Appendix No. 13-a

Manatee Biological Evaluation

Manatee Biological Evaluation The Corps has determined that your project has the potential to affect the endangered West Indian manatee. Therefore, pursuant to Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended, the Corps is required to seek consultation from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for the proposed project. In order to assist us in making our final effect determination, we need you to provide us with information for items 4-7 below: 4. Description of the manner in which the action may affect the manatee or its critical habitat:

a) Habitat. Check those that would apply to within 1-mile of the project site and a brief description. 1) Source of warm water input to the area? No.

2) Source of fresh water input to the area? Yes. Wiggins Pass is a relatively large area

of mangrove swamp with a series of coastal bays connecting the Cocohatchee River to the Gulf of Mexico. The project area includes marine/estuarine environments within Wiggins Pass.

3) Does submerged or emergent aquatic vegetation or mangrove or algae occur within

the footprint of the project and in the area of ingress-egress to the project site? If mangrove or emergent vegetation is present, provide a description, including type and location. For submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV), a survey during the growing season is highly recommended. For estuarine/marine submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV), excluding Johnson’s seagrass, the growing season extends from June 1, to September 30. The growing season for Johnson’s seagrass is from April 1 to August 31. For freshwater SAV, such as Vallisnaria, the growing season varies by location. Check with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for the dates applicable to the area of your project.

No submerged or emergent aquatic vegetation, algae or mangroves occur within the footprint of the project area or in the area of ingress-egress to the project site. However, outside the project footprint, the shallow estuarine waters and the adjacent tidal areas within and adjacent to Wiggins Pass support productive mangrove forests and seagrass beds. Mangrove forests, including red (Rhizophora mangle), black (Avicennia germinans) and white (Laguncularia racemosa), fringe the waterways, while small red mangrove islands dot the estuary. Red and black mangroves dominate those areas which are frequently inundated by normal tidal action while white mangroves and buttonwoods (Conocarpus erectus) are usually found at slightly higher elevations where tidal inundation is less frequent. The mangroves are not located within the project footprint or within the area of ingress-egress to the project site (Figure 1).

Several field investigations over the years conducted by CPE and others (during the seagrass growing season) have revealed scattered seagrass beds within the vicinity

of the project area (see Figure 1). The beds are found in sparse to moderate density. Three species have been observed in the area, including Cuban shoal grass (Halodule wrightii), turtle grass (Thalassia testudinum), and paddle grass (Halophila decipiens), although shoal grass is overwhelmingly the most common species observed. These beds are typically found along the shallow shelf lining the main navigational channel, and within the shallow protected areas fringing the small mangrove islands. The seagrass beds are not located within the project footprint or within the area of ingress-egress to the project site.

4) Are existing depths greater than -3 feet mean low water in the footprint of project and

the surrounding area? Yes.

b) Proposed Facility (if existing facility, show proposed change).

N/A. This project does not include construction of any facility.

c) Project Influence on Vessel Use Patterns. The project's facilities may affect vessel use patterns in the area by attracting transient traffic or causing modification of existing vessel navigation patterns.

N/A. This project does not include construction of any facility.

d) Enforcement Activities. It is important to consider the presence and effectiveness of

ongoing enforcement activities within the action area. 1) Is the project in a State-established manatee speed zone or Federal manatee refuge?

(If not, how close is the nearest speed zone? _____ miles). The project is located in a State-established manatee speed zone which limits boats to slow speed year-round (68C-22.023, F.A.C.).

2) Describe existing enforcement activities regulating speed zones within the action area. Several local and Federal law enforcement agencies can enforce regulatory speed zones in Collier County, including City of Naples Police, Collier County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Coast Guard and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) (Collier County Recreational Boat Traffic Study, April 2010).

5. Relevant reports, including any environmental impact statement, environmental assessment, or biological assessment prepared. Provide any relevant reports prepared for this project. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) issued a draft Biological Opinion in 2010 for the Wiggins Pass maintenance dredging (SAJ-1987-01080 (IP-SJF)) (Appendix 13-a-1). In this draft BO, the USFWS concurs with the Corps’ determination that the project related activities “may affect, but are not likely to adversely affect” the West Indian manatee, providing the project complies with the “Standard Manatee Conditions for In-Water Work”.

6. Any other relevant information available on the action, the manatee and its critical habitat. Provide any other information available that would assist in our review of the effects your

proposal may have on the manatee or its critical habitat, including specific actions you may propose to minimize or eliminate potential effects on the manatee and its critical habitat. Manatees have the potential to occur in Wiggins Pass; however, there is no manatee critical habitat located within the project vicinity. During construction of the proposed project, Collier County will require that the contractor adhere to the “2011 Standard Manatee Conditions for In-Water Work”.

7. A Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Manatee Impact Review. Provide a copy of the review, if applicable or available. There is no FWC Manatee Impact Review available for this project.

Figure 1. Natural resources located inn the vicinityy of Wigginss Pass.

