# Plan Submittals

Title:
The City of Sarasota’s Comprehensive Environmental Protection and Restoration Plan – Nanofiltration System and Elimination of the saltwater intake structure.

Desription:
This shovel-ready project will (1) provide the capability for the City of Sarasota to serve as a backup water supply to neighboring communities (2) provide a higher quality of water through a sustainable advanced water treatment method (3) assure reliability through a standalone process decoupled from the variability and potential liability of the water quality of Sarasota Bay and (3) eliminate the dependence on saltwater from Sarasota Bay thus averting any risk associated with the potential for contamination.  The work includes restoring and protecting Sarasota Bay and associated connected environmental and ecological marine resources. The work is necessary to support the community’s need and desire to protect its social and environmental infrastructure necessary for a vibrant and sustainable community with concomitant protection of the surrounding coastal ecosystem’s environmental resources.
1.	Enhancing the City’s water treatment capabilities would allow the City to serve as a backup drinking water supply to neighboring communities. The nanofiltration treatment facility will be constructed at the existing treatment facility site using existing groundwater withdrawals from the Verna well field.  This more efficient treatment process would yield more usable water from the Verna source.  
2.	Nanofiltration has become a popular alternative to traditional water softening systems because of its higher treated water efficiency rates, environmentally friendly techniques and provides a higher quality  water with very little taste and odor issues. These factors make Nanofiltration a much more sustainable advanced water treatment process when compared to the City of Sarasota’s existing ion exchange system. 
3.	Elimination of the Sarasota Bay regeneration seawater intake and filtration system that extends from Sarasota Bay to the water plant site (See Figure 1) will provide independence from the quality of the water in the Bay currently affecting treatment operations. Currently, the City relies upon the intake from the Bay to provide a source of saltwater to regenerate the City’s ion exchange system treating ground water supplies. The work will result in the elimination of the intake, preserving the coastal marine ecosystem as well as enhancing safe drinking water, and improving the community’s regional resilience to any sort of contamination in the Sarasota Bay.

Location:
City of Sarasota's Coastal Service Boundaries

Partners:
SWFWMD, SBEP, Sarasota County Government, UCF

Status-all:
Nanofiltration treatment facility and elimination bahy regeneration intake are currently within conceptual design &/or study.  Preliminary discussions with regulatory agencies have indicated general support for these two related projects.

Quantify Env Results:
Improvements could be monitored by specific need or improvement category:
1.	Sea grasses near and surrounding the existing seawater intake structure near the Van Wezel Performance Hall will be monitored.  As shown in attached Sarasota Bay Estuary Program 2010 Project Area Map, sea grasses are not currently flourishing near the intake structure.  Upon the completion of this project, the elimination of the intake structure will restore this area of the bay back to pre-intake conditions; thus, improving the potential for sea grass growth and coverage. If sea grasses develop, there is a strong potential to utilize this particular area for a mitigation area for other projects that may impact Sarasota Bay.
2.	Reduction of brackish groundwater usage for raw water will be another benefit of implementation of this project.  The City currently has a downtown, brackish water wellfield that utilizes the reverse osmosis process and an eastern wellfield at Verna that utilizes a freshwater groundwater and a traditional ion exchange softening process.  By shifting a greater amount of the groundwater withdrawal to the Verna freshwater, a lesser amount will be drawn from the downtown wellfield reducing the potential for saltwater intrusion within the western downtown wellfield.
3.	Improvements to water quality (at depth average, surface and bottom) could be measured by total suspended solids, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, unionized ammonia, total inorganic nitrogen, total phosphorous and inorganic phosphate, E. coli., algae and bacterial counts before, during and after implementation of the elimination of the regeneration system at the Bay intake structure. Regarding the protection of the City’s finished drinking water infrastructure, additional parameters could include priority pollutants and disinfection by-products.

Eco Benefits Text:
Economic benefit of $60,000,000 during the project lifetime estimated at 30 years (present worth value) due to the removal of the salt regeneration intake system and coastline restoration and improvements would result in a significant increase in adjacent aquatic and native coastal species by dedicated restoration buffer created from protection efforts in the proximity of the sea water intake located at the 6th Street Park including reduction of quality and impacts to community from chemical salt imports required to operate ion exchange processes and protection of city’s drinking water treatment portfolio necessary for provision of safe drinking water supplies, a provision that provides a sustainable long-term eco-friendly balancing of the Sarasota Bay ecosystem while providing drought-proof potable supplies for the region.

Pollutant Red:
Protection efforts from the risk of using saltwater from the Sarasota Bay that has been contaminated with pollutants from a catastrophic type event such as the BP oil spill. This including reduction of quality and impacts to community from chemical salt imports required to operate ion exchange processes and protection of city’s drinking water treatment portfolio necessary for provision of safe drinking water supplies,

Living Resoruces:
Figure 1 shows the lack of seagrass habitat in the area of the intake structure near the 6th Street Park. This area is shallow enough for sea grass to grow, however there is evidence that suggests the intake structure and the continual pumping of large amounts of water has prevented the natural habitat to thrive. The elimination of this intake structure and filtration system will allow this area to become a mitigation site for seagrass plantings and thus create an additional fish habitat.

Resilience:
The regional community’s drinking water supply and Sarasota Bay’s water quality and quantity would be enhanced and protected; the elimination of the ion exchange system increases the resilience and reliability of the proposed regional water system by not depending on the water from Sarasota Bay.

Added Justification:
The City of Sarasota’s water supply originates from two sources: the Verna well field located 17 miles east of the City, and the Downtown brackish coastal well field which is located within the City.  Seventy percent of the raw water extracted from the Verna wellfield is softened in an ion exchange process, where hardness ions in the water – primarily calcium and magnesium – are exchanged on the ion exchange resin for sodium.  After the resin has been exhausted of its capacity to remove hardness, the ion exchange process is regenerated using seawater supplied by the Sarasota Bay intake system prior to being placed back into service. During the regeneration process, sodium ions in the seawater are exchanged with the hardness ions in the resin.  Even though seawater regeneration system is not a source for the City’s potable water supply, it is an essential component of the ion exchange treatment process.  Removing the ion exchange treatment process from service would result in the cessation of the intake’s use; however, this would require the City to invest in advanced treatment infrastructure necessary to further treat the City’s water supplies in lieu of the use of an ion exchange process.  The elimination of the intake will provide relief on Sarasota Bay when considered as a marine resource and sustainable marine ecosystem. The regionalization of the City’s water supply would further balance the need to distribute regional assets across the Southwest Florida Water Management District.


Title:
Whitaker Bayou Greenway Park and Watershed Restoration Project

Desription:
Whitaker Bayou is an urbanized tributary of Sarasota Bay that runs through several underserved communities, older neighborhoods and commercial zones. This project will involve the purchasing of 4.1-acres located along Whitaker Bayou within the City of Sarasota. Several parks are located in the general area of the subject parcels. This project is important to the City because in this area, the City lacks nature-based parks (See Figure 1).  The acquisition creates opportunities to create Greenways given the locations of Dr. Martin Luther King Park, Ringling School of Art and Design, North Water Tower Park, Old Bradenton Road, and Firehouse Park (See Figure 2). There are nine parcels included in the site. Eight of the nine parcels are undeveloped and have invasive and other nuisance plants on the site.  This site will serve the community with nature-based recreation, nature observation area, picnicking, fishing, canoeing/kayaking, trails, and neighborhood park amenities (See Figure 3).

Location:
City of Sarasota, Martin Luther King Blvd. & West Central Ave.

Partners:
SBEP, Sarasota County Government, City of Sarasota, Trust for Public Land, SWFWMD

Status-summary:
Conceptual Design has been completed for this project

Quantify Env Results:
Reduction in nutrients and sedimentation loading from numerous stormwater drains connected to the Bayou. This is Improvements could be monitored by specific need or improvement category:
1.	Improvements to Whitaker Bayou water quality (at depth average, surface and bottom) could be measured by total suspended solids, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, E. coli., algae and bacterial counts before, during and after the Whitaker Bayou Greenway Park and Watershed Restoration project has been implemented. 
2.	Sarasota Bay is an Outstanding Florida Water and was designated as an Estuary of National significance in 1989 by the US Congress. The 1987 amendments to the Clean Water Act call for the identification, restoration, and protection of estuaries of National significance through the National Estuary Programs. The Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan for the restoration of Sarasota Bay identifies Whitaker Bayou as an area for improvement. The proposed project will identify mechanisms for treating stormwater pollution using traditional and Low Impact Development technologies, restoring instream and riparian habitat in urbanized areas as well as improve recreational water access to underserved communities. The methods identified in this project can be utilized in other Florida communities to restore waterways and provide public access.

Eco Benefits Text:
The stream that hydrates the surrounding area and promotes a lush green growth of vines, ferns, and small shrub understory.  Elm, maple, live oak, and hickory dominate the canopy.  By protecting the area around the stream, the water quality is maintained in the ecosystem. Coastal marine life will improve because the environmental protection enhancements to the Sarasota Bay and corresponding connected ecosystems that will improve Sarasota Bay’s water quality by the pounds of nutrient (phosphorus and nitrogen) removed per day.

Jobs Text:
See Sarasota County Application for Whitaker Bayou Greenway Park and Watershed Restoration Project

Pollutant Red:
Reduction in nutrients and sedimentation loading from numerous stormwater drains connected to the Bayou. This is measurable by total suspended solids, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, E. coli., algae and bacterial counts before, during and after the Whitaker Bayou Greenway Park and Watershed Restoration project has been implemented.

Resilience:
By implementing the recommendations of the proposal plan non-point sources of pollution will be trapped, treated and reduced before they reach Sarasota Bay. The traditional stormwater treatment structures and Low Impact Design technologies installed will prevent polluted stormwater from entering the Sarasota Bay system. The restored instream and riparian habitats will also help filter pollutants in the Bayou before they reach the main Bay as well as provide wildelife and fishery habitat critical to Bay health. The improved public water access will provide additional opportunities for public education, outreach, and community cleanup events to prevent pollution from entering the system.

Added Justification:
This land acquisition is required to complete Sarasota County application for the Whitaker Bayou Greenway Park and Watershed Restoration Project


Title:
The City of Sarasota's Comprehensive Environmental Protection and Restoration Plan - Deep Injection Well & Pump Station

Desription:
TThis shovel-ready project will involve the comprehensive assessment of, and subsequent improvements to, the City of Sarasota’s environmental infrastructure. This includes the protection of the Sarasota Bay, Whitaker Bayou and corresponding water and wastewater treatment processes and appurtenances. This work will result in a program that will significantly reduce or eliminate waste streams currently discharged into Hog Creek and Whitaker Bayou, which ultimately discharge to Sarasota Bay. 
Currently the City has begun an initiative that represents a significant cost in the protection of the environment with its construction of a Class I Deep Injection Well (DIW) and design of proposed pump station and pipeline from the treatment plant to well location.  This will eliminate or significantly reduce the discharge to these tributaries of Sarasota Bay by diverting byproduct waters currently discharged into Sarasota Bay from the water treatment process and excess reclaimed water from the wastewater treatment process. The work is necessary to support the community’s need to protect its social and environmental infrastructure necessary for a vibrant and sustainable community with concomitant protection of the surrounding coastal ecosystem’s environmental resources.

Partners:
Southwest Florida Water Management District, Sarasota Bay National Estuary Program, Sarasota County Government, University of Central Florida

Status-all:
Design & Permitting is approximately 95% complete for Deep Injection Well. The design and permitting of the pump station and pipeline is currently about 60% complete.

Quantify Env Results:
Improvements could be monitored by specific need or improvement category:
1.	Monitoring of flow of reclaimed (reuse) water to the community and to the deep injection well. Improvements would be registered as the flow amounts to the outfall were eliminated. Water quality nutrient levels would be monitored.
2.	Improvements to water quality (at depth average, surface and bottom) could be measured by total suspended solids, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, unionized ammonia, total inorganic nitrogen, total phosphorous and inorganic phosphate, E. coli., algae and bacterial counts before, during and after implementation. Regarding the protection of the City’s drinking water infrastructure, additional parameters could include priority pollutants and disinfection by-products.
3.	Monitoring of regional groundwater flows and quality could be accomplished for the comprehensive project. Saltwater intrusion would be monitored by salinity, conductivity and chloride content in monitoring wells and receiving waters. Improvements to the estuary would be delineated by nutrient and benthic speciation.

Eco Benefits Text:
Economic benefit of $25,000,000 during the project lifetime estimated at 30 years (present worth value) due to the slowing and prevention of saltwater intrusion that reduces overall water treatment costs due to decreased salinity variations in the community’s water source supplies (See Figure 1.). Another important benefit is the subsequent enhancements to the ecosystems because the nutrient loading to the Bay and adjoining tributaries is eliminated or reduced through the elimination of treated wastewater effluent.

Pollutant Red:
Coastal marine life such as the natural seagrass habitat will improve because the current method of discharging the wastewater effluent straight into the Sarasota Bay will no longer be needed with the use of the deep injection well. The effluent which contains high amounts of nutrients will no longer affect the coastal habitat around these discharge points. This will slow the process of eutrophication and can help bring the Sarasota Bay back to its natural habitat. This resource will be improved by the pounds of nutrient (phosphorus and nitrogen) removed per day.

Living Resoruces:
Coastal marine life will improve because the environmental protection enhancements to the Sarasota Bay and corresponding connected ecosystems that will improve Sarasota Bay’s water quality by the pounds of nutrient (phosphorus and nitrogen) removed per day.

Resilience:
The regional community’s drinking water supply and Sarasota Bay’s water quality and quantity would be enhanced and protected; the regional community’s need for a long-term drought-proof source of ground water supply will be protected due to the implementation of reclaimed injection zone preventing saltwater intrusion, and subsequent reduction of loadings to the Bay will improve the regional ecosystem.  The elimination of the ion exchange system increases the resilience and reliability of the proposed regional water system by not depending on the water from Sarasota Bay.

Added Justification:
The elimination of effluent discharges to Sarasota Bay and its impacted tributaries provides an ecological enhancement to the community that is sustainable. The Southwest Florida Water Management District or SWFWMD (SWFWMD, 1993; Eastern Tampa Bay Water Resource Assessment Project; Resource Projects Department, Resource Evaluation Section. 1993) provides a comprehensive evaluation of water resources of the southern water use caution area. Historical changes in ground-water levels, quality, and withdrawals were analyzed and ground-water flow and solute transport models were developed. The major conclusion of this study was that saltwater intrusion in coastal portions of the Upper Floridan aquifer was occurring in response to declining ground-water levels since the 1930s.   See attached graphics, etc.


Added Justification:
last remaining natural shoreline in Upper Sarasota Bay - list of PIDs available


Title:
Little Sarasota Bay - Acquisition of Parcels 0125-0004 & 002001 (Eide)

Desription:
Acquisition of Parcels 0125-110004 & 020001

Added Justification:
last remaining bay-front property in South Bay, includes acquisition of bay front and hedge fund properties


Desription:
The beaches in Venice have been periodically closed to swimming because
of high bacterial and fecal chloroform levels in the water.  The city began testing the largest 
beach outfalls, and Deertown Gully had high bacteria and fecal readings.  A study was conducted, 
and the outfall was found to be a contributing factor to the no-swim advisories.  The outfall is 
currently an open ditch which needs to be manually excavated by city staff before rain events when 
sand blocks flow.  When the water is blocked, as shown in the attached picture, the basin becomes a 
breeding ground for bacteria.  The city has completed design and is currently permitting bacteria 
and flood reduction improvements to the outfall.  Outfall modification includes a pumped offshore 
discharge for seasonal low frequency (1.5”) rainfall events, a
 continuous deflection unit, UV disinfection, and removal of exotic vegetation.

Location:
Along the beach of the Gulf of Mexico just north of Gulf Drive and the Venice Municipality Airpot in Sarasota County, FL

Quantify Env Results:
The outfall project will result
in environmental improvements as listed in the pollutant reduction section.  Also, the removal of 
invasive plants and reestablishment of mangroves along the gully will improve water quality and
 fish habitat.

Eco Benefits Text:
This project will help keep the beaches open which in turn boosts tourism and revenue. When no-swim advisories are announced, it tarnishes the image of our beautiful beaches and negatively impacts our tourism industry. The advisories are published in national journals which the media uses for recommendations and discourages visitors to the area when beaches are closed.

Jobs Text:
Based on the federal calculator for number of jobs created based on the project cost, this project will directly create approximately 14 jobs. The long term employment impacts of this project are tremendous

Habitat:
The project area is habitat to nesting sea turtles, foraging shorebirds/seabirds, manatee, hard bottom communities and fisheries. The removal of invasive plants and restoration of mangroves along the gully will improve the fish habitat and nesting for birds.

Pollutant Red:
This project will minimize bacterial discharges to the Gulf.
Water quality testing performed in Deertown Gully during project design showed Enterococci exceeding 177/100ml and 437/100ml. Fecal coliform exceeded by 2,801/100ml and 1,601/100ml. The 3-Log removal of fecal coliform bacteria and 4-Log removal of total coliform bacteria will result in significantly lower than maximum safe bacterial levels indentified for

Living Resoruces:
Deertown Gully has a mangrove population just upstream of the project site. Brazilian peppers are intermingling with the mangroves. These invasive plants will be removed and additional mangroves will be


Title:
Hatchett Creek Shoreline and Waterway Restoration

Desription:
This project will provide funding toward the improvement of approximately 2,920 feet of a tidally influenced creek bed in Venice. The project is to remove invasive species, sediment and trash from Hatchett Creek. Mangrove systems along the creek will be restored to improve water quality and aquatic animals

Location:
Hatchett Creek between 395 East Venice Avenue (Legacy Park site) and 115 US 41 Bypass North (Ruscelletto Park site) in Sarasota County.

Quantify Env Results:
Sarasota County staff conducted a natural communities assessment and found that white mangroves, black mangroves, laurel oaks, cabbage palm are intermingled with Brazilian pepper, melaleuca, Australian pine and lead trees. A detailed biological survey of natural communities will be conducted on site as part of the design work and conducted again every five years for monitoring after construction is completed.

Eco Benefits Text:
The project has economic benefits. First, a property along Hatchett Creek will be developed into a park which will have a kayak/canoe launch, nature observation deck and multi-purpose trail along the creek. Restoration of the creek and creek bed is the first step in developing these amenities in turn will increase tourism and revenues for the area. Secondly, the surrounding properties will have increased flood and storm damage protection by removing cement along the creek bed which will allow the water to flow naturally to the Intracoastal Waterway, and remove Australian pines which can be easily uprooted during storms thereby creating property damage.

Jobs Text:
Based on the cost of the project and the federal jobs calculator, this project will directly create approximately 3 jobs

Habitat:
This project will maintain and increase the native marine habitats by replenishing of mangrove habitats. There are currently mangroves along the creek but invasive plants and trees along the creek bed are suppressing the This need is addressed by this project, and the location is ideal for mangroves to flourish with the removal of invasive trees

Pollutant Red:
Water quality pollutant monitoring has not been conducted in Hatchett Creek, however, it is expected that the removal of sediment and invasive species will allow mangroves to flourish and improve water quality

Living Resoruces:
First, removing invasive vegetation will allow the creek to return to a natural state. The existing mangroves will be able to flourish without the Australian pine needles hampering growth and Brazilian Peppers suffocating the plants. This in turn will support coastal fish population and help filter nutrients in the water. After invasive vegetation is removed, additional mangroves will be planted to stabilize the shoreline. Grant funds will cover the expensive removal of the invasive vegetation and allow regular maintenance activities to occur, which will prevent regrowth.

Resilience:
Removal of the Australian Pines will protect adjacent residential properties from damage as a result of downed trees and keep Hatchett Creek from being inadvertently blocked during a storm which would cause flooding upstream


Desription:
Eligible for bundling with other regional RESTORE Act watershed
conservation, restoration and/or longleaf pine restoration efforts: Connect 8,500 acres of conservation lands in Hillsborough County to over 3,000 acres in Manatee County through the acquisition of 186 acres of mutually adjacent agricultural land within the Little Manatee River watershed. Project includes funding for direct restoration of longleaf pine ecosystem on land currently used for row crops.

Partners:
Hillsborough County ELAPP, FWC,
SWFWMD, USFWS, FDEP, TBEP

Quantify Env Results:
A recent study demonstrated that afforestation of former crop or pasture land sequesters atmospheric carbon on the order of
2.2 to 9.5 metric tons per acre per year (http://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/misc/R40562.pdt). Measurements of carbon accumulation parallels woody biomass growth. Nutrient reduction measurable from cessation of previous fertilizer application rates on commercial crop land

Eco Benefits Text:
Recent studies have indicated that managed forest land provides ecosystem service values ranging from $264 to $13,442 per acre per year (httQ://www.warnell.uga.edu/news-/content/uQloads/2011/02/Final-ReQort-1-24-11.Qdf;http://www.sfrc.ufl.edu/cfeor/docs/EcosystemServices.FloridaStewardshipReport.Jul2012.pdf).
The proposed 186 acres restored would equate to $49,104 to $2,500,212  in annual value. Additional indirect economic benefits could come from passive recreation, wildlife viewing and tourism opportunities as a result of the nearly 12,000 acre conservation connection as a whole.

Jobs Text:
20-30 jobs. Several recent studies have demonstrated that for every million spent on ecological restoration, between 20 and 30 jobs are created (http://www.doi.gov/news/pressreleases/2010_02_23_release.cfm;

Pollutant Red:
Ceasing commercial crop production would reduce annual fertilizer deposition on to well-drained, sandy soils of up to 37,000 lbs of each Nand  P.

Living Resoruces:
This area contributes runoff to the Little Manatee River and Tampa Bay. Reducing nutrient loads and improving water quality through ecosystem restoration will improve water quality within the Bay as well as ground water.

Resilience:
Conservation of upland corridors provide for integrity of wildlife populations that may otherwise be fragmented or displaced by sea level rise. Restoring longleaf pine ecosystems provides potential for improving climate change conditions through carbon sequestration, reduction in wind energy from hurricanes and regulation of other environmental changes. Improved water retention and regulation of a forested system will better protect downstream areas in flood conditions.

Added Justification:
Given that the acquisition would connect several conservation areas into a contiguous conservation corridor over 11,000 acres, the value ofthe acquisition should also be ranked as a multiplier of the value of the connection along with the attendant benefits to wildlife and ecosystem integrity of the entire corridor created.  See attachments to proposal.


Title:
Manatee County Ecosystem Restoration Task Force

Desription:
Eligible for bundling with other regional RESTORE Act conservation and restoration action projects: A five person adaptive management task force will be contracted to perform broad restoration efforts with particular emphasis on invasive-exotic plant species removal, but may include native plant installations, hydrological restoration, mechanical vegetative fuel reduction, monitoring or other restoration activities as directed by the County. Primary work areas would be Preserves located in the west side of the County (refer to attached map).

Partners:
Numerous partners associated with
Manatee County Preserves

Quantify Env Results:
Reduction of nuisance and
exotic vegetation can be quantified by qualitative monitoring.

Eco Benefits Text:
Direct economic benefits come from the
creation of 5 full time positions for a 5 year term.  This front-end investment is anticipated to reduce cost to the County in the long run, as it will allow for an early surge of effort that will alter the restoration trajectory more expediently towards the restoration goals of mature, balanced natural communities that require a much lower degree of maintenance than newly restored lands.

Living Resoruces:
Primary benefit of this effort will be on coastal uplands and coastal freshwater wetlands which by nature, require the greatest degree of effort in restoring from a degraded or created state.

Resilience:
Removal of exotic species from these sites will
increase resilience by preventing additional seed banking by undesirable vegetation so that in the event of a severe disturbance, such as a hurricane, a flush of exotic species will not result.

Added Justification:
Public stewardship for the protection of healthy native habitats will be fostered by exposure of visiting public to conservation lands that are in good condition with high biodiversity as a  result of this restoration, as opposed to a diminished experience on lands degraded by invasive-exotic impact.  See attachments to proposal.


Title:
Manatee County Natural Resouorces Department Acquisition Funds

Desription:
Eligible for bundling with other regional RESTORE Act conservation
acquisition and restoration projects: The purpose of this project is to provide funds to acquire property in Manatee County to restore and conserve habitat and the ecological integrity of the regional landscape, protect water quality and provide community resilience in addition to increasing public appreciation and access to natural areas. Public acquisition in fee simple or by conservation easement will be accomplished with full public participation and disclosure as approved by the Board of County Commissioners in open meetings and workshops, with input from the County's  standing advisory committee, Environmental Lands Management Acquisition and Advisory Committee (ELMAC).

Quantify Env Results:
Environmental benefits for a
project of this scale would be of great magnitude and very difficult to quantify at this time

Eco Benefits Text:
Direct economic benefits would come from
services necessary for acquisition, planning, designing, permitting, construction, and maintenance of projects.   Ecosystem services would be associated with preservation and restoration of properties.

Jobs Text:
Under the assumption that acquisition funds
would be matched for restoration, an estimated 1,000-1,500 jobs will be created or preserved.   See proposal.

Habitat:
How much Habitat  will be restored  and conserved?  Dependent on lands available for
 

acquisition and scope of restoration project.

Pollutant Red:
Dependent on lands available for acquisition and scope of
restoration project.

Living Resoruces:
? Dependent on lands available for acquisition and/or easement and scope of restoration on the subject property

Resilience:
Dependant on lands available for acquisition and scope of restoration project.

Added Justification:
Coastal land acquisitions will provide resilience to storm events through preservation and protection of mangrove forests and other buffering habitats, while watershed acquisitions will serve to protect water quality.


Desription:
Manatee County will increase freshwater releases from the Lake Manatee Reservoir during the non-rainy season to preserve and/or enhance low salinity habitat in the Manatee River. To offset the decrease in safe yield and reliability of the reservoir to provide drinking water to Manatee County customers caused by the increased freshwater releases, improvements to the water intake structures will be required. Lowering of the intakes will allow continued withdrawal at the lower reservoir levels that will result from the increased freshwater release schedule.

Partners:
Southwest Florida Water
Management District

Quantify Env Results:
Improvement of low salinity
habitat area and persistence integral to developmental stages of many marine organisms. Monitoring stations will be added to those previously established.

Eco Benefits Text:
Enhanced environment provides for better
sustainable marine organism population, resulting in better fishing, both recreational and commercial.

Habitat:
dependent on predicted effectiveness
and efficiency of increased freshwater releases as determined by SWFWMD modeling effort

Living Resoruces:
Low salinity estuarine habitat in the Manatee River as determined by SWFWMD model.

Resilience:
Maintaining and/or increasing habitat that serves
as 'nurseries' for significant numbers of marine species allows for quicker recovery from stresses to the environment (natural or anthropogenic)


Title:
Sea Level Rise in Southwest Florida: Raising Minds about Rising Seas

Desription:
Rising seas potentially threaten our natural and built coastal ecosystems, including possible impacts to beaches, marshes, mangroves, oysters, essential fish and bird habitat, tidal creeks, springs, stormwater systems and more. No conversation about preparations for future spill or other disaster response, coastal resiliency, conservation or restoration is complete without thoughtful consideration of sea level rise.  While scientists continue to document persistent global mean sea level rise and even forecast the potential for acceleration in rate, policy-makers, planners and the general public remain paralyzed, distracted and confused by misinformation, distrust and misunderstanding.  SW Florida cannot stop the sea from rising, but we can educate ourselves about local risks and vulnerabilities and implement risk management strategies, scaled appropriately to the risks, to promote resiliency of our estuaries and communities.  The political and social capital necessary to undertake such planning starts with education. 

We propose a series of speaking engagements and workshops to occur in Charlotte Harbor, Sarasota Bay and Tampa Bay NEP regions to advance our science-based understanding of the threats from and vulnerabilities to sea level rise, and to facilitate policy considerations for best adaptation and mitigation strategies.  Speakers will present the latest science and policy strategies for sea level rise.  Local workshops, held in each NEP region, will help inform and guide policy.  The specific content, scope and goals of these local events will be tailored to satisfy specific CCMP goals for each NEP and will be developed as part of the grant in close consultation with local colleges and universities, NEPs, and governments.

This proposed work will 1) elevate the public’s understanding about sea level rise; 2) identify gaps in local assessment and policy; 2) and facilitate policy discussion and planning.  We intend to leverage this requested funding to obtain additional funding for the lecture series and workshops and to seek funding for a regional/national conference on sea level rise to be held in Southwest Florida.

Location:
Charlotte Harbor, Sarasota Bay, Tampa Bay

Partners:
Eckerd College, Florida Gulf Coast University

Status-all:
A pilot set of privately funded sea level rise talks is planned for March 2013 at Eckerd College, New College of Florida and the Tiger Bay Club of Sarasota (a business and community leadership group).  Two lectures and a panel discussion will feature two world-renowned sea level rise experts who shared the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007 for their work on climate change.  Learn more: www.rising-seas.com.

Ultimately, the specific content, scope and logistics of the proposed lectures and workshops will rely heavily upon scoping conducted with local colleges and universities, NEPs, and governments.  The basis for the proposed budget, with a minimum of $50,000 match is:

	Development of scope of work with Charlotte Harbor, Sarasota Bay and Tampa Bay NEPS; Florida Gulf Coast University, New College of Florida and Eckerd College; and select County governments = $10,000
	Project Management = $30,000
	Speaker Series: 4 Experts deliver three talks, one in each NEP region.  Airfare, hotel, per diem ($5,000 x 4 = $20,000)
	Science/Policy Workshops: 2 Workshops in each region.  Workshop 1: Science/Data/ Conditions/Predictions and Vulnerability/Assessment/Gaps.  Workshop 2: Adaptation and mitigation strategies/Policy tools and Action Steps/Planning.  $5,000 for the host facility/venue and $5,000 for the workshop facilitator for 2 workshops in 3 locations = $60,000.
	Archival Media (video, wiki, web) & Marketing: $15,000
	Education & Outreach: Undergrad curriculum development and webinars = $15,000

Quantify Env Results:
Education is the foundation for building the political and social capital necessary to begin investing in measures to promote coastal resiliency to rising sea levels.  Educational and opinion surveys (pre- and post-events), and number of contacts and contact hours will be used.   Changes in policy/planning ranging from restoration design, land acquisition, Comprehensive Plans and Post Disaster Redevelopment Plans will also be monitored.

Eco Benefits Text:
SW Florida’s economy is dependent upon resilient, healthy coastal ecosystems.  Planning for coastal resiliency to sea level rise has enormous economic significance to both coastal systems and their ecosystem services as well as to built structures and their economic value, including benefits to ecotourism, recreational fishing, public infrastructure (especially stormwater systems), and coastal property tax base

Jobs Text:
Project would directly create two part-time jobs for contractors and indirect opportunities for partnering institutions and host venues

Habitat:
This work will advocate for incorporation of sea level rise adaptation/mitigation strategies into future restoration/conservation initiatives

Living Resoruces:
Potential to improve resiliency for marshes, mangroves, tidal creeks, fish.

Resilience:
Increased political and social capital for implementing appropriate risk management, restoration and conservation initiatives for adaptation and mitigation will enhance resiliency of the natural and built coastal environments upon which the resiliency of our community depends


Title:
Sarasota Bay Wetland and Coastal Habitat Restoration

Desription:
Implementation support for the Sarasota Bay Habitat Restoration Plan

Location:
Sarasota Bay (Anna Maria Sound to Venice Inlet) and its watershed

Partners:
Manatee County, Sarasota County, US Fish & Wildlife Service, SWFWMD

Status-all:
Project conceptual (and some construction) designs may be found in the Five Year Habitat Restoration Plan.  SBEP has a wetland coordinator (Scheda Ecological, Inc.) to assist with permit applications.

Quantify Env Results:
Environmental results will be measured in acres and linear miles of restored habitats, including removal of exotic/invasive vegetation and creation of wetland (ponds, streams, intermittent wetlands) and upland (coastal forest, scrub) habitats.

Eco Benefits Text:
Value of eventual ecosystems service improvements is estimated at $9,000/acre.

Jobs Text:
Full implementation of the Habitat Plan will result in twenty jobs created or preserved per year.

Habitat:
Approximately fifty acres of habitat will be restored per year; a variable amount of linear shoreline will be restored per year

Pollutant Red:
All projects have elements that lead to nutrient pollution reduction.  The amount varies by project, but can be calculated (or estimated) on a pounds per year nitrogen reduction basis.

Resilience:
All projects incorporate community resilience design elements to account for sea level rise and its

Added Justification:
The Habitat Plan has already been vetted and approved by the SBEP Technical Advisory Committee.  A list of projects from the Five Year Habitat Restoration Plan is included with proposal.


Title:
Oyster Reef Restoration and Enhancement in Sarasota Bay

Desription:
Coordinate and supplement existing oyster reef restoration in Sarasota Bay.  SBEP has been actively creating and supplementing two new oyster reefs in Sarasota Bay.  They have identified several other existing oyster reefs that would benefit from enhancement and augmentation.  This project is intended to enhance both of these systems

Status-all:
FDEP Standard General ERPs and U.S.A.C.E. permits for existing reefs are in hand.  Applications would need to be submitted for any new oyster projects.

Quantify Env Results:
Enhancement of existing bay oyster reefs within Sarasota Bay will increase juvenile fisheries habitat by a collective nine acres.  Habitat use will be monitored and assessed by fish counts and remote video recordings

Eco Benefits Text:
Florida SeaGrant has demonstrated the economic benefits of local (Manatee and Sarasota Counties) artificial reefs to be in the millions of dollars annually. (http://www.flseagrant.org).  We estimate that oyster reefs offer comparable economic benefits.

Habitat:
Nine acres of created/enhanced oyster habitat in Sarasota Bay.

Living Resoruces:
Approximately nine acres of oyster habitats will be improved.  Oyster habitat supports demersal finfish and benthic invertebrates.

Added Justification:
This project is designed to be integrated with the larger regional oyster reef habitat restoration plan submitted by FGCU, SCCF and TNC through the CHNEP.  We will work closely within this regional context to maximize resources, while taking advantage of our progress with ongoing projects that are already permitted, partially constructed and monitored.  See attachments to proposal.


Desription:
Protection of bay front estuarine, scrub and other natural habitats through acquisition of land (fee simple) and/or conservation easements on Lemon Bay, including:
1.	Reduce sedimentation, nutrient load.
2.	Protect habitat for listed species, including gopher tortoise and Florida Scrub Jay.
3.	Extend ‘Blueways’ paddle trails, kayak landings

Quantify Env Results:
Acquiring 50 acres on Lemon Bay would protect estuarine habitat along the coast as well adjacent scrub habitat for the endemic Florida Scrub-Jay. County environmental land stewardship programs already monitor Florida Scrub-Jays on a regular basis.  Increased protected habitat acreage and future scrub-jay population monitoring will provide quantifiable measures.

Eco Benefits Text:
This project will benefit recreational opportunities, providing additional coastal waterfront for kayaking and canoeing for Sarasota County’s existing “Blueways Trail” system.  This will provide benefits for leisure sport and ecotourism businesses. Protecting natural bay front provides ecosystem services, including storm protection, floodwater capacity/ retention, and filtration of nutrients/ sediment draining into Lemon Bay.

Jobs Text:
Jobs may be created through fishing and other eco-tourism opportunities.

Habitat:
Up to 50 acres of natural habitat in the Lemon Bay basin could be protected, including estuarine and bay front shoreline. Appropriate scrub habitat protected would be managed and restored to optimize local Florida Scrub-Jay populations.

Pollutant Red:
Habitat protection will reduce nutrient and metal pollutants in water discharged to the bay. Quantifying reductions may not be feasible on protected properties.

Living Resoruces:
Bay front estuarine habitat provides nesting and/ or foraging areas for several species of listed wading birds. Scrub and scrubby flatwoods habitat in upland areas just east of Lemon Bay provide habitat for the state-threatened gopher tortoise and federally-threatened Florida Scrub-Jay

Added Justification:
Lemon Bay is designated an ‘Outstanding Florida Water’ and an ‘Aquatic Preserve.’  Acquiring land on Lemon Bay would protect estuarine habitat along the coast as well adjacent scrub habitat for the endemic Florida Scrub-Jay. Sarasota County’s Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program has acquired 61.51 acres along Lemon Bay since 2001 at a cost of $5,156,319. Acquiring an additional 50 acres in this priority site would further protect the quality of the bay as well as estuarine and upland habitats.  See attachments to proposal.


Title:
Lemon Bay Watershed Waterway Restoration

Desription:
The Lemon Bay Watershed is laced with waterways that drain the land into creeks and the bay. This project would improve the environmental performance of the waterways by improving habitat, creating better water quality and restoring some of the natural hydrology

Quantify Env Results:
This project will restore habitat including wetlands, mangroves and natural shorelines. It may remove accumulated sediment. It will also provide a measurable amount of nutrient removal to improve the health of Lemon Bay


Title:
The City of Sarasota’s Comprehensive Environmental Protection and Restoration Plan – Reclaimed Water Recharge Well System.

Desription:
This project will involve the comprehensive assessment of, and subsequent improvements to, the City of Sarasota’s environmental infrastructure. This work will develop the reclaimed water recharge well system and result in a program that will provide protection against saltwater intrusion into the City’s potable water supplies. The work is necessary to support the community’s need to protect its social and environmental infrastructure necessary for a vibrant and sustainable community with concomitant protection of the surrounding coastal ecosystem’s environmental resources.

Treated wastewater reuse stream that would normally be discharged to Sarasota Bay could be used to inject into an aquifer zone between the saltwater and freshwater interface. As much as 90% credits for reclaimed water injection have been provided to water suppliers in the area for potable groundwater withdrawals. Similar programs are currently underway in Manatee and Hillsborough Counties. Such a program will offer significant ecological value to the region.  Discussions with the local Water Management District have already indicated support for this project and direction. This will also provide ecosystem stability and sustainability with corresponding protection against saltwater intrusion using reclaimed recharge wells

Status-all:
In various states of conceptual design and study.

Quantify Env Results:
Improvements could be monitored by specific need or improvement category:
1.	Monitoring of flow of reclaimed (reuse) water to the community, the reclaimed water recharge wells, and to the deep well. Improvements would be registered as the flow amounts to the outfall were eliminated. Water quality nutrient levels would be monitored.
2.	Monitoring of regional groundwater flows and quality could be accomplished for the comprehensive project. Saltwater intrusion would be monitored by salinity, conductivity and chloride content in monitoring wells and receiving waters. Improvements to the estuary would be delineated by nutrient and benthic speciation.

Eco Benefits Text:
Economic benefit of $50,000,000 during the project lifetime estimated at 30 years (present worth value) due to the slowing and prevention of saltwater intrusion that reduces overall water supply costs due to decreased salinity variations in the community’s water source supplies, to include the subsequent enhancements to the ecosystems because the nutrient loading to the Bay and adjoining tributaries is eliminated or reduced through the elimination of treated wastewater effluent and protection of city’s drinking water treatment portfolio necessary for provision of safe drinking water supplies, a provision that provides a sustainable long-term eco-friendly balancing of the Sarasota Bay ecosystem while providing drought-proof potable supplies for the region.

Pollutant Red:
Reduction in nutrients into Sarasota Bay, reduction of saltwater intrusion into the underlying aquifers that supply drinking water to the region, and a means to enhance the ecosystem by restoration, a long-term protection to the environment and community

Resilience:
The regional community’s drinking water supply and Sarasota Bay’s water quality and quantity would be enhanced and protected; the regional community’s need for a long-term drought-proof source of ground water supply will be protected due to the implementation of reclaimed injection zone preventing saltwater intrusion, and subsequent reduction of loadings to the Bay will improve the regional ecosystem

Added Justification:
Additional Justification:  
1. The elimination of effluent discharges to Sarasota Bay and its impacted tributaries provides an ecological enhancement to the community that is sustainable. The Southwest Florida Water Management District or SWFWMD (SWFWMD, 1993; Eastern Tampa Bay Water Resource Assessment Project; Resource Projects Department, Resource Evaluation Section. 1993) provides a comprehensive evaluation of water resources of the southern water use caution area. Historical changes in ground-water levels, quality, and withdrawals were analyzed and ground-water flow and solute transport models were developed. The major conclusion of this study was that saltwater intrusion in coastal portions of the Upper Floridan aquifer was occurring in response to declining ground-water levels since the 1930s.  See diagram in proposal.


