Wiggins Pass Work Group Backup Documents 02/20/2009
Wiggins Pass Work
Group
Backup Documents
February 20, 2009
Collier County Government
Communication &
Customer Relations Department
3301 East Tamiami Trail
Naples, FL 34112
(239) 252-8848
www.collier2ov.net
January 12, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING
WIGGINS PASS MODELING EVALUATION WORK GROUP
COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA
FRIDA Y, FEBRUARY 20, 2009
1:00 P.M.
A public meeting will be held to conduct Wiggins Pass Modeling Committee Meeting and
Review Public Comment on Friday, February 20, at 1:00 p.m. in the Coastal Zone
Management conference room, located at 3300 Santa Barbara Boulevard, Naples.
Two or more members of the Coastal Advisory Committee may be present and may participate
at the meeting. The subject matter of this meeting may be a future item for discussion and
action at a Coastal Advisory Committee meeting.
Two or more members of the Pelican Bay Services Division Board may be present and may
participate at the meeting. The subject matter of this meeting may be a future item for
discussion and action at a Pelican Bay Services Division Board meeting.
Two or more members of the Tourist Development Council may be present and may participate
at the meeting. The subject matter of this meeting may be a future item for discussion and
action at a Tourist Development Council meeting.
This meeting is open to the public.
If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in
this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance.
Please contact the Collier County Facilities Management Department located at 3301 E.
Tamiami Trail, Naples, FL 34112, (239) 252-8380; assisted listening devices for the hearing
impaired are available in the Board of County Commissioners Office.
For more information, call Gail Hambright in the Coastal Zone Management Office at 252-
2966.
-End-
MEETING AGENDA
MODELING EVALUATION WORK GROUP
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2009 - 1 :00 P.M.
COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT (3300 Santa Barbara Boulevard,
Naples)
I. Call to Order
II. Pledge of Allegiance
III. Roll Call
IV. Changes and Approval of Agenda
V. Approval of Minutes
1. October 22, 2008
VI. Review of Modeling Progress and Recommendation by CP&E
VII. Steering Committee Comments and Recommendations
VIII. Public Comments *
IX. Announcements
X. Committee Member Discussion
XI. Next Meeting DatelLocation
To be determined
XII. Adjournment
* Public speakers must do the following for any items presented to the Board: Each
document must display the presenter's name and title of document Provide a total of 13
copies of each handout, to be distributed as follows: 9 Board Members; 1 Minute Taker; 1
County Attorney; 2 CZM Staff members.
All interested partied are invited to attend, and to register to speak and to submit their objections, if any, in writing, to the board prior
to the meeting if applicable.
For more information, please contact Gail D. Hambright at (239) 252-2966.
If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no
cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact the Collier County Facilities Management Department located at
3301 East Tamiami Trail, Naples, FL 34112, (239) 252-8380.
Public comments will be limited to 3 minutes unless the Chairman grants permission for additional time.
Collier County Ordinance No. 99-22 requires that all lobbyists shall, before engaging in any lobbying activities (including, but not
limited to, addressing the Board of County Commissioners) before the Board of County Commissioners and its advisory boards,
register with the Clerk to the Board at the Board Minutes and Records Department.
October 22,2008
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE WIGGINS PASS
MODELING EVALUATION WORK GROUP
Naples, Florida, October 22, 2008
LET IT BE REMEMBERED, that the Wiggins Pass Modeling Evaluation
Work Group in and for the County of Collier having conducted business
herein, met on this date at 9:00 A.M. at Collier County Government Center,
Health Department Building "H", 2nd Floor, Rm. 216. Naples, Florida with
the following members present:
Group Leader: Heidi Kulpa
John Findley
Doug Finlay
Jon Staiger
Nicole Ryan
Mark Latch (Excused)
Donna Caron (Excused)
Paul Sullivan
Bryan Fluech (Excused)
Thomas Crowe
ALSO PRESENT: Gary McAlpin, Coastal Zone Management Director
October 22, 2008
. Call To Order
Group Leader Heidi Kulpa called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.
· Roll Call
Roll call was taken and a quorum was established.
Jeff Riley, Florida Park Service and Sally Cole Braem, Environmental Spec., Florida
Park Service were also in attendance along with Consultants Stephen Keehn, PE and
Lindino Benedet, Oceanographer of Coastal Planning and Engineering, Inc.
· Sunshine Law Notification
Gary McAlpin, Director, Coastal Zone Management stated the Discussion Group
is subject to the Sunshine Law and two or more members of various County Boards
may be present and the subject matter may be discussed at future Board meetings.
· Approval of Minutes from 8/12/08 meeting
Mr. Finlay moved to approve the minutes of the August 12, 2008 meeting. Second
by Mr. Staiger. Carried unanimously 7-0.
· Review significant insights to date
o Do Nothing is not an option because of non-compliance to IMP
o Sand transport in this area is hampered by the effects of Sanibel and
appears to flow south to north
o Dead zone for sand transport in the R15 area
Gary McAlpin reviewed the previous findings referenced above.
Lindino Benedet of Coastal Planning and Engineering re-iterated the area in the
immediate vicinity of the Pass is primarily affected by net sand transport from a
South to North wave direction.
Group Leader Heidi Kulpa reviewed the Discussion Groups area of focus for the
alternatives proposed:
1) Analyze 20-year storm data (wave and currents patterns, etc.)for the model
2) Conduct a 4-5 year simulation for the morphology of the Pass based on each
alternative
3) Analyze the concept of repairing Barefoot Beach to its natural condition and study
its morphology over the 4-5 year simulation period of each alternative
4) Analyze impacts on Delnor-Wiggins State Parkfor each alternative
5) Obtain input regarding impacts on Snook habitats for each alternative
6) Analyze impact on the various environmental communities for each alternative
7) Incorporate any necessary geological considerations into the evaluation
2
October 22, 2008
Stephen Keehn of Coastal Planning and Engineering provided an overview of the
preliminary Environmental Resource Assessments regarding Sea Grasses and Snook
Habitat.
He noted the following:
D Information was obtained from the National Marine Fisheries Service.
D Snook's habitat includes mangrove areas and congregates in inlets to
spawn.
c Snook is listed as a species of concern with no specific conservation
regulations for dredging activities.
~ No particular conservation areas or critical habitats have been identified
in the Wiggins Pass area.
