Georgia sound, Vol. 12, no. 4 (Oct. - Dec. 2006

T H E

G E O R G I A

C O A S T A L

M A N A G E M E N T

P R O G R A M

Georgia

O C T O B E R - D E C E M B E R , 2 0 0 6

Sound VOL.12, NO.4

"KNOW" Web Site Up and Running!

Did you KNOW? The "KnowTheConnection" web site is officially up and running!
KNOW As Coastal Resources Division's new educational outreach site, the KNOW web site focuses on and highlights the many natural "connections" that exist within our coastal natural world. Categorized by "Man to Nature," "My Connection," "Natural
THE CONNECTION Connection," "Printed Materials" and "Education" the site leads visitors through the very connections it is presenting and exploring. Designed to create interest, promote C O A S T A L G E O R G I A coastal natural resources education and encourage coastal environmental stewardship, the site is a "work in progress" with new and additional info being added continuously. So, if you don't see what you are looking for at your first KNOW visit, check the site again to see what new things have been added. "Coastal Connections" fact sheets are available on the site as well as many other "downloadable" materials and products. We invite you to.......... KNOW THE CONNECTION.

Wwww.KnowTheConnection.com

Inside This Issue:
KNOW Website Update
2006 Loggerhead Nest Update

Short Strikes
CIG Funds City Water Conservation Program
CIG Program Info

Raw Shellifsh Consumption Facts
750,000 Redfish Fingerlings Released in Savannah

Ship to Shore CoastFest 2006 a Success!
CIG Cycle X RFP

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By Ben Johnson ~ DNR/ Wildlife Resources Division, Public Affairs
1,400 Loggerhead Sea Turtle Nests Documented on Georgia Coast
The uphill struggle for survival has just begun for thousands of tiny individuals from one of Georgia's most fragile species, the loggerhead sea turtle. The 2006 loggerhead nesting season has drawn to a close, and biologists from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) have recorded 1,400 nests on the state's 13 major barrier islands.

Female loggerheads come ashore on Georgia's beaches from May through September to nest and lay their eggs.

This year's total is slightly higher than the 2005 total of 1,219 nests on Georgia beaches. Yearly loggerhead nesting totals are variable, but the overall trend in Georgia shows a decline of about 1.5 percent annually over the last 30 years. The massive sea turtles, which can grow to more than 300 pounds, are listed as threatened in Georgia and the United States. The loggerhead's listing on Georgia's Protected Species List will be elevated to endangered status later this year. "The loggerhead nesting totals are encouraging again this year, although still well below what we would consider to be a healthy level," said WRD Wildlife Biologist Mark Dodd, who serves as the Georgia Sea Turtle Program Coordinator. "We are extremely grateful to the many cooperators on the coast who monitor beaches to help gather this information."

The 2006 nest total is the third highest since WRD established comprehensive surveys in 1989, with 1,419 nests found in 1999 and 1,504 nests in 2003. The average in Georgia since 1989 has been roughly 1,045 nests annually. Listed as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act, the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) is Georgia's primary nesting sea turtle. In 1994, the Georgia Loggerhead Recovery and Habitat Protection Plan was adopted to standardize nest management procedures for the state. The long-term recovery goal for the species is for loggerhead nests to reach an average of 2,000 nests per year over a 25-year period.

Female loggerheads come ashore to nest and lay their eggs from May through September, and the hatchlings dash to the sea approximately 60 days later. The vulnerable young turtles scramble into the surf and quickly swim for the open ocean, where fewer predators lurk. Adult female loggerheads do not nest every year, generally returning to lay eggs every second or third year. On average, about 120 eggs are laid per nest.

As in past years, Cumberland, Blackbeard and Ossabaw islands were the primary nesting rookeries, accounting for 54 percent of statewide nesting. All-time high nesting totals were reported on Cumberland, Wassaw and Little Tybee Islands in 2006. No sea turtle species other than loggerheads were found nesting on Georgia beaches. Georgia's southernmost barrier island, Cumberland Island, had the most documented loggerhead nests this year with 323. St. Simons Island had the fewest with one nest. Georgia beaches host about 1.5 percent of the loggerhead nests in the United States annually, with Florida hosting the vast majority of U.S. nests.

