Agenda 03/08/2010
WIGGIN'S PASS
SUBCOMMITTEE
MEETING
AGENDA
MARCH 8, 2010
MEETING AGENDA
WIGGINS PASS SUBCOMMITTEE
MONDAY, MARCH 8, 2010 - 9:00 A.M. TILL 12:00 P.M.
RISK MANAGEMENT TRAINING ROOM, 330] TAMIMI TRAIL E., BUILDING D,
NAPLES
I. Call to Order
II. Pledge of Allegiance
III. RollCall
IV. Changes and Approval of Agenda
V. Public Comments
VI. Approval of Minutes
I. February 8, 2010 Minutes
VII. Staff Reports
I. Permit Application Status Wiggins Pass Dredge/Navigational Improvement
2. Barefoot Beach Critical Erosion Presentation
VIII. New Business
1. Wiggins pass Inlet Management Plan Stakeholder Work Team.
IX. Old Business
X. Announcements
XI. Committee Member Discussion
XII. Next Meeting Date/Location
To be determined
XIII. Adjournment
* Public speakers must do the following for any items presented to the Board: Each
document must display the presenter's name and title of document. Provide a total of 7
copies of each handout, to be distributed as follows: 3 Board Members; I Minute Taker; I
County Attorney; 2 CZM Staff members.
* The following websites will provide information, agendas and dates for this subcommittee:
htto://wJVw. collien.f(}l'.lletl/ ndex.a!li/Jx ?/}{IffC= J 8
httv://www.co/lierf!ov.nct//ndex.asvx?vaf!e=2390
All interested partied are inVited to attend, and to register to speak and to submit their objections, if any, in writing, to the board prior
to the meeting ifapplicabJe
For more information, please contact Gail D. lIambright at (239) 252-2966
W
If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no
cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance Please contact the Collier County Facilities Management Department located at
3301 East Tamiami Trail, Naples, FL 34112, (239) 252-83HO
Public comments will be limited to 3 minutes unless the Chairman grants permission for additional time
Collier County Ordinance No. 99-22 requires that all lobbyists shall, before engaging in any lobbying activities (including, but nol
limited to, addressing the Board of" County Commissioners) before the Board of County Commissioners and its advisory boards,
register with the Clerk to the Board at the Board Minutes and Records Department
February 8, 20] 0
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE COLLIER COUNTY
COASTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE
WIGGINS PASS SUBCOMMITTEE
Naples, Florida, February 8, 2010
LET IT BE REMEMBERED that the Coastal Advisory Committee ~ Wiggins Pass
Subcommittee in and for the County of Collier, having conducted business herein,
met on this date at 9:00 A.M. at the Risk Management Training Room located at
3301 Tamiami Trail E, Building D, Naples, Florida, with the following members
present:
Chairman: Joseph A. Moreland
Robert Raymond
Victor Rios
ALSO PRESENT: Gary McAlpin, Coastal Zone Management Director
Gail Hambright, Accountant
February 8, 2010
I. Call to Order
Chairman Moreland called the meeting to order at 9:05 AM.
II. Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
III. Roll Call
A quorum was established.
IV. Changes and Approval of Agenda
Add: V/lI-1A. Questions Relative to VI/l-I, Items 1-4.
Victor Rios moved to approve the Agenda as amended.
Second by Robert Raymond. Motion carried unanimously, 3-0.
V. Public Comments
Doug Fee, Wiggins Pass Resideut asked the cost of the Project.
Gary McAlpin, Coastal Zone Management responded that the cost will depend upon
the Final Scope. The cost for the development of the Model and Development of the
Engineering associated with procuring a permit is $] 32,000. The overall] O-year plan
through construction costs have been estimated at 4.5 million.
Robert Stieger, Park Manager - Delnor/Wiggins Pass State Park reiterated that Jeff
Riley was unable to attend the meeting due to travel restrictions. He em ailed Gary
McAlpin a request to be "conferenced" in for today's meeting. He stated Jeff Riley will
meet with his staff to formulate a list of questions directed at Gary McAlpin.
Cbairmau MoreIaud requested Robert Stieger find out what time line Jeff Riley would
meet with his staff and report to the Committee and Gary McAlpin.
VI. Approval of Minutes - January 22, 2010
Victor Rios moved to approve the January 22,2010 Minutes as submitted.
Second by Robert Raymond. Motion carried unanimously, 3-0.
VII. Staff Reports
Gary McAlpin reported meeting with Mr. Robert Brantley and his concerns based
on conversation he had with intentions to move forward on the Project.
? Mr. Brantley stated Florida State Park and the Department of Parks and
Recreation are not on board with the Scope of the Project.
Gary McAlpin responded if the Florida State Park Services did not support the
Project it could slow the permit process down.
? Mr. Brantley expressed the possibility of going along with modifications to the
Inlet Management Plan. Since that conversation, DEP (Department of
Environmental Protection) has not decided their stance on the Inlet Management
Plan.
2
February 8, 20] 0
Gary McAlpin stated the County may need to modify the technique of the
permit application during the process. He expressed concern over a
wholesale re-write of the application.
>- Mr. Brantley stated DEP was looking at a 2-year process.
Gary McAlpin recommended moving forward on the permitting this year.
Steve Keehn, Engineer - Coastal Planning and Engineering stated Mr. Brantley was
unaware of the progress already made on the Project. The Project description was
provided to DEP and they have not reviewed it. He recommended submitting the
permit application to get the process started. He also stated according to the Florida
Fish & Wildlife Conservation, if sand was not put on the beach and included in the
permit, it would eliminate the need to consider turtles and would shorten the permit
process. All elements required have been covered in the Inlet Management Plan.
Gary McAlpin stated submitting the application would be a good vehicle to find out
what DEP's comments and oppositions are. He proposed not waiting and to submit the
permit application "as is" now. The permit application can be modified in the process.
VIII. New Business
1. Review and discuss issues relative to FDEP's requirement that Wiggins Pass
Inlet Management Plan be updated with this permit application.
