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PBSD MSTU Clam Bay Agenda 01/12/2026PELICAN BAY SERVICES DIVISION Municipal Services Taxing & Benefit Unit NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING JANUARY 129 2026 THE CLAM BAY COMMITTEE OF THE PELICAN BAY SERVICES DIVISION BOARD WILL MEET AT 1:00 PM ON MONDAY, JANUARY 12 IN THE COMMUNITY CENTER AT PELICAN BAY, 8960 HAMMOCK OAK DRIVE, NAPLES, FLORIDA 34108. AGENDA 1. Pledge of Allegiance 2. Roll call 3. Agenda approval 4. Approval of 11/20/25 meeting minutes 5. Audience comments 6. Chair's comments a. Upcoming Feb. 10 workshop 7. Benthic Survey Report (Nov. 3) 8. Review of dredging frequency criteria 9. Proposal for updated hydrodynamic and morphology modeling 10. Feasibility of a future PBSD beach renourishment project 11. Adjournment *indicates possible action item ANY PERSON WISHING TO SPEAK ON AN AGENDA ITEM WILL RECEIVE UP TO THREE (3) MINUTES PER ITEM TO ADDRESS THE BOARD. THE BOARD WILL SOLICIT PUBLIC COMMENTS ON SUBJECTS NOT ON THIS AGENDA AND ANY PERSON WISHING TO SPEAK WILL RECEIVE UP TO THREE (3) MINUTES. THE BOARD ENCOURAGES YOU TO SUBMIT YOUR COMMENTS IN WRITING IN ADVANCE OF THE MEETING. ANY PERSON WHO DECIDES TO APPEAL A DECISION OF THIS BOARD WILL NEED A RECORD OF THE PROCEEDING PERTAINING THERETO, AND THEREFORE MAY NEED TO ENSURE THAT A VERBATIM RECORD IS MADE, WHICH INCLUDES THE TESTIMONYAND EVIDENCE UPON WHICH THE APPEAL IS TO BE BASED, IF YOU ARE A PERSON WITH A DISABILITY WHO NEEDS AN ACCOMMODATION IN ORDER TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS MEETING YOU ARE ENTITLED TO THE PROVISION OF CERTAIN ASSISTANCE. PLEASE CONTACT THE PELICAN BAY SERVICES DIVISION AT (239) 252-1355. 1/5/2026 2:11 PM PELICAN BAY SERVICES DIVISION CLAM BAY COMMITTEE MEETING NOVEMBER 20, 2025 The an, Bay Committee of the Pelican Bay Services Division in on Thursday, November 20 at 9:00 a.m. in the Cormnunity Center at Pelican Bay, 8960 Hammock Oak Drive, Naples, Florida 34108. In attendance were: Clam Bay Cmte. Bob Lufkin Michael Rodburg, Chair Cindy Polke Michael Fogg Rick Swider Pelican Bay Services Division Staff Dave Greenfield, Supr. -Field II (absent) Neil Donill, Administrator Karin Herrmann, Project Manager I Chad Coleman, Deputy Director Lisa Jacob, Project Manager II Dawn Brewer, Ops. Support Spec. II Barbara Shea, Admin, Support Spec. II Darren Duprey, Supervisor — Field I (absent) Also Present Jemiifer Bobka, Earth Tech Jeremy Sterk, Earth Tech Mohamed Dabees, Humiston & Moore Dave Trecker, Vice Chair of the C.A.C. Tom Polke, Pelican Bay Foundation Rhonda Watkins, County Pollution Control Leah Reidenbach, Earth Tech Kathy Worley, Conservancy of S.W. Florida APPROVED AGENDA (AS PRESENTED) 1. Pledge of Allegiance 2. Roll call 3. Agenda approval 4. Approval of 6/16/25 meeting minutes 5. Audience comments 6. Collier County Pollution Control discussion of water quality regulations 7. Chair comments a. Sept. 9 staff meeting with Seagate & Naples Cay residents on Clam Bay b. Aug. 14 staff presentation to the Coastal Advisory Committee 8. Expected schedule for CB dredging, beach renourishment, and sand reclamation projects 9. Clam Pass dredging frequency, timing, and extension of permit 10. Clam Bay Management Plan review a. Evaluation of Clam Pass dredging criteria and template b. Alternative dredge section identification 11. Adjournment Pelican Bay Services Division Clam Bay Committee Meeting November 20, 2025 ROLL CALL All members were present and a quorum was established. Ms. Polke motioned, Mr. Lufkin seconded to approve the agenda as presented. The motion carried unanimouslv. Ms. Polke motioned, Mr. Lufkin seconded to approve the 6/16/25 meeting minutes as presented. The motion carried unanimously. AUDIENCE COMMENTS Mr. Patrick Wack, President of the Seagate Association, acknowledged the recent momentum on dredging, mangrove restoration, and the 2024 Water Quality Report format and thanked Mr. Coleman and his team for making a lot of progress in these areas. Ms. Susan O'Brien commented that she had sent an email to Mr. Rodburg, Mr. Fogg, Mr. Dor ill, and Mr. Coleman asking who are the Pelican Bay representatives at meetings with the Seagate and Naples Cay communities. She also questioned how these meetings are publicized so that interested residents can attend. Ms. O'Brien commented that many PB residents are asking why the sand reclamation project did not occur immediately following Hurricane Ian and sooner after Hurricanes Milton and Helene. POLLUTION CONTROL DISCUSSION OF WATER QUALITY REGULATIONS Ms. Rhonda Watkins, County Pollution Control Project Manager responsible for the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System Program, provided a general discussion of Clam Bay water quality followed by answering questions from the audience. Highlights included the following. • A new draft state list of impaired waters was issued yesterday. • Clam Bay has been designated as impaired for nitrogen, phosphorus, and dissolved oxygen. • Dissolved oxygen is not meeting the state criteria of 42% saturation. • Nitrogen and phosphorus are causative pollutants for dissolved oxygen impairment. • Clam Bay inland is impaired for copper. • In response to Mr. Rodburg asking what are next steps when impaired: The state will prioritize the list for TMDL (total maximum daily load) development based on public health issues (bacteria and mercury receive priority). There are multiple impairments all over County estuaries. If a TMDL is developed, then an action plan would be developed and discussed with all stakeholders. The County has had only three TMDLs since 2008. It is difficult to regulate inputs into estuary systems. All County estuaries are impaired for nutrients. • In response to Mr. Rodburg asking whether Clam Bay is uniquely impaired in relation to our neighbors north and south: Every estuary in the County is impaired. • In response to Mr. Rodburg asking the distance of nitrogen impairment in the Gulf: Nitrogen impairment is likely out to the limit of state waters. • In response to Mr. Swider asking whether there are any Clam Bay health issues: The state prioritizes any issues affecting public health (bacteria and mercury related). Although the system needs phosphorus and nitrogen, excesses can cause algae blooms which may create 2 Pelican Bay Services Division Clam Bay Committee Meeting November 20, 2025 potential toxins. DEP has not prioritized excess phosphorus and nitrogen. Whether Clam Bay has any health issues cannot be determined as this is too broad of a statement. • In response to Mr. Lufkin asking about what a short-term fix would be to address