D No habitats of concern (including Seagrasses) were identified in the area
of proposed work.
[j The Seagrass information was based on physical reconnaissance via
divers.
!J There are some mangrove "areas of concern" on the northern side of the
Pass.
D There is no proposal to "bury this area" (mangrove areas).
D The initial reconnaissance work is preliminary and will be finalized
under a subsequent contract.
He further indicated the following:
D Preliminary geological data has been collected and reviewed regarding
the composition of the sea bottom in the area.
" Further investigation is necessary to determine any possible removal of
limestone, etc.
Gary McAlpin summarized and Stephen Keehn agreed, the reconnaissance indicates
none ofthe alternatives under consideration would be eliminated due to
environmental or geo-technical reasons or concerns.
When finalized, this information will be incorporated into a report and posted on the
Coastal Zone Management website.
· Presentation of The three Modeling Alternatives
o Model the effects of straightening the interior and exterior channels
o Model the effects of straightening the interior channel but not the
exterior channel
o Model the effects of not straightening the interior channel but
straightening the exterior channel
A copy of this presentation (Wiggins Pass Delft3D Numerical Modeling and
Calibration & Channel Enhancement Alternatives dated October 22, 2008)
conducted by Lindino Benedet and Stephen Keehn will be available on the Collier
County Coastal Advisory Committee Website at
http://www.colliergov.net/Index.aspx?page=2390.
3
October 22, 2008
Lindino Benedet reviewed the data utilized in running the morphology models for
the alternatives, which include wave conditions and current velocities, data from
previous studies etc. This data is necessary to ensure the model depicts the
morphology as accurately as possible.
Based on input from previous meetings and subsequent analysis their work has now
been refined to study the following 4 alternatives:
4 Alternatives (for long term stabilization of Wiggins Pass)
1) Currentlv Permitted channel- (250ft. wide, 13ft. deep.)
2) New Straight Channel with Hvdraulic Enhancements - Straight channel (200ft.
wide, 11ft. deep), flood shoal cut, sand dikes to direct the flow.
3) Permitted Channel with Hvdraulic Enhancements - Straight channel as permitted
(250ft wide, 13ft deep), flood shoal cut, sand dikes to direct the flow.
4) New Realigned Channel- Realigned Channel following natural ebb jet, 200ft
wide, 11 ft. deep.
The 4 alternatives were modeled for the morphology of the Pass on I year, 2year and
4 year time frames, as well as a significant Hurricane Event.
Lindino Benedet and Stephen Keehn provided a detailed technical overview of
individual morphology models for the 4 alternatives proposed.
It was noted Stephen Keehn has completed a concept design which combines
alternatives #2 and 3.
Group Leader, Heidi Kulpa, reviewed the purpose of the Mission given to the
Group:
1. Provide a safe channel for boating.
2. Address the erosion at Barefoot Beach.
3. Lengthen the dredge cycle and accomplish it with the least effect on the
environment.
4. The solution needs to be economically effective.
Speaker
Marcia Cravens, Mangrove Action Group, requested clarification on the data used
to develop the models and if information such as tidal prisms, velocities of currents,
etc. were taken into account.
Stephen Keehn and Lindino Benedet noted the model is calibrated utilizing
numerous factors (sediment transport, wave velocities, etc.). It is a "state of the art"
program for modeling the effects (including changing tidal prisms, current velocities,
etc) created on the Pass by each of the proposed alternatives.
He provided a summary of the Group's Decision Matrix shown on pages 60-63 of the
presentation.
4
October 22, 2008
Among other conclusions in the presentation, he noted the following:
u Of all the alternatives tested (16 total), alternatives 2 and 3 were the
only ones which accomplish the goals of the Discussion Group.
e] Alternative #2 provides slightly more stability to the Pass than
alternative #3.
c Alternative #4, provides a more long -term navigable channel, but noted
without installation of a permanent structure, a significant amount of
erosion on the south end of Barefoot Beach would occur.
] Sedimentation rates in the model decrease with time as expected, after 2
years, quasi-equilibrium is reached and there is minimal additional
sedimentation.
c Beach fill between markers R-13 and R-15 is recommended (creating
minimal effects on the channel and a net positive effect on Barefoot
Beach. )
'1 During extreme hurricane years, no matter what steps are taken, (other
than installations of permanent structures) the channel gets filled in at a
4 year "normal rate." An emergency response plan for the event should
be incorporated into the final solution.
Speaker
Marcia Cravens asked if the modeling takes environmental considerations into
account (as well as navigation factors.)
Lindino Benedet noted the model does not address environmental considerations;
however the Group's area of focus includes environmental concerns.
Gary McAlpin read the approved Mission Statement into the Record "Examine the
modeling study results and recommend environmentally and economically sound
methods to maintain Wiggins Pass as a safe navigable waterway by minimizing
shoreline erosion and achieving long term stabilization of Wiggins Pass through a
collaborative process involving Wiggins Pass stakeholders input. "
He suggested returning the South End of Barefoot Beach to its "original condition" be
considered in the final solution and polled the Group for their recommendations on
narrowing the focus on the individual alternatives.
Mr. Findley - Alternative # 's 2 and 3 appear to be the most optimal identified.
Favors alternative #2 at this point.
Ms. Kulpa - Focus on alternative #2.
Mr. Finlay - Prefers alternatives #2 or 3.
Ms. Ryan - Alternative #1 eliminated; need final Environmental Assessment and
Report for remaining alternatives to make final decision.
Mr. Staiger - Focus on alternatives # 's 2 or 3, favors #2 as it may be more cost
effective based on less width and depth cut of channels, etc. to achieve solution.
Jeff Riley, Florida Park Service favors alternative #2.
Mr. Sullivan - Need for final Environmental Assessment, favors #2 based on cost
effectiveness.
5
October 22, 2008
Mr. Crowe - Favors alternatives #2 and 3, need final economic considerations for
both alternatives.
It was noted the channel will require dredging in January as scheduled. This will be
accomplished under the existing permit, or if possible a permit modification to place
the dredged sand in a more strategic location.
Lindino Benedet noted an alternative solution involving the combination of#'s 2 and
3 will be analyzed in its relations to the goals set forth by the Group.
Lindino Benedet reviewed the future tasks:
o Refine the best alternative and simulate it for 1 year, 2year and 4year
with beach fill placement. The final alternative will be a combination of
#2 and 3.
