Loss of public access to Florida waterways

Success Story

 Speakers:
Jim Fletcher, Chris Combs, and Bob Swett
321.633.1702
jhfr@ifas.ufl.edu
University of Florida
A fundamental problem experienced by coastal counties in Florida is loss of public access to waterways coupled with increasing demand. Both problems are attributed to rapid growth and development. Population growth in Florida brings an increase in boat registrations, however limits placed on expansion of existing marinas/boatyards, and addition of new marinas/boatyards, or public boat ramps with adequate parking, have not met the demands of the increased growth. To make informed decisions, officials require a research-based framework that would include, for example, a characterization of recreational boating activities and a quantification of the supply of and demand for public access facilities. The results from such analyses would facilitate siting public access facilities and assist with policy decisions and the development of effective regulations. In addition, such information would (1) identify legislative issues that need to be reexamined, (2) expedite the permitting process, and (3) assist lobbying efforts to secure additional funding. Thirteen counties with Manatee Protection Plans came together to discuss marina siting and public waterway access issues. A round table forum gave each county an opportunity to present cases or specific situations that reflect strengths and weaknesses concerning marina siting and public waterway access in their county. Participants were asked to consider economic and environmental issues as well as ancillary impacts of zoning, water dependent uses and boating use patterns in their comments. Following the facilitated round robin discussion of issues, participants were ask to prioritize issues that could be addressed through further group action.

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For more information about the conference, contact the conference co-chairs: Cindy Bigger, cbigger@umn.edu, (888) 241-0843, or Rick Maurer, richard.maurer@uky.edu, (859) 257-7582.

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