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R25-141 1 RESOLUTION NO. R25-141 2 3 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BOYNTON 4 BEACH, FLORIDA, ADOPTING THE 2025 BOYNTON BEACH 5 FLOODPLAIN SPECIES PLAN; AND FOR ALL OTHER PURPOSES. 6 7 WHEREAS, the City of Boynton Beach, Florida, supports reasonable efforts to protect the 8 threatened and endangered species and habitats within the City for the benefit of the citizens of 9 the City of Boynton Beach; and 10 WHEREAS, the City currently has a Class 5 Community Rating System (CRS) rating, which 11 earns qualifying properties a discount on flood insurance; and 12 WHEREAS, the CRS program awards credit to participating communities that adopt and 13 implement a Floodplain Species Plan; and 14 WHEREAS, the 2025 Floodplain Species Assessment, conducted according to CRS 15 guidelines, identified listed species and species of concern with ranges and habitats within the 16 City's jurisdiction; and 17 WHEREAS, the 2025 Floodplain Species Assessment and Floodplain Species Plan were 18 presented to relevant agencies and organizations for review, and the feedback received was 19 incorporated into the final documents; and 20 WHEREAS, the Floodplain Species Plan will contribute significantly to the City's ability to 21 implement planned floodplain management activities that will reduce threats, hazards, and 22 negative impacts to the identified species in those areas; and 23 WHEREAS, the City Commission, upon the recommendation of staff, has deemed it in the 24 best interests of the City's citizens and residents to adopt the 2025 Floodplain Species Plan. 25 26 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BOYNTON 27 BEACH, FLORIDA, THAT: 28 SECTION 1. The foregoing "Whereas" clauses are hereby ratified and confirmed as 29 being true and correct and are hereby made a specific part of this Resolution upon adoption. 30 SECTION 2. The City Commission of the City of Boynton Beach, Florida, does hereby 31 adopt the 2025 Floodplain Species Plan as further detailed in Exhibit A, attached hereto. 32 SECTION 3. The Office of Sustainability and Resiliency is responsible for preparing an 33 annual report for the Commission. The report shall evaluate progress toward implementing the 34 Species Plan's action items. It shall be circulated in accordance with the Plan's Action Item PME 1, 35 Plan Monitoring and Evaluation. 36 SECTION 4. This Resolution shall take effect in accordance with the law. 37 38 39 40 41 [SIGNATURES ON THE FOLLOWING PAGE] 42 43 PASSED AND ADOPTED this I day of , 2025. 44 CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA 45 YE- NO 46 Mayor— Rebecca Shelton 47 48 Vice Mayor—Woodrow L. Hay 49 50 Commissioner—Angela Cruz 51 52 Commissioner—Thomas Turkin 53 54 Commissioner—Aimee Kelley 55 56 VOTE S C9 57 ATES • 58 O. 59 60 MayleeJ J sus, MPA, MC R cca Shelton 61 City CIe k / Mayor 62 63 — �. APPROVED AS TO FORM: 64 (Corporate Seal) -pF B.•.. Oil 65 ,`L�.•GpRPORq•.�,� SEA F• .4e/4 liZhetl‘ 66 L n 67 4 ;•IIVCORpDRATED.: Shawna G. Lamb 68 /� '••,1920 City Attorney ‘": (u.RID. GST Y 0 � p izsi X0 J'A I 4 AI* 1.0 N City of Boynton Beach, Florida Floodplain Species Plan May 8, 2025 This Floodplain Species Plan was prepared by laLORI LEHR INC. YOUR LINK TO CRS SUCCESS 3569 Stabile Rd St. James City, FL 33956 727-235-3875 Lori@lorilehrinc.com Project manager: Lori Lehr, CFM Primary author: French Wetmore, CFM City of Boynton Beach, Florida Floodplain Species Plan Contents Executive Summary iii Introduction 1 Threatened and Endangered Species 2 Critical Habitat 6 Protective and Recovery Actions 10 Types of Actions by Habitat 13 Action Plan 21 PM - Property Management Action Items 22 RS - Regulatory Standards Action Items 28 SWM - Stormwater Management Action Items 32 PI - Public Information Action Items 35 PME - Plan Monitoring & Evaluation 41 Appendix 1. Review of the Listed Species 43 Appendix 2. Relevant Community Rating System Activities 59 Appendix 3. Comprehensive Plan Policies Protecting Endangered Species64 Floodplain Species Plan — i — May 8, 2025 Maps Map 1. Boynton Beach Area 1 Map 2. Critical Habitat 6 Map 3. Special Flood Hazard Area in the City Limits 7 Map 4. Critical Habitat and Special Flood Hazard Area redo 8 Map 5. Boynton Beach City Limits 14 Map 6. City Area Abutting the Ocean 14 Map 7. Oceanfront Park 14 Map 8. Comprehensive Plan Map of Lake Worth Lagoon Habitat 16 Map 9. Palm Beach County Manatee Protection Areas 17 Map 10. Wood stork sightings reported in www.inaturalist.org 20 Map 11. Excerpt from Reimagine Recreation, page 170 23 Map 12. Environmentally Sensitive Lands 29 Appendix 1 Map 1-1. Eastern Indigo Snake Populations 49 Map 1-2. Pine Rocklands 54 Map 1-3. Okeechobee Gourd Sites 56 Maps 1 —5 were prepared by the City's GIS office from the following sources: ESRI, NASA, NGA, USGS, TomTom, Garmin, FAO, NOAA © OpenStreetMap contributor and the GIS User Community Source for the critical habitat data in Maps 2 and 4: Flood Risk and Endangered Species Habitat (FRESH) Map, Federal Emergency Management Agency at https://www.fema.gov/floodplain-management/ wildlife-conservation/fresh-mapping-tool Unless otherwise noted, all photographs were taken by French Wetmore. Floodplain Species Plan —ii— May 8, 2025 Executive Summary This Plan is the culmination of a two-part approach to determine actions to protect threatened and endangered species in the City of Boynton Beach. The first part was the Floodplain Species Assessment, completed in January 2025. The Assessment identified the species that are most likely to be present in the City and most likely to benefit from the kinds of actions the City can take. Its findings are included in Appendices 1 and 2 of this Plan. The Assessment concluded that twenty species warrant attention. They are listed in Table 3 on page 5. The Federal agencies that list threatened and endangered species, the US Fish & Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service, also identify critical habitat, i.e., specific area "essential for the conservation and recovery of the species." Five species have critical habitat identified or proposed for identification. Their critical habitats are shown on Map 2, page 6 and compared to the Special Flood Hazard Area on Map 4, page 8. The importance of open space areas as habitat is also discussed. The next section is on Protective and Recovery Actions. It starts with Table 4 which lists the major threats faced by the twenty species. Actions that address these threats are organized under four general categories of actions the City can take: —* Property management —> Regulatory standards -p Stormwater management -* Public information The effectiveness of these actions vary with the type of habitat, as explained in the next section, Types of Actions by Habitat. For example, stormwater management actions primarily benefit species that live in water, i.e., the ocean, lagoon, canals, wetlands and ponds in inland open spaces. Public information measures benefit species in all habitat types because there are many things that the public can do, such as following boating rules that avoid encounters with manatees and knowing how to recognize and protect burrowing owl homes. The final section of this Plan, the Action Plan, identifies 14 specific projects that City offices will undertake. They are organized under the four categories of actions and are listed in Table 8, page 42. A fifteenth action item assigns monitoring of action item progress to the Office of Sustaina- bility and Resiliency. The Office will provide annual progress reports and evaluations of imple- mentation of this Plan. Floodplain Species Plan —iii — May 8, 2025 This page intentionally blank. Floodplain Species Plan — iv— May 8, 2025 Introduction The City of Boynton Beach is a coastal community located near the Atlantic Ocean in Palm Beach County. While it is in an urban area, Boynton Beach has an abundance of open spaces, lakes, waterways, and other areas that serve as, or have the potential to become, habitat for freshwater and saltwater plants and animals. The purpose of this document is to identify actions the City and others can take to help threatened and endangered species survive and recover in Boynton Beach. It is prepared following criteria and guidance of the Community Rating System (CRS), a voluntary incentive program that recognizes and encourages community floodplain management practices that exceed the minimum requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program. Boynton Beach currently maintains a CRS Class 5 rating, offering its residents and businesses a 25% discount each year on their flood insurance premiums. The CRS offers specific credits designed to encourage communities to address their threatened and endangered species while taking steps to protect and aid in their recovery. Two of these credits are the Floodplain Species Assessment (FSA) and Floodplain Species Plan (FSP). Together, these two documents will help protect the threatened and endangered species that may inhabit Boynton Beach and provide the needed points and prerequisite to become a CRS Class 4, providing a 30% discount on flood insurance premiums. The City completed an FSA in January Map 1. Boynton Beach Area 2025. It reviews the threatened and West endangered species listed by the Federal Palm government as having range in the area. Beach The Assessment explains these terms and identifies 20 species that should be addressed by this Plan. While the FSA is available as a separate document, much of atlantic its information is included in Appendices 1 " and 2. Its findings and conclusions are incorporated into the body of this Plan. • Map 1 shows that there are large areas Boynton nearby that provide habitat for threatened - . ! F Beach City and endangered species, such as the Ever- r J Limits glades and the Atlantic Ocean. However, Loxahat';hee t__1 National this Plan only addresses species within the Wildlife City's jurisdiction, i.e., with range in the Refuge City limits. The terms "range" and "critical habitat" are defined on the following pages. Boca .� . : . ,. Raton Floodplain Species Plan — 1 — May 8, 2025 Threatened and Endangered Species The City has numerous plans and programs Why Save Endangered Species? aimed at preserving and protecting animals, "None of these creatures exists in a vacuum. plants, and natural areas. This Plan, however, All living things are part of a complex, often specifically highlights a critical subgroup: delicately balanced network called the bio- and endangered species. These bio- sphere. The earth's biosphere, in turn, is corn- threatenedposed of countless ecosystems, which include species warrant special attention, as outlined in plants and animals and their physical environ- the box to the right. ments. No one knows how the extinction of organisms will affect the other members of its Because of their declining numbers, these ecosystem, but the removal of a single species species have been listed as needing protection can set off a chain reaction affecting many under the provisions of the Endangered Species others. This is especially true for "keystone' species, whose loss can transform or under- Act. They"are of esthetic, ecological, educa- mine the ecological processes or fundamen- tional, historical, recreational, and scientific tally change the species composition of the value to the Nation and its people." (Endan- wildlife community." - US Fish and Wildlife gered Species Act of 1973, Section 1531) Service at httos://www.fws.00v/sites/default/ files/documents/Why-Save-Endangered- Federal agencies have special obligations Species-Brochure O.pdf regarding species that are listed as threatened or endangered. The listings are done by the US Fish & Wildlife Service (FWS - for land and freshwater species) and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS - for saltwater species). The FWS describes the status of these species in simple terms: -4 Endangered species are at the brink of extinction now. -* Threatened species are likely to be at the brink in the near future. Threatened and Endangered Species in Boynton Beach Following the CRS procedures, the Floodplain Species Assessment used FEMA's Flood Risk Range and Endangered Species Habitat (FRESH) Map The "range" of a species is defined as the website to identify those threatened and endan- general geographical area within which that gered species with "range" in the City limits. As species can be found at the time either FWS the definition to the right notes, this does not or NMFS makes a status determination. This range includes those areas used throughout all mean that all of these plants or animals can be or part of the species' life cycle. found in the City limits today. Rather, it means that at one time they lived in the area. Urbanization, climate change, pollution, pesticides, and other factors have significantly reduced the likelihood that all these species can thrive in a developed environment like Boynton Beach. FRESH Map identified 26 species with range in Boynton Beach. These are listed in Table 1 on the next page. All but the smalltooth sawfish were listed by FWS. The smalltooth sawfish was listed by NMFS. However, since the original listings were made, FWS and NMFS have jointly addressed species that spend part of their life cycles in both domains, such as the sea turtles. Floodplain Species Plan -2 - May 8, 2025 Table 1. FRESH Map's 26 Species with Range in Boynton Beach Common Name Latin Name Federal Listing Status Birds Eastern black rail Laterallus jamaicensis Proposed Threatened Everglade snail kite Rostrhamus sociabilis plumbeus Endangered Florida scrub-jay Aphelocoma coerulescens Threatened Piping plover Charadrius melodus Endangered Red-cockaded woodpecker Picoides borealis Endangered Rufa red knot Calidris canutus rufa Threatened Wood stork Mycteria americana Threatened Mammals Florida panther Puma(=Fells)concolor coryi Endangered Gray bat Myotis grisescens Endangered Southeastern beach mouse Peromyscus polionotus niveiventris Threatened West Indian manatee Trichechus manatus Threatened Reptiles Eastern indigo snake Drymarchon corais couperi Threatened Hawksbill sea turtle Eretmochelys imbricata Endangered Leatherback sea turtle Dermochelys coriacea Endangered Loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta Endangered Fish Smailtooth sawfish Pristis pectinata Endangered Insects Bartram's hairstreak butterfly Strymon ads bartrami Endangered Florida leafwing butterfly Anaea troglodyte floridalis Endangered Miami tiger beetle Cicindelidia floridana Endangered Plants American chaffseed Schwalbea americana Endangered Beach jacquemontia Jacquemontia reclinata Endangered Florida perforate cladonia Cladonia perforata Endangered Florida prairie-clover Dalea carthagenensis floridana Endangered Four-petal pawpaw Asimina tetramera Endangered Okeechobee gourd Cucurbita okeechobeensis Endangered Tiny polygala Polygala smallii Endangered Table 1 shows the first step in the FSA process to identify the species that the City should address. The next step was to review the information on their habitat and get updated information and recommendations from the experts, such as FWS, NMFS, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), and private organizations that work to protect threatened and endangered species, such as the Save the Manatee Club. This process is described in more detail in Appendix 1, page 43. It was found that some of the 26 listings date back to the 1970s. Their ranges often cover large areas. Since then, many species have undergone further studies, recovery plans, and status assessments. The Floodplain Species Assessment's review identified 13 that were not likely to be Floodplain Species Plan —3 — May 8, 2025 found in this area any more. Although the area now known as the City of Boynton Beach may have once provided suitable habitat for the 13 species, those habitats are no longer viable. A summary of the rationale for removing the 13 species is shown in Table 2, below. The details on each species are in Appendix 1, starting on page 43. Table 2.Species Removed from the Original Listing (in Table 1) Common Name Reason for Removal 1 Birds Eastern black rail The type of wetland habitat needed is no longer in Boynton Beach Everglade snail kite The primary food source and habitat are not found in this area of the County Mammals Florida panther The primary food source and habitat are not found in this area of the County Gray bat A more recent report says the species is no longer found in Florida Southeastern beach mouse A more recent report says the species is no longer found in the area Reptiles Eastern indigo snake The urban environment is not appropriate for this species Insects Bartram's hairstreak butterfly Its pine rocklands habitat no longer includes Palm Beach County Florida leafwing butterfly Its pine rocklands habitat no longer includes Palm Beach County Miami tiger beetle A more recent report says the species is no longer found in the County Plants American chaffseed A more recent report says the species is no longer found in the County Florida prairie-clover Its pine rocklands habitat no longer includes Palm Beach County Okeechobee gourd The primary habitat is not found in this area of the County Note 1: `Removal"is not permanent—species can be included in future updates to the Floodplain Species Plan based on additional information from agencies and organizations with expertise in endangered species. The draft FSA, with Tables 1 and 2, was circulated to 15 government agencies and private organizations that have relevant programs. They are listed in Appendix 1, page 43. They were asked to help the City determine (1) which species warrant the most attention and(2) what actions would be most appropriate for those species. These agencies and organizations noted updates in the Federal listings and mapping since FRESH Map had been populated (c. 2019), additional species listed by the State, and recent research findings. As a result of these comments, the list was revised up from 13 to 20 species that warrant attention. The 20 species selected for attention are shown in Table 3, on the next page. The details of this review, the agencies and organizations involved and the rationale for selecting the 20 species are provided in Appendix 1. Information on their habitat and major threats to their survival and recovery are also included in Appendix 1. Floodplain Species Plan —4 — May 8, 2025 Table 3. Revised List of Species Warranting Attention in Boynton Beach Common Name Latin Name Listing Status Critical habitat Birds Florida scrub-jay Aphelocoma coerulescens Fed:Threatened Red-cockaded woodpecker Picoides borealis Fed:Threatened Rufa red knot Calidris canutus rufa Fed:Threatened Wood stork Mycteria americana Fed:Threatened Piping plover Charadrius melodus Fed: Endangered Burrowing owl Athene cunicularia State:Threatened Mammals West Indian manatee Trichechus manatus Fed: Threatened Yes Reptiles Hawksbill sea turtle Eretmochelys imbricate Fed: Endangered Leatherback sea turtle Dermochelys coriacea Fed: Endangered Loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta Fed:Threatened Yes Green sea turtle Chelonia mydas Fed: Endangered Proposed Kemp's ridley sea turtle Lepidochelys kempii Fed: Endangered Gopher tortoise Gopherus polyphemus State:Threatened Fish Smalltooth sawfish Pristis pectinata Fed: Endangered Corals Elkhom coral Acropora palmate Fed:Threatened Yes Staghom coral Acropora cervicomis Fed:Threatened Yes Plants Beach jacquemontia Jacquemontia reclinata Fed: Endangered Florida perforate cladonia Cladonia perforate Fed: Endangered Four-petal pawpaw Asimina tetramera Fed: Endangered Tiny polygala Polygala smallii Fed: Endangered Table 3 shows the list of threatened and endangered species that the Floodplain Species Assessment concluded warranted attention by the City. These species have range in the City limits as listed by either the Federal agencies (FWS and NMFS) or the State (FWC). Table 3 is the list used for this Floodplain Species Plan. When the draft FSP was circulated for comments, several reviewers recommended additional species, including the monarch butterfly, American crocodile, Audubon's caracara, and the Florida sandhill crane. It was concluded that the list of threatened and endangered species is a moving target. Rather than restart the planning process whenever the list changes, it was decided that these and other changes or updates to the list would be addressed during the annual plan evaluation, which is discussed on page 41. Floodplain Species Plan — 5 — May 8, 2025 Critical Habitat Most of the selected species have range throughout Critical Habitat the City. There is a second designation for threatened "Critical habitat is habitat that contains and endangered species -"critical habitat." While features or areas essential for the most of the species have critical habitat mapped, the conservation and recovery of the species areas are not in or near Boynton Beach. listed under the Endangered Species Act. It is a regulatory requirement affecting Four species do have designated critical habitat in or Federal actions; it is not a park, preserve adjacent to the City: the loggerhead sea turtle, the or closed area." two corals and the manatee. These are shown in https://www.fisheries.noaa.aov/national/ endangered-species-conservation/critical- different colors on Map 2. habitat The turtle's critical habitat is along the shoreline of Palm Peach County(in blue-green with a black border). It includes both the beaches and adjacent waters. In 2023, this area was also proposed for critical habitat designation for the green sea turtle, which is not yet listed as having range in this area. Because of this action, the green sea turtle was added to the list in Table 3. The elkhorn and staghorn corals' critical habitat is Map 2. Critical Habitat entirely in the ocean (in t v pink). It includes "all waters - ` ._. °"°°'°'°"°�ii I in the depths of 98 ft (30 m) ,� Hrl `�' and shallower to: (1)the 6- ` - '� :.. ft (1.8 m) contour fromi•-. I t ;•.