D Write final modeling report and provide recommendations to the detailed
design phase and new permit application.
D Refine Decision Matrix for scenarios of comparison.
· Presentation of Results of the environmental resource assessment of The
Wiggins Pass Flood shoal areas.
Previously discussed.
· Discussion of consideration for Snook habitat
Previously discussed.
· Public Comments
Speakers
Marcia Cravens asked if there are any examples where a modeling solution has been
constructed.
Lindino Benedet referenced Rich Inlet in North Carolina, North Topsail Beach, NC
and Bogue Inlet, NC as examples.
Joe Moreland recognized the work being completed by the Discussion Group.
Doug Fee thanked the Consultants and the County. He noted the removal of rock that
may be required for a particular alternative may have an impact on sand transports
and erosion at Barefoot Beach.
Stephen Keehn noted the geologic considerations need to be finalized. Alternatives
#2 and 3 seek to minimize the amount of rock removed.
Gary McAlpin stated they are unsure how much rock, if any, may need to be
removed. He recommended the Consultants proceed on their work to make the
determinations and provide the Final Reports necessary to make a decision. He noted
the Final Reports are intended to be available 30 days prior to an applicable Group
meeting.
6
October 22, 2008
The Group determined a combination solution utilizing elements of alternatives #2
and 3 should be presented for the Groups consideration.
Gary McAlpin requested the Consultants analyze the impact of restoring Barefoot
Beach to its "original condition" as part of the final solution.
· Next Meeting date
It was noted the next meeting will tentatively be held in January, 2009.
Gary McAlpin reported Group Leader, Heidi Kulpa is re-Iocating out of the area and
is resigning from the Group.
Mr. Staiger nominated John Findley for "Group Leader." Being no other
nominations, Mr. Findley is Group Leader.
The Group recognized the efforts of Heidi Kulpa.
There being no further business for the good ofthe County, the meeting was
adjourned by order of the chair at 11 :59 A.M.
Wiggins Pass Modeling Evaluation Work Group
Heidi Kulpa, Group Leader
These minutes approved by the Work Group on
as presented or as amended
7
Wi~mins Pass Position
~
CONSERVANCY
Of Southwest Florida
February 20, 2009
..... - ....... - - -
Preserving Southwest Florida '.I' natural
envirOllment and qualizv of lije... now
and forever
After reviewing the alternatives presented to the Wiggins Pass Modeling
Evaluation Work Group, the Conservancy supports the concept of Alternative #2
and we believe it is appropriate to proceed with further refinement of the
alignment through the project design process. This alternative provides a non-
structural solution that will straightening the channel, dredge to a shallower depth
than currently permitted and create temporary sand dikes blocking flows to the
old channel meanders while providing a sand source to the south end of Barefoot
Beach. This alternative is the recommended option outlined in the Coastal
Planning and Engineering, Inc. (CPE) January 2009 Report prepared for Collier
County. Our support is contingent on the following stipulations:
1. MONITORING: A comprehensive monitoring program must be built into
the project, in order to determine the impacts of this design in protecting
the benthic community and seagrasses in the area of the pass, along with
the mangrove shoreline that will be in close proximity to the proposed
sand dikes.
2. REMEDIATION: A remediation plan must also be clearly detailed, in order
to ensure that any unintended consequences will be corrected in a timely
manner.
3. FUNDING: Sufficient funding for such monitoring and remediation should
be secured prior to project initiation.
4. ADDITIONAL SEAGRASS SURVEYING: CPE divers went out in
December to do a preliminary substrate reconnaissance dive and did not
find seagrasses or hard bottom within the main channel. However,
seagrasses are seasonal, with May-October being the time when grass is
most lush. As such, summer data is needed. If this additional survey
work has not yet been completed, it should be done early in the project
design phase. If seagrasses are found in the project area, efforts must be
made to protect the beds from incidental burying or smothering from
dredging activities. If direct avoidance cannot be achieved through the
project design, proper mitigation must occur, including replanting in
appropriate areas. (See Attachment 1 for additional comments on
additional components of seagrass surveying for project design.)
5. ADAPTIBILlTY: As models are not infallible predictors of how dynamic
shorelines will react to manipulation, adjustments will likely be necessary
in order to allow this non-structural solution to be viable. Thus, the
flexibility to adapt the management strategy should be part of the County's
planning and permitting process, in order for any necessary adjustments
to be made in the future.
6. DREDGE DEPTH: Additional study should be done during final channel
design in order to determine if the -11 foot MLW dredge depth for the
outer portions of the channel will truly result in a lengthened dredge cycle.
After the 2005 permit, with a -13 foot MLW dredge depth, drastic changes
occurred to the system that were detrimental to both the environment and
navigational safety. Such impacts must be avoided in future dredge
designs, and appropriate depths must be assured during the design
phase. Provisions should be made to allow for permit flexibility to alter
future dredging depths to less than 11 feet should any negative outcomes
arise from the initial dredging.
Supporting Documentation
Introduction
The Conservancy has a long history advocating protection of the Wiggins Pass
Estuary system. We were integral in securing the acquisition and protection of
the Barefoot Beach Preserve and in obtaining designation of the system as an
Outstanding Florida Water. While the system has been impacted by
development and alteration, it continues to function as a healthy ecosystem,
based in part on the fact that a significant portion of the mangrove wetlands are
protected. Thus, any management activities within the Wiggins Pass system
must provide sufficient assurance that natural resources will not suffer negative
impacts from management projects.
The Conservancy was one of many organizations requesting that the study of
maintenance alternatives for Wiggins Pass and the stabilization of the south end
of Barefoot Beach focus on non-structural solutions, in order to assure the least
impacting and most environmentally compatible options for pass systems and
dynamic shoreline. As a member of the Wiggins Pass Modeling Evaluation Work
Group, we were tasked with finding a viable solution that:
1. Provided a safe channel for boating,
2. Addressed the erosion at Barefoot Beach,
3. Lengthens the dredge cycle in a manner that creates the least effect on
the environment and,
4. Ensured any solution selected be economically feasible.
Our working group directed County staff and CPE to look first at non-structural
solutions, and only after these options were determined not to be viable would
2
structures be considered. Fortunately, the modeling and data gathered for this
study demonstrated that non-structural solutions were viable and our focus
remained on these "soft" solutions, refining the options to find the one that best
encompassed the four goals stated above.
