02a - Navarre Beach Restoration Project Photo Gallery by Kenny Wilder at pbase.com

02a - Navarre Beach Restoration Project

The Navarre Beach Restoration Project started on March 17, 2006 when Weeks Marine laid the first pipe on the beach one block east of Ohio Street. The actual pumping of sand onto the beach did not occur until the night of March 26, 2006. Bookmark this gallery so you can visit often, because I will be adding photos of the beach restoration several times a week until the project is completed.

Legend: The caption under each image will let you know what street area of the beach the photo was taken. Example: “Ohio Street Area”. Under each photo is the date when the photo was taken. Also, below each photo you have the option of viewing image sizes in Small, Medium, Large and Original. Original is an image viewed in high resolution.

YOU CAN VIEW THE NAVARRE BEACH RESORATION PROJECT VIA “LIVE” IMAGES ON MY ROBO CAM #1 AND STATIONARY CAM #2 BY CLICKING ON MY WEBSITE http://www.navarrebeachphotos.com.

I would appreciate your taking the time to scroll down to the bottom of this page and type in a message in the Comment block that you feel is appropriate regarding your visit to my gallery. All images are copyrighted by me and are not to be used without my written consent. To purchase images contact: Kenny@NavarreBeachPhotos.com.

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Ann		31-May-2010 15:46
I’m so glad our tax dollars went to support all the beach house owners and beach condo owners. I assume each and every owner is paying at least $10,000 per year for the next 10 years to help pay for this extensive restoration. Without this restoration it looks like their dwellings would have been underwater with the next storm surge.

Jim		11-Jan-2009 11:51
Great photo commentary. I was unaware of the extent of the hurricanedamage in the Navarre area. Very informative and enlightening. Looking forward to our visit in February.

Dara		13-Jul-2008 16:33
Mr. Wilder. I sat and read several of the comments for the last two years by various posters and you. Lots of fussing and complaining ... You did a great job as mediator and at times - referee! I did not realize what a valiant effort you have put forth in keeping all informed of the beach restoration which, by the way, is a success! Your pictures are beautiful and each tells it's own story. Thanks. It is kind of scary to think of what beautiful Navarre Beach would be like today had a lesser man held the reins. Selah...

Kenny Wilder		16-May-2008 15:57
It is my understanding that the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier is planning an opening of late 2009. However, to date construction has not started.

Guest		16-May-2008 02:25
Does anyone know if (or when) the pier might be re-opened? Never been to Navarre Beach, but will be visiting in July.

Guest		12-May-2008 19:38
Navarre Beach is my family's favorite vacation destination. Thank you for the updates on restoration.

Jennifer W.		09-May-2008 19:56
My family and I are visiting Navarre Beach next month. Numerous local residents have told me about the rebuilding. I did not understand the magitude of the project until I stumbled across your website. Great job guys!! I can't wait to visit to experience this wonderful thing in person.

Guest		26-Mar-2008 20:29
hope you guy will find all of the peaces to the ship i would really love to see it

MeMomma		24-Jan-2008 20:41
Mr. Wilder, Thank you for these wonderful pictures. We come to Navarre each summer with our children and now with our grandchildren. We love it there. Can't wait to log on every so often to see what you have new. Thanks for the terrific work you do. Mississippi Momma and Me Momma

Susan T		13-Aug-2007 23:31
what an absolutely wonderful site! my family has been coming to Navarre Beach for the past 12 years, and my sister stumbled across your site and sent it to us. I LOVE Navarre Beach, although we are not residents of Florida, we have a very soft spot for this wonderful area we discovered so long ago. You take beautiful pics and it is so interesting to watch how the beach is rebuilt. When my sisters and I were there last year we were just talking about that very thing, and wondering what the process was in rebuilding, and you very aptly and beautifully, with "word pictures" answered our every question and more!! We love the webcams also...we are visiting again next month and cannot wait to be there. Thank you for all the hard work, it is obviously a labor of love for you. We are so appreciative of being able to see what is going on at Navarre Beach, when we are far away...makes us feel like we are there :) thank you so much!! btw, you are VERY talented and definitely have an eye for what people want to see in pictures...we love it!

Frank James		18-Jun-2007 14:44
Great, very insightful and very detailed job. I heard they are looking to create a channel through Navarre Beach for boat egress and ingress. Are there any news articles on this? keep up the good work.

Guest		15-Jun-2007 01:28
Your insightful works have given me a wonderful journey. Memories flood back of our many summers Navarre-ing with our blended family. THANK YOU THANK YOU . Our children are scattered now but we will be back again - still in love after 25 years - in late August.

Margaret		10-Jan-2007 23:13
Wonderful and informative web site.I used information from that site its great.

former owner		03-Nov-2006 06:40
to a. ellis...if your timeshare is in the beach condo building then you need to contact ms jackie abshire she is handling the purchases for a mr. max merrick. 850-623-5211.

george brandon		21-Oct-2006 14:00
i m glad everyone likes the 'renourishment project" . i myself cant belive people are so blind as to see what it does to a beach ,which was formed by millions of years of wave action which sifted the beach to pure crushed quartz sand which give it the sugar look we all liked so much..and now with the "plowing" of the ocean bottom tons of broken shells and debris is now mixed in with the pure crushed quartz and your sand on navarre beach will NEVER be the same.,further it sure doesnt feel the same either..it feels more like the gravel in a driveway. , am i the only one who notices this? after being a scuba diver for over forty years and walking this beach for over fifty years i can tell you its not the same ,and will never be again after the mix of all the broken shell in with that pure sand.

Anthony Ellis		17-Oct-2006 19:01
We own a timeshare at Navarre Beach and it is being sold. this is to take about a year. I have been told that some owners are receiving calls from someone wanting to buy these timeshares now in hopes of making a little profit. If anyone knows who this might be....we would really like to get ours sold now.

Kathy		26-Sep-2006 12:02
Kenny, I have really enjoyed watching your webcams. Although I've never been a Florida resident, my parents and sister have lived in Navarre for about 20 years. Navarre Beach will always have a special place in my heart. Part of my morning routine is to check out your site to see what mood the beach is in for that day. It was a joy to see it come back to life. Thank you for my daily fix. Kathy in SC

Kenny Wilder		25-Aug-2006 21:23
There is a “new” Forum for Navarre Beach Friends, My website NavarreBeachPhotos.com was created about six months ago to report the daily activity of the Navarre Beach Restoration Project via my Robo Web Cam, Stationary Web Cam and my photo gallery. Over 1.2 million people have viewed my website during the past six months making it one of the most visited beach websites in the world. Thanks to all of you that have taken the time to send me e-mails of encouragement to continue to add to the website. Because of the interest in my website NavarreBeachPhotos.com, I have decided to turn the site into more than a web cam and photo website. Last night I created a “new” Forum for Navarre Beach. To access the Navarre Beach Forum go tohttp://www.navarrebeachphotos.com and click on the area that says “Navarre Beach Forums”. Please go to the Forum and check it out. This will be an information Forum created for those that live, vacation and are interested about Navarre Beach, the Navarre Mainland and the surrounding area. This Forum is where you can discuss general topics about Navarre Beach such as the Beach Restoration Project, conservation, State Park, Fishing Pier, Navarre Town Center, National Seashore, news, condo/beach house real estate, tax assessments, restaurants, fishing, photos or just whatever you want to talk about or search for specific information. At this Forum you will be able to ask questions addressed to Peter Ravella about the beach restoration project, walkovers and dune vegetation. There is a separate Forum for the core condo owners where they can anonymously chat with each other about the issues regarding their own condo association. The core area will include condos from Summerwinds to Emerald Surf. Other condos and beach house owners have a forum where they can chat with each other, too. This will be where renters can inquire about condo/beach house rentals and real estate. I encourage all of you to register on this Forum TODAY, so you can participate by posting your own messages on the Forum. Or you may elect to just be a guest that that reads the posts (messages) of others. If you decide to register on this Forum, I recommend that you create a user name that is not your personal name to protect your privacy. Example: “BeachTimes” or something like "SunSetGirl". If you want to find out 24/7 what’s going on at Navarre Beach this will be the online site to visit. A direct link to the Forum site ishttp://www.navarrebeachlife.com/forum

Joe Tarvin		25-Aug-2006 13:44
Thanks, Kenny.

Kenny Wilder		24-Aug-2006 18:50
Navarre Beach Restoration to Start Up Again Peter Ravella called me this afternoon and said that the Santa Rosa County Commissioners approved today to send Weeks Marine a letter of NOTICE TO PROCEED with completing the Navarre Beach Restoration Project. This is in accordance to the letter from the US Army Corps of Engineers that was sent to the County about a week ago that stated that the Project could start up again. According to Ravella the Weeks Marine mobilization to bring back the dredge R.N. Weeks, trawlers and other equipment will take about two to three weeks. Ravella’s estimation is that the mobilization should be in place by mid September. The R.N. Weeks is in dry dock for repairs in Mobile, AL and should be ready in plenty of time when everything else is in place. It appears that it will take about 30 to 40 days to complete the beach restoration for Navarre Beach and Navarre Beach State Park. The cost to mobilize Weeks Marine is estimated to be about 1.1 million dollars. The cost to bring in one trawler is about $3,400 per day and the cost for a back up trawler at the dock is about $1,700 per day. In the event that there is another turtle kill it could suspend the project again, however Weeks Marine has agreed to not charge for any Stand by Charges. Once the project gets past October 1 a new fiscal year begins for dredging so the project should be o.k. even if there is another turtle kill. Hopefully, there will be no more turtle kills at Navarre Beach during the remaining days of the project. Why did the Corps have a change of heart to allow both Navarre Beach and Destin to start up again their respective beach restoration projects? My personal opinion is that with the hundreds of e-mails being sent by the People to senators and representatives in Washington about the Corps double standard where they do not abide by the same rules as those where the Corps has dredging operations has had a profound effect. The Corps this year has several dredging operations where they have exceeded the number of turtle kills compared to the number of turtle kills at Navarre Beach and Destin. Politicians in Washington have been made aware of this double standard and I believe that there were rumors brewing of a possible Congressional Hearing about the Corps double standard. Whatever the reason for the Corps decision to allow Navarre Beach to start up again I’m just thankful that the project will be completed soon. It is truly the most beautiful beach in the world.

Joe Tarvin		23-Aug-2006 21:27
Kenny, What do you hear about the beach project starting up again?

Ohio Snowbird		22-Aug-2006 18:43
Kenny, The robocam seems to show some activity, with maybe a crane, west of the old Beach Condos concrete shell. Looks like it would probably be behind where Baracudas used to be. Do you know what is going on there? Will there ever be a replacement for Baracudas?

Guest		21-Aug-2006 23:00
Mr. York: You hit tyhe nail on the head!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

David A. York		21-Aug-2006 19:12
To Guest, I really don't have a good answer. This is a military organization. If you were ever in the military service I think you know whan I mean. There is the right way, wrong way and the military way and the military way is always right, even when they're wrong.

Guest		21-Aug-2006 18:34
Mr. York, Don't you think that is part of the PROBLEM? Your're absolutely correct - the Corps isn't hurt one iota, no matter how silly (or stupid) their decisions are. Consequently, they could care less about how much of OTHER PEOPLE'S time, effort, or money is spent wastefully because of their decisions. What we NEED here is for the Corps to be held accountable for dumb decisions in a way that will cause THEM to make fewer dumb desisions in the future. Any constructive ideas on how to make that happen?

David A. York		21-Aug-2006 14:20
To Guest: Remember... The Corps dollars are not personal dollars, they are tax dollars we all pay. Even if the Corps had to pay it would not hurt them (Corp Officials) at all.

Guest		21-Aug-2006 13:01
Seems like there should be some way to make the Corps eat the cost of the project restart. Especially since they are the sole reason that it NEEDED a restart, and since NOTHING has changed since they shut the project down. They obviously have no concern for causing millions of OTHER PEOPLE'S DOLLARS to be spent needlessly. Perhaps that attitude would change somewhat if it was THEIR DOLLARS. Any good attorneys out there willing to take on the Corps?

Kenny Wilder		19-Aug-2006 15:59
To All, I’m working on an update concerning the US Army Corps of Engineers’ decision yesterday to allow Navarre Beach to start up again the beach restoration project rather than wait until after October 1. I’ll post my update later today. ________________________________________ Guest, The estimated cost to bring back Weeks Marine to complete the beach restoration will cost about 1.8 million dollars according to Santa Rosa County. ________________________________________ Jackie, The sea oat planting project is moving eastward and it is getting close to Arkansas Street or about a half mile west of the Belle Mer. Condos and beach house owners will not be allowed to construct pre approved wooden walkovers until after November 1 in accordance to Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). However, the DEP has allowed Santa Rosa County to construct NOW 10 to 12 “public walkovers”. It is my understanding that the County has already sent out bids to contractors for the “public walkovers”. I would imagine that the “public walkovers” will start construction soon. The “public walkovers” will be in various locations from the Fishing Pier area to the National Seashore. The first “public walkover” west of the Fishing Pier will be to the east of the old Holiday Inn location. The next “public walkover” will be to the east of the Navarre Towers. ________________________________________ Guest, The weather is really great at Navarre Beach during October and November. The early part of December is good, too. Fishing is excellent in the surf in October and November for redfish, pompano, whiting, sea trout and flounder. The beach is very wide and the sand is just as white as prior to the beach restoration. ________________________________________ Ohio Snowbird, The sea oats and other vegetation planting now extend from the National Seashore eastward close to Arkansas Street, or about 2 miles. This leaves only about 1.5 miles left for completion of the vegetation. The big condos are about 90% complete in restoration after Ivan and Dennis. The beach homes on Gulf Blvd. on the beach side and the north side appear to have about 95% restoration. I have never seen Navarre Beach look as great as it does now.

Guest		18-Aug-2006 19:27
What a bunch of jacka**es. How much is this going to cost us? Everyone knows that the county will add the restart costs to the core area. I can not afford more taxes or msbu's -- beach front property sale. goodbye paradise.

H. Van Der Molen		18-Aug-2006 17:49
Kenny, The Northwest Florida Daily News web site is today reporting that the Army Corp of Engineers has now decided the dredging projects in Walton county and Navarre Beach can continue now and not wait until Oct. 1.

Jackie Hicks		18-Aug-2006 13:20
Kenny, From the cam I can tell that the berm "shadow" is creeping eastward. Has any one started walkovers yet? We were there in Mid July and got to see the berm completion- it was a fascinating process. Jackie from AL

Stephen		17-Aug-2006 18:14
Enjoyed a lot!

Guest		17-Aug-2006 16:15
Kenny, thanks for the photo gallery, because of it we are coming down to Navarre Beach this November 10th for a week. We're used to being in the Destin area in October and know that the weather is absolutely perfect, but whats it like in November? and how's the fishing from the beach in Navarre? Beaches still as beautiful and white as before the beach restoration project? Thanks again for the photos and updates!

Ohio Snowbird		17-Aug-2006 04:18
Kenny, I know the shut-down of the project was a big disappointment for everyone, but you have done everything that could be done. You can STILL take great pictures. How about taking a survey of the project as it now stands, including the planting of vegetation, which we think we can see in the robocam views to the west. Also some views of the current progress of reconstruction efforts on the island as well as some of the brand new stuff. This will give us snowbirds some sense of what to expect when we start showing up in late fall.

Kenny Wilder		10-Aug-2006 11:52
Joe, I have noticed the landscape workers planting sea oats over the past few days along the big dune during my daily 5 mile walk from the Belle Mer to the National Seashore and back. Sometimes you don’t see the workers from Gulf Blvd. because they may be on the other side of the dune.

Joe Tarvin		09-Aug-2006 17:51
Kenny, I haven't noticed any activity at the sea oats planting area in several days. Have they stopped?

Peter Ravella		03-Aug-2006 20:13
Hello Everyone, Peter Ravella here from Coastal Tech. We are deeply disappointed in the decision by the Corps to halt the navarre Project until October 1. From the standpoint of protecting turtle populations in the Gulf, I believe the decision is unsupportable. We are now actively engaged in working through the fallout of this decision contractually and logistically. Over the next week or so, we should have a clear idea on the availibility of of the dredges to restart the project. At this point, our goal is to begin the project again on October 1, the first date available. We'll keep you advised as this comes into focus. We are also working through the fallout for the project cost with Weeks, the county and our construction supervisers at Parsons-Brinkerhoff. I want to thank everyone in Navarre and around the country that worked so hard to keep this project on line. Roger, Comm. Goodin, the County leadership, Weeks Marine and Coastal Tech tried every avenue we could to avoid this unfortunate result. On other matters: Dune planting will continue and county walkovers are now in the permitting process at FDEP.

Guest		03-Aug-2006 18:06
We can't expect Weeks Marine to sit around for two months to finish this job. I am sure they will more on to another site. Do we have an estimate of when they might return to finsh the Navarre Project?

Roger Dick		02-Aug-2006 21:55
Unbelievable, what an outrageous,asinine, stupid, ignorant, lame brain, air headed, goofy decision. I can NOT beleive anyone or agency could make such a decision. Transport all that equipment back in October? Leave a job that is 90% plus done, with hurricane season just coming into bloom. I have heard of our government making dumb moves, but this must move close to the top. Thanks to all who have fought this fight from Navarre Beach and in the interest of the same. You are to be commended for all the good you have done and to get the project this far. Roger

M. Tarvin		02-Aug-2006 15:03
I think it's safe to say that, as a government agency, they have truly met our expectations.

Kenny Wilder		02-Aug-2006 14:59
RIGHT WAY, WRONG WAY AND THE ARMY WAY Navarre Beach Restoration Done Until October US Army Corps of Engineers Conveys Double Standard It’s over – at least until October. At a meeting yesterday at the US Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) District Office, Jacksonville, FL the Corps denied a request from Santa Rosa County to resume the beach restoration project for Navarre Beach. The project cannot restart until the 2007 fiscal year begins Oct.1. The Corps initially shut down the dredging operation on July 1 after a third sea turtle was killed during the project. However, the Corps made its decision not to restart the restoration before the meeting with County officials and Coastal Technology even began. US Rep. Jeff Miller’s office received a letter from the Corps on Tuesday morning August 1, hours before the scheduled 3:00 PM meeting with the County started, saying the project could not continue until October 1. In the letter, Steven Stockton, the Corps’ Deputy Director of Civil Works in Washington, said that restarting the Navarre Beach restoration could put the Corps’ Civil Works hopper dredging projects in jeopardy. Does this letter convey a DOUBLE STANDARD? You bet it does. Since the projects at Navarre Beach and Destin have been shut down the only projects that are allowed to operate at this time are the Corp’s own dredging projects. Once again the Corps has clearly demonstrated bad faith. The letter was most likely drafted on Monday the day before the meeting in the afternoon on Tuesday. Why did the Corps allow County Commissioner Goodin, Tom Dannheisser (County Attorney), Roger Blaylock (County Engineer), and representatives from Weeks Marine (Contractor) and Coastal Technology (County’s Consultant) to make the trip to Jacksonville when a decision was made before the meeting? The County and its representatives were denied an opportunity to a fair and impartial hearing. A friend came by my condo patio this morning and had already heard about the County’s decision. He is a recently retired Chairman and President of one of the largest banks in America that is a household name. He said it best by saying “There is a Right Way, Wrong Way and the Army Way.” It is apparent that the Corps’ Steven Stockton, the Corps’ Deputy Director in Washington and the “new” Jacksonville District Commander Colonel Paul Grosskruger wanted to send a message that this matter would be decided the “Army Way”. This decision in my opinion had nothing to do with regulatory issues regarding 3 dead turtles at Navarre Beach, but was a political power play to show who is boss. Or as the Deputy Director conveyed in his letter the decision was made to protect the Corps’ own dredging operations in the Gulf of Mexico. In any event the Corps was dead wrong in not properly notifying the County representatives of their decision prior to the scheduled meeting. This was the “Wrong Way”! The Corp has a website that reports turtle (takes) kills for all dredging operations in the Gulf of Mexico. I will be monitoring this website and reporting the Corps turtle takes (kills) regarding their own dredging operations on my own website www.NavarreBeachPhotos.com. This web site will be created within a few days.

Guest		01-Aug-2006 22:17
any news from the meeting in Jax?

Brad		31-Jul-2006 03:58
Is it good that both Ft. Walton and Destin are joining us in this meeting? It seems as if they allow one of us to resome dredging that they would need to resume for all 3 operations????? Our situation may be different than the others based on Weeks Marine sitting on stand-bye waiting to go.....

Kenny Wilder		29-Jul-2006 23:30
Walton County/Destin Project Joins Navarre Beach Project Thanks to the hundreds of e-mails that were sent this past week on behalf of the Navarre Beach Restoration suspension. I’m sure that some of those e-mails may have been sent from members of the local online forums. In the past few days US Senators and Congressmen in Washington helped in scheduling a face to face meeting with the US Army Corps of Engineers (COE) at their District office in Jacksonville, FL to discuss a possible start up. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, August 1 at 3:00 PM EDT. Walton County/Destin Beach Restoration Project was suspended by the COE about two months ago, because of a turtle kill caused by dredging right outside the Destin Pass. The Walton County/Destin Project is joining forces with the Navarre Beach Project in its face to face discussions at the meeting. Attending the meeting in Jacksonville will be COE District Commander Col. Grosskruger, Michael Walther the president of Coastal Technology, and representatives from Santa Rosa and Walton Counties. The purpose of the meeting is to request that the COE allow the Navarre Beach Project and the Walton County/Destin to restart and proceed until completion.

