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Agenda 05/12/2009 Item #16D 6 Agenda Item No. 1606 May 12, 2009 Page 1 of 15 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Recommendation that the Board of County Commissioners approve the atter-the-fact submittal of the attached Coastal and Marine Habitat Restoration, through the American Recovery And Reinvestment Act (ARRA) grant application to the US Department of Commerce/National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for marine debris removal on natural and artificial reefs, bridges and passes throughout the County in the amount of $623,355 and any necessary Budget Amendments. OBJECTIVE: Recommendation for the Board of County Commissioners to approve the after-the-fact submittal of a NOAA Coastal and Marine Habitat Restoration Grant in the amoWlt of $623,355 and any necessary Budget Amendments. CONSIDERATIONS: The Coastal Zone Management Depmiment, in conjunction with Collier County Sea Grant University Extension Agent, submitted a NOAA Habitat Restoration Grant on April 6, 2009, through grants.gov. This grant proposal is for the removal of marine debris from Collier County's natural and artificial reefs as well as bridgcs and major passes. Since the program is authorized undcr the ARRA, it requires job creation and/or retention. A job bank employee will be funded within the County, and it is also expected that as the result of contractual services, approximately 27 other contractual positions will be partially fWlded by the grant for one year. Any employment created as a result of this grant will cease upon completion of the grant project. ~ Due to the nature of the ARRA fWlding, most grant programs will have very short time frames for submittal of proposals. In this case CZM received notification on thc NOAA grant on March 13, 2009 and the deadline was April 6, 2009. As a result, CZM was not able to prepare the necessary documents with the proper approvals in the time for the March 24, 2009 BCC meeting. FISCAL IMPACT: The maximwn grant request and total cost of this project request by the Coastal Zone Management (CZM) is $623,355. There is no local match required, If awarded, a budget amendment will be processed at the time thc Board of COWlty Commissioners considers acceptance of the grant award. GROWTH MANAGEMENT IMPACT: The marine debris removal project supports Objective 7.4 of County Growth Management Plan. LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS: This item is non..quasi judicial and as such ex parte disclosure is not required. This item requires majOlity vote. This item is legally sufficient for Board action, - CMG RECOMMENDATION: That the Board of County Commissioners approves the after-the-fact submittal of a Coastal and Marine Habitat Restoration grant application to NOAA to fund marine debris removal throughout Collier County in the amount of $623,355 and any necessary budget amendments. '-' PREPARED BY: Pamela Keyes, Environmental Specialist, Coastal Zone Management Page I of 2 Agenda Item ~'o. 1606 May 12, 2009 Page 2 of 15 COLLIER COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Item Number: 16D6 Meeting Date: Recommendation that the Board of County Commissioners approve the after-the-fact submittal of the attached Coastal and Marine Habitat Restoration, through the American Recovery And Reinvestment Act (ARRA) 91-anl application to the US Department of Commerce/National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for marine debris removal on natural and artificial reefs, bridges and passes throughout the County in the amount of 5623,355 5/12/200990000 AM Item Summary: Prepared By Pamela Keyes Enviornmental Specialist Date Coastal Zone Management Public Services 411512009 2:52:43 PM Approved By Debra Eurom Assistant Grant Coordinator Date Administrative Services Administrative Services 411512009 4:55 PM Appro,,'ed By Marlene J. Foord Grants Coordinator Date Administrative Services Administrative Services Admin. 4/1612009 9:42 AM Approved By Colleen Greene Assistant County Attornar Date County Attorney County Attorney Office 4121120091:09 PM ApproH'd By Gary McAlpin Public Services Costal Project Manager Coastal Zone Management Date 4/21120093:16 PM Approved By Kathy Carpenter Public Services Executive Secretary Date Public Services Admin. 4121120094:53 PM Approved By Jeff Klatzkow County Attorney County Attorney County Attorney Office Date 4123/2009 11 :02 AM Approwd By Maria Ramsey Public Services Administrator Date Public Services Public Services Admin. 4129120092:51 PM Approl'ed By OMS Coordinator OMS Coordinator Date County Manager's Office Office of Management & Budget 4130120099:16 AM Approved By Mark Isackson Budget Analyst Date County Manager's Office Office of Management & Budget 514/200910:40 AM Approved By file:IIC:\AgcndaTest\ExP0I1\ 1 29-Mav%20 12. %202009\ 16.%20CONSENT%20AGFNDA \ Iii.. S/1i0009 Page 20f2 Agenda Item No. 1606 May 12, 2009 Page 3 of 15 Leo E. Ochs, Jr. Board of County Commissioners Deputy County Manager Date County Manager's Office 51412009 11 :26 AM file:IIC:IAgcndaTestIExpOlil I 29-Mav%20 12.