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Home My WebLink AboutDocumentation_Environmental Advisory Committee_Tab 06_10/14/2020 Agenda Item #6. Environmental Advisory Committee (EAC) STAFF MEMO � Meeting: Environmental Advisory Committee (EAC) - Oct 14 2020 Staff Contact: Robert Shaw Department: Environmental Advisory Committee Discussion on No Wake Zone for Jupiter Narrows Area from Cato's Bridge to Martin County Line Jupiter Narrows final.pdf Coral_Cove_Vessel -Traffic_Study DRAFT (1) Page 38 of 144 Agenda Item #6. IzfOrm8tlOnal Report prepamd for the �'WC C:o scion 11L�eetin� Oaot*r 2,, 2019 Cape Canaveral, Florida 0 0 Minimum Wake-Ma mum Safety ".Six 2�inutes for .Safety" The Importance of Creating the Jupiter Narrows "Pvli ni n►um Wake" Zone Prepared by The Beach Road Association Tequesta, Florida Page 39 of 144 I dw .' •� For Safety • • • •+� �., +Sl'*x Ml'* nutes Ps eta ••► F r go sio p v" t ji_. T Ap ill1�2-P. *P&-Wake' •Extensi • Ow ar \ A!. 14 • , • • • - .{ rk f TA 7 1►. t ar t1W k 40 Owl j A] ,-,.,� At Agenda Item #6. Table of Contents 1. Introduction 1-6 2. Incompatible Recreational Use and Public Safety 7-8 The Issue of Low Tide and the "Choke Point" 3. Coral Cove Park and Jupiter Narrows: What's so special? 9-10 4. Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area and other Designations 11-13 5. Municipality Resolutions and Letters of Support/Concern 14-23 6. Florida Statute: 327.46 Boating-restricted areas 25-27 7. FWC's Management of the Jupiter Narrows and The FWC Coral Cove Vessel Traffic Study 29-33 8. Conclusion and Request for FWC Assistance 35-36 9. Appendix 37 News articles FWC's Coral Cove Park Vessel Traffic Study Page 41 of 144 1 r - b� F- �f 3- 1 • r• - --H - .--,ram► .� - Agenda Item #6. _ _ ,.-•ai fit_ - _ i004 Y whom-7 + low a 1. INTRODUCTION Jupiter Narrows/Coral Cove Park Speed Limit Concern The battle over Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) speed zones in the State of Florida is as old as the prop marks scarring the backs of our Florida manatees. There exists an ongoing conflict between boaters who want to drive fast and non-boating waterway users who are impacted including paddle boarders, kayakers, swimmers, snorkelers, and day camps that bring children to the shore of these areas for marine environment education and recreation. The southernmost reach of the Indian River Lagoon is one of the most biologically diverse estuaries in North America due to its close proximity to the Jupiter Inlet and the gulfstream. Jupiter Narrows and Coral Cove Park share the lagoon's natural richness, attracting a large number of diverse user groups, significantly more than many other stretches of the Indian River. This creates an extremely congested waterway with multiple types of users. Each year the current motorboat speed(25 MPH)becomes more problematic in the area known as the Jupiter Narrows (i.e., Coral Cove Park). It has worsened due to several factors: increase in population, increase in larger boats, increased accessibility to boat and j et ski rentals, and an increase in the number of people who come to the shores of the Jupiter Narrows to swim and paddle. All of these users come to enjoy this unique marine environment-located right off Jupiter Inlet; the only blue water inlet located in such close proximity to the Gulf Stream. On the western bank of the Jupiter Narrows is the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area (ONA), federally designated and managed by the Bureau of Land Management. There are only three such areas in the entire country to hold such a special and important designation. We are so fortunate to have the area around our iconic lighthouse recognized and protected. Nestled on the eastern bank of the southernmost point of the Jupiter Narrows, is the popular Palm Beach County Coral Cove Park. This park provides easy and convenient public access for the many different user groups who come to this unique part of the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). On any given day, Coral Cove Park is packed to capacity with swimmers, paddle boarders, snorkelers and kayakers. -1- Page 43 of 144 Agenda Item #6. And herein lies the problem: Boats, which must observe idle speed just south of Cato's Bridge, typically throttle-down, cranking up their engines once they pass under the bridge heading north. Many of these vessels quickly EXCEED the 25 MPH speed limit as they suddenly speed up to get their boat"on plane." At this exact same point in the Jupiter Narrows, southbound boaters must abruptly slow down to a minimum wake. Because of the extremely narrow channel and the immediate proximity of Coral Cove Park to the 25 MPH zone, there is an obvious public safety issue: Boaters and the other user groups of Coral Cove Park all compete for space in the condensed stretch of the Jupiter Narrows that runs for less than a mile between Cato's Bridge and the northern end of Coral Cove Park. This creates an unsafe, extremely congested waterway with multiple types of users. The issue of speed in the Jupiter Narrows, 25 MPH+ creates, quite simply, an unsafe area of incompatible users. Coral Cove's designated kayak launch site puts paddlers/swimmers traveling to/from this blue clear water in the path of the "get on plane"point or"quickly stop speed" point of motorized vessels. Add to this a very narrow channel(exacerbated at low tide). Now add personal watercrafts(PWC) whose drivers go in and out of the channel to jump the waves. The result is a highly congested, dangerous choke point and a hazardous mix of waves, motorized vessels, paddlers, snorkelers, and swimmers all at the same location. If you cannot visualize this, observe it on any given Saturday afternoon. While motorized vessel users vie for channel space, paddle boarders, swimmers, and other user groups who are simply trying to enjoy the park are put in harm's way by rough boat wakes and intentional "swampings." A boat wake travels at the speed of the boat, and damaging wake frequencies are often high. In the case of Coral Cove, these wakes are slamming kayakers, paddle boarders, swimmers or other park users. The waves created by more than one vessel in a congested area causes a stronger force called resonance, which further amplifies the problem and causes harm to non-motorized watercraft users and also intensifies erosion of the Outstanding Natural Area(ONA) on the western bank of the river. Added to the mix is an additional challenge: Immediately outside the channel on the western side of this area is the "Tequesta Sandbar." This western portion of the Narrows has become a popular destination for boaters to anchor and enjoy the beautiful waters with their families. It has also become a gathering place for boaters who often drink to excess. Often times, after a day at the sandbar, these intoxicated boaters then speed through the Coral Cove Park area. A recent well-advertised and sponsored annual Sandbar Festival was reported to have over 1,000 participants in 2019. Three local municipalities and many others have addressed their concerns for public safety to the FWC. The Beach Road Association (BRA) and other groups, individuals, government agencies and surrounding municipalities see the 25 MPH speed as a public safety issue for motor and non-motorized watercraft users and recreational user groups cited above. Over the past several years, these various groups have been seeking to have the speed limit reduced to minimum speed inside the channel and no wake outside the channel from Cato"s Bridge to the northern end of Coral Cove Park. Since 2017 we have collectively brought our concerns and speed reduction request to the Staff of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the government agency in charge of boating speed limits. Initially, The Beach Road Association submitted pictures and information documenting the heavy use of the Coral Cove waterfront by paddle boarders, kayakers, snorkelers, swimmers, and others in close proximity to heavy high-speed boat traffic, and was told by FWC that the information submitted was insufficient and were unable to authorize a reduced speed limit. FWC indicated that the BRA would need the support of the affected municipalities. The BRA immediately brought this -2- Page 44 of 144 Agenda Item #6. information back to the municipalities and all were extremely concerned about public safety on the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), specifically in the area around Coral Cove Park. Utilizing the legislative authority afforded to municipalities and counties in the Boating Restricted Areas F.S. 327.46, the Town of Jupiter, the Village of Tequesta and Jupiter Inlet Colony all passed resolutions calling for a minimum speed/no wake zone, based on unsafe levels of vessel traffic congestion, conflict of user groups and public safety concerns. In addition, the Commissioners of Palm Beach County (PBC) sent a letter dated May 26, 2017 to FWC expressing their concerns. In this letter, PBC asks FWC to carefully review the situation. In response, the FWC advised PBC that the questions and concerns would have to be discussed at a public hearing before any action could take place. At that time, FWC also suggested that under a provision of Florida law (F.S 327.46) a slow speed/minimum wake zone could be created in a restricted area on either side of a non-motorized boat launching site. This could be a compromise solution. While the initial request was an .8 mile zone, the distance a launch offers is significantly less. However, this distance (lesser launch distance of 500 feet each way) does provide safety in the most congested and most narrow portion of the waters around Coral Cove Park. The Village of Tequesta and Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation, knowing Coral Cove Park is a well established kayak and paddle launch site, designated the site with the installation of signage "Kayak Launch Area." With the newly designated kayak launch area in Coral Cove Park, the Village of Tequesta turned to the Florida Statute F.S. 327.46 Boating-restricted areas and requested a speed zone change. This request was denied. The FWC informed the Village of Tequesta that their launch site did not meet the "definition" of a launch. The rules, as written, are subject to interpretation. We believe the existing "kayak launching areall meets the requirement of F.S. 327.46(1)(b)I.a. Contrary to the FWC's opinion, we believe the statute's goal in authorizing a slow speed lminimum wake zone is to enhance the safety of the people launching kayaks or other non-motorized vessels. Coral Cove Park has an official "kayak launch area." This IS a designated launch site. Even before the signage was installed, Coral Cove Park has been used as a launch for kayaks and paddleboards for at least the past 10 years, making it a de facto launch site for the hundreds of people who regularly utilize the area. The absence of specific launch-type mechanisms doesn't diminish Coral Cove Park's defacto status as a launch and thus, should not be the criterion by which Tequesta's application was judged. Further, we question the authority of FWC to deny this application based on the reasons that FWC presented, as we have yet to actually see the legal definition of a launch as defined in Florida law. The application by the Village of Tequesta was denied based on an interpretation of what constitutes a "boat ramp/launch" in Florida law. Most recently, FWC Staff has suggested that Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation install an ADA compliant roll out mat at the launch site. This mat would be accepted as a "non-motorized" vessel launch site if installed. Local officials are currently evaluating the need/benefit and potential adverse situations of this type of mat being added to the existing kayak launch site at Coral Cove Park. At Risk: Wildlife and Historic Natural Resources Because of its proximity to the Gulf Stream and proximity to the Jupiter Inlet, the southern portion of the Jupiter Narrows is filled with diverse marine life, creating an environment that is unique to all of Florida. While the safety of the people using the waters adjacent to Coral Cove Park is of utmost -3- Page 45 of 144 Agenda Item #6. importance, there are significant wildlife safety concerns to be considered as well. Because of this rich marine ecosystem, ecotourism flourishes in the inlet area and in the Jupiter Narrows. Schools and summer camps bring hundreds of children to Coral Cove Park to learn about marine life. Professional underwater photographers go there to capture award-winning photos and video. Paddleboard and kayak vendors run thriving businesses based on ecotourism equipment rentals and guided tours,where eager participants hope to catch a glimpse of a sea turtle or manatee. As a matter of fact, the area just north of Cato's Bridge, known as Manatee Manor by locals and eco-tourism groups is right smack in the middle of the speed zone. Manatee Manor is so significant that recently(August of 2019), the Palm Beach County Film and Television Commission hired local wildlife conservationist and photographer Jim Abernethy to make yet another production to promote the Jupiter Narrows area. This newest production will feature the Florida manatee and green sea turtle. This area was chosen because of the abundance of wildlife and the easy accessibility for Florida tourists to view the frequent manatees and sea turtles, and ultimately promote tourism in this area. Marine life in this area is so diverse and abundant, even dolphins have been sighted here. Unfortunately, the marine animals passing through the Jupiter Narrows are being struck by boats. In 2018, a leatherback sea turtle was struck and killed. Multiple prop wounds were visible on its shell (see page 10 of this report). Studies have shown that as the speed of a boat increases, so does the likelihood of it striking a manatee or sea turtle. The likelihood of striking a manatee or sea turtle increases even more during low tide, as the channel is significantly narrowed and boaters and animals (and other user groups)must share a significantly smaller area. Also in peril due to high-speed boat traffic is the fragile, historic shoreline where the Jeaga Indians once lived and fished these pristine waters, and the iconic Jupiter Lighthouse stands watch over the inlet. The nature preserves that lie on the west side are vulnerable to boat wake wave action, which has led to the destruction of mangroves on the shoreline. Just in the past few years, a significant number of mangroves have been washed away from east bank of the ICW,just north of Cato's Bridge. The science supports this: Numerous studies have also shown that high-seed boat wakes increase coastal erosion. "Each speedboat trip peels a few thousandths of an inch off of shorelines. Boating for an hour at 20 mph erodes 20 miles times three thousandths of an inch times two sides of a river= 50 square feet." The FWC has this Conservation Initiative on its website: "Goal: Improve marine and estuarine ecosystem habitat quality for the benefit of Species of Greatest Conservation Need." It says, "Factors including non point and point source pollution related to terrestrial land-use, Vessel impacts, and altered hydrology for flood control, irrigation, and drinking water have also contribute to the degradation and loss of estuarine habitats." See:mvfwc.com/conservation/s-pecial-initiatives/fwli/takina-action/marine/ Special Designation: The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstand Natural Area (ONAB As mentioned before, the southernmost portion of Jupiter Narrows is located within the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area (oNA). This ONA was designated by Congress in the Consolidated Natural Resources Act of 2008 (Title 11, Section 202). "The purposes of the Outstanding Natural Area are to protect, conserve, and enhance the unique and nationally important historic, natural, cultural, scientific, educational, scenic, and recreational values of the Federal land surrounding the Lighthouse for the benefit of present generations and future generations of people in the United States.14-P "The management plan shall include—(A)objectives and provisions to ensure—(i) the protection and conservation of the resource values of the Outstanding Natural Area;and ii) the restoration of native plant communities and estuaries in the Outstanding Natural Area., with an emphasis on the conservation and enhancement of healthy,functioning ecological systems in perpetuity." This historical intersection of land and sea must be protected now, before shoreline, marine life, and cultural value is lost. -4- Page 46 of 144 Agenda Item #6. User Group Discrimination As boat traffic density increases in the Jupiter Narrows, other user groups are increasing as well, including paddle boarders, kayakers, swimmers, snorkelers, and day camps that bring children to the shore of these areas for marine environment education and recreation are being put at increased risk. There are no significant measures in place to protect these "passive watersport"user groups. These innocent people must rely solely on the expectation of safety-minded behavior from boaters who have consistently demonstrated that speed and safety are not of primary concern. The convergence of these factors in the waters of the Jupiter Narrows is likely to result in tragedy unless preventive steps, including lowering the speed limit to minimum speed/no wake, are taken. All user groups have the right to a safe experience while recreating at this public park. FWC's Boating Safety Education Has Not Worked Unfortunately, with the high number of boat owners and boat and PWC rentals in the immediate area, attempting to educate these users and expecting them to slow down or at least adhere to the posted 25 MPH speed limit is unrealistic and has not worked. The long-standing knee jerk, auto- response of those that oppose speed reduction has been: "Increase law enforcement and educate boaters."However, with the ever-growing pressure on our conservation and law enforcement resources, the increase in boaters, and the fact that users of this resource often come from out of town, this is not a solution. "Six Minutes for Safety" & "Minimum Wake for Maximum Safety" The 25 MPH speed limit IS THE ISSUE. It is obvious that education and sporadic speed limit enforcement are meaningless to boaters. Simply enforcing adherence to the 25 MPH speed limit in the Jupiter Narrows does nothing to address the safety and environmental concerns. It's still too fast. We need action now to ensure that people and wildlife are guaranteed a peaceful and safe experience. We need to slow down in this extremely congested, narrow channel and the small area surrounding Coral Cove Park. We are asking for a six-minute compromise from the boating community. Six minutes or less is all that would be added to the travel time in this zone if the speed were reduced to minimum wake in the channel. The Beach Road Association and Citizens for Safety in the Jupiter Narrows and the agencies and municipalities who have taken the time to submit speed limit reduction requests respectfully ask the FWC Commissioners to carefully consider all the information contained within this report and direct FWC Staff to add this issue to an upcoming FWC Commission meeting agenda. We respectfully ask the FWC Commission to exercise their legislative authority and consider lowering the speed zone from 25 MPH to minimum wake in the Jupiter Narrows, specifically in the waters surrounding Coral Cove Park. -5- Page 47 of 144 Agenda Item #6. E O V -o M L L 0 m L _0 a) a)• a' '" a) E a) c� U N— �a3C � ma).s3 U>> EL L 0 : U a) E o ) 0 -0 co � 3� � a) n(n> LL 0- C >.O o > c O �' U c caQ° cz c n_ oCM co EacaancL U v U ) - a a ( Mo � n ui v () a (a U o U~ ca) O CE (n '— �` s L ° -0 ) a) c ° p cn O 'C c �, ,c 3 c D O (n � c L o cm -0 (n a) a) a) cv o E �° a) o o U ° U E cn 0 M L j- = c = V) s o ° — cn > > L cp O vi O 0 �, -� c n 3 UoU -In mcuEm (hcn � O-0cC;)0M `� a) c � � 33 o c on - CL c c a) > c U C a) U E = C L a) c a) cm a) ~ � U U COa0 a) ? 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Incompatible Recreational Use and Public Safety Last year(2018) at Coral Cove Park there was a tragic accident. According to witnesses, a young boy was knocked off his feet due to a boat wake, and disappeared under the waves as the strong currents swept him away. This tragic event was simply reported as a"drowning" in the news, but eye witness accounts tell a very different story. A boat wake knocked the boy off his feet. In addition, two years ago, around Christmas time (2017), two boats and a j et ski appeared to be racing down the Jupiter Narrows,just north of Cato's Bridge. As the eye witnesses turned around and walked away, they heard a large crash. One of the racing boats had veered dangerously out of control and landed in the mangroves, just north of Cato's Bridge. The boat was completely verticle, and deeply embedded in the mangroves from impact. People on the shore hollered to the occupants of the boat. When there was no response, 911 was called and the police arrived. It took two tow boats three hours to remove the embedded boat from the mangroves. This accident was reported simply as a boat"landing." The Issue of Low Tide and "Choke Point" in the area surrounding Coral Cove Park Despite the obvious dangers of low tide in the Jupiter Narrows, the FWC Coral Cove Vessel Study only mentions one simple sentence to consider this issue: "There was low tide during the morning assessment. Shoals were exposed on both ' sides of the ICW channel. " There was no further mention of the impact of the tidal changes in the FWC Vessel , Study, and certainly no potential safety _ concerns were discussed regarding the ■ I issue of the exposed shoals. Four times a day the tides shift, creating a significant t_ change in the Jupiter Narrows channel and waters surrounding Coral Cove Park. This part of the channel goes from dangerously shallow to a sudden deep drop right at the channel markers. Kayaks, paddle boarders, manatees and other marinelife have no choice but to ride the extremely thin sideline of the channel during these low _ i tides. Some boaters do not understand that the paddlers and other usergroupshave no ��`"�` �"'� ' �• - - � � � p choice, and angrily speed up to create wake, perhaps as a warning that `you do not belong in the channel. " Intentional swampings and capsizings are not uncommon. -7- Page 49 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Florida has more boats than any Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area other state in the country and the . numbers are growing. With the presence of blue green algae just north of this area, even more boaters are traveling south in search of the beautiful clean, blue waters of the Jupiter Narrows. . to r- Jupiter is the fastest growing city in Palm Beach County and the ,r Lot 15 • of Coral Cove Park is - too� : popularity _ increasin dramatically. In - -i g Y response to the continued increase Speed c► Trpnsition Sign tin demand for boat launching a Cho`Ke1Zone" facilities, Palm Beach County ,�• ,Y;,r; ,, opened Waterway Park boat ramp on Indiantown Road in Jupiter in , .p 4'.0 lit 4 2017. This park, located just west Lighthouse Jupiter of the Jupiter Inlet Li Inlet includes three ► . ' �, g Outstanding Natural Area launching ramps, four 40-foot (.;r, Bureau of Land Management staging/floating docks and a 170 linear foot boat basin. In addition " on U.S. 1 in Jupiter, the existing L._.t 22 Burt ram Reynolds boat Y p was . recently renovated, adding even L°'20 more parking s for boaters. p g aces p , r . Lot 2' � .. Complicating the issue further, L gh:house the immediate proximity of Coral ; ' _ P Y - how - Cove Park to several adjacent rental facilities for boats and Legend t. personal watercraft(PWC), add * Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse another layer of concern to this L 1 BOA 11 t .w �. area. On any given weekend, the 0 Tovin of Jupiter .. PWC users, especially those that E:1 Coast Gard are inexperienced renters, can be 0 0.075 0.15 0.3 found zipping around at high Miles pp g g ,,.....,.