CN-370000-CN331-TA6.pdf

September 19, 2016

Theresa R. Carron Preconstruction Project Manager Bureau of Design and Construction Florida Department of Environmental Protection 3800 Commonwealth Boulevard 260L, MS 520 Tallahassee, FL 32399

RE: CN331

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park - Mitigation Monitoring & Reporting HM File No. 25-014

Dear Theresa, For your review, Humiston & Moore Engineers has provided a proposal summary and man-hour documentation for the services and subtasks identified below:

• Task 1 – Pre-Construction Seagrass Survey

• Task 2 – Post Construction Seagrass Survey

• Task 3 – 1 Year Post Construction Seagrass Survey

• Task 4 – 2 Year Post Construction Seagrass Survey

• Task 5 – 3 Year Post Construction Seagrass Survey

• Task 6 – 4 Year Post Construction Seagrass Survey

These subtasks fulfill the requirements for monitoring of Mitigation activities required by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) permit (No. SAJ-2015-01570 (SP-CF)). Considering an estimated one-year construction timeframe, the subtasks included in this task order will occur over a period of five years. Please review the attached proposal. A copy of the proposal from Pinnacle Ecological is attached for your records.

Sincerely, Brett D. Moore, P.E., President Humiston & Moore Engineers

5679 STRAND COURT

NAPLES, FLORIDA 34110

FAX: 239 594 2025

PHONE: 239 594 2021

carron_t Line carron_t Line carron_t Line carron_t Line carron_t Callout To be tasked as funding becomes available.

Hugh Taylor State Park Revetment Contract Number, CN331 Task Assignment Number ______

Subtask 1: Pre-Construction Seagrass Survey Description: H&M will provide seagrass surveys, data and an interpretive report of conditions at the project site prior to construction. This report will establish monitoring locations and document baseline seagrass conditions for future reference.

Deliverable: The deliverable will consist of a scientific report identifying seagrass survey locations and documenting seagrass coverage and density prior to construction.

Performance Measure: Deliverables will be reviewed by the Department to confirm they are complete, accurate, and timely.

Fixed Price Cost: $13,456.40 Subtask 1 Firm Name Position Classification Hourly

Rate Hours Total Fixed

Price Cost Humiston & Moore Eng. Principal Engineer $ 206.00 2 $ 412.00 Humiston & Moore Eng. Engineer III $ 96.00 8 $ 768.00 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Principal Scientist $ 85.47 30 $ 2,564.10 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Senior Scientist $ 71.68 6 $ 430.08 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Field Scientist III $ 63.41 60 $ 3,804.60 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Field Scientist II $ 55.14 38 $ 2,095.32 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Biological Technologist $ 44.11 30 $ 1,323.30 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Mobilization and Equipment $ 2,059.00

Subtask 2: Post Construction Seagrass Survey – Time Zero Description: H&M will provide seagrass surveys, data and an interpretive report of conditions at the project site during the seagrass growing season following completion of construction, or as determined appropriate in consultation with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This report will document post construction conditions at monitoring locations and provide baseline seagrass conditions for mitigation areas.

Deliverable: The deliverable will consist of a scientific report identifying seagrass survey locations and documenting seagrass coverage and density following completion of construction.

Performance Measure: Deliverables will be reviewed by the Department to confirm they are complete, accurate, and timely.

carron_t Text Box

TA6

Fixed Price Cost: $12,248.84 Subtask 2 Firm Name Position Classification Hourly

Rate Hours Total Fixed

Price Cost Humiston & Moore Eng. Principal Engineer $ 206.00 2 $ 412.00 Humiston & Moore Eng. Engineer III $ 96.00 8 $ 768.00 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Principal Scientist $ 85.47 24 $ 2,051.28 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Senior Scientist $ 71.68 6 $ 430.08 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Field Scientist III $ 63.41 48 $ 3,043.68 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Field Scientist II $ 55.14 44 $ 2,426.16 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Biological Technologist $ 44.11 24 $ 1,058.64

Subtask 3: Post Construction Seagrass Survey – 1 Year Description: H&M will provide seagrass surveys, data and an interpretive report of conditions at the project site during the seagrass growing season one year following the post construction survey. This report will document conditions at monitoring locations one year post construction, provide an assessment of mitigation success criteria and comparison with previous data.

Deliverable: The deliverable will consist of a scientific report identifying seagrass survey locations, documenting seagrass coverage and density one year following completion of construction, an analysis of mitigation success criteria and comparison with previous data.

Performance Measure: Deliverables will be reviewed by the Department to confirm they are complete, accurate, and timely.

Fixed Price Cost: $12,469.40

Subtask 3 Firm Name Position Classification Hourly

Rate Hours Total Fixed

Price Cost Humiston & Moore Eng. Principal Engineer $ 206.00 2 $ 412.00 Humiston & Moore Eng. Engineer III $ 96.00 8 $ 768.00 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Principal Scientist $ 85.47 24 $ 2,051.28 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Senior Scientist $ 71.68 6 $ 430.08 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Field Scientist III $ 63.41 48 $ 3,043.68 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Field Scientist II $ 55.14 48 $ 2,646.72

Line

Subtask 4: Post Construction Seagrass Survey – 2 Year Description: H&M will provide seagrass surveys, data and an interpretive report of conditions at the project site during the seagrass growing season two years following the post construction (time zero) survey. This report will document conditions at monitoring locations two years post construction, provide an assessment of mitigation success criteria and comparison with previous data.

Deliverable: The deliverable will consist of a scientific report identifying seagrass survey locations, documenting seagrass coverage and density two years following completion of construction, an analysis of mitigation success criteria and comparison with previous data.

Performance Measure: Deliverables will be reviewed by the Department to confirm they are complete, accurate, and timely.

