be exclusive or non-exclusive the

                              Department shall have no obligation to Regents under this agree-

                             ment to rebuild, restore or replace any such facility; provided
                                                                                         B-12

                                                 Page 12 Of 17 Pages







                             however, that if the Department shall elect to rebuild, restore

                             or replace a facility theretofore jointly used and occupied by

                             Regents and the Department, Department agrees that it will permit

                             Regents to use and occupy such rebuilt# restored or replacement

                             facility to the extent (relative to Department's previous

                             we) as  Regents used and occupied this damaged or destroyed

                             facility immediately prior to such damaaage or destruction.

                                  IX.  NO ESTATE OR INTEREST CONVEYED. Notwithstanding the

                             use, possession and occupancy by the Regents of certain buildings

                             and other facilities pursuant hereto, it is  expressly recognized

                             and acknowledged by the parties that no estate or other interest

                             whatsoever in said buildings and other facilities or the real

                             property upon which the same are located shall pass to the

                             Regents hereunder nor is this agreement in any way intended nor

                             should it be construed to be or constitute a conveyance of any

                             estate or interest whatsoever in said buildings, facilities

                             and/or real property;

                         	  X. LEASE AGREEMENT SUPERCEDES. it is hereby acknowledged

                             and agreed between the parties that this agreement is entered into

                             for-the purposes of establishing an operating framework for the

                             mutual occupancy by the parties of the South End Properties,

                             together with the northern portion of Sapelo Island, Georgia

                             and thereby to supplement the terms of the Lease Agreement. How-

                             ever, it in further recognized and agreed between the pa rties

                             hereto that this agreement is in all respects subject to the

                             Lease Agreement and that to the extent of any conflict between

                             the provisions of qihis agreement and terms of the Lease Agreement.

                             the terms of thH Lease Agreement shall prevail.

                                  XI. ARBITRATION. Whenever during the term   hereof, a dis-

                             agreement or dispute shall arise between the parties arising out






                                                Page 13 Of 17 Pages
                                                                                     B-13
 







                                 of or in connection  with this agreement concerning the existanceo

                               ii construction, validity, interpretation or meaning, performance,

                                 non-1performance, enforcement, operation, breach, continuance or

                                 termination hereof, which disagreement or dispute the parties$

                                 respective -rem Ldent . representatives, after good faith negotiations

                                 have been unable to resolve, the parties' respective resident

                                 representatives shall submit said disagreement or dispute in

                                 writing to the President of the University of Georgia and to     the

                                 Commissioner of the Department of Natural Resources. In the

                                 event that said named individuals are un Is, after good faith

                                 negotiations for a period of 30 days, to resolve such disagree-

                                 ment or dispute. either of said individuals may. by notice in

                               0 writing to the other submit such disagreement or dispute to the

                                 Governor of the State of Georgia, who shall act an arbiter and

                                 whose findings and conclusion the parties hereto agree shall

                               i. be final and binding upon the parties.

                                     XII. RESIDENT REPRESENTATIVES. Department and Regents

                                 each hereby authorize and appoint the following named individuals

                                 as their respective resident representatives to carry out the

                                 responsibilities herein specifically delegateA to them:

                                     REGENTS:                Resident Manager
                                                             Marine Institute
                                                             Sapelo Island, Georgia 31327


                                     DEPAR TMENT:            Regional Supervisor
                                                             Game and Fish Division
                                                             Department of Natural Resources
                                                             Sapelo Island, Georgia 31327

                                     Either party may,  by  notice in writing to the hereinabove
                                 named re.sident repreisentatLve of the other party. des-ignate a
                                 new resAent representative and/or a di   -fferent address for said

                               I resident representative. It is the intent of the parties here-

                                 under that said resident representatives shall cooperate with ea.






                                                    Page 14 Of 17 Pages
                                                                                           B- 14







                                other and work together in attempting to coordinate the mutual

                                occupancy by th parties of Sapelo, Island. Georgia and their

                                respective activities thereon.

                                	XIII.  TERM.  This agree,emt shall be for a term of fifty

                                (50) years commencing an the effective date hereof and of the

                                Lease Agreement and running concurrently with the term of the

                                Lease Agreement; termination of the Lease Agreement at any time

                                during the term thereof shall automatically and without any
                               
                                further action an the part of the parties hereto cause and affect

                                a termination of this aggeement.

                                    XIV.  EFFECTOVE DATE.  The effective date of the agreement,

                                if any there by, shall be the second calendar day following (and

                                not including) the day upon which the State of. Georgia acting by

                                and through the Department, accepts delivery of a warranty deed

                                or warranty deeds, to the South End Properties. said second

                                calendar day (i.e., the effective date hereof) also being the

                                effective date of -the Lease Agreement. Notice of the effective

                                date hereof shall be given by the State of Georgia Department

                                of Law to the parties hereto.

                                   XV. TERMINATION. Upon termination of this agreement

                                (pursuant to the provisions of paragraph XIII hereinabove).

                                Regents shall forthwith vacate any of the buildings and/or

                                other facilities located on the South End Properties or any other

                                area of Greater Sapelo island, outside the boundaries of the

                                leased permises, removing all of Regents' personnel and personal

                                property therefrom. Department shall have no obligation to

                                Regents or its personnel for any such personal property not

                                removed within 90 days of the date qof such termination.

                                   XVI  ASSIGNMENT. Except by operation of law, neither

                                the Department nor Regents shall have the right to transfer or

                                to assign this agreement or any interest herein. or right or

                                privilege appurtenant hereto, unless the prior written consent


                                                     Page I5 Of 17 Pages                    B- 15
 





                             of the non-assigning party shall first have been hid and obtained;

                            iany assignment or trwafer without such consent shall be void.

                                  mi. AmrchL mzmnn. At least once annually, on or about

                             the anniversary of the effective date hereof, the parties'

                             respective resident representatives shall 'Met to discuss the

                             working relationships of the parties, housing, maintenance

                             scheduled and other topics of joint interest. Recommendations.

                             if any. to the governing authorities of the parties concerning

                             modifications or amendments of this agreemgnt, shall be made at

                             said annual meting.

                                  XVIIX   MITIRE AGREEKENT. Except to the extent that the

                             subject matter of this agreement my. also be the subject of

                            othe Lease Agreement. this agreement constitutes the full, comp-

                             lots and entire agreement between the Department and Regent!,, no

                             @gent, employer, officer or representative of the Department or

                            hof Regents has authority to make or has made. any statement,

                             agreement, representation or contemporaneous agreement. oral

                             or written, in connection herewith modifying, adding to, or

                             changing the covenants, agreement, provisions, duties, obligations,

                             term and conditions of this agreement. This agreement may be

                             modified or amended by the parties hereto, but only by a writing

                             signed by both the Department and the Regents, attached to this

                             agreement# incorporated in and by reference made a part hereof.

                                 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES.


                             and the BOARD OF REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY SYSTEM OF GEORGIA,

                             each by their proper officers duly authorized thereunto so to do,

                             have caused these pVesents to be signed, sealed and delivered,

                             air on the day. month and year. first above written.






                                               Page 16 Of 17 Pages




                                                                                      B-16







                                                                  DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES




                                 Signed, sealed and delivered				BY:
                                 in the presence of (as to the                  	   JOE D. TANNER, Commissioner                                                                                       
                                 signature of Joe D. Tanner,                           in charge of the Department
                                 Commissioner: 		                           	   of Natural Resources


                                 WITNESS

                                     6qlqe-7-q1 A
                                 NOTARY PUBLIC

                                 My Commission Expires:

                                         17


                                 (NOTARY SEAL)



                                                                     BOARD OF REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY
                                                                     SYSTEM OF GEORGIA

                                 Signed, sealed and delivered        BY:
                                 in the presence of (as to the          JOHN W. HOOPER, Vice-Chancello
                                 signatures of both John W.              Board of Regents of the
                                 Hooper and Joe B. Lawley):              University System of Georgia

                                          A
                                 WITNESS                               ATTEST:        
                                                                                    JOE B. LAWLEY, Assistant
                                                                                    Executive Secretary, Board
                                                                                    of Regents of the                             q44q=q:4q@2q@           4ql2qe0q@q-                                        re q:
                                 NOTARY PUBLIC                              
                                                                                    University System of
                                 My Commission  Expires:                            Georgia

                                                                                (SEAL)

                                 (NOTARY SEAL










                                                [The map labeled Exhibit "A", attached

                                               hereto and by reference incorporated in

                                               and made a part hereof, does not bear

                                               a Page Number.)
                                                                                                   
                                                                                                      
                                                                                                  

















                                                      Page 17 Of 17 Pages
                                                                                               B-17
 































                                        Appendix C:


                              Grant Award Agreement for SINERR

                                     Land Acquisition
 






                            SPECIAL AWARD CONDITIONS FOR THE SAPELO ISLAND NATIONAL
                                ESTUARINE SANCTUARY (GrAnt Award #04-5-158-12001)


                     Programmatic Conditions

                     a. Description of the Sanctuary

                           The Sapelo Island National Estuarine Sanctuary (the Sanctuary) shall
                     consist of so much of Sapelo Island, McIntosh County, Georgia, as is
                     indicated by the diagonally hatched area, on the attached map, designated
                     Appendix A and made a part of the grant award.

                           As a separate project, the Sapelo Island Natural Area, hereafter
                     called the "Natural Area", to be concurrently established with assistance
                     from the Land and Water Conservation Fund, is also shown on Appendix A.

                     b.    Sanctuary Management Procedures

                           (1) Sanctuary Management Official - The Department of Natural Resourc      es
                     will  be responsible for management of the sanctuary, in accordance with the
                     Management Objectives and Statement of Uses hereinafter set forth. That
                     agency will in turn designate a Resident Manager. Management procedures
                     will be worked out through an Inter-agency Agreement between the Office of
                     Planning and Budget (OPB), Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Board
                     of Regents of the University System of Georgia (the Regents).

                           (2) Appeal Procedure - Any individual or organization which is concerned
                     about possible improper use or restriction of use of the Sanctuary may petition
                     DNR first, then OPB second, then the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource
                     Management (U. S. Department of Commerce) thirdl:.,, for review of any alleged
                     improper use or restriction.

                           (3) Sanctuary Policies and Administration - The Resident Manager shall
                     be responsible for day-to-day administration of the policies, plans and
                     procedures imposed by the Commissioner of DNR. The Commissioner will
                     establish these plans consistent with policies established by the Board of
                     Natural Resources and other responsibilities imposed upon DNR by law.

                                (a) The Department of Natural Resources is responsible to assure
                     that its management decisions reflect adequate consideration of scientific
                     data.


                                (b) Written plans and policies of the Department and rules and
                     regulations of the Board of Natural Resources shall be reviewed by the
                     National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in its annual review in order
                     to assure that Sanctuary policies and administration are consistent with the
                     management objectives of the Sanctuary.

                     C.    Management Objectives of the Sanctuary

                           (1) The primary management objective shall be to maintain the integrity
                     of the Sanctuary for research and educational purposes. and to protect it
                     from both internal and external sources of stress which may alter or affect
                     the nature of the ecosystems. The management policy shall be designed to
                     reduce, minimize or avoid artificial or manipulative management control or
                     techniques, to promote and protect natural processes and systems, and to
                     promote and encourage attainment of scientific objectives.




                                                Page C-1








                       (2) It is recognized by the parties to this Agreement that the Natural
                  Area shall be managed for overall.DNR objectives, where the objective is tn
                  preserve the scenic or natural values, including the areas of physical or
                  biological importance and wildlife areas, in such a manner that it complements
                  and is compatible with the purposes of the Sanctuary and under such rules and
                  regulations as the Board of Natural Resources may promulgate. These areas
                  must be open to the general public for outdoor recreation use to the extent
                  that the natural attributes of the areas will not be seriously impaired or
                  lost.


                  d. Scientific Objectives

                       The primary scientific objectives of the Sanctuary are:

                       (1) To enable a better understanding-of estuarine ecosystems. Studies
                  may include productivity measurements, distribution and life history studies.
                  of estuarine organisms, energy flow dynamics, modeling, etc., as well as
                  physical, chemical and hydrographic studies;

                       (2) To make baseline studies by defining the natural conditions in this
                  sanctuary, and by monitoring the sanctuary to detect subsequent changes;

                       (3) To develop policy and management criteria, and to use the Duplin
                  River estuarine ecosystem as a control with which changes in other estuaries
                  can be compared as they may undergo development as coastal zone management
                  programs are implemented; and

                       (4) To allow any qualified scientist to conduct research, provided that
                  such research is compatible with (I) other research being conducted in the
                  Sanctuary, and (ii) the management and other sciQntific objectives of the
                  Sanctuary as set out above.

                  e. Statement of Uses


                       (1) The following uses shall besallowed _n the Sanctuary:

                           (a) Scientific and archaeological research;
                           (b) Education and nature interpretation; and
                           (c) Low intensity recreation, including hunting, fishing,
                               wildlife observation and esthetic enjoyment.

                       (2) The following uses,shall be allowed on a restricted basis in the
                  Sanctuary:

                           (a) Residential use at the level extant as of the date.of the
                               grant award, except that there shall be allowed such increase
                               In residential use as is necessary in connection with the
                               management of the Island.

                           (b) Motorized land, water or air vehicles under the regulation
                               of the Resident Manager.

                            .(c) The use of pesticides, herbicides, biocides and fertilizers

                                (i) only in the immediate vicinity of residences for
                                household purposes; ur





                                         Page C-2







                             (ii) in an approved research project or program in the
                             laboratory or controlled field application where the
                             effects can be circumscribed and/or confidently reversed,
                             provided that such activities shall be restricted to an.
                             area of less than one-tenth (1/10th) of one.percent of the
                            .total-core area; or

                             (iii) in instances where an imminent threat to the flora
                             and/or fauna of the Island exists.

                        (d)  Commercial timber harvesting at commercial maturity in the@
                             area of the existingpine plantation, which area subse@uently
                             will be managed with the objective of encouraging succession
                             to.a typical oak forest climax.

