DEP recommends different groin design
To the editor:
Lee County wants to use the same groin design for a new shortened project despite the Department of Environmental Protection concerns about the groin creating more erosion on surrounding beaches.
In the DEP Consolidated Notice of Intent to Issue Joint Coastal Permit for the original project, the DEP stated “The proposed terminal groin at the northwest end of Estero Island has the potential to starve the sandy beach areas and shorelines along the inside of the inlet.”
The DEP opinion continues by stating that “it may be necessary to armor all or portions of the downdrift shoreline inside of the inlet as a result of erosion induced by construction in the future following groin construction”. This is strictly against the Fort Myers Beach Land Development Code!
The DEP recommends eliminating the groin or using a porous design.
My discussions privately with engineering firms have found them to recommend a porous movable groin for the north end of our island. They are afraid to speak because they do not want to risk the loss of state or federal work. You will notice that the engineering reports are always written only in reference to the question asked.
WE NEED TO ASK A DIFFERENT QUESTION. The question we need to ask is of independent engineering firms, even Dr. Robert Dean of the University of Florida, as to what is the best design for the north end for management of Matanzas Pass, and solving erosive impacts of the inlet on Estero Island. The shortened Army CORPS of Engineers plan does not provide that design nor that answer.
The Town Council must demand a new engineering study should be undertaken with independent engineering firms making proposals for the design.
Joanne Shamp
Fort Myers Beach