Kenny Wilder		28-Jul-2006 14:18
Joe, I'll look for you and Carol on Saturday or Sunday on the beach in front of Navarre Towers. The beach is glorious today.

Peter Ravella		28-Jul-2006 01:28
Ladies and gents -- all is looking well. We have a meeting with the Corps next week on Tuesady to discuss the project. I want to thank everyone for all the emails and effort to help educate the powers that be of the importance of continueing our project. At this point, I think everyone deserves a much deserved break from the email campaign, especially Kenny, who has put in Hurculean efforts over the last month. Thanks everyone. We're still working and will let you know of any development as soon as we get word. Peter Ravella, Coastal Tech. My apologies for not responding to the many other comments or questions. I will try to catch up soon; we've been a bit occupied.

Joe Tarvin		28-Jul-2006 00:59
Kenny, Carol and I are coming down tomorrow night for a few days. We'll be sitting in 2 yellow beach chairs in front of Navarre Towers. Hope to get to meet you.

Kenny Wilder		27-Jul-2006 21:45
Guest, The COE gave Navarre Beach a 5 day extension. On the third day the COE shut down the project because they said that the berm (dune) had been completed in the remaining gap. The COE would not allow further work in placing more sand past the berm (dune) as it is was done at the rest of the beach. Sand, there was no turtle takes (kills) during the three day period. I’m sure that all of this will be discussed when all the parties have a face to face meeting next Tuesday in Jacksonville.

Guest		27-Jul-2006 20:02
So what exactly was the reason for the dredging stoppage by the COE?

Kenny Wilder		27-Jul-2006 18:57
Joe Tarvin, According to Peter Ravella this morning there is no “stand by charges” during “suspension” of the project that is provided in the contract between Weeks Marine and Santa Rosa County. With the COE’s suspension you have no permit or right to operate. I hope this clears up your concerns about this matter.

Kenny Wilder		27-Jul-2006 18:47
Guest, Peter Ravella has not asked me to attend the meeting. I’m not sure that my presence would be in the best interest. I’m most likely perceived by the US Army Corps of Engineers as an adversary. I sincerely believe that my role as communicating updates and posting photos is the best way I can help the beach restoration project.

Joe Tarvin		27-Jul-2006 18:22
8 days at $55,200 a day is $441,600.

Guest		27-Jul-2006 17:05
Kenny: Do you plan to attend the Jax. meeting?

Kenny Wilder		27-Jul-2006 16:39
Beach Restoration Suspension Update I just talked with Peter Ravella about the beach restoration suspension. The beach restoration project is still in shut down mode since Monday, July 24 that was ordered by the US Army Corps of Engineers (COE). However, Colonel Paul L. Grosskruger the “new” COE District Commander and his staff have agreed to meet face to face in their Jacksonville office with interested parties and discuss the current suspension on Tuesday, August 1 at 3:00 PM. The interested parties other than the COE will include possibly Roger Blaylock the County Engineer, one or two County Commissioners, president of Coastal Technology Corp and representatives from Weeks Marine. I should be able to provide more information after the face to face meeting is over next Tuesday, August 1 with the COE and the County’s representatives.

Kenny Wilder		27-Jul-2006 03:09
Navarre Beach Stationary Cam Has a New Home Both the Live Robo Cam and the Live Stationary Cam served its purpose well during the beach restoration project. The Stationary Cam showed two thirds of the western beach during pre beach restoration, mid beach restoration and post beach restoration. The Stationary Cam was changed today to zoom in for a close up on the “new” beach and surf in front of the Belle Mer. The Stationary Cam will now allow people to see their friends and family at the Beach. I plan to erect a white pole with surf warning red and yellow flags within a few days. This will be a site where folks can congregate at the white flag pole to meet or call others on their cell phones to look for them on the Stationary Cam or whatever. This area in front of the Belle Mer will be the new home for the Stationary Cam’s live images. The Robo Cam will continue to zoom in and out to the west and east of the beach from the Belle Mer. The Robo Cam will show the same live images that have been viewed over the past few months of the western two thirds of the beach. The Robo Cam will be constantly changed to show new live images. Both the Robo Cam and Stationary Cam may be viewed by going to my website www.NavarreBeachPhotos.com.

MLRJR		27-Jul-2006 02:13
just opened the mail.........navarre towers beach restoration for our unit.....$880.00 PER YR FOR 7 YEARS! HOW MUCH CAN WE BILL TO COE?

JoeBeach		26-Jul-2006 21:27
Kenny I got to say you nailed the Corps of Engineers to the cross today with the double standard analogy in your letter. This was nothing but brilliant.

Joe Tarvin		26-Jul-2006 19:50
Kenny, I want to vent a little more. In addition to what I said earlier today about the final act of Colonel Carpenter shutting our project down just before being relieved of duty, I would like to comment about the cost of that petty action. Weeks Marine, I am assuming began charging $2300 per hour standby time, which amounts to $55,200 per day, for 2 days, which will cost us $110,400. You know that I'm President of a consulting engineering firm, and I'll guarantee you that we don't shut a project down for no reason. If we did, we would be held accountable and financially responsible! Only a government worker can get away with this! And, WE THE PEOPLE, not only have to take whatever they choose to dish out, but we have to pay the bill that results from their action. In my 40 years of practice, I have delt with frustrating agencies, but this COE has got to be the worst. I do not understand how they can get away with it time after time. It seems that we are helpless, and the most we can hope for is that they'll let us start again, only to look forward to their next frustrating act. I don't know how many days of standby we've had to pay for because of their starting and stopping, buy it's got to be approaching a million dollars. But, this last shutdown, smells of pettyness. Thanks. I feel better.

Joe Tarvin		26-Jul-2006 16:53
Kenny, Good job. Excellent letter.

Mark Tarvin		26-Jul-2006 14:22
Just curious, are we back to the $2300 / hour standby waiting game with Weeks Marine? I'd like to think that if federal funding was paying the tab for "standby status" that we would get a quicker decision, but I doubt it. Hopefully under new leadership from Col. Grosskruger, who seems to be both a highly qualified engineer and highly decorated soldier (thankyou for your service Sir), we will see wisdom in his decisions and better stewardship of the project and all moneys involved (both private and public).

Kenny Wilder		26-Jul-2006 14:07
________________________________________ From: Kenny Wilder [mailto:kenny@navarrebeachphotos.com] Sent: Wednesday, July 26, 2006 8:59 AM To: Grosskruger, Paul L SAJ Cc: Major General Don T. Riley (Don.T.Riley@usace.army.mil); 'Lawrence.C.Evans@saj02.usace.army.mil'; 'Commissioner Goodin'; Peter Ravella (pravella@coastaltechcorp.com) Subject: Navarre Beach Restoration Project Attention: Colonel Paul L. Grosskruger District Commander US Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville District Colonel Grosskruger, I received your e-mail response yesterday in regard to my e-mail congratulating you on your new appointment as District Commander of the US Army Corps of Engineers (COE), Jacksonville District. It is my sincere desire that you will serve our District in a fair manner. I live at Navarre Beach, Florida and I would like to say a few things about the Navarre Beach Restoration Project. Two days ago on July 24 the US Army Corps of Engineers (COE) shut down the dredging operation “again” of the Navarre Beach Restoration Project. Last week the COE granted the project 5 more days for dredging. The COE shut down was only the 3rd day of the 5 day extension granted, but the COE in bad faith reneged on their word and shut down the project anyway. There was no turtle incident during this 3 day period. Many folks may think that the only dredging is engaged by private, state and county projects. However, as you know, the US Army Corps of Engineers (COE) is heavily involved in their own dredging projects on the federal level. Have you ever wondered how many turtle takes (kills) have been allowed on federal dredging projects as a way to compare how the COE treats its own projects verses state or county projects? Well a great example of this can be found on the COE’s own website. Go to the link http://el.erdc.usace.army.mil/seaturtles/project.cfm?Id=316&Code=Project During the period of October 2004 to December 2004 the COE New Orleans District undertook the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet project after Hurricane Ivan to maintain an important federal channel. The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) take (kill) allowance is designed to allow these activities to occur – and to take (kill) turtles – as long as the overall limits are not surpassed. In the project mentioned above the COE took (killed) 14 Loggerhead turtles in about 60 days (two in one day on December 6, 2004) and never stopped running! According to the COE website the Navarre Beach project has only taken (killed) two Loggerhead turtles and one Kemps Ridley Turtle caused by dredging since the project started about four months ago. Go to linkhttp://el.erdc.usace.army.mil/seaturtles/project.cfm?Id=426&Code=Project QUESTION: Does the US Army Corps of Engineers (COE) have a double standard where the COE turtle take (kill) allowance is much greater on the federal level than state or county projects? The take (kill) limits are designed to allow these critical projects to continue even though turtles can be taken (killed). That’s what WE VOTERS and WE THE PEOPLE are asking the COE to do at Navarre Beach – on a much smaller scale and at much less risk – by authorizing additional time of dredging. This additional time will allow the beach restoration project to complete the half mile area between the Pearl and Navarre Towers that are not as wide as the rest of the beach. More time would complete several hundred feet of the eastern end of the County beach area. More time would complete the Navarre Beach State Park. Completing the above mentioned areas of the beach is vital to protecting our three restaurants, boat launch and causeway to the Navarre Beach Bridge. These areas currently have no beach protection in the event of a hurricane. If the causeway is knocked out WE THE PEOPLE have no road access to Navarre Beach, because the road between Navarre Beach and Pensacola Beach was destroyed by Hurricane Dennis on July 10, 2005 and no construction of this vital road has occurred to date. It is my understanding that if the project is not allowed to continue and has to start up again after October 1 by the COE’s directive, that the additional cost to start dredging again after October 1 could possibly exceed 1.5 million dollars in cost to WE THE PEOPLE, the state and Santa Rosa County. Please consider allowing us more time to complete our beach restoration especially since we only need a few more days. Again, congratulations on your new appointment as District Commander. E-mail Copied To: US Congressman Jeff Miller* US Senator Bill Nelson* US Senator Mel Martinez* Major General Don T. Riley, Director of Civil Works, COE Headquarters Lawrence C. Evans, Division Chief, Jacksonville Division Commissioner Gordon Goodin, Santa Rosa County Peter Ravella, Coastal Technology Corp http://www.pbase.com/kennywilder/startrestoration *Sent by Web-Mail Kenny Wilder NavarreBeachPhotos.com Navarre Beach, Florida www.NavarreBeachPhotos.com

Joe Tarvin		26-Jul-2006 13:35
Just to set the record straight. It is a fact that the Jacksonville District of the COE " let us know that they do not concur with the decision to extend the project." I have this in writing from a reliable source. The quote was speaking about the 10 day entension. Now we see that Carpenter had the opportunity to do the right thing and let us finish the project. But, what did he do, knowing he was about to be relieved of duty? He did one last "gotcha". He took back 2 days. What a class act. And, we have no one that's willing to call him on it.

Kenny Wilder		26-Jul-2006 02:00
________________________________________ From: Grosskruger, Paul L SAJ [mailto:Paul.L.Grosskruger@saj02.usace.army.mil] Sent: Tuesday, July 25, 2006 8:16 PM To: kenny@navarrebeachphotos.com Subject: RE: Congratulations Kenny, thank you. It is a great honor. Respectfully, Col Grosskruger -----Original Message----- From: Kenny Wilder [mailto:kenny@navarrebeachphotos.com] Sent: Tue Jul 25 21:08:08 2006 To: Grosskruger, Paul L SAJ Subject: Congratulations Colonel Grosskruger, Congratulations on your new appointment today as commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville District. Kenny Wilder NavarreBeachPhotos.com Navarre Beach, Florida www.NavarreBeachPhotos.com

Kenny Wilder		26-Jul-2006 01:45
Navarre Beach Restoration Project Update Colonel Robert M. Carpenter with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE), Jacksonville Division that would have most likely decided the fate today or tomorrow of the Navarre Beach Restoration Project is no longer the commander of the Jacksonville Division. Colonel Paul L. Grosskruger became the “new” commander today of the Jacksonville Division. Hopefully, Colonel Grosskruger will show some common sense and help us get the Navarre Beach Restoration Project back on track for completion. Colonel Grosskruger’s press release on the COE’s website is listed below. Let’s give Colonel Grosskruger a warm welcome and encourage him to be fair in his duties as the new commander. I encourage all of you to send an e-mail to Colonel Grosskruger TODAY at Paul.L.Grosskruger@saj02.usace.army.mil Peter and his company Costal Technology, Santa Rosa County and Congressman Jeff Miller plan to contact Colonel Grosskruger tomorrow to set up a meeting in Jacksonville to meet Colonel Grosskruger in person. The meeting should be instrumental in presenting to Colonel Grosskruger why the beach restoration project should be allowed to be completed. PRESS RELEASE ________________________________________ Grosskruger Assumes Command of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville District. JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Colonel Paul L. Grosskruger became the 55th commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville District during a Change of Command ceremony held today at the Florida Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts. As Jacksonville District commander, Grosskruger assumes responsibility for the federal development of water resources in all of Florida, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Jacksonville District’s annual program is in excess of $300 million and includes the Corps’ largest ecosystem restoration project, the restoration of America’s Everglades. "I look forward to serving as a member of the Jacksonville District and as part of the entire Army Corps of Engineers team in serving our nation," said Grosskruger. "Teamwork, partnership and mutual trust, forged through working closely together with our partners at the state, federal, local and private sector levels, are the reasons for our past accomplishments and will serve as our guide toward developing solutions to the challenges of today and tomorrow. I know that much lies ahead – yet I know that working together, all things are possible." Grosskruger most recently served as chief of staff of the U.S. Army Engineer School, Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. A registered professional engineer, he holds a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering mechanics from the United States Military Academy, West Point and a Master of Science degree in civil engineering from Iowa State University. Among Grosskruger’s previous assignments are: Commander of the 94th Engineer Combat Battalion, Vilseck, Germany, which earned the Presidential Unit Citation for service with the 3rd Infantry Division during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He has earned the Bronze Star, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Joint Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the NATO Medal and others.

Ohio Snowbirds		25-Jul-2006 21:35
We sent the following message - hope it helps a little: Navarre Beach Restoration Project We are Navarre Beach Snowbirds for 4 months every winter. Our very good friends, and all the Navarre Beach residents, are being treated very badly with arbtitrary actions by the Corps of Engineers. They have arbitrarily shut down the project for the 5th time - for absolutely no reason - other than apparent double standards, arrogance and the misuse of their vast powers. Please use your influence to bring some common sense to the COE so the vital beach restoration project can be completed. We have witnessed, for the past 2 winters, the huge amount of damage and the huge rebuilding effort from a really great community. The last thing they need is arbitrary actions and the double standard the COE is foisting on the residents and visitors. Please fix this - hopefully in a way that will prevent future silly actions by the COE in other projects elsewhere. Regards, Hopeful Taxpayers and Snowbirds

Curdoglsu		25-Jul-2006 21:34
I e-mailed General Riley today and he responded very quickly. His response sounds encouraging. Here it is: Kevin, We have been watching this matter very closely because of the endangered species act. I agree that it is very important that we proceed as best we can within the law and recognize the costs will increase substantially if we have to stop. I have included BG Mike Walsh (the Division Commander) on this email as I know he is watching this daily. He has taken steps across South Atlantic Division to keep projects moving. We'll continue to do what we can to complete these projects. VR, Don Riley

MLRJR		25-Jul-2006 21:09
I HOPE YOU DONT MIND BUT I CUT AND PASTED YOUR LETTER TO GEN. STROCK. CONGRESSMAN JEFF MILLER S ASSIST. ANNE PIZZATO JUST PHONE ME BACK SAYING THAT SHE WAS UP TO THE MINUTE ON THE PROBLEM AS WAS MR MILLER. SHE SAID THAT EMAILS HAD BEEN SENT FROM JEFF MILLER TO WASHINGTON COE. IT SEEMS THAT THEY HAVE MORE COMMON SICE THAN THE FOLKS IN FLORIDA COE. I WILL GET THAT ADDRESS FOR YOU. SEE YOU AUGUST 5TH! MARGARITA? LLOYD

Kenny Wilder		25-Jul-2006 20:56
If you talk to General Riley could you let me know his e-mail address? Thanks.

mlrjr		25-Jul-2006 20:41
also just got off the phone with capt j.morgan of coe headquarters and he has given my phone number to general riley for hopefully fifteen minutes of his time in a phone call. will keep you posted. im not really a email knid of guy and i dont have much going on at work,so i will keep you posted.

mlrjr		25-Jul-2006 20:25
http://www.hq.usace.army.mil/ceig/Chiefsline.htm kenny, i found this link today. it is a hotline set up by the army coe to report fraud,waste and abuse to the army corp chief. boy this sure qualifies. i called and reported fraud on themselves. you get to leave a number so you can be contacted,so we will see what happens!!

Kenny Wilder		25-Jul-2006 16:44
SEND YOUR E-MAIL TODAY! I sent an e-mail this morning that is copied below to our Washington public servants to request that the Navarre Beach Restoration Project be allowed to continue until all of Navarre Beach is completed as well as the Navarre Beach State Park. Send your e-mails TODAY to the following: US Senator Bill Nelson Web Mail:http://billnelson.senate.gov/contact/email.cfm US Senator Mel Martinez Web Mail:http://martinez.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=ContactInformation.ContactForm&CFID=8835419&CFTOKEN=44063593 US Congressman Jeff Miller Web Mail:http://jeffmiller.house.gov/index.cfm?FuseAction=Contact.Home In sending an e-mail to Senator Nelson, Senator Martinez and Congressman Miller you will have to go to the online links above and use web mail forms. ________________________________________ Re: Navarre Beach Restoration Project Congressman Jeff Miller, Yesterday, Monday, July 24 the US Army Corps of Engineers (COE) shut down the dredging operation “again” of the Navarre Beach Restoration Project. Last week the COE granted the project 5 more days for dredging. Yesterday was only the 3rd day of the 5 day extension, but the COE in bad faith reneged on their word and shut down the project anyway. Many folks may think that the only dredging is engaged by private, state and county projects. However, the US Army Corps of Engineers (COE) is heavily involved in their own dredging projects on the federal level. Have you ever wondered how many turtle takes (kills) have been allowed on federal dredging projects as a way to compare how the COE treats its own projects verses state or county projects? Well a great example of this can be can be found on the COE’s own website. Go to the link http://el.erdc.usace.army.mil/seaturtles/project.cfm?Id=316&Code=Project During the period of October 2004 to December 2004 the COE New Orleans District undertook the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet project after Hurricane Ivan to maintain an important federal channel. The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) take (kill) allowance is designed to allow these activities to occur – and to take (kill) turtles – as long as the overall limits are not surpassed. In the project mentioned above the COE took (killed) 14 Loggerhead turtles in about 60 days (two in one day on December 6, 2004) and never stopped running! Navarre Beach has only had four turtle takes (kills) since the project started about four months ago. The take (kill) limits are designed to allow these critical projects to continue even though turtles can be taken (killed). That’s what WE VOTERS and WE THE PEOPLE are asking the COE to do at Navarre Beach – on a much smaller scale and at much less risk – by authorizing additional time of dredging. This additional time will allow the beach restoration project to complete the half mile area between the Pearl and Navarre Towers that are not as wide as the rest of the beach. More time would complete several hundred feet of the eastern end of the County beach area. More time would complete the Navarre Beach State Park. Completing the above mentioned areas of the beach is vital to protecting our three restaurants, boat launch and causeway to the Navarre Beach Bridge. These areas currently have no protection in the event of a hurricane. If the causeway is knocked out WE THE PEOPLE have no road access to Navarre Beach, because the road between Navarre Beach and Pensacola Beach was destroyed by Hurricane Dennis on July 10, 2005 and no construction of this vital road has occurred to date. It is my understanding that if the project is not allowed to continue and has to start up again after October 1 by the COE’s directive, that the additional cost to start dredging again after October 1 could possibly exceed 1.5 million dollars in cost to WE THE PEOPLE, the state and Santa Rosa County. Please use your influence in persuading the COE to do the right thing. Kenny Wilder

Joe Tarvin		25-Jul-2006 12:06
Can we sue this Colonel personally? Maybe a civil suit? I would like for this guy to have to pay his own legal bills instead of hiding behind the COE or the Army.

