1

MANATEE PROTECTION PLAN for

VOLUSIA COUNTY

ANNUAL REPORT 2008

Background Florida has been a home to the Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris) for thousands of years. The abundant number of freshwater, brackish, and marine ecosystems throughout the state have historically provided good habitat for the manatee to thrive and reproduce. However, the increase in the human population of Florida has in recent years become more of a threat to manatees. This increased threat led to several important federal protection measures, including the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 and the Endangered Species Act of 1973, both of which prohibit harassment and harm to the species. In 1978 the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act declared the entire state as a manatee refuge, and later in 1989 13 counties were listed as key to manatee survival, of which Volusia County was one. Under the 1989 mandate each of the 13 key counties were required to develop a Manatee Protection Plan (MPP.) Volusia County proceeded toward the completion of an MPP that would include a marina siting element, as well as educational and outreach components. A Boating Activity Study, which was completed in 1996 and updated in 2000, is the underpinning for many of the policies outlined within the MPP. The Volusia County MPP strives to balance manatee protection and resource preservation with recreational and economic demands. In order to fully address all of the components the plan is divided into two phases. The goal of both Phase I and Phase II is to achieve and maintain an optimal sustainable manatee population within Volusia County. Phase I deals with manatee conservation efforts through education, outreach, habitat enhancement, scientific research, and interagency coordination. Phase I was approved by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) in February 2001. Phase II of the MPP includes the boat facility siting plan, which outlines methods for boat facility placement in order to minimize watercraft related injuries to manatees. The boat facility siting element creates policies that address protection of the manatee population, as well as preservation of manatee habitat. Phase II was approved by the FWC in October of 2005.

2

Phase I Phase I of the Volusia County Manatee Protection Plan (MPP) addresses issues such as habitat inventory, law enforcement, habitat protection, education and awareness, scientific research, and governmental coordination. The objective of Phase I is to evaluate current impacts to manatees, and implement strategies to increase public awareness, facilitate interagency coordination, and promote scientific research. These objectives are attained through the development of discreet projects designed to increase manatee conservation and habitat protection. The following initiatives have been implemented to address the issues in Phase I. MONOFILAMENT LINE RECYCLING The Volusia County Monofilament Line Recycling Program heightens awareness of the negative impacts of improperly discarded fishing line, decreases the amount of fishing line entering the environment, and increases the amount of fishing line being recycled. Monofilament fishing line causes numerous threats to the environment, wildlife, and humans. We place monofilament recycling bins in areas of fishing activity, and maintained by individual volunteers, school groups, civic organizations, and businesses. Bin maintenance includes, empting the bin, removing garbage, sinkers, bobbers, hooks, and lures, and properly disposing of all items. The volunteers then take the clean monofilament line to an indoor recycling center. We ask our volunteers to fill out a data sheet each time they empty their bin and send the sheets to county staff approximately every four months. The data sheets allow program staff to determine how much line is being recycled via the use of our bins. The data collected is used to determine how full the bins become, how often the bins need to be emptied, and how much total line has been collected. We have added thirty four new bins this year bringing the total number of bins within the county to 107, with a recovery of approximately 200 pounds of line that will not be entering the environment. An online data entry form makes the reporting process easier for our volunteers, and allows them to e-mail the collection data directly to the program coordinator once they submit the form. This eliminates the need for scanning, copying or mailing in data sheets. We have added a new project involving the construction of personal recycling containers, called “mini-bins” to the program this year. The mini-bins are constructed using tennis ball tubes, loose-leaf rings, and decals, with educational literature placed inside. The Edgewater Boys & Girls Club helped VCEM staff to produce and distribute over 150 of the mini-bins. Silver Sands Middle School also participated, with over 100 students constructing mini-bins to keep and give away. We have also developed an educational program, which includes a lesson on recycling and construction of the mini-bins, to use with the Volusia County Schools Environmental Service Learning Legacy Project students.

3

An idea to increase volunteer involvement was initiated this year. The “Recycler’s Review” is an e-mail quarterly update which informs volunteers on recycling numbers, reminders, new initiatives and highlights outstanding volunteers. Volunteers gave service equivalent to 963 hours of staff time this year. MANATEE EDUCATION AND OUTREACH In 2008, both adults and students continued to be targeted for manatee conservation education. The Volusia County Manatee Protection Program has continued to respond to the need for manatee awareness and education within our community. The program includes the development and distribution of original lesson plans, manatee activities, participation in community festivals and other educational events, and transmitting information to the public via the program website. We have correlated the educational curriculum to skill sets outlined in the Florida Sunshine State Standards (SSS), with the goal of providing a complete educational package in a “ready-to-use” format. The SSS codes needed by the educators are readily available so that teachers can correlate the lessons to the learning skill they are focusing on at the time. We provide teachers curriculum access through the manatee education webpage, through personal requests, and through the Volusia County Schools Environmental Service Learning Legacy Project. We also post other educational activities on the webpage, along with links to other related resources. This year new display boards were purchased, and a new display was designed in order to elevate the county’s manatee education efforts at community festivals and events. For example, the new displays were used at events such as: the Blue Spring Manatee Festival, Turtle Day, New Smyrna Beach River Fest, Rotary Riverfest at Gemini Springs, Stetson Earth Day, Battle of the Badges, and the Green Fair. At these events educational hand-outs were distributed, and children were encouraged to participate in age appropriate activities. Three new outreach programs to be used as manatee educational tools have been developed. The first program targets second grade students; it is a half hour program devoted to manatee habitat requirements and manatee adaptations to their environment. The second program, “Manatees and Me”, focuses on pre-school children and we deliver it primarily to Head Start Programs. It involves student construction of a manatee hand puppet, and the reading of the book “Sam the Sea Cow.” The third new program called “Crazy for Conservation”, includes information on threats to manatees and other protected species, and how students can reduce their impact on these species and their habitats. Plans for the permanent manatee display at the new Lyonia Environmental Center (LEC) at the Deltona Library are moving toward finalization, and the display fabrication schedule has been determined. The Grand Opening for the new LEC is set for the fall of 2009.

4

MANATEE WATCH The Manatee Protection Program established Manatee Watch as a volunteer network that would assist county staff in gaining a better understanding of how manatees are utilizing Volusia County’s waterways. Now in its fourth year, the Manatee Watch program has continued to grow and adapt in response to new volunteers, increased amounts of data, and various collaborative efforts. We conduct two formal training events each year, with smaller informal trainings held on an as needed basis. New Powerpoint presentations have improved the quality and consistency of the material given to the new volunteers. Additionally, Blue Spring State Park manatee specialist, Wayne Hartley presents slides and descriptions of how the manatee identification process works. Although Manatee Watch volunteers are not trained nor authorized for manatee rescues, or any sort of intervention, once trained to be able to recognize the difference between an animal in distress and natural behavior, they are valuable assets in reporting distressed animals to us and then to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Since 2006 we have also been collaborating with the U. S. Geologic Survey Sirenia Project, which maintains a statewide photo identification system (MIPS) database. This year USGS verified two more manatee sightings, “Marty”, previously identified in 2006 and 2007 was re-sighted, and another east coast manatee, “Moon Unit” was confirmed as being in the Tomoka River system, which was the northernmost sighting for this animal. The addition of 32 new volunteers in 2008 brings the total number of Manatee Watchers up to 95, with 205 reports concerning 856 animals turned in this year. This represents an increase of 198 reports over last year. In addition to new volunteers, we have a list of 52 potential volunteers, who have expressed interest in the program, but have been unable to attend training sessions to date. In the coming year every effort will be made to find training dates and times to accommodate as many potential volunteers as possible. CLEAN MARINA The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) developed the Clean Marina Program as a voluntary designation process for marinas that assists them in becoming more environmentally friendly. The Manatee Protection Program serves as the county liaison for the state program, and assists with marina designation by organizing workshops, offering technical assistance, and through participation on the final walk-through and checklist verification. The following Volusia County facilities have received the Clean Marina designation in 2008: Harbor Village Yacht and Golf Club and the Riverview Hotel Spa and Marina. This brings the total number of designated marinas within the county to eight.

5

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Division of Law Enforcement, manages the grant program for the Clean Marina Program and Clean Vessel Act Program, which is available to marine facilities within the state. INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION Participation in working groups, and interagency task forces at the state and federal level has added to the Manatee Protection Program staff’s knowledge of issues relating to scientific research, public concerns, grant programs, education efforts, and it has created opportunities for collaboration with other government agencies. Especially helpful has been participation as a member of the Monofilament Recovery and Recycling Working Group which helps to inform staff of new initiatives and allows the county to have direct input at both the state and federal level. LAW ENFORCEMENT Good coordination and communication with the law enforcement agencies responsible for enforcing manatee speed zones within the county is an essential element of manatee protection. In 2008 the North Central Florida Maritime Alliance continued to have monthly meetings. Participating members include the U.S. Coast Guard, the State Division of Law Enforcement, the Volusia County Sheriff Marine Unit, neighboring county law enforcement, local municipality on-the-water enforcement, Homeland Security, and other security related agencies. These regular meetings allow the different agencies to coordinate with each other in order to maximize their presence and effectiveness. Manatee Protection Program staff attend these monthly meetings, and contribute vital information concerning boat related manatee mortalities, citizen reports of zones where boats habitually ignore speed limits, and areas where manatee harassment from swimmers, kayakers, and boaters are prevalent. This information then allows officers to do directed patrols in areas where extra enforcement is needed. In 2008 staff also distributed bilge socks to participating members. There has been a concerted effort to target Marine Sanitation Device (MSD) violations using tracer dyes. If a vessel owner does not close or lock down their MSD, then the dye produces a fluorescent green trail once the effluent escapes into the waterway. All vessels found to be in violation were issued citations, and fines for this type of violation is considerably higher than for speed zone infractions. MARINE MAMMAL STRANDING TEAM The Volusia County Marine Mammal Stranding Team members are all county employees, which provides for continuity in team membership and facilitates increasing the level of training and expertise of the Team as a whole. The Stranding Team works closely with the Sea Turtle Program and Beach Services, and is an effective instrument for gathering stranding data efficiently, and then removing the animal from the beach as

