Protecting Undeveloped Barrier Islands?A Florida Case Study

by Mark Benedict, Conservancy Inc, United States,
Tina Bernd-Cohen, Conservancy Inc, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Barrier Islands: Process and Management

Abstract:

Although most of Florida's large barrier islands have been partially or fully developed and their natural resource values jeopardized, several smaller islands along the coasts, particularly in Collier County on the southwest coast and along the Florida Panhandle, have not yet been developed. Recent proposals to develop these few remaining unbridged barrier islands raise questions about Florida's commitment to its undeveloped barrier island policies and test the effectiveness of the State's barrier island resource management programs. This paper assesses existing federal and state programs that manage development of Florida's coastal barriers. It also suggests ways to increase the effectiveness of Florida's programs to protect the natural geomorphic and ecological functions of our remaining undeveloped barrier islands.

Subject Headings: Coastal management | Barrier islands | Islands | Case studies | Resource management | Natural resources | Legislation | Florida | United States

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