Sea turtle eggs are an easy target for predators such as birds, raccoons and feral hogs. Extensive efforts to remove feral hogs from

Ossabaw and Cumberland Islands and covering nests with protective screens have helped to reduce the predation of eggs in recent

years. Adult sea turtles face different

dangers such as the threat of boat strikes

Below are the loggerhead nest totals for 2006.

or of drowning in shrimp nets. WRD

These totals may change slightly when the final report comes out later in the year.

and conservation groups have worked to Island

address the fishery threat by enforcing Tybee Is.

regulations requiring shrimpers to use Little Tybee Is.

turtle excluder device grids that fit

Wassaw Is.

Sea Turtle Cooperators Tybee Marine Science Center Ms. Tammy Smith Caretta Research Project

Loggerhead Nests 10 7 141

across the opening of shrimp trawls to Ossabaw Is.

Georgia DNR

202

keep turtles from entering the nets.

St. Catherines Is.

St. Catherines Sea Turtle Conservation Program

124

Blackbeard Is.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service- Sav. Coastal Refuges 227

Georgians can support the

Sapelo Is.

Georgia DNR

82

conservation and protection of the

Little St. Simons Is.

The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island

58

loggerhead sea turtle and its habitat by purchasing a wildlife license plate depicting a hummingbird or bald eagle for their vehicles, or by donating to the "Give Wildlife a Chance" State Income Tax Checkoff.

Sea Is. St. Simons Is. Jekyll Is. Little Cumberland Is. Cumberland Is. Total

Sea Island Co. St. Simons Island Sea Turtle Program The Georgia Turtle Center/ Jekyll Island Authority Little Cumberland Island Homeowners Association Cumberland Island National Seashore

64 1 137 23 323 1,399

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By: Spud Woodward ~ Assistant Director for Marine Fisheries

Short Strikes

Surveys Says, "Keep The Buoys"
The bright yellow buoys marking most of Georgia's offshore artificial reefs are a familiar and comforting sight to many anglers and divers. But keeping these buoys and associated anchor systems in place in the ever changing open Atlantic Ocean is a challenge. Each year approximately $50,000 is spent on maintenance of these buoy systems. Given advancements in electronic navigation technology, should DNR continue to maintain these buoys or should these buoys be removed and maintenance funds used for other artificial reef project activities? Over the summer, a web-based survey asked this question and several others related to Georgia's offshore artificial reefs. A total of 99 persons responded to the survey of which 80% opined that DNR should maintain all or part of the buoying systems on offshore artificial reefs. Many anglers like having the buoys as a back up for electronics, while others stated that the buoys are a prime location for catching baitfish. Given the overwhelming public opinion in favor of status quo, the Artificial Reef Project will continue to maintain the buoy systems at existing marked reefs, but will seek specific comment about buoying if permits are sought for new offshore artificial reef sites. The complete results of the survey are available on the Coastal Resources Division website (http://crd.dnr.state.ga.us).
Three Steel-Hull Vessels Join Artificial Reef Fleet

Although everything from waste concrete to subway cars is used for artificial reef materials, large steel-hull vessels are particularly desirable as submerged fish habitat. Over the summer, the Artificial Reef Project coordinated the deployment of three vessels at offshore reefs along Georgia's coast. In September, the 70-ft tug PEGASUS, originating from the port of Savannah was sunk at Artificial Reef KC (31 50.213'/80 46.515'). Also in September, a 130-ft coastal freighter, M/V ORIENTAL EXPRESS (31 16.421'/ 80 57.547') was towed from Jacksonville, Florida and sunk at Artificial Reef DRH. Earlier in the summer, an 80-ft barge, SAPELO II (31 16.764'/ 80 57.558') loaded with 80 metal cages formerly used to transport chickens was also deployed at Artificial Reef DRH. These deployments were made possible by a $5,000 donation from the Golden Isles Sport Fishing Club, Billy Crider and Max Harrell of Crider Inc., Mikell Fries of Claxton Poultry Farms Inc., state fishing license revenues and the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration program. For more information about Georgia's offshore artificial reefs contact Tony Blount at (912) 264-7218.