�.�.:,T.L�..r V.:..rr•u X.t•.ant,nl.[s, f yKs.rrr:t•..ear t,rera.r speeds, inside and out of the -• • • y•` °� channels, including the shallow waters surrounding Coral Cove Park. PWC's are especially attracted to this area because of the abundance of large boat wakes to jump. It's no surprise that personal watercraft (PWC) are widely perceived as being among the most difficult recreational vessels to manage. They are frequently associated with management issues such as ecological damage, aesthetic degradation, multiple-use conflicts and public safety concerns, and they pose further concern because they can navigate in shallow water areas that are less accessible by other water craft. And in the Jupiter Narrows, especially in the vicinity of Coral Cove Park,personal watercraft are a serious problem. Are less than 6 minutes of saved travel time worth the risk to public safety? Are we really looking at the amount of citations written to determine the need for a slower speed zone when law enforcement is not consistently present? -8- Page 50 of 144 Agenda Item #6. 3. Coral Cove Park and the Southernmost Jupiter Narrows: What's so special? The SITE VALUE of Coral Cove Park is undeniable. On any given weekend, the park is packed to capacity. Paddle boarding has continued to grow in popularity and was documented in a 2013 report as the outdoor sporting activity with the most first time participants in the United States. Because of Coral Cove's beautiful waters, easy accessibility, its no surprise that Coral Cove is a popular paddle boarding destination. A simple Google search of Coral Cove Park paddle boarding and kayaking reveals many websites listing Coral Cove Park as a highly recommended paddling destination, indicating it as a launch site and highlighted on official paddling trail maps. Coral Cove Park is specifically mentioned by the Florida Paddling Trails Association and also The Florida Department of Environmental Protection as a Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. The popularity, importance and site value to all stakeholder groups of The Jupiter Narrows and Coral Cove Park really is quite impressive. Because of this popularity and the ease of accessibility for kayaker and paddle boarders alike, in 2018, Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation approved and established a non-motorized boat launch area in Coral Cove Park. However,, speaking with many of the local northern Palm Beach County water sports companies, it's reported that the professionals at these businesses discourage novice paddle boarders from using Coral Cove Park for their paddling activities. Because of the heavy vessel congestion passing by at high speeds, the unpredictable and frequent wakes create an environment that that makes it difficult and unsafe for the novice paddle boarder. Education at Coral Cove Park Whether it's the droves of annual summer campers, special events hosted by local organizations or simply another family day on the water in beautiful South Florida, Coral Cove Park offers educational opportunities like no other park in Palm beach County. While the Olt 1411 �— southern rival Peanut Island competes for the top 14)(1(11AMIA) spot, the accessibility to all that Coral Cove offers, Back to School Bioblitz! including those without a boat, make this spot Under-the-Sea Edit*ion even more important for all to enjoy. What is a Bioblitz?A Bioblitz is a citizen science effort to record as many species as possible within a designated location in a short period of time. Here's how YOU can help! Join Loggerhead Marinelife Center for a fun filled morning of identifying local marine species for science!This is a family- friendly event,all ages are encouraged to participate. Participants can choose to snorkel,free-dive,or use other methods of shallow water observations. 'In order to report your doto to the citizen science progrom iNaturofist,an underwater camera is required to capture photos,however a device is not required in order to participate in the event. Not a swimmer?Help us by conducting a Trash-Blitz beach clean-up instead) Event Details When:Saturday,September Th at 8:00 am—11:00 am Where:Coral Cove Park,19450 County Hwy 707,Tecluesta,FL 33469 Check-in:To participate,check-in is required at the Loggerhead tent What to bring:Refillable water bottle,snorkel gear,underwater camera or gopro,sun protection VAA M MOCK COUN" wil -9- 44 Agenda Item #6. Pictured below (top) is a leatherback sea turtle that was spotted swimming under Cato's Bridge, heading north through the Jupiter Narrows on a busy weekend day in May of 2017. Efforts were made to keep this gental giant out of the boat channel. Also pictured below the swimming leatherback photo (bottom) are photos of a deceased leatherback sea turtle. This injured leatherback was initially spotted in May of 2018 in the waters surrounding Coral Cove,and was subsequently euthanized from mortal prop wounds. It has been discussed with experts and determined that these two turtles are most likely not the same.. Experts say female leatherbacks often get lost in this area and mistakenly end up in the ICW as they head inland to lay their eggs. The lucky ones make it out alive. Ar law do i 11 �t� �—►—.ram '� Ate- _ �� ^--^-- �i -_� ♦ fir.��1-�:`.`` May 2017, Leatherback sea turtle swimming through the boat channel of Jupiter Narrows in the waters around Coral Cove Park. (Photo:Andy Fisher) rI - ��i'�i�f.• �� 1 i 1 ti - Va i • A r� '1 May 2018, this injured leatherback was captured on the east side of the channel by Coral Cove Park. It was indicated in the report that this turtle suffered two separate sets of prop injuries,one set of marks said to be 1-2 weeks old,and the other set was said to be more recent.The turtle was euthanized because of the mortal prop wounds. (Photo source: FWC) -10- Page 52 of 144 Agenda Item #6111111 JUPITER INLET LIGHTHOUSE OUTSTANDING NATURALa AREA •- , Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area (ONA)is part of the Bureau of Land Management's 27- Q ©O Q Q � million acre National Conservation Lands;and the only R complete unit east of the Mississippi River.In close proximity to several million people,and embedded in Florida's urbanized Treasure Coast,the 120-acre site in northern Palm Beach County is so recognized for its remarkable array of natural and cultural resources.Its location at the confluence of the Loxahatchee River and Indian River Lagoon,just one and a half miles from the Atlantic Ocean,has made the site a popular and strategic site of human occupation for the past 5,000 years.The ONA designation was established by Congress primarily to protect natural,historic and cultural resources along with scenic,scientific,education and recreational values..The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse ONA is one of three sites afforded this designation. PHONE:601.331.7407 Congress established Oregon's Yaquina Head in 1980,the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and the Piedras Blancas EMAIL:pdewitt cblm.gov Light Station in California were established in May of 2008.Besides visiting the historic Jupiter Inlet ADDRESS:600.601 State Road 707 Lighthouse,the ONA offers a variety of other visitor experiences.Take a gentle walk along a hardened trail and Jupiter,FL 33469 boardwalk though native and restored Florida coastal habitats,or participate in exciting interpretive programs LATITUDE/LONGITUDE:26.948,-80.086 regarding the site's unique military history and its important role in World War II. 4. Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area and other Special Designations Many don't realize it, but much of the area included in the Jupiter Narrows area of concern is located within the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area. In addition, the Jupiter Narrows and Coral Cove Park also fall within three other Special Designations: The Jensen Beach to Jupiter Inlet Aquatic Preserve, The Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail and the Jupiter Waterway Trail (North Intracoastal Trail) "The ONA was designated for the preservation, protection and enhancement of seven key resources and values. These values were grouped in the designating legislation into the following board categories: Historic, Natural, and Cultural Resources and Scientific, Educational, Recreational, and Scenic values." Special Designations: Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstand Natural Area (ONA) is home a remarkable array of natural and cultural resources including four sensitive habitats, 26 special status species, and an archaeological record providing evidence of human occupation dating back over 5,000 years. These historic, cultural and natural resources serve as the bases on which the Congressional designation directs the protection, preservation and enhancement of the sites key values. Besides its namesake, the historic Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse, the ONA offers a variety of other visitor experiences. Take a gentle walk along a hardened trail and boardwalk though native and restored Florida coastal habitats, or participate in exciting interpretive programs about the site's important role as a U.S. intelligence spy station during World War II, and its unique military history. https://www.bIm.Pov/programs/national-conservation-lands/eastern-states/Jupiter-inlet-lighthouse -11- Page 53 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail Beginning at Big Lagoon State Park near Pensacola, extending around Map=-e AARTIN � Florida Circumnavigational the Florida peninsula and Keys, and � Saltwater Paddling Trail ending at Fort Clinch State Park near ; S e g m e n t 19 the Georgia state line, the Florida ,, . Palm Beach / Loxahatchee Map A Circum navigational Saltwater Paddling Trail (commonly referred to Drinking Water as the CT) is a 1,515-mile sea Camping kayaking paradise. The trail includes '� Kayak Launch Y gp � Map � Shower Facility every Florida coastal habitat type, Restnwm from barrier island dune systems to m Restaurant i � Gra;cry Store salt marsh to mangroves. Numerous PALM BEACH i O Point of Interest ^a p t A historical sites and points of interest ; " II°tcl,Motel are accessible by kayak along with colorful fishing communities and urban centers. The CT is divided into 26 segments. Each segment is unique, ranging from the remote Big Bend Coast and Everglades/Florida Bay wilderness, to the more urbanized coastlines of Pinellas County and Fort Lauderdale. The trail is utilized by thousands of Florida residents and visitors alike who paddle the trail for a few hours, days, weeks or months. Some hardy souls have paddled the entire trail, and others seek to complete the trail in segments over several years, similar to how hikers often tackle the Florida or Appalachian Trail. https://fIoridadep.gov/parks/ogt/content/fIorida-circum navigation a I-saltwater-paddling-trail (Segment 19 Official Map from FDEP- Lists Coral Cove as a Public Paddling Access) Segment 19: Palm Beach/Loxahatchee Map 2 B �ward ` N � e Iter Island to 1,,\Jonathan Dickinson State Park � A N 26 9437 1 W-80 0747 12 B N 26 9629 1 W-80 0795 sp ` C N 26.9739 1 W-80.0874 ® >� J , I D Jonathan Dickinson State Park D N 2s9sao IN-801429 Campground Access ! NyrFamwxarutcneeRN& C ,Jupiter Waterfront Inn 3 i Tequesta �.`B Coral Cove Park Jupn«Inlet LignthouMACC a. i N 2ti947 1 W.-IO.N4, I UWa0C11Mtaver / 7 o ` 1 2 ' '"N°' " A Dubois Park = O Jensen Beach to Jupiter Inlet Aquatic Preserve Located in St. Lucie, Martin and extreme northern Palm Beach counties, Jensen Beach to Jupiter Inlet Aquatic Preserve is 37 miles long and encompasses 23,000 acres. Despite its official name, the aquatic preserve extends from the southern corporate limits of Fort Pierce south to Jupiter Inlet, including the Peck Lake and Hobe Sound area. Stuart is the only incorporated city bordering the aquatic preserve. Unincorporated cities include Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound and Tequesta. The aquatic preserve is accessible from the east by U.S. Highway A1A and from the west by Indian River Drive or U.S. Highway 1. Despite the length of the aquatic preserve, the number of parks and boat ramps that provide direct public access to the aquatic preserve is limited. - https://floridadep.F,�ov/rcp/aquatic-preserve/locations/iensen-beach-iupiter-inlet-aquatic-preserve -12- Page 54 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Jupiter Waterway Trail(North Intracoastal Trail) The Jupiter Waterway Trail is a series of trails that connect the Loxahatchee River, Intracoastal Waterway and Jupiter Inlet. These legs and off-shoots create a natural playground of eco-tourism activities, from kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding to snorkeling, boating, fishing, and diving. It also has several adjacent natural areas that encourage "near-water" activities like hiking, biking, beaching and enjoying wildlife, such as bird-watching. The Jupiter Waterway Trail was officially recognized by the DEP Greenways &Trails System in 2013. The Town of Jupiter is continuing its efforts to encourage eco-tourism around the Jupiter Waterway Trail by focusing on several opportunities to designate the trail with other agencies and associations. These designations will support marketing efforts to promote the trail and all of the eco-tourism amenities available in the Jupiter area. As a primary means of promoting and marketing the Trail, the Town is developing an interactive map. The map and its database of information would be available on the web and as a mobile application showing eco-tourism routes, stops, launches, natural areas, and sights along and connected to the Jupiter Waterway Trail. To support the mobile app, The map will have over-layed data that will help eco-tourists identify launch and entry points, and find vendors and businesses that support eco- tourism activities. See map showing Coral Cove as launch site. itcbing Creek WATERWAY TRAILS AND LAUNCH SITES INJUPITER C Pre N TraE+per\clsu►i's W E —�� LAUNCH SITES ^ ----- -- ---- -1J.---------- -- - Japiter Inlet S k .tA �s Lightbousc and e �� .'�fuscu►ts ® 1. Coral Cove Park-South Extension o+ Ile f 2. DuBois Park Martin county � Tequesta Dr. 3. Burt Reynolds Park Palm Beach County 4. Limestone Creek Natural Area Masten '� S. Sawfish Bay Park Dam Roebuck Rd. LOY41hatePt.C11® sty°� River � 6. Riverhend Park yWt ,Jupiter 7. Jonathan Dickinson State Park Lainb`'rt Center St. ti Inlet 8. Inlet Village Park /)ant g .Junes Creek 9. FIND River Park Indtantown Rd. - �� 10. Jupiter Beach Access Points ® Sims �i Dam Rit+crbcnd Crcck 0 Park s 2 G oD Toney Penna Dr. v, 7 Spillway $1 Riverwalk u — Paddling Trails UPI ' .... Jupiter Riverwalk Indian Creek Blvd. Exit 0 o00 S Ar e v� r` 1 „may O c roderlcl�Srgall R a p � �ro�•�•sllo�•a�•�•�•n�tr•auo+ e Id-Rossiid. www.jupiter.fLus/waterwaytraiI -13- Page 55 of 144 Agenda Item #6. • Q F i Met C Aif tj,o � c � Q o � r T 2 r o RID ZORi'D �o r� U.S.DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENI BEACH ROAD ASSOCIATION fz P.O. BOX 4122 Tequesta, Florida 33469 WILDLIFE 9 or 101 1 All VO E 5. Municipality Resolutions and Letters of Support/Concern In 2017,three Northern Palm Beach County municipal governments,the Village of Tequesta,the Town of Jupiter and Jupiter Inlet Colony,all voted unanimously to pass resolutions endorsing the slow wake zone in the interest of public safety.Many residents spoke in favor of the zone,stressing personal safety and environmental concerns.The only speaker against the resolution was at the Town of Jupiter meeting,representing the Marine Industries Association.This speaker stated that the zone was a threat to the$8 billion boating industry in the State of Florida. This was countered by questioning whether the zone,.8 miles in length,could really be a threat to the industry. Several speakers and commissioners and councilers at all three meetings stated that they are avid boaters, but supported the minimizing of the speed zone in the interests of public safety.In addition to the three towns,Palm Beach County Commissioner Hal Valeche,who represents the northern district,wrote a letter of support to FWC for the minimum wake zone. In addition,many local businesses and concerned citizens are in support of reducing the speed in the Jupiter Narrows. -14- Page 56 of 144 Agenda Item #6. ACN CO � GZ a �e Mav 26,2017 LORI Major Robert Rowe General Headquarters HAL R, VALECHE Boating and Waterways Section Leader County Commissioner Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission District I Bryant Building Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners 620 South Meridian Street Tallahassee, FL 32399 ■ Dear Major Rowe: I believe FWCC is aware of a growing public safety concern in the Governmental Center Intracoastal Waterway from C.R. 707(Cato)bridge north to Coral Cove 301 North Olive Avenue,12th Floor Park. Three of the surrounding municipalities,the Village of Tequesta, West Palm Beach.FL 33401 Jupiter Inlet Colony and Town of Jupiter have passed resolutions Telephone:(561)355-2201 Facsimile:(561)355-6094 expressing their support for an extension of the minimum speed/no hvaleche®pbcgov.org wake zone in this area. www.pbcgov.com I would like to echo those concerns as this area,which is narrow in nature,has become quite a popular location for recreation. With limited public access to our waterways,Coral Cove Park has become a prime location for paddle-boarding,snorkeling and swimming. The wake generated by boats traveling up and down the waterway appears to be creating safety issues to other users in the vicinity and there is a real fear that a tragedy is just waiting to happen. With that in mind, I would like to urge FWCC to review this area and coordinate a meeting with the local government officials to determine, based on data and input,that a minimum speed/no wake zone is warranted. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerel , Hal R. Valeche County Commissioner District 1 C: Jon Van Arnam, Deputy County Administrator Abbey Brennan,Mayor, Village of Tequesta An Equal Opportunih, Dr. Daniel J.Comerford, Mayor,Jupiter Inlet Colony Affirmative Action Employer- Todd Wodraska,Mayor,Town of Jupiter Official Electronic Letterhead -15- Page 57 of 144 Agenda Item #6. June 12, 2017 NC if c �G Major Robert Rowe 4 Boating and Waterways Section Leader • - • Division of Law Enforcement Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission OR 620 South Meridian Street Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600 1'O Box 1 Q8Q West Palm Beach.Fl.33402-19819 SUBJECT: REQUEST FOR SPEED ZONE REVIEW- INTRACOASTAL (561)355.2001 WATERWAY FROM C.R. 707 NORTH TO CORAL COVE PARK, FAX:(561)355-3990 PALM BEACH COUNTY, FLORIDA www pbcgov corn Dear Major Rowe: On June 6, 2017,the Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously to request that the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Palm Beach County Commission conduct a formal review of the subject area for a boating- Board of County restricted area to add restrictions on vessel speeds. Section 327.46, Commissioners Florida Statutes,authorizes the Commission to establish boating- Paulette Burdick.!Mayor restricted areas to protect the safety of the public where restrictions Melissa McKinlay.vice Mayor are necessary based on boating accidents,visibility,hazardous currents Ilal R valeche or water levels,vessel traffic congestion and other navigational Dave Kerner hazards. It is believed that one or more of these conditions may justify speed restrictions in the described area. Steven L.Abrams Mary Lou Berger Three surrounding municipalities,the Village of Tequesta,Jupiter Inlet Mack Bernard Colony and the Town of Jupiter and a number of local citizens have identified safety concerns related to the heavy use of this area by boaters, paddle-boarders,swimmers, snorkelers,and other recreational users. The Board of County Commissioners of Palm Beach County Adadinlstratoe County shares these concerns and urges the Commission to move %*rdenia C baker forward with a review focusing on public safety. Please let us know if we can assist in any way with this effort. Thank you in advance for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, Paulette Burdick, Mayor Palm Beach County -An EquWOpportunity cc: Board of County Commissioners Affirmative Action F.mpla�yr' Verdenia C. 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Q .� pC 2 I �_ c a) O > c E O O � Q W o CZ c C O L U Z J cc _ a° M,a Z L M `� U Us 0� O U Z0 < 00 0 -1 > 0 M C) r� cc � Fn � w > c L o ca M a� 0 m p}p�� 3 a� ° 3 w O 0 0 > U 0 0 Q O Q ° 3 a`� Z a I�°I F- � W CC c� ° c� � F- � 0 n u w U o (' > H LL U) �� U O cv = XQCO c c c cn F— W CC Q Z U — CZ V) '0 Q N °Cl) O C cL0 0 N W w ~ o C � U a c a Z cq O 0 � Z W N }. ••z a) > >.� Q) wE C z � Z0 c cr)> m o 0 0 0 m o c _0 L a) o M O U £ W O Z Vj : c (n 0-0 m��U m a)CM c U W Q 0 c� Q o c C� a) a) L O O p J F- Q CC > W W s c� cr WQa cvofU w(n QM W a w W 2 L 2 cn cz a cc � > 0LL o Q cn cc z w ° W E -18- Page 60 of 144 Agenda Item #6. 0 s o z ,� ,4)3 3 s c o z Or > O LL U u E C o :: N a o Z V j ° a� Ocn Q 23w.� � � o 0 -a O o c 0lull V a 0 0 cz C O V u � p evj E c� Cn CIO Cn ►>. v cc cl, O C C CO > u v° y 0. 0 V Oz E c p E 0cl v�O v ° x c o�.. .. .M c - ' cn o c w W _ _ E .. a� cd o�0 '0 C `o N E C 4. 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C CO � rn O cC > O ., v O U U c � � `�Z cN bw> o as (13 o a� O o M o ° t; C '° [ •D b4 o E 4o ° (ti :•c. .3 'b° .o a. ° 3a, Ub�c' F°If 00 C , o •0L an o O4W U v; c U V ' o o ti c oU (n V o .a" z z W . =bnc y g a V) ca a ) VNM CA v c .aCC F z Z OG > W F� A V "� ,_„ W -� C a. a� ai a� .. ?, y o s c, Z w pG CG U W A F > o o �_ a c. a a � E �° ,0 >, ccv a V� E vi on W W J 04 Q .. v� .a y �, o U �, a� .. .c -c •v U- O W >C W x A A M A '-' W �• E- d d E '< c C -v Q �, bn `� Q �' cc -o C Q E d E w w 6Tw 00"w a E Or �a N o b c `� _ c F x F zc u � c� x c -v a� ( v a, c t 0. W F" G1G .a C. O A a W W 't -v W 0 W C O >, .� .. M o co a� T z O O '''O>C a z w :� o ?� x c .� co .2 a' x `� `' c .w" dtiNzaa � HwaQtidw 3 3 0 3 > o 3 cu cl �° ° 3 ° .� U O ej'O � O > 'fl C c. Cl. o �° 3 c E a o ,y .n u a -19- Page 61 of 144 Agenda Item #6. BEACH ROAD ASSOCIATION P.o. pox 4 i?? Tequesta, Florida 33469 September 10, 2019 Commissioners Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Farris Bryant Building 620 S. Meridian Street Tallahassee, FL 32301 Re: Speed Limit in the Jupiter Narrows The Beach Road Association is an organization comprising 19 condominiums located on the south end of Jupiter Island. The Association strives to advance the interests and general welfare of its members by, among other things, communicating with public officials on issues of concern to both our membership and the community at large. It is our concern for public safety, not solely the safety of our members, but also the safety of the community at large - - every user of the waterway - - that compels us to speak out on the speed limit issue. Our members live adjacent to the Jupiter Narrows and have witnessed so many unsafe situations there that the Association has been forced to conclude this area of the Intracoastal Waterway is an accident waiting to happen. We have communicated this urgent message to the Commission in the past, but since nothing has been done, we must again urge the Commission to take the steps necessary to lessen the dangerous conditions in the Narrows. To that end, the Beach Road Association supports the proposal before the Commission to lower the speed limit on the Intracoastal Waterway in the Jupiter Narrows north of the Cato Bridge to minimum speed inside the channel and no wake outside the channel, including doing so through the creation of a kayak launching area in Coral Cove Park. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, John N. O'Shea President Beach Road Association -20- Page 62 of 144 Agenda Item #6. c a) U- ��-0 E a)-Y_ 0 b (n CZ cz 0.a 0 Z3-0 c oo a�- b Ma _ L _0 b- CC U fd U) C ? G 3 C3 ) .— b-D C � O C . M a)o E 0 5 a bD UC - E O o 0 cnE E C3 -C b M aa)) D M r o C Ccoc C Q a7 .- o U 0 ©73 ! EC zr_ QW D C O CZ f oC) 7 +a czo = 0 0 � ! 