The first map shows two large area reef sites inside State waters off SOWAL. Are these permitted or in the permitting process ? If so there are quite a few folks who would contribute time, money and materials for reefs........ especially if the county can be brought on board to do inspections as is done in our sourrounding counties
Let me know please
Capt Larry
Deadfish
Capt. Larry,
Short answer: Not yet.
Long answer: There are some funds set aside for
a portion of the
permitting costs for 'LAARS A'. Guidance from FWC, FDEP, and USACOE recommended that this particular permit be submitted
after the 13 nearshore permit applications, because LAARS (Large Area Artificial Reef Site) permitting is a significantly more complex, costly, and time consuming process.
Upcoming NRDA / FWC ph.3 funds distribution is limited to structure deployment on "in-play permits". Imminent deadlines had to be met in order for Walton County to be eligible for these deployment $. This is why the 13 nearshore permit apps were prioritized.
You and the other folks involvement and assistance is needed, valued, and appreciated!
Please stay in contact!
Note: As required by law, the county is involved in every process. In fact, SWARA currently has an official, long term (10year?) "Walton County Artificial Reef Plan" being drafted for adoption. Among other things, this plan will include inspection & monitoring requirements as well as education & awareness initiatives.