Biscayne Bay Southeastern Everglades Ecosystem

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Biscayne Bay and Southeastern Everglades Ecosystem Restoration (BBSEER) Project

The Biscayne Bay and Southeastern Everglades Ecosystem Restoration (BBSEER) Project is formulating plans to restore parts of the south Florida ecosystem in freshwater wetlands of the Southern Glades and Model Lands, the coastal wetlands and subtidal areas, including mangrove and seagrass areas, of Biscayne Bay, Biscayne National Park, Manatee Bay, Card Sound and Barnes Sound. These areas have been affected by over-drainage and by damaging freshwater releases from canals, such as the C-111 Canal.

Project Purpose and Need:

Currently, multiple canals designed to provide flood risk management and protect water supplies transect the study area. The drainage system currently in place has transformed Biscayne Bay’s natural estuarine conditions driven by diffuse freshwater flows to a declining ecosystem driven by controlled freshwater pulses that have unnatural input locations to the Bay, and that provide water at unnatural times, in unnatural volumes, and with unnatural distributions. Historically, Biscayne Bay received fresh water from overland flow passing through the coastal ridge and wetlands, and from extensive groundwater seepage. These natural freshwater inputs produced a distinctive salinity gradient that supported the diverse habitats of the Bay. The drainage canals disrupted interconnected physical and chemical natural processes such as hydrology, salinity patterns, and nutrient inputs. The existing canals impact freshwater flows to the Biscayne Bay estuary by lowering the region’s water table and reducing water storage in contributing basins; decreasing groundwater inflow to Biscayne Bay; and eliminating or altering natural tributaries. Drainage has permitted agricultural and suburban development in areas that were once vital wetlands and increased the flow of pollutants/nutrients to Biscayne Bay. Development of watershed lands and the commensurate control of water levels have contributed to the altered timing and duration of freshwater flows to Biscayne Bay.

Project Objectives

1. Progress towards restoration of a 500-m mesohaline strip year-round along the Biscayne Bay, Biscayne National Park, Card Sound and Manatee Bay coasts, and to reduce unnatural pulse releases.

2. Progress towards restoration of depth and duration of freshwater, and structure and function with improved native plant and animal abundances and diversity, in the eastern portions of the Model Lands, Southern Glades, Panhandle of Everglades National Park, and coastal wetlands not already included in the Biscayne Bay Coastal Wetlands Phase 1 project and moderate the encroachment of saline conditions into these areas anticipated with sea level rise.

3. Progress towards restoration of ecological and hydrological connectivity in the landside areas of the Model Lands, Southern Glades, eastern Panhandle of ENP, and Biscayne Bay coastal wetlands: Increase spatial extent of these restored natural areas and increase freshwater sheet flow and related patterns of hydroperiod between Model Lands, Southern Glades, ENP and Biscayne Bay coastal wetlands.

4. Increase ecological resiliency of coastal vegetation habitats in southeastern Miami-Dade County, including restoration of soils that help to resist sea level rise encroachment and effects.

Upcoming Biscayne Bay and Southeastern Everglades Ecosystem Restoration (BBSEER) Project Delivery Team (PDT) Meetings

The Project Delivery Team (PDT) members include only the federal officials and elected officers of state, local or tribal governments or their designated employees with authority to act on their behalf acting in their official capacities.

Members of the public are welcome to attend the government agency PDT meeting and provide comment during designated periods.

Upcoming BBSEER Project Delivery Team (PDT) Meeting Dates:

May (TBD)

BBSEER Hybrid In-Person and Virtual Project Delivery Team Meetings April 27 and 28

BBSEER Hybrid In-Person and Virtual Project Delivery Team Meetings April 27 and 28

USACE requests RSVPs for in-person BBSEER Project Delivery Team Meetings on April 27 and 28, with a virtual option.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Jacksonville District requests RSVPs for two back-to-back in-person Project Delivery Team (PDT) Meetings for the Biscayne Bay and Southeastern Everglades Ecosystem Restoration (BBSEER) Project study on Thursday, April 27, and Friday, April 28, 2023, at the South Florida Water Management District Headquarters at 3301 Gun Club Road, West Palm Beach, Florida 33406. There will also be a virtual option available for those unable to attend in-person.

“The BBSEER team is looking forward to discussing changes to Round 2 alternatives that provide better distribution to Biscayne Bay, the Southern Glades, and eastern panhandle of Everglades National Park, and many other concepts and measures for entry into Round 3 of modeling,” said Brad Foster, BBSEER Senior Planning Technical Lead.

Please join the Biscayne Bay and Southeastern Everglades Ecosystem Restoration Project Delivery Team (PDT) for back-to-back in-person and virtual (hybrid) meetings with break-out sessions at the South Florida Water Management District Headquarters at 3301 Gun Club Road, West Palm Beach, Florida 33406, on Thursday, April 27 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Friday, April 28, 2023, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

IF YOU PLAN ON ATTENDING THE IN-PERSON MEETING AT THE SFWMD HEADQUARTERS ON APRIL 27 and 28, 2023, PLEASE RSVP to nniemeye@sfwmd.gov WITH YOUR NAME AND AFFILIATION AT YOUR EARLIEST CONVENIENCE (recommended subject: RSVP for BBSEER Apr 27 and 28, 2023 In-Person PDT Meeting).

There will also be a virtual option for those unable to attend in-person.

BBSEER HYBRID PDT Meeting (Breakout Groups)
Thursday, April 27, 2023, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
WebEx Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/jennifer.h.john
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Access Code: 199 320 6340##

TENTATIVE AGENDA
April 27,2023
8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Summarization and Breakout Group Meetings Instructions (B-1 Auditorium)
12 p.m. to 1 p.m. - Lunch
1 p.m. to 5 p.m. - Breakout Group Meetings

BBSEER HYBRID PDT Meeting (Final Breakout Groups)
Friday, April 28, 2023, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
WebEx Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/jennifer.h.john
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Access Code: 199 320 6340##

TENTATIVE AGENDA
April 28, 2023, from 8:30 am. - 3 p.m.