Basis for Our Review of Alternatives
Our assessment of the alternatives presented and our support for proceeding to
the design phase for Alternative #2 was based on the following:
1. Support for Non-Structural Solutions
The daily action of wind, waves and tides, along with the effects of periodic
storms, keep our shorelines in a dynamic state. Sand is transported from place
to place, eroding one beach while depositing sand in other areas. Problems
arise when communities attempt to maintain shorelines in a constant, or static,
state. It is impossible to take a snapshot of a shoreline and realistically expect
that it can be maintained in such a state for any extended period of time.
In spite of these constraints, there are a variety of structures that are utilized for
shoreline manipulation in the attempt to make dynamic systems static. There are
structures, such as seawalls, that attempt to protect coastal property by placing a
barrier between water and land. Often, these structures actually enhance
erosion and do not perform their intended function of protecting property. There
are also structures that attempt to block sand transport and collect sand, thus
providing beach renourishment. These structures are called groins. There are a
variety of groins utilized, but one that has been part of the Southwest Florida
coastal landscape for a number of years is called the T-groin. The structure is
shaped like a "T" extending from the beach. It is intended to capture sand as it
moves downstream during natural lateral sand transport. The T-groins can be
constructed from a variety of materials, generally rocks (considered permanent)
or sandbags (considered temporary). 1
One major concern with all groins, temporary or permanent, T-groin or otherwise,
is the fact that they are artificially trapping sand that would naturally be deposited
elsewhere. Such interruption of the sand transport system can create man-
induced consequences miles downstream from the location of the structure,
which may then result in additional structures built to relieve the sand deficit. It is
a vicious cycle that is exacerbated by installation of additional structures in an
attempt to re-create or stabilize a beach back to as it was in the past.2 Again,
this idea of attempting to maintain a dynamic shoreline in a static state is working
against natural forces and will be difficult, expensive, environmentally-damaging
and likely impossible. The Wiggins Pass system is dynamic and any
I Kaufman, Wallace and Pilkey, Jr., Orin H. The Beaches are Moving, The Drowning of America's
Shoreline. 1983.
2 Kaufman, Wallace and Pilkey, Jr., Orin H. The Beaches are Moving, The Drowning of America's
Shoreline. 1983.
3
management solution must account for the fact that shifts and changes will
occur. Thus, non-structural, or soft, solutions are preferred.3
In order to reverse the erosion at the south end of Barefoot Beach, while
providing as much assurance as possible that no impact will occur at Delnor-
Wiggins State Park, the CPE Alternative #2 proposes straightening the channel,
taking the sand from the realigned channel and using it to create sand dikes that
will close off the current north channel. It is anticipated that the realigned
channel will not create the scouring effect currently causing the erosion at
Barefoot Beach. In addition, the sand dikes will help to renourish Barefoot
Beach. The Conservancy supports this concept because it keeps the system
balanced, as the sand currently in the system will stay in the system, while being
redistributed, allowing for beach renourishment in a more natural pattern than
would occur from the installation of a structure.
In addition, the modeling analysis has shown that the currently permitted location
for beach sand renourishment is too far to the north (in the vicinity of R12), and
that fill can be placed closer to the inlet, between R13 and R15, without
negatively impacting the channel. The Conservancy believes that erosion is a
natural part of the dynamic shoreline system and must be accepted as such.
However, in areas of extreme erosion, such as the south end of Barefoot Beach,
intervention is warranted. The combination of renourishment from the proposed
sand dikes, along with modification to the placement of sand on the beach is a
much more environmentally-compatible solution than structures, and the
Conservancy supports this concept.
2. Compliance with the Growth Management Plan and the Guidelines
for the Barefoot Beach Preserve
The Barefoot Beach Preserve is one of the prominent features within the Wiggins
Pass Estuary. Through the Conservancy's efforts, significant preservation areas
were acquired at Barefoot Beach instead of being developed. This acreage
includes the 186 acres of mangrove forests and beach acquired by Collier
County, along with another 156 acres, to the south of the County-owned lands,
acquired by the State of Florida. This southern portion (the Barefoot Beach
Preserve) is managed by Collier County, through a 50-year lease agreement with
the State that was entered into in 1990. While this land is managed by the
Collier County Parks and Recreation Department, it is first and foremost a
preserve, set aside to be protected in its natural state.
As part of the lease agreement, condition number 26 states, "any act which may
result in damage or depreciation of value to the leased premises or any part
thereof," is forbidden. The effectiveness of structures on the beach is determined
by engineering models that cannot forecast how the natural forces of sand
transport and storms will ultimately impact the structures. A great number of
3 Dr. Orin H. Pilkey. Personal Communication. October ]7,2007.
4
things will affect sand transport and the models are not able to predict in what
order these various factors will affect a shoreline. Thus, while the models are
important tools, they should not be incorrectly assumed to demonstrate exactly
how the natural system will function and react to structure installation. As such,
there is no assurance that placement of structures on Barefoot Beach Preserve
will not potentially violate stipulation number 26 of the lease agreement.
Therefore, the Conservancy believes structures should not be allowed at
Barefoot Beach.
In addition, any design for Wiggins Pass management also be in compliance with
the Growth Management Plan's Conservation and Coastal Management Element
Policy 10.5.8., which states that Collier County shall, "Prohibit shoreline armoring
processes and encourage non-structural methods for stabilizing beaches and
dunes." This policy clearly requires non-structural alternatives to be identified
first. Alternative #2, as a non-structural proposal, is consistent with the intent of
the Barefoot Beach lease agreement and the Collier County Comprehensive
Plan.
3. As Models are not Infallible, Adaptability Is Essential
Design of projects such as channel dredging is based upon modeling, which
inputs a series parameters and shows how a system will likely react. While
modeling is an important tool for hypothesizing the outcome of various
manipulations to a system, models cannot predict exactly how a natural system
will react to engineered solutions or even to natural conditions and extreme
weather events. In addition, a great number of forces affect sand transport and it
is impossible to know in what order they will impact a shoreline.4 This concern is
supported by coastal modeler Bob Dean, who has stated that model results can
help to make better decisions, but they are not by themselves a way to determine
exactly what will happen in a given situation.5
However, the Conservancy has been impressed with the number of inputs
utilized by the CPE DELFT3D model, which thoroughly models four different
elements: waves, currents, sediment transport and morphology.