nutrient impairments: A decrease in reclaimed water and fertilizer inputs would directly reduce nutrient levels. County fertilizer ordinances should be followed. Communities should ensure that reclaimed water is kept off sidewalks and streets where this water would enter the stormwater system. • In response to Ms. Polke asking about steps to be taken internally to address our nutrient impairments: A ten -foot buffer around all PB lakes (including replacing grass with littoral shelves) is recommended. • In response to Ms. Polke asking whether water entering the Clam Bay system from the north could be tested: Water quality is tested quarterly and data is shared with IQ users so that they can factor in nutrient levels in determining the needs for fertilizer application. • In response to Mr. Rodburg asking whether the County has any plans to "clean up" their reuse water which contains approximately ten times the nutrients of what ambient levels are: It is unknown whether the County's Public Utilities Dept. has any plans for advanced wastewater treatment (similar to what the City of Naples has in place). • In response to Mr. Dorrill asking whether there are any active basin management action plans in Southwest Florida: Currently there is an active management plan for the Townsend Canal (north of Immokalee) which is impaired for macrophtyes. Mr. Dorrill commented (1) staff needs to become more familiar with basin management plans and related criteria, (2) a Clam Bay Management Plan is in place, (3) the PB community has not used copper sulfate fertilizer for at least ten years, (4) a large amount of copper is contained in the sediment in the northern end of Clam Bay, which may exist into perpetuity, and (5) a recent purchase order was approved for a major fertilizer contract for polymer -coated fertilizers, which are slow -release and very expensive. He noted and expressed appreciation for the Pollution Control Dept.'s water quality testing of hundreds of locations throughout Collier County. • In response to Mr. Rodburg asking for a discussion of chlorophyll -a: Clam Bay is not impaired for chlorophyll -a, the green pigment that makes plants green. The standard for Clam Bay is 11 micrograms per liter. • In response to Ms. Polke asking about fertilizer bans: The County no longer has a wet season ban on fertilizer. Native plants that do not need fertilizer are recommended. Slow -release fertilizer is recommended. • In response to Ms. O'Brien asking whether the DEP has provided (public access) the sample set that they used to determine that Clam Bay is impaired for nitrogen: Pollution Control collects samples for all of Clam Bay, enters the data in the DEP database, and then the DEP pulls from that database. The IWR_Run database information is available to the public. • In response to Ms. O'Brien asking whether the DEP takes into consideration the impact of hurricanes (Clam Bay total nitrogen was well under the 10% criteria for six out of the last ten years while slightly out of compliance for four years correlated to the occurrence of hurricanes): Pollution Control qualifies sample data only if there is a major event affecting the sample within 48 hours. Hurricanes are considered part of the natural ecosystem, which may affect water quality for months or years. • In response to Ms. Polke asking whether water volume comes into play as we had much more water volume in Clam Pass ten years ago: Water volume does not come into play at all and is not a factor in measuring impairment. Nutrient levels are measured in milligrams per liter. G Pelican Bay Services Division Clam Bay Committee Meeting November 20, 2025 • In response to Mr. Tom Polke asking if all County and/or neighboring waterways are impaired for dissolved oxygen, and noted that per a Google search, the cause for dissolved oxygen impairment is a lack of mixture: This is the first time that Clam Bay has been designated as impaired for dissolved oxygen. The only other waterway currently impaired for dissolved oxygen is the north end of Naples Bay. Other causes of this impairment include higher water temperature and algae blooms. CHAIR COMMENTS Mr. Rodburg commented that we received the Clam Bay benthic survey on Nov. 4 which will be discussed at our next committee meeting (January). The 2024 Water Quality report will also be discussed at this meeting. Mr. Rodburg provided a brief summary of how committee meetings are scheduled and noted that this committee will be meeting more frequently in the coming months. SEPT. 9 STAFF MEETING WITH SEAGATE & NAPLES CAY RESIDENTS Mr. Rodburg reported that the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) has directed us to work closely with the Seagate and Naples Cay community with issues relating to Clam Bay. As a result, a staff meeting with several representatives of these communities was held on Sept. 9, attended by Mr. Fogg. Mr. Fogg commented that in early summer the BCC had considered forming a Clam Bay oversight committee, but ultimately decided that an oversight committee would not be necessary and instead, directed the PBSD to work closely with all of the Clam Bay stakeholders, especially the Seagate and Naples Cay communities. Three sets of summary notes on the Sept. 9 staff meeting, prepared by Mr. Patrick Wack, staff, and Mr. Fogg, were included in the agenda packet. Mr. Fogg noted that every issue raised by Mr. Wack was discussed preliminarily, and most significantly, the frequency and extent of Clam Pass dredging. Highlights of comments by Mr. Fogg relating to Clam Bay included the following. • We have received a two-year extension of our dredging permit, with a new expiration of March 2028. • Work has begun on the exploration of possible changes to our permit, including impacts and unintended consequences, which will require significant study. • The sea grass die -off in Clam Bay has been observed throughout Southwest Florida. No sea grass is available for transplanting into Clam Bay. • Dune restoration, which was somewhat of an issue after Hurricane Ian, became more of an issue subsequent to Hurricanes Helene and Milton; staff discussions of addressing this began last fall and winter. In light of the success of the Tiger Beach sand reclamation project, our consultants and staff developed a sand reclamation project to move sand (out of the mangrove areas) to the back of the beach to restore and build up the dune. We are attempting to complete this work before the beach renourishment project begins in Pelican Bay. • Creating a meaningful dune will protect us from future storms. • The County's beach renourishment project is underway, just north