MANASOTA & PEACE RIVER BBDs Meeting Notebook 10-21-09.docx

S036
Charlotte Harbor State Buffer Preserve
Project Type SOR
AOR(s)
Flood Protection, Water Quality, Natural Systems
Basin(s) Peace River
Cooperator(s)
Florida State Parks
Project Manager SOWDERS, GINA
Task Manager(s)
Status Ongoing
SOWDERS, GINA, LOVE, KEVIN, GREEN, STEPHANIE
Description
In 1995 the Governing Board authorized the acquisition of the Myakka River/Charlotte Harbor project consisting of
approximately 38,000 acres in Charlotte and Sarasota Counties. In 1998 the Governing Board authorized the
acquisition of an additional 6,639 acres as a part of the Charlotte Harbor project. The Charlotte Harbor Save Our
Rivers project was jointly purchased between the District and the State of Florida's Conservation and Recreation
Lands (CARL) program. Lands within the project area are characterized by a variety of natural lands including isolated
freshwater marshes, tidal marshes, and tidal swamps. To date 7,529 acres have been acquired in fee simple and are
a part of the Charlotte Harbor State Buffer Preserve. There are no more lands slated for acquisition within the project.
Under a management agreement with the State, the Department of Environmental Protection's Division of Recreation
and Parks is the lead land manager for the project. The following recreational improvements/amenities are available
within the Preserve: canoeing and boating, with future development of a small boat launch facility, fishing, and
extensive hiking trails.
Benefits
Pursuant to Section 373.1391(1)(a), Florida Statutes, lands within the project are managed and maintained in such a
way as to ensure a balance between public access, general public recreational purposes, and restoration and
protection of their natural state and condition.
Costs
Funds included in the FY2009 and FY2010 budgets are for staff time to monitor the District's agreement with the
State. Costs for these activities are 100 percent reimbursed through the state's Water Management Lands Trust Fund.
FY 2009 FY2010
Funding Funding
District Budgeted - Outside Revenue
(SOR)
020 Peace River Basin 3,282 3,434
Status As Of: August 27, 2009
On June 23, 2009 the governing Board approved the lease agreement between Florida DEP, Charlotte County, and the
District for the establishment of a public boat ramp. Documents have been returned to Florida DEP for final signature and
execution.
020 - Peace River Basin 18