%202009116.%20CONSENT%20AGENDAI 16... 5/6/2009 Agenda Item No. 1606 May 12, 2009 Page 4 of 15 Collier County Coastal Zone Management Pamela Keyes, Artificial Reef Coordinator 3300 Santa Barbara Blvd Naples, FL 34116 (239) 252-2980 Fax (239) 252-4061 pamelakeyes@colliergov.net Project Titlc: Collier County Marine Dcbris Rcmoval Program Site Location: Gulf waters of Collier County, Florida out 15 nautical milcs Landowner: State of Florida On-the-Ground Implementation Start Date: June 2009 Number & type of job createdlmaintained, labor hours, and anticipated duration for each: NAICS Business Activity Labor # People Duration* Job Creation Code Hours Employed on Grant Activities 541330 Pro!,'ram Manager 1920 1 1 year Created 541330 Senior Ecologist 874 2 1 year Maintained 541330 Ecologist 612 4 1 year Maintained 541330 Ecologist 564 4 1 year Maintained 541330 Senior Technician 564 7 1 year Maintained 487210 Boat Captains 4 6 months Maintained 541330 GIS Technician 44 2 1 year Maintained 541330 Administrative Assistant 34 1 1 year Maintained 541330 Clerical 16 6 1 year Maintained 487210 Charter Captains 300 6 6 months Maintained 488330 Sea Tow Captain 150 2 6 months Maintained 488330 Sea Tow Salvage Officer 150 1 6 months Maintained 488330 Sea Tow Equip Operator 100 1 6 months Maintained 713930 Marinas 30 0 6 months Maintained 451110 Dive Shops 20 0 6 months Maintained *weather permitting Locations of Debris Removal: . In this project, over 200 natural and artificial offshore reef sites will be restored by removing marine debris as well as repairing damaged organisms impaired by the debris. Other debris removal sites will include heavily fished inshore sites within the County including: Wiggin's Pass Bridge, Blue Bill Bridge, Doctor's Pass, 8 rock breakwaters along Naples Beach, Naples Pier, Gordon Pass/jetties, Gordon Pass Bridge, Marco Pass Jetty, Jolly Bridge, Goodland Bridge, South Beach breakwaters off Caxambas Pass, Rookery Bay Monument, and Everglades City Bridge, Please see attached map of all locations. Agenda Item No. 1606 May 12, 2009 Page 5 of 15 Coastal and Marine Habitats to Benefit from the Project: Habitats in this project include near and offshore artificial reefs, natural hardbottom communities as well as benthic estuarine habitats. These habitats support a diverse mix of sub-tropical and temperate marine estuarine fish and invertebrate species as well as a number of federally and state listed species including: Florida Manatee (Trieheehus manatus), Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Carella Carella), Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas), Kemps Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidoehclys kempii), Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmoehelvs imbricata), Small tooth Sawfish (Pristis peetinata), Goliath Grouper (Epinephelus itajara ), Bottlenose Dolphin (TllI'siops at/anticus), and Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin), Project Scope: This project will address the comprehensive survey and removal of marine debris and, if applicable, restoration of impaired benthic organisms from near and offshore artificial reefs and natural hardbottom habitats, as well as benthic estuarine habitats adjacent to major bridges, passes, and other heavily fished locations within the coastal waters of Collier County. The project area encompasses over 600 acres of submerged coastal habitat and it is estimated that five to ten tons of derelict fishing gear and other debris will be removed from these sites. Each site will be assessed for the quantity and type of marine debris on or in the vicinity of the coastal habitat as well as the extent of damage to benthic organisms as a result of the debris. Debris may consist of anchors, cables, fishing line, tackle, nets or similar equipment that can pose a significant threat to marine life and associated habitats, Divers will use underwater mesh nets to collect and remove lesser forms of debris, while heavier items will be removed with 500 lb underwater lift bags, Larger objects of debris will be removed by a professional marine salvage outtit. If the debris has caused direct impacts to a marine habitat, biological triage activities will be carried out on the affected species as part of the habitat restoration, Collier County will contract a marine consulting firm out of South Florida to CaITY out the debris site assessments, removal, and biological triage. The County will also hire a program manager to oversee and manage the proj ect. Project Outputs/Outcomes This project will result in the removal of marine debris from approximately 600 acres of coastal and marine habitats throughout Collier County's coastal waters, The long-term ecological andlor socioeconomic impacts from this project include: · Reduction of ghost tishing, entanglement and ingestion incidents among marine mammals, sea turtles, birds, and other marine life as a result of derelict fishing