&:.f: ,� _ West f Boynton Inlet, Palm Beach ; •-- ° i ' Manatee _ 4.County, to Government Cut, ,' )A •• .1 4 Miami-Dade County." t (2015 Recovery Plan, page I-9). Similar descriptions `' /' identify the critical habitat - ` '� 1 for the other Caribbean O1ead4^NU . coral species. I •-•7 ' i --`---s:u,___>_A___ w senna .__-1 fiuy ratan 8r.n 1, "—^i J� fdyn n l wa I i U,r an ut,r The manatee's habitat are ____7; �• j f the waters in the lagoon and r, , E 1 t canals (dark green border). _ -_ ' ---r w WDep.ianl RE .. f- j Their critical habitat and the • 1 Ba"Y Br <�, I• O.< P�nq< turtles' do not touch. L _ Yt -__i __ sw i3•a I♦v r. 1 I , It should be noted that in Golf September 2024, the USM' Fish & Wildlife Service 11 ; V---------_, "M<„•„ /, �"�,5, ", Gait<nn /.l•—.—•—•t FWS issued a proposed ii revision to the manatee 1 � •' critical habitat, eliminating °' Floodplain Species Plan - 6- May 8, 2025 the canals. While this may become effective some day, this Plan is keeping the older, larger and still effective critical habitat designation. Map 3 shows the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) for the City. This is the area that could be inundated by the one percent annual chance flood and is subject to the City's floodplain manage- ment regulations for new development and substantial improvements to existing buildings. Map 3. Special Flood Hazard Area in the City Limits I 'I � I M .,,f__,___ Hypoluxl pdrr d!<dl Rll� _ " \-�?-- �rHypoluxo-Rd-- 9 = F� .:. t. t. . rl Hy °ii • i. & I a- J. . J P. 1 , ...,...it c • r.-. 3 1 1 1 1 I ii i. / ,,,r1 •-• •,4 v-- t�� d City Limits ^ • \ . mess Cr a I la i Z' 1 Z yP; ee ' Country Club t r 1 O 019e09,14n Rd rt il� JI llr .` Boynton Beac ---- --77-r.-1 --,'804,—�"r—— ntan s-te Blvd Ocean Ridge —__-- w�Y � Special Flood 1 Hazard Area t•b v F4,,_c Y 1 . ©© i, w fght Rd __._ _... .2W Woolbifgh -.-_.rrd- t ".. - w W'o� •i II Quail Ridge . .� / • Country Club ny Breezes -._ sW2 dAve • z r, Golf A • o O II ( r #"i " ; n R.`+ it ._..'._.l� Gulf$1 ream t Goland ``ems♦ Racquet Club rit• I f ' b 1 g 1 I Floodplain Species Plan —7 — May 8, 2025 Map 4 combines Maps 2 and 3, showing both the critical habitat and the City's SFHA. While the floodplain and the related regulations are on land and the critical habitats for the manatee and corals are in water, the regulations along the shoreline could help with the recovery of these aquatic species. Floodplain management regulations on the beaches can help protect the sea turtles' critical habitat. Preserving the beaches would yield additional benefits for the birds, sea turtles, and plants that are listed in Table 5, page 13, as dependent on beaches for their habitat. However, Map 4 shows there is only one area of coastal beach within the City limits (red circle). The City owns beach front property at one other location which is outside the City limits. These two sites are noted on Maps 5, 6 and 7 and are discussed in more detail on page 14. Map 4. Critical Habitat and Special Flood Hazard Area I i I v".' I --. --.__^11YPolu.rr _ iJ.ta RE�� •-•!- --- -_ Hyp Iu•o Rd_: ` • Hy..� i - '•r i it: West •'� i, 1 .•--. Indian .•• I 1 ' ' Manatee L 111✓✓✓,lll 1 _. 11011 . Y i Fy i " L.-J • �t IV KYP;SE—srreelc 1 ; Oi CI � ._ Q _. j 6Puntry club __ , _ 1 1. 0111d7rAn Rd • !ii +j ti Boynto --- ln Beac til -_.__- �.- -. WpoYnlon 6e 3c hBIVd.—. - 1 1()'t.:r ':l I. • V' t opgerhl I.b 5.+,.Tui a '4 I i cl ,01 Rd ---W Woollii:ght'• --W" 1 it I s Quad Ridge [ coumrvClub JI sw 1 ad, ny lint I, / J . Golf 44_ z WOW s L , • M 13 j .K h7i.: Floodplain Species Plan 8 - May 8, 2025 One of the best ways to protect terrestrial habitat is to preserve it as open space— in a natural condition and protected from development. There is a lot of open space relative to the Special Flood Hazard Area. The land area of the SFHA is 585 acres and the total area of the parks and other preserved open space in the SFHA is 221 acres, meaning that 38% of the land portion of the City's floodplain will stay as open space. However, this may have minimal impact on those species with mapped critical habitat because, except for the sea turtles, they spend their entire lives in water. Protecting and preserving such open space is credited in the Community Rating System, as discussed in Appendix 2. Such credit acts as an additional incentive to keep these properties open. It should be noted that in addition to the floodplain '+. open space, other open areas in the City can provide appropriate habitat or can be managed to provide habitat for one or more of the other listed species. Examples are • to the right. ' r Example of areas with actions specifically designed for -"St protecting one or more threatened and endangered species are the County's 2e-r.40, ms''µ• t.. ts\ Natural Areas described on pages 24—25. Scrub Palmetto Sand Pine Cone More examples of current and (:Sabal etyma) Onus elausa) potential uses of open spaces Tkc Galaxy Nature Trail was developed by the City of for programs that protect Lynton Beach in partnership with the Sierra Club threatened and endangered .i Loxahatchee Group and Flonda Fish and Wildlife species are on pages 11, 12, , Conservation Commission. Interpretive signs were 18, 19, 22 and 26. provided by the School District of Palm Beach Count:• 4 BOYNTONS"``". BEACHSe• SIERRA Nr -10' CLUB „:;;;;.7.4"Z444,tY �dCn g � tia C i Jaycee Park (top) and Galaxy Park (bottom) provide opportunities for recreation, natural habitat, and signs to inform visitors on local plant and animal life. Floodplain Species Plan —9— May 8, 2025 Protective and Recovery Actions Table 4 lists the major threats to the 20 selected species. This information is taken from the species discussions in Appendix 1. Table 4. Major Threats to the Species Warranting Attention Common Name Birds Florida scrub-jay Habitat loss Red-cockaded woodpecker Habitat loss Rufa red knot Habitat loss,disruption of timing and food supplies during migration Wood stork Habitat loss, impacts of climate change on habitat and food resources Piping plover Habitat loss due to man-made modifications and invasive vegetation growth Burrowing owl Habitat loss due to human development and floods, harassment by humans and domesticated animals Mammals West Indian manatee Collisions with watercraft, entanglement in fishing gear, entrapment in canal systems,floodgates or locks Reptiles Sea turtles: Ocean Entanglement in nets and fishing gear,construction and dredging Sea turtles: Beaches Nesting area modification, human presence,artificial lighting,vehicles Gopher tortoise Habitat loss from urbanization,development,agriculture, mining and fire Fish Smalltooth sawfish Habitat loss,accidental capture by fisherman Corals Elkhom coral Disease,elevated seawater temperatures and ocean acidification Staghom coral Disease,elevated seawater temperatures and ocean acidification Plants Beach jacquemontia Habitat loss,fire management practices, invasive plant species, sea level rise Florida perforate cladonia Habitat loss,foot and off-road vehicle traffic Four-petal pawpaw Habitat loss,fire management practices,invasive plant species Tiny polygala Habitat loss,fire management practices,invasive plant species There are actions that an entity like the City of Boynton Beach can take to address most of the major threats listed above. For this Plan, these protection and recovery actions are organized under four categories: -3 Property management -* Regulatory standards -> Stormwater management -* Public information This section summarizes these four categories and identifies which threats they address. This Plan does not propose actions that address threats that are outside the jurisdiction of the City, such as climate change and sea level rise. Floodplain Species Plan - 10 - May 8, 2025 The Community Rating System has 94 elements or ways to credit a community's floodplain management activities. Appendix 2 reviews 19 elements relevant to protecting threatened and endangered species. Most of the possible protective and recovery actions also qualify for CRS credit, as noted after the summaries below. Some of these actions are already being implemented and others have been specifically recommended by the reviewers. Property management: The City owns various properties both in and outside of its corporate limits, such as parks and a golf course. These could house habitat or could be managed to improve habitat in adjacent areas. Threats addressed: Habitat loss, invasive plants, manatee entrapment in canal systems, turtle nesting area disruption Example: There are several City parks along the Lake Worth Lagoon where the City is improving habitat by planting mangroves. This work improves both the local habitat and provides an example for private owners to implement on their waterfront properties. CRS credits: Activity 420 (Open Space Preservation) • ter. , The City has A. preserved �( mangroves in ; t in peentuapm lhakal. 4 `t' `" et"�.K , its parks. This ,/� i, ' •. Mangrove trees use thr ` } • ` sign in Jaycee I,i.F sun's tve.vgytogrow leaves lel -- kat Minn to the tidal Oats below. bacteria root t raking Park explains trete!.content.,:,•mtails e trails while lune on me _ ra how mangroves . Small crabs flit off bite sized pieces. Oysters late,water - • • . their body,cleaning it and Wong s from t a "js host and —' - 1 tart flet and organisms.WW1 crabs,fish and marine tire eat the meal,,arses. a protect habitat. , _ ib to shallow Macken waters,And out of as W)Irl• " "q - - young snappers.Towers,lobsters andmany Zy'•. \` . - '` re k - mospecies tad load and shelter they rtr need to grow Into mutts - - .a .-II it I` -J Life begins ,here Regulatory standards: The City has authority over human activities such as traffic, land use and construction that could harm endangered species. The regulations could ensure that the impact on the species is avoided or minimized or they could help the species by improving their habitat. Such measures, though, are limited to the lands within the City's corporate limits. Threats addressed: Habitat loss due to human development, vehicular traffic in areas for turtle nesting and areas with threatened and endangered plant species Floodplain Species Plan — 11 — May 8, 2025 Example: Under State law and City ordinance, if a person wants to develop land deemed as environmentally sensitive, a Native Florida Ecosystem Survey must be prepared to help determine if there are any listed species present that would be impacted. CRS credits: Activity 430 (Higher Regulatory Standards) Stormwater management: The City has several authorities to manage runoff from public and private lands to ensure that habitat areas, especially aquatic areas, have the cleanest water possible. This is most important for species that live in the canals and Lake Worth Lagoon and, to a lesser degree, in the ocean. Example: "In addition, an adequate storm, surface and ground water drainage system, including necessary ditches, canals, swales, percolation areas, detention ponds, storm sewers, exfiltration trenches, drain inlets, manholes, headwalls, endwalls, culverts, bridges and other appurtenances shall be required in all subdivisions."—Boynton Beach Code of Ordinances, Part III, Chapter 4, Article VIII, Section 3.G.1.a Threats addressed: Habitat loss, sea water temperatures and acidification CRS credits: Activity 450 (Stormwater Management) Public information: The City can inform people about the need to protect threatened and NtLp P , M R' "cT OV* endangered species and what residents, ..111E: . property owners, and visitors can do. Threats addressed: Habitat loss, human , ` • ih GSYOUCAh DO_.+ interactions, such as collisions with water craft, capture by fishermen, artificial lighting and traffic in nesting areas. Public - • _ information projects can also promote understanding and support for the other 0111N DARK I IIES &ElNle • three categories of actions. SEA TURTLES' • • Example: Signs in City and County parks can convey appropriate messages, such as the one to the right. Sign in Gulfstream Park CRS credits: Activities 320 (Map Information Service), 330 (Outreach Projects), and 350 (Flood Protection Information) The following section, Types of Actions by Habitat, identifies where each of the four categories of actions are most effective. The Action Plan, pages 21 —42, provides details and assignments for specific actions under these four categories. Floodplain Species Plan — 12 — May 8, 2025 Types of Actions by Habitat The actions taken by the City are dependent on the type and location of the habitat to be protected or improved. Table 5 is taken from the species review in Appendix 1 for the 20 selected species. If several species share a common habitat, City actions in those locations will have a greater impact. The conclusions are summarized in Table 6 on page 21. Table 5. Habitats of the Species Warranting Attention l i o co H w 7 C0 C 13 Common Name u 63 .o ; N N ots °6 2 -a ti in m `° c c 0. Birds Florida scrub-jay ✓ Red-cockaded woodpecker I Rufa red knot ✓ Wood stork 1 Piping plover 1 Burrowing Owl ✓ Mammals West Indian manatee 11 Reptiles Hawksbill sea turtle I I Leatherback sea turtle ✓ ✓ Loggerhead sea turtle 12 12 Green sea turtle 12 12 Kemp's Ridley sea turtle I ✓ Gopher tortoise 1 Fish Smalltooth sawfish I ✓ Corals Elkhom and Staghom coral 12 Plants Beach jacquemontia I Florida perforate cladonia ✓ Four-petal pawpaw ✓ I Tiny polygala I 1. Critical habitat designated in the lagoon and canals. 2. Critical habitat designated or proposed for designation in the ocean and shoreline. Floodplain Species Plan — 13 — May 8, 2025 The Ocean: The ocean is the year-round habitat for the sea turtles, the smalltooth sawfish, and the corals. However, the City has no development controls or police authority outside its corporate limits. The City limits are actually 100 feet or more from the ocean, along the top of the dunes and only in one relatively small location: the housing area known as St. Andrews Club south of Gulf- stream Park. This area is as shown on Map 6. Map 5. Boynton Beach City Limits Map 6. City Area Abutting the Ocean •OXY '� L{{F ` ' i t•• , •••" 41F50 } P LI i i iii• .., }d, h,�i'n I/ ' k 1- - ' Ir l - . . ' -Ara- W�� W� ' I; 4 i �• LrtUe'Club"Rd ' 1. r. --i City Boundary IL. }. jJ ,. •• i f r -. ' *......1 ... �4_ *MO uo.�, • . NI N*7----.- it i .„...., 4 41, ''i ii t .saLi-• -.,,,,t,":44""-""""":"."• �0 8allanhop Condominiu i o Assocfalion 4 0-Area shown on Map 6 — Boynton Beach City limits 0—Oceanfront Park (Map 7) Source: Google Maps North of the City limits, in the Town of Ocean Ridge, is Map 7. Oceanfront Park Oceanfront Park. The City owns this park and has devel- oped it as a public beach, with life guards, picnic areas and , restrooms. This property can be managed by the City to F ) • support this Plan, but, as with the City limits, the property '`,.'./ z ' J 1. boundary (shown in blue on Map 7) stops roughly at the , , .- top of the dunes and does not include the beach or water. .. 44'•g. i Y''� .. i' Conclusion: Given that the City has no property and no " - . f.• : regulatory authority in the ocean, City actions related to b� ' endangered species that live in the ocean should be limited to two types of actions: stormwater management measures •_ that will improve the quality and clarity of the ocean's water and public information projects to inform residents, -10 1 businesses, swimmers and boaters of appropriate things _` _`- , they should do to protect water quality and the turtles, -. r sawfish and corals. An example of the latter is the sign on -- page 12. Source: Palm Beach County Property Appraiser Floodplain Species Plan — 14— May 8, 2025 Beaches and dunes: As noted in Table 5, the beaches and dunes along the ocean serve three groups of species. They are used by the piping plover and the rufa red knot when migrating through in the spring and fall, they are the nesting sites for the five sea turtles from March through October and they are the year-round homes for three species of plants. As with the Atlantic Ocean, the City-owned property boundary and regulatory authority stop at the top of the dunes in the two small areas shown on Maps 6 and 7. Conclusion: City actions related to habitat on the beaches and dunes should be limited to property manasement on the little area of dunes that the City owns and public information projects appropriate for the three groups of species. Details on appropriate actions are covered in the Action Plan, pages 21 —42. Lagoon and canals: These waters are the home for the West Indian manatee and the smalltooth sawfish. As shown on Map 2 (page 6), Lake Worth Lagoon north of NE 10th Avenue and several canals have been designated as critical habitat for the manatee. The City owns properties along the Lagoon and canals. Most of these are parks and some have projects, such as mangrove planting, which are designed to improve the natural habitat. The majority of the land fronting on the Lagoon and canals are private properties. However, residential front and back yards and common open space in residential developments could be managed to protect habitat. Managing the runoff from these properties into the Lagoon and canals is especially important to the manatees and other aquatic animals and plants. The importance of the Lake Worth Lagoon has been recognized in the City's Comprehensive Plan. The Coastal Element, last updated in 2016, includes a helpful map of habitat areas in the Boynton Beach section of the Lagoon. It is included as Map 8 on the next page. Two objectives in the Coastal Management Element are relevant here. Objective 7.2 addresses water quality in the Lagoon: "The City shall coordinate with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the South Florida Water Management District, Palm Beach County Department of Environmental Resources Management, and other affected parties in meeting the requirements of the Florida Total maximum Daily Load Program for the Lake Worth Lagoon." Objective 7.4 specifically addresses habitat: "The City shall continue to protect, conserve and, where possible, improve local wildlife, coastal wetlands, estuaries, coastal barriers and marine habitats."—https://www.bovnton-beach.or2/475/Comprehensive-Plan, 7 Coastal Management Element Each objective has several policies, such as Policy 7.2.2 "The City will continue to maintain a program of street sweeping roadways and parking areas that drain into the Intracoastal Waterway" and Policy 7.4.1 "The City shall continue to discourage site clear-cutting and protect, restore and enhance, where possible, existing natural areas and native species, such as beaches and dunes, wetlands, estuaries and drainage systems." Floodplain Species Plan — 15 — May 8, 2025 Map 8. Comprehensive Plan Map of Lake Worth Lagoon Habitat Map 7-7 I _"�,, Coastal Management Area Miner Rd ' LAKE WORTH LAGOON 1 • , �}�lI HABITAT 2001 1 il 1.A { � ...._.._.._ .._._..i ,i i 1111.- y`1 I,1111115 111�IIM lila' Il'i L o ...iii■ L mi i ! , ,s o 1 KLI _1-t _ , eziyir 11112fin itsfally : i l ' ii Legend I. 1 Ii HABITAT �. III.a.;Y.i Land !'� mina .. I,F NEP 07'Ave i 14-041-dib Unvegetated Bottom ; %1 ! (f i Tidal Flats q II il I rf hhr t i I , 3` • m Seagrass-Patchyi ! ei is [ Seagrass Continuous a .•u'u� if* I ! ° 1 z Algae Beds = / 1 ---- City Boundary ❑ , ii SOURCE: a�--� Ocean Ave Palm Beach County :11Illl I Department of Environmental . :rail Resource Management .11220 n;i' w -ice • �- 461f ` TON eP 2,000 1,000 0 2,000 Feet MM 111111111 Floodplain Species Plan — 16— May 8, 2025 Protecting and restoring habitat in Lake Worth Lagoon is also addressed in two special regional plans that cover parts of Boynton Beach: the 2018 Boynton Inlet Contributing Area Watershed Management Plan (www:hor.slevwitten.com/ndf/BovntonlCAWatershedMemtPlan.ndf) and the 2021 Lake Worth Lagoon Management Plan (httns://discover.nbc.aov/erm/LWLagoon/ Management-Plan.asnx') Both have a series of recommendations, especially on water quality issues. The Lake Worth Lagoon Management Plan includes three recommendations that are pertinent here: –* SW-1 Reduce Stormwater Runoff from Urban Landscapes - SW-2 Expand Use of Green Infrastructure and Low Impact Development Practices --> PO-1 Foster Public Awareness and Engagement The City is participating in implementing these plans. The City has regulatory authority over development of private property adjacent to these waters. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is the primary agency for setting boat- ing regulations. Both the Commission and the City can enforce them and the City can set some regulatory standards for boating. Currently, there are speed limits and restricted areas in the Lake Worth Lagoon to protect manatees and the seagrass areas they feed on (see Map 9, below). Conclusion: Actions from all four categories could be pursued to help protect and improve water quality and the habitat for threatened and endangered species in the Lagoon and canals. Map 9. Palm Beach County Manatee Protection Areas https://mvfwc.com/media/7315/Dalmbeachmoz-bramaDS.Ddf 1 11 r r I Zone Type Legend ��cl Idle Speed All Year pi Slow Speed All Year Boynton Beach 68D-24.017(1)0) Wool bright 't Slow Speell Year Shore to shore LS N Rd Bridge -- 300'North of the north end to 300'South of the south end of the Woolbright Rd Bridge fndr sys A --- 50 S(1)(c Buff t i' S0'Slow Speed Buffer All Year. 68C•22.009(1)(g)2 0 0.25 0.5 — -- i 30mph June 1-Sept 30 SE 23RD AVE, 25mph Oct 1•May 31 111•1111=,111•1111=, j� I Atlantic ICW to within 50•of shoreline Miles k These maps show ONLY the FWC Manatee Protection Zones, f FWC Boating Restricted Areas, / 1 68C-22009(1 Ngl2 and USFWS Manatee Protection 30mptl June 1.Sept 30 – Areas(If applicable). I l 25mph Oct 1•May 31 There may also be other I iAtlantic ICW to within 50'of shoreline, LocaUStateiFederalZones. II --. I includes main marked channel of ICW Boaters are advised to abide by � I' t 1 Marker'52 to Broward County line. the regulations as posted on the water. -- CONFIGURATION OF FWC ZONES /J ACCURATE AS OF JUNE 2014 fr 50'68Slow Speed z 50'Slow Speed Buffer All Year. if I � _ Marker'52'to Marker'56'.Including // backwaters and canals.Excludes II main marked channel of ICW. Floodplain Species Plan – 17 – May 8, 2025 Inland open space: Table 5 has four inland areas: - Sandy areas, home to the Florida scrub jay and gopher tortoise -* Pine scrub, which supports the four-petal pawpaw and tiny polygala -* Pine and hardwood forests, the red-cockaded woodpecker's preferred habitat -> Open grasslands, which support the burrowing owl While technically different habitats, these areas are similar in that they are undeveloped and they are inland from the lagoon and canals. Further, some species can adapt to areas that are similar to, if not exactly like, their preferred habitat. For example, "burrowing owls have turned to pastures, agricultural fields, golf courses, airports, schools, and vacant lots in residential areas as most native open habitats have been converted by humans to these new uses."-A Species Action Plan for the Florida Burrowing Owl, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 2013, page 1.2 (https://mvfwc.com/media/2l 13/burrowing-owl-species-action plan-final-draft.pdf). Accordingly, these four habitat areas are treated together as "inland open space." The City owns some of this open space as does the County. In fact, there are two County parks dedicated to preserving sandy and scrub habitat, the Rosemary Scrub and Seacrest Scrub Natural Areas (see the excerpt from its brochure, below). The latter is dedicated to protecting and informing visitors about the gopher tortoise. An example of a City property that has been managed to improve habitat and stormwater runoff is The Links at Boynton Beach golf course. While outside the City limits, it is within the City's jurisdiction and it can support beneficial activities, as noted in the sidebar on the next page. The City also has regulatory authority over private lands and can require appropriate land development and stormwater management practices. It can also use public information media to encourage private owners to take beneficial steps. Gopher Tortoise Nature Trail Conclusion: All four categories of actions can be implemented l Seacrest Scrub is home to several protected plant and animal to protect these inland open O species, including the gopher tortoise. This reptile uses its strong areas. front legs to dig a burrow up to 30 feet long. These cool underground tunnels shelter many other animals, including insects, snakes, and small mammals. 4 ....AA)*rA + _R , : , e . • . '4`-.•:'>:.;;;4-.17.-i.'. h- f :::::: ' 4t,jif - ..'' ,til l'i'.1''.4t44717. . �: x- y!!yc yyy ,i 1 )':' l.N�+ +ice /'.' �`,ss�,4 �•i-w z. ��..� �. 'r' • .i!_ ?,, jwT a i. K, ._ .` _ ... .fi .. i ,. ,,cam.-. _ •._. From the Seacrest Scrub Natural Area brochure Floodplain Species Plan - 18 - May 8, 2025 The Links at Boynton Beach: A Stormwater Management Success Story The Links at Boynton Beach is a 150 acre public golf course, owned by Palm Beach County and managed by the City of Boynton Beach. It has 27 holes, a grass tee driving range and free putting and chipping/bunker greens. Such facilities would normally expect to be heavily watered, frequently mowed, and overrun with golfers. "A typical 18-hole golf course requires three to four tons of fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides every year to support its intensive usage and aesthetic requirements. Golf courses also irrigate intensively, increasing the potential for fertilizer and chemical residues to enter waterways." — Lake Worth Lagoon Management Plan, page 57 Audubon International (not connected to the Audubon Society) hosts a program that certifies golf courses as Cooperative Sanctuaries. Its website explains how it works: After joining the program, your next step is to take stock of environmental resources and potential liabilities, and then develop an environmental plan that fits your unique setting, goals, staff, budget, and time.Audubon International provides a Site Assessment and Environmental Planning Form to provide guidance, as well as educational information to help you with: , .• } ,: —> Environmental Planning 1 —► Wildlife and Habitat Management 1 L 1)1. ('•O Ny\ Chemical Use Reduction and Safety --> Water Conservation -* Water Quality Management --> Outreach and Education Based on a site-specific report provided by Audubon International, you develop a plan that works for your golf course. By implementing and documenting environmental management practices in the above areas, a golf course is eligible for designation as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary... www.auduboninternational.ora/acsp-for-golf The Links was designated a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary in 2006 and has renewed its status every three years since then. It met the requirements by staff work using the Audubon International guidance —there was no engineering or consultant involved. The course has areas with natural grasses that aren't mowed. Staff notes that they save a lot of money by reducing watering and the use of fertilizers. What little water runs off to the nearby canals is relatively clean. Staff removed d k • tc.. invasive Brazilian N , : v4,0 AN , pepper trees (left) x xX } + and established ' tet:: t ;�.�'�% , ' native plants, such ••••‘,„,,si ( - as the Pond Apple, "�►"' ,. Green Arrow Arum, . 4/1 and Bulltongue „ • Arrowhead ,' .`" (Sagittaria � - Lancifolia, on the• ground, right). • Photos from s`440%;', The Links t "_ Floodplain Species Plan - 19 - May 8, 2025 Wetlands: "Wood storks are a wetland dependent species. They use a wide variety of freshwater and estuarine wetlands for nesting, feeding, and roosting throughout their range."—Species Status Assessment Report for the Wood Stork, April 2021, Page 18, httos://ecos.fws.gov/ServCat/DownloadFile/227957 There are no wetlands in the City limits. However, there are three wetland areas west and south of Boynton Beach, identified on Map 10. iNaturalist.org is a website where people can post sightings of animals and plants. Map 10 shows wood stork sightings, which are concentrated in the three wetland areas. As the map shows, there have also been many sightings in other areas, primarily ponds, canals and ditches, where fish are plentiful. Conclusion: All water bodies and canals in the City should be treated as wood stork habitat where stormwater management and public information actions would be urr-,r-:ate. Map 10.Wood stork sightings reported in www.inaturalist.orq _ F} A. wraaw..n i PM 1 i' a. a .wa t •F N - ---_—r a.........,...41 L 1 : 1 I r: } • on t5.,,is,.(. I t , f ... :t:i r_ 1 99,..4n FrU M� 9 Arthur R. Marshall • Loxahatchee e • i f i • . National o t . ♦ o"H 3 t in A • o• Wildlife -1GreenCay Nature Center 4 t 1 • Refuge and Wetlands •- . t • •JPJ 0 1 ♦♦ ♦ t j • h •'Wakodahatchee ; J • ' . •• Wetlands r ' F • •c i ; it . 1 Floodplain Species Plan —20— May 8, 2025 Action Plan The previous sections of this Floodplain Species Plan -+ Identified the species warranting attention, - Mapped those with designated critical habitat and their relation to the floodplain, -* Introduced four categories of actions that can help protect them and help them recover from a threatened status, and -* Reviewed how those actions would be appropriate for the different types of habitat. Table 6. Protective and Recovery Actions by Habitat Table 6 summarizes where the protective and recovery actions would be most a �, °; a' 13 productive. = c N cn D co Actions N 0 N Cc C L O 'O The information so far sets the stage for o m c c3) co 75 this Action Plan, i.e., the specific actions I for the City to take to protect threatened Property management ✓ ✓ ✓ and endangered species and help in their Regulatory standards ✓ •/ recovery so they can be de-listed. Stormwater management ✓ `1 •/ '/ I Public information I ✓ I ✓ I ✓ I ✓ I ✓ Inland open space comprises sandy areas, pine scrub, pine/hardwood forest and open grasslands because of their similarities. The Action Plan was drafted by the Table 7. Supporting City Offices planning team after meeting with Office Area of Interest various City offices that had reviewed the Floodplain Species Building Department Regulatory standards Assessment. The meetings reviewed Community Standards Regulatory standards the offices' activities and their areas Innovation &Technology Solutions GIS and mapping of interest, as listed in Table 7. Each Planning &Zoning Regulatory standards action item is assigned to one of Public Affairs Public information these offices to be the lead on Public Works Property management implementation. Recreation & Parks Property management There are 15 action items in this Utilities, Stormwater Stormwater management section, arranged under the four Utilities, Sustainability& Resiliency All four categories categories of actions plus a fifth category for monitoring and evaluating progress. A summary table of the 15 action items is on page 42. Floodplain Species Plan —21 — May 8, 2025 PM - Property Management Action Items. These are things that can be done on City properties by the offices noted. PM 1. Open Area Habitat The Galaxy Scrub Preserve is hosting a pilot project on restoring an inland open area to better support wildlife. The project is described in Galaxy Sand Pine Scrub Preserve Management Plan available from the Utilities Department's Sustainability & Resiliency Office. A variety of actions are underway to "provide wildlife habitat, ecosystem services and a connection with nature for students and the local community." . I(4111\.., ' ' .. ;1 , (. ,,xv Sand his Scrub Preser 1,1 f Illir _ .,� y , .�. iii ~ v - e = £ it.= 44. "ham 014441, , *PF ' C:'; `-71e1,msF s. .,..,. . 44 -471:-.1./,,,tv..+V.:‘, , .'-. ,0 ..•,2s'.1".'1,...4". Aat ;_� * l`'4-..."4,4-,,,-;---,4:'.-r.,---.4- F'-L ,. -.4' - a.*1��c` t %'. .:,rh ' / "K• S .},i - +++.4'"'111""" Students reading an interpretive sign on the nature Signs in the Galaxy Scrub Preserve trail(Source: Management Plan, page 5) This action item calls for evaluating the success of this project and extending it to other City and private properties as appropriate. This is consistent with the City's park system master plan, Reimagine Recreation. One of its guiding principles is Expand Natural Area Parks- Expand natural area park land and provide public access to Natural Area Parks through unpaved walking/hiking trails and mountain bike trails where appropriate, with interpretive signage and other amenities such as seating areas and shelters. —page 169, https://www.bovnton-beach.orq/DocumentCenter/View/1126/final-report?bidld The plan includes a map (page 170) that shows the extensive park network in the City and the relationship between current and proposed parks and natural areas. The map shows areas of "opportunities" (e.g., undeveloped but privately owned land) along the Lake Worth Lagoon. Map 11 (next page) is an excerpt from this map, showing the many opportunities for future natural areas, especially in the Lagoon, wetlands and floodplains. Two areas outside the City limits (but owned by the City) could also be used for demonstration projects: Oceanfront Park and The Links golf course, which has a project explained on page 19. Floodplain Species Plan —22 — May 8, 2025 Lead office: Sustainability & Resiliency—while the areas affected are likely Public Works and Recreation & Parks properties, Sustainability & Resiliency has been the lead for the Galaxy Scrub Preserve project. Map 11. Excerpt from Reimagine Recreation, page 170 Natural Areas - Existing Natural Areas (in Boynton Beach Parks/Preserves) NB Existing Natural Areas (in Palm Beach County Parks/Preserves) High Ridge Scrub Natural Area IM Future Natural Areas —— — Opportunities 8 � 11 Undeveloped Boynton Beach Preserves/ , ,,,,,,i—,i • PBC Preserves+Vacant Land(Wetlands, Q . I Floodzones,Natural Forest,>2 acres) I --1:17 4 - i),):7,5 1141-0. i 2 ! oapsemaryiScrub Natural Area = i g ' i . --.i i �_ Q b,9 6J I t+ d / '� `' ry 1 `� ; 4' -' . nal 4„...., . _4i, ° .-1-r----- I„1 n&• , , • 101,.....,4. I fAr , s _ i§. , maim IIIIIIgn ' ie ( ` 4 _ ---� Ocean Ridge Hammock Pork P .-!i. , —I H . (. Yc,I / Actions: PM 1.1. Complete the Galaxy Scrub Preserve project to restore habitat and set up signs and other explanatory features. PM 1.2. Draft a report that describes the project, lessons learned from the project and any park maintenance cost savings that have resulted. PM 1.3. If it is concluded that the project was effective and transferable to other properties, add to the report how to best publicize the positive aspects that would encourage private property owners to undertake similar projects. PM 1.4. Identify other City properties where such projects would be beneficial and implement them as funding is made available. Floodplain Species Plan —23 — May 8, 2025 Impacted habitat: inland open space, lagoon and canals Benefiting species: Florida scrub jay, red-cockaded woodpecker, burrowing owl, gopher tortoise, West Indian manatee, smalltooth sawfish, four-petal paw paw, tiny polygala. CRS credit: Restoring habitat in areas preserved as floodplain open space would qualify for natural functions open space (NFOS) in Activity 420 (Open Space Preservation). PM 2. County Parks Programs There are several County park properties in and near Boynton Beach that are or can be adapted to preserve appropriate habitat. These include Rosemary Scrub, Seacrest Scrub, Lantana Scrub, High Ridge Scrub, Hypoluxo Scrub, and Ocean Ridge Natural Areas, Caloosa, Gulfstream, Ocean Ridge Hammock, and Ocean Inlet Parks, and the Green Cay Nature Center& Wetlands. They include areas of inland open space, wetlands, and dunes. Not only do these parks preserve natural habitat, many have brochures and signs telling the public what is there and how to protect what is there. The Natural Areas have detailed and attractive signage informing visitors about their habitat. Seacrest Scrub has a Gopher Tortoise Nature Trail to encourage people to get closer to the Florida Scrub habitat (example, below). The Natural Areas and the Green Cay Nature Center have brochures in racks for the public to take. This action item is to encourage Palm Beach County Parks & Recreation to continue and expand their habitat protection measures in their parks and natural areas. Lead office: Sustainability & Resiliency MII fAp SMR, SEACREST : I a►e .:-- NAT�IRAI i ,,t. .'4. o ' . • AREAS SCRUB i :'y,; SAVING FLORIDA'S .'� �' ` r GOPHFR ORTOISS WHY IS MY BURROW IMPORTANT? . ilorm ,_ ., .,"S4 1. _ I I wr WATCH YOUR STEP j�k.; . .r ..v.�.... I'M PROTECTED '` DON T TOUCH ME O.MY.YtlO W per.'. ® ""."=""*.-"..*"..."' ' ABOUT US ` 1 I DON'T SWIM! .«,w�To o... ,0. ,i.. . e `yI ., DON'T PUT ME IN THE WATER 888-404-3922 �'"' h Fed tion ..— �aoProiecc \. / ,, LFf';'.- '- Brochure available at the ' i ✓ entrance to Seacrest Sign on a trail in Seacrest Scrub Natural Area Floodplain Species Plan —24— May 8, 2025 Actions: PM 2.1. Contact the County offices responsible for parks, natural areas, and nature centers to review what areas are preserved and if there are opportunities to cover more areas. PM 2.2. If the County agrees to PM 2.1., determine how the City can help, such as providing brochures (see Action Item PI. ) or publicizing the sites' messages. Impacted habitat: inland open space, dunes and beaches (Gulfstream and other ocean front parks) Benefiting species: inland parks: Florida scrub jay, red-cockaded woodpecker, burrowing owl, gopher tortoise, four-petal paw paw, tiny polygala. Ocean front parks: rufa red knot, piping plover, sea turtles, beach jacquemontia, Florida perforate cladonia, four-petal paw paw. CRS credit: The signs, brochures and other informational materials are credited as outreach projects under Activity 330 (Outreach Projects). What counts for CRS credit is that the projects are implemented within Boynton Beach, regardless of what agency or organization prepares and distributes them. PM 3. Natural Shoreline Restoration Palm Beach County, in partnership with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, are funding the mangrove planting project illustrated to the right. The City is planning to initiate similar projects at several "`:� publicly owned sites, including Jaycee and Mangrove , y +` Parks. Not only do these projects provide or improve h` habitat, they also preserve and strengthen the natural protection against erosion and storm damage that is - provided by the trees and the protected land, reducing ; ,, " flood damage to the adjacent properties. Mangrove planting at Intracoastal Park These projects can be implemented on many more sites if private property owners see their benefit. There is limited information about the projects at some of the sites, but at Jaycee Park, for example, there is a sign designed to attract readers that is excerpted on the next page. Lead office: Public Works Actions: PM 3.1. Complete all scheduled plantings. PM 3.2. Evaluate the effectiveness of the projects in terms of habitat and storm protection provided and a cost estimate for a typical size waterfront lot. Floodplain Species Plan —25 — May 8, 2025 PM 3.3. Assuming PM 3.2. concludes there is a positive outcome, determine if any other City properties warrant a project. PM 3.4. Develop a handout on the information collected, lessons learned, where to get help, etc. Distribute it to c.Yr.,,F.:ate groups, such as neighborhood organizations, and post copies available for the taking at public places like City Hall and the Library. PM 3.5. Develop a sign that will be 41.1.,..1,.:ate for all the public sites that have had such projects. Include summary information and where to get more information (see PM 3.2 and PI 2). Put the signs up in public places, such as waterfront parks and the pavilion at Mangrove Walk Pond. PM 3.6. Respond to and assist property owners interested in a project. Impacted habitat: Lagoon & canals Benefiting species: Manatees and smalltooth sawfish CRS credit: Restoring natural shorelines in areas preserved as floodplain open space would qualify for natural functions open space (NFOS) in Activity 420 (Open Space Preservation). I 14 5 ilver mullet slide through a mangrove root maze. A wise snook waits motionless in deeper water.Thumb-sized Florida Spiny lobster cautiously - crawl through seagrass in clean,clear water.These are signs of healthy `' estuaries needed by so many fish,birds,crabs,shrimp,oysters and other species. 4' .