Mark Tarvin		25-Jul-2006 12:00
Kenny, sounds like it's time to point out the hypocrisy in the COE's enforcement of their own standards. I think EVERYONE should know that they clearly have one set of rules for themselves and their own dredging operations and another entirely different set of rules for those that contract private companies for such work. There must be a news story in there somewhere that will force this agency to respond in a public forum to attempt to defend their indefensible actions! Obviously they don't feel they have to answer to anyone about anything but in light of the poor public perception following the levee fiasco in N.O., isn't someone at the COE bright enough to realize that although the taxpayers don't make the "hands-on" decisions regarding hiring, firing and funding, WE THE PEOPLE do elect (or defeat) the people in Congress that actually do control the COE's funding through budget appropriations? It's time to let them know who the boss is and that the boss isn't anyone who gets a paycheck from the US Government. The bosses are those of us who foot the bill for those paychecks! Let her rip Kenny

Brad		25-Jul-2006 04:02
Maybe these guys from the COE just do not know how to count and will realize that they cut us 2 days short????? I am seriously concerned about our exposure in this area if there were a storm with no other way to get on / off the island. What is Weeks Marine proposing to do? Are they going to take off on us?

Joe Tarvin		25-Jul-2006 03:42
Kenny, Perhaps there is an attorney out there that is willing to advise us concerning our ability to take the COE to court, and sue them. I would love to see these guys defend their position on this one. Something tells me we could collect a few bucks amongst ourselves to pay for it.

Joe Tarvin		25-Jul-2006 03:26
Kenny, You know, the older I get the harder it is to just set back and accept whatever some unelected government worker arbitrarily decides to dish out. You're telling us that they gave us 5 more days, and now for no reason they've decided to take 2 back. That just goes all over me. The arrogance of these guys. That just reaks of one upmanship. Somehow we've got to clip these guy's wings. This is definitely abuse of power, and we must reach out for whatever help that's available to us. I can't imagine anyone with any reason and common sense not being willing to come to our aid. And, the way these guys are acting, we need to request more than time extensions, we need to expect that they be removed from their position. And, all of this because f 3 turtles!

Kenny Wilder		25-Jul-2006 02:11
Navarre Beach Restoration Project Stopped Again I talked on the phone this afternoon with Peter Ravella and he said that the US Army Corps of Engineers (COE) stopped the dredging of the beach restoration project at about 10:00 AM CDT this morning. The project was granted last week a 5 day extension by the COE. The extension allowed for two more days, but the COE decided this morning that the project needed to stop until after October 1. This decision was made by the COE even though the very eastern end of Navarre Beach Restoration Project has not been completed in front of Cocodrie’s restaurant. This puts Cocodrie’s, Tom Thumb, Sailor’s Grill, Juana’s and the boat launch and dock in a very vulnerable situation in the event of a hurricane. I am suggesting an all out e-mail blitz to our public servants in Washington to persuade those in power to use some common sense and do the right thing. This may be our last chance to make this happen. I will post more information about the strategy of an e-mal blitz tomorrow and I’ll have an e-mail list of the pertinent public officials including the COE.

Guest		24-Jul-2006 19:16
I read in the gulfbreeze paper about the navarre Beach Beautification club doing landscaping alll the way to the stop sign. Does anyone know any thing more about this and when it might start? I think the entrace to navarre Beach is key.

Kenny Wilder		24-Jul-2006 17:50
More Good News! I left the Pearl area about 12:00 PM noon today and about 99% of the remaining “gap” of the beach berm and partial beach is now complete. The bulldozers are smoothing out the sand. The applied extension to the COE will include the unfinished beach restoration in front of Cocodrie’s to the east and the Navarre Beach State Park. About 1/3 of the beach has now been planted with sea oats.

Mark Tarvin		24-Jul-2006 17:17
Kenny or Peter, can you tell us approx. how much work is left to do on the east side of the pier? I would think that would also be a critical area given its proximity to the highrises near the pier and the causeway.

Guest		24-Jul-2006 17:10
looks like the sea oat planters are also making progress today

Kenny Wilder		24-Jul-2006 14:25
Good News! The remaining gap in front of the Pearl is very close to being completed. You can view this on the Robo Cam by going tohttp://www.navarrebeachphotos.com And it’s currently raining this morning at Navarre Beach.

Kenny Wilder		24-Jul-2006 13:52
Joe, I agree with you 100% on everything that you have said. During past hurricanes and tropical storms the first water surge to flood across Gulf Blvd. has always been the large tract of land between Navarre Towers and what used to be the Holiday Inn. Only having a berm and beach that does not extend as far as the rest of the beach restoration certainly leaves this area very vulnerable. This is the same area where Gulf Blvd. was destroyed after Hurricane Ivan (September 16, 2004) and again by Hurricane Dennis (July 10, 2005). And each time these hurricanes and tropical storms with their destructive water surge at this very area knocked out the infrastructure that included Gulf Blvd., power, phone, water and sewage. I still think that the COE will do the right thing and allow us to continue. Otherwise, another e-mail blitz might have to be directed to our public servants that serve we the voters and We the People. In the meantime I think we should wait until Peter and the County has had a chance to exhaust their newest request to the COE for an extension. Go to the links below to see two photos that I shot last summer a year ago of what Gulf Blvd. looked like in this very area after Hurricane Dennis. http://www.pbase.com/kennywilder/image/46155483 http://www.pbase.com/kennywilder/image/46155484

Joe Tarvin		24-Jul-2006 00:27
Kenny and Peter, I would add one more opinion. I believe that this is a critical mistake on the part of the COE. If they leave us in this position for the remainder of the season, I believe that Peter's company should write the COE a letter placing them on notice that this situation is understood on our part and if the potential happens they will have been fore advised and will be held responsible.

Joe Tarvin		24-Jul-2006 00:14
Kenny, As a practicing civil engineer, I would think that the COE should reassess their position on this one. Considering the criticisim they received after Katrina, they should know that leaving a weak section in the "levee" would leave a section that would be likely to fail in the event of a major storm. This failure would concentrate the storm surge current in the area between Navarre Towers and the Pearl. That velocity of flow could be potentially more devastating than a breach over the whole area at once. Anyone (even the COE) can understand that. And this, all because of turtles.

Kenny Wilder		23-Jul-2006 21:24
It is my understanding that Weeks Marine stated about a month ago that there are no plans to bring back the dredge B.E. Lindholm to Navarre Beach after the maintenance is completed in dry dock. The dredge R.N. Weeks will keep working until the 5 day extension granted last week by the US Army Corps of Engineers (COE) ends on this coming Wednesday. Peter Ravella has already requested more time to touch up the beach by extending it a little further out from Navarre Towers to the Pearl. Also, more time has been requested by Peter of the COE to finish the beach restoration at the Navarre Beach State Park and County public beach in front and to the east of Cocodrie’s restaurant. In the event that the extension is not granted by the COE next week and any appeal process is denied, it would appear that the project would not be able to start again until October 1. The reason being is that the COE dredging physical year ends on September 30 and a new physical year starts October 1. I certainly hope that the extension is granted by the COE, because only a few days are now required to finish the touch up of the beach in a small area, and to complete the County public beach. In the event that the project has to stop in a few days would mean that Weeks Marine would not be back to finish the project until after October 1. It also, is my understanding that the cost of bringing back Weeks Marine after October 1 could cost an additional 1.5 million dollars or more to the State, County and leaseholders. We should know by Wednesday if the extension is granted by the COE.

Guest		23-Jul-2006 12:29
I wonder how long Lindholm will be in dry dock to get fixed? If she didn't need to be there she would have already been. fixed.

Kenny Wilder		21-Jul-2006 23:53
Navarre Beach Restoration Update Many folks have asked about the status of the Lindholm and the planting of sea oats. The dredge B.E. Lindholm is still working with only (1) engine and still needs the assistance of a tugboat for steering. This has reduced the dredging process from about 8 dredge loads to the beach every 24 hours to about 6 dredge loads of sand. The 6 dredge loads of sand about every 24 hours is still quite significant. It is my understanding that each load pumped onto the beach is equivalent to 300 to 400 dump trucks of sand. Folks, that’s 1,800 dump trucks to 2,400 dump trucks of sand every 24 hours. The gap should be finished in about 5 days or less. The County is asking the US Army Corps of Engineers for an extension to widen the beach that has been restored in the gap over the past two weeks so that the width will be the same as the other 3.7 miles of beach. I shot several photos about 5:00 PM CDT this afternoon of the gap that is left in the beach restoration project. The gap is closing in very quickly as evidenced by two of my photos that you can view by clicking on the two links below. I’ll move these two photos to my beach restoration photo gallery over the weekend. I’ll be photographing the sea oat planting and the walkover areas with signs this weekend and then post them in my beach restoration photo gallery. Please tell everybody to not walk on the newly planted sea oats. http://www.pbase.com/kennywilder/image/63881124/original © 2006 Kenny Wilder http://www.pbase.com/kennywilder/image/63881125 © 2006 Kenny Wilder

Guest		21-Jul-2006 20:59
If you look at the Robo Cam's second shot of the Western end of the beach, you can see that five-o-clock shadow on the berm making its way East.

Guest		21-Jul-2006 20:08
Can anyone tell us how much of the new beach has been planted with sea oats?

Mark Tarvin		21-Jul-2006 18:38
Kenny, can you tell us if the Lindholm ever got repaired or is she still using the tug for assistance?

Kenny Wilder		21-Jul-2006 15:40
Luther, Thanks for your comments. Obviously, you have spent a lot of time in your understanding of the US Army Corps of Engineers (COE) turtle regulations. I too am disappointed that the COE is making life difficult by dribbling out a 10 day extension and yesterday dribbling out a 5 day extension for more time to complete the Navarre Beach Restoration Project. If this is a game that the COE is playing, and they continue to play by dishing out more extensions until we get the beach restoration, I would be more than happy to go through the worry and inconvenience. Peter Ravella has done an outstanding job in recognizing the game that the COE is playing and so far has demonstrated that he knows how to play the game, too. If the game is about winning if we get our beach restoration completed, I am for it. I have a lot of confidence that Peter will get another extension once the 5 days are up if it is needed. The 5 day extension letter of yesterday has been posted on Page 14 of this beach restoration photo gallery.

mlrjr		21-Jul-2006 15:25
mark i dont believe they are endangered as it is nesting season till oct. i have been a property owner for 20 years at navarre and i only saw one turtle on the beach and it was in september.

Joe Tarvin		21-Jul-2006 15:18
Also, the COE is notorious for their "foot draging". Remember how long it took to get the permit in the first place, with houses literally falling into the gulf. It took Governor Bush's involvement to get it done. The COE are not at all "people friendly", and I think it's high time to shake this group up. They've been nothing but an obstacle throughout this whole process. They certainly are not civil servants.

mlrjr		21-Jul-2006 15:17
come on guys....isnt this what you have come to expect from our gov. i personally would have been stunned if they had done it any other way. the long wat that cost more money is the easiest way they know how to do it. sad ,but true!!

Luther Williamson		21-Jul-2006 15:15
I’m sorry to disagree with the “Guest” earlier today that said that the US Corps of Engineers is not the “bad Guy”. The fact of the matter is that the Corps is most definitely the “bad guy” regarding this matter. The National Marine Fisheries Service has stated within their own regulations and quoted on the Corps’ own website that the Corps may use their own discretion within each division regarding the total number of takes (kills) of the loggerhead turtle for the Gulf Coast between Key West and Brownsville, Texas. Since the total number of takes allocated for the area mentioned above is 60 loggerhead turtles and the fact that Navarre Beach has only 4 takes and the other areas of the Gulf have 2, which brings the total number of takes to 6, it seems that Navarre Beach has 56 more loggerheads to take before the dredging physical year ends on September 30. The National Marine Fisheries Service also conveys on the Corps website that they do not have a problem in different divisions of the Corps swapping within divisions turtle takes (kills). For instance the 4 loggerhead takes for the Corps division that includes Navarre Beach could swap all 4 loggerheads with the divisions of Galveston, TX, Mobile, AL or maybe Naples, FL. The Corps knows their own regulations and they know that they have the discretion within their own regulations to move the turtle takes from Navarre Beach to another division. The question to really ask is why doesn’t the Corps follow their own regulations and allow Navarre Beach to complete the beach restoration in its entirety according to the original plans? Why is the Corps playing games by recently dribbling out a 10 day extension and yesterday dribbling out a 5 day extension for the project to proceed? Have you all figured out by now that the “Guest” that said earlier today in their post that the Corps is not the “bad guy” is really a guy most likely with the Corps”? You can bet that the Corps reads these posts. Nice try US Army Corps of Engineers!

mlrjr		21-Jul-2006 15:13
billy thanks for clearing that up(whos paying)i must have missed that discussion whilst i was on the new beach sipping a margarita with kenny!

mlrjr		21-Jul-2006 15:11
mark,i'll bet that the army corp of engineers get free shimp dinners!!

Joe Tarvin		21-Jul-2006 15:01
Peter, Am I right in my understanding that the county has a request in to the COE to allow us to continue past the 5 day extension and complete the project? If so, when do you expect to receive a response?

Guest		21-Jul-2006 14:40
The law needs to be repealed. If the administraters cannot be relied upon to use common sense, it needs to be changed.

Mark Tarvin		21-Jul-2006 14:35
The Corps may not have a thing in the world to do with setting the quotas but they are most definitely the ones who have rendered the decision which will create a weak link in the heart of Navarre Beach. My question was, "Can anyone explain how this decision reflects any sound engineering principles at all or is this purely turtle-related?" And I doubt anyone can. When they wasted 10 good days (and $500,000 of someone else's money) to then decide they would be so beneficent as to place a 10 day deadline to complete the berm only; yes I hold them accountable for that. Does it not count for anything that this area has been declared a Federal Disaster Area the last two years in a row? If not then we have to seriously question how these decisions are made in the future. They may not set the quotas, but to the guest's point - they have the ability to allocate them. And I wonder what standard they hold their own dredging operations to when they do the work themselves... I guess I would say to them (USACOE) stick with what you do best. I'm just not sure what would be...

Mark Tarvin		21-Jul-2006 14:15
How "endangered" can the turtles actually be if the shrimp industry is allowed to kill 3500 a year? And I'm certainly not in favor of penalizing the shrimp industry. I love the shrimp industry! I just think there is room for a little equity and common sense. Clearly they must have a very good lobbyist.

Guest		21-Jul-2006 14:12
The Corps does not decide how many turtles they are allotted each year for dredging projects, the National Marine Fishery Service (NMFS) does. The COE is given a max quota to be divied up as they see fit within their Districts. Remember, these max quantities must be divided up by COE Division, then District, then priorities established within each District based on their individual maintenance/new work dredging programs (channels, coastal restoration programs), THEN the private works (read Navarre, Pensacola, Destin.........) Sorry, but the COE is not the bad guy who establishes the turtle quota, it is NMFS. Granted, the COE could use some better judgement with their remaining allotment for this year, but that is a different issue......

Guest		21-Jul-2006 14:04
The Endangered Species Act was a good thing, at first, but as always the government agencies when allowed to go unchecked carry things to extreme. Now they are an arm of the radical left, making decisions with no common sense, while at the same time failing to hold themselves accountable to their own standards. The only solution when this happens, unfortunately, is to rein them back by readdressing the law, and bring reason back. But, keep in mind, if they could function in the real world, they wouldn't be working for the government.

Guest		21-Jul-2006 13:59
The Endangered Species Act was a good thing, at first, but as always the government agencies when allowed to go unchecked carry things to extreme. Now they are an arm of the radical left, making decisions with no common sense, while at the same time failing to hold themselves accountable to their own standards. The only solution when this happens, unfortunately, is to rein them back by readdressing the law, and bring reason back. But, keep in mind, if they could function in the real world, they wouldn't be working for the government.

Mark Tarvin		21-Jul-2006 11:00
Given all that we now know about turtle quotas, including the fact that the shrimp industry is allowed to kill 3500 a year (as if they are really going to even report any kills), it is beyond comprehension that the Corps is actually going to force the county to intentionally create the weakest link right in the heart of Navarre Beach! It's as if they don't understand what the consequences of this would be if (God forbid) a storm comes and the surge was directed through the weakened gap. Are there any ACTUAL ENGINEERS with any real experience in the private sector advising the Corps on these decisions or are we simply being subjected to the poor judgement of a pencil pushing bureaucrat on the threshold of retirement? I just can't imagine a decision as foolish as this being made by a private engineering firm that would have liability for their mistakes. Can anyone explain how this decision reflects any sound engineering principles at all or is this purely turtle-related. And if this decision is based solely on the turtles with absolutely zero emphasis on the structural aspects and integrity of the beach/berm/buildings/etc., then I suggest that we do not in fact have a US Army Corps of Engineers but more accurately a Corps of Turtles. It would seem they have strayed tragically away from their actual purpose, wandered way off course and now view themselves in some activist role. I'd like to compare these actions to their original charter. I don't think their mission statement includes anything about turtles. Not saying that no one should be paying attention to the turtles, I just keep thinking about how insignificant our three kills are when compared to the shrimp industry's 3500 kills allowed and I just don't see what any of this has to do with "ENGINEERING" or how the Corps of Engineers evolved to become more concerned with a few turtles than with protecting the lives and property of the taxpayers who fund their agency and pay their salaries.

Guest		20-Jul-2006 21:52
The High and Mighty COE are gracing us with crumbs from their table, for which we lowly taxpayers are to be grateful.

Guest		20-Jul-2006 21:43
So are they actually completing the gap with the same elevations as the already completed sections, or are we still operating under the quickie version of just get some sand in there to at least close the gap?

Peter Ravella		20-Jul-2006 19:09
PROJECT DREDGING EXTENDED 5 MORE DAYS. Below is te text of an email from Ron Silver granting an extension of Navarre Operations for 5 more days. This helps and should allow complete closure of the gap. I will get the full Corps letter up on the site ASAP Peter Attached is a signed copy of modification number 5 to DA permit SAJ-2003-10496-IP-EPS which authorizes an additional five (5) days of hopper dredging at the subject project in order to complete closure of the gap in the berm. Original copies will be mailed later today via snail mail. Based on reports of the progress being made, approximately 610 linear feet of gap remains. Please note the continuing requirements for two (2) sea turtle relocation trawlers to precede the dredge in the borrow area, the daily requirement for submittal to this office of the SI data as well as the daily progress being made on closing the gap, and the need for immediate suspension of all dredging operations should a sea turtle be taken by either the dredge or the relocation trawlers. Please notify this notify this office when the gap closure is completed. Any questions, please contact me. Thanx. Ronald H. Silver, C.E.P. Regulatory Division U.S. Army Corps of Engineers P.O. Box 4970 Jacksonville, FL 32232-0019 904-232-2502 - phone 904-232-1904 - fax ronald.h.silver@saj02.usace.army.mil

Peter Ravella		20-Jul-2006 17:56
Good afternoon everyone. Today is the 10th day of the project extension granted by the USACE. We have already spoken to Corps staff, filed an email request, and followed up with a formal letter requesting additional operatiing time. We expect to have a response by day's end and a reasonably confident operations can continue. In the short term, we want to finish the gap. The effort to secure authorization to complete the entire project is still continuing. With respect to the FEMA funds question below: After the hurricanes last year, the state received $2.12 million for Santa Rosa County shoreline recovery funds. This County and Coastal Tech worked with the state to ensure this money was rolled into the Navarre Project. This effort was succesful and the funds were applied as state money, as it came from and through FDEP. There is no direct federal money in the project. Peter Peter

Guest		20-Jul-2006 16:37
Peter, I believe today is the last of the 10 days. Is it time to call out the guns?

Guest		20-Jul-2006 16:20
My wife and I and our 3 children have been vacationing along the Emerald Coast for 20 years. It truely is heaven. We have seen the aftermath of Hurricanes from Opal to Ivan, and we thank God after each and every storm that there are people that continue to rebuild. My hat is off to each and everyone of you. Last year we went to Perdido Key, try to put a little tourist money into their economy, this year we will see you at Navarre Beach in November. Thanks Kenny, I sit here in my office in Pittsburgh and look at your pictures and Web-cams daily, and it gets me through the day!

Guest		20-Jul-2006 00:09
Please correct me if I'm wrong,but I think the berm that has been created on the new beach is the Federal input to our project. Last year (after Ivan and before Dennis) there was suppose to be a berm (created by Federal cash) put in place on the beach. FEMA was hopefully going to fund this project, or at least two million dollars of it. Isn't this the Federal input that has been included in the Beach Restoration Project now? Believe me, there are some Americans who don't think it's fair that their tax dollars are going towards our protection or livelihood. But those same people enjoy staying in our homes and partaking in one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Sandy		20-Jul-2006 00:04
I would like to thank you for posting all the great pictures of Navarre Beach. It is a place we love dearly. We have been coming to Navarre Beach for a good 12 years. My parents love to come in Oct and Mar for the month and then again in June/July for a few weeks. The reason I am telling you this Mr. Wilder is I think your pictures keep my Mom going, she or my Dad have not been back to the beach for a while.. My Mom is 87 years young and my Dad is 90. Mom has cancer. I show her your pictures on their computer every day or so. She does not care that she has already seen then. I wanted to let you know you have brought a spark into Mom's eyes with your pictures. Thank you.

Peter Ravella		19-Jul-2006 14:57
Good morning everyone - as the local folks know, the beach project is advancing, albeit slowly, with the Lindholm's steering problem persisting. Weeks Marine is doing a great job working around the problem and keeping the project going. On the extension request, we continue to press the case at the local, regional and national levels. We are initiating additional discussions with the Corps this week as we approach the end of the 10 day extension period. I will let Kenny know -- and post a note -- at the first sign we have an indication of the Corps's position. Our goal is to complete the project in its entirety.