Fixed Price Cost: $12,689.96 Subtask 4 Firm Name Position Classification Hourly

Rate Hours Total Fixed

Price Cost Humiston & Moore Eng. Principal Engineer $ 206.00 2 $ 412.00 Humiston & Moore Eng. Engineer III $ 96.00 8 $ 768.00 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Principal Scientist $ 85.47 24 $ 2,051.28 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Senior Scientist $ 71.68 6 $ 430.08 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Field Scientist III $ 63.41 48 $ 3,043.68 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Field Scientist II $ 55.14 52 $ 2,867.28

Subtask 5: Post Construction Seagrass Survey – 3 Year

Description: H&M will provide seagrass surveys, data and an interpretive report of conditions at the project site during the seagrass growing season three years following the post construction (time zero) survey. This report will document conditions at monitoring locations three years post construction, provide an assessment of mitigation success criteria and comparison with previous data.

Deliverable: The deliverable will consist of a scientific report identifying seagrass survey locations, documenting seagrass coverage and density three years following completion of construction, an analysis of mitigation success criteria and comparison with previous data.

Fixed Price Cost: $12,910.52 Subtask 5 Firm Name Position Classification Hourly

Rate Hours Total Fixed

Price Cost Humiston & Moore Eng. Principal Engineer $ 206.00 2 $ 412.00 Humiston & Moore Eng. Engineer III $ 96.00 8 $ 768.00 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Principal Scientist $ 85.47 24 $ 2,051.28 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Senior Scientist $ 71.68 6 $ 430.08 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Field Scientist III $ 63.41 48 $ 3,043.68 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Field Scientist II $ 55.14 56 $ 3,087.84

Subtask 6: Post Construction Seagrass Survey – 4 Year Description: H&M will provide seagrass surveys, data and an interpretive report of conditions at the project site during the seagrass growing season four years following the post construction (time zero) survey. This report will document conditions at monitoring locations four years post construction, provide an assessment of mitigation success criteria and comparison with previous data.

Deliverable: The deliverable will consist of a scientific report identifying seagrass survey locations, documenting seagrass coverage and density four years following completion of construction, an analysis of mitigation success criteria and comparison with previous data.

Fixed Price Cost: $13,131.08 Subtask 6 Firm Name Position Classification Hourly

Rate Hours Total Fixed

Price Cost Humiston & Moore Eng. Principal Engineer $ 206.00 2 $ 412.00 Humiston & Moore Eng. Engineer III $ 96.00 8 $ 768.00 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Principal Scientist $ 85.47 24 $ 2,051.28 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Senior Scientist $ 71.68 6 $ 430.08 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Field Scientist III $ 63.41 48 $ 3,043.68 Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. Field Scientist II $ 55.14 60 $ 3,087.84

Project Schedule:

Activity Duration (Calendar Days) Subtask 1 Pre-Construction Survey and Report 60 days – from completion of survey Subtask 2 Post Construction Survey and Report – Time Zero 60 days – from completion of survey Subtask 3 Post Construction Survey and Report – 1 Year 60 days – from completion of survey Subtask 4 Post Construction Survey and Report – 2 Year 60 days – from completion of survey Subtask 5 Post Construction Survey and Report – 3 Year 60 days – from completion of survey Subtask 6 Post Construction Survey and Report –-4 Year 60 days – from completion of survey

Summary of Fees:

Subtask Subtask Fixed Price Cost Subtask Reimbursable Subtask 1 $13,456.40 0 Subtask 2 $12,248.84 0 Subtask 3 $12,469.40 0 Subtask 4 $12,689.96 0 Subtask 5 $12,910.52 0 Subtask 6 $13,131.08 0

Total Fixed Price Cost: $76,906.20 Total Reimbursable Cost: 0

Overall Total Cost: $76,906.20

Payment will be made upon approval of deliverables for each subtask by the FDEP in the amount specified. (Please do not alter this language) carron_t Line carron_t Line carron_t Line carron_t Line carron_t Line carron_t Line carron_t Line carron_t Line carron_t Line carron_t Line carron_t Text Box $25,705.24 carron_t Text Box $25,705.24

SEAGRASS MONITORING

HUGH TAYLOR BIRCH STATE PARK

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA

PROPOSAL

12 September 2016

Prepared on behalf of:

Humiston & Moore Engineers, P.A.

5679 Strand Court Naples, Florida 34110 USA P: 239-594-2021

Prepared by:

Pinnacle Ecological, Inc.

1314 Neptune Drive, Suite 5 Boynton Beach, Florida 33426 USA P: 561-699-2609

Prepared for:

Theresa R. Carron Preconstruction Project Manager Bureau of Design and Construction Florida Department of Environmental Protection 3800 Commonwealth Boulevard 260L, MS 520 Tallahassee, FL 32399 P: 850-245-2721 ii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

1.0 INTRODUCTION

2.0 BACKGROUND

3.0 METHODS

4.0 MONITORING EVENTS

5.0 REFERENCES

6.0 DELIVERABLES AND COST ESTIMATE

7.0 SCHEDULE

8.0 QUALIFICATIONS

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure Page

1 Proposed seagrass monitoring sites for collection of qualitative and quantitative data within equally sized stratified sample areas where seagrass resources were previously mapped (Pinnacle, 2015) along the seawall at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park and adjacent to the Intracoastal Waterway in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Image credit: Google Earth, 2016

2 Representative seagrass monitoring site located along the seawall at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

3 Representative preconstruction seagrass monitoring site within a mitigation area located along the seawall at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

4 Representative post-construction seagrass monitoring site within a mitigation area located along the seawall at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Pinnacle Ecological, Inc. (Pinnacle) is pleased to present this proposal and cost estimate to conduct seagrass monitoring associated with the proposed rock revetment and wave fence installation at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park (Park). The Park is positioned on a barrier island between the Intracoastal Waterway (ICWW) and Atlantic Ocean in Broward County, Florida.