Appendix No. 13-a-1

Draft U.S. Fish and Wildlife Biological Opinion for Wiggins Pass Maintenance Dredging - October 14, 2010

(USACE Application No. SAJ-1987-01080 (IP-SJF))

Appendix No. 13-b

ESA Checklist

Checklist of Information Needed to Complete Section 7 Consultations for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Regulatory Division Applications

Project Specifications:

•Project or name of applicant, Action ID number

•Describe the location of the project site (address and latitude/longitude information). Location data must be given datum (e.g., NAD83) and lat/long format using decimal-degrees (not minutes and seconds): e.g., 27.71622N, 80.25174W. On-line conversion: http://www.fcc.gov/mb/audio/bickel/DDDMMSS-decimal.html

•In which body of water is the project located? If on a river or estuary, state the approximate navigable distance from the bay, ocean, or gulf).

Site Description:

•Describe any existing structures and their use - for instance, acreage of overwater structures, if it's an existing marina, how many boat slips are present and what is their size.

•Is the project location within designated critical habitat?

•If project occurs in critical habitat, are PCEs present?

Print Form

Project: Wiggins Pass Maintenance Dredging and Navigation Improvement Project Applicant: Collier County, Coastal Zone Management USACE Application No.: SAJ-2004-7621

The project is located in Wiggins Pass, Collier County, Florida. 26.289569N, 81.828794W.

Wiggins Pass inlet and Gulf of Mexico.

N/A.

No.

N/A.

•What are the baseline conditions within the project area, including substrate type?

•Are seagrasses present in the project area? Include percent coverage estimates by species and the relative location of seagrass in relation to proposed structures. Was a seagrass or benthic habitat survey completed? If so, please submit. *

•Are mangroves present in or near the project area? Which species (red, black, white) and how much?

•Are corals present in or near the project area? Include density or percent coverage estimates by species and describe proximity of corals to proposed structures.

•Was a benthic survey conducted within Johnson's seagrass growing season (April 1 - August 31)?

Yes No

Construction Methods/ Project Description:

•Construction methods, including description of any demolition of existing structures or removal of debris. Will the work be done from a barge or uplands?

Estuarine wetlands within the Wiggins Pass project area include the tidal wetlands and submerged habitats within and adjacent to the pass. Wiggins Pass ebb shoal, flood shoal, and tributaries are predominantly fine grained sand with pockets of shelly sediment, organic clay and rock fragments.

See Appendices No. 13-b-1 for seagrass information and Appendix No. 13-b-2 for copies of previous submerged benthic resource surveys .

See Appendix No. 13-b-1 for mangrove information.

No. The nearest hardbottom is approximately 240 ft west of the Delnor-Wiggins disposal area, which was previously permitted and used. North of the Pass, the nearest hardbottom is approximately 530 ft west of the Barefoot Beach disposal area. These areas will not be impacted by the project.

See Appendix No. 13-b-3 for a description of construction methods.

•For docks, what type of decking will be used? If grated, provide manufacturer's name/address/grating type, and percent light transmittance (%LT) of the grating design used? If wooden planks, what is the proposed spacing between the deckboards (½-inch, ¾-inch, 1-inch, other?). Has the applicant been advised that COE-NMFS project review is significantly simplified and expedited for dock designs incorporating >43% LT grated decking, or 1-inch deckboard- and walkway-spacing, over Johnson's seagrass areas? Proposed height of dock? Orientation of the dock (N, S, etc.)?

•Piling construction methodology. Are pile driving methods adequately described and are potential impacts to species adequately addressed? Will submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) be impacted by pile installation? If necessary, will the applicant's contractor adjust the spacing between piles to avoid driving piles onto Johnson's seagrass? Avoiding all piling impacts to JSG will significantly simplify and expedite the COE-NMFS project review process.

•Number of new slips and size of slips, if applicable. If new construction includes High-and-Dry boat storage, what is the High-and-Dry vessel storage capacity?

•How big are the boats that are planned to be moored at the dock (either in the water or on a boatlift), if known?

•For all projects not involving docks or marinas (i.e., seawalls, jetties, etc.), please provide project description.

•Dredging? If yes, describe depth of cut, dredge type used, how many cubic yards, and what will be done with the spoil. Describe bottom sediments. Describe area hydrodynamics, i.e., average current speed and direction.

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

Initial construction of straightened channel: i) Dredge compatible sand from ebb channel –41,000 cy (24,000 to 58,000 cy); ii) Dredge flood channel – 36,400 cy.; iii) Dredge incompatible material – 7,500 cy. ; iv) Build beach, nearshore, ebb shoal and scour repair with compatible sand – 38,200 cy; v) Fill meander with compatible sand – 39,200 cy.; vi) Upland or offshore borrow pit disposal of unsuitable sand -7,500 cy

See previous response and Appendix 13-b-3 for construction details.

•Blasting? If yes, describe explosive weights, blasting plan, etc.

•What is the intended construction schedule (how many days, weeks, or months for in-water work)?

Potential Effects on Species/Critical Habitat:

•Please explain any impacts/effects to the critical habitat's primary constituent elements -PCEs)? Please identify which critical habitat unit(s) is being affected (e.g., Gulf sturgeon have 14 units, seven under NMFS jurisdiction and seven under FWS jurisdiction).

•What will the effects be, if any, to each PCE?

•Square footage to be affected by project?

•Will mangroves be impacted? Explain and quantify impacts.

•How will the habitat be changed/altered as a result of the action? Could or will the alteration affect listed species? How?