+'4� Ecological restoration helps heal what we have damaged by reshaping the Ian' and removing exotic plants that have overgrown an area disturbed by development.Replanting natural • �` shorelines of mangroves and coastal plants recreates a marine food source and nursery habitat., Ps.' , One location might not make a big difference,but added to other restoration sites it can give 'i .; nature a chance to recover. Consider this: You may have restoration to thank for the next snapper or shrimp dinner you eat! I Sign at Jaycee Park Floodplain Species Plan —26 — May 8, 2025 PM 4. Manatee Exclusion Devices The comments by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission included a request to "install and maintain manatee exclusion devices over any existing or proposed drainage system pipes or culverts greater than 8 inches, but smaller than 8 feet in diameter that are submerged or partially submerged and reasonably accessible to manatees." The reasoning behind this request is explained in a September 2024 handout from the Commis- sion, found at https://mvfwc.com/media/cddbi45k/manatee-exclusion-devices.pdf. The handout notes that manatees can be attracted to culverts and pipes such as storm drains because they provide access to food and fresh water. "As manatees cannot swim backwards or easily turn around in confined spaces, they are susceptible to becoming entrapped, potentially resulting in serious injury or death." The handout includes specifications for the device. It should be noted that the Save the Manatee Club also recommended species-specific projects. Most of these are covered in other action items, including shoreline restoration (PM 3), stormwater runoff(SWM 1), and public information (PI 1, 2, and 4). Lead office: Utilities— Stormwater Actions: PM 4.1. Inventory the canals and open drains in the City and identify locations where such devices are needed. In coordination with the Lake Worth Drainage District, prioritize them based on guidance in the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission handout. PM 4.2. Install the devices in accordance with the priorities in PM 4.1. Impacted habitat: Lagoon and canals Benefiting species: West Indian manatee CRS credit: This particular public works action is not currently credited by the CRS. i' This manatee was one of 19 that had to be rescued from a storm drain in Brevard County in February 2015(photo from WESH Channel 2) Floodplain Species Plan —27— May 8, 2025 RS - Regulatory Standards Action Items. These are things that can be done under the City's regulatory authorities. RS 1. Permit Application Materials The City's Code of Ordinances has several provisions that require or encourage developers to preserve existing natural features. These include: Part III Land Development Regulations, Chapter 1. General Administration,Article II,Section 1.C.provides for a pre-application process for City staff to review and explain all requirements to the permit applicant. Chapter 4. Site Development Standards,Article 1, Section 3. Preservation Principles. A. High Ecological Importance. Areas that are considered to be of high ecological importance should be given the highest priority for protection.These areas include but are not limited to the following: 1)have occurrences of federal and state listed species of flora and fauna;2)have biological diversity;3)are located in aquifer recharge zones; and 4)are known to provide habitat for threatened and endangered species of fauna and flora.Therefore,these natural areas shall be protected. Section 4.Standards A. General.All proposed developments shall be designed to preserve, perpetuate,and improve the existing natural character of the site. Existing native trees and other landscape features shall,to the maximum extent possible, be preserved in their natural state;... High-quality areas placed in preservation shall be retained in entirety in their current improved natural state. and protected regardless of ownership.This requirement may be negotiated to create contiguous preserves among plant communities. During the site plan review process,the applicant shall be required to prove that the highest ecologically valued land is being retained first. If the preservation of the highest ecologically valued land renders infeasibility of the site development, it shall be the applicant's responsibility to prove such hardship and provide an acceptable alternative for approval. B. Section B provides specific requirements for different natural areas,such as dunes,mangrove areas,and "Environmentally Sensitive Lands."which are identified in the Conservation Element of the Comprehensive Plan and are shown on Map 12 on the next page. Article II. Landscape Design and Buffering Standards,Section 2 states when the applicant must submit a Native Florida Ecosystem Survey or Inventory.This is a document prepared by a professional biologist that includes identifying"endangered,threatened and rare species and species of special concern found on the site.... Mitigation considerations should be discussed in detail as they relate to possible loss of habitat or impact on endangered,threatened or rare animal and plant species,or species of special concern." The development application process is explained on the City's website at www.bovnton-beach .org/311/Development-Application-Process. There are also checklists of the requirements for minor and major development applications www.bovnton-beach.org/261/Application-Tvpes- Documents and www.bovnton-beach.org/265/Document-Descriptions-Requirements . It can be seen that there are several provisions that require developers to account for any impact their project may have on threatened and endangered species. The objective of this action item is to provide permit applicants with information, references, and examples of good practices that meet these and related regulatory requirements. Such materials would make the requirements easier to understand, which would foster voluntary compliance and/or implementation of projects that exceed the ordinance requirements. Floodplain Species Plan —28 — May 8, 2025 Map 12. Environmentally Sensitive Lands Comprehensive Plan, Conservation Element moi , Y I 1 r . .., , •7,,. .i. ', • , . • „, If ,,,),- ai—I ,_ ';l IL► o:,.... :.. i �. J soil , mICCA Vit,- _ ll 71 1111.111111 I'...fr.* ...., imitot . ...-1:0 . + .,.aus:a�o ,r r. ?MN d " `3 + ?l; ` ._ Jill I It-41=` t.t4.4 urn I i 1 II -i •Ilkl. re i" "'•.1 1 411 .:: :,--k. .- 46..:-..:...a.-. ..17' -I 1., 4.r.rit Il.' .41.,,i.lk dr III':;:: ' 4 ;i li '' fijitairezir.77 I i I "' . 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Review all the relevant regulatory requirements of the City and other local, regional and state agencies with permitting authority. RS 1.2. Collate and summarize the relevant requirements into a document with links to the full requirements and reference materials. RS 1.3. Periodically evaluate applicant responses and comments on the document. Keep it updated as ordinances are amended. Impacted habitat: All Benefiting species: All CRS credit: The review in RS 1.1 should also determine which requirements qualify for CRS credit in Activity 430 (Higher Regulatory Standards). RS 2. Waterfront Properties Incentive The requirements for development and redevelopment projects reviewed under RS 1 only apply to major projects or projects that impact Environmentally Sensitive Lands. There are many other occasions where a property owner could implement improvements such as planting or restoring mangroves (see action item PM 3) or adopting Florida Friendly Landscaping measures (see action items SWM 1 and SWM 2). Rather than mandate specific measures for smaller developments, this action item proposes encouraging property owners to learn about habitat-friendly measures and incorporate them voluntarily. An incentive is proposed to get the owner's attention. Examples of such an incentive could be a reduction in the permit fee or a waiver of a regulatory requirement, such as getting a smaller property line set back if the owner incorporates a shoreline buffer to filter runoff and protect the shore from erosion or Green Stormwater Infrastructure measures that keeps all stormwater on the site (see SWM 1 for more information on this program). Lead office: Planning & Zoning with support from Sustainability & Resiliency Actions: RS 2.1. Review the literature and recommendations from organizations like the University of Florida Extension (host of the Florida Friendly Landscaping and Green Stormwater Infrastructure Programs) and Save the Manatee Club. RS 2.2. Develop a handout of recommended measures with references and links for more detailed information. RS 2.3. Identify appropriate incentives and seek authorization to use them, where needed. Floodplain Species Plan — 30— May 8, 2025 RS 2.4. Monitor usage of the incentive(s) and the resulting voluntary habitat-friendly measures. Draft a report on the findings and recommendations for continuing, stopping, or modifying the program. Impacted habitat: inland open space, lagoon and canals Benefiting species: Florida scrub jay, red-cockaded woodpecker, burrowing owl, gopher tortoise, West Indian manatee, smalltooth sawfish, four-petal paw paw, tiny polygala. CRS credit: Implementing some of these measures could qualify for natural functions open space (NFOS) in Activity 420 (Open Space Preservation). RS 3. Comnrehensive Plan Coordination The City's Comprehensive Plan provides overall guidance for City activities including utilities, conservation, recreation and open space and coastal management. Certain regulatory measures must be consistent with the Comp Plan. The City's current Comprehensive Plan was first adopted in 1989. It and its elements have been reviewed, updated, and/or revised periodically since then. A full review of the plan is scheduled to be completed in late 2025. This is an opportune time to ensure that the Comp Plan is updated to reflect the more recent provisions of this Floodplain Species Plan and that the Floodplain Species Plan is revised if there are provisions contrary to the 2025 Comp Plan. The current Comprehensive Plan has Objectives under five Elements that reference or support protecting threatened and endangered species. They have a total of 34 policy statements that should be confirmed or revised during the upcoming review process. The Elements and Objectives are listed below. The full objective statements with the policies are included as Appendix 3. Comprehensive Plan Elements and Objectives Related to Threatened and Endangered Species 1. Future Land Use, last revised June 2014 1.13 Habitat Preservation 3. Utilities,last revised September 2020 3B.2 Protection of surface water and groundwater from stormwater runoff 4. Conservation, last revised October 2008 4.3 Protect the Intracoastal Waterway from stormwater pollutants 4.6 Protection of upland and wetland vegetation,mangroves 4.7 Protection of fisheries and wildlife and marine habitats 5. Recreation and Open Space, last revised August 2008 5.7 Preservation of open space system 7. Coastal Management, last revised December 2016 7.1 Development and redevelopment of waterfront properties 7.3 Protection and restoration of the coastal dune system and beaches 7.4 Protection and conservation of coastal habitats Floodplain Species Plan — 31 — May 8, 2025 Lead office: Planning & Zoning Actions: RS 3.1. During the Comprehensive Plan review process, compare the language and intent of each of the identified objectives and their policies with the language and intent of the related topics in this Floodplain Species Plan. RS 3.2. If inconsistencies or conflicts are found, review the issue with the lead office for the related FSP action item(s)to determine if either the Comprehensive Plan or the Floodplain Species Plan language should be revised (or both). Impacted habitat: All Benefiting species: All CRS credit: The CRS does not credit administrative actions like this action item. SWM - Stormwater Management Action Items. These are action items to get cleaner water into the canals and Lake Worth Lagoon SWM 1. Florida Friendly Stormwater Management Measures The current requirements for new stormwater management systems are spelled out in the June 2024 "Utilities Engineering Design Handbook and Construction Standards for Boynton Beach Utilities,"Article Five (https://www.boynton-beach.org/DocumentCenterNiew/1690). Most of this Article deals with stormwater conveyance system standards. Similarly, guidance for property owners on "Ways to Manage Stormwater" on the City's website has three recommendations: "Drain water away from home or building," "Maintain Neighbor- hood Swales"and "Care for Storm Grates." (https://www.bovnton-beach.ore/382/Stormwater) As with the Design Handbook, the messages focus on getting water away from buildings. This section and other references note that the City needs to work closely with the South Florida Water Management District and the Lake Worth Drainage District to coordinate standards and delivery of stormwater. Since the Design Handbook is recent and the City must coordinate its requirements with others, this action item does not call for revising the requirements. The action items calls for encouraging developers and property owner to voluntarily meet higher standards. The recommended higher standards are summarized in the Florida Friendly Landscaping Program. This program is managed by the University of Florida Extension. It "promotes sustainable alternatives to `conventional' landscaping, providing guidance on low-impact, environmentally friendly, science-based landscape practices that use less water and reduce pollutant loading to Florida waters." (https://ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/about-ffl/program-overview). Floodplain Species Plan —32 — May 8, 2025 The Program has nine principles that are summarized below. Note that the City's site develop- ment standards (Code of Ordinances, Part III, Chapter 1, Article II) adopts the definition of "Florida-friendly landscaping"but no specific provisions of the program. The 9 Principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping TM 1. Right Plant, Right Place—Achieving a healthy, low-maintenance home landscape starts with putting the right plant in the right place. Select plants that match a site's soil, light, water, and climatic conditions. 2.Water Efficiently—An efficient irrigation system conserves water and helps to ensure that fertilizer and other pollution doesn't flow into water bodies. 3. Fertilize Appropriately— Proper fertilization enhances growth, increases flowering or fruiting, corrects nutritional deficiencies, and enhances the plant's appearance. Improper fertilization can damage plants and the environment. 4. Mulch—Mulch helps retain soil moisture, protects plants, and inhibits weed growth. It gives your landscape a neat, uniform appearance and is a great Florida-Friendly choice for hard-to- mow areas and shady spots. 5.Attract Wildlife—Select plants with seeds, fruit, foliage, flowers, or berries that provide food. Supply sources of water, such as a rain garden or bird bath. 6. Manage Yard Pests Responsibly—To prevent disease and insect outbreaks, select pest- resistant plants and put them in suitable locations. When problems do arise, remove the affected leaves or plant parts, or pick the insects off by hand. 7. Recycle Yard Waste— Decomposing organic matter releases nutrients back to the soil in a form that plants can easily use. Using yard waste for composting is a sustainable way of creating organic fertilizer. 8. Reduce Stormwater Runoff—Fertilizers, pesticides, debris, and eroded soil carried in stormwater can wreak havoc on our water quality. Florida-Friendly Landscaping T^' seeks to retain and use as much of the rainfall and irrigation water that lands on our home landscapes as possible. 9. Protect the Waterfront— Florida boasts over 10,000 miles of rivers and streams, about 7,800 lakes, more than 700 freshwater springs, and the U.S.'s second-longest coastline. https://ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/about-ffl/9-principles While all nine principles help with protecting threatened and endangered species, this action item calls for promoting the 8`h, "Reduce Stormwater Runoff." The objective is to "Keep water in the landscape—don't let it leave your yard." The benefits of this approach are listed as: —* Most of the stormwater remains onsite and is filtered through plants and soil, reducing pollution coming from the landscape [and the temperature of the water] —f Captured water can be used to irrigate landscape plants Floodplain Species Plan — 33 — May 8, 2025 -* Stormwater management protects the landscape from erosion -9 Your healthy landscape may protect the quality of Florida's waters (httns://ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/about-ffl/9-principles/principle-8-reduce-runoff) Technical guidance for"Reduce Stormwater Runoff' comes from the "Green Stormwater Infrastructure"program of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection which can be found at https://gsi.floridadep.gov/gsi-basics/what-is-gsi. This action item calls for obtaining and summarizing the messages and materials from the Green Stormwater Infrastructure and the Florida-Friendly Landscaping programs and distributing the information to permit applicants and the general public. Special efforts could be made for special audiences, such as waterfront property owners and contractors. It should be noted that both the Lake Worth Lagoon Management Plan and the Boynton Inlet Contributing Area Watershed Manage- Bioswales combine retaining and infiltrating runoff ment Plan support use of the Florida-Friendly with conveying the overflow downstream.This Landscaping approach (pages 57 and 76, example is from Green Stormwater Infrastructure respectively). Maintenance and Planting Manual,available at httos://ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/media/fflifasufledu/docs/asi- documents/GSI-Maintenance-Manual.Ddf Lead office: Utilities— Stormwater Actions: SWM 1.1. Meet with County Extension specialists to determine what materials and types of assistance, such as speakers at neighborhood meetings, are available. SWM 1.2. Review recent stormwater management projects in the City to determine if there are any good local examples of one or more of the recommended measures. SWM 1.3. Develop Boynton Beach-specific guidance and examples for handouts, the City's website (action item PI 2), and presentations to interested groups. SWM 1.4. Distribute the materials and publicize the availability of assistance and presentations. Impacted habitat: Ocean, Lagoon & canals, wetlands Benefiting species: Wood stork, West Indian manatee, smalltooth sawfish, sea turtles, corals CRS credit: If requiring some of the Florida Friendly measures were mandated, there could be credit under low impact development (LID) in Activity 450 (Stormwater Management). However, this action item calls for making the measures voluntary. Floodplain Species Plan —34— May 8, 2025 SWM 2. The Links Publicity This action item should be closely coordinated with SWM 1, but could be implemented sooner and faster because all the information is currently available locally. As described on page 19, The Links at Boynton Beach can serve as a guide for other property owners interested in improving the quality of the stormwater that runs off their properties (and in saving money). This would include the offices responsible for City open space properties. Lead office: Utilities— Stormwater Actions: SWM 2.1. Meet with the staff of The Links to learn the details of their program, including the financial aspects. SWM 2.2. Draft a handout that explains what was done and the environmental and financial benefits. SWM 2.3. Incorporate the handout and the information into the SWM 1 guidance and presentations and the other public information actions (PI 1 —PI 3). Impacted habitat: Ocean, Lagoon & canals, wetlands Benefiting species: Wood stork, West Indian manatee, smalltooth sawfish, sea turtles, corals CRS credit: Restoring habitat in areas preserved as floodplain open space would qualify for natural functions open space (NFOS) in Activity 420 (Open Space Preservation). However, there is no mapped floodplain on The Links property, so this project would only get the outreach project credit under Activity 330 (Outreach Projects). PI - Public Information Action Items. These action items will inform people about the need to protect threatened and endangered species and what they can do to help. PI 1. Endangered Species Brochure a`E AC H 1R The City has a Flood Hazard Information brochure (right) thatard Infopif40, key messages such as find out your flood hazard and check out flood F" insurance. It is included in the water bill each September, posted in public places like City offices and the Library and handed out at public functions like the Home Depot Expo and Pirate Fest. _ That brochure is pretty well filled up and would not have room for the >' messages that would be needed to familiarize the general public with - -V; ., .,' how to protect threatened and endangered species. - ,rng m a coastal 01,me.s Yu.iwa to qa^a�o'�fe br;carm„ryas KWNO1,..4"and sleum su9e Floodplain Species Plan — 35 — May 8, 2025 So, a second brochure is proposed that would include messages on: -� The threatened and endangered species with habitat in Boynton Beach -3 The value of protecting them -4 Protective steps an individual can take, such as Green Stormwater Infrastructure practices or how to identify a burrowing owl's home and how to protect it from curious or careless people and pets -+ Specific measures for manatees -4 Specific measures for sea turtles -4 A link to the City's endangered species website (PI 2). The brochure could be posted at the same sites as the Flood Hazard Information brochure and distributed at the same events. It would also be posted at the sites of demonstration projects, including the Galaxy Scrub Preserve and Intracoastal Park (see PM 1 and PM 3), and in the brochure racks at the County's natural areas (see PM 2, assuming the County agrees). Lead office: Sustainability& Resiliency, with support from Public Affairs Actions: PI 1.1. Draft the brochure to include the messages noted above PI 1.2. Circulate the brochure to other agencies and organizations, such as the County Department of Environmental Resources Management (which manages the County's natural areas), to get their thoughts on the text and distribution. PI 1.3. Obtain dependable funding for printing and annual distribution. PI 1.4. Finalize, go to press, distribute, and update as needed. Impacted habitat: All Benefiting species: All CRS credit: The brochure would be credited as an outreach project under Activity 330 (Outreach Projects). There is more credit for having it distributed at more locations and more credit if was also in Spanish. PI 2. Endangered Species Website More and more people turn to the Internet for information. They can even do it on the run with their cell phones. This action is to develop a page on the City's website with messages such as what will be in the brochure and links to where more information can be obtained. For example, the brochure may encourage readers to incorporate Green Stormwater Infrastructure measures in the yards or along the shoreline. The website would repeat the message and provide a link to the Department of Environmental Protection's site (https://gsi.floridadep.eov/gsi-basics/what-is-gsi). Floodplain Species Plan -36 - May 8, 2025 The site would have links to more information on the species and other agencies and organiza- tions with relevant programs. It would also link to other relevant sites on the City's website, such as the sea turtle protection measures currently on the Oceanfront Park page (www.bovnton- beach.org/254/Oceanfront-Park). The PI 1 brochure and the signs in PI 3 would have the QR code for the website so people can get the information quickly, before they lose interest. Lead office: Sustainability & Resiliency, with support from Public Affairs Actions: PI 2.1. After the brochure has been finalized, identify the messages and links appropriate to back up the brochure and to provide other needed information. PI 2.2. Draft the site and circulate the draft with appropriate offices. PI 2.3. Open the site and keep it updated. Program for Public Information The Community Rating System provides additional Impacted habitat: All credit if a community prepares and adopts a Program for Public Information (PPI). Boynton Benefiting species: All Beach has done this since 2015 and plans to continue it. All messages and public information projects have to be reviewed and signed off by the CRS credit: Because the City has a Program for PPI committee for CRS credit. Accordingly all five of Public Information, there would be credit for this these public information action items will need to be special website under the Website credit (WEB) reviewed at the next PPI meeting,which may end up revising this section's recommendations. in Activity 350 (Flood Protection Information). PI 3. Protect Site Signs There are several pilot or demonstration projects conducted by the City or others, including the Galaxy Scrub Preserve restoration (see PM 1) and the mangrove plantings at Intracoastal Park and other -42 locations (see PM 3). Some have a sign posted, like the one to the Intracoastal Waterway right. Ma;We Preserve Protealon Developed by the City of Boy, One benefit a demonstrationro ect is that it is an excellent o or- Beach with essstanceProvide P J Pp by the Mende Department c, tunity to educate the public once it has attracted their attention. The En"eorma'talPruectoethro;gh Reaeatonal Tres Program sign to the right misses that opportunity (although the language may have been dictated by the project funding agency). This action item would develop and place signs that summarize what is happening, invite the reader to get involved, and include the PI 2 website's QR code for more information. The signs could be as involved as the one at Jaycee Park (page 26), but more likely would ' be smaller and more succinct like this one. Floodplain Species Plan —37 — May 8, 2025 Lead office: Sustainability & Resiliency, with support from Public Affairs Actions: PI 3.1. Meet with the project staffs of PM 1 and PM 3 and identify one or two key messages. PI 3.2. Design the sign and the backup information on the website and review it with the project staffs. PI 3.3. Finalize, go to press, post the signs, and update as needed. Impacted habitat: Lagoon, inland open areas, and possibly others as new projects are initiated. Benefiting species: Florida scrub jay, red-cockaded woodpecker, burrowing owl, gopher tortoise, West Indian manatee, smalltooth sawfish, four-petal paw paw, tiny polygala. CRS credit: The signs would be credited as outreach projects under Activity 330 (Outreach Projects). There would be more credit for more signs (up to a maximum credit for five with the same message) and more credit if they were also in Spanish. PI 4. Manatee Projects Manatees are unique to the Florida coast. People come long distances to see them. There currently are several programs to protect them, such as the County's Manatee Protection Plan and the Manatee Protection Zones shown on Map 9, page 17. However, the general public may be unfamiliar with these efforts and things that individuals can do. Interest in the protection and recovery of manatees is widespread enough to support the very active Save the Manatee Club, which is located in Longwood, north of Orlando. The Club provided very helpful comments on the draft Floodplain Species Assessment. Their comments closed with "We frequently partner with municipal governments on educational campaigns and by providing educational materials. We would be happy to speak with the City about your priority projects." . About Monate. How TO HNP Nevem i Ewmh Q DONATE GDOV t tatb 1r4Z;I*T ,. ist Manatees Need Your Help Website of the Save the Manatee Club, https://savethemanatee.orq Floodplain Species Plan — 38 — May 8, 2025 This action item is to take them up on their offer. Their comments also stated: "Save the Manatee Club has free educational materials on manatee safe boating, the importance of protecting seagrass, giving manatees space, and more (brochures, rack cards, signs). As a part of the City's outreach projects, our materials could be provided to libraries, at events, etc. to educate the public on manatees and their habitats. Additionally, the City can do an inventory of the current manatee educational signage near boat ramps and marinas to identify if more signs are needed or if signs need replacing. "The City could ask homeowners living on canals not to fertilize their lawns by providing education on how fertilizers lead to poor water quality and algal blooms. We have yard signs as a part of our Fertilizer Free for Manatees campaign that encourage homeowners to go fertilizer free...." Lead office: Sustainability & Resiliency, with support from Public Affairs Actions: PI 4.1. Meet with the Save the Manatee Club Respect staff to review what the City is doing and Florida Manatees identify priorities for cooperation. This review Disturbance can harm them would not be limited to public information �,� actions, but would cover all four categories, DO especially regulatory standards. Observe from a PI 4.2. Implement projects as appropriate, distance. Go slow, including links in the City's endangered species look out website (PI 2)which would have links to their below. website. ""j • DON'T: Touch Manatees ImImpacted habitat: Lagoon & canals Chase Manatees p g Feed Manatees Give water to Manatees Benefiting species: West Indian manatee h K against the law to harass manatees.You could be cited or MeedA . Cali the AVC'indite AMA Retia:. $$8.4044WCC(3922)• CRS credit: The projects would qualify as outreach ► tc1e""`""°aa trsincliriingsdead "'"" • projects under Activity 330 (Outreach Projects). v�""'""`CO1`"te'"`°e Depending on their messages, the website Example of a sign on protecting manatees connections could also qualify for additional credit prepared by the Florida Fish and Wildlife under WEB in Activity 350 (Flood Protection Conservation Commission Information). PI 5. Sea Turtle Proiects As with the manatees, sea turtles are popular with the public and provide an excellent model for the problems facing threatened and endangered species. They also have a local nonprofit organization dedicated to their protection and recovery—the Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach. It's website is at https://marinelife.or2. Floodplain Species Plan —39— May 8, 2025 This action item is similar to the previous one—work with the experts to design Sea Turtle Conservation Messages appropriate messages and media and get The Loggerhead Marinelife Center was asked for their help in implementing the program. messages that would tell the public something about sea turtles and what they could do about it. Here are some of the messages they provided. Projects like signs would likely be at beach These could be included in brochures, put on sites, which would be limited to Oceanfront signs, and otherwise distributed widely(repetition Park. But brochures (like the flyer below), is needed for the messages to sink in). websites, and other media could be at any ✓ Go Slow for Those Below! Wear polarized location. sunglasses to watch out for wildlife and travel at a minimum safe speed -especially within Lead office: Sustainability & Resiliency, one mile of shore. with support from Public Affairs ✓ Properly dispose of used fishing line and gear so they don't become marine debris. Actions: ✓ Report sick, injured, and stranded sea turtles to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation PI 5.1. Meet with the Loggerhead Commission at: 888-404-3922. Marinelife Center staff to review what the City is doing and identify priorities for cooperation. ,40PTURp - PI 5.2. Implement projects as appropriate, including links in the City's endangered _ sLowFOR MOSS g species website (PI 2). oA; c. Impacted habitat: Ocean, beaches and dunes March r.- october 31 Benefiting species: sea turtles ' �-,rp. PRprECr CRS credit: The projects would qualify as DANGERED outreach projects under Activity 330 (Outreach SEA TURTLES Projects). Depending on their messages, website connections could also qualify for additional SEA TURTLE credit under WEB in Activity 350 (Flood PROT Protection Information). '""udesy coall ,asthn,,, ON ZONE Cou,�t 45 miles of P to one mile offshoretend ng f om shore e r Rr 1 -.„ 4...... ___ f Floodplain Species Plan —40 - May 8, 2025 PME - Plan Monitoring & Evaluation PME 1. Plan Monitoring& Evaluation The action items are to be implemented by different City offices. There will be times when two or more action items should be coordinated among different offices. For example, regulatory terminology should be consistent with the terms used in the public information materials. Progress also needs to be tracked and annual evaluations and reports will be due for continued Community Rating System credit. This project management work will be conducted by the Office of Sustainability and Resiliency, which has the most action items assigned to it and which already acts as a City-wide coordinator for similar activities. Lead office: Sustainability and Resiliency Actions: PME 1.1. Contact each lead office and review progress on each of their action items at least once each quarter. PME 1.2. If there are problems with progress or a need to require coordination, report them to the City Manager's office. PME 1.3. Soon after 12 months after the adoption of this Plan, prepare an evaluation report in accordance with the CRS evaluation report criteria. The draft report shall be circulated among the lead offices for comment and revised as needed. PME 1.4. Submit the annual evaluation reports to the City Commission. They shall also be released to the media and made available to the public. The CRS Coordinator shall submit them with the annual recertification packages for continued CRS credit. Impacted habitat: All Benefiting species: All CRS credit: This action item is a prerequisite for continued CRS credit for the Floodplain Species Assessment and Floodplain Species Plan Activity 510 (Floodplain Management Planning). Floodplain Species Plan —41 — May 8, 2025 11 0 0 a Table 8. Action Item Summary Action Item Lead Office First Action Start' Funding' Support EA 0 PM-Property management PM 1.Open Area Habitat Sustainability Finish Galaxy Scrub project Underway Budgeted Recreation&Parks, Public Works '71 PM 2.County Parks Programs Sustainability Talk with County staff Sept 2025 Staff time County Env. Resources Management PM 3. Natural Shoreline Restoration Public Works Implement demo plantings Underway Budgeted Recreation& Parks, Sustainability PM 4. Manatee Exclusion Devices Stormwater Inventory canals and drains Sept 2025 Staff time Lake Worth Drainage District RS-Regulatory standards RS 1. Permit Application Materials Plan&Zoning Review the requirements Sept 2025 Staff time RS 2.Waterfront Properties Incentive Plan&Zoning Review relevant programs Nov 2025 Staff time Sustainability&Resiliency RS 3.Comprehensive Plan Coord. Plan&Zoning Compare the two plans July 2025 Staff time SWM-Stormwater management N SWM 1. Florida Friendly Measures Stormwater Meet with Extension Sept 2025 Staff time SWM 2.The Links Publicity Stormwater Meet with The Links staff July 2025 Staff time PI-Public information PI 1. Endangered Species Brochure Sustainability Draft brochure Sept 20252 $2,000 Public Affairs PI 2. Endangered Species Website Sustainability Draft website,after PI 1 done Oct 20252 Staff time Public Affairs PI 3. Project Site Signs Sustainability Meet with project staff Sept 20252 Staff time Public Affairs PI 4. Manatee Projects Sustainability Meet with Manatee Club staff Sept 20252 Staff time Public Affairs.Save the Manatee Club PI 5. Sea Turtle Projects Sustainability Meet w/Loggerhead Center staff Oct 20252 Staff time Public Affairs,Loggerhead Center PME-Plan Monitoring&Evaluation 1 PME 1. Monitoring&Evaluation Sustainability Contact lead offices quarterly Oct 2025 Staff time All lead offices 4 Notes: 1. The Start date and Funding are for starting and implementing the first action. Most first actions are to meet to design a project or conduct an inventory and only need staff time.Once a detailed program is determined, later actions may require funding secured through the normal budget process. 00 2. All public information projects will need to be coordinated at the annual Program for Public Information Committee meeting in early 2026. N O N In Appendix 1. Review of the Listed Species The objective of this Appendix is to identify which threatened and endangered species warrant attention in the City's Floodplain Species Plan and to provide summary background information on those species. The original version formed the bulk of the Floodplain Species Assessment. It was revised based on the comments from the reviewing agencies and organizations and additional information that became available. The FSA started with the 26 listings in Table 1. Some of them date back to the 1970s, often covering large geographical areas. Since then, many species have undergone further studies, recovery plans, and status assessments. Most of the relevant reports can be found through a review of the species profiles in FWS' Environmental Conservation Online System (ECOS), found at https://ecos.fws.gov/ecn. Information for species under NMFS's jurisdiction can be found at www.fisheries.noaa.govispecies-directorv/threatened-endangered . The links to FWS and NMFS information are at the beginning of the following pages' discussion on each species. The following pages review the latest reports. Some reviews have concluded that although the area now known as the City of Boynton Beach may have once provided suitable habitat for certain species, those habitats are no longer viable for the reasons mentioned. This review aims to focus the Assessment on species that still have a chance for recovery in this area. In addition to the documents available, the November 4, 2024 copy of the Assessment was sent to 15 government agencies and private organizations that have relevant programs. They are listed on the next page. These agencies and organizations were asked to help the City determine (1) which species warrant the most attention, (2)what activities would be most appropriate for those species, and(3)who can provide assistance in implementing those activities. The February 20 draft of this Floodplain Species Plan was also sent to these agencies and organizations and revisions were made based on their comments. The nine marked with an asterisk provided comments to either the FSA or the FSP or both. While these are just over half of the agencies and organizations that were asked for comments, the response rate was typical for similar requests made by other communities. Further, the comments received were very helpful and resulted in important changes in the direction of the Assessment and this Plan. Except as noted in the following pages, they agreed with the conclusions for each species. For those species recommended for attention, their preferred habitat and the major threats they face have been added after the conclusions. The threat of"habitat loss" includes habitat degradation and fragmentation due to urbanization, agricultural development, forest management practices, fire, hurricane damage, construction in waterways and/or sea level rise. Some species, such as migratory birds, face threats far away from south Florida and those are not listed here. This summary information also appears in Tables 3, 4 and 5 on pages 5, 10, and 13 and forms the basis for the recommended protective and recovery actions. Floodplain Species Plan —43 — May 8, 2025 FSA and FSP Reviewing Agencies and Organizations US Fish &Wildlife Service* National Marine Fisheries Service * Federal Emergency Management Agency Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Habitat and Species Conservation Division and Office of Conservation Planning Services* Audubon Society of the Everglades, Conservation Team * The Nature Conservancy Save the Manatee Club* University of Florida, Florida Museum, Department of Natural History* Everglades Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area Palm Beach County, Department of Environmental Resources Management* Loggerhead Marinelife Center, Juno Beach * Loxahatchee River Center, Jupiter Green Cay Nature Center, Boynton Beach * Daggerwing Nature Center, Boca Raton Okeeheelee Nature Center, West Palm Beach *Those marked with an asterisk provided comments to either the FSA or the FSP or both. Birds Eastern black rail. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/10477 The 2019 Species Status Assessment notes "The eastern black rail is a wetland dependent bird requiring dense overhead cover and soils that are moist to saturated (occasionally dry) and interspersed with or adjacent to very shallow water(typically< 3 cm)to support its resource needs.... "Historically, the primary stressors to the eastern black rail included habitat degradation and fragmentation from conversion of marshes and wetlands to agricultural lands or urban areas. Also, historical efforts to reduce mosquito populations on the Atlantic coast included marsh draining and ditching, both of which reduced suitable habitat for the eastern black rail...." —Species Status Assessment Report for the Eastern Black Rail, August 2019, pages v—vi, https://ecos.fws.2ov/ServCat/DownloadFile/186791 Conclusion: The type of wetland habitat needed is no longer in the City. The FSA and FSP should focus on species more likely to have habitat in Boynton Beach. Everglade snail kite. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.Qov/ecp/species/7713 ECOS introduces the Everglade snail kite as "a medium-sized hawk with a wingspan of about 45 inches, very similar to the marsh hawk...The snail kite is uniquely adapted for a diet almost exclusively of freshwater apple snails (Pomacea paludosa)." "Snail kite habitat consists of freshwater marshes and the shallow vegetated edges of lakes (natural and man-made) where apple snails can be found.... Nearly continuous flooding of Floodplain Species Plan —44— May 8, 2025 wetlands for> 1 year is needed to support apple snail populations that in turn sustain foraging by the snail kite..."