Figure 1 shows an overview of the proposed study area. Seagrasses in this area were mapped during an assessment study conducted in July 2015 (Pinnacle, 2015). The proposal describes monitoring activities intended to measure the physical and biological environmental conditions occurring within seagrass habitat and mitigation areas situated between the ICWW and the bulkhead bordering the Park’s western boundary. The proposed monitoring has been designed to meet the conditional requirements of the Unites States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) environmental permit (SAJ-2015-01570 (SP-CF)). The permit clearly states that the project must adhere to the approved compensatory mitigation plan. Therefore, a pre-construction survey is recommended to comply with the mitigation plan that accompanied the permit and to provide the scientific data upon which future monitoring data may be compared. Monitoring will be performed at time zero immediately following completion of construction activities and annually for a total of four (4) years post project completion. In the unlikely event that the project does not meet the performance standards set forth by the environmental permit and approved compensatory mitigation plan, and additional two (2) years of monitoring may be required as well as additional and/or alternative mitigation. The proposed seagrass monitoring has been designed to provide a statistically valid and defensible approach to measuring the biological parameters intended to show the effects of project related activities (rock revetment and wave fence installation) and mitigation on adjacent seagrass habitat.

Figure 1. Proposed seagrass monitoring sites for collection of qualitative and quantitative data within equally sized stratified sample areas where seagrass resources were previously mapped (Pinnacle, 2015) along the seawall at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park and adjacent to the Intracoastal Waterway in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Image credit: Google Earth, 2016.

LEGEND

SCALE

0 800 2400 ft

Seagrass Monitoring Site for Collection of Quantitative Data

PROPOSED SEAGRASS MONITORING STUDY

HUGH TAYLOR BIRCH STATE PARK

PINNACLE ECOLOGICAL, INC.

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Mapped Seagrass Resources (Pinnacle 2015)

Stratified Sample Area

For Illustration Purposes Only

PROPOSED SEAGRASS MONITORING STUDY PINNACLE ECOLOGICAL, INC.

HUGH TAYLOR BIRCH STATE PARK 2016

2.0 BACKGROUND

Seagrass communities play an important role in the marine ecosystems of Florida. The range of seagrass growth is limited by light availability, and typically occurs in water less than 10-15 meters in depth (Zieman, 1982). Several species typically occur in Broward County, including paddle grass (Halophila decipiens), shoal grass (Halodule wrightii), and Johnson’s seagrass (Halophila johnsonii) (Yarbro and Carlson, 2011). Seagrasses are sensitive to environmental changes including decreases in light availability and dredging of sandy and muddy bottoms (Fourqurean et al., 2001). The rock revetment and wave fence may reduce wave energy from passing vessels.

Reduced wave energy in vicinity of the seagrass habitat may result in improved water quality and increased light availability by reducing turbidity caused by the suspension of fine sediments during periods of excess wave energy. Improved water quality and increased light availability may result in improved seagrass health, densities and overall habitat expansion.

Seagrasses serve as essential habitat supporting diverse assemblages of recreational and commercially important fishes and invertebrates. Seagrasses also provide habitat for the Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris), which is federally listed as an endangered species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and has been observed in vicinity of the project area.

The monitoring study will also evaluate substrate classified as EFH. The Magnuson-Stephens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSFCMA) defines EFH as “waters and substrate necessary to fish for spawning, breeding, feeding, or growth to maturity.” This includes substrate such as sediment, hardbottom, submerged structures, and associated biological communities (NMFS, 1999). Conservation of EFH is essential to support local fish populations that utilize these areas throughout their life history.

PROPOSED SEAGRASS MONITORING STUDY PINNACLE ECOLOGICAL, INC.

HUGH TAYLOR BIRCH STATE PARK 2016

3.0 METHODS

Pinnacle’s scientists will conduct a comprehensive seagrass monitoring study to determine effects of a rock revetment and wave fence installation on the physical and biological environmental conditions occurring in the ICWW and adjacent to the bulkhead at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park.

Pinnacle will collect qualitative and quantitative data intended to show the effects of construction related activities associated with the rock revetment and wave fence installation on adjacent seagrass resources, benthic colonizers on EFH and associated fish population dynamics in mitigation areas and non-mitigation areas.

Seagrass resources were delineated and mapped during an assessment survey conducted in July 2015 (Pinnacle, 2015). Figure 1 shows the location of mapped seagrass habitats. The purpose of the seagrass monitoring plan is intended to provide a scientifically valid approach to determining the effect of the rock revetment and wave fence installation on adjacent marine resources including seagrasses, benthic colonizing invertebrates and recreationally and commercially important marine fishes. Sampling locations will be determined using a stratified random sampling design. The study area will be comprised of three (3) equally sized areas which include the mapped seagrass habitat that was previously delineated during the July 2015 seagrass assessment survey (Pinnacle, 2015). Semi-permanent seagrass monitoring sites will be randomly selected from each of the three equally sized study areas for a total of seven (7) monitoring sites (Figure 1). Figures 2 and 3 provide an overview of representative non-mitigation and pre-mitigation seagrass monitoring sites. At each monitoring site the width of the seagrass habitat will be measured along three (3) semi-permanent transects oriented perpendicular to shore and extend across the entire width of the seagrass habitat in vicinity of the monitoring site.

Shore-perpendicular transects will be established during the pre-construction monitoring event to establish a baseline upon which future data may be compared to determine seagrass growth and habitat expansion/retraction. Following implementation of mitigation removal and relocation of concrete materials the shore-perpendicular transects at the mitigation area monitoring sites will include measurements of previously mapped seagrass habitat and newly expanded seagrass growth into the newly established mitigation area (Figure 4).