Title:
SWWRF Process Modification for Nitrogen Removal

Desription:
Manatee County will implement an Advanced Activated Sludge process (Modified-Ludzak Ettinger or MLE) at their Southwest Water Reclamation Facility.  The process enhancement will improve the plant’s nitrogen removal ability thereby reducing the introduction of the nutrient into the environment during reclaim application. Additionally, minimizing the algae food source entering the wet weather storage ponds mitigates undesired algae production and improves reclaimed water quality

Location:
Southwest Water Reclamation Facility, Manatee County

Quantify Env Results:
Reduction of nitrogen levels introduced into the environment minimizes the potential for undesired algae blooms which have negative impacts on aquatic ecosystems.

Eco Benefits Text:
Enhanced environment provides for better sustainable marine organism population, resulting in better fishing, both recreational and commercial.

Pollutant Red:
Nitrogen concentrations will be reduced from more than 20 mg/L to less than 10 mg/L

Living Resoruces:
The upper Sarasota Bay will potentially see decreases in nitrogen concentrations.

Resilience:
Maintaining and/or increasing habitat that serves as ‘nurseries’ for significant numbers of marine species allows for quicker recovery from stresses to the environment (natural or anthropogenic)


Desription:
Sarasota Audubon Society (SAS) is in year 2 of a 5-year campaign to bui ld
a Nature Center at the Celery Fields in Sarasota County.  The goal of the campaign is $1.3 million for the building ($550K) and to create an operating fund ($800K).  To date we have raised $600K.  The Celery Fields is a 400-acre stormwater collection zone in the Roberts Bay
Watershed.  SAS has been working with Sarasota County si nce 2000 to ensure that the Fields are used entirely for passive recreational use and maintained for wildlife. As a result of this cooperation, Sarasota County has restored I 00 acres of the site as a wetland, and has built 2 boardwal k viewi ng areas so that residents and visitors can enjoy the wildlife and native vegetation. The Celery Fields is a major touri st attraction for wildlife viewing, especially for birds. It is already a si te on the Great Florida Bi rding Trail.  In November, 2012, SAS began the Bird Naturalist program where every day, an SAS representati ve is on the boardwalk with a scope, bi rd book and information about the bi rds of Sarasota County.  Bird Naturalists welcome visitors and hel p them ID birds and plants.  In the first month, it was estimated that there were
1,000 visi tors to the Celery Fields for wildlife viewing.  The Celery Fields is already known throughout Florida and beyond as a mecca for birdwatching.  The Nature Center will act as a
drop in point for visitors to Sarasota who are seeking a nature-based experience.  SAS volunteers
and staff will provide information on all natural areas and activities of Sarasota County.  In addition to welcoming and providing information to tourists, SAS will be active in maintaining the site.  We are already actively involved in managing and utilizing the Fields: we clean up Palmer Blvd and the Fields; conduct bird surveys; provide mentorship to students on scientific projects; and have funded 28 ecology trips (1400 students; $20K) for Sarasota County schoolchildren (we expect to expand this Celery Fields Explorers program to i nclude Manatee, DeSoto and Charlotte Counties next year).  When the Nature Center is built we expect to continue to provide volunteers to help in exotic plant removal, trail development and other site maintenance tasks.

Location:
6893 Palmer Blvd, Sarasota 34240. East of 1-75 and south of Fruitville Rd.

Status-all:
Design and Permitting: Sarasota County has provided 1 -acre on a long-term
lease basis.  After the County builds the planned restrooms and expands the parking lot adjacent to the Center's site, SAS can connect to the utilities and begin final plans for building. The County is planning to put their project out to bid in Spring 201 3 with a completion date of Fall
2013.  An initial concept design of the Nature Center is attached; we expect modifications to the
plan and will begin final design plans in Spring/Summer 2013

Quantify Env Results:
As happens currently to visitors and on every field trip, trip leaders explain the history, purpose and functioning of the Celery Fields as a stormwater collection zone.  Visitors are made aware of the role that native plants play in cleansing the upland waters for the bay. In field trips for students, in conjunction with our partner Around the Bend Nature Tours, this aspect of the ecology of a wetland will be emphasized and quantified.  Since the100-acre wetland was completed in May 2011, at least 5 species of birds have begun to breed there; they were absent before.  SAS has a major interest in maintaining the quality of the wetland so that these and other nesting birds can thrive.

Eco Benefits Text:
Currently SAS can boast more than 5,000 hours of volunteer time per year.  Once the Nature Center is built, we expect this number to climb steeply as our role expands.

Jobs Text:
Initially SAS expects to hire 1.5 people: a
Nature Center director and a half time general purposes/maintenance person.

Habitat:
With a fully functioning Nature Center, and a base from which to operate, SAS will take on a more significant eco-tourism  role.  We have already been involved in helping design the 100-acre wetland for birds and expect to continue our monitoring role to ensure that the 400-acre Fields, including the wetlands, is maintained in order to maximize its function for nature-based eco-tourism while protecting critical habitat for wildlife.

Pollutant Red:
There will be no direct pollution reduction other than playing a
significant role in helping to manage the site along with the County and to provide education for children and adults about the importance of wetlands and their role as a pollutant filtering system.

Living Resoruces:
The wetlands
and the Fields will benefit from the increased education and awareness imparted by SAS to visitors, residents and school children.  Currently, we have members at the Celery Fields on a daily basis to help monitor the site and its birdlife.

Resilience:
We hope that our community- and visitor-based
programs will reach larger and larger audiences.  Teaching the importance wetlands is of prime importance in fulfilling the mission of SAS which is to protect birds, wildlife and the environment through conservation.

Added Justification:
SAS believes that it has a crucial role to play in raising the importance
of Sarasota County as a destination for nature-based tourism.  The Celery Fields, with its proximity to I-75 and to an urbanized area, will play an important role in bringing visitors to Sarasota County, in addition to raising the awareness of its citizens to protect our bay waters. SAS has the ability (and uses it) to circulate special bird sightings.  Through electronic means, SAS can reach 2,000 people statewide and beyond instantly who are interested in seeing these birds. In addition, in October 2012, SAS was instrumental in bringing 338 people to Sarasota for a 2-day conference sponsored by Audubon Florida, the topic was Conserve Water, Save Life.
The conference generated an estimated $250,000 for the County. And, each year, Roads Scholar (formerly Elderhostel)  brings around 50 people from around the nation to Sarasota on a Birding Week.  Members of SAS act as expert guides for a 5-day, bird filled tour around the County to
 
see all the birds they can.  All of these activities are possible because of the beauty of Sarasota County and its rich but diminishing habitat.  With the loss of wetland habitat in mind, the Celery Fields becomes more important every day.  Without clean waters, visitors will not want to visit, and citizens will have a lesser quality of life.  See attachments to proposal.


Title:
Chassahowitzka Spring Dredging Restoration Phases I and II

Desription:
Dredge and fill activities in the 1960’s in the Chassahowitzka area caused excessive sediment transport from residential canals to the headsprings.  Central sewer has been provided to alleviate nutrients to the system from   Phase I of the restoration project consists of the suction dredge removal of 3,800 cy for the Chassahowitzka Headsprings complex.  Phase II consists of the suction dredge removal of 1,500 cy or sediment from an upstream turn basin.  Removal of sediments in the turn basin will keep the sediments from entering the springs and the turn basin will serve to act as a sediment sump to capture and hold sediments thereby eliminating the possibility that they are transported to the springs.


Title:
Hunter Springs Water Quality Improvement Project

Desription:
The purpose of this project is to expand an existing water quality treatment area at the intersection of NE 2nd Street and NE 3rd Avenue in Crystal River and to dredge and remove accumulated sediment adjacent to the outfall.  The proposed project would relocate the forcemain and expand the pond to the maximum size possible on the site. The expansion equates to a 40% increase in volume, which represents a significant increase in treatment capacity. The dredging project will remove accumulated sediment adjacent to the outfall pipe from the water quality treatment area.


Title:
City of Crystal River to Progress Energy Reclaimed Water Project

Desription:
This multi-year project includes the construction of transmission mains, storage and pumping infrastructure necessary to provide treated wastewater effluent to the Progress Energy Power-Generation Complex in Citrus County, in lieu of using potable quality groundwater within that system. The project includes a 16-inch transmission pipeline approximately 42,000 feet to transport reclaimed water from the City's current spray-field operation located on County Road 495 to the boundary line of the PE complex, located west of Highway 19. This project will offset 750,000 Gallons Per Day of groundwater.   Project will reduce/offset 16% of the watershed contribution of nitrogen with zero discharge from the power plant


Title:
Homosassa Springs Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration

Desription:
The restoration work entails a two phase restoration project.  Phase I- removal of accumulated organic sediments from the spring run within the Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park (the Park), the Blue Waters area of the Homosassa River, and Mitten Cove. The accumulated sediments reduce water clarity and water quality when disturbed and do not provide a suitable substrate for the establishment and regeneration of desirable submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV). Additionally, manatees are hindered from accessing of the spring run during low water conditions. Phase II- establishment of SAV communities by replanting vegetative mats throughout Mitten Cove.  After planting, Mitten Cove will be fenced off for two years to allow for growth of SAV mats.  The Park has made considerable accomplishments in eliminating the sources of sediments accumulating in the spring run. Over 2000 feet of lime rock and gravel walkways in the floodplain of the spring run have been removed, and replaced with elevated walkways. Low berms and native vegetation have been established along the banks of the spring run to capture and attenuate stormwater run-off from the park.


Desription:
The restoration work will address water quality degradation of Pepper Creek, a tributary of the Homosassa River.  The degraded water quality of Pepper Creek is the result of untreated stormwater entering the Creek from residential and commercial development in the contributing watershed.  The project will include a feasibility and alternatives analysis to identify several stormwater retrofit projects to address untreated stormwater entering the Creek.  The alternatives analysis will be followed by design and environmental permitting and construction of several stormwater retrofit projects.  The projects will be prioritized based on those that have the highest contribution of nutrients and other pollutants to the Creek.


Title:
Project COAST-Water Quality Monitoring (Hernando, Citrus, Levy & Pasco Counties)

Desription:
Project COAST - North began in 1996 and involves a monitoring program extending from the Withlacoochee River to the Weeki Wachee River.  This project represents an extension of an existing water quality monitoring program for the Springs Coast region that provides information on the health of the coastal springs, rivers and estuary. Earlier agreements provided for monitoring from 1996 - 2011. Because historical data for the coastal areas of Pasco County were lacking, Project COAST was expanded southward along the coast of Pasco County in FY2000.  This project uses all data that have been collected over the life of Project COAST to examine the status and trends in water quality throughout the coastal areas of Citrus, Hernando, Levy, and Pasco counties.  The University of Florida will collect monthly samples at a total of ninety fixed stations in the nearshore waters along the coasts of Weeki Wachee, Chassahowitzka, Homosassa, Crystal, Withlacoochee Rivers and Pasco County for total nitrogen, total phosphorus, total chlorophyll, Secchi depth, light attenuation, color, temperature, dissolved oxygen, and salinity.

Location:
Pasco, Hernando, Citrus & Levy Counties, Fla


Desription:
The objective of this project is to map seagrass using a combination of aerial photography and on the ground verification.  This project creates an invaluable tool that will (a) quantify existing conditions, (b) track long-term ecological changes in seagrass distribution, and (c) accurately assess impacts due to natural and man-made disasters such as hurricanes and oil spills.  Deliverables for this project include: one-foot digital orthophotos, a seamless mosaic of all frames, seagrass map shape files, and a change analysis.

Location:
Citrus, Hernando, Levy, Lee Counties, Fla


Title:
Three Sisters Springs Wetland Treatment Project

Desription:
Construction and management of a stormwater treatment wetland to be constructed on the Three Sisters Springs property. The treatment wetland will intercept stormwater from more than 100 acres of commercial and residential land within the City of Crystal River, improving the water quality of these waters before they discharge into Kings Bay. The Three Sisters property is co-owned by the District and the City of Crystal River, and will be managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. In addition to the treatment wetland, the property will also be used for recreation, education, and the protection of endangered manatees.


Title:
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Canoe Launch Road stabilization and expansion

Desription:
Removal of existing limerock/shell base road and construction of a 16’ wide by 300’ in length, porous paver road with a turnabout lane.  Current roadway is susceptible to erosion and subsequent deposition of sediments directly into the spring head.


Title:
Weeki Wachee Springs Stormwater Catchment and Capture

Desription:
Phase I- Construction of a stormwater catchment area and an under drain system to capture silt laden runoff, ensure adequate infiltration and prevent deposition of runoff into the springhead.  Phase II- Downspout and gutter installation and redirection to rainbarrels for landscape irrigation.


Title:
Rock Ponds Ecosystem Restoration Project

Desription:
The Rock Ponds Ecosystem Restoration Project is a collaborative effort between the SWIM Program of the SWFWMD and the Hillsborough County Resource Management Section of their Parks, Recreation, and Conservation Department.  This project will be the largest single coastal ecosystem project ever performed for Tampa Bay:  the creation/restoration/enhancement of 1043 acres of various estuarine, freshwater, and upland habitats.  The project emphasizes low salinity habitats, sheetflow restoration, freshwater wetlands, and various coastal uplands.  In addition, some stormwater treatment will result in improvements in water quality for the bay.


Title:
Palm River Restoration Project Phase II, East McKay Bay in Tampa, Florida

Desription:
This multi-year project is a SWIM Program initiative consisting of habitat restoration, water quality improvement, and mitigation of erosion along the Palm River at the mouth of McKay Bay. A feasibility study was conducted on the land surrounding the Palm River to identify sites for habitat restoration and stormwater treatment project implementation. Currently, two sites on property owned by the District have been selected. The first site, the Spoil Disposal Cell Area (Phase I), has been completed. The East McKay Bay sites (Phase II) focus on water quality improvement and upland and wetland enhancement.


Title:
Hillsborough River Water Quality Improvement Project in Tampa, Florida

Desription:
This project consists of the hydrologic and habitat restoration of impacted wetland and upland habitat along the Hillsborough River on property owned and managed by the City of Tampa (City). The project area is approximately 150 acres within the boundaries of an active municipal golf course. Proposed water quality improvements include deepening existing water features on the site and incorporating littoral shelves within the course's water features, which will increase residence time and thus decrease the nitrogen load discharging into the Hillsborough River. Within the site's upland habitats, extensive turf and exotic plant species removal is anticipated to improve habitat quality on the site and to decrease the amount of fertilizer and irrigation needed to maintain the golf course grounds.


Title:
Terra Ceia Ecosystem Restoration – Phase 2

Desription:
Phase 2 encompasses two parcels, owned by the SWFWMD, known as the Huber and Frog Creek Borrow Pit parcels. The total acreage of the two parcels is approximately 400 acres. This Phase will involve the enhancement, restoration and/or creation of coastal ecosystems habitats, and potential water quality improvements in the southeastern reaches of Tampa Bay in an area known as Terra Ceia/Bishop Harbor.


Title:
Robles Park Water Quality Improvement Project

Desription:
The project will increase the depth of the existing Robles Park pond and install baffle boxes at inflow pipes into the pond to provide significant treatment of nutrients, sediments, and trash. The project will also improve habitat by stabilizing the banks and planting emergent vegetation.


Title:
Stormwater Basin Master Plan - Stormwater Retrofit Feasibility Study

Desription:
Eligible for bundling with other RESTORE Act regional water quality
restoration projects: The purpose of this project is to determine the benefit and feasibility of retrofitting stormwater management systems put in to place prior to water quality standards being put into place. This study would be similar in scope to one conducted in Sarasota County for the Indian River and Sapphire Shores neighborhoods but cover a larger area. Refer to attached narrative.

Eco Benefits Text:
Direct economic benefits would be the
creation of work for consulting engineering firm that would perform the work. Economic benefits from ecosystem services would apply upon implementation of storm water management system retrofits by decreasing volume of flow and increasing water quality being discharged in
to surface waters.

Jobs Text:
An estimated 25-38 jobs will be created or
preserved. Several recent studies have demonstrated that for every million spent on ecological
restoration, between 20 and 30 jobs are created

Habitat:
Benefits to water quality affect local
estuaries.

Pollutant Red:
This would be part of the proposed study.

Living Resoruces:
?:  Benefits would
be derived from increased water quality and decreased discharge volume during storm events.
This would benefit whatever suface water system that is the receiving body and all waters downstream thereof.

Resilience:
Increasing water quality and discharge volumes
would allow for increased acreages of seagrass meadow, oyster bars which further increase waterquality_ and serve to stabilize shorelines.

Added Justification:
Refer to attached example for work done with a similar scope in Sarasota County.


Title:
Robinson Preserve Oyster Bars and Nesting Areas

Desription:
Eligible for bundling with other regional RESTORE Act, Living Coastal and Marine Resources restoration projects: This project consists of enhancing existing coastal habitat at Robinson Preserve by creating sea and shorebird nesting areas, and oyster bars. Preliminary goals are to create over 25,000 square feet of oyster beds, 3-4 suitable nesting sites.

Location:
West Manatee County, centered at 27.513105,-82.669998

Quantify Env Results:
Habitat improvements
specifically designed to benefit listed species.

Eco Benefits Text:
Economic benefits are from ecosystem services associated with increasing production of habitats and listed species utilization anticipated in viewing distance to public will promote local eco-tourism

Jobs Text:
An estimated 6-9 jobs will be created or preserved.  Several recent studies have demonstrated that for every million spent on ecological restoration, between 20 and 30 jobs are created

Habitat:
Approximately 1-3 acres of direct benefit.  Enhancements are geared towards specific species requirements more than area.

Living Resoruces:
Additional salt marsh, oyster  bars, and  nesting areas for sea and shore  birds.

Resilience:
Nesting areas for shore birds will be placed in a protected environment and designed to prevent nest failure from storm tides.  Additional the placement of these improvements  within the interior portions of Robinson preserve are feasibly protected from future a oil spill due to the relatively narrow connections with the outside marine environment.

Added Justification:
To further increase habitat value in the Lower Tampa Bay region, NRD proposes to create new
 
suitable nesting sites for sea and shore birds and create an extensive network of oyster bars within Robinson Preserve, a nationally recognized 487 acre coastal restoration site on Lower Tampa  Bay  situated on  the  border of  two  national estuary programs (Tampa Bay  Estuary Program  on  the  Lower  Manatee  River  and  Sarasota  Bay  Estuary  Program  on  Palma Sola/Sarasota Bay), with watersheds flowing into Sarasota Bay to the south and Tampa Bay to the north. This site affords a unique opportunity for this goal due to the previous successes in creating an extremely ecologically productive site which already attracts numerous wildlife species for foraging and nesting as well as water quality that supports live oysters.

Sea and Shore Bird Nesting Areas:
For this initiative our conceptual goal is to create safe nesting sites for colony form and solitary
ground nesting sea and shore birds, including several imperiled species, which have lost much of their original nesting sites to development and degradation of suitable habitat. New nesting sites will be created in two ways: The first method will be increasing elevation of selected areas and capping them with nesting material then installing predator proof fence on the outside edges to prevent predation by mammalian predators. The second method of nesting area creation will be building and installing floating rafts to be covered with nesting material.   Nesting sites will be located in areas of the Preserve which are not readily accessible by humans to prevent unintentional disturbances by people.

Oyster Bar Creation Areas:
For this initiative our conceptual goal is to create an expansive network of oyster bars on sea bottom that currently consists of bare sand. Creating oyster bars will increase habitat value in the
area, improve water quality, protect existing eroding, or at risk, shorelines by creating a hardened living shore, and protect created nesting sites through shoreline stabilization and breakwater
creation (to prevent potential wave action from impacting nesting sites). Oyster and other shell fragments acquired from a local source will be placed on the appropriate areas of sea bottom at
elevations most conducive to live oyster colonization. In areas where tidal velocities are low,
loose shell material will be placed directly on the bottom. Eroding areas with high tidal velocities will likely require shell to be placed in oyster shell net bags to prevent migration of the shell. We do  not anticipate the need for spatting as oysters have already colonized areas of hardened bottom within the Preserve.

In order to move these initiatives forward, NRD staff and other stakeholders will meet for brainstorming sessions and determine detailed specifications and goals for the project within the budget proposed. Once the specific goals have been determined we will then confer with an engineering and ecological consultant who will prepare design drawings and assist in attaining all necessary permits. The consultant will then prepare construction drawings used to bid construction by a qualified contractor. Ongoing monitoring and maintenance of the habitat improvements will be performed by NRD Staff and a large group of dedicated volunteers who visit and enhance the Preserve daily.


Desription:
This project will fund the rehabilitation of the Green Bridge Fishing Pier. This structure was transformed into the fishing pier with the construction of the new Green Bridge in1986. At that time the north 70 spans were left in place to function as a recreational pier of approximately
2,100 feet long reaching into the Manatee River from the north shore in Palmetto. This structure
appears to date from 1927 as a predominately reinforced concrete cast in place structure. While this form of construction is not typical by today's standards it is durable. Hence the structure is still in use today. However it is in great need of repair soon or the repair efforts will be cost prohibitive as compared with demolition or replacement. Also the structure maybe closed to the public if determined structurally unsafe.

A detailed bridge inspection was conducted on the structure in early 2011 to determine its condition. The inspection revealed large scale concrete and reinforcing steel repair needs but no immediate structural issues. The salt water environment has penetrated most of the underside concrete and began corrosion of the reinforcing steel. In numerous locations on piers, pier caps, deck beams and bottom of bridge deck the steel corrosion has broken the concrete and exposed the steel. Without treatment and repair, the structure will continue to decay at an accelerated pace. The accelerated decay is because much of a concrete structure's life is from the time it takes the chlorides to migrate through the concrete to the reinforcing steel to begin corrosion. At this point the migration is complete and the corrosion process has already started.

The pier has been a mainstay of the Manatee River front for more than 20 years. It is currently seen as a community asset by the County and the City of Palmetto, in whose corporate limits it resides. Manatee County is responsible for operation and maintenance of the structure through final demolition of the structure as a condition of the lease agreement with the State of Florida who actually owns the structure. Its continued use to access the Manatee River for fishing, bird and manatee watching, sightseeing, walking and other leisure activities remains critical to the entire area economy and quality of life.

Status-all:
Develop specifications from bridge inspection and release a bid package.

Eco Benefits Text:
1-2 additional bridge inspections will be required to base the specifications on current conditions and to determine warranty acceptance of completed work. The repair work itself may take up to
18 months to complete with iron workers, concrete workers and carpenters/painters being utilized

Living Resoruces:
Manatee River, Tampa bay estuary, Sarasota Bay estuary and
Terra Ceia Bay Aquatic preserve

Resilience:
The pier has been a mainstay of the Manatee River front for more than 20 years. It is currently seen a community asset by the County and the City of Palmetto, in whose jurisdiction it resides. Manatee County is responsible for operation and maintenance of the structure through demolition of the structure as a condition of the lease agreement with the State ofFlorida who actually owns the structure. Its continued use to access the Manatee River for fishing, bird and manatee watching, sightseeing, walking  and other leisure activities remains critical the entire area economy and quality of life


Title:
Regional Tidal Creek Water Quality Supplemental Monitoring and Assessment for Nutrient Criteria Development

Location:
Approximately 48 tidal creeks within the combined Southwest Florida NEP watershed

Partners:
TBEP,CHNEP, Pinellas County, Hillsborough County, Manatee County, Sarasota County, Lee County

Status-all:
Project design to model the EPA tidal creek project

Quantify Env Results:
Additional temporal and spatial WQ sampling will result in more refined and precise relationships between nutrients, response variables, (e.g., chlorophyll) within tidal creeks with varying watershed characteristics and stream alterations/modifications.

Eco Benefits Text:
Economic benefits will depend on which tidal creeks are selected for analysis. Effectiveness of local stormwater pollution prevention measures could be fiscally optimized. Additional benefits to the adaptive management process of the three regional NEPs are anticipated, but are unknown at the present time. Enhanced and improved management of regional tidal creeks is crucial for the maintenance of healthy downstream estuarine systems.

Jobs Text:
Currently unknown; estimated that a dozen or so jobs will be retained throughout the region.

Habitat:
Habitat restoration / conservation will depend upon the selection of tidal creeks. Locations will prioritize those creeks with the largest potential load reduction possibilities and habitat improvement opportunities (land ownership, rights of way, etc.).

Pollutant Red:
This will also depend on creek selection and management responses.

Living Resoruces:
This project will benefit estuarine dependent fish and birds.  Habitat improvements will include mangroves, salt marsh, oligohaline marsh, oyster reefs and coastal uplands.

Resilience:
Community resilience will be enhanced through an improved understanding of the effects / impacts of freshwater inflow on estuarine health and changing salinity regimes associated with sea level rise

Added Justification:
The three regional NEPs are starting a study to develop numeric nutrient criteria for the area’s tidal creeks. This project could be leveraged with the ongoing study to include an additional suite of creek systems to better understand these nutrient relationships within our tidal creeks.


Title:
Sarasota Bay Inshore Artificial Reef Enhancement

Desription:
This project will be coordinated with and supplement existing artificial reef programs in Sarasota and Manatee Counties.  This proposal focuses on the bay reefs as opposed to the coastal reefs.  SBEP has initiated bay reef augmentation in 2012.  Restore Act funds would enable continued reef enhancement for two additional years. The bay reefs are being augmented with unique reef modules designed to provide habitat for juvenile gag grouper which use the bay during the first years of life.

Status-all:
FDEP Standard General ERPs have been authorized (Feb 2012). U.S.A.C.E. permits are pending for Sarasota County reefs.  Permit applications are being prepared for Manatee County bay reefs.

Quantify Env Results:
Enhancement of existing bay reefs within Sarasota Bay will increase juvenile fisheries habitat by a collective nine acres.  Habitat use will be monitored and assessed by fish counts and remote video recordings

Eco Benefits Text:
Florida SeaGrant has demonstrated the economic benefits of local (Manatee and Sarasota Counties) artificial reefs to be in the millions of dollars annually. (http://www.flseagrant.org).

Living Resoruces:
?:  Hard bottom habitats support demersal finfish and benthic invertebrates.  These reefs are designed to enhance habitat for juvenile grouper.

Added Justification:
:  The SBEP has been partnering  with Sarasota and Manatee Counties artificial reef programs to create and enhance local artificial reefs.  While the counties have focused recent efforts on their offshore reef systems, the SBEP has been looking to derive maximum ecological and economic benefit from the more accessible inshore reefs.  Sarasota County should be shortly receiving final permits from the Army Corps of Engineers to re-open their bay reefs; the SBEP is assisting in the submittal of a permit renewal application to do the same for Manatee County reefs.  Sarasota and Manatee County both have artificial reef brochures outlining the location and description of all their artificial reefs.


Submitting Organization:
Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission - FWRI

Title:
Southwest Florida Bay Scallop Stabilization

Desription:
Bay scallop restoration in southwest Florida has evolved to include a diversity of organizations.  They have formed a working group to coordinate restoration efforts, optimizing methodology and standardizing monitoring protocols.  While still formative, one of the primary goals of this group was identified as long-term funding stability to supplement the existing inconsistent opportunities.  This proposal would focus restoration on financial need and  target priority estuaries based on annual scallop abundance assessments.   Funding would also further develop and implement community outreach tools.  The popular “great bay scallop searches” and community-based restoration would be stabilized and expanded.

Location:
This project would focus on the estuaries from Tampa Bay  to Estero Bay including Sarasota Bay system and Charlotte Harbor system.  If assessments indicate that regional scallop population stability could benefit from restoration actions in Florida Bay or coastal waters of Levy, Citrus, Hernando, Pasco and Pinellas Counties, then a portion of the efforts would be directed beyond the boundaries of the National Estuary Programs.

Partners:
Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation, Tampa Bay Watch, Florida  Seagrant, Sarasota Bay Watch , Mote Marine Laboratory

Status-all:
Restoration is ongoing; three partners have open permits.  If the program is expanded to regions not covered by these permits, the project would use existing FWC permits or actions by FWC, which follows approved live-animal release protocols and does not require State permits.

Quantify Env Results:
Metrics for bay scallops that have been established by FWC consider average annual population density.  Local populations above 25 scallops per 600 m2 are considered “healthy”, provided that scallops are present at more than half of the surveyed stations and exhibit resiliency.  Resiliency is defined as the ability to recover to healthy status following a population decline without intervention. FWC is also developing estuary – specific indices of recruitment. FWC conducts ongoing monitoring which will continue regardless of RESTORE ACT or other external funding opportunities, but would provide measures of success if this project is funded. Costs for those activities are not included in the request.  Currently, there are four community based “scallop searches” within the collective NEP watersheds, and these popular events engage hundreds of people, most of which are non-scientists, in providing a second measure of scallop abundance and distribution.  However, funding for these programs is tenuous and each is not guaranteed each year.  Some of the funds for this grant could be used to support these events and ensure their continuation for the coming decade.

Eco Benefits Text:
Direct and indirect economic benefits are estimated to exceed $100,000 per year per County if a shortened scallop season resulted, and potentially exceeding $1,000,000 per County  per year if a full harvest season were allowed (based on an economic study of Citrus County’s reopening in 2002).

Jobs Text:
Jobs created are estimated to exceed 4 full time equivalents per year per County if a shortened scallop season resulted, and potentially exceeding 30 per County per year, etc.

Habitat:
The region is home to ~ 132,000 acres of seagrass which would be positively impacted by increased clearance rates if fully occupied by bay scallops.

Pollutant Red:
Bay scallops primarily filter phytoplankton with minor positive impacts on suspended solids.

Living Resoruces:
The primary focus of this project is to improve SW FL bay scallop populations. Our goal is to double the number of years in which populations meet the guidelines for a healthy population (25 scallops per 600 m2). At present, populations in southwest Florida bays achieve this goal ~ 35% of the time. Scallop populations open to recreational harvest, which are considered stable, achieve this goal 70% of the time.

Resilience:
This project will benefit at two levels. Efforts to stabilize bay scallop populations in Florida have been focused on reversing the contraction of the species’ range within the Gulf of Mexico, particularly in SW FL and the FL Panhandle. The historic range extended through Florida Bay to Lake Worth Lagoon and supported a commercial fishery in Pine Island Sound.  Scallops have rebounded through restoration efforts in the currently targeted region, but the recovery is tenuous and requires additional assistance to improve the chances for a full recovery to self-sustainable levels.  The working group has recommended a long term and widespread effort be conducted. 
 
On a second level, bay scallops are one of the dominant invertebrate macrofauna, when present at historic levels, and provide an important prey base for both vertebrate and invertebrate predators.  They also provide a habitat for numerous sessile and small motile invertebrates and fishes in both living and shells of deceased scallops.

Added Justification:
This project proposed timing is for a period of 10 years with a total cost of: $2,406,881. See Word document.


ConInfo:
Ryan P. Moyer, Fish & Wildlife Research Institute, Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission

Submitting Organization:
Florida Fish & Wildlife Research Institute, Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission

Title:
Effects of Water Control Structures on Juvenile Snook and Redfish: Assessment and Remediation

Desription:
Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus) and common snook (Centropomus undecimalis) are two of Florida’s most important recreational fish species.  Both species spawn offshore, and the postlarvae of both species migrate to low-salinity environments for their early growth.  However, many of Florida’s tidal creeks and rivers have been dammed for flood control and to prevent salt water from traveling upriver during storms and extremely high tides.  Water control structures prevent the natural migration of redfish and snook into rivers and marshes.  As a result, juvenile fish accumulate below salinity barriers in habitat which is often less favorable than natural habitats above the structure.  Fish congregate in abnormally high densities below control structures, making their populations more susceptible to parasites, disease, and predation.  Water control structures affect a considerable amount of former, and restorable, juvenile fish habitat.  The Southwest Florida Water Management District operates numerous control structures on tidal creeks and rivers in the Tampa Bay estuary, and there are many more rock barriers that are no longer maintained.  This study will assess the impact how salinity barriers affect juvenile redfish and snook populations at two control structures compared to two uncontrolled tidal creeks in Pinellas County and one on the Little Manatee River. Based on the findings of the assessments, comprehensive restoration plans for affected habitats will be developed and habitat restoration will occur to allow for more natural migration and habitat utilization by juvenile redfish and snook populations.

Location:
Tampa Bay; Little Manatee River; Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Manatee Counties

Partners:
Tampa Bay Estuary Program; FL Department of Environmental Protection; Southwest Florida Water Management District; Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Manatee Counties; US Fish & Wildlife Service.

Status-summary:
Project is ready to begin initial assessment phase, restoration phase is conceptually planned and will be executed based on assessment results.

Status-all:
Project is ready to begin initial assessment phase, restoration phase is conceptually planned and will be executed based on assessment results. Restoration permits will be applied for upon determination of restoration plan and completion of assessment phase.

Quantify Env Results:
This study has five principal goals: 

 1. Compare the numbers and health of juvenile redfish and snook at two control structures compared to two uncontrolled tidal creeks in Pinellas County and one on the Little Manatee River. Water quality in terms of nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P), organic carbon (OC) and dissolved oxygen (DO) will also be measured at each site in conjunction with fish population surveys. 

2. Determine the historical changes in habitat type and area for these five sites since 1950.  Historical information will be assembled from a variety of sources for all sites.  USDA and NOAA aerial photographs (flown approximately every 10 years since 1950) will be purchased, rectified and georeferenced.  Habitat cover types will be mapped using the FLUCCS classification system and converted to ESRI shape files. The amount of change for each habitat class will be calculated.  Large-scale aerial photography (1”=400’) will be flown, and site surveys will be conducted with survey-grade GPS equipment to determine current habitat cover, bottom type, and bathymetry at each site.

3.  Habitat restoration plans will be developed for sites where juvenile redfish and snook are more concentrated at control structure sites.  Restoration plans will focus on reducing crowding and improving habitat quality for juvenile redfish and snook at each site.

4. Restoration of affected areas will be permitted, planned, and executed as directed by the restoration plan. Potential restoration efforts include improvement of mangrove and salt marsh habitats, installation of fish ladders, expansion of tidal creek networks, or removal of unattended salinity barrier structures.  

5.  Population demographics of juvenile redfish and snook will be quantified at each site one year following restoration to assess the overall effect of the restoration plan and implementation. Follow-up water quality monitoring in terms of N, P, OC, and DO will also be measured at each site during this time.

Eco Benefits Text:
Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus) and common snook (Centropomus undecimalis) are two of Florida’s most important recreational fish species, generating millions of dollars for Florida’s economy.

Habitat:
The Tampa Bay watershed contains over 500 linear miles of tidal creeks and tributaries. Within the watershed, the Southwest Florida Water Management District operates 80 control structures on tidal creeks and rivers, and there are many more unmaintained rock barriers. Restoration of two sites with salinity barriers in place would represent 4% of the total controlled structures, and as much as 10% of the total land area surrounding tidal creeks and tributaries within Tampa Bay.

Pollutant Red:
Improved habitat quality during restoration phase will create new marsh and mangrove habitat, which is expected to also improve water quality through natural pollutant remediation in newly created wetlands.  Water quality will be assessed prior to and following restoration.

Living Resoruces:
At least two streams with salinity barriers that prevent the natural migration and habitat utilization of redfish and snook will be restored by creating new habitat.  The project also has the potential for expansion to additional sites based on partner input and the results of the assessment phase.

Resilience:
Improved juvenile fish survival should increase overall health and abundance for redfish and snook population.  This will both create increased fishing opportunities (commercial, recreational, and subsistence), while reducing the impacts these fishing measures have on the overall fish populations.


ConInfo:
Nanette O’Hara, Public Outreach Coordinator,
Tampa Bay Estuary Program

Title:
Be Floridian Fertilizer Education Campaign

Desription:
Be Floridian is an educational campaign supporting local ordinances that restrict the use and sale of nitrogen lawn and landscape fertilizers during the summer rainy season to reduce stormwater pollution to Tampa Bay. Utilizing social marketing techniques, Be Floridian seeks to foster a permanent behavior change in both fertilization practices and cultural attitudes about what constitutes an attractive landscape. The campaign mascot, a plastic pink yard flamingo, and its key message to “Protect Our Fun” reinforces the importance of water-based recreation to Tampa Bay residents, emphasizing that True Floridians do not fertilize their yards in the summer.  The campaign uses a combination of conventional mass media strategies such as billboards, print ads and radio ads; web-based technologies such as digital ads, You Tube videos, smartphone games and online pledges; and targeted outreach at both community events and relevant commercial venues such as garden centers and big box stores that sell lawn care products.

Location:
Throughout Manatee and Pinellas counties and the City of Tampa

Partners:
Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, Manatee County, Pinellas County, Sarasota County, Cities of Clearwater, St. Petersburg and Tampa, Science and Environment Council of Sarasota

Status-summary:
The key messages and materials for this program already have been developed.

Status-all:
The key messages and materials for this program already have been developed. . A Facebook page, You Tube channel and website already exists. Campaign partners will work together to develop a consistent mass media strategy as well as localized activities catering to the needs and demographics of their communities. Estimated per-year costs are as follows:

	$23,000 for 14 billboards (four each in Manatee, Pinellas and Sarasota counties and two in the city of Tampa), including production and placement,  for one month each spring.
	$35,000 for digital advertising on Facebook, Google, Tampa Bay Times, Sarasota Herald –Tribune, Bing, Bay News 9 or other appropriate venues for three months (March-May).
	$20,000 for updates/enhancements to the Be Floridian and “Follow The Flock” websites.
	$20,000 for creation of up to five model “Florida Yard” landscapes each year at high-traffic public venues as well as popular tourist attractions.
	$18,000 for up to three temporary part-time contractors to staff Be Floridian booths at community outreach events and retail garden centers in partner counties and cities for 3-4 months each year.
	$9,000 for production of pledge thank-you giveaways with Be Floridian branding and reminders of simple yard care practices that protect Florida waters. 
	$25,000 for production and purchase of 30-second radio ads on AM radio stations in the Tampa/Sarasota media market.

Quantify Env Results:
Existing water quality sampling programs in Tampa and Sarasota bays will document changes in water quality and frequency of algal blooms.  A stormwater quality study now underway through December 2013 by TBEP and its partners will assess whether the local ordinances and associated education program are reducing nitrogen levels in waterways.

Eco Benefits Text:
Preventing nitrogen from entering the bay in runoff will save local taxpayers from bearing the costs of cleanup, estimated at $3,500 per pound of nitrogen removed (based on the average capital cost of stormwater treatment projects contained in DEP’s 319 (h) database).  TBEP has conservatively estimated that moderate (50%) compliance with summer fertilizer bans could reduce nitrogen loading to Tampa Bay by 38 tons per year,  and save taxpayers more than $300 million in cleanup costs.

Jobs Text:
Project would directly create three part-time jobs.

Pollutant Red:
TBEP estimates indicate that moderate (50%) compliance with the ordinances would reduce nitrogen loadings to Tampa Bay from Manatee County by 8 tons per year, from Pinellas County by 22 tons per year and from the City of Tampa by 8 tons per year.

Living Resoruces:
Cleaner water with lower nutrient levels and fewer algae blooms will foster increased recovery of bay seagrasses and associated fish and wildlife species.

Resilience:
Maintaining healthy seagrass beds and clean waters will improve the robustness of Tampa Bay, enhancing its ability to withstand the impacts of increased storms and rising water levels associated with climate change.

Added Justification:
Fertilizer runoff from urban lands is increasingly being identified as a significant source of nitrogen pollution to the bay. Ordinances restricting urban fertilizer use (and sales, in the case of Pinellas County and the City of Tampa), are among the most cost-effective tools that can be deployed by local communities to improve water quality.


Desription:
This proposal is to continue the highly successful Tampa Bay Environmental Fund (TBEF) Program for restoration, protection, and education initiatives for the natural systems, habitats, and wildlife/fisheries in Tampa Bay and its contributing watershed.  The goal is to make at least $1 million available annually in grants through a competitive process that would leverage up by at least two-fold through cash or in-kind contributions from grant applicants.  Eligible activities would include natural systems restoration and protection, water quality improvement projects, endangered species protection, and environmental education.

Partners:
National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, the Southwest Florida Water Management District, Hillsborough County, the Mosaic Company Foundation, and other organizations focused on the restoration and protection of Tampa Bay.

Quantify Env Results:
Each grant award is required to submit and measure environmental performance measures.

Habitat:
To be determined.  However, this Program has resulted in restoration of more than 200 acres per year and conservation of more than 250 acres per year of submerged vegetation, oyster reefs, and intertidal habitat.

Pollutant Red:
To be determined.  However, this Program has resulted in significant improvement of stormwater runoff and nitrogen management.