Sneakers
Doug Fee, Wiggins Pass Resident stated based on comments made by Gary
McAlpin regarding his conversation with Mr. Brantley, he would want the Florida
State Parks involved in the process, find out what DEP's issues are and what Jeff
Riley's questions are prior to submitting the permit application. He noted Wiggins
Pass is leased and alterations to the land are part of the Project. He suggested the
Subcommittee receive guidance Irom Coastal Advisory Committee and DEP and
voiced concern over the costs of a potential rewrite ofthe Inlet Management Plan.
He alluded the Subcommittee was putting the "cart before the horse."
Nicole Ryan, Conservancy of Southwest Florida expressed concern on non-
structural solutions and encouraged the County to work with the State Park
Services, DEP and Parks and Recreation to educate, answer questions and work on
issues related to the Wiggins Pass Inlet Management Plan. She stated the
Conservancy would like to see an open broad base of Stakeholders Group involved
to include scientists and environmental specialists. She stated it would be important
to get all the issues in writing. It would be hard to make decisions and not know all
the facts. She recommended requesting CAC to petition the BCC to move forward
rapidly to get the Inlet Management Plan updated.
Chairman Moreland summarized Nicole Ryan's concerns as is it appropriate for
the Subcommittee to recommend forwarding the request for a permit knowing it
mayor may not require a full review before any action is taken. The elements of the
supporting data to address that portion of the management plan pertaining to a
3
February 8, 20] 0
particular area are not all there and continue with a heavy totality. Chairman
Moreland requested the minutes reflect Nicole Ryan nodded her head.
Gary McAlpin stated he would not want the process to take 2 years. He currently
has the authority to submit the application.
Speakers
Dick Lydon, Estuary Conservation Association stated he has experience with
Mr. Brantley. He further stated Gary McAlpin's recommendation to submit as
soon as possible makes sense. When the State receives the permit application they
will be forced to address their concerns and issues.
Doug Fee noted Collier County has a Land Development Code and cautioned the
Subcommittee it was inappropriate to take a vote for recommendation prior to
addressing the other items on the Agenda.
Victor Rios moved (the Subcommittee) recommend Gary McAlpin exercise his
current authority to go forward and submit the permit application. Second by
Robert Raymond. Motion carried unanimously, 3-0.
Steve Keehn, Engineer summarized he would submit an engineering report with
the permit application and a cover letter stating an Inlet Management Plan is being
developed.
It was noted the Inlet Management Plan and References would not be included.
DEP will note the deficiency. A permit would not be granted until documentation is
received. He will submit the Critical Eroded Area as a stand-alone document.
Gary McAlpin recommended forming a separate Work Group Committee to deal
with issues.
Victor Rios moved Mr. McAlpin petition the CAC petition the BCC to
approve a Work Group Committee to satisfY the needs of the Community and the
needs of the permit application. Second by Robert Raymond. Motion carried
unanimously, 3-0.
Gary McAlpin recommended the Committee move forward to petition DEP for
funding of a development contract for the engineering of the Inlet Management
Plan.
Victor Rios moved to have Mr. McAlpin petition the BCC to fund the development
contract for engineering associated with the Inlet Management Plan. Second by
Robert Raymond. Motion carried unanimously, 3-0.
2. Discuss erosion on Barefoot Beach and rebuild and repair plan and
preserve designation.
4
February 8, 20] 0
Steve Keehn presented a slide presentation with some of the following-
y Flood Channel migration eroding Barefoot Beach.
y Sand bypassing to the north was insufficient.
y A long shore transport is northward.
y Inlet filling in significantly from the south
y Since] 984, too much sand was placed to the south, then to the north.
y Need more definitive structures to fill in sand.
y Future position sand ratio should be 2.6 more sand to the north then south
based on historic documentation.
It was noted the US Corp of Army Engineers will also review application before a
permit will be granted.
The shoreline has changed over the last 30-40 years and the County loss
y ]0 Acres of Sandy Beach
y 3 Acres of Shoreline Vegetation
y 50' of Mangroves
y Some Shoreline.
Steve Keehn made the following recommendations.
y Placement of a near-shore disposal near shore
y Placement of a near-shore and on-shore disposal a Barefoot Beach
y Straighten up Inlet and create a new flood shoal on the other side of the inlet.
Speaker
Doug Fee commented the County has a 50-year lease on land north and south. The
lease states no alterations are allowed. He questioned if an Inlet Management Plan
had ever been approved and ifnot why would there be a need for are-write.
Recessed at 10:35 am
Reconvened at 10:40 am
3. Concerns over Letter of consistency for this work and resolution process.
Gary McAlpin distributed and reviewed a summary of the Wiggins Pass
Permitting Meeting held on January 22. (See attached)
Approvals required by the Land Development Code for the proposed dredging
project are -
. Special Treatment Permit
. Coastal Construction Setback Permit
. Vehicle on the Beach Permit
. Plus 2 other Permits that may be required - Vegetation Removal
and/or Temporary Use Permit from Zoning
Speaker
Doug Fee commented he was happy that public meetings were going to be held and
noted Land Development Code has a rigorous review.
5
February 8, 2010
Staff responded they will meet all State requirements.
4. Concerns about land lease requirements from the state system to do this work.
Steve Keehn, Engineer stated the DEP Permit Process in Tallahassee will review
and identify ifthere are any issues. He will provide survey drawings and
anticipates changes will be required by the State. A Wiggins Pass survey will be
completed after permitting because changes may be made in the process.
Speaker
Doug Fee read a paragraph from the Land Lease on Deed Restrictions and asked if
the County would request an Upland Lease on the south side.
Gary McAlpin responded State Lands will tell the County what has to happen
before, and the County will meet State Requirements.