gear removal; . Removal of potentially toxic materials such as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that can cause harm to marine life even in low concentrations; · Protection of benthic habitats and associated flora/fauna through the removal of debris; . Restoration of debris-damaged hardlsoft corals, sponges and macroalgae through biological triage practices; · Increased safety satisfaction among boaters, anglers and divers as a result ofless potentially hazardous gear and debris in the COWlty'S coastal waters, Agenda Item No. 1606 May 12, 2009 Page 6 of 15 P T" r ro I ect lmelne: JUD Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May 2009 2009 2009 2009 2009 2009 2009 2010 2010 2010 2010 2010 Start Date X Hire X X Program Manager/ Purchase Equipment Contract for X X Services Debris Site X X X X X X X Assessment Removal Biological X X X X X X X T riagel Restoration Monitoring Data X X X X X X X X Analysis Monthly X X X X X X X X X X X X Progress Reports Compile X X X Project Report Public X X X X X X X X X X Outreach Submit Final X Report Permits and Approvals: The only permits requircd for this projcct will be through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Division of Marine Fisheries (FWC) for the removal of derelict crab traps, if present at targeted sites, and a Special Activities License for biological tJiage activities. Other debris removal docs not require any permitting, The required permits will be applied for by May of 2009 and, per FWC, the pcnnitting process only takes 30 days to acquire. Federal Funds Requested: $623,355 Agenda Item No. 1606 May 12. 2009 Page 7 of 15 Project Narrative: Collier County, located on the southwest tip of Florida's Gulf coast, harbors over thirty-seven miles of coastline with extensive tracks of mangrove forests in addition to barrier islands, seagrass and oyster communities, and unconsolidated sandlmnd substrates. An extensive series of near and offshore artificial reef and natural hardbottom communities also exist in adjacent Gulf waters. Its sub-tropical climate and natural diversity make it a year-round tourist and popular for seasonal resident destination, In fact, the County's total population can increase by up to 30% during winter and spring months, The County's beaches and scenic shorelines attract thousands of visitors from around the world each year, and its productive coastal waters make it a hot spot for recreational sport fishermen; an extensive charter fishing fleet contributes towards the County's $ I-billion-dollar tourism industry. Commercial stone crab, blue crab, and finfish operations also operate in the County. According to the Marine Industries Association of Collicr County, over 22,000 boats are registered in the County, making recrcational boating a popular pastime. Over the past thrce decades, Collier's coastal population has incrcased steadily. As a rcsult of this increased use from ditferent coastal stakeholder groups, the accumulation of various types of marine debris including derelict fishing gear has become a mounting issue throughout Collier's coastal waters. According to NOAA, the definition of marine debris is any persistent solid material that is manufactured or processed and directly or indirectly, intcntionally or unintentionally, disposed of or abandoned into the marine environment. Besides the threats this debris can have on marine life through ingestion, entanglemcnt, and smothering, it can also act as a hazard to anglers, boaters, and divers. Several of the County's popular artificial reefs have accumulated large amounts of fishing gear over the years including cast nets, lines, lures, and anchors. It is also likely that gear has accumulated along rock jettics, bridge underpasscs and other heavily used fishing locations, although no fOffilal assessment has ever bcen conducted for many of these locations. In 2007, the City of Naplcs Natural Resource Dcpartment organized an underwater clean-up event under the Naples Pier, a heavily fished location in the city. It was the first clean- up event in more than ten years, and divers removed over a ton of debris from the site. Since 2008, the Collier County statT has worked with the local Sea Grant Extension Agent and charter captains to organize two clean-up events on a heavily fished reef sites in the County, These events have resulted in the removal of over 1500 pounds of nets, anchors as well as large amounts of fishing line, tackle, and other debris. During these events, photographs of nets continuing to ghost tish were documented (see attached photos). Due to recent budget cuts, however, Collier County is unable to continue routine monitoring of its artificial reefs, which includes debris assessment and removal. These events have prevented the County from fully assessing the extcnt of debris and derelict gear accumulated on or near these locations and the impact it has on these benthic environments. CUlTently, there are approximately 200 artificial reef sites and natural hardbottom ledges