of Vanderbilt Beach and will continue southward to Pelican Bay Beaches (expected Dec. 1) down to Marker 37 (just south of the Marker 36 facility). • Clam Pass dredging is underway and will continue for about a month. Dredged sand will be placed on the south end of Pelican Bay. • Work is planned to clean out mangrove trenching which experienced sand inundation during recent storms, especially in areas south of the pass, causing mangrove die -off. 0 Pelican Bay Services Division Clam Bay Committee Meeting November 20, 2025 • Seagate residents hired their own consultant to address their water quality concerns in their canals. Seagate representatives have suggested that if the tidal flow in and out of Clam Bay was improved, then there would be a positive impact on water quality in their canals. They recognize that some issues are their own, such as managing run-off from their homes. • A new tidal marker #1 has been installed at the south end of Clam Bay to monitor tidal flow in this area. Mr. Rodburg addressed an email from Ms. Susan O'Brien (former ten-year Chair of this committee) questioning the reason for an unadvertised staff meeting with Seagate and Naples Cay representatives on Sept. 9. He explained that this staff meeting, part of community outreach, was informal, unofficial, not public, and required no minutes. Mr. Rodburg commented that ultimately, the Clam Bay Committee takes issues to the board when action needs to be taken. Ms. O'Brien recommended that these meetings should be publicly noticed meetings, so that interested parties can attend. Mr. Rodburg commented that the issues raised by Seagate and Naples Cay representatives are part of the Clam Bay Committee responsibilities and that the solution would be to include these issues on committee agendas. Mr. Dorrill commented that staff meetings are deliberately private and that staff cannot be constrained by noticing every meeting. He reported that during August, September and October, staff made public presentations and answered questions pertaining to Clam Pass, providing plenty of opportunities for residents to attend public meetings. Mr. Fogg explained that the Sept. 9 meeting was an attempt to start discussions with Seagate and Naples Cay representatives on Clam Bay (as directed by the BCC) before this committee meeting was scheduled to take place, and noted that a Clam Bay Committee meeting is the right forum for future discussions. Mr. Fogg commented that Clam Bay Committee meetings will be scheduled on a regular basis, going forward. Ms. O'Brien suggested that our ten -year -old Clam Bay Management Plan may need some modifications which should be discussed at public meetings. Mr. Dor ill commented that proposals are typically brought to the board from a committee, and then ultimately brought to the BCC for approval by the board. Mr. Rodburg commented that board members do not typically attend staff meetings; however, Mr. Fogg attended the Sept. 9 meeting as a result of the direction of the BCC regarding Clam Bay issues. Mr. Fogg confirmed that this was an effort to get things started. Mr. Rodburg addressed Ms. O'Brien's question on why sand reclamation did not begin shortly after Hurricanes Ian, Milton, or Helene. He explained that in general, the PBSD does not disturb or remove whatever is nature based/caused within the NRPA, and therefore, we initially thought that the excess sand deposited from storm, had to remain undisturbed, as it was caused by nature. However, in early October 2024, following Milton, Governor Desantis signed an executive order to permit sand reclamation projects. Our sand reclamation project is now moving along. AUG. 14 STAFF PRESENTATION TO THE COASTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (CAC Mr. Dorrill commented that om• presentation to the C.A.C. was a professional courtesy, where we outlined the inlet dredging work scheduled at the conclusion of sea turtle nesting season and the results of the bathymetrie survey, noting that dredged sand (approx. 13,500 yards) would be placed on the beaches north and south of the inlet, and that we had a contract in hand for the project. He noted that we also reported on our sand reclamation plan at Clam Pass Park, south of the inlet and a similar reconstruction effort at the north end of Pelican Bay to reclaim and reconstruct the dune. In response to a few questions from the C.A.C., Mr. Dor ill reported that mangrove planting would be a part of 5 Pelican Bay Services Division Clam Bay Committee Meeting November 20, 2025 our plan, to commence after the dune is reconstructed. Dune plantings would likely be installed in late spring/early summer to coincide with the beginning of the rainy season (in the absence of an irrigation system). Mr. Dorrill noted that the presentation was well received. Ms. Jo Ann Jany commented on January 2024 dune plantings by the County's Coastal Zone Dept. as well as sea grape plantings by Naples Cay, which are now established and thriving, and suggested that the PBSD considers dune planting sooner than late spring. Mr. Dorrill responded that he would defer a decision on this issue to our biologist. CLAM PASS DREDGING FREQUENCY, TIMING, AND EXTENSION OF PERMIT Mr. Rodburg commented that in 2013, dredging permits were issued to the PBSD to manage tidal flow in Clam Bay, based on critical tidal ratios. Once a critical ratio was reached, a dredge project would be planned. He noted that the original concept was that we would need a dredge approximately every three or four years. Mr. Rodburg commented that at this time, we are examining whether this criteria is appropriate and whether it should be changed. He noted that due to the small size of our dredging projects, it is often difficult to hire a contractor and it is near impossible to contract for a hydraulic dredge. Recently, some have suggested more frequent dredges and/or a change in the criteria. 