IX. Old Business - None.
X. Announcements
Gary McAlpin suggested the Staff work with the Stakeholders and report to the
Committee with questions. He suggested the Work Group Committee be made up of
the 3-Members of the Wiggins Pass Subcommittee and Representatives from the
following groups to be approved by the BCC.
y Friends of Barefoot Beach
y Boating Community
y Delnor/Wiggins State Park (DWSP)
y Conservancy of Southwest Florida
y Vanderbilt Beach Home Owners Association (VB HOA)
y Estuary Conservation Association (ECA)
Other suggestions made were-
y Environmental Engineering Staff - Expertise
y Friends of Wiggins Pass
y FWC and FWS DEP from Fort Myers
Victor Rios expressed concern over having people from a regulatory agency as that
person may be bias.
Nicole Ryan, Conservancy responded regulatory people (an Ecologist) would bring
expertise and perspective to the table.
Gary McAlpin stated the Work Group Committee purpose would be to develop an
update or a new Inlet Management Plan to submit to the Subcommittee, DEP and the
BCC. He recommended the Stakeholder be independent and in support of the project.
Speaker
Jack Kindsvater, resident and boater stated there are Stakeholders in the boating
community and verbally listed; safety aspects - Fire and Police Departments, Sea Tours,
6
February 8, 20] 0
Commercial Fisherman, Fishing Guides and individual boaters may be worth
considering.
It was decided Nicole Ryan and Gary McAlpin would work together as advisors and
make recommendations for legitimate Stakeholders. A list of individual
representative names will be submitted to the Wiggins Pass Subcommittee for approval
prior to submitting recommendations to the BCC.
The work group will tentatively hold their first meeting in May.
XI. Committee Member Discussion - None.
XII. Next Meeting Date - Location to be determined
The next meeting of the Wiggins Pass Subcommittee will be March 8th at 9:00 AM.
The only item on the agenda will be to address the membership on the Wiggins Pass
Work Group Committee.
There being no further business for the good of the County, the meeting was adjourned
by order of the Chair at 11 :35 am.
Collier County Costal Advisory Committee -
Wiggins Pass Subcommittee
Joseph A. Moreland, Chairman
These Minutes were approved by the Board/Committee on
as presented , or as amended
7
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Recommend that the Wiggins Pass sub-committee of the Coastal Advisory
Committee approve the structure of the proposed Inlet Management work team
for Wiggins Pass.
OBJECTIVE: Recommend that the Wiggins Pass sub-committee of the Coastal
Advisory Committee approve the structure of the proposed Inlet Management work
team for Wiggins Pass.
CONSIDERATIONS: FDEP as a condition of the permit application for the
maintenance dredging and navigational improvement project is requiring an updated
Inlet Management Plan for Wiggins Pass.
Staff is recommending that a work team of community stakeholders be recommended
by the CAC and appointed by the BCC. This work group would be charged with the
development of the updated Wiggins Pass Inlet management plan. This work group
would report to the CAC and be active for approximately one year while the plan was
being developed concurrent with the permit application.
Staff is recommending a composition as follows:
. Joe Moreland - Chairman of this committee and Collier County representative on
the CAC.
. Victor Rios - Marco Island representative on the CAC.
. Bob Raymond - Naples representative on the CAC.
. Nicole Ryan - Representative of the Conservancy of SW Florida
. Dick Lydon - Representative of the Vanderbilt Beach Residents Association
. Jeff Fox - Representative of the Boating Community
. Tom Crowe - Representative of the Friends of Barefoot Beach
. Jeff Raley - Representative of the Florida Park Service (DWSP)
. Jack Kinvasser - Representative of the ECA
It is expected that this rework of this inlet management plan may cost in excess of
$100,000 to accomplish. Staff will apply for FDEP cost share funding for this contract.
An application request is attached. Once a scope of work is developed, a cost estimate
will be developed for funding.
ADVISORY COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff is recommending approval of
this item.
FISCAL IMPACT: The Source of funds is from Category "A" Tourist Development Tax
fund 195.
GROWTH MANAGEMENT IMPACT: There is no impact to the Growth Management
Plan related to this action.
LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS: No legal review on this item has taken place.
RECOMMENDATION: Recommend that the Wiggins Pass sub-committee of the
Coastal Advisory Committee approve the structure of the proposed Inlet Management
work team for Wiggins Pass
PREPARED BY: J. Gary McAlpin, P.E., CZM Director
Co~er County
-- ~.-
Public ServiOOs DMsion -
Coastal Zone Management
February 17,2010
Mr. Paden Woodruff
Environmental Administrator
Bureau of Beaches and Coastal Systems
Mail Station 300
3900 Commonwealth Blvd.
Tallahassee, FL 32399-3000
[E]COPY
Re: Wiggins Pass, Collier County, Florida Inlet Management Planning
Dear Mr. Paden Woodruff
This is a request for funding support for the preparation and implementation of an inlet
management plan for Wiggins Pass.
As part of securing a new 10-year maintenance dredging permit for the pass, the County has
undertaken numerical modeling to improve the pass's performance. During the modeling and a
complementary coastal process analysis, it was discover that the severe erosion on Barefoot
Beach was caused by the natural northward migration of the flood channel and an imbalance in
sand bypassing of the inlet. A plan was developed to improve navigation in the inlet and reduce
impact to the adjacent beaches. This plan was developed by a committee with a broad County
representation, to include representatives from the State Park system. During the process of
developing the engineering plan and permit application, a member of the BBCS staff informed
the County that a new In]et Management Plan would be required, based in part by concerns from
the State Park System.
The engineering report (Attachment 33a) from the permit updates many of the required task per
paragraph 62B-4 J.008(i)(m)F AC within the frame work of the 1995 Wiggins Pass In]et
Management Plan. This report provides a technical summary of pertinent coastal processes used
to design the new maintenance dredging plan in addition to identifying the cause and magnitude
of the erosion at Barefoot Beach. Based on comments from BBCS staff and the State Park
system, considerable additional effort is required to arrive at a new Inlet Management Plan
suitable for maintaining Wiggins Pass and mitigating the erosion problems. We believe that the
preparation, public coordination and approval of an Inlet Management Plan will cost an
additional $250,000.