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U CZ O }' Q U OO p O 0 i > O n O czO a CZ O 04- a)cz O 01 c CZ Q a CZ O � i N O p _ O U a) + cn � CZ -0 c O a) Cz c M O > N :t=� 0 4-- 0 _2 O cz O U cz `� U Ocz a) O Cn cn cz 0- 0 -f-' O 0-- E 0- 0--- = C CZ a- 0 O � — OO E Q U CZ cz O c E -p w O iO QO Op —O n U � O M cz Q � a) mCZ :tf (n a) cz O a) M E .O m'j U +J O % > W cz 0 E M a- -0 -+-1 4-1 cz cz M •- OO O EOo o c� c� U � 'L +� +� a) M cz E Ocz � O U O - O U a) C - M a CZ O � �' a) -- Q O a) cz i O a) 12 E �' a) CD �--' Q CZ--"e cz •� -O 0 > U 0 L co a) > a U -c— � cn cn +J U - -0 —U O 0 � O 41 Q O — i O� M O cz p Ocz _ cn 4-1 Q) E cz cz 0 a) �uO) a) c� a) c� c� CDC\J a) a) O a) O = U Q)�. a) -+� a) o a) O a)-- -0 cz %-- 0) Uv � +-J (D (DNNE cz � � � �cn � a)E -p � a) � . � a) a) .c > + O � L a) U CZ U p O U a) +� U cz (n 0 cz cz OO cz > 0M0M c0c� `� Oc� OQc ° C � c� I --' M c c � cz 0 -0 -0 U � U -0 E U >, U cn cz U : cn f— U _22_ Page 64 of 144 Agenda Item #6. V) � .0 � a: � ad r Q) . Ct N 0 w 0 �' v 14 on uIn o CU t., 1.. 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M M 3 C4 w U) U a) U) + c cz 4— Q) L a) U) O a) U) U }, � O cz L a) _ 4. +� c� U O O O M a) (n O Q Q) � O 'L O a) _0 0 U a) = a) .+-� O — a) >, U Q+ O >cn CZ > Q) a) a) Q)czcz -+- cn U 0 cn:3 cn (n Q) (n cd — +� +-, � O E �_ 0 CZ (n cn E > 0 CZ Q) Q) +� ° -0 '— U a) Q) 0 (%n O i U O O Q) c� }; �' — Q) cz cz > M cz c CZ Mcz O OO CY) a >Q t czO (nO i U Q) O • }, U +J `� a) Q) cz CM i O •5 Ea) Q) a) > o >' (n (n cz O 00 +�- �_cz a- 0 > cn UJ -+-j E a) C) 0 0)4- E = — c - >1 > c- -- +.., Q) .- a LU cz _0 W -*--1 _0 -+- C �� .0 C', -c- 0 cz c c M 4--j 4-j 0 3: _ cn . L-- Q) -tf 0 cn E 0 ESQ Q � � a) � Q) cnUQ) � � � Q) � � � M (� Q) � >, Ca) � � -+ O °_' OQ) (no cz _ cz 0 O can U E E U (On O W E U .� °U U .� cz Q �,W -23- Page 65 of 144 Agenda Item #6. TREASURE COAST SEDITION � N ANCE'&BOB— P T Tr} LUMJRtL M L A AnglerSurvey.com Belief Fishing.Beller Tackle.Belief future. OPPORTUNITIES 1 F rl"ING REPORTS• DIVING KAYAKING BOATING- CALENDAR BRAGBOARD CONTACT US- f (� y G+ O 0 41 >•sue' `• r ...+ram ti E l T3-♦ _ 4P - ' _ - ter.=�► *'�«M�� e f � Great Places SUP Explore Jupiter And Stuart Treasure CoastApril 9, 20171 4:48 PM By Sierra Groth: Coral Cove Crystal clear water and a legendary lighthouse awaits.Take South Beach Road onto Jupiter Island. Park in the sandy lot that lines the right and left side of the road and take the short pathway down to the water. Want a day of fun,friends,and good times?Paddle north about a mile to the Sandbar. Want a day of snorkeling and sight-seeing? Pack a mask,fins,and lunch and paddle South. Cato's Bridge is full of life right under the surface.Try to spot the massive illusive snook or the ever so popular hogfish. Just past the bridge you will fend sand mountain which is a very popular hangout spot and a great place for a lunch break. Next,cross the Intracoastal and head towards the Jupiter Outdoor center where you can relax in a hammock and admire the view of the picture-perfect lighthouse. (Boards can be rented from the Jupiter Outdoor Center.) _24— Page 66 of 144 Agenda Item #6. 5. ,Statute 327.46 Boating-restricted areas C `^ C C C O �+ w O '0 N O a, `° o o `° a, 6 c N on ` c -C c v N u � . •N '0 ,� E on ° c c o v ry o N c ° I ° c c N a� L ° �' 3 v L _ >' c >. E ° `-' E a, N ° 0 0 on a, N p E " ' ° U a o, ° o a o c v 3 o E -,4-0 M y �, E N E L r o. a �° �a a fa V 0 ` U �^ Q! +, 41 V N >. OU O O L O `�' L O O �_ O O 0 N a a U L ra L w L L :� c ` ry on L aJ " b c V N .6-1 M L M C o � C i •a � � C � � U N rC L L D ° n a a c m on >' .�, N a, E 4.j a, a E L ° L c g U C L O Q Vi o L ra ° a1 %. Q >. 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VILLAGE TEQUESTA OF June 6,2018 Major Robert Rowe Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Bryant Building Headquarters 6Z0 South Meridian Street Yo. cCn, No,. Tallahassee, FL3Z399 ABBrBsENrmuN Dear Major Rowe, Mayor °o="n"u@oy""sn`"rg After our March meeting at CommissionerVa|eche's office' representatives from TouPxTEallo the Village ofT�ques�a' the Town of Jupiter, and Jupiter Inlet Colony met with Vi=°u&'", Palm Beach County Director Eric Call to determine an appropriate course of action q=tem=@uq" °m-org regarding the Jupiter Narrows area. The municipalities requested that a non-motorized boat launch area be established in Coral Cove park at latitude 26g�73 longitude Director Call ��r�C��Bs�� ' ' ' ' Council_N»_b" has informed us that the boat launch request has been approved. As of May 25' `~="n@my" "m'org 2018, signage has been installed at the designated location and is visible from both the water and the roadway. LAURIE BzuANDON Council Member Pursuant to the statutory authority granted to FVVC under Florida Statute 327.45' lb="u="@teq"°°m.org the Village of Tequesta,on behalf of all three municipalities, is requesting pursuant to 327.47(l)(b)l(a) that a slow speed/minimum wake zone be established for the |Cvv 500 feet north and south of the boat launch location. While the statute z�'��/��]sr�� ' c"""=uau=,be= provides for the establishment of an idle speed/no wake zone the concern for kj=hn°"=@mque"m'"n; adequate steerage for larger vessels traveling through the impacted area is the basis for the more liberal approach. One additional item we would like the FVV[to consider. There is a gap of several hundred feet between the minimum wake zone that ends 3,00 feet north of the Cato Bridge and the start of the new zone. Upon examination you will discover that the individuals launching from this Coral Cove launch immediately head in the direction of the 707 bridge and lighthouse which puts them in this gap. On VILLAGE MANAGER its face there ;s little sense in allowing boats to accelerate to 25MPH for a few MIzsAsL:OuZzo hundred feet before having to decelerate as they enter the new zone. Thus' we moo"zzn@mque"ta."rg would request that the slow speed/minimum wake signage start at the end of the 561.768.0465 Cato Bridge zone. On behalf of the parties involved I want to thank you for your efforts in helping us to create a safer boating and recreation environment for all. reg d Mayo r 34sTcqucmn*Drive Tuqucmta,FL 33469'0273 561.768.07:0 nww.mrqueetu.n'g -26- Page 68 Of 144 Agenda Item #6. August 1,2018 Florida Fish Ms.Abby Brennan and Wildlife 345 Tequesta Drive Conservation Te(luesta,Florida 33469-0273 Commission RE:Non-motorized area Coral Cove Park Commissioners Bo Rivard Dear Ms.Brennan: Chairman Panama City Robert A.Spottswood We are in receipt of your letter dated June 6,2018.perttiilling to a request to establish a Vice Chairman state boating restricted area adjacent to Coral Cove Park. Based upon a meeting between Key West Village ofTequesta,the Town ofJupitcr.and the Juhitcr Inlet Colony it was dctcrinined Gary Oxford Lester that a request to Palm Beach County officials should be made to establish Coral Cove Gary Nicklaus Park as a non-motorized boat launch area.Director Eric Call of Palm Beach County Jupiter approved the request and as of May 25,2018,signage notifying the public of the launch Sonya Rood was installed. St.Augustine Michael W.Sole Tequesta Based upon the circumstances above the Village of Tequesta has requested that our office establish a state boating restricted area pursuant to 327.46(1)(b)I(a),Florida Statutes Executive Staff (F.S.),327.46(1)(b),F.S.,which allows local governments to establish boating restricted Eric Sutton areas for public safety by local ordinance.The Boating and Waterways Section adheres to Executive Director these same standards for the establishment of new state boating restricted areas xvith the Thomas H.Eason,Ph.D. Intracoastal waterway.Specifically,327.46(1)(b)l(a),F.S.,states the following: Assistant Executive Director Jennifer Fitzwater Chief of Staff Within.500 feet of any bout ramp,hoist,nnarine railway,or other launching or hirmling fcrcilitt,m-cttluhle.f or use by the general boating htthlic on irwer►l,uys Division of Law more than 300 feet in►,deft!or►l'Ilhin 300 feel of any bout rump, hoist,marine Enforcement raihray,or other 1(tunching or landing futility available for rise b),the general Colonel Curtis Brown bout its us on irateriiw s not exceedin 300 g� bl i y eel in width. Directo• f (850)487-6251 0463 The non-motorized boat launch area approved b Palm Beach County would not qualify (850)487.0463 FAX pp Y � q ) as a"launching or landing facility"as required within 327.46(1)(b)l(a),F.S.,fur the Manaestablishment of a state boating safety area and therefore the request by the Village of resources es fish eirind o long-term Te(uesta would be denied at this time.To qualify as a launching and landing facility resources for their tong-term I q � �•• g g Y well-being and the benefit infrastructure would need to be provided to the public user which facilitates directly the of people. activity of launching and landing of non-motorized vessels.The presence of a sign and 620 South Meridian Street sandy beach area would not by itself meet this requirement. Please see the attached Tallahassee.Florida example ofa non-motorized launching and landing facility approved for a local boating 32399-1600 restricted area in Tarpon Springs Florida. Voice:(850)488-4676 Hearing/speech•impaired: The FWC Boating and Waterways Section has commissioned its state contract consultant (800)955-8771(T) (800)955 8770(V) to conduct a third-party vessel traffic study of the area.This study is currently being MyFWC.com conducted during peak boating periods and during low tide.Results of the study will be shared with all of the parties involved. We have instructed our contractor to conduct this study during peak usage periods and during low tide to adequately document any vessel congestion issues. The results of this study could provide empirical evidence of the need for a boating restricted area to address the user conflicts prevalent in the Jupiter Narrows waterway. If you have any questions,please contact our Planning Manager with our Waterway Management Unit at Ryan.MoreauAmyfwc.com or by phone at(850)617-9547. Sincerely, Major Robert 1Zowe Boating and Waterways Section Leader Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission rm/rj r Attachments:Tarpon Springs Launch Facility -27- Page 69 of 144 Agenda Item #6. It is noted in Vessel Report that this is NOT A TYPICAL BUSY DAY Photo • • _ - AL I-A _ ..Speed Transition Sign ` wr y i t 7 �J tir . i_�' a + �" .r.-• ✓� "tea= �� . �� '• yam,. - .._..�. T'�-+��¢ .i�� . -. ��•� A •tea �+� � •�� -•.ter fi _ �+ -�0+•�. r a �r 1 Page 70 of 144 Agenda Item #6111111 • ORC�� • Coral Cove Park wr► Vessel Traffic Study Z ` Palm Beach County,FL on CV � ` C C0NS ERN a U� ATKINS 6. FWC's Management of the Jupiter Narrows and The FWC Coral Cove Park Vessel Traffic Study FWC's Division of Law Enforcement is responsible for protecting Florida's natural resources, including fish, wildlife and the environment, while providing a safe atmosphere for residents and visitors to recreate. FWC is no doubt recognized as the leading conservation law enforcement agency in the nation, if not the entire world. There is no other agency like it. FWC sets the standard for excellence in wildlife conservation management, and as Floridians, we can be very proud of this. The conflict over vessel speeds is nothing new to the State of Florida and the FWC. With the invention of the first outboard motor, it wasn't long before fast moving boats began to forcefully intersect with the slow moving manatee, thus sparking years of a war that is commonly referred to as "Manatee Insanity." And so formed the never-ending battle between boaters that want to go fast and others that see a need to reduce boater's speed. The State of Florida first began regulating boat speeds as a way of reducing risks to manatees over 37 years ago. Various types of manatee protection zones have been established throughout Florida and the public generally understands the concept that reducing speed should reduce risk. But this has not come without strong opposition from many different boating groups, organizations and businesses that all argue that regulation is not necessary. Boaters simply DO NOT WANT TO SLOW DOWN. Regardless of the reason, whether a slow zone is proposed to protect an endangered manatee or for reasons of public safety, the knee jerk, auto-response from the opposition is always the same: "Don't regulate, instead, increase law enforcement to enforce existing speed limits and educate boaters"they say. Is this even an option? As quoted from an email dated July 2, 2019 to Palm Beach County in reference to the problematic area and the upcoming holiday, FWC South Regional Commander Major Fred Rondeau sums up the enforcement challenges that FWC faces: "Unfortunately even with all our officers working, we have to triage our calls for service due to the fact we do not have enough officers to strategically place at all of our problem areas of concern. With that said, I encourage you to call our dispatch center to report instances as they occur so we can dispatch officers to address issues. " Even if there were sufficient law enforcement present in the Jupiter Narrows to enforce the 25 MPH speed zone, this does not address the public safety concerns. 25 MPH is simply too fast for this narrow, congested channel! "Limiting speed as a precautionary measure makes intuitive sense and is well established for other safety issues. For example, speed limits set on roads for automobiles vary based on the situation, with lower limits set in areas where the risk of injury or accident is higher. School zones and residential areas frequently have the lowest limits. In addition, §316.183, FS, requires drivers to reduce speed to less than the posted limit if warranted by the prevailing conditions (e.g. visibility or weather).As with automobiles, it is well established in boat traffic management and the principles of seamanship and safe boating that slowing down is the proper response in areas where there may be hazards or in congested areas." (Slower boat speeds reduce risks to manatees, October 18, 2007, C. Scott Calleson*, R. Kipp Frohlich) -29- Page 71 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Coral Cove Park Vessel Traffic SLudy- (Full copy of study included in Appendix) In 2018, FWC ordered the "Coral Cove Vessel Traffic Study" as a result of reports of"perceived" conflicts between swimmers, snorkels, paddlers and motorized vessels in the area of Coral Cove Park. The study was done to obtain information and measure the criteria necessary, as defined in Florida statutes, to be able to either deny or accept a local municipality's request to establish a slow speed boating safety zone to reduce the risk to public safety. It's important to point out that the Technical Memorandum provided by a boating expert that is included in the Vessel Study was written by the owner of a large Palm Beach County boat towing and water services company whose business relies 100% on the boating community. Because of this, this expert cannot possibly offer an unbiased opinion or recommendations. Recommending a slow speed zone could result in his business being negatively impacted, possibly boycotted by the boating community. Also worth noting: the two observation days used for sampling were not reflective of how busy and congested it typically is at Coral Cove Park and the Jupiter Narrows. This was pointed out to the observer by local law enforcement. The following is the "Summary and Discussion"from the Vessel Study, page 25. *Martin and Palm Beach Counties are water-oriented communities whose economies and attractions depend on accessible and usable waterways. Slowing boat traffic down may negatively impact waterway navigation, which is inextricably tied to regional economies and local quality of life. -*It was evidenced in both field observations and accident data that a safety risk may exist with the operations of personal watercraft (PWCs) within the ICW corridor and in the shoal areas east of the ICW adjacent to Coral Cove Park. e In evaluating risk criteria, "launching or landing area"for kayaks may be the only criteria met in order to establish a boating restricted zone under F.S. 327.46. The definition of"launching or landing area" is ambiguous in making a determination if it qualifies as criteria under the statute. -An idle speed zone established based on this criteria would be small in scale, and counterproductive to the desired effect of risk reduction because the wakes from boats coming on and offplane may generate more wave energy than vessels traveling at speed through this corridor. The following risk mitigation strategies may be considered: Increased law enforcement presence,particularly during peak traffic periods. Enforcement of current boating restricted zones (25 MPH in channel, slow speed minimum wake Ifo out of channel). -Enforcement by Palm Beach County Sheriffprohibiting the launching of motorized watercraft from Ifo Coral Cove Park. This may reduce the number of PWCs operating in the Coral Cove Park area. -Educating PWC renters of current boating restriction zones from Martin County line to Jupiter Inlet. -Educational signage at Coral Cove Park describing the Intracoastal waterway (ICW) as a travel corridor (similar to a highway). -Informational signage on Jupiter Beach Bridge (SR 707) to convey a message related to congested area ahead,paddler area, watch for swimmers, etc. Our discussion: *"Informational signage on Jupiter Beach Bridge (SR 70 7) to convey a message related to congested area ahead,paddler area, watch for swimmers, etc. Y-9 The author of the study ADMITS HERE that the area IS congested and simply suggests signage, yet -30- Page 72 of 144 Agenda Item #6. no where else in the study is it indicated that the area is "congested." And the author only suggests signage on the bridge, which would only be effective for northbound traffic. What does this do for the speeding boats heading southbound into the affected area? The first sentence, of course is all about the convenience of boaters and their"quality of life."And the economy? Really? We ask, how will slowing down for less than six minutes impact the economy or quality of life? And will 6 minutes impact anyone's wallet? Certainly not the speeding boaters. If anything, the speed zone negatively affects the paddleboard and kayak businesses that utilize the waters surrounding Coral Cove Park, as they consistently discourage their novice customers from utilizing this area due to the dangerous wakes produced by the speeding boats. What a shame. In addition, "quality of life" is mentioned. What about the quality of life of the other stakeholder groups that use the ICW, and how they are impacted by the powerful wakes of the speeding boats? It's clear from this summary that the non-motorized user group's use, safety and enjoyment of this area was not considered at all, despite the fact that Coral Cove Park IS an established kayak launch and public bathing beach. The adjacent sandbar on the west side is also a de facto public bathing beach as well. There is a clear incompability of user groups (motorized and non-motorized) in this dangerous, high speed area. * "An idle speed zone established based on this criteria would be small in scale, and counterproductive to the desired effect of risk reduction because the wakes from boats coming on and off plane may generate more wave energy than vessels traveling at speed through this corridor. ly This is easily addressed, utilizing a combination of FS 32 7.46 L(a) the FT C Commissioner's legislative authority, and also 1.(b) the legislative authority of muncipalities and counties to establish boater-restricted areas by ordinance to resolve this issue and establish the necessary slow speed zone to ensure public safety. "Educational signage at Coral Cove Park describing the intracoastal waterway (ICW) as a travel corridor(similar to a highway)." As mentioned before, other user groups are often forced into the channel because of the extremely shallow shoals-especially during low tide. What choice do they have? We are asking for a small COMPROMISE, not a major SACRIFICE! The following is the "Executive Summary"from the Vessel Study, page 1: "This report was commissioned by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to examine an area of the Intracoastal waterway (ICW) in Tequesta, Florida, adjacent to Coral Cove Park, to assess the risk to public safety based on reports of excessive boat speed, vessel wakes, congestion, and user conflicts. The goal of the study was to determine whether a boating restricted speed zone is warranted in this area. The research draws attention to the measurement of data necessary to meet the criteria set forth in Florida statutes for establishing boating restrictions including physical features, observations of activities and congestion, and the analysis of accidents, citations, and prior studies. The current boating restrictions in place in Palm Beach County and the study area were reviewed and correlated to vessel compliance based on field visits to the study area. Site visits also included observing and recording the interaction between boaters andparkpatrons (swimmers, snorkelers, kayakers, and paddle boarders) to evaluate safety risks from conflicting uses of the waterway. Deriving from both in-person observations and the examiniation of accident reports,personal watercraft operations are exacerbating the risk to public safety, considered to be at a greater scale than vessels transiting in the ICW corridor. Mitigation strategies include increased law enforcement and educational outreach in lieu of amending the current boating regulations to a more restrictive vessel speed such as idle, slow, or a defined vessel speed (i.e. 5 MPH). -31- Page 73 of 144 Agenda Item #6. The Executive Summary references "field visits and site visits." Only two of these site visits were conducted and documented in the report, and the report failed to indicate how long the observations periods lasted during these two visits. The first was conducted Tuesday, July 31, 2018 and the second study on Saturday, August 18, 2018. Since then, this study seems to have been inactive for almost a year and no further"observations"have taken place as of mid September 2019, more than a year later. Field visits and site visits: Tuesday, July 31, 2018 In this observation, it is immediately noted that"boats up on plane in the ICW were generally traveling FASTER than the posted 25 mph boating restriction posted, though this was not verified by radar gun." Speed was compared by use of a drone, with a maximum drone speed of 32 mph. It was mentioned during this day is that"Jupiter Inlet Police"transitioned the area twice as well. Jupiter Inlet police doesn't exist, its suspected that the observer is referring to Jupiter Police. Saturday, August 18, 2018 In this observation, it is immediately noted that there was a low tide during the morning assessment, and "Shoals were exposed on both sides of the ICW channel. " What the study fails to discuss or assess is the safety issue that these "exposed shoals" create for the users of Coral Cove Park and those traveling at high speeds within the channel. One of the complaints of the non-motorized vessel (kayaks and paddle boards) users of Coral Cove waters is that, especially during low tide, their user group is forced to ride the side of the channel as they too are unable to navigate their kayaks or paddleboards over the shoals that are located immediately outside the channel. This results in a serious and dangerous conflict between user groups, with the non-motorized users often being swamped or being forced into close vicinity of speeding boats. During low tide, the already narrow channel is even more dangerous because there is absolutely no margin for error once outside the channel. In addition, during this day, the Vessel Study indicates that Sergeant Kurkowski of Tequesta Police Department stopped by during the afternoon observation. Sgt. Kurkowski stated the following: He has witnessed vessel congestion in the Coral Cove Park area greater than the activities of 8/18/2018 and he felt that a slow speed zone was needed in the area. He stated that activities on this day were not as busy as other days. In other words, this weekend observation day was NOT REFLECTIVE of how busy it gets. Sgt. Kurkowski also further mentions that his department will enforce the boating speed zone (25 mph in channel, slow speed out of channel) during manatee enforcement details. This last statement suggests that the Tequesta Police Department provides seasonal speed enforcement in the area, meaning these details would most likely occur during Manatee Season, from November 15 thru March 1. This does nothing to protect the human user groups of Coral Cove Park during their busiest, warmer weather season, and certainly not beneficial during the summer months when boating traffic is at its peak. And again, enforcing the existing 25 mph speed zone is NOT the answer. 