No.

Construction is expected to last approximately 120 days. See Appendix 13-b-3 for construction details.

N/A

N/A

See Appendix 13-b-3 for construction details.

No. Mangroves will not be removed or directly impacted by this project. Fill placement in the interior channel adjacent to Barefoot Beach would stabilize the shoreline and stop the erosional loss of mangrove habitat.

Though this project design will involve removal of some of the shoal from the south side of Wiggins Pass, the similar intertidal habitat will be added to the north side, continuing to provide important shorebird habitat in the Pass. This design also includes the placement of beach compatible fill to the south end of Barefoot Beach, which would stabilize the shoreline, create sea turtle and gopher tortoise habitat, and repair scarps.

•Listed species within the project area:

Sea turtles Smalltooth sawfish Shortnose sturgeon

Elkhorn coral Johnson’s seagrass North Atlantic right whales

Staghorn coral Gulf sturgeon Other whales

•Explain potential effects to each species checked above:

•Shading impacts from construction.

•What is the estimated shadow effect of the boat (sq ft of shaded area beneath)?

•Discuss potential anchoring impacts to seagrass and corals. Discuss available water depth under the keel/propeller at Mean Low Water and the potential for prop dredging or blowouts. Discuss potential prop-scarring impacts to corals and seagrasses.

•Describe increased boat traffic impacts, if any. Are there posted speed zones in the area?

•Describe Noise Impacts (this section not applicable to single-family, multi-family, and marina dock projects where piles driven are 12 inches or less in diameter).

Swimming sea turtles may be temporarily be impacted during construction. Impacts may include entrainment, collision with vessels, and noise disturbance.

N/A

N/A

No seagrass or coral is located in the project footprint; therefore there are no potential anchoring impacts to these resources.

During construction there will be increased presence of vessels in the project vicinity. The project is located in a State-established manatee speed zone which limits boats to slow speed year-round (68C-22.023, F.A.C.).

Only moderate size dredge and construction equipment will be used. Noise impacts will be minimal.

•Source level of noise exceeds 120 dB re 1uPa RMS for continuous noise Yes No

•Source level exceeds 160 dB re 1 uPa RMS for impulsive noise Yes No

•Source level exceeds 180 dB re 1 uPa zero to peak Yes No

Effects Determination:

•For executing the action (i.e., construction activities) No Effect NLAA May Affect

•For the result of the action (i.e., new dock) No Effect NLAA May Affect

•If “No Effect” is determined for all species and critical habitat, please note your findings in a memorandum to your project file; no consultation/concurrence with/from NMFS is required.

Memo made N/A

Mitigation/Protective Measures:

•Will the applicant follow the August 2001 Dock Construction Guidelines?

Yes No

•Will the applicant follow the October 2002 Johnson's Seagrass Key?

Yes No

•Will the Sea Turtle and Smalltooth Sawfish Construction Conditions, dated March 23, 2006, be followed?

Yes No

•If not following any of the above, please explain:

No dock is being constructed.

•Turbidity controls? If yes, description of type used.

•What are the proposed avoidance, minimization, and compensatory measures?

Each consultation letter should address the impacts listed in the checklist and their associated effects on listed species and their critical habitat. An explanation of how the impacts occur, their effects, and any mitigative measures that will be implemented to reduce the projects effects on listed species and their critical habitat should be included in the consultation letter.

* If Johnson’s seagrass is present, please consult the following: •Dock Construction Guidelines in Florida for Docks or Other Minor Structures

Constructed in or over Submerged Aquatic Vegetation, Marsh or Mangrove Habitat - U.S. Army Corps of Engineers/National Marine Fisheries Service, dated August 2001

•Key for Construction Conditions for Docks or Other Minor Structures Constructed in or Over Johnson's Seagrass (Halophila johnsonii)National Marine Fisheries Service/U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, dated October 2002

Updated: August 2008

Turbidity curtains may be used to protect seagrass and mangroves when work is being conducted in the immediate vicinity of these resources.

All conditions of any USFWS and/or NMFS Biological Opinion will be followed and construction will comply with the NMFS "Sea Turtle and Smalltooth Sawfish Construction Conditions" and the FWC "Standard Manatee Construction Conditions for In-Water Work". Turbidity curtains may be used to protect seagrass and mangroves when work is being conducted in the immediate vicinity of these resources.

Print Form

Appendix No. 13-b-1

Seagrass and Mangrove Information

Appendix No. 13-b-1 Seagrass and Mangrove Information

Seagrass

No seagrass is located within the footprint of the project area. Several field investigations over the years conducted by CPE and others (during the seagrass growing season) have revealed scattered seagrass beds within the vicinity of the project area (see Figure 1). The beds are found in sparse to moderate density. Three species have been observed in the area, including Cuban shoal grass (Halodule wrightii), turtle grass (Thalassia testudinum), and paddle grass (Halophila decipiens), although shoal grass is overwhelmingly the most common species observed. These beds are typically found along the shallow shelf lining the main navigational channel, and within the shallow protected areas fringing the small mangrove islands. The location of seagrass in the project vicinity is shown in Figure 1. Copies of benthic resource surveys in the project area are provided as Appendix No. 13-b-2.