New Fish Posters Available

From sharks to searobins, saltwater fish are some of the Earth's most intriguing animals. People love to adorn their homes, vehicles, and bodies with images of saltwater fishes. Recently, staff with the Constituent Services Program redesigned the Georgia saltwater fish poster to make it a combination of art and information. The 18-inch by 24-inch fullcolor poster has pelagic fish, reef fish and sharks on one side and popular inshore sportfish, common fish and rays on the other. Each colorful fish image includes the accepted common name, the scientific name, and colloquial names used along the Georgia coast. The posters were printed using funds from Georgia's Coastal Management Program and Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration. Plans are to create an electronic version of the poster at www.KnowTheConnection.com. Detailed information about the life cycle and habits of fish will be linked to the electronic image. Copies of the poster are available for free at the Coastal Regional Headquarters in Brunswick or the general public can have two posters shipped to them in a cardboard tube by sending a check or money order in the amount of $3 to the Coastal Resources Division, Att: Paul Medders, One Conservation Way, Brunswick, Georgia 31520. Copies of the poster will be shipped free to individuals affiliated with education activities. For more information contact Paul Medders at (912) 264-7218.

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By: Jan Bass ~ Community Development Specialist with the city of Richmond Hill

Coastal Incentive Grant Funds

City's Water Conservation Program

In 2004, the city of Richmond Hill was awarded a Coastal Incentive Grant through the Georgia Coastal Zone Management Program and the National Atmospheric & Oceanic Administration (NOAA). As a result, in 2005, the city initiated its first Water Conservation Program, with the primary mission of promoting the long-term efficient use of Georgia's water resources. The program's goals are to reduce water consumption, provide educational materials to the community's youth, as well as establish standards through a water conservation ordinance and a water conservation and drought management plan focused on water use efficiency. The Water Conservation Program will enable the city to accomplish a one percent annual reduction goal, which parallels the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Water Conservation Plan. The creation of this program is critical for the city's future expansion and advancement.

With the Coastal Incentive Grant funds, the city was able to hire a water conservation consultant to complete a water conservation and management study. The primary duty of the consultant was to create a water conservation ordinance, construct a tier-rate billing system and develop a water conservation and drought management plan. The tier-rate billing approach is intended to establish conservation incentives for residents; the less water the customer uses the less their payment. The water conservation ordinance and plan were officially approved by the Richmond Hill City Council in September 2006.

The water conservation and drought management plan was produced in accordance with the directives and conditions set forth in the Department of Natural Resources report, Coastal Georgia Water & Wastewater Permitting Plan for Managing Salt Water Intrusion. The focus of the city's Water Conservation and Drought Management Plan is to reduce overall per-capita usage by reducing peak summer usage levels and creating an awareness of non-essential water use. The focus of this plan is the conservation-oriented rate structure, outdoor water schedules, water meter replacement program, building code modifications, enforcement and penalties, and other water conservation alternatives such as the reuse and purple pipe program. Furthermore, the policies and procedures implemented in the plan are specifically designed and developed to:

1. Bring the city of Richmond Hill into compliance with all conditions and stipulations set on all water withdrawal permits issued by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division to the city; and
2. To assist Richmond Hill in identifying and developing cost-effective water conservation and service-demand management alternatives, general and site-specific conservation programs and other water efficiency measures.

Additionally, the city will continuously monitor and evaluate its overall water conservation effort in relation to the water supply needs of the community. The data accumulated will be monitored and updated annually with a report of findings presented to the mayor and city council. The annual report will reveal the results and conclusions of the water conservation efforts to-date. After such review, the city may consider expanding the program or implementing additional water conservation measures to provide the most efficient and effective long-term results.

An informative brochure was also developed for distribution to residents and newcomers and is available at Richmond Hill City Hall. The tri-fold brochure acts as a folder for six inserts. The inserts contain information on water rates, conservation tips and advocates water conservation.

Originally, the city intended to provide city residents with replacement low-flow fixtures to replace outdated fixtures and inefficient fixtures. The city ran an advertisement for approximately one month in order to draw residents' attention to water conservation. The advertisement in the local newspaper was unsuccessful; therefore, the city redirected funds to promote an educational program for school-aged children in the community. The educational
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portion of the water conservation program consists of a wide-variety of educational materials for various grades. All the materials were prepared by the American Water Works Association (www.awwa.org) and are suitable for children in grades kindergarten through 8th. The materials are used in conjunction with pre-existing or conservation-related curriculum to educate the students about local water conservation issues and drinking water resources.