—South Florida Recovery Plan, page 4-294, "The Florida population of snail kites is considered to be a single population with considerable distributional shifts. The combination of a range restricted to the watersheds of the Everglades, lakes Okeechobee and Kissimmee, and the upper St. Johns River, with a highly specific diet composed almost entirely of apple snails (Pomacea paludosa), makes the snail kite's survival directly dependent on the hydrology and water quality of these watersheds."—South Florida Recovery Plan, page 4-291, https://ecos.fws.gov/docs/recovery plan/140903.pdf. Conclusion: The snail kite's primary food source and habitat are not found in this part of Palm Beach County. The FSA and FSP should focus on species more likely to have habitat in Boynton Beach. Florida scrub-iay. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/speciesB082 The 2019 Species Status Assessment describes the current and the optimal habitats. Suburban-type development, while not optimal, has supported the scrub jay, especially if the public is advised about care for them, such as not feeding them peanuts. The Species Status Assessment is found at https://ecos.fws.2ov/ServCat/DownloadFile/170166. Conclusion: The Florida scrub jay can be found in Boynton Beach and should be included in the FSA and FSP. Preferred habitat: Sandy areas Major threats: Habitat loss Red-cockaded woodpecker. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecn/species/7614 The South Florida Recovery Plan noted that there were 14 clusters of red-cockaded woodpeckers in Palm Beach County. —South Florida Recovery Plan, page 4-476, https://ecos.fws.gov/docs/recovery plan/140903.pdf. The 2020 Species Status Assessment states that this woodpecker lives in pine forests and can adapt somewhat to different densities and conditions of trees (e.g., old growth areas with forest fires are considered higher quality). "For purposes of recovery planning, the Florida Peninsula ecoregion is 1 of 2 recovery units that do not contain a primary or secondary population. However, maintaining populations of RCWs in south and central Florida is essential to the recovery of the species."—Species Status Assessment Report For the Red- cockaded Woodpecker, April 2020, page 99, ecos.fws.2ov/ServCat/DownloadFile/188805 The 2/3/2022 Federal Register, found at https://www.aovinfo.aov/content/pkg/FR-2022-02- 03/pdf/2022-02006.pdf#pag a=1,proposed reclassifying the Red-cockaded woodpecker from Endangered to Threatened. Floodplain Species Plan —45 — May 8, 2025 Conclusion: While there may be little high-quality habitat in the City at this time, the species should remain in the FSA and FSP to determine if there are appropriate activities the City could implement to further recovery. Preferred habitat: Pine and hardwood forests Major threats: Habitat loss Rufa red knot. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/1864 The 2020 Species Status Assessment notes that the rufa red knot has a very long migration route. While some may winter in Florida, many use the Atlantic coast for stopover sites to winter farther south. A "number of threats are known to be affecting migration habitats and migrating birds across the range of the rufa red knot. Thus, the best available information suggests that conditions during migration are limiting the resiliency of one or more rufa red knot populations."—Species Status Assessment for the Rufa Red Knot, September 2020, Page 26, https://ecos.fws.gov/ServCat/DownloadFile/187781 "In one study of northern-wintering red knots, the total time spent along the U.S. Atlantic coast (including spring, fall, and for some birds winter) averaged 218 days (range 121 to 269 days), or about 60 percent of the calendar year."—Species Status Assessment for the Rufa Red Knot, September 2020, Page 10, https://ecos.fws.gov/ServCat/DownloadFile/187781 Conclusion: The species should remain in the FSA and FSP to determine if there are appropriate activities the City could implement to further recovery either as hosting wintering habitat or during migration through the area. Preferred habitat: Beaches and dunes Major threats: Habitat loss, disruption of timing and food supplies during migration Wood stork. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/B060 The 2021 Species Status Assessment states "Wood storks are a wetland dependent species. They use a wide variety of freshwater and estuarine wetlands for nesting, feeding, and roosting throughout their range. Local hydrologic conditions correlate to annual nesting effort..."—Species Status Assessment Report for the Wood Stork, April 2021, Page 18, https://ecos.fws.gov/ServCat/DownloadFile/227957 Palm Beach County is one of six counties in the South Breeding Region. A map on page 92 of the SSA shows three active nesting colonies in Palm Beach County, not far from Boynton Beach. Conclusion: The species should remain in the FSA and FSP to determine if there are appropriate activities the City could implement to further recovery. Preferred habitat: Wetlands Major threats: Habitat loss, impacts of climate change on habitat and food resources Floodplain Species Plan —46— May 8, 2025 Piping plover. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/6039 "Many shorebirds use beaches in South Florida for nesting or wintering or both. Florida is the main wintering ground of the federally threatened piping plover which breeds in northern North America. Formerly seen wintering in all South Florida counties except Martin, this species is now absent from Indian River, Palm Beach, and Broward counties and has become rare in Miami-Dade and Sarasota counties (FWS 1998)."—South Florida Recovery Plan, page 3-73, https://ecos.fws.gov/docs/recovery plan/140903.pdf. Conclusion: The November 4 draft FSA recommended that the City "should focus on species more likely to have habitat in Boynton Beach." The Audubon Society commented that the "Piping Plover has been observed in or near BB and should remain in the FSA and FSP. Activities benefitting the PP will benefit other shorebirds."Based on their more recent information, the conclusion was changed to keep it for attention in the Floodplain Species Assessment and the Floodplain Species Plan. Preferred habitat: Beaches and dunes Major threats: Habitat loss due to man-made modifications and invasive vegetation growth Burrowing Owl: https://mvfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/birds/owls/burrowing-owl/ Not listed by FWS or NMFS, the burrowing owl is listed as "imperiled"by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and was recommended for inclusion by the Audubon Society. Boynton Beach is within its range as mapped by the Commission. The Commis- sion's website notes: "One of Florida's smallest owls, the burrowing owl lives in open, treeless areas. It spends most of its time on the ground where its sandy brown plumage provides camouflage from potential predators or in a burrow for both roosting and nesting. "Historically, the burrowing owl occupied the open native prairies of central Florida. Recently, these populations have decreased because of disappearing habitat. Burrowing owls inhabit cleared areas that offer short groundcover such as pastures, agricultural fields, golf courses, airports and vacant lots in residential areas."— https://mvfwc.com/conservation/vou-conserve/wildlife/burrowina-owls/ The Commission's 2013 species action plan can be found at https://mvfwc.com/media/2113/ burrowing-owl-species-action-plan-final-draft.pdf and the current Species Conservation Measures and Permitting Guidelines is at https://mvfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/ species-guidelines. Conclusion: The imperiled burrowing owl can live in many areas of Boynton Beach and should be added to the list of species deserving attention in the Floodplain Species Plan. Preferred habitat: Open grasslands Major threats: Habitat loss due to human development and floods, harassment by humans and domesticated animals Floodplain Species Plan —47 — May 8, 2025 Mammals Florida panther. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/1763 "Panthers are wide ranging, secretive, and occur at low densities. They require large contiguous areas to meet their social, reproductive, and energetic needs. Panther habitat selection is related to prey availability (i.e., habitats that make prey vulnerable to stalking and capturing are selected). Dense understory vegetation provides some of the most important feeding, resting, and denning cover for panthers. interspersed with other habitat types that are used in proportion to their availability.... "Limiting factors for the Florida panther are habitat availability, prey availability, and lack of human tolerance. Habitat loss, degradation, and fragmentation is the greatest threat to panther survival, while lack of human tolerance threatens panther recovery. Panther mortality due to collisions with vehicles threatens potential population expansion. Potential panther habitat throughout the Southeast continues to be affected by urbanization, residential development, road construction, conversion to agriculture, mining and mineral exploration, and lack of land use planning that recognizes panther needs. Public support is critical to attainment of recovery goals and reintroduction efforts. Political and social issues will be the most difficult aspects of panther recovery and must be addressed before reintroduction efforts are initiated."—Florida Panther Recovery Plan, 3rd Revision,November 2008, Pages viii —ix, https://ecos.fws.gov/docs/recovery plan/081218.pdf Conclusion: While educating the public about the Florida panther would be useful, the FSA and FSP should not address providing habitat or otherwise encouraging them to come to the City. Gray bat. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/6329 The current ECOS Range section's entry for"US Counties in which this population is known to or is believed to occur:..." does not include any counties in Florida. This was updated on August 13, 2024. Conclusion: The FSA and FSP should focus on species more likely to have habitat in Boynton Beach. Southeastern beach mouse. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.2ov/ecp/species/3951 The Southeastern Beach Mouse "is now restricted to scattered localities in Indian River and St. Lucie counties"—South Florida Recovery Plan, page 3-73. https://ecos.fws.eov/docs/recovery plan/140903.ndf. The 2019 5-Year Review notes that "currently only two known extant populations of SEBM [Southeastern beach mouse] occur in the northern part of the historic range in Florida." These are around New Smyrna Beach and Canaveral National Seashore. Floodplain Species Plan —48— May 8, 2025 It goes on to note "Areas of suitable habitat large enough to "Extirpated" support SEBM no longer occur south of Palm Beach Inlet [at Extirpation (also known as Riveria Beach, north of West Palm Beach] and thus SEBM are local extinction') describes extirpated from the southern portion of its historic range the situation in which a (USFWS 1993, USFWS 2008, Stout et al. 2012, USFWS species or population no 2019). Translocation plans for possible reintroductions and for longer exists within a certain possible genetic and population augmentation are under geographical location. development."—Southeastern Beach Mouse, 5-Year Review: https://bioloavdictionarv.net Summary and Evaluation, 2019, Page 3, https://ecosnhere-documents-production- public.s3.amazonaws.com/sams/public docs/species nonnublish/2912.pdf Conclusion: The FSA and FSP should focus on species more likely to have habitat in Boynton Beach. Things could change if FWS chooses the Boynton Beach area as a location for possible reintroduction. West Indian manatee. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/A007 As noted on page 6 of this report, the manatee has critical habitat in Boynton Beach. It is not uncommon to see one in the waters of the City. Conclusion: The West Indian manatee should be included in the FSA and FSP. Preferred habitat: Lagoons and canals Major threats: collisions with watercraft, entanglement in fishing gear, entrapment in canal systems, floodgates or locks Reptiles Eastern indigo snake. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/646 "Studies in Peninsular Florida have shown that eastern indigo snakes may reduce their home range size in landscapes with little or no Map 1-1. Eastern Indigo Snake urbanization if habitat diversity (vegetation Populations heterogeneity) is high suggesting individual needs , ,, may be met in smaller areas if resource needs are uH Palm concentrated. However, in more urbanized Peninsular , I Beach landscapes home range size may be further Florida �1 i cQuntr Region T' y restricted to smaller areas due to barriers or restrictions to movement or because snakes can legend capitalize on human derived resources (e.g., RS R„n„ eti • t ►,,, shelter sites and prey) (Bauder et al. 2020). x,(17)lan°' E Popuw nons"' Nevertheless, urbanizing environments may have ,u �,`Not ttesdtent ;Q;'°"° �.' little value for the conservation of the species "°' given high mortality rates for eastern indigo snakes found in these environments (Breininger et al. 2012).... Floodplain Species Plan —49— May 8, 2025 "Further, relocation of eastern indigo snakes is typically not recommended due to increased mortality risk (e.g., increased road mortality) from snakes leaving relocation areas in search of their established home range..."— Eastern Indigo Snake 5-Year Status Review: Summary and Evaluation, August 2024, Page 8, https://ecosphere-documents-production- public.s3.amazonaws.com/sams/ public docs/species nonpublish/ 19284.pdf As seen in Map 1-1 on the previous page, the 5-Year Status Review also notes that the previous populations in the Palm Beach County area are shown with black dots, meaning they are now considered "extirpated" from this area. Conclusion: Given Boynton Beach's "urbanizing environment,"the FSA and FSP should focus on species more likely to have habitat in or near the City. Hawksbill sea turtle. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/3656 Leatherback sea turtle. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/1493 Loggerhead sea turtle. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/COOU Because of the similarities of these three turtle species, "DPS" they are initially treated together. FWS and NMFS are Distinct population segment is joint lead Federal agencies with FWS managing issues a vertebrate population or group on land and NMFS responsible for the species in water. of populations that is discrete from other populations of the The loggerhead sea turtle Northwest Atlantic Ocean species and significant in relation Distinct Population Segment (DPS) has critical habitat to the entire species. The ESA designated along the Atlantic coast, including the beach Provides for listing species, and offshore waters. This is discussed on page 6 of this subspecies,mentor distinct species.p g segments of vertebrate species. report. https://www.fisheries.noaa.aov/laws-and- oolicies/a lossarv-endanaered-s oecies- Preferred habitat: Ocean and beaches act#distinct-000ulation-segment Major threats: Ocean: Entanglement in nets and fishing gear(especially commercial operations), construction and dredging. Beaches: nesting area modification (beach armoring, nourishment, erosion), human presence, especially artificial lighting and vehicles. Green sea turtle. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/6199 While not on the initial list produced in FRESH Map, in 2023 the Federal Register published a proposed critical habitat map for the green sea turtle North Atlantic DPS. Unit FL-08 includes the shoreline from Palm Beach to Boynton Inlet and Unit FL-09 covers Boynton Inlet to Boca Raton Inlet. The area is described as "Atlantic Ocean shoreline that includes beach, dune, and coastal vegetation..." More specifically, both areas are located "from the MHWL [mean high-water line] to the toe of the secondary dune or developed structures."Accordingly, the green sea turtle is added to the threatened and endangered species list for Boynton Beach. —Federal Register, July 19, 2023, pages 46539 -46540, https://www.govinfo.2ov/content/pkg/FR-2023-07-19/pdf/2023-14225.pdf#page=1. Floodplain Species Plan —50— May 8, 2025 Preferred habitat: Ocean and beaches Major threats: Ocean: Entanglement in nets and fishing gear(especially commercial operations), construction and dredging. Beaches: nesting area modification (beach armoring, nourishment, erosion), human presence, especially artificial lighting and vehicles. Kemp's ridlev sea turtle. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.2ov/ecp/species/5523 The Kemp's ridley sea turtle was added based on the recommendations of three reviewers, the Audubon Society, the Loggerhead Marinelife Center, and NMFS. The last noted "Although the major nesting sites for this species are located in the Gulf of Mexico, this species' range includes the U.S. Atlantic coast, and occasional Kemp's ridley nesting has been documented from Florida through North Carolina."—NMFS letter of January 15, 2025. Conclusion: Given the presence of critical habitat in the City, all five sea turtle species should be included in the FSA and FSP. Preferred habitat: Ocean and beaches Major threats: Ocean: Entanglement in nets and fishing gear(especially commercial operations), construction and dredging. Beaches: nesting area modification (beach armoring, nourishment, erosion), human presence, especially artificial lighting and vehicles. Gopher tortoise. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/6994 The FWS listing is for the Western DPS, which does not include Florida. Therefore, it was not included in the original list of threatened and endangered species with range in the Boynton Beach area. The gopher tortoise was recommended for inclusion by the Audubon Society in its comments on the November 4 draft. The gopher tortoise was listed as "threatened"by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in 2007. More information on it can be found on the Commission's website, https://mvfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/gopher-tortoise/, which notes "Gopher tortoises are long-lived reptiles that occupy upland habitat throughout Florida including forests, pastures, and yards. They dig deep burrows for shelter and forage on low-growing plants. Gopher tortoises share their burrows with more than 350 other species, and are therefore referred to as a keystone species. In Florida, the gopher tortoise is listed as Threatened. Both the tortoise and its burrow are protected under state law." FWC updated its Gopher Tortoise Management Plan in December 2024, which can be found at https://mvfwc.com/media/xdlicqci/gtmgmtplan2024.pdf. It describes the habitat needs on page 49: "Gopher tortoises will occupy most upland plant communities that contain relatively well-drained soils for burrowing, and sufficient herbs and grasses for forage (Ashton and Ashton 2008). Historically, the recurrence of lightning-ignited fire was pivotal in Floodplain Species Plan — 51 — May 8, 2025 influencing vegetative succession and shaping species composition and structure of Florida's upland plant communities. The frequency, seasonality and periodicity of these fires provided a competitive advantage to fire-tolerant vegetation, resulting in open pine stands and lush ground cover, conditions well-suited to the life history needs of the gopher tortoise (Myers and Ewel 1990)."—page 49 There is an alternative to maintaining gopher tortoise habitat without starting fires in the City: "...mechanical vegetation treatments (e.g., roller chopping and Gopher Tortoise mowing), limited or targeted herbicide use, and timber Friendly Yard thinning may be used in conjunction with or as an ,, pW alternative to prescribed fire when it is not feasible. These management practices allow for an open canopy and the growth of herbaceous forage essential to the ' v ', >;. long-term survival of tortoises."