                   (3) The  following uses shall be prohibited in the Sanctuary:

                        (a)  Motorized land, water or air vehicles, commercial timber
                             harvest and prescribed burning, except as any or all of these
                             are allowed by the Manager pursuant to Sections l(e)(2)(b)
                             and l(e)(2)(d) above;

                        (b)  Mineral removal;

                        (c)  Control of predators Ithrough use of poisons except as permitted
                             under l(e)(2)(c) above;

                        (d)  Dredging, except as, in the opinion of DNR, is n ecessary at
                             Marsh Landing, in Barn Creek, or in South End Creek, in order
                             to provide usual and historic access to Sapelo Island, which
                             opinion shall be based upon careful consideration of scientific
                             data pertaining to the possible impact of any such dredging on
                             the Management Objectives of the Sanctuary, and a copy of which
                             opinion shall be sent to the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource
                             Management;

                        (e)  The deposit of fill in any marsh or estuary;L

                        (f)  Chemical or pollutant discharge except as permissible under
                             Georgia water quality laws; and

                        (g)  Other alterations of the natural environment which are inconsistent
                             with the purposes for which the Sanctuary was established.

                   (4) A use of any part of the Sanctuary which is not specifically
              permitted and which is inconsistent with the purposes for which the Sanctuary
              was established is prohibited.

                   (5) With regard to the land adjoining and contiguous to the landward
              boundary of the Sanctuary, which land will be purchased by the State from
              the Sapelo Island Research Foundation (SIRF) at the same time at which the
              land to be used in the Sanctuary is to be purchased by the State from SIRF,
              and/or which boundary appears on Sheet Two of the Plats of,Survey of certain
              lands on Sapelo Island, McIntosh County, Georgia, dated April 2, 1976, and
              signed by G. P. Underwood, Jr., which land shall be termed the "Natural.Area.",
              and is so referred to in the Environmental Assessment portion of Land and
              Water Conservation Project Agreement No. 13-00349 submitted to the State by




                                       Page C-3







                the Heritage Conservation and Recreation Service of the U. S. Department of
                the Interior (HCRS), the State shall manage and maintain such land as pre-
                scribed in such Environmental Assessment--incorporated herein by reference--
                particularly as set out below. This obligation so to manage and maintain
                such land shall run from the State to the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource
                Management until such time as, and to the extent that, HCRS implements such
                Project Agreement.

                     The Natural Area, with over one and one-half miles of beach fronting
                the Atlantic Ocean, will be a key element in the overall plan for the
                conservation and utilization of the natural resources of the island. The
                ocean beach, in association with the upland forests. cleared lands, ponds   and
                sloughs, is ideally suited for a variety of recreation pursuits. To protect
                them against abuse and over-exploitation, DNR proposes to carefully regulate
                the recreation use of these resources in accordance with the following
                guidelines.

                          (a)   The following uses shall be encouraged within the Natural Area:

                                M Scientific research (including archaeology).

                                (ii) Education and nature interpretation.

                                (iii) Low intensity recreation, including, but not limited
                                to,.hunting, fishing, wildlife observation and esthetic
                                enjoyment, to the extent that the natural attributes of the
                                areas will not be seriously impaired or lost, and that the
                                adjoining sanctuary will not be adversely affected by any
                                such use.


                                (iv) Forest and game management in accordance with sound
                                disciplinary principles, and consistent with the purposes
                                for which the Natural Area was established, to the extent
                                that they will not be detrimental to the environment.

                          (b)   The following uses shall be allowed on a restricted basis
                                within the Natural Area:


                                M The use of a motorized air, land or water vehicle under
                                the regulation of the Manager; and

                                (ii) The use of the ocean beach for public recreational
                                purposes in a manner consistent with the purposes for which
                                the Natural Area was established.


                          (c)   The following uses shall be prohibited within the Natural Area:

                                (i) Motorized land, water or air vehicleï¿½, except as allowed
                                under regulation of the Department of Natural Resources.

                                (ii) Mineral removal inconsistent with purposes for which
                                the Natural Area was established.


                                (iii) Control of predators through use  of poison, except in
                                instances where flora and/or fauna of the Island are endangered.





                                          page C-4








                            (iv) Chemical or-pollutant discharge except as permissible
                            under Georgia water quality laws.

                            (v) other alterations of the natural environment which are
                            inconsistent with the purpose for which the Natural Area
                            was established.


             f.   Reports

                  (1) The State shall report annually on June 30 to the Office of Ocean
             and Coastal Resource Management on the management of the Sanctuary. The
             report shall describe the uses which have been allowed and allowed on a
             restricted basis during the report year, shall assess the degree to which
             the major objectives of the Sanctuary have been fulfilled, shall state any
             problems which have been encountered in the management of the Sanctuary--and
             any steps taken in their regards--and shall make such recommendations and
             such commentary as the State deems appropriate.

                  (2) Representatives of the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource
             Management may make such visits to the Sanctuary for purposes of assessing
             the effectiveness of its management and making such recommendations with
             regard thereto as that Office deems appropriate.

                  (3) The State shall procure copies of any study or report reflectirg
             .scientific endeavor in the Sanctuary, and shall provide a copy of such stue@y
             or report to the Office of Ocean and-Coastal Resource Management and make
             copies available to the public.

             g.   Hunting Camps

                  The hunting camp presently located in the Sanctuary will be moved if an
             acceptable site can be,found. This site must be mutually agreeable to both
             the State of Georgia and the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management.
             If no acceptable site can be found, use of the present camp will be restricted
             to managed quota hunts for the minimum number of days necessary to achieve
             sound game management. Until and if the hunting camp is moved, the present
             camp will be operated under the above conditions. No additional camps of any
             kind will be located inside the Sanctuary.

             h.   Monitoring

                  Uses of the San-tuary and related land and water shall be monitored for
             their possible or ac,-al impact on the existing estuarine ecosystem and
             resources. The basic monitoring program shall include measurements and samples
             of water quality, hydrographic and biological parameters taken at appropriate
             and regular intervals.


             i.   Amendments


                  Any request by OPB, DNR, or the Regents for an amendment to the foregoing
             special award conditions shall be given prompt consideration by the Office of
             Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, and such request shall not be
             unreasonably denied.







                                       page C-5











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                                                                                              Sal)elo Island Natura
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                                                                      Page C-6



































                                       Appendix D:


                                 Memorandum of Agreement .









                                STATEMENT OF AGREEMENT
                                       BETWEEN
                         THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
                               OF THE STATE OF GEORGIA
                                         AND
                 THE NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION
                         CONCERNING THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE
                  SAPELO ISLAND NATIONAL ESTUARINE RESEARCH RESERVE




               WHEREAS, the State of Georgia has determined that certain
          waters and related coastal habitats of Sapelo Island provide
          unique opportunities to study natural and human processes
          occurring within an estuarine ecosystem; and

               WHEREAS., it is the finding of the Department of Natural
          Resources that the resources of Sapelo Island and the values they
          represent to the citizens of Georgia and the United States
          benefit from the management of a portion of the Island as a
          National Estuarine Research Reserve; and

               WHEREAS, the National oceanic and Atmospheric Administiation
          (NOAA), U.S. Department of Commerce, has concurred with that
          finding and pursuant to its authority under Section 315 of the
          Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 designated a portion of
          Sapelo Island as a National Estuarine Sanctuary in December 1976,
          which is now known as a National Estuarine Research Reserve; and

               WHEREAS, the Department of Natural Resources, Game and Fish
          Division, as the agency designated in the Sapelo Island National
          Estuarine Research Reserve Management Plan (hereinafter "the
          Plan") and by the State of Georgia responsible for managing the
          Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve, acknowledges
          the need and requirement for continuing State-Federal cooperation
          in the long-term management of the site in a manner consistent
          with the purposes sought through its designation.

               NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants
          contained herein it is agreed by and between the Department of
          Natural Resources and NOAA, as follows:

          ARTICLE I: State-Federal Roles in Reserve Management

          A.   The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Game and Fish
               Division, as the principal contact for the State of Georgia
               in all matters concerning the Sapelo Island National
               Estuarine Research Reserve, will serve to ensure that the
               Reserve is managed in a manner consistent with the goals of
               the National Estuarine Research Reserve System and the
               management objectives of the Plan. Its responsibilities for
               Plan implementation will include the following:






                                   Page D-1








              1.    Use its best efforts to effect and maintain a process
                    for coordinating and facilitating the roles and
                    responsibilities of all State and local agencies
                    involved in the management of the Reserve, including
                    but not limited to:

                    a.   Enforcement programs regulating water quality,
                         fish and wildlife habitat protection, sport and
                         commercial fisheries, and non-consumptive
                         recreational activities;

                    b.   The on-site administration of facilities,
                         programs, and tasks related to Reserve management;
                         and

                    C.   Research and educational agendas developed and
                         implemented in accordance with corresponding
                         elements of the proposed Plan;

              2.    As the State entity designated by the Governor in
                    matters concerning all financial assistance awards
                    authorized under Section 315 of the CZMA, apply for,
                    budget, and allocate such funds as are received for
                    acquisition and development, operation and management,
                    and research, monitoring and education;

              3.    Serve as principal negotiator on issues involving
                    proposed boundary changes and/or amendments to the
                    Plan; and

              4.    Submit annual reports to NOAA on the Reserve,
                    describing program performance in Plan implementation
                    and a detailed work program for the following year of
                    Reserve operations, including budget projections and
                    research efforts-,

         B.   Within NOAA, the Marine and Estuarine Management Division
              (MEMD), Office of ocean and Coastal Resource Management
              (ORCM), will serve to administer the provisions of Section
              315 of the CZMA to ensure that the Sapelo Island National
              Estuarine Research Reserve is managed in accordance with the
              goals of the National Estuarine Reserve Research System and
              the Plan. In carrying out its responsibilities, the MEMD
              will:

              1.    Subject to appropriation, provide,financial assistance
                    to the State for acquisition, development, management
                    and operation of the Reserve;










                                    Page D-2







                    Subject to appropriation, provide financial, assistance
                    for research and monitoring and education programs at
                    the Reserve in accordance with the provisions of
                    section 315 of the CZMA;

               3.   Serve as the point-of-contact for NOAA in discussion
                    regarding applications for and any financial assistance
                    received by the State under section 315 of the CZMA,
                    including any and all performance standards, compliance
                    schedules, or Special Award Conditions deemed
                    appropriate by NOAA to ensure the timely and proper
                    execution of the proposed work program;

               4.   Participate in periodic evaluations scheduled by OCRM
                    in accordance with Section 312 of the CZMA to measure
                    the State's performance in Plan implementation and its
                    compliance with the terms and conditions prescribed in
                    financial assistance awards granted by NOAA for the
                    purposes of the Reserve; and

               5.   Esta'blish an information exchange networ k cataloging
                    all,available research data and educational material
                    developed on each site included within the national
                    system of estuarine research reserves.

         ARTICLE II: Disposal of Real Property. Real property must be
               used for the authorized purpose of the original grant as
               long as needed. When no longer needed for the original
               grant purpose, the State may seek approval from NOAA, which
               approval shall not be unreasonably withheld, for the use of
              .real property in other Federal Aid projects or in programs
               that have purposes consistent with these grants. When real
               property purchased in part with NOAA funds is no longer
               needed, and if prior approval by NOAA has been obtained, the
               State may eliminate the Federal interest by compensating the
               program for its fair share of the property or sell the
               property and compensate NOAA as described in Subpart C of
               Circular A-102. The Federal share is the amount computed by
               applying the percentage of the Federal participation in the
               total original cost of the project to the current fair
               market value of the property. Further guidelines are
               provided in Attachment N of Circular A-102.

         ARTICLE III: Program Evaluation

         A.    During the period that Federal financial assistance is
               available for Reserve operations and management, OCRM will
               schedule, pursuant to 15 CFR 921.34, periodic evaluations of
               the State's performance in meeting the conditions of such
               awards and progress in implementing the Plan and the
               provisions of this Agreement.






                                   Page D-3








        B.    In accordance with Section 315 of the CZMA, OCRM will
              evaluate, pursuant to Section 312 of the CZMA and the
              corresponding provisions of 15 CFR 921, the Department of
              Natural Resources, Game and Fish Division's performance in
              implementing the Plan and strategy committing the State to
              the long-term management of the Sapelo Island National
              Estuarine Research Reserve.

        IN WITNESS THEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement
        to be executed.


        NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC    STATE OF GEORGIA
        ADMINISTRATION                      DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
          /ILA
        BY: Timothif R. E. K7eeney          BY: Ace D. Tanner
             Director                           -commissioner
             Office of Ocean and Coastal
               Resource Management







































                                 .Page D-4































                                          Appendix E:


                             Members of SINERR Advisory Committee

                                        and Task Forces





















                     SAPELO ISLAND NATIONAL ESTUARINE RESEARCH RESERVE
                                 ADVISORY COMMITTEE--BACKGROUND


                   The people listed on the following pages serve on the SINERR Advisory
            Committee appointed by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).       The
            members represent various professional disciplines and public-interest  groups.
            The Committee will advise DNR regarding the operation, management,
            maintenance, conservation and interpretation of the National Estuarine  Research
            Reserve. The Committee's balance of interests and expertise ensures
            appropriate input into the State's operation of the Research Reserve.

                   To manage the SINERR effectively, DNR and the National Oceanic and
            Atmospheric Administration must fulfill their appropriate roles. DNR and NOAA
            officials serve as ex officio members of the Advisory Committee, because DNR
            manages the islanil-aiid -the Federal government has certain oversight
            responsibilities for activities occurring within the Reserve. These agencies
            have the following roles:

                         DNR implements and operates programs designed to interpret,
                         manage, conserve and maintain the natural and cultural resources
                         of Sapelo Island in a manner consistent with applicable State and
                         Federal laws, guidelines, grant conditions, and sound principles of
                         resource management.