Through the effective use of the Water Conservation Program, the city is hopeful that students will learn about the region's water resources, the challenges of preserving clean drinking water, and conservation tips. The intention is to promote smart water use habits, which will be carried on throughout life and shared with the whole family. Water conservation lessons learned by students will transpire into efficient water use habits at home. The program consists of informative videos (VHS and DVD), activity books, teacher's guides, book covers, stickers, interactive CD-ROMs, and a web-based interactive program located on the city's website www.richmondhill-ga.gov for interested parties to utilize.

Through this water conservation initiative, the city is making a determined effort to create an awareness of the value and limitations of our drinking water supply and the importance of sensible water use. With the adoption of this Water Conservation Plan, the city is attempting to establish and enhance the water conservation ethic among its residents. Moreover, this program conveys to the public an understanding why water conservation is important and why the combined efforts of thousands of households can be significant.

Visit www.conservewatergeorgia.net for more information on Georgia's Water Conservation Program.

Coastal Incentive Grant Program Information
The federal Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) provides funding assistance to states with approved Coastal Management Programs for the purpose of program implementation and administration. Pursuant to the Georgia Coastal Management Program, the Department of Natural Resources' Coastal Resources Division contributes approximately 60% of Georgia's CZMA administrative allocation to eligible entities as "Coastal Incentive Grants." Designed to fund projects that further the mission of the Coastal Management Program, Coastal Incentive Grants allow regional and local coastal issues to be defined and addressed creatively and proactively at the grass-roots level.
Eligible grant applicants include county and municipal governments, state agencies, and educational and research institutions. The Coastal Advisory Council establishes annual funding "themes." An independent review committee evaluates and scores proposals according to review criteria specified in the Request For Proposals.
Eligibility Coastal Incentive Grant applicants must meet the following Minimum Eligibility Requirements: Only Georgia Qualified Local
Governments (counties and municipalities approved by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs) in the eleven-county coastal area, Georgia state government agencies (except DNR), and Georgia educational and research institutions are eligible for Coastal Incentive Grant awards. Applications from other parties will be considered if, and only if sponsored by an eligible entity. Awards will be made only to eligible entities.
Match Requirements Grant applicants must match funds requested through the Coastal Incentive Grant Program. Match may be either cash or "in-
kind service(s)." Generally, funds from other federal agencies may not be used as match. The required match ratio is 1:1 for all projects. The federal Coastal Zone Management Act predetermines match requirements.
Funding Priority The Coastal Advisory Council adopts annual funding priorities, or themes. Greatest consideration will be given to funding
proposals that are theme-related. All proposals will be accepted and competitively ranked if they 1) propose research or activities related to the theme, or 2) are deemed by a local government to be a project of "Critical Local Need." Requests for Proposals are issued annually in October for projects to begin the following October.
For more information about the Coastal Incentive Grant Program log on to http://crd.dnr.state.ga.us or contact Marci De Sart at (912) 264-7218.

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By: Brooks Good ~ Coastal Technical Assistant, Water Quality Monitoring Program
Raw Shellfish Consumption Facts

Cool weather and outdoor gatherings are the signal to many coastal residents that oyster roast season is here. This coastal tradition is a popular way to enjoy the company of friends and family while indulging in one of the finest seafood delicacies around, the Eastern Oyster.

While these events are anxiously anticipated each year, consumers of oysters are often concerned about health risks associated with eating these bivalves. The news media is quick to publicize cases of illness and death resulting from the consumption of shellfish. While there is a serious threat from consuming raw shellfish, consumers should know all of the facts before making decisions based on little or biased information.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 76 million food borne illnesses occur in the United States each year. Illnesses related to the consumption of raw shellfish make up a very small percentage of this number and are responsible for fewer illnesses than other foods we commonly enjoy such as chicken, eggs, and beef. The threat does exist, however, and should be taken seriously by consumers that are "At Risk." The following facts are provided by the Interstate Shellfish Sanitation Conference and are a great source of information for anyone who enjoys eating shellfish.

DID YOU KNOW... # Every year millions of Americans eat raw molluscan shellfish especially oysters and clams. # However, for some people, eating raw or undercooked oysters or clams can cause serious illness or even death from Vibrio vulnificus.

WHAT IS IT? # Vibrio vulnificus is a bacterium that can cause severe illness or death in some people who eat raw oysters or clams. # Between 1989 and 1996, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 149 serious illnesses resulting in 75 deaths from Vibrio vulnificus infection.