heavily utilized by recreational and commercial fishermen throughout the County, In addition, passes, bridges and jetties are also heavily fished by boaters and land-based anglers. Besides fishing pressure, major storm events such as Hurricane Wilma that struck the County's coastline in 2005 and illegal dumping have also likely contributed to marine debris accumulation, Agenda Item No. 1606 May 12, 2009 Page 8 of 15 Despite the financial restraints that have prevented the County from conducting a comprehensive debris assessment and removal project, the County as well as the City of Naples and Marco Island recognize and acknowledge the severity of the issue and the negative impacts it could have on local marine life and coastal users. Please see attached letters of support, Due to the current budget situation and comprehensive nature of this proposal, the County artificial reef staff does not have the time andlor resources necessary to complete such a project. The scope of this project will require the County to contract the services of outside agencies to safely, professionally, and efficiently implement the marine debris assessment, removal and restoration program within the allowed time frame, thus creating jobs that would otherwise not be available. Collier County will hire a qualified contractor with an AAUS-Certified Dive Team to complete the project. County staff has already received a quote from Coastal Planning and Engineering (CP&E), a marine engineering consulting firm out of Boca Raton, Florida that has expertise in reef monitoring and restoration projects. In addition to the several positions that will be created/maintained within CP&E. this project will also require the employment and/or services of a program manager, marine salvage company, and local charter captains, marinas, dive shops, hotels, gas stations, and restaurants. Below is a list of positions to be created or maintained as a result of this marine debris removal and restoration proj ect. . Project Manager (Minimum: 1) Collier County will hire a full-time project manager for twelve months. The person hired for this position will be responsible for project oversight, management, and reporting as well as conducting public outreach on the impacts of marine debris and status of the restoration project. This person will also collaborate with the COWlty staff to develop outreach strategies to minimize marine debris accwnulation at identified debris hotspots within the COWlty. . CP&E Marine Biologists/Marine Scientists/Marine Ecologists (Minimum: 10) Qualified researchers in the field of marine science will be employed to assess sites for marine debris removal and habitat restoration. A minimum of 10 jobs will be created in this labor category as marine sites and organisms (such as corals) are actively restored. These employees will also bc rcsponsible for all project documentation and product deliverables mmlmum. . CP&E Scientific/Technical Divers (Minimum: 7) This project will support a minimum of 7 positions for scientific/technical support divers, These employees will providc underwater support during the marine debris rcmoval at select sites. All divers will have proper training and certifications in scientific/technical diving principlcs. By employing this number of scuba divcrs, indirect business stimulation will be created at local divelunderwater sp011s shops, . CP&E Boat Captains (Minimum: 4) A minimum of 4 boat captain positions for the CP&E vessels will be created from this proposed project. Captains will be responsible for vessel positioning to select sites where marine debris removal and habitat restoration will occur. By procuring marine vessels, this project will indirectly stimulate business at local marinas and County park boat launches. Agenda Ilem No. 1606 May 12, 2009 Page 9 of 15 · CP&E Hydrographic Surveyors (Minimum: 4) During this project, hydrographic surveyors (a minimum of 4) will be hired to run and set up data files in the DGPS positioning software Hypack". This will provide on-board vessel personnel the accurate coordinates to select sites for marine debris removal and habitat restoration. . CP&E GIS Analysts (Minimum: 2) At least 2 GIS analysts will be hired to create a comprehensive GIS of marine debris removal/habitat restoration sites, The final GIS product will be interactive with digital underwater photos and video, and will be provided to NOAA at the conclusion of the project. · CP&E Clerical (Minimum: 6) A minimum of 6 clerical positions (administrative assistants, accoWlting, word processing, etc.) will be created with this proposed project. Responsibilities would include product development, invoice billing, administrative coordination, etc. . Salvage Operator (Minimum: 4) A minimum of 4 salvage operators will be used throughout this project. A salvage contractor will need to be on-site to removelhaul ofT large amounts of marine debris. These salvage workers will have all the proper training and certifications prior to being hired. · Charter Captains (Minimum: 6) Local charter captains will be hired to transport the Program Manager, County staff and/or media to selected sites. Due to the recent financial downturn, local charter boat captains have been negatively affected. H iling local charter boat captains will directly stimulate the local economy, Also, by procuring marine vesscls, this project will indirectly stimulate business at local marinas and County park boat launches. · Dive Shops (Minimum: Minimum use of 3 dive shops) There are three commerciallretail dive shops located in Collier County. This project will require extensive use of all three dive shops through tank/air refills, equipment for the divers, and any equipment failure/replacement that may occur during this project. *The procurement of CP&E's services will also indirectly stimulate business at local restaurallts, gas stations, alld hotels. How has the process been abated to allow for successful restoration: While it is unlikely that marine debris accumulation will cease completely, education and outreach efforts have played a critical role in reducing the amount of debris and derelict gear in local coastal waters, For example, fishing line recycling programs at boat ramps, marinas, and other fishing locations have significantly reduced the amount of fishing line left in the marine environment. However, many locations still have large amounts of gear including fishing line. ropes, nets, anchors, traps, and tackle due to their long-lasting nature and lack of coordinated removal programs. This project's comprehensive survey and assessment of debris hotspots will help direct future education and outreach efforts to further reduce and mitigate marine debris accumulation at these locations. Agenda Item No. 1606 May 12, 2009 Page 10 of 15 List species currently on project sites: Dozens of fish and invertebrates species are commonly associated with Collier County's artificial reefs and natural hardbottom communities, Examples of some commercially and recreationally important marine fish and crab species that utilize these habitats include but are not limited to: Common Snook (Cen/ropomus undecimalis), Red drum (Sciaenops ocella/us), Red grouper (Epinephelus moria), Gag grouper (Mycteroperca microlepis), Mangrove snapper (Lu/janus griseus), Sheepshead (Archosargus proba/ocephalus), Tarpon (Megalops at/anticus), Permit (Trachino/us falca/us), Pompano (Trachino/us carolinus), Black drum (Pogonias cromis),Gulf Flounder (Paralichthys albigut/a), Blue crab (Callinectes sapidus) and Stone crab (Menippe mercenaria). Several benthic species such as soft and hard corals, sponges, tunicates, macroaglae and b1yozoans can also be found on or near these communities, Listed species associated with project areas include:Florida Manatee (Trichechus manatus), Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Carella Carella), Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas), Kemps Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys kempii), Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmoche/vs imbricata), Small tooth Sawfish (Pristis pectinata), Goliath Grouper (E-pinephelus itajara ), Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops at/anticus), and Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin). Identify problems the project will address: This project will assess the quantity and type of marine debris accumulated on and around artificial reefs, natural hardbottom communities as well as rock jetties and bridge underpasses in Collier County. Upon visual inspections of the targeted areas, biologists will also assess the extent of damage to benthic organisms such as hard and soft corals, sponges, and macroalgae to determine if habitat restoration will be requircd at these sites. Short and long-term objectives and goals: Short-terms goals include: . Complete the comprehensive assessment of marine debris quantity and types at the more than 200 Collier County natural and artificial near and offshore reef sites and identified bridge underpasses, and rock jetties (see attached map); . Safely and efficiently remove all encoWltered debris; . Identify and document the extent of damage to benthic biological communities from derelict gear and other debris; . Develop a map of the marine debris removal sites with DGPS coordinates for the location of all major features; . Provide quantitative data on major benthic biological components, e.g., percent cover by corals, octocorals, spongcs, and algae; . Perform biological triage to benthic biological communities impacted by derelict gear and debris; . Statistical evaluation and comparison (paired or multiple) of the data collected at debris removal sites to ascertain changes in commWlity composition/abundance during the Agenda item ~jo. 1606 May 12, 2009 Page 11 of 15 . A comprehensive assessment report and an updated environmental Geographic Information System (GIS) will detail the debris removal and habitat restoration at all sites. Long-term Goals · The long-term recovery of impacted benthic