6

quickly as possible. This in turn elicits a good response from visitors on the beach, and provides a method for distributing information about marine mammals to the public. The Volusia County Stranding Team works under the Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute’s (HSWRI) Stranding Agreement with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Marine Fisheries Service when dealing with cetaceans (dolphins and whales.) The Team is working towards fulfilling Stranding Agreement guidelines, which will allow the County to receive “Designee” status under the HSWRI Stranding Agreement. When dealing with manatees the Stranding Team takes direction from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) staff. In 2008 the Stranding Team applied for and received a Letter of Authorization from the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service with the designation of manatee “Verifier”, which allows Team members to be first responders to manatees under the direction of FWC staff. Staff conducted four Team continuing education training sessions in 2008. Individual members also attended additional training at the HSWRI Lab, the Sirenian Population Genetics Conference, the Florida Marine Mammal Health Conference, and the Marine Mammal Pathobiology Lab. In addition, Team members participated in four Manatee Health Assessment Captures at Crystal River, and four Manatee Health Assessment Captures at Placido Harbor, additionally one member attended the IAAAM Conference in Italy. In 2008, members of the Volusia County Marine Mammal Stranding Team responded to 55 reports regarding marine mammals in distress and/or dead on Volusia County beaches and waterways. Typically, two Team members respond to stranding events, however occasionally additional team member support is necessary. The Team responded to 34 manatees (Sirenians), 27 alive and 7 dead, and 21 whales and dolphins (Cetaceans) of which 6 were alive and 15 were dead. ESTUARINE RESTORATION The Estuarine Restoration Program works in conjunction with the Manatee Protection Program, and is the vehicle for protecting vital manatee habitat. Shoreline monitoring and restoration is instrumental in ensuring that shoreline vegetation is, and will continue to be available for manatee foraging. Healthy estuaries are critical to a diverse number of species, and are important to Volusia County not only for their biodiversity, but also because they are a huge economic engine for this area. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimates that in Florida in 2006 anglers and wildlife watchers spent an average of two weeks each per year at these activities, with an expenditure of an average of $47 dollars per day. Experts estimate that the Indian River Lagoon contributes approximately $750 million dollars annually to the region’s economy. The Estuarine Restoration Program’s efforts in 2008 included removal of exotic invasive plants, native vegetation plantings, and shoreline cleanups. Staff has outlined restoration goals, techniques, and targeted areas in the Estuarine Habitat Restoration

7

Plan (EHRP), which was created as a guidance document for the program’s efforts. The anticipated results of the plan are to improve water quality, dissipate wave energy, reduce shoreline erosion, and re-establish essential habitat for a diversity of wildlife. Implementation of the EHRP includes exotic vegetation removal, mangrove and Spartina plantings, oyster bed restoration, seagrass plantings, and long term monitoring. An important part of the program is the cultivation of partnerships with other county departments, coastal cities, civic organizations, environmental groups, non-profit organizations, and state and federal agencies. We accomplish the program’s numerous projects and activities with the help of many, many volunteers. NATIVE PLANTINGS Staff obtained permits for planting and exotic removal within the intertidal zone for all of our matrix sites from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and Volusia County. We also obtained city permits for sites within the City of New Smyrna Beach. As part of the EHRP implementation staff formed partnerships with ten Volusia County schools which have Agri-science programs. The schools took delivery of and grew out one and three gallon mangroves, which they then stepped up as needed. While doing this the students experimented with different growing techniques and water salinity levels. Staff supplied technical support and assisted with soil and potting needs. At the end of the school year students will travel to different staff-designated locations in order to plant the grown mangroves and observe interactions within the estuarine environment. The ten participating schools were: Atlantic High School, DeLand High School, New Smyrna Beach High School, Pine Ridge High School, Hinson Middle School, New Smyrna Beach Middle School, DeLand Middle School, River Springs Middle School, Pathways Elementary School, and Manatee Cove Elementary School. Prior to all plantings a shoreline characterization study was performed at each site by collecting data along transects every 100 feet, or more frequently where a significant change in shoreline occurred. Data collected included GPS coordinates, salinity, intertidal width, slope, edge type, vegetation present, and multiple photos of each transect. Collaboration with the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Northern Coastal Basin Program staff insured compatibility and the future potential for data sharing. Over 1,000 red mangroves that had been germinated in floating beds located in the Indian River were removed from the beds and distributed to some of the schools to be grown out for planting in 2009. Additionally, approximately 4,000 floating red mangrove propagules were harvested in the fall to restock the floating beds for future use. In 2008, over 800 red mangroves (Rhizophora mangle) and black mangroves (Avicennia germinans) were planted along the shoreline of the Halifax and Indian Rivers

8

at four planting sites, including Rookery Island, Sunrise Park, Callalisa Park, and Menard-May Park. There were 122 volunteers who participated in the plantings, which included students from five Volusia County public schools. The partnership developed with the Marine Discovery Center (MDC), New Smyrna Beach continued to be very beneficial in 2008; the MDC assisted with the native planting effort by providing some staff and volunteers for our plantings and exotic plant removal events. Additionally, the MDC has taken some of the surplus mangroves to grow out in their greenhouse. In 2008, monitoring was initiated at four restoration sites including Buena Vista Park, Callalisa Park, North Causeway Park, and Rookery Island. EXOTIC INVASIVE PLANT REMOVAL Removal of exotic invasive plants is one of the primary components of the EHRP and the initial focus was on the east side of the county, where the worst offenders are Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius) and Australian pine (Casuarina equisetifolia). In 2008, staff coordinated and supervised ten volunteer work days during which Brazilian pepper and Australian pine were removed at three sites, Callalisa Park, Indian River Lagoon park, and Chicken Island. Our partnership with the MDC continued to prosper, with their primary assistance being in the form of staff and volunteer time at the removal events. The cut stump technique was used with both the Brazilian pepper and the Australian pine; first the vegetation was cut down using chainsaw or loppers, each stump was flagged, and then afterward a commercially licensed applicator scored the stump and applied Habitat, an herbicide labeled safe for aquatic environments. The volunteers then hauled the branches to a central area for subsequent removal. With smaller plants the herbicide was applied directly to the plant foliage. Staff and volunteers removed exotic invasive vegetation along the east side of the County, with 64 volunteers contributing over 136 hours of service. In 2008 the exotic removal effort was broadened to include the west side of the county and a new volunteer group was formed called the Counter Invasive Agents (CIA.) We recruited a core group of experts from organizations such as the Master Gardeners, Master Naturalists, and Native Plant Societies. Then we recruited and trained citizen volunteers in exotic plant recognition, proper removal and disposal methods, tool safety and hazard awareness. It was determined that the CIA group would focus their removal efforts on publicly owned lands, and during the process would attempt to educate the public about the detrimental effects exotic invasive vegetation has on the natural environment. An additional outcome would be volunteers utilizing their knowledge to remove exotic plants in their home landscapes.

9

Green Spring Park in Enterprise was the location of the pilot project, and the initial site assessment determined that invasive exotic plants located at that site included: air potato (Dioscorea bulbifera), arrowhead vine (Syngonium podophyllum), camphot tree (Cinnamomum camphora), coral ardisia (Ardisia crenata), erect sword fern (Nephrolepis cordifolia), and rain tree (Albizia saman.) Staff organized and coordinated four volunteer workdays prior to the opening of the County park to the public, during which 27 volunteers volunteered 118 hours. We organized another removal event to remove rain tree saplings from around DeBary Hall in December, with future events to continue in 2009. ESTUARINE EDUCATION During 2008 staff worked closely with the Volusia County Environmental Teacher on Assignment, and the Environmental Service Learning Legacy Project. Our goal for the Estuarine Education program is to educate students about the estuarine environment, water quality, native plants, and exotic plants. Throughout 2008 staff conducted 20 educational classes to elementary, middle and high school students, and participated in both local and regional Science Fair judging, presented programs for the Keep DeLand Beautiful Day and for the Edgewater Girl and Boys Club. An estuarine education lesson was also developed and presented for the DeBary Hall Summer Camp Program. Staff highlighted estuarine health and the EHRP restoration efforts at the many public events, festivals and workshops attended in 2008. Included in these events were New Smyrna Beach River Fest, New Smyrna Beach Green Fair, Marine Science Center's Turtle Day, International Coastal Clean Up, Riverfest at Gemini Springs, Go Native – Beyond the Garden Gate Presentation for the DeLand Garden Club, Halifax/Indian River Cleanup, Island Management Plan Presentation for Ormond Beach Garden Club, Marine Resource Council Brown Bag Lunch, Old Enterprise Festival, St. John’s River Cleanup and St. John’s Songs and Stories. These events were essential for exchanging valuable information, networking among colleagues, and better equipping the ERP for future projects. Also attended were conferences, workshops and training classes which included the Biological Collecting Permit Workshop, CPR Certification, CyberTracker Training, First Aid Training, Intro to ArcGIS , Intermediate ArcGIS, IRL Re-vegetation and Spoil Island Working Groups, the IRL Technical Advisory Committee, the Northeast Coastal Habitat Restoration Workshop, Submerged Aquatic Vegetation Monitoring, and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Safe Boater Course. And, public awareness of the detrimental effects of exotic invasive plants was stressed at each of the planned removal events. As a further education measure, created in conjunction with the MDC, two educational brochures, that focus on Brazilian pepper and Australian pine respectively were printed and distributed.