25 mph is too fast! During both of these observation dates, nothing was mentioned about boat wake, and no observations were mentioned about how the boat wakes affected paddle boarders and kayakers in the area. Nothing was mentioned about the dangerous, extremely shallow shoals either. In addition, it appears that the focus of the two observations was on the dangerous personal watercraft in the area, not only speeding outside the channel, but engaging in sporadic swerving maneuvers. In addition, these PWC's were also observed to be illegally launched from the park. It's worth noting that there is a large PWC rental company immediately adjacent to Coral Cove Park(Beach Watersports.) Also included in the Coral Cove Park Vessel Traffic Study is a Stakeholder Input section. Input was requested and included from the following: Village of Tequesta Police Department, Sergeant Korkoski, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation, and a "Boating Expert." -32- Page 74 of 144 Agenda Item #6. It's concerning to the Stakeholder groups that have been working on this issue and voiced safety concerns that their input was not reguested and included in any way in this Vessel Study. As a result, none of the specific safety concerns were shared or considered and the critical input of the speed reduction supporters was completely excluded. In addition in this study, a strong focus and emphasis was placed the number of citations issued however everyone agrees that the presence of law enforcement (FWC and other agencies) is minimal at best in this area, as there is a serious lack of law enforcement resources to provide any significant presence. Historically, if law enforcement has not been present in the area,, one can assume that citations have not been written. The "Unbiased" Boating Expert The Technical Memorandum submitted by this "Boating Expert," simply stated, is contradictory and confusing. In his "Conclusions and Recommendations" he both discourages and recommends increased law enforcement. Here are excerpts from his memorandum: "Slow S j2eed Zone (Not recommended This would be a knee-jerk resolution to the risk posed by vessels at speed. It creates more problems than it solves, has the greatest negative effect on the highest user group and discourages boating in the area having a negative impact on the supporting business which are prevalent. Creation of a congregation area for boats at Coral Cove shallow area. Currently there are very few boats anchored in the Coral Cove shallow area. Slow speed in the area would almost certainly create a boater congregation area limiting use by non-boaters as a result of congestion from anchored boats. This would be encouraged by the higher transit times to other areas and access to the area by vehicle. LE patrols would need to be increased by both water and land as parking on the shoulder and limited upland area would create user conflict. And then he goes on to recommend increased law enforcement: Increased law enforcement or ranger presence (recommendecl� There is a noticeable difference in motor vessel behavior with LE present in the area. Reduced speeds and greater avoidance of other users being most obvious. Increased presence would be most valuable during times of high congestion..Enforcement of posted speed. The majority of vessels at speed were running in excess of posted limits. PWC users are the most common violators. Enforcement of existing responsible wake laws. So which is it? Increase law enforcement patrols or not? But again, enforcement of the 25 mph posted speed does nothing to I address the ongoing Public Safety Concerns in the Jupiter Narrows. Alarmingly, the boating expert further states that "the higher user group in the area is clearly vessels. As a result, their considerations and concerns hold HIGH VALUE." He further acknowledges that the "risk of injury or death of any user is of greatest concern and generates a balanced set of recommendations." What exactly does the sentence "their(power vessels) consideration and concern hold HIGH VALUE" really mean? How is this value measured? The value of their boats? The strength of their associations and lobbyists? Is their value HIGHER than the (opposing) conflicting stakeholder groups (non-motorized vessels, swimmers and bathers) that also have the right to enjoy and safely use the Jupiter Narrows? Seriously. -33- Page 75 of 144 Agenda Item #6. �• •f ` `C t�• � r_ �► �wl r��wj� r r •� � 'ice �.,s� r�� I� � � i� 1 ' ��-,� � � '_� •��w• � MANATEE ZONE - z `- � , - 25 MPH . . 4 IN ICW CHANNEL - - - SLOW SPEED _ _ljll_ -- MINIMUM WAKE O!)T OF ICW CHANNEL - - •ww PE14MT 14 aa10 �wr+ie,. - -- �--< �• - pp _�=ti.��"'CL!' _�, .i1`�Q�► --—r��-" �y'•'�_sl�,+[_-Y r,'il��'"�aL - "��+ Aw 40�- ZZ �. -�..f-_•,SJ-- fir'� � _ � �- • �" - -�r'�-�--� ~` "`•^'- '_� -'_-_ "��'�'� �' �_T � C _"-�"� � '��, _.'ems -PION _ + �- --•.— - r i �`- ✓ - .�� ri VLV It -34- Page 76 of 144 Agenda Item #6. fotlow u-on allreupes' o — Supplies needed: . Witches Cauldron A Ingredients: Narrow Channel"Bottleneck[hand" Generous amount of Speeding boats Anchored boats,west bank and east bank Personal Watercraft,both flavors."Need for Speed"and"Wave Jumpers" A medley of paddleboarders,snorkels and swimmers A dash of kayakers Manatees,sea turtles and dolphins,oh my..... Gallons of alcohol r Packed Sandbar Exposed Shoals Low tide Heavy Wakes 25+MPH Sporadic law enforcement Garnish with:Mangroves and Seagrass Directions: Mix all ingredients together. Watch and hope tier the best. 12. Conclusion and Request for FWC Assistance �rs�.,_5 7 Z„ It is well established that speed, congestion and multi-use is a problem in the extremely narrow channel of the Jupiter Narrows. FWC has acknowledged this; so has Palm Beach County, the Village of Tequesta, the Town of Jupiter, Jupiter Inlet Colony, a Tequesta Police Sergeant, and the Beach Road Association. Others that acknowledge this include federal agencies, concerned citizens, local business owners, environmental organizations and conservation groups; even the "boating expert" from the FWC Coral Cove Park Vessel Study, reluctantly acknowledges the problem. It's undeniable the extremely high site value of Coral Cove Park for all user groups and stakeholders. The conflict and incompatibility is real, and is a Recipe for Disaster. So what's the solution? It's really quite simple: COMPROMISE SLOW DOWN FOR 8/10 's of a mile, LESS THAN SIX MINUTES. SLOW DOWN FOR SAFETY. Increased law enforcement is not a realistic solution. The current 25 mph zone is simply too fast for safety in this narrow, congested, multi-use channel. -35- Page 77 of 144 Agenda Item #6. The Draft Vessel Study cre ate d for the FWC points out these safety conc erns. However, as mentioned before, the study's Technical Memorandum is written by an expert whose business relies solely on the boating community. Because of this, he cannot possibly offer unbiased recommendations. There already exists a designated"Kayak Launching Area" within Coral Cove Park, which should meet the requirements of F.S. 3.27.46(1)(b)l.a. This could be an acceptable compromise between the boaters and the non-motorized vessels, swimmers, and snorkele rs. While the full .8 mile requested speed zone change would be shortened in this scenario, it does allow for safe passage from the designated kayak launch site to popular destinations such as "Cato's Bridge" and the iconic Jupiter Lighthouse. Why the pushback on taking action to ensure a safe experience for non-boaters? The boating industry's automatic opposition?Is there a fact-based and valid concern that the $8 billion boating industry will suffer as a result of a six-minute slowdown? Or is it that these folks simply don't want to be inconvenienced by slowing down? Discussed in this report are many reasons the speed should be reduced to minimum wake in the channel and no wake outside of the channel in the Jupiter Narrows, 'including-. • Public safety • Congestion and Choke Point- many different waterusers to include boats, kayaks, SUPs, snorkelers and swimmers • Designated Kayak Launch Area and popular Designated Paddle Trail • Dangerously Narrow Channel • Environmental and wildlife concerns There have already been serious problems,including a boating accident and a drowning. It is time to make a change. We need to be proactive, not reactive. Why wait for another major incident?Why wait for another accident? State, county and federal government have an inherent responsibility to ensure public safety. Safety shouldn't be discriminatory; all stakeholder user groups utilizing the Jupiter Narrows must be guaranteed a safe recreational experience. We are asking for a six-minute compromise from the boating community.Perhaps less if we simply consider the established kayak launch area. Six minutes are all that would be added to the travel time in this zone, if the speed were reduced to minimum wake. The Beach Road Association and concerned citizens request FWC to consider the following: the existing kayak launch site, vessel congestion, public safety concerns, and the existing Municipality Resolutions. We respectfully ask the FWC to add this issue to an upcoming FWC Commission Meeting agenda. We respectfully ask the FWC Commission to exercise their legislative authority and consider lowering the speed zone from 25 MPH to minimum wake in the Jupiter Narrows, specifically in the waters surrounding Coral Cove Park. -3 6- Page 78 of 144 Agenda Item #6. ' r " 40 Mow _.r i ■ Append A. News Articles P. FWC's Coral Cove Park Vessel Traffic Study -3 7- Page 79 of 144 Agenda Item #6. News Articles Jupiter council: No-wake zone is a good idea View all posts by Bill DiPaolo • May 16, 2017 I (Photo/Allen Eyestone) Saying fast-moving boaters are endangering swimmers and paddle boarders, the council voted Tuesday night unanimously to support a plan to extend a no-wake cone north from Cato's Bridge on the Intracoastal Waterway. "Large boaters are creating irresponsible wakes. It's dangerous for kids, paddle boarders and swimmers;" said Mayor Todd Wodraska. Page 80 Of 144 Agenda Item #6. Opponents said more law enforcement to prevent speeding boats not a no- wake zone is a better response. "It's not the boaters traveling the 25-mile-per hour speed limit causing safety problems. More local agencies enforcing the speed limit is necessary," said Chuck Collins, executive director of the 450-member Marine Industries Association. The Florida Inland Navigation District opposes the no-wake zone on the one-mile stretch, said FIND Finance Director Glen Scrambler. Boaters now can go up to 25 miles per hour in the 125-foot-wide, 10-foot-deep channel reserved for watercraft. A no-wake zone would limit boaters to about 5 miles per hour, increasing the one-mile trip to the north end of Coral Cove Park from two minutes to six minutes. Jupiter joins Jupiter Inlet Colony, Tequesta and the Beach Road Association, a group of condominium owners along A1A south of Coral Cove Park, that have passed resolutions in support of the no-wake zone. The next step is to ask the Palm Beach County Board of Commissioners to support the plan. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has the final say. No dates have been set for public hearings or a vote by FWC. - 1 - � I k 1. (Photo/Allen Eyestone) Author: Bill DiPaolo I'm a reporter with The Palm Beach Post. Page 81 of 144 Agenda Item #6. JUPITER INTRACOASTAL Extending no-wake zone in Jupiter generates debate Boaters are against it; others who frequent the Intracoastal disagree. .................................................... By Bill DiPaolo Palm Beach Post Staff Writer May 2017 JUPITER — Boaters blame paddle-boarders for getting in their way. Paddleboarders blast boaters for going too fast. Business people say they want to protect the environment. Politicians struggle for compromise. Welcome to the ongoing battle to regulate boat speeds on the Intracoastal Waterway in north county. ►' The most recent controversy is about a plan �r to extend the no-wake zone for boaters about one mile north of Cato s Bridge, which goes from Tequesta to Jupiter Island. Boaters now can go up to 25 mph in the 125- foot-wide, 10-foot-deep channel reserved for watercraft. A no-wake zone would limit boaters to about -- 5 mph, increasing the one-mile trip to the north end of Coral Cove Park from two minutes to six minutes. Especially on weekends, the free parking spaces on Al A north of Cato's bridge — named after a popular bridge tender — are packed with beach goers. People yoga on paddleboards. Kayakers float •• . along with their kids, dogs and friends. Snorkelers search for sea life. Fishermen try FOA their luck from canoes. Families have cookouts on the sand. People swim from the shore as the boats pass. "It's a deeply congested area. Our population - is growing. Boats are bigger and more powerful. I like to go fast in my boat. But you have to do it where it's safe,"Tequesta Mayor Abby Brennan said. George Gentile, a Jupiter resident and chairman of the Jupiter Inland District, said extending the no-wake zone is not necessary. As long as boaters stay in their channel and swimmers and kayakers stay in their area, there is no problem, he said. "They keep whittling away the areas where boaters can go the legal speed. If they keep adding no-wake zones, it's going to take two hours to get to Port St. Lucie," said Gentile, who often boats in the area. Page 82 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Even at the beach, opinions are divided. "A few boaters fly through here. lmz& CC)U11 Lino Rd Kids are snorkeling. There are manatees. It can bey. ` dangerous," said Lake Worth resident Kristin Dunn, sittingon the beach with her 3-year-old daughter Sara on Y g a recent afternoon. Don't blame the boaters, said Jupiter resident Kaelyn . ., _:� �.' g ��Blvd Steele. "Lots of times the ka akers and divers don't realize y `: where they are. They go into the channel, the Jupiter resident said, pointing to a diver trailing a striped �'`. p g g . red-and-white flag who was swimming toward the channel reserved for boaters. r The no-wake proposal comes about three weeks after a 16-year-old high-school student Dominic Pagan from Z, , West Palm Beach was injured when the lightweight scull a �. -t a � he was rowingwas hit b a 32-foot Boston Whaler off Y • Bert Winters Park in Juno Beach. Pagan was treated for a gash to his head and released from St. Mary's Medical Center. Extending the no-wake zone would prevent further damage to sea grass and protect the lagoon just north of Cato's Bridge, said Rob Hofmann, an instructor at Jupiter Outdoor Center, which rents kayaks. Boaters powering north often gun their engines when they pass under Cato's Bridge, eager to speed up after puttering at no-wake since Indiantown Road. That's dangerous for divers and the boats create waves that erode the shore, Hofmann said. "That area is ground zero for ecotourism in Jupiter. It's our bread and butter," said Hofmann. The Jupiter Town Council plans to vote Tuesday on whether to support the no-wake zone. Resolutions in support of the no-wake zone have been passed by Jupiter Inlet Colony, Tequesta and the Beach Road Association, a group of condominium owners along Al A south of Coral Cove Park. "With the increasing use in the area by boaters, kayakers, swimmers and paddle-boarders, we have to make that area safer for everybody," said Jupiter Councilman Ilan Kaufer. Approval of extending the no-wake zone faces an uphill battle, said County Commissioner Hal Valeche. His staff has checked with the state and federal agencies that would have to approve the proposal. "The support isn't there. I don't think it will happen," said Valeche. Dunn sees both sides of the issue. She's a boater and a paddleboarder. "The boaters should just slow down anyway. When they go fast, they miss all this beautiful scenery," she said, nodding to the blue-green water, spindly-fingered mangroves, bright blue sky and swooping birds around her. bdipaolo@pbpost.com Twitter: @ Billdipaolo Page 83 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Jupiter neighbors want no-wake zone; boaters say more enforcement is needed Town supports plan for no-wake zone By: Alanna Quillen WPTV May 29, 2017 Ole Thousands of boats are hitting the Intracoastal Waterway for a day of fun on the water this Memorial Day, but there's a very busy stretch in Jupiter that has people on edge. The residents that live nearby Coral Cove Park believe there are too many boats and too many paddle boarders and swimmers crammed into the narrow waterway. From her Jupiter dock, resident Debbie Johnson has seen too many close calls on the channel behind her Waterway Village neighborhood. "This waterway here has become a drag strip of boats," she said. "People are not obeying the 25 mph speed limit. They're exceeding it. We need to address this before there's a serious accident here." During our interview with Johnson, we saw countless boaters zipping through the tight channel. Marine units with the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office pursued some boats. Deputies on board told WPTV one of the main issues of the day was getting people to slow down. Johnson's neighbor, Fred Seleman, said he has to paddle board or swim earlier in the day just to avoid the barrage of boats. He's seen swimmers and paddle boarders get swept too close to the boat traffic by the large waves generated by speeding boats. "It's so populated here. I mean look across here with all the people hanging out. Paddle boards, kayaks, people swimming all day. And you're right next to where the boats are going," he said. Page 84 of 144 Agenda Item #6. We also watched as one paddle-boarder attempted to cross the channel, with fast boats dodging him on both sides. Neighbors and our crew witnessed at least two near-collisions between boats and jet skiers traveling at high speeds. "I understand that the boaters want to have fun and that's great. It's part of our life style. But you'd hate for somebody to get hurt out here before it got lowered to a no-wake zone. And it's probably just a matter of time before that would happen," said Seleman. That's why the town of Jupiter voted to support a plan extending a one mile no-wake zone from Cato's bridge heading north. Currently, boaters can go up to 25 mph. The channel is about 125-foot-wide and 10-foot-deep, but gets crowded on busy days. If a no- wake zone is established, boaters would be limited to travel at 5 mph, which would results in a longer trip from Coral Cove Park heading north. "Protecting our wildlife, environment and human life is a lot better than trying to get out on the fishing spot that quickly," said Johnson. Boaters are against the change, saying more police patrolling is the better answer. "I know they're doing the best they can. I'm sure of that. But there's a lot more boaters than we've ever seen in the last five to 10 years up here. If they had a little bit more enforcement in key areas, I think that it would cut down on some of the accidents and bad areas," said local boater, David Zide. "I think it's OK the way it is. And we just have to enforce when people get a little crazy out there. And a few bad apples are ruining it for the rest of us." Zide also lives on the Intracoastal in Jupiter. He believes boater education is another possible piece of the solution. "There's a lot of us who know the rules and regulations, and we abide by them. But you always have that bad element that are speeding through here, are reckless and don't know the waterways and they scare all of us," he said. "But another long stretch of no wake is really going to put the brakes on travel and traffic through here." Johnson believes the increase in boat traffic stems from the boom in population growth in the area. "This community has grown so rapidly that this is what's happened. We're just having way to many boats. They're enjoying our beautiful blue water," she said. Either way, neighbors along Waterway Village said they are afraid the situation is an accident waiting to happen. "There is going to be a fatality. There is going to be a major accident here one day if this is not addressed," said Johnson. Johnson also fears for the animals that frequent the waters outside their homes. She said she and her neighbors have seen injured dolphins and manatees hugging the shoreline to avoid the fast boat traffic. "It's not just a human issue, it's an environmental and wildlife. This is a threat to all three of those categories -- because of the recklessness of some of those boaters," said Johnson. In addition to the Town of Jupiter council, Tequesta, Jupiter Inlet Colony and the Beach Road Association also support the no-wake zone plan. The outcome of the no wake plan lies in the hands of the Palm Beach County Commissioners and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission . No dates have been set for public hearings or a vote by the FWC. Page 85 of 144 Agenda Item #6. What's the delay on the no-wake zone proposal in Jupiter? By Bill DiPaolo Posted Dec 4, 2017 at 12:01 AM 41. Jupiter, Tequesta and Jupiter Inlet Colony all have approved resolutions to extend the no-wake zone for boaters in north county, but so far there hasn't been any action. Why the delay? Reviews and approvals by Palm Beach County, the U.S. Coast Guard and The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission are required to pass regulations to get boaters to slow down on the one-mile stretch of Intracoastal Waterway north of Cato's Bridge, which goes from Tequesta to Jupiter Island. No dates for public hearings have been set. "This is not just a boating safety issue... it's also an environmental issue," says Jupiter Inlet Colony's Chip Block. "Getting the boaters to slow down would not only protect swimmers snorkelers, it would reduce the number of manatees getting hit." When asked about public hearings, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Public Information Officer Robert Klepper responded by e-mail: "Currently, the FWC's Boating and Waterways Section does not have a hearing scheduled on this issue. Staff is aware, and a public meeting may be scheduled in the future." Page 86 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Boaters now can go up to 25 mph in the 125-foot-wide, 10-foot-deep channel reserved for watercraft. A no-wake zone would limit boaters to about 5 mph. increasing the one-mile trip to the north end of Coral Cove Park from two minutes to about 20 minutes. Saying fast-moving boaters are endangering swimmers and paddle boarders. the Jupiter town council unanimously voted May 16 to support a plan to extend a no- wake zone north from Cato's Bridge on the Intracoastal Waterway. "Large boaters are creating irresponsible wakes. It's dangerous for kids, paddle boarders and swimmers." Jupiter Mayor Todd Wodraska said. Opponents say more law enforcement to prevent speeding boats — not a no-wake zone — is a better response. "It's not the boaters traveling the 25-mile-per hour speed limit causing safety problems. More local agencies enforcing the speed limit is necessary, said Chuck Collins, executive director of the 450-member Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County. The Florida Inland Navigation District opposes the no-wake zone on the one-mile stretch, said FIND Finance Director Glen Scrambler. Especially on weekends, the free parking spaces on Al A north of Cato's bridge — named after a popular bridgetender — are packed with