Dr. Mike Saice, a professor from the Water School at Florida Gulf Coast University, provided an extensive update on a two-year study funded by a Florida SE Grant. The study assesses the impact of recent storms on Fort Myers Beach and anticipates future storm responses. Dr. Saice explained that the project involves monitoring the beach’s condition and utilizing sophisticated computer models to simulate how the island might respond to various interventions aimed at improving its resilience to storms. He noted that recent storms had caused considerable sand loss, but some sand remained offshore, potentially available for natural recovery.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the effectiveness of the recently constructed berm on Fort Myers Beach. Dr. Saice observed that while the berm had sustained significant damage, it had not lost sand to the extent that it was washed away into Estero Bay. The task force inquired about the potential for vegetation on the berm, which had been constructed with FEMA funding exclusively for sand placement, lacking funds for vegetation. The conversation highlighted the need for timely vegetation to enhance the berm’s durability, with plans being outlined for a nourishment project designed to rebuild the berm and incorporate vegetation immediately after its completion.

The task force deliberated on various interventions to enhance the resilience of Fort Myers Beach against future storms, including the potential construction of dunes of varying sizes and the incorporation of vegetation to strengthen these structures. Dr. Saice emphasized the importance of using appropriate revegetation management practices. Effective planning could result in a stronger plant community that would facilitate natural dune building and improve storm resistance.

The role of property owners in protecting their properties and the beach was also discussed. Dr. Saice suggested that while property owners could plant vegetation, there might be restrictions on altering the existing morphology of the berm. He pointed out that the community’s development patterns left little room for dunes to naturally respond to environmental changes.

In addition to the berm and dune discussions, the task force also addressed vegetation management decisions made by the town. Concerns were raised about the town’s choice to use rocks and fabric instead of collaborating with the Garden Club to address an area overrun with weeds. It was suggested that the Garden Club could have mobilized volunteers to remove the grass quickly and effectively, criticizing the expenditure of town funds on materials deemed unnecessary. The participant emphasized that the town could have consulted the Garden Club, which had previously expressed a willingness to assist with upkeep.

Public comments included frustration and disappointment regarding the handling of a vegetation project. A speaker from the Estero Island Garden Club described their experiences with a town council meeting and expressed disbelief at the decisions made regarding the garden. The individual criticized the installation of landscape fabric and rocks, stating that these materials were not suitable for a Florida-friendly native garden and went against the goals of the project.

The meeting also included updates on the beach renourishment project, which is currently active on the North End. Around 600 feet of sand has been pumped in front of the Pink Shell resort. There are plans to rebuild the beach berm design, with an emphasis on working with property owners who wish to participate in the project and receive vegetation and full-engineered beach design for their properties. Property owners were urged to act quickly if they wish to be involved.

The task force celebrated the successful distribution of an activity book created with a donation from the Community Foundation. Nearly 4,000 copies had been distributed, with a particular emphasis on the positive community engagement surrounding the initiative.

Additionally, there was a discussion about the Chevron decision and its implications for local regulations. Members sought clarity on how this federal decision might affect the town’s adherence to regulations from federal agencies, noting that the legal team had confirmed no immediate impact on local or state levels.

The meeting concluded with a discussion about scheduling events related to the Environmental Resources Task Force, including selecting specific dates in September for activities. An update was provided on the cleanup of debris resulting from a recent storm, specifically a significant accumulation of algae along a boulevard, which is nearing completion.