—page 46. <" This property owner Conclusion: Given its status as a keystone species and is helping conserve the similarity of its habitat to that of other listed species gopher tortoises in Boynton Beach, the gopher tortoise should be mymcco 7'GOPbe'Tortotse 111° included in the Floodplain Species Plan. The similarity of the inland habitats is discussed further on page 18. FWC has a variety of programs and activities to increase public Preferred habitat: Sandy areas awareness about protecting gopher tortoises. Major threats: Habitat loss from urbanization, development, agriculture, mining and fire Fish Smalltooth sawfish. NMFS listing: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/species/smalltooth-sawfish Technically the listing is for the smalltooth sawfish U.S. Portion of Range (DPS). NMFS's site includes the following: "Smalltooth sawfish live in tropical seas and estuaries (semi- enclosed areas where rivers meet the sea) of the Atlantic Ocean. They are most at home in shallow, coastal waters, and sometimes enter the lower reaches of freshwater river systems. In the United States, they can be found in Florida's coastal waters." In 2003, the smalltooth sawfish was the first marine fish to be declared endangered by NMFS. It can grow to 16 feet and weigh several hundred pounds. One of the biggest threats to them is accidental capture by fishermen ("bycatch"), who may kill them because they can damage their fishing gear. Conclusion: Given that Boynton Beach's waters are appropriate habitat for the smalltooth sawfish, it should be included in the FSA and FSP. Preferred habitat: Ocean and shallow coastal waters including river estuaries Major threats: Habitat loss, accidental capture by fisherman Floodplain Species Plan —52— May 8, 2025 Corals Elkhorn and staghorn coral. NMFS listings: httns://www.fisheries.noaa. ov/snecies/elkhorn- coral and httns://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/snecies/staghorn-coral. respectively. These two corals were recommended for inclusion by NMFS. They are treated together and share the same 2015 Recovery Plan, found at https://repository.library.noaa.gov/view/ noaa/8950. While the Plan notes that these corals are found throughout the Caribbean Sea, their numbers are dwindling for a variety of reasons, including and "both species require relatively clear, well-circulated water... and are highly dependent upon sunlight." And "elkhorn and staghorn corals are likely very susceptible to increases in water turbidity."— pages I-8 and I-12 Corals in general were also recommended by the Loggerhead Marinelife Center, which noted that they face the same threats as the sea turtles: "land-based sources of pollution into the coastal waters including nitrogen and phosphorus from stormwater and wastewater."— November 20, 2024 e-mail. There is also the Kristin Jacobs Coral Aquatic Preserve just offshore from Boynton Beach. It runs the entire length of Palm Beach County and is managed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to protect the reef and educate the public. One of its programs calls for protecting coral reefs in southeast Florida because they "generate $5.7 billion in local sales and support 61,000 jobs every year."—https://floridadep.gov/rcp/coral/content/kristin- i acobs-coral-aquatic-preserve NMFS has designated critical habitat off the shore of most of Boynton Beach for these two and five other corals. The Assessment includes the elkhorn and staghorn corals, but the appropriate recovery actions would also benefit the others. Conclusion: Based on the recommendations of the various agencies and organizations, protecting the corals and the coral reef should be included in the FSP. Preferred habitat: Ocean Major threats: Disease was the primary cause of initial decline, other threats include elevated seawater temperatures and ocean acidification Insects Bartram's hairstreak butterfly. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/4837 "Historically, the hairstreak was common throughout the pine rocklands of Miami-Dade County, as well as Big Pine Key within the lower Florida Keys (Monroe County), while only sporadically occurring as strays in Collier, Martin, Palm Beach, and Broward Counties... The Bartram's scrub-hairstreak is rarely encountered more than 5 m (16.4 ft) from its host plant, pineland croton—and its pine rockland interface."—Recovery Outline For Bartram's scrub-hairstreak butterfly, October 2014, page 2, https://ecos.fws.gov/docs/recovery plan /20141126 Recovery%200utline Bartrams%20hairstreak.pdf Floodplain Species Plan —53 — May 8, 2025 Several species with range listed in Boynton Beach are limited to the pine rocklands. Map 1-2 shows that pine rocklands are no longer found in Palm Beach County. Conclusion: Being outside the pine rocklands Boynton Beach does not have the ingredients for a dependable habitat for this butterfly. The FSA and FSP should focus on species more likely to have habitat in or near the City. Florida leafwing butterfly. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/6652 "The Florida leafwing occurs only within pine rocklands that retain its hostplant, pine-land croton. Pineland croton, a subtropical species of Antillean origin, is the only known host plant for the leafwing. Therefore, the leafwing is restricted to pine rocklands that contain pineland croton."—ECOS listing Map 1-2. Pine Rocklands r I "Pine rocklands are unique to • Nacss tional,Pte CM southern Florida and the Baha- `';' ••�' mas. In Florida they are found on limestone substrates on the • Miami Rock Ridge, in the • Florida Keys, and in the Big 4' Miami- } Warne Dade t / Cypress Swamp."—South • Florida Recovery Plan, Page National Ann r National Park; 3-162, https://ecos.fws.gov/ '• docs/recovery nlan/140903.pdf. Conclusion: Being outside the ElPinelands pine rocklands Boynton Beach a- ••X does not have the ingredients for a dependable habitat for this butterfly. The FSA and FSP should focus on species more likely to have habitat in or near Pr= ��- the City. "Distribution of the largest remaining contiguous areas of pine rocklands," South Florida Recovery Plan, p. 3-163 Miami tiger beetle. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9965 The current ECOS Range section's entry for"US Counties in which this population is known to or is believed to occur:..." lists only one county in the country: Miami-Dade County. This was updated 3-3-2022. Conclusion: The FSA and FSP should not focus on a species that is no longer considered to have range near Palm Beach County. Floodplain Species Plan — 54— May 8, 2025 Plants American chaffseed. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/1286 The current ECOS Range section's for"US Counties in which this population is known to or is believed to occur:..." lists only two counties in Florida, Gadsden and Leon. This was updated 9-13-2022. Conclusion: The FSA and FSP should not focus on a species that is no longer considered to have range in or near Palm Beach County. Beach iacauemontia. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.2ov/ecp/species/1277 This is a perennial vine that lives in sandy and scrub areas along the coast. The ECOS page notes that the current range of the beach jacquemontia is limited to the five counties along the Atlantic coast from Martin south to Monroe. The 2021 5-Year Review describes ten populations in Palm Beach County. They are all in public parks along the coast, but six of them are extirpated. None are in Boynton Beach. —Beach jacquemontia, 5-Year Review: Summary and Evaluation, June 2021, Table 1,page 11, ecosphere-documents-production- public.s3.amazonaws.com/cams/public does/species nonpublish/3288.pdf, Conclusion: Given the proximity of the existing (and recent)populations to Boynton Beach, this species should be included in the FSA and FSP. Preferred habitat: Beaches and dunes Major threats: Habitat loss, fire management practices, invasive plant species, sea level rise Florida perforate cladonia. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.eov/ecp/species/7516 This plant is a lichen. "Typical habitat for Florida perforate cladonia is found on the high sand dune ridges of Florida's peninsula, including the Atlantic Coastal and the Lake Wales Ridges." "Since the [1999 South Florida] recovery plan was completed, 11 additional sites supporting Florida perforate cladonia were discovered on the Atlantic Coastal Ridge in 2009. This species is known to occur on approximately 41 sites in Florida in four distinct geographic clusters. There are ... 15 sites on the Atlantic Coastal Ridge in St. Lucie, Martin, and Palm Beach counties..."—Recovery Plan for Cladonia perforata (Florida perforate cladonia), Amendment 1, September 2019,page 2, https://ecos.fws.gov/docs/recovery plan/Florida% 20Perforate%20Cladonia%20Recovery%20Plan%20Amendment 2.pdf Conclusion: The species should stay on the list for the FSA and FSP unless it can be determined that the City's beach areas are not conducive to hosting it. Preferred habitat: Beaches and dunes Major threats: Habitat loss, foot and off-road vehicle traffic Floodplain Species Plan — 55 — May 8, 2025 Florida prairie-clover. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/2300 "The Florida prairie-clover is currently restricted to pine rocklands and similar habitats in Miami-Dade and Monroe counties. The species was once found and is now extirpated from Palm Beach County, but it is currently extirpated."—Florida Prairie-clover Status Review: Summary and Evaluation, July 2023, Page 3, https://ecosphere-documents-production- public.s3.amazonaws.com/sams/public docs/species nonpublish/4401.pdf Conclusion: The FSA and FSP should not focus on a species that is no longer considered to have range in or near the City. Four-petal pawpaw. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/3461 The four-petal pawpaw is a small tree or large shrub. It "can be found in sand pine scrub habitat in the coastal dune system of limited areas of Martin and Palm Beach Counties in southeast Florida.... The remaining four-petal pawpaw populations are declining due to further loss of habitat and may be characterized as existing on fragmented parcels within the historical range."—Recovery Plan for the endangered Asimina tetramera (Four petal pawpaw), Amendment 1, September 2019,page 2, https://ecos.fws.gov/docs/ recovery plan/Four-Petal%20Pawpaw%20Recovery%20Plan%20Amendment.pdf Conclusion: The species should stay on the list for the FSA and FSP unless it can be determined that the City's beach areas are not conducive to hosting it. Preferred habitat: Beaches and dunes,pine scrub Major threats: Habitat loss, fire management practices, invasive plant species Okeechobee gourd. ECOS listing: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/5999 As its name implies, the Okeechobee gourd's habitat has historically been Map 1-3.Okeechobee Gourd Sites on the shores of Lake Okeechobee. • Okeechobee gourd sites Variants have been found alongthe a LaeSt Johnse chor population b Lake Okeechobee population 4111);.. St. Johns River and in other areas, but c Broward County site(date 1978) Glades d Dade County site(date 1965) the only known population in Palm r b IIIIIIIIIIIII Potential introduction site Beach County is on the Lake, 35 Boynton Beach--*- County Boundaries Palm Beach miles northwest of Boynton Beach (see Map 1-3). The 2019 Recovery Brow a Plan Amendment did not list any Source:South Florida Recovery Plan,page 4-936 other locations in the County (found at https://ecos.fws.gov/docs/recovery plan/Okeechobee%20Gourd%20Recovery%20Plan %20Amendment l.pdf). Conclusion: The FSA and FSP should not focus on a species that does not have habitat that is found in or near the City. Floodplain Species Plan — 56— May 8, 2025 Tiny polvgala. ECOS listing: httns://ecos.fws.gov/ecn/species/996 "All 11 known populations are found within 9.7 km of the Atlantic Coast. The tiny polygala or Small's milkwort is a short-lived herb. The only known populations occur in sand pockets of pine rocklands, open sand pine scrub, slash pine, high pine, and well-drained coastal spoil. The Palm Beach County population occurs in a scrubby flatwoods association that became established on spoil dredged from the intracoastal waterway prior to 1940."—Pages 41135 and 4-1137 South Florida Recovery Plan. ecos.fws.gov/docs/recovery nlan/140903.pdf. Since the 1999 South Florida Recovery Plan, the only update has been the Pine Rocklands Recovery Plan of 2019 (found at https://ecos.fws.2ov/docs/recovery plan/Pine%20 Rocklands%20Recoverv%20Plan%20Amendment 1.ndf). It notes two other populations, both in public Natural Areas in or near Jupiter. Conclusion: The species should stay on the list for the FSA and FSP unless it can be determined that lands similar to those in Jupiter do not exist in the City. Preferred habitat: Pine scrub Major threats: Habitat loss, fire management practices, invasive plant species A review of the comments submitted and the conclusions in this section produced a revised list of threatened and endangered species that warrant continued attention in the FSA and the subsequent Floodplain Species Plan. Table 1-1, below, summarizes the rationale for not including 12 species in the next phase of this work. This is included as Table 2, page 4, in this Plan. Table 1-1.Species Removed from the Original Listing (in Table 1) Common Name Reason for Removal Birds Eastern black rail The type of wetland habitat needed is no longer in Boynton Beach Everglade snail kite The primary food source and habitat are not found in this area of the County Mammals Florida panther The primary food source and habitat are not found in this area of the County Gray bat A more recent report says the species is no longer found in Florida Southeastern beach mouse A more recent report says the species is no longer found in the area Reptiles Eastern indigo snake The urban environment is not appropriate for this species Insects Bartram's hairstreak butterfly Its pine rocklands habitat no longer includes Palm Beach County Florida leafwing butterfly Its pine rocklands habitat no longer includes Palm Beach County Miami tiger beetle A more recent report says the species is no longer found in the County Plants American chaffseed A more recent report says the species is no longer found in the County Florida prairie-clover Its pine rocklands habitat no longer includes Palm Beach County Okeechobee gourd The primary habitat is not found in this area of the County Note: "Removal"is not permanent—species can be included in future updates to the Floodplain Species Plan based on additional information from agencies and organizations with expertise in endangered species. Floodplain Species Plan — 57 — May 8, 2025 The product of the previous pages' species reviews was the selection of the species most likely to benefit from protective and recovery actions in the City. The selection is summarized in Table 1-2 below, which is the same information as in Table 3 on page 5 of this Plan. Table 1-2. Revised List of Species Warranting Attention in Boynton Beach Common Name I Latin Name Listing Status Critical I So FL Rec habitat I Plan Birds Florida scrub-jay Aphelocoma coerulescens Fed:Threatened X Piping plover Charadrius melodus Fed:Threatened X Red-cockaded woodpecker Picoides borealis Fed:Threatened X Rufa red knot Calidris canutus rufa Fed:Threatened Wood stork Mycteria americana Fed: Endangered X Burrowing owl Athene cunicularia State:Threatened Mammals West Indian manatee Trichechus manatus Fed:Threatened Yes X Reptiles Hawksbill sea turtle Eretmochelys imbricata Fed: Endangered X Leatherback sea turtle Dermochelys coriacea Fed: Endangered X Loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta Fed: Threatened Yes X Green sea turtle Chelonia mydas Fed: Endangered Proposed X Kemp's ridley sea turtle Lepidochelys kempii Fed: Endangered X Gopher tortoise Gopherus polyphemus State:Threatened Fish Smalltooth sawfish Pristis pectinata Fed: Endangered Corals Elkhom coral Acropora palmata Fed: Threatened Yes Staghom coral Acropora cervicomis Fed: Threatened Yes Plants Beach jacquemontia Jacquemontia reclinata Fed: Endangered X Florida perforate cladonia Cladonia perforata Fed: Endangered X Four-petal pawpaw Asimina tetramera Fed: Endangered X I Tiny polygala Polygala smallii Fed: Endangered X I Table 1-2 has a column that identifies 17 species that were included in the South Florida Multi-Species Recovery Plan. This was published by SU(III I1 ORII)1 FWS in 1999 to serve as a"blueprint to recover 68 threatened and 111111 SP[(If5 REC01ER1 Pm endangered species, and to restore and maintain biodiversity of native _ plants and animals in the 23 natural communities throughout about ...., • 26,000 square miles of the 19 southernmost counties in Florida." It is ; ';',7-.j.#.:2,, = . available at https://ecos.fws.gov/docs/recovery nlan/140903.adf. In _ "' the Assessment, it is referred to as the South Florida Recovery Plan. Floodplain Species Plan —58 — May 8, 2025 Appendix 2. Relevant Community Rating System Activities The Community Rating System (CRS) was introduced on page 1 of this report. This section reviews the CRS activities related to protecting threatened and endangered species and identifies what credits Boynton Beach is currently receiving. Table 2-1 reviews general CRS-credited recovery actions that are applicable to most threatened and endangered species. The "Doing" columns identifies whether the City is implementing what is or could be a CRS credited activity. If the City is getting credit, the "Credited" column shows the current CRS credit points and the maximum credit available (shown as "current#/max#). The "Feasible" column identifies if it would be feasible to start an activity or increase the credit points. 300 Public Information Activities Activity 320 (Man Information Service): This activity credits providing flood hazard information about a property, such as whether it is in the mapped SFHA. There are seven elements. MI7 credits providing information related to natural floodplain functions. The City is receiving MI7 credit for telling inquirers if there is "protected naturally functioning open space" on the property. It may or may not mention any species or their habitat. Given the information on Maps 2 - 4, pages 6 - 8, this service could easily be adapted to also state if the property has any critical habitat on it or if there is critical habitat adjacent to a waterfront property. Activity 330 (Outreach Proiects): The City is receiving the maximum credit possible for disseminating 12 outreach projects each year. Most of the projects involve distribution of the City's Flood Hazard Information brochure, which conveys all six of the L ra, CRS credited messages. Message 6 is "protect natural floodplain d 4 e functions." The brochure (and most of the City's projects) says: Go Green—Plant grass and native plants that allow rain to soak in .' and filter runoff instead of pouring concrete. This reduces down- stream flooding and pollution. Learn more: bbfl.info/23lmpact. r. _- As with the 320 credit, the current projects do not mention I �� threatened and endangered species or habitat. Activity 330 also credits a Program for Public Information (PPI). V <c.st, • ; „„�t This allows the City to tailor its messages and get credit for ten messages instead of six. The PPI adopted in 2021 has one natural floodplain functions message, which is the "Go green" message quoted above. Floodplain Species Plan — 59 — May 8, 2025 Table 2-1. CRS Credited Activities Activity/Element Doing? (Credited?I Feasible? 300 Public Information Activities Providing information on areas that serve natural Yes 20/20 Yes,see the discussion on Activity 320 floodplain functions,such as wetlands(320-MI7) Outreach projects(330-0P)with messages on Yes 200/200 Yes,see the discussion on Activity 330 protecting natural functions Designing and disseminating messages on Yes,some of the points are for the"Go protecting natural floodplain functions in a Yes 80/80 green"message. See the discussion on program for public information (330-PPI) Activity 330. Having materials in the local public library(350- Yes,see the discussion on locally LPD)on protecting natural floodplain functions Yes 10/10 pertinent documents(LPD) Having materials on protecting local natural Yes,some points are for mentioning floodplain functions on the community's website Yes 68/77 preserving natural areas. See the (350-WEB) discussion on the City's website(WEB). 