                         NOAA provides financial and technical support to the State of
                         Georgia, to fulfill the purpose and objectives under which the
                         SINERR was designated. NOAA also evaluates programs and
                         activities to ensure that the SINERR continues to be operated and
                         maintained consistently with the SINERR management plan and with
                         the policies and guidelines of NOAA's National Estuarine Reserve
                         Research Program.















                                            Page E-1





















                   SAPELO ISLAND NATIONAL ESTUARINE RESEARCH RESERVE
                              ADVISORY CONMITTEE-MEMBERSHIEP


                Dr. Vernon J. Henry, Chairman, Department of Geology
                      Georgia State University

                Dr. Forest E. Kellogg, III, Research Associate
                      Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study

                Dr. Joe L. Key, Vice President for Research
                      University of Georgia

                Honorable David Earl Lane, Chairman
                      Board of Commissioners, McIntosh County

                Dr. Benjamin F. Lewis, Founder and Member
                      Hog Hammock Community Foundation

                Mr. Jerry McCollum, Executive Director
                      Georgia Wildlife Federation

                Ms. Kathleen Varnell, Secondary Schools Science Consultant
                      Georgia Department of Education

                Mrs. Jane Yarn, Conservationist and Citizen Member




                Leon Kirkland, Director of DNR's Game and Fish Division, serves as
          liaison among DNR, NOAA, USFWS and the Advisory Committee. Mr. Kirkland
          has full responsibility and authority for addressing the issues and
          recommendations identified by NOAA and for ensuring DNR compliance with the
          SINERR Management Plan.













                                        Page E-2








                     SAPELO ISLAND NATIONAL ESTUARINE RESEARCH RESERVE
                        ADVISORY COMMITTEE--BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

            Dr. Vernon J.

                  Dr. Henry is Chairman of the Department of Geology at Georgia State
            University. He has served as a member of the Coastal Marshlands Protection
            Committee and the Shore Assistance Committee. He has been Director of the
            Marine Institute at Sapelo Island and Coordinator of the University of Georgia's
            marine geology program at the Skidaway Institute of Oceanography.
                  Dr. Henry recently chaired the Tybee Island Technical Task Force on a
            major beach renourishment project and currently heads a DNR Advisory
            Committee studying the possible use of materials dredged from harbors to
            renourish three coastal islands in Glynn County. He is widely respected for his
            knowledge of environmental science and the dynamics of coastal sand-sharing
            systems along Georgia's coast.

            Dr. Forest E. Kellogg, III

                  Dr. Kellogg is Research Associate for the Southeastern Cooperative
            Wildlife Disease Study at the University of Georgia and co-staff with the UGA
            School of Forest Resources. He has served as a member of the faculty since
            1969. He holds an undergraduate degree in forestry, a Master of Science
            degree in wildlife management and a Doctorate in parasitology.
                  Dr. Kellogg has earned wide recognition for his efforts to acquire and
            protect lands for wildlife and forest management purposes throughout the
            Southeast. He is considered to be one of the top professionals in the country
            on forest-resource management. His expertise is especially useful in decisions
            regarding forest management on Sapelo Island.

            Dr. Joe L. K

                  As Vice President for Research at the University of Georgia, Dr. Key
            administers research activities at the University. The Marine Institute at
            Sapelo Island is one of his responsibilities. Dr. Key came to the University
            since 1969. Before that, he served as professor of biology and botany at
            Purdue University. He has conducted symposia and lectured throughout the
            U.S. and overseas.
                  Dr. Key has secured many research grants from organizations such as
            the National Science Foundation, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and
            the U.S. Department of Education (DOE). He has also served as Executive Vice
            President for Agrigenetics Corporation in Boulder, Colorado.
                  Dr. Key's research in botany is supported by grants and contracts with
            DOE, NIH, and Agrigenetics, totalling $2.28. million for the period 1982-87. He
            has a worldwide scientific reputa tion in plant cellular and molecular biology in
            the areas of heat shock and auxin-regulated gene expression in plants.

            David Earl Igne

                  Mr. Lane has served as Chairman of the McIntosh County Board of
            Commissioners since 1985. He was originally elected to the Commission in 1979.
            As Chairman and Commissioner-At-Large, Mr. Lane is responsible for McIntosh
            County governmental operations, including the representation of private
            citizens who live in the Hog Hammock Community on Sapelo Island.



                                            Page E-3









             Dr. Benjamin F. Lewis

                   Dr. Lewis was born on Sapelo Island. He owns a home and spends much
             of his time in the Hog Hammock Community. He is the founder and a member of
             the Hog Hammock Community Foundation, an organization of residents. They
             created the Foundation in 1975 to stabilize the community and to encourage
             enough economic development to help support the community.
                   Dr. Lewis retired from the U.S. Postal Service after 30 years of service.
             His final post was as Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Coordinator for the
             Atlanta Region. He had also served as acting EEO Specialist for the U.S.
             Postal Service Headquarters in Washington, D.C. After retirement, he spent 11
             years as Director of Development for Savannah State College. At present, Dr.
             Lewis devotes most of his time to serving the needs of and seeking solutions to
             problems confronting the residents of the Hog Hammock Community.

             Mr. Jerry McCollum

                   Mr. McCollum is Executive Director of the Georgia Wildlife Federation
             (GWF). At more than seven. thousand members, the GWF is Georgia's largest
             organization of hunters and fishermen. Mr. McCollum worked for DNR's Game
             and Fish Division from 1975 to 1987. During this time, he served as senior
             wildlife biologist at Ossabaw Island--the senior DNR employee responsible for
             on-site management of that barrier island. He is intimately familiar with coastal
             barrier island environments and natural processes. He holds bachelor's and
             master's degrees in,biology. His knowledge and expertise on wildlife issues will
             be extremely valuable to the management of the SINERR.

             Ms. Kathleen Varnell

                   Ms. Varnell has been an educator for 16 years. She has 12 years'
             classroom teaching experience in high schools in Dougherty County. She also
             directed a science and math program for a middle school for three years. As
             Secondary Schools Science Consultant for the Georgia Department of Education,
             she is provides consultative services to all high schools and school systems in
             Georgia, regarding science instruction. She holds a bachelor's degree in
             biology and a ma ter's degree in science education.

             Mrs. Jane Yarn

                   Mrs. Yarn was a member of the U. S. Council on Environmental Quality
             (CEQ) during the Carter administration. She founded and directed Save
             America's Vital Environment, one of Georgia's foremost environmental legislative
             lobbying groups. She was one of the leading lobbyists for passage of Georgia's
             Coastal Marshlands Protection Act of 1970.
                   Mrs. Yarn played a central role in acquiring two Georgia coastal islands
             (Egg and Wolf) for inclusion into the National Wildlife Refuge System. She was
             also instrumental in negotiating for State acquisition of Ossabaw Island. Mrs.
             Yarn has been a leading member of the Georgia Conservancy, a Trustee of The
             Nature Conservancy, and Chair of the Georgia Heritage Trust Commi sion. She
             presently serves on the Governor's Growth Strategy Commission. She is one of
             Georgia's best known and respected conservationists.





                                             Page E-4








                                    MEMBERSHIP OF SINERR TASK FORCES

                                      Research and Monitoring Task Force

              CHAIR:
              Dr. Jim Alberts, Director               Todd Holbrook, Assistant Chief
              University of Georgia                   Game Management Section
                Marine Institute                      DNR--Game and Fish Division
              Sapelo Island                           Atlanta

              Marshall Gaddis, Program Manager        Dr. Lewis Larson
              Water Quality Management Program        State Archaeologist
              DNR - -Environmental Protection         Department of Sociology and
                Division                                Anthropology
              Atlanta                                 West Georgia College
                                                      Carrollton


              Dr. Elizabeth Gordon                    Dr. Stuart Stevens
              Department of Geology                   Shellfish Program Manager
              University of Georgia                   DNR--Coastal Resources Division
              Athens                                         Brunswick

              Noel Holcomb, SINERR Manager
              DNR--Game and Fish Division
              Sapelo Island

                                  Task Force on Education and Interpretation

              Ruth Gebel, Curator of Exhibits         Lisa Reynolds Hammett, Executive
              Scripps Aquarium                          Director
              La Jolla, California                    Madison/Morgan County Cultural
                                                        Center
                                                      Madison

              Dr. Jay Calkins, Director               Dewey Hulsey, Principal
              Marine Extension Service                Claxton High School
              Skidaway Institute                      Claxton
                of Oceanography
              Savannah

              Dr. James Claiborne                     Handy Johnson, Landscape
              Department of Biology                     Architect
              Georgia Southern College                DNR--Parks and Historic Sites
              Statesboro                              Atlanta

              Bill Eswine, Chairman                   Ken Riddleberger, Coordinator
              Department of Biology                   Project WILD
              Savannah Country Day School             DNR--Game and Fish Division
              Savannah                                Social Circle

              Noel Holcomb, SINERR Manager            Dr. Susan Walraven
              DNR--Game and Fish Division             McIntosh County Board of
              Sapelo Island                             Education
                                                      Darien




                                                Page E-5
































                                        Appendix F:


                         Agreement between DNR and McIntosh County

                                    Chamber of Commerce










                                    TICKET SALES AGREEMENT



                            THIS AGREEMENT. made and entered into this 7th day

                         of September, 1984, by and between the DEPARTMENT OF

                       NATURAL RESOURCES of the State of Georgia, hereinafter

                       "DNR", and McINTOSH COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, herinafter

                       the "Chamber",



                                          WITNESSETH:



                            WHEREAS, DNR desires to promote and provide tours

                       and managed deer hunts on Sapelo tsland; and

                            WHEREAS, DNR operates a ferry service to Sapelo

                       Island; and

                            WHEREAS, the Chamber has the purpose and desire to

                       promote tourism and visitors to McIntosh County and believes

                       the promotion and provision of tours and managed deer hunts

                       on Sapelo Island will accomplish same.

                            NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the

                       mutual benefits flowing to each as hereinafter appear, DNR

                       and the Chamber agree as follows:

                            1. The term of this agreement shall be from two (2) weeks

                       after the day and year first above written until June 30,

                       1985. The parties may, by mutual written consent, agree to

                       extend this agreement on a yearly (July 1 to June 30) basis

                       provided such consent is given by both parties prior to

                       June 15th each expiring term.

                            2. The Chamber shall:

                                A. Act as ticket agent for DNR's ferry service to

                       Sapelo Island by providing the physical facilities and staff

                       to accumplish the responsibilities imposed by this paragraph 2.

                                B.  Take calls from the public and schedule boat

                       passengers on DNR's ferry service for participation in

                       DNR's Sapelo Island Sanctuary Tour program and managed deer
				
			     hunts.





                                         Page F-1
 









                                                             2-



                                            C. Provide and staff an office open for the

                                   selling of tickets to  the public on all week days from

                                   7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Saturdays from 8.00 a.m. to

                                   12: 00 noon. -

                                            D. Sell, in consecutive order. pre-numbered

                                  tickets at the rate of five dollars ($5.00) per ticket;
                               
                                   provided, however, this rate may be changed by fifteen (15)

                                   days written notice from the Commissioner of DNR to the

                                   Chamber.

                                            F. Retain one dollar and fifty cents ($1.50) for

                                   each ticket sold.

                                            F. Account for all ticket sales and transmit     all

                                   monies received (less the $1.50 per ticket to lie retained by

                                   the Chamber) to DNR in a monthly report to be delivered to

                                   DNR no later than thetenth day following the last day of

                                   each month of the term of this Agreement. Said report shall

                                   be filed with the Department of Natural Resources, Cash

                                   Management, 270 Washington Street. S.W., Room 802, Atlanta,

                                   Georgia 30334.

                                            C. Maintain and make available accurate records

                                   of all. ticket sales for inspection by DNR representatives or

                                   the State Auditor during all normal business hours.

                                            H. Assume full responsibility for all tickets

                                   issued to it by DNR under this Agreement and make full payment

                                   for any tickets that cannot be accounted for to the sole

                                   satisfaction of DNR.

                                            I. Handle refunds on behalf of DNR which refunds

                                   ..hall he given only if DNR is unable to provide. transportation

                                   on the day scheduled.

                                            J. Handle ticketing for any special group tours

                                   arranged DNR.
                                            K. Sell only such a number of tickets as to not

                                   exceed the ferry's hauling capacity as determined solely by







                                                     Page F-2
 







                                                                   -3-




                                            3. DNR shall:

                                                 A.. Provide to the Chamber a monthly schedule of

                                      tours, or  hunts. Sched    ules may be provided or changed by

                                      telephone or written notice from the DNR Tour Guide or

                                      Coastal Region supervisor.
                                                 B. Provide ferry service to and from Sapelo Island.

                                                 C. Provide the Chamber with consecutive pre-numbered

                                      tickets  for the ferry service.

                                                 D. Review and submit in writing to the Chamber any
                                      objections to the monthly account and          report provided by the

                                      Chamber pursuant to subparagraph 2F by the ninetieth (90th)               day

                                      following Life filing of the account and report.

                                                 E.   Provide the Chamber with notice of any special

                                      group tours arranged by DNR which are to be ticketed by

                                      the Chamber    pursuant to subparagraph 2J.

                                                 F.   Provide the Chamber by telephone or written

                                      notice from    the DNR Sapelo Island Tour Guide or Coastal
                                      Region      Supervisor with the hauling capacity of the ferry
                                       which may fluctuate in the sole discretion of DNR due to
                                      
                                      other passenger and freight obligations of DNR.
                                            4. Any ticket sold will be good only for the day of the

                                      scheduled trip.

                                            5. The Chamber convenants that it presently has no

                                      interest nor shall. acquire      any interest, direct or indirect,
                                      which would conflict in any-manner with the performance of

                                      it under this Agreement.

                                            6. This Agreement and any proceeds Of this Agreement

                                      may not  be. assigned, nor may the performance thereunder be

                                      assigned, except with the prior written consent of the

                                      Commissioner of DNR.