8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. - 5 to 6 Final Breakout Group Meetings
12 p.m. to 1 p.m. - Lunch
1 p.m. to 3 p.m. - Final Thoughts and Next Steps (B-1 Auditorium)

BBSEER Virtual PDT Meeting - Tuesday, April 4, 2023

Please join the Biscayne Bay and Southeastern Everglades Ecosystem Restoration Project for a virtual Project Delivery Team (PDT) Meeting on Tuesday, April 4, 2023, from 1 to 4 p.m.

Virtual Meeting Instructions:

Unless you are calling in only and will not be viewing the virtual meeting, please sign in on the virtual meeting website first and, when prompted, select the audio connection “Call Me” option. This will allow the meeting to call you directly and may operate better than if you opt to dial in.
At the beginning of the meeting, please sign in via chat and include your first and last name, agency or group affiliation if applicable, and email. PDT members should also include the PDT designation.
Please mute your phone unless you are speaking, and do not put the call on hold.
PDT members should provide their full name and the agency or group that they represent when speaking.
Members of the public will have an opportunity to provide comments during the specified public comment periods.

BBSEER PDT Meeting

Tuesday, April 4, 2023, from 1 to 4 p.m.
Webex Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/April.N.Patterson

Meeting Number: 199 320 6340

Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712

Call-in number (ATT Audio): 669-234-1177

Access Code: 199 320 6340

BBSEER Meeting Objectives:

Review Round 2 Model Results
Review Ecological Performance of Round 2
Share Sub Team Updates and Future meetings
Receive PDT and Public Comments
Next Steps and Closing Comments

TENTATIVE AGENDA

1:00 - 1:10 PM: Welcome and Schedule Update
1:10 – 1:55 AM: Round 2 Model Results
1:55 – 2:35 AM: Review Ecological Performance
2:55 - 3:10 AM: PDT Comment
3:10 - 3:15 PM: Public Comment
3:15 - 3:45 PM: Sub Team Updates: Model, Engineering, Water Supply, Water Quality
3:45 - 3:55 PM: PDT and Public Comment
3:55 - 4:00 PM: Next Steps and Closing Comments

BBSEER PDT Meeting Feb 28 2023

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Jacksonville District invites Project Delivery Team members, stakeholders, partners, and members of the public to attend a virtual Project Delivery Team (PDT) Meeting for the Biscayne Bay and Southeastern Everglades Ecosystem Restoration (BBSEER) Project study on Tuesday, February 28, 2023, from 9 to 11 a.m.

“Please join the BBSEER Project Delivery Team as we describe the plan to evaluate the Round 2 model results and compare the performance between alternative plans and the Future without Project baseline including the USACE intermediate projected sea level in 2085.” said April Patterson, BBSEER Senior Project Manager. “The BBSEER team will share the process for using eight (8) ecological performance measures to determine benefits and calculate habitat units. The team will also provide updates on water supply, engineering, water quality, and modeling. Model results will be shared in the next two weeks. An in-person workshop will be held on April 27 and 28, 2023, at the South Florida Water Management District Office in West Palm Beach for the team to formulate the Round 3, Final Array of Alternatives.” BBSEER alternative plans are intended to restore freshwater flows to terrestrial and coastal wetlands in Biscayne Bay and the Southeastern Everglades.

Please join the Biscayne Bay and Southeastern Everglades Ecosystem Restoration Project for a virtual Project Delivery Team (PDT) Meetings on Tuesday, February 28, 2023, from 9 to 11 a.m.

BBSEER PDT Meeting
Tuesday, February 28, 2023, from 9 to 11 a.m.
WebEx Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/April.N.Patterson
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Access Code: 199 320 6340##

BBSEER Meeting Objectives:

Review Plan for Evaluation of Round 2 Model Results
Share plans for benefits aggregation and habitat unit calculations
Share Model, Engineering, Water Supply, and Water Quality Sub Team Updates and Future meetings
Receive PDT and Public Comments
Next Steps and Closing Comments

TENTATIVE AGENDA

9:00 - 9:10 AM: Welcome and Schedule Update
9:10 – 9:35 AM: Evaluation of Round 2 Alternative Modeling
9:35 – 9:55 AM: Process for Benefits Aggregation and Habitat Unit Calculation
9:55 - 10:10 AM: PDT Comment
10:10 - 10:15 AM: Public Comment
10:15 - 10:45 AM: Sub Team Updates: Model, Engineering, Water Supply, Water Quality
10:45 - 10:55 AM: PDT and Public Comment
10:55 - 11:00 AM: Next Steps and Closing Comments

BBSEER PDT Meeting Feb 1 2023

“Please join the BBSEER Project Delivery Team as we review revisions to the Round 2 alternatives and model runs of the Future without Project baseline including the USACE intermediate projected sea level in 2085. The team will review changes since the last PDT meeting on December 6,” said April Patterson, BBSEER Senior Project Manager. “The BBSEER team plans to evaluate alternatives compared to the intermediate sea level projection to determine the Tentatively Selected Plan. Ecological performance measures have been developed to consider changes in salinity and hydrologic changes using the intermediate sea level change scenario. In accordance with USACE Climate Change policies, BBSEER will consider all sea level scenarios for further understanding of the plan’s performance later in the study.”

BBSEER alternative plans are intended to restore freshwater flows to terrestrial and coastal wetlands in Biscayne Bay and the Southeastern Everglades.

Please join the Biscayne Bay and Southeastern Everglades Ecosystem Restoration Project for a virtual Project Delivery Team (PDT) Meetings on Wednesday, February 1, 2023, from 1 to 4 p.m.