(i)
Collier County Coastal Zone Management. W. Harmon Turner Building, Suite 103. 3301 East Tamiami Trail, Naples, Florida 34112' 239~252.2966' FAX 239~252-2950
wwwcolliergov.neVcoastalzonemanagement
Mr. Paden Woodruff
February 17,2010
Page 2 of2
We would like to meet with you to discuss this matter and the potentia] of funding from the
State. By a separate letter to the bureau, we have requested that Barefoot Beach be designate a
Critical Erosion Area, so that it can be better supported by your team.
Thanks,
~M~~
Gary McAlpin, P.E., CZM Director
cc Michael Barnett, PE
Steve Keehn, CPE
Co~er Coun'ty
b.... ~__
- ~
Public Services OMsion
Coastal Zone Management
February 17,2010
Mr. Martin Seeling
Environmental Administrator
Bureau of Beaches and Coastal Systems
Mail Station 310
3900 Commonwealth Blvd.
Tallahassee, FL 32399-3000
~~
OA
~
~~~
Re: Wiggins Pass Maintenance Dredging and Navigation Improvement Project
Joint Coastal Permit Application
Dear Mr. Seeling:
This is a F]orida Department of Environmental Protection JCP permit application for continued
maintenance dredging of the Wiggins Pass channels. This permit includes improvements to the
maintenance dredging and adjacent disposal operations which should decrease annual dredging
amounts, frequency of dredging and impacts to adjacent shoreline. The permit CD includes a
rnodeling report (previously provides to FDEP BBCS and F]orida Park Service), and an
engineering report (Attachment No. 33a) that describes improvements to the 1995 inlet
management plan. A new inlet management plan will completed at the request of BBCS staff in
parallel with the processing of this permit. Enclosed are one original, two hardcopies and two
electronic copies of the JCP application and supporting documentation.
Wiggins Pass has been maintained on a continual basis under two previous maintenance
dredging permits since 1984. Sections of the navigation channel shoal rapidly to a depth of 3
feet or less making navigation dangerous, and erosion on Barefoot Beach Park has been a major
concern in recent years. Collier County desircs thc next dredging operation to occur during
2010-] I non-sea turtle nesting season. Please tell us what the permit fee will be, and the County
will provide it.
If you or other cooperating agencies should require additional copies of the application or
supporting information, or have any questions, please contact me.
Very truly yours,
frlJ-w; Mv ~
Gary McA]pin
cc:
Steve Keehn, CPE
(i)
Collier County Coastal Zone Management. W Harmon Turner Building, Suite 103 . 3301 East Tamiami Trail, Naples, Florida 34112 . 239-252-2966 . FAX 239-252-2950
www.colliergov.ne~coastalzonemanagement
Co~e-Y County
~ ---
- -
Public Services Division
Coastal Zone Management
February 17,2010
Mr. Robert Brantley, PE
Program Administrator
Bureau of Beaches and Coastal Systems
Mail Station 300
3900 Commonwealth B]vd.
Tallahassee, FL 32399-3000
Re: Critical Erosion Area Evaluation of Habitat and Recreation for Barefoot Beach,
Collier County
Dear Mr. Robert Brantly
This is a request to designate Barefoot Beach as Critically Eroded pursuant to Sections 161.101
and 161.] 6 ], Florida Statutes. There are losses and threats to habitat and recreational areas at
Barefoot Beach, which should justify a critical erosion area designation. The attached report
provides justification for making this designation.
Barefoot Beach is located north of Wiggins Pass, in Collier County, Florida. Barefoot Beach is
being severely eroded from the natural northward migration of the flood channel and an
imbalance in sediment bypassing. We are submitting an application for a 10 year maintenance
dredging permit for Wiggins Pass which should go a long way towards mitigating these
problems, but the designation should allow the inlet project to qualify for State support.
If you have any question, please call me or Steve Keehn from CPE.
Very truly yours,
P' hM<; IV! e., ~
Gary McAlpin, P.E., CZM Director
CC: Vince George, FDEP
Steve Keehn, CPR
(i)
Collier County Coastal Zone Management. W. Harmon Tumer Building, Suite 103.3301 East Tamiami Trail- Naples, Florida 34112. 239.252-2966. FAX 239-252-2950
www,colliergov.net!coaslalzonemanagemenl
Critical Erosion Area Evaluation of Habitat and Recreation
for Barefoot Beach, Collier County
February 12,2010
Introduction
There are losses and threats to habitat and recreational areas at Barefoot Beach, which should
justify a critical erosion area designation. This report provides the justification for making this
designation. Barefoot Beach is located north of Wiggins Pass (Figure I). In] 986, pursuant to
Sections 161.10] and 161.l6], Florida Statutes, the Department of Environmenta] Protection,
Bureau of Beaches and Coastal Systems is charged with the responsibility to identify those
beaches of the state which are "critically eroding" and to develop and maintain a comprehensive
long-term management plan for their restoration. In order for a segment of eroded coastline to
be eligible for State of Florida funding for beach management, it must be designated as
"critically eroded" by the State, which may affect adjacent inlets.
Figure 1. Project location map
The following definition has been adopted by the Bureau to identify critically eroded areas:
Critically eroded area is a segment of the shoreline where natural processes or
human activity have caused or contributed to erosion and recession of the beach or
dune system to such a degree that upland development, recreational interests,
wildlife habitat, or important cultural resources are threatened or lost. Critically
eroded areas may also include peripheral segments or gaps between identified
critically eroded areas which, although they may be stable or slightly erosional now,
their inclusion is necessary for continuity of management of the coastal system or for
the design integrity of adjacent beach management projects.
In order for an erosion problem to be critical, there must exist a threat to or loss of one of four
specific interests: upland development, recreation, wildlife habitat, or important cultural
resources. This evaluation will provide justification for a request for Critical Erosion Area
(CEA) designation for the south end of Barefoot Beach County Park in Collier County.