Living Resoruces:
To be determined.  However, over the past decade significant threatened and endangered species habitat has been protected and restored under this Program.

Resilience:
To be determined.  However, this program has historically funded 5 to 36 environmental restoration, protection, and education projects per year that further the goals of the community based and federally approved Tampa Bay Comprehensive Conservation and Plan, to ensure an ecologically vibrant, sustainable, and resilient Tampa Bay and associated watershed.

Added Justification:
This Program is a unique and highly successful Partnership of public, private, and not-for-profit organizations focused on the restoration and protection of Tampa Bay, an estuary of national significance, and its contributing watershed.


ConInfo:
Thomas B. Gibson, P.E. Director, Engineering and Capital Improvements

Title:
8th S/S, 44th S/S & Vicinity Stormwater Drainage Improvements

Desription:
The project is to alleviate flooding in the vicinity of 8th Street South and 44th Avenue South and provide water quality treatment. The drainage basin discharges into the downstream Clam Bayou drain through a phase that has been completed. It currently receives floatable litter and excessive nutrients. A nutrient removal baffle box is proposed to eliminate sediments organic debris and floatable litter prior to entering the lake.

Quantify Env Results:
Environmental benefits will be seen through the current ongoing monitoring program for Clam Bayou.

Eco Benefits Text:
Flooding concerns would be reduced in the neighborhood providing a benefit to the community.

Living Resoruces:
Clam Bayou will benefit from better water quality entering from upstream.

Resilience:
Eliminating flooding in a neighborhood provides resiliency to the structures such as houses and roads, and it keeps routes open for evacuation if needed.


Desription:
20th Street District SDI is located in the Booker Creek watershed and consists of a major section of the drainage basin. The purpose project is to provide water quality treatment and flood relief. Water quality treatment will be conducted through the use of a baffle boxes to remove sediments, organic debris and floatable trash.

Quantify Env Results:
The environmental benefits result from reducing sediment runoff into the bay. An ongoing monitoring program will show the benefits of improved water quality entering Booker Creek.

Eco Benefits Text:
Economic benefits include temporary jobs during construction and long term maintenance requirements for the BMPs. Improved water quality provides an economic benefit to the region.

Habitat:
Booker Creek habitat will be better protected with improved water quality entering the creek.

Pollutant Red:
Load reduction is dependent on the amount of sediment removed from the baffle box.

Living Resoruces:
Tampa Bay marine resources will benefit from better water quality entering Booker Creek.

Resilience:
Community resilience will increase from reduction in flooding and improved water quality in Booker Creek.


Title:
Alum Treatment Operation – Lake Maggiore

Desription:
Treatment of stormwater by the use of alum is a standard, accepted practice in the industry. However, the costs are considerable to operate and maintain the systems. Lake Maggiore has five (5) stations that are operating. Assistance to offset the cost of the program is requested.

Quantify Env Results:
The City’s water quality monitoring program will be expanded to incorporate monitoring of Lake Maggiore.

Eco Benefits Text:
Economic and Environmental benefits include better aquatic habitat and increased recreational use of the lake.

Living Resoruces:
Lake Maggiore discharges to Salt Creek which discharges to Tampa Bay. A source of clean freshwater is crucial to the Tampa Bay Estuary.

Resilience:
A healthier habitat in the lake promotes better resilience of the surrounding areas.


ConInfo:
Phil Whitehouse, Director, Parks and Recreation

Desription:
The Bay Vista Park has experienced excessive erosion of the shoreline. The proposed project will build out a section of the beach approximately 500 feet long by 25 feet wide utilizing sand and rip rap. Currently the beach provides recreational and boating opportunities with shelters, a playground, two (2) boat ramps and kayak launch. The restoration proposes to preserve those opportunities by providing protection for the park. Beach grasses will be planted in areas to stabilize the restored shorelines.

Quantify Env Results:
Environmental benefits will be measured by success of the stabilization of the coastline.

Eco Benefits Text:
Economic benefits include community beautification and shoreline stabilization.

Habitat:
Adding resilience to the shoreline protects this 4.3 acre park. Approximately 0.1 acres of beach grasses will be planted.

Pollutant Red:
An unquantifiable amount of erosion/sediments into the bay will be stopped.

Living Resoruces:
Shoreline habitat and seagrasses should benefit by reducing erosion of the Bay Vista Beach into the bay.

Resilience:
Community resilience will be increased by protection of the shoreline which has been retreating. The additional buffer against the park and community will provide additional protection during storm events


ConInfo:
Steven K. Leavitt, Water Resources Director

Title:
St. Petersburg Biosolids to Energy Project

Desription:
Upgrade biosolids treatment facilities at the Southwest Water Reclamation Facility to a Temperature Phased Anaerobic Digestion process in order to optimize methane generation which will be used for the production of electricity and thermal energy.

Location:
Southwest Water Reclamation Facility, 3800 54th Avenue South, St. Petersburg - (Lat/Long = 27 43 08, 82 41 10)

Status-all:
Preliminary Evaluation Complete, Detailed Design beginning in 2013

Quantify Env Results:
Digester gas is currently flared to the atmosphere.  This project will capture that wasted energy and convert it into electrical and thermal energy.  The amount of digester gas captured can be measured and its energy value can be calculated.  The production of renewable power will also offset the production of commercial power which will result in reductions in greenhouse gases at their facilities.  The amount of electrical power produced can be metered. From this quantity the reduction in greenhouse gases can be calculated.

Eco Benefits Text:
Continuing with the existing sludge handling program has an estimated 20 year present worth of $102,500,000.  The proposed project has an estimated present worth of $69,600,000, resulting in a savings of $32,900,000 over the 20 year planning period.

Jobs Text:
350 design and construction jobs between 2012 and 2016

Habitat:
Habitat throughout the Tampa Bay area will be conserved do to the reduction in the area’s production of greenhouse gases.

Pollutant Red:
The proposed project, when fully implemented, will produce enough methane gas to produce approximately 1,120 KW of electrical power.   Based on a value of 1.2 pounds of Greenhouse gases per KWH of power produced (by fossil fuels), the project will have a net reduction of nearly 5,900 tons per year of Greenhouse gases (most of which is carbon dioxide) at the electric utility’s fossil fueled generation facility.

Living Resoruces:
The living coastal/marine resources throughout the Tampa Bay area will be conserved do to the reduction of nearly 5,900 tons of Greenhouse gases.

Resilience:
The reduction of Greenhouse gases will have a positive impact of the area’s environment which will enhance the area’s desirability as a recreation and tourist destination.

Added Justification:
The current treatment processes do not utilize the energy value of the organic material in raw wastewater.  The proposed process will extract this energy in the form of methane gas and then use the gas to create electrical and thermal energy.  The electrical energy will be used to meet a majority of the plant’s power needs.  The thermal energy will be used to provide the necessary heat for the thermophilic anaerobic digestion process.  Thus, instead of wasting a waste product, the waste product will be used for a beneficial purpose. At the same time the process will result in the reduction of almost 5,900 tons per year of Greenhouse gas emissions.


Desription:
Booker Creek has a 3,200 acre watershed located in the eastern, central part of St. Petersburg. The watershed includes a variety of land uses such as residential, industrial, commercial, and the City’s downtown region. The watershed is highly urbanized and the creek is substantially altered. The project is to conduct a watershed study on Booker Creek to identify potential sources of nutrients and identify additional potential BMPs to implement. It includes upgrading the city’s hydrology models and including a water quality modeling component to it. The goal is to predict improvements to the creek’s water quality through implementation of BMPs.

Quantify Env Results:
Environmental results will be quantified by water quality sampling within Booker Creek upon implementation of recommended projects

Eco Benefits Text:
Identification of potential sources of nutrients into Booker Creek would beneficial both economically and environmentally.

Pollutant Red:
Unable to quantify at this time until potential sources are identified.

Living Resoruces:
Coastal and marine resources will benefit from improved water quality in Booker Creek.

Resilience:
Community resilience will be improved from a better ecosystem in Booker Creek by reduced erosion and better water quality.


ConInfo:
Ed Sherwood, Senior Scientist, TBEP, 253 13th Ave. S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

Title:
Improving Tidal Creek Management & Restoration Options through Establishment of In-stream Flow Monitoring Stations

Desription:
The Gulf of Mexico Regional Ecosystem Restoration strategy has identified critical science priorities and monitoring needs for the GOM ecosystem. The understanding of pollutant loads in GOM coastal systems is paramount to "help guide the planning, implementation and evaluation of the restoration and protection efforts articulated in the goals of [the] Strategy." Therefore, establishing new inflow monitoring stations for tidal creeks in the SW FL region that are otherwise unmonitored will aid in the overall restoration of this region through a better understanding of pollutant loadings in unmonitored systems.

Location:
Up to 5 unmonitored tidal creeks in Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee and Sarasota Counties.

Partners:
TBEP, SBEP, CHNEP, Pinellas County, Hillsborough County, Manatee County, Sarasota County, Hydrologic Data Collection, Inc.

Quantify Env Results:
Direct in-stream flow estimates wil be developed quarterly, or more frequently, as necessary to quantify pollutant loadings to tidal creeks. Sites will ideally be colocated with existing water quality monitoring stations.

Eco Benefits Text:
Variable dependent upon tidal creeks selected. Effectiveness of local stormwater pollutant prevention efforts could be fiscally optimized. Additional benefits to adaptive management process of the Estuary Programs (Tampa Bay, Sarasota Bay, Charlotte Harbor) are anticipated, but are unknown at this time. Enhanced management of tidal creeks crucial for the maintenance of healthy estuarine processes. ($250-25000+ per ha restored, salt water wetlands ES valuation)-> http://www.gecoserv.org/

Jobs Text:
This work is anticipated to be subcontracted to a local company with experience in establishing flow monitoring stations in SW FL. 11 jobs preserved.

Habitat:
Variable depending upon the tidal creeks selected in each of the counties. Site locations will be prioritized towards those tidal creeks with the largest potential loads to the estuary and/or watershed impacts.

Pollutant Red:
Dependent upon creeks selected and management responses implemented to reduce newly monitored loads.

Living Resoruces:
Estuarine dependent nekton (Snook, red drum, spot, mullet, sawfish, blue crab, pink shrimp, etc.). Estaurine dependent avifauna (roseate spoonbills, egrets, herons, eagles, hawks, pelicans). Mangroves, salt marsh, oligohaline marsh, oyster reefs, tidal creeks, coastal uplands.

Resilience:
Improved understanding of freshwater inflow effects and estuarine salinity regimes within tidal creeks relative to any potential SLR impacts.

Added Justification:
The TBEP, SBEP, and CHNEP recently embarked on a study to develop numeric nutrient criteria for tidal creeks. This work could be leveraged with this existing project to better understand inflow dynamics of tidal creeks currently unmonitored.


ConInfo:
Linda Seufert, Parks and Recreation Manager

ConInfo-a:
1400  19 Street N, St Petersburg, FL  33713

Title:
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Wetlands Restoration

Desription:
The 240 acre Boyd Hill Nature Preserve (Preserve) is a precious oasis of Florida native wildlands providing habitats for a variety of native plants and animals. The Preserve’s wetlands border Lake Maggiore, a 380 acre lake located in St. Petersburg.  The lake is a freshwater water system connected to Tampa Bay via Salt Creek and receives stormwater runoff from a 2,290 acre watershed. The health of the native habitats is threatened by the encroachment and proliferation of nonnative invasive plant species. Without biological control, these pest plants continue to spread and degrade native habitats. This project will concentrate on the removal of exotic species and controlling of cattails in approximately 75 acres of fresh water wetlands and 3 yr maintenance program.

Location:
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, 1101 Country Club Way S, St Petersburg, FL  33705     727.89.7326.

Status-summary:
Exotic removal areas have already been identified and restoration efforts in these areas could begin immediately.

Status-all:
Exotic removal areas have already been identified and restoration efforts in these areas could begin immediately.

Quantify Env Results:
Percent of exotic vegetation remaining after each year with a goal of less than 5%  at the end of the 3 year maintenance

Eco Benefits Text:
The reduction of invasive species will have an economic and environmental benefit to fresh water and marine ecosystems that are impacted by this project.

Pollutant Red:
This project will not provide significant pollutant load reductions.

Living Resoruces:
Eliminating invasive seed sources will help prevent future propagation of invasive species within the preserve and the Tampa Bay Basin.

Resilience:
Restoration of this area will help maintain the preserve in a natural, pristine environment. As the Preserve continues natural recruitment the absence of the invasive species will become ever more evident and the invasive plant seed abundance will dwindle. Native plants will become the dominant species, the ecosystem will be healthier and the food source for endemic wildlife will become more prolific.

Added Justification:
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve has one of the largest freshwater habitats in Pinellas County and is connected to Tampa Bay. Water quality in Tampa Bay will be enhanced by the proposed activities in this portion of the contributing basin of Tampa Bay.


Title:
Childs Park Wetland Creation  & Education Project, 
St. Petersburg, Florida

Desription:
The Childs Park Wetland Creation & Education Project will provide enhanced water quality treatment downstream of +/- 800 acres urban watershed with minimal treatment capacity, create emergent and aquatic wetland habitat, and provide educational opportunities to the public.   The manmade lake of over 3 acres is currently providing little treatment prior to discharging into the Clam Bayou watershed that is listed as an impaired water body.  The project will consist of removing 2 to 3 feet of nutrient rich lake bottom sediment, the first 6 to 12 inches of bottom sediments, regrading the lake for sedimentation control and creation of +/- 1.0 acre of wetland habitat, in addition to installing a mechanism for the removal of gross pollutants entering the water body.  The project will also include educational signage, turtle perch, a bat house, pervious parking, park benches, landscaping, sidewalks, boardwalks, and trails.

Location:
City of St. Petersburg, Pinellas County, +/- 3.5 -Acre parcel owned by the City of St. Petersburg and is part of City owned public parks. 27o 45’ 35.7, 82 o  41’ 25.1”

Status-summary:
Design of the project started September 2012

Status-all:
Design of the project started September 2012, preliminary evaluation for construction cost for all the elements as listed above exceeds the City’s allocated budget of $400,000; therefore, the City is requesting additional $250,000 to complete the project as noted above.

Eco Benefits Text:
The proposed project is one component of area wide revitalization projects that is part of the Childs Park Area Strategic Planning Initiative; economic benefits could very well exceed millions of dollars when implemented as part of the overall plan.

Pollutant Red:
This project is expected to provide 62% removal of TSS, 45% removal of TP, and 28% removal of TN from mean annual storm events.

Living Resoruces:
The downstream coastal habitat will benefit from improved stormwater water quality.

Resilience:
Project will provide resilience to sedimentation from urban stormwater drainage systems and water quality protection of receiving water body.

Added Justification:
The property is currently owned by the City of St Petersburg and is part of City park system. Joint funding of the project is by the City and environmental enhancements will provide the BMPs necessary to help towards the attainment of water quality treatment goals for the Clam Bayou Watershed.


ConInfo:
Jerry Fortney, Director, Stormwater, Pavement and Traffic Operations

Title:
Clam Bayou Stormwater Program Maintenance

Desription:
The large regional stormwater ponds that are operational in the Clam Bayou watershed require a significant commitment for maintenance in terms of manpower and equipment. The ponds provide water quality benefits to Clam Bayou and Boca Ceiga Bay. The city requests assistance to offset the costs of maintenance.

Status-summary:
Ponds are currently operational and maintenance is ongoing

Status-all:
Ponds are currently operational and maintenance is ongoing

Eco Benefits Text:
The ponds provide water quality benefits that produce an economic and ecosystem benefit to the southern part on Pinellas County.

Habitat:
The Clam Bayou habitat has benefitted from the stormwater ponds with debris and sediment being removed prior to entering the bayou.

Pollutant Red:
Reductions will be quantified with water quality monitoring and by recording the amount of debris and trash removed from the ponds.

Living Resoruces:
The coastal habitat benefits greatly from the stormwater ponds.

Resilience:
Resilience will be enhanced by better water quality and better habitat.


Desription:
Clam Bayou has over 2500 acres of watershed located in the south western part of St. Petersburg. The watershed (City’s Basins D, E, and Z) includes a variety of land uses such as residential, industrial, commercial and a section of the City’s midtown region. The watershed is highly urbanized and the flow ways leading to Clam Bayou are altered. The project is to conduct a watershed study on Clam Bayou watershed to identify potential sources of nutrients and identify additional potential BMPs to implement. It includes upgrading the city’s hydrology models and including a water quality modeling component to it. The goal is to predict improvements to the creek’s water quality through implementation of BMPs.

Quantify Env Results:
Environmental results will be quantified by water quality sampling within the Clam Bayou watershed upon implementation of recommended projects

Eco Benefits Text:
Identification of potential sources of nutrients into Clam Bayou would beneficial both economically and environmentally

Living Resoruces:
Coastal and marine resources will benefit from improved water quality in Clam Bayou.

Resilience:
Community resilience will be improved from a better ecosystem in Clam Bayou and it’s tributaries by reduced erosion and better water quality


Desription:
To build a CNG Station for sanitation trucks.  CNG is made by compressing natural gas (which is mainly composed of methane [CH4]), to less than 1% of the volume it occupies at standard atmospheric pressure.

Location:
Sanitation Department, City of St. Petersburg; 2001 - 28th St North
St. Petersburg, FL 33713

Status-all:
We are currently developing design build documents.  Pending approval by City Council construction should begin by March 2013.

Eco Benefits Text:
Natural gas is a fossil fuel comprised mostly of methane.  It is one of the cleanest burning alternative fuels. Compressed natural gas is less expensive than gasoline.  CNG produces 30-40 percent less greenhouse gas emissions and up to 90% less smog producing pollutants.  Use of CNG versus diesel fuel will reduce atmospheric deposition of nitrogen into our Bay waters. It also promotes domestic job creation as 87% of all natural gas used in the United States is produced domestically.  It can cut fuel cost by up to 35% and reduce vehicle maintenance costs.

Pollutant Red:
30-40% less greenhouse gas emissions. Less smog producing pollutants.

Living Resoruces:
Reduced chance of fuel spills and ground contamination.


ConInfo:
Joseph Krizen, Director, Fleet Maintenance

Desription:
The project consists of building a recycling vehicle wash station for use in maintaining the city’s vehicles. The recycling system provides a water conservation component while cleaning vehicles for proper and efficient use.

Quantify Env Results:
Environmental benefits result from using a recycling system for washing vehicles resulting in water conservation over non-recycling systems. Additionally, the system provides a canopied structure which will eliminate discharges of rainwater into the sanitary sewer.

Eco Benefits Text:
Water conservation is an economic and environmental benefit.

Resilience:
Conservation of water resources provides a benefit for community resilience.


Title:
Grandview Restoration Project 
St. Petersburg, Florida

Desription:
Phase II of this project encompasses the restoration of over 1.0 acre of coastal wetland system and removal of exotic plant species. In addition the project will provide water quality treatment for stormwater runoff discharging into Big Bayou (Tampa Bay). Currently stormwater runoff from +/- 40 acres of single family and commercial land use discharges directly into Tampa Bay without any treatment. The project will propose a water quality treatment structure, public education elements, and park facilities such as boardwalks and observation decks.

Location:
City of St. Petersburg, Pinellas County, +/- 11-acre parcel owned by the City of St. Petersburg and is part of City owned public parks.

Partners:
Phase I of the project had the support of Land & Water Conservation Fund, Phase II does not have any additional funding secured.

Status-all:
Design & Permitting for Phase I of the project which included park and boat ramp improvements is complete. Phase II includes water quality treatment and wetland restoration; it has not started due to funding limitations. Exotic removal areas have already been identified, additional wetlands assessed and restoration along with engineering design and permitting will start upon securing the proper funding for the project.

Eco Benefits Text:
Value of ecosystems  and water quality service improvements is estimated at $125,000

Pollutant Red:
This project will provide 82% removal of TSS, 55% removal of TP, and 48% removal of TN  from 40 Acres basin discharging into  Tampa Bay.

Living Resoruces:
Marine habitat,  fish abundance and diversity will be improved with resulting increase in bird abundance and diversity.

Resilience:
? Project will provide resilience to shoreline protection and erosion, as well as the water quality of receiving water body.

Added Justification:
The property is currently owned by the City of St. Petersburg and is part of  the City park system. Improvement design and permitting for the active park elements such as boat ramps and parking areas have been completed and scheduled to start construction within the next two months.


ConInfo:
Joseph Kubicki, Director,
Transportation Planning and Parking Management Department,
City of St. Petersburg

Desription:
The Historic Booker Creek Trail Phase II is a shared use recreational trail that continues the Historic Booker Creek Trail through Woodbrook and Historic Roser Parks, to the Bayboro area and the University of South Florida St. Petersburg campus, then north to the Downtown Trail in order to complete an approximately 3-mile trail loop.  The 12’-path will accommodate and encourage non-motorized transportation modes that are more environmentally sustainable.

Partners:
City of St. Petersburg, Florida, University of South Florida St. Petersburg, and All Children’s Hospital

Status-all:
Detailed design for this project is underway.  Permitting will be done as a routine part of the detailed design within the project schedule.

Quantify Env Results:
Environmental results will be measured in the kilograms of pollutants reduced due to the estimated mode shift from motorized to non-motorized transportation using the standard formulas from the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) transportation program.

Eco Benefits Text:
Over the life cycle of the project, an estimated 281,000 kg of pollutants will be removed; the associated cost effectiveness of the projects is $12.29/kg pollutant removed.  Additionally, estimated savings to society over the life cycle of the project are approximately $46,120,000.

Resilience:
Community resilience will be enhanced by providing a dedicated path for sustainable use by non-motorized modes of transportation.  The Historic Booker Creek Trail accesses several major employee centers (downtown, hospital district, USFSP campus); by providing a safely separated path, the trail becomes a viable alternative to commute to work by walking or bicycling and therefore removing many pollutant-inducing motor vehicle trips in the area.


ConInfo:
Joseph Kubicki, Director,
Transportation Planning and Parking Management Department

Desription:
The Historic Booker Creek Trail Phase III is a shared use recreational trail that continues the Historic Booker Creek Trail north by approximately 1.7 miles into densely populated residential areas with a terminus at Booker Creek Park.  The 12’-path will accommodate and encourage non-motorized transportation modes that are more environmentally sustainable.

Partners:
City of St. Petersburg, Florida, The Trust for Public Land

Status-all:
Project design, including permitting, can be conducted as soon as the right-of-way along the CSX line has been fully acquired.  Appraisals to begin negotiations on the sale of the property are underway at this time.

Eco Benefits Text:
Over the life cycle of the project, an estimated 86,800 kg of pollutants will be removed; the associated cost effectiveness of the projects is $46.09/kg pollutant removed.  Additionally, estimated savings to society over the life cycle of the project are approximately $21,680,000.

Resilience:
Community resilience will be enhanced by providing a dedicated path for sustainable use by non-motorized modes of transportation.  The Historic Booker Creek Trail provides access to several major employee centers from densely populated residential areas to the north; by providing a safely separated path, the trail becomes a viable alternative to commute to work by walking or bicycling and therefore removing many pollutant-inducing motor vehicle trips in the area.


Title:
Jungle Lake Stormwater Drainage Improvements R-1-1

Desription:
The project includes water quality and flooding improvements proposed for the watershed on the north side of Jungle Lake in St. Petersburg. Jungle Lake receives drainage from a large watershed and then discharges to Boca Ceiga Bay. This watershed improvement project, R-1-1, will reduce flooding and provide water treatment for stormwater entering Jungle Lake.

Quantify Env Results:
Water quality improvement results will be quantified by estimating sediment load and TN and TP that is removed prior to entering Jungle Lake.

Eco Benefits Text:
Benefits include better aquatic habitat for Jungle Lake by removing sediments and floatable trash and debris. Jungle Lake discharge into Boca Ceiga Bay will experience better water quality.

Habitat:
The 11 acre Jungle Lake habitat will be better preserved by preserving water quality and removing debris.

Pollutant Red:
Pollutant reductions will be achieved through the removal of sediments, organic debris and floatable trash

Living Resoruces:
The discharge from Jungle Lake is into Boca Ceiga Bay. Sea grasses and other marine habitat will benefit from the reduction of nutrients and debris into Jungle Lake.

Resilience:
Community resilience will be achieved through the reduction of flooding in the streets and neighborhood.


Desription:
Lassing Park is a 14 acre multi use park located on the southeastern shores of St. Petersburg on Tampa Bay.  The northern section of this park has experienced excessive erosion and the proposed project will restore the northern section of the beach. Starting from approximately 400 feet south of the northern property line of Lassing Park, erosion has been moving the northern shoreline back in a concave shape. The proposed project will restore this northern section of shoreline and includes planting of beach grasses to help stabilize the beach. Re-nourishment will consist of restoring up to 45 feet wide section of the shoreline as shown in the attached figure. Beach grasses will be planted in areas to help establish and protect the shoreline.

Location:
St. Petersburg, 27o 45’19.9”, 82 o  37’ 48.1” on Tampa Bay

Eco Benefits Text:
Economic benefits include community beautification and stability against eroding shoreline.

Habitat:
Approximately 0.2 acres of beach grasses will be planted.

Living Resoruces:
Shoreline habitat and offshore seagrasses will benefit by reducing erosion of the Lassing Beach into the bay.

Resilience:
Community resilience will be increased by re-establishment and protection of the shoreline which has been retreating.


ConInfo:
Michael J. Connors, Public Works Administrator

Desription:
The proposed project is to buy, remodel and lease a 6,610 sq. ft. single family home located at 4251 42nd Avenue South, St. Petersburg, Florida for occupancy and use by SRI and/or USF College of Marine Science, and/or Florida Marine Research Institute, and/or the Ocean Team, for ongoing research and development on the impacts from oil spills and use of dispersants on sea life and water quality.

Location:
4251 42nd Avenue South, St. Petersburg, Florida

Partners:
SRI, USF College of Marine Science, Florida Marine Research Institute, and the Ocean Team

Status-all:
Pending sale, renovation and lease of property

Quantify Env Results:
Technological advancements derived from the study of the BP oil spill in terms of short and long term environmental detriment will lead to enhanced measures in mitigating future damage.

Eco Benefits Text:
The project may lead to findings that allow for both preventative means and enhanced responsiveness to protecting the environment from oil spills in the future providing greater cost effectiveness in containment and cleanup efforts.

Living Resoruces:
Virtually all resources may be positively impacted.


Title:
Maximo Park Intertidal Restoration
                               Beach Renourishment Project

Desription:
An eroding shoreline is threatening important archaeological and cultural resources at Maximo Park in St. Petersburg, Florida.  The project includes Dredge and Fill combined with Beach Renourishment to protect imperiled historic and cultural resources including a Native American state listed archaeological site (8PI00031) with occupation dating back to 12,000 BC and an African American bathing beach designated in 1949.

Location:
6600 34th Street South, St. Petersburg, Pinellas County, Florida

Status-all:
Maximo Park Master Plan Complete November 2012

Quantify Env Results:
Stabilization of shoreline in percentage of erosion control.  Measure of beach area square footage restored.  Measure of intertidal area square footage restored.

Eco Benefits Text:
Dredge and Fill / Beach Renourishment design, permitting and construction services industries.  Environmental resources ecotourism.  Maximo Park is the closest public land to the Indian Key Wildlife Sanctuary, an ecotourism / bird watching destination.  Native American and African American heritage tourism.  Recreational uses (beach going, boating, kayaking, fishing, disc golfing, picnicking, nature walking, jogging, dog walking, bird watching etc.) economic benefits.

Habitat:
Dredge and Fill / Beach Renourishment design, permitting and construction services industries.  Environmental resources ecotourism.  Maximo Park is the closest public land to the Indian Key Wildlife Sanctuary, an ecotourism / bird watching destination.  Native American and African American heritage tourism.  Recreational uses (beach going, boating, kayaking, fishing, disc golfing, picnicking, nature walking, jogging, dog walking, bird watching etc.) economic benefits.

Living Resoruces:
Water Quality - Tampa Bay Estuary and Indian Key Wildlife Sanctuary area.  Areas for oyster bed and sea grass restoration to be determined once proper intertidal zone contour is restored.

Resilience:
Preservation of important archaeological, cultural, environmental, ethnic, and historic resources.  The City has applied for funding to develop a community wide Indian Mound Master Plan that includes the Maximo Park site.  Maximo Park has plant materials unique to the area such as Ardisia escallonioides, a native Marlberry normally found farther south, and large pines, Pinus elliottii “densa”, after which Pinellas County was named.


Desription:
An eroding shoreline is threatening important archaeological and cultural resources at Maximo Park in St. Petersburg, Florida.  The project includes shoreline ecosystem restoration area plantings to protect imperiled historic and cultural resources including a Native American state listed archaeological site (8PI00031) with occupation dating back to 12,000 BC and an African American bathing beach designated in 1949.

Quantify Env Results:
Stabilization of shoreline in percentage of vegetative cover.  Cover and protection of currently exposed archaeological artifacts in place.

Eco Benefits Text:
Ecosystem design, permitting and construction services industries.  Environmental resources ecotourism.  Maximo Park is the closest public land to the Indian Key Wildlife Sanctuary, an ecotourism / bird watching destination.  Native American and African American heritage tourism.  Recreational uses (beach going, boating, kayaking, fishing, disc golfing, picnicking, nature walking, jogging, dog walking, bird watching etc.) economic benefits.

Living Resoruces:
Water Quality - Tampa Bay Estuary and Indian Key Wildlife Sanctuary area.


Desription:
Miles Creek has nearly 2800 acres of watershed located in the northwestern part of St. Petersburg. The watershed includes a variety of land uses such as residential and commercial. The watershed is highly urbanized and Miles Creek is altered. The project is to conduct a watershed study on Miles Creek (City’s Basin H) to identify potential sources of nutrients and fecal coliform and identify additional potential BMPs to implement. It includes upgrading the city’s hydrology models and including a water quality modeling component to it. The goal is to predict improvements to the creek’s water quality through implementation of BMPs. Miles Creek discharges into Joe’s Creek which discharges into Cross Bayou.

Quantify Env Results:
Environmental results will be quantified by water quality sampling within the Miles Creek watershed upon implementation of recommended projects

Eco Benefits Text:
Identification of potential sources of nutrients into Miles Creek would beneficial both economically and environmentally.

Living Resoruces:
Coastal and marine resources will benefit from improved water quality in Miles Creek.

Resilience:
Community resilience will be improved from a better ecosystem in Miles Creek by reduced erosion and better water quality.


Title:
Morris Street Storm Drainage Improvement

Desription:
The project is to reduce flooding along Morris Street in St. Petersburg. Morris Street floods frequently and is located adjacent to a recently completed drainage improvement area along 30th Avenue North. The intent is to upgrades the drainage facilities along Morris Street and tie it into the 30th Avenue Program. Water quality treatment would take place by utilizing the total flow baffle box construction for the 30th Ave N project.

Quantify Env Results:
Benefits result from better water quality in the watershed of Booker Creek. Measuring them will be through an ongoing water quality monitoring program in Booker Creek.

Eco Benefits Text:
Reduced flooding will provide significant economic benefits to the area by allowing access to the businesses at all times.

Living Resoruces:
Coastal and marine resources benefit from better water quality going into Booker Creek which discharges to Tampa Bay.

Resilience:
Community resilience is achieved through less flooding in the area around Morris Street.


ConInfo:
Chris Ballestra, Managing Director, City Development Administration

Title:
New St. Petersburg Pier Underwater Feature

Desription:
This project provides a unique opportunity for habitat restoration which will become part of an open water marine exhibit and educational platform that will provide ecosystem, economic, and educational services.  Removal of the old pier will expose previously shaded bottom and provides the opportunity to increase biodiversity and improve ecosystem function in the area. The underwater feature looks to reuse the existing piles to restore habitat, and provide a platform for education and research in emerging marine science technology.

Location:
Within the New St. Petersburg Pier project, at the edge of the St. Petersburg Downtown Waterfront extending into Tampa Bay.   The Downtown Waterfront and submerged lands are owned by the City of St. Petersburg, Florida.

Status-all:
The Environmental Resource Permit for this project has been submitted. The design components of the underwater feature are being vetted with local scientific experts and the basis of design for this component will be completed by December 2012.   The feature will be ready to construct in 12-24 months; however, the feature is currently unfunded within the larger pier design.

Quantify Env Results:
A pre-demolition survey to characterize species diversity and sediment characteristics will be used as a baseline assessment from which to characterize net environmental benefit of the habitat restoration aspects of the underwater feature.  Monitoring systems will be incorporated into the design to assess changes in biomass, utilization, and water quality as the feature evolves over time.

Eco Benefits Text:
This feature will serve as a major public attraction for local residents and visitors from all over the world.  The design and construction of the feature will contract with local companies and there may be opportunity for corporate sponsorship, internet access, and employment associated with this feature.

Pollutant Red:
While this feature will not directly result in pollutant load reductions, the reduced shading, increased biodiversity, and increased structural complexity are expected to result in some biological remediation and water quality benefit over time.

Living Resoruces:
Increased biodiversity of fish species utilizing the local area, and recruitment of soft corals, sponges, oysters and other filter feeding organisms.

Resilience:
Community resilience will be enhanced by exposing previously shaded estuarine habitat and providing structural complexity to increase species biodiversity in the local area.  Community resilience can also be characterized by increased public awareness on local environmental issues in Tampa Bay and by increasing the scientific literacy of the local and tourist communities.

Added Justification:
World-wide exposure, economic, educational and environmental drivers.


Desription:
North Shore Park is a 33 acre multi use park located on the central, eastern shores of St. Petersburg on Tampa Bay.  The beach section of this park has experienced excessive erosion and the proposed project will restore the beach. Starting from southern east/west seawall, restoration will include 1700 linear feet of beach north as shown in the attached map. The proposed project will restore this section of shoreline and will include planting of beach grasses to help stabilize the beach in select areas. Re-nourishment will consist of restoring up to 100 feet wide section of the shoreline tapering off as shown in the attached figure.

Location:
St. Petersburg, 27o 46’58.6”, 82 o  37’ 26.8” on Tampa Bay

Habitat:
Approximately 0.3 acres of beach grasses will be planted.

Living Resoruces:
Shoreline habitat and offshore seagrasses will benefit by reducing erosion of the North Shore Beach into the bay.


Desription:
Design and installation of reclaimed water distribution pipes into areas of the City not currently served by reclaimed water. Aquifer storage and recovery will also be a component for storage of reclaimed water to enhance dry season supply.

Location:
:  St Petersburg,  various locations within the City
- (Lat/Long = 27 46 23, 82 38 24)

Partners:
Potential for SWFWMD Grants in FY 14/15 and later years

Quantify Env Results:
Increased reclaimed water use will lead to a reduction in potable water use.  Benefits can be measured by comparing future potable and reclaimed water usage with historic usage.

Eco Benefits Text:
Reducing potable water demand results in lowering of operating costs.  These operating savings can be significant at the energy intensive regional desalination plant.  It also delays the expenditure of capital funds by the regional water supplier to develop new water sources.

Habitat:
Hundreds of acres of surface and groundwater resources throughout the Tampa Bay region are positively impacted and conserved by the reduction in the demand for potable water.

Pollutant Red:
The reliable operation of the reclaimed water and injection well systems, as opposed to the operation of a system which discharges to surface water, prevents 120 tons of nitrogen per year from going into Tampa Bay.

Living Resoruces:
Hundreds of acres of fresh water and estuarine systems will be positively impacted by greater surface water flows. Dozens of lakes throughout the Tampa Bay area will be positively impacted by the reduced pumpage of groundwater.

Resilience:
Water quality improvements will enhance the area’s desirability as a recreation and tourist destination. Reduced potable water use will help with salt water intrusion.

Added Justification:
Irrigation with reclaimed water is supported by the SWFWMD and will offset potable water currently used for irrigation.  Regional potable water sources are all located within the Southwest Florida Regional Ecosystem Restoration Plan study area.


Desription:
The Tampa Bay Estuary Program has identified portions of Salt Creek as a sediment “hot spot” in terms of toxic concentration of heavy metals and other pollutants, subject to re-suspension in the water column.  Salt Creek restoration will remove toxic and nutrient rich sediments to allow the deepening of the creek from the mouth of the creek upstream to 3rd Street North. Removal of the sediments provides an environmental benefit to Bayboro Harbor and Tampa Bay and enhanced flows from Lake Maggiore, helping to reduce flooding.   Additionally, better habitat for fish and macroinvertibrates will be provided. Approximately 37,100 cubic yards of material would be removed.

Status-all:
Feasibility study had been previously started. No design or permitting has begun.

Quantify Env Results:
The amount of sediment removed would provide quantification of TN and TP removed from the channel. Ambient water quality sampling would complement the sediment removal results. Use of the creek by paddlers will provide additional results.

Eco Benefits Text:
Water quality benefits from removal of the sediments, along with reduced flooding from better creek flows.

Habitat:
2000 linear feet of Salt Creek will be restored, from 3rd Street North to Bayboro Harbor

Pollutant Red:
Utilizing the MS4 Load Reduction Tool, 37,100 cubic yards of sediments would result in approximately 2,832  pounds of nitrogen removed and 1,147 lbs of total phosphorous removed from Salt Creek. Additionally, other pollutant reductions will be accomplished that are typically associated with roadway runoff.

Living Resoruces:
Tampa Bay would benefit from improved conditions in Salt Creek

Resilience:
Reduced flooding will enhance community resilience during high tide and high flow events, and provide for navigation on the creek..

Added Justification:
An additional blueways trail provides more paddling opportunities.


Desription:
Salt Creek restoration will remove sediments to deepen flow path of creek from Lake Maggiore to 4th Street North. Due to shallow bottom, mangroves have encroached into the channel hindering flow and limiting access by kayaks and canoes. The restoration will remove sediments within a 25 foot wide channel to a depth of four (4) feet.  The restored channel will allow better flows from Lake Maggiore, helping to reduce flooding and will create a blueways trail for kayaks and canoes to use. Additionally, better habitat for fish and macroinvertibrates will be provided.  A drainage easement exists over Salt Creek and a permit for the maintenance of the creek has been received from Pinellas County. Students from local colleges have inquired about establishing a blueways trail within Salt Creek. A request would be made of the colleges to provide assistance in design of the trail. Approximately 18,000 cubic yards of material would be removed.

Status-all:
Pinellas County permit received; a meeting was held with SWFWMD.

Habitat:
1.03 linear miles of Salt Creek will be restored.

Pollutant Red:
Utilizing the MS4 Load Reduction Tool, 18,000 cubic yards of sediments would result in approximately 1,374 pounds of nitrogen removed and 556 lbs of total phosphorous removed from Salt Creek. Additionally, other pollutant reductions will be accomplished that are typically associated with roadway runoff.

Resilience:
Reduced flooding will enhance community resilience during high tide and high flow events.


Desription:
Stormwater drainage improvements are proposed for this site which will include flood control and water quality treatment. Stormwater drainage from the surrounding residential areas will be treated using baffle box prior to discharge into the canal that discharges into Tampa Bay at the mouth of Coffee Pot Bayou.

Status-all:
Economic benefits include temporary jobs during construction and long term maintenance requirements for the BMPs. Improved water quality provides an economic benefit to the region.

Quantify Env Results:
The environmental benefits result from reducing sediment runoff into the bay.

Habitat:
Downstream habitat will benefit from reduced sediments.

Living Resoruces:
Marine life would receive a net benefit from the reduction of sediments into the marine habitat.

Resilience:
Community resilience is enhanced by reduction of flooding in the streets and neighborhood.


Desription:
Enlarge the sediment sump in Tinney Creek on the east side of 4th Street North. The existing sump currently collects sediments that originate from the 4th Street drainage structures and from upstream. An enlarged sump will assist in trapping more potential sediments. Approximately 3500 cubic yards of material will be removed from the waterway.

Status-all:
Will begin upon notification of grant award.

Quantify Env Results:
The sump will need to be maintained. Quantification of results will be from recording the amount of sediments removed which directly correlates to the amount of TN and TP removed from the waterway.

Eco Benefits Text:
Economic benefits include better water quality within Tinney Creek by allowing the sediments to settle out before they reach Riveria Bay and Tampa Bay.

Habitat:
Downstream habitat and Riveria Bay will be better protected from sediments.

Pollutant Red:
Utilizing the MS4 Load Reduction Tool, 3,500 cubic yards of sediments would result in approximately 267 pounds of nitrogen removed and 108 lbs of total phosphorous removed from Tinney Creek. Additionally, other pollutant reductions will be accomplished that are typically associated with roadway runoff.