                                            7. If the Chamber is a nonprofit contractor as defined

                                      in O.C.G.A. 5 50-20-2, then the Chamber agrees to comply with

                                      the provisions of O.C.G.A. 55 50-20-1 through 50-20-3 and with

                                      particular the reguicoments of 0.C.G.A. ï¿½ 50-20-3, anJ With

                                      such further instructions as the State of Georgia may

                                      subsequently require in the implementation of said provisions.

                                           8. The parties of this Agreement certify that the
                                      provisions of prohibiting, full. and part-time oppointive

                                                            page F-3
 






                                                           -4-


                                  officials and employees of the State from engaging in certain
                                  transactions affeqting the State contained in O.C.C.A.
                                  SS 45-10-20 through 45-10-28 have not and will not be

                                  vi"JaLvd in any respect in regard to this Agreement.
                                       9. The failure of DNR at any time to require performance
                                  by the Chamber of any provision hereof shall in no way affect

                                  the right of DNK thereafter to enforce that same provision or

                                  any part of the Agreement, nor shall the failure of DNR to

                                  enforce any breach of any provision hereof be taken or held

                                  to be a waiver of such provision, or as a waiver, modification

                                  or rescission of the Agreement itself.

                                      10. This Agreement and rights,   privileges and
                                  responsibilities shall be interpreted and construed according

                                  to the laws of the State of Georgia.
                                      11. This Agreement represents the sole and comple    @e
                                  understanding of the terms of this Agreement between the
                                  parties hereto and may be amended,  changed or modified only

                                  by a written document signed by the parties hereto.
                                      12'. All notices. except as specifically provided

                                  otherwise in this Agreement, which shall include statements,

                                  demands. requests, conFients, approvals. terminations and

                                  authorizations, given by either party or its designated

                                  representative to the other shall be in writing and sent

                                  by United States Certified Mail, postage prepaid. to the

                                  party to be notified at such party's address as J.9 set forth

                                  below. The t;ender of such notice shall require the United

                                  Stater Postal Service 'to "Show to whom, date and address of

                                  delivery" of said notice. The day upon which any such

                                  notice is so-mailed shall be treated aa the date of service.

                                  Lither party nkily frum time to time by notice to the other

                                  designate a different address to which notices shall be

                                  sent:

                                           DIft:       Director, Game and Fish Division
                                                       270 Washington Street, S.W., Room 710
                                                       Atlanta. Georgia 30334

                                           Chamber:    McIntosh County Chamber of Commerct:
                                                       Post Office Box 734
                                                       Darien, Georgia 31305


                                                     Page F-4











                                     13. This agreement-is executed in two (2) counterparts,
                                 each of which is deemed an original of equal dignity with

                                 the other and which is deemed one and the same instrument

                                 as the other.

                                     14. Either party may terminate this Agreement by sixty
                                 (60) days written notice to the other party.

                                      IN WITNESS WHEREOF. the parties-have hereunto set
                                their hands and affixed the ir seals the day and year first

                                 above written.




                                                               DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
                                                               State of GeorgiA
                                                               By
                                                                      J. Leonard Ledbetter
                                                                   
                                                                 commissioner



                                                               (Department Seal Affixed Here)


                                                               McINTOSH COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE



                                                               BY
                                                                             name
                                                                       

                                                                 Chairman, McIntosh County Chamber
                                                                    of Commerce




                                                               Attest:
                                                                      Title 




                                                               (Chamber Seal Affixed iffixed here)


                                                                               MCINTOSH COUNTY
                                                                          CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
                                                                           DARTEN, GEORGIA 31305                                                                          














                                                  Page F-5
 





             State of Georgia

             County of Fulton.




                         .Amendment No. 1 to Ticket Sales Agreement

                  THIS AGREEMENT is made and entered 'into this 2adday of
                      1985, by and between the Department of Natural Resources,:
             State of Georgia, hereinafter '.'DNR," and.the McIntosh County

             Chamber of Commerce, hereinafter "Chamber."


                          WI-TNESSETH:
                  WHEREAS, by instrument d@ted September 7, 1984, the pa rties

             did enter into an agreement whereby the Chamber and DNR would

             cooperate in the provision of ticket sales, tours and managed

             deer hunts relating to Sapelo Island.

                  NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the mutual
            lbenefits flowing to each party, the adequacy of which is hereby
             acknowledged as sufficient, the parties do mutually agree to

             amend their original agreement dated September 7,1984, as

             follows:



                  Paragraph 1. eage 1,.is amended by striking this paragraph
             in its entirety and substituting.in lieu thereof the following

             language:-                                 A.
                  "l.. The term of this agreement shall be for a period not
                       to exceed fifty years from  the day and year first
           H           above written. The parties  may terminate any time
                       within this term subject to  the provisions of para-

                       graph 14 hereof."

                                   Page F-6






                                              -2-

                  Paragraph 2, subparagraph E and F, are amended by striking
             the provisions "one dollar and fifty cents ($1.50)" and "$1.50",
             respectively, and substituting in lieu thereof "one dollar and
             seventy-five cents ($1.75)" and "$1.75 respectively.


                                              -3-

                  All of the terms and conditions of the original agreement

             shall remain in full force and effect.


                  IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused   this Amendment

             No. 1 to be signed the date and year first above   written.



                                       DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
                                       State of Georgia



                                       By
                                             J Leonard Ledbetter
                                            commissioner



                                       (Department Seal Affixed Here)



                                       McINTOSH COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE




                                       By
                                                                     )(name)
                                          Chairman, McIntosh-County Chamber
                                            of Commerce



                                       Attest: Mary _________                                              

         						Title

                                      .(Chamber Seal Affixed Here)
                                           MCINTOSH COUNTY 
                                            CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
							   DARIEN, GEORGIA _____




























                                                             
                                                        
                                                          
                                                        
                                                         
                                   Page F-7                





























                                            Appendix G:


                                  Goals and Objectives for Research

                                           and Monitoring








                     GOALS AND OBJECTIVES FOR RESEARCH AND MONITORIIJG




                                     Mission Statement

            1.   Provide long-term protection to the Sapelo Island National
                 Estuarine Research Reserve, to  Isupport and promote basic and
                 applied scientific research.

            2.   Provide researchers and managers with baseline data on
                 certain physical, chemical and biological parameters
                 obtained through an onsite monitoring program.

            3. Communicate the significant results of research      to the
                 public and to coastal managers and decision-makers, through
                 a program of information and education.


                                  SINERR Research Program

            Goal I:   Cultural-resource Research: Assess    the cultural
                      resources within the SINERR.

            Obj. A:   Assess.the buried archaeological resources.
                      1.    Perform a preliminary (Phase I) archaeological
                            survey of all unsurveyed upland areas within the
                            SINERR, including the marsh islands within the
                            Duplin River.
                      2.    Using Phase I survey data, develop priorities for
                            Phase II testing and mapping of all sites whose'
                            significance and physical extent need to be
                            established.

            Obi. B:   Assess the submerged archaeological resources.
                      1.    Perform a Phase I archaeological survey of all
                            accessible submerged areas within the-SINERR.
                      2.    Using Phase I survey data, develop priorities for
                            Phase II testing and mapping of all sites whose
                            significance and physical extent need to be
                            established.

            Obj. C:   Assess the  historic ruins and historic standing
                      structures, together with their archaeological
                      components.
                      1.    Using the methodology for systematic field work
                            prescribed by the Georgia Survey Manual, perform a
                            basic historic-resources survey of all extant
                            historic structures and ruins within the SINERR..
                      2.    Evaluate the survey data to determine which
                            resources meet the criteria for listing on the
                            National Register of Historic Places.

                                     Page G- 1










                   GOALS AND OBJECTIVES FOR RESEARCH AND MONITORING

         Obj. D:    Use the data from the Phase I and Phase II assessments
                    to manage the cultural resources within the SINERR.
                    1.    Develop strategies for recording, protecting and
                          interpreting the significant cultural resources
                          onsite.
                    2.    Formulate specific research problems to address
                          the management and interpretive needs of the
                          SINERR.



         Goal II:   Water Processes: Increase knowledge of the basic
                    processes involving water movement, water mixing and
                    natural variations in water parameters within the
                    SINERR.

         Obj. A:    Measure  the relative contributions which upland runoff
                    from the SINERR, freshwater exchanges from mainland
                    rivers, and waters from the open ocean make to the
                    Duplin River's waters.

         Obj. B:    Estimate the effects of changes in climate on the
                    Duplin River's hydrologic cycle.

         Obj. C:    Determine the effects of seasonal and storm-event
                    flooding on the marshes within the SINERR.

         Obj. D:    Determine the relative effects of marimade and natural
                    disturbances to water flow to the salt marsh.

         Obj. E:    Quantify.subsurface water movement into and through the
                    SINERR.

         Obj. F:    Determine the effect of the natural hydrologic cycle on
                    water quality, as water floods into and ebbs from the
                    marsh.



         Goal III:  Sediment Processes: Increase knowledge of how sediments
                    are transported and transformed within the SINERR.

         Obj. A:    Determine current and historical accretion and erosion
                    trends in the SINERR.

         Obi. B:    Determine  the baseline sediment quality in the SINERR.

         Obj. C:    Determine  the sedimentary processes which affect the
                    expansion  and contraction of salt marshes.

         Obj. D:    Determine  sedimentation dynamics in the SINERR,
                    including  sedimentation rates, effects of natural

                                   Page G- 2







                     GOALS AND OBJECTIVES FOR RESEARCHAND MONITORING

                       animal populations, effects of upland utilization, and
                       effects of human activities within the Duplin River.

            Obj. E:    Determine the effects of sediments and suspended
                       particulate matter on biota and biotic processes within
                       the water column and sediments.


            Goal IV:   Nutrients and Other Chemical Inputs: Increase knowledge
                       of@the natural variability of nutrients and other
                       chemical inputs to the salt marsh, and of the
                       mechanisms by which the undisturbed salt marsh-within
                       the SINERR functions.

            Obj. A:    Determine the fate of synthetic chemicals introduced
                       into salt marshes.

            Obj. B:    'Determine the long-term baseline fluctuations of
                       nutrients and chemicals, and their response to physical
                       and biological processes.

            Obj.  C:   Determine the variability of nonpoint source
                       contributions to undisturbed salt marshes..

            Obi.  D:   Estimate the effects of watershed management practices
                       on nutrient flows.

            Obj.  E:   Determine natural cycles of nutrients and other
                       chemicals in undisturbed    salt marshes.

            Obi.  F:   Determine the effects on    biotic communities of changes
                       in"nutrient quantities and the introduction of
                       chemicals from outside the,SINERR.

            Obj.  G:   Determine the   effects on  water and sediment quality of
                       nonpoint sources of nutrients, biochemical oxygen
                       demand, bacteria, metals, and organics.from the SINERR
                       Upland.

            Goal  V:   Primary and Secondary Production, and Fishery Habitat
                       Requirements: Improve knowledge of life cycles of
                       important species which depend upon s@alt-marsh
                       estuaries, and quantify the importance of the salt
                       marsh and related upland areas.

            Obi. A:    Determine the importance of the marsh to estuarine and
                       coastal fisheries through direct food-web and habitat
                       interactions.
            Obj. B:    Determine biotic resources and dynamics in the SINERR,
                       with emphasis on fisheries and recruitment issues.

                                       Page G- 3










                    GOALS AND OBJECTIVES FOR RESEARCH AND MONITORING

           Obj. C:    Determine the extent of coupling and the effect of
                      physical processes on primary and secondary production.

           Obj. D:    Determine responses of primary and secondary production
                      to inputs of human origin.

           Obj. E:    Determine the effects of upland management practices on
                      marine and non-marine wildlife species in the
                      upland/marine transitional zone of the SINERR.


           Goal VI:   Management-related Research: Evaluate the effects of
                      management decisions on the health and stability of the
                      SINERR.'s ecosystem.

           Obj. A:    Conduct research on methods of improving monitoring
                      capabilities within large estuarine ecosystems.

           Obj. B:    Estimate the effects which current upland management
                      practices, including forest management, and vessel
                      traffic in the Duplin River have on the SINERR.


           Goal VII:  Data Storage-Retrieval System: Establish a
                      comprehensive database of baseline and research data,
                      which allows rapid access to historical and future
                      research and monitoring information gathered within the
                      SINERR.

           Obj. A:    Design and implement "user-friendly" software for
                      entering and retrieving research and monitoring data.

           Obj. B:    Construct a database bibliography of publications which
                      have resulted from research and monitoring work in the
                     -SINERR, a bibliography which a computer can search.

           Obj. C:    Increase cooperative efforts between the Marine
                      Institute and DNR to collect and enter all historical
                      and future data in a usable format.

           Obj. D:    Establish a position to coordinate with all researchers
                      to format and enter their results into the database as
                      it becomes available to the scientific community.

           Obj. E:    Establish a separate computerized database for
                      archaeological findings.





                                     Page G- 4









                    GOALS AND OBJECTIVES.FOR RESEARCH AND MONITORING

                                SINERR Monitoring Program

           Goal I:    Meteorological Monitoring: Collect meteorological data
                      on an hourly basis at several locations in the SINERR.

           Obj. A:    Incorporate into the SINERR monitoring database the
                      following meteorological data from two stations
                      operated by the University of Georgia Marine Institute
                      (UGMI) at Marsh Landing and at Moses Hammock: wind
                      speed and direction, air temperature,,incident solar
                      radiation, relative humidity, and precipitation. UGMI
                      collects the data remotely and tabulates the data
                      hourly.

           Obj. B:    Incorporate into the SINERR monitoring database 24-hour
                      measurements for the following parameters which UGMI
                      collects at the South End weather station: wind speed
                      and direction, minimum and maximum air temperatures,
                      and total precipitation.

           Obj. C:    Develop a fourth automated collection site midway up
                      the Duplin River, at the Kenan Field timber dock or
                      other suitable location, which DNR and UGMI will
                      jointly operate to complement the existing sites
                      operated by UGMI near the river's upper and lower ends.


           Goal II:   Hydrological Monitoring: Collect hydrological data at
                      various sampling sites in the SINERR.