BBSEER PDT Meeting

Wednesday, February 1, 2023, from 1 to 4 p.m.
WebEx Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/April.N.Patterson
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Access Code: 199 320 6340##

BBSEER Meeting Objectives:

• Review Draft Round 2 Alternatives

• Review Revised Future Without Project Baseline

• Review Ecological Performance Measures

• Gather Input from the PDT and Public

• Next Steps and Closing Comments

AGENDA

1:00 - 1:10 PM: Welcome and Schedule Update (Patterson, 10 minutes)

1:10 - 1:55 PM: Revised Draft Round 2 Alternatives Presentation (John, 45 minutes)

1:55 - 2:10 PM: PDT Comment (15 minutes)

2:10 – 2:15 PM: Public Comment (5 minutes)

2:15 – 2:25 PM: Break (10 minutes)

2:25 - 3:05 PM: Future Without Project Baseline (Coman, 40 minutes)

3:05 - 3:35 PM: Ecological Performance Measures Update (30 minutes)

3:35 - 3:55 PM: PDT and Public Comment

3:55 – 4:00 PM: Next Steps (Niemeyer, 5 minutes)

BBSEER PDT Meeting Dec. 6 2022

“Please join the BBSEER Project Delivery Team as we review the revisions to the Round 2 alternatives. Changes were made based on the comments we received from everyone who attended the meeting on November 17 as well as those submitted via email,” said April Patterson, BBSEER Senior Project Manager.

BBSEER PDT Meeting
Tuesday, December 6, 2022, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
WebEx Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/April.N.Patterson
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Access Code: 199 320 6340##

TENTATIVE AGENDA

1:00 – 1:15 p.m. Welcome and Schedule Update
1:15 – 2:00 p.m. Revised Draft Round 2 Alternatives Presentation
2:00 – 2:15 p.m. PDT comments
2:15 – 2:20 p.m. Public Comment
2:20 – 2:35 p.m. Model Subteam Update
2:35 - 2:45 p.m. Ecological Subteam Update
2:45 – 2:50 p.m. PDT and Public Comment
2:50 – 3:00 p.m. Next Steps

BBSEER PDT Meeting Nov. 17 2022

“The BBSEER team is looking forward to sharing draft revised alternatives that include feedback from the in-person and virtual meetings held on October 26 and 27, 2022, and are intended to improve hydrologic outcomes toward restoration targets,” said April Patterson, BBSEER Senior Project Manager.

BBSEER PDT Meeting
Thursday, November 17, 2022, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
WebEx Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/April.N.Patterson
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Access Code: 199 320 6340##

TENTATIVE AGENDA

3:00 – 3:15 p.m. Welcome and Schedule Update
3:15 – 4:00 p.m. Draft Round 2 Presentation
4:00 – 4:15 p.m. PDT comments
4:15 – 4:20 p.m. Public Comment
4:20 – 4:35 p.m. Model Subteam Update
4:35 - 4:45 p.m. Ecological Subteam Update
4:45 – 4:50 p.m. PDT and Public Comment
4:50 – 5:00 p.m. Next Steps

BBSEER In-Person PDT Meeting (RSVPs Requested) Oct. 26 and 27, with a virtual option

BBSEER HYBRID In-Person and Virtual PDT Meeting
USACE requests RSVPs for in-person BBSEER Project Delivery Team Meetings on Oct. 26 and 27, with a virtual option

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Jacksonville District requests RSVPs for two back-to-back in-person Project Delivery Team (PDT) Meetings for the Biscayne Bay and Southeastern Everglades Ecosystem Restoration (BBSEER) Project study on Wednesday, October 26, and Thursday, October 27, 2022, at the FAU Davie Campus at 3200 College Avenue, Davie, Florida, 33314. There will also be a virtual option available for those unable to attend in-person.

“The BBSEER team is looking forward to enhancing the alternatives by adding in measures that provide better distribution to Biscayne Bay, the Southern Glades, and eastern panhandle of Everglades National Park, and many other concepts and measures for entry into Round 2 of modeling,” said April Patterson, BBSEER Senior Project Manager.

Please join the back-to-back in-person Biscayne Bay and Southeastern Everglades Ecosystem Restoration Project for back-to back in-person Project Delivery Team (PDT) Meetings for break-out sessions at the FAU Davie Campus at 3200 College Avenue, Davie, Florida, 33314 on Wednesday, October 26 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Thursday, October 27, 2022, 2022, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

IF YOU PLAN ON ATTENDING THE IN-PERSON MEETING AT THE FAU DAVIE CAMPUS ON OCTOBER 26 and 27 2022, PLEASE RSVP to April.N.Patterson@usace.army.mil WITH YOUR NAME AND AFFILIATION AT YOUR EARLIEST CONVENIENCE (recommended subject: RSVP for BBSEER OCT 26 and 27 2022 In-Person PDT Meeting).

There will also be a virtual option for those unable to attend in-person.

BBSEER HYBRID PDT Meeting (Breakout Groups)
Wednesday, October 26, 2022, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
WebEx Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/April.N.Patterson
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Access Code: 199 320 6340##

TENTATIVE AGENDA
October 26,2022
8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. - Summarization and Breakout Group Meetings Instructions (Auditorium)
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. - Lunch
12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. - Breakout Group Meetings

BBSEER HYBRID PDT Meeting (Final Breakout Groups)
Thursday, October 27, 2022, from 8:30 a.m. to12:30 p.m.
WebEx Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/April.N.Patterson
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Access Code: 199 320 6340##

TENTATIVE AGENDA
October 27, 2022, from 8:30 am. – 12:30 p.m.