Living Resoruces:
Fauna and flora of Riveria Bay will benefit from better capture of sediments.

Resilience:
Enlarging sediment sump will provide increased storage capacity for sediments which reduces downstream flooding.


ConInfo:
Steven K. Leavitt, Water Resources Director, City of St. Petersburg

Desription:
Replace and upgrade the City’s wastewater collection system including gravity and forcemain piping, and lift stations which have reached the end of their service lives.

Location:
St Petersburg, various locations throughout the City
- (Lat/Long = 27 46 23, 82 38 24)

Quantify Env Results:
Reduction of pollutant loadings to surface waters caused be sewer system overflows. Will result in improving water clarity and a healthier marine environment.  Benefits can be measured by comparing future overflows (number and volume) and comparing it with the number and severity of historic overflows.

Eco Benefits Text:
Keeping nutrients out of the water bodies that feed Tampa Bay provides a healthier marine habitat which results in a more vibrant fish population.  This improves the areas desirability as tourist and recreation destination which in turn has a positive impact on the entire Pinellas County economy.

Habitat:
Hundreds of acres of Tampa Bay around the southern tip of Pinellas County are positively impacted and conserved by keeping tons of nitrogen out of the ecosystem.

Pollutant Red:
Pollutant reductions can be calculated by comparing the volume of future overflows with the historical volume of overflows.

Living Resoruces:
By keeping pollutants out of the Bay and its estuaries, the coastal and marine environment throughout southern Pinellas County will be enhanced.

Resilience:
Water quality improvements enhance the area’s desirability as a recreation and tourist destination.  This desirability will be further increased by the reduction in the number of beach closings due to surface water discharges of wastewater.

Added Justification:
Surrounded by bays on 3 sides, emergency overflows of raw wastewater have direct and indirect routes to surface waters.  Aged pipes and pumps have a higher risk of failure. Leaking clay pipe and brick manholes allow inflow  and infiltration which contribute to wastewater overflows during wet weather events. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection has approved the City’s plans for wastewater collection system improvements.


Title:
Water Quality Improvements at the Southwest Water Reclamation Facility

Desription:
Electrical and mechanical equipment improvements necessary to reliably treat wastewater and to continue producing a reliable supply of high quality reclaimed water.

Quantify Env Results:
Increasing the use of reclaimed water results in lowering the demand for potable water. The reduced potable water demand helps to increase ground water and wetland levels, and to reduce river water harvesting.  All of these increase freshwater stream and river flows into marine estuarine systems.  Benefits can be measured by comparing future potable and reclaimed water usage with historic usage.  The quantity of nitrogen and other pollutants that are not direct discharged into Tamp Bay can be calculated from plant operating data.

Eco Benefits Text:
Reducing potable water demand results in lowering of operating costs.  These operating savings can be significant at the energy intensive regional desalination plant.  It also delays the expenditure of capital funds by the regional water supplier to develop new water sources. Keeping nutrients out of the water bodies that feed Tampa Bay provides a healthier marine habitat which results in a more vibrant fish population

Living Resoruces:
By keeping nitrogen out of the Bay and its estuaries, the coastal and marine environment will be enhanced.

Resilience:
Water quality improvements enhance the area’s desirability as a recreation and tourist destination. As the City continues to be less dependent on potable water for irrigation, the areas vegetation is better able to survive during drought periods.


Title:
Water Quality Improvements to the Northeast Water Reclamation Facility

Location:
Northeast Water Reclamation Facility, 1160  62nd Avenue Northeast,  St Petersburg - (Lat/Long = 27 49 41, 82 37 02)

Status-all:
Planning Complete, design begins in 2013

Eco Benefits Text:
Reducing potable water demand results in lowering of operating costs.  These operating savings can be significant at the energy intensive regional desalination plant.  It also delays the expenditure of capital funds by the regional water supplier to develop new water sources. Keeping nutrients out of the water bodies that feed Tampa Bay provides a healthier marine habitat which results in a more vibrant fish population.


Title:
Water Quality Improvements to the Northwest Water Reclamation Facility

Desription:
Electrical and mechanical equipment improvements necessary to reliably treat wastewater and to continue producing a reliable supply of high quality reclaimed water

Location:
Northwest Water Reclamation Facility 7500 26th  Avenue North St Petersburg, - (Lat/Long = 27 47 43, 82 44 29)

Living Resoruces:
By keeping nitrogen out of the Bay and its estuaries, the coastal and marine environment will be enhanced


ConInfo:
John Hood, President Clearwater Audubon Society

Title:
Coastal island bird monitoring and protection

Desription:
A pontoon boat is needed to transport 10-14 volunteers to the barrier islands weekly for 8 months and every Saturday, Sunday and holiday during the breeding and fledging season (4 months). Volunteers will post sensitive areas and maintain the postings. They will survey, monitor and rescue birds. They will set up spotting scopes and information stations to educate the public about the critical nature of this habitat. They will pick up trash including monofilament, remove invasive species and prevent the intrusion of dogs where it is prohibited by law.

Location:
Pinellas County, 740 acres of barrier islands (Three Rooker Island and Anclote Key) owned by Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), consists of Anclote Key State Park Preserve. 28 08 35 66  82 50 20 92

Partners:
Honeymoon Island State Park, Friends of the Islands Parks

Status-all:
The project has been designed and permission has been obtained.

Eco Benefits Text:
Economic benefits will be increased by having increased diversity and abundance of birds leading to increased ecotourism. Quantification is difficult.

Jobs Text:
No jobs will be created or preserved. This is exclusively a volunteer project.

Pollutant Red:
No pollutants will be reduced other than trash pickups estimated at several hundred pounds per year.

Living Resoruces:
Bird species diversity and abundance will be increased. Quantification is difficult.

Resilience:
In as much as the project deals only with wild life community resilience will not be affected.

Added Justification:
These islands have been designated as critical habitat for wintering Piping Plovers by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service. They have been designated as a Globally Important Bird Area. The habitat is critical for a number of Endangered, Threatened and Species of Special Concern birds. They are one of six breeding areas in the entire state of Florida for Laughing Gulls. Least Terns, Willits, Royal Terns, Caspian Terns, Sandwich Terns, Snowy Plovers, Black Skimmers, White Ibis, Wilson’s Plovers, Ospreys, Bald Eagles and American Oystercatchers all nest on these islands


ConInfo:
Brad Suder, Planning and Design Superintendent, City of Tampa Parks and Recreation Department

Desription:
Provide enhanced storm drainage and shoreline improvments for the following projects: Picnic Island Shoreline Improvements ($2,000,000), Picnic Island Boardwalk ($2,000,000), Picnic Island Boat Ramp ($800,000), Cypress Point Park ($3,000,000), Ben T. Davis Beach ($3,000,000). Individual project sheets are attached.

Location:
City of Tampa, Florida (Hillsborough County)

Quantify Env Results:
Long-term protection of Hillsborough River corridor and water quality

Living Resoruces:
Critical coastal/marine resources at these beachfront sites will be protected and preserved.

Resilience:
Overall water and shoreline habitat quality will be enhanced and the condition of three critical beachfront parks will be improved.

Added Justification:
Three significant beachfront park habitat areas will be affected by these projects that provide much needed habitat locations along Tampa Bay.


Title:
Hillsborough River Shoreline Restoration Projects

Desription:
Provide enhanced storm drainage and shoreline improvments for the following Hillsborough River Shoreline projects: J.B. Lane Riverfront Park ($2,000,000), River Tower Park ($1,750,000), 22nd Street Park ($1,000,000), Rowlett Park ($750,000), Temple Crest Park ($750,000), Rivercrest Park ($600,000), Sulphur Springs Park ($500,000), Reed Park ($400,000), Epps Park ($400,000), Riverside Garden Park ($300,000), Blackwater Hammock Park ($300,000), River Boulevard Park ($250,000), Patterson Street Park ($200,000), Druid Park ($200,000), Rivercove Park ($150,000), Purity Springs Park ($150,000).

Living Resoruces:
Critical coastal/marine resources at these riverfront sites will be protected and preserved.

Resilience:
Overall water and shoreline habitat quality will be enhanced and the condition of these 16 riverfront parks will be improved.

Added Justification:
These projects are all located along the Hillsborough River corridor, creating a larger enhancement of these critical Hillsborough River shoreline and watershed areas.


Desription:
Provide enhanced storm drainage and shoreline improvments for the following Park/Stormwater Pond projects: Bobby Hicks Park Lake ($900,000), Copeland Park Pond ($500,000), Ragen Park Pond ($450,000), Highland Pine Park Pond ($350,000), Gadsden Park Lake ($200,000), Roberta Circle Pond ($150,000).

Quantify Env Results:
Long-term protection of Park Ponds and their water quality

Living Resoruces:
Critical coastal/marine resources at these park/pond sites will be protected and preserved.

Resilience:
Overall water and shoreline habitat quality will be enhanced and the condition of these 6 park ponds will be improved.

Added Justification:
These projects are all ponds located within parks, and provide important habitat areas throughout the city.


ConInfo:
Citrus Co. Board of  County Commissioners

ConInfo-a:
110 N. Apopka Avenue
                                       Inverness, FL 34450

Submitting Organization:
Citrus County Board of County Commissioners

Desription:
The purpose of this project is to construct a multi-lane boat ramp on the man-made Cross Florida Barge Canal (CFBC) in order to redirect existing boat traffic away from coastal spring-fed rivers, which serve as critical habitat for the West Indian Manatee, an endangered species.  On March 16, 2012, the US Fish and Wildlife Service established a manatee refuge on Kings Bay at the head of the Crystal River. The purpose of this action is to limit the interaction between an estimated 500 manatees on the Crystal River and recreational boaters.  In conflict with this action, Crystal River is a prime access point to the Gulf of Mexico for regional offshore boating activities.  Manatee protection has been, and continues to be, a priority for Citrus County.  This is demonstrated by the fact that Citrus County was the first County in the State of Florida to develop and adopt a Manatee Protection Plan (see attached).  The plan identifies the need to redirect boat traffic from the Crystal River to the CFBC (see Manatee Protection Plan, pages 13-26 & Figure 13-12 on page 13-29).  A boat ramp on the CFBC has been a priority for the County and included in the County’s adopted Capital Improvement Plan (see attached) but has not been constructed due to limited local funds.  

Past boating studies have indicated that the vast majority, approximately 75%, of boaters who use county boat ramps do not reside in Citrus County, which demonstrates that boating activities on the coastal rivers of Citrus County are regional in nature  (see Manatee Protection Plan, pages 13-18).  As the area surrounding Citrus County continues to develop, it is anticipated that the demand for boat launch facilities will only increase.  This fact, coupled with the rising manatee population resulting from ongoing conservation efforts, underscores the need for new regional boat launch facilities away from critical manatee habitat.

Location:
Cross Florida Barge Canal, northwestern Citrus County, Florida

Status-all:
Citrus County has applied for a conceptual permit from the Southwest Florida Water Management District, based on environmental issues associated with the project.  A full engineered site plan with drainage design and permitting will be needed prior to construction.

Quantify Env Results:
As demonstrated in the attached Citrus County Manatee Protection Plan, construction of a boat ramp on the Cross Florida Barge Canal will give boaters direct access to the Gulf of Mexico for fishing and recreational purposes.  By redirecting boat traffic to this location, boat traffic on the adjacent springfed coastal rivers will be reduced, thereby reducing the potential for injuries to manatees from boat strikes.

Eco Benefits Text:
The barge canal boat ramp will enhance boating access to the Gulf of Mexico and provide a deeper and more appropriate channel for larger offshore boats.  It will also help to preserve and maintain the manatee population on the adjacent coastal rivers and the ecotourism opportunities that they represent for people visiting Florida’s Nature Coast.

Jobs Text:
Jobs will be created and existing jobs will be protected in the travel and tourism industry.  Currently, tourism to the community supports 1,900 tourism-related jobs.

Habitat:
At a minimum, all of Kings Bay (600 acres) within the Crystal River system.

Living Resoruces:
The Crystal, Homosassa, Chassahowitzka and Withlacoochee Rivers are coastal spring-fed rivers that are prime habitat for the West Indian manatee, an endangered species and function as warm water refuges for manatees in the winter months.  As demonstrated in the attached Manatee Protection Plan, the construction of a regional boat ramp nearby, but outside of prime manatee habitat will reduce the level of boat traffic on the rivers resulting in a reduced potential for injury to manatees.

Resilience:
This project will help to maintain manatee populations in the area which are a major contributor to ecotourism activities in Citrus County

Added Justification:
Fifty-two percent of the visitors to the area participate in water-related recreation.  This project stimulates economic growth on a regional scale while decreasing the risk for harm of an endangered marine mammal.  Additional jobs would be created in the areas of lodging, marina services, restaurant, groceries and gas stations for Citrus and Levy County.


Title:
Homosassa Wastewater Collection System – Phase 5

Desription:
The purpose of this project is to continue the County’s ongoing effort to provide a wastewater collection system to serve existing development adjacent to the Homosassa River, an Outstanding Florida Waterway, and remove existing package wastewater treatment plants and onsite septic systems from environmentally sensitive areas.  The need for this project was identified in the Homosassa River Water Quality Study, prepared by Florida Land Design & Engineering (1989), which stated: “Septic tanks appear to be significant contributors of bacteria to the river system, and waters influenced by treated wastewater effluent showed statistically higher levels of nutrients including nitrate and ortho-phosphorus.”  More recently, the springs at the headwaters of the Homosassa River have been classified as “impaired waters” by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection due to low dissolved oxygen levels associated with organic enrichment.  In past phases of the project, sewer service has been provided to existing development on the north side of the river and to selected commercial and residential areas in the Old Homosassa community.  The Phase 5 project would provide sewer service to the Blue Water Forest and Spring Cove Road areas, which are on the south side of the river directly adjacent to the headwaters.

Status-all:
Wastewater Collection system installation permits will be applied for following funding confirmation.

Quantify Env Results:
Provision of sewer service to existing development adjacent to the Homosassa River will reduce the nutrient loading to the spring-fed river system.

Eco Benefits Text:
The headwaters of the Homosassa River provides essential warm water habitat for the endangered West Indian manatee (wild and captive) and serves as the primary ecotourism headquarters for water-related recreation for visitors to the area (manatee watching, snorkeling, freshwater swimming, kayaking, fishing).  The Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park (Park) in and of itself depends on the health of Homosassa’s freshwater system.  The Park cares for 6 captive manatees in a natural freshwater spring-fed system and entertains more than 291,000 visitors per year.  Those guests spend 12.4 million dollars and their visitation sustains 294 tourism jobs in the area.

Jobs Text:
The travel and hospitality industry in Citrus County community supports 1,900 travel and tourism-related jobs.

Habitat:
This project will improve water quality at the headwaters of the 7.7 mile long Homosassa River, which is the freshwater source for the associated coastal estuary system.

Pollutant Red:
This project will remove the effluent discharge from 75 existing septic tanks from areas adjacent to the headwaters of the Homosassa River and the associated nutrient loading to the groundwater and surface waters of the river.

Living Resoruces:
The Homosassa River is a tidally-influenced coastal spring-fed river that is approximately 7.7 miles long and discharges into the Gulf of Mexico.  This project will improve water quality on the river and the associated coastal estuary.

Resilience:
Improving and preserving the water quality of the Homosassa River and the recreational opportunities that it represents will help to maintain the quality of life and economic viability of the Homosassa community in southwestern Citrus County.


Title:
Homosassa Southfork Water Quality Improvement Project – Phase 4

Desription:
Currently, stormwater runoff from portions of US Highway No. 19 and adjacent commercial and residential areas is collected by a mosquito control ditch that leads directly to the headwaters of the Homosassa River. The purpose of this project is to construct a wetland treatment area to intercept and treat this stormwater runoff prior to discharging into the Homosassa River.  The need for this project was identified in the “Homosassa Southfork Watershed Management Plan”, co-funded by the Southwest Florida Water Management District and Citrus County BOCC (see attached).  The springs associated with the headwaters of the Homosassa River have recently been classified as “impaired waters” due to low dissolved oxygen levels associated with organic enrichment.

Location:
Homosassa area in western Citrus County, Florida

Status-all:
The overall project concept is outlined in the Homosassa Southfork Watershed Management Plan, but no design or permitting activities have been started.  Design and permitting for the project will be started upon confirmation of funding.

Quantify Env Results:
The information presented in the Homosassa Southfork Watershed Management Plan indicates that the constructed wetland treatment area will achieve a nitrogen reduction of approximately 20 percent and a phosphorus reduction of approximately 25 percent.

Eco Benefits Text:
This project will help to improve the water quality on the Homosassa River, which provides many ecotourism opportunities including fishing, snorkeling, and manatee viewing tours.

Jobs Text:
The travel tourism and hospitality industry in Citrus County supports 1,900 tourism-related jobs.

Habitat:
The project will help to improve and preserve the habitats associated with the 7.7 mile long Homosassa River and the associated coastal estuary.

Pollutant Red:
Reduction of nitrogen concentration in stormwater runoff from the northern mosquito control ditch – 20%.  Reduction of phosphorus concentration in stormwater runoff from the northern mosquito control ditch – 25%.

Living Resoruces:
The Homosassa River is a coastal spring-fed river that is prime habitat for the West Indian manatee, an endangered species, and function as a warm water refuge for manatees in the winter months.  The river also presents many recreational opportunities for fishing, boating, snorkeling and wildlife viewing.

Resilience:
This project will help to maintain the Homosassa River and associated coastal estuary, which are major contributors to recreational and ecotourism activities in Citrus County.


Title:
Crystal River – Kings Bay Sediment Removal

Desription:
The purpose of this project is to restore degraded coastal estuarine and fresh water habitat of Kings Bay by removing accumulated organic sediment and restoring desirable submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV-grass beds) in Kings Bay.  The tidally-influenced Kings Bay is the headwater of the Crystal River and is the fourth largest of the 27 first-order magnitude springs in the State of Florida.  A buildup of organic sediment and loss of desirable SAV has occurred due to many factors, including decomposition of undesirable aquatic plant material, growth of algae and periphyton, and loss of oysterbeds at the mouth of Crystal River, which is now impeding the growth of beneficial aquatic vegetation.  This has led to a decline in water quality that has negatively affected economically important recreational uses such as fishing, snorkeling and manatee viewing.  Crystal River/Kings Bay is designated as a Florida Outstanding Waterway and Federally designated critical habitat for the West Indian Manatee.

Location:
City of Crystal River – Citrus County, Florida

Status-all:
Dredging permits will be applied for when funding is confirmed.  Dredging permits have been issued for certain areas within Kings Bay in the past, so no problems are anticipated with issuance of permits for this project.

Quantify Env Results:
The cubic yards of organic muck removed from Kings Bay and percent cover by and distribution of (success of plantings) desirable SAV will be used to quantify environmental results. This project is consistent with the recommendations of the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s “Crystal River/Kings Bay Surface Water Improvement and Management (SWIM) Plan”, approved July 10, 2000.

Eco Benefits Text:
Kings Bay provides essential fresh water and warm water habitat for the endangered West Indian manatee.  Kings Bay attracts 92,000 visitors annually, specifically to snorkel with manatees.  The improvement of the health and water clarity of the Kings Bay ecosystem is critical to the ecotourism industry which is based upon scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, fresh water swimming, kayaking and manatee observation.  The tourism industry contributes 7.7 million in states taxes, 3.2 million in local taxes, and direct travel-related spending exceeds 150 million.

Jobs Text:
The ecotourism tourism industry centered around Crystal River and Kings Bay provides 1,900 travel-generated jobs.  Travel-generated payroll for 2010 exceeded 30 million dollars for the Crystal River region.

Habitat:
Kings Bay is a 600 acre spring embayment.

Pollutant Red:
While organic muck is not necessarily considered to be a pollutant, the Crystal River/Kings Bay Surface Water Improvement and Management (SWIM) Plan indicates that sediment resuspension is the main factor in reduction of water clarity.

Living Resoruces:
Muck removal will enhance and preserve the 600 acre Kings Bay and associated (70) springs which is the headwaters of the Crystal River.  Crystal River is a tidally-influenced coastal spring-fed river that is approximately 6 miles long and discharges into an area of the Gulf of Mexico associated with the largest and most important expanse of coastal sea grass meadows on the West Coast of Florida (Zieman & Zieman, 1989)1 ,which provides nursery habitat for juvenile and adult fish and invertebrates including shellfish, shrimp, crabs and sponges, which are all economically important species for the local and regional seafood industry.

Resilience:
Improving and preserving the water quality of Kings Bay and the recreational opportunities that it represents will help to maintain the quality of life and economic viability of both the City of Crystal River and Citrus County.


ConInfo:
David Glicksberg Hillsborough County Environmental Services

Desription:
Delaney Creek is currently impaired for nutrients and fecal coliform bacteria, and the established TMDL necessitates significant pollutant reductions. Continued water quality monitoring has indicated elevated pollutant concentrations in a relatively small residential area. Proposed project would retrofit stormwater infrastructure in Clair Mel City for water quality improvements. Projects include dispersed LID features, such as curb extensions and bioretention, and enhanced canal crossings. Canal crossings would be enhanced for both water quality and community enhancement, including reduced side slopes and wetland vegetation. Ultimately, the project is designed to achieve three specific benefits: 1. Reduce stormwater volumes and improve water quality; 2. Enhance community awareness of stormwater pollution; 3. Improve community access to nature and change community perception of the degraded waterbody.

Quantify Env Results:
Ultimately, proposed project will result in improved water quality in canals and tributaries of Delaney Creek. This can be quantified through continued water quality monitoring. Additionally, a minor amount of emergent wetland habitat will be created/enhanced, which can be quantified accurately after project design.

Eco Benefits Text:
The project proposes significant community enhancement which will provide economic benefit to nearby property owners. Additionally, the proposed project will provide ecosystem services, such as greater access to nature, improved water quality, improved habitat, and reduced pollutant loading to Delaney Creek and Tampa Bay.

Jobs Text:
Approximately 4 part-time jobs preserved for the length of construction.

Habitat:
Small amount of emergent wetland habitat created/restored.

Pollutant Red:
Pollutant reduction will be achieved through reduced stormwater volumes, wetland plantings, reduction of canal side slopes, and educational efforts. However, these reductions cannot be accurately quantified at this time.

Living Resoruces:
Delaney Creek flows a short distance to Tampa Bay. Therefore, the proposed project provides indirect benefit to coastal/marine ecosystems downstream. Tampa Bay is designated an ‘estuary of national significance’ and addressing urban runoff upstream is an important strategy for estuary restoration.

Resilience:
The proposed project will provide some additional retention and reduce stormwater runoff volumes. Therefore, the proposed project will enhance community resilience through improved flood control.

Added Justification:
roject reduces pollutant loads to address verified waterbody impairments.
	Delaney Creek watershed includes above average poverty rates and below average median income. The proposed project provides underserved residents with tangible benefits, including: improved access to nature, pedestrian safety, and neighborhood beautification, while achieving significant environmental benefits.
	Segments of Delaney Creek are channelized and degraded. The proposed project hopes to provide attractive natural features in prominent locations to change community perception of the waterbody, promote civic responsibility, and reduce litter. 
	The community of Clair Mel City is low-lying and flood prone. Promoting LID and expanding bio-retention in this basin provides additional flood control benefits.


ConInfo:
David Glicksberg
Hillsborough County Environmental Services

Desription:
Delaney Creek is currently impaired for nutrients and fecal coliform bacteria, and the established TMDL necessitates significant pollutant reductions. Lateral B is an approximately 2000 m canal extending through a largely residential area of Clair Mel City and discharging into Delaney Creek. Continued water quality monitoring has indicated elevated pollutant concentrations in the Lateral B canal. The project proposes significant restructuring of a 500m segment of Lateral B adjacent to Dowdell Middle Magnet School. The segment is located prominently within the community and exists in a degraded state. The project proposes constructing water quality treatment as an attractive community feature, including: reduced canal slopes, bioretention, native vegetation, dredging, and LID features, such as rain gardens and permeable sidewalks.

Quantify Env Results:
Ultimately, project will result in improved water quality in the Lateral B canal, Delaney Creek, and Tampa Bay. This can be quantified through continued water quality monitoring in both Lateral B and Delaney Creek. Additionally, approximately 0.5 acres of emergent wetland habitat will be created/enhanced, which can be quantified accurately after project design.

Jobs Text:
Approximately 10 full time jobs preserved for the length of construction.

Habitat:
Estimated 0.5 acres of emergent wetland habitat created/restored.

Pollutant Red:
Pollutant reduction will be achieved through wetland plantings, reduction of canal side slopes, education efforts, and organic sediments dredged. However, these reductions cannot be accurately quantified at this time.

Added Justification:
	Project reduces pollutant loads to address verified waterbody impairments. 
	Delaney Creek watershed includes above average poverty rates and below average median income. The proposed project provides underserved residents with tangible benefits, including: improved access to nature, pedestrian safety, and neighborhood beautification, while achieving significant environmental benefits.
	Segments of Delaney Creek are channelized and degraded. The proposed project hopes to provide an attractive natural feature in a prominent location to change community perception of the waterbody, promote civic responsibility, and reduce litter. 
	Dowdell Middle School hosts two Magnet programs -- Environmental Studies and Animal Science. The proposed project would provide relevant education opportunities to enhance these valuable programs. 
	The community of Clair Mel City is low-lying and flood prone. Promoting LID and expanding bio-retention in this basin provides additional flood control benefits.


Desription:
Delaney Creek is currently impaired for nutrients and fecal coliform bacteria, and the established TMDL necessitates significant pollutant reductions. Continued water quality monitoring has identified elevated pollutant concentrations within a relatively small residential area. Poorly maintained septic systems in this low-lying area are a potentially significant contribution to the waterbody impairments. Proposed project would offer no-cost septic system cleanouts for homeowners in the target area, which is both economically depressed and environmentally degraded. The project benefits are threefold: 1. Serious reductions in pollutant potential from affected septic systems; 2. Effective outreach. Homeowners will receive targeted education materials and thorough septic inspections, which detail individual system deficiencies and encourage further maintenance; 3. County will receive a copy of septic inspections and can identify seriously failing systems should further enforcement be necessary.

Status-all:
Project does not require design or permitting

Quantify Env Results:
The program will target septic tank systems in areas of confirmed high bacterial concentrations. The associated environmental impact can be measured by volume of hazardous material removed from the watershed, number of homeowners reached, and number of malfunctioning systems repaired; all can be accurately quantified through the life of the project.

Eco Benefits Text:
The proposed project provides economic benefit to homeowners in the target area and local septic maintenance companies. Ecosystem services are enhanced by providing reduced human health risk in a degraded waterbody.

Jobs Text:
Approx. 2 part-time positions preserved for the life of the project.

Resilience:
Frequent septic tank maintenance ensures proper drain field function. Therefore, the proposed project increases community resilience through improved sanitation.

Added Justification:
	Project reduces pollutant loads (nutrient and coliform) to address verified waterbody impairments.
	Delaney Creek watershed includes above average poverty rates and below average median income. The proposed project provides underserved residents with tangible benefits, including improved sanitation and reduced human health risk, while providing significant environmental benefits. 
	Cost efficiency and pollutant removal for this project is far greater than conventional treatment approaches.


ConInfo:
David Glicksberg, Manager 
Hillsborough County Public Works – Environmental Services

Desription:
In 2005, Hillsborough County initiated evaluation of dredged saltwater and brackish creeks and canals that connect to Tampa Bay. This evaluation concentrated on creeks and canals that have accumulated sediment quantities resulting in potential water quality degradation, restricted hydraulic connectivity and restricted boat access to the Bay. This evaluation culminated in the selection of eight potential project areas that received additional site assessment in 2006, and subsequent project rankings based on a variety of ecological and economic factors. The Sweetwater Creek assessment resulted in the highest ranking of the eight projects and was subsequently followed by a detailed feasibility study of site conditions, project alternatives and funding issues. 

At 10.5 square miles of concentrated residential and commercial land uses, the Lower Sweetwater Creek watershed (reference figure) is one of the most extensive urban areas contributing surface water run-off to Tampa Bay. The majority of the natural creek channel was historically dredged to reduce flooding and improve drainage conditions for the basin. There are many contributing ditches and canals to the creek, and the decades of construction in the watershed have resulted in sediment deposition within a channelized creek segment near the outfall connection to the Bay (reference two aerials). 

The feasibility study evaluated engineering & ecological characteristics such as surface water modeling, bathymetry, water quality, sediment contaminants and benthic community assessments. This information was used to evaluate construction options such as dredging methodology, types of equipment, staging areas, dewatering, sediment transport and disposal. Socio-economic issues were also incorporated to evaluate cost limitations and benefits for the landowners adjacent to the potential construction area. The results of the study determined that in order to achieve the desired improvements for water quality, hydraulics and navigation, it would be appropriate to dredge deposited sediment from the creek channel to a maximum depth of -5.0 feet below mean low water. The dredging would cover a distance of approximately 2,100 feet within the creek channel segment, however much of the segment fortunately has bottom grade elevations deeper than -5.0 feet that will not require any construction activity (red highlighted area on aerial). So, the dredging footprint would only be necessary for approximately four acres and 9,785 cubic yards of removed sediment. Some of the sediment is sufficiently clean for reuse as fill material; however, analysis determined the majority exceeds allowable hydrocarbon limits and will require landfill disposal.   

Sediment removal will result in improved tidal connectivity and flushing to and from upstream Sweetwater Creek and watershed areas. In turn, this condition will improve the water quality and opportunities for more fish and other aquatic species to migrate further upstream from Tampa Bay toward headwater areas of Sweetwater Creek. This is valuable since juvenile fish require protected areas to help avoid predators. So, the ecological improvements will extend upstream and downstream of the proposed construction zone.

Location:
Southwestern Hillsborough County within proximity of Sweetwater Creek connects to Tampa Bay (refer to aerials). Longitude -82.562021, Latitude 27.980280

Status-all:
The feasibility study will be completed in 2013; however, design and permitting will not proceed until if and when funding sources can be allocated for construction.

Quantify Env Results:
The proposed four acres of dredge area will be verified for the post-construction as-built certification process. Water quality sampling will be conducted pre-during-post construction within the project limits as well as upstream and downstream of the dredging area.

Eco Benefits Text:
In addition to the ecological benefits that will occur as a result of the dredging project, navigation access will be improved for recreational boats. This is of value for all the public, as well as residents who live adjacent to Sweetwater Creek. As a result, the tax revenue and home values will increase for residents living along the creek and connecting canals.

Jobs Text:
5-10 construction workers will be employed for 8-12 months.

Habitat:
The footprint of direct dredging will restore four acres of open water creekbed habitat. There will also be secondary upstream and downstream improvements to tidal and brackish habitat. Quantifying improvements is difficult; however, these could exceed 50 acres.

Pollutant Red:
The dredging will result in a minimum 9,785 cubic yards of predominantly hydrocarbon contaminated sediment.

Living Resoruces:
There will be an increase in arthropod and fish populations and diversity due to improved tidal connectivity that will extend further upstream of the dredge area.

Resilience:
Sediment removal will improve tidal connection that is critical during major flood events and hurricanes. This improved drainage condition will become more critical within the headwater areas of the Lower Sweetwater Creek watershed as climate change results in sea level rise for Tampa Bay.


ConInfo:
Thomas Ries, President Ecosphere Restoration Institute

Title:
Newman Branch Creek Phase III Fisheries Habitat Restoration Project

Desription:
This third restoration project along Newman Branch creek covers a 24-acre tract which lies within the oligohaline section of the creek and entails the removal of exotic vegetation, restoration of the creek banks, restoration of freshwater areas, as well as the associated coastal strand upland habitat.

Location:
Hillsborough County; 24+ acre section of the ~1,200 acres which Tampa Electric Company (TECO) owns.  The restored section will be protected via a conservation easement similar to the first two Newman Branch phases.

Status-all:
Conceptual design is complete; permitting to follow the final design; however, the exotic vegetation removal is ready to begin

Quantify Env Results:
Measured by acreage of restored habitat and includes the immediate adjacent habitat which will benefit by the project implementation

Eco Benefits Text:
Value of economic service  improvements is estimated at $4,372,470.00

Habitat:
24 acres will be directly restored and the immediately adjacent property (~14 acres) will benefit indirectly by the removal of exotic vegetation and the presence of the restored ecosystem functions

Pollutant Red:
Approximately 5 acres of untreated runoff will be treated via biological treatment processes incorporated into the project design

Living Resoruces:
Recreational fish (snook seatrout, redfish, mullet, etc.) habitat will be restored, which will benefit avifaunal species as well as arthropods and small mammals; 24 acres of land will be directly restored

Resilience:
The removal of exotic vegetation will help eliminate this seed source from the area which will benefit the surrounding native communities, also the design incorporates sea-level rise considerations and provides space and the appropriate slopes for vegetation to adapt to the anticipated climate changes

Added Justification:
This third phase of the Newman Branch restoration effort continues the ongoing commitment by TECO to restore critical estuarine ecotones for this region.  The restored site will provide habitat for many of Florida's species of special concern, including the gopher tortoise, woodstork, and the southern bald eagle.  Additionally, the freshwater and estuarine wetlands are home to numerous juvenile commercially and recreationally important fish species.  These wetlands also provide forage areas for avifaunal species and wading bird population.
This project is achievable due to its ownership and the commitment of TECO.  Phase I  was recognized as Environmental Project of the Year by the Hillsborough Planning Commission and with TECO’s adjacent Manatee Viewing Center, which has ~370,000 visitors annually, this site will be open for public educational opportunities.


Desription:
This project will restore a natural spring run (Ulele Springs) to the Hillsborough River which has been piped for the past ~100 years.  This will provide access for fish and manatees.  Also, ~600 linear feet of “living shoreline” habitat will be added in front of the existing seawall.

Location:
City of Tampa (COT), Hillsborough County; 1+ acre area to be restored to provide a spring run and basin for manatees

Status-all:
Design is complete; permitting is underway; once completed the project is ready to begin

Quantify Env Results:
Measured by acreage and linear feet of shoreline restored.  This unique spring restoration project will provide winter refuge for manatees and native fish species

Eco Benefits Text:
Value of economic service  improvements is estimated at $182,186.00

Habitat:
1 acre of spring run/basin will be restored plus ~600 linear feet of seawall; in addition, this project will provide manatee wintering habitat in the urban corridor of the Hillsborough River which may prevent boat impacts since these animals will not have to travel the entire length of the river as they currently do for warm water areas to reside in

Pollutant Red:
Approximately 0.5 acres of untreated runoff will be treated via biological treatment processes incorporated into the project design

Living Resoruces:
Recreational fish (snook seatrout, redfish, mullet, etc.) and manatees will benefit from this project

Resilience:
The design incorporates sea-level rise considerations and provides space and the appropriate slopes for vegetation to adapt to the anticipated climate changes

Added Justification:
This unique project will project manatee habitat which has been lost for the past 100 years at this site and will help educate the public of the importance of springs and the assoicate4d habitat they provide.  Additionally, the freshwater and estuarine wetlands are home to numerous juvenile commercially and recreationally important fish species.  These wetlands also provide forage areas for avifaunal species and wading bird population.


ConInfo:
Don Sopak, Public Works Director, City of Gulfport

Title:
Gulfport - 49th Street Stormwater Retrofit

Desription:
The project will provide water quality treatment for an area of approximately 169 acres, of which 94 acres is predominately commercial and 75 acres of residential, all within the City of Gulfport. This area currently has no water quality treatment facilities and discharges directly into Boca Ciega Bay at 49th St S. via a 5 ft X 10 ft foot box culvert. Boca Ciega is part of Tampa Bay and is listed as impaired for mercury (WEBID 1558N). The project proposes to treat the “first flush” of runoff through a treatment train consisting of a two baffle boxes’ and two off-line wet detention ponds, in series, prior to discharging into the bay within the Gulfport Marina.  Estimated volume of annual flow treated is 270 acre-feet.   The project will intercept first-flush flows from the system and route them to the proposed treatment facilities.  In addition to the treatment expected from the baffle boxes and wet-detention, the new discharge into the Marina basin will further allow for any remaining sediments to settle (as the basin in dredged deep and currents are less than bay waters) and some additional uptake of nutrients prior to entering Boca Ciega Bay.

Location:
City of Gulfport, Pinellas County.  (S33-T31S-R16E)

Status-all:
Design Complete; Permits obtained ERP No.34923

Quantify Env Results:
The expected results are based on published literature for water quality efficiencies associated with baffle boxes and wet detention systems. Actual size of these facilities were established in the ERP No. 34923. See below for calculated measurements of pollutant reductions.

Eco Benefits Text:
Water quality improvements will contribute to achieving target habitat and water quality goals as outlined in the TBEP CCMP. Specifically, reduced sediments will improve bottom sediment conditions providing for improved local benthic communities and related plant and animal species that rely on these communities.  In addition to other pollutants that will be removed, reduction of nitrogen will improve water clarity both local to the discharge area and beyond, the result is more sea grasses and associated improved fisheries and wildlife habitat. The economic benefit is realized in better estuaries, beaches and fisheries and other natural bay related resources. The benefits are increased tourism, fishing (private and commercial (guides)), property values and support industries to these user groups. This area is frequently used by kayakers and canoeists.

Jobs Text:
Conservatively estimated 16 FTE’s during the mobilization and construction phase, all associated with the contractor and construction management consultant.

Habitat:
The project will have a significant reduction in the amount of sediments annually discharged. The current outflow is directly into Boca Ciega Bay approximately 2300 feet from Gulfport Beach to the west, and 1800 feet to the entrance to Clam Bayou, to the east. The proposed new outfall discharge point is into the Gulfport Marina basin which has limited bottom habitat as it is routinely dredged.   Clam Bayou is a major recreational attraction point and part of a recent SWFWMD SWIM restoration project (a several million dollar sediment and water quality restoration project).  The reduction of sediments and pollutants will greatly add to the benefits of the Clam Bayou dredging project. Habitat area benefited by sediment control is conservatively estimated at 25 acres. Reduction of nitrogen and other pollutants will improve water clarity over a greater area.

Pollutant Red:
Estimated annual pollutant load and removal amounts is as follows:  (Annual Load in lbs/Total Amount Removed by Baffle and Wet Detention in lbs/percentage removed).   TP 127/88/69%   TN  877/350/40%   TSS 13,096/12,506/95%    BOD5   2,619/1,313/50%  .  These were derived from published information on FDEP and Florida Stormwater Association web sites

Living Resoruces:
Reduction in sediments and nitrogen (a target nutrient of the TBEP CCMP) will improve bottom habitat and water clarity thus improving sea grasses and benthic communities that will support the food chain.  This area of Boca Ciega Bay is shallow and prime spawning habitat for the bay fisheries and a vital food source for wading and sea birds and dolphins.

Resilience:
A healthier water resource ecosystem allows the system to withstand natural impacts such as storms and droughts better. Seagrasses and shoreline vegetation is a natural protection against storm damage.

Added Justification:
As mentioned above the project will enhance the recent Clam Bayou project benefits to water quality and habitat. The removal of the sediment source will add years to the dredging associated with that project. In addition to environmental benefits, Gulfport has already secured (and paid for) the necessary ERP and will provide the land for the two wet detention ponds. Improved habitat results in economic gains mentioned above. This is a driver for additional job opportunities in areas such as hotels, restaurant, fishing and boating. No specific numbers can be accurately estimated at this time.


ConInfo-a:
5730 Shore Boulevard South  Gulfport, FL 33707

Desription:
The project is proposed to provide water quality benefits to the Clam Bayou area of Boca Ciega Bay by construction of an alternative and larger wastewater force main. Currently, St Petersburg accepts and treats Gulfport’s sanitary sewer flows.  In the southeastern portion of Gulfport’s system, near Clam Bayou, the system is occasionally overwhelmed by heavy rainfall events resulting in direct discharges of untreated sanitary sewer flows.  The Sanitary Sewer Overflow (SSO) volumes range from as small as 3,000 gallons per event, to as much as 255,000 gallons. There have been seven discharge events in the last 10 years, with two occurring this past summer as a result of tropical storm Debbie in June and heavy continued rains in August.  The project will construct a new 16” force main, connecting to an existing lift station at 29th Ave S and Miriam St S.  The new pipe would run north and east along the route of the existing inadequate force main and finally connect to an existing 48” St Petersburg owned gravity sewer at 22nd Ave S and 42nd St S. The pipe will eliminate discharges and provide significant water quality benefits to the Bayou and Bay.   Costs are associated with design, permitting and construction. Dimensions of pipe are: length 4,350 feet; diameter: 16”. Minor modifications to the master lift station and new flow meter are included.