WHERE IS IT FOUND? # Vibrio vulnificus is found naturally in coastal waters. Vibrio vulnificus is NOT a result of pollution, and can be found in waters approved for oyster and clam harvesting. Vibrio vulnificus does NOT change the appearance, taste, or odor of oysters or clams. # Research shows that Vibrio vulnificus is found in oysters and clams from warm waters, such as the Gulf of Mexico. During the warm weather months of April though October, amounts of bacteria found in shellfish are higher.

HOW CAN YOU BECOME ILL? # You can become ill by eating raw or undercooked oysters or clams. If the oysters or clams are cooked thoroughly, the Vibrio vulnificus bacteria are destroyed and there is no risk of infection. # Eating raw oysters or clams with hot sauce or while drinking alcohol does not destroy the bacteria. Infection can also occur when cuts, burn, or sores come in contact with seawater containing Vibrio vulnificus.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

Symptoms of Vibrio vulnificus include:

# Vomiting

# Diarrhea

# Stomach pains

# Severe weakness

# Skin rashes and blisters

# Shaking chills

# High fever

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It is important to remember that in "high risk" individuals Vibrio vulnificus infection can lead to death within two days. If you have any of these symptoms, see your physician immediately for medical treatment.

WHAT CAN YOU DO? If you are at "high risk":
# NEVER eat raw shellfish (oysters or clams) # ALWAYS choose cooked oysters or clams when dining out # ALWAYS cook oysters and clams thoroughly # NEVER swim or wade in saltwater with open wounds or sores # GET more information by calling the FDA hotline at 1-800-332-4010, your local or state health agencies, or your physician

WHO IS AT RISK? Most healthly individuals are not at risk from Vibrio vulnificus infections. Individuals with any of the conditions
listed below are in a "high risk" category: # Liver disease # Alcoholism # Diabetes # AIDS or HIV infection # Gastric disorders # Inflammatory bowel disease # Cancer (including lymphoma, leukemia, Hodgkin's disease) # Hemochromatosis/hemosiderosis (abnormal iron metabolism) # Steroid dependency (as used for conditions such as emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, etc.) # Any illness or medical treatment which results in a compromised immune system
Older adults are more likely to have one or more of the above conditions and should be aware of their health status before eating raw oysters or clams.

TIPS FOR COOKING OYSTERS & CLAMS IN THE SHELL # Boil live oysters in boiling water for 3 to 5 minutes after shells open. Use small pots to boil or steam oysters. Do not cook too many oysters in the same pot because the ones in the middle may not get fully cooked. Discard any oysters that do not open during cooking. # Steam live oysters 4 to 9 minutes in a steamer that is already steaming.
TIPS FOR COOKING SHUCKED OYSTERS & CLAMS # Boil or simmer for at least 3 minutes or until edge curls # Fry in oil for at least 3 minutes at 375O F # Broil 3 inches from heat for 3 minutes # Bake for 10 minutes at 450O F

By following the guidelines set forth by the ISSC, the threats from consuming shellfish are significantly reduced. Armed with good information, there is no reason not to go out and enjoy our fresh local seafood.

Oysters grow in thick clusters at the water's edge and are visible only at low tides.

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775500,,000000 RReeddffiisshh FFiinnggeerrlliinnggss RReelleeaasseedd iinn SSaavvaannnnaahh

Anyone who fishes for striped bass in a Georgia

reservoir, rainbow trout in a mountain stream, or bluegill in

a local farm pond is familiar with the role of fish hatcheries

as tools for creating and enhancing freshwater fishing

opportunities. Saltwater anglers don't make the same

connection but are very curious about the possibilities and

want to know if hatchery-reared saltwater fish can be used

to enhance coastal fishing. From mid-August through

October approximately 750,000 one-to-two inch red

drum, also known as redfish or simply reds were freed into

tributaries of the Skidaway and Wilmington Rivers near

Savannah. These fish were released as part of the Peach

State Reds Initiative a landmark partnership between

In late September, State Senator Ross Tolleson (third from left) and DNR Board member Jenny Lynn Bradley (on the right) were among those who helped release 750,000 redfish fingerlings into Wassaw estuary.

Georgia DNR, anglers, fishing advocacy groups, and the business community.

Spud Woodward, assistant director of the Coastal

Resources Division of Georgia DNR, provides background on why Georgia is releasing these hatchery-reared

redfish. "For years our coastal fishermen have watched as other Southeastern states invested in saltwater game-fish

stocking programs. Many wondered why Georgia wasn't doing the same. We looked into these programs in the

early 1990's and adopted a wait-and-see attitude since there were many unanswered questions and concerns about

the impacts on wild fish populations."