2024 WATER QUALITY REPORT Mr. Rodburg commented that the 2024 Water Quality Report includes some differences from prior reports, including historical data of nutrient levels in the system, and information from prior reports. He noted that only water basins east of the berm are designated as impaired for copper, and therefore not an issue for Clam Bay. Mr. Rodburg reviewed the recommendations included in this report, none of which are new. He noted that the most critical recommendation is the management of phosphorus; the main sources are fertilizer and County reclaimed water. Mr. Rodburg noted that we have no jurisdiction over these issues and suggested that the PBF, the Bay Colony Association, and homeowners focus on these issues. Mr. Tom Polke commented that water volume in Clam Bay has decreased over time. He suggested that if we have half the water volume in our basins, with the same volume of inputs, then the concentration of nutrients would double. Mr. Pollee suggested that as water bodies get shallower, nutrient concentrations typically increase. Ms. Leah Reidenbach, Environmental Consultant with Earth Tech, agreed that as water volume declines, with the same level of inputs, that the nutrient concentrations would increase. She suggested that the more important issue is how quickly the water is being flushed and noted that there is less flushing in the northern end of Clam Bay. Mr. Polke asked whether we have studied changes in depth in Clam Bay. Mr. Rodburg commented that a decision was made to defer the benthic study until the next committee meeting, which did look at the shoaling (for 15 years) which has not shown much change. He noted that the premise of a decline of water volume in Clam Bay is not supported by our data and that it may be worthwhile to obtain more data. Mr. Rodburg suggested that we may explore increasing the dredge template which would increase volume. Mr. Dorrill commented that twice each year, we do a bathymetric survey within Sections A, B, and C (which measures excess sand in cross -sections), but that we have not done any bathymetric surveys in the upper reaches of Clam Bay (during his time as PBSD Administrator). Mr. Polke suggested that we accumulate data on water depths in Clam Bay. 5'7 Pelican Bay Services Division Clam Bay Committee Meeting November 20, 2025 Mr. Fogg commented that the key issue here is flushing; the flow makes a difference, not the depth. He noted that flushing declines as distance from the Gulf increases. Mr. Fogg commented that "how to increase" flushing is the critical issue. Mr. Dorrill reported that the PBSD obtains aerial photography, aerial videos, and drone imagery on a monthly basis. Our drone imagery does not measure water depths. Ms. Judy Hushon commented that copper is contained in the sediment layer (in our lake bottoms and Clam Bay), and that copper should not be an issue to us unless copper levels increase in our water quality sampling data. She noted that if you disturb the sediment then the copper levels in your water samples are likely to increase. Mr. Rodburg commented that as long as residents are not using copper sulfate, then copper levels should remain stable. Ms. Reidenbach commented that we are only seeing copper exceedances in the north end of Clam Bay, and she does not see copper as a major concern for Clam Bay. Ms. Mary Johnson asked for comments on the effects of the shallowness of Clam Bay and recent drought conditions on dissolved oxygen levels. Ms. Reidenbach commented that quantities of algae and sea grass produce swings of levels of dissolved oxygen between daytime and nighttime. Mr. Rodburg commented that exceedances for dissolved oxygen are most persistent in northern Clam Bay, where there is the least tidal flushing. He questioned whether there could be data bias as a result of samples always being taken first (during a day) from the northern sample sites, and then working south. Ms. Reidenbach commented that if the northern sites were sampled in the afternoon, that we may see higher dissolved oxygen levels. Ms. O'Brien commented that the 2024 Water Quality Report differs from prior years. She provided a document to the Clam Bay Committee members and requested that the committee considers adding a similar table, such as the one she provided, which shows a ten-year snapshot of our water quality data, showing exceedances over time and in relation to hurricane events. Mr. Rodburg responded that he would provide the document to Earth Tech for consideration in future reports. Mr. Patrick Wack commented on the number of exceedances of total phosphorus and chlorophyll in the south end of Clam Bay, although not as high as the north end, and requested that chlorophyll levels are tracked over five years. He requested that this data is included in future water quality reports. Mr. Rodburg commented that all of these requests/suggestions will be referred to Earth Tech, for consideration. Dr. Dabees, Coastal Engineer with Humiston and Moore, commented on water quality issues which included the following. • Tide ratios are not sustainable. Over time, post dredging, tide ratios equilibrate to an expected range of 60-70%; migration of the pass is also expected. • An increase in volume of water in Clam Bay can only be achieved if the bay's area is increased, which is not an option. • Sediment in the bay bottom, with a high percentage of nutrients, should be left alone. Capping the sediment with material may be a better strategy. EXPECTED SCHEDULE FOR CB DREDGING. BEACH RE, NOURISHMENT. AND SAND RECLAMATION PROJECTS Dr. Dabees reported that we currently have three concurrent post -storm recovery activities in progress including (1) dune reconstruction, to include sand reclamation and the repopulation of dune vegetation, (2) inlet dredging, and (3) beach renourishment. These three projects will restore conditions to those existing prior to Hurricanes Ian, Debbie, Helene, and Milton. 7 Pelican Bay Services Division Clam Bay Committee Meeting November 20, 2025 Ms. Polke asked whether an area of sand, east of the pass on "the back side," at 14 feet on a topographical map, is outside our dredge template. Dr. Dabees confirmed that this area is outside our dredge template. Ms. Polke asked whether this area could be added to our permitted area. Dr. Dabees commented that approval from the agencies is unlikely because (1) there is no mangrove die -off adjacent to this area, (2) this sandy area is a valuable habitat for wading birds, (3) this area is adjacent to the most viable sea grass habitat, and (4) there is no clear engineering justification to expand the template to include this area while mitigating environmental issues. Ms. Polke questioned the possibility of adding more water to the east side of the berm to create more brackish water in Clam Bay. She suggested that we review a topographical comparison of Clam Bay from 14 years ago to today, and noted that water volume has substantially declined. Dr. Dabees requested that she provides data and evidence of this. Ms. Polke commented that we could put data together based on existing resident photos. Dr. Dabees commented that areas of stressed mangroves are monitored (through aerial and infrared photography) by Earth Tech, and that there are no stressed areas on the east side of Clam Bay. Mr. Rodburg summarized that our discussion has resulted in three