Quantify Env Results:
Eliminating untreated discharges of sanitary sewer flows into and around Clam Bayou will eliminate pollutants associated with urban sewer systems such as oil and grease, chemicals, nutrients, metals, and bacteria. Wet weather SSOs contain a mixture of raw sewage, industrial wastewater and storm water, and have resulted in beach closings, shellfish bed closings, and aesthetic problems

Eco Benefits Text:
Water quality improvements will contribute to achieving target habitat and water quality goals as outlined in the TBEP CCMP. Gulfport and Pinellas County benefit greatly from activities associated with Tampa Bay and its related water resources. Beach closings, no fishing warnings, and other related warnings associated with SSO’s effects businesses that rely on tourists, the fishing industry, waterfront businesses such as restaurants, shops and events and property values. Clam Bayou Park is a significant recreational spot for kayaking and canoeing, wade fishing and bird watching. The Gulfport public beach is approximately 2300 feet west of the target area. The City of Gulfport very much relies on these types of businesses and activities for their and their citizen’s economic viability.

Jobs Text:
Sixteen full time equivalent jobs will be created or preserved. These jobs will be associated with the designing, permitting, inspecting, manufacturing the pipe and equipment, transporting materials, and constructing the project.

Habitat:
When a SSO occurs the treatment involves using granular chlorination of the area to kill bacteria per FDEP guidelines. The pollutants cause environmental damage to the benthic community and water column and so does chlorine treatment (more local).  Elimination of the pollutants and the treatment chlorine is estimated to positively affect to entire Clam Bayou as there are several manhole locations where SSO’s occur.

Pollutant Red:
There have been several incidences over the past 10 years with discharges ranging from 3,000 to 255,000 gallons of sanitary sewer overflow. These are just those associated with Gulfport.  St. Petersburg also has occurrences of SSO on the north and east side of Clam Bayou, and this project will reduce or eliminate those SSO’s as it will take flows out of that system.   As rainfall patterns appear to be producing more intense events, the probability of more frequent SSO discharges is more likely.

Living Resoruces:
The elimination of oil and grease, chemicals, nutrients, metals, and bacteria from this mixture of raw sewage, industrial wastewater and storm water will improve localized habitat for fisheries (prevent fish kills), protect birds reliant of these waters for a food source and  larger predator fish that frequent these backwater areas, such as dolphins. The TBEP CCMP has as a goal the reduction of waste water related discharges.

Resilience:
This project will eliminate a health hazard to people that could come in contact with tainted waters.

Added Justification:
St Petersburg also has SSO’s as a result of Gulfport’s contributions into their system. By upsizing the pipe and providing this alternative route into a much large St Petersburg pipe, not only will Gulfport’s SSO’s be eliminated, but so too will St Petersburg’s SSO’s at several locations that also discharge to the Clam Bayou and surrounding area. The net benefit is to resource would be double what is indicated above just for Gulfport.


ConInfo:
Dr. Stan Locker
University of South Florida
College of Marine Science

Submitting Organization:
University of South Florida
College of Marine Science

Title:
Benthic Habitat Mapping of the Southwest Florida Coastal Ecosystem

Desription:
We propose to map ecologically important benthic habitats (hardbottom, submerged aquatic vegetation and organic-rich mud) throughout Tampa Bay, Charlotte Harbor, and Sarasota Bay utilizing acoustic/sonar systems. Acoustic swath mapping (sidescan and bathymetry) will fill the void in benthic mapping where aerial/satellite methods are inadequate. Additionally, vertical beam QTC acoustic bottom classification will provide detailed maps of sediment type distribution, especially organic-rich mud accumulations that may be tied to anthropogenic inputs to the coastal environment in response to altered fresh water inflow or dredge and fill activities.  We will provide environmental baseline maps and quantitative assessment of bottom type for restoration planning and assessment. Confirmation of benthic communities will be made using SCUBA divers, underwater video cameras, or grab sampling.  We will emphasize the assessment of hard-bottom communities where the dominant species will be quantified and identified to the lowest practical taxon.  The acoustic mapping techniques are established methods previously used in select areas of the Ten Thousand Islands and Tampa Bay. To date, however, there has been no attempt to systematically map the entire bottom of these estuaries using acoustic methods.  After this baseline information has been obtained, we will have a much greater ability to manage, protect, and restore these ecologically important habitats.

Location:
Tampa Bay, Sarasota Bay, Charlotte Harbor

Quantify Env Results:
After we have completed the mapping and characterized the various hard-bottom communities, we will be able to calculate the area of each habitat type.

Eco Benefits Text:
These will be estimated based on the results of the mapping effort.

Habitat:
This will be based on the mapping effort.

Pollutant Red:
This can be calculated on the area of oyster habitat that is restored after we have identified likely areas for restoration.

Living Resoruces:
SAV, oyster reefs, hard-bottom communities

Added Justification:
This project will provide the needed baseline information in support of major actions cited in the Gulf of Mexico Regional Ecosystem Restoration Strategy, namely "restore depleted populations of living coastal and marine resources" and "restore and protect oyster and coral reefs, and other coastal environments".  This activity has also been identified in the Tampa Bay Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP) as a high priority research need.  Recognition of the ecological importance of natural hard-bottom communities (especially oyster bars and limestone outcroppings) has led to the inclusion of hard-bottom substrates as critical habitat in the Update of the Tampa Bay Habitat Restoration and Protection Master Plan.  Present and future threats to as yet unidentified hard-bottom communities in Tampa Bay include the expansion and improvement of harbors, marinas, and navigation channels and the installation of natural gas pipelines.
We propose to apply the same approach to all three estuaries so we have combined the areas as one proposal. Costs reflect 30 survey days plus field inspections per year, plus data processing, interpretation, GIS products, and reporting. An estimated timeline for effort, based on area, would be about 3 years in Tampa Bay, 2 years in Charlotte Harbor, and 1 year in Sarasota Bay. Each estuary may have some variation in focus that will be addressed though discussion and planning with management groups and local shareholders, starting with the Estuary Programs.


ConInfo:
Professor Mark E. Luther, University of South Florida, College of Marine Science

Submitting Organization:
University of South Florida, College of Marine Science

Title:
Climate Change Threats to Community Resilience on the Southwest Florida Coast

Desription:
simulate changes to the coastal environmental processes due to climate change that impact coastal community resilience

Location:
University of South Florida, College of Marine Science

Partners:
NOAA Coastal Services Center,
SECOORA, GCOOS

Resilience:
Enhanced knowledge of coastal threats resulting from climate change allowing for long-term planning and infrastructure modification/adaptation

Added Justification:
Tampa Bay and Sarasota Bay are both under threat from climate change. The most significant risk is from rising sea level and the resulting increased storm surge and coastal inundation, loss of barrier islands, and increased wave action. Less obvious but equally important to water quality within the bays are potential changes in bay hydrodynamics, particularly the natural flushing processes, due both to climate change and to human-built infrastructure. For example, alteration of bathymetry by the dredging of shipping channels and the construction of bridges and causeways have been shown to alter circulation and residence time in Tampa Bay. Understanding and quantifying these threats are essential for any future mediation or restoration efforts, and for maintaining/enhancing community resilience. We will use a realistic estuarine circulation model (domain shown in figure) and a surface wave model, both driven with observed or projected boundary conditions, including winds, offshore water level and salinity, and fresh water input, to study the impact of these threats under a several predicted climate scenarios.


ConInfo:
Dr. Susan S. Bell, Department of Integrative Biology, USF , Tampa

Submitting Organization:
Department of Integrative Biology, USF , Tampa

Title:
Enhanced monitoring of seagrass in Tampa Bay and Sarasota Bay to improve evaluation of restoration and system resilience

Desription:
We propose to expand present seagrass monitoring efforts in Tampa Bay and Sarasota Bay to provide new data to describe seagrass condition. Landscape analyses at a high spatial resolution and targeting areas of historic seagrass loss and gain in both estuaries will be conducted to document the pattern of changes in seagrass cover (fragmentation vs. directional loss/gain of patches vs. gap formation).  Also, tissue nutrient concentrations of seagrass blades at targeted sites will be conducted twice a year to document the C:N:P ratio of seagrass and evaluate whether these ratios are indicative of water quality conditions. These datasets can be used to help establish reference conditions for seagrass restoration and evaluate the capacity of seagrass systems to recover from disturbances, both products that contribute to the goals of the TBEP and SBEP CCMPs  and the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Task Force Strategic Plan.

Jobs Text:
4 fulltime, 2 part time Years 1-4; 3 fulltime
Year 5

Living Resoruces:
Seagrass; improved assessment of condition

Resilience:
Improve information on baseline conditions; can be used to develop metrics of resilience


ConInfo:
Peter Frederick Dept. Wildlife Ecology and Conservation

ConInfo-a:
P.O. Box 110430 University of Florida Gainesville FL. 32611

Title:
Restoration of Florida's Big Bend Oyster Reefs

Desription:
Targeted restoration of oyster reef habitat along 4.6 miles of degraded coastline to improve ecosystem function and services, including estuarine freshwater entrainment, living shoreline enhancement, and fishery habitat improvement. Unique local materials will be used for restoration, that have a proven track record in restoring oyster reefs.

Partners:
NOAA, The Nature Conservancy, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Cedar Key Oysterman’s Association, Levy County, Cedar Key Aquaculture Association

Status-all:
Permitting applied for, project design completed

Eco Benefits Text:
Nearly all project funds will be spent in Levy County, a significant boost to a depressed economy. Local fishermen will be employed for all aspects of restoration and monitoring. Restoration of oyster reef systems will lead to an increase in fishable sites, harvest of oysters and increase sportfishing opportunities. Ecosystem services enhanced or created include wave abatement, increased water filtration, freshwater retention for large sections of estuary, nursery habitat for sport and commercial fish, roost and feeding habitat for waterbirds, feeding habitat for two endangered sea turtle species.

Jobs Text:
41 jobs created, livelihoods for 22 oystermen preserved.

Habitat:
3.1 acres of oyster reef restored along 4.6 miles of coastline including 26 fishable reef gaps created or restored. 150 acres oyster reef and 7,850 acres of salt marsh protected by entraining freshwater in Lone Cabbage reef, 875 feet of urban waterfront protected with living shoreline.

Pollutant Red:
This project is not designed to remove pollutants and pollutants not a major issue in this section of coast.  However, the increase of oyster coverage will result in an increase in filtration of approximately 121 million gallons of water per day.

Living Resoruces:
Oyster reef: 153 acres. Salt Marsh: 7,850 acres. Living shoreline (oyster/marsh grass mix): 875 linear feet

Resilience:
Increase in oyster reefs results in entrainment of freshwater for large areas of estuary, resulting in resilience of the estuary and its services to drought and human over-use of fresh water.  Restoration of chains of oyster reefs result in significant reductions in shoreline erosion and wave abatement. Oyster harvest provides an important alternative income in the county especially during times when other fishing resources are not available. Creation of 26 high quality subtidal oyster sites will enhance fishable oyster resources. Sport fishing is enhanced by restoration of oyster reef and salt marsh habitat, both through direct restoration and through entrainment of freshwater inputs to much larger area. Development of oyster reef restoration methods using local materials is likely to lead to economically viable aquaculture of oysters over a much larger area, with a snowball effect on restored acres.


ConInfo:
Kelli Levy, Section Manager, Watershed Management, Pinellas County Department of Environment and Infrastructure,

Title:
Pinellas County Surface Water Quality Monitoring Program in Clearwater Harbor and St. Joseph Sound

Desription:
The program uses a combined EPA EMAP-based and stratified random sample site selection design for water quality sample collection in the Clearwater Harbor and St. Joseph Sound area. The EMAP part of the design allows for estimates, with confidence limits, of the percentage of surface area in Clearwater Harbor and St. Joseph Sound that meet water quality criteria. The stratified random part of the design allows for estimates of water quality metrics population means and confidence intervals. At stream and ditch sample sites, water quality and flow data are collected and used the assess impairment of water bodies and estimate volume discharge and nutrient loads to Clearwater Harbor and St. Joseph Sound.

Location:
Pinellas County waters within the Clearwater Harbor and St. Joseph Sound CCMP area and streams and ditches in the watershed that convey stormwater runoff to the Clearwater Harbor and St. Joseph Sound CCMP area

Quantify Env Results:
In Clearwater Harbor and St. Joseph Sound, the program design uses an EPA EMAP-based sample site selection. Estimates with confidence limits can be made of the surface area for geographic divisions within Clearwater Harbor and St. Joseph Sound that meets EPA or FDEP water quality criteria. For ditches and streams with continuous flow monitoring stations, estimates of volume discharges and nutrient loads to Clearwater Harbor and St. Joseph Sound are available.

Eco Benefits Text:
This program provides data for assessing impaired waters, sources of impairment, percentage of receiving water bodies that meet designated uses.

Pollutant Red:
This project will provide documentation of pollutant load reductions in streams, ditches, and canals that convey stormwater to Clearwater Harbor and St. Joseph Sound.


ConInfo:
Kelli Levy, Section Manager, Watershed Management, Pinellas County Department of Environment and Infrastructure

Title:
Pinellas County Surface Water Quality Monitoring Program within the Tampa Bay Estuary Program Boundary

Desription:
The program uses a combined EPA EMAP-based and stratified random sample site selection design for water quality sample collection in Tampa Bay waters in Pinellas County jurisdiction and Boca Ciega Bay. The EMAP part of the design allows for estimates with confidence limits of the percentage of surface area of Tampa Bay and Boca Ciega Bay that meet water quality criteria. The stratified random part of the design allows for estimates of water quality metrics population means and confidence intervals. At stream and ditch sample sites water quality and flow is collected and used the assess impairment of water bodies and estimate volume discharge and nutrient loads to Tampa Bay and Boca Ciega Bay.

Location:
Pinellas County waters within Tampa Bay Estuary Program Boundary and in Pinellas County watersheds that convey stormwater runoff to Tampa Bay and Boca Ciega Bay

Quantify Env Results:
In Tampa Bay waters in Pinellas County jurisdiction and Boca Ciega Bay, the program design uses an EPA EMAP-based sample site selection. Estimates with confidence limits can be made of the surface area for geographic divisions of Tampa Bay and Boca Ciega Bay that meets EPA or FDEP water quality criteria. For ditches and streams with continuous flow monitoring stations, estimates of volume discharges and nutrient loads to Tampa Bay and Boca Ciega Bay are available.

Pollutant Red:
This project will provide documentation of pollutant load reductions in streams, ditches, and canals that convey stormwater to Tampa Bay and Boca Ciega Bay.


ConInfo:
Kelli Levy,  Section Manager, Watershed Management, Pinellas County Department of Environment and Infrastructure

Title:
Northern Pinellas County Baseline Benthic Survey

Desription:
The County will collect 30 samples per year for a five year period.  The parameters measured include water quality (temperature, pH, conductivity, salinity, dissolved oxygen), sediment composition (% silt/clay, TOC), and sediment contaminants (metals, PAHs, PCB’s, pesticides).  Preserved samples will be sorted for benthic macroinvertebrates.  This information will provide a baseline data set of the health and diversity of benthic habitats in nearshore estuarine waters of Pinellas County beaches and intracoastal waterways north of the Narrows.  This project is a proposed action plan within the CCMP for Clearwater Harbor/St. Joseph Sound.  Pinellas County will partner with Hillsborough County EPC for sample analysis.

Location:
Clearwater Harbor and St. Joseph Sound, Northern Pinellas County, Florida

Eco Benefits Text:
This project will provide baseline data which will be used to make better informed resource management decisions.

Pollutant Red:
This project will not provide pollutant load reductions

Living Resoruces:
Increased knowledge of benthic communities will allow for better  management decisions.

Resilience:
This area is heavily utilized for both recreation and commercial fisheries.  The data will allow for better informed management decisions, for protecting and restoring benthic habitats in the area.

Added Justification:
There is very little data on the quality and distribution of benthic sediments in Clearwater Harbor and St. Joseph Sound.  A pilot project of 30 samples was conducted in 2009 as part of the development of the Clearwater Harbor and St. Joseph Sound Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP).  As a result of this study, the CCMP recommends a benthic sampling program be developed to provide a baseline characterization of sediment quality and benthic invertebrate community.


ConInfo:
Kimberly Tracy, Section Manager, Stormwater Management Section Manager, Pinellas County Department of Environment and Infrastructure

Title:
Pinellas County Cross Bayou Watershed Flood Control, Water Quality Improvements, and Habitat Restoration

Desription:
Tasks in this proposal will address storm water flood control and water quality issues in the Cross Bayou watershed. Habitat restoration will be part of these tasks. Storm water from the Cross Bayou watershed enters Old Tampa Bay to the north and Boca Ciega Bay to the South. Water quality will improve in both Tampa Bay and Boca Ciega Bay.

Quantify Env Results:
The number of acres and quality of restored habitats can be measured and monitored. Water quality in the Cross Bayou Canal can be monitored.

Eco Benefits Text:
Flood control tasks will reduce the probability of flooding.

Pollutant Red:
Baseline water quality data is available and can be used to compare to water quality after projects are completed.


Title:
Installation, Data Collection, and Maintenance of flow Stations in Pinellas County Streams in the Clearwater Harbor and St. Joseph Sound Watershed

Desription:
The Pinellas County Department of Environmental Management (PCDEM) conducts water quality monitoring at stations on a number of streams and canals/ditches in the Clearwater Harbor- St. Joseph Sound Watershed that currently do not have continuous flow monitoring stations.  At some stations flow is measured only eight times per year and at others not at all. Continuous flow measurements are needed to get the best possible estimates of annual pollutant loads.
These stations are located in basins in the watershed that are listed as, or likely to be listed as, impaired by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA. Total maximum daily loads (TMDLs), the maximum amounts (“loads”) of pollutants these streams and canals/ditches can receive without violating federal and state water quality standards, have been or will be developed by FDEP and USEPA.  The TMDLs will also specify the load reductions that will bring the impaired water bodies into compliance with existing water quality standards.

Location:
Pinellas County in the Clearwater Harbor- St. Joseph Sound Watershed

Quantify Env Results:
For ditches and streams with continuous flow monitoring stations, estimates of volume discharges and nutrient loads to Clearwater Harbor and St. Joseph Sound are available.

Eco Benefits Text:
This program provides better data for assessing impaired waters, total loads, and, percentage reductions needed to bring water bodies into compliance.


Title:
Pinellas County Roosevelt Creek Watershed Best Management Practice Alternatives

Desription:
This project consists of a subset of recommended best management practices listed in the Roosevelt Creek Watershed (L068) Best Management Practice (BMP) Alternatives, December 2009, Report.  
BMP 1: Connect Feather Sound Golf Course directly to Largo’s Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant’s reclaimed water.
BMP 2: Restoration of mosquito ditches to salt marsh habitat in the Gateway Tract.
BMP 4: Address flood control and water quality (dry treatment swales) at 40th Street and Carillon.
BMP 5: Address flooding and water quality (dry treatment swales) at 34th Street and 118th Ave.
BMP 6: Connect ponds in the Lakes subdivision with a smart box to provide wet detention water quality treatment.

Location:
Roosevelt Watershed in Pinellas County. Stormwater runoff from this watershed enters Old Tampa Bay which is within the Tampa Bay Estuary Program Boundary.

Quantify Env Results:
BMP 1 would reduce the amount of reclaimed water and nutrient loads reaching Old Tampa Bay. The decrease in reclaimed volume and loads could be estimated using City of Largo AWWTP data. For BMP 2 the area of restored habitat can be measured with GPS.  For BMP’s 4-6 model output is available to estimate nutrient load reductions.

Eco Benefits Text:
These BMP nutrient load reductions, paid for with Restore Act funds, would contribute to TMDL mandated nutrient load reductions for impaired waters in this watershed. This would reduce the cost from local funding sources of achieving TMDL load reductions.

Pollutant Red:
For BMP 1 the decrease in reclaimed volume and loads could be estimated using City of Largo AWWTP data. For BMP’s 4-6 model output is available to estimate nutrient load reductions... Load reductions are in the December 2009 report.


Title:
Random stratified seagrass sampling of Boca Ciega Bay and Feather Sound

Desription:
Assessment of Boca Ciega Bay and Feather Sound seagrass resources using a combination of stratified random transects and aerial photography.

Location:
Clearwater Harbor and St. Joseph Sound, northern Pinellas County

Quantify Env Results:
This program is designed to assess the seagrass resource including quantity (in acres) and species richness/variation in the Boca Ciega Bay and Feather Sound area.

Eco Benefits Text:
Seagrass meadows provide important ecological services to many species of vertebrates and invertebrates.  Seagrasses serve to stabilize sediment, filter nutrients and provide breeding and nursery areas for finfish and shellfish. Many species spend all or some portion of their life cycle in a seagrass habitat.  Manatees and sea turtles feed in seagrass meadows and bottlenose dolphins utilize the area as a nursery and for hunting.  
In addition the area provides both a commercial fishery for several species and recreational services to the citizens of the area.

Habitat:
Based upon the 2010 estimates using analysis of aerial photography, Boca Ciega Bay contains 8,500 acres of seagrass and Feather Sound contains 1,783 acres.

Resilience:
Protected and enhanced seagrass habitats will allow commercial and recreation fishing in the area to continue.

Added Justification:
Pinellas County currently conducts fixed seagrass transect monitoring as part of an ongoing resource assessment.  Fixed transect monitoring provides limited information.   A stratified random sampling design will increase the geographic extent and statistical defensibility of the seagrass monitoring program.  This information will be reinforced by aerial photography and analysis conducted in partnership with SWFWMD.  A more accurate data set will allow resource managers to make informed decisions regarding the protection and enhancement of the seagrass resource.


Title:
Clearwater Harbor and St. Joseph Sound Seagrass Monitoring and Assessment

Desription:
Assessment of Clearwater Harbor and St. Joseph Sound’s seagrass resources using a combination of stratified random transects and aerial photography. The County, in partnership with SWFWMD acquires aerial photography of the seagrass resource in the area and analyzes the imagery to develop an estimate of acreage of seagrass. Pinellas County currently conducts the stratified random seagrass surveys as part of an ongoing resource assessment and ground truthing of the aerial imagery acreage estimates.

Quantify Env Results:
This program is designed to assess the seagrass resource including quantity (in acres) and species richness/variation in the Clearwater Harbor/St. Joseph Sound area.

Eco Benefits Text:
Seagrass meadows provide important ecological services to many species of vertebrates and invertebrates.  Seagrasses serve to stabilize sediment, filter nutrients and provide breeding and nursery areas for finfish and shellfish. Many species spend all or some portion of their life cycle in a seagrass habitat.  Manatees and sea turtles feed in seagrass meadows and bottlenose dolphins utilize the area as a nursery and for hunting.  In addition the area provides both a commercial fishery for several species and recreational services to the citizens of the area.

Habitat:
Based upon the 2010 estimates, the area contains in excess of 17,000 acres of seagrass.  Accurate data will allow resource managers to make informed decisions regarding the protection and enhancement of the seagrass resource.

Added Justification:
According to the Clearwater Harbor/St. Joseph Sound Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP) the seagrass resource in the area is showing a positive or stable trend.  Taking into account non-restorable areas such as navigation channels, dredge and fill areas and causeways, the targets set by the CCMP are protective.  This area is a valuable resource in need of management and protection.


Desription:
In compliance with State and Federal requirements, Pinellas County will initiate at Biological Monitoring program for its creeks, conveyances and lakes.

Quantify Env Results:
Number of streams and lakes assessed according to State biological monitoring protocols.

Added Justification:
In 2012, The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) promulgated numeric nutrient water quality standards in Chapters 62-302 (Water Quality Standards) and 62-303 (Identification of Impaired Surface Waters) of the Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.).  Pursuant to these new regulations, an evaluation of water chemistry, biological data (flora and fauna), and physical information is used to determine if a water body’s nutrient concentrations are protective of balanced flora and fauna.  Pinellas County plans to conduct biological monitoring of all of its waterways to support the assessments conducted by FDEP in the determination of impairment. These data will also be combined with other available data in the prioritization and planning of water quality studies aiming to determine and eliminate pollutant sources in impaired and TMDL-established waters. Collection of the biological health data will augment the County’s ability to understand the overall health of its systems by providing an integrated measure of their environmental condition.


ConInfo:
Lindsay Cross, Tampa Bay Estuary Program

Title:
Tampa Bay Critical Coastal Habitat Assessment

Desription:
This project will develop a long-term monitoring program to assess critical coastal habitats and any associated changes to their ecological function within the Tampa Bay watershed.

Partners:
Counties of Pinellas, Manatee and Hillsborough; Cities of Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Tampa; Southwest Florida Water Management District

Quantify Env Results:
This project will initiate a long-term coastal habitat assessment program to monitor critical coastal habitats and detect changes due to sea level rise and other in-direct anthropogenic impacts. This will be a multi-scale approach, including bay-wide aerial photography analyses of land use/land cover to detect large-scale changes in habitat extent and coverage; bay segment-scale analyses of changes in habitat zonation and extent; and transect-level ground-truthing and characterization of habitat condition. It is estimated that 10 transects, along with randomly generated points, will be monitored throughout the Tampa Bay watershed on an annual basis. A database will be created to establish the “baseline” conditions and will be updated with each subsequent event as a way to track and quantify changes.

Eco Benefits Text:
Coastal habitats, especially wetlands provide numerous economic benefits including flood control, storm surge amelioration, and coastal protection. Saltwater wetlands are estimate to provide $250-2,5000+ per hectare restored; based on EPA Ecosystem Services valuation project in Tampa Bay, http://www.gecoserv.org/)

Jobs Text:
This project will create or preserve five full-time equivalency positions each year, which will be hired on a contract basis.

Habitat:
Project will lead to improved design and construction of habitat restoration projects. Conservation and preservation acreage may vary depending on monitoring locations and resulting restoration projects.

Pollutant Red:
Coastal habitats such as salt marsh and mangroves naturally attenuate nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorous. Maintaining and increasing acreage of both estuarine and freshwater wetlands will help to reduce the quantity of pollutants entering Tampa Bay. Constructed wetlands are estimated to reduce total nitrogen concentrations by 25%, total phosphorous by 35% and total suspended solids by 75%. Current (2007/2008) acreages of seagrass, mangroves, salt marsh and salt barrens was 49,628 acres. The Tampa Bay Estuary Program (TBEP) and partners have established a goal of increasing this acreage to 60,739 acres; this additional 11,111 acres will improve pollutant reductions to Tampa Bay. The actual quantity of pollutants reduced will vary depending on the monitoring sites selected.

Living Resoruces:
This project will improve the management and restoration of coastal marine habitats including, but not limited to, mangroves, salt marsh, tidal flats, salt barrens, coastal freshwater wetlands, and coastal uplands; as well as the faunal species that inhabitant them. These include estuarine dependent nekton (Snook, red drum, spot, mullet, sawfish, blue crab, pink shrimp, etc.) and estuarine dependent avifauna (roseate spoonbills, egrets, herons, eagles, hawks, pelicans). Results will enable land managers and land protection agencies to better evaluate and plan for habitat acquisition and restoration, ensuring that monies are used efficiently for long-term habitat protection.

Resilience:
This project will inform scientists and managers on how to improve the resilience of critical coastal habitats by monitoring the impact of climate change and other indirect anthropogenic impacts. Increased resiliency of vital coastal habitats will also provide protection for habitats and infrastructure upslope. This project may also inform environmental managers where to enhance or restore habitats as a way to soften impacts from storm impacts and other natural disasters.

Added Justification:
The critical coastal habitat assessment project will provide a baseline for which changes related to global climate change and sea level rise can be compared and evaluated in the future. Information garnered from these integrated monitoring programs will help scientists and managers understand future impacts to estuarine and coastal habitats and help determine the best strategy to manage these resources.


Title:
Tampa Bay Interagency Seagrass Monitoring Program

Desription:
This project will help to protect and conserve seagrass resources through an effective, long-term, annual seagrass monitoring program of 62 transects within Tampa Bay.

Partners:
Counties of Pinellas, Manatee and Hillsborough; Southwest Florida Water Management District; Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute; Tampa Bay Watch

Quantify Env Results:
This project will aid in the development of effective management strategies for protecting and restoring seagrass in Tampa Bay. The Tampa Bay Estuary Program (TBEP) has a goal of restoring or protecting 38,000 acres of seagrass in Tampa Bay. Since the mid-1980s, more than 6,000 acres have been recovered, however, continued emphasis on pollution reduction and abatement of other seagrass stressors will be necessary to reach the overall goal. Through this long-term monitoring program, Tampa Bay area researchers are able to assess where seagrass restoration and protection efforts are succeeding or where different management strategies should be employed. This project may result in the protection and/or restoration of > 1,000 acres of seagrass, which will be measured through transect monitoring, as well as aerial seagrass photography.

Eco Benefits Text:
Restoring seagrass is a primary goal of the Tampa Bay Estuary Program (TBEP), as outlined in its Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP), and is a target habitat in the federal Estuary Restoration Act because of its importance to many estuarine-dependent species. Seagrass is utilized by fishes of ecological, economic, and conservation importance in Tampa Bay (including red drum, common snook, spotted seatrout, and seahorses), and provides food for endangered Florida manatees and sea turtles, including loggerhead and Kemp’s ridley.

Jobs Text:
This project will support 30 full-time employees at multiple Tampa Bay agencies on a seasonal basis each fiscal year

Habitat:
Effective monitoring of seagrass will conserve the existing 32,897 acres of seagrass, as well as inform management decisions to restore 5,103 acres of seagrass.

Pollutant Red:
Seagrasses can reduce nutrient pollution by uptaking nitrogen species, especially ammonium, into the leaf blades and roots. Specific pollutant reduction potential has not been calculated for Tampa Bay seagrass, however, research from other estuarine areas at 6 µmol N/gram of dry leaf weight (Stapel et. al, 1996). Seagrasses also provide other water quality improvements through the trapping of particulates and sediment from the water column.

Living Resoruces:
This project will benefit seagrass species in Tampa Bay, a target habitat in the federal Estuary Restoration Act, and the myriad other species it supports, including ecologically- and economically-important fish species, scallops, seahorses, Florida manatees and sea turtles.

Resilience:
Seagrasses improve coastal resiliency by stabilizing sediments and are an important estuarine habitat that grows in shallow waters seaward of other estuarine habitats, such as mangroves and salt marsh. All of these coastal habitats support estuarine-dependent species and can help minimize impacts from weather events and natural disasters.

Added Justification:
The budget assumes a cost of $600/transect with an annual 3% increase. Geostatistically-based data analyses and reporting will occur every four years at a cost of $50,000 in FY 13/14 and $55,000 in FY17/18. The project will fund an additional one full-time equivalency consultant during FY13/14 and FY17/18 to perform geostatistically-based data analyses and reporting. The full suite of transects and data analyses cannot be completed at the current time without RESTORE funding.


ConInfo:
James K. Culter, Senior Scientist, Mote Marine Laboratory

ConInfo-a:
1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236

Title:
Community Based Shellfish Restoration 
Central Florida West Coast

Desription:
Project will be the development of a new multi-institute and trans-disciplinary Research Initiative on restoration of Florida estuarine shellfish populations from Anna Maria Sound to Charlotte Harbor with the focus on three keystone species, the Bay scallop, oysters and the hard clam. A primary focus will be on conducting a science-based and best-practices restocking endeavor that will result in long-term self-sustaining populations of scallops, clams and oysters in Sarasota Bay. The project will be built around the “Responsible Approach” principles to hatchery-based restoration efforts. A new paradigm will be employed for integration of local grassroots community engagement in the research, restoration, monitoring program, and adaptive management needed for success.  The strategy for the Shellfish Restoration Initiative consists of assembling a cooperative community based consortium to implement science based restoration and monitoring of populations of the bay scallop, Argopecten irradians.  The principal expense of shellfish hatcheries is labor.  This project will draw from a large pool of dedicated volunteer citizen-scientists in the Bradenton, Sarasota, Venice communities to work alongside aquaculture experts to produce shellfish, thus markedly reducing the inherent labor expenses and ramping-up community involvement in a popular restoration effort. The project will draw on local stakeholders and common interests of existing organizations including Mote Marine Laboratory, Mote Aquaculture Research Park, Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, Sarasota Bay Watch, Bay Shellfish, Inc., New College, University of South Florida, University of Florida, Nagano University in Japan, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and NOAA-Fisheries.

Location:
Sarasota Bay and Charlotte Harbor systems, from Anna Maria Sound to Estero Bay. Counties: Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee.

Partners:
Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, Charlotte Harbor Estuary Program, FWCC, Sarasota Bay Watch, Bay Shellfish, Inc.

Status-all:
Project conceptual design is complete.  Restoration goals have been determined by regional working groups. Partnerships are in place. Individual parties have applied for or have in place the necessary permits for shellfish collection, research, aquaculture, and stock enhancement.

Quantify Env Results:
The density of adult shellfish per unit area in the areas of focus will be the primary measure of success. Number of citizen participants will be a measure of the success of the citizen scientist education and training.

Eco Benefits Text:
The Value of ecosystems service improvements is estimated at $  In 2002 the value of a seasonal shellfish recreational harvest was estimated by University of Florida to be $1.64 million for Citrus County businesses through tourism, lodging, and associated businesses.  If this program is successful and recreational shellfish harvests are resumed in the study area Counties the economic benefits could be $6.6 million per year. Ecosystem services: Trophic energy transfer, increase biodiversity, support of various predators, turbidity reductions, enhanced bacterial denitrification, sequestration of nutrients in bottom sediments.  Carbon deposited in shells is sequestered for decades and possibly centuries. Oyster reefs that fringe the shoreline also tend to stabilize sediment. The reduction in suspended sediment in adjacent waters improves water clarity, thereby possibly providing better opportunities for establishment of seagrasses and other species. In addition to playing an important nutrient cycling role, some species of bivalve shellfish such as oysters and mussels form complex structures that provide refuge or hard substrate for other species of marine plants and animals to colonize, thereby enhancing biodiversity.  Ecosystem modeling suggests that restoring shellfish populations to even a modest fraction of their historic abundance could improve water quality and aid in the recovery of seagrasses, which can further reduce sediment resuspension and improve light conditions. In addition, researchers suggest that robust populations of shellfish can suppress harmful blooms of phytoplankton, such as the “brown tides” that have occurred along the mid-Atlantic coast, and help modulate blooms of other types of harmful plankton, including “red tides”.

Habitat:
Unable to accurately determine.  Potential impact area consists of thousands of acres of submerged wetlands through long term propagation of keystone shellfish species.

Pollutant Red:
It is not possible to quantify pollutant load reductions. Oysters and scallops can filter as much as 5 liters of water per hour thus converting primary production into biomass.  Filter feeding bivalves filter significant quantities of suspended particulates from the water column and reduce the quantity of phytoplankton in the water column.  Bivalves are a key component for trophic energy transformation from primary production to fisheries biomass. Juvenile and adult shellfish are a key prey item of birds, fishes, elasmobranchs (such as rays) and even intertidal mammal predators such as raccoons and opossums.

Living Resoruces:
Bivalve shellfish will be improved. Namely large scale regional stock enhancement of the bay scallop, Argopectin irradians, stock enhancement of the hard clam, Mercenaria sp. and oyster habitat restoration.

Resilience:
Filter feeding bivalves are recognized by the National Academy of Sciences (2010) as keystone species which are critical for a balanced ecosystem. Bivalves remove particulate matter from the water column contributing to enhanced water clarity which promotes expansion of healthy seagrass habitat.

Added Justification:
In addition to nutrient processing, water clarification, and energy trophic transfer mollusks sequester carbon for long periods through the production of calcium carbonate in the shell, an important consideration cited in the National Academy of Sciences 2010 report.


ConInfo:
Erin L. Pulster, MSc, Senior Chemist; Dana L. Wetzel, PhD, Senior Scientist & Program Manager

Title:
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon levels in sediments from three estuaries along the southwestern coast of Florida

Desription:
Quantifying baseline or background levels of environmental contaminants (i.e., PAHs) are crucial in the event our coastline is impacted by a major event such as the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.  Without these values it would be difficult to ascertain the level of damage or impact on the environment.  Additionally, establishing the current health and condition of the sediments, in terms of pollutant loads, is critical in determining remediation and restoration locations.   Sediment composition and contaminant levels can define the type and productivity of an aquatic ecosystem.  As such, contaminated sediments adversely affect aquatic ecology on a fundamental level, causing health impairments to infauna, as well as to saltmarsh vegetation, pelagic fish, and other wildlife resources at a wide range of trophic levels.  Therefore, this study proposes to collect sediment samples from Tampa Bay, Sarasota Bay and Charlotte Harbor estuaries to analyze for levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) as a result of the recent Deepwater Horizon oil spill.  Sediments will be collected four times a year to determine hot spots or areas of concern and determine seasonal changes in pollutant loads that can result from storm water run-off, watershed inputs and bioturbation or resuspended contaminants from storm events.  All of these inputs must be effectively monitored in order to document the present pollutant loadings and to track the progress of future remediation and restoration efforts.   Sediment assessments in concert with remediation and restoration efforts are essential to creating sustainable management practices to allow impacted estuaries and bays to recover.

Location:
Tampa Bay, Sarasota Bay and Charlotte Harbor estuaries

Partners:
MML will work with partners from the TBEP, SBEP, CHNEP, USF, and FWRI in the design, planning and implementation stages.

Status-all:
This project is currently in the initial design phase and does not anticipate the need for special permitting.

Quantify Env Results:
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) will be confirmed and quantified in collected sediment samples based on EPA and NOAA methods.  Briefly, sediment samples will be analyzed using a gas chromatograph coupled with a mass spectrometer to identify PAHs.  Levels of PAHs will be quantified using the slope and y-intercept generated by a 6-point calibration curve.

Eco Benefits Text:
Restoring Florida’s coastal resources will help preserve and protect Florida’s tourism industry ($57 billion economic impact), coastal economy ($562 billion economic impact) and the recreational fishing industry ($3 billion economic impact).

Jobs Text:
There will be 2 jobs preserved as a direct result of the project.  In addition, a part-time position and several student internships will be created for project support.

Habitat:
The amount of habitat restored will depend on the results of the sediment analyses which will identify areas needing remediation and restoration.

Pollutant Red:
Evaluating sediments can help to identify point sources of contaminants which will assist regional managers, decision makers and regulation agencies in addressing remediation efforts and pollutant reduction guidelines or standards.

Living Resoruces:
Improving the health of the sediments will ultimately improve the health of the entire aquatic ecosystem within the estuary.  Some PAHs are known carcinogens while others have been associated with sublethal effects, such as kidney, liver and DNA damage.  Thereby, eliminating exposure to PAHs will enhance the overall health of organisms within the estuaries.

Resilience:
Clean sediments can result in quicker recovery times and increased diversity of estuarine flora and fauna in impacted areas.

Added Justification:
Analyzing the sediments along the western coast of southwest Florida would address five of the six high priority goals outlined by the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Task Force Science Coordination Team (Walker et al., 2012).  Analyzing sediments for contaminant levels can assist in evaluating the health of coastal habitats (Goal 1), living coastal and marine resources (Goal 2), coastal communities including storm buffers (Goal 3,4) and inland habitats and watersheds (Goal 5).