Guest		19-Jul-2006 11:48
interesting that even in the total absence of any federal money, they still call all the shots and in fact have cost the project at least another incremental $500,000 while waiting for their last brilliant decision...go figure

Billy		19-Jul-2006 00:33
Kenny and Peter have both covered this topic several times for several months. The State paid 60%, the beach leaseholders (owners) are paying 36%, and the County is paying 4% of the beach restoration cost. I'm an owner of a condo at the Pearl. I have not talked to a single person that thinks the payment allocations are unfair. It is a good deal for everybody.

MLRJR		18-Jul-2006 21:56
I HEARD WHILE I WAS IN NAVARRE THAT SANTA ROSA COUNTY WAS HAVING TO PAY FOR THE BEACH RESTORATION...BUT IN OTHER COUNTIES THE TAB WAS BEING FUNDED BY THE STATE. THAT DOESNT SEEM FAIR. KENNY HAVE YOU HEARD ANYTHING ABOUT THIS?

Joe Tarvin		18-Jul-2006 20:37
Peter or Kenny, Any report on the request for a time extension?

Mark Tarvin		17-Jul-2006 21:03
Kenny, I enjoyed getting to meet you on the beach last week. It sure was great to be back at Navarre and see all the work that has been done just one year after Dennis. And I'm also glad to see that the decision has been made to rebuild the road to Pensacola Beach (again). Let's hope that's the last time for many years to come. I'm curious if you have any updates regarding continued requests for an additional extension in light of the mechanical problems with the Lindholm. Also, has there been any further discussion or feedback regarding Peter's request to complete the project as originally planned Vs. the 10 day "berm only" decision? I'm still hoping there's someone in the Corps of Engineers with enough engineering common sense to do the right thing and protect this beach for all of us. Afterall, a fully restored beach is a win for the county, the state, everyone who enjoys beautiful beaches and yes...even the turtles.

Guest		17-Jul-2006 13:02
Kenny, we can't thank you enough for all your work on Navarre Beach. We're in NOLA now but heading to Da Beach next week. Any word on the dune crossovers? Are they going to allow us to build them before the sacred turtle season ends?

Kenny Wilder		16-Jul-2006 23:58
TN. Beach Lover, I’m happy that photos of the beach are causing you to think of good times, and that you think of the beach as a little piece of heaven. I certainly can not disagree with you. Come back to Navarre Beach real soon.

Kenny Wilder		16-Jul-2006 23:51
Patti, The beach between Navarre Beach and Pensacola Beach is the National Seashore Park and there are no plans to restore the beach. I would think that the chances are not very good for the federal government funding a beach restoration project along the National Seashore. According to newspaper reports about two weeks ago FEMA funded the state of Florida for roads destroyed by recent hurricanes. It is my understanding that the state legislature has appropriated the funds for building back the road between Navarre Beach and Pensacola Beach. It seems that the construction may start before the end of this year. If that happens the road could be opened by next summer. Click on the link below to view a photo I shot on December 26, 2005 of the destroyed 8 mile road through the National Seashore. http://www.pbase.com/kennywilder/image/54029073

Kenny Wilder		16-Jul-2006 23:32
Josh, I have no aspirations at this time in running for commissioner for our district in the county election this fall, nor do I have aspirations at this time in running for any public office.

Patti		16-Jul-2006 19:34
Kenny: Do you know what the plans are (if any) for the beach area between Navarre Beach and Pensacola? Will the road be repaired? I didn't get a chance to get down that far when I was there in May. Is the beach in the same shape as Navarre was, and if so, will it also be restored, and when? Once again, thanks for your unending patience with all of our questions.

Kenny Wilder		15-Jul-2006 23:41
I posted some photos in another gallery for your review to take a little time off from the beach restoration. The photos can be viewed by going to the links below. Yesterday Evening’s Sunset Afterglow http://www.pbase.com/kennywilder/image/63504694 This Morning’s Beach http://www.pbase.com/kennywilder/image/63527320

TN. Beach Lover!!!		15-Jul-2006 23:31
Just returned from NAVARRE, had a wonderful week with our five grandchildren and family.When I need a little pep in my step,I sit down and look at your wonderful pictures of the beach. It makes me think of all the good times we have had at Navarre."It is a little piece of heaven". Thanks for your time and information.

Ohio Snowbird		15-Jul-2006 21:16
Bill from La, Let me try to answer your question. The large building with the dark roof at the far right in the center is Cocodries Restaurant - at the corner of Navarre Cswy. and Gulf Blvd. Directly across on the left you can see the sign for the gas station on the corner. The crane is probably the one in front of Beach Colony, helping to construct the new larger building next to the Pearl. The boardwalk structures in the distance are part of the state park which will eventually be taken over (again) by the county.

Bill T BR, La.		15-Jul-2006 14:44
Kenny, Can I ask where the shot on your Robo Cam is pointing at where it shows a sky crane and different surroundings other than the beach front shots? These shots continue to be awesome and are a great substitute for our not being able to be there. Thanks again for your continued efforts showing the beach restoration.

Josh		15-Jul-2006 13:45
Kenny I’ve watched you respond to those that praise you for your photography and what you have done for the beach restoration in keeping us informed. Every time this happens you always seem to give out more praise to others than what you received. We are very lucky to have you represent our beach with your always positive attitude. Have you ever thought about running for county commissioner?

Joe Tarvin		15-Jul-2006 11:34
Kenny, My wife Carol, and I will be down in a couple weeks. We look forward to meeting you.

Kenny Wilder		15-Jul-2006 00:17
Joe Tarvin, I met your son and his family on the beach yesterday in front of the Navarre Towers. We had a nice and long conversation

Kenny Wilder		15-Jul-2006 00:12
Darlene, I’m very happy that my photographs helped you in making a decision to vacation at Navarre Beach in August. You will not regret coming to the most beautiful beach on planet earth.

Kenny Wilder		15-Jul-2006 00:08
Tim Partin, As always your devotion to Navarre Beach is immeasurable. Dale and I look forward to seeing you on your next trip to Navarre Beach.

Guest		15-Jul-2006 00:05
The dredge Lindholm is operating on one (1) engine. The adjustable pitch prop on the othe is having problems. Weeks Marine is bringing someone in to repair it. Weeks has a tug to assit Lindholm hooking to the dutch conection. This will slow production...but it will continue.

Kenny Wilder		15-Jul-2006 00:05
Sarah Jane and Hurley Knott, Thank you for your kind words. However, what I have done in making a few photos of the beach restoration project is almost insignificant compared to what hundreds of other good people have done for Navarre Beach this year and in past years.

Kenny Wilder		14-Jul-2006 23:41
At 6:10 PM CDT the dredge B.E. Lindholm with the help of a tug boat hooked up to the 36” diameter rubber pipe and began pumping sand onto the beach again since last night. It took the Lindholm about 30 to 40 minutes for the tug boat to bring her to the pipe connection right off the beach. Apparently the electronic control to the steering mechanism has not been repaired. However, I’m glad that Weeks Marine sent a tug boat to help while the repair process is going on. Robo Cam has major changes based on comments from viewers. Robo Cam now has close up live images of the new beach in front of the Belle Mer, Navarre Towers and the Fishing Pier area. And new live images of the beach restoration project that is moving eastward tonight. The project is now in front of what used to be the Holiday Inn.

Darlene		14-Jul-2006 18:06
Kenny, Your Photos are awesome and has helped us so much in making our decision on where to stay this summer. I just keep going back again and again to see the photos. You've done an incredible job of capturing the process of not only the hurricane, cleanup and restoration. Be there in Augustl. Can't wait.

Kenny Wilder		14-Jul-2006 16:50
DREDGE B.E. LINDHOLM HAS A MECANICAL PROBLEM I just received a voice mail message from Peter Ravella. The reason the dredge B.E. Lindholm has not dredged since apparently last night is that the Lindholm has a major mechanical problem with the ships electronic control for the steering mechanism. According to Peter this is not an easy thing. The Lindholm has been running diagnostics to resolve the problem including the crew aboard the Lindholm, technical support from Weeks Marine, and the manufacturer of the steering’s electronic control. Peter does not know at this time when this mechanical problem will be resolved. Peter and Santa Rosa County are preparing today a request to the US Army Corps of Engineers (CEO) for an extension for more time for the 10 days granted 5 days ago. In addition, Peter and the County will be requesting from the COE a “larger” extension in order to complete the beach restoration project. I’ll provide an update as soon as I know more about the situation.

Guest		14-Jul-2006 16:26
Peter, Any word on the dredge?

Kenny Wilder		14-Jul-2006 13:01
I called Peter Ravella this morning about 7:30 AM (Friday) and he said that if there is a problem it most likely is mechanical. Peter said that if there was a turtle take (kill) they would have been notified almost immediately. He said he will call me when he gets to his office in about an hour and provide me or this forum with an update. Peter said that his sister, her husband and three children are on vacation in Beirut, Lebanon and that they are currently trapped where they are staying because of the Israeli Lebanon War that has flamed up in the Middle East. Please pray for Peter’s sister and family for their safety and quick return back to the USA.

Guest		14-Jul-2006 12:33
Lindholm developed mech. problems during the night and is anchored just off shore for repairs.

Kenny Wilder		14-Jul-2006 12:32
Ohio Snowbird, I will try to change the Robo Cam today so that you can see more live images that zoom in on the beach restoration project that is has now moved to the western boundary of what used to be the Holiday Inn. The project is moving eastward toward the Pearl.

Kenny Wilder		14-Jul-2006 12:31
The dredge B.E. Lindholm for about the past two hours has been idle just off the beach about one mile in front of Navarre Towers. The Lindholm is not dredging nor is it pumping sand. I will make some phone calls to find out what is going on.

Ohio Snowbird		13-Jul-2006 17:41
Kenny, Two questions: Can you adjust the robocam so it shows where the work is taking place. Currently it skips over that area. In the far west, there seems to be darker areas in the dune line. Is this due to the planting of vegetation? Thanks for all you do, from an Ohio Snowbird.

Sarah Jane and Hurley Knott		13-Jul-2006 17:39
Kenny, that is an amazing letter We thank the Lord he is on our side. AND we most of all we Thank the Lord for YOU, Kenny ,for all you are doing. I wish we could repay you for your time, knowhow and interest.... You are the GREATEST. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you We were owners at Navarre Towers when Opal came through. We had no "Kenny". We were told nothing about the condition of anything. It was very stressful.....Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.

Joe Tarvin		13-Jul-2006 14:03
Kenny, Thank you for providing the link to Congressman Miller's email. I just thanked him. Here's my opinion for what it's worth. We need to press on with all diligence to not only finish the beach project, now, as originally designed, but to see to it that these federal employees, who obviously lack common sense are replaced by people who do have some common sense, and then we need to work with our elected reps to change the laws that gave these bureaucrats this apparent power in the first place. Things have gotten too far out of balance. I can't believe that these kinds of rulings were ever the intent of the existing laws.

Tim Partin		13-Jul-2006 04:26
Kenny, I sent Congressman Miller my letter of appreciation just a few moments prior. He even used the words "common sense ", how refreshing. Thank you for providing this forum for all interested parties to share their thoughts. Tim Partin

Kenny Wilder		13-Jul-2006 03:31
IMPORTANT LETTER YOU NEED TO READ Jeff Miller, US Congressman for the 1st District of Florida sent a letter TODAY, July 12, 2006 to LTG Carl Strock, Commander, HQ, US Army Corps of Engineers. The letter Congressman Miller sent to Commander Strock at the COE was very impressive with facts as to why the CEO should allow the Navarre Beach Project to be completed without any limitations of time. Thank God somebody in Washington that represents “We the People” has some common sense and the fortitude to represent us in a just cause. You might want to send Congressman Miller an e-mail thanking him for his assistance. A copy of the (2) page letter can be read on Page 13 of my beach restoration gallery at the link below. http://www.pbase.com/kennywilder/startrestoration&page=13 To send Congressman Jeff Miller an e-mail you have to click on the web mail address at the link below. http://jeffmiller.house.gov/index.cfm?FuseAction=Contact.Home

Kenny Wilder		13-Jul-2006 02:30
Jim Marshall, Thanks for your comments. The next time you are at the Belle Mer please look me up. I think there are a few people around here that know me.

Sugar Beach Visitors		13-Jul-2006 02:29
See ya tomorrow!!

Kenny Wilder		13-Jul-2006 02:26
Sugar Beach Visitors, Thanks for the offer to meet you guys at the beach in front of Sugar Beach. I’ll do my best to try and find you guys tomorrow (Thursday) at the “ford tent” about 10:00 AM.

Kenny Wilder		13-Jul-2006 02:19
mirjr, It was really great to meet you and your father this past Saturday at the Belle Mer. Thanks for bringing the margaritas for me and my wife. And thanks for the e-mails that you sent to our public officials last week. I look forward to your next visit to Navarre Beach.

Sugar Beach Visitors		13-Jul-2006 02:11
We have been at Sugar Beach since Sat. We have been keeping up with your website for several weeks in anticipation of our vacation. We want to thank you for all the info, and would love to meet you . If you are in the Sugar Beach area, we are under the Ford tents. PLEASE stop by. We would love to visit with you.

Joe Tarvin		12-Jul-2006 23:45
Thanks, Peter.

Peter Ravella		12-Jul-2006 21:28
Joe - I think about this in terms of "pumping days available," rather than from a project design perspective. Our goal right now is to simply pump as much sand as possible into the gap before the clock runs out. As you recall from yesterday, we're building the upper beach berm (9' elevation "ledge") and the 14.5 foot elevation dune first. If we can secure any additional pumping days, we want to complete the full beach profile in the gap, before moving to the area east of the pier. This would involve building the lower beach berm or ledge, which is at 5 foot elevation. If we get the time from th4e Corps, this will be extended seaward to match the beaches on either side of the gap. Weeks has had a solid first few days pumping. So far, we placed about 18,717 cubic yards or 7 loads on the beach on Tuesday. On Monday, July 10, since we didn't get the all clear until afternooon, Weeks was able to place about 7,888 cubic yards on the beach, or 3 loads. If operations are smooth, we expect a maximum placement rate of about 8 loads per day. So we're off and running here. Meanwhile, I will try to pull together a planting update tomorrow. Peter

Kenny Wilder		12-Jul-2006 16:01
Thanks again to all of you that sent e-mails to our public officials over the past week to keep our beach restoration project moving toward completion. Our public officials are indeed influenced by public opinion. You guys are Winners in my book! I have had lengthy conversations with Peter Ravella throughout this entire project and you can be assured that Peter, Weeks Marine and Santa Rosa County already have a plan in place to ask for an extension of time in the event that Weeks Marine has not completed the project in the 10 days that the US Army Corps of Engineers (COE) allowed two days ago. The original gap of beach restoration that is not completed between the Pearl and Navarre Towers was estimated at 1,400 feet, and it was thought that it would take 14 days to complete this gap. However, the actual gap is closer to 2,200 feet. My thinking is that it will be impossible to complete the gap in just the 10 days given by the COE. I think that a more realistic time frame to complete the gap would be about 21 days if there is no down time or interruptions. I have a lot of confidence in Peter in being able to obtain an extension of time from the COE if it is required. He is on top of the situation and his performance has been marvelous. Of course a lot of this is contingent upon the dredging operation of the B.E. Lindholm not have another turtle take (kill) during these final days of the project. In the event that the project is unfinished at the end of 10 days and the COE does not allow an extension, I will organize another e-mail blitz to send to our public officials including US Senators, US Congressmen, COE and others. Folks relax! We are going to get our beach restoration completed.

mlrjr		12-Jul-2006 15:31
kenny, my father and i enjoyed meeting you and your wife(and dogs)on sat. we thank you for all that you have done. i hope to be back the first week of august when all this is hopefully finished and will stick my head in again....this time with more margaritas........Lloyd

Joe Tarvin		12-Jul-2006 15:21
I agree. We should not simply bow to the arbitrary wishes of some army colonel bureaucrat who just happens to be stationed at a job position in Jacksonville. He's just another man that puts his pants on one leg at a time. Why should we have to settle for what he decides. We are definitely on the right side in this thing. Anyone listening to the details of this situation agrees that it's rediculous, and we shouldn't give up. The voice of reason will prevail. But, it's up to us to help see that it happens.

Jim Marshall		12-Jul-2006 15:07
Kenny: It is difficult to determine from the web cam how much progress has been made since the restart of the renourishment project. Since we had political success in sending emails to our government officials, I believe that we should not accept only a partial job without requesting additional days if necessary. This is one example of government listening to the people and we need to make our voices heard again if Weeks is not able to finish in the 10 day period. We should not just simply accept an October date of completion. Thanks once again for all that you have done. When I was in Navarre last time I started to drop by the Belle Mer and introduce myself but I did not want to just drop by withour asking first. We appreciate you so much.

Guest		12-Jul-2006 14:36
For those at Sugar Beach and Beachview, we are at ground level and in the "gap". We are the most vulnerable to storm and lack of sand/rent.

Guest		12-Jul-2006 13:53
I understand the concern of the possible damage a storm could do to the unfinished beach area but if it can't be done right now, you have to make the best of it and I say A selling point for those with rental property in "the gap" could be the fact that if you have a condo a few floors or more up - you have an INCREDIBLE view of all the goings on of the sea life right below you because the water is almost up under the balconies . With a wide beach you can't see directly down into the water. During my stay in late May at Navarre Towers (11th floor) I got to experience "up close" sea turtles, sting-rays, a barracuda and some sharks swimming by. I would not trade that for a couple of hundred more feet of sand - which you can get by moving down the beach a few feet.

Bill Lovvorn		12-Jul-2006 12:29
As of last week the project was at The Pearl when it was halted.

Guest		12-Jul-2006 01:23
Peter, Would you mind giving us an update on the progress of the sea oat planting. ....what they have accomplished, where they are, rate of progress. Thanks

guest		12-Jul-2006 01:22
Kenny, thanks for your photos and information. Wish I could believe this project will be completed in October. If not finished now. I am afraid those of us in the "gap" will be left with little beach and no rentals.

Guest		11-Jul-2006 22:30
Can someone comment on the location of the "Gap" in relation to the Condo's. From the webcam it looks as though the beach was finished in front of the SummerWinds how mich further west does it go?

Guest		11-Jul-2006 22:02
I own a property "in the gap". Can someone tell me why and/or if I should be assessed, tax-wise, the same as those with a full beach during the period of time I and /or my renters aren't receiving the benefits of a completed beach. We were hoping that the post- hurricane rental market was coming back to Navarre Beach, but the level of use to the "gap" renters will not be as attractive or marketable as to those who now own completed beach property. Either way I look at it, it's costing the "gap owners" additional money.

George		11-Jul-2006 21:09
I am staying "in the gap" next week for vacation,.can someone tell me when the 10 days of final dredging will be completed?

Guest		11-Jul-2006 20:50
Dear Peter, You are ONE CLASSY GUY !!!! You have answered all the questions in a most professional, honest and straight-forward manner. I know this is not easy, especially the way the project has been jerked around by the government. The project is very lucky to have you on board. We all owe you a cold one, or two. Do I hear any seconds??

Peter Ravella		11-Jul-2006 20:13
With respect to anticipated shoreline change after placement in the gap, the idea of 30 to 50 feet of erosion is not a number we have put out there or expect under normal conditions. I'm not sure where that number came but it is too high. We do expect the fill to adjust and move. How much, we cannot say for this gap filling effort. In the full design, extensive computer modeling and study goes into assessing the expected performance of the beach. In this case, we do not have the luxury of study so we're moving forward without the usual quantitiative assesments. We will all learn together. Later, when the gap section is completed, I expect that we will have to increase to sand volume to make up for any losses that occurred. Again, it will take field surveys and data later on to figure out how much more is needed but we do expect to have to make up for some loss to the partial gap beach.