Mangroves

Mangroves are not located within the immediate project area, but are located nearby (Figure 1). Mangrove forests, including red (Rhizophora mangle), black (Avicennia germinans) and white (Laguncularia racemosa), fringe the waterways, while small red mangrove islands dot the estuary. Red and black mangroves dominate those areas which are frequently inundated by normal tidal action while white mangroves and buttonwoods (Conocarpus erectus) are usually found at slightly higher elevations where tidal inundation is less frequent.

F

igure 1. Natural resources located inn the vicinityy of Wigginss Pass.

Appendix No. 13-b-2

Benthic Resource Surveys

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SITE VISIT FOR WIGGINS PASS DREDGING PROJECT FIELD OBSERVATION REPORT

Date of Assessment: September 29, 2011 Project: Wiggins Pass Dredging Project Location: Wiggins Pass, Collier County, FL CPE Commission No.: 143561 Representatives: Jessica Craft (CPE), Mark Sramek (NMFS), Pamela Keyes (Collier

County), Lauren Diaz (USACE), Bob Steiger (Delnor-Wiggins State Park)

CPE representative Jessica Craft, Pamela Keyes (Collier County) and Mark Sramek (NMFS) conducted a site visit in Wiggins Pass, Collier County, FL. The purpose of the site visit was to observe any resources within Wiggins Pass (Figure 1) and discuss with agencies any project concerns. The tide was coming in and the current within the pass was particularly strong; therefore, the three attendees began a snorkel just outside the mouth of the inlet and drifted inward along the north shoreline to observe any benthic resources. Shoal grass (Halodule wrightii) was observed in similar distribution to previous surveys. However, two patches were observed during this visit which were not observed during the 2009 site visit (CPE), but which had been observed in 2007 (Passarella & Assoc.); the approximate locations of these seagrass patches are designated with red X’s on Figure 1. These seagrass observations will be added to benthic resource figures for the project area and submitted in support of the permit application. One particular spot was a small patch (approx.. 3 ft X 4 ft) of H. wrightii on the shallow littoral shelf approximately 50 ft NW of Channel Marker 5. The second small patch (approx.. 3 ft X 6 ft) of H. wrightii was located deeper into the inlet near the mangroves, on shallow sandy substrate among clumps of oysters. Sand placement activities in these areas will take into consideration the location of these seagrass resources. No paddle grass (Halophila decipiens) was observed during this site visit; it was acknowledged by Mr. Sramek that this species is highly ephemeral and so is not expected to be observed during all surveys. At the end of the swim, Mr. Sramek indicated that he would need to evaluate the offshore sand placement template with regards to the nearshore hardbottom south of the inlet, but otherwise had no objections with the project. After the swim was completed, the three attendees visited Delnor-Wiggins State Park and met with Lauren Diaz (USACE) and Bob Steiger (Delnor-Wiggins State Park). The attendees first sat and discussed the project while reviewing figures. Mrs. Diaz indicated that the permit for the interim dredging conducted over the winter of 2011 was never signed. She requested this be resolved and that a report detailing the work conducted be submitted. At this point Mr. Sramek departed and the rest of the group walked the beach at the northern end of the park along the inlet. Ms. Diaz indicated that the USACE would like the application resubmitted and to make sure all drawings are 8 ½ x 11 in and in black and white. She also indicted that they would need to see alternatives analyses. Mr. Steiger indicated he would like to see sand placed at the northern end of the park, and at a point slightly south that is experiencing erosion.

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After the site meeting, Mrs. Craft visited Carolyn Shaw, a park employee who had previously provided shorebird data to CPE. Mrs. Shaw indicated that the bird data collection effort was sporadic prior to 2010 and that it is now more structured with set data entry sheets. They conduct the surveys simultaneously with sea turtle nest surveys during the summer months. She requested input on designing their bird surveys. No shorebirds have been observed nesting in some years. A single snowy plover was observed recently on the beach by Park employees.

Figure

3

1. Location m

X

map.

X

Appendix 28-1

Benthic Resource Survey for Wiggins Pass

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BENTHIC RESOURCES SURVEY FOR WIGGINS PASS DREDGING PROJECT FIELD OBSERVATION REPORT

Date of Assessment: July 13-14, 2009 Project: Wiggins Pass Dredging Project Location: Wiggins Pass, Collier County, FL CPE Commission No.: 8500.63 CPE Representatives: Jessica Craft (Principal Biologist.), Jared Lambert (Surveyor),

Steve Miller (Dive Assistance), Wilson Foster (Survey Intern)