questions as follows. • Has the estuary shallowed out over time to the extent that there is less water now than at any other time? Dr. Dabees commented that 20 years of records of tidal exchange and data from the 1990s to the present indicate that our yearly average has not changed but that this is dependent on our maintenance program. He noted that our management plan requires us to monitor tidal ratios, and that whenever the ratios go below the critical threshold, maintenance work must be initiated so that there is no change in the volume of water. Dr. Dabees commented that immediately following a dredge event, we see ratios of .9, which are not sustainable as equilibration must take place. He reported that we are looking at improvements to our permit requirements. In response to a question from Mr. Lufkin, Dr. Dabees confirmed that our current dredge template is the same as the last dredge event. • Should our current dredge template (in place for over 10 years) be amended in some way? Dr. Dabees commented that since 1998, our initial management plan allows the County and the PBSD to perform dredging in an environmentally sensitive area for the sole purpose of preventing mangrove die -off and the degradation of environmental resources. Proposed amendments to the permit would need to pass the scrutiny of the environmental agencies and multiple advocacy groups. The purpose of a dredging event is to maintain the healthy flow through the system. • Is there a recommendation (from Humiston & Moore) to this committee that we consider modifying the scope of the template. Dr. Dabees commented that we have obtained a two-year extension of our existing permit and suggested taking the path of least resistance to ensure the continuation of our permit. He noted that we are making significant improvements to the entire system through (1) our three ongoing projects, (2) adding a fifth tidal gauge at the south end of Outer Clam Bay, and (3) adding significant environmental features. Monitoring will continue. Mr. Doriill commented that we would be open to evaluating lengthening the dredge template both north and south (not wider). He expressed concerns over widening the template because of issues relating to mangrove erosion on the south side of the inlet. Mr. Dorrill noted that the additional material removed (in the event of widening the template) would likely not be beach compatible and would have disposal costs associated with it. Dr. Dabees commented that he would not recommend widening or deepening the inlet itself in areas A, B, and C. He noted that we do recormaissance f3 Pelican Bay Services Division Clam Bay Committee Meeting November 20, 2025 surveying of the entire system every five years (last performed in 2024), which indicated that we may need to look into cross -sectional areas in one or two spots. Mr. Rodburg commented that we currently initiate a dredge based on tidal ratio data. However, a suggestion has been made that given lead times and the number of storms in recent years, that it is time to look at a scheduled dredge event perhaps annually or another period. Dr. Dabees commented that we currently have a good handle on the timing of dredging. He noted that if you look at the data points over the last ten years, there were only one or two months where the tidal ratios dropped below the critical threshold of 50%. Data indicates that we have maintained the flow as a result of (1) when an emergency dredge was needed, staff made a great effort to enable an emergency dredge, and (2) streamlining the administrative process through a County marine contract with potential dredging contractors. Dr. Dabees commented that if we increase the intervention unnecessarily, then we may adversely affect the ecosystem. Mr. Fogg commented that in 2024, storms pushed sand into the inlet, at which time a dredge was not pursued, even with the knowledge of the excess sand. Ile noted that we are now conducting a dredge, while the tidal ratios (pre -dredge) are the same as a year ago and questioned why we are dredging now. Dr. Dabees reported that tidal ratios in October 2025 actually improved. He explained that our current dredging project coincides with our post -storm recovery work, realigning the system as a whole. Dr. Dabees also explained that we needed to ensure the highest level of resiliency in the inlet in the event that our permit were to expire in March 2026 (we have since received an approval of a two-year extension). For these reasons, a dredge project was scheduled although the tidal ratio criteria was not met. Mr. Fogg commented that a lot of sand was pushed into the inlet from Furricanes Helene and Milton and questioned whether a dredge should have occurred at that time in order to better withstand a possible subsequent storm. Dr. Dabees commented that Hurricanes Helene and Milton were surge events which actually benefrtted the inlet, and that a dredge at that time would have been considered an "over -dredge" event. Mr. Lufkin asked about the possibility of installing a jetty. Dr. Dabees commented that jetties have been proven to cause heavy negative impacts to beaches as well as the overall environment. He noted that there is now no such thing as permitting a jetty unless it is for national security. Ms. Jo Ann Jany asked for an explanation of sand being placed inside of the pass. Dr. Dabees explained that instead of closing the inlet during our dredge work, we are working around the perimeter in an attempt for our intervention to cause the least environmental impacts. He noted that the project includes recovery of the mangrove shoreline. CLAM BAY MANAGEMENT PLAN REVIEW Ms. O'Brien commented that since the management plan was completed, some of the variables have changed, and it may be time to try out annual dredging for a couple of years and explore/monitor the results, including possible changes to our template. She suggested changes including (1) it is now unrealistic to complete a hydraulic dredge every 3-4 years, (2) the pass is meandering to north, (3) four hurricanes in the last eight years, and (4) it appears that currently the BCC may be open to TDC funded annual dredge events. Dr. Dabees commented that we have tried to stick to a rough estimate of dredging every two years; however, during the last ten years we have dredged almost every year. He noted that to address meandering of the inlet, we are now working on stabilizing the inlet banks. Dr. Dabees commented that typically post dredge, the pass equilibrates within two months, followed by little change in the Pelican Bay Services Division Clam Bay Committee Meeting November 20, 2025 tidal