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Recreational or commercial harvest of shellfish, i.e. edible oysters (Crassostrea virginica) and clams (Mercenaries mercenaris), is regulated by the Florida Department of Natural Resources. Shellfish growing areas are classified as approved, conditionally approved, or prohibited on the basis of bacteriological and sanitary surveys of water quality and shellfish purity according to standards and guidelines of the National Shellfish Sanitation Program. Harvesting of shellfi.sh is permitted in approved or conditionally approved waters, with the latter areas temporarily closed following major rainfall events. Because shellfish are filter feeders and capable of concen- trating pathogens by a factor of 100 or more, restriction of water pollution and dredge and fill activities are particularly stringent in approved shellfishing areas. For example, only maintenance dredging of existing channels, construction of coastal protection structures, and installation of water, electric, or communication lines in existing right-of-ways may be permitted in approved shellfishing areas. Surface waters of the Indian River within Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge, Sebastian Inlet state recreation areas, and the Malabar to Vero Beach aquatic preserves are considered "Outstanding Florida Waters". This designation affords highest priority to water quality protection in these areas. Additional regulations regarding public access, dredge and fill, and other potentially damaging activities are estab- lished by the D.N.R through the proposed management plan. Restricted Activities In The Aquatic Preserve The plan provides that activities such as the sale or lease of state submerged lands. cannot be approved unless they -can be shown to be in the.public interest. Activities such as waste discharges, drilling of gas or oil wells, or creating bulkhead lines waterward of the mean high water line are generally prohibited. Dredging and filling of submerged lands are prohibited except in specific instances and only after approval by the Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund (Governor and Cabinet). The plan also addresses environmental concerns relating to boat docking facilities. Single-family docks are permitted within the preserve; however, dock width and length is restricted. Multiple dock facilities, including marinas and yacht clubs are restricted to areas containing. little or no significant natural resources. These facilities are also limited.by width and length. The Trustees and the D.N.R. will use the proposed plan as a policy document in the review of application for the use of state-owned lands and related activities surrounding the Preserve. Examples include the lease of state lands for marina sites as well as dredge & fill permit applications. In addi- tion, the'document will serve to guide D.N.R. personnel when interacting with various government entities, interest groups, and individuals. The Proposed Effect Of The Plan On Indian River The proposed plan contains many policy directions important to Indian River County. The plan objectives are in conformance with the policies and regulations contained in Indian River County's Comprehensive Plan and Code of Laws and Ordinances. The plan will assist County staff in the review of shoreline development activities. In addition, the proper enforcement of these plan objectives ensures that County residents will continue to enjoy the many diverse recreational opportunities provided by the Preserve. 29 CT 9 1985 Boos 62 PA X30' � � J