From our perspective, one of the most useful outcomes from the modeling effort
was information on the direction of net sand transport. Previous modeling efforts
had indicated that net sand transport is primarily from north to south. Based on
this assumption, renourishment projects were placing sand in locations assuming
this predominantly north to south flow. However, the CPE model indicated that
the north-south flow is not as prominent as formerly believed and that net sand
transport is primarily south to north. Thus, adjustments should be made to the
location of sand placement, to a location between R13 and R15. This is one
4. Orin H. Pilkey. Personal Communication. October ]7,2007.
5 From discussion during the Wiggins Pass Dredging Sub-Committee meeting. June 5, 2008
5
important example of how additional information should be used to improve
project design. As models are not infallible, adaptability must be built into the
process, so that necessary modifications can be made when new information is
presented, or when monitoring indicates changes are needed.
4. Lengthening the Dredge Cycle
Dredging initially commenced at Wiggins Pass in 1984, at which time the Gulf
entrance channel was dredged to a depth of -8.0 feet below MLW. Maintenance
dredging then was necessary on an approximately 3 year basis until 2000. In
2000, an Inlet Management Study was completed suggesting a deeper and wider
channel would lengthen the time between maintenance dredging. Thus, the
2000 permit allowed for the channel to be widened by 100 feet, deepened to -13
feet MLW, and shifted slightly to the north. Collier County is still maintenance
dredging to the specifications of this permit.6
While the deeper and wider channel was intended to lengthen the dredging
cycle, the opposite effect has occurred. Between 2000 and 2007, maintenance
dredging has been necessary on average every 1.4 years.? While active storm
seasons in 2004 and 2005 likely contributed to this, it cannot be denied that this
deeper channel has filled in more rapidly than expected. Thus, in rethinking
future management for Wiggins Pass, a design that scales back from the -13 feet
MLW was necessary. CPE Alternative #2 does modify the dredge depth to -11
feet MLW. The Conservancy sees this as a positive step. We believe that in the
design and permitting phases, the depth should be further studied and all
necessary support documents should be reviewed in order to determine that this
is indeed the proper depth.
5. Management Obligations Exist
Wiggins Pass is one of the systems in Collier County that is a managed pass,
being altered and maintained for boats of a maximum three-foot draft since 1984.
Thus, continued management for safe navigation is an obligation and the CPE
study indicates that a three-foot draft channel cannot be maintained naturally,
thus dredging will be needed to meet the intent of the Inlet Management Plan. In
other words, the do-nothing option is not feasible. As the goal is to manage the
inlet, not solve it or fix it, the Conservancy believes that Alternative #2 will provide
the least intrusive solution for fulfilling the County's obligation to maintain the
pass.
6 Humiston & Moore Engineers, Wiggins Pass Study, Hydrodynamic and Sand Transport Modeling.
August 2007. Pages 8-1 ] .
7 Humiston & Moore Engineers, Wiggins Pass Study, Hydrodynamic and Sand Transport Modeling.
August 2007. Pages 8-1 ].
6
Conclusion
The Conservancy believes there are viable solutions available for management
of Wiggins Pass that are less-impacting and more environmentally compatible.
Structures on the beach preserve are inappropriate and unnecessary. It is the
obligation of County staff, decision-makers, community stakeholders, interested
parties and technical experts to find solutions that work with, not against, nature.
The Conservancy supports the CPE Alternative #2 as a viable non-structural
solution that should be pursued through project design and permitting, making
modifications when and if new information becomes available during this
process.
If you have further questions regarding the Conservancy's position on this issue,
please contact Nicole Ryan, Governmental Relations Manager, at (239) 403-220.
7
Attachment 1: Additional Seagrass Issues for Resolution During the Project
Design Phase
1. In reviewing the first figure in Appendix 1, entitled, "Wiggins Pass, Collier
County 2008 Resource Investigation Report," clarification is needed to justify why
the survey areas were limited to irregular polygons. The report alludes to the fact
that previous surveys were used to target these areas. However, it is unclear
whether or not these previous surveys included the entire proposed impact
footprint. In addition, the Conservancy suggests referencing the seagrass report
conducted by Rookery Bay entitled "Establishing a Seagress Monitoring Program
in the Cocohatchee River."
2. The Conservancy is concerned about the seagrass surveys being conducted
in December 2008, as seagrass biomass is the highest in the summer months.
Seagrass beds are ephemeral and often lay dormant until conditions are right for
regrowth. As such, one survey is inadequate. Additionally, visual surveys do not
determine the presence of root structure. Surveying should be done at the
appropriate time of the year to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of the existing
resources and how the project's potential impacts will affect these resources.
3. Appendix 1 states that there was no evidence of persistent seagrass beds.
Additional clarification is needed in order to understand how this was determined,
and if density was part of the calculation. If it was, then current densities should
be compared to densities found in earlier investigations.
8
11 :
-
+ +:
14 :
+~.....
: "'.
.