           Obj. A:    Incorporate into the SINERR monitoring database tide-
                      height data collected by UGMI at stations at Marsh
                      Landing and Moses Hammock.

           Obj. B:    Add a third tide gauge midway up the Duplin River,
                      which DNR and UGMI will jointly operate in conjunction
                      with the proposed meteorological station at the Kenan
                      Field timber dock.

           Obj. C:    Incorporate into the SINERR database the following
                      hydrological data which UGMI currently collects at
                      Marsh Landing and Moses Hammock, using Hydrolab 2020 or
                      comparable equipment: water temperature, salinity,
                      conductivity and pH. Collect the data hourly.

           Obj. D:    Add a third hydrological station at the Kenan Field
                      timber dock, using Hydrolab 2020 or comparable
                      equipment, which DNR and UGMI will jointly operate.
                      Develop this station at the same time as the proposed
                      meteorological station and tide gauge.

                                     Page G- 5










                    GOALS AND OBJECTIVES FOR RESEARCH AND MONITORING



           Obj. E:    Continue quarterly collection of water quality para-
                      meters by DNR's coastal water quality monitoring
                      project, using stations near Marsh Landing and Moses
                      Hammock as well as 12 other sampling locations
                      throughout Georgia's estuaries.


           Goal III:  Biological Monitoring: Collect biological data at
                      various sampling sites within the SINERR.

           Obj. A:    Continue to collect water-guality data and fecal
                      coliform measures every two months, as part of DNR's
                      shellfish sanitation project. Continue using four
                      collection sites within the SINERR: near Marsh Landing
                      dock, near the mouth of Barn Creek, near the headwaters
                      of Barn Creek, and near Moses Hammock.

           Obj. B:    Complete a full shoreline reconnaissance for possible
                      pollution sources every four years as part of DNR's
                      shellfish sanitation project.

           Obj. C:    Continue to collect annual pesticide and metal data
                      from oyster samples (one station) and sediment samples
                      (both stations) as part of DNR's coastal water quality
                      monitoring project. The collection sites within the
                      SINERR are the Duplin River three-quarters of a mile
                      upstream from Marsh Landing and near Moses Hammock.

           Obj. D:    Seek the Department of Commerce's cooperation in
                      placing a monitoring site for the national status and
                      trends monitoring program at a site within the SINERR
                      at which DNR currently gathers data for the coastal
                      water-quality monitoring project. If feasible, gather
                      data for the national status and trends program about
                      six months after the annual collection of pesticide and
                      metal data for DNR's coastal water quality monitoring
                      project.


           Goal IV:   Data Management, Analysis and Reporting: Make
                      historical monitoring data available to scientists, and
                      analyze the data collected to enable SINERR managers to
                      detect unusual changes within the SINERR.

           Obj. A:    Develop a comprehensive management system for the
                      monitoring data collected within the SINERR.

           Obj. B:    Work with UGMI to store and retrieve data collected by
                      the meteorological and hydrolab stations.

                                     Page G- 6









                    GOALS AND OBJECTIVES FOR RESEARCH AND MONITORING


           Obj. C:   Develop a systematic approach to analyzing and
                     reporting key water quality parameters such as
                     pesticide and metal concentrations, to allow DNR to
                     detect unusual values and investigate their causes if
                     necessary.

           Obj. D:   Distribute annual reports on all monitoring tasks to
                     the members of the SINERR research task force, to UGMI,
                     to SINERR managers, and to the U.S. Department of
                     Commerce.
















































                                    Page G-. 7






























                                            Appendix H:


                                  Goals and Objectives for Education

                                          and Interpretation







                GOALS AND OBJECTIVES FOR EDUCATION AND INTERPRETATION



                                  Mission Stateinent

          Communicate to various publics, through the Sapelo Island
          National Estuarine Research Reserve, the value of estuarine areas
          and the roles they play in the quality of life, so that informed
          decisions can be made about the use of estuarine areas.

                                 Goals and Objectives

          Goal I:   Content: Through SINERR programs, develop the message
                    that Georgia's coastal area is a product of natural
                    forces, modified by human activities which require
                    effective, long-term management.

          Obj. A:   Describe the natural history of the SINERR in terms of:
                    1.   The relationship between estuaries and the other
                         elements of the coastal ecosystem.
                    2.   The similarities and differences.between the
                         SINERR and other estuaries.
                    3.   The natural forces which have shaped,and continue
                         to shape the coastal area.
                    4.   The plants and animals of this ecosystem.

          Obj. B:   Describe the human activities which have occurred
                    within the SINERR and how these activities have
                    modified the natural system, including:
                    1. @ The cultural history of Sapelo, and how it relates
                         to the other barrier islands.
                    2.   Identification and explanation of the altered and
                         relatively unaltered parts of the SINERR.
                    3.   The role of scientific research in helping people
                         understand the functions of estuaries.

          Obj. C:   Describe how decisions are made about the use of
                    Georgia's coastal resources on a federal, state and
                    local level, in terms of:
                    1.   Laws and regulations that protect the coastal
                         area.
                    2.   Goals, objectives and policies of the National
                         Estuarine Reserve Research'Program.
                    3.   How coastal decisions are affected by economic
                             Werations such as recreation and commercial
                         consi
                         fishing.
                    4.   How businesses, organizations and individuals
                         affect such decisions.
                    5.   The challenges of coastal resource management, and
                         identification of additional areas for scientific
                         research.


                                  Page H- 1










                  GOALS AND OBJECTIVES FOR EDUCATION AND INTERPRETATION




            Goal II:  "Multiplier" Audiences: concentrate educational and
                      interpretive resources on reaching audiences who will
                      communicate their knowledge about estuarine and other
                      coastal resources to many other people.

            Obj. A:   For academic instructors:
                      1.    Develop facilities (an interpretive center and a
                            nature trail) and curricula for grades
                            kindergarten through twelve, consistent with State
                            instructional requirements, which teachers may use
                            for classroom instruction and in guiding field
                            trips to the SINERR.
                      2.    Develop facilities and interpretive materials
                            which instructors of post-secondary students may
                            use to enrich classroom instruction and in guiding
                            field trips to the SINERR.

            Obj. B:   For leaders of groups interested in coastal resources
                      and their conservation: develop training programs,
                      facilities and interpretive materials which such
                      leaders can use for half-day or full-day guided tours
                      within the SINERR.

            Obi. C:   For elected and appointed officials who administer
                      programs which affect estuaries and other coastal
                      resources: develop a briefing on the value of estuarine
                      and other coastal resources, focusing on sound
                      management practices and their benefits.

            Obj. D:   For media representatives: develop a coastal wetlands
                      briefing packet to educate.journalists.

            Obj. E:   For researchers/scientists:
                      1.    Develop a briefing program regarding research
                          . history and opportunities at the SINERR.
                      2.    Develop a program of archaeological excavation in
                            which the interested public can participate as
                            volunteer labor.

            Obj. F:   For  "alumni" (individuals who have visited the SINERR
                      and wish to remain involved in the educational and
                      interpretive program): develop a periodic newsletter
                      which contains information about the SINERR and any
                      special public programs.

            Obj. G:   Make available to all targeted groups (e.g. hunters,
                      campers) educational and interpretive resources
                      developed for general public tours (see Goal III).

                                     Page H- 2







                  GOALS AND OBJECTIVES FOR EDUCATION AND INTERPRETATION


            Goal III:  The General Public: Communicate with the general
                       public through effective educational and interpretive
                       programming.

            Obj. A:    @Re-evaluate on a regular basis the current schedule and
                       content of guided public tours within the SINERR.

            Obj. B:    Develop printed materials and other interpretive tools,
                       including:
                       1.   Exhibits, graphic displays and signage.
                       2.   Nature trails, for use on guided tours.
                       3.   Video, film and audio-tape presentations.
                       4.   Publications.
                       5.   Offsite presentations.
                       6.   Publicity with press packets and news releases.


            Goal IV:   Educational and Interpretive Resources: Extend the
                       SINERRI educational and interpretive program by
                       cooperating with other organizations which perform
                       related tasks.

            Obj. A:    With other operating units within DNR:
                       1.   Work with staff of State parks and historic sites
                            in the coastal area to interpret the SINERR and
                            distribute SINERR publications at these recreation
                            areas.
                       2.   Place SINERR exhibit materials and publications at
                            the DNR coastal headquarters building in Brunswick
                            when that building is complete.
                       3.   Work with Project WILD in developing curriculum
                            material.

            obi. B. With    the Georgia Department of Education:
                       1.   Obtain guidance in developing classroom materials
                            and field activities which are compatible with
                            State educational requirements.
                       2.   Obtain guidance in developing a teachers' and
                            administrators' training course which will offer
                            staff development units.

            Obj. C:         With the Georgia Department of Industry and Trade,
                            explore the possibility of placing interpretive
                            exhibits and educational publications in highway
                            welcome centers.






                                     Page H- 3









                 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES FOR EDUCATION AND INTERPRETATION


           Obj. D: With    the University of Georgia Marine Institute:
                      1.   Assist in providing guided tours for guests of:the
                           Institute.
                      2.   continue making the Institute's grounds a stop on
                           the Department's general public tours, and
                           incorporate a discussion of the Institute's
                           research as appropriate.

           Obj. E:    With the University of Georgia Marine Extension
                      Service:
                      1.   obtain guidance in developing guided tour
                           facilities.
                      2.   obtain assistance in training teachers and leaders
                           of special tours.
                      3.   Cooperate on joint interpretation of Gray's Reef
                           Marine Sanctuary and the SINERR.
                      4.   obtain guidance on exhibit development.

           Obj. F:    With Georgia Southern College and Savannah State
                      College:
                      1.   Explore the possibility of using the colleges'
                           museum resources to interpret the SINERR.
                      2.   offer educational opportunities to students of the
                           colleges, in the form of classroom materials and
                           the opportunity to use the SINERR as outdoor
                           laboratory.

           Obj. G:    With the Fernbank Museum of Natural History:
                      1.   obtain guidance with exhibit development.
                      2.   Assist with coastal exhibits produced at Fernbank.

           Obj. H:    With the McIntosh County Chamber of Commerce:
                      1.   Coordinate informational publications about the
                           SINERR.
                      2.   Continue the Chamber's role of scheduling general
                           public tours and distributing SINERR information.
                      3.   Explore the possibility of placing exhibits and
                           other interpretive materials at the Darien welcome
                           center.
           Obj. I:    With local (coastal) conservation groups:
                      1.   Actively solicit volunteer guides from groups
                           including, but not limited to:
                           a.   Coastal chapters of the Audubon Society
                           b.   Coastal chapter of The Georgia Conservancy
                           C.   The Nature Conservancy
                           d.   The Georgia Wildlife Federation
                           e.   0cmulgee Audubon Society
                           f.   Sierra Club
                           9-   Georgia Botanical Society

                                     Page.H- 4









                GOALS AND OBJECTIVES FOR EDUCATION AND INTERPRETATION




                     2.   Seek other program assistance from the above
                          groups.


          Goal V:    Program Evaluation: To evaluate, through the SINERR
                     annual report, the effectiveness of the educational and
                     interpretive program and its effect on SINERR
                     resources.






















































                                   Page H- 5






























   I














                                               Appendix 1:


                                       Sapelo Island Access Policies









                                       SAPELO ISLAND

                          General operating and Access Policies
                                       May 15, 1990


                 Introduction

                 The State of Georgia owns most of Sapelo Island. 2he island
                 consists of three management units assigned to the custody of
                 the Department of Natural Resources (DNR):

               . Richard J. Reynolds Wildlife Management Area (Reynolds WMA):
                 management of forest and wildlife resources; public hunting,
                 fishing, camping and beach use.
               . Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve (the
                 SINERR) : protection of the Duplin River estuary; scientific
                 research; public education; public hunting and fishing.
               . Sapelo Island Natural Area (the Natural Area): public
                 education; low-intensity recreation; scientific research.

                 There is a considerable public interest in Sapelo Tsland,
                 which is created by the value of its natural resources, the
                 amount of State investment in the island, and the benefits
                 which members of the general public receive from visiting it.
                 The State, acting through DNR, is responsible to protect the
                 public interest in this unique island.

                 State lands surround private lands known as the Hog Hammock
                 Community.   Its current residents and their forbears have
                 lived on Sapelo for generations. The State has acknowledged
                 its duty to protect Hog Hammock's heritage by creating the
                 Sapelo Island Heritage Authority, which furthers the
                 preservation of the community's cultural and historic values
                 (official Code of Georgia Annotated,(O.C.G.A.) S 12-3-440 et
                 seq.).

                 The State provides certain essential services, including
                 scheduled water transportation, for permanent residents and
                 State employees living on Sapelo Island.    O.C.G.A. 5 12-2-5
                 grants DNR the authority to provide these services.

                 The public interest in Sapelo Island requires that DNR
                 establish policies for operation of and access to the island.
                 The policies which follow are established to protect Sapelo
                 Island for the public's benefit while protecting the rights
                 of private property owners on the island. The policies are
                 set forth in writing to guide island managers in performing
                 their duties and to give public notice of the policies.




                                                                               1



                                      Page I-1









                 Definitions

                 A.   Classes of Island Users. The following terms when used
                      in these policies have the meanings indicated below:

                      1.   Island Manager: the DNR employee who has responsi-
                           bility for managing Sapelo Island on a daily basis.
                           The Island Manager may be reached at the following
                           address:

                                      Island Manager
                                      DNR--Game and Fish Division
                                      Post Office Box 15
                                      Sapelo Island, GA 31327
                                    .Phone: (912) 485-2251

                      2.   Island landowner: a person or other legal entity
                           which has title to real property on Sapelo Island.

                      3.   Island resident: a person who (a) is domiciled on
                           Sapelo Island or (b) has executed an affidavit
                           claiming Sapelo Island as his or her permanent place
                           of residence. Such persons include individuals who
                           live in the Hog Hammock community; employees of D14R
                           or Board of Regents (Regents) who are required as
                           a condition of employment to reside on the island;
                           individuals who are continuously quartered on the
                           island while performing research or employment
                           lasting longer than three consecutive months;
                           immediate family members domiciled with the
                           aforementioned individuals; and/or children residing
                           off the island attending' school or college and
                           receiving their support from an island resident.

