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9/3/07 - 1733 Spanish Plate Fleet Interpretation and National Register Nomination

In 1733, thirteen ships of the Spanish Plate Fleet were sunk along 80 miles of the Florida Keys during a hurricane. These shipwreck sites represent some of the oldest artificial reefs in North America, supporting complex marine life. To preserve this significant coastal resource, the Florida Department of State, Bureau of Archaeological Research applied for a FCMP state agency subgrant, for FY 2004-2005, to explore, document and assess the sunken vessels in order to form the foundation for a multiple property nomination to the National Register of Historic Places. FCMP funds supported the design and printing of an interpretive guide booklet, and web site development. The nomination was successful, and the National Park Service listed the 1733 Spanish Plate Fleet in the National Register in June 2006. Other programs benefited by this subgrant include Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (floridakeys.noaa.gov/), Biscayne National Park, Florida Park Service and National Register of Historic Places.

Teaching with Historic Places Lesson Plans: Spanish Treasure Fleets of 1715 and 1733

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6/4/07 - Matanzas Pass Preserve Canopy & Native Plant Restoration

The Matanzas Pass Preserve is a 56-acre maritime forest on Estero Island that provides unique habitat for many species of wildlife, some of which are endangered or threatened. From the time the Preserve was donated to Lee County in 1995, the Friends of the Preserve, a non-profit organization, has helped protect and preserve its natural habitat. Towards this goal, the Friends, Lee County and the Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program joined as partners to re-establish the canopy and native plant community and encourage stewardship of the Matanzas Pass Preserve [read CHNEP’s coverage on this project on page 4 of Harbor Happenings, Volume 9, Number 3: 2005]. Specifically, the project partners [Lee County, Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program and Friends of Matanzas Pass Preserve] applied for a FCMP Coastal Partnership Initiative subgrant, for FY 2004-2005, to revegetate 18 acres with native trees including gumbo limbo, green buttonwood and strangler fig, and plant over 400 shrubs, such as marlberry, wild coffee and southern wax myrtle. A video documentary about the Preserve and its importance to the area’s ecosystem was also produced with FCMP support. Other programs benefited by this subgrant include Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program, Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve and Estero Bay State Buffer Preserve.

Site prior to exotic removal

Volunteers removing exotics

Post-restoration results

 

11/30/07 - Monofilament Recovery and Recycling Program

The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, Fish & Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI) has established a monofilament recovery and recycling program (MRRP) in 17 counties in Florida.  Monofilament recovery is important in the protection of a variety of sea life, including birds, fish, dolphins, manatees and sea turtles.  Towards the goal of expanding this program, the FWRI was awarded a FCMP state agency subgrant, for FY 2004-2005, to establish an MRRP in Palm Beach County.  Project tasks included educational outreach; volunteer recruitment and training to manage outdoor monofilament recycling bins; production of flyers, brochures, posters and an educational video; and construction of an educational display kiosk.  Other programs benefited by this subgrant include NOAA’s Marine Debris Program and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

Additional Link: The Ocean Conservancy's International Coastal Cleanup

Monofilament Recovery Bin