8:30 a.m. to – 10:30 a.m. 5 to 6 Final Breakout Group Meetings with Due Outs
10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Final Thoughts and Next Steps (Auditorium)

BBSEER PDT Meeting on Thursday, October 20, 20222

BBSEER Virtual PDT Meeting
BBSEER Virtual PDT Meeting Review Round 1 Model Results
Thursday, October 20, 2022 from 8:30 a.m. to11:30 p.m.
WebEx Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/April.N.Patterson
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Access Code: 199 320 6340##

Biscayne Bay and Southeastern Everglades Ecosystem Restoration (BBSEER)

Project Delivery Team Meeting

October 20, 2022 8:30 AM-11:00 AM

Webinar/Teleconference Information:
Webex Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/April.N.Patterson
Meeting Number: 199 320 6340
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Call-in number (ATT Audio): 669-234-1177
Access Code: 199 320 6340

BBSEER Workshop Objectives:

Review Alternative Evaluation Process
Review Round 1 Flood Protection Evaluation
Review Round 1 Water Supply Evaluation
Review Round 1 BBSM Results
Review Modeling Updates
Gather Input from the PDT and Public
Next Steps and Closing Comments

8:30 - 8:35 AM: Welcome/Introductions, Review of Agenda (Patterson, 5 minutes)

8:35 - 8:50 AM: Alternative Evaluation Process & Workshop Preview (Foster, 15 minutes)

8:50 - 9:10 AM: Round 1 Evaluation: Flood Protection (Coman, 20 minutes)

9:10 - 9:30 AM: Round 1 Evaluation: Water Supply (Demonstranti & Magloire, 20 min.)

9:30 - 9:45 AM: PDT Comment (15 minutes)

9:45 - 9:50 AM: Public Comment (5 minutes)

9:50 – 10:00 AM: Break (10 minutes)

10:00 - 10:15 AM: Modeling Updates (Wilcox, 15 minutes)

10:15 - 10:35 AM: BBSM Results (Graulau-Santiago, 20 minutes)

10:35 - 10:50 AM: PDT Comment (15 minutes)

10:50 - 10:55 AM: Public Comment (5 minutes)

10:55 - 11:00 AM: Wrap up, Action Items, Next Steps (Niemeyer, 5 minutes)

11:00 AM: Adjourn

BBSEER PDT Meeting on Tuesday, October 4, 2022

BBSEER Virtual PDT Meeting

BBSEER Virtual PDT Meeting to Review Round 1 Model Results
Tuesday, October 4, 2022 from 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
WebEx Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/April.N.Patterson
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Access Code: 199 320 6340##

TENTATIVE AGENDA

BBSEER Workshop Objectives

Review Alternative Evaluation Process
Review Round 1 Plan Formulation Initial Evaluation
Review Ecological Performance Measure Refinements
Review Round 1 Ecological Initial Evaluation
Review Modeling and Climate Change Updates
Gather Input from the PDT and Public
Next Steps and Closing Comments

2:30 - 2:35 PM: Welcome/Introductions, Review of Agenda (Patterson, 5 minutes)

2:35 - 2:50 PM: Alternative Evaluation Process Reminder (Foster, 15 minutes)

2:50 - 3:05 PM: Round 1 Evaluation: Plan Formulation Team (Foster, 15 minutes)

3:05 – 3:15 PM: PDT Comment (10 minutes)

3:15 – 3:20 PM Public Comment (5 minutes)

3:20 – 4:20 PM: Performance Measure Refinements: Ecological Team (60 minutes)

Performance Measures, Habitat Units and Planning (Kirby, 5 min.)
PM-2: Direct Canal Releases (Wachnicka, 5 min.)
PM-3: Timing & Distribution of Flow Sources to Biscayne Bay (Surratt, 5 min.)
PM-4: Hydroperiod Adjustments (Kirby, 20 min.)
PM-5: Depth (Coronado, 5 min.)
National Park Service Comments and Feedback (Atkinson, 20 min.)

4:20 – 4:30 PM: PDT Comment (10 minutes)

4:30 – 4:35 PM Public Comment (5 minutes)

4:35 – 4:45 PM: Modeling Updates (Coman, 10 minutes)

4:45 - 4:50 PM: PDT Comment (5 minutes)

4:50 - 4:55 PM: Public Comment (5 minutes)

4:55 - 5:00 PM: Wrap up, Action Items, Next Steps (Niemeyer, 5 minutes)

5:00 PM: Adjourn

BBSEER PDT Meeting on August 31 2022

BBSEER Virtual PDT Meeting
Wednesday, August 31, 2022, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

WebEx Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/April.N.Patterson
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Access Code: 199 320 6340# #

Please join us for the August 31 2022 Project Delivery Team Meeting when the Interagency Modeling Center (IMC) will present the model results and we will discuss/receive PDT and public comments or questions.

TENTATIVE AGENDA

Study Schedule
Round 1 Model Results
PDT Comments and Questions
Public Comments
Next Steps and Closing Comments

BBSEER PDT Meeting on July 27 2022

BBSEER Virtual PDT Meeting
Wednesday, July 27, 2022, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

WebEx Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/April.N.Patterson
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Access Code: 199 320 6340##

Please join us for the July 27 2022 Project Delivery Team Meeting to discuss comments and questions on the model results for the existing condition baseline and future without project baseline, review the updated ecological performance measures and calibration of the salinity model tools, and discuss/receive PDT and public comments or questions.