ratios over the next 12 months, unless we experience storm impacts. He summarized that we do dredge on an annual basis when needed, based on our existing monitoring system. Mr. Polke suggested that we need to look into (1) establishing a baseline of the volume of water in Clam Bay and monitoring levels every 6 or 12 months, (2) ditches on the berm which are drying up, (3) the possible dredging of the sand pile (nearly 14 feet high), east of the pass on the back side of the bay, (4) addressing the declining water quality at both ends of Clam Bay, and (5) addressing the dissolved oxygen impairment in Clam Bay which is unique to Clam Bay and one other location in Southwest Florida. Dr. Dabees responded with the following comments. • Humiston & Moore relies on Earth Tech's monitoring of the health of the mangroves and wildlife. The issue of the sand pile east of the pass on the back bay has been referred to Earth Tech. • The Conservancy of S.W. Florida and other stakeholders have put guardrails on where we have space for intervention in the Clam Bay system through their participation in creating our management plan. • Decline in water quality is a statewide issue; controlling nutrient inputs is the only method to improve water quality. An increase in water temperatures in recent years has affected sea grass acreage and nutrient levels. Ms. Kathy Worley, Director of Environmental Science and Biologist at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, commented that triggers, included in the management plan, were put in place after much discussion by engineers/scientists/environmentalists, to not only manage the volume of flow, but also to safeguard the environment from over -dredging. She noted that we must balance the environmental pros and cons of dredging; negative impacts on the overall system may include increased erosion, causing loss of healthy mangroves along the edge of the inlet. Ms. Worley commented that environments do change and that the existing management plan may need to be revised. She suggested that the management plan needs to be looked at holistically and from other points of view. In conclusion, Ms. Worley commented that Clam Bay is an isolated system which can be managed, but not fixed. VOLUME Or RECLAIMED SAND EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS Mr. Coleman commented that the volume of sand being reclaimed (from mangrove areas) at both of our sand reclamation projects (south and north ends) have exceeded our expectations, and therefore, we can expect increased costs. The meetine was adjourned at 11:23 a.m. Michael Rodburg, Chair Minutes approved F] as presented OR L� as amended ON � )date 10 ��' a �Y'�E+�j�o r, � 1 �� a a+ 4.. ,;y _ -- -_.<i TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 INTRODUCi1O N...................................................................... 2,0 EXISTING SITE CONDITIONS ................................................... 10 BENTHIC SURVEY MATERIALS & METHODS ...........................00096 4,0 SURVEY RESULTS,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,;,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, 5,0 SUMMARY................ , headed I I I DOWN 10 Ord 4 11 a I a$ ODk1*DqD Vale 6,0 REFERENCES,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, sea 0 APPENDICES Agenda Item #7 Page 2 of 11 Shoal Benthlc Species Survey ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, 3 ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, 3 ........................................................ 3 ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, 4 ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, 5 ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, 6 Appendix A: Exhibits: Location Map Aerial Map Vicinity Map Well Locations Map Results Map July & October 2025 Seagrass Comparison Appendix B: Historical Images (Google Earth) Appendix C: Clam Bay M W-2 Water Level Graph 2016—September 2025 Appendix D: Clam Bay Overall Annual Seagrass Cover 2015 —July 2025 Appendix E: Site Photographs Earth Tech Environmental, LLC www.e[eflorida.com Agenda Item #7 Page 3 of 11 Shoal Bent Specles Survey +ttr1iWRYZwj twj YCP1 Earth Tech Environmental (ETE) conducted a shoal benthlc species survey within Section C of the Clam Bay (Subject Property) estuary to assess the physical and biological characteristics of the benthlc habitat. Section C Is located within the +/-560-acre Clam Bay Natural Resources Protection Area and primarily Includes the shoals to the south of the Pelican Bay South Boardwalk, just slightly northeast of Clam Pass, See Appendix A for a Location Map and Aerial Map. The field assessment occurred on October 28, 2025, by two ETE environmental consultants. ETE has conducted annual seagrass monitoring from Outer Clam Bay to the Pelican Bay South Boardwalk from 2016 to 2025, The 2025 Seagrass Survey was conducted on July 28 and 29, 2025. See Section 4.0 below for additional details. 2.0 EXISTING SITE CONDITIONS The Subject Property consists of two shoals to the east of the main Clam Bay channel. The shoals are separated, and bordered to the east, by smaller channels. A large pipe approximately 20 feet in length is lying within the channel immediately east of the shoals. The smaller, northern shoal is slightly higher in elevation, the highest point of which is potentially seldom or never submerged. Both shoals experience some degree of exposure during periods of low tide. The vicinity consists of red mangrove (Rhkophora mangle) Islands, contiguous red, white, and black mangroves (Avicennia germinans), Clam Pass, the main Clam Bay channel, and smaller hand -dug channels throughout the mangroves (see Appendix A for a Vicinity Map). The Subject Property has the following surrounding land uses: North: Pelican Bay South Boardwalk/Mangroves East: Mangroves/Pelican Bay Community South: Clam Bay Main Channel/Mangroves West: Mangroves/Clam Pass/Gulf of Mexico 3.0 BENTHIC SURVEY MATERIALS &METHODS A review of historical aerial Imagery over the last 15 years was conducted priorto the benthlc survey and showed little change in the shape of the shoals and surrounding area (see Appendix B for historical aerials). The historical aerials show fluctuations in water levels which, In part, are attributable to tidal changes, seasonal rain, and/or hurricanes. Water level changes can have an effect on benthic communities in addition to a myriad of other factors (i.e., water quality, physical characteristics). Three monitoring wells (MW-1, MW-2, and MW-3) which measure hourly ground water levels are Installed throughout Clam Bay. MW-2 Is located north of the Pelican Bay