Quantitative transects will be established at each monitoring site. In an effort to increase the study’s power of analysis and statistical validity each monitoring site will include three (3) 10-m quantitative seagrass transects. Figures 2, 3 and 4 show representative quantitative seagrass transects. The location of quantitative transects at each monitoring site will be randomly determined and oriented to fit within seagrass habitat. A team of scientific divers experienced at identifying marine resources under similar conditions will swim each transect to determine quantitative estimates of seagrass areal percent cover and identify other marine resources including invertebrate colonizers on EFH and fish population dynamics. Seagrass densities will be determined in situ using a modified Braun-Blanquet scale of abundance (Braun-Blanquet, 1932). A minimum of 6 randomly positioned 0.25-m2 (2.7-ft2) quadrats (0.5 m x 0.5 m [1.6 ft x 1.6 ft]) will be deployed along each seagrass transect. Pinnacle’s scientific dive team will identify seagrasses, macroalgae, sponges and corals that occur within each quadrat and assign an abundance value to determine areal percent cover. Other data collected will include identification of biota observed during the study including macroalgae, sponges and fishes. Biota will be identified to lowest practical level in the field. Pinnacle will collect percent cover data on the rock revetment to show recruitment levels of benthic colonizers and population dynamics of cryptic, juvenile and predatory fish species. Species of special concern also will be noted if observed during the monitoring study including manatee, sea turtles and smalltooth sawfish. The study design provides an efficient and cost effective method to conduct repeatable and comparable

PROPOSED SEAGRASS MONITORING STUDY PINNACLE ECOLOGICAL, INC.

HUGH TAYLOR BIRCH STATE PARK 2016

measurements at semi-permanent monitoring sites without the time consuming requirement of re-mapping the entire seagrass habitat.

Figure 2. Representative seagrass monitoring site located along the seawall at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

LEGEND

SCALE

PROPOSED SEAGRASS MONITORING STUDY

HUGH TAYLOR BIRCH STATE PARK

PINNACLE ECOLOGICAL, INC.

Shore Perpendicular Transects Intended to Measure Extent of Seagrass Habitat

Previously Mapped

Seagrass Habitat

Quantitative Sample Quadrats

Wave Fence

NOTE: Representative Preconstruction and Post-construction Monitoring Site.

SCALE

0 6 18 ft12

For Illustration Purposes Only

10-m Transect for Quantitative Data Collection

Representative Monitoring Site in mitigation Area6

Mapped Seagrass Resources (Pinnacle 2015)

Figure 3. Representative preconstruction seagrass monitoring site within a mitigation area located along the seawall at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

LEGEND

PROPOSED SEAGRASS MONITORING STUDY

HUGH TAYLOR BIRCH STATE PARK

PINNACLE ECOLOGICAL, INC.

NOTE: Representative Preconstruction Mitigation Area Monitoring Site.

Wave Fence

6 Previously Mapped Seagrass Habitat

For Illustration Purposes Only

Shore Perpendicular Transects Intended to Measure Extent of Seagrass Habitat at Mitigation Sites

10-m Transect for Quantitative Data Collection

Representative Monitoring Site in mitigation Area6

Randomly Positioned Quantitative Sample Quadrats

SCALE

0 6 18 ft12 Mapped Seagrass Resources (Pinnacle 2015)

Concrete Rubble and Pile Debris Identified for Removal to Create Seagrass Habitat Mitigation Area

Figure 4. Representative post-construction seagrass monitoring site within a mitigation area located along the seawall at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

LEGEND

PROPOSED SEAGRASS MONITORING STUDY

HUGH TAYLOR BIRCH STATE PARK

PINNACLE ECOLOGICAL, INC.

Shore Perpendicular Transects Intended to Measure Extent of Seagrass Habitat at Mitigation Sites

10-m Transect for Quantitative Data Collection

Representative Monitoring Site in mitigation Area6

Randomly Positioned Quantitative Sample Quadrats

Wave Fence

Previously Mapped

Seagrass Habitat

NOTE: Representative post-construction mitigation area monitoring site. In addition to collection of quantitative data for calculating seagrass density. The maximum extent of new seagrass growth will be measured at each monitoring site.

SCALE

0 6 18 ft12

For Illustration Purposes Only

Mapped Seagrass Resources (Pinnacle 2015)

New Seagrass Growth in the Mitigation Area

New Seagrass Growth

PROPOSED SEAGRASS MONITORING STUDY PINNACLE ECOLOGICAL, INC.

HUGH TAYLOR BIRCH STATE PARK 2016

4.0 MONITORING EVENTS

Pre- and Post-construction monitoring of the project site is necessary to detect potential construction related impacts to seagrass and estuarine habitats and to determine whether mitigation goals are being met. A team of qualified marine biologists experienced at conducting benthic assessments and seagrass surveys will perform a minimum of five monitoring events over an estimated five year period. Monitoring events will occur during the normal seagrass growing season (April 1st through August 31st, FWC, 2011 and June 1st through September 30th, NMFS, 2010). A pre-construction monitoring event is recommended before construction is initiated. The post-construction survey (Time Zero) will be conducted immediately following construction and preferably during the seagrass growing season or the first seagrass growing season following completion of construction (anticipated 1 year construction schedule). Annual monitoring events will occur at one (1), two (2), three (3), and four (4) years post-construction. An additional two (2) years of monitoring may be required if the project does not meet the performance standards set forth by the environmental permit and approved compensatory mitigation plan. Additional monitoring may be recommended following significant weather events or incidents related to construction activities. A pre-construction monitoring event (Baseline) is necessary to determine baseline conditions of seagrass extent and density. The post-construction monitoring event (Time Zero) will determine whether the project had any impacts to seagrasses and other benthic marine resources. Annual post-construction monitoring events will assess seagrass re-colonization in the construction footprint as well as colonization in the newly revealed seagrass habitat created after removal/relocation of concrete debris. Subsequent annual monitoring events will require additional analysis for comparing monitoring data to previous years. Water temperature, salinity, and water clarity will be recorded throughout the monitoring period. Each monitoring event will be accompanied by a data report describing the methods and results including a comparison to baseline and/or previous monitoring results. Reports will also discuss whether or not the mitigation success criteria are being met and provide recommendations for mid-course corrections in the event success criteria are being not met. Monitoring reports be prepared in accordance with permit requirements (SAJ-2015-01570 (SP-CF)) and submitted to the USACE within 60 days following completion of each monitoring event.