                      4.   official visitor: a person who is not an island
                           resident but who temporarily visits the island at
                           the invitation of DNR or the University of Georgia
                           Marine Institute (UGAMI) for official State business
                           or for federal or local governmental business. This
                           class does not include invited guests or members of
                           the general public who are participating in tours,
                           managed hunts, camping activities or conferences
                           unrelated to official state business.

                      5.   Invited quest: a person whom a Sapelo Island
                           landowner or resident invites to visit the island
                           but who is not engaged in official federal, state
                           or local business.

                      6.   General public: a member of the general public is
                           a person who is not included in any of the above
                           classes.


                                                                               2




                                      Page 1-2








                 B.     official State Business. The term "official State busi-
                        ness," when used in these policies, means any or all of
                        the responsibilities and activities described in this
                        section.

                        Regents operates UGAMI,   which is located on the south end
                        of Sapelo Island, under   the terms of a 50-year lease with
                        DNR.   Regents also provides certain barge services to
                        DNR, island residents, and island landowners.

                        DNR operates the Reynolds WMA, the SINERR and the Natural
                        Area. DNR also provides for island residents both water
                        transportation to Sapelo and essential services on the
                        island. These services include:

                        1.   Transporting mail for DNR and for island residents;

                        2.   Transporting school children of island residents
                             between the island and the mainland, under contract
                             with the McIntosh County Board of Education;

                        3.   Providing volunteer fire protection and waste
                             disposal services on the island;

                        4.   Maintaining the State-owned roads on the island;

                        5.   Providing the residents of the Hog Hammock community
                             with a drinking-water system; .

                        6.   Providing law enforcement services as authorized by
                             the Game and Fish Code (O.C.G.A._, Title 27). These
                             services include enforcing:
                             a.    All State laws on property owned or controlled
                                   by DNR; and
                             b.    All State laws pertaining to functions assigned
                                   to DNR;
                             C@    Any State law when the violation of that law
                                   is committed in conjunction with a violation
                                   of State law pertaining to functions assigned
                                   to DNR; and'
                             d.    Any State law on orders f rom the Governor or
                                   to protect any life or property when the
                                  .circumstances demand action; and

                        7.. Removing willing persons from Sapelo Island in the
                             event of a li f e- threatening emergency such as an
                             individual health crisis, uncontrollable wildfire
                             or a ma3or storm.

                  Official State business includes business conducted by federal
                  and local governmental officials in performance of their
                  official duties.


                                                                                     3



                                        Page 1-3









        III. Authorized Uses of Sapelo Island

            A.     Residential Use.   Residential use of Sapelo Island is
                   restricted to the following individuals or groups:

                   1.   Island landowners;

                   2.   Island residents;

                   3.   official visitors, such as research scientists
                        associated with UGAMI, or DNR employees who are not
                        domiciled on the island;

                   4.   Invited guests;

                   5.   Conference groups associated with UGAMI or DNR; and

                   6.   Persons authorized to camp during the annual managed
                        hunts or within the primitive camping area operated
                        by DNR.

             B.    Personal.Business by Island Landowners or Residents. UNR
                   does not regulate personal business conducted entirely
                   on private property by Sapelo Island landowners.        DNR
                   authorizes other activities on State-owned lands as
                   follows:

                   1    Island residents may gather deadwood and handicraft
                        materials on Sapelo as individually approved by
                        DNR's island manager or his designee, so long as
                        these activities do not conflict with DNR program
                        goals.

                   2.   Island residents may fish from docks, bridges and
                        beaches within the Reynolds WMA and may also gather
                        oysters and clams within approved shellfish
                        harvesting areas, as authorized by DNR's island
                        manager or his designee.      These activities are
                        generally authorized on all other parts of the
                        island.

                   3.   Island residents may use DNR's boat hoist for work
                        on their small boats, as individually authorized by
                        DNR's, island manager orhis designee.

                   4.   Permanent residents of the Hog Hammock community may
                        hunt on State-owned land during legal seasons as
                        individually authorized by DNR's island manager or
                        his designee.

                   5.   Activities other than the above by island landowners
                        or residents, *including any use of the Reynolds WMA,

                                                                             4



                                  Page 1-4








                         will be only as    specifically authorized by DNR's
                         island manager or his designee.

              C.    Personal  Business by Persons Who Do Not Own' Land or
                    Reside on Sapelo Island. DNR does not regulate personal
                    business  conducted entirely on private propert@ by
                    invited,  non-paying guests of island landowners.      They
                    may fish from docks', bridges and beaches within the
                    Reynolds  WMA and may gather oysters and clams within
                    approved shellfish harvesting areas, only as specifically
                    authorized by DNR Is island manager or his designee. such
                    non-paying guests may accompany their hosts as the latter
                    travel about the island or may use transportation which
                    their hosts provide for them to use.

                    Members of the general public  may engage in the following
                    activities on Sapelo Island:

                    1.   Participating in tours,   managed hunts orprimitive
                         camping offered by DNR;

                    2.   Attending conferences hosted by UGAMI or DNR;

                    3.   Gathering oysters in the Duplin River;

                    4.   Fishing, hunting waterfowl, or operating boats in
                         the tidal waters surrounding Sapelo Island; and

                    5.   Using the beach below the high water mark.

                    Activities other than the above by,persons who are not
                    landowners or residents of Sapelo Island, including any
                    use of the Reynolds WMA, will be only as specifically
                    authorized by DNRIs island manager or his designee.

             D.     Public Tours, Hunting, Camping and Conferences. Indivi-
                    duals may participate in these activities only as autho-
                    rized by UGAMI or DNR, as applicable.        The McIntosh
                    County Chamber of Commerce (phone 912-437-6684) handles
                    reservations for regular DNR tours.         DNR schedules
                    special tours through its office on Sapelo Island.

                    Persons who participate in hunts at the Reynolds WMA may
                    camp in the Moses Hammock hunting camp for the duration
                    of the hunt and must remain within' designated hunting
                    areas while actually hunting. When not hunting, they may
                    fish from docks within the WMA and use the beach.

                    DNR limits use of the primitive camping area to organized
                    groups, scheduling its use through the DNR office on
                    Sapelo Island. Campers may use the designated primitive
                    camping area, open portions of the Reynolds WMA, and the

                                                                               5



                                    Page 1-5









                     beach.    Access to other parts of Sapelo Island for
                     members of such groups will be only as specifically
                     authorized by DNR's island manager or his designee.

                     Conference participants may use buildings and lands under
                     the control of DNR and UGAMI as authorized by those
                     agencies. They may also use the State-owned roads south
                     of the Reynolds WMA, and the beach.

                     Use of Sapelo Island other than the above by members of
                     tour groups, hunters, campers and conference participants
                     will be only as specifically authorized by@UGAMI or DNR,
                     whichever agency is responsible f or managing the property
                     in question.


         IV. Access and Transportation Policies

          A.     Boats

                1    Ferry Service.    DNR provides regularly scheduled ferry
                     service between Sapelo Island and the mainland. Prior
                     written requests and approval by DNR are required for
                     invited guests of island landowners.       other terms and
                     conditions of ferry service are provided under the terms
                     of an operating agreement between DNR and UGAMI. These
                     provisions are attached hereto as Exhibit "A" and are by
                     reference incorporated herein.

                     DNR further reserves.the right   to provide ferry service
                     to invited guests of island landowners only as space is
                     available and only in the order of receipt of written
                     requests for such ferry service.

                     Participants in regularly scheduled DNR tours, hunters
                     and users of the primitive camp must all purchase trip
                     tickets at the McIntosh County Chamber of Commerce to be
                     eligible to ride the ferry. Participants in unscheduled
                     DNR tours may ride the ferry by pass.

                     Requests for boat runs other than those regularly
                     scheduled must be made throug@i the boat captain and his
                     superiors and must be approved by the Director of the
                     Game and Fish Division.

                     DNR operates a small patrol boat which may be used for
                     emergency transportation to or from the island.

                2.   Barge Operations. . Under the terms of an operating
                     agreement with DNR, UGAMI operates barges to tran6port
                     heavy freight, motor vehicles, bulk fuel and other cargo
                     between the mainland and Sapelo Island.





                                     Page 1-6









                       UGAMI of f ers transportation f or vehicles f or its or DNR I s
                       off icial use; vehicles belonging to those UGAMI or DNR
                       employees domiciled on Sapelo Island; and vehicles
                       belonging to Sapelo Island landowners who are permanent
                       residents of@the island.

                       Before employees or permanent residents may use the UGAMI
                       barge to transport a vehicle for their personal use on
                       Sapelo Island, they must complete an affidavit stating
                       that they are permanent residents,of Sapelo island and
                       what specific vehicle they propose to bring to the island
                       They must also complete a permit application to use the
                       UGAMI barge.

                       DNR may authorize persons under contract with the State
                       to remove timber from Sapelo Island using a barge. They
                       may also bring to the island equipment which is necessary
                       for the timber harvesting operations.

                       Island landowners who are not permanent residents of
                       Sapelo may engage a private barge to transport a vehicle
                       or other cargo to the island.      Landowners must first
                       obtain DNR Is written permission to use DNR-operated docks
                       for loading and unloading and DNR-maintained roads for
                       access to his property.

                 3.    Small Boats.   DNR and UGAMI operate research vessels,
                       patrol boats and other small watercraft for official
                       State business, docking these vessels at designated
                       island and mainland locations.          These docks are
                       identified on Exhibits  "B" and "C", attached hereto and
                       incorporated herein by  reference. Other authorized uses
                       of small watercraft at  Sapelo Island are as follows:

                       a.   Island residents   or landowners may operate small
                            boats to and from  the island. Landowners and their
                            invited guests must use the Foundation dock located
                            in Barn Creek immediately behind the post office.

                       b.   Participants in the managed hunts on Sapelo Island
                            may use the Moses Hammock dock during their stay.

                       C.   Members of the general public may use boats in the
                            tidal waters surrounding Sapelo Island. They may
                            anchor boats off the beach for access to the beach
                            below the high water mark, during daylight hours.
                            They may not beach or dock their boats on State-
                            owned property without specific permission from
                            DNRIs island manager or his designee.



                                                                                 7




                                      Page 1-7










                    d.    Any uses of docks other than as specified above will
                          be only as specifically approved by DNR or UGAMI,
                          whichever agency has responsibility for managing the
                          dock in question.

              B.    Motor Vehicles DNR and UGAMI operate motor vehicles for
                    official State business on Sapelo Island. Other uses of
                    motor vehicles on the island are authorized as follows:

                    1.    Employees of either agency and their dependents who
                          are domiciled on the island, and their invited
                          guests may with prior authorization by DNR operate
                          privately owned vehicles on the open portions of the
                          DNR-maintained road system.

                    2.    Island landowners who are permanent residents of
                          Sapelo Island and their invited guests may operate
                          motor vehicles on the island as authorized by DNR.

                    3.    Island landowners who are not permanent residents
                          of Sapelo Island and their invited guests may
                          operate motor vehicles on the island, with DNR's
                          written permission to use the open portions of the
                          State-owned road system.

                    4.    As authorized by contract, persons harvesting timber
                          for DNR may bring to the island motor vehicles
                          necessary for their operations. These vehicles will
                          be removed from the island upon expiration or
                          termination of the contract or when said vehicles
                          become unserviceable.

              C.    Aircraft. DNR and UGAMI use the Sapelo Island airstrip
                    and associated facilities for official State business.
                    other uses of aircraft at Sapelo Island are as follows:

                    1.    Single -trip use of the airstrip and associated
                          facilities is authorized by advance written
                          permission from the Game Management coastal regional
                          supervisor. DNR authorizes such use for official
                          State business and for personal business by
                          residents of Sapelo Island or their guests, when
                          they cannot feasibly conduct such business without
                          the use of aircraft.

                    2.    DNR allows the U. S. Army to use the airstrip as
                          part of its Military Assistance to Safety and
                          Traffic (MAST) Program housed at Fort Stewart. The
                          MAST Program enables military personnel to provide
                          emergency medical assistance to persons on Sapelo
                          Island.

                                                                              8



                                    Page 1-8








                     3.   DNR may authorize other landing sites for temporary
                          use by helicopters.

                     4.   The Federal Aviation Administration has designated
                          the airstrip for emergency use. DNR allows use of
                          the strip in the event of an aviation emergency, at
                          the pilot's own risk.


           V.   Obtaining Permission to Use Sapelo Island

                The island manager or his designee can provide details about
                receiving permission to use Sapelo Island in the ways outlined
                above. Uses of Sapelo Island not specifically mentioned in
                the terms of this policy will require submittal of a written
                request for same to the Island Manager, for DNR's considera-
                tion.






           Approved this 15th day of
                 May, 1990.                      Leon Kirkland, Director
                                                 Game and Fish Division
                                                 Department of Natural
                                                       Resources


































                                                                              9




                                    Page 1-9











                                                  EXH1131T "A"


                                              SAPELO ISLAND'FERRY




                      Transportation of authorized personnel to and from the Meridian.
                Dock  and Sapelo Island will be provided by the DEPARTMENT in accordance
                with  the following policies and in consideration of payment of the
                fees  indicated below.


                BOAT  FEES AND PASSES


                      1. 14ARINE INSTITUTE

                      (a) Personnel assigned/employed by the INSTITUTE        and others
                as identified below may be provided a non-transferable boat pass,
                or may be covered by letter request to the DEPARTMENT at the discretion
                of the INSTITUTE.


                        (1) INSTITUTE staff, faculty, students and technicians who
                are Island residents and their dependent family members residing
                in such person's home and/or children residing off the Island attending
                school or college and receiving their support from such person.

                        (2) Scientific personnel not directly employed by the INSTITUTE
                but who are Island residents while carrying out research programs
                at the INSTITUTE and family members residing in such person's home
                and/or children residing off the Island attending school or college
                and receiving their support from such person.