Peter Ravella		11-Jul-2006 19:57
Hello everyone. I will try to respond to the questions from Joe and others about the nature of the fill that is going into the gap. First, with the limited days of operation allowed, I think everyone who has seen the project under construction knows we cannot complete the fullly designed beach placement in the gap in the little time we have. What we can and hope to do is build the 14.5 foot dune at the top of the beach and the 9-foot elevation section of the beach in front of the dune (this is called the upper berm). The beach will not be as wide nor will it have the lower beach section -- at an elevation of 5 feet -- tapering to the water line. We can not get it all in place in the 10 days the Corps has allowed. We'll taper the beach fill from the 9-foot upper berm down to water but it won't be as gradual or as wide. Obviously, this is less than optimal but we're planning to make the best of it. Second, I want to be sure everyone knows that the beach project will be completed in its full design. On October 1, we will be allowed to conduct full hopper operations and we will complete the entire beach fill in the gap and extend to new beach eastward through the state park, just like we originally planned. Weeks will complete the project as the contract for the full beach has not and will not be cancelled. Third, as I described above, the beach in the gap will not be as wide and will not necessarily perform like the sections that have already been completed. Waves change the shape of the beach everywhere once the sand is placed but in the partially complete gap section it will be more obvious. Beacuse the beach berm is higher and stepper at the waterline, we should all expect waves to cut into the beach face and form scarps.. We expect to use the bulldozers to smooth out the scarps as they form over the summer. This is not an unusual practice -- smoothing scarps -- but we will likely have to do it sooner and more frequently in the gap section. It will also look like the beach is eroding as the sand is re-distributed by waves and is pulled into the offshore sand bar. This is a natural process. The formation of the bar is a good thing and the sand is not lost to the system -- it'll just be subsurface -- but this redistribution could happen faster and may be more noticably in the gap section. As far as the level of storm protection to be provided in the gap, the beach width and volume in the gap will be less than the adjoining sections so the storm worthiness of the smaller beach the Corps has allowed will likely be less than the sections we have already completed. However, the risk to upland property overall is less than having no beach in the gap section. We're better off with something rather than nothing but not as good as would otherwise be. I hope this is useful. Peter

Guest		11-Jul-2006 17:25
Peter, Since it is anticipated that there will be erosion of 30 to 50 feet of shoreline after placing the reduced section of beach protection, what do you anticipate will be left in the way of a levee in the "gap" segment?

GEORGE		11-Jul-2006 14:27
Cannot see any activity.Has the resoration restarted yet?So we get ten days of dredging with a partial berm,correct? .thanks.

Terry from Ohio		11-Jul-2006 13:17
Thanks for the GREAT photos, Kenny. Your hard work and efforts are greatly appreciated. I am confused about the 14 foot dunes that are being constructed. Have they already been completed or is the beach reconstruction only completed so far. From the photo gallery road pictures, it just seems like a straight line to the water without any dune. I was expecting something different, like a large pile of sand near the south side of the the houses and buildings. any clarification or photos would be appreciated. Also, it was previously mentioned that the dune vegetaion planting was being started from the Western end, but not at the Seashore, and moving towards the east. Have they or will they plant to the National Seashore which will help protect the dunes at that end? Many Thanks Again, Terry

Guest		11-Jul-2006 12:02
Peter, How much less beach and protection is going to be built in the 1400 ft gap? Who will come back in November to build that segment equal to the rest of the beach? Since it would only take 4 more days to do it all now, why didn't the COE let us have those 4 days now to build it all equal? What about the possibility of this 1400 ft segment failing and concentrating the current from storm surge in that area? Do you have an opinion about this being a weaker segment of levee and the potential for increased damage in this area in the case of a levee failure?

Guest		10-Jul-2006 23:46
One has to wonder who, or what, is being protected by the Corps of Engineers these days. For years they have taken crooked rivers and made them straight - and taken straight rivers and made them crooked. Did that help any endangered species? They had a long history of action, or not, in New Orleans. Who was protected by that when Katrina came? Did shutting down the Navarre Beach project several times, for days at a time help the turtles, or the people? Seems unlikely. 4 miles of freshly restored beach would seem to make a much better turtle nesting place that 4 miles of washed out structures and parking lots. So who IS the Corps of Engineers protecting??? Hogging most of the allowable "Turtle Takes" for themselves seems to be a most "public be damned" attitude. Seems to me they are mostly protecting their own bureaucracy. While making a point to rub our noses in it. OOOOOH.... don't say or do anything to anger the COE - they can, and will, shut you down. If they did actually make any changes in their structure as a result of Katrina and related items, I submit the following little scenario to illustrate what probably happened. A Japanese company and an American company decided to have a canoe race on the Mississippi River. Both teams practiced long and hard to reach their peak performance before the race. On the big day, the Japanese won by a mile. The Americans, very discouraged and depressed, decided to investigate the reason for the crushing defeat. A management team made up of senior management was formed to investigate and recommend appropriate action. Their conclusion was the Japanese had 8 people rowing and 1 person steering, while the American team had 8 people steering and 1 person rowing. So American management hired a consulting company and paid them a large amount of money for a second opinion. They advised that too many people were steering the boat, while not enough people were rowing. To prevent another loss to the Japanese, the rowing team's management structure was totally reorganized to 4 steering supervisors, 3 area steering superintendents and 1 assistant superintendent steering manager. They also implemented a new performance system that would give the 1 person rowing the boat greater incentive to work harder. It was called the "Rowing Team Quality First Program", with meetings, dinners and free pens for the rower. There was discussion of getting new paddles, canoes and other equipment, extra vacation days for practices and bonuses. The next year the Japanese won by two miles. Humiliated, the American management laid off the rower for poor performance, halted development of a new canoe, sold the paddles, and canceled all capital investments for new equipment. The money saved was distributed to the Senior Executives as bonuses and the next year's racing team was out sourced to India.

Joe Tarvin		10-Jul-2006 22:52
Peter and Kenny, If you will allow me, I would like to express my professional opinion of what I understand is about to be done. I hold two civil engineering degrees, am president of a consulting engineering firm, and am an owner in Navarre Towers. I have been practicing for over 40 years. If we construct a reduced embankment section along the remaining 1400 feet, we will likely be installing a weaker section of levee, which if it should fail could potentially be very destructive because the current from storm surge would be concentrated. If the entire 3.2 miles had the weakened section, it would be safer because the failure would be uniform, and more widely spread. Concentrating the storm surge current in the narrowed area could be very destructive. I don't understand why the Army Corps of Engineers would not allow 4 more days so that the beach could be constructed uniformly for the entire length.

Guest		10-Jul-2006 22:14
I just read the Corps letter. The arrogance of this guy!!! The King of Siam said it best..."it's good to be king". Peter, it's good that you worded your announcement to help save the Colonel face, but just who does he think he is? He works for us, and I've had about all of his attitude I can stand. What would be so wrong with letting us have 14 days instead of 10 days so we could finish? This is rubbing our nose in it. What is he a dictator?

Peter Ravella		10-Jul-2006 21:30
George -- reducing suction when the drag head is lifted off the bottom is a key turtle protection measure and that is exacty what the dredge captain must do to comply with the "Hopper Conditions" in the Corps permit. Here's how the hopper operation is described in the Corps "operating instructions:" "The Contractor shall operate the hopper dredge to minimize the possibility of taking sea turtles and to comply with the requirements stated in the Incidental Take Statement provided by the National Marine Fisheries Service in their Biological Opinion. When initiating dredging, suction through the dragheads shall be allowed just long enough to prime the pumps, then the dragheads must be placed firmly on the bottom. When lifting the dragheads from the bottom, suction through the dragheads shall be allowed just long enough to clear the lines, and them must cease. Pumping water through the dragheads shall cease while maneuvering or during travel to/from the disposal area." (The guidance is more specific, this is just a taste). The skill of the dredge captain is really critical here, as you can guess, and the Lindholm captain & crew are first rate. There is an art to running these complex boats efficiently. You'll notice in the Corps re-start letter that we must provide to them every morning the "Silent Insprector" data from the dredge. This data is downloaded from the ship's computer and will show pump pressure, velocity, and dredge and draghead position, among other things. So the Corps will be closely watching how the boat, captain, and crew perform in the next 10 days. We have a lot of confidence in the skill of the Lindholm crew and expect a smooth 10 days of dredging here.

Guest		10-Jul-2006 21:25
If I read the notice correctly, the permit is to build a berm only and not rebuild a beach. Hate to complain to much ,anything is better than having a huge gap but , will just a berm be effective in case of a major storm. Will we have to pay again after Oct. to rebuild that part of the beach that did not get done? What about the state park? Start now and send more e-mails.

Kenny Wilder		10-Jul-2006 21:14
The US Army Corps of Engineers today sent a start up letter to Peter Ravella. The 2 page letter can be viewed by going to Page 13 on this beach restoration gallery.

Kenny Wilder		10-Jul-2006 20:48
I want to personally thank every one of you that took the time to call and send hundreds of e-mails to President Bush, US Senators, US Congressmen, Governor Bush and officials at the US Army Corps of Engineers. Your communications greatly influenced our public officials with public opinion to reverse a bad decision. I want to thank Peter Ravella and his staff, Weeks Marine, and the Santa Rosa County Commissioners for all of their phone calls and e-mails that influenced the US Army Corps of Engineers to do the right thing. It is my understanding that the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) said that they have never heard of an US Army Corps of Engineers appeal like this being reversed and especially so quickly. It is my understanding that US Senator Nelson played a major role in getting this appeal reversed according to a local attorney that received a call from Senator Nelson’s office. It’s encouraging to know that reason prevailed in this battle, and that “We the People” won. I will post the e-mail letter in a few minutes of the start back up granted by the US Army Corps of Engineers.

George		10-Jul-2006 20:45
Mr.Ravella, I may be speaking out of turn and this may sound crazy but it is my understanding the "turtle take" occurs when the ship is turning and continues to harvest sand.I assume this is to be efficeint on time.Is there a way to stop the intake of sand while the dredge is off the bottom?Please advise.Thanks again for all the work.

Guest		10-Jul-2006 20:41
It's a shame the Corps doesn't have to pay the cost of all this Down Time out of it's own pocket. Sure, it would still be a huge waste of our money - but somehow we could all feel a liittle better about it.

Kate		10-Jul-2006 20:40
THANK YOU, Kenny and Peter, for all your efforts to get the renourishment completed! Many many people appreciate everything you have done. BTW, I would like to see the stationary camera to be pointed east during the next 10 days while the project is finished, so we can always see the progress as it happens, without having to wait for the moving camera to "swing back around".

Guest		10-Jul-2006 20:02
It is truly amazing to see that sometimes when the people speak, the government listens. Kudos to all of you who pushed to get the project going again and for those of you who provided the information to the thick-headed beaurocrats. Kenny and Peter, you are both admirable men - thanks for all that you have done. My family looks forward every year to our one week on Navarre and we just can't imagine it never being there. I hope the community can come together and realize that this project is not just for the beauty but also for the protection of the island.

April		10-Jul-2006 19:43
Oops, the second link didn't work. Here it is again.... http://el.erdc.usace.army.mil/seaturtles/project.cfm?Id=426&Code=Project

April		10-Jul-2006 19:40
The letter is posted on the Corps of Engineers web site athttp://el.erdc.usace.army.mil/seaturtles/pdfs/saj2006-6-resumptionletter.pdf It is off the Navarre Beach Shore Protection Project pagehttp://el.erdc.usace.army.mil/seaturtles/project.cfm?Id=426&Code=Project. So glad that things are starting back up! Can't wait to see it in person in 19 days!

Guest		10-Jul-2006 19:38
You ask for 14 days...... the Corps screws around for 4 days and then gives you 10 days. What an "interesting" use for "Government Math".

Guest		10-Jul-2006 19:15
Not sure if anyone realizes the significance of the date. July 10, one year ago today, we took a direct hit from Dennis. Let's keep our fingers crossed that all goes well and the "gap" is a mere memory later this month!

Peter Ravella		10-Jul-2006 19:09
Navarre Project is Restarted! At 2:45 EST, we received a letter from Col. Carpenter, Commander of the Jacksonville District, authorizing the restart of the Navarre Beach Project for a period of 10 days to work on closing "the gap." I have e-mailed a pdf version to Kenny and he'll post it soon. The Colonel's willigness to revisit this decision and to find the flexibility to respond to our need to move forward is a testement to the Colonel's leadership and we appreciate it very much. We want to thank the folks on Navarre, Weeks Marine, Commissioner Goodin, Roger, Hunter Walker, and the rest of the County staff for the outstanding effort to reach this point. But most of all, the efforts by Kenny and the leaseholder community made a huge difference. Well done everyone. This is an unusual accomplishment and is just another reason this is one of the more extrodinary beach projects in Florida in the last five years. This is a crtical but modest restart and we are diving in with both feet to get sand on the beach. We'll see how things play out. Perhaps the Corps will be willing to further extend our authorization to operate. We'll see. Thanks again everyone. Peter

Kenny Wilder		10-Jul-2006 17:09
Good News Is Coming! I have noticed a lot of activity from Weeks Marine this morning. Wear TV Channel 3 just passed the Belle Mer a few minutes ago headed to the western end of the beach. I received a phone call from a reliable source within the last 30 minutes and the news is good. However, I have been asked to be silent about the context of the “good news” about a start up of the Navarre Beach Restoration Project until official channels are ready for me to make the official announcement.

Kenny Wilder		10-Jul-2006 17:02
Peter Ravella tried to post a two page word document message titled “The Importance of Sharing”, but my forum would not allow it to be posted. It could be that it was too many words. So I have posted the two pages in this restoration photo gallery on Page 13. Or you may view it by clicking the link below and then scroll to the bottom of Page 13, then click on the thumbs for enlarger size.

Guest		10-Jul-2006 16:53
I was just told that the work would begin again in about an hour. This came from talking to some of the workers.

Tim		10-Jul-2006 16:46
Kenny, thanks for keeping us informed.

Bill & Pam Lovvorn		10-Jul-2006 15:20
I have also sent emails to all mentioned and have received a response from one of the Corps of Engeneers saying it wasn't his call but was forwarding the email were it needed to go. Keep up the pressure.

Guest		10-Jul-2006 13:15
The standby cost since July 1 is now $528,000. This waste is because of our government, and it's supposed to be "by the people and for the people". What a joke.

Kenny Wilder		10-Jul-2006 12:53
I think we will receive a response on the second appeal today or tomorrow. I received a phone call yesterday that said “You have your new beach at the Belle Mer where you live, so why do you care if the last 1,400 feet is not completed. Can’t you wait until October?” My response as to “why I care” is as follows: 1. I care about completing the last 1,400 feet of beach, because we are a community and we are all in this together. 2. I care because the uncompleted beach restoration and 14 foot high dune will have a catastrophic effect on certain beach front communities in the event of even a Category I Hurricane. The water surge in the unprotected areas would hit the Pearl, Caribbean, Beach Condominium, Sugar Beach and Beach view. 3. I care because the uncompleted beach is only a few feet from the Navarre Towers, which is adjacent to the Belle Mer. 4. I care because the water surge would cause major flooding of all properties to the east and west of the unprotected area. 5. I care because the unprotected area includes the old Holiday Inn site and the adjacent property to the west. This area happens to be the lowest elevation of Navarre Beach. The water surge of a hurricane or tropical storm would funnel through this area causing major infrastructural damage to Gulf Blvd. that includes road transportation, power, water, sewer and communications. 6. I care because this unprotected area could cause the water surge to build to a higher level in this area and then cross the barrier island where the surge would cross the Santa Rosa Sound and damage homes and businesses along Highway US 98. We are all in this together. If you are a beach lease holder, vacationer or anybody that cares about Navarre Beach, we desperately need your help. KEEP SENDING YOUR E-MAILS! With your help we still have a chance.

Guest		10-Jul-2006 11:49
Another 24 hours passes, another $52,800 spent on standby as our little bureaucrats get their rest.

Guest		10-Jul-2006 03:55
Kenny, What are you hearing?

Lloyd and Pat Colgate		09-Jul-2006 16:23
Kenny, we have sent our e-mails, hope it helps . We need to have our beach and homes safe. We just moved back to our condo after Ivan and Dennis.

Donna		08-Jul-2006 17:44
I like the sationary camera where it is. It shows the longest view of the beach. We can see all we need to see of the pier area from the robot cam. Kenny and Peter, you guys are great! I have sent my emails! Let's pray this insantly will end and common sense will prevail! Navarre is the greatest place on the gulf and it needs protection.

Guest		08-Jul-2006 14:47
One request: Can you please turn the stationary camera around to view the pier and public beach? I really appreciate your efforts up to this point--but now that the beach has been renourished on the west end, the stationary camera shot is boring at best.

Guest		08-Jul-2006 00:13
Governor Bush's brother is the Commander-in-Chief over the armed forces, and the Army Corps of Engineers is part of the armed forces. So,..... what's the problem?

Kenny Wilder		07-Jul-2006 23:39
Weeks Marine to Make a Statement Tonight Santa Rosa County and Weeks Marine have decided that they are not going to quit appealing their case to the US Corps of Engineers (CEO). According to Peter Ravella Weeks Marine is at this moment making a STATEMENT to the COE’s unfair decision to stop the Navarre Beach Restoration Project. Weeks Marine is sending the dredge B.E. Lindholm steaming back to Navarre Beach. According to Peter Ravella the B.E. Lindholm will be visible sometime tonight to show the CEO that Weeks Marine is ready to resume dredging. Santa Rosa County Commissioners, Coastal Technology, Weeks Marine, Governor Bush, lobbyist in Washington and others will be working diligently over the weekend to bring political pressure on the COE to reverse their unfair decision.

Kenny Wilder		07-Jul-2006 23:38
Peter, Thanks for your update.

Peter Ravella		07-Jul-2006 21:36
Hello everyone - Peter Ravella here. Sorry I have not reswponded to questions posed this week. We'vel been up to our necks trying to overcome the Corps decision to suspend hopper operations on the Navarre project. I think we all understand the need to protect turtles and can respect the Corps best of intentions here. Unfortunately, we join Santa Rosa County is disagreeing with this decision because of the added costs to the project, the real risk of storm damage to the Navarre Community, and because, according to NMFS, the turtle populations have not been -- and in our opinion would not be -- adversly affected by continued operation of our project, especially for the mnimum 15 days we have asked for. As I think you all know, the Natioal Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) determined that 40 loggerhead takes by the hopper fleet a year does not harm the loggerhead turtle population. Nor would the take of 20 Kemps Ridleys. Well,for the whole Gulf of Mexico from all operations, we're at six loggerhead takes and five Kemps takes with only 3 months left this fiscal year! Doesn't make sense to us. Weeks marine is keeping the Lindholm nearby and is ready to resume work. They are also being very gracious by not fully pursuing all added costs they could. Final costs of this episode are not in so no definitive numbers yet but Weeks is being very helpful. We all owe a debt of gratitude to Weeks for their help and cooperation in this effort. Meanwhile, the County, Commissioner Goodin, Roger, Hunter Walker and Tom Dannhiesser have all taken the lead in pushing this issue forward. The County is contacting elected officials from Senators & Reps to the Governor and on down. Our position is reasonable and we're approaching it from all sides. We're filing our second appeal letter today and expect discussions next week with Corps HQ in Washingtom DC. Its an uphill fight but the right one. Thanks to Kenny and all you folks on Navarre for making your voices heard s well. In his letter today, Col Carpenter (it was signed by Lt. Colonel Store, deputy commander of the Jacksonville District), the Corps suggested we look at other ways to dredge sand from the borrow area and get it to the beach. Well, we're doing that but the options they identified do not appear workable at all. We'll continue to explore them though just in case. Clamshell dredges or hydraulic cutterhead systems (2 recommend aleternatives from the Corps) are not even authorized by the project permits, so we're facing a complete round of permit amendments just to open the door to these options. Even more important, these technologies are not feasible in the water depths and pumping distances we face without hurrculean efforts and costs. We'll run the traps but the alternatives offer appear illusory. We're hoping that wisdom, a balaced policy and rationality prevail! Peter

Guest		07-Jul-2006 21:18
Anybody ready for a rum drink?

Guest		07-Jul-2006 21:07
This is driving me nuts! I can't believe that an unelected government worker can have this kind of power, and not be held accountable when the next storm hits. Reminds me of the squeekey clean Corps of Engineers and their involvement with the New Orleans levees.

Guest		07-Jul-2006 20:57
This is driving me nuts! I can't believe that an unelected government worker can have this kind of power, and not be held accountable when the next storm hits. Reminds me of the squeekey clean Corps of Engineers and their involvement with the New Orleans levees.

Guest		07-Jul-2006 20:51
Kenny, Can you update us on anything?....particularly on what may be going on, and regarding your comment that the Governor is meeting on the situation.

Robert Dale 702		07-Jul-2006 20:16
Thanks for the new information. Bonnie J and I sent our E-Mails, keep up the good work. Also the Col. has not been getting updated. When i was with I gave you his new E-Mail address. Allennottingham@bellsouth.net. Thanks

Guest		07-Jul-2006 20:12
Notice that Col. Robert Carpenter had someone else sign the denial letter for him.

Curdoglsu		07-Jul-2006 17:56
Kenny, I e-mailed the COE Headquarters and our Senators in Louisiana since so many of us vacation there.

Guest		07-Jul-2006 17:37
Just read the Corp of Engineer's letter posted on your site. This guy must be related to a turtle, although I don't think he has his head stuck in his shell, I believe it must be further south.

Guest		07-Jul-2006 17:30
How can we get this issue to the National media? Let's turn up the heat.

Kenny Wilder		07-Jul-2006 17:17
Keep Sending Your E-mails! I just talked with Peter Ravella again and he says that the County has appealed the latest decision of the US Army Corps of Engineers (COE) higher up the food chain of the bureaucracy. It ain’t over yet. Keep sending those e-mails to the e-mail addresses that I provided you with. The denied appeal letter from the COE can viewed on page 3 of my photo restoration gallery by clicking on the following link. http://www.pbase.com/kennywilder/startrestoration&page=13

Guest		07-Jul-2006 17:11
Has everyone gotten the point? Our government places turtles above people. That's the obvious truth.

guest		07-Jul-2006 16:37
I cannot believe that the dredging has been suspended until later this year. All that hard work and money seems to now be a waste if Weeks is not allowed to continue. I will be emailing today. We have been visiting Navarre for 11 yrs and we love the people and the beach. Thanks for all your hard work Kenny.