PROPOSED SEAGRASS MONITORING STUDY PINNACLE ECOLOGICAL, INC.

HUGH TAYLOR BIRCH STATE PARK 2016

5.0 REFERENCES

Braun-Blanquet, J. 1932. Plant Sociology: The Study of Plant Communities. English translation of Pflanzensoziologie (Translated by Fuller, G.D. and H.S. Conard), McGraw- Hill, New York.

Fourqurean, J.W., Durako, M.J., Hall, M.O., and L.N. Hefty. 2001. Seagrass distribution in South

Florida: a multi-agency coordinated monitoring program. In: Porter, J.W. and K.G. Porter eds. The Everglades, Florida Bay, and the coral reefs of the Florida Keys. CRC Press

LLC.

National Marine Fisheries Service. 1999. Essential Fish Habitat: New marine fish habitat conservation mandate for federal agencies. Southeast Regional Office, St. Petersburg, FL.

National Marine Fisheries Service. 2002. Recovery plan for Johnson’s seagrass (Halophila johnsonii). Prepared by the Johnson’s seagrass recovery team for the National Marine Fisheries Service, Silver Spring, Maryland.

Yarbro, L.A. and R. Carlson Jr. eds. 2011. Seagrass integrated mapping and monitoring for the state of Florida. Mapping and Monitoring Report No. 1. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, St. Petersburg, Florida.

Zieman, J.C. 1982. The ecology of the seagrasses of South Florida: a community profile. U.S.

Fish and Wildlife Service 82/25.

PROPOSED SEAGRASS MONITORING STUDY PINNACLE ECOLOGICAL, INC.

HUGH TAYLOR BIRCH STATE PARK 2016

6.0 DELIVERABLES AND COST ESTIMATE

Costs have been provided as lump sum and include mobilization, demobilization, field surveys, video and photographic data collection, data analysis, a data report that includes survey results, a map of all identified benthic resources, and copies of all data collected. Separate costs have been provided for Pre-construction and each of the post construction monitoring events. The pre-construction monitoring event will require additional field time for location and installation of semi-permanent sampling transects. Subsequent annual monitoring events will require additional analysis for comparing monitoring data to previous years. The cost estimate for seagrass monitoring has been provided below.

Cost Description Cost

Pre-Construction Monitoring (Baseline) Mobilization/Demobilization $ 806.00 Field Monitoring - Vessel, Equipment & Personnel $ 7,691.00 1 X Senior Scientist @ 85.47/hr X 30 Field Hours = 2,564.00 2 X Field Scientist III @ 63.41/hr X 30 Field Hours = 3,804.00 1 X Biological Tech @ 44.11/hr X 30 Field Hours = 1,323.00 Field Equipment and Vessel = 1,253.00 Analysis & Report $ 2,525.00 1 X Senior Scientist @ 71.68/hr X 6 Hours = 430.00 1 X Field Scientist II @ 55.14/hr X 38 Hours = 2,095.00 .

Total $ 12,275.00

Post-Construction Monitoring – Time Zero Mobilization/Demobilization $ 806.00 Field Monitoring - Vessel, Equipment & Personnel $ 6,154.00 1 X Senior Scientist @ 85.47/hr X 24 Field Hours = 2,051.00 2 X Field Scientist III @ 63.41/hr X 24 Field Hours = 3,044.00 1 X Biological Tech @ 44.11/hr X 24 Field Hours = 1,059.00 Field Equipment and Vessel = 1,254.00 Analysis & Report $ 2,856.00 1 X Senior Scientist @ 71.68/hr X 6 Hours = 430.00 1 X Field Scientist II @ 55.14/hr X 44 Hours = 2,426.00 .

Total $ 11,070.00

Post-Construction Monitoring – Year 1 Mobilization/Demobilization $ 806.00 Field Monitoring - Vessel, Equipment & Personnel $ 6,154.00 1 X Senior Scientist @ 85.47/hr X 24 Field Hours = 2,051.00 2 X Field Scientist III @ 63.41/hr X 24 Field Hours = 3,044.00 1 X Biological Tech @ 44.11/hr X 24 Field Hours = 1,059.00 Field Equipment and Vessel = 1,253.00 Analysis & Report $ 3,077.00 1 X Senior Scientist @ 71.68/hr X 6 Hours = 430.00 1 X Field Scientist II @ 55.14/hr X 48 Hours = 2,647.00 .

Total $ 11,290.00

PROPOSED SEAGRASS MONITORING STUDY PINNACLE ECOLOGICAL, INC.

HUGH TAYLOR BIRCH STATE PARK 2016

Post-Construction Monitoring – Year 2 Mobilization/Demobilization $ 806.00 Field Monitoring - Vessel, Equipment & Personnel $ 6,154.00 1 X Senior Scientist @ 85.47/hr X 24 Field Hours = 2,051.00 2 X Field Scientist III @ 63.41/hr X 24 Field Hours = 3,044.00 1 X Biological Tech @ 44.11/hr X 24 Field Hours = 1,059.00 Field Equipment and Vessel = 1,253.00 Analysis & Report $ 3,297.00 1 X Senior Scientist @ 71.68/hr X 6 Hours = 430.00 1 X Field Scientist II @ 55.14/hr X 52 Hours = 2,867.00 .