D RUR,G..L SE111.fMENT ~.REA DISTRICT
. RURAL INDU5'TR1t..L DISTRICT
ESTATES DESIGNATION
D CONSERVA liON DESIGNATION
OVERLA YS AND
SPECIAL FEA lURES
D INCORPORATED AREAS
- - _ COA.ST~.L HIGH HAZA.RD AR EA
'" "" I TRAffiC CONOCSTION BOUNDARY
_ AREA OF CRITIC,".L STATE CONCERN
it
tt AIRPORT NOISE A,REA
A NATURAL RESOURCE
t::I PROlECTION AREA (NRPA)
. BAYSHORE!GAlEWAY TRIANGLE
REDEVELOPMENT OVERLAY
_ RURAL LANDS
STEWARDSHIP AREA OVERLAY
~
URBAt~-RURAL FRINGE
m.o,NSITIOhl ZONE OVERL.o,y
_ NORTH BELlE MEADE OVERLAY
<() <( N
0 Z "'"
S9lS9 '" 0 Ll. 0 ~ If]
"- '" ,r 0 W
ao "5- [t: Vi 0 CD I'--
z r-: 5 VJ 2
0 L 0 L()
F lL 0 ~
Ii' :> <( ~ 0 r--. Z OJ
<( ~
;:; w 0 ::;; ~-.,.. LL f-
m z
tr ;:; Z 0 Z ~ D-
O ::J ~ 0 T W UJ <(
"- V) >-~ (:)2
~ z 2
--' <( ~ lJ I- D- W
[L w 0 <f 0 UJ
0 Z 0
<( z w I --"
;:; <( 0
> U1 :::J w w "
[L F > Lf)
w U1 0
f-- U W N
<( "- w <( I u 0
tr <D "- ~II 0
0 "-
w >- z "J
w 0 I [t: f-
U '" ~ <(
z I w z u
<( Ii' Ul
tr tr :.::J =:J UJ
w <( CO
::J <D --' --' ~ 2 T
U1 2' ::J --' 2
~ ::J (j <( 0 0
Z w D-
o tr OJ ~:! ~ u u 5 0
0 ~ z I-
a :ii 0
--' Z N
"- <( ()
::J tr 0 "
2' (j 0 ~,
::;; a 0 ~,? I z
a tr --'
N u [L u. -'
L_
~ Z
Ul Cc <(
~ 0 " ~
'"
<( :;: :;'
W I Ie
() " u u
z 0
<( z 0
8 z ~
-' w 0
<( u :=;:
(j z
E <( ~
z
0 is
w '" w
c: 0 ~
>-
Cc rn
0 w 8
w U I-
() 15 D-
~ 0
~ 0
<(
<( <C
'" 0:
>- 0
ir
~ V1 rn ~
;E 0
~ " ~ 85
c: 0
0 ~
<(
W t 0
~ u
c= <( Cc
<( ffi 0
u ~ >-
I-
~ 8 z
"
vr 0: 0 I-
ffi u Ul
'" b w >- ~
c: 0: c: rn <(
~l
F
-------
z
"-
:n
OJ
z
o
N
<()
OJ
:JV9"l:l/9[L ~m-L6'lJCJ[) lb-::li':-ll 0
SNOIl V:lUllJOV'l sa~VUNV1S IN]V'ld01JAJU
L6[-gO 606L-~V-r;O-x]anJ <;;O-<;;l-[l [l
98-00 g(;-66-0nd oa-Zl-Zl G't
(;6-00 JOl DO-fl-Zl II
8L-66 (:l;-8(j-^ 66-9(;-[ Ot
L<;l-V6 0l:-[6-n~) t>6-9-[ 6
6l.l;-(6 -1X3 9\-L6-n:] [6-6-[l 8
L
9
<;
,
r
,
l
~
r;:;- ~
tr
<:> w
m >
..........:J '.t- (i'
in --' '
or- U I:l;J ,....
~ I- ""f---OO:~
U "23 ; g:
g
W t-;t: U n
O:w
<( --' ~
(j]
w
z w
-< W I
U u
::J I-
W ~ <( -<
[L I
:~ 0
l- V
0
~ g 0
0 v
g
~ ~
N
~
w
<(
0
W
I
VJ
--"
Q' CD
0 <(
"-tr f-
wO [L UJ
--'I- -< W
aJ--, :2
-<- Z
--''''
4'<D I- W
>)- '<( w
<(~8o::~ CD
r-W>WI- f-
OzOu<( 0
Z O:::zo
(f)[L-< z
WWLO::::<.J
UO:::-:JZ VJ
~~~~3 <(
o::u--.J-o I
U5~~8g: I
~tJ;~g6 u
8>--tnL..-U I
'3~~tjgs 5
u..2(j)(j)LL- ~
~
0
f-
Z
0
~ u
N
W VJ
5
0 > 0
u --"
x " --"
w 0
2 LL
LL W
0 Z
~
LL
--" I-
~ UJ
0
W
f-
0
Z
'S8:JJnOS8J :J1bOI080L1:JJO 10 :J!101SIL1 bU110UblS8P ":JJnos ^lUnOJ
101:J1110 "L11 "10 sdoV1 ^l!l!qoqOJd 10::lIbOIO<J0L1:JJI,I/:JIJOjSIH <JL11
d3H10 ~NINOZ
~ ~-- ----------1
009-06
l6-[-lL
L5-0l-lL
L6-0l-<::L
[6-9l-6
~6~JOl
r~-06-nd 06-Ll-(:l
S310N ~NINOZ
86S-C;6 9L-llJ-nd
801-l6 Lr-06-nd
gOl-L6 9t.-l5-fid
1,;8-l6 9-L6-(.I
0>
(C
<Ii
0:
"
x ;2
w
0
~ 0 _C'lt<')"tll)<Df'.100l0
Z _~_.-_____N
Z
0
ijj
5
0 n
aJ ~
'" 0> I
(f) (C ~~
<Ii V1
0: 00,""
m
=>
~
0
~
I
0
~"
z>-
~~
w zz
:0<
" ,",0
;2 ad
0"-
~ -(",jt<')"4"LnlDr--mOJO
:NOIS 1^3d lSVl
;L Pro shops with equipment sales, no Qreater than
1.000 sauare feet.
~ Restaurants with a seatine capacity of 150 seats or
less provided that the hours of operation are no
later than 10:00 p.m.
!i A maximum of two residential dwellings units for
use by aolf course employees in coni unction with
the operation of the Qolf course.
9.:. Conditional uses. The followino uses are permissible as
conditional uses in the GC district. subiect to the
standards and provisions established in section 10.08.00.
1." Commercial establishments oriented to the
permitted uses of the district includinc Clift shops:
pro shops with eauipment sales in excess of 1,000
souare feet: restaurants with seatina capacity of
areater than 150 seats: cocktail lounces. and
similar uses. primarily intended to serve patrons of
the Clolf course.
B. Conservation District "CON". The purpose and intent of the conservation
district "CON" is to conserve. protect and maintain vital natural resource
lands within unincorporated Collier County that are owned primarilv bv the
public. All native habitats possess ecoloaical and physical characteristics
that iustify attempts to maintain these important natural resources. Barrier
islands. coastal bays. wetlands. and habitat for listed species deserve
particular attention because of their ecoloaical value and their sensitivity
to perturbation. All proposals for develooment in the CON district must
be subiect to rioorous review to ensure that the impacts of the
develooment do' not destroy or unacceptably deorade the inherent
functional values. The CON District includes such public lands as
Everolades National Park. Bio Cypress National Preserve. Florida
Panther National Wildlife Refuae. portions of the Sio Cypress Area of
Critical State Concern. Fakahatchee Strand State Preserve. Collier-
Seminole State Park. Rookerv Bay National Estuarine Sanctuary
Research Reserve. Delnor-Wiaeins State Park. and the National
Audubon's Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary (private Iv owned). and CR.E.W.