10

OYSTER RESTORATION VCEM staff participated in an oyster mat making event conducted at the Marine Discovery Center, in anticipation of future oyster restoration events. By learning different restoration techniques, we gain a better understanding of oyster restoration methodologies. Subsequently, we assisted in deploying oyster mats at the Canaveral National Seashore for the Nature Conservancy and the University of Central Florida mat deployment project. By participating and learning this process, we will then be able to teach and educate our volunteers when implementing the planned Chicken Island Restoration project. CHICKEN ISLAND RED MANGROVE/OYSTER RESTORATION DEMONSTRATION PROJECT In 2008, staff wrote and submitted a grant proposal to the Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program, which focused on shoreline and oyster restoration, and exotic plant removal at a pilot project site at Chicken Island. Chicken Island is located in New Smyrna Beach, south of and close to the north causeway and the Marine Discovery Center. The grant was awarded and the contract finalized late in the fall of the year, with the work to be executed predominantly in 2009. The Chicken Island Red Mangrove/Oyster Restoration Demonstration Project involves the planting of red mangroves inside reef ball structures on Chicken Island in Mosquito Lagoon. This type of restoration technique provides a stable substrate for oyster larvae settlement and has the potential to perform as an effective wave energy dissipater, erosion control device, and mangrove planter. In preparation for the project, staff installed five oyster stations around Chicken Island and monitored each one for recruitment of spat to determine oyster presence. It is anticipated that Chicken Island will be used by the MDC as a living laboratory to supplement their educational programs, and will provide a unique learning opportunity for both student and adult participants. Since volunteers will undertake much of the proposed planting, the project will not only fulfill restoration objectives, but will also generate community involvement and interagency coordination. STORM DRAIN MARKING Storm water that drains into the watershed is a pollution source that is very harmful to the environment and affects both estuarine and riverine habitats. Storm drain marking is a proven method of increasing community awareness about non-point source pollution. VCEM has implemented a storm drain marking program that first mapped out areas around Volusia County that were higher priority (areas that the drains were closest to bodies of water, for instance the Halifax River, the Indian River, the St. Johns River and Blue Springs Basin) to mark storm drains. VCEM staff then created the data forms needed for each event and developed a database, utilizing GPS waypoints, for all of the decals placed.

11

Staff recruited volunteers and during 2008, ten events were held around the County during which 780 drains were marked. These events account for 540 volunteer hours from 170 volunteers. The decals that were ordered were designed to include the words, “No Dumping – Drains to Waterways”, and also included the words “No Contamine!” in Spanish. The decals are four inch circles and have graphics of manatees and dolphins on them. VCEM worked in partnership with local cities (DeLand, Orange City, Edgewater, Daytona and Deltona) to implement the events, and with the cities’ help with the provision of supplies, and donations obtained from Volusia County businesses the volunteers were provided with lunch and refreshments at each event. ENVIRONET VOLUNTEER PROGRAM Citizens are encouraged to become involved by becoming a volunteer at community outreach events throughout the year. Natural Resources staff from each program area has created display boards highlighting their specific programs, and also have knowledge of each other’s programs. Community events present an opportune time to answer questions and pass out educational materials. Interested community members receive the information they need on how to get involved as a volunteer. These educational events are also essential for exchanging valuable information, networking among colleagues, and better equipping the program for future projects. Recruitment for specific programs or events may also be done through press releases. The volunteers fill out applications on-site, on- line, or send them in by mail, and the information is then entered into a database. Staff hours are spent on imputing and updating information, which is done on a day to day basis as volunteer applications come in. In 2008 volunteers were honored by VCEM hosting a Volunteer Appreciation Day celebration, which was held on October 11th. The celebration was held at the Marine Discovery Center, and donations were obtained to defray most of the cost. The volunteers were treated to a free lunch, paid for with donations from Coca Cola, Wal Mart and Publix. A boat excursion and guided tour was given by the MDC, also provided was a tour the MDC’s classroom and wet lab. All of the VCEM volunteer programs were highlighted on display boards showing photos of volunteers in action, and each program manager gave a brief description of their volunteer opportunities. The Drum4wellness owner donated his time and instruments, and conducted on-going drum circles throughout the day. Volunteers were allowed to try out the various drums and other instruments and there were smiles all round. Over 50 donated prizes were given out in a raffle, along with gift bags for each volunteer. There were over 150 people in attendance at this year’s celebration and we hope to add to that number next year.

12

In order to easily view the essential tasks outlined in Phase I of the MPP, the matrix which follows has been created, with the implementation information updated on an annual basis.

13

MANATEE PROTECTION PLAN for VOLUSIA COUNTY PHASE I PROVISIONS

2006-2007 Annual Report

Acronyms: BPSM or ISM – Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Imperiled USEPA or EPA – United States Environmental Species Management Protection Agency FDEP or DEP – Florida Department of Environmental Protection USFWS, FWS – United States Fish and Wildlife FFWCC, FWCC or FWC – Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Service FIND – Florida Inland Navigation District USGS/Sirenia – United States Geological Survey FMRI, FWRI – Florida Marine Research Institute Sirenia Project IFAS – Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences VCEM or VCEMS – Volusia County Environmental MPP – Manatee Protection Plan Management NOAA – National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration VCLS – Volusia County Leisure Services SJR – St. Johns River VCPD – Volusia County Planning and Development SJRWMD – St. Johns River Water Management District VCPD – Volusia County Planning and Development SMC – Save the Manatee Club Port Authority District USACE or ACOE – United States Army Corps of Engineers VCPW – Volusia County Public Works USCG – United States Coast Guard VCSM – Volusia County Stormwater Management

WAV – Watershed Action Volunteers

14

C. ENFORCEMENT Purpose Statement The purpose of this section is to describe the roles of enforcement agencies and make recommendations for their coordination in order to avoid duplication and provide better coverage of the waterways. It is recognized by all that additional on-water officers are needed to effectively manage the County’s waterways.

PROVISION ACTION FUNDED BY C.1. Volusia County will lobby the FWCC to seek three additional officers.

The regional FWC office has a complement of three officers assigned to the east coast, and three officers assigned to the St. Johns River. Funding for more officers is not available at this time.

FWC

C.2. An annual group meeting that would establish a working relationship between enforcement agencies shall be developed.

The North East Law Enforcement Maritime Alliance has been formed, and meets monthly at the Coast Guard Station in Ponce Inlet. Manatee Protection staff attends, and the group consists of law enforcement entities throughout the central northeast region of the state.

FWC, VCEM

C.3. The County will actively explore ways to clarify and consolidate signage relating to boating regulations.

New state manatee zone signs (no new rules) were installed on the SJR, and H/IR installation is underway..See: http://myfwc.com/boating/waterways/Documents/FWC-

USFWS, FWC

15

USFWSWaterwayMarkerStandardsPostingManateeProtectionZones.pdf For federal manatee zone signage see: http://www.volusiamanatees.org/phaseII/Attachment_F.pdf and http://www.volusiamanatees.org/phaseII/Attachment_G.pdf New signage is available to warn citizens about manatee harassment regulations. Installation has been done at the Mary McCleod Bethune Park riverside

C.4. The County will include the 1-888-404-FWCC phone number with information for reporting dead or injured manatees and any violations related to manatee protection and habitat degradation with all boater education and waterfront property owner information materials.

This has been implemented. The FWC wildlife hotline number has also been included on laminated Wildlife Emergency cards to be distributed.

VCEM

C.4.1. The County will attempt to inform all registered boaters, possibly through a mass mailing, of any regulatory changes that would impact them.

VCEM has posted the approved MPP for Volusia County on its website www.volusiamanatees.org along with other manatee information, and VCEM also sends out list-serve information. To sign up: http://volusia.org/environmental/listserv.htm Mail-outs will be done as funding permits.

VCEM

16

D. HABITAT PROTECTION

Purpose Statement: The purpose of the Habitat section is to define favorable habitat for manatees in Volusia County, identify areas in the County where favorable habitat for manatees exists, establish baseline information as necessary for evaluating trends toward improvement or degradation, and to identify and evaluate both threats and actions needed to restore, enhance, or protect habitat. No recommendations in this section are meant to duplicate existing efforts.

PROVISION ACTION FUNDED BY D.1. Volusia County will actively support the Action Items outlined in the IRLNEP CCMP, and work in concert with the various agencies involved, to ensure that the goals and objectives of this plan are met. (See attachment for items*)

This has been implemented. Funded by the respective agencies and Volusia County

D.1.1. The County will review the IRLNEP CCMP and related regulations, and determine how best to achieve a similar result in the Halifax River.

Volusia County Councilman Jack Hayman sits on the IRL Board and VCEM staff regularly attends the meetings. See: http://www.sjrwmd.com/indianriverlagoon/pdfs/CCMP_update_2007_Rev11.pdf Volusia County also has participated in the IRL North Feasibility Study. See: http://www.sjrwmd.com/irlinsert/insert2.html

Volusia County

D.2.1. VCEMS will continue its water sampling program. This has been and continues to be implemented. The monitoring program has been in place for about 20 years, sampling data from the last 15 years is available on the web. See: http://www.volusiahealth.net/lab/water_quality.htm

VCEM, SJRWMD

17

D.2.2. VCEMS shall establish a water quality monitoring sampling program on Strickland Creek, establishing several sampling sites that will be monitored on a monthly basis. This program will require 3-5 years of data before baseline water quality parameters can be established.

This has been implemented. Samples have been collected since 2002, so there are currently four years worth of monthly monitoring data for Strickland, Thompson and Dodson Creeks.

VCEM, SJRWMD

D.2.3. A. VCEMS will continue to work with the County and the coastal areas to explore ways in which to move some of the waterfront properties from septic tanks to direct sewer connection. B. VCEMS will also assist the County and the cities as they plan for the movement of homes from septic to sewer systems.