Kenny Wilder		07-Jul-2006 16:13
Appeal Denied The Navarre Press called me a few minutes ago and informed me that the US Corps of Engineers denied Santa Rosa County’s appeal to complete the last 1,400 feet of beach and 14 foot high dune. I will be receiving a copy of the Corps letter of denial shortly and I’ll post it for your viewing. It is my understanding that Coastal Tech and the County Commissioners called a special meeting this morning to decide what steps they should take next regarding the denied appeal. I’m told that Governor Bush and our elected officials in Washington are discussing the situation this morning.

Guest		07-Jul-2006 14:58
Kenny, I hope someone is reading the emails. I'm getting automatic responses.

Kenny Wilder		07-Jul-2006 14:18
We Need More E-mails Sent TODAY Thanks to all of you that sent your e-mails to our public officials to persuade them to allow Weeks Marine to complete the last 1,400 feet of beach. You are a voter and politicians listen to voter’s public opinion. If you have not sent your e-mail please do so TODAY! The architect that designed the Belle Mer just knocked on my door and said that he is working on his e-mail this morning. We need to win the appeal that was submitted to the US Corps of Engineers about two days ago. It is imperative that Weeks Marine is allowed to start up the project again immediately, because we are running out of time. This shut down is very expensive to the State, Santa Rosa County and the leaseholders for every hour that goes by without a decision. The contract between Weeks Marine and the County says that this shut down provides compensation to Weeks Marine as “STAND BY CHARGES” at $2,200.00 per hour. Since the project has been shut down since Saturday, July 1 at about 1:30 AM the “STAND BY CHARGES” are currently running at about $330,000.00 for 150 hours. Therefore, I’m sure that if the appeal is denied, or that the appeal is not decided upon by the US Corps within the next few days, that the County will have no alternative but to end the project contractually with Weeks Marine and resume the beach restoration in November. It is my understanding from Peter Ravella with Coastal Technology that if the project has to start back months from now, that just to start the project back up at that time could cost the State, Santa Rosa County and the leaseholders more than 1.5 million dollars. This is assuming that Weeks Marine is available in November. Why is it so important to complete the last 1,400 feet of the beach and 14 foot high dune? If we get hit by a minor category I hurricane or tropical storm the 1,400 gap around the Pearl condo it would allow water surge to flood all property to the east and west of this uncompleted beach and dune and knock out the infrastructure along Gulf Blvd.. This project at this moment is on life support and we need your help. You can help by sending an e-mail TODAY to the public official’s e-mail addresses below. Let’s keep Rolling! Governor Jeb Bush E-mail: jeb.bush@myflorida.com Col. Robert Carpenter – Compliance/Jacksonville District – US Corps of Engineers E-mail: Robert.M.Carpenter@saj02.usace.army.mil Lawrence Evans- Director/Jacksonville District – US Corps of Engineers E-mail: Lawrence.C.Evans@saj02.usace.army.mil ________________________________________ President George W. Bush E-mail: president@whitehouse.gov US Senator Bill Nelson Web Mail:http://billnelson.senate.gov/contact/email.cfm US Senator Mel Martinez Web Mail:http://martinez.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=ContactInformation.ContactForm&CFID=8835419&CFTOKEN=44063593 US Congressman Jeff Miller Web Mail:http://jeffmiller.house.gov/index.cfm?FuseAction=Contact.Home In sending an e-mail to Senator Nelson, Senator Martinez and Congressman Miller you will have to go to the online links above and use web mail forms.

Kenny Wilder		07-Jul-2006 14:17
JCH, Thanks for your help!

JCH		07-Jul-2006 13:39
Kenny, My family (from Huntsville AL) will be at Navarre Towers the week of the 15th. I just want to add my thanks for all that you do and want to let you know how much I have enjoyed your pictures and how much I appreciate all of the information that you pass along. I sent the emails as requested. I wish all citizens, both permanent and temporary, good luck with this effort.

Kenny Wilder		07-Jul-2006 13:10
MLRJR, I’m looking forward to meeting you at the Belle Mer on Saturday. I’ll know that its you with the margaritas in your hands. Please bring one for my wife, too.

Guest		07-Jul-2006 05:06
Sorry, that was page 9 photos, surf against buildings

Guest		07-Jul-2006 04:56
Kenny, I hope you used some of your photos from the passage of last months Tropical storms beach surge showing the areas the dune protected vs the areas not protected. That was a smallstorm and not even that close. page 10 0f your site.

MLRJR		07-Jul-2006 02:50
KENNY YOU HAVE NOW EARNED UNLIMITED SALTED MARGARITAS. I HAVE DONE MY EMAILING AND WOULD LOVE TO MEET YOU THIS WEEKEND. I WILL BE ARRIVING AT NAVARRE TOWERS LATE FRIDAY AFTERNOON. WE CANNOT THANK YOU ENOUGH FOR ALL THAT YOU HAVE DONE. HOPE TO SEE YOU THIS WEEKEND,I UNDERSTAND YOU ARE ON THE POOLSIDE OF BELLE MER. I WILL TRY AND LOCATE YOU SAT OR SUN WITH DRINK IN HAND!!! THANK YOU AGAIN. HOPE WE CAN GET TO DREDGING AGAIN SOON.

Kenny Wilder		06-Jul-2006 23:40
PLEASE SEND YOUR E-MAIL TODAY! I posted earlier today my e-mail that was sent to certain public officials to persuade them to allow the Navarre Beach Restoration Project to start up again. Please send your e-mail TODAY to the following public officials and let them know that you want the last 1,400 feet of the Navarre Beach Restoration Project to be completed now. Let’s Roll! Governor Jeb Bush E-mail: jeb.bush@myflorida.com Office of the Chief of Engineers E-mail: Daen-zc@hqda.army.mil Col. Robert Carpenter – Compliance/Jacksonville District – US Corps of Engineers E-mail: Robert.M.Carpenter@saj02.usace.army.mil Lawrence Evans- Director/Jacksonville District – US Corps of Engineers E-mail: Lawrence.C.Evans@saj02.usace.army.mil ________________________________________ President George W. Bush E-mail: president@whitehouse.gov US Senator Bill Nelson Web Mail:http://billnelson.senate.gov/contact/email.cfm US Senator Mel Martinez Web Mail:http://martinez.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=ContactInformation.ContactForm&CFID=8835419&CFTOKEN=44063593 US Congressman Jeff Miller Web Mail:http://jeffmiller.house.gov/index.cfm?FuseAction=Contact.Home In sending an e-mail to Senator Nelson, Senator Martinez and Congressman Miller you will have to go to the online links above and use web mail forms.

Kenny Wilder		06-Jul-2006 22:53
E-mail to Public Officials About the Beach Restoration Suspension Shown below is my e-mail today sent to certain public officials requesting that the Navarre Beach Restoration Project resume dredging so that the last 1,400 feet can be completed. ________________________________________ From: Kenny Wilder [mailto:kenny@navarrebeachphotos.com] Sent: Thursday, July 06, 2006 5:25 PM To: 'president@whitehouse.gov'; 'jeb.bush@myflorida.com'; 'Daen-zc@hqda.army.mil'; 'Robert.M.Carpenter@saj02.usace.army.mil'; 'Lawrence.C.Evans@saj02.usace.army.mil' Subject: Navarre Beach Restoration Project Suspension Public Officials: I am requesting your assistance in persuading the US Army Corps of Engineers (COE) to permit the continued beach restoration of Navarre Beach. The COE shut down the Navarre Beach Restoration Project until at least late October. The sand dredging operation on Navarre Beach had been suspended because a juvenile loggerhead turtle was killed early Saturday morning, July 1st. The COE conducted a risk assessment of the project and its two dredges, the R.N. Weeks and B.E. Lindholm, earlier this week before halting the project. The dead turtle discovered Saturday was the third one killed by a dredge since Weeks Marine, the dredge contractor, started the Navarre Beach Restoration Project on March 17th. Coastal Technology, the beach restoration project consultant for Santa Rosa County, sent a letter of reconsideration to the COE as an appeal Wednesday, July 5th, of the COE’s suspension decision. It is my understanding that the appeal may be based on the following: • To Allow Weeks Marine to resume dredging until completion to fill in the remaining 1,400 feet of beach and extend the 14 foot high dune system the entire length of the project. Coastal Technology thinks the project could be completed in about 14 days. • To complete the beach restoration project, because only 6 loggerhead turtles have been killed by dredging in 2006 in the entire Gulf of Mexico from Key West, FL to Brownsville, TX. The COE regulations in accordance with the National Marine Fisheries Service allows for 40 Loggerhead takes (kills) for the Gulf of Mexico. The allowed take of turtles in the Gulf of Mexico by hopper dredging operations (40 takes for Loggerheads, 20 takes for Kemps Ridleys) represents less than 1% of the total allowed takes for these species each year from all activities in the Gulf of Mexico. • The COE is not following its own regulations that allow 40 Loggerhead turtle takes (kills) by dredging for the Gulf Coast where to date only 6 Loggerhead turtles have been killed by dredging for the fiscal year that ends September 30. The allowed take of turtles in the Gulf of Mexico by hopper dredging operations (40 takes for Loggerheads, 20 takes for Kemps Ridleys) represents less than 1% of the total allowed takes for these species each year from all activities in the Gulf of Mexico. The official information about the allowed turtle takes can be viewed on page 5 of the COE’s website by going to the following link: http://el.erdc.usace.army.mil/tessp/pdfs/2005GulfBO.pdf • In comparison, the shrimp industry is allowed to kill 3,948 Loggerhead turtles annually with their trawlers in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Yet our beach restoration has been stopped because of 3 turtles killed in a dredging operation that is well below the allowed limit. • If the beach restoration suspension continues for a few more days Santa Rosa County may have no choice but to shut down the project. It is my understanding that if Weeks Marine has to come back later to resume dredging, the cost to start back up could exceed 1.5 million dollars. Why is the Corps shutting down the Navarre Project when we have not even reached the halfway point for allowed annual hopper dredge takes (kills) for Loggerhead or Kemps Ridley Turtles in the Gulf of Mexico, especially when there are only 3 months left in this Fiscal Year (September 31) and the project shutdown ordered by the Corps will cost the State, County and Leaseholders more than $1.5 million? I’m very sorry about the killing of 3 turtles at Navarre Beach, but leaving a 1,400 foot gap in the middle of our 3.6 mile beach during hurricane season could have disastrous results. This uncompleted 1,400 gap could cause major flooding to the east and west of the entire 3.6 miles of beach. Millions of dollars in property damage is likely if we are hit by a hurricane or tropical storm. I respectfully submit to you that the suspension is not warranted. Please help us at Navarre Beach so that dredging and beach restoration may resume. Thank you, Copy: I’m forwarding this e-mail via web mail to US Senator Mel Martinez, US Senator Bill Nelson and US Congressman Jeff Miller Kenny Wilder NavarreBeachPhotos.com Navarre Beach, Florida www.NavarreBeachPhotos.com

Guest		06-Jul-2006 20:33
Kenny, I don't know if anyone has told you lately (especially in the midst of all the chaos and frustration) but - YOU ARE THE MAN!!! So glad we have you down there as an advocate for all of us. And yes, Let's Roll!

Kenny Wilder		06-Jul-2006 20:03
I have had several phone calls with Peter Ravella today. He is extremely busy amending the appeal for the beach restoration project. It may be very difficult for Peter to answer all of your questions at this time. In a few hours after I get my breath, I will do the best I can to fill in for Peter. I am trying to complete my e-mail to public officials regarding the shut down. Please be patient in your request for information at this time. Thanks.

Guest		06-Jul-2006 19:22
Peter, If you are still monitoring this website, we would appreciate it if you would answer some of these questions, and provide us with some information.

Guest		06-Jul-2006 18:43
Our family was down there this past week, and they said that the new beach is eroding very fast. This is disturbing, because there are hardly any waves. What's going to happen when we have normal waves?

Bewildered		06-Jul-2006 18:38
Ya know.... if the Army Corps, or whoever, had just said at the very start "You are allowed to kill up to 3 turtles and then you will be shut down", this job would most likely be complete NOW. But no....... every time a turtle met it's demise there was an immediate shut down and an "investigation" that usually took 3 or 4 days - even when they just dug up a turtle SHELL. But that's our government in action or is it inaction? Aren't we proud?

Guest		06-Jul-2006 17:48
I think that you may believe that Weeks is coming back to complete the work! The dredges are very expensive and I am sure that the owners have their work laid out months ahead of time. Navarre may have to go thru bidding process and get someone else????

Guest		06-Jul-2006 17:21
U. S Army Corps of Engineers The Engineer Inspector General To report Fraud, Waste, and Abuse 1-800-328-2207 e-mail ceig@usace.army.mil

jason		06-Jul-2006 17:21
i am staying at navarre towers this week and i noticed a survey team out taking measurments of the beach this morning.The crew appears to getting ready for a long stopage as they are moving a lot of stuff down to the pier location. I have been amazed at how much of the new beach disapears each day. every day we have to move our beach equipment back about 6 ft as the beach erodes. the new large beach is very nice and the shells are amazing. I hope they get to complete this project before a storm undos all the work.

Guest		06-Jul-2006 17:19
U. S Army Corps of Engineers The Engineer Inspector General To report Fraud, Waste, and Abuse 1-800-328-2207 e-mail ceig@usace.army.mil

Joe Tarvin		06-Jul-2006 16:19
Peter, I'm wondering how Weeks Marine's construction contract reads. If the beach gets damaged by a storm before they complete the work do they have to replace it, or are you accepting parts of the work as they go? More specifically, where you have an area in front of a property, such as the area in front of Navarre Towers that is partially completed, what happens if the completed part is damaged before they come back to complete the work?

Guest		06-Jul-2006 14:21
There is something really wrong when an unelected bureaucrat has this much power, and will not be held accountable if this allows damage to occur. This is about as stupid as it gets.

Guest		06-Jul-2006 14:18
I was told by a Navarre Towers board member that they have not gone across all of the Navarre Towers property.

Guest		06-Jul-2006 14:14
I thought that Navarre Towers was done (past)

mlrjr		06-Jul-2006 14:01
i emailed jeb bush last evening........let the emailing begin.

Guest		06-Jul-2006 13:49
Equipment is moving down at the pier.

Kenny Wilder		06-Jul-2006 13:46
NAVARRE BEACH RESTORATION STILL ON HOLD The US Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) has shut down the Navarre Beach Restoration Project until at least late October. I received this information during a phone call last evening from Peter Ravella of Coastal Technology, Santa Rosa County’s consultant on the beach restoration project. The sand dredging operation on Navarre Beach had been suspended since a juvenile loggerhead turtle was killed early Saturday morning July 1. The Corps conducted a risk assessment of the project and its two dredges, the R.N. Weeks and B.E. Lindholm earlier this week before halting the project. The dead turtle discovered Saturday was the third one killed by a dredge since Weeks Marine the contractor started the project on March 17. Coastal Technology sent a letter of reconsideration yesterday (Wednesday) to the Corps as an appeal. It is my understanding that Coastal Technology is basing their appeal on some of the following: • To modify the Corps’s dredging permit until October 1. • To Allow Weeks Marine to resume dredging for 15 days to fill in the remaining 1,400 feet of beach and extend the 14 foot high dune system the entire length of the project. • To complete the beach restoration project, because only 6 loggerhead turtles have been killed by dredging in 2006 in the entire Gulf of Mexico from Key West, FL to Brownsville, TX. That the Gulf of Mexico is allowed to kill by dredging 40 loggerhead turtles, and that the entire Gulf of Mexico has not exceeded the limit required by the Corps and the National Marine Fisheries Service. In my opinion the appeal letter is a good faith effort on the part of Coastal Technology and Santa Rosa County. I think the chances of reversing the appeal to the Corps are slim to none. However, I think we have an excellent chance in getting the stop order reversed by winning the battle of public opinion. The Corps has to answer to Congress. I will be organizing today a letter and e-mail blitz to send to our US Representatives, Senators, President Bush, Governor Bush and the Director of the US Corps of Engineers. I will post on this forum later today a suggested letter to send to the above mentioned public officials along with corresponding mailing addresses and e-mail addresses. I’m very sorry about the killing of 3 turtles at Navarre Beach, but leaving a 1,400 foot gap in the middle of our 3.6 mile beach during hurricane season could have disastrous results in millions of dollars of property damage if we are hit by a hurricane or tropical storm. This uncompleted 1,400 gap would cause major flooding to the east and west of the entire 3.6 miles of beach. The shrimp industry is allowed to kill about 3,500 turtles annually with their trawlers in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. And our beach restoration has been stopped because of 3 turtles killed in the dredging operation. I don’t understand the reasoning here. “We the People” can convince our representatives in Congress to do the right thing and use a little common sense and give us 14 more days to complete the last 1,400 feet of our beach. Let’s Roll!

Guest		06-Jul-2006 13:30
I thought that Navarre Towers was done (past)

Guest		06-Jul-2006 13:06
A what if senario. What if the beach restoration stops until November, and we get a major storm that causes considerable erosion to the area that's been done.....say the part in front of Navarre Towers. Then, when they return in November to complete the project, what will they do to the part in front of Navarre Towers that hasn't been done yet? In other words, since at this time they have not finished all the way across Navarre Towers, will we have one section wide and one area narrow?

Guest		06-Jul-2006 12:59
Any more word?

Kenny Wilder		06-Jul-2006 00:24
I talked with Peter Ravella late this afternoon. I regret to inform you that the Navarre Beach Restoration Project is still on hold by the US Army Corps of Engineers until late October. Peter’s consulting firm Coastal Tech is preparing an appeal on behalf of Santa Rosa County and the Navarre Beach leaseholders. Getting us back on track will be in my opinion be a political strategy. I’ll explain what I mean later tonight on what “We the People” will need to do to complete our beach restoration project this summer.

Guest		05-Jul-2006 20:53
Hmmmmm, is no news good news or bad news?

Guest		05-Jul-2006 19:57
We're all waiting to hear some word about the big meeting.

Guest		05-Jul-2006 19:56
Peter, Please tell us the width of the area being planted, and where the planting is at this time. Also, are any areas roped off to protect the dunes?

Guest		05-Jul-2006 16:15
Thanks for the quick response, and awesome job with the pictures. Makes it very easy for us to see exactly what is going on with the progress of the project.......Thanks again!

Kenny Wilder		05-Jul-2006 15:18
Beach Restoration Suspension Update I talked to Peter Ravella at about 9:00 AM CDT this morning about whether or not the beach restoration project will be able to start back up. Peter said he would let me know as soon as he hears something about any decision. Upon my receiving the information I will pass it along on this forum. I have posted 264 “NEW” photos of the beach restoration project. The new photos are posted on this gallery on pages 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14. There are many close up aerial shots, too.

Guest		05-Jul-2006 13:59
Are they still meeting today to discuss the fate of the project? If they are, when are they meeting, and when do you think we would know the results?........Thanks

Kenny Wilder		04-Jul-2006 14:15
Guest, If the beach restoration project is suspended until November the sea oat planting will continue.

Guest		04-Jul-2006 14:06
If dredging gets suspended until November, will they allow sea oat planting to continue in the mean time?

Kenny Wilder		03-Jul-2006 12:48
Joe Tarvin, Peter conveyed to us at his walkover workshops open to the public last week that the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FL DEP) will only allow the walkovers and restricted dune areas to be roped with stakes. The reasoning is that if fencing is implemented that nesting turtles or hatched turtles would not be able to pass through. It is my understanding that the roping project will be installed and paid for by the County. It may be hard to convince the Florida DEP to allow the construction of walkovers before November 1, because turtles will still be nesting up to late October. You might try sending a letter or e-mail to the FL DEP to appeal this regulation. It is my understanding that you would have to have a permit to replace any sand on the dune or beach areas. I’m sure that if my response to your questions is not accurate that Peter will be more than happy to respond.

Kenny Wilder		03-Jul-2006 12:24
Sherri, I’m very glad to know that your vacation at the Sugar Beach units at Navarre Beach was a happy one. Yes, the shells along the beach are plentiful. Come back real soon and visit paradise at Navarre Beach. I’m behind on posting photos over the past week. Hopefully, I’ll find time to post “new” photos sometime today.

Joe Tarvin		03-Jul-2006 12:12
Peter and Kenny, After reading Jane's report of the meeting I have a few questions: 1. Will the dunes be roped off in the non pathway area to keep people off? In the past some have not honored the non traffic area, especially children. 2. What can we do as a group of owners to convince the government agencies to let us construct the walkovers before Nov 1 ? It would seem that some official could inspect each site at the time of construction to see if a turtle nest is present. 3. If they won't allow us to go forward before Nov 1, should we adopt a policy as a group to replace the sand at the designated walkovers to the height of the rest of the dune at the time of walkover construction to avoid washouts when the storm surge comes? $. Should we put up something more restrictive than a rope to keep people off the dunes? Thank you.

