DEP Secretary Sole addresses Beach Preservation Conference
Environmental leader discusses agency's beach policies, climate change

BOCA RATON - Addressing resource managers, engineers, consultants, local and state government employees, Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary (DEP) Michael W. Sole spoke recently at the Florida Shore & Beach Preservation Association's Annual Meeting. Secretary Sole spoke about agency priorities for Florida's beach management program.

"Florida has the longest coastline among the 48 contiguous states, at 1,350 miles with 825 miles of sandy beaches. These coastal and marine systems are the foundation of Florida's economy and quality of life," said DEP Secretary Sole. "While we are taking immediate steps to safeguard our state from the effects of climate change, we will continue the ongoing initiatives we have to protect our coasts."

During his speech, Secretary Sole discussed the potential impacts of climate change on our coastal resources, including the loss of near-shore marine habitats such as seagrass flats and coastal salt marshes. Secretary Sole outlined the actions taken by Governor Crist through three Executive Orders at the recent Serve to Preserve Florida Summit on Global Climate Change. Since the conclusion of the summit, DEP is serving as the lead agency for climate change activities, working to provide sound science based information to raise awareness among citizens and stakeholders and inform state level policy making as well as provide staff support to the Governor's Action Team Energy and Climate Change. Florida's beach and dune system acts the first line of defense during hurricane season. Wide sandy beaches reduce the impacts of storm surge and provide wave attenuation. Beach restoration and nourishment can prepare the coastline to better withstand the forces of hurric anes while prov iding recreational and economic benefits. A 2003 Florida Atlantic University study found that for every dollar invested in beach restoration, the State receives a $6 - $8 economic return in state taxes from tourists. To date, more than 192 miles of beach has been restored and maintained through the State program.

The Florida Shore & Beach Preservation Association was organized in 1957 by local government and university leaders concerned about the growing problem of beach erosion. In addition to working with government officials to improve and protect Florida's beach preservation program, the Association hosts an annual conference to discuss emerging trends, technologies and policies relating to beach management.

For more information on DEP's beach management program, visit www.dep.state.fl.us/beaches. For more information on the Florida Shore & Beach Preservation Association, visit http://www.fsbpa.com/.