"A decade later, states like Texas and Florida had moved into large-scale stocking programs involving red drum, snook, and even spotted seatrout. There was renewed interest amongst the Georgia saltwater angling community so we decided to bring the matter before a citizens' advisory group in 2002. After 18 months of study, the group concluded further research was needed. Specifically, the members advised that hatchery-reared redfish be released in one of Georgia's estuaries following the methods used in South Carolina. That was the genesis of the Peach State Reds Initiative (PSRI)."

"Since Georgia DNR doesn't have a saltwater hatchery, we knew we would need the assistance of South Carolina DNR, which operates the Waddell Mariculture Center near Hilton Head Island. Working with the South Carolina experts, we developed a study plan based on the release of hatcheryreared reds in the Wassaw estuary near Savannah. We chose this estuary not only because of its proximity to Waddell, but also because we have an ongoing fish population survey in that area. Our goal is to release 500,000 fingerlings during Autumn of 2006 and another 500,000 during 2007. Thanks to favorable weather, good spawning success, and the skills and dedication of the SCDNR staff we exceeded our goal for this year."

Too small to mark with conventional tags, these tiny hatchery-reared redfish have a unique genetic identity that help allow scientists to separate them from their wild cousins.

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Over the next three years, Georgia DNR will document the survival of the hatchery-reared redfish through netting surveys and angler catches. These fish look no different than their wild cousins, and they're too small to mark with conventional tags. Doug Haymans, project leader for the PSRI explains how the survival of these tiny fish will be documented, "Fish biologists, much like the crime-scene investigators featured on television, can use DNA as a tool to separate hatchery-reared fish from wild fish. The redfish released into the Wassaw estuary possess a unique genetic identity that stays with them throughout their lives. All we need is a small piece of tissue, like a dime-size piece of a fin, for the genetic analysis."

Red Drum Named Georgia State Saltwater Fish

Angler cooperation will be very important in tracking the fate of the hatchery-reared reds. "Although we have a net survey in the area where the fish were released, fishermen encounter many more redfish than we see in the course of a year. So, it will be very important to have help from the anglers who fish in the Savannah area," says Haymans. The Georgia DNR has several opportunities for fishermen to get involved in data collection. Creel clerks will ask to take a small piece of fin tissue from harvested fish they encounter during their surveys. Interested anglers can ask for a fin-clip kit to take their own tissue samples from the redfish they catch. Lastly, anglers can place the carcasses of their harvested reds in chest freezers located at selected marinas around the Savannah area.
The Peach State Reds Initiative has gained wide support from coastal anglers. The Savannah Sport Fishing Club has donated $10,000, and the Coastal Conservation Association is hosting the 2006 NeSmith Chevrolet Georgia Redfish Rally to raise part of the $75,000 the group has pledged. The project is estimated to cost approximately $500,000, with most of the funding coming from Federal Aid in Sportfish Restoration and state fishing license revenues. A Peach State Reds Initiative briefing document and timeline, as well as more info about redfish stocking, are available at www.peachstatereds.org.

When Governor Sonny Perdue signed House Bill 1211 he officially designated the red drum, also known as spottail bass, channel bass, or simply redfish as Georgia's state saltwater fish. Prized by anglers for its qualities as both a gamefish and tablefare, the redfish has become an icon of saltwater fishing from Texas to North Carolina. Habitats for the species range from flooded Spartina grass to shallow oyster reefs to the booming surf of a barrier island beach. Angling approaches likewise vary from shorebased fishermen soaking dead shrimp to surf casters using long rods and cut bait to tournament anglers equipped with state-of-the-art flats boats and scented artificials. The Georgia state record redfish of 47 pounds, 7 ounces was caught in 1986. The oldest fish documented from Georgia waters lived 41 years. Once threatened by overfishing, the species is now managed with a slot-size limit of 14 to 23 inches and a daily possession limit of 5 fish per person. As the popularity of fishing for redfish has increased, so has the practice of catch-and-release. During 2005, Georgia anglers were estimated to have caught almost half a million redfish but only harvested about 100,000 fish. This growing conservation ethic combined with efforts to protect fish habitat should ensure that the state's official saltwater fish is here for generations to come.