Title:
Predicting and Monitoring Seagrass Restoration Success – The Role of Epiphyte Attenuation

Desription:
Seagrasses are a keystone ecological community and losses have resulted historically when water quality is elevated in nutrients and/or degraded in clarity.  Reducing nutrients forms the basis of most seagrass restoration efforts, by seeking to alleviate light limitation and enhance depths and resultant acreages.  Seagrass light requirements as measured in the water column, however, appear to vary significantly between geographic regions.  Ongoing modeling and spectral modeling are advancing the science and permit evaluation of which water quality component must be controlled to most effectively improve water clarity but significant attenuators affecting the overall light received by seagrasses, the attached epiphytes and epibionts, have yet to be systematically quantified.  Epiphytes are typically proportional to nutrient concentrations and loads and in some cases can block between 10-98% of the light remaining at depth.  Consideration of the contributions of epiphytes is essential for refining seagrass light requirements, for evaluating needed nutrient load reductions for successful seagrass restoration, and for ensuring that water quality targets and management efforts are appropriately focused.
          This project will make use of existing fieldwork by 21 organizations and agencies which presently sample over 500 transects or locations at least annually for a variety of estimates of seagrass composition and health.  Epiphytes are presently characterized only qualitatively during the surveys.  Additional locations (400-600) are ground-truthed by SWFWMD as part of the biannual aerial mapping of seagrass.  The sampling range will be from the Springs Coast to Rookery Bay and includes estuarine waters.  All field crews contacted and listed in the “Partners” section have agreed to collect shoots for the measurement of epiphyte attenuation during the regularly scheduled surveys conducted towards the end of the growing season.  The combined value of the sampling effort represents a cost share to the proposed project that is conservatively estimated at over $175,000.  Stations for shoot collection and determination of epiphyte attenuation will be a subset of the entire monitoring network (~300) based on proximity of existing water quality data and regional station density, and will be designed to capture a wide range of nutrient concentrations.  Data analysis will link observed qualitative epiphyte attenuation with measured attenuation, and will evaluate attenuation as a function of water quality data collected under existing water quality programs. (The cost if the water quality sampling and analysis represents an additional significant cost share that is not reflected in the overall project cost.)  Seasonal variations in epiphyte attenuation will be determined at a few selected stations near the midpoint of the region.  Seasonal and annual estimates of epiphyte attenuation will be applied to existing seagrass light limits and depth ranges to evaluate true seagrass light requirements and to predict the nutrient reductions which will accomplish desired seagrass restoration.  The resulting management tool will be applicable to all restoration projects in which desired downstream impacts include protection or restoration of seagrass and will support the strategic goals of reducing the flow of excess nutrients to the Gulf.

Location:
SW Florida coast and estuaries – Springs Coast to Rookery Bay (including Levy, Citrus, Hernando, Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee, and Collier Counties) (from 28º59’41.17” 82º45’51.60” along the coast to 25º58’48.40” 81º44’30.17”; study conducted from approximate midpoint in Sarasota, 27º19’58.17” 82º34’39.08”)

Partners:
Work partners agreeing to participate in the project include: AMEC Environment and Infrastructure, Inc., Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserve (AP), CHNEP, City of Naples, Cockroach Bay AP, Estero Bay AP, FDEP-S, FDEP-SW, FWRI, HCEPC, Hillsborough Cty–Stormwater, Manatee Cty, Pinellas Cty, Rookery Bay NERR, Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation, Sarasota Cty, SBEP, SFWMD, SWFWMD, Tampa Bay Watch, TBEP

Eco Benefits Text:
Protection of seagrass resources valued at between $1,417-$20,500/acre/year (higher value includes benefits of nutrient cycling), for a total value of between $723M-$10.4B per year.

Jobs Text:
There will be 2.5 jobs preserved directly over the life of the project through project activities,

Habitat:
Enhanced protection of 510,584 acres of seagrass habitat between the Springs Coast and Rookery Bay.

Pollutant Red:
This work will quantify the relationship between nutrients and epiphyte attenuation in order to protect seagrasses and can identify to what levels nutrients should be reduced, permitting focused and successful management.

Resilience:
Increased knowledge of seagrass requirements can be incorporated into planning efforts for climate change and sea level rise.

Added Justification:
The management tool of a predictive relationship of epiphyte attenuation as a function of nutrient concentrations will permit the impacts of watershed and estuarine restoration projects to be assessed with respect to seagrasses.  The extent of coastline to be sampled, including the estuaries of Tampa Bay, Sarasota Bay and Charlotte Harbor, appears in Figure 1.


ConInfo:
Thomas Ash, General Manager III
Environmental Protection Commission of Hillsborough County (EPC)

Title:
Water Quality Monitoring: Supporting Adaptive Management of Programs and Projects Designed to Restore and Improve Water Quality.

Desription:
Continue to provide long-term water quality monitoring, laboratory analyses, and data management services to support comprehensive conservation & management initiatives and the Reasonable Assurance criteria for TMDL’s for Florida’s largest estuary.

Partners:
Tampa Bay Estuary Program, Hillsborough County Public Utilities, City of Tampa, SWFWMD, FDEP, Manatee County, Pinellas County.

Quantify Env Results:
Results are measured by the ability to make informed management and policy decisions based on comprehensive, long-term, empirical data that spans 4 decades and supports nearly every other environmental initiative and research project in the Tampa Bay area.

Eco Benefits Text:
The economic benefit is in supporting a long-established, proven, and respected program that is already operational and has 40 years of experience and existing data. There would be no start-up time, no learning curve, little or no capital outlay, and no need to staff-up unless the program is expanded beyond its’ existing parameters. The economic stability of the region is dependent on tourism, recreation, and public health. Economic revitalization is absolutely tied to water quality and the health and clarity of Tampa Bay and its tributaries.

Resilience:
Most community resilience efforts, whether for sea level rise, climate change, or post-disaster planning, are heavily reliant on computer modeling. Models are only as good as the empirical data that is used to run them, therefore it is critical to have long-term monitoring programs that can provide those data that will both establish a baseline condition and allow for more accurate forecasting.

Added Justification:
Local monitoring programs, in collaboration with federal and state partners, provide the scientific community with the tools necessary to assess current water quality information, identify gaps in core information needs and performance measures, and develop long-term strategies for resource management that build on existing efforts; including assessment of nutrients, HABs, and other water quality parameters. Adaptive management will help determine the efficacy of restoration actions through a focused effort of monitoring, modeling and research to support effective management and decision-making. Incomplete data make it difficult to quantify changes and to determine if restoration and protection measures are successful. Maintaining and/or expanding existing long-term water quality monitoring programs in the Tampa Bay area is the key to supporting adaptive management that will meet the scientific and economic needs of the CCMP and the RESTORE Act. Monitoring, modeling, and research development activities should be integrated from the initial stages of restoration planning through to decision-making to ensure a science-based approach for the success of actions undertaken.


ConInfo:
David Karlen, Ph.D.,  General Manager I
Environmental Protection Commission of Hillsborough County (EPC)

Desription:
Continue to provide annual bay-wide benthic monitoring and increase sample size to increase density of coverage throughout Tampa Bay to approximately 94 samples per year (from current level of 64). This will greatly enhance the program’s ability to detect changes in the benthic infaunal community and sediment contaminant levels and provide more scientifically robust data to support adaptive management plans in Tampa Bay. The parameters measured include benthic macroinvertebrates; water quality, sediment composition (% silt/clay, TOC), and sediment contaminants (metals, PAHs, PCB’s, pesticides). Our past data has been used in support of the TBEP CCMP and for the development of Sediment Quality Action Plans for various areas within Tampa Bay.

Location:
Tampa Bay and Hillsborough County ~ 27.783219, -82.525453

Partners:
TBEP (program administration), EPCHC (field collection and coordination, lab processing, data analysis) Pinellas County (field collection), Manatee County (field collection),

Quantify Env Results:
Program is designed to monitor long-term changes in the benthic infaunal community, sediment and water quality and quantify these spatially. Sediment and water quality data collected is evaluated based on Florida state and federal standards and benthic community data is evaluated through standard diversity measures, statistical and multivariate analysis and the Tampa Bay Benthic Index among other indices.

Eco Benefits Text:
Tampa Bay is the single most important economic engine in the region. By better identifying possible areas of environmental concern, resource managers and elected officials can make informed management and policy decisions based on sound, empirical data. This capability, in turn, drives decisions related to the economic stability of the region (tourism, public health, recreation, quality-of-life, and economic revitalization).

Resilience:
Program will provide baseline data for detecting environmental changes due to human impacts or climate change.

Added Justification:
Data is also used for identifying target areas for restoration and developing management plans for evaluating post-restoration effectiveness. Requested funding includes $100,000 in initial capital equipment to purchase a new Gas Chromotography/Mass Spectrometer to replace our current 18 year old equipment. This will increase our laboratory capabilities to handle the increased sample load with greater efficiency.


ConInfo:
Laura Thorne, General Manager II
Environmental Protection Commission of Hillsborough County (EPC)

Title:
Artificial Reef Community Monitoring Program

Desription:
Partner with multiple agencies to collaborate on Artificial Reef Community Monitoring Program that will allow citizens, local dive charters, local scientific divers, and anglers to take part in a community monitoring and reporting program for the artificial reefs of Tampa Bay.

Partners:
(Potential) Water Atlas, TRUE Divers, Florida Aquarium Scientific Divers, Pinellas County

Quantify Env Results:
Community based monitoring of the artificial reefs of Tampa Bay will allow for measurements to be taken year round both from fishing methods and diving surveys. Data collected will then be used to track trends and also analyze changes to the communities which could alert resource managers to potential problems or changes to the bay water quality. Measurements will be made using post fishing surveys and dive surveys by local volunteer research divers.

Eco Benefits Text:
Economic benefits include having knowledge about the production of the reefs for recreational fishing and allowing for informed management decisions to maintain functional fishing habitat as well as a warning system to alert resources managers to the introduction or proliferation of invasive species.

Resilience:
Understanding how artificial reefs function and changes in health from catastrophic events can help managers utilize and design reefs that will minimize impacts or increase recovery time in the future.

Added Justification:
There are eight artificial reefs in Tampa Bay, see attached map. The goal of the program will be to collect geo-referenced fish, macrofauna, and physical attributes of the reefs and use the data to analyze trends and be alerted to unexpected changes. The objectives to reach that goal will be to establish a recreational fisherman reporting program, establish a volunteer dive reporting program.  Three methods of recording data will be utilized: 1) Recreational fishermen will be able to report catch data on a form on the WaterAtlas webpage, 2) Volunteer scientific divers, and trained recreational divers will report data on a form on the Water Atlas and 3) EPC staff will use side scan SONAR to monitor the physical attributes of the reefs. The data collected can then be used to augment the data collected by the hardbottom study that addresses the types and extents of hardbottom in Tampa Bay.


Title:
Hardbottom Inventory and Analysis to Improve Essential Fish Habitat Management in Tampa Bay

Desription:
Survey and map hardbottom habitats in Tampa Bay using side scan sonar and conduct bioassessment surveys at selected random locations. Collected data will be used to inventory and map these Essential Fish Habitats and evaluate the effectiveness of existing artificial reefs in simulating natural hardbottom communities. Final results will be compiled in a document to guide future management of these important habitats in Tampa Bay.

Partners:
(Potential) Teen Research Underwater Explorers (TRUE) Dive Team, a 501(c)3 program, Florida Aquarium Scientific Divers, Pinellas County

Eco Benefits Text:
According to a recent socio-economic study expenditures on artificial reef-related activities generate nearly $27 million in net economic impacts annually that support 284 full- and part-time jobs. An inventory would not only allow for preservation of existing locations but help address future restoration, mitigation and creation which in turn support the activities that depend on these resources.

Resilience:
Sites for restoration and characteristics of hardbottom can be used by resource managers to minimize shore impacts and be alerted to changes in health to the reefs or populations living on the reefs to reduce reaction time and increase the ability to identify the source of the change. In the event of a future catastrophe, damage can be assessed and a plan created to restore where needed.

Added Justification:
Hardbottom inventory in Tampa Bay has been listed in TBEP’s Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan as High Priority project. It is unclear how many acres of natural hard-bottom communities have been lost in Tampa Bay, impacts to these vital habitats are not easily mitigated and greater recognition and protection is warranted.  The rocky substrate provides an ideal surface for colonization by a wide variety of sponges, corals and other marine invertebrates, which in turn attract large numbers of fish. Results from this project would be expected to assist others in designing and locating appropriate sites for restoration projects.


Desription:
The Environmental Protection Commission of Hillsborough County’s Pollution Recovery Fund is governed by Chapter 1-9, Rules of the Environmental Protection Commission for the purpose of funding restoration of polluted areas, the mitigation of the effects of pollution and to otherwise enhance pollution control activities within Hillsborough county.

Location:
Tampa Bay and Hillsborough County, ~ 27.907319, -82.342915

Partners:
Organizations focused on the restoration, protection, and environmental education of Hillsborough County and Tampa Bay.

Quantify Env Results:
The Pollution Recovery Fund was established by Chapter 84-446, Laws of Florida as part of the enabling legislation that created the Environmental Protection Commission of Hillsborough County. Since then, over 1200 acres of restoration has taken place through coastal upland and wetland habitat restoration, seagrass recovery, and living shorelines projects.

Eco Benefits Text:
The grant funds help to offset costs and, in many cases, leverage additional state and federal funding for projects involving various not-for-profits, NGO’s, and private entities.

Jobs Text:
3 preserved. However, funding these projects also allows local businesses that apply (consulting, engineering, construction) create and maintain jobs in the critical small business sector.

Added Justification:
This program has typically funded 5 to 15 projects annually for restoration, plantings, environmental education, scientific research, remediation projects, and other pollution abatement or restoration related activities for over 20 years. Since the program is funded through administrative penalties, the amount collected each year can vary greatly. New projects have not been awarded since 2009 due to the economic downturn and a corresponding drop in development related enforcement activities.  Monies are being requested to offset the diminished funds in order to be able to administer the program and continue working with the many organizations, schools, non-profits, and private companies in the Tampa Bay area to restore critical habitats in Hillsborough County and Tampa Bay.


Title:
City of Bradenton Stormwater Facility Plan Water Quality Improvements

Desription:
Implement water quality priority projects from the 2006 Stormwater Facility Plan (priority projects 13, 14 and 15).

Quantify Env Results:
Remove 20 tons of sediment per year from entering Manatee River measured by tons taken to landfill

Resilience:
Reduce water quality hazards; reduce coastal street flooding


Desription:
Purchase third (3rd) street sweeper to supplement existing two (2)

Quantify Env Results:
Remove 300 tons of additional sediment per year from entering Manatee River measured by tons taken to landfill (total of three sweepers: 900)

Pollutant Red:
300 tons additional sediment per year (total of three sweepers: 900 tons per year)


ConInfo:
Peter A. Clark, President
Tampa Bay Watch, Inc.

ConInfo-a:
3000 Pinellas Bayway South
Tierra Verde, FL  33715

Title:
Bayshore Boulevard Seawall Oyster Dome Fields

Desription:
This project represents the final phase of a multi-year effort to install Lo Pro Reef Balls, or oyster domes, along the Bayshore Boulevard seawall in the City of Tampa.  Approximately 16,000 linear feet of seawall (more than 3 miles) will receive 10,622 oyster domes in two rows at the base of the seawall.  The marine friendly concrete Reef Balls allow oyster attachment that provides critical hard bottom habitat for fish and wildlife resources, improve water quality conditions through biological filtration and provide seawall toe protection along Bayshore Boulevard.

Historically, Hillsborough Bay has suffered the worst water quality impacts in Tampa Bay due to the heavily urbanized nature of the watershed, stormwater loadings, and discharges from the largest wastewater treatment plant in the State of Florida.  Oysters are mother nature’s biological filters.  Oyster reefs filter out nutrients and algae 24 hours a day / seven days a week.  A mature oyster can filter up to 9.8 gallons of saltwater every hour.  The addition of 10,662 oyster reef domes across 7.7 acres of unvegetated, urbanized shoreline area represents a sizable opportunity to enhance water quality and habitat conditions in Tampa Bay.

Location:
Bayshore Boulevard, City of Tampa, Hillsborough Bay segment of Tampa Bay, Florida

Partners:
City of Tampa, Bayshore Beautiful Homeowners Association, Coastal Conservation Association of Tampa Bay

Status-all:
The first three phases have been permitted and construction completed.  The final phase will be permitted in 2013, with construction anticipated to start in the spring of 2014.

Quantify Env Results:
Estuaries such as Tampa Bay are among the most productive ecosystems in the world. More than 85 percent of all fish and shellfish spend some part of their lives in estuarine waters. Today, after a century of intensive urban and industrial shoreline development, the character and ecology of Florida’s largest estuary, Tampa Bay, has been severely altered.  Coastal wetland losses, exacerbated by shoreline erosion and reductions in water quality, have resulted in major declines in fisheries and wildlife dependent on these habitats during a portion of their life cycles.  

The newly created oyster dome fields will benefit the Tampa Bay estuary by promoting water quality through biological filtering of the water, providing habitat for small marine organisms, preventing further erosion and creating foraging areas and sanctuary for many species of fish and wildlife.  

Tampa Bay Watch will monitor the newly created oyster dome fields every six months for two years.  The oyster dome program will consist of the following monitoring plan developed in accordance with the NOAA Restoration Center’s Project monitoring and evaluating requirements and the Restore America’s Estuary (RAE) reporting requirements.  Working from this goal, Tampa Bay Watch has generated one structural objective and one functional objective for the oyster dome program. 

The structural objective for this program is to construct at least 143,400 square feet (length x width) of oyster habitat by 2015, or the end of the two-year monitoring event.  Calculating length and width of installed domes is the parameter that will provide data for this structural objective.  Other targets for this objective include an increase in percent coverage of oysters present on the domes.

The functional objective for the oyster dome project is to produce an increase in natural oyster recruitment by 2015, or the end of the two year monitoring event.  An increase will demonstrate an enhancement of the natural oyster population.  Coverage per monitored dome of new oyster recruitment is anticipated at 25% by the end of the monitoring event, as these domes take time to mature.  Additional functional objectives will include an increase in biomass and an increase in water quality above the baseline value.

Additional benefits of oyster domes to Tampa Bay are the creation of habitats for marine species and natural feeding grounds for birds and larger marine species.  Tampa Bay Watch will also monitor the presence and composition of species (plant and animal) utilizing these habitats.

Eco Benefits Text:
Historically, Bayshore Boulevard in the City of Tampa was the first frontier of bay management and restoration in Tampa Bay.  During the 1960’s and 70’s widespread discharges from wastewater treatment plants, stormwater runoff and industrial source contributed large quantities of nutrients and other pollutants causing widespread algal blooms and loss of seagrass and other critical habitat.  As the algae decomposed, it drifted up along shoreline areas -- particularly Bayshore Boulevard, the extreme northern end of Hillsborough Bay which fronts the downtown Tampa area.  There was a ground swelling of community activism during this time period to address pollutants flowing into Tampa Bay as a result of noxious odors the algae was creating along Bayshore Boulevard.

Today, after 30 years of bay restoration and water quality improvements, Tampa Bay is experiencing a strong comeback.  Net improvements to the health of the Bay allow the reintroduction of seagrass and oysters into areas with improving water quality.   

Oysters occur naturally throughout the Tampa Bay estuary, centralizing around freshwater inputs. Oyster growth is readily apparent on the existing dome fields and seawall along Bayshore Boulevard; however, expansion of hard bottom surfaces will create a greater surface area for settling oyster larvae and create habitat niches for other benthic organisms.  Increasing oyster growth in Tampa Bay will provide a number of ecological services including:
	Greatly increasing surface area and interstitial area for other attaching organisms (such as barnacles, sea squirts, anemones, sponges, corals and algae), immensely increasing the productivity of the benthic area.
	Providing diverse food sources or foraging areas for a variety of important fish species (redfish, snook, sheepshead), birds (American oystercatcher, ibis, herons), and other wildlife species (blue and stone crabs, shrimp).
	Providing a natural cleansing system for the bay, as an individual oyster may potentially filter 37 liters (9.8 gallons) of seawater every hour. Oysters are filter feeders capable of surviving in a variety of water quality conditions and are found throughout the estuarine portion of the Tampa Bay ecosystem.                                                                                 
	Stabilizing bottom sediments, resulting in reduced turbidity levels, and lowered shoreline erosion rates, thereby protecting the shore from high levels of erosion during storm events.
	Improved water quality conditions in this area will advance the natural recruitment of seagrass communities onto adjacent subtidal flats.  The first set of oyster dome construction at the southern end of Bayshore Boulevard is also the area where new seagrasses have started to volunteer in, as a result of improving water quality in Hillsborough Bay.
	The addition of oyster dome fields along Bayshore Boulevard improve water quality by filtering out the algae that can cause blooms and noxious orders.  The improvement to water quality conditions advances waterfront home values in the area, supports enhanced recreational usage along the Bayshore Promenade and adds to the visual aesthetics of the City of Tampa waterfront.
Many of these values are very difficult to put an economic value on.  However, all of these benefits support the advancement of optimum conditions for fish and wildlife resources and the needs of the community that all depend upon a healthy Bay.

Jobs Text:
Total jobs created / preserved – 18 positions

Habitat:
The total project will install 10,662 Lo Pro oyster domes along 16,000 linear feet (3.03 miles) of Bayshore Boulevard seawall.  Assuming that the oyster dome field will affect an area 15 ft. from the dome field line, the project has the potential to benefit 7.7 acres of urban shoreline area.   

The surface area of a Lo Pro oyster dome is approximately 16.6 sq. ft. on the exterior surface (more if you include the interior of the hollow oyster dome).  The installation of 10,622 oyster domes will yield a surface area of 176,352 sq. ft. for the project on the outside of the oyster reef domes alone (or 4 acres of surface area).  For every one square ft. of oyster bar surface area the amount of surface area provided by the oysters themselves is 50 to 1, which translates to a total of 8.8 million sq. ft. of oyster shell surface area within the dome field.  This is a considerable quantity of oyster reef habitat added to the Tampa Bay environments.

Pollutant Red:
Historically, Hillsborough Bay has suffered from the worst water quality impacts due to the urbanized nature of the embayment, stormwater loadings, and discharges from the largest wastewater treatment plant in the State of Florida.  As previously discussed, oysters are mother nature’s biological filters.  Oyster reefs filter out nutrients and algae 24 hours a day / seven days a week.  A mature oyster can filter up to 9.8 gallons of saltwater every hour.  The addition of 10,662 oyster reef domes across 7.7 acres of unvegetated urbanized shoreline area represents a sizable opportunity to enhance water quality conditions in Tampa Bay.

Living Resoruces:
Seawall construction is a common practice to harden shoreline areas from wave action and to stabilize upland fill development.  In St. Petersburg alone there are 288 miles of hardened shoreline.  These vertical structures are typically constructed along the waterfront edge, impacting natural coastal communities of salt marsh, mangroves, oyster reefs, seagrass beds and others.  We have learned that seawalls prevent many of the ecological services that a natural soft shoreline provides to coastal resources, yet we are burdened by seawalls that are permanent features in our estuary.  

Given the fact that seawalls are a common construction technique in the State of Florida, opportunities need to be explored to enhance their ecological value to the environment.  Most of the time water depth is too deep for salt marsh or mangroves to grow.  Water quality tends to be poor in seawalled canals preventing seagrass growth.  Additionally the vertical seawalls reflect wave energy that affects seagrass development and undercuts the seawalls themselves without toe protection. 

Oyster domes are one of the few techniques that can be utilized along urbanized shorelines to enhance environmental conditions.  The Reef Balls are extremely stable with most of their weight at the bottom of the dome, and the hollow, porous nature of the dome allows wave action to be dissipated as it moves through each unit.  As oysters colonize each dome they soon become biological filters and provide structured habitat for a wide variety of small bait fish, larger foraging fish (redfish, snook), crabs (stone, blue) and many wading birds (egrets, herons) during low tides.

Resilience:
The Bayshore Boulevard Linear Park runs the entire length of the oyster dome field project.  Known as the “World's Longest Continuous Sidewalk,” Bayshore Boulevard is 4.5 miles of scenic views paralleling Tampa Bay. En route, you'll pass by some of Tampa's most prestigious homes, many on the National Historic Register, in Old Hyde Park.   This 10 foot- wide sidewalk has a number of trail amenities, including park benches, water fountains, bicycle parking, a city marina and fitness stations. Parking is available at the Bay to Bay Park, Ballast Point Park and Fred Ball Park. Fifteen artistic cast bronze trail markers are embedded in the sidewalk, reflecting images borrowed from Tampa's natural environs.

The oyster dome fields are designed to complement the Linear Park.  Many opportunities exist to install community educational signage along the project path to illustrate the health and condition of Tampa Bay and ongoing habitat restoration and water quality improvement projects.  The project provides a unique and important opportunity to not only enhance environmental conditions in this urbanized area but support community educational efforts as well.

Added Justification:
The Bayshore Boulevard area is located at the extreme northern reach of Tampa Bay, located in the highly urbanized area of Downtown Tampa.  Any habitat enhancements that we can create, any water quality improvements that can be generated, will result in benefits to all areas downstream as well.  

The Bayshore Boulevard seawall has been in place for well over fifty years. This shoreline is highly modified as a result of historical urbanization activities. The water is too deep for salt marsh or mangroves to grow without major shoreline modifications.  Seagrasses are able to grow offshore of the seawall, but are negatively affected by reflecting wave action immediately adjacent to the seawall.  The utilization of oyster reef communities are one of the few cost effective urban restoration tools available that can be installed in this area of Tampa Bay and make substantial environmental improvements.  The improvements that are generated as a result of this project benefit not only fish and wildlife resources but also water quality conditions in Hillsborough Bay, and ultimately Tampa Bay / Gulf of Mexico.  Of equal importance is the community education that will be generated to over three miles of public access waterfront area.   Signage, public events and media opportunities will all advance our community education program of restoration activities and awareness of Tampa Bay environments.


Desription:
Tampa Bay Watch, in partnership with the Tampa Port Authority and the Southwest Florida Water Management District, is seeking funding to support the establishment of a large scale oyster reef creation project to construct 16 acres of oyster shell reef along the eastern shoreline of McKay Bay.   The support provided will be used to design, permit, construct and monitor a series of subtidal and intertidal oyster reefs similar in nature to existing natural oyster reef communities that will contribute to the health and the restoration of the Bay and support the goals of the interagency management plan that is currently in place for the area.  

McKay Bay is an ecologically important estuary located in the heart of a heavily industrialized area in the City of Tampa that has provided habitat to over 200 bird species and historically supported healthy fisheries.  The bay has suffered from many years of developmental impacts, including dredge and fill construction, urbanized and industrial stormwater runoff, industrial contamination, and dredged material disposal.  Based upon the need for coastal restoration in the McKay Bay system, the level of ongoing restoration activities in the area, the downstream benefits this project will have on water quality and habitat, and the diversity of program partners we anticipate that this will be a very successful effort to advance the restoration of Tampa Bay.
Tampa Bay Watch is proposing a large scale oyster reef creation project to construct 16 acres of oyster shell reef along the eastern shoreline of McKay Bay (see Figure 1) in the area just offshore of the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) managed spoil disposal area.   Early discussions focus around creating circular offshore hard bottom areas available for oyster settlement to create a series of natural oyster reefs similar in nature to existing natural subtidal oyster reef communities.  Construction will require barge deployment of mined oyster shell, native limestone rubble or other appropriate hard material available for large scale oyster reef development.  Turbidity curtains will be required to avoid siltation and to ensure direct placement of the material at permitted locations.  MacKay Bay is adjacent to the Port of Tampa facilitating the use of shallow water barges for transferring oyster hard bottom material to the sites. The proposed project location is an ideal candidate for a large scale oyster restoration project as it is adjacent to an area that is undergoing a number of active habitat and water quality restoration activities.  Ongoing restoration and protection activities include the filling of subtidal borrow pits (SWFWMD and the Tampa Port Authority), shoreline grading and salt marsh restoration (SWFWMD), watershed stormwater treatment projects (City of Tampa), and benthic sediment enhancement projects (Tampa Bay Estuary Program, Environmental Protection Commission of Hillsborough County).  The creation of a large scale oyster reef at the “headwaters” of Tampa Bay will result in improvements to all water systems downstream.  Water quality improvements will also benefit water draining down the Palm River and the Tampa Bypass Canal, providing habitat for small marine organisms, and creating foraging areas and sanctuary for many species of fish and wildlife.

Location:
McKay Bay is located in the upper reaches of Hillsborough Bay in the City of Tampa (map is attached).

Partners:
Tampa Port Authority, Southwest Florida Water Management District

Status-all:
Tampa Bay Watch has completed the initial site analysis to develop a detailed conceptual plan and scope of work for this project.  Initial site inspections characterize the specific area and identify general opportunities and constraints for large scale oyster reef construction.  Information will be used to develop the conceptual plan for review by program partners and our review committee.  

Using the final project design as the foundation, Tampa Bay Watch will complete and submit all necessary permit applications to carry out the project.  Permits will be required from the Tampa Port Authority (Environmental Protection Commission of Hillsborough County), Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.


Title:
ALAFIA BANK BIRD SANCTUARY LIVING SHORELINE RESTORATION

Desription:
At least 6,800 feet of Audubon’s Alafia Bank Bird Sanctuary islands’ northern shoreline has eroded, in many places by more than 20 feet, as a result of ship wakes and storm waves.  Trees that once supported nesting Brown Pelicans, Roseate Spoonbills, White Ibis, and Reddish Egrets have toppled, American Oystercatcher nests now regularly overwash, and sandbars used by foraging and roosting shorebirds and wintering White Pelicans have eroded.  To combat this erosion, protect nesting trees, and provide a quiet water shoreline and benthic prey substrate for bird foraging, roosting and loafing, Audubon has installed 920 feet of offshore breakwater.  These breakwaters are proving successful, however, erosion will continue until the entire northern shoreline of the sanctuary is protected. The proposed project would install breakwater to protect the remaining 5,125 feet of shoreline at this key bird nesting colony.

Location:
Hillsborough Bay, Hillsborough County, Florida  27.847583°, -82.412484°

Partners:
Mosaic Inc., Landon, Moree & Associates, Inc., Living Shoreline Solutions

Quantify Env Results:
We will measure total linear feet of shoreline protected from erosion; we will measure changes in elevation along the shoreline due to slowed erosion or sediment deposition; we will document the recruitment of mangroves, Spartina cordgrass, and other vegetation; we will monitor seagrass recruitment behind and waterward of the breakwaters; we will measure colonization of oysters, barnacles and other sessile organisms on the breakwater substrate; we will monitor the success of beach nesting bird species such as American Oystercatchers and Willets that nest behind the installed breakwater.

Eco Benefits Text:
Important fish habitat is preserved and created by saving existing mangrove shoreline threatened by continued erosion, recruiting mangroves and Spartina cordgrass behind the structures, creating oyster beds, and encouraging seagrass growth; establishment of oysters and barnacles on the structures will provide additional filtering of bay water, especially pollutants and nutrients coming in from the Alafia River before it enters the bay; the entire northern shoreline of Alafia Bank Bird Sanctuary will be protected which will preserve essential nesting habitat for pelicans, heron, ibis, spoonbills and oystercatchers.

Jobs Text:
Construction jobs (1year): Engineering – 6; Construction – 5

Habitat:
5,125 linear feet of shoreline will be conserved

Pollutant Red:
Filtering of pollutants by recruited oysters and barnacles (55 liters of water filtered per day per oyster).

Living Resoruces:
Nesting habitat for 18 species of colonial waterbirds with total number of individuals ranging from 10,000-25,000; Over 5,000 linear feet of mangrove shoreline will be improved and conserved, including beach dune habitat landward of the mangrove shoreline.

Resilience:
The shoreline will be protected from continued and increasing erosional forces from shipping traffic, storm fetch and wave energy; habitat protected behind the breakwater will able to respond to climate change and sea level rise as the changes in the system will be slowed significantly.

Added Justification:
The two islands of the Alafia Bank in Tampa’s Hillsborough Bay host nesting by 18 species of colonial waterbirds each spring, and are part of a globally significant Important Bird Area being one of the most important coastal breeding sites in Florida for these species as well as valuable for migrating shorebirds and wintering loons, ducks, shorebirds, and White Pelicans.


Title:
Greater Tampa Bay Bird Islands Shoreline Restorations

Desription:
Several bird colony islands in the Greater Tampa Bay region are suffering shoreline erosion as a result of storms and boat wakes, threatening the nesting and roosting habitat of 16 species of colonial waterbirds. These sites include Dogleg Key (Boca Ciega Bay), Sand Key Dunedin West Bird Island (North Clearwater Harbor), the Dot Dash Bird Islands (Braden River mouth), and Cortez Key Bird Sanctuary (Sarasota Bay). To combat this erosion, protect nesting trees, and provide a quiet-water shoreline and benthic prey substrate for foraging, roosting and loafing bird habitat, Audubon proposes 3,250 feet of breakwaters comprised of reef balls and/or wave attenuation devices.  Design for each breakwater will vary depending on local erosional forces.

Location:
Pinellas and Manatee counties, Florida; Dogleg Key, 27.802081°, -82.761760°; Sand Key Dunedin West Bird Island, 28.037999°, -82.794546°; Dot Dash Bird Islands, 27.498806°, -82.524096°; Cortez Key, 27.461849°, -82.682150°

Partners:
State of Florida, Pinellas County, Manatee County, Tampa Bay Estuary Program, Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, Tampa Bay Watch, Sarasota Bay Watch, Landon, Moree & Associates, Inc., Living Shoreline Solutions, Reef Innovations, Inc.

Status-all:
In early planning; design and permit not undertaken yet.

Quantify Env Results:
We will measure total linear feet of shoreline protected from erosion; we will measure changes in elevation along the shoreline due to slowed erosion or sediment deposition; we will document the recruitment of mangroves, Spartina cordgrass, and other vegetation; we will monitor seagrass recruitment behind and waterward of the shoreline protection; we will measure colonization of oysters, barnacles and other sessile organisms on the breakwater structures; we will monitor the success of nesting bird species including Brown Pelican, herons, egrets and Roseate Spoonbill (also Wood Storks at the Dot Dash Bird Colony and American Oystercatchers at the Sand Key Dunedin West Bird Island) that nest on trees on shores protected by the installed breakwaters.

Eco Benefits Text:
Important fish habitat is preserved and created by saving existing mangrove shoreline threatened by continued erosion, recruiting mangroves and Spartina cordgrass behind the structures, creating oyster beds, and encouraging seagrass growth; Establishment of oysters and barnacles on the structures will provide additional filtering of bay water, especially pollutants coming in from rivers before it enters the bay; the shorelines of the bird colony islands will be protected which will provide essential nesting habitat for pelicans, heron, ibis, spoonbills and oystercatchers.

Jobs Text:
Construction jobs (3 years): Engineering – 6; Construction – 5

Habitat:
3,250 linear feet of shoreline will be conserved, nesting trees for colonial waterbirds at locally significant bird colonies.

Living Resoruces:
Nesting habitat for 16 species of colonial waterbirds with total number of individuals ranging from 2,000-4,000; Over 3,000 linear feet of mangrove shoreline will be improved and conserved, including beach dune habitat landward of the mangrove shoreline;

Resilience:
The shoreline will be protected from continued and increasing erosional forces from recreational boat traffic, storm fetch and wave energy; habitat protected behind the breakwater will able to respond to climate change and sea level rise as the changes in the system will be slowed significantly.

Added Justification:
These islands collectively host 16 species of colonial waterbirds each spring, and contribute to the bird diversity and abundance of several Important Bird Areas in the region.


Desription:
Factors affecting the future of Florida’s coastal birds include habitat loss of foraging and nesting ecosystems and the need for annual active bird nesting colony management.  Even at sites traditionally considered “protected,” birds suffer from overwhelming human disturbance, habitat modification, and predation by nonnative and human-amplified predator populations.  As a result, nesting productivity is hard won at many sites.  Posting nesting areas and wintering areas to protect them from disturbance, conducting pre-nesting season predator control activities, and patrolling birds during busy recreational weekends and holidays during the nesting season has been shown to reduce these threats.  The establishment of a coastal bird management restricted endowment, to be housed with Audubon or another conservation entity, along with an accepted safe withdrawal rate from the endowment would provide long-term funding to support these activities at key sites.

Location:
Tampa Bay, Pinellas County, Sarasota Bay, Charlotte Harbor

Partners:
State of Florida, Pasco County, Pinellas County, Hillsborough County, Manatee County, Charlotte County, Tampa Bay Estuary Program, Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Quantify Env Results:
Protection of nesting coastal birds measured in the number of nesting sites, diversity of nesting species, total number of nesting pairs and fledgling success; number of colonies posted and patrolled annually; record management of the islands’ bird habitat vegetation; record the number of predators removed from nesting areas; record the number of interactions with the public that threaten to disturb nesting birds;

Eco Benefits Text:
Preservation of the colonial waterbird colonies along the gulf coast of Florida

Living Resoruces:
Seabirds, pelicans, wading birds, and shorebirds in coastal and estuarine habitats that nest, winter and migrate along the gulf coast of Florida will be protected in perpetuity through this project.

Resilience:
Greater protection of birds during the most vulnerable stages of their life histories will allow better annual productivity of regional nesting colonial waterbirds and provide migrating and wintering safe roosting and foraging habitats and individual energy savings critical to survival and reproductive success rates.

Added Justification:
No amount of coastal habitat protection will reverse declines in these species without sufficient, ongoing management effort.  While these dollars can be leveraged with existing levels of agency appropriations and volunteer support, a core amount of recurring funding above the existing level will be necessary for these species to persist in Florida.


ConInfo:
Melvin Maciolek, Engineering Specialist, City of Clearwater

Desription:
The project will expand the stormwater pond on the northeast corner of the golf course by approximately one acre.

Location:
525 North Betty Lane, Clearwater, Florida

Status-all:
Design and permitting has not yet begun. Project scope is currently being developed.

Quantify Env Results:
Expanding this pond would alleviate flooding in an adjacent neighborhood and would provide water quality treatment to stormwater that currently has direct discharge into Stevenson Creek.

Added Justification:
The current pond has vegetation around the pond margin. Expansion of the pond would include construction of a littoral shelf, which would provide additional stormwater quality treatment.


ConInfo:
Rob Fahey, Utilities Engineering Manager, City of Clearwater

Desription:
Wastewater is highly treated then pumped through sand and gravel into deep aquifers to the groundwater basin.

Location:
Northeast Advance Wastewater Treatment Plant

Partners:
The City has received cooperative funding from SWFWMD.

Status-all:
The City is currently in the design and permitting phase.

Quantify Env Results:
By replenishing the groundwater with treated wastewater, the water is not discharged into Old Tampa Bay.


ConInfo:
Ed Chesney, P.E., Environmental Manager, City of Clearwater

Desription:
This project is the construction of a facility to process and manage the liquid and solid waste collected during street sweeping activities and sediment sump, ditch and catch basin cleaning.

Location:
1640 N. Arcturas Ave. Clearwater Florida

Status-all:
Preliminary design is complete with 30% plans. Project is now in Final Design and Permitting Phase.

Quantify Env Results:
Regular maintenance activities, including street sweeping and catch basin cleaning, removes nutrients before they enter the stormwater system and create impairments.

Eco Benefits Text:
It is cheaper to remove contaminates before they enter Tampa Bay or Clearwater Harbor.

Pollutant Red:
FDEP has studied and quantified the effects street sweeping benefits.

Added Justification:
FDEP regulations require municipalities to properly handle and dispose of the materials collected during routine maintenance and repair operations.  These activities are performed in an effort to reduce pollutant and nutrient loads from entering the City’s stormwater system (MS4) which ultimately discharges to the Gulf of Mexico (Clearwater Harbor) and Old Tampa Bay.


Desription:
This project will reduce flooding and improve water quality by expanding the wetland at Rosemere Road. A nutrient separator box will be installed at Smallwood Circle and Rosemere Road.  Additional stormwater treatment, in the form of baffle boxes or nutrient separator boxes, will be installed at all the street ends along Glenwood Avenue from Drew Street north to Ridgewood Street.

Location:
Smallwood Circle, Clearwater, Florida 33755

Partners:
The City has received cooperative funding from SWFWMD

Status-all:
Construction plans are 60% complete. The project is currently being permitted through SWFWMD.

Quantify Env Results:
Baffle boxes or nutrient separator boxes will provide treatment to stormwater which is currently untreated.

Eco Benefits Text:
Property values in this area will increase with improved drainage and the decrease in chance for flooding

Added Justification:
This project is within the Stevenson Creek Watershed, which flows into Clearwater Harbor.


Title:
Installation of Ultraviolet (UV) Disinfection System at East Advance Water Treatment Facility and Marshall Street Advanced Water Treatment Facility

Desription:
This project is for the installation of two UV disinfection systems at two of the City’s advanced wastewater treatment plants.

Location:
East Advance Water Treatment Facility and Marshall Street Advanced Water Treatment Facility

Quantify Env Results:
UV penetrates cell wall and destroys the cell’s ability to reproduce. This is an effective method of inactivating viruses, spores, and cysts. There is not residual effect and there are no chemicals added to the water. UV treatment of wastewater would improve water quality that is discharged from the plants.