beachgoers. They swim, fish, snorkel, kayak and paddle board on the sides of the Intracoastal Waterway. The boaters travel in the channel in the middle. Extending the no-wake zone would prevent further damage to sea grass and protect the lagoon just north of Cato's Bridge, Rob Hofmann, an instructor at Jupiter Outdoor Center that rents kayaks, told The Palm Beach Post. Boaters powering north often gun their engines when they pass under Cato's Bridge, eager to speed up after puttering at no-wake since Indiantown Road. That's dangerous for divers and the boats create waves that erode the shore, Hofmann said. Lake Worth resident Kristin Dunn, sitting on the beach with her 3-year-old daughter Sara on a recent afternoon, said she sees both sides. She's a boater and a paddle boarder. "The boaters should just slow down anyway. When they go fast, they miss all this beautiful scenery," Dunn said, nodding to the blue-green water, spindly-fingered mangroves, bright blue sky and swooping birds around her. Page 87 of 144 Agenda Item #6. A year later: What's going on with �" Jupiter's proposed no- `� wake zone? By Sarah Ellsesser Palm Beach Post May 24, 2018 - _-_" _-_ --�;�_-- A female leatherback turtle had to be euthanized on May 8 after suffering five propeller cuts, each 24 inches long, that became infected with meningitis. One slice was so deep that it severed the turtle's spinal cord causing her to become paralyzed, according to the preliminary necropsy. The turtle, that was "loaded with eggs," was believed to be struck by two different boats, said Dr. Charles Manire, director of research and rehabilitation at Loggerhead Marinelife Center in June Beach. He said the first boat strike most likely occurred a couple miles off the beach and the second in the Intracoastal Waterway, where there is a proposed no-wake zone. "There was no way this turtle could have survived," said Manire. The Loggerhead Center gets about 40 to 50 sea turtles a year that are hit by boats and currently it has three turtles recovering from propeller strikes. When it comes to how fast the boats are going when the turtles are hit, Manire said "there is no way of knowing." He said 85 percent of boat strikes are fatal and could be prevented if boaters slowed down. Getting boaters to slow down has been on the agenda for Jupiter, Tequesta and Jupiter Inlet Colony for over a year. Last May, Jupiter joined the other two towns when it unanimously voted to support a plan to extend a no-wake zone in the one-mile stretch of the Intracoastal north of Cato's Bridge. The council members say the fast-moving boaters are endangering swimmers and paddle boarders. Boaters now can go up to 25 mph in the 125-foot-wide, 1 0-foot-deep channel', reserved for watercraft. A no-wake zone would limit boaters to about 5 mph. "A no-wake zone would do more than just help prevent accidents and injuries of people. It would also help the turtles and manatees that are in the waterways," said Betsy Munson, Jupiter resident and vice-chair of the town's beach Page 88 of 144 Agenda Item #6. committee. "A no-wake zone helps with shore erosion too. Jupiter is a beautiful place. Boaters should slow down and enjoy the scenery." However, to make the no-wake zone official or get a lower speed limit, it has to be reviewed and approved by Palm Beach County, the U.S. Coast Guard and The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, which ultimately makes the final call. "Currently, the FWC does not have a public hearing scheduled on this issue," said Carol Lyn Parrish, FWC's public information coordinator, in an email about the proposed no-wake zone. County Commissioner Hal Valeche said he met with FWC and officials from Jupiter, Tequesta and Jupiter Inlet Colony to discuss the no-wake zone in March. "The cities as well as the county are starting to collect more records," Valeche said. This is because FWC needs to determine if speeding really is an issue in this area. Valeche said the plan is for any speeding citation no matter what law enforcement agency issued it to be added to FWC's database so the agency can see the scope of the issue. Recently, there have been additional no-wake zone signs and more law enforcement officers in the area around Cato Bridge, according to Valeche. Standing on Castaway Marina's floating dock one can see a very small white and orange sign that says "no-wake zone." But Matt Carter, Jupiter resident and professional boat captain, said there aren't enough signs. On the weekends, Carter said countless boats speed past the signs and the marina on Love Street where his boat is docked. "Day in and day out it's not the professional captains. We know we are responsible for our wake," said Carter. "It's mostly recreational boaters that aren't paying attention." George Gentile, a Jupiter resident and chairman of the Jupiter Inlet District, told The Palm Beach Post in the past that he is opposed to extending the no-wake zone. He said boaters should stay in their channel and swimmers and kayakers stay in their area. "They keep whittling away the areas where boaters can go the legal speed. If they keep adding no-wake zones, it's going to take two hours to get to Port St. Lucie," Gentile, who often boats in the area, said last year. Tequesta resident Fletcher Booker, who was sitting on Coral Cove Inlet beach reading on a recent day, said he is in favor of the no-wake zone because in general boaters need to slow down. "Boaters just don't pay attention. I don't think they want to intentionally harm wildlife or anyone, but they don't think about their actions," said Booker. "They need to think a little bit more, slow down and try to be good citizens." Page 89 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Coral Cove Park? Years later, these supporters still say yes Sam Howard Palm Beach Post July 14, 2019 The no-wake zone would be applied to the eight-tenths of a mile north of Cato's Bridge. JUPITER — There's been little momentum in the past year to extend a long- suggested no-wake zone north of Cato's Bridge, an area popular among boaters and snorkelers alike. But supporters, notably the Beach Road Association of Jupiter Island condo owners, say they have no intention of backing off the proposal. About three years after its members voted in support of the no-wake zone, the Beach Road Association is trying to maintain public pressure on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, which needs to sign off on the plan for it to be enacted. FWC says it hasn't seen any evidence of a problem in the area, a leg of the Indian River Lagoon stretching eight-tenths of a mile from the bridge to the northern edge of Coral Cove Park. As it stands now, that part of the lagoon is like a funnel, Doug Frazer, association director, said. "It comes down to a very small, narrow area and you've got kayakers, swimmers, all right in there with 500-horsepower boats that's running within feet of each other," Frazer said. "So that's the whole problem." In a June letter sent to the FWC, Beach Road Association President John O'Shea called it a "recipe for disaster." Under the proposal, a no-wake zone would be implemented outside the 125-foot wide watercraft channel and the channel's existing 25 mph speed limit would be reduced to minimum wake, Frazer said. The situation is getting more serious as additional boaters and beachgoers convene on the area, Frazer said. Peter De Witt, U.S. Bureau of Land Management program manager for the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse's Outstanding Natural Area, pointed out that summer camps bring child snorkelers to that section of the Indian River Lagoon, which is known for its clear water. There also are sea turtles, manatees and plants to worry about, De Witt said. Palm Beach County Commissioner Hal Valeche, who backs the proposal, said the only response O'Shea's letter elicited from the FWC was that it would step up its patrolling in the area. He called that reaction insufficient. Page 90 of 144 Agenda Item #6. "That is a band aid rather than addressing this one way or the other," Valeche said. FWC has no meetings planned to specifically discuss the proposal, but Frazer said his group is trying to rally members to attend a future FWC meeting and speak in support of the no-wake zone during time allotted for public comments. Local government officials previously met with officials from the FWC, but they haven't submitted any evidence that there is a problem in that leg of the Intracoastal, FWC spokeswoman Carol Lyn Parrish said. Enforcement figures from the agency indicate there has been some misbehavior in the area. Of the 315 speed or restricted zone citations FWC issued to boaters in Palm Beach County between May 1 , 2016, and April 30, 2019, at least nine concerned incidents between Cato's Bridge and the north end of Coral Cove Park. "The FWC continues to monitor the area for new information, however, nothing has changed at this time," Parrish said. The Florida Inland Navigation District opposes the plan because it, too, hasn't seen any evidence in support of it, FIND Executive Director Mark Crosley said. He suggested boating restrictions on weekends, holidays or other periods of increased recreation could be a path to compromise. "Right now there's no criteria ... to support a zone going in," Crosley said. "There hasn't been boating accidents, thank goodness, that supports that." Frazer said he's perplexed by the argument that there needs to be evidence presented. Creating a no-wake zone in the Indian River Lagoon is a matter of preventing an "accident waiting to happen" under the existing 25 mph speed limit, he said. "Unless they do (slow the speed limit), it's never going to be safe," Frazer said. Asking boaters to slow down in the area is a modest request in the interest of safety and environmental preservation, De Witt said. Jupiter, Tequesta and Jupiter Inlet Colony's municipal councils have each passed resolutions in support of the measure. "We don't want to prevent access at all, that's not what this is about," De Witt said. "The eight-tenths of the mile adds approximately eight minutes to people's journey going north or south if (a no-wake zone) was extended. Is that eight minutes worth protecting the health and safety of visitors and worth protecting these resources and the community?" showard@pbiDost.com @SamuelHHoward Page 91 of 144 Agenda Item #6. m NEWS :4 Calls to create nomwake zone in 40 popular Jupiter waterway byJay O'Brien Tuesday, July 16th 2019 Calls to create no-wake zone in popular Jupiter waterway JUPITER, Fl. — Jupiter residents near the well-known Cato's Bridge are calling for a no-wake zone to be increased from the bridge to the northern point of Coral Cove Park, along the Intracoastal waterway. The residents, many of whom come from groups of local condo owners, say there are accidents waiting to happen between boaters, swimmers and snorkelers. Some Jupiter groups say it's unnecessary. There is a no-wake zone underneath Cato's Bridge, which ends a few yards to the north. Swimmers and snorkelers who pass that point are susceptible to wakes from boats slowing down as they approach the sign. "It's used by school groups, it's used by summer camps, and then families who come here to enjoy the crystal clear blue water," said Peter De Witt, the site manager for the U.S. Bureau of Land managements, which maintains parts of the area. "Those groups with children are perhaps the most vulnerable." Page 92 of 144 Agenda Item #6. De Witt said he supports proposals from groups like the local Beach Road Association to further the no-wake zone. "People come through the bridge and they're ready to throttle up," De Witt said, adding that his job is to help sustain the area's wildlife and look out for the safety of visitors. The no wake zone would also help prevent coastal erosion, De Witt continued. "The danger is enhanced by the amount of people visiting and the amount of boats on the water," he says. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), which regulates the speeds of waterways, has previously said they would study the issue. They have increased patrols and citations. The FWC also told residents there is not enough data to support extending the no wake zone, according to representatives of the Beach Road Association. In a letter to the FWC, The Florida Inland Navigation District added that local municipalities do not have the authority to regulate boat speed. They added that things like increased patrols and efforts with area parks departments could be used, rather than creating a no wake zone. Aistis Cbekelis, a snorkeler who frequently dives underneath the bridge with his family, said the boats occasionally go fast and everyone should be aware of their surroundings. "We just pass the bridge, depending on the tide," he said. "I'm cautious when I'm away from the bridge." Page 93 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Backers keep proposal alive for no-wake zone Condo owners, others want reduced speed in `very small' area north of Cato's Bridge By Sam Howard The Palm Beach Post July 20, 2019 JUPITER — There's been little momentum in the past year to extend along suggested no-wake zone north of Cato's Bridge, an area popular among boaters and snorkelers alike. But supporters, notably the Beach Road Association of Jupiter Island condo owners, say they have no intention of backing off the proposal. About three years after its members voted in support of the no-wake zone, the Beach Road Association is trying to maintain public pressure on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, which needs to sign off on the plan for it to be enacted. FWC says it hasn't seen any evidence of a problem in the area, a leg of the Indian River Lagoon stretching eight-tenths of a mile from the bridge to the northern edge of Coral Cove Park. As it stands now, that part of the lagoon is like a funnel, Doug Frazer, association director, said. "It comes down to a very small, narrow area and you've got kayakers, swimmers, all right in there with 500 - horsepower boats that's running within feet of each other," Frazer said. "So that's the whole problem." In a June letter sent to the FWC, Beach Road Association President John O'Shea called it a "recipe for disaster." Under the proposal, a no-wake zone would be implemented outside the 125-foot wide watercraft channel and the channel's existing 25-mph speed limit would be reduced to minimum wake, Frazer said. The situation is getting more serious as additional boaters and beachgoers convene on the area, Frazer said. Peter De Witt, U.S. Bureau of Land Management program manager for the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse's Outstanding Natural Area, pointed out that summer camps bring child snorkelers to that section of the Indian River Lagoon, which is known for its clear water. There also are sea turtles, manatees and plants to worry about, De Witt said. Palm Beach County Commissioner Hal Valeche, who backs the proposal, said the only response O'Shea's letter elicited from the FWC was that it would step up its patrolling in the area. He called that reaction insufficient. "That is a Band-Aid rather than addressing this one way or the other. " Valeche said. Page 94 of 144 Agenda Item #6. FWC has no meetings planned to specifically discuss the proposal, but Frazer said his group is trying to rally members to attend a future FWC meeting and speak in support of the no-wake zone during time allotted for public comments. Local government officials previously met with officials from the FWC, but they haven't submitted any evidence that there is a problem in that leg of the Intracoastal, FWC spokeswoman Carol Lyn Parrish said. Enforcement figures from the agency indicate there has been some misbehavior in the area. Of the 315 speed or restricted zone citations FWC issued to boaters in Palm Beach County between May 1 , 2016, and April 30,2019, at least nine concerned incidents between Cato's Bridge and the north end of Coral Cove Park. "The FWC continues to monitor the area for new information; however, nothing has changed at this time," Parrish said. The Florida Inland Navigation District opposes the plan because it, too, hasn't seen any evidence in support of it, FIND Executive Director Mark Crosley said. He suggested boating restrictions on weekends, holidays or other periods of increased recreation could be a path to compromise. "Right now there's no criteria ... to support a zone going in," Crosley said. "There hasn't been boating accidents, thank goodness.'' Frazer said he's perplexed by the argument that there needs to be evidence presented. Creating a no-wake zone in the Indian River Lagoon is a matter of preventing an "accident waiting to happen" under the existing 25-mph speed limit, he said. "Unless they do (slow the speed limit), it's never going to be safe," Frazer said. Asking boaters to slow down in the area is a modest request in the interest of safety and environmental preservation, De Witt said. Jupiter, Tequesta and Jupiter Inlet Colony's municipal councils have each passed resolutions in support of the measure. "We don't want to prevent access at all, that's not what this is about," DeWitt said. "The eight tenths of the mile adds approximately eight minutes to people's journey going north or south if (a no-wake zone) was extended. Is that eight minutes worth protecting the health and safety of visitors and worth protecting these resources and the community? " showard @ pbpost. com @ Samuel HHoward Page 95 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Page 96 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Coral Cove Park Vessel Traffic Study Palm Beach County, FL NI An assessment of the Coral Cove Park (Study Area)to determine potential risks to safety and recommendations for risk mitigation stategies. September 2018 Pre ar d for: b Prepared : p Y • ATKINS • M • SNC•LAVALI N Member of the SNG-Lavalin Group Page 97 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Coral Cove Park Vessel Traffic Study Palm eac ou n , FL A. An assessment of the Coral Cove Park - (Study Area)to determine potential risks to safety and recommendations - for risk mitigation stategies. September 2018 4 Pre ared for: by:Pre ared p ATKINS SNC•LAVALIN Member of the SNC-Lavalin Group 3 Page 98 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Table of Contents ExecutiveSummary............................................................................................................................................. 1 Introduction.......................................................................................................................................................... 2 Background.......................................................................................................................................................... 5 StudyArea ............................................................................................................................................................ 5 CoralCove Park.................................................................................................................................................. 10 Florida Statutes for Establishing a Boating Restricted Area........................................................................... 14 Accident Reports and Boating Citations........................................................................................................... 17 StakeholderInput...............................................................................................................................................20 BoatingExpert....................................................................................................................................................20 Summaryand Discussion..................................................................................................................................25 References..........................................................................................................................................................26 List of Figures Figure 1. Coral Cove Park Location Map............................................................................................................ 3 Figure2. Coral Cove Park Area Map...................................................................................................................4 Figure 3. Palm Beach County Inlets.................................................................................................................... 5 Figure 4.Towing by Open Motorboat and Personal Watercraft in the ICW Channel at Coral Cove Park....... 6 Figure 5.Study Area Boating Restricted Zones................................................................................................. 7 Figure 6. Palm Beach County Vessel Registrations(2000-2016).................................................................. 8 Figure 7. Coral Cove Parking on Beach Road................................................................................................... 10 Figure 9.Tequesta Sand Bar-8/18/2018...................................................................................................... 10 Figure 8. Coral Cove Access and Ordinance Signage...................................................................................... 10 Figure 10.Jupiter Beach Bridge (SR 707)-8/18/2018................................................................................. 10 Figure 11. Blue-Green Algae in a Martin County Waterway............................................................................ 10 Figure 12.Atkins Drone Pilot-8/18/2018......................................................................................................11 Figure 14. Heavier Vessel Traffic in the Afternoon of 8/18/2018..................................................................15 Figure 13. Kayak Launch Area Sign at Coral Cove Park..................................................................................15 Figure 15. Boating Restricted Area Criteria Map............................................................................................. 16 Figure 16. Location of Uniform Boating Citations(UBC's).............................................................................. 17 Figure 17.Types of Citations in the Study Area................................................................................................ 17 Figure18. Boating Accidents............................................................................................................................19 Figure 19. Boating Expert Technical Memorandum........................................................................................21 List of Tables Table 1. Palm Beach County Vessel Registrations(2000-2016).................................................................... 7 Table 2. Martin and Palm Beach County Population and Registrations Change (2000-2016).................... 7 Table 3. Citation Counts in the Study Area....................................................................................................... 16 Table 4.Types of Boating Accidents in the Study Area.................................................................................... 17 ATKINS SNC.