GOOD NEWS FOR BOATERS!

On January 25th the Collier County Board of Commissioners approved the contract to dredge the outer Pass, as has been done with previous maintenance dredges. Work is expected to begin by mid-February and be completed by mid-March. Approximately 50,000 cubic yards of sand will be removed from the Pass and placed near Barefoot Beach to help restore that area. As with any dredging project, timing is dependent on weather conditions. (See more details in the Naples Daily News story by Eric Staats.)

Coastal Forums 2012

Sponsored by the Estuary Conservation Association, Inc.
Pelican Isle Yacht Club, 410 Dockside Drive, Naples

Manatee Ecology and Behavior - January 23
Invited panel of biologists describe results of latest research on life ecology, and foraging and mating habits of the West Indian manatee, an endangered marine mammal found in local coastal waters.

Inshore Fishing - February 27
Invited panel of local experts, including Bryan Fluech, Collier County's Sea Grant Extension agent, a Florida Fish and Wildlife Marine Officer, and a local sport fishing charter captain and guide discuss recreational sport fishing in local coastal waters.

Green Boating - March 19
Invited panel from Collier County's marine and boating industry discuss latest technology and improvements in boats, anchoring, and navigation that help keep recreational boating clean and environmentally sustainable.

Sea Turtle Ecology - April 23
Invited panel of biologists describe local efforts to monitor and protect sea turtle nests, and results of latest research on tracking movements of sea turtles in South Florida waters.