Total $ 11,510.00

Post-Construction Monitoring – Year 3 Mobilization/Demobilization $ 806.00 Field Monitoring - Vessel, Equipment & Personnel $ 6,154.00 1 X Senior Scientist @ 85.47/hr X 24 Field Hours = 2,051.00 2 X Field Scientist III @ 63.41/hr X 24 Field Hours = 3,044.00 1 X Biological Tech @ 44.11/hr X 24 Field Hours = 1,059.00 Field Equipment and Vessel = 1,252.00 Analysis & Report $ 3,518.00 1 X Senior Scientist @ 71.68/hr X 6 Hours = 430.00 1 X Field Scientist II @ 55.14/hr X 56 Hours = 3,088.00 .

Total $ 11,730.00

Post-Construction Monitoring – Year 4 Mobilization/Demobilization $ 806.00 Field Monitoring - Vessel, Equipment & Personnel $ 6,154.00 1 X Senior Scientist @ 85.47/hr X 24 Field Hours = 2,051.00 2 X Field Scientist III @ 63.41/hr X 24 Field Hours = 3,044.00 1 X Biological Tech @ 44.11/hr X 24 Field Hours = 1,059.00 Field Equipment and Vessel = 1,252.00 Analysis & Report $ 3,738.00 1 X Senior Scientist @ 71.68/hr X 6 Hours = 430.00 1 X Field Scientist II @ 55.14/hr X 60 Hours = 3,308.00 .

Total $ 11,950.00

PROPOSED SEAGRASS MONITORING STUDY PINNACLE ECOLOGICAL, INC.

HUGH TAYLOR BIRCH STATE PARK 2016

7.0 SCHEDULE

Pinnacle proposes to conduct monitoring events during normal seagrass growing season (April 1st through August 31st, FWC, 2011 and June 1st through September 30th, NMFS, 2010). Pinnacle has recommended conducting a pre-construction monitoring event before construction is initiated.

A field team of qualified marine biologists can be in the field to initiate pre-construction monitoring in 1 day following approval and notice to proceed. The pre-construction monitoring event will require three (3) to four (4) field days to complete. A post-construction survey (Time Zero) will be conducted immediately following construction and preferably during the seagrass growing season or the first seagrass growing season following completion of construction (anticipated one (1) year construction schedule). The post-construction monitoring event will require approximately three

(3) field days to complete. Following completion of the field work and data collection, Pinnacle’s scientific team will conduct data analysis and prepare a monitoring report in accordance with the format requirements presented in the permit. Monitoring reports will be submitted to the USACE within 60 days following completion of each monitoring event.

Note:

Scientific Dive Operations Management & Safety Due to the proximity of the benthic assessment survey to a navigable channel in the Intracoastal Waterway, special considerations will be implemented to ensure diver safety during survey operations. Sufficient staffing with a full team of AAUS certified scientific divers, safe and stable dive vessel, surface signaling devices, dive flags and floats and other safety precautions will be employed to ensure the safety of all personnel involved in the seagrass assessment survey.

PROPOSED SEAGRASS MONITORING STUDY PINNACLE ECOLOGICAL, INC.

HUGH TAYLOR BIRCH STATE PARK 2016

8.0 QUALIFICATIONS

Pinnacle Group International, LLC (Pinnacle) is an applied science and technical marine ecological services company specializing in marine, estuarine and coastal field studies.

Pinnacle’s concentration is resource assessment and monitoring, biological habitat characterization and mapping, marine habitat restoration and mitigation implementation, planning and implementing monitoring programs, underwater video and photographic documentation services, water and sediment sampling and monitoring, field instrument deployment and recovery and scientific dive safety management. The marine scientists and technicians at Pinnacle have extensive experience and expertise conducting environmental field surveys associated with beach nourishment, dredging, seawall construction, and environmental baseline surveys for coastal development. Pinnacle has extensive experience in south Florida and similar environments throughout the Caribbean. The team at Pinnacle is recognized as a preferred contractor by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (FKNMS) as leaders in coral reef damage assessment, reef rehabilitation and coral transplantation. Pinnacle is also recognized by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to provide manatee and sea turtle observer services.

The team at Pinnacle has conducted surveys of other threatened and endangered species including Johnson’s seagrass (Halophila johnsonii) and acroporid corals in Miami-Dade, Palm Beach, Broward and Monroe Counties.

Field Services:

● Benthic Environmental Surveys – Dredging Projects, Docks, Seawalls, and other Coastal Development Projects

● Habitat Characterization and GIS Mapping – Photodocumentation Surveys

● Monitoring and Mitigation Studies – Natural Resource, Artificial Reef, Sediment, and Water Quality

● Artificial Reefs – Site Inspections, Design and Installation, Reef Enhancement, and Monitoring

● Coral Reef Studies – Damage Assessment, Framework Re-stabilization, Coral Relocation, Nursery Caches, Site Inspection and Preparation, Coral Reattachment, and Monitoring

● Seagrass and Mangrove Studies – Environmental Assessment, Transplantation, Monitoring

● Protected Species Surveys – Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Studies, Manatee Observation

● Deep Ocean Benthic Community Studies Utilizing Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROV)

● Scientific Diving Operations and Safety Management

● Scientific Instrument Installation and Recovery

Environmental Management:

● Scientific Dive Safety and Supervision

● Quality Assurance/Quality Control of Field Sampling and Data Collection

● Environmental Quality and Construction Oversight

Environmental Reporting:

● Environmental Impact Assessments

● Coral Recovery and Relocation Plans

● Monitoring and Mitigation Plans

PROPOSED SEAGRASS MONITORING STUDY PINNACLE ECOLOGICAL, INC.

