TO: Mayor and Commissioners
FROM: Kent Edwards, Sustainability Officer
THROUGH: Terrence R. Moore, ICMA-CM
DATE: February 18, 2025
Title
PRESENTATION REGARDING ACTIVITIES RELATED TO REEF RESTORATION
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Recommended Action:
Recommendation
Review a presentation regarding reef restoration activities and provide comments.
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Background:
Florida has the only coral reef system in the continental United States. This reef system has undergone tremendous degradation over the past 30 years, losing more than 95% of it's historical coverage in the Florida Keys. A main reason for the loss of coral, is the very warm water temperatures which have occurred in the summer. These water conditions are stressful to coral, weakening the organism such that it is susceptible to disease and potentially leading to death. The northern extent of the Florida Reef Tract runs offshore of Delray Beach. The reef in this area is dominated by soft corals, but research and outplanting activities are in the initial phase, to evaluate the potential for growth of hard coral species. A diverse group of interested parties have formed an informal Reef Consortium, who are investigating how to support reef restoration efforts. The presentation will give an overview of activities related to reef restoration activities that are underway near Delray Beach.
City Attorney Review:
NA
Funding Source/Financial Impact:
None at this time.
Timing of Request:
Not time sensitive.