HomeMy WebLinkAboutSubmittal-Elvis Cruz-Mangroves and Baywalk Shorelines ScriptC(1
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2022-09-22 COMCC item DI.1 and DI.3, Mangroves and Baywalk Shorelines script
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Good morning, Elvis Cruz, 631 NE 57 Street. Regarding DI 1 and 3, about mangroves and the
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Yes, mangroves have benefits if they cover a large area. But a narrow planting of mangroves
along a shoreline will not protect from storm surge.
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A scientific study using actual field measurements of storm surge showed that one kilometer of
mangrove forest only decreased the flood height by only 9.4 centimeters.That's an
insignificant change. [ 3.7 inches, or 5.95 inches per mile ]
A scientist from FIU stated that even one mile of mangroves will not significantly decrease
storm surge.
A narrow row of mangroves does nothing, it's a token far the look. It's window dressing.
Nor do mangroves prevent erosion. Here's a picture from a study done by the State of Florida,
showing how mangroves were destroyed by Hurricane Irma, with much coastal erosion. The
picture speaks for itself. Mangroves cannot defy the laws of physics.
Why do Baywalks exist? So people can walk along the bay and enjoy the view. Planting a
narrow band of mangroves along the shoreline would effectively block the view but do little
else.
Some say mangroves sequester carbon. They do, but so does any tree planted anywhere in the
world. Mangroves sequester less carbon per acre than what one car produces.
Biscayne Bay already has 18 nature preserves that cover large areas.
The fish kill incident of 2020 was caused by hot water. It would not have been prevented by
anything planted along the shoreline.
Fish nurseries can be successfully created with artificial reefs.
Here is what the Baywalk for Morningside Park should be, with the seawall at the shoreline, just
like you did at Wainwright and Pallot Parks. Please change the proposed design to this design,
so the public can enjoy the entire waterfront.
Thank you, and there is more detailed information in my handout. if anyone has any doubt
about what I've said, please challenge me.
[I'm happy to meet and go over the scientific facts, impacts and benefits to the public,
Oysters have been proven to clean the water. Oysters should be encouraged.
Mo-70
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