This study is assessing coastal storm risks and identifying management measures for the 3.9-mile Gulf shoreline of Manasota Key in Charlotte County, Florida.

The purpose of the Charlotte County CSRM Study is to assess and manage the coastal storm risks, including inundation, wave attack, and critical shoreline erosion, that are occurring along the approximately 3.9 miles of Manasota Key Gulf shoreline, and inundation risks occurring along the back bay, or Lemon Bay, and identify potential solutions that are economically justified, environmentally sound, and engineering feasible.

• Primary authority: Section 2 of the River and Harbor Act of 1930, Public Law 71-520, as amended by Section 103 of the River and Harbor Act of 1960, Public Law 86-645 (33 U.S.C. 426)

"The Chief of Engineers of the United States Army, under the direction of the Secretary of the Army, is authorized and directed to cause investigations and studies to be made in cooperation with the appropriate agencies of the various States on the Atlantic, Pacific, and gulf coasts and on the Great Lakes, and of the States of Alaska and Hawaii, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the possessions of the United States, with a view to devising effective means of preventing erosion of the shores of coastal and lake waters by waves and currents; and any expenses incident and necessary thereto may be paid from funds appropriated for General Investigations, Civil Functions, Department of the Army..."

Problems relating to coastal storm risks have been identified for the Gulf shoreline of Manasota Key. These problems have been identified based on prior data, observations, and input from stakeholders and the public. Coastal storm surge, flooding, wind-driven waves, and erosion, exacerbated by sea level change, result in the following along the shoreline of Manasota Key in Charlotte County:
1. Damages to structures and infrastructure, and the loss of lands and personal and public property.
2. Negative impacts to accessibility to critical emergency services and the health and life-safety of residents.
3. Degradation or loss of environmental and cultural resources from erosion.
4. Negative impacts to local businesses, wages, employment, and future economic growth due to decreased recreational access and opportunities.

The Study Team is currently conducting engineering and economic modeling to identify a cost effective and efficient alternative that will be identified as the Tentatively Selected Plan. The Study team plans to release the draft feasibility report to the public on June 15, 2026 for a 30-day public comment period.