It is the intent of the CON District to reauire review of all development
proposed within the CON District to ensure that the inherent value of the
County's natural resources is not destroyed or unacceptablv altered. The
CON District corresponds to and implements the conservation land use
desionation on the future land use map of the Collier County GMP.
.1. Allowable uses. The follewino uses are allowed in the CON
District
~ Permitted uses.
1." On privately held land onlv. sinole familv dwellina
units. and mobile homes where .the Mobile Home
Zenina Overlay exists.
2:. On publiclv and privately held lands onlv.
dormitories. duolexes and other types of housino.
as may be incidental to. and in support of.
conservation uses.
J" Passive parks, and other passive recreational uses,
includina. but not limited to:
~ ODen space and recreational uses:
.!2l Bikino. hikino. canoeinc. and nature trails:
Page 129 of 134
Words sB'uek thrslIga are deleted, words underlined are added
fl Eauestrian paths: and
Ql Nature preserves and wildlife sanctuaries.
fL Habitat preservation and conservation uses.
Q.. Familv Care Facilities and Group Care Facilities.
Q" Sportino and Recreational camps incidental to
conservation uses on public lands: or, on privately
held lands.
L Aaricultural uses that fall within the scope of
Sections 163.3162(4) and 823.14(6) Florida
Statutes.
!i Oil and cas exploration subiect to applicable state
drillino permits and Collier Countv non-
environmental site development plan review
procedures. Directional-drillina and/or previously
cleared or disturbed areas shall be utilized in order
to minimize impacts to native habitats. where
determined to be practicable. This reauirement
shall be deemed satisfied upon issuance of a state
permit in compliance with the criteria established is
Chapter 62C-25 throuah 62C-30, FAC.. as such
rules existed on June 16. 2005, reaardless of
whether the activitv occurs within the Bia Cypress
Watershed, as defined in Rule 62C-30.00H2),
FAC. An applicable Collier Countv environmental
permittino requirements shall be considered
satisfied bY evidence of the issuance of all
applicable federal and/or state oil and (:las permits
for proposed oil and aas activities in Collier County.
so lono as the state permits complY with the
reauirements of Chapter 62C-25 throuah 62C-30,
FAC. For those areas of Collier Countv outside
the boundary of the Bia Cvpress Watershed. the
applicant shall be responsible for convenina the
Bia Cypress Swamp Advisory Committee as set
forth in Section 377.42. F.S.. to assure compliance
with Chapter 62C-25 throuah 62C-30, even if
outside the defined Sia Cypress Watershed. All oil
and oas access roads shall be constructed and
protected from unauthorized uses accordina to the
standards established in Rule 62C-30.005(2)(a}(1)
throuah (12), FAC.
9. The followina essential services:
a) Private wells and septic tanks necessary to
serve uses identified in 1 throuah 8 above.
b) Utility lines necessary to serve uses
identified in 1 throuqh 8 above. with
exception of sewer lines.
c) Sewer lines and lift stations if all of the
followina criteria are satisfied:
j) Such sewer lines or lift stations shall
not be located in anv NRPA Lands in
the CON District:
Ii) Such sewer lines or lift stations shall
be located within alreadv cleared
Page 130 of 134
Words struek thraugh are deleted, words underlined are added
Conservation and Coastal Management Element Policy 10.4:
Developed coastal barriers and developed shorelines shall continue to be restored and then maintained,
when appropriate, by establishing mechanisms or project which limit the effects of development and
which help in the restoration of the natural functions of coastal barriers and affected beaches and dunes.
Conservation and Coastal Management Element Policy 10.4.1:
Promote environmentally acceptable and economically feasible restoration of the developed coastal
barriers and the urban beach and dune systems.
Conservation and Coastal Management Element Policy 10.4.3:
Prohibit activities which would result in man induced shoreline erosion beyond the natural beach erosion
cycle or that would deteriorate the beach and dune system.
Conservation and Coastal Management Element Policy OBJECTIVE 10.5:
For undeveloped shorelines, provide improved opportunities for recreational, educational, scientific, and
esthetic enjoyment of coastal resources by protecting beaches and dunes and by utilizing or where
necessary establishing construction standards, which will minimize the impact of manmade structures on
the beach and dune systems.
Conservation and Coastal Management Element Policy 10.5.1:
Recreation that is compatible with the natural functions of beaches and dunes is the highest and best
land use.
Conservation and Coastal Management Element Policy 10.5.3:
Prohibit activities which would result in man induced shoreline erosion beyond the natural beach erosion
cycle or that would deteriorate the beach dune system. (I)
Conservation and Coastal Management Element OBJECTIVE 10.6:
The County shall conserve the habitats, species, natural shoreline and dune systems contained within the
County's coastal zone.
Conservation and Coastal Management Element Objective 11.1 directs the County to protect history
and archaeological resources.
Conservation and Coastal Management Element Policy 11.1.2 states that there shall be no loss of
historic or archaeological resources on County-owned property.
27
~
N
500
o
500
1000 Feet
DELNOR-WIGGINS PASS
STATE RECREATION AREA
Pr<<IiUDdDy:
Flor'da o.".p;ntm...-.t of E"""rDl"lT1IM\~ Pto(6dic.n
D~ion 01 R&erMlioo and Peri<s
Olrce 0( PD~ Pltlnnlrog
Dale:A/Jgll$l \6, t~9 AE.
F'filllod: So.ptombGr 2'J, 1999 JA
CONCEPTUAL LAND USE PLAN
Q\
\)JV0) l/vJ
MANAGEMENT PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Management Authority and Responsibility
The Division of Recreation and Parks (DRP) is charged with the responsibility of
developing and operating Florida's recreation c:lnd parks system. These properties are
administered in accordance with Chapter 258, Florida Statutes, and Chapter 620-2,
Florida Administrative Code.
In all of its management efforts, the Division will be following the DEP's initiative of
ecosystem management. The stated management measures in this plan are consistent
with the Department's overall mission in ecosystem management.