A. B.VCEM continues to work with the appropriate county departments, particularly Public Works, and the coastal cities. See: http://www.volusia.org/publicworks/water.htm VCEM also assists through the Rose Bay Task Force, which has helped to move Allandale and Harbor Oaks residents onto Port Orange City sewer. See: http://www.saj.usace.army.mil/restore/projects/rosebay.htm The Northern Coastal Basin SWIM Program, which with VCEM facilitation was designated in 2003, also addresses this issue. See: http://www.sjrwmd.com/northerncoastalbasin/SWIM.html

A. B. VCEM, SJRWMD, County and respective municipalities.

D.3. A. Volusia County will extend the Florida Yards & Neighborhoods program to property owners along the SJR system. B. Property owners on this water body will be surveyed to determine how their yards are being maintained. C. This information will be added to the database of ICW property owners. D. VCEMS will follow up with an informational mailing on tips for environmentally sound property maintenance.

A. The Florida Yards and Neighborhoods (FY&N) program is available to all Volusia County residents. This program is currently under IFAS http://fyn.ifas.ufl.edu/ also www.ifas.ufl.edu Also, the Florida Yards, Neighborhoods Program will be part of the Volusia WAV program.

A. IFAS B. IFAS D. WAV, VCEM

18

B. The survey is done on a request-by-resident basis. C. Not yet implemented. D. WAV and VCEM distribute FY&N brochures and VCEM has incorporated the program into the county’s Waterwise Ordinance. VCEM is also funding half of the new WAV Coordinator position in Volusia County, who will also implement the Your Neighborhood Pond program.

D.4. A. VCEMS will coordinate with FDEP on identifying areas along the SJR system where manatee habitat must be balanced with aquatic plant control. B. A plan, with timetables, will be developed for addressing these areas. C. VCEMS will also coordinate with ACOE to identify finger canals that have become clogged with vegetation and work with the homeowners to have the whole canal treated at once. D. VCEMS will meet with ACOE on the issue of how much spraying, if any, is needed to control nuisance vegetation. The results of this meeting will be disseminated to the public and managers of the ecosystems.

A., B., D. VCEM has participated in past quarterly meetings with FDEP, USACE and other agencies. These meetings included stakeholders such as local fishermen, guides, and homeowners interested in aquatic spraying issues. Spraying plans and protocols were initiated. See: http://el.erdc.usace.army.mil/aqua/ and http://www.saj.usace.army.mil/invasive_species/SpraySchedule.htm C. VCEM has facilitated the reduction of exotic aquatic vegetation in Bethel Creek and Lake Bethel and communicates with the appropriate control agencies. The USACE is assisting in removing exotics in areas where Blue Way trails are present.

A. B. C. D. VCEM, FDEP, USACE, Volusia County Mosquito Control

D.4.1. The County will explore how, where, and on what schedule re-vegetation of the St. Johns River (with native

Re-vegetation of eel-grass and bullrush has been done in Lake

FDEP

19

submerged and emergent vegetation, especially eel-grass) might be undertaken.

Monroe.

D.5. A. VCEMS will support the County’s Public Works Department by providing water quality monitoring to stormwater projects. B. VCEMS will also provide input to the Public Works Department on areas that they feel need attention, such as Strickland, Thompson, and Dodson creeks.

A., B. This cooperation has been ongoing. See: http://www.volusia.org/publicworks/stormwater2.htm

A. B. VCPW, VCEM

D.5.1. The County should develop a comprehensive strategy for stormwater management. It should coordinate with and make use of existing efforts, expanding these efforts to include current retrofitting standards, and to focus on the importance of stormwater management in the protection of aquatic habitat and manatees.

Volusia County Stormwater Management uses a three-pronged strategy: 1. Watershed/basin management plans 2. Stormwater requirements for new construction 3. Stormwater Utilities retrofitting and maintenance. It also utilizes county and city comprehensive plans. See; http://www.volusia.org/publicworks/stormwater2.htm There are ongoing cooperative efforts with the NCB and IRL SWIM Programs as well.

VCSM

D.6. A. Volusia County will continue to actively pursue the purchase of the Spruce Creek CARL property, B. the Lake Woodruff corridor property, and C. other properties, or the development rights to those properties identified in the Indian River Lagoon Blueway project. D. The County will work with Tomoka Geo-Park to pursue their purchase of the Strickland, Thompson, and Dodson creeks confluence property.

A., C. The Volusia Forever Program has acquired or has a conservation easement on over 28,000 acres of conservation land since 2000, including Spruce Creek CARL property. See: http://www.volusia.org/growth/landacq.htm B. The Lake Woodruff Wildlife Refuge has purchased at least part of this property. C. This project is ongoing. D. Tomoka GeoPark has purchased this property.

A. C. Volusia Forever B. Lake Woodruff Wildlife Refuge C. Volusia Forever D. State of Florida

D.6.1. An inventory of irreplaceable resources should be developed which should include developed areas, any areas

Information concerning the areas most important to manatees has

VCEM

20

important to manatees including any feeding, calving, nursing, cavorting, resting, and freshwater areas, and any manatee migratory routes.

been included in Phase II (marina siting) of the MPP. See: http://www.volusiamanatees.org/mpp.htm

D.6.3. A. VCEMS will work with SJRWMD, FDEP, and EPA, if appropriate, on the feasibility of using computer models for pollution load reduction and development impacts. B. VCEMS will research the legal implications and the costs associated with setting up such a system.

A. The USEPA requires that Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) standards are met nationwide. FDEP and the County help to implement them. The USEPA will identify non-point sources and allocate each a TMDL through modeling. See: http://www.dep.state.fl.us/water/tmdl/index.htm B. FDEP is responsible for this.

A. B. USEPA, FDEP

D.7. A. All dredged material shall be contained on an upland site. (FDEP Policy Dredge and Fill Requirements) B. New and maintenance dredging projects on the Intracoastal Waterway should be performed during the period of November 15 through March 15, when feasible, to minimize potential impacts to manatees (would require a new policy.) C. Dredging in areas of abundant seagrasses will be prohibited. (would require a new County policy or Countywide Minimum Standards.)

A. FDEP current policy, also in Phase II of the MPP. See: http://www.dep.state.fl.us/water/wetlands/erp/wetperm.htm#VII B. This is part of Phase II of the MPP See: http://www.volusiamanatees.org/phaseII/default.htm C. This is also in the marina siting segment (Phase II) of the approved MPP for Volusia County. FDEP, the Water Management Districts and USACE currently regulate dredge and fill activities.

A. B. C. FDEP, WMD’s, USACE

21

E. EDUCATION AND AWARENESS Purpose Statement: The purpose of the Education and Awareness section is to make the citizens of Volusia County and visitors to the County aware of the vulnerability of the manatee to threats of all kinds, from habitat degradation to direct human intervention, and to make people care enough to modify their behavior to protect the manatee and its habitat. Background Information E.1. Volusia County has several programs in place that deal with manatee education and awareness (see section II.E. for existing programs). However, education is a vital element in manatee protection so the following education initiatives were developed to raise the level of awareness for manatee protection in Volusia County. The initiatives are labeled according to their projected time of implementation. Short term initiatives are those that can be completed in less than a year. Near term initiatives are those completed in a 1-3 year period. Finally, long term initiatives are those which will take longer than three years to complete. Completion of these initiatives is the responsibility of the County unless otherwise specified and is contingent upon available funding. The suggested education programs are as follows: PROVISION ACTION FUNDED BY

E.1. The on-going support of the education initiatives will be coordinated through VCEM’s assigned staff. Due to the importance of manatee education initiatives, governmental coordination and implementation of all MPP components it is recommended that a position be created and funded. Interns, with close guidance of assigned staff, will be responsible for helping with the execution of the education portion of the plan. In addition, volunteers are available. (Short Term)

Council approved the position 9/7/2000. We have an active college intern and volunteer program. In addition, two contract service employees have been hired to expedite the implementation of Phase I provisions. There are also two contract service employees working on estuarine restoration. See:

VCEM, VCPLIPAD

22

http://www.volusiamanatees.org and http://www.volusiaestuaries.org

E.2. A. Manatee education brochures will be developed and distributed with all new boat registrations. (Near Term) B. Floatable manatee-shaped key chains to be distributed with all new boat registrations. These key chains would show the 1-888-404-FWCC phone number that should be called if a dead, injured, orphaned or harassed manatee is observed. C. Manatee informational stickers (decals) should be created and distributed to all rental vessels. A manatee briefing checklist should be developed, which would be signed by both the rental operator and the renter before a vessel is allowed to be operated. D. Environmental Management will contact Seminole and Lake counties and offer to supply an original of the manatee information distributed to boater registrations in Volusia County.

A. A survey is being developed to direct the most effective strategy for manatee education for the public. B. Floatable keychains have been given to boat rental firms. C. Decals have been given to all boat rental and marine related businesses. Checklist not yet implemented. D. Not yet implemented.

A. FIND B. VCEM C. FWCC D.

E.3. Manatee educational brochures should be developed and distributed to residents. (Short Term)

A survey is being developed to direct the most effective strategy for manatee education for the public. In the past, the EnviroNet Manatee Newsletter has been distributed to all marine businesses, public libraries, county, state and national parks, as well as at festivals and other public events. Now, in lieu of hardcopy editions of the EnviroNet newsletter VCEM distributes timely environmental information through its listserv. To sign up: http://volusia.org/environmental/listserv.htm Educational brochures involving manatee habitat protection

FWCC, VCEM, VCPLIPAD

23

on Estuaries, Oysters, Brazilian pepper and Australian pine have been created and printed. Two more brochures have been planned, one of which will be on Mangroves.

E.4. Boating education courses should be developed and include the following information: how to identify manatees in the water, manatee habitat areas, how to reduce the impact of boating on the environment, marine debris, the law against disturbing manatees, and how to report a dead, injured, orphaned or harassed manatee. B. A video or slide show along with an educator’s guide would be used to convey this information. (USCG Auxiliary and the US Power Squadron) (Near Term)

The Sheriff’s Marine Unit officers give presentations at boating education classes given by both the USCG Auxiliary and the U.S. Power Squadron - For Boat Smart see: http://www.dbsps.org/boat_smart.htm This educational material includes extensive information on manatee speed zones and manatee awareness while boating. The Sheriff’s Marine Unit, and many of the coastal cities’ marine units hand out manatee educational brochures when issuing warnings and citations. B. Two videos have been produced by the FWC, A Closer Look at Manatees and The State of Manatees, which VCEM uses as educational tools.

