Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection's (DEP) Office of Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas oversees the management of Florida's 41 aquatic preserves, three National Estuarine Research Reserves (NERR), one National Marine Sanctuary and the Coral Reef Conservation Program. These protected areas comprise more than 4 million acres of the most valuable submerged lands and select coastal uplands in Florida.

"Through Florida’s aquatic preserves, research reserves and national marine sanctuary, the state protects more than four million acres of submerged lands. These coastal and aquatic areas preserve wildlife habitats and protect waterways, while inviting residents and visitors to explore Florida’s natural environment."

Secretary Michael W. Sole

Living Shorelines: Natural Protection of Florida's Coasts

The search to find environment-friendly techniques to resolve shoreline erosion problems is an ongoing challenge. "Living shorelines" may be the answer. Living shorelines use natural shoreline features such as salt marshes, mangroves, seagrasses, other native plants and oyster reefs to preserve and build coastal habitats. Understanding the importance of natural shoreline stabilization techniques, how they work and the benefits of these alternatives play an important role in sustaining Florida's coast.

Many shorelines along Florida’s coasts have been stabilized using hardened structures such as sea walls, rip rap, groins and bulkheads. While hardened stabilizers are believed to prevent shoreline erosion, they can actually increase erosion and destroy native habitat.