Nov 1 Meeting with Florida DEP
Below are the topics discussed in the meeting.
A. Best management practices (BMPs) for protecting natural site features like dunes, wetlands, and natural vegetation include strategies to minimize human impact, prevent erosion, and maintain ecological health.
1. Buffer Zones and Setbacks
Establish buffer zones around wetlands, dunes, and vegetation to prevent encroachment.
Set minimum setback distances for construction, especially in coastal or wetland areas, to reduce disturbance.
2. Erosion Control
Use silt fences, hay bales, or other erosion-control materials during construction near sensitive sites.
For dunes, implement dune stabilization methods such as planting native vegetation, placing sand fencing, or using biodegradable mats to keep sand in place.
3. Native Vegetation Restoration
Restore disturbed areas with native plants that are suited to the local environment to maintain biodiversity and prevent invasive species from taking over.
In wetlands, plant species that thrive in wet conditions to support natural water filtration and animal habitats.
B. The delineation of authority among County, State, and Federal entities generally depends on the type of land, the natural resources involved, and the jurisdiction defined by law. Here’s a general outline of how authority is typically divided:
1. County Authority
Zoning and Land Use: Counties regulate zoning, permitting, and land use within their jurisdiction, especially for residential and commercial developments.
Local Environmental Regulations: They often oversee specific environmental regulations tied to county ordinances, such as managing stormwater, enforcing setbacks, and regulating impacts on local habitats.
Natural Area Maintenance: Counties may be responsible for the management and maintenance of county parks, greenways, and other public lands within their boundaries.
Local Ordinances: Counties can enact additional protective ordinances (such as erosion control) that go beyond State requirements.
2. State Authority
Water and Wetland Protection: Florida generally has authority over water resources, including wetlands, under administrative code 62-330. DEP often issue permits for activities impacting these resources.
Wildlife and Conservation: States enforce protections for state-designated endangered species and conservation of unique ecosystems, such as dune systems.
Coastal Zone Management: In coastal areas, the state typically manages coastal areas under programs like the Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) to protect beaches, dunes, and estuarine ecosystems.
Public Health and Safety: States often have the authority to manage environmental issues impacting public health, like air and water quality standards, in alignment with federal guidelines.
3. Federal Authority
Federal Lands and Endangered Species: The federal government has jurisdiction over federal lands (e.g., national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges) and is responsible for enforcing protections for federally listed endangered species through agencies like the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).
Waterways and Wetlands (CWA Section 404): The Army Corps of Engineers regulates the discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States, including wetlands, under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act.
Environmental Standards: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets standards for air and water quality and oversees hazardous waste management across the nation, though it often works in partnership with state agencies for enforcement.
Coastal and Marine Resources: Federal agencies like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) manage marine sanctuaries, offshore resources, and federal waters under acts like the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act.
In practice, cooperation between entities is common, with federal agencies providing oversight and technical support while states and counties enforce local regulations and maintain daily management responsibilities. In some cases, agencies may jointly review projects to ensure they meet the requirements at all levels of government.
C. On Santa Rosa Island, leaseholders, residents, and visitors can work together to preserve the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the island by following these collective protection practices:
1. Adhering to Local Guidelines and Ordinances
Respect Zoning and Use Restrictions: Leaseholders and residents should ensure their property use aligns with local and federal guidelines, including those related to setback distances, fencing, and permissible activities.
Comply with Beach and Dune Protection Ordinances: Follow any local laws aimed at protecting dunes and beaches, such as restrictions on vehicle use, building in sensitive areas, and walking on protected dunes.
2. Protecting Dune Formations
Stay on Designated Paths: All parties should avoid walking on dunes, as foot traffic can erode them. Use marked trails and walkways to help preserve these formations.
Avoid Plant Disturbance: Dune plants, like sea oats, are vital for stabilizing sand. Avoid pulling up or disturbing vegetation, and participate in community planting days if available.
Install Sand Fences and Barriers: Leaseholders may, with appropriate permits, install sand fences to prevent wind erosion and protect dune ecosystems.
3. Minimizing Litter and Pollution
Practice Leave No Trace: Visitors should take all trash, food wrappers, and belongings with them, leaving the beach and trails as pristine as they found them.
Proper Waste Disposal: Leaseholders and residents can ensure proper waste and recycling management by securing bins and avoiding overflow that could lead to litter in natural areas.
4. Stormwater and Erosion Control
Use Permeable Surfaces: Leaseholders can install permeable pavement and rain gardens to reduce stormwater runoff, helping prevent erosion and water pollution.
Limit Fertilizer and Pesticide Use: Residents should minimize chemical use to prevent nutrient runoff into wetlands and coastal areas. Native landscaping can reduce the need for fertilizers.
5. Wildlife Conservation
Observe Wildlife from a Distance: All visitors and residents should avoid approaching nesting birds, turtles, or other animals, especially during breeding seasons.
Minimize Outdoor Lighting: Leaseholders can install turtle-friendly lighting to protect nesting sea turtles and other nocturnal wildlife.
Secure Food and Trash: Everyone can help prevent attracting wildlife, like raccoons, which can harm nesting birds or turtle eggs, by storing trash securely and avoiding feeding wildlife.
6. Supporting Restoration and Volunteer Programs
Participate in Volunteer Days: Leaseholders, residents, and visitors can get involved in restoration projects, such as dune planting, beach clean-ups, or habitat restoration events hosted by local agencies.
Educate Visitors and Neighbors: Those living on the island can encourage visitors to follow protective practices and be mindful of fragile ecosystems.
7. Promoting Sustainable Recreation
Avoid Motorized Vehicles on Sensitive Land: Motorized vehicles can damage dune and wetland ecosystems, so it’s best to avoid driving in these areas and use bicycles or walk where possible.
Responsible Water Sports: Use only designated access points for boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding, as dragging equipment across dunes and beaches can cause erosion.
8. Reporting Environmental Concerns
Alert Authorities to Issues: Residents and visitors should report any observed pollution, illegal activity, or damage to local authorities or park management to allow quick action.
Engage with Community Meetings: Leaseholders can attend local community or county meetings to stay informed on initiatives to protect the island and support new conservation measures.
With commitment from leaseholders, residents, and visitors, these collective efforts will help keep Santa Rosa Island a healthy and enjoyable place for generations to come.
https://floridadep.gov/lands/environmental-services/content/conservation-easements-faqs
https://floridadep.gov/lands/environmental-services/content/landowner-resources
PBA BeachKeepers
PBA officially launched its environmental committee under the chairmanships of JJ Waters in March 2011.
The mission for this committee is:
"We will promote positive actions to sustain the unique natural assets of Santa Rosa Island, including beach and dune preservation, protection of our flora and fauna, recycling and responsible recreational use. We are committed to working with area businesses, community groups and neighbors to implement environmen projects and programs that benefit our community socially and economically. These goals will be accomplished through education, community involvement and partnering with other organizations."
The group is working on recycling, turtle lighting, transportation issues, education on environmental issues, wildlife conservation and dune preservation.
Read Feb 2012 Blog Article for more information
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