Management Issues of Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve

Quick Topics

	Marine Debris Marine debris, from local and distant sources, presents a real and chronic threat to wildlife and public safety.
	Water Quality Sediment and chemical pollution pose an increasing threat to water quality in the preserve.
	Direct Impacts to Preserve Habitats The diverse and productive shallow near shore areas of the preserve are very susceptible to prop scarring, vessel grounding and other direct impacts.
	Shoreline Alteration Shoreline alteration poses threats to the ecosystem function, as well as the aesthetics of Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve (TCAP).
	Unintentional and Illegal Fishing TCAP has considerable illegal and unintentional fishing activity which results in entrapment and entanglement hazards.
	Mooring Fields and Liveaboards Because most protected areas of the preserve where mooring would be desirable do not flush well, it is especially important to address discharge issues.
	Public Access Points Terra Ceia has benefited environmentally from its remote location, but increasing demand for access must be addressed proactively and carefully.
	Invasive Exotic Species Once established, invasive exotic species are difficult, if not impossible, to eradicate. Therefore, it is important to invest time and resources in prevention and early identification of these species.
	Aquaculture While aquaculture can yield benefits to the preserve, concerns associated with aquaculture a ctivities include direct impacts of activities to the submerged land and water quality, as well as the introduction of non-native species into the area.
	Historical and Cultural Resources/Sites The history of Terra Ceia, is a rich one, with human habitation spanning thousands of years. As a result, these shallow areas have a high probability for the presence of historical and cultural resources.
	Disaster/Contingency Preparation The location of the preserve near the main Tampa Ship Channel, Port Manatee and intense recreational boating all make it likely that events requiring emergency actions will occur. Contingency planning and robust communications mechanisms will reduce the need for decisions to be made in haste as an event unfolds.

Management Plan

Last updated: July 01, 2011