Resource Management

Management activities at St. Joseph Bay Aquatic Preserve have been discontinued as of July 1, 2011. The following page describes the former resource management program which will be restarted should revenue streams improve.

The aquatic preserve resource management roles included:

• Conducting on-site surveys and research projects;
• Ensuring that accurate information is used in resource-related permitting, management, and planning decisions;
• Overseeing activities that affect the resources of the preserve (includes inter- and intra-agency coordination);
• Partnering with educational programs to share the values associated with natural resources; and
• Developing a comprehensive management program.

Habitat Restoration

While St. Joseph Bay has the most extensive seagrass beds in the Panhandle, prop scar damage from boats has been increasing. The preserve was developing a database to assess seagrass damage, and is partnering with the Seagrass Salvage Program to transplant seagrass for restoration.

Exotic Species Management

There are currently no known exotic species of aquatic plants or animals located within the aquatic preserve boundaries. However, there is potential for species such as the Asian green mussel to be introduced. The preserve was researching potential susceptibility to invasive species to develop a response plan. Educating the public to help prevent introduction of invasive species is crucial, and could be accomplished by signage at boat ramps.

Permitting and Enforcement

The preserve does not have enforcement authority, but maintained partnerships with permitting agencies as well as regulatory offices and local law enforcement.