South Boardwalk, at the north end of Section C (see Appendix A for location). A graph of water levels at MW-2 may be found In Appendix C. though an analysis of water level trends was not conducted in conjunction with this report. Additionally, ETE Installed five new water level wells within Section C on October 29, 2025- three to the north of the shoals and two to the south. The methodology used for the shoal benthlc species survey was based on the protocols described in the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Guidance on Surveys for Potential Impacts to Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (FDEP, 2020) and the US Army Corps of Engineers Submerged Aquatic Vegetation Survey Guidelines (USACE, 2018). Earth Tech Environmental, lLC www.ete(Iorida.com Agenda Item #7 Page 4 of 11 Shoal Benthic Species Survey The fieldwork for this survey was conducted on October 28, 2025, to determine the presence and extent of aquatic resources within the Subject Property. Shoal grass (Halodule wrlghtd) is the typical seagrass species observed in Clam Bay. The fieldwork was completed by two qualified environmental consultants experlenced in documenting seagrass species and aquatic wildlife. The survey was conducted via a Jon Boat, snorkeling (limited due to shallow water depths), and meandering pedestrian transects (see Results Map in Appendix A for transects). If seagrass was found, the spatial distribution of the seagrass area was delineated, and the species and percent cover were reported. Accurate delineation of any seagrass patches was maintained using a Trimble DA2 GNSS receiver with sub -meter accuracy, which was connected to a cell phone. Motile species presence was documented and location approximated. A multiparameter water quality meter was used to determine temperature, salinity, pH, and dissolved oxygen of the water during the survey. The fleldwori<for this shoal benthic species survey occurred over one day and eight man-hours. TABLE 1. FIELD TIME SPENT ON THE SUBJECT PROPERTY START END N0. MAN DATE TASK TIME TIME ECOLOGISTS HOURS 10/29/25 11:00 am 3:00 am 2 S 1 Shoal Benthic Species Survey Fieldwork 4.0 SURVEY RESULTS The shoal benthic species survey was conducted during low/slack tide during midday. Air temperature was 83° Fahrenheit. Wind speed was four miles per hour from the northeast. Cloud cover was approximately 70%. Water depth varied from full exposure on the highest point of the north shoal, to three feet in the eastern channels adjacent to the mangroves. The average water depth across the southern shoal was approximately two to eight Inches. Visibility at both shoals was to the bottom. Substrate primarily consisted of soft, mucky sand with settled sediment. Substrate depth In the eastern channels was up to 12 Inches with limited visibility. Water quality parameter readings were taken in the small channel between the north and south shoal. Temperature was 79.34° Fahrenheit. Salinity was 30 parts per ton. pH was 8.08. Dissolved oxygen was 4.24 milligrams per liter, representing a saturation of 63.5%. The shoal benthic species survey revealed utilization by benthic organisms and low densities of submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV). The north shoal contains vegetation at its highest point Including seashore dropseed (Sporobolus vlrglnlcus), sea purslane (Sesuvium portulacastrum),ond sparse white mangrove (Lagunculorla racemoso) recruitment. A colony of sand fiddler crabs (Leptuca pugllator) including abundant burrows and individual crabs was observed over a large portion of the shoal (see Appendix A for a Results Map). Wading and shorebirds were observed feeding on the shoal. No seagrass was observed on or around the north shoal in July or October 2025. The south shoal contains a red mangrove Island In the southern portion. Sparse red mangrove propagules were observed attempting to take root immediately east of the mangrove Islands. Animal observations included king crown conch (Melongena corona), few hermit crabs (unknown species), small schools of mojarra (unknown species) and other small fish, abundant tube worm mucus nets (unknown species), and Earth Tech Environmental, LLC www,eteflorida.com Agenda Item #7 Page 5 of 11 Shoal Benthlc Species Survey minimal red beard sponge (Clathrla pronlera) and buttercup lucine (Anodontla albs). Minimal red algae (Hypnea sp., Sollerla flllformis) was observed. Wading and shorebirds were observed feeding on the shoal. Very sparse, spotty shoal grass was observed In low densities in the southern portions of the shoal and generally consisted of a single blade orfew blades lessthan three Inches long (see Appendix Afor a Results Map). Seagrass observed during this October 2025 survey totaled <0.01 acres, compared to 0.12 acres observed during the July 2025 seagrass survey (see Appendix A for a map comparison). Sedimentation was observed across the south shoal and in higher abundances around the edges. Seagrass coverage within Clam Bay has been declining since 2017 (see Appendix D for a graph of seagrass cover In Clam Bay from 2015 —July 2025). All relevant species observed during the shoal benthic species survey on the Subject Property are detailed in Table 3 below. See Appendix E for site photographs. TABLE 3. SPECIES OBSERVED WITHIN SECTION C SHOAL COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME PLANTS Red mangrove Rhizophora mangle Sea purslane Sesuvlum portulacastrum Seashore dro seed S orobolus virglnlcus Shoal grass Halodule wrl htli White mangrove Laguncularlo racemoso ALGAE Red algae Hypnea s . Red algae Sollerla Ill ormis ANIMALS Buttercup lucine Anodontla alba King crown conch Melongena corona Hermit crab Unknown MoJarra Unknown Red beard sponge Clothrla roll eta Tube worms mucus nets Unknown 5.0 SUMMARY The shoal benthlcspecles survey revealed utilization by benthic organisms and law densities ofsubmerged aquatic vegetation. The benthic fauna was dominated by tube worms and king crown conch with low abundances of few other species. Seagrass abundance decreased from 0.12 acres in July 2025, to <0.01 acres In October 2025, which Is to be expected for the time of year that the surveys were conducted. Shoal grass Is somewhat ephemeral, and its presence is dynamic and dependent on environmental factors. The majority of the benthic zone Is defined by shallow areas of mucky sand that are subject to exposure and siltation, which creates conditions favorable for Infaunal burrowers but is less conducive for submerged aquatic vegetation such as seagrass. Earth Tech Environmental, LLC www.e[etlorida.com Agenda Item #7 Page 6 of 11 Shoal Benthlc Species Survey 6.0 REFERENCES Doering, P. H., Chamberlain, R. H., & Haunert, D. E. 2002. Using submerged aquatic vegetation to establish minimum and maximum freshwater Inflows to the Caloosahatchee Estuary, Florida. Estuaries, 25(6, Part B),1343-1354. https://dol.org/10,1007/BF02692229 Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP)I 2020. Guidance on Surveys for Potential Impacts to Submerged Aquatic Vegetation. Office of Resilience and Coastal Protection, https://florldadep.gov/rcp/beaches-inlets-ports/documents/guidance-su rveys-potential-im pa cts- ,submerged-aquatic-vegetation U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. 