HUGH TAYLOR BIRCH STATE PARK 2016

PAST PERFORMANCE

Environmental Assessment – Habitat Mapping and Monitoring Pinnacle conducted an environmental assessment of nearshore hard bottom habitat in association with a beach and dune renourishment project located in Lantana, Florida. Concerns were raised that fine silt and clay was washing out of the newly placed 11,000 tons of upland sand on the dune and beach system and settling on the nearshore hard bottom. The purpose of this project was to characterize the sediments on hard bottom habitat by determining the grain size and carbonate content so that it could be compared to the upland sand source. Multiple surveys were conducted to collect sediment samples and document the physical and biological conditions of the hard bottom habitat. The beach and dune system at Lantana has been identified as one of many coastal areas in Florida experiencing “critical erosion”. Beach nourishment projects such as this are important in reestablishing storm protection benefits for upland properties and quickly restoring marine turtle habitat. These nearshore hard bottom habitats are generally low relief outcrops with 1 to 3 ft. of vertical relief and extend from the surf zone out to 8 to 10 ft. water depth. These hard bottom habitats occur in high energy environments and undergo periodic burial from natural sediment migrations. These nearshore hard bottom outcrops play an important role in safeguarding coastal resources and provide essential benthic and fish habitat. Sediment samples were described as medium to fine sand with shell fragments with a relatively consistent Munsell soil color classification. There was some fine to medium coarse grey colored sand observed covering select portions of the reef and in some sand troughs located between rock outcrops. No sediments classified as silt or clay were observed during the survey. The dominant biotic cover observed during the survey was macro algae followed by Sabellariid worm rock (Phragmatopoma lapidosa), sponges, and corals (Siderastrea siderea). The most common fishes observed in the survey area included porkfish (Anisotremus virginicus), sergeant major (Abudefduf saxatilis), slippery dick (Halichoeres bivattatus), and hairy blenny (Labrisomus nuchipinnis).

Artificial Reef Design, Implementation and Monitoring Pinnacle has developed an artificial reef design that is durable, can be handled easily for transport and deployment. The reef modules can be produced onsite in some cases, and are deployable on unconsolidated bottom (i.e., sand) with minimal concern for settling or movement due to storm surge or sediment transport. The reef modules can be fabricated with interlocking counterweighted bases. The reefs can also be attached to hard bottom substrate with a minimal foot print. The artificial reefs have been designed for multispecies colonization with ledges and holes that create interstitial space for multiple species and life stages of fishes and invertebrates. Artificial reefs provide structural habitat that substitute, to varying degrees, the natural structure and ecological function of coral reef habitats. Most artificial reefs are constructed from construction waste, derelict vessels, or other debris. Although many of these structures may provide habitat structure for specific species, they fail to provide functional habitat for a naturally occurring ecologically healthy and diverse reef ecosystem. Pinnacle’s artificial reef designs provide the ecological habitat that promotes natural ecosystem diversity and is an aesthetically viable reef alternative that mimics natural reef structures.

PROPOSED SEAGRASS MONITORING STUDY PINNACLE ECOLOGICAL, INC.

HUGH TAYLOR BIRCH STATE PARK 2016

Coral Damage Assessment, Restoration and Monitoring Conducted coral reef damage assessment, coral transplantation and long term monitoring in conjunction with the maintenance dredging of Truman Harbor and the Main Ship Channel in Key West, Florida. Utilized “fishbone” grid mapping to assess damage to coral reef and other Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary resources. Worked directly with Sanctuary personnel to remove, relocate, and transplant corals growing on harbor walls and pilings during construction activities. Designed and constructed temporary holding facilities for coral colonies and colony fragments. Over

3,000 corals were removed and temporarily stored.

Approximately 300 corals were reattached to artificial and natural substrate in the vicinity of Key West. Approximately 1,700 corals were donated to scientific laboratories and aquarium groups, and the remaining corals will be reattached upon contractual agreement of the Department of the Navy. Corals growing on channel edges that were impacted by dredging activities were reattached to adjacent reef areas. Assisted with the implementation of a comprehensive resource health and impacts monitoring program to prevent and assess impacts to sensitive Sanctuary resources during the course of dredging activities.

Coral Damage Assessment, Restoration and Monitoring Pinnacle conducted a damage assessment and complete restoration of an injury site located on a federally protected Acropora reef in the Dry Tortugas National Park. On 12 November 2010, the motor vessel Cocktails & Dreams, a 15.5 meter (51 feet) Hudson Enterprise sailing vessel, ran aground near Fort Jefferson in the Dry Tortugas National Park approximately 122 kilometers (76 miles) west of Key West, Florida. Pinnacle was contracted to conduct a damage assessment survey of the grounding site (Latitude: 24˚ 37.225’N and Longitude: 082˚ 52.206’W). The objective of this survey was to provide a current assessment of the biological and physical conditions at the site. The damage assessment provided necessary data relevant to produce a primary restoration plan that was used to restore injured habitat at the grounding site to its pre-injury function and value. Pinnacle work cooperatively with the resource trustee (the National Park Service [NPS]) while conducting a thorough assessment of site conditions and during the biological triage and emergency restoration in an effort to prevent further damage to corals and other resources at the injury site. Pinnacle used its 38-ft diving vessel to conduct the damage assessment survey. This was Pinnacle’s primary support vessel and was fully equipped with redundant safety equipment necessary for conducting remote scientific dive operations. The vessel provided safe and stable living quarters and working environment with adequate deck space for deployment and recovery of scientists and survey equipment.