Added Justification:
Marshall Street discharges into Stevenson Creek which flows to Clearwater Harbor, and East discharges directly into Old Tampa Bay.


ConInfo:
Alex Awad
City of Tampa, DPW-Stormwater Engineering

Submitting Organization:
City of Tampa, DPW-Stormwater Engineering

Title:
Westshore Waterways Improvement  -  Phase II

Desription:
During the 1940’s and 1950s, the waterfront along the western shore of the Interbay Peninsula of Tampa was filled and extended, creating a number of canals for waterfront home development (Figure 1).  These canals were established with seawalls and other hardened surfaces which eliminated much of the habitat available for sea life in the area.  The stormwater systems which served these basins have discharged into these canals for decades and contributed silt to the systems.  Insufficient flushing during tidal exchanges and siltation from the bays has also served to fill these canals with varying depths of sediment and muck.  Over time, these canals have been impacted by silt and sediment buildup resulting in poor water quality, minimized tidal exchange and reduced aquatic habitat.  

In Phase I, the City is addressing needed restoration of a number of these residential canals in the Westshore neighborhood of South Tampa through targeted dredging (Figure 2).  The City has completed a survey of all the canals, performed analytical testing on the material, identified a suitable disposal location and will be performing maintenance dredging of select canals in this Phase of the project.  All necessary permits for this phase have been obtained from the appropriate regulatory agencies.

During Phase II, the City proposes to perform a study to monitor the rate and source of sedimentation within residential canals (particularly those restored during Phase I); assess the relative impact and pollutant loading of stormwater runoff to residential canals; and perform additional sediment removal in canals not addressed during Phase I.  Additional sediment removal would likely involve relocation/replanting of sparse populations of seagrass beds from within some of the canals to more suitable locations in the immediate area, as allowed by permitting agencies.   

The City will use the results of the proposed study to develop and implement a Master Plan which will coordinate sediment load reduction and future maintenance needs of residential canals.

Quantify Env Results:
Analytical monitoring has verified that existing canal bottoms are of poor structural quality and contain elevated levels of anthropogenic pollutants.  Additionally, limited sediment testing indicated a high sediment oxygen demand occurs within tested canal bottoms.  Removal of sediment through dredging to original design depth will alleviate the sediment oxygen demand and remove the buildup of pollutants.

Routine monitoring will be performed to analyze sediment load from stormwater discharge to affected canals.  Additionally, periodic surveys of sediment/water depth will be conducted to determine the source and rate of sedimentation within select canals.  If seagrass mitigation and/or replanting is required, the City will monitor the establishment of seagrass per permit stipulations.

Eco Benefits Text:
Healthy canal systems with proper depths will be expected to increase recreational use and interaction of the Bay by boaters who live on these canals.  It is also anticipated that promotion of healthy canals will prompt construction/rehabilitation of seawall systems and home renovation in the immediate area.

Jobs Text:
8 jobs related to dredge operations
2 jobs related to water quality monitoring

Habitat:
The City would propose replanting/relocation of seagrass from the canal(s) into Old Tampa Bay, where there would be less likelihood of propeller scar due to reduced boat traffic.  Restoration of residential canals is anticipated to protect significant populations of seagrass beds near the mouth of residential canals and act as a buffer to seagrass beds in the Westshore area of Old Tampa Bay.  Healthy canal systems will provide a refuge for juvenile fish, manatees and oysters.

Pollutant Red:
Pollutant loading will be quantified during the impact study; additionally, pollutant removal amounts will be determined through dredge removal.

Living Resoruces:
Restoration and protection of residential canals is anticipated to protect significant populations of seagrass beds near the mouth of residential canals and in the Westshore area of Old Tampa Bay.

Resilience:
A significant portion of stormwater runoff from the peninsula drains through these residential canal systems.  Drainage watersheds contributing to the canals vary in size, but typically are greater than 100 acres.  

Through the study of sediment transport and loading, the City will develop a Master Plan to ensure residential canals and the contributing stormwater system is maintained to balance stormwater drainage and the aquatic habitat.


ConInfo:
Citrus Co. Board of  County Commissioners
                                       110 N. Apopka Avenue
                                       Inverness, FL 34450

Title:
Sugarmill Woods Wastewater Treatment Facility Expansion and Reclaimed Water Upgrades

Desription:
The Sugarmill Woods Wastewater Treatment Plant is a 0.750 MGD facility providing secondary treatment of domestic wastewater with treated effluent discharging to an on-site limited access sprayfield.  The plant is located within the Chassahowitzka River springshed approximately 3.8 miles from the first order magnitude spring at the headwaters of the river.  The purpose of the proposed project would be to expand and upgrade the plant to provide tertiary treatment and produce high quality reclaimed water for irrigation of public access areas. This would reduce nutrient loading to groundwater and offset the need for groundwater withdrawals for irrigation purposes.  The Southwest Florida Water Management District recently established a restrictive Minimum Flows and Levels (MFL) for the Chassahowitzka River in acknowledgement of the need to reduce groundwater withdrawals, so that the flow from the main spring can be preserved and protected.  The Chassahowitzka River is a coastal springfed system that is an important estuarine habitat for native wildlife, including the endangered West Indian manatee.

Location:
Sugarmill Woods / Chassahowitzka area in southwestern Citrus County, Florida

Status-all:
The proposed project was identified in the draft update to the Citrus County Wastewater Master Plan, which is currently under revision

Quantify Env Results:
The production of reclaimed water and its use for irrigation will directly offset groundwater withdrawals for irrigation purposes.  This will help to preserve the natural flows from the various springs that discharge freshwater into the Chassahowitzka River and associated estuarine system.

Eco Benefits Text:
This project will help to improve the water quality and preserve the natural spring flow to the Chassahowitzka River, which provides many ecotourism opportunities including fishing, snorkeling, and manatee viewing.

Habitat:
The project will help to improve and preserve the habitats associated with the 6 mile long Chassahowitzka River and the associated coastal estuary, which is contained within the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge.

Pollutant Red:
: Improvement of the treatment processes at the Sugarmill Woods WWTF from secondary treatment to tertiary treatment will result in the reduction of nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations in approximately 700,000 gallons per day of wastewater effluent discharged from the facility.

Living Resoruces:
The Chassahowitzka River is a coastal spring-fed river that is prime habitat for the West Indian manatee, an endangered species, and functions as a warm water refuge for manatees in the winter months.  The river also presents many recreational opportunities for fishing, boating, snorkeling and wildlife viewing.

Resilience:
This project will help to maintain the Chassahowitzka River and associated coastal estuary, which are contained within the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge and are major contributors to recreational and ecotourism activities in Citrus County.


Title:
City of Bradenton 12th and 14th Avenue West Bridge Replacements and 20th Street West Drainage Improvements

Desription:
Improve Wares Creek water quality by improving water flow and treatment.  The existing bridges impede flow due to insufficient openings. The proposed replacement bridges will allow for flows to pass through the openings at higher rates, thereby providing for a significant reduction in tailwater, which decreases the upstream stagnation effects resulting in water quality improvements.

Partners:
1.	State of Florida Department of Environmental Protection State Revolving Loan Fund
2.	Southwest Florida Water Management District Cooperative Funding Program

Status-all:
Planning: 100%
                                                                      Design: 100%
                                                                      Permitting: 100%

Quantify Env Results:
	Restore and preserve more natural river processes of sediment and freshwater distribution.  
	Reduce pollutants and pathogens from stormwater flows and other sources.
	Improve the quality and quantity of freshwater flow into priority estuaries to protect their health and resiliency.
Environmental results cannot be quantified at this time but can be measured afterwards through water quality sampling


ConInfo:
Alex Awad
City of Tampa, DPW-Stormwater Engineering
Alexander.awad@tampagov.net
(813) 274-7865

Title:
Watrous Canal Rehabilitation and Enhancement

Desription:
The Watrous Canal drains approximately 1100 acres of South Tampa into Old Tampa Bay.  The portion of the canal in the proposed project is a ½-mile long segment which lacks proper bank stabilization and is a strong candidate for habitat enhancement.  The proposed project will provide feasibility, design, and construction of improvements to the ½-mile canal system.  Anticipated improvement includes vegetative bank stabilization, removal of accumulated debris to encourage tidal influx, and possibly flow contouring.  The project will reduce sediment load to Old Tampa Bay and provide connected habitat for fish and other aquatic species.

Quantify Env Results:
Through bank stabilization and related improvements to the canal system, there will be decreased sediment loading to Old Tampa Bay.  The Watrous Canal, in particular, drains to an area that is heavily populated with seagrass beds, so a reduction in sediment and pollutant load will further protect these environmental resources.  Vegetative enhancement to the bank will provide additional tidal habitat for juvenile fish and wildlife.

Eco Benefits Text:
Estuarine tidal habitats such as that within the Watrous Canal provide important shelter and nursery ecosystems for juvenile fish and other aquatic organisms.  Estuarine tidal systems are some of the most productive habitats in nature; re-establishing the Watrous Canal will restore and protect this limited type of habitat within the urban landscape of the City of Tampa.

Jobs Text:
3 jobs related to project design
10 jobs related to project construction improvements

Habitat:
Restoration and protection of the Watrous Canal is anticipated to protect significant populations of seagrass beds adjacent to the mouth of the canal and in the Westshore area of Old Tampa Bay through reduced siltation.  The restored Watrous Canal will also provide a protected/shaded refuge for juvenile fish.

Pollutant Red:
By protecting the banks of the Watrous Canal, it is anticipated that sediment transport to Old Tampa Bay will be reduced significantly.

Living Resoruces:
The Watrous Canal drains to an area that is heavily populated with seagrass beds, so a reduction in sediment and pollutant load will further protect these environmental resources.  Enhancement of the canal system itself will extend important inter-tidal habitat.

Resilience:
Through bank stabilization and vegetative enhancement the drainage system will be able to handle stormwater flows from this large drainage basin, preventing possible upstream flooding concerns.

Added Justification:
The City of Tampa is currently studying potential improvements to the Watrous Canal.  In FY13, the City is securing the services of a consulting engineer to complete a Basis of Design Review, to be followed by full-scale design engineering plans.  It is anticipated that the project will be ready for construction at the end of FY13 or early FY14.  

The restoration of Watrous Canal will work in tandem with the City of Tampa’s scheduled improvements to other canal systems under the Westshore Waterways Improvement Project by removing the buildup of sediment in tidal systems.


ConInfo:
Alex Awad
City of Tampa, DPW-Stormwater Engineering
Alexander.awad@tampagov.net

Title:
Poinsetta Stormwater Pump Station Improvements

Desription:
The Poinsetta Stormwater Pump Station is proposed to be improved with the conversion of existing pumps to new submersible pumps, generator-power backup capability, and a new pump house with wet well.  A new control system with telemetry will be included so that the pumps can be managed remotely, further improving community resiliency.

Additionally, the existing gravity stormwater pipe will be upgraded to a forcemain which will convey flow to the Hillsborough River.

Location:
29th St and Poinsetta Avenue, City of Tampa

Quantify Env Results:
The upgraded stormwater pump station will provide a significant savings to the City through more efficient operation of the pumps, especially with remote monitoring and control systems.

Jobs Text:
It is anticipated that 10-15 positions will be created during the construction of improvement to the pump station and piping system.

Resilience:
Improvements to the pumping station will help alleviate historic and ongoing flooding problems in this large drainage basin.  By upgrading to a telemetry system, the operation of the submersible pumps will provide further control of stormwater flows from the drainage basin.


Title:
43rd Street Stormwater Outfall Regional Improvements

Desription:
The 43rd Street basin is approximately 1,150 acres in size and provides limited water quality treatment for stormwater that is delivered to McKay Bay.  Portions of the basin are also prone to flooding events during routine storms.  McKay Bay is an impaired waterbody with an EPA-approved total maximum daily load for dissolved oxygen and nutrients.

This project proposes to upgrade existing drainage systems to reduce flooding within the interior of the drainage basin.  Stormwater treatment opportunities will be incorporated, as feasible, to help attain water quality goals under the existing TMDL.

Partners:
SWFWMD and	
Hillsborough Area Regional Transit

Quantify Env Results:
McKay Bay is an impaired water body with a federal TMDL for dissolved oxygen and nutrients.  Currently, much of the stormwater from this basin does not receive water quality treatment; by providing additional stormwater treatment within the basin, the impairments will be reduced incrementally.

Eco Benefits Text:
A reduction of flooding at the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit facility may improve their ability to operate transit services.  During heavy rains, flooding occurs at or near the HART facility.

Jobs Text:
Dozens of jobs will be supported during design and construction of the stormwater system improvements.

Habitat:
Unknown.  It is anticipated that aquatic and wildlife habitat within McKay Bay will be improved through a reduction in floating debris and pollutants from the stormwater system.

Pollutant Red:
Estimates of pollutant reduction will be calculated following the incorporation of stormwater treatment units.  It is expected that through numerous opportunities the pollutant load reductions would be significant from this large basin.

Living Resoruces:
The northernmost lobe of McKay Bay (where the 43rd St outfall discharges) serves as an established birding area for migratory and coastal species.  Improvement to water quality is expected to enhance this habitat.

Resilience:
The project will alleviate flooding in portions of the basin where there are undersized or limited stormwater conveyances


Title:
Peninsula Flooding Relief and Improvement Projects

Desription:
This project will provide flood relief in the peninsula of the City of Tampa, in the area generally referred to as South Tampa.  The existing drainage system was constructed decades ago and needs to be updated to provide improved levels of service to expanded neighborhood and arterial roadway drainage in the heavily populated urban area.    

This is a long-range plan to address flooding problems associated with historic ditches, crushed box culverts, and inadequate stormwater conveyances.  Certain individual project locations have been identified, and will be incorporated into holistic, basin-wide improvements of the drainage network.  Water quality treatment will be added as opportunities are identified, and as required by regulatory permitting agencies.  Stormwater from the peninsula drains to either Hillsborough Bay or Old Tampa Bay.

Quantify Env Results:
Water quality treatment of stormwater discharges will be implemented as opportunities are investigated.  Reductions in pollutants will be determined based on watershed modeling and using  established pollutant removal rates for stormwater treatment technologies.  Hillsborough Bay and Old Tampa Bay are both addressed through the Reasonable Assurance document developed by the Nitrogen Management Consortium.  Projects included in the Peninsula Flooding Relief will continue to further the goals of the NMC.

Eco Benefits Text:
Improved drainage systems in the Peninsula will provide for increased livability and economic opportunity for businesses and citizens of Tampa including those who work at or support MacDill AFB at the lower end of the peninsula.

Jobs Text:
There should be approximately 50 jobs over a ten (10) year period.

Habitat:
Reduction of pollutants in stormwater (especially nutrients) will support the growth and establishment of seagrass habitat in Old Tampa Bay and Hillsborough Bay, as outlined by the Tampa Bay Nitrogen Management Consortium.

Pollutant Red:
Pollutant loading will be quantified during the property acquisition phase. Additionally, pollutant removal will be quantified using established removal rates for stormwater treatment technologies in concert with flow modeling.

Living Resoruces:
The reduction of pollutants in stormwater (especially nutrients) will support the growth and establishment of seagrass habitat in Tampa Bay.  It is impractical to determine how much seagrass will be improved due this Project.

Resilience:
Through increased BMP’s in the drainage basin.


Desription:
This project will provide for the stabilization and rehabilitation of an existing stormwater ditch system which has severe erosion due to high-velocity flows from a large drainage basin.  As a result, normal flow has been impeded and eroded sediment has impacted downstream waters.  Ditch bank rehabilitation and stabilization will occur along abutting private properties and downstream at the stormwater outfall.  Improvement of the stormwater ditch system will extend the useful life of the ditch and improve the conveyance of storm flows from the drainage basin.

Location:
Wellswood neighborhood of Tampa; Hillsborough River

Quantify Env Results:
Sediment that has eroded from the ditch banks will be dredged/excavated and quantified during rehabilitation of the system.  The most significant environmental result will be the prevention of additional erosion/sedimentation from the improved ditch.

Eco Benefits Text:
Improved drainage systems will provide for increased livability and economic opportunity for businesses and citizens of the area.

Jobs Text:
5-10 jobs will be supported during improvements to the Whatley Ditch.

Habitat:
Riparian habitat along the ditch system as well as the Hillsborough River will be restored through the removal of accumulated sediment.

Pollutant Red:
Sediment that has eroded from the ditch banks will be dredged/excavated and quantified during rehabilitation of the system.

Living Resoruces:
Stormwater from the ditch system outfalls directly into the Hillsborough River, a major tributary to Tampa Bay.  By stabilizing the ditch banks, the downstream transfer of sediment loads to Tampa Bay will be eliminated.

Resilience:
Improvement of the ditch system will lessen the threat of upstream flooding by improving stormwater flows and extending the useful life of the ditch.


Desription:
This project will repair and rehab approximately 1500 linear feet of concrete box culvert which conveys ~ 420 acres of drainage from South Tampa to Hillsborough Bay.  The Conley box culvert is constructed of concrete which has deteriorated due to the migration of tidal waters from Hillsborough Bay.  The salinity has eroded the metal re-bar within the ceiling of the box culvert, compromising the entire span of the structure.

Location:
Conley Avenue and Bayshore Boulevard, City of Tampa

Quantify Env Results:
The existing box culvert walls are corroding leading to cementitious material, debris and sediment being discharged to Hillsborough Bay.  Rehabilitation of this conveyance will eliminate the discharge of these materials onto adjacent seagrass beds and Bay habitat.

Eco Benefits Text:
Improved drainage systems will provide for increased livability and economic opportunity for businesses and citizens of South Tampa.

Jobs Text:
4-6 jobs related to construction/rehab of the box culvert.

Living Resoruces:
The Conley box culvert outfalls to Hillsborough Bay in an area interspersed with seagrass beds.  Rehabilitation of this conveyance may protect coastal waters by eliminating the discharge of debris and cementitious material.

Resilience:
Rehabilitation of the Conley box culvert will extend the useful life of the system and reduce the possibility of upstream flooding within the 420 acre drainage basin.  The Conley box culvert is tidally influenced, so providing a reliable conduit for stormwater and the reverse flow of tides is of vital importance in consideration of the anticipated rise of sea levels.


Title:
Reclaimed Water Main Extension to N/W Hillsborough County

Desription:
Reclaimed water main from the existing 24-inch main on Boy Scout Road will be extended to  provide reclaimed water supply for the Hillsborough County’s N/W system.

Quantify Env Results:
Reduction of approximately 7 tons/year of nitrogen

Pollutant Red:
Reduction of approximately 7 tons/year of nitrogen

Living Resoruces:
Approximately 7 tons of Nitrogen will no longer be discharged to Hillsborough Bay.

Resilience:
4 MGD of reclaimed water will replace 4 MGD of potable water demands.


Title:
Reclaimed Water Main Extension to S/C Hillsborough County

Desription:
Reclaimed water main from the Howard F. Curren Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant will be extended to provide reclaimed water supply for the Hillsborough County’s S/C system and potentially be used to prohibit further saltwater intrusion.

Quantify Env Results:
Reduction of approximately 28 tons/year of nitrogen

Pollutant Red:
Reduction of approximately 28 tons/year of nitrogen

Living Resoruces:
Approximately
28 tons of Nitrogen will no longer be discharged to Hillsborough Bay.

Resilience:
Approximately 8 MGD of reclaimed water will replace 8 MGD of potable water demands.


Desription:
Public Safety projects including the following: Bayshore Boulevard Seawall $30,000,000), Pedestrian Bridges at Al Lopez and Villa Brothers Parks ($10,000,000), Bridge/Trail Connection from Rowlett Park to 22nd Street Park ($5,000,000), Friendship Trail Boardwalk Connection ($3,000,000), David Islands Public Shoreline ($7,500,000)


Desription:
Energy Conservation projects including the following: Davis Islands Trail Connection ($750,000), Davis Islands Compost Rest Room ($80,000), South Gandy Park Trail connection ($500,000), Compost Bathroom Initiative ($11,200,000), Urban Shade initiative ($4,200,000), Solar Powered Initiative ($5,000,000)


Desription:
Projects for Land Management including the following: Controlled Burns ($78,000), Palm River Park Development ($350,000), McKay Bay observation tower ($275,000), McKay Bay boardwalk renovation ($395,000), Urban Forest Management Study ($93,400), Urban Forest Management Plan Implementation ($2,000,000), Street Tree Inventory and Assessment ($950,000), Hazardous Tree Evualation and Mitigation ($1,750,000), Tree Planting Program ($600,000), Native Plant Nursery ($475,000), Invasive Exotic Plant Removal ($425,000), Courtney Campbell Trail ($500,000), New Tampa Nature Park Phase II ($2,000,000), Turf Reduction in parks citywide ($10,000,000), Turf Replacement at athletic fields ($18,750,000), Asphalt Reduction citywide ($2,000,000), Conversion of existing stormwater ponds to parks ($2,000,000), Parkland acquisition ($5,000,000), Nature Centers ($40,000,000)


Desription:
The PROJECT is a 12-acre parcel of land that is located on the western bank of Carr Drain; a major ditch system flowing through the City of Palmetto to the mouth of the Manatee River and discharging into Lower Tampa Bay.  Carr Drain is a highly channelized stormwater ditch that passes through a former wetland area targeted for restoration in an underdeveloped part 
of the City of Palmetto Community Redevelopment Area (CRA).  A variety of Low Impact Development (LID) techniques will be constructed to improve stormwater treatment.  Stormwater runoff from this highly urbanized commercial area currently receives little treatment before discharging into the Manatee River.   
 
The purpose of this PROJECT is to restore historic wetlands on site through a reconfiguration 
of the channelized stormwater ditch by widening its floodplain, increasing contact area with 
re-vegetated banks of native plants, creating a more sinusoidal curvature in the stream path, 
and improving  the overall water quality entering the mouth of the Manatee River.  The MLK 
Park  construction will consist of  a variety of LID technologies that may include landscape 
islands, rain gardens, bio-swales, pervious pavement and stormwater harvesting. The newly 
designed stormwater treatment system will capture and treat runoff from approximately 324 
acres of urbanized land. The PROJECT may also include educational signage throughout the 
site to promote LID technologies in redevelopment areas.

Location:
Parcel ID 2623001654 -- No assigned address

Status-all:
Design has been awarded to City CRA CCNA Contractor CPH and is underway.
Design and permits are estimated to be complete by 3/31/2013

Quantify Env Results:
Actual load reductions and removal efficiencies will be calculated when design is complete.

Eco Benefits Text:
Improved water quality in the Manatee River with better guarantee sustained economic environment of the tourism industry, especially related to fishing and tours.

Jobs Text:
Improvements to the Manatee River as a result of the reduction of pollutants may preserve up to 10 jobs in the existing economy.

Habitat:
It is estimated that the restoration of wetlands habitat on site with be at least 4 acres. Car drain opens into an existing Estuary on the Manatee River, the improvement to that system through the reduction of pollutants may exceed 100 acres.

Pollutant Red:
Project will provide water quality treatment for 324 acres of the drainage basin by constructing a wetland treatment system at the MLK Park site that will serve as a wet detention system for treatment of first flushes and low flow discharges in Carr Drain prior to discharge into the Manatee River.  Based on literature review and the FDEP BMP Efficiencies Database, the wetland treatment system is expected to reduce the TSS by 69%, TN by 42% and TP by 66%.  Actual load reductions and removal efficiencies will be calculated when design is complete.

Living Resoruces:
MLK Park – 12 acres
Estuary Park – Estimated over 100 acres.

Resilience:
Resilience through the heath of the Estuary will reduce the impact of storm water from hurricane and high wind events. To measure the exact level of estimated relief from the project a SLOSH model would need to be performed. That is not currently in the estimate.

Added Justification:
This project exists and is budgeted by all three government agencies.


ConInfo:
City of Safety Harbor, 750 Main Street, Safety Harbor, Fl.  34695

Desription:
DeSoto Estates is a 104 lot subdivision in Safety Harbor which has been unsewered since it was established by plat in 1925. The City wishes to construct a municipal sewer system to reduce any direct source or any non-point source pollutants to Old Tampa Bay and watersheds nearby.

Pollutant Red:
Reduce Nitrogen load to Tampa Bay through removal of septic tanks.

Living Resoruces:
Water quality improvement to Old Tampa Bay

Resilience:
Recreational use of Tampa Bay will increase.

Added Justification:
Recovery of our Sea grasses will begin to thrive.


Title:
Congregation Beth Am Wetland Restoration, Phase II

Desription:
Remove invasive plants, primarily Brazilian pepper, and replant with native plants in a stormwater wetland north of Lake Senac in the Sweetwater Creek watershed of Hillsborough County, Florida.   This project was funded with a Mini Grant by TBEP in 2009; since that time, approximately ½ of the wetland was restored (phases 1 and 2 in the application) and the project is in a maintenance phase.

Location:
2030 W. Fletcher Avenue, Tampa, FL  33612.  Directions:   south of Fletcher Avenue, west of Rome.

Partners:
The congregation will seek partnership with the adjacent Hillel Day School, which owns approximately one-third of the pond.

Status-all:
The original permit from the Environmental Protection Commission has expired and will be renewed if the project is funded.

Quantify Env Results:
Reduction in invasive plant population by at least 90 percent in the pond.   The amount of native ecosystem restoration would count as one acre.

Eco Benefits Text:
A private tree removal service will be hired to remove invasive plants; another would be hired to install wetland emergents on the pond bottom.    Native plants from local nurseries will be purchased to replace the non-natives.

Living Resoruces:
The wetland is part of the Sweetwater Creek Watershed, which drains directly to Tampa Bay.

Resilience:
The removal of non-native trees will lessen damage from breaking limbs in the event of high winds.  Nearby native trees can also be trimmed to minimize wind resistance.

Added Justification:
This project continues to provide environmental education to the students in the congregation’s religious school and youth group, who have been enlisted to help replant the wetland.  The project, in addition to the associated butterfly garden planting, was taught as an environmental elective.


ConInfo:
Dr. Randy Runnels, Manager, Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserves, P.O. Box 309, 130 Terra Ceia Road, Terra Ceia, Florida  34250

Desription:
Based on the success of a similar previous project, we are seeking funding to move forward with a second flushing channel through a maintenance area causeway at Ft. Desoto park, Pinellas County Florida.  The intent of this channel is to reestablish some of the flushing necessary for seagrass expansion and overall ecosystem health in this popular recreation and conservation area.  The channel will be created by replacing part of the causeway fill with a small bridge span.

Location:
Fort Desoto Park, Pinellas County Florida (see attached map)

Status-all:
100% of the design work is complete, a permit already has been obtained by Pinellas County

Quantify Env Results:
Based on the previous phase, we expect an expansion of seagrass coverage by approximately 100 acres.  As a result of increased seagrass and improved flushing we also expect improved water quality.  Seagrass can be quantified by fixed monitoring stations and by aerial interpretation.  Water quality improvements can be quantified by regular water quality monitoring for dissolved oxygen, turbidity and other diagnostic parameters.

Eco Benefits Text:
In addition to reduced capacity to support healthy game and non-game marine species, the poorly flushed area near the proposed project is aesthetically compromised by excess fouling algae and high summertime water temperatures.  Improved flushing is expected to solve these problems over a considerable area in the vicinity of the flushing channel, and, in doing so, will improve seafood production and aesthetics for nature-based tourism.

Jobs Text:
6-7 direct jobs in engineering and construction, additional jobs through improvement of conditions for end results like improved conditions for ecotourism and seafood production.

Habitat:
We expect results similar to the first phase of the project in which approximately 100 acres of seagrass expansion were documented.

Pollutant Red:
Pollutant reduction in the local area will result from advection of nutrients, heat and other pollutants.  Absolute reduction will result from removal of nutrients, CO2, sediment, etc. sequestered by approximately 100 acres of expanded seagrass beds.

Living Resoruces:
In addition to the aforementioned expected expansion of seagrass beds, populations of fish, crabs, shrimps and mollusks that depend on these seagrasses are expected to benefit from the expected expansion of benthic nursery, shelter and food resources, as well as from the expected improvements in water quality.

Resilience:
This will give the local ecosystem the capacity to absorb additional pollutants like nitrogen and CO2.  In addition to preventing the resuspension of local benthic sediments, the expanded grassbeds will trap pelagic sediments that, otherwise, would attenuate sunlight, interfere with filter feeders, etc.  Nearshore sediment stabilization also may reduce local shoreline erosion.

Added Justification:
Kayaking is a popular local form of public access, and it is very important to ecotourism.  The proposed location of the flushing channel will improve access for kayaking in the area while also improving aesthetic factors like water quality for kayakers and other users.


ConInfo:
Hernando Co. Board of County, 20 North Main Street, Room 263, Brooksville, FL 3460

Desription:
The existing reef is constructed of decommissioned US Army tanks placed along the sea floor.  The reef expansion project includes providing additional approved reef material to connect the tanks.  These trails of additional material will help to improve the migration of fish and make an exciting trail for offshore divers.  Concrete culvert and drainage box material is currently being stockpiled by the Hernando County Department of Public Works at their Airport stockpile pit.  The repermitting of the reef to allow for the deposition of additional material is currently underway.  The County is expecting a permit to be issued by the ACOE for the reef expansion in early 2013.

Location:
17 miles west of the Hernando Beach Channel (see attached map)

Status-all:
The proposed project is part of the Hernando County Port Authority’s 5-year construction improvement plan.  The permit has been submitted to the ACOE and is currently undergoing the required public advertising.  The County is expecting a permit in early 2013.

Quantify Env Results:
The additional reef material will improve the ability for the fish to migrate throughout the existing reef structures.  The results will be measured by future habitat studies of the reef area. The most recent studies of this reef include observations of 19 different marine life species.

Eco Benefits Text:
This project will enhance the existing reef which currently provides fishing and diving opportunities.  The recently dredged Hernando Beach Channel allows for large boat access to this marine facility.

Jobs Text:
An estimated 12 temporary jobs will be created with the construction of the reef.  The travel, tourism, and hospitality industry in Hernando County supports 5,000 tourism-related jobs annually.

Habitat:
The Bendickson Tank Reef site is approximately 11.29 acres in total area.  This project would provide additional reef material within the existing reef boundary.

Pollutant Red:
There are no pollutant load reductions associated with this project.

Living Resoruces:
The existing reef site provides refuge to marine life of all types.  The County’s last marine life survey included observation of 19 different species including sheepshead, goliath grouper, red grouper, gray snapper and stone crab to name a few.  Improving the available habitat at this location will allow for an increase in marine life populations.

Resilience:
Improvement of the existing reef will provide additional fishing, boating and diving opportunities to the community. Increase in these activities will allow the County to take advantage of the improvements recently completed at the Hernando Beach Channel.

Added Justification:
Enhancement of the Bendickson Tank Reef will not only provide additional habitat for marine life but will enhance the marine tourism offerings in Hernando County.


ConInfo:
Hernando Co. Board of County Commissioners
                                      20 North Main Street, Room 263
                                      Brooksville, FL 34601

Desription:
Provide central service and abandon septic tanks in the Pine Island subdivision and county park by constructing approximately 13,000 feet of 4 inch forcemain and three lift stations. Replace and upgrade aging existing 4 inch water line with a new 8 inch water line to provide fire flow capability

Eco Benefits Text:
Promote growth and enhance property values by construction of a central sewer system

Jobs Text:
An estimated 25 temporary jobs will be created, and permanent preservation of 4 full-time jobs

Pollutant Red:
Fecal coliform count will be significantly lowered

Living Resoruces:
The improved water quality will greatly benefit the entire ecosystem.

Resilience:
Will provide fire service and improve water quality.

Added Justification:
Pine Island Water & Sewer Service will provide for the abandonment of septic tanks for area residents and the only County park located on the Gulf Coast.  The highly sensitive Gulf Coast estuarine waters are particularly vulnerable to septic effluent leaching from poorly functioning, outdated septic systems.  The project has been proposed since 1997 but due to limited funds has not progressed.  Attached from the Florida Department of Health website are recent advisory/warnings issued at the Pine Island Park. Since this park is used by residents for swimming, public health may be compromised. Attached photographs #1 & #2 show the Pine Island Park. Photograph #3 is of the Pine Island subdivision.


Desription:
The County has just recently completed the dredging of the Hernando Beach Channel and has seen an increase in user traffic due to the completion of this project.  In order to take advantage of the additional interest, the Port Authority has proposed the expansion of the existing boat launch facilities at Hernando Beach.  This project would include the acquisition of two parcels of land to provide the additional launch and parking facilities.  The current preliminary plan provides for 2 additional boat launch ramps, 13 automobile parking spaces adjacent to the ramps, and an additional 50 boat trailer parking spaces.

Location:
4466 Calienta Street, Hernando Beach, FL 34607

Status-all:
The proposed project is part of the Hernando County Port Authority 5-year construction improvement plan.  A preliminary design and discussion with adjacent property owners have taken place.  Final design and acquisition of the property would be required.

Eco Benefits Text:
This project will enhance the ability to provide Gulf tourism offerings for Hernando County.  This project intends to increase the available ramp space as well as parking provided at the main launch facility utilizing the recently dredged Hernando Beach main channel.  This project will provide increased access to fishing, diving, snorkeling, nature viewing, etc.

Jobs Text:
An estimated 25+ temporary jobs will be created with the design, permitting and construction of the ramp facility expansion.  The travel tourism and hospitality industry in Hernando County supports 5,000 tourism-related jobs annually.

Habitat:
This project does not involve habitat restoration or conservation.

Pollutant Red:
This project does not provide a quantifiable pollutant reduction.

Living Resoruces:
Access to the marine environment will provide the ability to educate the public on the importance of Florida’s ecosystem.  Coastal and marine resources will benefit from this educational process.

Resilience:
Expansion of the boat launch facilities will provide additional fishing, boating and diving opportunities to the community. Increase in these activities will allow the County to take advantage of the improvements recently completed at the Hernando Beach Channel.

Added Justification:
The recently completed channel dredge included the restoration of sea grass beds along the coastline within Hernando County. This project would include the installation of improved sea grass and navigational signage at the boat ramp.   In addition, once these maps are created they will be provided online for viewing by the public.


Desription:
Linda Pedersen park is a 140 acre passive park along the Gulf of Mexico Estuaries that offers fishing, swimming, boat launching, picnic shelters, an observation tower, and swimming within a freshwater spring run.  The project entails the replacement of an existing seawall and boardwalk to prevent erosion and protect against storm damage.  Other improvements include installation of canoe/kayak launch and replacement of an existing playground.

Quantify Env Results:
The replacement of existing seawall and boardwalk on Jenkins Spring run will prevent sedimentation impacts to the spring run and estuary.  Jenkins Spring is in the Weeki Wachee Springs Group (3.4 miles from a first order magnitude spring). This improvement benefits the public and will aid to conserve and protect estuarine habitats.  Jenkins spring head and runs provide estuarine habitat to West Indian Manatees (endangered).  Other potentially impacted aquatic listed species include Gulf Sturgeon, and Loggerhead and Green Turtles.  The seawall project is within 1000 feet of the estuarine salt marsh and the kayak/canoe launch will provide direct access to the estuary.

Eco Benefits Text:
Shoreline stabilization of the public swimming area will assist in maintaining spring flow by preventing sedimentation from erosion.  Ecotourism opportunities include boating, fishing, and wildlife observation.  The addition of a kayak/canoe launch would further the County’s ecotourism marketing efforts.  Maintaining and improving recreational facilities benefit residents and local tourism.

Jobs Text:
The County supports about 5, 000 tourism related jobs.

Habitat:
This project aids in conserving aquatic habitat of the southern spring run (approximately 1.2 miles) and reducing turbidity to the tributary and estuary.

Pollutant Red:
This project will reduce sedimentation and turbidity.  It will improve water quality through shoreline stabilization and preventing erosion

Living Resoruces:
This project is intended to stabilize the shoreline preventing sedimentation of aquatic vegetation and impacts to wildlife in the spring run while ensuring natural spring flow.

Resilience:
Shoreline stabilization will enhance community resilience and minimize storm damage.


Title:
Pine Island Park and shoreline improvements

Desription:
Pine Island Park is a regionally significant park that provides residence and tourist access to the Gulf of Mexico for passive recreation including swimming.  Amenities include picnic shelters, an observation deck and a concession stand.  The park is in need of beach restoration and shoreline improvements to protect existing structures and the beach from erosion and storm damage.  The improvements include raising the height of an upland retaining wall, adding sidewalks with handrail, rebuilding an existing observation deck using aluminum, restoring the beach with new sand, and an elevation survey for post storm assessments and recovery.

Quantify Env Results:
The replacement of the existing retaining wall, platform, and sidewalk around the beach will stabilize the shoreline, minimize sedimentation and protect community infrastructure.  These improvements benefit the public and aid to conserve and protect marine and estuarine habitats by reducing sand loss during storm events while improving shoreline resiliency.  Reduction of sediment and turbidity improves sea grass cover and coastal habitat for listed species such as West Indian Manatees (endangered), gulf sturgeon, loggerhead and green turtles.

Eco Benefits Text:
Shoreline stabilization and increased height of infrastructure will improve protection of structures, and improve ability to retain sand following beach re-nourishment. Park usage is high with at least 44,000 vehicles annually.  Maintaining and improving recreational facilities benefit residents and local tourism.

Jobs Text:
The County supports about 5,000 tourism related jobs.

Habitat:
This project is intended to reduce the amount of sand erosion long term, lessening the impact to aquatic habitats and wildlife.

Pollutant Red:
This project is intended to improve community infrastructure, resiliency, and minimize erosion of beach sand long term.  This project will reduce sedimentation and turbidity.

Living Resoruces:
The project will help to improve near shore coastal habitats and grass beds in the vicinity of the park by reducing the amount of sedimentation.  An elevation survey will allow the County to quantify future impacts.

Resilience:
Shoreline stabilization with increased height, improved materials, and increased protection of infrastructure will enhance community resilience.


Title:
Oakley Island Waste Water Infrastructure Installation

Desription:
The proposed project will consist of installing approximately 1110’ of 8” gravity pipe and 1150’ of 4” force main pipe. A lift station with elevated control panel, telemetry, and an odor control unit will be required. Existing out dated septic systems can then be properly abandoned.

Location:
Oakley Island is off Felker Dr. in Weeki Wachee Fl.

Quantify Env Results:
Improved water Quality through sampling.

Eco Benefits Text:
Promote Growth within the immediate area and increase property values with the installation of a central sewer system.

Jobs Text:
An estimated 25 temporary jobs will be created, and permanent preservation of 4 full-time jobs.

Habitat:
7 acres of platted land with nearby Mud River Spring, Salt Spring and Mud River.

Pollutant Red:
Fecal Coliform levels will be significantly lowered.

Living Resoruces:
Improved water quality will greatly benefit the highly sensitive ecosystem.

Resilience:
Improved water quality within Mud River Spring, Salt Spring and along Mud River.

Added Justification:
The nearby estuarine waters are particularly vulnerable to septic effluent leaching from poorly functioning and out dated septic systems. This project proposed will increase protection to Mud River Spring, Salt Spring and Mud River.


Desription:
Rogers Park is a passive recreation area located along the Weeki Wachee River.  The facilities include a spring fed, freshwater swimming area, boat launching, canoe/kayak launching, fishing and picnic areas.  The parking lot is currently paved with lime rock.  Periods of heavy rain result in runoff into the Weeki Wachee River.  The improvements consist of paved parking and stormwater retention to reduce surface runoff.

Quantify Env Results:
Stormwater retention and paving of lime rock parking and drive isles will prevent turbid stormwater from entering the adjacent canal and Weeki Wachee River system (Weeki Wachee Springs is a first order magnitude spring).  These improvements will reduce stormwater pollutants and turbidity by paving approximately 30,350 sq ft. and adding a drainage retention area.  This project provides water quality and aquatic habitat benefits.  Weeki Wachee River, springs and estuary support habitat for listed species including West Indian Manatees (endangered), and numerous bird species (including Little blue heron, Tricolored heron, White ibis, Wood stork, Snowy egret, Scott’s seaside sparrow).

Eco Benefits Text:
This project will improve water quality through the reduction of stormwater pollutants and turbidity.  Ecotourism opportunities include boating, kayak/canoeing, fishing, and swimming.    The addition of a kayak/canoe launch would further the County’s ecotourism marketing efforts.  Maintaining and improving recreational facilities benefit residents and local tourism.