1.0 INTRODUCTION

This resource investigation report was prepared in support of the JCP permit application submitted on behalf of Collier County for the proposed reconfiguration of Wiggins Pass, located near the northern County line on the Gulf of Mexico (Figure 1). The primary objective was to survey for the presence and extent of seagrass in the project area during the growing season. Project Setting The pass is bounded by Barefoot Beach Preserve County Park to the north and by Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park to the south. The existing channel meanders to the north and follows the shoreline along Barefoot Beach, which is currently experiencing severe erosion problems. A steep scarp is present along the southern gulf portion of the beach within the park, and wraps around the southern point into the mouth of the pass. A wide sandy shoal is present on the south side of the channel adjacent to the Delnor-Wiggins Pass beach, and is frequented by various shorebirds including pelicans (Pelicanus occidentalis), and various species of gulls and terns (Photograph 1). The gulf-adjacent portion of the shoreline on the south side of the channel is characterized by a dune vegetation community including sea oats (Uniola paniculata), seaside purslane (Sesuvium portulacastrum), sea blite (Sueda linearis) and other seaside herbs and grasses. Landward of the foredune, the vegetation transitions into coastal strand community consisting of small trees and shrubs, such as buttonwoods (Conocarpus erectus) and seagrapes (Cocoloba uvifera); this vegetative community then gives way to a narrow fringe of maritime hammock with cabbage palms (Sabal palmetto) as the predominant tree species. These upland species are separated from the estuarine waters to the east by white (Laguncularia racemosa), black (Avicennia germinans), and red mangroves (Rhizophora mangle). Dune vegetation is scarce along the north side of the channel due to the steep scarping occurring there. Cabbage palms and other hardwoods occupy the top of the scarp. Red mangroves line the pass along all interior shorelines (Photograph 2).

Figure 1. Project Location Map

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Photograph 1. View of the shoreline on south side of Wiggins Pass. Dune vegetation including sea oats (Uniola paniculata) can be seen adjacent to the shoreline, with hardwood trees and shrubs in the background, followed by mangroves. The sandy shoal seen in the foreground is frequented by various shorebirds.

Photograph 2. Dense red mangroves (Rhizophora mangle) bordering the shoreline along the north side of Wiggins Pass.

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Habitat The estuarine system found at Wiggins Pass is an important aquatic habitat, providing shelter for the developmental stages of juvenile fish as well as feedings grounds for various marine and estuarine species. Common snook (Centropomus undecimalis) is a species commonly found in estuaries and adjacent rivers, and small juvenile snook prefer low-energy, shallow waters near seagrass beds and overhanging vegetation, such as mangroves (Muller, 2000). Although not listed as threatened or endangered, various agencies and local stakeholder group have expressed concern over the snook, since the pass provides important habitat to the species, which can be found in most life stages in the estuaries of the Naples area. Due to the importance of seagrass and mangrove habitat of the type found in Wiggins Pass, a benthic resource survey is required in support of the permit application for the project activities described below. A preliminary seagrass survey was conducted by CPE in December 2008. However, this survey occurred outside the growing season and thus the most recent survey was conducted in July, near the peak of the seagrass growing season, to determine the full extent of seagrass growth within the project area. Project History The County currently holds a 10-year permit issued by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (No. 0142538-001-JC) on January 12, 2000, to widen and deepen Wiggins Pass, with subsequent maintenance dredging every two years to maintain navigable water depths for recreational boaters. Dredging operations were subsequently completed in September 2000, November 2002, December 2004, November 2006, and March 2009. However, a hydrodynamic study of Wiggins Pass conducted by Humiston & Moore (2007) recommended the reestablishment of the inlet in a more naturally occurring configuration that existed 30 years ago, and that coastal protection structures be installed on Barefoot Beach to contain local erosion. Furthermore, a recent numerical modeling study conducted by Coastal Planning & Engineering, Inc. (CPE, 2009) indicated that improvements of navigation conditions and mitigation of erosion of Wiggins Pass could be achieved by redesigning the navigation channel and modifying the placement location of the dredged material; the study determined that a straight navigation channel with smaller dimensions than the current dredge template would be optimal. Dredging through the flood shoal is required for this alternative, as well as the construction of temporary sand dikes to block the existing channel meander and marginal swash channels that wrap around the end of Barefoot Beach. Fill placement on Barefoot Beach closer to the inlet is also recommended as a means of mitigating erosion problems in this area. See Figure 2 for the proposed dredge and fill template.

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2.0 METHODS Benthic Substrate Investigation The geology and bottom type of Wiggins Pass have been described previously by others (Athena Technologies, 2006; CEC, 1990; USACE, 1980), primarily through the results of various substrate cores and borings. Two areas near the opening of the pass have been of particular concern: one area near the mouth of the inlet originally identified as a limestone platform; and a second area further up the pass and suspected to be a hardbottom outcropping (Figure 2). These areas were investigated during the 2009 survey conducted by CPE. The first site was verified in situ as dense shell hash; a biologist using snorkel employed the use of a metal meter-stick to probe the sediment and penetrated down to 25 cm depth (the investigating biologist could not force the ruler farther into the sediment, due to the dense shell material). No ledge of any kind was found at the second site during the initial in situ investigation; however, an area of sand with scattered mound-like formations covered by turf algae was observed from the drop-camera system (method described below under Seagrass Mapping). A subsequent diver-investigation took place on August 12. Results are described below. Jet-probes around each site were also conducted, and revealed a hard layer approximately 3 ft below the sediment surface at the first site; no hard substrate was found at the second site until nearly 12 ft below the sediment surface. Further results of the jet-probe investigations are included in the permit application for the project, which show the hard substrate extending across the mouth of the inlet from north to south. Mangrove Delineation To determine the bottom topography within Wiggins Pass and locate the edge of vegetation, primarily mangroves, CPE surveyors conducted bathymetric and topographic surveys which included locating the edge-of-vegetation using Trimble Real-Time Kinematics Global Positioning System (RTK GPS). These results may be used to delineate the vertical and horizontal extent of mangrove vegetation within the project area and determine any benefits or impacts to the mangroves as a result of the project. The surveyed location of the edge-of-vegetation is shown in Figure 2. A certified topographic and hydrographic survey is presented under separate cover (2009 Wiggins Pass Annual Monitoring Topographic and Hydrographic Survey Report). Seagrass Mapping Due to strong currents, poor visibility and high boat traffic within the channel itself, an underwater drop-camera was deployed and towed behind the vessel, rather than placing a diver in the water under these hazardous conditions. The drop-camera, a SeaViewer integrated underwater video system, is equipped to display and record real-time coordinates when connected to DGPS, so that the location of any benthic resource observed can be recorded and plotted later in GIS. This camera system was towed for the length of the main channel and side channels within the project area. In addition to the coordinates recorded on the camera, any resource observed was also recorded in HYPACK® navigational software and plotted on the project map (Figure 2). Once the navigational channels were surveyed using the drop-camera system, a qualified marine biologist using snorkel surveyed the shallow areas between the channels and the mangrove edges