Volusia County Sheriff’s Marine Unit

E.5. A. A series of public service announcements on manatee education have already been developed by the Save the Manatee Club, FDEP, and Duval County, and could be utilized by Volusia County to educate the public. B. A series of slides for movie theater previews would be another outlet for conveying manatee and safe boating information. (Short Term)

A. We have the PSA’s from the SMC, but they have not yet been aired. B. Not yet implemented.

A. SMC

E.6. At high use ramps and/or key manatee areas visited by the public (areas with high manatee presence), a covered

Kiosks are maintained at County boat ramps and they all have

VCLS, VCEM

24

kiosk with a graphic illustration of manatee awareness information will be established. (Long Term)

manatee awareness information.

E.7. The County will coordinate with the organizers of fishing tournaments to provide the participants with information regarding manatees (Short Term)

VCEM provides educational materials at fishing tournaments. Mini-monofilament recycling containers are handed out to fishers at events.

VCEM

E.8. A. Signs will be developed, with the assistance of Volusia County’s GIS department, that contain a map illustrating a particular ramp’s location in relation to relative speed zones. The map will include a five mile sphere of influence for each ramp. The signs will be visible from boat ramp lanes. (Near Term) B. Volusia County will identify those ramps and marinas that do not display education materials and coordinate the effort to have the signs posted. (Short Term)

A. Funding for this is being actively pursued. B. All county ramps display educational material and a survey is planned for municipal, and private marinas and ramps. This is an ongoing activity.

A. B. VCEM

E.9. Incentives should be established to encourage marinas to display manatee brochures and information. Special displays should be designed to specifically promote manatee information. (Short Term)

Special countertop display holders for the EnviroNet Manatee Newsletter and the decals have been provided to all marinas.

VCEM

E.10. A Traveler’s Information Manatee Alert (30 second broadcast) will be developed and included in NOAA weather radio weather advisories for boaters. This should provide basic information for non-resident boaters to alert them that manatees are in the area, to watch for marked manatee protection boat speed zones, and what to do if a manatee is seen injured, harassed, or killed. (Short Term)

This was investigated and NOAA had no interest in doing it at this time.

E.11. An interactive manatee educational computer program should be developed for various age levels and distributed to schools. This program would include information on manatee habitat and biology, and the rules about not disturbing manatees. (Long Term)

Interactive manatee displays have been created for the Lyonia Environmental Center at Lyonia Preserve, set to open in October 2009.

E.12. A. Volusia County has an established Internet home page, which includes Environmental Management’s home

A. Most of this information and more is available on the VCEM website:

A., B. VCEM

25

page. Manatee information which can be accessed by the public will be added to these systems. Information would include, but not be limited to: manatee habitat, manatee speed zones, manatee migratory patterns, special events, lectures, current manatee information (Blue Spring counts, etc.), sources of additional manatee information and brochures, and prop guard information. (Short Term) B. The Internet page would provide links to other sites containing manatee information, such as Save the Manatee Club’s site and DEP’s Web site.

www.volusiamanatees.org B. Links to SMC at: www.savethemanatee.org/ and DEP at: www.dep.state.fl.us/ as well as many other sites, including the FWC at: http://www.myfwc.com/ have been provided. The Volusia County Water Atlas website is up and running, and will house water quality, and other related data.

E.13. Monofilament Line Recycling Program. To create incentives for increased clean-up and recycling of monofilament, receptacles should be placed at high-use boat ramps. Partnerships with service groups could be utilized to maintain receptacles, collect the line, and return it to the line manufacturers. (Near Term)

This is an on-going project. As of the end of 2007 there are 72 recycling bins installed and a volunteer network to empty them is in place. More businesses have been recruited to collect the line, and ship it back to the manufacturer. We will be building more bins for future sites. See: http://volusia.org/environmental/environet/monofilament_line_recycling.htm VCEM is also part of the statewide Monofilament Recovery and Recycling Working Group, and contributes to their website: www.fishinglinerecycling.org/index.asp

VCEM

E.14. SMC has developed an educational sign that warns against the dangers of feeding and watering manatees and explains the legality of such actions. SMC has provided signs to Volusia County to be placed at high interaction areas. (Short Term)

This has been implemented in identified problem areas, and will be an ongoing project. The FWC also has developed a similar signwarning against manatee harassment, which has been placed at the Mary

SMC, VCEM

26

McCleod Bethune Park riverside. See: http://myfwc.com/manatee/signs/PermanentManateeSigns_2007.pdf

E.15. A. Manatee educational curriculum should be made available to compulsory schools (K-12) and adult education programs (such as DBCC). B. Volusia County will be responsible for providing balanced packets of information which describe all threats to the manatee. This packet may include that fact sheet to be developed by the County, as well as information from other interested groups. (Short Term)

A. A manatee education curriculum that is consistent with Florida Sunshine State Standards is currently being developed; finished activities are available on the VCEM website, with more to follow. See: http://www.volusiamanatees.org/education.htm In addition, VCEM provides manatee education programs with speakers, videos, literature, etc. to schools, clubs, groups, and organizations upon request. We also attend and provide displays at festivals, special events, etc. B. Not yet implemented.

A. VCEM

E.16. It is recommended that the State of Florida develop enhancements to the existing mandatory education programs for boat operators under 16 years of age and for boating regulation violators. These enhancements should include manatee and habitat information, safe boat operation, rules of the road, basic navigation, and the effects of such boating operations as prop scarring and fuel discharges. Provided through the existing programs provided by the U.S. Power Squadron and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. (Near Term)

A Boater Education Identification Card may be obtained by taking a course approved by the FWC and the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, and is a requirement for boaters under 16 years of age. FWC offers a “How to Boat Smart” correspondence course See: http://www.boat-ed.com/fl/fl_internet.htm or the on-line version at: http://www.boat-ed.com/fl/index.htm and also “The Boater 101 Program” See: http://www.boater101.com/

FWC

27

which is an interactive online program for teachers and youth.

E.17. Volusia County should establish a bi-annual effort for cleaning up abandoned traps and nets on both the SJR and ICW. This program would require coordination from the FWCC, Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, Volusia County Environmental Management, and the Enviro-Net program. Volunteers should be recruited to participate in this effort. This effort could also be coordinated with the Center for Marine Conservation’s (now the Ocean Conservancy) annual coastal clean-up. (Near Term)

In the recent past it has been illegal for unauthorized persons to tamper with or remove traps or trap lines, even if deemed abandoned. A new rule has been implemented (Chapter 68B-55.001 FAC) that allows pulling traps under very specific conditions and with an approved removal plan. A rotating closure rule for the state has been passed, it identifies closure dates for each area. A derelict crab trap cleanup was conducted June 19, 2006. 75 derelict traps were identified by aerial survey, and 75 traps were retrieved. VCEM staff is part of the State Entanglement Working Group and has participated in past crab trap clean-ups in the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.

VCEM, VCPLIPAD

E.18. “Please Watch for Manatees” signs are provided free of charge by SMC. Volusia County Environmental Management will bring a supply of the signs, when available from SMC, to the County for distribution. This service would be provided as a courtesy to private residents. (Short Term)

This has been implemented, and is an ongoing project. See: http://www.savethemanatee.org/boatertips_public_awareness_sign.htm

SMC, VCEM

E.19. Aquatic Plant Control. Volusia County should disseminate information to all waterfront property owners in existing County database regarding the following: 1. The dangers and risks of spraying yards. 2. The dangers and risks of spraying for exotic plants. 3. The potential for using

The Florida Yards & Neighborhoods Program disseminates such information through lectures, classes, news articles, letters, and the IFAS website at:

IFAS, VCEM

28

mechanical means to control aquatic plants. 4. The value of replanting with native species.

http://ifas.ufl.edu/ and also the Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants website at: http://aquat1.ifas.ufl.edu/ . Native plant information can also be found on the VCEM website at: www.echotourism.com/arboretum/default.htm This information is available to all Volusia County residents, including waterfront property owners.

E.20. Volusia County should disseminate information to marina owners on the proper use of cleaning agents and other chemicals used by the boating industry.

This is being implemented through the “Clean Marina” program. See: http://www.dep.state.fl.us/cleanmarina/ Also, literature disseminated with the Bilge Sock Distribution Program See: http://volusia.org/environmental/environet/bilge_socks.htm includes the “Clean Boating Habits” booklet, the “Clean Vessel Act” brochure See: http://www.dep.state.fl.us/law/grants/cva/ A Clean Boater pledge card and decal, and two brochures on monofilament recycling.

FDEP, VCPLIPAD, VCEM

E.21. Boat Speed Definitions. The County will include and disseminate these definitions with all appropriate boater education materials.

This information is available on the Manatee Protection Program website at: http://www.volusiamanatees.org/caqfwc05.pdf and the FWC website at: http://myfwc.com/manatee/data/mapref.htm Manatee speed zones are also

FIND

29

included in Phase II of the MPP for Volusia County and available at: http://www.volusiamanatees.org/speedzones.htm

E.22. Volusia County will develop a manatee fact-sheet. It should discuss and place in context all threats to manatees and be widely disseminated to the public.

This fact sheet is the insert in the EnviroNet Manatee Newsletter, which is being distributed on an on-going basis. There is also a manatee mortality facts webpage on the county website at: http://volusia.org/environmental/natural_resources/manatees/faq_mant.htm

FWC

E.23. Boater Handbooks. The County will disseminate these to boaters with boat registrations.