                        (3) Staff and faculty members from the University of Georgia
                who are required to make official visits to the INSTITUTE.

                        (4) Faculty, students and technicians, from any institution,
                who are involved in ongoing research programs at the INSTITUTE.

                        (5) All employees of the INSTITUTE who commute daily to and
                from the facility.

                        (6) All University of Georgia students doing course-related
                w6 rk at the INSTITUTE, including authorized field trips and their
                supervisors.

                        (7) Repairmen who come to the INSTITUTE facility regularly
                Jor performing repair work. Restricted to those whose names are
                submitted to the DEPARTMENT and listed on passenger list.

                      (b) The following individuals will be required to pay a fee
                as set forth in Item 7 below:







                                               Page I-10










                EXHIBIT "A"
                Page 2
                July 1, 1980


                        (1) Unofficial guests of the INSTITUTE, including personal
                guests of INSTITUTE staff, personnel, students and technicians.

                        (2) Faculty, students and technici,ans from any institution,
                except  those individuals covered by paragraph 1 (a).

                        (3) INSTITUTE related groups and/or individuals on    personal
                (non-official) visits to the Island.

                      (c) The INSTITUTE will issue passes to the INSTITUTE    related
                personnel outlined in Section I (a) and will provide the DEPARTMENT
                with a list of names to whom these passes are issued. At such times
                as names are added and/or deleted the INSTITUTE will inform the DEPARTMENT
                by letter that a name(s) should be added or deleted and will collect
                the passes previously issued to individuals whose names are deleted.

                      W The INSTITUTE will follow existing policy involving guests.
                .i.e., a "Boat Request" form will be sent to the DEPARTMENT office
                two (2) days in advance of proposed visits. This procedUre will
                enable the DEPARTMENT to keep load limits within U. S. Coast Guard
                Regulations and will indicate to the boat captain that the visitor(s)
                has been permitted to ride the boat.

                      2. DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES. DEPARTMENT personnel will
                be governed by the following:

                      (a) DEPARTMENT personnel and their immediate family residing
                on the Island will be issued a non-transferable boat pass and will
                not be required to pay a fee. Such passes will be restricted to
                dependent family members residing in the employees' home and/or children
                who reside off the Island attending school or college and who receive
                their support from an employee of the DEPARTMENT.

                      (b) DEPARTMENT personnel who are non-Island residents but who
                must, from time to time, travel to the Island for meetings and/or
                to carry out work.activities, wil,1 be issued a non-transferable boat
                pass and will not be required to pay a fee.

                    . (c) All DEPARTMENT personnel will follow the procedure in effect
                at present, in that they will submit a "Boat Request" form for any
                invited guest(s) two (2) days prior to the proposed visit.

                      3. U. S. POSTAL SERVICE.

                      (a) U. S. Postal Service employees.will continue to be transported
                in accordance with the provisions of their contract with the DEPARTMENT.






                                            Page I-11










                EXHIBIT "A"
                Page 3
                July 1, 1980



                     4. SCHOOL CHILDREN.


                     (a) Island children attending school on the mainland will be
                provided one (1) roundtrip per school day to and from the Island
                to attend school under the existing contract between the DEPARTMENT
                and McIntosh County Board of Education.



                     5. SAPELO ISLAND RESIDENTS.

                     (a) Island residents not otherwise provided for in the University
                contract or the DEPARTMENT-pass system will pay a fee of $1.00 each
                way or may purchase a $25.00 per year pass which will entitle him
                to ride on any scheduled trip.

                     6. OTHER PASSENGERS.

                     (a) Repairmen who commute to DEPARTMENT facilities on a regular
               .basis for performing repair work will be placed on the passenger
                list and issued'a pass to ride the boat.

                     (b) Participants in field trips to the refuge portion of the
                Island will be required to pay a fee of $1.00 each way or purchase
                an annual pass for $25.00.


                     7. GUESTS.


                     (a) Guests include all person(s) not covered by the provisions
                of paragraphs 1 - 6 above. All such persons will pay a fee of $1.00
                each way or may purchase an annual pass for $25.00. In addition,
                such person(s) must have prior written approval from the DEPARTMENT.

                     8. CHILDREN.


                     (a) Children under  six (6) years of age may ride free. Children
                six (6) years of age or older will pay a fee of $1.00 each way or
                purchase an annual pass for $25.00.


                PASSENGER PRIORITY


                     U. S. Coast Guard regulations limit the number of passengers
                that may be transported on the boat(s) operated by the DEPARTMENT
                that services Sapelo Island. To insure the maximum availability









                                          Page 1-12









                  EXHIBIT "A"
                  Page 4
                  July 1, 1980




                  of space for key personnel while simultaneously complying with Coast
                  Guard limitations, the priority system outlined below is hereby established.
                  This system will be applied by the Boat Captain at any time passenger
                  demand exceeds rated passenger capacity of.the boat in service.


                        PRIORITY NO. 1.


                        Personnel identified below will be issued a "Priority No. 1"
                  pass  and will be entitled to first consideration whenever an "ove'rload"
                  situation becomes evident.


                        1. All INSTITUTE and DEPARTMENT personnel and authorized family
                  members residing on the Island.

                        2. INSTITUTE and DEPARTMENT employees residing off the Island
                  who require daily transportation to and from their work area.,

                        3. Repair/service technicians going to and from the INSTITUTE
                  or DEPARTMENZfacilities for the purpose of performing repair work.

                        PRIORITY NO. 2.


                        The following personnel will be issued a "Priority No. 2" pass
                  and may board the vessel after all Priority No. 1 passengers have
                  embarked.


                        1. State employees other than those covered by Priority No.
                  1, who mu .st visit the Island for official business.

                        2. Staff and faculty members from the University of Georgia
                  who are required to make official visits to the INSTITUTE.

                        3. University of Georgia students visiting the INSTITUTE on
                  official business or an authorized field trip.

                        4. Residents of Sapelo Island not otherwise covered will be
                  considered equally with other Priority No. 2 passengers upon presentation
                  of a valid ticket.


                        PRIORITY NO. 3.


                        All guests and visitors not included under the provisions of
                  Priority No. I or Priority No. 2.








                                               Page  1-13




















                                              r
                                                      Exhibit "B": Docks   Serving Sapelo Island
                               - 1.1*le




                                     ,1:2-W
                                                                       Moses
                                                                              n-ock   Dock
                                                                            7











                                                                   Kenan Field  Dock','



                   Meridian Dock


                                             zr





                                                               See Exbibi       for
                 C
                                                                Barn  Creek Dock #1
                                                                Barn Cre kDo
                                                                                2
                                                                  Foundation Dock
                          -y                                                          aantilly Dot
                                                                                  JA
                                                                                     An
                                                                       kbby 66
                                                                Long T,      c

                            X7




                                                                                         AQ
                                                              V_
                                                               V
                                                   Marsh Landipg  Do                    4L
                                      00





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                                                      AL           South End Doc
                                                           _@_. NI-
                                                                                       12








                                                                   C@






















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                                                              "Cii. Docks
                                                                                       Dock
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                                                                                    DOC
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                                                                Lori&


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                              17







                                 SAPELO ISLAND FERRY SERVICE

                                      SCHEDULING POLICY

                                       December 1, 1988

           1.   The normal operating schedule for the Sapelo Island ferry
           shall be as follows:

                Day of the Week             Leaves Sapelo         Leaves Meridian

                Monday, Wednesday,             7:00.a.m.,           8:30 a.m.,
                   Friday                      Noon,                3:30 p.m.,
                                               4:30 p.m.            5:15 p.m.

                Tuesday,   Thursday            7:00 a.m.,           8:30 a.m.,
                                               2:30 p.m.,           3:30 p.m.,
                                               4:30 p.m.            5:15 p.m.

                Saturday                       8:00 a.m.,           9:00 a.m.,
                                               12:30 p.m.           5:15 p.m.
                Sunday (first and              4:00 p.m.            4:30 p.m.
                   second weeks of
                   the month)

                Sunday (fifth week             8:30 a.m.,           9:00 a.m.,
                   of the month,               4:00 p.m.            4:30 p.m.
                   fourth week of May
                   and fourth week of                                 -
                   October)

           2.   Under some   circumstances, including emergencies, it may
           be necessary to   vary the time of a normally scheduled ferry
           run. The Department of Natural Resources' manager for Sapelo
           Island has the authority to vary the time of a ferry run by
           not more than two hours from the normal schedule without approval
           from higher authority. Except for an emergency which threatens
           life, limb or property, such schedule variances will be posted
           so as to be clearly visible at Meridian Dock, at Marsh Landing
           Dock, and at the Department's administrative office on Sapelo
           Island, not later than twenty-four hours before the time of
           the normal run or of the varied run, whichever is earlier.
           The Island manager will also notify the McIntosh County Chamber
           of Commerce's welcome center and the office of the Director
           of the Game and F  'ish Division of the change not less than twenty-
           four hours in advance.

           3.   The Director of the Game and Fi'sb Division or his designee
           will approve each change to the established ferry-scbedule which
           involves the deletion or addition of a'scheduled run. Unless
           an emergency exists, the Island manager will forward to the




                                       Page 1-16







            SAPELO ISLAND FERRY SERVICE-SCHEDULING POLICY
            December 1, 1988
            Page Two


            Director a written request to delete or add a run to reach the
            Director not less than one calendar week before the day of the
            proposed change. The Director or his designee will inform the
            Island manager by telephone of the decision. If the proposed
            change is authorized, notice of it will be posted at the locations
            noted above, and notice given to the McIntosh welcome center,
            not later than forty-eIght hours before the time at which the
                    *11 occur. In an emergency, the Island manager will
            change wi
            notify the Director as soon as possible by telephone or radio
            and post any approved change at the above locations as soon
            as practical.

            4.    The Director of the Game and Fish Division and his office
           .staff will be made aware of deviations from the normal ferry
            schedule. Anyone wishing to verify the ferry schedule may call
            the Director's office at (404) 656-3523 or the Sapelo Island
            manager.at (912) 485-2251.


                                             Approved the lst day of
                                             December, 1988, by:




                                             Leon Kirkland, Director
                                             Came and Fish Division


























                                     Page 1-17






























                                            Appendix J:


                          Estimated Costs for Recommended Improvements in

                           Research and Education Programs at the SINERR







                   SAPELO ISLAND NATIONAL ESTUARINE RESEARCH RESERVE

                         Advisory Committee's Recommendations on
                   Monitoring, Research,.Education and Interpretation



                                     Estimated Budget

                                                                 Fiscal Year


            MONITORING



                                                  DNR/UGMI
                 Equipment                        Shared Use

                 Hydrolab 2020 or-4000           $ 2,064
                 Hydrolab Surveyor
                  (portable)                         6,000
                 Weather station                     5,072
                                                                 Requested for
                      TOTALS                     $  13,136       FY-1992




           EDUCATION  AND INTERPRETATION



                                                  Annual
                 Personnel                        Salary

                 Education coordinator (new)     $ 41,350
                 Interpretive assistant
                  (labor conversion)                22,010

                      TOTAL                      $  63,360       FY-1991:
                                                                 Timber revenues

                 Governor's interns              $   1,000       FY-1991



                 Interpretive Center             2200 sq. ft.

                 Building with offices for       $240,000        Requested for
                  above personnel, rest-                         FY-1992
                  rooms, audiovisual room,
                  exhibit space and exhi-
                  bits.




                                      Page J-    1








                                                                Fiscal Year


                Interpretive Trail              Cost, Installed

                1. Layout (existing
                   equipment and staff)                 0
                2. Boardwalks, dock and
                   footbridge (materials
                   only; construction by
                   existing staff)                   5,150
                3. Observation platform
                   and wildlife blind
                   (materials only)                  4,000
                4. Picnic pavilion at
                   beach (materials only)            4,000
                5. Saltmarsh interpretive
                   display                           1,800
                6. Interpretive signage
                   for twelve 18x24-inch
                   signs, installed                  2,000

                           TOTALS                    16,950     FY-1992:
                                                                Nongame Fund


                Exhibits


                1. Renovate exhibits at
                   Meridian Dock (under
                   current grant)               $       0
                2. 'Place interpretive
                   graphics on Sapelo
                   Queen                            1,800
                3. Build or buy portable
                   exhibits                         2,400

                           TOTAL                $   4,200       Requested for
                                                                FY-1992




                Curriculum Materials

                1. Development of materials     $ 8,000         FY-1992
                2. Printing and mailing
                   materials to schools
                   (annual cost)                $ 5,000         FY-1992




                                     Page J-2








                                                               Fiscal Year



                Audiovisual Materials

                Ten-minute videotapes
                   a. SINERR overview for schools
                   b. SINERR overview for older
                      audiences
                   c. Marine Institute research
                      at the SINERR

                          TOTAL                $   60,000      FY-1993






                GRAND TOTALS

                     ANNUAL EXPENSES                           $ 71j360

                     ONE-11ME EXPENSES                         $102,286

                     CAPITAL COSTS                             $240,000



























                                     Page J-3


































                                            Appendix K:


                              Public Comments on the Management Plan
 






                    PUBLIC COMMENTS ON THE SINERR MANAGEMENT PLAN
                                          AND
                              DNR'S RESPONSES TO COMMENTS

                             Summary of December 18, 1990

                                  ADVISORY COMMITTEE

          RECOMMENDATION: Expand  membership of the AC and task forces to
          have a broader representation of SINERR's constituents, including
          fishermen.
          RESPONSE: Dr. Stuart Stevens, of DNR's Coastal Resources
          Division, represents the interests of fishermen on-the research
          task force. DNR has asked Dr. Margaret Robinson, Dean of the
          School of science and Technology at Savannah State College, to
          join the education task force.

          RECOMMENDATION: Open the meetings of the task forces and the
          Advisory Committee to the public, and allow public review of
          reports, findings and recommendations.
          RESPONSE: Under Georgia's open-meetings law, such meetings are
          open to the public. DNR has placed the Committee's final
          recommendations as appendices in the SINERR management plan.