Sherri		03-Jul-2006 04:09
I just want to say, I was at Navarre Beach last week (returned home 7-1). We stayed at Sugar Beach. I have been looking at your website every day prior to going to Navarre and I must say, I felt very informed and knew all of what was going on while I was there. We were very happy that the dredging did not take place in front of Sugar Beach during our stay. I was very surprised as to how quickly progress was being made, we actually thought the dredging would make it to Sugar Beach before we left, but I guess you could say we were lucky! As far as the shells......I had to go buy a LARGE sand bucket and I dont even have small kids! The bucket was full of beautiful shells. The best place I found to gather shells was at the pier. They are actually laying on top of the sand, all you have to do is walk, look and pick up!!! The only 2 negative things I could say is if you are close to the dredging the water isnt as pretty as normal (which is to be expected) since the water is being churned so to speak and also since the dune (or mote as I called it) now has to be so high - you can not ride along the beach and see the ocean. Which again I understand the reason for this but I sure did miss seeing the beautiful "blue-green" ocean along the road side. The beach is going to be AWSOME once it is fully complete. Thanks again for the great pics, I will continue to look at your website daily and wish I was back in Navarre!!

Guest		03-Jul-2006 03:55
Kenny, I really hate to see that people seem to be using your website to vent their frustrations. I believe everyone needs to realize this is "Your" website and appreciate all of the awsome pictures and info you are bringing to us all. Thanks for the great job you are doing.

Kenny Wilder		02-Jul-2006 21:55
Jane, Thanks for your nice comments. I want to say that there are so many wonderful people that have contributed their time and money to Navarre Beach. But, you are one of the special ones that have pushed for a better Navarre Beach for many years. Your devotion to our beach is immeasurable. Thanks for all that you do.

Guest		02-Jul-2006 21:43
Kenny, I’m glad that you deleted the filthy comments from earlier today. A situation like the current beach restoration suspension brings out the best in some people, but unfortunately it brings out the worst in other people. Thanks for keeping your site clean. You have made friends for life for bringing us your photos and updates.

Jane Johnson		02-Jul-2006 21:39
Kenny: Thanks for doing a nice job on the Overwalk Schematic. Myscanner must have been in a miff yesterday and while I tryed and tryed, it did not want to come out good under a couple of megabites, which some folks can't handle. Thanks for all you are doing. Jane Johnson

Kenny Wilder		02-Jul-2006 21:33
COMMENTS NOTICE I want to thank those that have used this forum to share information and the comments about my photography. Earlier today there were some comments posted that began to be discourteous to others that posted. I have allowed those posts for now to remain in my photo gallery. However, since I posted Jane Johnson’s information about the Navarre Beach Walkovers there have been several derogatory comments in a vulgar manner that I will not allow to be posted on my photo gallery Comments section. These posts have been removed from my forum. I encourage others to make comments even if it is a different opinion. Let’s keep our comments clean and be respectful of others when you post comments. Thanks.

Kenny Wilder		02-Jul-2006 16:13
Jane’s e-mail included an attachment about the overwalk schematic. This document can be viewed by clicking on the link http://www.pbase.com/kennywilder/image/62801642/original

Kenny Wilder		02-Jul-2006 15:56
Jane Johnson with the NBLRA sent out an e-mail yesterday about the walkovers. Her message is as follows: ________________________________________ To the NBLRA: Peter Ravella of Coastal Tech held dune walkover workshops on 29 and 30 June at the Navarre Regency. These notes came from the 30 June meeting. Peter introduced Reginald Bradley, our local Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Representative (877-314-1329 dispatcher number) and had a speaker phone conversation with Reginald’s boss in Tallahassee, Fritz Wettstein. Also present was Rolando Gomez, the FDEP Area Engineer. (850 921-7841). Reginald Bradley was given authority by the FDEP to issue field permits for dune walkovers. He would come to your property, look at your plan and fill out the paperwork on site. This would be much more streamlined than working through Tallahassee. However, of primary concern was the ruling by the FDEP that private dune walkovers could not be permitted or built until l November, the end of the turtle mating season. The State and Federal Fish and Wildlife Commissions in addition to the FDEP would have to be convinced to change this rule. Public walkovers can be permitted and built before 1 November as the permit to perform the beach renourishment project included the rebuilding of public walkovers and parking lots. Bids are due to be opened for this on July 18th and construction should start in August. But this beach is new and fragile and needs protection now during the tourist season. Peter recommended designating “pathways” over the dune marked by ropes and posts, as the quickest and cheapest way to go. The FDEP will allow this. Peter had a map of the Gulf front area on the wall and people were told to pencil in where they would want a pathway. Peter urged that pathways be consolidated where possible so that there would not be to many. If you did not attend or did not have a chance to pencil in your pathway, email Jane Johnson, janej@mchsi.com and she will pass the information to Peter. If possible put the temporary pathway where the permanent one will be. Dune Doctors will be given instructions not to plant were the temporary pathways will be. Permanent walkovers will be permitted every 150 feet for multi-family units and be up to six feet wide. Single family units are believed to be allowed walkovers four feet wide. The walkovers have to be three feet above the dune and posts must go eight feet into the dune. Not only will the FDEP have to permit the walkovers, but Santa Rosa County will also have to issue permits. For information call Rhonda Royals at 850 981-7000. She was invited to attend the 15 July NBLRA meeting to discuss this process. The county intends to put up signs every 150 feet along the dune to warn people to stay off and direct them to walkovers. Also, Peter will draft a document and Ira Mae Bruce said the Tourist Development Council will help distribute these to rental units for educational purposes. The plantings on the dune are encased in a mixture of water absorbent material and fertilizer. The plants on the far western edge have already developed roots. Peter Ravella took the action to start the temporary walkovers and to work with the Fish and Wildlfe and FDEP to see if they will allow for private construction of walkovers before 1 November, or at least to start the permitting before 1 November. The owner of a company, Decks and Such, John Hartzog, 314-0444 attended the meeting. His company is willing to obtain the necessary permitting and build the walkovers for you. Peter Ravella may be reached at: (512 236-9494) or pravella@coastaltechcorp.com Attached is a “Navarre Typical Overwalk Schematic” which was handed out at the meeting. Jane Johnson

Guest		02-Jul-2006 15:43
Has everyone heard the latest? "Private" dune walkovers can't be permited or constructed until November 1, the end of the turtle mating season. But..., not get this, "public" walkovers can. Now, "reality check", is that really fair?

Guest		02-Jul-2006 15:31
What about the shrimp? Am I the only one who cares?

Guest		02-Jul-2006 15:26
You have the far left using the turtle kills for their own political agendas, which seems to get into the way of any sound reasoning. They would have preferred that the beach restoration never started. They say that those that have invested in beach property on a beach should have known that they would be vulnerable to hurricanes and that they deserve whatever happens to them. They don’t like any person or corporation that has accumulated wealth. The dead turtle to them is really only a smoke screen for their socialistic dreams of taking from the prosperous and redistributing the wealth. Do you really think they care about a sea turtle?

Guest		02-Jul-2006 15:16
They want to control you and your life, but don't you even think about controling their lives and their twisted ways.

Frank		02-Jul-2006 15:10
Isn’t it interesting that many of the waco environmentalists try desperately to convince us that they want to protect the sea turtle, protect the turtle eggs and protect the unborn turtle? Isn’t it also interesting that many of these same people are in favor of killing the unborn child? Go figure.

Guest		02-Jul-2006 15:08
In order to be able to continue living with myself, I simply must take advantage of this opportunity and say a word for that cause near and dear to me, and that's THE SHRIMP! WHAT ABOUT THE SHRIMP! Has anyone stopped to think about how many of those helpless, harmless little critters have been literally sucked up off the bottom of the ocean while they have crawled along innocently going about a normal day? I weep for days at the thought. SHRIMP HAVE RIGHTS TOO! Smell those shrimp, thet're beginning to boil. bubble, bubble

Guest		02-Jul-2006 14:18
And Lord knows we don't want to interupt a civil servants Holiday!!!!!

Guest		02-Jul-2006 14:16
Reality check back at you. My family and I often go over to Navarre Beach for a day of sun and fun so we believe it is our playground also. Are we rich? Hardly...we live in a trailer. The renourishment is important not only to protect the rich people's property but to provide a place for tourists and locals to visit. By the way, I understand the rich people are paying for a substantial part of the project out of their own pockets. Yes, it is sad that another turtle has been killed but that is life... and death. We deal with it.

Guest		02-Jul-2006 14:11
Here's my response to"reality check." The penalty is higher for harming an eagle's egg than for killing your baby. Now that makes a lot of sense. Oh' and by the way, the baby was " in the way."

Guest		02-Jul-2006 14:06
The same "liberal" laws apply whether the home is built on a sand bar or on a rock. The corps are not the ones making the laws, it's these liberal democrats. They bow to bleeding hearts who pay minor taxes, and want to control rather than contribute. The corps, who for years raped our landscape still apparently have some room here, and maybe will do the right thing, and let the construction resume. What we need to do is vote conservative.

Guest		02-Jul-2006 13:35
Reality Check. Where is there any sane thinking involved when people put up buildings on the edge of oceans and gulfs? I resent MY tax dollars being spent on saving rich peoples' playgrounds. It totally sickens me when the turtles are written about as "in the way". They are where they belong, condo's on a sand bar are not.

Guest		02-Jul-2006 13:21
I, wonder what the cost-per turtle is. Let's see, two trawlers, 2 observers plus crew on each trawler, two turtles observers on each dredge.?????? Eight people plus crew and trawlers= a LOT of MY %#*%^ money

Guest		02-Jul-2006 11:35
I've said it before and I'll say it again: If it had been one of the men trying to prevent a @#$%* turtle from being sucked up into the pipe that was killed, the project would still be moving forward - much like a skyscraper if a worker was unfortunately killed. And if they accidentally killed a sea turtle while reinforcing a levee in New Orleans, do you think for a moment they would shut the operation down? My guess is $*%t no! Seriously, is this what we get from the Corps of Engineers with our tax dollars???? Definitely time to re-evaluate our priorities and question the reasoning behind the decisions our government thrusts upon us with absolutely ZERO common-sense behind it! In the real world, you and I are held accountable for bone-headed decisions we make and we can't hide behind the government to justify stupidity. If (God forbid) there is a storm between now and whenever this project resumes, we absolutely should be able to hold the Corps of Engineers accountable if there is unnecessary (and obviously preventable) damage done to property because of this rediculous nonesense! Oh I'm sorry, for a moment I thought I was talking about the real world that most of us confront every day. Not the goofey pseudo-reality of no accountability that government workers HIDE behind on a daily basis. Ok, I've vented but until some modicum of rationality and individual accountability rises to the surface in the decisions we get from our government entities, we're stuck with this kind of (feel free to insert the explative of your choosing)...

Guest		01-Jul-2006 23:25
It's just fine to kill your own baby, but you kill a turtle and oh man, shut the world down.

Guest		01-Jul-2006 23:05
It's time to take America back from all this insanity. How did we ever get to this level of rediculous?

Kenny Wilder		01-Jul-2006 20:40
Attention: Peter Ravella Coastal Management Director Coastal Technology Corporation Peter, You are welcome to jump in here at anytime and provide information about the suspension of the Navarre Beach Restoration Project.

Kenny Wilder		01-Jul-2006 20:34
Another Turtle Kill Suspends Navarre Beach Restoration I received two calls today from Peter Ravella the Coastal Management Director (consultant for Santa Rosa County) for the Navarre Beach Restoration Project. Peter said that at 1:30 AM this Saturday morning, July1 a juvenile Loggerhead turtle was killed by the dredging process by either the B.E. Lindholm or the R.N. Weeks. The incident was reported to the US Army Corps of Engineers this morning about 3:30 AM and Peter’s office was notified about 6:30 AM. At the present time Ron Silver with the US Army Corps of engineers (Corps) has suspended the Navarre Beach Restoration Project until Wednesday, July 5. On Wednesday the Corps will make a final determination as to whether or not the Beach Restoration Project will be suspended to the end of the turtle nesting period sometimes in October 2006. Weeks Marine has already begun the process of preparing an appeal if in fact the Project is suspended by the Corps until October on Wednesday. Peter will provide me Wednesday afternoon an update on this suspension. Peter thinks that our chances of winning an appeal are less than 50/50. Peter also said that the Gulf Coast is allowed 7 Loggerhead kills for 2006. There have been 5 Loggerheads killed to date along the Gulf Coast including the Loggerhead kill early this morning. There is a chance that the Corps may give us one more chance since the maximum kill has not been met for the year. Weeks Marine will be asking for two more weeks to complete the Project if an appeal is necessary. Peter and Santa Rosa County requested that Weeks Marine go ahead and send the R.N. Weeks to dry-dock since the dredge was scheduled for a Coast Guard inspection on July 6. This will keep the County from having to pay for the stand by charges regarding the R.N. Weeks during the next few days. This means that if the suspension or its appeal is reversed only the B.E. Lindholm will remain to finish the Beach Restoration Project. The remaining beach to be restored is now less than a half mile. Project Site #2 moving eastward is now past Navarre Towers. Project Site #3 moving westward is now at the Pearl. About 90% of the Beach Restoration has been completed. I’ll provide an update on Wednesday afternoon after I have more information regarding this unfortunate incident.

Kenny Wilder		01-Jul-2006 19:34
The Navarre Beach Restoration Project has in fact been suspended because of a Loggerhead turtle kill about 1:30 AM this morning. I will provide a detailed report on this unfortunate happening in a few minutes.

Guest		01-Jul-2006 17:17
you have to be kidding right?

Guest		01-Jul-2006 16:22
At about 1:00 Sat morning Weeks Marine 'Took" a loggerhead turtle. At this time operations are suspended. No time is set to restart work.

Stella		01-Jul-2006 13:47
My father is helping with the restoration project at Navarre. It is great to be able to see how things are coming along for his project , as well as your beach. My family and I will be vacationing in Navarre soon and we look forward to seeing the beautiful beaches and shells!. Thanks again for allowing us to keep in contact with dad's work.

George		01-Jul-2006 12:45
Mornin Kenny, Whats it like today? Everything going smoothly?

Guest		01-Jul-2006 03:11
Peter, Please help me understand something. Since the berm stops on each end, what would keep the storm surge from running around each end and flooding the back side?

Guest		30-Jun-2006 17:52
That's great news!

Guest		30-Jun-2006 16:35
A. R Weeks is to leave night of the 4th or moirning of the 5th for a ship yard in Mobile.

Guest		30-Jun-2006 15:47
Kenny, Is the Weeks still pumping, or has it left?

Kenny Wilder		30-Jun-2006 14:30
Bill, Project Site #2 moving eastward and Project Site #3 moving eastward are only about a half of a mile from each other. Project Site #3 has moved past the Beach Colony Resort and now has reached the Pearl on its westward path. ________________________________________ Guest, Thanks for your (3) questions. I have called Peter Ravella and left a voice mail message and followed up with an e-mail a few minutes ago regarding your (3) questions. Peter will be extremely busy this morning preparing for his 2nd walkover workshop at the Regency at the Regency at 1:00 PM. As soon as I hear from Peter I will post here his comments. ________________________________________ Bill, I’m glad that you are happy with the Navarre Beach Restoration Project (Project Site #2) that is now working in front of the Navarre Towers. I agree with you that the cams are showing spectacular live images of the last few days of the beach restoration. But walking on the 400 feet to 600 feet of new sand and just seeing it with your eyes is what is spectacular. Project Site #2 sometime today will move eastward past Navarre ________________________________________ Mirir, As mentioned above the beach restoration should be completed today in front of Navarre Towers. ________________________________________

Bill Lovvorn		30-Jun-2006 12:08
Kenny: How far has the pipe #1 project progressed. Is it to Beach Colony yet? Thanks: Bill 18PHD

Guest		30-Jun-2006 10:04
Any updates available? Curious about the following: 1) where will the Weeks dry dock? 2) when will the Weeks be leaving site #2? 3) when Weeks leaves, will the Lindholm resume pumping from site #2 or #3? thanks guys!

Bill		29-Jun-2006 22:39
Kenny, thanks, thanks and thanks! The close up shots of the cam is spectacular of the Navarre Towers beach renourishment. I’m so excited to sit at my computer and watch all the action. Did I say spectacular?

mlrjr		29-Jun-2006 18:20
i really need navarre to be finished by next friday...ha ha. intrested to see which direction they resume after one ship leaves. hopefully they will continue from navarre towers and go to the pier.

Kenny Wilder		29-Jun-2006 18:20
Wow! Things are happening so fast during these last days of the beach restoration that it’s very hard to keep up with everything. Now the B.E. Lindholm has arrived at Pipe #2 in front of the Navarre Towers instead of the R.N. Weeks. The B.E. Lindholm just hooked up to the main pipe and should be pumping sand onto the beach in just a few seconds.

Guest		29-Jun-2006 18:09
Looks like Navarre Towers will be the last to get storm protection.

Kenny Wilder		29-Jun-2006 18:08
Joe, The Robo Cam #1 wide angle is the live images right after the images of the Fishing Pier area. The wide angle in front of the Navarre Towers is opened as far as it will go. Once the pipes are in place from today’s new assembly you should have a very good view. Please read the messages below regarding the R.N. Weeks and B.E. Lindholm. ________________________________________ George, You are correct in your observation. Weeks Marine has moved the large pipe that goes into the Gulf from about a mile down the beach, and moved it eastward where the pipe now goes out into the Gulf in front of Navarre Towers. It may take most of the day for Weeks Marine to connect everything up for pumping sand onto the beach. They are still moving the large pipe sections from the western end of the beach down to the new site. I will still refer to this site as Project Site #2. The R.N. Weeks is scheduled to be leaving the beach for dry-dock any day now. Being that they have moved their main pipe(s) to the very eastern end of Project Site #2 in front of Navarre Towers, it leaves me to believe that Project Site #2 may become the main worksite for the B.E. Lindholm, and move eastward instead of Project Site #3 that is in the Pearl condo area moving westward. I will find out exactly how this will all play out when I meet Peter Ravella tonight at the Walkover Workshop. I will post here on this forum Peter’s response after tonight’s meeting. Currently the B.E. Lindholm and R.N. Weeks are both working Project Site #3 that is moving down the beach westward. They will continue to work together until all the pipes are assembled and ready for pumping at Site #2 in front of Navarre Towers. ________________________________________ Guest, The dune walkovers will go over the dune in only certain areas along the entire beach. To knock the dune down to ground level would allow future storm surge to breach the dune and allow water surge to cause possible damage to beach property and Gulf Blvd. Furthermore, it would not comply with federal and state regulations that are designed to protect the dune and sea oats. Tonight’s workshop and tomorrow’s workshop conducted by Peter Ravella at the Regency will address what you can do and what you can’t do regarding the dune walkovers.

Joe Tarvin		29-Jun-2006 17:44
Kenny, Would you mind giving us a wide angle shot in front of Navarre Towers so we can see the whole area at once? Does it look like the operation is pulling out?

george		29-Jun-2006 16:30
Looks like they are breaking down the feed pipes on the western operation.Can anyone confirm?

Guest		29-Jun-2006 15:43
I am curious as to whether the dune walkovers go up and over the dunes/berm or through them at ground level. Thanks again Kenny for your comments and pictures. I only wish web tv could pick up the web cam pictures.

Guest		29-Jun-2006 15:03
Did the Weeks pull out and leave Navarre Towers open to storms?

Kenny Wilder		29-Jun-2006 12:00
The Robo Cam #1 has been down since last evening and I hope to have it back working again in a few hours.

Kenny Wilder		29-Jun-2006 11:57
Thanks Peter for reminding us about the walkover workshops that you will be conducting today and tomorrow. I will be attending today’s workshop and look forward to seeing you again.

Peter Ravella		29-Jun-2006 03:23
Hello Everyone: This is Peter Ravella from Coastal Tech. I will be over in Navarre tomorrow about 1:00 p.m. and will be staying through Saturday about noon. I am staying at the Navarre Regency and can be reached on my cell at 512-784-3565. Tomorrow at 6:00 pm, we will have the first of two free, open workshops on walkovers. The other is Friday at 2:00 p.m. Both will be held at the Navarre Regency meeting room. Reginald Bradley from FDEP will not be able to make it to the Thursday evening workshop but will join us on Friday at 2:00 p.m., when we'll do the whole show again. We confirmed today that FDEP is ready to authorize walkover construction through Field Permits (a relatively painless process as permitting goes). Our next goal is to convenience the Department to allow construction during turtle season. Reginald is working with his superiors in Tallahassee on this issue and we may have a final answer before the first workshop. If not, we can discuss it with Reginald on Friday. FDEP staff is working hard to make this process work and we’re thankful for that. Please join us if you're interested in getting a walkover on the ground. If you're interested in building a walkover, come on over. Everyone’s invited. We'll review the FDEP rules and the requirements and standards that govern these important projects. We’ll focus on the field permitting process and we’ll walk through who to call and how to get it done. I'll hand out a walkover schematic (a simple design sheet) that you are welcome to use for your projects, the FDEP Walkover Guidelines, and a few other useful items. I’ll also give you an update on the reconstruction of the public walkovers and public parking spaces at the eight public beach access points along Navarre. Please join us and we’ll do our best to answer any questions you have and help move these projects forward. Peter P.S.: I’ve also brought my mask & snorkel and hope to get in the water and find a few of those shells!