The FIND boater’s handbooks have been available at Tag and Title offices in the county. However, since new federal speed zones have been implemented in part of the county a new handbook will need to be created.

FIND, VCEM

F. RESEARCH Purpose Statement: The purpose of the Research section is to identify, collect, assimilate, and analyze data among all of the agencies/organizations collecting data on manatees, in order to make informed management decisions regarding manatee protection within Volusia County. This involves identifying areas where data is missing, and developing programs to obtain this data.

30

PROVISION ACTION FUNDED BY F.1. A. While research by FWCC/FMRI into the causes of high perinatal mortality among manatees is ongoing, Volusia County recommends that these efforts be increased. B. Additional research by FDEP should also address hormone disrupting chemicals and their origins.

A. B. FWS has identified this issue in their Manatee Recovery Plan. VCEM has completed a sediment study in areas of high perinatal mortality, which investigates the possible presence of toxins. The study conclusion was that the available information did not support a conclusion that chemical contaminants are contributing to perinatal mortality within the County, however this possibility cannot be ruled out. Currently no known research is being done by FWC/FWRI or FDEP on hormone disruptors, and their influence on marine mammals.

VCEM, VCPLIPAD .

F.1.2. VCEMS will coordinate with the SJRWMD to develop a comprehensive water quality data analysis and reporting program.

This is an ongoing project that has been addressed through the Storet program and the VCEM Health Lab. See: www.volusiahealth.net/lab/ Water quality data can be viewed at: http://www.volusiahealth.net/lab/water_quality.htm and is available on the Water Atlas website at: http://www.wateratlas.org

SJRWMD, VCEM

F.2. A. Additional research by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission on manatee use patterns in Volusia County should be conducted. B. VCEMS will coordinate with U.S.G.S. on this research and will provide resources (staff, volunteers, boats, etc.) to assist in this endeavor.

A. FWC has flown aerial transect surveys of the H/IR, looking at manatee distribution. These were completed in 2004. The specific purpose of a new citizen volunteer program called Manatee Watch is to

FWC, USGS, VCEM

31

document and report manatee presence in Volusia waters. The Manatee Watch program has been in place since 2005. In 2007 there were 66 trained volunteers, who sent in 107 reports concerning 220 manatees. See: http://volusia.org/environmental/natural_resources/manatees/watch.htm B. Manatee Watch is a cooperative project that shares data with the USGS/Sirenia MIPS program. See: http://cars.er.usgs.gov/Manatees/Manatee_Sirenia_Project/manatee_sirenia_project.html

F.3. The boating activity study completed for this report should be repeated every five years on a smaller scale. It could be updated by flying two aerial survey flights in the summer and two flights in the winter, with one being a holiday and the other a normal weekend day; completing the marina inventory in the summer (could be done over the telephone); and the boat ramp census in the summer and winter (one weekend day and one weekday).

A boating activity study update on marina/boat ramp inventory was completed. It was deemed that a more thorough (on the ground) marina/ramp inventory would be more accurate than phone calls. See: www.volusia.org/environmental/natural_resources/manatees/phaseII/default.htm The next update is scheduled for 2008/2009, as funding allows.

VCEM

F.4. Volusia County will coordinate with FWCC and other interested parties in designing and implementing a speed zone compliance study to determine the effectiveness of current speed zones. The group eventually identified to conduct this study will be agreed upon by all parties.

The FWCC Law Enforcement Division keeps compliance records that VCEM has access to. Shapiro (2001) also conducted an enforcement study in New Smyrna Beach in which compliance ranged

FWC, FDEP

32

between 51-89%, dependent upon law enforcement presence. (NSB had the highest rate of compliance in the study.) This is an ongoing project. Under State Statute 370.1202(3) the FWC will be conducting compliance studies at designated locations throughout the state.

F.5. If funding becomes available, research should be conducted by involved agencies on the economic impact of manatee protection.

Not yet implemented.

F.6. In order to better understand the range of threats to manatees, the scientific community should continue to collect data on environmental stressors which may affect manatee health.

FWCC/FMRI, USGS, USFWS as well as other groups and agencies continue to study this issue.

FWC/FMRI, USGS, USFWS

G. GOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION Purpose Statement: The purpose of the Governmental Coordination section is to coordinate all of the agencies and organizations collecting data and managing programs on manatees, at the Federal and state levels, as well as at the County level, to open lines of communication, and to engage in meaningful dialogue, in order to make informed management decisions regarding manatee protection in Volusia County.

G.1. Volusia County shall establish a reporting mechanism whereby FMRI will send the County mortality summaries and rescue reports for each quarter beginning in 1998.

This has been implemented. FWRI maintains a list-serve that alerts subscribers to current updates on

FWRI

33

manatee mortalities, as well as red tide events, and news of importance. The manatee mortality statistics are available on the FWRI website. See: www.research.myfwc.com/features/category_sub.asp?id=2241

G.2. Volusia County shall establish a reporting mechanism with the rangers at Blue Spring State Park to provide the County with Blue Spring manatee counts on a monthly basis. This shall take place during the months when manatees are congregating at the Spring, beginning in ___?____.

Blue Spring maintains yearly counts, as well as a register of specific animals. VCEM records annual numbers and informal monthly updates are communicated. This is an ongoing project.

VCEM

G.3. A. Volusia County shall request additional data and input from USFWS, FWCC/FMRI and BPSM as necessary. B. Volusia County will request that VCEMS be notified whenever any one of the above agencies are planning on conducting any manatee research in the County. This will allow VCEMS to provide additional manpower, if available, to assist in the research efforts.

A. This has been implemented, and is an ongoing effort. B. This is an ongoing effort.

A. B. VCEM and appropriate agency

G.4. The final draft of the MPP shall be reviewed to ensure that it is consistent with Volusia County’s Comprehensive Plan and vice-versa in order to ensure full implementation.

A review has been conducted and adoption into the Comprehensive Plan is required by law. VCEM worked with the Planning Department to make the needed changes to the County Comprehensive Plan, and they have been approved by DCA. The MPP for Volusia County was approved by the FWC and FWS on October 19. 2005. See: http://www.volusiamanatees.org/mpp.htm

VCPD, VCEM

34

G.5. Annually, Volusia County will convene a meeting with the appropriate programs to share information and concerns and develop action items for the coming year. Preliminary groups include: VCEMS, FWCC/FMRI and BPSM, USFWS, and the Sirenia Project. All interested groups will receive invitations and the meeting will be noticed as a public meeting.

VCEM participates in a state interagency working group dedicated to facilitating manatee recovery in Florida. The group is organized under the FWC, with staff members of ISM, FWRI, FWS, USGS, DEP, and other local governments attending.

G.6. Volusia County shall establish a formal communication link with Tomoka Geo-Park to exchange data of manatee use in the Park as well as the Tomoka River. The exact form of this communication link will be developed by the County and the Park rangers.

Links to the park have been established, and anecdotal manatee sightings are communicated. The type of formal data that can been transmitted is currently being considered. Manatee Watch volunteers also collect sighting data within the park. See: http://www.volusiamanatees.org/watch.htm

VCEM, Tomoka GeoPark

G.7. A. Volusia County will contact each municipality to request that an individual be assigned to the position of liaison for manatee-related issues. B. The County will periodically request time on commission agendas to update the municipalities about the status of manatee protection measures in Volusia County and around the state.

A. VCEM has contacts that handle manatee permitting issues within each city, however formal liaison positions have not been created by the cities. B. VCEM meets periodically with all concerned cities, and several MPP workshops for city staff have been held. A dock permitting workshop was held in May 2006. City Managers/Mayors are updated as needed on current manatee issues, at their monthly meetings. VCEM staff attends City Commission meetings when requested.

A. B. VCEM

35

G.8. Volusia County will work together with the waterfront cities on water quality issues, including sharing of data gathered from the County’s water sampling program.

This was addressed in part through the Bilge Sock Distribution Program, which has helped to improve water quality, and which also provides water quality educational literature. See: www.volusia.org/environmental/environet/bilge_socks.htm Good water quality is also a goal of the Clean Marina/Clean Vessel Act programs. See: http://www.volusia.org/environmental/natural_resources/manatees/Clean%20Marina%20&%20Vessel.pdf Other water quality issues may be addressed through the county Estuarine Restoration Program. See: http://www.volusiaestuaries.org Water quality data is available through the VCEM Health Lab and through the VCEM Health Lab website. See: www.volusiahealth.net/lab .

VCEM

G.9. VCEMS will contact the Volusia County School Board to discuss the feasibility of a public school manatee information coordinator to assist with distribution of educational materials.

The Volusia County School Board, with input from VCEM, has appointed a Teacher on Assignment for Environmental Education that has assisted with the development of a manatee curriculum and with the distribution of manatee educational material. The manatee education curriculum is consistent with Florida Sunshine State

36

* D.1. Indian River Lagoon Comprehensive Conservation & Management Plan Background Information D.1. Volusia County has assisted and supported the efforts of the Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program (IRLNEP) in defining objectives on maintaining the quality of the Indian River through collaborating with them on water quality monitoring programs and providing technical support and review during the development of their management plan. IRLNEP has existed for five years and has done extensive research in regards to the preservation and conservation of the Lagoon. IRLNEP has produced the final draft of the Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (IRLCCMP) that outlines various objectives for habitat protection in the Lagoon. Volusia County EMS is one of the reviewers of this document, and has been involved in the development process from the beginning. The final draft of the IRLCCMP has been approved by Governor Chiles and Carol Browner, the EPA Administrator, and has been endorsed by the Volusia County Council. The Volusia County Council supports the habitat recommendations for the North Indian River, that area of the river from Ponce Inlet south to the Brevard/Volusia County line. In addition, some of the CCMP action plans, such as the management of septic tanks, can be applied to all waters of the County and should be analyzed for inclusion to all water bodies. The IRLCCMP includes Action Plans which address the following issues: A. Water and Sediment Quality - Point Source Discharges-Objective: To ensure compliance with the Indian River Lagoon Act and to reduce or eliminate,

where possible, industrial wastewater discharges to the IRL.