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within the proposed project area for seagrasses and other benthic resources (i.e. shellfish beds, hardbottom, etc.), using a meandering/roving swim method. The biologist was accompanied by a trained survey technician. The location of any seagrasses identified by the biologist was marked by the technician using RTK GPS. Small patches (<10 ft. in diameter), were marked on-center and the area visually estimated. Moderately-sized patches were delineated in their entirety. In the interest of expediency, large beds, such as that in the area near the southeast corner of mangroves where the southern side channel turns off from the main channel (see Figure 2), were delineated along their waterward edge and the landward extent visually estimated by a biologist. Each species of seagrass present was identified, and quadrats (1/2m2) were haphazardly tossed within a sampling of areas to roughly estimate the density of seagrass observed. Areas of oysters were also documented. Representative underwater photographs of resources were taken, where visibility allowed.

3.0 RESULTS

No exposed hardbottom was found at any location within the project area during the in situ investigation; however, loose mound-like material covered in turf algae was observed on the towed drop-camera near the entrance to the channel (see Figure 2; Photographs 3-4; additional still shots frame-grabbed from the integrated video system can be found in Appendix A). A subsequent diver investigation was conducted approximately one month later by a CPE geologist. Immediately upon descending large dark outcrops in the sand were observed throughout the area. These dark outcrops were firm to the touch and appeared to be an organic matrix material. These outcrops were covered in widespread, dark-colored turf algae and appeared to have been uncovered for some time. Approximately 5 ft from the original drop point, the outcrops gave way to a ledge formation, nearly parallel with the channel alignment, with an approximate 5-ft elevation change. The material was firm and appeared to be stabilizing the substrate. Sand and shell hash was observed in between the outcrops throughout the area. A representative sample of the material was taken and analyzed as a soft organic clay, with little peat content, trace shell hash, and of black coloration (2.5Y-2.5/1; OL); this material has been observed elsewhere in the region, including Doctor’s Pass (south of Wiggins Pass in Collier County), and the nearshore of Big Hickory Island in Lee County.

Photographs 3-4. Macroalgae-covered organic clay substrate observed with the drop-camera system near the mouth of Wiggins Pass.

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No seagrass was observed within the main or side channels of Wiggins Pass. The channel bottom ranged from a mucky substrate, to fine sand, to coarse shell hash. Occasional clumps of oysters and macroalgae were observed. No seagrass was observed on the shallow shelf along the north side of the main channel, either (Photograph 5); however, most of the shallow protected areas fringing the channel and mangrove islands were found to support seagrass, primarily shoal grass (Halodule wrightii), in sparse to moderate density (Figure 2; Photograph 6). One small patch of paddle grass (Halophila decipiens) was found at the northeast corner of Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park. Results of the 2009 investigation reflect the results of previous resource surveys conducted by others (Appendix 28-1-B). The investigation conducted by CPE in 2008 also found similar patterns of seagrass growth, although the density was much lower due to winter senescence during the time of the survey. In addition to seagrasses, the Eastern oyster, Crassostrea virginica was also found, sometimes in dense beds, around the shallow mangrove islands at the eastern end of the main channel (Photograph 7). Table 1 below gives the approximate density of each seagrass species observed at each location. Although the entire project area was surveyed for resources, the areas containing seagrasses and/or oysters are labeled Areas 1-6, for ease of reference.

Photograph 5. Turf and macroalgae (Caulerpa prolifera) growing on sandy shelf along north side of Wiggins Pass main channel.

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Photograph 6. Shoal grass (Halodule wrightii) observed throughout the project area.

Photograph 7. Eastern oysters (Crassostrea virginica) observed throughout the project area.