                                   EDUCATION PROGRAM


          RECOMMENDATION: Actively educate coastal managers and other
          multiplier audiences, using DNR staff.
          RESPONSE: DNR will do this as stated in the SINERR plan.

          RECOMMENDATION: Have the University of Georgia, rather than DNR,
          employ the Marine Educator.
          RESPONSE: Since the Education Coordinator will report to and be
          supervised by the SINERR Manager, the Coordinator must be a DNR
          employee.

          RECOMMENDATION: Ensure that the Education Coordinator works
          closely with educational personnel at the Marine Institute, the
          Marine Extension Service, Savannah State College, Georgia
          Southern College, and similar institutions.
          RESPONSE:, DNR will do this as stated in the SINERR plan on pages
          H-3 and.H-4.

          RECOMMENDATIONS: Ensure that interpretive programs for children
          reflect current knowledge about how to help children learn
          effectively. Consider including additional issues in the
          educational program, such as ballast islands, larval shrimp and
          oysters, and the importance of marshwrack.
          RESPONSE: The Education Coordinator will be responsible for
          developing appropriate educational programs-for the SINERR, as
          stated in the SINERR plan. This person will be a trained and
          ,experienced educator.

                                   Page K- 1









           RECOMMENDATION: Evaluate further the role which docents may play
           in the SINERR program, including:
                a.   Determine whether DNR can provide liability insurance
                     for docents.
                b.   Allow docents to lead camping trips for the public.
                C.   Develop details of a training program for docents.
           RESPONSE: DNR will thoroughly evaluate the role of volunteers-in
           the SINERR's educational and interpretive program. DNR will not
           allow untrained volunteers to act as guides or interpreters.

           RECOMMENDATIONS: Publish a policy for rescheduling tours and
           inform the public about this policy. Continue the public tours
           during managed hunts.
           RESPONSE: A policy for rescheduling tours appears in the SINERR
           management plan as an appendix. The SINERR office on Sapelo
           Island and the McIntosh County Chamber of Commerce also have
           copies of this policy.

           RECOMMENDATION: Make tour presentations on the "Sapelo Queen".
           RESPONSE: DNR will ask each tour group if it wants an informal
           presentation outside the cabin of the ferry. The cabin is not
           suitable for regular presentations. The engine is too loud for
           group presentations, and tour groups cannot be separated from the
           regular commuters and other riders.

           RECOMMENDATION: Hold public tours on more days of the week.
           RESPONSE: DNR reserves Tuesday, Thursday and Friday during the
           school year for student groups. Five tours a week are actually
           given from March through August. Student groups have
           significantly increased visitation to the SINERR.

           RECOMMENDATION: Update the film "Spirit of Sapelo" for loan to
           schools and other groups. Show the film at Meridian Dock, rather
           than on the island.
           RESPONSE: The current film does a good job of telling the story
           of Sapelo Island. It does not need updating for general
           circulation. There is too much light inside the visitors' center
           at Meridian Dock to show the film, and tour groups cannot be
           separated from other users of the center. The Education
           Coordinator and Reserve Manager will evaluate appropriate uses of
           the Meridian Dock facility.

           RECOMMENDATION: improve the exhibits at the Marine Institute.
           RESPONSE: DNR will refer this recommendation to the Marine
           Institute.

           RECOMMENDATION: Replace the interpretive center concept with that
           of a boat which operates on.its own schedule to take visitors on
           tours of the estuary.
           RESPONSE: A boat could not serve the multifaceted educational and
           interpretive objectives proposed for the interpretive center.
           The center will be des.igned.for lectures, classroom activities,

                                    Page K- 2







            reserve orientation and exhibits. A boat provides a different
            perspective of the estuary but does not replace the services
            provided at an interpretive center.

            RECOMMENDATION: Leave the group campground at the Cabretta site.
            RESPONSE: DNR will move the group campground into the Natural
            Area. The Cabretta site is more fragile and has no sanitary
            facilities. DNR staff must   spend a great deal of time taking
            campers and drinking water to and from the Cabretta site.
                 The Natural Area contains sites which-are near Nannygoat
            Beach but are also close enough to Marsh Landing dock that the
            campers can carry their own equipment. A site in the Natural
            Area will give campers easy acce  'ss to the interpretive center and
            the nature trail. DNR will manage the camping program to protect
            research projects and the privacy of island residents.


                                   ROG HAMMOCK C014MUNITY

            RECOMMENDATION: Ask residents of the Hog Hammock Community for
            ideas about how the Community could be involved in the SINERR
            interpretive program, and decide which ideas it is feasible to
            carry out.-
            RESPONSE: DNR welcomes the involvement of the Hog Hammock
            Communityand will seek their advice in the implementation of the
            interpretive program.

            RECOMMENDATION: Identify and protect all significant cultural
            resources within the SINERR..
            RESPONSE: DNR will do this,  as  stated in Appendix G of this plan.

            RECOMMENDATION: Maintain the roads within the SINERR as required
            to give SINERR.visitors and island residents acceptable access
            through the SINERR.
            RESPONSE: DNR will do this in accordance with the official Code
            of Georgia Annotated, Section 12-2-5, which grants the DNR the
            authority to provide these services as described in Appendix I of
            the management plan.

            RECOMMENDATION: Inventory Afro-american cultural resources on
            Sapelo Island, nominate eligible resources for listing on the
            National Register of Historic Places, and give them protection.
            In particular:
                 (a)   Protect the First African Baptist Church at Raccoon
                       Bluff.
                 (b)   Include the Masonic Lodge Hall in HHC.
                 (c)   Document and preserve Afro-american folk culture and
                       skills.
                 (d)   Allow HHC residents to maintain and continue using
                       Behavior@Cemetery.
            RESPONSE:  DNR will inventory and  protect cultural resources
            within the SINERR as stated in the SINERR plan. Cultural

                                     Page K- 3










          resources outside the boundaries of the  SINERR are outside the
          scope of SINERR management.

          RECO14MMATION: Keep roads within'the HHC in good repair.
          RESPONSE: DNR will maintain the-roads within the HHC, under its
          authority to provide essential services to residents of certain
          coastal islands.

          RECOMM END ATIONS: Prepare a management plan for the entire island,
          including HHC. Keep the HHC water system in good repair.
          Reestablish a grade school in HHC. Install and maintain street
          lights in the HHC at DNR's expense.
          RESPONSE: Management of resources outside the boundaries  of the
          SINERR is outside the scope of the SINERR plan.

          RECOMMENDATION: Adjust the ferry schedule so HHC residents can
          commute to mainland jobs.
          RESPONSE: The ferry chiefly provides daily access to Sapelo
          Island for those State employees who must work there but live on
          the mainland, and (under contract@with McIntosh County) carries
         .school children between Sapelo Island and the mainland. The
          present boat schedule balances the need for a normal work
          schedule on Sapelo Island with the need to minimize waiting tilne
          for school children at Meridian Dock and is therefore not
          appropriate to modify.

          RECOMMENDATIONS: Provide scholarships and encouragement so that
          HHC residents can receive training in conservation fields. Tell
          HHC residents how a HHC resident can.expedite moving a mobile
          home to Sapelo Island.
          RESPONSE: DNR will seek participation of the HHC in the
          management of the Reserve. Information on DNR-sponsored training
          and employment opportunities is available from the SINERR
          offices. Moving mobile homes to the HHC is not appropriate to
          the estuarine research reserve plan.

          RECOMMENDATION: Tell HHC residents how DNR will handle claims of
          private ownership on Sapelo island.
          RESPONSEt DNR will not address this issue in the SINERR plan.
          DNR informed HHC residents at a community meeting that it will be
          'glad to consider acquiring any valid title on Sapelo Island.


                                   MANAGEMENT PLAN

          RECOMMENDATION: Hold meetings with residents of the HHC to
          receive their input regarding the SINERR plan and the nature
          trail.
          RESPONSE: DNR will involve the residents of the HHC when
          preparing or revising plans for the SINERR.



                                  Page K- 4







           RECOMMENDATION: Make minor corrections to the text of the plan:
               a.    Revise the organizational chart and appendices to say
                     11SINERR11 rather than "SINES".
               b'.   Change p.:37 to'show only one inoperative power plant.
               C.    Change pp. 38-3.9 description of the proposed use of the
                     Main House to.reflect the current situation.
           RESPONSE: DNR will make these corrections.



                                  RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

           RECOMMENDATION: Acquire and protect the lighthouse tract.
           RESPONSE: DNR will attempt to acquire the lighthouse tract if
           funds become available for landacquisition.

           RECOMMENDATION: Stop timber harvest within the SINERR.
           RESPONSE: DNR will continue to harvest timber within the SINERR
           in accordance with its forest management plan, developed in
           coordination with the'Georgia Forestry Commission. This action
           is necessary to maintain forest health and will encourage
           succession to a climax forest community.

           RECOMMENDATION: Identify and protect black gravesites as part of
           the cultural-resource management.activities in the SINERR.
           RESPONSE: DNR will do this as stated in the SINERR plan.

           RECOMMENDATION: Include the SINERR as a unit of the Biosphere
           Reserve System.
           RESPONSE: DNR will not include the SINERR as part of the
           Biosphere Reserve System. Such designation provides no
           additional protection to the site.

           RECOMMENDATION: Include the SINERR under the provisions of the
           Coastal Barrier Resources Act of 1982.
           RESPONSE: DNR will not include the SINERR under the provisions of
           the Coastal Barrier Resources Act.



                                RESEARCH AND MONITORING

           RECOMMENDATION: Use timber harvest as an opportunity to monitor
           possible effects of the harvest on the estuary. Work with the
           Marine Institute and NOAA to establish a research project which
           will collect information on this subject.
           RESPONSE: DNR will do this as stated in the SINERR plan.

           RECOMMENDATION: Evaluate the feasibility of having commercial and
           recreational oyster harvest in the Duplin River.
           RESPONSE: Recreational oyster harvest,is already authorized in
           the Duplin River. DNR will not authorize commercial oyster
           harvest in the Duplin River. Adding commercial harvest in the
           Duplin River would compete with the limited recreational oyster

                                   Page K- 5









         harvest in McIntosh County and could interfere with the SINERR's
         research and monitoring program.
              Most oyster reefs in McIntosh County are controlled by
         private owners, who lease them to commercial harvesting
         operations. McIntosh County has a highly developed oyster
         industry, taking more oysters each year than the other five
         coastal counties combined.



















































                                 Page K- 6































                                             Appendix L:


                                      Operating Policy for Tours








                      SAPELO  ISLAND-NATIONAL ESTUARINE RESEARCHRESERVE

                                   Operating Policy for Tours

                                          May 15, 1990

             I.    Purpose

                   The purpose of holding tours in the Sapelo Island National
             Estuarine Research Reserve (SINERR) is to educate visitors about
             how estuaries work and what their values are. The objective of
             this education is to encourage good management of estuaries.
                   The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) wishes to make the
             most effective possible use of limited staff and other resources.
             DNR will emphasize educational tours for stude     nts and for persons
             such as teachers, journalists, and public officials who are
             responsible for managing estuarine resources. Such persons are
             called "multiplier audiences", because they can effectively share
             their knowledge of estuaries with other people.

                   The public tour program is an important part of the SINERR's
             educational program. It teaches members of the public about
             estuarine resources in ways which they are likely to remember.
             Tours for the public will be.scheduled to balance the need for
             public access and education.with the need to reach students and
             multiplier audiences.

             Ii. Tour Schedule


                   The general schedule for tours    of the SINERR will be as
             follows:

                   Sunday:         Maintenance, and tour    staff days off
                   Monday:,        Maintenance, and tour    staff days off
                   Tuesday:        Tours for students and multiplier audiences
                   Wednesday:      Public tour's
                   Thursday:       Tours for students and    multiplier audiences
                   Friday:         Public tours, from the    Friday before Memorial
                                   Day through the Friday    before Labor Day.
                                   Tours for students and    multiplier audiences,
                                   the rest of the year.
                   Saturday:       Public tours.

             III.  Changes to Tour  Schedule

                   DNR will reschedule a tour only whenthe tourconflicts
             unavoidably with other management needs. Typical situations
             include:

                   a.   Public safety: when there is severe weather, or when
                        managed deer hunts are occurring within the SINERR.





                                         Page L-1







                     Each June, DNR will post dates upon which managed deer
                     hunts will occur for the following hunting season and
                     will notify the McIntosh County Chamber of Commerce of
                     the dates at that time.

                b.   Equipment outage: maintenance or repair periods, when
                     the ferry or on-island transportation is unavailable.

                C.   Personnel unavailability: periods when tour staff and
                     certified guides are unavailable.

                d.   Priority tour scheduling: times when groups of students
                     or multiplier audiences cannot be scheduled on a day
                     which is normally reserved for their tours.
                When DNR must reschedule a tour, it will take the following
           measures as soon as it knows a conflict is unavoidable:

                a.   If DNR scheduled the tour directly, DNR will notify the
                     group. If the lead time is less than two weeks, DNR
                     will notify the group first by telephone, then in
                     writing.

                b.   If the McIntosh County Chamber of Commerce visitors'
                     center scheduled the tour, DNR will notify the center.
                     if the lead time is less than two weeks, DNR will
                     notify the center first by telephone, then in writing.
                     If a nearby date normally reserved for other tours is
                     free, DNR may at its discretion offer the date to the
                     Chamber to replace the tour which must be rescheduled.

                C.   DNR will make its own staff aware of any change in the
                     tour schedule as required. DNR will also notify the
                     office of the Director of the Marine Institute and the
                     manager of the Hog Hammock Community Center.

                d.   DNR will post a notice of any tour rescheduling in
                     plain view at the DNR office on Sapelo Island, at Marsh
                     Landing dock, and at Meridian Dock.


           IV. Approval

                Approved this 15th day of May, 1990.




                Leon Kirkland,
                Director, Game and Fish Division
                Department of Natural Resources


                                                                            2



                                    Page L-2



































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