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Susan Shipman

From the Director's Desk
SHIP TO SHORE... Coastal Resources Division Director

Unsung Stewards: the Marsh and Shore Committees

The public readily associates DNR with permitting functions associated with our coastal marshlands and beaches. The public generally knows that Coastal Marshlands Protection Act (Marsh Act) permits are required for facilities such as marinas, community docks, boat ramps, bridges, dredging, and other projects which will directly impact coastal marshlands. Confusion sometimes arises over private recreational docks, which are exempt from the Marsh Act, but are required to obtain a different type of permit. Shore Protection Act (Shore Act) permits are needed for beach nourishment, beach stabilization projects, dune crossover structures, and buildings and landscaping within the shore protection area. That area is the sand sharing system comprised of the dunes, the beach, shoals, and submerged lands seaward to three miles.

Among the general public who may have not been through the permitting process, there are often misconceptions as to the mechanics of permitting. The projects are evaluated and permits are actually issued by the Coastal Marshlands Protection Committee (Marsh Committee) and Shore Protection Committee (Shore Committee), based on provisions of the Marsh and Shore Acts. These citizen appointees are the unsung stewards who make the hard decisions. Coastal Resources Division serves as staff to the Committees and provides guidance to applicants on behalf of the Committees. While staff routinely make proposed findings and recommendations to the Committees, the ultimate decision whether a project is in the public interest, rests solely with the Committees. It is not uncommon for the Marsh and Shore Committees to accept certain of staff's recommendations, reject others, modify or add to recommendations.

The Marsh and Shore Committees operate very much "in the sunshine". The permitting process is very transparent and affords the public considerable opportunity for input. Projects are public noticed for up to 30 days, and public hearings may be held on substantial or controversial projects, in advance of the meeting where the Committees act on an application. Committee meetings are also public meetings, and comment is often given by the public. Extensive background information about a project is reviewed by the Committees in advance of their decision-making. Committee meetings average approximately every two months in frequency. Meetings are always held on the coast.

The composition of each Committee is prescribed in the respective Marsh and Shore Acts. The Marsh and Shore Committees are each comprised of five members, and currently (as well as historically) the same members serve on both Committees. The DNR Commissioner is designated an obligatory seat. The Board of Natural Resources appoints the four citizen members, three of whom must be residents of one of the six coastal counties. The other Board appointee may be from the coast or anywhere in the State. Currently, all members except the DNR Commissioner are from the coast.

Historically, no term of service was specified by the Board when they appointed Committee members. However, when the Committee was expanded in 2004, the Board specified three year terms for the two newest appointees. This past summer, the Board of Natural Resources adopted a new section to their By-laws to establish guiding principles for appointments to the Marsh and Shore Committees, to provide for a planned, logical rotation while accommodating needed institutional knowledge within the Committees. Terms of service were established for all Committee members.

These new guidelines call for a balanced membership representative of the interests affected by the Committee's decisions. The Board appointees to the Marsh and Shore Committees should be individuals who, through their occupation or other experience, scientific expertise, legal expertise, or training, are knowledgeable about the conservation, development uses and management of Georgia's coastal environment. Members may not have a conflict of interest in the exercise of their duties.

Based on the Wright v. Gamble decision, the CMPC-SPC members serve at the pleasure of the sitting Board. Each appointee will serve for a non-binding four year term, until a successor is appointed. The Board may designate a shorter or longer term to provide for staggered terms. Because there are four Board appointees, four year staggered terms have been established to allow for the rotation of one member each year, if the Board chooses to replace an incumbent at the end of their term. Appointees are limited to two consecutive terms, following which there should be a break in service prior to reappointment. Board appointees will continue to serve on both Committees.
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In October the DNR Board issued a call for prospective nominees to fill the seat of the CMPC- SPC term which expires December 31. It is anticipated the Board's Coastal Committee will forward a recommended candidate to the full Board for final action at its early December meeting.
Coastal Marshlands Protection and Shore Protection Committees members currently serving are Dr. Clark Alexander, a scientist from Skidaway Institute of Oceanography ( term: 1997 - 2006); Dick Eckburg, a retired business executive from Savannah ( term: 2004 2007); Leslie Mattingly, an attorney from St. Simons Island (term: 2004- 2008); and Henry Williams, a civilian engineer with the Kings Bay Navy Submarine Base (term: 1997 -2009), providing for a good complement of expertise on the Committee.
These fine people perform yeoman's service to the state, giving many, many hours of public service to the stewardship of Georgia's marsh and shore resources and making the difficult decisions. For which the Department, on behalf of all the citizens of our State, thanks them and salutes them.
To observe the permitting process first hand, check out the Division's website, http://crd.dnr.state.ga.us and join us for the next Marsh and Shore Committees meeting.