AGENDA

1:00 - 1:05 PM: Welcome/Introductions, Review of Agenda (Patterson, 5 minutes)

1:05 - 1:25 PM: BBSEER Existing Condition Baseline and Future Without Project Baseline Model Result PDT Comments and Questions (20 minutes)

1:25 - 1:35 PM: Public Comment (10 minutes)

1:35 - 2:35 PM: Ecological Performance Measures and Model Calibration (60 minutes)

Nearshore Salinity and BBSM (Serafy and Browder, 15 minutes)
BBSM Calibration (Graulau-Santiago, 15 minutes)
Wetland Salinity and BISECT (Troxler, 15 minutes)
BISECT Calibration (Swain, 15 minutes)

2:35 - 2:45 PM: PDT Comment (10 minutes)

2:45 - 2:55 PM: Public Comment (10 minutes)

2:55 - 3:00 PM: Wrap up, Action Items, Next Steps (Niemeyer, 5 minutes)

3:00 PM: Adjourn

BBSEER PDT Meeting on June 30 2022

BBSEER Virtual PDT Meeting
Thursday, June 30, 2022, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

WebEx Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/April.N.Patterson
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Access Code: 199 320 6340##

Please join us for the June 30 2022 Project Delivery Team Meeting to review the existing condition baseline and future without project assumptions and discuss/receive PDT and public comments or questions.

TENTATIVE AGENDA

BBSEER Workshop Objectives:

Share the approved BBSEER Study Schedule
Review Existing Condition Baseline and Future Without Project Condition Baseline
Gather input from the PDT and Public
Next Steps and Closing Comments

1:00 -1:05 PM: Welcome/Introductions, Review of Agenda (Patterson, 5 minutes)

1:05 - 1:10 PM: BBSEER Approved Project Schedule (Patterson, 5 minutes)

1:10 - 2:40 PM: BBSEER Existing Condition Baseline and Future Without Project Baseline (Wilcox, 90 minutes)

Presentation and PDT comments and questions

2:40 - 2:50 PM: Public Comments (10 minutes)

2:50 - 3:00 PM: Wrap up, Action Items, Next Steps (Niemeyer, 10 minutes)

3:00: Adjourn

BBSEER PDT Meeting on June 1 2022

BBSEER Virtual PDT Meeting on Refinements to Alternatives and Modeling
Wednesday, June 1, 2022, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

WebEx Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/April.N.Patterson
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Access Code: 199 320 6340##

Please join us for the June 1 2022 Project Delivery Team Meeting, as we will review refinements to the alternatives for Round 1 modeling, review model refinement and tool development and collaboration with ecologists regarding the wetland salinity and resiliency ecological performance measures.

TENTATIVE AGENDA

Approved Study Schedule
Update on Alternatives for Round 1 Modeling
Updates to Wetland Salinity and Resilience Ecological Performance Measures
Model Development and collaboration with BBSEER ecologists
Next Steps and Closing Comments

BBSEER PDT Meeting on March 29 2022

BBSEER Virtual PDT Meeting on Alternatives Update and Preparation for Modeling
Tuesday, March 29, 2022, 1 to 3 p.m.

WebEx Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/April.N.Patterson
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Access Code: 199 320 6340##

TENTATIVE AGENDA

Share Study Schedule
Update on Alternatives
Ecological Performance Measures
Model Development
Next Steps and Closing Comments

BBSEER PDT Meeting on November 3 2021

BBSEER Virtual PDT Meeting on Alternative Updates
Wednesday November 3, 2021, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

WebEx Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/April.N.Patterson
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Access Code: 199 320 6340##

TENTATIVE AGENDA

Share Study Schedule
Update on Alternatives
Ecological Performance Measures
Update on Model Assumptions
Next Steps and Closing Comments

BBSEER PDT Meeting on Alternatives October 6 2021

BBSEER Virtual PDT Meeting on Alternatives
Wednesday October 6, 2021, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

WebEx Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/April.N.Patterson
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Access Code: 199 320 6340##

TENTATIVE AGENDA

Share Meeting Purposes
Review PDT Feedback on Management Measures
Present Initial Array of Alternatives
Next Steps and Closing Comments

BBSEER PDT Meeting - Breakout Sessions to develop alternatives September 15, 2021

BBSEER Virtual PDT Meeting – Breakout Sessions to develop alternative plans
Wednesday September 15, 2021 9:30-12:30

WebEx Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/April.N.Patterson
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Access Code: 199 320 6340##

BBSEER Project Delivery Team Meeting September 2, 2021

BBSEER Virtual PDT Meetings Thursday September 2, 2021 (morning and afternoon sessions)

Please join the Biscayne Bay and Southeastern Everglades Restoration Project for a two-part Virtual Project Delivery Team (PDT) Meeting with a morning session on Thursday, September 2, 2021, from 8:30to 11:30 a.m. AND an afternoon session from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

BBSEER Virtual PDT Meeting
Morning Session: Thursday September 2, 2021, 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Afternoon Session: Thursday September 2, 2021, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

WebEx Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/April.N.Patterson
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Access Code: 199 320 6340##

TENTATIVE AGENDA

Morning Session: 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Share Meeting Purposes
Review Project Objectives and Plan Formulation Strategy
Review Management Measures
a. Description of Screening Process (Q&A, including public comment)
b. Google Earth map of locations

Afternoon Session: 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Initial Array of Alternatives
a. Examples of alternatives – from planning charrette to now
b. Short Presentations of some Alternatives
c. Discussion in Breakout Groups (4-8 groups including Public)
    i. Discuss measures/alternatives
   ii. Consider new combinations of measures/alternatives
       1. Share Map of Measures (Facilitated with KMZ-loaded Google Earth) – live edits in Google Earth or in PPT separately
iii. Report Back to the Group and Discussion (including Public Comment)
Next Steps and Closing Comments

BBSEER Ecological Performance Metrics Workshop - July 8, 2021

BBSEER Ecological Restoration Science Workshop on Thursday, July 8, 2021, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The interagency team of scientists developing performance metrics for BBSEER invite you to a collaborative discussion workshop. Ecological Restoration Science Workshop Objectives include:

Increase Project Delivery Team and public understanding of how performance measures will be applied in BBSEER.
Provide an overview of performance measures that have specifically been developed to compare and evaluate alternative plans for BBSEER.
Solicit feedback from the Project Delivery Team and the public on BBSEER performance measures.