organisms as a result of biological triage efforts; . Development of education and outreach products based on results of this project that aid in the reduction of derelict gear and marine debris among the County's reefs and other popular fishing locations; · Continued monitoring of the recovered reefs, and impacted areas to ensure that these sites are maintained as healthy and sustainable marine environments. Methods and Details of Carrying out Project; Survey Vessel Navigation and Positioning The navigation and positioning system used during this proposed project will be a Trimble AgGPS Ditlerential Global Positioning System (DGPS) with Pro Beacon interfaced to the Coastal Oceanographic Hydrographic Data Collection and Processing program with correction from a U,S. Coast Guard Navigational Beacon. The Trimble Navigation system is designed for moderate precision static and dynamic processing applications. It will provide real time and three dimension station coordinates and velocity measurements at once per second rate. The DGPS receives the civilian signal from the Global Positioning System NA VST AR satellites and the locator will automatically acquire and simultaneously track GPS satellites while precisely measuring the code phase and Doppler phase shifts; it then will compute position and velocity based on these changes. The DGPS automatically detects time, latitude, longitude, height, and velocity, at a rate of once-per-second, Similarly, range rate corrections will be computed evcry second, transmitted to the survey vessel via radio link, and will be automatically applied to the onboard GPS receiver. The Coastal Oceanographic Hydrographic Data Collection and Processing (HYPACK@MAX 4.3a) program is the navigation and hydrographic surveying system used to process all GPS position data. On-line screen graphic displays include the transect location in the form of targets, pre-plotted survey lines, an updated boat track across the survey area, adjustable left/right indicators, and other positioning infonnation (c.g., boat speed, quality of fix, and line bearing). All data obtained will be recorded onto the computer's hard drive and transferred to a CD-Rom or external memory source at the end of each day, providing a backup of the raw survey data, Navigational control is maintained on an IBM compatible PC running HYP ACK@MAX software, The HYP ACK@MAX software will be configured to acquire data from the differential GPS receiver system, and will superimpose the survey plan on project area graphics generated in a Geographic Information System (GIS) database. The HYPACK@MAX software will also be used to establish track lines and specific targets in each of the study segments, while providing relative course correction information to the helmsman as the research vessel (28 ft ParkerITwin 250 hp four..stroke outboards) is maneuvered to specific locations, Agenda Item No. 1606 May 12, 2009 Page 12 of 15 Site Assessment of Marine Debris Removal Areas We propose to collect sufficient in situ, site specific assessments of the marine debris removal areas. This will include a GIS site map, which delineates the boundaries (i,e" overall area and GPS coordinates) and the extent of different types of resource injuries (e,g., rubble piles, fractured reef framework, excess debris, scraped areas, dislodged organisms, and transferred bottom paint). The species identification, quantification, and location marking of overturned, dislodged, crushed, or otherwise injured living organisms will also be carried out. Marine biologists will swim the marine habitat area perimeter towing a surface buoy to map specific injury areas. The buoy will be maintained directly overhead of the diver, with depth and currents being limiting factors. To record a position, the buoy is submerged several times in rapid succession to communicate with the research vessel, while the helmsman records the time and GPS location of the buoy. This allows the diver's notes (e.g., notes on the type of injury and the bOWldary of the injury area) to be coordinated with the GPS points, In addition, through digital underwater still and video documentation, marine debris validation imagery will begin to define the extent of the restoration response effort. We shall provide NOAA with a comprehensive, detailed site assessment report, which includes a discussion of methods used to assess and map the various restoration sites, as well as maps and images of the all injured areas, All digital imagery (in either a JPEG or MGEP format), GIS shape files (NAD 83, US feet), and all available field notes, will be provided. Debris Removal and Biological Triage Each site will be assessed for the accumulation of marine debris on or in the vicinity of the coastal habitat. This debris may consist of anchors, cables, fishing line, tackle, or similar equipment that may pose a significant threat to reeflmarine resources. Active debris removal will be carried out on approximately 150 reef sites, as well as a number of navigational passes