`A"""N Flage 99 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Appendices Appendix A- Palm Beach County Boating Restricted Zone Changes from 1999 Version to 2010 Version Appendix B- Field Survey Observation Photos Appendix C- Boating Expert, Christopher Shaffner Curriculum Vitae SNC•LAVALIN - - age 100 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Executive Summary This report was commissioned by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)to examine an area of the intracoastal waterway(ICW) in Tequesta, Florida, adjacent to Coral Cove Park,to assess the risk to public safety based on reports of excessive boat speed,vessel wakes, congestion, and user conflicts. The goal of the study was to determine whether a boating restricted speed zone is warranted in this area. The research draws attention to the measurement of data necessary to meet the criteria set forth in Florida statutes for establishing boating restrictions including physical features, observations of activities and congestion, and the analysis of accidents, citations, and prior studies.The current boating restrictions in place in Palm Beach County and the study area were reviewed and correlated to vessel compliance based on field visits to the study area. Site visits also included observing and recording the interaction between boaters and park patrons(swimmers, snorkelers, kayakers, and paddle boarders)to evaluate safety risks from conflicting uses of the waterway. Deriving from both in- person observations and the examiniation of accident reports, personal watercraft operations are exacerbating the risk to public safety, considered to be at a greater scale than vessels transiting in the ICW corridor. Mitigation strategies include increased law enforcement and educational outreach in lieu of amending the current boating regulations to a more restrictive vessel speed such as idle,slow, or a defined vessel speed (i.e. 5 MPH). ATKINS Vow sNc•LAVALirr :._ .,� ,.._�., >_,� Page 1 age 101 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Introduction Study Goal and Objectives This vessel traffic study is being conducted to evaluate the need for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)to adopt a new boating-restricted zone on the Intracoastal Waterway(ICW) in Tequesta, Palm Beach County, Florida (Figure 1).The area of focus includes the ICW channel and adjacent shoals north of the Jupiter Beach Bridge, north to the Martin County line, and more specifically in the area of Coral Cove Park(a Palm Beach County park) on the eastern side of the ICW(Figure 2). FWC has received reports of perceived conflicts between swimmers, snorkelers, paddlers and motorized vessels in the area of Coral Cove Park. The study is being done to obtain information and measure the criteria necessary, as defined in Florida statutes,to be able to either deny or accept a local municipality's request to establish a slow speed boating safety zone to reduce the risk to public safety. -� /�TKINS _.-.�__. logo sNc•LAVALirr :._ .,[ ,.. �._, „,_ Page _-_Y� age 102 of 144 Agenda Item 96. 0 - t " ITIN r " CQ { I 1 R I I 14 I r - 9 I i i 6 p r +A 1 , fie l�s to " ti r , dr " +LJ i4 q� "r %r O Y; rrr i � l4f _ JLII)Iter _-- 4 C01on) " U Source:Palm Beach County GIS o Data was created using parcel coverage and attribute data U developed by Palm Beach County Property Appraisers Office _ a� Nov 6 2017 LL Park Name OXE7 h,2 Coral Cove Park 0 -� N Prepared for: N Orl an dO + A - Figure 1 W E 1 inch - 1,500 feet Florida Fish and Wildlife Tampa -l�wr �• Conservation Commission Location Map S MyFWC.com Stud M Y 0 750 1,500 3,000 FWC Task 38 Created on: Location Feet Coral Cove Park Vessel Traffic Study 8/6/2018 N Service Layer Credits:Florida Fish and Wildlife Tequesta, FL co Conservation Commission-Fish and Wildlife Research N CD InstituteCD CD M iami USGS The National Map:National Boundaries Dataset, T ATKINS National Elevation Dataset,Geographic Names Information System,National Hydrography Dataset, SNG+LAVALIN f he1'"8'6f 1 PIA y e1 4 Agenda item 96. _ Y Y� r Y • ?fit..,- `s* ``+ � � • ; ' _vim-'� n • t f , 04 .r w ,% r~ g 6 r .• r NAM, a- •- M r a i s: I t r. c� (� + A. r Source:Palm Beach County GIS o Data was created using parcel coverage and attribute data •„ - U developed by Palm Beach County Property Appraisers Office ` - N Nov 6 2017 U- Park Name U) r Coral Cove Park 0 �3 N N Prepared for: 2 )d a n dc. A - Figure 2 W E 1 inch - 500 feet Florida Fish and Wildlife Tampa � Conservation Commission Area Map S MyFWC.com Stud M y . 0 250 500 1,00 FWC Task 38 Location Feet Coral Cove Park Vessel Traffic Study Created on: N Service Layer Credits:Florida Fish and Wildlife Tequesta, FL 8 6 2018 Conservation Commission-Fish and Wildlife Research N o Institute CD M lanni Esri, HERE,DeLorme,Mapmylndia,©OpenStreetMap ATKINS contributors,and the GIS user community Source:Esri,DigitalGlobe,GeoEye,Earthstar SNG*LAVALIN mberoftheJN-L aUn G u �a e �� 44 Agenda Item #6. Background The eastern part of Palm Beach County is a thriving urban area while the western portion of the County is more rural with wetlands covering the southwestern part and agriculture dominating the northwestern end. The county's east coast shoreline along the Atlantic Ocean includes four inlets that connect the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway(ICW)to the ocean:Jupiter Inlet, Lake Worth Inlet, South Lake Worth (Boynton) Inlet, and Boca Raton Inlet. Jupiter Inlet is the ocean access point closest to the study area, located at the northern end of Palm Beach County. It is a _ natural inlet where the Loxahatchee River, Lake Worth Creek, Jupiter and Jupiter Sound converge into an entrance to the Atlantic Ocean.The inlet is between 10 and 14 feet in depth and ranges from 125 to 520 feet across. Juno Banch Palm Beach Gardens North Palm In a characterization study of recreational boating activity and boater compliance of posted speed zones for Palm BeachTH Beach '- County Department of Environmental Resources Management (Sea To Shore Alliance, 2013),there is a significant increase Royal WestPalm Palm Golden Lakes Beach in vessel traffic occurring on weekends versus weekdays in Beach Palm Beach County(4.45 times). The study noted the largest F numbers of vessels in Palm Beach County were consistently •• Greenacres Lake observed in proximity to three tidal inlets;Jupiter Inlet, Lake Worth Worth Inlet, and Boca Raton Inlet. These inlets serve as both Lantana SOUTH LAKE important travel corridors for access to the Atlantic Ocean and WORTH INLET also as popular boating destinations. The density distribution Boynton Bea~ of stationary vessels indicated that both Lake Worth Inlet (Peanut Island) and Boca Raton Inlet(Lake Boca Raton) Delray Beach are the most popular boating destinations, with very high Kings Point concentrations of stationary(anchored, beached, or drifting) vessels in those areas. Jupiter Inlet appears to function more as a travel corridor than a boating destination, based upon a Boca dei Mw Boca Raton higher proportion of transitory vessels and a lower proportion Parkland BOCA INLET of stationary vessels in the area.The boating destination areas relevant to the Coral Cove Park Vessel Traffic Study are Figure 3.Palm Beach County Inlets located at the northernmost shoal area of Palm Beach County and other shallow areas along the ICW, southward toward Jupiter Inlet. jaw- ew ATKINS sNc•LAVALirr Page 5 age 105 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Palm Beach County Boating Restricted Areas The Palm Beach County boating safety zones, under 68D-24.017 F.S. have been in place since 1991(formerly 16N- 24.017).The boating restrictions were amended 8/6/1992, 6/14/19937 10/27/19977 3/3/19999 5/20/2010, and 4/6/2015. There were significant changes to the zones in 2010 (see Appendix A for the boating restricted zone changes from the 1999 version to 2010).The manatee protection zones under 68C-22.009 F.A.0 were last amended 7/20/1993. There are 43 linear miles of ICW in Palm Beach County and currently 11.9 miles have boating restrictions of either idle speed or slow speed, under both manatee protection and boating safety regulations. This includes 1.4 miles of seasonal manatee slow speed zones (November 15 - March 1). Boating Restrictions at Coral Cove Park The boating restriction regulatory zone is 25 mph in the ICW channel,slow speed minimum wake out of the ICW channel (Figure 5 on the following page). The extent of this zone extends from 300 feet north of the centerline of the Jupiter Beach Road bridge (SR 707)to the Martin County line (an extent of approximately 1.24 miles).The area is adequately posted, however,the two regulatory signs on channel marker#57 are currently missing. The 25 MPH regulation in the ICW channel is conducive to watersport activities like towing water skiers and tubers (Figure 4).The limited allowable space for such boating activities may present a safety risk during heavy vessel traffic situations. It is assumed that on days with congested boat traffic, Florida Statute 327.37 (4) can be enforced, which states; A person may not operate or manipulate any vessel tow rope, or other device by which the direction or location of water skis,parasail, aquaplane, innertube,sled, or similar device may be affected or controlled, in such a way as to cause the water skis,parasail, aquaplane, innertube,sled, or similar device or any person thereon to collide or strike against or be likely to collide or strike against any vessel, bridge, wharf,pier, dock, buoy,platform,piling, channel marker, or other object, except slalom buoys,skijumps, or like objects used normally in competitive or recreational skiing. x - Figure 4.Towing by Open Motorboat and Personal Watercraft in the ICW Channel at Coral Cove Park '» ATKINS SNC•LAVALIN Page 6 ag e 106 of 144 Agendat Ie_m W LU WV6. Line e Rai, - - M A�R T 1114 PALM €l ACti kbrk St SLOW SPEED wingo St R USSell St ► a , ,Pinehrtl rr; ��t -- - MISSING REGULATORY SIGs, r C17 $ St J I Yd£'st tr .13 Po 25 MPH ITJ Ridge U ` I - -N Dover Rd -,e ..a:rr�.a y Tequesta : '` { TTI Bead-,n St _.,. Bridge Rd Cov+er�Rd Yy� V _ _ t� co F`i -r Te r•, rJ ,Coconut L, Pine v it_v.,Rd - „- Windsor Rd I.'{I :6. '."�nd so r Rd EQ. i ,✓+�C' [lam � -3 1 - �' 3 I12�A SPEED E � �" � � Jupiter kk 3 -� U wl fir_�i�"", i�• y W (n Inlet Colon 0 v Jupiter inlet Lighthouse ' � = i. kluxurn c IDLE SPEED - a rr�,�t J,•� r. ■ ,� � �4 � C3 r r.6 ■ = CI_ Cove JUPITER INLET `3 DuL-m Fla r Saturn St Count .,. -0 ■ ■ v F'a r F. X � Center :fittit ■ ■ ■ ;,rt � _ . no M < Park 0 = ■ IZIDunes-3cdt I nie It Rd - ' J uno St � l .. I U H ugh St z i_ River R�.I Jr nus St r 11 PI Qd J uglier Eve rnia St Kennedy St - rein:�k _f Tts�• --� -- 0 v}i ■ mho ppe E. sv o Hihiscus St cc of.Jupit r, Gorhofrtt m `- L - 4 W-tndian tow n-Rd .,1E. I - E T n ia nt1�,►r�Rd '�` ►, �" UJ '-1 Jupiter cn _ i > ter a o -' 4th St 5th st, c Iir:ki CI ` U) V11 - £th Stay "fir:,t � ?th St 8�1� � ,., '�� , H s N Prepared for: I Markers Figure 5 M _� Stn Boating Safety Zone w E ud V , a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission y Area Boating N • • • Restricted Zones • Slow Speed Minimum Wake S MyFWC.com 0 0 1,000 2,000 4,000 Manatee Zone Feet FWC Task 38 U Service Layer Credits:Sources:Esri,HERE,Garmin, Created on: Intermap,increment P Corp.,GEBCO,USGS,FAO,NPS, Coral Cove Park Vessel Traffic Study 8/6/2018 25 MPH NRCAN,GeoBase,IGN,Kadaster NL,Ordnance Survey, Te uesta FL U Q , Esri Japan,METI,Esri China(Hong Kong),swisstopo, ® Idle Speed No Wake OpenStreetMap contributors,and the GIS User Community FWC DLE Source:Esri,DigitalGlobe,GeoEye,Earthstar Geographics, ATKINS E Slow Speed Minimum Wake CNES/Airbus DS,USDA,USGS,AeroGRID,IGN,and the o GIS User Community SNG*LAVALIN Mpberof the STdi lin Gr p14 Agenda Item #6. Population and Boat Registrations According to the U.S. Census Bureau (Census.gov),the population of Palm Beach County increased 16.7%from 2000 to 2010 (19131,186 - 1,320,134), and in 2016,the population has shown an additional 8%growth to 1,422,790. Yet,the ten-year period between 2006 and 2016 reflects a decline of 16% in the number of registered vessels in Palm Beach County. In 2006,there were 44,964 registered vessels, of which 43,504 were classified as pleasure boats, according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). In 2016,there were 37,750 registered vessels, of which 36,493 were pleasure boats.The Palm Beach County Vessel Traffic Study prepared for FWC in 2009, also noted this downward trend and attributed the annual decline in boat ownership to environmental and socio-economic factors including:the costs associated with boat ownership, waterway congestion, boater discontent with speed zones, boating access opportunity and capacity.The study also suggested "a further study on these and other potential limiting factors would be needed to determine the reasons for the potential decline and the impact these trends would have on Palm Beach County waterways if they were to continue or increase dramatically." Table 1.Palm Beach County Vessel Vessel Registrations - Pala Beach County Registrations(2000-2016) J000 Year Registrations 46J000 2000 40109 2001 42292 2002 43632 J,Op� 2003 44391 2004 44560 �J000 2005 45350 JOaO 2006 44964 2007 44416 2008 45294 2009 42517 ow 2010 41158 2011 39512 �0000 1998 2000 2-002 2-004 210% 2-008 2010 2012 2014 2016 2019 2012 38363 2013 38142 Figure 6.Palm Beach County Vessel Registrations(2000-2016) 2014 37780 2015 38276 I 2016 I 37750 I Neighboring Martin County, which is adjacent to Palm Beach County and north of the Coral Cove Park site, has also seen a similar increase in population of 8.9%since 2010, but unlike the downward trend in boat registrations in Palm Beach County, DHSMV statistics indicate an increase of 2% in vessel registrations between 2006 and 2016 (Table 2). Martin County 2006 2016 %Change Population 146,318 159,923 8.9% Boat Registrations 17,315 17,548 2% Palm Beach County 2006 2016 %Change Population 17320,134 114227790 7.8% Boat Registrations 447964 377750 -16% Table 2.Martin and Palm Beach County Population and Registrations Change(2000-2016) �» ATKINS Page 8 - SNC.L"VALIN - age 108 of 144 Agenda Item #6. The Economic Impacts of Boating According to the "Economic Benefits of the District Waterways (Palm Beach County)," prepared by the Florida Inland Navigation District, boaters'spending impacts$612 million annually, including$254 million estimated benefits from tourists. A major boating industry exists in Florida, an industry that generates revenue nearly twice that of the Florida citrus industry, contributing$18.6 billion annually to the State's economy(Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County 2014). In Palm Beach County, $1.9 billion is contributed to the county of behalf of marine industries. According to the Economic Impact of the Recreational Marine Industry(Broward, Dade, and Palm Beach Counties, Florida 2014), between fiscal year 2010 and 2014 a consistent turn-around in the marine industry has occurred throughout the State and Tri-County areas. The overall increase in marine related sales in Broward County was 21.9%, Dade 30.5%, and Palm Beach 101.2%over the period. Taken as a region,the Tri-County marine industry sales grew an estimated 36.3% between 2010 and 2014.Statewide, gross marine sales grew by 31.3%. Despite the growth of local marine businesses in Palm Beach County,there has been a notable decline in boat registrations as shown in Tables 1 and 2, and Figure 6, which may require further study to determine the reason(s)for a drop in boat registrations in Palm Beach County. ew ATKINS logo SNC-LAVALIN Page 9 _.. age 109 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Coral Cove Park Coral Cove Park is located at 1600 Beach Road in Tequesta, Florida. In addition to beach access and facilities,there are 600 feet of intracoastal waterway frontage with parking along Beach Road.There are approximately 16 access points to the ICW shoreline beach areas via openings in the wooden fence that parallels Beach Road.There are six "Welcome" signs along this stretch posting prohibited activities (Palm Beach County Code, Chapter 21). One of the prohibited activities is "Launching of motorized watercraft" and yet, during field visits, personal watercraft were seen being launched from this shoreline.As a county property,the Palm Beach County Sheriff is responsible for enforcement of activities at Coral Cove Park. WELCOME = For Your mThe Following Area op en Sunrise_ F p 9 f"s$I ry 1 ti> T. - - yam` •_ dr rn - I F I L .,.�1a; Figure 7.Coral Cove Parking on Beach Road Figure 8.Coral Cove Access and Ordinance Signage There are several popular places to raft up north of Jupiter Inlet, with the largest density of boats known to congregate on the Tequesta sandbar near Jupiter Pointe (Martin/Palm Beach County line- Figure 9), and on the western shoreline of the ICW near Jupiter Beach Road bridge (SR 707, a.k.a. Cato's Bridge- Figure 10). C rr � R L` � _I 'x a l i z Figure 9.Tequesta Sand Bar-8/18/2018 Figure 10.Jupiter Beach Bridge(SR 707)-8/18/2018 In recent years, more boaters from Martin County are o - traveling south to Tequesta's sand bars and the coastal - fishing grounds of Jupiter Inlet because of the dark water plumes and blue-green algae that has resulted from heavy rainfalls and Lake Okeechobee freshwater releases(Figure 11). In 2018,the US Army Corps of Engineers began discharges to the St. Lucie River and Estuary on June 1. . r Figure 11. Blue-Green Algae in a Martin County Waterway AT K I N 5 -.�..,_ - _ SNC•LAVALIN Page 10 __.�., _ age 110 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Coral Cove Park Site Visit Observations The field data collection occurred on two separate occasions;Tuesday, July 31, 2018 and Saturday,August 18, 2018. The site visits were scheduled to observe uses of the waterway on one weekday and one weekend day(when occupancy was likely to be higher). Observations and data collection included aerial photography and videography by drone, and observations from the Coral Cove Park shoreline of park patrons and vessel operations in the i ntracoasta I waterway. The Atkins' DJI Inspire 2 drone was used for digital photo and video data collection. The DJI Inspire 2 is being used by the Geomatics team to perform automated mapping, cadastral surveying, generating high resolution imagery, and volumetric calculations. The benefits obtained by using the drone are significant as it reduces time spent collecting data, capturing data remotely, surveying areas quickly and safely. The drone has a maximum speed of 58 mph but in the Flight Autonomy mode, providing two directions of obstacle avoidance and sensor redundancy, it has a maximum speed of 32± mph.The pilot and camera operator collaborate through an 0 r, r Android tablet giving the ability to create complex, dramatic shots. _ The pilot has the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and all Atkins' drones are registered with the FAA to ensure all procedures are being properly followed. Field survey narratives for both dates are included on the following pages and site observation photos are in Appendix B. Site Visit Summary The purpose of the two field surveys were to observe and record vessel traffic conditions in the immediate vicinity of Coral Cove k Park.Two site visits to the study area were performed to observe periods of maximum congestion. Site visits were done on a weekday and one weekend day. Interaction between boaters and park patrons (swimmers, snorkelers, kayakers, and paddle boarders) were recorded using drone video and still photography. Ilia"re 12.Atkins Drone Pilot-8/18/2018 As documented during the 7/31/2018 site visit, several personal watercraft(PWC's) were observed doing high-speed, swerving maneuvers in the ICW, and it was assumed that the operators rented the PWC's from a nearby jet ski rental facility. The closest livery offering personal watercraft rentals is Beach Water Sports (directly across from the north end of Coral Cove Park). Jupiter Inlet Boat Rentals (south of the study area inside Jupiter Inlet) no longer rents PWC's. During vessel traffic observations,there were less than a dozen boats anchored on the shoals adjacent to Coral Cove Park, with the heavier concentrations of anchored boats at the Tequesta sand bar and south of Jupiter Beach Bridge.Additionally during field observations, even during peak traffic periods, boaters in the ICW appeared to operate with respect toward non-motorized vessels and used proper rules of navigating with other power boats present. No incidents of haphazard or careless operation resulting in a threat to public safety was witnessed on either of the two site visits. An assessment of safety risk based on observed vessel congestion during these field visits was determined to be low, as visual observations did not support vessel traffic congestion considered to be unsafe to either the boating public or patrons of Coral Cove Park. Additional safety risk analysis in the following section was derived from a review of accident reports and uniform boating citations for this area to support as evidence of risk to public safety due to vessel traffic congestion. '» ATKINS - -� Page 11 age 111 of 144 Agenda Item #6. ATKINS Memher of the SNC-Layak Group F'Ield Coral Cove Field Survey Narrative Date: Tuesday,July 31, 2018 Weather: (morning) High 88 Low 81 Broken clouds Humidity 75%Wind ESE 13 mph (afternoon) High 88 Low 86 Scattered clouds Humidity 63%Wind ESE 14 mph Tides: low tide 6:14am (0.27ft), high tide 12:10pm (1.98ft), low tide 6:26pm (0.18ft)—Jupiter Inlet tide data Two separate locations for observation on this day were taken;the morning location was the riverfront shoreline at the northern extent of the Coral Cove Park property,and the afternoon location was the southernmost access point of the park on the ICW shoreline. It was noted that there was a sign posting, "Kayak Launch Area" at the southernmost access point. Activities noted: Several PWC's were observed doing high-speed,swerving maneuvers in ICW. It was assumed that the PWC operators had rented the watercrafts in one of two nearby jet ski rental facilities. In general, most boats were respectful of paddlers in the area,slowing their speed and keeping their boat wakes toa minimum. Boats up on plane in the ICW were generally travelling faster than the posted 25 mph boating restriction posted,though this was not verified with a radar gun.The assumption was made based on a comparison of vessels operating in the ICW channel to the highest travel speed of the drone, which has a maximum flight speed of 32 mph in this flight mode. A Palm Beach County Sheriff volunteer vessel with four(4) occupants transitioned through the area in the morning.The same vessel passed by in the afternoon. They were observed talking with vessel operators, paddlers,and swimmers. It is believed they stopped a standup paddleboard (SUP) user and consulted him to stay out of the ICW. A Jupiter Inlet Police Department vessel transitioned through the area (once in the morning,and once in the afternoon).The officer was observed having contact with vessel operators, paddlers, and swimmers. It is unknown if any citations or warnings were issued. (JIPD assumed to be advising swimmers on bodyboards to stay out of ICW) Page 112 of 144 Agenda Item #6. ATKINS Memher of the SNC-Layak Group F'Ield Coral Cove Field Survey Narrative Date: Saturday,August 18, 2018 Weather: (morning) High 88 Low 81 Scattered clouds Humidity 73%Wind ESE 11 mph (afternoon) High 90 Low 86 Broken clouds Humidity 66%Wind ESE 14 mph Tides: high tide 3:05am (2.10ft), low tide 9:52am (0.23ft), high tide 3:50pm (2.08ft), low tide 10:23pm (0.67ft)—Jupiter Inlet tide data There was a low tide during the morning assessment. Shoals were exposed on both sides of the ICW channel. Drone footage was captured at the Martin/Palm Beach County line to capture the number of boats and people on the shoal area at the north end of the study area, and all the way down to the Beach Road bridge, encompassing the Coral Cove Park area.Throughout the day, most of the boats observed at anchor in this area were south of the bridge and north of Coral Cove along the shoal at the county line (near Blowing Rocks).Approximately six boats were anchored on the shoals adjacent to Coral Cove Park. There are five (5) signs posting prohibited activities at Coral Cove Park. One of the prohibited activities listed on the sign is "launching of motorized watercraft."Several PWC's were observed to be in violation of the slow speed restriction outside of the ICW channel. The drone captured PWC's operators who were launching from the Coral Cove Park shoreline. It is assumed that the County Sheriff is responsible for enforcement of activities at Coral Cove Park. Palm Beach Sheriff Office marine unit passed through the area at 10:12 a.m.This was the only marine law enforcement presence seen all day. It appeared that the boat was passing through and was not in the area for enforcement. Sergeant Korkowski with Tequesta PD stopped by in the afternoon. He stated that the area gets very busy at times, and that today was not reflective of how busy it gets. Sergeant Korkowski said that his department will enforce the boating speed zone (25 mph in channel, slow speed out of channel) during manatee enforcement details. Approximately six boats were anchored along the shoals near Coral Cove Park in the afternoon. The peak time of vessel traffic was around 3:00 p.m. when many boats were returning from offshore. Page 113 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Florida Statutes for Establishing a Boating Restricted Area According to Florida Statute 327.46, Boating Restricted Areas; including, but not limited to restrictions of vessel speeds and vessel traffic, may be established on the waters of this state for any purpose necessary to protect the safety of the public if such restrictions are necessary based on boating accidents, visibility, hazardous currents or water levels, vessel traffic congestion, or other navigational hazards or to protect seagrasses on privately owned submerged lands . Municipalities have the authority to develop an ordinance establishing a boating restricted area for the following: • Idle speed no wake • Slow speed minimum wake • Vessel exclusion Municipal ordinances adopted pursuant to this statute do not take effect until FWC has reviewed the ordinance and determined by substantial competent evidence that the ordinance is necessary to protect public safety pursuant to this statute. Based on 327.46 F.S., the following criteria was identified as potentially applicable for supporting evidence to meet the need of a boating restricted area: Florida Statute 327.46 (1) (b) -Vessel Safety- Boating Restricted Areas 1. An ordinance establishing an idle speed, no wake boating-restricted area, if the area is: a. Within 500 feet of any boat ramp, hoist, marine railway, or other launching or landing facility available for use by the general boating public on waterways more than 300 feet in width or within 300 feet of any boat ramp, hoist, marine railway, or other launching or landing facility available for use by the general boating public on waterways not exceeding 300 feet in width. 