CoastFest 2006

By: Lea King ~ Public Affairs Coordinator

Over 7,000 Celebrate Georgia's Coastal Natural Resources

CoastFest 2006 on October 7 welcomed blue skies and over 7,100 excited visitors to Georgia's largest celebration of coastal natural resources.
Education and fun were the focus of the day as visitors toured research vessels, became "scientists for a day," met live sea critters at the touch tank area, visited with costume characters, conducted experiments, took part in living history demonstrations and participated in many other activities highlighting our coastal natural and cultural resources.
"Under the big tent" festival goers were treated to interactive learning experiences by Jim Sawgrass and family with Creek Indian Heritage, the Puppet People celebrating the loggerhead sea turtle, and DNR Wildlife Biologist John Evans with his reptilian friends.
The exhibit area was alive with energy and activity as over 85 interactive exhibits and activities could be found. The governmental, environmental non-profit, educational and resource organizations serving as exhibitors went "above and beyond" with exhibits at which event visitors could "do" and "see" and "touch" as they learned.
Educating both young and old alike, CoastFest experiences provided greater understanding of Georgia's coastal natural resources and encouraged better stewardship and appreciation of this special area.
The excitement continues next year at the 12th annual event on October 6, 2007!

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THE GEORGIA SOUND

T H E

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Georgia

Sound

O C T O B E R - D E C E M B E R , 2 0 0 6

VOL.12, NO.4

Department of Natural Resources
Coastal Resources Division One Conservation Way, Suite 300 Brunswick, GA 31520-8687

KNOW
THE CONNECTION
COASTAL GEORGIA
Don't forget - the GA Sound is on the web! Log on to the CRD web site http://crd.dnr.state.ga.us
& look under "Education & Outreach" to find the current and archived pdf versions of the Sound.

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CSopaosttalilgInhcteonntiBveeaGcrhanWt aCtyecrleQXuRaeliqtyueDsattfaorPWrohpeorsealdso(ResFPit) gAov?ailWabhleo iUnsMesidt-hDeecDeamtab?er
The Coastal Resources Division (CRD) is soliciting proposals for Coastal Incentive Grants (CIG) awarded under the Georgia Coastal Management Program (GCMP). It is the mission of the Georgia Coastal Management Pogram to balance economic development in Georgia's coastal area with preservation of natural, environmental, historic, archaeological, and recreational resources for the benefit of Georgia's present and future generations.
The federal Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) provides funding assistance to states with approved Coastal Management Programs for the purpose of program implementation and administration. Pursuant to the Georgia Coastal Management Program, the Department of Natural Resources' Coastal Resources Division contributes approximately 60% of Georgia's CZMA administrative allocation to eligible entities as "Coastal Incentive Grants." Designed to fund projects that further the mission of the Coastal Management Program, Coastal Incentive Grants allow regional and local coastal issues to be defined and addressed creatively and proactively at the grass-roots level. Eligible grant applicants include county and municipal governments, state agencies, and government affiliated educational and research institutions.
For more information and to download the Coastal Incentive Grant Cycle X application, visit CRD's website in mid-December: http://crd.dnr.state.ga.us and visit the "quick links" section.

The Georgia Sound is produced quarterly by the Georgia Coastal Management Program. If you would like more information on the Georgia
Coastal Management Program, visit our web site at http://crd.dnr.state.ga.us
or contact Coastal Resources Division at (912) 264-7218. Past issues of The Georgia Sound can be found on the CRD web site.
Layout & Design by: Lea King For address corrections or to be added or deleted from the mailing list,
please contact Lea King at (912) 264-7218.
Lea_King@dnr.state.ga.us

Contributors to this issue: Jan Bass, Marci De Sart, Brooks Good, Ben Johnson, Lea
King, Susan Shipman and Spud Woodward
This publication is made possible through efforts by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Deadline for the Winter 2007 edition is February, 2007. We welcome suggestions of articles and photography.