2018. Submerged aquatic vegetation survey guidelines. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville District, https://usace.contentdm.ocic.org/digital/a pi/collection/p16021co117/ld/8857/download Earth Tech Environmental, LLC www.eteflorida.com Agenda Item #7 Pan.. 7 of 11 Faith Tah FOVhonmenlal, LlC ]06001olca Avenuc, Oonila Springs, F134135 vnvw.nenodda..eem Agenda Item #7 Pr ooi n�j mna µxtxolst Farlh Tech Fnvlronmanlal, llt IO6001olea Av¢nue, Oonita 6prings, FL 95136 tawavemnedaa.Lom all I Rill ri Goorjlc Eorih Agenda Item #7 Page l l of 11 Clam Bay Section C Shoal Benthic Species Survey: Site Photographs ,K�� ra�m:r�rgR�7lyr - y l LL N l V Photo l: North shoal Photo 2: South shoal Agenda Item #9 Page 1 of •mil Y �;1 HUMISTONaMOORE ENGINEERS COASTAL ENGINEERING DESIGN AND PERMITTING RestorlagBeaches asNaleowl Coastal Systems' January 08, 2026 Lisa Jacob Pelican Bay Services 801 Laurel Oak Dr, Ste 102 Naples, FL 34108 RE: CLAM BAY MODEL SCOPE OP SERVICES -Humiston &Moore Engineers Clam Pass Hydrodynamic and Inlet Stability modeling services Dear Ms.lacob; Humiston &Moore Engineers (ENGINEER) prepared this Scope of work to prepare hydrodynamic modeling and flushing analysis in support of PBSD efforts to evaluate Clam Pass/ Clam Bay management and potential Improvements. Humiston & Moore Engineers conducted hydrodynamic modeling and analysis for the Clam Bay system in 2013, and this scope of work will provide an updated model with additional detailed modeling to assess inlet stability and water quality Improvements. The fallowing tasks list the scope of services (SOC) for the numerical modeling of Clam Pass and Clam Bay. This modeling effortwill Include compiling available data and developing an updated hydrodynamic model for the pass and bay system. The updated model will provide assessment of the current dredging template and potential alternatives aimed to improve inlet stability and flow through the bay system; the numerical model prepared under this SOC will evaluate the effects of alternative Pass dredging on hydrodynamics, sediment transport and system flushing. The detailed proposed SOC is presented below. 1.0 Tasl< 1-Background Review &Model Setup Compile Existing Data and supplement with additional t000graphic, bathvmetric. and environmental resource data as necessary: ENGINEER will review and compile recent topographic, bathymetric data and benthic environmental resources. The data may Include inlet surveys from monitoring and construction projects, and also available detailed NOAA LIDAR data. Additionally, the data review will include hydrodynamic data collection Including measured water levels from available tide stations and available offshore wave data from USACE. The data compiled will be used to generate an upAo-date bathymetric grid and set up the numerical model. 2.0 Task 2 —Circulation Modeling &Analysis 2.1 Local Inlet and Coastal Process Modeling: The UASCE Army Corp SMS modeling suite Including RMA and CMS models will be used to assessthe coastal processes and tidal flow and sand transport systems within Clam Bay, Calm Pass and Adjacent beaches, The models used will range from high resolution Agenda Item #9 Page 2 of 2 models in time and space for local areas to large-scale, long-term system models. Detailed high - resolution models with very small-time steps will be used to analyze the interaction of waves and currents and the nearshore sediment transport regime for the existing conditions (current dredge template). Large scale models will assess the tidal circulation and flow patterns throughout the entire system 2.2 Local Inlet and Coastal Process Modeling for alternative dredge template: The numerical model prepared under Task 2.1 will be updated with potential alternatives to the authorized dredge template. The model results will then be compared with the model results for the existing dredge template to assess the effects of the alternative dredge on the system. This task will Include simulations of the existing and 2 design alternatives for the dredging template. 3.0 TASK3—FLUSHING MODEL&ANALYSIS 3.1 Flushing Analysis: A flushing analysis will be performed for the south part of Outer Clam Bay to evaluate the flushing capacity near the south end of the system and potential water quality improvements for each alternative with comparison to existing conditions. The coastal flushing analysis will be performed using RMA2 and RMA4 models, developed by USACE Engineering Research Development Center (ERDC). RMA2 is a hydrodynamic model which simulates water level and velocities across the project area. RMA4 uses the hydrodynamic solution file from RMA2 to evaluate an introduced contaminant, and its concentration changes over time. The flushing modeling runs will simulate the flushing of a conservative constituent released at select location at the south part of the system, (a conservative constituent Is one that doesn't go through chemical or biological transformation). The model computes the concentration change over time at the site due to the amount of released constituent, the ambient concentration, local hydrodynamic flushing, mixing, and diffusion. The calculated concentration change over time will be analyzed at selected observation points. A comparison of the efficiency of the flushing will be provided by the elapsed time to reach the DEP criteria of 10% of the maximum concentration at a given location for existing and alternative configuration. 4.0 TASK4—SunnMaavREPORTANDPaesENrA>•ION A Draft report will be prepared to present a summary of the worl< prepared. The findings from the numerical modeling analysis will be presented along with recommendations. The draft report will be presented to the Clam Bay Committee for discussions and feedback prior to preparation of a final report and recommendations Sincerely yours, HUMISTON & MOORE ENGINEERS Digitally signed by MOHAMED .� ABDEL MONEIM DABEES Date:2026.01.0809:26:30-06'00' Mohamed A. Dabees, Ph.D., P.E. vice President