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Table 1. Summary of resources found at each area, and approximate density of each. AREA 1 AREA 2 AREA 3 AREA 4 AREA 5 AREA 6

Species Halodule wrightii

Halodule wrightii

Halodule wrightii

Halodule wrightii Halodule wrightii

Halodule wrightii

Density Sparse-Moderate

Sparse-Moderate

Sparse-Moderate

Very Sparse Very Sparse-Moderate

Very Sparse

Percent Cover 10%-40% 10%-30% 10%-20% <10% <10%-20% <10%

Species Crassostrea virginica

Crassostrea virginica

Crassostrea virginica

Crassostrea virginica

Halophila decipiens

Density Sparse Moderate-Dense Dense Sparse: scattered underneath mangrove roots

Very Sparse

Percent Cover N/A N/A N/A N/A

*Area 5 also contained dense clumps of floating macroalgae in the back cove area <10%

Area 1 contained a long seagrass bed of H. wrightii in sparse-to-moderate density (10%-40% cover) along the shallow shelf waterward of the mangroves there. The eastern oyster was (C. virginica) was found in sparse density near the mangrove roots. Area 2 contained little seagrass with the exception of one small and one moderate-sized patch of H. wrightii, both in sparse-to-moderate density (10%-30% cover). Oysters were found in small, dense clumps in the shallow water surrounding most of the mangrove islands in this area. Area 3 supported one moderate-sized patch of H. wrightii in its interior. Oysters were found in relatively dense concentration along the interior mangrove line, and one large, densely packed area near the channel edge. Area 4 contained H. wrightii in very sparse, but consistent distribution along the shallow shelf between the mangroves and channel boundary, with some scattered oysters around the mangrove roots. A large area of H. wrightii of varying density and cover was found in Area 5, which consists of a shallow, wide embayment into the mangroves. The seagrass became sparser toward the back (landward side) of the embayment, where the sediment became muckier and where large clumps of floating macroalgae were found. As in the previously described areas, oysters were present in varying densities along the mangrove roots to either side of the embayment. Area 6 consisted of a very narrow shelf adjacent to the mangroves located along the western boundary of the southern side channel. H. wrightii was found in very sparse density in this area. Occasional live oysters were found near the mangrove roots, although most were empty shells scattered in the sediment. A single small patch of Halophila decipiens was observed adjacent to the northeast corner of the mangroves where the southern side channel connects to the main channel. The locations of seagrass and oyster resources are found in Figure 2. Additional wildlife observed during the investigation is presented in Table 2 below.

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Table 2. Observed wildlife within the project area during the time of the investigation. COMMON NAME SPECIES

FISH Redfish Sciaenops ocellatus Grey Snapper Lutjanus griseus Sheepshead Archosargus probatocephalus Spadefish Chaetodipterus faber Searobin (juv.) Prionotus sp. Mojarra Eucinostomus spp. Various baitfish Clupeidae, Engraulidae, Atherinidae Stingray Dasyatus sp. INVERTEBRATES Nine-armed Sea Star Luidia senegalensis Crown Conch Melongena corona Swimming Crab Portunidae Lightning Whelk Busycon contrarium Cerith Snail Cerithiidae MAMMALS Florida Manatee Trichechus manatus latirostrus Bottlenose Dolphin Tursiopsis truncatus BIRDS Brown Pelican Pelicanus occidentalis Great Egret Ardea alba Tricolored Heron Egretta tricolor Snowy Egret Egretta thula Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias Little Green Heron Butorides striatus Various Gulls and Terns Laridae

4.0 DISCUSSION

Comparison of past resource surveys shows that the distribution, density, and species of seagrass present in the project area varies from year to year, and shows distinct seasonality (denser growth during the summer months). Although three species of seagrass have been found in the past (Halodule wrightii, Halophila decipiens, and Thalassia testudinum), only H. wrightii and H. decipiens were found during the July 2009 investigation conducted by CPE. It was also evident during this survey that H. wrightii is currently the predominant species of seagrass present within the project area, although other species may fluctuate in density and cover with time. It should be noted that the proposed dredge template shown in Figure 2 is an approximation of the actual dredge cut. The final template has yet to be designed; the location of biological resources including seagrasses, mangroves, and oysters will be taken into consideration during the final design process in effort to avoid these resources to the extent practicable.

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REFERENCES CPE (Coastal Planning & Engineering, Inc.), 2009. Wiggins Pass, Collier County, FL, Numerical Modeling and Wave Propagation, Currents and Morphology Changes, Phase II: Numerical Modeling of Alternatives. Prepared for Collier County, FL, by Coastal Planning & Engineering, Inc., Boca Raton, FL, 89 pp. H&M (Humiston & Moore Engineers), 2007. Wiggins Pass Study, Hydraulic and Sand Transport Modeling. Report prepared for Board of County Commissioners, Collier County, FL by Humiston & Moore, Naples, FL, 47 pp. Muller, R.G., 2000. The 2000 Stock Assessment Update of the Common Snook, Centropomus undecimalis. A report to the Florida Marine Research Institute, July 12, 2000. 19 pp.

APPENDIX 28-1-A

STILL FRAMES GRABBED FROM INTEGRATED VIDEO

Macroalgae-covered rubble on top of sand substrate in channel

Shell-hash substrate typical near the mouth of Wiggins Pass

Organic clay formation inside the channel

Close-up view of turf algae covering organic clay ledge within channel

Green macroalgae Caulerpa prolifera growing on sediment in channel

Imprint of nine-armed starfish (Luidia senegalensis) in sediment in channel

APPENDIX 28-1-B

PAST RESOURCE STUDIES

Resource map from Wiggins Pass Inlet Management Plan, prepared by CPE, 1995.