PHYSICAL RECESSION AND EROSION
The conditions causing the critical erosion condition and its magnitude are described below.
Shoreline Change
The Mean High Water (MHW) elevation measured at each profile is used to represent the typical
shoreline location. In Collier County, the MHW elevation is +0.33 ft NA VD 88. The MHW
shoreline is approximated by the high-tide mark on the beach. The MHW shoreline changes
were calculated using historic beach profiles and historic shoreline data from the Florida
Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), Collier County's monitoring of the inlet and
adjacent beach, and from profile and cross-section surveys performed by CPE in 2009.
The north shoreline (Rll to R]6) and the south shoreline (R17 to R21) of Wiggins Pass was
evaluated in order to analyze shoreline changes to present. Table I presents shoreline changes
from 1957 through 2009 as well as during selected periods which coincide with milestone events
in the development of Wiggins Pass. These changes are shown on Figure 2.
It can be seen that in the timeframe before dredging (]957-]979), the shorelines surrounding
Wiggins Pass were relatively stable with an average erosion of -2.3 feet. The northern shoreline
was accretiona] before dredging activity took place. while the southern shoreline exhibited some
erosion. Since maintenance dredging began in 1984, it can be secn that overall crosion has
increased along with the magnitude of erosion experienced at beaches to the north. Since] 992,
the shoreline north of the inlet at Barefoot Beach has retreated on average approximately 87 feet
(Figure 2). The worst area of erosion is occurring at R 16, where, since 1992. it has lost
approximate]y437 feet of shoreline. R14 and RI5 also have high rates of erosion since ]992.
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Table 1
Historic Shoreline Changes
MAW Shoreline Chan~es (ft)
Profile 1957 1973 1979 1984 1988 1992 2001 1957 1988 1992
1973 1979 1984 1988 1992 ZOOI 2009 1979 1992 2009
!
R-Il 23 15 12 7.0 15.8 38 12.0 .22.8
R-12 27 21 -14 -9 -4 29.7 56.3 48 -4.0 85.9
R-13 -53 15 19 9.9 29.8 -38 , 19.0 39.7
R-14 -96 43 ll4 -83.5 -9.9 -53 114.0 -93.4
. R-15 -59 60 -26 -57 63 -70.9 -71.0 I 63.0 -141.9
R-l6 3 70 (85 -264.1 -173.0 73 185.0 437.0
Wiggins Pass
R-17 -5 22 -106 -20.4 30.8 17 -L06.0 10.5
R-18 -41 45 98 -54 -40 -17.4 23.2 4 -40.0 5.8
R~19 -64 26 -14 38.2 -20.6 -)g -[4.0 17.6
R-20 -3. 23 10 37.1 -21.8 -15 10.0 15.3
R-21 -88 26 -19 .20 12 13.8 2.5 -62 12.0 16.3
N. TOTAL ~25.8 37.3 -20.0 -33.0 64.8 -62.0 -25.3 11.5 64.8 -87.3
S. TOTAL -47.2 28.4 39.5 .37.0 -27.6 10.3 2.. -18.8 -27.6 13.1
TOTAL -35.5 33.3 9.8 -35.0 22.8 -29.1 -12.5 -2.3 22.8 -41.7
The higher losses that have occurred since 1992 can be attributed to the northern migration of the
channel meander and inlet management practices, which allowed for an approximate even
disposal of dredged material on the north and south shorelines. From analysis, it appears that in
order to alleviate the erosion to the north. approximately 2.65 times more dredged material needs
to be placed on the shorelines to the north than the south.
The greatest loss of Barefoot Beach shoreline since dredging began was during the 1992-200 I
period, where the shoreline loss was 62 feet (Table I). During the next period 2001-09. the loss
declined to 25.3 feet. The pattern was similar, but accretional south of the inlet, advancing an
average of 10 feet between 1992 and 2001, and then 3 feet in the next 7 years. Delnor-Wiggins
Park was erosional prior to thc start of inlet dredging. The change in disposal distribution may
have contributed to these decreases since 2002. Vegetation coverage has actually increased south
of the inlet.
The erosion has impacted the vegetation at Barefoot Beach. which is being pushed by the
northward migration of the flood channel, which has moved approximately 100 feet since the
] 970's. The mangroves (Figure 3. Location 3) have retreated a total of 52 feet since 1973 and 13
feet since 2002, which is a loss of about 0.3 acres. On the Gulf, the vegetation has retreated 194
feet at Location I since ] 973, and 123 feet in the last 8 years (Table 2). In Figure 3, both
shoreline and vegetation losses are illustrated. Overall, the increased erosion north of the inlet
on the Gulf beaches has caused 3.2 acres of vegetation to be lost since 2002.
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Table 2
Barefoot Beach Vegetation Loss (feel)
Location 1973 to 2002 to 1973 to
2002 2009 2009
R16 71 123 194
Location 1
Location 2 70 0 70
Mangroves 39 13 52
Location 3
Volumetric Changes
The volumetric changes in this report represent the difference in the quantity of sand measured
along the beach between surveys (Table 3). All volumetric changes are given in cubic yards.
Volumetric changes were calculated between the dunes (up]and) and the approximate depth of
closure using all profiles since ] 973. Before 1973, the volumetric changes were estimated by
measuring shoreline changes and using a conversion factor of 0.67 cubic yards per foot of
shoreline change (CPE 1995). These volumes were based on typical berm heights of 4.7 feet
NA VD and a depth of closure of - 13.3 feet NA VD. Since then, a depth of closure of -] 1.3 ft
NA VD has been used.
