Subject:
Title
Approval to submit grant application and execute associated agreement, modifications, and amendments upon awarding of the Department of Environmental Protection's (DEP) Wetlands Restoration and Protection Grant for the Honest Johns Impoundment Culvert Project.
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Fiscal Impact:
FY2024-2025 to FY2025-2026 - Estimated $23,100 in-kind match for labor and materials from Mosquito Control District funds (1090-258000); $15,600 from DEP grant funds to purchase three culverts with water control structures and associated materials.
Dept/Office:
Mosquito Control
Requested Action:
Recommendation
It is requested that the Brevard Mosquito Control District Board/ Board of County Commissioners:
1) approve the Mosquito Control District to apply for the DEP Wetlands Restoration and Protection Grant (DEP is currently prioritizing initial project proposals)
2) authorize the County Manager to execute the grant agreement, future grant amendments and modifications, if grant is awarded by DEP, upon review and approval by the County Attorney's Office, Risk Management, and Purchasing Services
3) authorize the County Manager to approve all associated budget change requests.
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Summary Explanation and Background:
Honest Johns Impoundment is a 205-acre mangrove and salt marsh wetland that is ecologically managed for controlling mosquitoes. The impoundment is currently connected to the open Indian River Lagoon by existing culvert systems located within a 6,612-foot-long earthen dike. This proposed project will replace three culverts with flash board riser water control structures to improve water exchange and fish passage between the impoundment and the open lagoon system. Mangrove and salt marshes have been found to reduce nutrients in aquatic habitats; therefore, the increased water exchange between the impoundment and lagoon system is expected to also improve water quality in adjacent lagoon areas. If approved, grant funding would pay for the three culverts, water...
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