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1; • Bou 62 PAGE 33 7 The plan specifically discusses the construction of future bridges and causeways in the Preserve by stating, "Existing bridges and causeways within other sections of the Indian River have resulted in losses of grassbeds and mangroves. Proposals for bridge and causeway construction within the preserve will be reviewed in light of these potential impacts. Causeways restrict natural flushing and create unnatural circulation patterns." Indian River County, in planning for a future bridge to North Orchid Island, must consider the resource management issues contained in the plan. Of particular importance is selecting potential sites; the County should consider areas where environ- mental impacts to aquatic habitats are minimal and where natural circulation patterns will be maintained. In addition to specific management plan consistency standards, the County must prove -that the proposed bridge project is in the public interest as provided in F.A.C. 16Q-20. Staff discussions with D.N.R. personnel indicate that any bridge siting proposal to North Orchid Island would be reviewed on the basis of a "least biological impact" alternative and public interest test. The County, by selecting a site of minimal ecological value and demonstrating that a future bridge will improve and enhance the public health, safety, welfare, and low enforcement by improved evacuation of the Island, should not have difficulty in obtaining the required environ- mental permits. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners adopt the proposed Malabar to Vero Beach Aquatic Preserve Management Plan as a review document by which shoreline projects within the Preserve will be evaluated by the County. It is also recommended that the Board of County Commissioners send a County representative to the public meeting concerning this plan to be held October 14, 1985 at 7:00 p.m. in Sebastian to speak in favor of the proposed plan. Mr. Challacombe noted that staff reviewed the proposed management plan with regard to planning for a new bridge to north Orchid Island. In order to get a permit from the DNR to build the bridge, the County must choose an area with the least biological impact and be able to prove that the bridge is in the public interest. He felt fairly confident that we could obtain the necessary permits without too much difficulty in the future and proceed with projects of that nature. Chairman Lyons inquired if the control practices mentioned under (L) on Page 25 of the proposed management plan are grand- fathered in, such as mosquito impoundments. Mr. Challacombe explained that many of the requirements and prohibitions in the plan are areas where the DNR either prohibits or requires lease agreements from the developer. This particular 30