BBSEER Ecological Restoration Science Workshop – July 8, 2021
Thursday, July 8, 2021 8 a.m. -12 p.m.
https://usace1.webex.com/meet/april.n.patterson
Call In: 844-800-2712 Access Code: 199 320 6340# #

BBSEER Sea Level Change and Modeling Workshop - May 26, 2021

BBSEER Sea Level Change and Modeling Workshop
Wednesday, May 26, 2021 9 a.m. -12 p.m.
https://usace1.webex.com/meet/april.n.patterson
Call In: 844-800-2712 Access Code: 199 320 6340# #

Purpose:

Share the BBSEER Strategy for Evaluating Sea Level Change,
Welcome questions, information, and examples from experts working in the climate and sea level change space and learn about local efforts for resilience and climate preparedness.

Agenda:
The following topics will be presented for discussion and comment during the workshop:

BBSEER SLC Strategy

NOAA Tide Gauge Selection
USACE Sea Level Change Curves
Gulf Stream/Florida Current
Existing Conditions Baseline
Future Without Project with Sea Level Change
BBSEER Sea Level Change Formulation Considerations: Adaptability, Measures, and Pilot Studies

Modeling Strategy

Coastal Structures, Level of Service
Existing Conditions
Project Assumptions & Modeling Assumptions

BBSER Virtual PDT Meeting Friday, April 9, 2021

BBSEER Virtual PDT Meeting Friday April 9, 2021

Please join the Biscayne Bay and Southeastern Everglades Restoration Project for a Virtual Project Delivery Team (PDT) Meeting on Friday, April 9, 2021, from 9 to 11 a.m.

Meeting Instructions:

This will be a virtual meeting. Unless you are calling in only and will not be viewing the virtual meeting, please sign in on the virtual meeting website first and, when prompted, select the audio connection “Call Me” option. This will allow the meeting to call you directly and may operate better than if you opt to dial in.
At the beginning of the meeting, please sign in via chat and include your first and last name, agency or group affiliation if applicable, and email. PDT members should also include the PDT designation.
Please mute your phone unless you are speaking, and do not put the call on hold.
PDT members should provide their full name and the agency or group that they represent when speaking.
Members of the public will have an opportunity to provide comments during the specified public comment periods.

BBSEER PDT Meeting, Friday, April 9, 2021 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.
WebEx Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/April.N.Patterson
Meeting Number: 199 320 6340
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Call-in number (ATT Audio): 669-234-1177
Access Code: 199 320 6340

TENTATIVE AGENDA

Public Engagement Opportunities
Objectives and Ecological Performance Measures
Sea Level Change Strategy – Brief Overview
Plan Formulation strategy
Initial Alternatives
Schedule

BBSEER Virtual PDT Meeting Friday Jan. 29, 2021

Please join the Biscayne Bay and Southeastern Everglades Restoration Project for a Virtual Project Delivery Team (PDT) Meeting on Friday, January 29, 2021, from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m.

View the January 29 PDT Meeting Presentation
Note: large files will take a few minutes to open

Meeting Instructions:

This will be a virtual meeting. Unless you are calling in only and will not be viewing the virtual meeting, please sign in on the virtual meeting website first and, when prompted, select the audio connection “Call Me” option. This will allow the meeting to call you directly and may operate better than if you opt to dial in.
At the beginning of the meeting, please sign in via chat and include your first and last name, agency or group affiliation if applicable, and email. PDT members should also include the PDT designation.
Please mute your phone unless you are speaking, and do not put the call on hold.
PDT members should provide their full name and the agency or group that they represent when speaking.
Members of the public will have an opportunity to provide comments during the specified public comment periods.

Webex Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/April.N.Patterson

Meeting Number: 199 320 6340
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Call-in number (ATT Audio): 669-234-1177
Access Code: 199 320 6340

TENTATIVE AGENDA

BBSEER PDT Meeting Outline
January 29, 2021
8:30 to 10 a.m.

Webinar and Call In Information:
Webex Login: https://usace1.webex.com/meet/April.N.Patterson
Meeting Number: 199 320 6340
Call-in toll-free number: 844-800-2712
Call-in number (ATT Audio): 669-234-1177
Access Code: 199 320 6340

Welcome and Overview of BBSEER Meetings Oct-Dec 2020 (Marie Huber) (5 min)
Project Overview (Brad Foster) (10 min.)
1. CERP vision
2. Study area
3. YB features
4. POOC
Ecological Considerations (Robert Kirby) (10 min)
1. Nearshore Salinity Performance Measures
2. Freshwater Marsh Performance Measures
Planning Strategy and Initial Measures (Brad Foster) (10 min)
1. Flowchart of planning strategy
2. Initial Management Measures
Modeling Strategy (Drew) (10 min.)
1. Modeling Flowchart
2. Modeling Schedule
3. ECB and FWO Assumptions
Sub-Team Updates (Sub-Team leads) (20 min)
1. Climate change
2. Water quality
3. Real estate
4. Engineering
5. Water supply/Flood protection
Project Schedule (April) (5 min.)
1. ~4.5-year version
2. Future meetings
Public Comment (5 min.)

South Florida Ecosystem Restoration Task Force BBSEER Workshop

Save the date for the South Florida Ecosystem Restoration Task Force Sponsored Public Engagement Workshop on the Biscayne Bay Southeastern Everglades Ecosystem Restoration (BBSEER) project.