Standards, which will allow teachers to incorporate it into their lesson plans.

G.10. Incorporate USGS telemetry data which the County has formally requested from the Sirenia Project into the Manatee Protection Plan.

The data has been incorporated by reference into Phase II (marina siting) of the MPP which is available at: http://www.volusia.org/environmental/natural_resources/manatees/phaseII/default.htm

USGS/Sirenia, VCEM

37

- On-Site Sewage Disposal-Objective: Determine the impacts of on-site sewage disposal on the resources of the Indian River Lagoon, and to develop and implement strategies to address these impacts.

- Fresh & Stormwater Discharges-Objective: To develop and implement strategies to address the impacts of freshwater and storm-water discharges on the resources of the Indian River Lagoon.

- Marina & Boat Impacts-Objective: To engage the boating public and marine industry as active participants in the protection and restoration of the resources of the Indian River Lagoon.

B. Biodiversity Preservation & Restoration - Biodiversity Research & Management-Objective: Develop and implement a coordinated research and management strategy

to preserve, protect, and restore biodiversity in the Indian River Lagoon. - Seagrass Restoration-Objective: To protect and restore seagrass integrity and function in the Indian River Lagoon by

attaining and maintaining water quality capable of supporting a healthy submerged aquatic vegetation community to a depth of 1.7 meters

- Wetlands-Objective: Preserve, protect, restore and enhance the wetland resources of the Indian River Lagoon Region. - Impounded Marsh Restoration & Management-Objective: Restore the functions of marshes impounded for mosquito control

purposes. - Land Acquisition-Objective: Develop and implement a coordinated strategy to protect environmentally endangered habitats

within the Indian River basin through acquisitions. - Endangered & Threatened Species-Objective: Protect endangered and threatened mammals, birds, fish, reptiles,

amphibians, and invertebrates of the Indian River Lagoon. - Fisheries-Objective: Conserve and protect fin and shell fisheries of the Indian River Lagoon. C. Public and Government Support and Involvement - Public Governmental Support & Involvement-Objective: Facilitate implementation of the Indian River Lagoon CCMP through

public involvement and education. - Future IRLCCMP Implementation-Objective: Establish a modified management structure that will oversee the implementation

of the Indian River Lagoon Comprehensive Conservation Management Plan and provide for an organization to support the activities of the modified management conference.

- Data & Information Management Strategy-Objective: Develop and implement a strategy to coordinate the management and dissemination of data and information concerning the Indian River Lagoon.

- Monitoring-Objective: To develop and maintain a monitoring network which will provide adequate and reliable data and information on water quality, sediment quality, and the biological resources of the Indian River Lagoon on which management decisions may be based.

38

Phase II BACKGROUND Phase II of the Manatee Protection Plan for Volusia County (MPP) is the Boat Facility Siting Plan. The goal of Phase II is to provide direction to those wishing to expand or construct new marine facilities, to decrease the potential direct impact to manatees through watercraft collisions, and to minimize potential indirect impacts to manatees and their habitat. The primary method for determining boat facility placement is the use of area specific slip-to-shoreline ratios established by a criteria-based evaluation of the manatee data and manatee habitat, by state and federal agencies. Another essential part of Phase II is the funding mechanism incorporated within the plan, which provides for increased on-the-water enforcement of manatee speed zones. The boat facility siting plan also includes site specific criteria such as water depth, water quality, presence of submerged aquatic vegetation, zoning and land use policies, etc. Guidelines for best management practices are also included as recommendations for facility structure and management. These provisions utilized together result in a dock density that is appropriate for Volusia County. CITY PARTICIPATION Volusia County is essentially surrounded by water, with the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway on the east side of the county, and the St. Johns River on the west side. These waterbodies, and all lakes, and tributaries connected to these primary waterways, which are traversable by manatees have been included in the Manatee Protection Plan (MPP), and are covered by the provisions of the plan. On the coastal side of the county there are ten existing municipalities with shoreline that would be affected by the provisions of the plan, and on the west side there are two such municipalities. Coastal Volusia

City of Ormond Beach City of Holly Hill City of Daytona Beach City of Daytona Beach Shores City of South Daytona City of Port Orange Town of Ponce Inlet City of New Smyrna Beach City of Edgewater City of Oak Hill

39

West Volusia City of DeBary City of Deltona

Under the MPP Phase II provisions cities and municipalities bordering waterways along the coastal side of the County have three options that relate to boat facility siting. Those cities may: 1) Adopt Phase II provisions as written, referred to as the “as is” option,

2) Adopt a city specific refinement to Phase II’s provisions referred to as the “slip aggregation” option, or 3) Take no action.

Unincorporated county lands, and cities bordering the St. Johns River have two options: 1) Adopt Phase II provisions as written, referred to as the “as is” option, or

2) Take no action. The option for slip aggregation does not apply to the west side municipalities, or to unincorporated county lands. Since the MPP is a county specific document, and applies to unincorporated Volusia County, adoption by the cities of either the “as is” option or the “slip aggregation” option is necessary in order to include that city under the MPP, and allow permitting to be regulated by the Phase II provisions. A decision by an affected city to take no action could result in impediments in the boat facility permitting process within that city. Currently only one city, Ormond Beach, has decided to adopt the “as is” option as outlined in Phase II of the MPP. All of the other coastal cities have opted for the “slip aggregation” method, and all have endorsed the MPP and adopted resolutions to that effect. The unincorporated county, and cities with lands bordering the St. Johns River, are required by the MPP, to utilize the “as is” method if they decide to endorse the MPP provisions. Both DeBary and Deltona, the only two cities bordering the St. Johns River, have endorsed the MPP and adopted the “as is” method through resolutions of support. Another MPP requirement of Phase II is the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with each participating city in order to outline the responsibilities of both the county and the city, and to detail the process for the permitting of boat facilities. All of the affected cities have executed MOU’s with the county. SLIP ALLOCATIONS All the cities that opted for the “slip aggregation” method have slip pools that were agreed upon both by the cities and the FWC. The slip pools were derived from a formula that started with the measurement of shoreline within each city jurisdiction, and the calculation of the possible number of slips for each city, as per the MPP. Then all existing wet slips, dry slips, and boat trailer spaces were deducted, and all single family residential parcels were deducted. The remaining number of slips were then placed in a “slip pool” from which the respective cities could allocate slips to marine facilities. In 2008 slip deductions from city slip pools were allocated for four facilities within the

40

county, and Letters of Compliance were issued. These included: Gateway Daytona, 172; Down the Hatch, Inc., 10; Pacetta, LLC, 16; and Waterway East, Inc., 6. LAW ENFORCEMENT An important premise of the MPP is that in order to sustain a healthy, viable manatee population within the context of a growing county, additional on-the-water enforcement is necessary. The boat facility siting component of the MPP provides a mechanism for funding this additional enforcement through the collection of a manatee mitigation fee. All applicants with new or expanding boat facilities must pay a one-time mitigation fee for each new: boat slip, ramp parking space, and/or dry storage space. The fees are deposited into a dedicated, interest bearing account named the Manatee Conservation Fund (MCF.) The Volusia County Manatee Protection Program administers the MCF, with the majority of the funds being disbursed as grants to on-the-water law enforcement units. The MCF is designed so that the first $500,000 collected may be used in its entirety for enforcement, and manatee conservation and education purposes. Once the $500,000 dollar threshold has been reached, thereafter the County of Volusia will only utilize/disburse the interest accrued on the fund account. Seventy five percent of the funding is reserved for law enforcement, and is awarded through grants to the County Sheriff’s Marine Unit as well as participating cities. The funding is used for increased enforcement of manatee speed zones by marine law enforcement units, additional equipment for on-the-water law enforcement efforts, and enforcement related education programs. Twenty five percent of the MCF is reserved for manatee conservation efforts, and education and awareness programs, which are administered by the County Manatee Protection Program. There were no expenditures of MCF dollars in fiscal years 2006-2007 or 2007-2008. In fiscal year 2008-2009 funding in the amount of $86, 901. has been allocated for the completion of the interactive manatee display at the new Lyonia Environmental Center. All new or expanded boat facilities pay a one-time manatee mitigation fee, which ranges from $250 for single family residential boat docks, to $1,000 per wet slip, dry storage space, or ramp parking space for all other types of facilities. While various factors including watercraft related manatee mortality may necessitate changes in mitigation fees, which the Volusia County Council reserves the right to raise as it sees fit, for the first five years of the plan the mitigation fees and planning zone descriptions shall remain fixed. MCF grant funding to the Sheriff’s Marine Unit and the participating cities is determined by percentage, based on linear river miles within each agency’s jurisdiction. The following table shows the law enforcement funding distribution for 2008.