SEAGRASS

Appendix No. 13-b-3

Construction Description

(Originally submitted to FDEP in RAI No. 1 Response as Attachment No. 23c)

Attachment No. 23c Construction Description

January 2012

The initial construction will be a sequenced in three (3) phases to achieve a shift in alignment while filling in the old channel. This will be achieved by dredging a pilot channel through the south side of the new flood shoal channel and depositing the material in a temporary stock pile, most likely on the flood shoal between the new and old flood channel locations (Figure 1). A portion of the north half of the new channel can be used. The use of sheet piles to block off the old channel once the pilot channel is complete may be a method selected by the contractor. Barges can also be used to hold the stockpile. The initial dredging will be from the coarsest layer in the flood shoal. Once a significant pilot channel is completed, the stockpiled sand will be moved into the existing flood channel forming a dike with coarse sand. A dike will be constructed at two locations in the shallowest crossings in the old flood channel, at the east and west sides. The dike will be built higher than the high water level initially, to prevent overtopping and the early degradation of the dikes. Once the dike is formed, the remaining interior flood channel will be dredged, the material used to fill up the old channel between the dikes. Some subaqueous grading will be required at the end of dredging to level the dikes and rough grade the new flood shoal. The new flood shoal elevation will be -2.28 feet NAVD (MLLW), to mimic the existing shoal. It is expected that the dredged sand will occupy a larger volume when placed in the flood shoal channel, but is expected to settle with time, which can be addressed with future dredge material. Material dredged from the ebb shoal will be used to finish filling this template. Turbidity curtains may be used to protect the small seagrass patch and mangroves adjacent to this area. The ebb shoal dredge and fill operations will be similar to current practices. Some rubble or rocks will be dredged from the ebb shoal, but from between the two major hard (rock or rubble) substrate layers (Attachment No. 27). The rock and rubble substrate that exists on either side of the proposed channel will remain untouched and continue to provide the historic lateral stability. This will maintain the channel stability by fixing the channel between the major rock substrates, which occurs already. Turbidity will be addressed similar to latest permit requirements (Attachment No. 33d). Any unsuitable material will be disposed in an offshore borrow pit (1996 Borrow Area 6). This may include rock, rubble and silty or organic soil. Only beach compatible sand will be placed for beach disposal, and sand meeting navigation project criteria will be disposed of nearshore as described in a QA/QC plan. Most unsuitable material is located in the transition between the ebb and flood shoals. Fill will be districted in the ebb shoal disposal area to mimic the historic ebb shoal, with material concentrated in the offshore portion. The QA/QC plan will identify the distribution of sediments by four broad categories along with their approved disposal areas. The four broad categories and disposal areas are old flood channel, beach disposal, nearshore and ebb shoal disposal, and disposal of

unsuitable material upland or in an offshore dredge pit. Borrow Area 6 from the 1996 beach nourishment will be used for offshore disposal.

Figure 1: Inlet cross-section, channel, holding area and flood shoal disposal locations.

Sediments will naturally redistributed within the inlet during this type of dredge operations, and therefore cleanup dredging will be the last step in initial construction. Based on survey by the contractor, high spots will be identified and dredged. Some material is expected to shoal in the south, east, and north channel entrance areas and may require dredging. Intermediate (supplemental) dredging is proposed for those times when the bypassing bar needs to be dredged for navigation, but full dredging in not warranted. This will be done using a small hydraulic dredge or mechanical dredge such as a backhoe or clam shell barge mounted. Dredged material will be side cast or pumped within 1,000 feet north of the channel. This will lengthen the major dredging interval without large dredge volumes and contribute to ebb shoal regrowth. Periodic maintenance dredging will occur as needed or approximately once every four years. It will predominately occur in the ebb shoal with disposal on or near adjacent beaches. Interior dredging should be small or infrequent, similar to past history, once the new channel equilibrates. Equipment A backhoe dredge, clam shell dredge, or a cutterhead dredge greater than 14” will be used for major dredging of the pass. A booster pump and a spill barge will be utilized to manage dredged material until disposal or placement. A flexible PCP pipeline will be used within the work area designated on the permit sketches and all will remain seaward of the MHW, except during beach disposal. Smaller dredges could be considered only if the County determines the risk to be manageable and time loss potential acceptable. Barges will be used to ship material to the offshore disposal site and provide temporary storage of dredged material. Barge overflow and drainage will be controlled to comply with the turbidity standards in the OFW. Construction Schedule Dredging of Wiggins Pass jointly with Doctors Pass is a cost effective option that will be considered with each dredging event. The non-sea turtle nesting season schedule for Wiggins Pass for initial construction will be: October 1-30 Mobilization November 1-15 Dredge pilot channel and stockpile sand on flood shoal. November 16-30 Build temporary dikes (coarse sand or sheet pile); complete dredging flood channel and inlet throat and back fill old channel. December 1-20 Dredge ebb channel and disposed sand on beach

or nearshore of Barefoot Beach. Repair scarps on south point of Barefoot Beach. Complete filling of old channel to approved template as a priority. December 20-31 Demobilization January 1-February 28 Contingency for late start and winter weather