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'TORWESF <br />January 22, 2016 <br />Mr. Wesley Davis <br />Commissioner <br />District 1 <br />Hoard of County Commissioners <br />Indian River County <br />180127 1h Street <br />Vero Beach FL 32960 <br />RE: Request by Torwest, Inc. for County participation in the acquisition of the <br />lagoon frontage portion of the 47 acre Torwest tract on Jungle Trail <br />Dear Commissioner Davis: <br />Torwest has been working with public entities (including Indian River County) for <br />some time to explore alternatives for public acquisition of the 47 +/- acres of <br />Torwest property north of and adjacent to the community of Windsor. The Property <br />is unique because it is the last remaining unprotected Indian River Lagoon <br />shoreline located in the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge that is available for <br />conservation. In addition, as you are aware, the tract includes an access point for <br />kayaks and canoes to the lagoon. As this is an access type not currently included <br />in the Refuge, I think you agree that it would be of great benefit to the residents of <br />Indian River County. <br />Our recent efforts have focused on an application .to the Acquisition and Restoration <br />Council at the Florida DEP for acquisition of the lagoon frontage portion of the <br />property. Not only is the lagoon frontage of critical importance to the Refuge, but <br />its acquisition would also serve primary conservation goals of both the State (Florida <br />Forever Program; Indian River Blueways Project), and Indian River County (Jungle <br />Trail, National Register and Scenic Highway designations; Indian River Lagoon <br />protection; and Environmentally Sensitive Lands Program). A State/County <br />partnership in such a conservation effort is not unprecedented; Indian River County <br />and the State of Florida have already invested significantly through the acquisition <br />of approximately 150 acres to the north that is managed as part of the Refuge. <br />We consider the County's participation and support of our application to the State to <br />play a valuable role in the success of this project. As such, we ask that you <br />calendar consideration of this request before the Board of County Commissioners at <br />the earliest opportunity. I have included an aerial map exhibit for your reference, <br />and would be happy to provide additional maps and information as you need it. <br />3125 WiNdsOR BOULL-VA)U-3 n, VtRO BEACH, FLoRiDA 32963 a 772 388-5050 u FAx 772 589-0091 <br />13'7 <br />