The virtual workshop will be hosted by the Working Group on November 17 from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. using Zoom. Register in advance for this webinar at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_ZAr2mNerQWWgaNZ75JNn0Q

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Additional Biscayne Bay and Southeastern Everglades Ecosystem Restoration (BBSEER) Workshop information, including the agenda, livestream, minutes, presentations and more, are available at: https://www.evergladesrestoration.gov/workshops/date-to-be-determined-biscayne-bay-southern-everglades-ecosystem-restoration-bbseer-workshop

BBSEER Charettes Oct. 14 and 16 2020

You are invited to the first Charrette for the new Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Program (CERP) study, Biscayne Bay and Southeastern Everglades Ecosystem Restoration (BBSEER).

This charrette will take place over two separate days, from 8:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m. The tentative agenda items for both days are included below.

Part I Agenda Items, 14 October:

Future Without Project Description
Problems and Opportunities
Objectives and Constraints
Significant Uncertainties
What Questions We Need to Answer

Part II Agenda Items, 16 October:

Propose Management Measures
Initial Alternative Project Plans

UPDATED INFO
Virtual meeting audio/video call-in information is provided below.

Join web meeting:
http://usace.webex.com/join/keefe

Access code: 4672350
Security code: 1234
Call in:1-888-684-8852

Additional Meeting Information:

This will be a virtual meeting.

Unless you are calling in only and will not be viewing the virtual meeting, please sign in on the virtual meeting website first and, when prompted, select the audio connection “Call Me” option. This will allow the meeting to call you directly and may operate better than if you opt to dial in.

Please remember to mute your phone during the meeting and to use *6 to unmute.

At the beginning of the meeting, please sign in via chat and include your first and last name, agency or group affiliation if applicable, and email. PDT members should also include the PDT designation.

During the meeting, please mute your phone unless you are speaking, and do not put the call on hold.

PDT members should provide their full name and the agency or group that they represent when speaking.

Members of the public will have an opportunity to provide comments during the specified public comment periods.

BBSEER Science Workshop Oct. 1 8-4

Thanks for participating in our science workshop.

For those unfamiliar with webex, please use the “Call me” feature in webex.

Due to the large number of participants and potential for background noise, we will be placing the call in “listen-only” mode. The *6 feature on your dial pad will unmute your phone allowing for you to speak. I will remind everyone during the meeting of the *6 feature.

Please cut and paste this link in to your browser:

https://usace.webex.com/meet/robert.j.kirby

Or enter the meeting number in your webex desktop application:

968267778

Join by phone

1-8883634735 Call-in toll-free number (ATT Audio Conference)

1-2154463657 Call-in number (ATT Audio Conference)

531 155 2 Access Code

If a security code is requested, use 1234

Biscayne Bay Southeastern Everglades Ecosystem Restoration (BBSEER)

Science Workshop Agenda

Date: Thursday, October 1, 2020

Location: https://usace.webex.cm/meet/robert.j.kirby 1-888-363-4735 Access code 5311552; security code if requested is 1234

Time: 8 AM – 4PM

Meeting Purpose:

Confirm that the current list of ecological metrics is appropriate to meet the BBSEER objectives. If appropriate identify additional metrics.
Identify hydrologic and salinity target or target ranges to meet desired conditions for marshes, mangrove areas, nearshore areas and seagrass areas.
Identify means and methods of predicting ecological benefits under differing BBSEER management scenarios that can be used in plan formulation.
Regulatory agencies tell us what they need to fulfill their review/regulatory requirements (Miami-Dade and others)

Meeting Products:

Comprehensive list of metrics that addresses BBSEER objectives.

Consensus on targets or ranges for each metric in number 1.
Agreed upon means and methods of predicting benefits under differing management measure scenarios for each metric that can be used in plan formulation.
Commitment from agencies to advise Corps about what data analysis, surveys, and monitoring reports will be needed for permit compliance purposes and to provide any info helpful to the study.

Preparation needed prior to meeting: Familiarity with current metric list and PM’s (included in email invitation), prepare your own list of what you think needs to be addressed, regulatory agencies identify information/analysis needed in order to comply with state local regulatory requirements.

Proposed Schedule

8-815
Robert Kirby
meeting protocols and procedures

815-9
Introductions to BBSEER- Angela Dunn
Purpose of the workshop-Robert Kirby

BBSEER Project overview and objectives

Performance measures (what do we mean by PMs and how are they used). Andy LoSchiavo.

RECOVER as it relates to BBSEER Performance Measures. Mike Simmons.

900- 930
Nearshore Salinity and Habitat indices.
Joe Serafy Ph.D. NOAA NMFS

930-945
Discussion

9:45-10:15
Vision of nearshore salinity for Biscayne National Park
Dr. Melody Hunt, Ph.D. NPS

1015-1030
Technical discussion/questions

1030-11
Erik Stabenau Ph.D. NPS
Mission/vision for the BBSM model

11-1130
discussion

1130-12 public input regarding nearshore salinity

12-100 – Lunch

1-1:15
Freshwater marsh porewater salinity
Chris Madden, Ph.D.
SFWMD

115-130–
Freshwater coastal wetland marsh habitat hydroperiods and water depths

130-145 –
Invasive and nuisance plants
DERM

200-230
Direct Canal Releases
Anna Wachnicka, Ph.D.
Lead Scientist
Applied Science Bureau
South Florida Water Management District

230-300 –
Identify what regulatory requirements and data analyses are needed by regulatory agencies

300-330 – Summary of Performance measures and next steps

330-400 public input on metrics discussed comment

BBSEER Project Delivery Team (PDT) Meetings

Biscayne Bay and Southeastern Everglades Ecosystem Restoration - New Study

Project Delivery Team (PDT) Meetings

Initial BBSEER Project Delivery Team (PDT) Meeting (Virtual)
Friday, September 25, 2020 9 a.m. -12 p.m.

Please mute your phone unless you are speaking, and do not put the call on hold.