Prom 1957 to 1979, before maintenance dredging began, the area immediately north of Wiggins
Pass from R 15 to R] 6 was accretional. After] 979, the area reversed from this trend and became
erosional, with 308,926 cubic yards lost. The area immediately south of Wiggins Pass from R]7
to R 18 was accretionaI during the time period prior to maintenance dredging (1957 to 1979), and
it remained accretional through 2009. Disposa] south of the inlet contributes to accretion and
may be the major source for sand infilling the inlet. The 4,000 foot reach south of the inlet went
from a loss of 48,000 cy in the ]957-1979 period to a gain of 50,000 cy in the 1979-2009 period.
Nourishment of Vanderbilt Beach in ] 996 and 2006 may have contributed to accretion south of
the inlet.
Overall, it appears that the current maintenance dredging practices are not properly addressing
the northern losses at Wiggins Pass. Historic reports indicated that sediment transport was from
north to south, but the volumetric data presented in Table 3 contrasts with that belief. Frorn 1979
to 2009, the area north of Wiggins Pass (Rl] to R16) eroded 252,926 cubic yards, while the area
south of the inlet has accreted 49,603 cubic yards. Prior to 1979, before maintenance dredging,
the erosion accretion pattern was reversed, with the north accretional. Using these values along
with the historic shoreline changes, it appears that more sand needs to be disposed of at the north
during maintenance dredging to reduce erosion on Barefoot Beach.
Table 3
Historic Volumetric Changes
Length VoIumelric Chao es (cy)
Profile (rn 1957 1973 197!1 1988 1992 2001 1957 1979 1992
1973 1979 1988 1992 2001 2009 1979 2009 2009
R-11 50] 7.700 5,020 -12,428 -1,413 -1,314 11,238 12,7'11) -3,917 9.924
R-ll 987 17,867 13,854 -];";,192 -11.27'5 5.046 52,660 31.722 3].239 57.706
R.B 971 -34.501 9.748 -3,918 478 %6 37,697 -24.753 35.222 38.663
R-14 997 -64,135 28,767 -]8.029 3],821 4,415 -24,752 -35.368 -6.545 -20,337
R-15 1032 40.763 41,459 -57,366 12,726 -32,854 -30,107 696 -107,601 -62,961
R-16 537 ],063 25.202 -68,693 21,586 -81,447 -72,771 26.265 ~201,32S -154,2[8
Wiggins Pass
R-17 523 -1,743 7.687 8,083 -23,693 17,832 18,090 5.943 20.31\ 35.922
R-IB 1006 ~27 ,677 30.327 29.640 -38,179 -14.538 55,841 2.650 32.764 41.303
R-19 1020 -43,784 17,769 -6.872 -3.829 18.208 10,721 -26,015 18.228 28,929
R-2O 1010 -25,691 15,591 -25,005 2,353 12,289 414 -10,\00 -9.948 12,703
R-21 504 -29,704 8.765 -13,148 -6,282 690 6.987 -20.939 -11,753 7,677
N. TOTAL 5,025 -112,768 ]24,050 -17"5,627 53,924 -105,188 -26,035 11,282 -252,926 -13(,223
S. TOTAL 4.063 -128.601 80.139 -7,302 -69.629 34.481 92.053 -48.461 49.603 ]26.534
TOTAL 9.088 -241,369 204,189 -182,928 -15,706 -70,7(J7 66,019 -37,180 -203.323 4,689
Summary of Changes
Barefoot Beach has been designated non-critic a] (Appendix A), but the County believes it
qualifies as critically eroded as described below. The shorelines near Wiggins Pass have been
eroding at an accelerated rate since] 992, which directly affects the amount of recreational area
available to the public. During the period from] 992 to 2009, the largest shoreline retreat was
observed at R]6 with over 400 feet of shoreline lost. Approximately 10 acres has been lost from
the Gulf beaches since ] 992. The shoreline recession on South Barefoot Beach has caused
vegetation, such as mangroves to be lost, and it has also created a dangerous scarp along the
shoreline that is hazardous to park users. During CPE's 2009 survey, a teen fell off the scarp and
was injured which clearly illustrates the hazards of a rapidly eroding shoreline. In Figure 3, it
can be seen that over 3.2 acres of vegetation has been lost since 2002 along the Gulf shoreline.
The figure also indicates that the mangroves have been affected by the northern migration of
Wiggins Pass by retreating farther north (Table 2, Location 3). Along with the loss of vegetation,
walking paths that were present in 1973 at Barefoot Beach have been eroded away and are no
longer present in several areas to the west and south. This affect's the public's accessibility to
the County Park and enjoyment of nature along the former loop path.
In comparison to the shoreline changes, the volumetric changes also indicate that the shoreline
north of Wiggins Pass is highly erosional. From 1885 to ] 979, the shoreline north of Wiggins
Pass was overall acereational for approximately 100 years. After ]979 to present, the shoreline
shifted and is now in a state of erosion. The worst of the erosion is seen at R 16 where
approximately 201,000 cubic yards have been lost. This erosion has caused the southern tip of
South Barefoot Beach to nearly shear off (Figure 2), which in return has lost valuable
recreational area and habitat within the park. If no correctivc action is planned, it is anticipated
that the erosion north of Wiggins Pass will continue resulting in more loss of county park
recreational area and habitat.
There are two likely causes for the erosion within the Wiggins Pass area. The first is due to the
northern inlet migration of the main flood channel (Figure 4). The northern migration of the
channel is due to the growing flood shoal which has pushed the meander channel farther north
and into the banks of Barefoot Beach. This is indicted by the dark red (erosion in the flood
channel) and dark green (accretion in the channel) on Figure 4. The second cause is the current
dredging disposal practices at Wiggins Pass. Historically, an even distribution of fill has been
placed on the northern and southern shorelines surrounding the pass. However, recent analysis
indicates that the beaches to the north need approximately 2.65 times the amount of fill that is
placed to the south to become balanced with the south.
THREATS TO VEGETATION AND WILDLIFE HABITAT
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Photograph 1. Erosion near DNR monument
R15.
Photograph 2. Vegetation loss at south end of
Barefoot Beach.