41

Percentage of Enforcement Funding Available to Each Participating City

2008 Available

Enforcement % of Funds River Miles Funds EAST SIDE Ormond Beach $192,218.05 4.00% $7,688.72 Holly Hill $192,218.05 1.40% $2,691.05 Daytona Beach $192,218.05 4.10% $7,880.94 South Daytona $192,218.05 1.50% $2,883.27 Port Orange $192,218.05 1.60% $3,075.49 Daytona Beach Shores $192,218.05 0.30% $576.65 Ponce Inlet $192,218.05 2.30% $4,421.02 New Smyrna Beach $192,218.05 3.30% $6,343.20 Edgewater $192,218.05 2.70% $5,189.89 Oak Hill $192,218.05 1.90% $3,652.14 WEST SIDE DeBary $192,218.05 5.50% $10,571.99 Deltona $192,218.05 0.30% $576.65 SUBTOTAL $55,551.02 County Marine Unit $192,218.05 71.10% $136,667.03 TOTAL $192,218.05 All of the participating cities qualified for the MCF grant in 2008 (must have a signed MOU with the county.) Seven of the cities, and the Sheriff’s Marine Unit applied for the MCF grant, and subsequently received funding. They were: City of Daytona Beach - $7,755.99 City of South Daytona - $2,883.27 City of Port Orange - $3,072.30 Town of Ponce Inlet - $4,421.00 City of New Smyrna Beach - $6,300.00 City of Edgewater - $5,189.89 City of Deltona - $576.65 Sheriff’s Marine Unit - $136,609.00

42

It should be noted that the cities of Port Orange, Ponce Inlet, and New Smyrna Beach have formed a cooperative on-the-water enforcement patrol, sharing jurisdiction, and leveraging their combined funding to create consistent and more even law enforcement coverage in this very active boating area at, and adjacent to Ponce Inlet. Their collective efforts have allowed them to increase their law enforcement presence during periods of high boating activity within this area. And, the sharing of equipment has maximized their MCF dollars. The City of Port Orange used their funding for on-the-water enforcement overtime hours in 2008-2009. Their officers logged 101.5 hours of overtime, made 46 public relations contacts, distributed 35 Manatee Awareness and Protection Pamphlets and 35 laminated “Mind Your Waterways Signs” cards. They issued two citations and one written warning for speeding in a manatee slow speed zone. Because of the increased visibility of law enforcement there were a minimal number of citations issued, and those that were issued were for blatant violations of manatee speed zones. The Town of Ponce Inlet utilized their funding for on-the-water officer overtime hours, to purchase 10 gallons of outboard motor oil and 100 gallons of fuel. Their officers logged 146 overtime hours, had 56 personal contacts, they issued 16 citations (including written warnings) for violations of manatee speed zones, and distributed literature on manatee protection, as well as boating safety. Voluntary compliance was the goal of their mission and their personal contacts with the boating public provided positive reinforcement of manatee speed zone laws, and also boater awareness of manatees while on the water. The City of New Smyrna Beach used their MCF grant funding for officer on-the-water overtime hours. Their officers logged 327.5 hours of overtime, issued 50 citations, and distributed the “Mind Your Waterways Signs” laminated cards. New Smyrna Beach has been able to train additional officers this year, and they currently have two trained crewmembers and 12 certified operators for Marine Patrol Duty. The City of Edgewater utilized their MCF grant funds to provide for officer on-the-water overtime hours, 210 gallons of fuel for their vessel, and for printing costs for the manatee awareness and protection pamphlets. They logged over 120 on-the-water overtime hours, had 104 personal contacts, which were given verbal manatee zone warnings and educational pamphlets, and 29 were given written citations. In combination with the officer contacts and Citizens Assisting Police (CAPs) a total of 872 educational pamphlets were distributed. There were also 34 manatees sighted during this period. The City of Daytona Beach was focused this year on acquiring the necessary equipment to conduct on-the-water enforcement of manatee speed zones in an efficient manner. They utilized their MCF funding to purchase a GPS unit, two binoculars, a marine radar unit, four pfd’s and four sets of raingear, an electronic pilot cover, web gear and dry bags, and fuel/oil. They logged 353 hours, made 84 educational contacts, distributed 190 educational fliers, did 144 vessel and safety checks, and issued 50

43

citations. In addition to the scheduled patrols they also hosted two Special Operations events targeting violators in manatee speed zones. The City of South Daytona utilized their 2008-2009 funding for on-the-water officer overtime hours, and for fuel and oil. They logged over 87 on-the-water hours, made 31 public relations contacts, distributed 27 manatee educational pamphlets, issued 13 written warnings and 3 citations, gave six boating safety exams, and responded to one vessel in distress. The increased visibility of law enforcement in their area helped contributed to a lower number of violations in the manatee speed zones. The City of Deltona is concerned about providing their residents, and visitors to the St. Johns River and Lake Monroe with information on manatee presence in the river and particularly near their boat ramp on Lake Monroe. Their goal was to ensure that their citizenry was aware of manatee habitat, and how to operate a vessel safely within that habitat. This year they used their MCF funding to place two large (two feet by three feet) manatee awareness signs “Protecting the Gentle Giant” and “The Florida Manatee” at their boat ramp on Lake Monroe. They feel that with appreciation for their history and location on the St. Johns River they can educate the public and ensure a sustainable future through the careful stewardship of their resources. The Volusia County Sheriff’s Marine Unit utilized their grant funding for on-the-water overtime hours, fuel and oil, a twin engine Mercury boat motor, a single engine Evinrude boat motor, and printing costs for 1,000 educational fliers, and 10 manatee signs. The twin engine motor was needed to enable the use of a large 30 foot vessel that is used in rough seas, and the Evinrude motor was needed as a replacement motor for a vessel used primarily on the St. Johns River in the Blue Spring area. The Marine Unit had anticipated 1,372 hours of on-the-water overtime, but actually logged 1,383.5 overtime hours, they issued 334 citations, and 658 warnings. In addition, 1,030 manatee awareness and safety pamphlets were distributed. The Sheriff’s Marine Unit assisted with several manatee and dolphin rescues this year, one was a stranded female manatee at Disappearing Island, another was reported as a manatee in distress, but turned out to be a dolphin in the St. Johns River that was subsequently captured. Another assist was given in the rescue of an injured dolphin in the New Smyrna Beach area. The Marine Unit also assisted with the release of two rehabilitated manatees at Blue Spring. Additionally, they participated in a crab trap cleanup in the Indian River Lagoon. The North East Law Enforcement Maritime Alliance continues to meet on a monthly basis. This group is comprised of officers representing law enforcement and other entities within the central northeast region of the state. Represented are the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the National Park Service, Division of Homeland Security, North Florida High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, National Insurance Crime Bureau, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency, Florida Division of Law Enforcement, Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, Volusia County Environmental Management, Brevard County Sheriff’s

44

Office, Seminole County Sheriff’s Office, Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, City of Daytona Beach Police Department, Town of Ponce Inlet Police Department, City of New Smyrna Beach Police Department, City of Edgewater Police Department, City of South Daytona Police Department, and the Marine Industry Association of Central Florida. The formation of this group has led to much greater cooperation between law enforcement agencies, and has introduced more integrated strategies for many marine related situations, including manatee speed zone enforcement. Other environmental violations, such as marine sanitation device (MSD) lock-down regulations, have also been increasingly addressed. This year alone the County Marine Unit was able to reduce a non-compliance rate of 60% for MSD restrictions in manatee zones by half, to 30%. Environmental Management staff continue to attend the monthly meetings as this provides an excellent vehicle for disseminating information on manatee boat related mortality and existing or potential “hot spots”, and results in effective directed patrols in these areas. MORTALITY The Florida Wildlife Research Institute, which is the research branch of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), maintains an on-line manatee mortality database. This database indicates that in 2008 there were a total of 26 manatee mortalities in Volusia County. This total includes all categories of mortality, human related as well as deaths from natural causes. Of the 26 manatee deaths, seven were due to watercraft strikes, which would include both death from propeller related injuries, and from blunt force trauma resulting from the impact with an engine, prop, boat hull, or other structural part of a boat. Out of the seven watercraft related manatee deaths, five occurred on the coastal side of the county, and two in the St. Johns River system. Coastal deaths were located in the Indian River (1 in June), Indian River North (1 in September), the Halifax River (1 in April), and the Mosquito Lagoon (1 in June and 1 in October). On the west side of the county there were two watercraft related deaths in the St. Johns River (2 in February.) There were 12 mortalities that were listed as perinatal deaths in 2008; the term perinatal refers to the size of the animal rather than a cause of death, and is an animal less than 150 cm (5 ft.) in total length, which was not determined to have died due to human-related causes. All 12 of the deaths occurred on the east side of the county. East coast deaths included Strickland Creek (1 in July), Mosquito Lagoon (1 in March, 1 in May, 1 in August, 1 in September), Halifax River (1 in October), Tomoka Basin (1 in April), Tomoka River (2 in June, 1 in July), Spruce Creek (1 in June), and Strickland Creek (1 in July.) There was one manatee death considered due to natural causes that occurred in the Mosquito Lagoon (1 in July.) There were three deaths listed as undetermined, which means that the cause of death could not be determined. The undetermined deaths

45

occurred in the Halifax River (1 in May), Spruce Creek (1 in April), and in the Mosquito lagoon (1 in June.) There was one death listed as verified, but unrecovered, and that occurred in the Mosquito Lagoon (1 in June.) There was also a death listed as Other Human that occurred in Lake Beresford (1 in July.) This year there was a recorded cold stress death, and that occurred in the Tomoka River (1 in December.) The following charts reflect the manatee mortality in Volusia County for 2008 by mortality category, by location, and by sex.

MANATEE MORTALITY 2008

Natural, 1, 4%

Watercraft , 7, 27%

Gate/Locks, 0, 0%

Perinatal, 12, 45%

Other Human, 1, 4%

Cold Stress, 1, 4%

Undetermined, 3, 12%

Unrecovered, 1, 4%

Watercraft Gate/LocksOther HumanPerinatalCold StressNaturalUndeterminedUnrecovered

46

MORTALITY BY LOCATION 2008

0 2 4 6

St. JohnsRiver

LakeBeresford

TomokaRiver

TomokaBasin

SpruceCreek

StricklandCreek

IndianRiver

HalifaxRiver

MosquitoLagoon

IndianRiver North

LOC

ATI

ON

S

MORTALITIES

UnrecoveredUndeterminedNaturalCold StressPerinatalOther HumanGate/LocksWatercraft

47

MANATEE MORTALITY BY SEX2008

02468

1012

Wat

ercr

aft

Gat

e/Lo

cks

Oth

er H

uman

Per

inat

al

Col

d S

tress

Nat

ural

Und

eter

min

ed

Unr

ecov

ered

MORTALITY CATEGORY

MO

RTA

LITI

ES

MaleFemaleUnknown