and under select bridge expansions. Divers will use Wlderwater mesh nets to collect and remove lesser forms of debris, while heavier items will be removed with 500 Ib Wlderwater lift bags. Larger objects of debris, such as pipes and culverts, will be removed by a professional marine salvage outfit. If the debris has caused direct impacts to a marine habitat, biological triage activities will be carried out as part of the habitat restoration. The first step of biological triage on coral reefs is to right any overturned, dislodged, buried, or otherwise injured living organisms (i.e., stony corals, octocorals, sponges) and flag them for repair. Marine biologists will help assess and determine which larger coral colonies can remain stable temporarily without aid; however, smaller colonies and fragments can usually be easily overturned or washed off site by surge and wave energy. Those smaller and fragmented stony coral, soft coral (octocoral), and sponge colonies will be placed in weighted baskets, milk crates, and/or other containers for temporary safekeeping. The organisms collected during biological triage will be reattached to areas that are structurally sound and away from sand and rubble movement. A quick-set epoxy (e.g., Ultrabond Speed Set 2), or other non-toxic adhesive, will be applied to the base of the organism using epoxy guns, Organisms will be returned to their original location and depth, where possible. Ideally, the target reattachment density (number of organismslarea of reef) will be similar to the pre-injury density. Agenda Item No. 1606 May 12, 2009 Page 13 of 15 Restored Habitat Characterization and Documentation Methods The Benthic Ecological Assessment for Marginal Reefs (BEAMR) surveying method was developed by Makowski et ai, (2009) to evaluate restored marine habitats and to document the interrelationship between corals, algae, sediment, invertebrates, and fish species within nearshore reef systems. Due to the macroalgae dominated nature of the nearshore hardbottom communities throughout Florida, the BEAMR protocol allows researchers to incorporate macroalgal and other benthic functional groups into their analyses and characterization of larger transects established over hardbottom formations. Recently, government regulatory agencies (e.g., FDEP, USACE) have specifically recommended using the BEAMR method to characterize and assess the restoration of marine habitat communities, A 0,5 square meter (m2) quadrat will be used as a sampling device over each reef clean up/marine debris removal area, providing an accurate list of species growing in each debris- removed, restored marine habitat. Within each 0,5 m2 quadrat, planar percent cover of all sessile benthos is pooled into major functional groups (Photograph I), Functional groups include: bare hard substrate, sediment, macroalgae, turf algae, crustose coralline algae, seagrass, sponge, hydroid, Millepora sp" octocoral, stony coral, anemone, zoanthid, wormrock, non-wormrock sessile annelid, bivalve, bryozoan, arthropod, and tunicate, Every visible functional group within the quadrat is assigned a minimum value of I % cover. Zero percent cover denotes functional groups which are absent. When sediment percent cover is positive, the appropriate sediment type(s) is circled: sand, shell, or mud. Similarly. specific turf algae type(s) are selected: green, red, brown. Sediment bound in a turf algae matrix is counted as turf algae. The crustose coralline algae functional group includes species from the Corallinaceae, Sporolithaceae, and Peyssonneliaceae fan1ilies. Naturally exposed substrate without turf cover, along with or without a veneer of sediment less than I cm, is counted as bare hard substrate, Unattached, floating, andlor motile organisms are disregarded, with the exception of Acropora cervicornis and Manicina areo/ata, and the diver must assess the area(s) under Wlattached organisms. The datasheet provides pre-assigned labels for the 10 most frequently encountered functional groups. Each of the remaining eight functional groups must be labeled in the "Other" section of the datasheet, if present. The sum of all functional group percent cover estimated must equal 100%. Maximum vertical relief of the solid habitat resource (not sand forms such as ripple marks, etc.) will be measured from the lowest point in the quadrat to the highest point in the quadrat. Maximum standing sediment thickness over the hardbottom will be documented by acquiring two random measurements and recording the higher of the two values. If no areas of loose unconsolidated sediment existed within the quadrat, then a value of zero (cm) is recorded for the station. Sediment bound in a turf algae matrix and/or a dusting of sediment on bare substrate has to be at least I cm deep to be recorded as an accumulation of sediment. A 30 cm sediment depth will be recorded when the maximum measurcment was greater than or equal to 30 cm. Each colony of octocoral and stony coral will be identified and the maximum height or width