The majority of erosion at Barefoot Beach has occurred south of R] 4 (Tables] and 3) and on the
inlet shoreline. Between beach erosion at the southern end of the island and the northward
migration of Wiggins Pass main flood channel, significant loss of vegetation has occurred over
recent decades (Photographs I and 2). Figure 3 shows shoreline and vegetation changes along
the southern end of Barefoot Beach between the years 1973 to 2009.
The shoreline at R 16 has lost 194 ft. of vegetation, primarily cabbage palms and maritime
hammock (Location] in Figure 3); 70 ft. of vegetation have been lost at the southern end of the
island (Location 2 in Figure 3); and 52 ft. of mangroves have been lost along the north border of
the main channel (Location 3 in Figure 3 and Table 2). This loss is exacerbated by the fact that
the current vegetation line and shoreline are almost on top of each other (Figure 3), which means
vegetation loss will immediately accompany shoreline recession in these critical areas.
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This loss of habitat may affect important native species such as the gopher tortoise (Gopherus
polyphemus) (Photograph 3), a state-listed Species of Special Concern. Barefoot Beach is one of
the remaining few natura] barrier islands along the southwest coast of F]orida and is important
habitat for the gopher tortoise: a total of 712 burrows were recorded from June ]3 through
September 7 of 2009; 186 were recorded as Very Active; 277 were recorded as Active; 76 were
recorded as Inactive; 173 were abandoned (Table 4, Figure 3). Considering the substantial loss
of vegetation at the southern end of the island, it is likely that gopher tortoise burrows have been
lost to erosion in the past, and their habitat at the south end of Barefoot Beach will continue to
disappear without measures to mitigate for the erosion. Examining Figure 3 for the location of
burrows compared to shoreline and habitat changes through time, those along the edge of
vegetation between approximately R 15+500 and R I 6 are threatened with imminent loss to
eroslOn.
While Barefoot Beach is eroding on the north side of Wiggins Pass, the shore along the south
side of the pass in De]nor-Wiggins State Park has been continually accreting. A gain in
vegetation and habitat, in particular sea oats (Uniola paniculata) and other typical dune species
have established along the northern accretionary beach area of Delnor- Wiggins. This reach has
gained between ]3 and 50 feet of vegetation since 1973, approximately an acre. In essence,
vegetation and habitat are being swapped from Barefoot Beach to Delnor- Wiggins as the flood
channel migrates north. There is a sand wave that moves across the north end of Delnor-
Wiggins, u]timately depositing sand into the flood shoal which pushes the flood shoal north and
encourages vegetation growth on Oelnor- Wiggins Park shoreline and loss to Barefoot Beach.
Photograph 3. Gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) observed at Barefoot Beach.
Table 4. Summary of gopher tortoise burrow observations for summer 2009 (data obtained
f M . H'1t h t t' b' I 'H B f B h)
rom arlne anu on, I10DI er or OIse 100l!IS or are oot eac
Size Class: Verv Active Active Inactive
Adult 173 233 62
Sub Adult 6 34 13
Juvenile 6 9 1
Hatchlina 1 1 0
Subtotals: 186 277 76
Abandoned: 173
Total Burrows: 712
No trends in sea turtle nesting data were detected between R 13 and R] 6 from 2005 to 2009
(Figure 5). However, only a single nest has been laid at R16, the most erosional area of Barefoot
Beach, since 2005. The mangroves have lost approximately 0.3 acres since 1973, which are a
habitat to fishes such a, snook.
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Figure 5. Number of sea turtle nests laid between R13 and R16 within Barefoot Beach
Preserve from 2005 to 2009 (data obtained from Maura Kraus, sea turtle biologist for
Collier County).
THREATS TO RECREATION
Erosion has effecti vel y cut off beachgoers between approximately R] 5+500 and R 16 and
portions of the inlet shoreline. The recreational beach on the Gulf has decreased by
approximately 10 acres since ]992 in thc southern y, mile of Barefoot Beach (south of RI4.5)
This area has experienced severe erosion and the vegetation there, primarily cabbage palms, has
fallen from the scarp, creating a recreational barrier to beach combers and shore fishers
(Photographs 4 and 5). The existing loop trail within Barefoot Beach Preserve is currently
closed off at its southernmost portion due to erosion in this area. The closure renders that portion
of the park inaccessible to park patrons, thereby limiting the recreation a] usage of that portion of
the park as dictated by the Barefoot Beach Management Plan. In addition to impacting
recreational usage of the park, the erosion also presents a safety hazard. On July 14, 2009, while
conducting biological and vegetation boundary surveys within Wiggins Pass, CPE field
investigators witnessed a young boy fall from a high scarp at tbe southern end of the island. The
boy was punctured beneath the armpit by a dead tree snag and bleeding profusely. CPE staff
transported the boy to his family at the north end of the park to be taken to the nearest medica]
facility.
Additionally, recreational navigation is limited due to the filling in and migration of the channel.
The intent of the project is to not only reduce the effects of erosion on beaches adjacent to
Wiggins Pass, but also to realign and dredge the channel to safe navigable conditions.
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access.
Photograph 5. Limited beach access beach
due to snags of dead trees.
CONCLUSIONS
The area surrounding Wiggins Pass is presently not identified as critically eroded, but from the
analysis performed, it can be seen that erosion is a threat and has created a loss of recreational
and habitat area. The Wiggins Pass area warrants consideration as critically eroded beach and
should be designated as such. This area qualifies under the State's Definition of Critical Erosion
due to threats to recreation and wildlife habitat. The proposed inlet improvement project will
help to stabilize the long term erosional trend, protect mangrove and beach habitat at the south
end of Barefoot Beach, and increase recreational shoreline and navigational usage within and
surrounding Wiggins Pass. The project warrants State financial support that can only be
provided with a critically erosion area designation.
P/Collier/8500.63/Critical Erosion..ICritical Erosion Area Evaluation of Habitat and Recreation..