420(Open Space Preservation) Preserving open space in the floodplain (OSP) I Yes (551/1,450( Yes,see the discussion on OSP Preserving open space in the floodplain in its Yes 9.5/350 Yes,see the discussion on NFOS natural state(NFOS) Preserving open space on eroding shorelines No 0/750 No CRS credit as per the discussion on (CEOS) CEOS Offering incentives to developers to keep the No 0/250 No CRS credit as per the discussion on floodplain open(OSI) OSI Zoning floodprone areas for large lot sizes to No 0/600 No credit as per the discussion on LZ preserve low density uses(LZ) Preserving stream banks and shorelines in their No I 0/120 No credit as per the discussion on NSP natural state(NSP) 430(Higher Regulatory Standards) Prohibiting filling in the floodplain (DL1a) I No I 0/280 I No credit as per the discussion on DL1a Regulating development in areas subject to No 0/370 No credit as per the discussion on CER coastal erosion (CER) Other regulations to protect natural floodplain No CRS credit as per the discussion on functions not specifically listed in the No 0/100 other regulations. Coordinator's Manual 450(Stormwater Management) Requiring new developments in the watershed to No CRS credit as per the discussion on account for the total volume of runoff released No 36/225 DS (SMR-DS) Requiring new developments to use low impact No 0/25 No CRS credit as per the discussion on development techniques(SMR-LID) LID Setting stormwater management standards based CRS credit expected as per the on an overall plan for the watershed(WMP) Yes 0/315 discussion on WMP 510(Floodplain Management Planning) Adopting one or more plans that address Yes 0/100 CRS credit expected as per the protecting natural floodplain functions(NFP) discussion on NFP 540(Drainage System Maintenance) Having a habitat-friendly program to clear debris No 0/200 A program tailored to natural areas in drainageways(CDR) would be needed Floodplain Species Plan —60— May 8, 2025 Two of the three elements in Activity 350 (Flood Protection Information) are noted in Table 2-1: Locally pertinent documents (LPD) credits having publications in the local public library that "cover flood hazards, flood protection, and natural floodplain functions and also are keyed to local conditions or to the topics credited under Activity 330 (Outreach Projects)." The City is getting the maximum credit for LPD, 10 points. However, it would not be hard to provide the library with publications about local threatened and endangered species that are collected as part of this Floodplain Species Assessment. Flood protection website (WEB) credits having more detailed information on the outreach projects' and PPI's messages credited in Activity 330. The City does have a credited page on its website at https://www.bovnton-beach.org/308/Natural-Beneficial-Functions-of-the-Floo. As with the other CRS public information activities, the site does not mention specific species or critical habitat. Instead there are general statements like "By preserving natural areas, fish and wildlife habitats are protected to provide breeding and feeding grounds." 420 (Open Space Preservation) All six of the elements noted in Table 2-1 under 420 are in the same activity. Open space preservation (OSP): This credit is based on how much of the City's SFHA is preserved as open space. "Preserved"refers to a vacant parcel that is either publicly owned, privately owned with a commitment from the owners to maintain it as open space, or protected by regulations that prohibit construction and filling. The 2021 CRS verification visit confirmed that of the 585 acres of Special Flood Hazard Area in the City, 221 (38%) are areas preserved as open space. This 38%ratio means that the City gets 38% of the maximum points, 1,450. Natural functions open space (NFOS): There are four ways a property could qualify for NFOS credit: -+ NFOS 1: if the parcels preserved under OSP are undeveloped or identified by an appropriate agency as "worthy of preservation for their natural functions." -a NFOS2: if parcels credited as NFOS1 are also designated in a plan to protect natural functions. -3 NFOS3: if parcels credited as NFOS 1 are designated as critical habitat for threatened or endangered species or if the species is present. -* NFOS4: if parcels credited as NFOS 1 are also in a designated open space corridor or connected network. The City has identified 27 acres that qualified for 9.5 points under NFOS 1. Parcels with critical habitat would also get bonus points under NFOS3. However, as noted on Map 4 and the related discussion, all critical habitat designated to date is water, so it would be difficult to get NFOS3 credit. Floodplain Species Plan -61 - May 8, 2025 Coastal erosion open space (CEOS): This credit is for preserving open space in the City's mapped coastal erosion hazard area. The City has a very small area on the beach (St. Andrews Club) that would be subject to erosion. While it is counted in the OSP open space credits, it does not qualify for CEOS because the City does not have the prerequisite coastal erosion regulations. Open space incentives (OSI): OSI credits a variety of regulatory tools to encourage developers to set aside floodprone parcels in new developments. The City does not have any regulations that qualify for this credit. Low-density zoning (LZ): This credit is based on the density of development allowed under the zoning districts in the SFHA. The credit is for five-acre parcels or larger. As a built-up city, Boynton Beach does not have any lower density districts in the floodplain that would qualify. Natural shoreline protection (NSP): The City does not get this credit for a similar reason: a prerequisite is that there needs to be natural streams and shorelines. With the bulk of the City's waterways being, essentially, canals and the need for beach nourishment on the shore, the City would not qualify for NSP credit. Activity 430 (Higher Regulatory Standards) Development limitations (DL 1 a): This credit is for prohibiting filling in the floodplain. There is no credit because filling is considered one of the best ways to protect new development from slow moving floodwaters, such as occurs inland in Boynton Beach. Coastal erosion hazard regulations (CER): CER credit is most effective in developed or develo- ping areas subject to coastal erosion. As noted under CEOS, there is a very small area subject to coastal erosion in the City limits. Other regulations: Activity 430 has an element called "other higher standards (OHS)."A review of the city's ordinances in 2021 did not find any language that might qualify. Activity 450 (Stormwater Management) Three elements in this activity have credits relative to protection or recovery of threatened and endangered species. The first two are subelements of the basic regulations that require stormwater management provisions on new developments. Design storm (DS): This element provides points for requiring developments to account for larger storms. The City is getting 36 points for requiring detention facilities to be designed for the runoff from storms larger than the 10-year but smaller than the 100-year storm. The credit would be doubled if the ordinance also required designing for retaining the volume of such storms. This has a beneficial effect on downstream habitat by requiring provisions that closer mirror natural conditions instead of allowing the longer-term release of the higher runoff volumes. Accordingly, while the City gets some points under DS, it does not meet the standard called for in Table 2-1. Floodplain Species Plan —62 — May 8, 2025 Low-impact development (LID): "The term low impact development (LID) refers to systems and practices that use or mimic natural processes that result in the infiltration, evapotranspiration, or use of stormwater in order to protect water quality and associated aquatic habitat. The EPA currently uses the term `green infrastructure' to refer to the management of wet weather flows using these processes, and to refer to the patchwork of natural areas that provide habitat, flood protection, cleaner air, and cleaner water." (2017 CRS Coordinator's Manual, page 450-9). The City is not receiving this credit because it currently is not requiring the types of measures that would be credited. Watershed master plan (WMP): Establishing stormwater regulatory standards based on a master plan for the watershed is generally more effective than applying the same standards to all developments, regardless of local conditions. As such, the WMP offers additional credits alongside existing stormwater regulation credits. Although Boynton Beach did not have the necessary master plan ready for the 2021 verification visit, it will have one in place for the 2025 verification visit. Activity 510 (Floodplain Management Planning) Natural floodplain functions plan (NFP): This credit is up to 100 points for a community-wide plan to protect one or more natural functions in the floodplain. The City does not have a qualify- ing plan, but the Floodplain Species Assessment and Floodplain Species Plan are expected to qualify for this credit at the next verification visit. Activity 540 (Drainage System Maintenance) Channel debris removal (CDR): This element credits a community's inspection and maintenance program for its natural channels. Boynton Beach's procedures focus on the man-made drainage system, are relatively short and do not include "habitat-friendly" measures. For example, they call for using a"high pressure washer to clean any material from the stormwater inlets and outfalls," followed by clean up with a"high powered vacuum truck." Floodplain Species Plan —63 — May 8, 2025 Appendix 3. Comprehensive Plan Policies Protecting Endangered Species The full Comprehensive Plan for the City can be found at https://www.boynton-beach.org/475/Comprehensive-Plan See also Action item RS 3. Comprehensive Plan Coordination, page 31. 1. Future Land Use, last revised June 2014 1.13 Habitat Preservation Objective 1.13 The City shall continue to protect native habitat, and preserve wetlands. Measurability: Number of areas or sites protected. Policy 1.13.1 The City shall continue to enforce regulations requiring the preservation of 25% of the area occupied by "A" rated native plants on sites classified "Conservation Overlay" and shall require that these standards be placed as conditions of approval for development orders and permits where applicable. 3. Utilities, last revised September 2020 3B.2 Protection of surface water and groundwater from stormwater runoff Objective 3B.2 The City of Boynton Beach will protect the quality and quantity of surface water and groundwater from direct discharges of stormwater runoff. Measurability: Number of improvement projects to prevent direct discharges of stormwater runoff Policy 3B.2.1 The City shall continue to meet land development regulations requiring water quality criteria for drainage discharge set by the South Florida Water Management District and Lake Worth Drainage District. Policy 3B.2.3 The City shall continue to enforce the land development regulations requiring that rainwater runoff be minimized by maximizing infiltration by percolation into grassy swales, medians, golf courses, landscape areas, nurseries, parks, lawns, et cetera. Policy 3B.2.5 The City shall continue to enforce the land development regulations requiring that all new development plans must have approval or letter of exemption from the South Florida Water Management District and Lake Worth Drainage District. Policy 3B.2.7 The City shall continue to enforce the land development regulations requiring that retention and/or detention in new developments will conform to the water quality requirements of Chapter 62-25, Florida Administrative Code. Floodplain Species Plan —64— May 8, 2025 4. Conservation, last revised October 2008 4.3 Protect the Intracoastal Waterway from stormwater pollutants Objective 4.3 Through 2018 the City shall maintain a local stormwater quality equal to or better than existing levels for recognized pollutants and conserve, appropriately use and protect the quality and quantity of waters that flow into the Intracoastal Waterway. Measurability: Reduction in the levels of pollutants determined through stormwater monitoring. Policy 4.3.1 The City shall continue to enforce and, where appropriate, improve subdivision regulations to require all new development or substantial redevelopment to provide on-site retention or detention of at least the first inch of rainfall. Policy 4.3.2 The City shall continue to support the water quality regulatory programs of the State of Florida, Palm Beach County and the South Florida Water Management District. Policy 4.3.5 The City shall continue to evaluate the street sweeping program every two years for needed improvements to efficiency, quality and capital improvements to be based upon technology and economic feasibility. The City shall continue to stay apprised of continued advances in street sweeping technology with regard to feasible and effective mechanisms to remove roadway contaminants; in the event that the technology emerges, the City shall consider the individual or shared purchase of the machinery. Policy 4.3.7 The City shall continue to enforce land development regulations to protect and conserve the natural functions of existing soils, fisheries, floodplains, wildlife habitats, natural reservations, canals, lakes, rivers, wetlands, estuaries, harbors, freshwater beaches and shores and marine habitats. 4.6 Protection of upland and wetland vegetation, mangroves Objective 4.6 The City shall, to the maximum extent feasible, protect all remaining areas of substantial native upland and wetland vegetation and eliminate undesirable exotic tree species. Measurability: Number of acres of upland and wetland vegetation, including mangroves, maintained. Policy 4.6.1 The City shall continue to require a detailed flora and fauna survey on any "`B or C"rated site subject to a development proposal which is greater than 10 acres. Policy 4.6.2 The City shall modify and enforce regulations such that outright preservation of existing, non-exotic trees on any existing vegetated site shall be preferred over "cut and replace" preservation techniques. Removal and replacement shall be discouraged. Preservation of existing trees shall be encouraged, and removal must be unavoidable due to site layout needs with replacement equal to or greater in size and quality to that removed. Floodplain Species Plan — 65 — May 8, 2025 Policy 4.6.3 The City shall continue to enforce and, where appropriate, improve upon existing subdivision or other development regulations which require shoreline vegetation buffer strips, restrict the amount or location of site clearing, maintain natural drainage flows and require the removal of on-site exotic tree species. Policy 4.6.4 The City shall continue, while discouraging clear-cutting prior to development, to enforce regulations that require removal of exotic tree species on sites being developed, particularly those sites containing sensitive ecosystems rated "A". Policy 4.6.5 The City shall continue to enforce the land development regulations that require native vegetation species to satisfy at least 50% of all site landscaping requirements as a condition of development or permit approval. 4.7 Protection of fisheries, and wildlife and marine habitats Objective 4.7 The City shall continue to the maximum extent feasible, to preserve, conserve, appropriately use and protect fisheries, and wildlife and marine habitats which serve as habitat for endangered and threatened plant and animal species. Measurability: Number of acres of habitat preserved pursuant to the objective. Policy 4.7.1 The City shall continue to enforce the land development regulations requiring a site survey for natural areas identified on the City's Natural Resources Map which are greater than 10 acres. In the event that a site survey indicates the existence of a representative plant or animal species designated as endangered or threatened on Federal, State or Florida Committee on Rare and Endangered Plants and Animals lists, the developer shall prepare a plan in consultation with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service for protecting the resident population. Preservation should be provided to the satisfaction of the City in consultation with the Federal and State agencies. Policy 4.7.3 The City shall require continued consistency of all policies and City actions with the Lake Worth Lagoon Management Plan and require policies which may further the plan. 5. Recreation and Open Space, last revised August 2008 5.7 Preservation of open space system Objective 5.7 The City shall develop a system of open spaces through the preservation and/or acquisition of significant lands, native habitat, and habitat of endangered, threatened and species of special concern. Measurability: Increase in the amount of preservation land Policy 5.7.1 Natural areas shall be preserved to the extent possible in accordance with preservation policies in the Conservation Element and Support Document. Floodplain Species Plan — 66 — May 8, 2025 Policy 5.7.2 The City shall coordinate with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and all other appropriate agencies to establish and revise regulations and programs for the acquisition of natural/environmental lands. Policy 5.7.3 The City shall incorporate natural open space, especially wetlands and areas unsuitable for development into neighborhood and community parks, as passive recreation space. Policy 5.7.4 The City shall encourage the incorporation of open space into all new non- residential projects, in addition to any environmentally sensitive areas preserved. Policy 5.7.5 The City shall work in conjunction with the State of Florida, the South Florida Water Management District, the Nature Conservancy, the Trust for Public Lands, and other appropriate agencies involved in conservation lands to create a citywide open space system and a greenways/trails/blueways system. 7. Coastal Management, last revised December 2016 Goal 7 To develop and maintain the Coastal Management area in a manner which protects human life, limits public expenditures in areas subject to destruction by natural disasters while preserving beach, shoreline, marine, wildlife, and recreational resources. 7.1 Development and redevelopment of waterfront properties Objective 7.1 The City shall continue to enforce all applicable local, state, and federal coastal environmental regulations while providing for the development and redevelopment of waterfront properties. Measurability: Number of special permits issued for waterfront residential development. Policy 7.1.1 The City shall continue to participate in and, where appropriate, locally enforce all existing coastal regulatory activities of the Environmental Protection Agency, the Florida Department of Transportation, the Department of Environmental Protection, South Florida Water Management District, Palm Beach County Environmental Resource Management, and Palm Beach County Health Department. Policy 7.1.2 The City shall continue to regularly review and, where necessary, modify local development regulations to ensure that development projects utilize best management construction techniques for natural resource protection. 7.3 Protection and restoration of the coastal dune system and beaches Objective 7.3 Subsequent to Plan adoption, or when mandated by state statute, the City, in cooperation with Federal, State, County, and adjacent governments will protect and restore the existing coastal dune system and beaches along the City's beachfront and establish standards to minimize the beach and dune impacts of man-made structures. Measurability: Amount of coastal dune system and beaches restored and protected. Floodplain Species Plan —67— May 8, 2025 Policy 7.3.1 The City shall continue to coordinate with the Coastal Council and other agencies to identify County, State and Federal grants available for establishing a local dune protection program. Policy 7.3.2 The City shall continue to provide resolutions to support and maintain areawide beach renourishment efforts, if determined to have no significant negative impact on reefs and other living marine resources. 7.4 Protection and conservation of coastal habitats Objective 7.4 The City shall continue to protect, conserve and, where possible, improve local wildlife, coastal wetlands, estuaries, coastal barriers and marine habitats. Measurability: Number of acres of habitat protected. Policy 7.4.1 The City shall continue to discourage site clear-cutting and protect, restore and enhance, where possible, existing natural areas and native species, such as beaches and dunes, wetlands, estuaries and drainage systems. Policy 7.4.3 The City shall continue to assist with the mitigation strategy programs of transplanting seedlings of red mangrove and marsh grass into the intertidal mangrove areas. Policy 7.4.5 The City shall continue to develop and support educational programs, enhancements, and proper maintenance of the Mangrove Nature Trail and Nature Center in the mangrove hammock adjacent to the eastern terminus of Boynton Beach Boulevard. Policy 7.4.6 The City shall continue to enforce the use of native vegetation species in meeting local landscaping requirements. Policy 7.4.7 The City shall continue to enforce the establishment of buffer areas adjacent to natural areas and mangrove sites, open space provisions, tree protection, storm drainage, and best management practices, and amend to comply with policies in this Element. Policy 7.4.8 The City shall continue to enforce the permitting and mitigation requirements of County, State, and Federal agencies in developing in natural, wetland, and mangrove areas. Policy 7.4.9 The City shall continue to support and cooperate in efforts to preserve and encourage turtle nesting along the City's beach area. Policy 7.4.10 The City shall continue to consider the specific and cumulative impacts of development or redevelopment on wetlands, estuaries, water quality, water quantity, wildlife habitats, living marine resources and beach and dune systems. Policy 7.4.11 The City shall abide by the 2007 Palm Beach County Manatee Protection Plan herein adopted by reference and shall support the County's efforts to protect manatees and their habitats. Floodplain Species Plan —68 — May 8, 2025