2. An ordinance establishing a slow speed, minimum wake boating-restricted area if the area is: a. Within 300 feet of any bridge fender system. b. Subject to unsafe levels of vessel traffic congestion. d. An area that accident reports, uniform boating citations,vessel traffic studies, or other creditable data demonstrate to present a significant risk of collision or a significant threat to boating safety. No other criteria listed in 327.46 F.S. was identified as applicable to the analysis of the Coral Cove Park study area and is therefore not included here. The following criteria has been extracted from 327.46 F.S.for analysis: • Launching or landing facility • Bridge fender system • Unsafe levels of traffic congestion • Accidents, citations,studies to demonstrate risk of collision or threat to boating safety ATKINS SNC•LAVALIN Page 14 age 114 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Launch or Landing Facility Two signs posting"Kayak launching area" are located on an access path to the ICW shoreline (Figure 13). One sign aces east,the other west. Figure 15 on the following page shows the shoreline area of Coral Cove Park marked as this kayak launch area. Based on F.S. 327.46 (1) (b) 1., if this kayak launch area meets the definition of"launching or landing facility available for use by the general boating public on waterways more than 300 feet in width,"then this area may be eligible for a boating restricted idle • NCHING speed zone. A measurement 300 feet from the kayak ' launch area places this potential boating restricted area across the ICW to the west side toe of channel, where it aligns with the existing"slow speed out of channel" zone - - (Figure 15).The distance of this zone would be less than =s 700 feet within the ICW. The definitions under F.S. 327.02 do not include a description for "launching" or"landing facility," however, - W, the definition may be intended to exclude sailboats, canoes, kayaks, stand up paddleboards, and inflatable ' boats. If in fact the definition of"launching" or "landing facility were to allow for the launching area specific to -. kayaks, a zone established to regulate speed within 300 feet of the launch area would be small in size, difficult to S post, and challenging to enforce. Additionally,the small boating restricted zone would require boats to slow downy . i- (coming off plane)at the onset of the zone, and resume °. back to normal operating speeds(coming on plane) at the Y end of the zone, which would likely create more wake and "- -• wave energy to waterfront properties and park patrons. Figure 13. Kayak Launch Area Sign at Coral Cove Park Jupiter Beach Bridge (SR 707) Fender System The existing boating restricted slow speed zone currently extends 300 feet north of the Jupiter Beach Bridge (SR 707). This boundary marks the southern end of the vessel study area. Traffic Congestion Site visit observations, accidents reports, uniform boating citations, and input from stakeholders were e a considered to determine if traffic congestion was :� a threat to public safety.Though there are periods '"=_ of higher boating activity in the study area, no demonstrable data that boat traffic was contributing to or was causing risk to safety was evident through - observations, nor in citation/accident report data, as - - shown in the following section. Figure 14. Heavier Vessel Traffic in the Afternoon of 8/18/2018 jaw- ATKINS .r SNC•LAVALIN Page 15 age 115 of 144 a Ite 96. .1m 5 .` ,,. y 57 IL 1 n 0• f1r P •w d p' a OL r '•' • 1 i . , _. +�ja w , Ka ak Launch Area rA Q 59 500 Foot Buffer 60 I i a ' i U co Mill M. } r s'iy V a — L r !j 0 -U LEGEND U) ATONs N Figure 15 U r-- Kayak Launch Area w E 1 inch = 1 000 feet Based on F.S. 327.46 Launch Area 500 Ft Buffer ' Boating Restricted Area State Manatee Protection Zones in Florida S State Manatee Protection Zones in Florida FWC Task 38 Created on: M State Boating Safety Zones,Florida 500 1'000 2,000Feet Coral Cove Vessel Traffic Study 8/10/2018 IDLE SPEED NO WAKE(ALL YEAR) Te uesta, FL M SLOW SPEED MINIMUM WAKE(ALL YEAR) Service Layer Credits:Florida Fish and Wildlife ti Conservation Commission-Fish and Wildlife Research Prepared for: Prepared by: N ICW USACE-2011 o Institute CD Channel Limits Source:Esri,DigitalGlobe,GeoEye,Earthstar T Florida Fish and Wildlife U COUNTY PARKS Geo ra hics CNES/Airbus DS USDA USGS _� g p - - - Conservation Commission *0 ATKI N S L% =Coral Cove Park AeroGRID,IGN,and the GIS User Community •' "L M FWC.con �- Agenda Item #6. Accident Reports and Boating Citations A public records request was made to request boating citations written in the last five (5)years in North Palm Beach County. A summary of this data follows: Uniform Boating Citations(UBC's) There were 2,468 UBC's written in Palm Beach County between 1/1/2013 and 9/2/2018(date of records request). Agency's reporting included FWC, Palm Beach County Sheriff, and Police Departments (undetermined by data). • FWC 1,430 • PBC 794 • Police 244 27%of the incidents(671) did not contain latitude/ longitude coordinates for geolocating where the incidents occurred. For those records, the location description was used. Filtering the citations for the study area (from Jupiter Beach Bridge north to the county line), 25 records were returned (Figures 16 and 17). Towing Skier Speed Zone Without Observer � Boating Under the Influence Safety Equipment 44 Careless Operation w Manatee Zone Vessel f Registration r k 4 -X No Boater ID Card No Diver Down Flag Figure I i. types of Citations in the Study Area ► v . Citation Count /o -.Arm Careless Operation 1 4% No Divers Down Flag Towing Skier Without Observer 1 4% z ' Boating Safety Zone 3 12% � [JBCs 2t713 to 2018 — ��s. '�. Boating Safety Zone Slow Speed Minimum Wake w - Manatee Zone 3 12% Manatee Zone No Boater ID Card 3 12% 25 MPH r ~ . t.•`r"' Idle Speed No Wake Registration 3 12% Slow Speed Minimum Wake _ _ Coral Cove Park Boating Under the Influence 6 24% Coral Cove South Property ---- .a ' Safety Equipment 6 24% Figure 16.Location of Uniform Boating Citations(UBC's) Table 3.Citation Counts in the Study Area NONE— '» ATKINS p 17 SNC•LAVALIN age age 117 Of 144 Agenda Item #6. Boating Accidents Boating accidents must meet at least one of the five criteria below to be classified as reportable boating accidents: • A person dies. • A person disappears under circumstances that indicate possible death or injury. • A person receives an injury requiring medical treatment beyond immediate first aid. • There is at least$2,000 aggregate property damage to the vessel(s)or other property. • There is a total loss of a vessel. A public records request was made to obtain accident reports for the last ten (10)years in North Palm Beach County. There were seven (7) boating accidents in the vessel traffic study area.A summary of this data is listed in Table 4 and in Figure 18 (on the following page): Boating Accident Type And Cause Review • Personal watercraft(PWC)accidents were involved in 3 of the 7 accidents - PWC's were either rented or borrowed in all 3 incidents • Collision with fixed object was the leading type of accident with a total of 3 (43%) - Objects were channel marker(2) and shoreline (1) • Collision with another vessel was the second leading type (29%) - Both were PWC's that collided with another PWC • One vessel (catamaran)was capsized by excessive vessel wake • Excessive speed was listed as a cause in 5 of the reported accidents(71%) • No paddlecraft(canoes, kayaks, rowboats, paddleboards) were involved in any of the accidents Reportable Boating Injuries and/or Fatalities • None of the accidents were fatal • 5 of the 7 boating accidents involved injuries NO. DATE VESSEL ACCIDENT DESCRIPTION CAUSE INJURIES 1 4/7/2011 PWC BORROWED TWO PWC'S COLLIDED OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE,EXCESSIVE SPEED • 2 7/2/2011 OPEN MOTORBOAT HIT CHANNEL MARKER 57 NO PROPER LOOK-OUT,OPERATOR • INATTENTION,EXCESSIVE SPEED 3 1/28/2012 OPEN MOTORBOAT HIT CHANNEL MARKER 58 NO PROPER LOOK-OUT, EXCESSIVE SPEED CAPSIZED BY STANDING/SITTING ON BOW,STANDING/ 4 1/9/2013 CATAMARAN EXCESSIVE VESSEL WAKE SITTING ON GUNWALE,STANDING/ SITTING ON TRANSOM 5 3/28/2013 PWC RENTED WAKE JUMPING-EJECTED CARELESS/RECKLESS, EXCESSIVE SPEED,OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE • 6 6/1/2015 PWC RENTED TWO PWC'S COLLIDED CARELESS/RECKLESS,OPERATOR • INEXPERIENCE,VIOLATION OF NAV RULE 7 12/27/2016 OPEN MOTORBOAT STEERED INTO MANGROVES EXCESSIVE SPEED,OPERATOR INEXPERIENCE • Table 4.Types of Boating Accidents in the Study Area '» ATKINS � _ SNC•LAVALIN :._ .,,, ,•. :�.1 Page 18>.,� -� age 118 of 144 Agenda Item #6. r MARTIN 6 _ PALM BEACH,- -f - - _ 4 A i t a `� - w 1 . _ ' ► r kA 45 4 r r ~ 4 a•I&AWL1! - - ,--ems-• - 16 106 " + • - 1 _ 4 � _ jr 14 now sop '14 I y t y y s{ NUMBER CASE DATE VESSEL ACCIDENT DESCRIPTION �-► +"*t 1 FWSA11OFF2774 4/7/2011 PWC BORROWED TWO PWC'S COLLIDED 2 FWSA11OFF5355 7/2/2011OPEN MOTORBOAT HIT CHANNEL MARKER 57 _ - 00 3 FWSA12OFF0727 1/28/2012 OPEN MOTORBOAT HIT CHANNEL MARKER 58 .r 4 FWSA13OFF00231 1/9/2013 CATAMARAN CAPSIZED BY EXCESSIVE VESSEL WAKE U_ 5 FWSA13OFF02177 3/28/2013 PWC RENTED WAKE JUMPING-EJECTED 6 FWSA15OFF04410 6/1/2015 PWC RENTED TWO PWC'S COLLIDED 0 7 16-170224 12/27/2016 OPEN MOTORBOAT STEERED INTO MANGROVES U 0 0 500 1,000 2,000 co Prepared for: Feet N Figure 18 y _ Florida Fish and Wildlife w E 1 inch - 1 000 feet Boating Accidents �, r ,,:r=.• Conservation Commission > JIyFWC.com rn S FWC Task 38 Created on: Accidents Source(NAD83): Coral Cove Park Vessel Traffic Study 9/5/2018 M Boating Accident Data 2010-Present:FWC Tequesta, FL N Coral Cove Park County Park:Palm Beach County GIs CD 0 County Boundary:FL Geographic Data Library e, Service Layer Credits: Source:Esri,Di italGlobe,GeoE � County Boundary y g y Earthstar Geographics,CNES/Airbus IDS,USDA,USGS, CD AeroGRID,IGN,and the GIs User Community SNC*LAVALIN es$49ai oua 4 Agenda Item #6. Stakeholder Input Requests for stakeholder input were made to the following: Village of Tequesta Police Department, Sergeant Korkoski Sergeant Korkowski of Tequesta PD met with Atkins staff at Coral Cove Park on Saturday,August 18, 2018. Sgt. Korkowski stated that activities on this day were not as busy as other days. He indicated that his agency has supported FWC during manatee protection zone details by enforcing the current boating restricted zone in Tequesta's waterways. He stated that he has witnessed vessel congestion in the Coral Cove Park area greater than the activities of 8/18/2018 and he felt that a slow speed zone was needed in this area. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Lt.Tom Hayworth responded to Atkins' request for input as to known concerns in the Coral Cove Park area and recorded incidents. We were referred to FWC Law Enforcement in Tallahassee for this information.Through a public records request(W086769-083118), Cortney Sims provided the boating citations for Palm Beach County. Greg Castelli provided the accident reports. Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation The Parks and Recreation Director, Eric Call, provided this statement in an email: "I believe most of the incidents or complaints are coming from the area south of Coral Cove Park near the Cato Bridge. We have not experienced any boater/swimmer issue along the ICW shoreline at Coral Cove Park or received any complaints.The channel is pretty far west of our shoreline and most of the boats anchor far enough away from the shoreline so they don't present a problem. I'm not sure what additional information I can add as we have not been impacted by boater speed. I believe the County as a whole may have requested a review, but it was at the request of the Village of Tequesta I believe. I think a number of their residents and HOA's have expressed concern about speeding boats." The following agencies were contacted,though there has been no response as of the date of this report: Jupiter Police Department, Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office Marine Unit, Palm Beach County Environmental Resources Management. Boating Expert For the purpose of providing expert knowledge of recreational boating related activities in the study area, Atkins retained the services of Christopher Shaffner, a Palm Beach County resident and business owner. Chris' experience in the marine industry, and advocacy on local, state, and federal committees qualifies him to provide an unbiased and fact-based perspective in the areas of boating behaviors, operations, and safety. Mr. Shaffner's curriculum vitae details his credentials and achievements and is available for reference in Appendix C. Mr.Shaffner's expert opinion on the activities associated with the Coral Cove Park Vessel Traffic Study is included in a technical memorandum (Figure 19) on the following page. logoew '» ATKINS SNC•LAVALIN Pale ZU __-`. age 120 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Figure 19. Boating Expert Technical Memorandur- Christopher Shaffner 2301 Broadway Riviera Beach, FL 33404 TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM Date: Sept. 14th 2018 To: Janet Luce, Coastal Engineering and Design From: Christopher C. Shaffner Sub j ect: Vessel Traffic at Coral Cove Park, Tequesta, FL Executive Summary—A vessel traffic study has been requested by Florida Fish and Wildlife Commision in response to Palm Beach County concerns about boating safety in the area of Coral Cove Park north of the Jupiter 707 Bridge on the east side of the ICW. Specific concerns related to boat speed, congestion, user conflict and wake effect are addressed. Evaluation of the area thru direct observation, incident history review and discussion with users has been conducted. In addition, 30 years as a boating professional and 17 years personal use and area knowledge are applied. Findings reflect favor to highest user group with recommendations to encourage mixed use of the area with limited negative impact. Purpose—The Coral Cove waterway is observed to be in use by multiple groups. Boating, fishing, swimming and paddlesports make up the majority of the users. The area is a marked speed zone for boaters allowing boats to travel 25 mph from 100 yards North of the 707 bridge to marker G 49. Evaluation of the risks to users in all groups given the multitude of uses and the impact of vessel speed in the area is the subject of this review. The potential conflict between vessels at speed and low speed paddle craft and swimmers warrants an evaluation to address risk to all users. Boating traffic makes up the vast majority of the users with swimmers (people mostly stationary in the water)being second and paddlecraft (paddleboards, kayaks etc.) being third. Highest use is observed on weekends and holidays typically, provided good weather. Coral Cove is the upland area ranging from the ocean to the inland waterway. This memorandum focuses on the shallow area ranging from the beach on the inland waterway side to the marked and maintained ICW channel. Average depth of the ICW in this area is 12' transitioning to the shallow areas both east and west of the channel. Swimmers and paddlecraft were observed mostly in the shallow area of Coral Cove east of the ICW. Some paddlecraft users venture into the marked channel to cross the ICW headed for other recreational use areas West of the ICW. No swimmers were observed in the marked channel. There were a number of users arriving by boat to the Coral Cove area. They were observed entering at low speed and anchoring. On two separate occasions PWC's were seen at speed within the area transiting from the beach area to the ICW. Page 121 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Theory and Analysis - On the basis of increased mixed use of the area, the likelihood of an unfortunate interaction may increase. The relevant analysis of how often this greater risk is present and whether users are aware of the risk and responding is considered in this review.What options are available to mitigate these risks and how do they affect use are also taken into account. The most likely incident is the interaction between power vessels and paddlecraft, however there has not been a reportable incident in this area to date. These interactions can happen in two ways. Collision between vessels and the effect of power vessel wakes upon paddlecraft, more specifically paddleboards. Congestion and peak use is also a consideration. Observation and experience in this area show a wide range, with moderately predictable results. Weekends and holidays with good weather produce congestion at peak times in the early afternoon. It should be noted that the observed behavior of most users changes in response tothis congestion (boaters slow down, non-motorized users avoid the ICW). This was confirmed in conversations with users. The area of the ICW in front of Coral Cove is limited to 25mph per posted speed signs visible from both the North and the South. The areas outside of the ICW are slow speed zones as posted on the same signs. The risk of collision between power and paddle craft is most likely to occur within the ICW as non-motorized users are crossing the ICWto access areas on the west side of the ICW. The easiest comparison would be crossing ahighway with no crosswalk. The effect of wake from power vessels on paddlecraft within thepark boundaries is more common and also considered. During observation I had conversationswith boaters, paddleboarders and other users. There was an acceptance and awareness from thosethat I spoke to. One paddleboard user avoids the ICW during high congestion times but still usesthe area with her children. Most boaters were aware of and respectful of the other users in thearea. Granted this was a very small sample of users but relevant. None saw any need to limit thearea to slow speed as a rule. All agreed that during times of high congestion speeding vesselsposed a greater risk. None reported having a near miss or incident. Results and Discussion - Findings related to the risk of use within the Coral Cove area are based on information available during the research period and within the scope of the request. Results are also based on 30 years of boating experience and 17 years as a local Jupiter resident operating vessels in the area and 10 years using Coral Cove for paddle sports with my wife and kids. The risks presented to users in the area of Coral Cove are acknowledged. It is evident by the clear changes in behavior of most users during peak times responding to the congestion in the area. However it is my professional opinion that the risks presented are no greater in the Coral Cove area than any other congested area within the county. In effect the Coral Cove area has become so popular with many users because it is a relatively safe and easily accessible area. The ICW is clearly marked by navigational aids. The area outside of the marked channel is shallow and creates a natural barrier between boaters and other users. The effect of boat wakes on paddleboards is more influenced by a person's ability than the wakes directly. Experience, equipment condition, depth of water, sobriety, weather and coordination must all be considered when trying to determine how boat wakes affect the user. Observation of paddleboarders spans the spectrum from users actively "surfing"boat wakes to users barely able to sit on a paddleboard. The median user was observed transiting boat wakes with little noticeable negative impact. This same set of principles can be applied to all users in the area. Experienced boaters, swimmers, paddlers to novice in all disciplines. My observations and experience in the area lead me to conclude that novice users are typically more conservative. In the case of paddleboarders - 2 - Page 122 of 144 Agenda Item #6. and swimmers, they stay nearer the beach and away from high wake and the ICW. The same was observed with the boaters, less experienced ran at a slower speed and stayed towards the center of the marked channel. It should also be noted that the presence of Law Enforcement in the area has a significant impact on user actions. Transiting LE vessels were observed multiple times during observation and had a noticeable impact on vessel speed especially by PWC users. The next area of review was a collection of incident reports provided by LE. Review of these reports reveals 1 incident within the Coral Cove boundaries of a 14' vessel with 4 adult males onboard that was anchored within the boundaries and overturned in 3' of water. The report suggests operator error with no injuries. Expanding into the ICW and both North and South reveals 6 incident reports. The majority of and most severe of these incidents involved rented PWC's 3 of the incidents involved vessel allisions with channel markers or trees. I have reviewed a list of 2468 boating citations for Palm Beach County and found only 40 that are in the vicinity of Coral Cove park with only 1 naming the park in the report. Conclusions and Recommendations—The goal of this report is for best use of the area in question. The request for a slow speed zone in the area of Coral Cove is disadvantageous in my opinion to all involved. I have offered some other ideas that may show a better result than a slow speed zone for consideration. A slow speed zone could be expected to exacerbate the perceived problem rather than resolve the concerns. The highest user group in the area is clearly power vessels. As a result their considerations and concerns hold high value. That being said the risk of injury or death of any user is of greatest concern and generates a balanced set of recommendations. • Slow Speed Zone (Not recommended) This would be a knee-jerk resolution to the risk posed by vessels at speed. It creates more problems than it solves, has the greatest negative effect on the highest user group and discourages boating in the area having a negative impact on the supporting business which are prevalent. o Increased transit times in the area of Coral Cove to 7:3 0 minutes as opposed to 1:3 0. Transit