REFERENCE
CPE (Coasta] Planning & Engineering), ] 995. Coastal Planning & Engineering (CPE) 1995
Wiggins Pass Inlet Management Plan. Report prepared for Board of County Commissioners,
Collier County, FL by Coastal Planning & Engineering, Boca Raton, FL, ]91 pp.
CPE (Coastal Planning & Engineering), 2009. Wiggins Pass. Collier County, FL Numerical
Modeling of Wave Propagation, Currents and Morphology Changes Phase II: Numerical
Modeling of Alternatives Report. Report prepared for Collier County Wiggins Pass Modeling
Eva]uation Working Group and Coastal Zone Management Department. Collier County, FL by
Coastal Planning & Engineering, Boca Raton, FL, 89 pp.
CPE (Coasta] Planning, & Engineering), 2009 Wiggins and Doctors Passes Maintenance
Dredging Post-Construction Report. July 2009.
CEC (Coastal Engineering Consultants), 1982. Wiggins Pass Navigational Dredging and Beach
Nourishment Project: Inlet Hydraulics Report. Report prepared for Boatd of County
Commissioners, Collier County. FL by Coastal Engineering Consultants, Naples, FL. 17 pp.
CEC (Coastal Engineering Consultants), 1989. Wiggins Pass Channel Design Evaluation.
Navigational Dredging and Beach Nourishment Project: Inlet Hydraulics Report. Report
prepared for Board of County Commissioners, Collier County, FL by Coastal Engineering
Consultants, Naples, FL, 14 pp.
CEC (Coastal Engineering Consultants). 1990. Plans for Wiggins Pass Maintenance Dredging,
February ] 990.
H&M (Humiston & Moore Engineers), 2004. Wiggins Pass Feasibility Phase, Alternatives for
Modifying the Wiggins Pass Maintenance Dredging Permit to Address Erosion of Barefoot
Beach. Report prepared for Board of County Commissioners, Collier County, FL by Humiston &
Moore, Naples, FL, 4 pp.
H&M (Humiston & Moore Engineers), Wiggins Pass In]et Maintenance Dredging Construction
Plans, November 13, 2006.
H&M (Humiston & Moore Engineers), 2007. Wiggins Pass Study, Hydrau]ic and Sand
Transport Modeling. Report prepared for Board of County Commissioners, Collier County, FL
by Humiston & Moore, Naples. FL, 47 pp.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) 1980. Improvements for Small Boat Navigation:
Detailed Project Report, Wiggins Pass. FL., 43 pp.
APPENDIX A
FDEP CRITICAL EROSION AREA ABSTRACT
CRITICALLY ERODED BEACHES
IN
FLORIDA
Updated, June 2009
:\l."IIOUClIO' :
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BUREAU OF BEACHES AND COASTAL SYSTEMS
DIVISION OF WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
STATE OF FLORIDA
June, 2009
Collier County
There are seven critically eroded beach areas (13.3 miles), five noncritically eroded beach areas
(5.3 miles), and one critically eroded inlet shoreline area (0.8 mile) in Collier County.
In northern Collier County, a O.]-mile beach segment north of Wiggins Pass (R]5.8-RI6.3) is
noncritically eroded. A 1.6-mile beach segment (R22.3-R30.5) is critically eroded threatening
development interests in Vanderbilt Beach. This area has a beach restoration project and
numerous bulkheads.
The City of Naples has two segmcnts that are critically eroded threatening development interests
north and south of Doctors Pass. North of Doctors Pass (R50.65-R57.5) is a 1.3-mile critically
eroded segment, and between Doctors Pass and Gordon Pass (R57.8-R89) is a 5.6-mile critically
eroded segment. These areas of Nap]es have a continuous beach restoration project. Numerous
bulkheads and revetments also exist throughout Naples. Groins exist north of Gordon Pass.
South of Gordon Pass (R90-R] II) is a 3.9-mile stretch that is noncritically eroded along the
northern half of Kecwaydin Island. Between Little Marco Pass and Capri Pass, Sea Oat Island
has 0.9 mile of beach that is noncritically eroded. A]so, Coconut Is]and (MI-M2) has 0.1 mile
that is noncritically eroded off the north shore of Marco Island; however, little remains of this
island that was severely impacted by Hurricane Wilma (2005).
Marco Island has three areas that are critically eroded threatening development interests. Along
Hideaway Beach, the north shore of Marco Is]and (H3-HI]) fronting on Big Marco Pass has 0.8
mile of inlet shoreline that is critically eroded. The central gulf beach of Marco Is]and (R] 34.5-
R139) has 0.8 milc that is critically croded and the southern stretch of bcach (R]43-RI48) has
0.9 mile that is critically eroded. All three critically eroded areas on Marco Island have beach
restoration projects, and the northern segment also has a rock groin field along Hideaway Beach.
Erosion on the two southern barrier islands in Collier County has progressed into the backshore
mangrove forest resulting in the loss of beach wildlife habitat. Following Hurricane Wilma
(2005), a 1.6-mile segment of Kice Island (V23- V3].4) is critically eroded. South of Morgan
Pass, Morgan Is]and has a 1.5-mi1e segment (V33.8-V41.8) that is critically eroded and a 0.3-
mile segment (V41.8-V43.5) that is noncritically eroded.
74
June, 2009
Little Marco Pass
Lee County
Wiggins Pass
Collier County
Location
R015.8 - R016.3
R022.3 - R030.5
R050.6 - R057.5
R057.5 - R089
R090 - R111
Sea Oat Island
Coconut Island
H3-H11
R134.5 - R139
R143 - R148
V023 - V031.4
V033.8 - V041.8
V041.9-V043.5
Classification
Noncritical
C ritica I
Critical
Critical
Noncritical
Noncritical
Noncritical
Critical Inlet
Critical
Critical
Critical
Critical
Noncritical
Doctors Pass
Naples
Gordon Pass
Keewaydin Island
1
t
Gulf Of Mexico
Marco Island
o 1.5 3
6
9
12
Miies
- -
o 2 4
8
12
Kilometers
16
- -