In the management of Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Recreation Area, major emphasis is
placed on maximizing the recreational potential of the unit; however, preservation of
resources remains important. Depletion of a rE~source by any recreational activity is not
permitted. In order to realize the unit's recreatiional potential, development in the park is
aimed at providing facilities that are accessible" convenient and safe, as needed, to
support recreational use or the unit's natural, aesthetic, and educational attributes.
Park Goals and Objectives
1. Restore and maintain barrier island natural communities.
A. Continue restoration using native plants.
2. Continue current management practices of exotic removal.
A. Remove large, damaged Australian pines according to policy.
B. Continue to remove the remaining exotic plants.
3. Maintain natural integrity of surrounding waters.
A. Protect hard bottom reefs through use of buoys.
B. Ensure that dredging projects proposed in the waters of Wiggins Pass and Water V"
Turkey Bay will not significantly degrade park resources.
C. Monitor water quality testing of Outstanding Florida Waters (OFW).
4. Improve survival rate of nesting sea turtles.
A. Continue monitoring of index beach.
B. Continue partnership with Collier County Department of Natural Resources.
5. Provide appropriate management of cultural resources.
A. Conduct cultural resources assessment survey in park.
6. Continue and expand interpretation.
A. Give off-site programs whenever possible.
B. Create additional interpretive displays to be used at county fairs, on Earth Day,
5
Other Uses
A native plant nursery was established in the park to produce plants to revegetate the
maritime hammock and for landscaping. Sand from maintenance dredging of Wiggins
Pass is periodically placed on the gulf beach, approximately at the mid-point of the park
frontage.
Protected Zones
A protected zone is an area of high sensitivity or outstanding character from which most
types of development are excluded as a protective measure. Generally, facilities requiring
extensive land alteration or resulting in intensive resource use, such as parking lots,
camping areas, shops or maintenance areas, are not permitted in protected zones.
Facilities with minimal resource impacts, such as trails, interpretive signs, and boardwalks
are generally allowed. All decisions involving the use of protected zones are made on a
case-by-case basis after careful site planning and analysis.
At Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Recreation Area, the beach dune community,
estuarine/marine tidal swamp, and the maritime hammock have been designated as
protected zones (see Natural Communities Map).
Existina Facilities
The existing public facilities were constructed in the mid-1980s and are in good condition.
Facilities include five parking lots, each with a bathhouse and boardwalks across the
dunes, one picnic pavilion, several picnic sites, a mobile concession operation, an
observation tower, a boat ramp and boat ramp parking.
The support facilities found at the park are in good condition and include an entrance
station, two staff residences, an equipment shelter, a shop building, and a flammable
storage building.
CONCEPTUAL LAND USE PLAN
The following narrative represents the current conceptual land use proposal for this park.
As new information is provided regarding the environment of the park, cultural resources,
recreational use, and as new land is acquired, the conceptual land use plan may be
amended to address the new conditions (see Conceptual Land Use Plan). A detailed
development plan for the park and a site plan for specific facilities will be developed based
on this conceptual land use plan, as funding becomes available.
During the development of the unit management plan, the Division assesses potential
impacts of proposed uses on the resources of the property. Uses that could result in
unacceptable impacts are not included in the conceptual land use plan. Potential impacts
are more thoroughly identified and assessed through the site planning process once
funding is available for the development project. At that stage, design elements, such as
sewage disposal and stormwater management, and design constraints, such as
designated species or cultural site locations. are more thoroughly investigated. Advanced
24
an unimproved sand road, Gulf to Bay Drive. This roadway will be vacated and used for patrol, and as a
nature/hiking trail.
. Management Strategy: The bulk of the exotic-invasive plants were removed in 1998; however,
eradication is ongoing. Natural renewal of native vegetation is occurring and this vacated
roadway can now be used as a continuation of the Alice and Harold Saylor Nature Trail, creating
a two-mile loop trail through the Preserve uplands. Current practices limit access to the vacated
roadway to CCPRD staff, research associates, and contractual staff performing exotic removal
and maintenance. Exotics in the western portion of the Hammock have been eradicated by hand
and chemical methods as they were dispersed and intermingled with native vegetation. The
Coastal Strand and Maritime Hammock will require ongoing exotic-invasive control.
Eradication will be carried out chemically and by hand due to the exotics intermingling with the
native species. Contractual staff will perform the majority of the removal and maintenance work
and budget requests will be submitted annually to fund these ongoing efforts.
Tidal Mane;roves: The saltwater ecotone is the dominant plant community landward of the coastal
strand and provides protection from coastal storms.
. Management Strategy: The mangrove swamp has not been invaded by exotic-invasives and
does not require restoration management. This plant community should be designated a
Mangrove Preservation Zone so that no land modifications or structures, other than boardwalks,
are permitted within this zone. The canoe launch is located on the County-owned portion of the
Preserve. The trimming and pruning of red, white, and black mangroves within this zone is
prohibited without proper State and County approval. Since Preserves are areas set aside to
maintain objects or conditions existing thereon, the Land Management Plan is designed to
protect the Barefoot Beach Preserve's natural features. The proposed backbay pier will give
park staff a controlled access point on the eastern side of the Preserve. The use of the Preserve by
excursion vessels will be limited to this area, thereby eliminating the real and potential damages
to other areas of the Preserve caused by unregulated excursion vessel access.
Fish and Wildlife: The tidal waters within the Preserve are productive Class II waters, and no activities
or alterations that will adversely impact its productivity will be allowed. Manatee protection signage
will be placed at all canoe and boat traffic areas within the Preserve.
Gopher tortoise habitat exists throughout the beach dune, coastal strand, and maritime hammock of the
Preserve. Since the gopher tortoise is listed in Florida as a species of special concern, this habitat is to
be designated as a limited access zone. A gopher tortoise survey and behavior study was completed in
1998 by Jill Kusba, DVM and Bob Dienes (a copy of the report is on file with CCPRD). Dr. Kusba
continues to study and monitor the gopher tortoise population at the Preserve.
During sea turtle nesting season, the Collier County Environmental Services Department monitors
nesting activity. After hours access to the Preserve is restricted to those individuals conducting research
or compliance patrol.
The Preserve's varied habitats provide homes to a wide variety of animals. These habitats are utilized
by different species at different times of the year for various activities including mating, feeding,
18