This will be a virtual meeting. Unless you are calling in only and will not be viewing the virtual meeting, please sign in on the virtual meeting website first and, when prompted, select the audio connection “Call Me” option. This will allow the meeting to call you directly and may operate better than if you opt to dial in.

Please mute your phone unless you are speaking, and do not put the call on hold.

PDT members should provide their full name and the agency or group that they represent when speaking.

Members of the public will have an opportunity to provide comments during the specified public comment periods.

Virtual Meeting Call-in Information:

Website: https://usace.webex.com/meet/marie.l.huber

Call-in toll-free number: 1-866-390-1828

Access Code: 3254287

Security Code if requested: 1234

View the BBSEER Project Management Plan (PMP).

Initial BBSEER PDT Agenda

Please mute your phone unless you are speaking, and do not put the call on hold.

PDT members should provide their full name and the agency or group that they represent when speaking.

Members of the public will have an opportunity to provide comments during the specified public comment periods.

1. Introduction (10 min) 9:00 – 9:10
Marie Huber/Mindy Parrott
Sign-in, FACA statement, meeting protocols and procedures, review agenda.

2. Project Overview and Scope (15 min) 9:10 – 9:25
Marie Huber/Mindy Parrott
Phase 2 of BBCW and C-111 Spreader Canal East (C-111 SCE); locations for benefits; project area; describe existing CERP projects in the study area.

3. Corps SMART Planning Process
(25 min) 9:25 – 9:50
Brad Foster
Review and/or introduction to Corps of Engineers planning process, time for discussion.

4. Study Steps and Timeline (20 min) 9:50-10:10
Brad Foster
High level description of study steps and timeline.

5. Public Comments (10 min) 10:10 – 10:20
Marie Huber
Break (10 min) 10:20 – 10:30

6. Subteams and Their Roles and Responsibilities (30 min) 10:30 – 11:00
Team Leads
Introduce eight subteams, request subteam participation.

7. Project Meetings, Their Purposes and Frequencies, and Communications (5 min) 11:00 – 11:05
Mindy Parrott

8. Next Steps (5 min) 11:05 – 11:10
Mindy Parrott

9. Team Member Comment and Discussion (10 Min) 11:10 – 11:20
Mindy Parrott

11. Public Comments (10 min) 11:20 – 11:30
Marie Huber

12. Adjourn

BBSEER Public Scoping Meetings and Comment Period

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Jacksonville District announces two public scoping meetings and the opening of the public scoping comment period for the Biscayne Bay and Southeastern Everglades Ecosystem Restoration (BBSEER) Project. Public scoping comments are due October 1, 2020.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is in the initial scoping phase of the preparation of an integrated Project Implementation Report (PIR) and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) document for the Biscayne Bay and Southeastern Everglades Ecosystem Restoration (BBSEER) Project, part of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP). The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) is the non-federal sponsor of this project.

The BBSEER Project is focused on formulating plans to restore parts of the south Florida ecosystem in freshwater wetlands of the Southern Glades and Model Lands, the coastal wetlands and subtidal areas, including mangrove and seagrass areas, of Biscayne Bay, Biscayne National Park, Manatee Bay, Card Sound and Barnes Sound. These areas have been affected by over-drainage and by damaging freshwater releases from canals, such as the C-111 Canal.

The Corps invites the participation of federal, state and local agencies, Native American Tribes, interested parties and individuals to provide comments and to identify any issues or concerns during this public scoping period.

Please submit scoping comments BBSEERComments@usace.army.mil by October 1, 2020. All scoping comments should include “BBSEER Scoping Comments” in the subject line.

The Corps will host two BBSEER virtual public scoping meetings, and pre-registration in advance is required for each meeting.

View the presentation from the Sept. 15 and 16, 2020 Virtual Public Scoping Meeting
note: large file may take a few minutes to open

BBSEER Virtual Public Scoping Meeting
Tuesday, September 15, 2020
6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED
Register at this link: https://ems8.intellor.com?do=register&t=1&p=832434 UPDATED LINK!

BBSEER Virtual Public Scoping Meeting
Wednesday, September 16, 2020
12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.
PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED:
Register at this link: https://ems8.intellor.com?do=register&t=1&p=832437 UPDATED LINK!

Biscayne Bay and Southeastern Everglades Restoration (BBSEER)

The Biscayne Bay Southeastern Everglades Restoration (BBSEER) Project, a part of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP), that seeks to protect and restore the remaining Everglades ecosystem while providing for other water-related needs in the region, is being undertaken in partnership with the South Florida Water Management District.

The construction of roads, railways and ditches, along with the connection of the South Dade Conveyance System to the sea through the C-111 canal, dramatically altered the distribution of freshwater across the landscape of Southeastern Florida. These man-made barriers and drainage features starved some areas of freshwater and increased the supply to others converting what was a healthy productive aquatic ecosystem into a distressed environment.

The purpose of the BBSEER project will be to improve the quantity, quality, timing and distribution of freshwater to estuarine and nearshore subtidal areas, including mangrove and seagrass areas, of Biscayne Bay, Biscayne National Park, Card Sound, Barnes Sound and Manatee Bay. This project will also seek to improve hydroperiods and freshwater marsh habitat in the Model Lands and Southern Glades, to re-establish hydrological and ecological connectivity between these areas and to improve the resiliency of these important marsh and coastal habitats to future sea level change.

Implementation of the project will provide multiple benefits to the aquatic environment including improved habitat for juvenile and prey-fish species, improved conditions for recreationally and commercially important aquatic species and fish and improved habitat for wading birds that were once common in this area prior to extensive drainage, all while maintaining the current level of flood protection.

BBSEER Updates

Sign up for BBSEER email updates

Email Erica.A.Skolte@usace.army.mil

BBSEER Project Documents

News Releases

PDT Meeting Documents

Contact

561-801-5734