Smaller inflatable vessels were used to transport biologists and survey equipment onto shallow portions of the grounding site. The damaged reef was assessed, surveyed and mapped. Government agencies at the State, Federal and local levels expedited permits and loaned their coral experts. Corals that were dislodged during the impact of the cable dragging were collected and cached in safe areas until reattachment could be completed. A reattachment site for each coral was selected and both were cleaned using a wire brush to remove algae and other loose materials that may prevent a stable adhesion to the reef substrate. Next a special mixture of cement was mixed on the research vessel and carefully delivered to the reattachment area on the reef. Special attention was required to prevent direct contact with living coral tissue.

PROPOSED SEAGRASS MONITORING STUDY PINNACLE ECOLOGICAL, INC.

HUGH TAYLOR BIRCH STATE PARK 2016

Seagrass/Benthic Assessment Survey and Mapping Characterized and mapped seagrass habitat located in a protected portion of south Lake Worth Lagoon between Hypoluxo Island and the barrier island of Palm Beach, Florida. This assessment survey was conducted from 27 to 29 August 2009 and in support of a proposed dredging and dock renovation project. The purpose of this study was to survey the lagoon bottom in vicinity of the proposed construction project and document any associated seagrasses, particularly Johnson’s seagrass (Halophila johnsonii), which could be impacted by the footprint of the proposed dock extension or any construction related activities. The survey was conducted in two phases in accordance with recommendations by the National Marine Fisheries Service (2002) recovery plan for Johnson’s Seagrass. The first phase was conducted to delineate, identify and map existing seagrass beds in vicinity of the study area. The second phase was used to determine seagrass densities using quantitative sampling methods including Braun-Blanquet (1932) and shoot densities (shoots/m2). Species of special concern also were monitored during the survey.

Coral Damage Assessment, Restoration and Monitoring Pinnacle along with several other local coastal engineering and marine ecological firms volunteered time, services, and resources to restore Breaker’s Reef following damage by a loose cable drag from a tug boat. Other groups also assisted including the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and Palm Beach

County Department of Environmental Resources. The Breakers Reef is among the best known and most popular dive sites off Palm Beach. It is easy to find, just a mile east of the historic Breaker’s Hotel in Palm Beach. The reef, located in 20 to 23 meters water depth, is a well utilized natural resource regularly enjoyed by divers, snorkelers, and fishermen. The reef framework did not sustain any structural damage, but the cable was dragged across the top edge of the reef over several hundred meters dislodging and fracturing numerous hard corals, sponges and other marine life. The damaged reef was assessed, surveyed and mapped. Government agencies at the State, Federal and local levels expedited permits and loaned their coral experts. Corals that were dislodged during the impact of the cable dragging were collected and cached in safe areas until reattachment could be completed. A reattachment site for each coral was selected and both were cleaned using a wire brush to remove algae and other loose materials that may prevent a stable adhesion to the reef substrate. Next a special mixture of cement was mixed on the research vessel and carefully delivered to the reattachment area on the reef. Special attention was required to prevent direct contact with living coral tissue. Approximately 200 corals, including many soft corals, ranging in size from 10 inches to 3 feet in diameter were reattached in the area of initial damage. Monitoring visits to the site indicate a successful reattachment effort with all corals performing well, and many other damaged marine life rebounding and showing promising signs of new growth. This project was conducted for Palm Beach County Environmental Resource Management. The Florida Association of Environmental Professionals (FAEP) awarded the volunteer team members with special recognition for environmental stewardship in 2009.

PROPOSED SEAGRASS MONITORING STUDY PINNACLE ECOLOGICAL, INC.

HUGH TAYLOR BIRCH STATE PARK 2016

Conducted coral reef damage assessment, reef framework reconstruction, and coral reattachment in conjunction with the M/T Margara grounding off Guayanilla Bay, Puerto Rico.

The 2007 storm season heavily eroded the previously impacted reef framework in the vicinity of the grounding site. Dislodged corals were collected and reattached in patch reef-like clusters providing protection from future storms.

Seagrass Damage Assessment, Restoration and Monitoring Conducted a damage assessment survey of the Special K grounding site located on Jewfish Bush Bank off Fiesta Key, Florida (Latitude: 24˚ 50.956’N and Longitude: 080˚ 46.766’W). The survey provided a current assessment of the damages and a forensics review of environmental conditions at the site since the 15.3 meter (50.3 feet) vessel ran aground on 14 March 2005. The assessment survey was conducted on 3 September 2009. The purpose of the survey was to identify and accurately map the impacted area including the prop scars, blowhole and adjacent berm, and to determine the physical and biological conditions of the grounding site and the surrounding undisturbed seagrass habitat. The physical conditions of the grounding site was mapped using a Trimble 4700 survey grade real time kinetics (RTK) global positioning system (GPS) receiver with a Trimble micro centered GPS antennae mounted on a survey rod. The relative accuracy for the navigation data collected during the grounding site assessment was 0.06-ft horizontal and 0.043-ft vertical. The biological status of the grounding site was assessed via general observations, qualitative and quantitative video and still photography documentation, and in situ determination of biological cover including seagrass, coral, macroalgae and other biota. Biological survey stations were determined using a stratified random sampling design. Biotic cover was determined using a modified Braun-Blanquet (1932) technique.

Coral Damage Assessment, Restoration and Monitoring Pinnacle conducted a coral reef rehabilitation project in Newfound Harbor Key Sanctuary Preservation Area (SPA). Reattached and re-stabilized corals and coral fragments from multiple vessel grounding sites. Enhanced the habitat quality and increased the structural complexity of the previous restoration structures (coral rings) located at the Bateau Duhe vessel grounding site in Newfound Harbor Key SPA.