will be measured to the nearcst cm, Octocoral individuals are identified to Genus. Stony coral individuals are identified to species, whenever possible, The smallest size recorded for corals will be 1.0 cm, even for individuals less than 1.0 cm, Abnormal conditions of each colony are Agenda Item No. 1606 May 12, 2009 Page 14 of 15 recorded (e.g., bleaching, disease, stress). BEAMR specifically monitors individual hard and soft coral colonies, while excluding all fire corals (Millepora sp,) from this aspect of the benthic survey. In addition, video documentation of the restored marine habitats will be carried out at each site. The video surveys will be conducted by a marine biologist using a 4 mm Sony TRV-900 digital video camera (or comparable equipment) in an underwater housing, The camera will be set to fully automatic operation, "steadyshot", and "progressive scan", recording 15 frames per second at 640 x 480 resolution, The biologist will film each habitat at a maintained height of 40 cm, after Porter et al. (2002). A convergent laser guidance system will provide reference for the researcher when the camera is precisely 40 cm from the benthos. How will the project be managed and maintained in long term: This project will serve as baseline data for future focused clean-up and monitoring efforts based on those identified locations with the largest amounts of debris benthic impacts. The COWlty will also use data from the project to creatc education and outreach products that aid in the reduction of marine debris Expected weight of debris removed: 5-10 tons Footprint of debris to be removed in Acresl Sq Feet. 600 acres How will the project yield ecological, cconomic, and socio-economic benefits: . Create and/or maintain at least 27 positions in addition to indirectly stimulating the local economy through purchasing fuel, food, and housing; . Reduce incidents of ghost fishing, entanglement and ingestion incidents among marine mammals, sea turtles, birds, and other marine life as a result of the removal of derelict fishing gear; . Remove potentially toxic materials such as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that can cause harm to marine life even in low conccntrations; . Protect benthic habitats and associated flora/fauna by removing debris and restoring debris- damaged hard/soft corals, sponges and macroalgae through biological triage practices; . Increase safcty and satisfaction among boaters, anglers and divers as a result of less potentially hazardous gear and dcbris in the COWlty'S coastal waters. ~ Administrative Scnriccs Division Collier County Government Center 33tH East Tamiami Trail Naples, Florida 341 J2 ma rlencfoord(uJcollicnwv. net (239) 252-4768 (239) 252-8720 (fax) Agenda Item No. 1606 May 12, 2009 Page 15of15 TO: Jim Mudd, County Manager Leo Ochs. Deputy County Manager Applications Reviewed and Approved by e.oun~ l\1a~:., ,~t.. deSig~,e.'\.'!9J:.' submll1aL ....-f~_. . ..' .J-.~'l:~ 1~.('ounty Manager;i/ ' (date) After-the-Fact Approval by the Bee is required at the 4;28:09 Bee meeting. cc: Pamela Keyes, Coastal Zone Management /' ;"1'\ \" ,. i I .. .. '. . . Marlene Foord, Grants Coordmator FROM,: DATE: April 2. 2009 SUBJECT: County Manager Review and Approval of a Coastal and Marine Habitat Restoration Project Grants - Recovery Act Grant Application The Coast'll Zone Management Department, in. conjulll.1ioll with the Collier County Sea Gtant Extcnsion Agent of University Extension, has developed a grant application for American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding. 'fhis funding is available from the US Department of Commerce/NOAA under the Coastal and I\larine Habitat Restoration Project. Since this program is authorized under the ARRA., it requires job creation and/or retention, A job bank employee \\ill be funded within the County and it is also expected that as the result of contractual services, approximately 9 other contractual positions will be partially funded by the grant for one year. Due to the nature of theARRA fimding, most grant programs will have very short time frames for submittal of proposals. In this case~ Coastal Zone Management received nOliticationof the NOAA Habitat Restoration Project Grant 011 :Ylarch J 3, 2009 and the deadline for submittal is April 6th. As a result, the department was not able to prepare the necessary documents in time for the March 24, 2009 BCe meeting, Therefore, your revic\vof the application is requested to be followed by al1er-the- fact approval at the April 28, 2009 meeting. This application \\/ill be submitted online via~J!rants.!.!ov so your approval also needs .to provide authorization to the Coastal Zone Management Department and the Grant Coordination Oflice to formally submit the application electronically on your behalf. No signatures are needed on the application materials. After you have reviewed the proposal package. please sign in the hox above and call me j~)r pickup at 252-GRNT (4768). Thank you. Please let me know if you have any questioIlS:.