time over the entire existing speed zone is increased to 22:3 0 minutes from 5:30 minutes. o Creation of a congregation area for boats at Coral Cove shallow area. Currently there are very few boats anchored in the Coral Cove shallow area. Slow speed in the area would almost certainly create a boater congregation area limiting use by non-boaters as a result of congestion from anchored boats. This would be encouraged by the higher transit times to other areas and access to the area by vehicle. LE patrols would need to be increased by both water and land as parking on the shoulder and limited upland area would create user conflict. o "Slow Speed" is not"No Wake"the transition of a planing hull from displacement speeds to planing speeds creates a larger wake than either the former or latter. Some vessels transiting the area would end up creating a larger wake in a slow speed zone than the existing speed zone. o Slow speed distractions. Boaters at slow speed are comparable to car drivers at a red light. Distracted by radios, phones, making a sandwich etc. The potential of an interaction between a motorized and non user may increase where the two - 3 - Page 123 of 144 Agenda Item #6. share space. This is evidenced around P-nut Island in Riviera Beach where there are arguable fewer non motorized users transiting the ICW but a higher number of incidents. • Notices/markings (recommended) o Increase signage at shoreside entry areas of Coral Cove making users aware of the risks of transiting the ICW and relative safety of shallow area. o Swim area/boating safety buoys on the edge of the ICW clearly defining the safe areas relative to the parks users and boaters transiting the area. • Increased law enforcement or ranger presence (recommended) o There is a noticeable difference in motor vessel behavior with LE present in the area. Reduced speeds and greater avoidance of other users being most obvious. o Increased presence would be most valuable during times of high congestion. o Enforcement of posted speed. The majority of vessels at speed were running in excess of posted limits. PWC users are the most common violators. o Enforcement of existing responsible wake laws. References— • Personal observation and pictures of the area. • Incident reports provided by Janet Luce of Atkins • Uniform Boater Citations provided by Janet Luce of Atkins • User interviews - names withheld. -4 - Page 124 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Summary and Discussion • Martin and Palm Beach Counties are water-oriented communities whose economies and attractions depend on accessible and usable waterways. Slowing boat traffic down may negatively impact waterway navigation, which is inextricably tied to regional economies and local quality of life. • It was evidenced in both field observations and accident data that a safety risk may exist with the operations of personal watercraft(PWCs)within the ICW corridor and in the shoal areas east of the ICW adjacent to Coral Cove Park. • In evaluating risk criteria, "launching or landing area"for kayaks may be the only criteria met in order to establish a boating restricted zone under F.S. 327.46. The definition of"launching or landing area" is ambiguous in making a determination if it qualifies as criteria under the statute. - An idle speed zone established based on this criteria would be small in scale, and counterproductive to the desired effect of risk reduction because the wakes from boats coming on and off plane may generate more wave energy than vessels traveling at speed through this corridor. • The following risk mitigation strategies may be considered: - Increased law enforcement presence, particularly during peak traffic periods. - Enforcement of current boating restricted zones (25 MPH in channel, slow speed minimum wake out of channel). - Enforcement by Palm Beach County Sheriff prohibiting the launching of motorized watercraft from Coral Cove Park. This may reduce the number of PWC's operating in the Coral Cove Park area. - Educating PWC renters of current boating restriction zones from Martin County line to Jupiter Inlet. - Educational signage at Coral Cove Park describing the intracoastal waterway(ICW)as a travel corridor(similar to a highway). - Informational signage on Jupiter Beach Bridge (SR 707)to convey a message related to congested area ahead, paddler area, watch for swimmers, etc. now woo /\TKI NS SNC•LAVALIN Page 25 "` age 125 of 144 Agenda Item #6. References All URLs were accessed September 17, 2018. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. 2017. Boating Accidents Statistical Report, FWC Division of Law Enforcement. http://myfwc.com/media/4449716/2017intro.pdf Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. 2011. Boating Accidents Statistical Report, FWC Division of Law Enforcement. 65pp. Florida Statute 327.46, boating restricted areas, https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2016/327.46 Florida Statute 327.37, Water skis, parasails, and aquaplanes regulated, https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/ Statutes/2012/327.37 Florida Inland Navigation District(FIND), Economic Benefits of the District Waterways, Palm Beach County, http://www.aicw.org/studies_and_information/economic_studies/docs/Palm%20Beach%2OEcon%2OFind%20 nfogra ph is%20fi nal%202017.pdf Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Annual Vessel Statistics by County, https://www.flhsmv.gov/motor- veh icles-tags-titles/vessels/vessel-owner-statistics/ Koelsch,J, and J.A. Powell. 2011. Palm Beach County manatee aerial surveys. Final report submitted to the Palm Beach County Department of Natural Resources Management. 32pp. PBS&J, Florida Sea Grant, and J.F. Gorzelany. 2009. Palm Beach Vessel Traffic Study. Final report submitted for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Boating and Waterways Section. Thomas J. Murray&Associates, Inc., for the Marine Industries Association of South Florida, 2014, https://misvc0l- prod.s3.amazonaws.com/bd373cl6001/O37871fe-35ld-422d-bbcl-146cO6bc6521.pdf U.S. Census Bureau, Census.gov, Palm Beach County, https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/ pa l m beachcou ntyflorida/PST045217 maw '» ATKI N S �.— 4�_ _ logo SNC•LAVALIN :._ .,.,, ,•. -, ::.;' Page 26 _`a` age 126 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Appendix A Palm Beach County Boating Restricted Zone Changes from 1999 Version to 2010 Version WNW- '» ATKINS -- 5N<:-LAVAHN Member o the=K-L.�l,n G,� l age 127 of 144 Agenda Item #6. 68D—24.017®Palm Beach County Boating Restricted Areas. -(1)For the purpose of regulating speed and operation of vessel traffic on the Intracoastal Waterway within Palm Beach County, Florida,the following boating restricted areas are established: (a)AL Jupiter Inlet—A e-A Slow Speed NeMinimum Wake zone from shoreline to shoreline, in and adjacent to the Florida Intracoastal Waterway,bounded on the north by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway at the300 feet north of the north end of the fender system of the State ReffdSR707(Gomez Rd.)Bridge;;bounded on the westnorthwest by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Loxahatchee River a4300 feet northwest of the northwest end of the fender syste of the Florida East Coast Railroad bridge located adjacent to the State SR 811 (Alternate A-=1-=A)Bridge;;bounded on the south by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway at500 feet south of the south end of the fender r� -�t of the State R SR 706 (Indiantown Rd.)Bridge;; and bounded on the east by a line drawn due north across the Jupiter Inlet from the western tip of the jetty at DuBois Park to the southwest corner of Jupiter Island,and including all waters of and tributaries to Sawfish Bay and the Jupiter River,as depicted in drawing A. 2. Bert«rotors park n� e(b)Donald Ross Bridge—A Slow Speed NeMinimum Wake zone from shoreline to shoreline, in and adjacent to the Florida Intracoastal Waterway, bounded on the north by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway 2,700 feet southedy of t1 e Donald Rory Read Bridge.Iamr 300 feet north of the boat r p M.Rork T7 i t� north end of the fender of the Donald Ross Bridge, and bounded on the south by a line drawn pefpendieular-to the eenteflifie of the Flefida intfaeoastal Wate-r-waF;, �100 feet south of the IQ Qi d Lfi d CXP�A 4 :ltpalv�100 feet south of the beat famp at BeA Wifitefs PA4:� AQ dpapir-tpad in d-Fa 3.June Park to PGA Botilevafd An ldle!�4npapad No Wake zone ffem shefeline to shefelil.... 4. to�4e Flefida intfaeoastal Watefway, \a`er-yz y 2�000 feet77��rth0 the b id..ge,ACC&�L.e in !Vr 4.US 1 An 1dWe Speed No Wake.zone from shoreline to shofelifflW,tia�afl.d ffidj�aeeat to the Perida latfaeeastal Waterw.ay bounded on from headland to headland across the mouth of Lake Worth Creek at its southern terminus at Lake Worth,as depicted in drawing DB. -5-.Lc)Peanut Island Dakm Beaeh,Blue Heron Bridge and Lake Worth Inlet— A Slow Speed Minimum Wake zone from shoreline to shoreline,in and adjacent to the Florida Intracoastal Waterway including all waters of Lake Worth,.,bounded on the north by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway at the north shoreline of Phil Foster Island, from the mainland at Riviera Beach to Singer Island;bounded on the southeast by a line drawn from the southwest corner of Singer Island to the nearest channel marker marking the northern edge of the Lake Worth Inlet Channel(flashing marker"8")and running from,,hanne'N.afker to channel N.afker along the line of channel markers markingnorthern edge of the Lake Worth Inlet Channel and the Port of Palm Beach Turning Basin;to the westernmost channel marker markin. the northern edge of the Port of Palm Beach Turning Basin (flashing marker "12"); and; bounded on the south by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway,from the westernmost channel marker marking the northern edge of the Port of Palm Beach Turning Basin to the mainland at the southeast corner of the Port of Palm Beach Slip 1,Berth 6,Bay 49,as depicted in drawing FC. b.Palm Beaeh GoeflAPY iq.Attthefized to er-eate.bly 04fd1l. Tithin this zone a swim afea ffem whieh vessels afe.exelttdel%d, iffi A.;vatefs east of the ifixtghxxt 01f Av;v%AFY Of the Floxf ida intf aeeastal Watef wav AdiAr-ent to and within 150 feet of the seut-hem she-Feline of Phil Festef Park. �Cd)Flagler Memorial Bridge—A Slow Speed Minimum Wake zone from shoreline to shoreline, in and adjacent to the Florida Intracoastal Waterway, bounded on the north by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway -2 1,100 feet north of the north end of the fender of the Flagler Memorial Bridge,and bounded on the south by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway 1,500 feet south of the south bridge fender,as depicted in drawing D• (e) SR 704(Royal Park)Bridge—A Slow Speed Minimum Wake zone from shoreline to shoreline,in and adjacent to the Florida Intracoastal Waterway,bounded on the north by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway 300 feet north of the north end of the fender of the SR 704 (Royal Park)Bridge and bounded on the south by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway 1-,N9300 feet south of the said bfidge-,.s�,outhernmost dock of the Town of Palm Beach Public Docks(Peruvian Ave. ,as depicted in drawing FE. ( , SR 80 (Southern Blvd.)Bridge—A Slow Speed Minimum Wake zonefr� ero'iHe te-�l o , in and adjacent to the Florida Intracoastal Waterway,bounded on the north by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway n+�300 feet north of the north end of the brie fender system of the I A.y„'Palm«V Aval PA42L State R,,.,a 7n�� SR 80(Southern Blvd. Bridge, and bounded on the east by a line drawn parallel to and 500 feet east of the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal I Page 128 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Waterway and the western shoreline of Bingham Island and bounded on the south by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway"' 300 feet south of the aefthef tip. outh end of Eyeyglades islan the bridge fender,as depicted in drawing 4�F. 4.--(g) SR 802 (Lake Worth) Bridge-A Slow Speed Minimum Wake zone from shoreline to shoreline, in and adjacent to the Florida Intracoastal Waterway, bounded on the north by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway 300 feet north of the north end of the fender of the SR 802(Lake Worth)Bridge,and bounded on the south by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway 300 feet south of the centerline of the Bryant Park boat ramp, as depicted in drawing G. (h) SR 812 (Lantana AventteAve.)Bridge-A Slow Speed Minimum Wake zone from shoreline to shoreline, in and adjacent to the Florida Intracoastal Waterway, bounded on the north by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway at the north end of Hypoluxo Island and bounded on the south by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway at the300 feet south of the south end of the bridge system or he Lantana "ve+we(CtMit ea Ro": Q'2�B,idge,as depicted in drawing H. 4-(i) SR 804(East Ocean A eAve.)Bridge-An Idle Speed No Wake zone from shoreline to shoreline,in and adjacent to the Florida Intracoastal Waterway, bounded on the north by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway9575 feet north of the north end of the fender of the SR 804(East Ocean Ave. Bridge in Fto:;qiton Beaehz and bounded on the south by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway at the300 feet south of the saidsouth end of the bridge fender,as depicted in drawing I. 40.No d Minimum Wake zone from shoreline to shoreline, in and adjacent to the Florida Intracoastal Waterway, bounded on the north by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway 300 feet north of the north end of the fender of the 15th Avenue(Woolbri_hg t Rd.)Bridge,and bounded on the south by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway 3 00 feet south of the south end of the bridge fender,as depicted in drawing J. k NE 8th Street(George Bush Blvd.)Bridge-An Idle Speed No Wake zone from shoreline to shoreline,in and adjacent to the Florida Intracoastal Waterway, bounded on the north by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway at the300 feet north of the north end of the fender system of the NeAhea E 8th Street (George Bush Blvd.) Bridge and bounded on the south by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway 600 feet south of the saidsouth end of the bridge fender,as depicted in drawing�K. • > S t-Ate. Read 906� Bvidge, in Pekay ReaeI4 aod bounded on t14e s@44 by a line dva,A44 ppaxpPammilieulaf to t4@ e@at@+4iae of the Flefida lat+aeeast Wate...�J 100 feet south of the said the RoAhem te -if the Linton Beulevafd Zone, 42.Liaten Boulevard Rridgxe Zones a-.(1) SR 806 (East Atlantic Ave.)Bridge-A Slow Speed Minimum Wake zone from shoreline to shoreline, in and adjacent to the Florida Intracoastal Waterway, bounded on the north by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway 1 70.0. feet south of the East Adantie Avei+ue Bfixd-tgea At.the southem te )f the East Adantie Avei+ue Widge Z&DW-(%app:roximately , • bounded on the neft 300 feet north of the north end of the fender of the SR 806(East Atlantic Ave.)Bridge,and bounded on the south by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterwayat the south end,500 feet north of the fender syste"'''centerline of the Linton Bottle,a Ctrvot',Rria-oKnowles Park boat ramp,as depicted in drawing KL. 12.Lake a.A"S! (m)Knowles Park Boat Ramp-An Idle Speed MiaimuNo Wake"zone from shoreline to shoreline,in and adjacent to the Florida Intracoastal Waterway,3�7-50bounded on the north by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway,, 500 feet north of the centerline of the Knowles Park boat ramp, and bounded on the south by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway 300 feet north of the north end of the fender of the 12th Street(Linton Blvd.) Bridge,as depicted in drawing M. (n) 12th Street (Linton Blvd.)Bridge-A Slow Speed Minimum Wake zone from shoreline to shoreline, in and adjacent to the Florida Intracoastal Waterway, bounded on the north by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal I Page 129 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Waterway 300 feet north of the north end of fender of the 12th Street(Linton Blvd.)Bridge,and bounded on the south by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway 300 feet south of the south end of the bridge fender, as depicted in drawing N. (o) SR 800 (Spanish River Blvd.) Bridge—A Slow Speed Minimum Wake zone from shoreline to shoreline, in and adjacent to the Florida Intracoastal Waterway, bounded on the north by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway 300 feet north of the north end of the fender of the SR 800 (Spanish River Blvd.) Bridge, and bounded on the south by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway 300 feet south of the south end of the bridge fender, as depicted in drawing O. (p) SR 798(Palmetto Park Rd.)Bridged and Silver Palm Park Boat Ramp Zones 1.Lake Wyman Vicinity to SR 798(Palmetto Park Rd.)Bridge—A Slow Speed Minimum Wake zone from shoreline to shoreline, in and adjacent to the Florida Intracoastal Waterway,in the vicinity of marker 63.�,(which is in the southern portion of Lake Wes), and bounded on the south by a line drawn perpendicular to 300 fe t south of the centerline of the Camino Rea B,id,cxe,boundet[cCorthe east. by tLe Florida Intracoastal Waterway 300 feet north of the northern end of the fender system of the SR 798 (Palmetto Park Rd.) Bridge,as depicted in drawing P. 2. Silver Palm Park Boat Ramp and SR 798 Bridge—An Idle Speed No Wake zone from shoreline to shoreline, in and adjacent to the Florida Intracoastal Waterway,bounded on the north by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway 300 feet north of the north end of the fender of the SR 798 (Palmetto Park Rd.)Bridge,and bounded on the south by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway 500 feet south of the centerline of the Silver Palm Park boat ramp, as depicted in drawing P. (q)A-1-A(Ocean Avenue(A-TA)ter;a no ove Ave). Bridge—A Slow Speed Minimum Wake zone from shoreline to shoreline, in the Boca Raton Inlet,and iael din.,g waters of Lake Boea Ratenbounded on the northwest by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the channel 300 feet northwest of the northwest end of the fender of the A-1-A(Ocean Ave.)Bridge,and bounded on the south bX a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the channel 300 feet south of the south end of the bridge fender,as depicted in drawing Q- �(r)Camino Real Zones— 1. Camino Real Bridge — A "Slow Speed Minimum Wake, zone from shoreline to shoreline, in and adjacent to the Florida Intracoastal Waterway, bounded on the north by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway 300 feet north of the north end of the fender of the Camino Real Bridge,and bounded on the south by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway 300 feet south of the south end of the bridge fender, as depicted in drawing LR. sueh est+ieted areas and shall install"Resume Nofmal..-..,.rations"mafkefs at the boundafies of sueh r-est+ieted afeas, 2. Camino Real Bridge to Palm Beach-Broward County Line—A Slow Speed Minimum Wake zone to be in effect from 10:00 a.m.to 6:00 p.m.on Saturdays,Sundays,and Holidays,in and adjacent to the Florida Intracoastal Waterway,bounded on the north by a line drawn perpendicular to the centerline of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway 300 feet south of the south end of the fender of the Camino Real Bridge,and bounded on the south by the Palm Beach-Broward Count, as depicted in drawing. (2)The boating restricted areas described in Rule 68D-_24.017,F.A.C.,are depicted on the following drawings: I Page 130 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Append 'ix Field Survey Observation Photos '» ATKINS wo SNC-LAVAHN Member of the SNC-Lavahn Group age 131 of 144 .��}il.• •.��- :-� - •�-=• �'Y ��-.. -+f(-tip- 1� -�_� � _�..- - �4 , a Fl rr - . rf WIN ir - 1 w r a _F`; ss-��• �.+tea. ar. n - - _.. - ,.'�X'•t--tea •_ i r - •. - _ --R- .. ORO got 1 I i - .. _i - yi r t A' 3. .`1 r�t k i Ott iu Y.+ z t L i� ` -d k .•c +il.�i +ram. J d _ a Pau see- . ALF j!_ f? _ 4 _ 'tom l 1 �.__..�'-a -•"'-- \��_��.",-�j��---��'.�•F ,y�• +��i:� Its r.�= r._ -• ^`�'-1P Riiii NZ C4 -AL J > I s' It ` 4fY \ Aar A j F,F -.f T T • � T f_y F �•�.seW� �•`� -tea _` r. •may - i�� ::_-T m�-�/'l`� .. .. -_ • - s AIF _�_ _•yam., : . ro le a, IN :wz, i - r:. �Sri.:.. ��:�'.:•�-i"` �'a..�•o � , t _ e r .s ;P — i— _ - _ o� sw 7� A r 4.`— • r Ah wj _ � ;, ��1��'��]�.., is "`• /i.,,� AW too MKJ- r _ I L- _ !,�' �'._- �.i .._' its - _ ___ ,V. y•`� _ I - go • 1 All s_ ?XrIT ��, 'Nx AF SWIM- .yy. J Y- •r .r`R: f .ti - ,._....e.—.�— `• Ir-w..w.r a-w F..,�_�...■..e,.l,.O.w-R.....1+_._r.�..+w1�.r.�-�,,.. �p 7H n.,.irr.,,.....: 4jjL• f L I I I '�M I 71 .I der' Sit .3,k•: F 4 _Mli4L •Ah • Agenda Item #6. Append *ix Boating Expert, Christopher Shaffner Curriculum Vitae '» ATKINS _ SNC-LAVAHN Member of the SNC-Lavahn Group age 140 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Christopher Shaffner 8/22/2017 561 262-1067 Chris@towboatuspalmbeach.com txNc'iiciv�, Chris held nearly every job conceivable involving boats and their appurtenances.Operations,engineering, management, refit, repair and recycling of vessels from canoe to yacht ensure an in-depth perspective on the maritime environment. His Influence earned through leadership roles has brought conflicting interests to common ground and shaped the boating industry. COMMITTEE APPOINTMENT' State of Florida Governor Appointed Boating Advisory Council C-PORT (National Association Marine Assistance Industry) NASBLA (National Association State Boating Law Administrators) AMSC (Area of Maritime Security Committee USCG Sector Miami) TSAC (Towing Safety Advisory Committee) NSARC (National Search and Rescue Committee) TAC (Towers Advisory Council) MIAPBC (Marine Industries Association Palm Beach) +�C,C,(7MPLISHMENT C-PORT(9 years on BOD, 5 years as Chairman/ repeal of 46 USC 80102/ MOU with NASBLA/ Development of Industry wide Safety Management System and ACAPT standards) TowBoatUS Palm Beach Owner since 2003/ Holiday Boat Parade Toys for Tots coordinator/ MIAPBC development committee/Towers Advisory Council BoatUS/ USCG commercial assistance sector Miami representative B.A.C. FL governor appointed Boater Advisory Council to FWC. Bi- Page 141 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Christopher Shaffner Annual meetings reviewing policy, boating statistics,direction and goals of FWC from a public perspective. MSS, LLC Founder,developing captain experiences for those interested in expanding their skills and knowledge on the water Argosy Group LLC Founder,yacht brokerage,consultant for Law Enforcement, Military and private clients/ Dorado Custom Boats Crew On Call, LLC Founder 2007 placing qualified captains and crew with boaters for freelance captain services and on-board instruction. Focus on 27'-72'vessels encouraging owner operation and skills development. Boatselter.com(2013 current shareholder and advisor providing charter options to boat owners enabling them to capitalize on idle assets.Chris designed and built the captains network to support over 1000 boat owners requiring a captain to charter their vessels.) Discover Boating(H.O.S.T.(Hands On Skills Training) program instructor. Previous experience • J and B Yacht services(repair and refit of Yachts based in South Florida and New England) • Murray Marine(technician,Viking Warranty, Cabo Warranty) Page 2 Page 142 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Page 143 of 144 Agenda Item #6. Environmental Advisory Committee (EAC) STAFF MEMO � Meeting: Environmental Advisory Committee (EAC) - Oct 14 2020 Staff Contact: Robert Shaw Departure Environmental Advisory nt: Committee Discussion on No Wake Zone for Jupiter Narrows Area from Cato's Bridge to Martin County Line ATTACHMENTS: 0 Jupiter Narrows final.pdf Coral Cove Vessel Traffic Study DRAFT (1) Page 144 of 144