Habitat:
This project will help to improve water quality and reduce pollutant impacts downstream of Rogers Park/Shoal Line Blvd. (approximately 2 miles). This project will help to conserve aquatic habitat and wildlife in the spring run, reduce turbidity, and improve water quality.

Pollutant Red:
This project will improve water quality by reduction of stormwater pollutants, sedimentation and turbidity.

Living Resoruces:
This project is intended to improve conditions for aquatic vegetation and wildlife in the spring run and maintain natural spring flow.

Resilience:
This project will improve water quality and health of the Weeki Wachee Riverine and estuarine system.  This park has had at least 14,134 vehicles this year that contributes to the County’s tourism industry with local economic benefits.


ConInfo:
J. Richard Sullivan, Environmental Scientist, Hillsborough County (HC) Parks, Recreation and Conservation

Title:
Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation’s Restoration and Exotic Plant Maintenance Project

Desription:
Herbicide Sweep of Hillsborough County’s Environmental Lands Acquisition and Protection Program (ELAPP) Preserves and Regional Parks, totaling 65,000 acres, targeting all FLEPPC Category 1 and 2 non-native plants for herbicidal eradication, followed by five years of quarterly maintenance.  In addition, wetland and upland restoration, detailed from individual site management plans and totaling 8,000 acres, will be accomplished on prioritized ELAPP sites.

Location:
Designated County parcels located with the boundaries of Hillsborough County, Florida Townships 27-32 South, Range 17-22 East.

Partners:
SWFWMD, FDEP, HCPRC, City of St. Petersburg Solid Waste, Consolidated Resource Recovery, Tampa Bay Estuary Program, Tampa Bay Watch

Status-all:
Exotic plant control doesn’t require any design or associated permitting.  Restoration work will require the necessary design, survey, and permits before construction can begin.

Quantify Env Results:
Non-native plant control:  Presence or absence of native vs. non-native vegetation (% of site); a ninety percent reduction from the estimated original abundance of the plants.   Restoration activities can be judged on percent success of plantings, presence or absence of native fauna utilizing the sites, and the acreage of habitat that has been restored.

Eco Benefits Text:
Herbicidal eradication of non-native plants will continue to maintain natural areas within the various Preserves and eradicate established colonies that have persisted over the years despite efforts to knock their numbers back.    All County restoration efforts attempt to return impacted sites back to the pristine conditions seen on 1938 aerials.   In the process of improving upland habitats by removing exotic vegetation and re-planting with native plants, improvement in water quality of adjacent ditches and creeks draining into, and passing through, County Preserves prior to entering Tampa Bay has always been an intended benefit of our restorations, and project designs reflect this.

Habitat:
Sixty-five thousand (65,000) acres of every type of habitat observed in central Florida:  along Tampa Bay’s eastern shore - coastal upland and transitional habitats, including freshwater marshes; marsh/mangrove shorelines; tidal flats and salterns; along inshore riverine systems - pine flatwoods, live oak/cabbage palm hammocks, sandhill, scrub, mix hardwood forests, and wet and dry prairies will be treated for exotic plant eradication (Figure 1).  Additionally, 8,000 acres (representing 38% of total ELAPP lands requiring restoration) will be restored (including 5,400 acres in the Lower Green Swamp and 2,600 acres on other ELAPP parcels).  Maintenance regimes will immediately follow up behind each completed restoration project.

Pollutant Red:
Difficult to quantify since the flow of the ditches and creeks that empty into the Preserve is so variable (e.g. flow is zero in the spring, moderate during the summer months and heavy during any long-lived thunderstorm or other high water events such as tropical systems).

Living Resoruces:
Estuarine and freshwater communities are presently providing valuable nursery and adult fisheries for both fish and invertebrates and will be further enhanced by the continued suppression of non-native plants trying to encroach upon coastal embayments and clog up freshwater ponds and channels.  Herbicidal treatment will also help preserve developing mixed coastal upland communities and their respective understory vegetation by eliminating competition with non-native vegetation for light, water, nutrients, etc.   Bird communities should benefit greatly as well, given the enhanced food potential provided by increasing numbers of juvenile fish and arthropod/crustacean species in the wetland areas, as well as more diversified and higher numbers of small mammals, insects and seeds from native plant species found in upland and transitional areas of County Preserves.

Resilience:
Removal and subsequent suppression of non-native plants will allow the native communities to flourish and out-compete invading exotic vegetation.  Restoration plans have always taken Sea Level Rise (SLR) into account in the final design of the most recent past projects and will continue to be a consideration in all future endeavors.  Species selection of vegetation to be used in restorations has been, and will continue to be, accomplished in such a manner to allow movement of transitional plants into and out of areas as water levels, and associated soil profiles, change with SLR.    Logging, rollerchopping, and modification of habitat structure will reduce the impact of vegetation on the surrounding communities while still providing protection from wind.

Added Justification:
:  Recreational uses abound, especially in but not limited to our Coastal Preserves, including fishing and kayaking/canoeing, hiking and birding, and educational opportunities; creation of oligohaline habitats, critical for fish and crustacean nurseries within Coastal Preserves; continued purchases of available land (and subsequent restoration, if necessary) in such a manner as to create contiguous wildlife corridors along the Hillsborough Alafia, and Little Manatee Rivers as well as the headwaters of Brooker Creek.   Hillsborough County has produced management plans for its nature preserves and parks which provide details as to the locations and type of restoration needed.


ConInfo:
Bernard W. Kaiser, Habitat Restoration Coordinator,  Hillsborough County (HC) Parks, Recreation and Conservation

Title:
Feasibility Study and Design to Rehabilitate Mined Lands within the Alafia River Corridor/

Desription:
A feasibility study and subsequent design to rehabilitate roughly 1,000 acres of lands subjected to surface mining for phosphate ore prior to enactment of mine reclamation laws (ca 1930 – 1975).

Location:
Designated Hillsborough County-owned parcels located within the Alafia River watershed.

Partners:
:  Southwest Florida Water Management District, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, United States Fish and Wildlife Service

Status-all:
A feasibility study to determine rehabilitation measures that would provide the best conservation benefit is the necessary first step.  The design of the rehabilitation project would incorporate the results of the feasibility study to achieve the greatest conservation benefit that is practical.  Subsequent to the design Hillsborough County would pursue monetary resources to fund construction of the project.

Quantify Env Results:
The intent of this endeavor is to determine what measures can be taken to increase the conservation value of these highly disturbed lands.  The benefits can be assessed in terms of the amount suitable habitat that will be created for native flora and fauna.

Eco Benefits Text:
These highly disturbed lands are heavily infested with exotic plants that can be a significant point source for off-site infestations.  Efforts to control this exotic plant infestation are a significant cost to Hillsborough County.  Additionally, the disturbed condition of these lands renders the area largely unsuitable of many native flora and fauna.  Because of the extensive disturbance to which this area has been subjected it is likely not possible to restore the areas to pre-mining conditions.  The feasibility study, however, will

Habitat:
If funding can be secured to implement the design, the quality of 1,000 acres of disturbed upland and wetland habitat will be improved of native flora and fauna.

Pollutant Red:
At present, there is insufficient information to assess how rehabilitation of these lands will reduce overall pollution levels.  Identifying the means to measure pollution levels pre- and post-construction of the project will be a component of the feasibility study.

Living Resoruces:
At present there are insufficient data to assess the net benefit to be gained for coastal and marine resources by rehabilitation of these disturbed lands.

Resilience:
Rehabilitating these lands to make the area more suitable for native flora and fauna will hopefully also reduce the likelihood of exotic plant and animal infestations.  Additionally, the rehabilitation also will increase the amount of area available for native species.

Added Justification:
Rehabilitation of these lands will provide additional lands available for outdoor recreation.


ConInfo:
Richard Pierce, Mote Marine Laboratory
1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL, 34236
941-388-4441 ext 342   rich@mote.org

Title:
Effects of chemical contaminants on restoration and sustainability of scallop and oyster communities in oil-impacted and non oil-impacted Gulf coast estuaries

Desription:
This two-year project will address the restoration and sustainability of oyster communities and scallop populations in Sarasota Bay and Charlotte Harbor Estuary along the Southwest Florida coast. The focus will be on the adverse impacts of current use pesticides and pharmaceuticals on reproduction and development of scallops and oysters and the enhanced synergistic effects in the presence of an oil spill and dispersant applications.   This study addresses all four of the Gulf Restoration Task Force overarching goals: ● Restore and conserve habitat; ● Restore water quality; ● Replenish and conserve coastal and marine resources; ● Enhance community resilience. Specific Florida priorities addressed include: ● Protect and restore estuarine habitat; ● Reduce excessive pollutant loads; ● Improve education and incentives (with new empirical data) for non-point pollution sources; ● Focus water quality improvements to promote seagrass, oyster, and scallop restoration; ● Improve understanding of sources, bioaccumulation and effects of toxic chemicals in sediments and nearshore waters.
          Year-1 will focus on collection and analysis of environmental samples (sediment, water, organisms) from selected sites for oil and dispersant chemicals as well as synergistic contaminants, including current use pesticides and a suite of pharmaceuticals (endocrine disruptors and antibiotics).  These baseline data will supplement NRDA and Mussel Watch data and will determine relevant compounds and concentrations for toxicity tests. In addition, laboratory range-finding toxicity tests will be initiated on oyster and scallop early life stages in preparation for definitive toxicity tests in year-2.
          Year-2 will continue field monitoring to fill data gaps, with most of the efforts focused on definitive toxicity tests for the identified contaminants and synergistic effects with oil water accommodated fraction (WAF) and dispersants.  Quantification of toxic effects will be measured through exposure tests for acute lethal and sublethal toxicity and biomarkers of effects. The toxicity end points will include 96-hr LC-50, reproductive effects on gametes, early life stage development (embryo and larvae), adult reproductive function, and immune function to determine impacts on living organisms as well as future generations.  
          Outputs include: Empirical data establishing; a) baseline data against which future oil spill contamination will be measured and synergistic impacts assessed, b) impacts of current use pesticides and pharmaceuticals on recruitment and sustainability of scallops and oyster communities in Gulf coast estuaries, whether or not impact from an oil spill occurs,  c) adverse synergistic effects of chemical contaminants with dispersants and the WAF of oil, d) evaluation of dispersants best suited for oil spill response and restoration in Gulf coast estuarine environments.  Outcomes include: a) Collaboration with on-going scallop restoration efforts with the SBEP, and oyster restoration efforts with the CHNEP providing estuarine resource managers and NRDA officials with empirical data to develop appropriate monitoring techniques for re-establishing and maintaining estuarine shellfish communities throughout the Gulf coast that are impacted by current use pesticides and pharmaceuticals. b) Providing empirical data for Florida and Gulf wide NEPs to address the above Restoration Task Force Priority Goals, specifically for development of response strategies applicable for recovery and sustainability of shellfish in Gulf coast estuaries impacted by pesticides and pharmaceuticals with or without oil and dispersant impact.

Location:
Representative sites along the SW Florida coast include the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program and the Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program (Figure 1). Studies will focus on habitats receiving point and non-point sources of pollution, including central Sarasota Bay receiving contaminants from Sarasota through Whitaker Bayou, Hudson Bayou and Marina Jack (figure 2), San Carlos Bay in Charlotte Harbor, receiving contaminants from Ft. Myers and Cape Coral through the Caloosahatchee River (Figure 3).  These sites are representative of subtidal and intertidal regions of SW Florida, specifically, and Gulf coast estuaries, in general, which are susceptible to impact from oil spills, clean-up efforts, and contaminants harmful to early life stages of estuarine invertebrates.

Partners:
1. Mote Marine Laboratory Programs:
R. Pierce, PI, Ecotoxicology
D. Wetzel, Co-PI, Environmental Forensics
C. Walsh, Co-PI, Marine Immunology
2. FL Gulf Coast University:
A. Volety, Co-PI, Marine and Environ. Sci.
A. Loh, Co-PI Environmental Chemistry
3. SBEP: 
J. Leverone, Co-PI Staff Scientist, Scallops
4. CHNEP: 
J. Ott Co-PI , Co-PI, Program Scientist, Environmental management, water quality.

Status-all:
All procedures are either in use or have recently been applied to on-going projects. Required facilities and instrumentation are in use and available for this study. All required permits are currently in place or pending renewal.

Quantify Env Results:
Quantification will include: a) Field studies (pre-oil impact) to measure existing environmental concentrations of oil and synergistic contaminants within Sarasota Bay and Charlotte Harbor.  b) Lab studies to determine impacts of synergistic contaminants alone and with dispersants and WAF, measuring lethal and sublethal immune function and reproductive endpoints affecting existing populations as well as future generations of oysters and scallops. c)  Provide empirical data to identify dispersants of reduced risk to estuarine species while promoting oil clean-up.  d) Baseline contaminant data and toxicity results obtained by this project will be applied to NEP and NRDA response strategies in preparation for clean-up and recovery from future oil spill impacts in Gulf estuaries.

Eco Benefits Text:
Economic benefits will be derived from the protection and sustainable recovery of scallops and oyster communities by reduced exposure to the synergistic chemical contaminants and implementation of less destructive clean-up methods in the event of an oil spill. Economic benefits will be realized for on-going regional scallop and oyster restoration efforts even if impact from an oil spill does not occur from the ability to recognize and minimize areas of contaminant impact, resulting in enhanced shellfish restoration for recreational and commercial applications.

Jobs Text:
Approximately 8 scientist positions will be conserved, with an additional 6 to 10 college student research training positions created throughout the 2-year project.

Habitat:
This study provides empirical data for impacts on oyster and scallop restoration and for developing response strategies for future oil spills.  The amount of habitat restored and conserved depends on the type and extent of habitat impacted by an oil spill and clean-up methods.  Hundreds of acres of submerged aquatic vegetation, intertidal marsh, mangrove and saltmarsh habitat are at risk in Charlotte Harbor and Sarasota Bay.  These studies will provide information applicable to thousands of acres of Gulf estuarine habitat.

Pollutant Red:
This project is designed to identify and quantify chemical contaminants in the estuaries that inhibit reproduction and development of estuarine invertebrates and cause adverse synergistic effects on organisms in the event of an oil spill. The type and amount of pollutant reductions required for sustainable recovery from existing contaminants as well as from an oil spill will be determined through completion of this study. The baseline data obtained from this project will provide the standard against which future improvements in water quality will be measured, and oil spill cleanup activities will be measured.

Living Resoruces:
Oyster reef communities, including vertebrate and invertebrate inhabitants and estuarine fish foraging on the reefs; Scallop habitat in seagrass communities, including associated flora and fauna inhabiting these environments.  Results of this 2-year study, in collaboration with on-going oyster and scallop restoration activities, will provide information critical for successful restoration and sustainability of these marine resources.  The extent to which they will be improved will be determined by the success of the on-going restoration projects and future oil spill impacts.

Resilience:
Identification and reduction of synergistic contaminant loading to estuarine habitats will reduce adverse impacts of point and non-pont contaminants, (pesticides and pharmaceuticals) known to inhibit invertebrate reproduction and development. This will be realized either with or without oil spill impact.  Reduction of chemical stressors will enhance sustainable ecological and economic recovery.

Added Justification:
Pesticides, pharmaceuticals, oil and refined oil products are classes of chemical contaminants that enter estuarine environments from sewage effluent, land runoff and aerial deposition.  Chemical stressors, in combination with an oil spill can cause much greater ecological damage that the stressors or oil alone.  Although various chemical stressors have been tested individually, the ability to undertake sustainable scallop and oyster restoration and to develop proper oil spill response and recovery strategies requires that we understand what chemical stressors pose serious problems such that limited resources can be applied to reducing their input, thus enhancing restoration and sustainable recovery of impacted marine resources.


ConInfo:
Atef Hanna, Interim Utilities Engineering Director, (727) 847-8040

Title:
Regional Reclaimed Water System Interconnection and Ecosystem Restoration

Desription:
This project will significantly reduce the nutrient pollutant load into the Tampa Bay Estuary, will recover and enhance impacted fresh water ecosystems in Pasco County, will provide for a more sustainable water supply for the Tampa Bay region, and would interconnect several of the region’s largest reclaimed water systems-thereby allowing for a comprehensive suite of management options of the reclaimed water and maximize the beneficial use of the resource.  Conceptually, reclaimed water currently being delivered into Tampa Bay, contributing to water quality deterioration, would be diverted away from the bay enhancing the health of the estuary ecosystem. The diverted reclaimed water could be beneficially reused by other communities in the Tri-County area with the excess delivered to Pasco County to be utilized for the restoration of wetlands and the recovery of aquatic natural systems within Pasco County. Two principle restoration projects within Pasco County are the critical components for the success of the regionalization effort along with expanding beneficial reuse across the Tri-County area.

The Central Pasco Natural Systems Restoration and Aquifer Recharge Project – this project is for the design, permitting and construction of facilities that will help to restore natural systems that have been impacted by groundwater withdrawals in central Pasco County.  These facilities may include; created wetlands, infiltration basins and/or spray irrigation systems.  A goal of this project is to rehydrate the primary regional wellfields- providing for a more sustainable, low-cost supply of water for the region while providing reclaimed water for hydrologically altered wetlands and other aquatic systems, as well as enriching critical habitat and improving recreational opportunities. 

The Crews Lake Natural Systems Restoration Project– The 700-acre Crews Lake has seen a historic drop in water levels over the past decade resulting from groundwater over-pumping.  Crews Lake has experienced chronically low water levels making the use of the boat ramp, canoe launch and fishing pier at Crews Lake Wilderness Park useless.  Water levels are so depleted that it no longer fits the definition of a lake by either Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection or the Southwest Florida Water Management District. The recovery of lake levels at Crews Lake has been deemed of utmost importance of the Southwest Florida Water Management District as the water body remains on the priority list for establishment of minimum flows and levels.  Recovery of this regionally important lake and park will require mitigation to achieve the desired restoration.  There are a myriad of benefits to Crews Lake likely with fruition of the project including: rehydration of a dry lake, improved ecological productivity of the area, improved wildlife habitat, and incremental restoration of local groundwater tables.  

Initial feasibility studies have been undertaken for both restoration projects in partnership with the SWFWMD.

Location:
various locations throughout Pasco County

Partners:
Southwest Florida Water Management District, Hillsborough County, Pinellas County, city of Tampa, city of Largo, city of Clearwater, Tampa Bay Estuary Program, Tampa Bay Water

Status-all:
Initial feasibility studies are underway


ConInfo:
Peter A. Clark, President
Tampa Bay Watch, Inc.
3000 Pinellas Bayway South
Tierra Verde, FL  33715

Title:
MacDill AFB Oyster Reef Creation Project

Desription:
MacDill Air Force Base (AFB), Tampa Bay Watch, Inc. and the United States Department
of Defense are working to complete shoreline enhancement of the Interbay Peninsula
southeastern shoreline. The partnership between MacDill AFB and Tampa Bay Watch will be to construct 137 tons of oyster shell reef along 1,350 linear feet of shoreline, install 220 Reef Ball marine friendly concrete oyster domes, and plant 1,000 linear feet of salt marsh communities to facilitate comprehensive ecosystem restoration.  

This project is the final phase of a community-based restoration project
that began in 2004 that successfully encouraged habitat restoration along the southeastern
shoreline of MacDill AFB on the Interbay Peninsula. All of these activities are designed to
protect a natural shoreline that has been eroding at an accelerated rate and restore critical habitat back into the Tampa Bay estuary.

Location:
Gadsden Point on MacDill AFB is located at the southeastern tip of the Interbay
Peninsula on the western shores of Hillsborough Bay in Tampa Bay (27°49’32.43 W
82°28’19.69 W)

Partners:
MacDill Air Force Base, United States Department of Defense, NOAA Fisheries, United States Fish & Wildlife Service, Environmental Protection Commission of Hillsborough County, Mulberry Restitution Fund, Florida Department of Environmental Protection

Status-all:
Project Design Completed and permitted.
FL DEP / ACOE Environmental Resource Permit received July 23, 2012.

Quantify Env Results:
Estuaries such as Tampa Bay are among the most productive ecosystems in the world. More than 85 percent of all fish and shellfish spend some part of their lives in estuarine waters. Today, after a century of intensive urban and industrial shoreline development, the character and ecology of Florida’s largest estuary, Tampa Bay, has been severely altered.  Coastal wetland losses, exacerbated by shoreline erosion and reductions in water quality, have resulted in major declines in fisheries and wildlife dependent on these habitats during a portion of their life cycles.  

The newly created oyster shell reefs, oyster dome fields and salt marsh communities at MacDill AFB will provide a number of ecological benefits including promoting water quality through biological filtering of the water, providing habitat for small marine organisms, preventing further erosion and creating foraging areas and sanctuary for many species of fish and wildlife.  

Tampa Bay Watch will monitor the newly created oyster habitat every six months for two years.  The MacDill AFB Oyster Reef Creation Project will consist of the following monitoring plan developed in accordance with the NOAA Restoration Center’s Project monitoring and evaluating requirements and the Restore America’s Estuaries (RAE) reporting requirements.  Working from this goal, Tampa Bay Watch has generated one structural objective and one functional objective for the MacDill AFB Oyster Reef Creation Project. 

The structural objective for this project is to construct at least 7,630 square feet (length x width) of oyster habitat by 2015, or the end of the two-year monitoring event.  Calculating length and width of installed oyster shell bars is the parameter that will provide data for this structural objective.  Other targets for this objective include an increase in percent coverage of oysters present on the shell bars.

The functional objective for the MacDill AFB Oyster Reef Creation Project is to produce an increase in natural oyster recruitment by 2015, or the end of the two year monitoring event.  An increase will demonstrate an enhancement of the natural oyster population.  Coverage of new oyster recruitment along each oyster shell bar is anticipated at 50% by the end of the monitoring event. at 50%.  Historically, our installed oyster reefs have ranged from a 25% to a 75% coverage rate, supporting our targeted rate of 50% coverage of new oyster growth.  Additional functional objectives will include an increase in biomass and an increase in water quality above the baseline value.

Additional benefits of oyster shell bars and oyster domes to Tampa Bay are the creation of habitats for marine species and natural feeding grounds for birds and larger marine species.  Tampa Bay Watch will also monitor the presence and composition of species (plant and animal) utilizing these habitats.

Eco Benefits Text:
In Tampa Bay during the 1960’s and 70’s widespread discharges from wastewater treatment plants, stormwater runoff and industrial sources contributed large quantities of nutrients and other pollutants into the Bay causing widespread algal blooms and loss of seagrass and other critical habitat.  This initiated a strong community movement to address the pollutants that were freely flowing into Tampa Bay.   Today, after 30 years of bay restoration and water quality improvements, Tampa Bay is experiencing a strong comeback.  Net improvements to the health of the Bay allow the reintroduction of seagrass and oysters into areas with improving water quality.   

Oysters occur naturally throughout the Tampa Bay estuary, centralizing around freshwater inputs. Oyster growth is readily apparent on along the shoreline where the oyster shell bars will be installed; however, expansion of hard bottom surfaces will create a greater surface area for settling oyster larvae and create habitat niches for other benthic organisms.  Increasing oyster growth in Tampa Bay will provide a number of ecological services including:
	Greatly increasing surface area and interstitial area for other attaching organisms (such as barnacles, sea squirts, anemones, sponges, corals and algae), immensely increasing the productivity of the benthic area.
	Providing diverse food sources or foraging areas for a variety of important fish species (redfish, snook, sheepshead), birds (American oystercatcher, ibis, herons), and other wildlife species (blue and stone crabs, shrimp).
	Providing a natural cleansing system for the bay, as an individual oyster may potentially filter 37 liters (9.8 gallons) of seawater every hour. Oysters are filter feeders capable of surviving in a variety of water quality conditions and are found throughout the estuarine portion of the Tampa Bay ecosystem.                                                                                   
	Stabilizing bottom sediments, resulting in reduced turbidity levels, and lowered shoreline erosion rates, thereby protecting the shore from high levels of erosion during storm events.
	Improved water quality conditions in this area will advance the natural recruitment of seagrass communities onto adjacent subtidal flats.  
	The addition of oyster shell bars and oyster domes along the shoreline at MacDill AFB will improve water quality by filtering out the algae that can cause blooms.  The improvement to water quality conditions advances waterfront home values in the area, supports enhanced recreational usage in Tampa Bay and adds to the visual aesthetics of the City of Tampa waterfront.
Additionally, oyster reefs are one of the most threatened marine habitats on earth with estimates at approximately 85-91% loss globally.  The loss of this habitat equates to a loss of beneficial services for both humans and the environment.  By restoring these valuable marine environments we are adding valuable ecosystem services to the Tampa Bay environment.

Jobs Text:
Total jobs created / preserved – 9 positions

Habitat:
MacDill Air Force Base and the Department of Defense, in partnership with Tampa Bay Watch, are proposing the placement of marine friendly concrete oyster domes and fossilized oyster shell to decrease the amount of erosion in this area while prompting habitat enhancement to the marine ecosystem. Newly established oyster communities will also enhance and protect local biodiversity through the creation of foraging areas for the many species of fish and birds.

The project will construct a 137 ton oyster shell reef along 1,350 linear feet along the southeastern tip of MacDill AFB in the Interbay Peninsula.  The installation of 220 Lo Pro Reef Balls (oyster domes) will complete the 2,000 oyster dome field along the eastern shore of MacDill AFB directly fronting the Tampa Ship Channel.  In addition, 1,000 linear feet of shoreline landward of the oyster shell reefs and oyster dome fields will be planted with salt marsh grasses to provide a diversity of native habitats that advance ecosystem restoration.  This comprehensive project not only addresses shoreline erosion along MacDill AFB but provides habitat restoration benefits and water quality improvements to the entire Tampa Bay estuary.

Pollutant Red:
Historically, Hillsborough Bay has suffered from the worst water quality impacts due to the urbanized nature of the embayment, stormwater loadings, and discharges from the largest wastewater treatment plant in the State of Florida.  As previously discussed, oysters natural biological filters.  Oyster reefs filter out nutrients and algae 24 hours a day / seven days a week.  A mature oyster can filter up to 9.8 gallons of saltwater every hour.  The addition of 7,630 square feet of oyster habitat across an unvegetated, urbanized shoreline area represents a sizable opportunity to enhance water quality conditions in Tampa Bay.

Living Resoruces:
As previously mentioned, estuaries such as Tampa Bay are among the most productive ecosystems in the world. More than 85 percent of all fish and shellfish spend some part of their lives in estuarine waters. Today, after a century of intensive urban and industrial shoreline development, the character and ecology of Florida’s largest estuary has been severely altered.  Coastal wetland losses, exacerbated by shoreline erosion and reductions in water quality, have resulted in major declines in fisheries and wildlife dependent on these habitats during a portion of their life cycles.  

The newly created oyster habitat will benefit Tampa Bay estuary by not only promoting water quality improvements through biological filtering of the water, but also providing habitat for small marine organisms, preventing further erosion and creating foraging areas and sanctuary for many species of fish and wildlife.  

Especially important in Tampa Bay are the NOAA trust resources for which oyster habitats are an essential habitat such as various species of grouper, snapper, and red drum.  These NOAA trust resources, currently under federal management, are dependent at one point during their life cycle on healthy and vibrant oyster habitat.  It has been documented that less than 1,500 acres of scattered oyster habitat exist in Tampa Bay due to the extensive development and loss of productive habitat.  For this reason, it is especially important to focus on the restoration and enhancement of these types of habitats.  For example, red drum is an estuarine dependent species and in the Fishery Management Plan for the Red Drum Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico (1986), it specifically states that shallow bays, such as Tampa Bay that have muddy and sandy bottoms or oyster reef substrates were found to be a particularly preferred habitat by sub-adult and adult red drum (section 6.2 of FMP).  It is also explicitly stated in the Generic Amendment for Addressing Essential Fish Habitat Requirements for Fishery Management Plans for the Gulf of Mexico that it is critical to “protect, restore and improve habitats upon which commercial and recreational marine fisheries depend, to increase their extent and to improve their productive capacity for the benefit of present and future generations.”

Resilience:
The efforts of Tampa Bay Watch to restore and protect the bay's habitat through stewardship and community awareness provide effective long term improvements to the bay, and empower our community with the knowledge to counteract our environmental problems. Learning how to achieve and maintain a healthy environment is a legacy that will touch our children and their children for years to come.  Hands-on, community based restoration translates directly into environmental awareness and education.

Added Justification:
Consistent with the goals and priorities of the RESTORE Act in the State of Florida, the MacDill Air Force Base Project is consistent with the following actions:

Goal: Restore and Conserve Habitat
Major Action
Prioritize ecosystem restoration in the Gulf of Mexico by ensuring that social, environmental and economic outcomes are fully considered in all river management decisions, and by placing it on equal footing with other priorities such as navigation and flood damage risk reduction.

Expand the network of state, federal and private conservation areas to ensure healthy landscapes that support the environment and culture of the region and the diverse services provided by the Gulf of Mexico ecosystem.

Restore and conserve coastal and near-shore habitats, with a focus on marshes, mangroves, seagrasses, barrier islands, natural beaches and dunes, and coastal forests and prairies.

Florida Priority
Protect, stabilize and restore salt marsh, seagrass, oyster, coral reef, beach, dune man¬grove and other important marine bottom habitat in strategic locations where human-made and storm impacts have occurred or are likely to occur in the future.

Partner with Florida Gulf Coast military installations to integrate their ongoing conser¬vation strategies and land acquisition efforts for military readiness with Florida’s eco¬system restoration and protection goals.

Continue to work with federal partners, private landowners and stakeholders to imple¬ment the CERP where it will improve and protect Gulf ecosystems in Southwest Florida and the Keys.

Work with federal and local agencies to develop and implement a hard bottom mitiga¬tion strategy to restore habitats where damage from storms, transportation and naviga¬tion projects, beach restoration, and other impacts from public projects have occurred or will occur.


ConInfo:
Bruce Laurion, Tampa Port Authority BLAURION@Tampaport.com

Title:
Tampa Port Authority – McKay Bay Parcel Habitat Restoration Project

Desription:
This restoration project along the shoreline of McKay Bay in Tampa Bay covers a 2.40-acre tract and entails the removal of exotic vegetation, estuarine emergent and forested wetland creation, as well as the associated coastal strand upland habitat.

Location:
Hillsborough County; 2.40+ acre section of the 26.5+ acres of which the Tampa Port Authority (TPA) owns.  The restored section will be protected via a conservation easement. Approximate coordinates for the center of the project: 27°56'35.25"N &  82°25'17.46"W

Eco Benefits Text:
Value of economic service  improvements is estimated at $183,070.00

Habitat:
Approximately 1 acre of wetland creation/restoration, and 1.4 acres of wetland enhancement via nuisance and exotic species (i.e. Brazilian pepper) removal.  This will also benefit nearby wetland systems indirectly by the removal of exotic vegetation and the presence of the restored ecosystem functions.

Pollutant Red:
Approximately 24 acres of untreated runoff will be treated via biological treatment processes incorporated into the project design.

Living Resoruces:
Recreational fish (snook seatrout, redfish, mullet, etc.) habitat will be restored, which will benefit avifaunal species as well as arthropods and small mammals; 2.4 acres of land will be directly restored

Resilience:
The removal of exotic vegetation will help eliminate this seed source from the area which will benefit the surrounding native communities, also the design incorporates sea-level rise considerations and provides space and the appropriate slopes for vegetation to adapt to the anticipated climate changes.

Added Justification:
The restored site will provide habitat for many of Florida's species of special concern, including the various wading bird species. Additionally, the estuarine wetlands are home to numerous juvenile commercially and recreationally important fish species.  These wetlands also provide forage areas for avifaunal species and the wading bird population. This project is achievable due to its ownership and the commitment of TPA.


ConInfo:
Bruce Laurion, Tampa Port Authority (TPA) BLAURION@Tampaport.com

Title:
Tampa Port Authority – Tampa Bypass Canal Habitat Restoration Project

Desription:
This restoration project along the shoreline of the Tampa Bypass Canal, which flows directly into McKay Bay in Tampa Bay.  This project would include the TPA purchasing approximately 9.61 acres of Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) surplus lands along the Tampa Bypass Canal.  Habitat enhancements would include approximately 3 acres of estuarine emergent and forested creation, 1 acre of oligohaline emergent creation, and 5 acres of upland enhancements via the removal of exotic vegetation and selective replanting by appropriate vegetation indicative of a coastal strand upland system.

Location:
7 individual parcels located along the Tampa Bypass Canal from just west of US41 to west of the Lee Roy Selmon Crosstown Expressway in Hillsborough County; 9+ acre section of the 9.61+ acres of which is currently owned by the SWFWMD will be purchased by the Tampa Port Authority (TPA).  The restored section will be protected via a conservation easement.

Eco Benefits Text:
Shoreline protection, water quality improvements, and fishery habitat creation and enhancement.  Approximately $495,000 in economic benefits.

Habitat:
Habitat enhancements would include approximately 3 acres of estuarine emergent and forested creation, 1 acre of oligohaline emergent creation, and 5 acres of upland enhancements via the removal of exotic vegetation (i.e. Brazilian pepper)  and selective replanting by appropriate vegetation indicative of a coastal strand upland system.  This will also benefit nearby wetland systems indirectly by the removal of exotic vegetation and the presence of the restored ecosystem functions.

Pollutant Red:
Approximately 25 acres of untreated runoff will be treated via biological treatment processes incorporated into the project design.

Living Resoruces:
Recreational fish (snook, seatrout, redfish, mullet, etc.) habitat will be restored, which will benefit avifaunal species as well as arthropods and small mammals; 9 acres of land will be directly restored

Added Justification:
The restored site will provide habitat for many of Florida's species of special concern, including the various wading bird species. Additionally, the estuarine wetlands are home to numerous juvenile commercially and recreationally important fish species.  These wetlands also provide forage areas for avifaunal species and the wading bird population.


ConInfo:
Misty Cladas, Tampa Bay Estuary Program, 263 13th Avenue So., Suite 350, St. Petersburg, FL 33701; misty@tbep.org

Desription:
This project will fund the Regional Volunteer Restoration Program which brings citizen volunteers to habitat restoration work events in Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, and Charlotte counties. Funding will be utilized to purchase plants, gloves, tools and other supplies needed to complete these workdays.  Each volunteer event attracts between 30 and 50 participants and generates approximately 4 hours of volunteer time per attendee, providing more than 200 work hours donated per event. Volunteers make a big impact on the work site by removing exotic invasive plants, installing native plants, and removing debris and trash. The Regional Volunteer Restoration Program provides more than 4,000 hours towards volunteer habitat restoration at local parks and preserves in the region, annually.

Location:
Public properties in Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, and Charlotte counties such as conservation parks and preserves that require volunteer assistance.

Partners:
Partners in each County to host events as needed.

Status-all:
Project can begin immediately. All partner agencies have volunteer programs in place which can be expanded upon using this funding, allowing for additional opportunities to conduct community based volunteer restoration projects.

Quantify Env Results:
Success of volunteer events is generally determined by the activity itself. Examples may include amount of restored acreage and the survivability of the plantings and/or the reoccurance of exotic invasives on site. Measurement possibilities include transects and meter square monitoring or photo points for either type of activity.

Eco Benefits Text:
A number of small businesses, such as local native plant nurseries, benefit directly from the NEP volunteer workdays as all of the plant material for the events are purchased through them. Each event requires different types of resources to facilitate the workday and all of these are purchased locally. The NEP’s also provide food and t-shirts as a form of volunteer recognition and these items are also purchased within the local economy.

Habitat:
An average of 220-300 acres or more are positively impacted by NEP volunteer events in throughout the region.

Pollutant Red:
Volunteer events that include trash removal will have a direct positive impact on pollutants by directly removing them from the environment. Volunteer events that include the installation of native wetland plants will have an indirect affect as the wetland plants will grow to become an absorption mechanism for stormwater runoff and other pollutants.

Living Resoruces:
?:  Coastal resources positively affected by these volunteer events include habitats such as maritime mangrove forests, rare salterns, coastal berm, hardwood hammock, coastal pine flatwoods, and dune communities. Species diversity will be improved with the removal of exotic invasives and the increase in habitat.

Resilience:
The improvement of coastal habitat through volunteer restoration workdays will reduce the effects of sea level rise, improve stormwater runoff by creating new wetlands to absorb pollutants, and provide improved species diversity.

Added Justification:
The majority of the NEP-sponsored volunteer work sites take place on public properties which benefit greatly from these events. Each NEP has a volunteer contact list, which combined, reaches nearly 10,000 residents and provides the opportunity for citizens to participate in a restoration project.  The Volunteer Restoration Program provides participants throughout the region opportunities to get involved and help restore and protect our valuable resources.


ConInfo:
Steven K. Leavitt, Water Resources Director, City of St. Petersburg                                      steve.leavitt@stpete.org

Title:
Albert Whitted Wastewater Pump Station and Force Main

Desription:
Construct 23 million gallon per day pumping station and piping to transfer flows from the aging Albert Whitted wastewater treatment plant to the newer and more reliable Southwest wastewater treatment plant.

Location:
St Petersburg, between the AWWRF and the SWWRF - (Lat/Long = 27 43,00 / 82 41,04)

Quantify Env Results:
Improved wastewater treatment reliability increases availability of reclaimed water resulting in reduced demand for potable water. The reduced potable water demand helps to increase ground water and wetland levels, and to reduce river water harvesting.  All of these increase freshwater stream and river flows into marine estuarine systems.  Benefits can be measured by comparing future potable and reclaimed water usage with historic usage.  The quantity of nitrogen and other pollutants that are not direct discharged into Tamp Bay can be calculated from plant operating data.


ConInfo:
Debbie Chayet, Senior Grants Specialist, Pinellas County Parks & Conservation Resources, 727-582-2521; dchayet@pinellascounty.org

Submitting Organization:
Pinellas County Parks & Conservation Resources

Title:
Ft. De Soto Park North Beach Dune Habitat Restoration

Desription:
Project involves removal of invasive exotic Australian Pines, re-nourishment of north beach, restoration of coastal dunes and planting of dune species.

Location:
Pinellas County, at 1,136-acre Ft. De Soto Park, located at the southernmost tip of Pinellas County, bordering both Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, within the Tampa Bay Estuary and the Pinellas County Aquatic Preserve.

Partners:
Tampa Bay Watch, Friends of Ft. De Soto Park, others. Letters of support available upon request

Status-all:
This project is in initial design and permitting phase. Invasive exotic removal could begin immediately upon funding availability. Permitting efforts are for sand moving within park are underway.

Quantify Env Results:
Number of federally and state endangered sea turtles nesting on restored beach, number of federally and stated listed species (protected species) of shorebird nests on restored beach; number of restored dunes; amount of re-nourished sand.

Eco Benefits Text:
If the figure in the June 2003 FDEP report “Economics of Florida’s Beaches: The Impact of Beach Restoration” is to be believed, then every one dollar spent annually on beach restoration yields $700 in foreign revenue. Based on this figure alone, economic benefits for this project specifically are $5,600,000,000 without ecosystem valuation added.

Habitat:
about 19 acres critical beach front & dune habitat

Pollutant Red:
Reduction of seed source of invasive exotics into Tampa Bay

Living Resoruces:
Improvement for federally endangered and threatened sea turtle species that nest on this specific beach; improvement for wide range of listed species of shorebirds that nest on this specific beach including migratory species. Affected birds include but are not limited to piping plover, black skimmer, oystercatcher, least tern, Caspian tern, red knot, long billed curlew, avocet, etc. Other wildlife will also be benefit from the improved habitat. Restoration of dune habitat will restore floral and faunal diversity.

Resilience:
Re-contouring and re-nourishing north beach, along with restoration of coastal dunes will reduce effect of sea level rise and re-establish coastal resilience of this area. Removal of invasive exotics will also improve habitat resilience. Will provide protection of upland infrastructure.

Added Justification:
Project provides improved storm protection; is a strong economic driver via supporting tourism and general economy of the region; quality of life; adds/preserves jobs; and protects a critical sensitive environmental habitat. Ft. De Soto Park averages between 2.3 and 2.8 million visitors per year from all over the world. The majority come to visit the best beach in the nation, a designation per Dr. Beach in 2005 (Stephen Leatherman) and twice since then by Trip Advisor, a major travel magazine. The beach also has supported film and photo shoots, corporate outings and other events that also provide a trickle-down effect to the regional economy in the form of patronage to hotels, restaurants, shopping etc. Per a post of March 28, 2012 in response to an article by Convention Visitors Bureau “The intrinsic value had by Fort Desoto far outweighs any monetary income generated by the park!”