Kenny Wilder		29-Jun-2006 02:08
Guest, The R.N. Weeks is at this very moment pumping sand onto the beach in front of the Navarre Towers. Project #2 is moving eastward towards what used to be the old Holiday Inn. ________________________________________ Lynne, The projects east and west are now only about 0.5 miles apart. This means that 3.0 miles of the beach restoration is now completed not including the State Park. I may take you up on your offer to shoot photos from your 12th floor. ________________________________________ Guest, The Robo Cam #1 for some reason is locked up on one live image of the Fishing Pier area. Hopefully, this problem will be resolved in the morning. ________________________________________ Guest, I’ll try to zoom in on the beach restoration project in front of the Navarre Towers in the morning if we can resolve the problem with Robo Cam #1. ________________________________________ Patti, Thanks for your positive comment. Yes, “the beach is beginning to look INCREDIBLE”. ________________________________________ Mark, Thanks for visiting my photo gallery, cams and this forum. I look forward to taking you up on your offer during your July visit to Navarre Beach. ________________________________________ Mirir, A frosty margarita with salt would be great. Just keep on dreaming about Navarre Beach. It will not be wasted time. ________________________________________ Gloria, Thanks for your very nice comments about my photo galleries. However, there are many people that live at Navarre Beach and out of state who are much more deserving than I for their contributions to the beach with their money and time. I meet great people like this every day.

Guest		29-Jun-2006 02:07
Kenny, I think the camera is stuck on the pier. Is the Weeks still working?

Guest		29-Jun-2006 01:10
kenny did the weeks leave before finishing in front of navarre towers?

Guest		28-Jun-2006 21:18
any way to show more shots of the work being done in front of Navarre Towers / Belle Mer (pulled back to wide angle) and fewer shots of the fishing pier? They seem to have moved beyond what is visible right below the building. thanks

Guest		28-Jun-2006 17:49
Kenny, I'm an owner in Navarre Towers. Would you mind backing off your camera for one shot so we can see the whole picture in front of our building? Thank you.

Patti		28-Jun-2006 17:38
MY GOD - The beach is beginning to look INCREDIBLE. I can't believe I already used my Navarre week (in May) when the restoration had barely started..............................It figures as much.............Anybody looking for a houseguest?

Guest		28-Jun-2006 15:47
The two construction are about 3000 feet apart. This is according to my Golf range-finder.

Mark Tarvin		28-Jun-2006 14:25
Kenny, I just want to chime in with gratitude to all you have put into this site, this project and your efforts in keeping us all informed, adjusting your cameras and answering all of the questions you get daily. I hope you know how much it means to so many of us. My parents (Joe & Carol) started taking our family to Navarre around 1977-78 and my sisters and I have been bringing our families to our favorite Florida secret for many years as well. We are coming to Navarre Towers July 8th and as I watch the beach finally being restored, I am starting to hear the opening of the Hallelujah Chorus in my head. I'd love to get the chance to buy you the drink(s) of your choice at Juana's during our stay (serious offer, just let me know). We'll be keeping our fingers crossed that Tampa wins the dry dock bid for the Weeks so maybe they can stick around a few more days. Thanks again!!!

mlrjr		28-Jun-2006 13:16
kenny i am a owner at navarre towers and will be down next friday with my family. all i can say is.... thank you so much for devoting your time and effort into this so people like me can sit in my office and dream of coming to the beach. i owe you at least one frosty margarita with or without salt!

Gloria		28-Jun-2006 12:58
Kenny, if Navarre Beach has a MAN OF THE YEAR AWARD it would be a total injustice if you were not the recipient of this award this year. Thanks for the insight of your cam, information and especially your wonderful photos. You are indeed the man at Navarre Beach.

Kenny Wilder		28-Jun-2006 12:42
Guest, I will be adding today the zoom in live images of the beach restoration that has now moved to Navarre Towers and is moving eastward towards the old Holiday Inn site. I will be shooting photos of this event and hope to post them on the last pages of this gallery. ________________________________________ Guest, I’m very sorry to learn that Weeks Marine workers used strong language in their effort to keep people out of the marked construction areas. All of my communications with Weeks Marine workers has been nothing but cordial. ________________________________________ Guest, Project Site #2 and Project Site #3 or now only about 0.5 miles apart. My estimation is that within the next 7 to 15 days these two projects will meet each other in the vicinity of the old Holiday Inn. ________________________________________ Tom & Reesie, I’m glad that you have enjoyed my two live web cams. It would be an honor to meet you guys the next time you visit Navarre Beach. ________________________________________ George, Weeks Marine continues to dissemble the pipes as they move along the beach in order to pump sand onto the new surf area and the dune (berm) areas. This is a necessary process. Also, sometimes it appears that a particular pipe has been disassembled when in fact a sand walkover was created for beach access for playing on the beach. ________________________________________ Guest, I will be adding photos of the new completed beach restoration of the Emerald Surf today. ________________________________________ Jason, The beach restoration has brought millions of shells to the new beach. The best shells are about 50 feet to 100 feet from the surf. You will need a mask and snorkel to collect these beautiful shells. If you snorkel for shells at the new beach you are going to be viewing a wonderland that you have never witnessed before. It is absolutely incredible and the water clarity is gin clear.

Guest		28-Jun-2006 12:05
Kenny, I'm an owner in Navarre Towers. Would you mind backing off your camera for one shot so we can see the whole picture in front of our building? Thank you.

Guest		28-Jun-2006 04:07
Yes, A.R. Weeks is still working.

Guest		28-Jun-2006 03:23
Is the Weeks still working?

Guest		28-Jun-2006 00:54
The restoration is directly in front of our condo right now. It is awesome to watch!! But, three teenage boys in my group were snokeling yesterday afternoon and crossed the Construction line (unbeknownst to them); once they floated ashore, they realized their mistake and immediately crossed back over. One of the construction guys chased them down and cussed them out. My mom went down there to speak to him about it, and he cussed her out, too. Now a cute little drunk bikin-clad thing just crossed the line, approached the bulldozer and spent about 15 minutes conversing with the driver... can anyone explain that? If you'r heading down this way... keep your children away from the filthy-mouthed construction workers!!

Peter Ravella		28-Jun-2006 00:21
I'll defer to Kenny on this but my estimate is the space between the two dredge pipes is about 2,750 feet at the end of the day today.

Guest		27-Jun-2006 23:27
Kenny, How far apart are the two construction sites?

Tom & Reesie Hartlage		27-Jun-2006 21:55
Kenny you are the man, adjusting the cam every day for all us beach nuts who can't be there. Thank you, would like to buy you a drink next time we come down (Oct) Thanks again

George		27-Jun-2006 18:36
Why are they taking the pipes apart?Is the feeder line being moved eastward? Also The stationary cam seems to be stuck on a night shot.Thanks guys.

Peter Ravella		27-Jun-2006 18:25
Hey Gramps -- thought I'd take this one on for Kenny. First, this sand is from state waters, so no federal costs or fees would arise. And there is no state "severence cost" for the Navarre Project sand because this is a state-county project. If this sand were being acquired by a private party, a severence fee would be charged by the state, maybe $2-$3 per cubic yard. If this were in Federal waters, the Minerals Management Service (part of the Depatment of the Interior) would decide whether a severence fee would be charged. Peter

Gramps from Ohio		27-Jun-2006 18:17
Hello Kenny, Great restoration coverage. Thanks. I have a question about the project cost. In addition to the labor and equipment cost, is there any cost for the sand? In other words, does the state, or EPA or other body, extract a fee for the privledge of allowing the sand to be moved from the gulf to the beach?

Guest		27-Jun-2006 17:59
Are they pumping sand at Belle Mer today? The rotating shot with the hookup for the Weeks is off and it appears that they've removed several sections of the pipe. Are those sections gone or just covered in sand?

Guest		27-Jun-2006 15:23
Kenny, Wouls it be possible to put a few shots of Emerald Surf condos? I can not get the cams to work on my computer. Thanks!

JASON		27-Jun-2006 12:50
IS THE RESTORATION PROJECT BRINING IN ANY SHELLS TO BE FOUND ALONG THE BEACH?

Kenny Wilder		27-Jun-2006 01:49
Thanks for the suggestion to zoom in on the beach restoration, which is currently right out in front the Belle Mer. This afternoon with the help of Brad my webmaster we added about 4 or 5 “new” live images that zoom in on the amazing project. I will setup a live image tomorrow that shows more of the big condo towers east of the Belle Mer. Thanks to all of you for helping me make this a better web cam for you.

Guest		26-Jun-2006 23:01
Kenny: Is it possible to direct your stationary beach cam to the east? I would appreciate being able to see if they are making progress at Beach Colony. Thanks for all that you have done to help us keep up with the project. Jim Marshall

Guest		26-Jun-2006 18:59
Kenny, Would you mind zooming out on your camera looking down at the work so we can see what they're doing? Thank you.

Guest		26-Jun-2006 18:47
Planting of sea oats, panicum, beach elder, sea purslane and white morning glories will begin again next week.

Kenny Wilder		26-Jun-2006 16:47
Joe, The planting of the sea oats is about 2 miles away from my two cams. The sea oat planting is continuing to move eastward.

Kenny Wilder		26-Jun-2006 13:44
Joe, The planting of the sea oats is about 2 miles away from my two cams. The sea oat planting is continuing to move eastward.

Kenny Wilder		26-Jun-2006 13:42
George, The beach restoration project has now reached the middle of the Belle Mer. If everything goes right the project should be completely past the Belle Mer within the next 2 or 3 days. ________________________________________ Guest, The eastern edge of the project should be at the Navarre Towers in about 2 to 3 days. My thinking is that the project will be past Navarre Towers within 5 days or by the end of the week and then moving eastward towards the old Holiday Inn property. ________________________________________ Guest, My Stationary Cam #2 is located west of the Navarre Towers in the Belle Mer on the 13th floor and shows a live image of 2/3 of Navarre Beach looking west. The Robo Cam #1 is located in the Belle Mer on the 15th floor and roams with multiple live images of the beach from east to west or 180 degrees. It is my understanding that the R.N. Weeks will be leaving the beach for dry dock on or before July 4 and that the R.N. Weeks will not be coming back. The B.E. Lindholm will complete Project and at this time I do not know if the Dredge will work at Project #2 moving eastward or at Project #3 moving westward.

Joe Tarvin		26-Jun-2006 13:39
Kenny, I can't see anyone working in the distance planting sea oats. Would you please comment on the progress of the sea oat planting?

Guest		25-Jun-2006 14:05
Kenny, any word on location of RN Weeks dry dock? Just hoping Navarre Towers area will be completed before they leave. How far is your stationary camera from Navarre Towers? It appears to be just west of it. Thanks!

Guest		24-Jun-2006 01:01
Remember Lindholm for completion after Weeks leaves and that is still 7 days away, at earilest.

Guest		23-Jun-2006 20:44
Peter, What would be the chance of getting the Weeks to stay lomg enough to reach the Holiday Inn property before they pull out?

Guest		23-Jun-2006 20:20
Kenny, How far would you say it is from the west project to the east side of Navarre Towers? I'm wondering if they will get the beach finished in front of Navarre Towers before they leave. They are building about 100 feet of beach per day.

Guest		23-Jun-2006 20:12
If this was scheduled, why were we told that both dredges would see the project to completion? This is just another surprise that delays the completion date to deeper into the hurricane season.What about liquidated damages?

george		23-Jun-2006 20:12
So where does this put us on completion schedule?Are they going to continue eastward from Belle Mar? How long say to Holiday Inn property if weather holds?thanks.

Peter Ravella		23-Jun-2006 17:52
UPDATE ON THE R/N WEEKS -- SHE'LL BE LEAVING AT MONTH'S END The R/N Lindholm will continue the project to completion Dredges operate under US Coast Guard Certificates that must be renewed periodically. Well, the certificate for the R/N Weeks expires on July 6, 2006 and the ship must be in dry dock that day to begin recertification. Weeks Marine is currently looking at two possible dry docks for the recertification process: Tampa and Norfolk, Virginia. If the R/N Weeks can get dock space in Tampa, we should all expect to see her depart the Navarre Project on or about July 4. If she has to go all the way to Norfolk, she'll be leaving the Navarre Project on or about June 30. This is an unavoidable and scheduled event. The R/N Lindholm will continue the project through to completion, as the R/N Weeks will not be returning. We want to thank the crew of the R/N weeks for a job well done and we look forward to a productive last few days before she leaves us. Peter Ravella

Peter Ravella		23-Jun-2006 17:39
Hello everyone -- As you may have heard, the County has asked Coastal Tech to host 2 dune walkover workshops to help leaseholders understand state permitting requirements and design guidelines and to facilitate FDEP field permits for the walkovers. I have spoken with Ruth Schaeffer at the Regency and she has graciously agreed to allow us to hold the workshops at the Regency meeting room (same location as the MSBU workshops). The workshop schedule is • Thursday, June 29 at 6:00 p.m. • Friday, June 30 at 2:00 p.m. As of this afternoon, I have not confirmed that Reginald Bradley, the FDEP Filed Representative, will be in attendance, but I am working hard to do so. If you are interested in learning about walkover standards, permits, and how to get through the process as quickly as possible, please plan on attending one of the workshops. They will be identical presentations, so pick the time most convenient for you. We will also be discussing protection of the dune plants that have been installed. I look forward to seeing everyone at the workshop. If you have any questions, please feel free to call me Monday at the office: 512-236-9494. Peter Ravella Coastal Tech

Guest		23-Jun-2006 16:01
old news move on

Guest		23-Jun-2006 15:33
Turtles are nice, but this is insane.

Guest		23-Jun-2006 15:25
Another turtle death halts Navarre Beach restoration project Associated Press Sunday, June 18, 2006 NAVARRE BEACH — The Navarre Beach restoration project was halted again after a third turtle was killed. Crews found fragments of a loggerhead sea turtle shell in the screen of one of the project’s dredges Friday, prompting the project to be immediately shut down. It was not clear whether the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will allow the project to resume. “We’re hopeful this is not going to be a show-stopper,” said Roger Blaylock, Santa Rosa County’s engineer who is overseeing the project. A young Kemp’s ridley turtle was killed by the same dredge in March. A second turtle was killed on June 5 as it was being relocated by a trawling vessel that patrols the barrow site to remove turtles from harm’s way. That death was not counted against the project because it was not killed by a dredge. The project, which was more than 50 percent completed Friday, will add 3.4 million cubic yards and sand along 3.7 miles of beach on the island. A similar project in the Destin area has been suspended until Oct. 1 after dredging killed four sea turtles

Kenny Wilder		23-Jun-2006 13:23
Navarre Beach Restoration Locations & Directions The references in my comments may seem to be somewhat confusing at times. I will try to shed a little light on the references of locations and directions as follows: EAST If I’m standing on the very western end of Navarre Beach adjacent to the National Seashore looking towards the Fishing Pier I’m looking east. If I’m standing on the beach at the Belle Mer looking towards the Fishing Pier I’m looking east. If I’m at the Pearl looking towards the Fishing Pier I’m looking east. If I’m at the Fishing Pier looking towards the Navarre Beach State Park I’m looking east. WEST If I’m standing on the very eastern end of Navarre Beach adjacent to the Navarre Beach State Park looking towards the Fishing Pier I’m looking west. If I’m at the Fishing Pier looking towards Summerwinds, Regency, Pearl and Belle Mer I’m looking west. If I’m at the last beach house on Navarre Beach adjacent to the National Seashore I’m looking towards Pensacola Beach, which is west. SOUTH If I’m standing at the Fishing Pier looking at the horizon of the Gulf I’m looking south. NORTH If I’m standing at the entrance of the Fishing Pier looking towards Cocodrie’s, Sailor’s Grill and the Navarre Beach Bridge I’m looking north. PROJECT SITE #1 This was the first site of the beach restoration, and originally I referred to this site as Pipe #1. After about two months of referring to Pipe #1 it became confusing because Weeks Marine was constantly moving the pipes to different locations. And once the first Project Site (Pipe #1) was completed by meeting Project Site #2 it became even more confusing. Therefore, I now refer to the first project as Project Site #1. Project Site #1 was completed about 10 days ago where the beach restoration ended to the west adjacent to the National Seashore. PROJECT SITE #2 Since Project Site #1 is completed it leaves Project Site #2 and Project Site #3 where the dredge ships B.E. Lindholm and R.N. Weeks are currently pumping “new” sand onto the beach. Currently Project Site #2 is currently at the Emerald Surf moving eastward towards Project #3. I expect that Project Site #2 will be at the Belle Mer by early next week. PROJECT SITE #3 Project Site #3 is at the Summerwinds and Regency and is moving westward towards Project Site #2. In a few weeks Project #2 and Project #3 will meet somewhere in the area of Sugar Beach and the old Holiday Inn location.

Guest		23-Jun-2006 12:18
Kenny thanks for your cams and photos. I’m a little confused about your references to Project Site #2, Project Site #3, east and west. Could you provide us with an explanation and maybe some landmarks so we can understand a little better?

Guest		23-Jun-2006 12:08
Kenny, The view of the robocam in the direction of the pier looks like the beach is much wider beyond the pier than it is on this side of the pier. Is that the way it is, or does it just look that way? Thanks for all you're doing to keep us informed.

Jane		23-Jun-2006 11:45
Thanks so much for bringing back to life Sugar Beach with the vivid and colorful photos that you made this week. I just viewed the photo gallery of Sugar Beach and the photos are so beautiful and positive. I hope you have the time to add more photos of Sugar Beach soon. Your photo documentary of the beach restoration is bringing back to life Navarre Beach to all of us that live far away, and we love you for it.

Kenny Wilder		23-Jun-2006 02:04
Guest, Project #3 has moved westward past all 3 towers at Summerwinds and the project is close to the western end of the Regency. I would expect that Summerwinds’ owners and guest should have access to the new beach in a few days.

Kenny Wilder		23-Jun-2006 01:55
READY FOR VACATION, I shot a few photos of Sugar Beach yesterday at your request. The Sugar Beach looks great and has had a lot of vacationers this summer. You can view these photos by clicking on the following link: http://www.pbase.com/kennywilder/sugarbeach

Kenny Wilder		23-Jun-2006 00:03
I just sighted the Dredge B.E. Lindholm with my binoculars at 6:55 PM CDT this evening about 4 to 5 miles off the beach. The Lindholm seems to be dredging for sand and I expect her back at the Project Site #3 about 8:00 PM CDT. Thanks to the Guest that posted the other notification of the sighting.

Guest		22-Jun-2006 23:16
Lindholm is on her way back. Should be at Navarre Beach shortly.

Guest		22-Jun-2006 20:42
My family and will be staying at the Summer Winds starting July 24th and staying through July 31st. Will we have a Beach? Sounds to me the construction is right in front of our Condo. If it is when will they be gone? Thanks! Dan Varner, Knoxville TN.

READY FOR VACATION		22-Jun-2006 19:53
You said you shot Sugar Beach, where can I see your photos? This site is so great!! So much info.

Kenny Wilder		22-Jun-2006 18:57
George, Thanks for your suggestions about Robo Cam #1. I plan to get with my webmaster in the morning and make a lot of changes to the cam’s live images. There will be more zoom in and zoom out live images of the beach restoration.

guest		22-Jun-2006 17:37
Kenny.Is it possible to zoom back out on some shots like before?If not ,We still enjoy the cam and come to the website for ongoing news.thanks!!

Kenny Wilder		22-Jun-2006 14:30
DREDGE B.E. LINDHOLM REPAIR UPDATE Peter Ravella called me a few minutes ago and said that the Dredge B.E. Lindholm’s engine overheated early yesterday and is currently in dry-dock for repairs. The Lindholm is in dry-dock at either Pensacola or Panama City. A new engine or related parts have been sent by air delivery to expedite the repair. The estimated time for repairs and arrival time back at Project Site #3 is 1 to 2 days.

Kenny Wilder		22-Jun-2006 14:06
Guest, The beach restoration is currently at the western end of the Emerald Surf, which is about 2/10 of a mile from the Navarre Towers. The project should be hitting the western end of Navarre Towers within 7 to 10 days if the project does not have any problems. Cowboys restaurant was destroyed by Hurricane Ivan and there seems to be no plans to rebuild. The only restaurants on the beach are Cocodrie’s and Sailor’s Grill and both are good restaurants. For the mainland I recommend Vinny “R”. They are located in the Harvest Village shopping center on US 98 west about 2 miles west of the Navarre Beach Bridge. They serve good Italian cuisine.

Kenny Wilder		22-Jun-2006 13:55
Peter Ravella and I talked on the phone a few minutes ago. Peter will be calling me back this morning with a report about why the Dredge B.E. Lindholm has been absent from the Project Site #3 over the past 24 hours. I will post an update as soon as I hear from Peter.

Guest		22-Jun-2006 05:00
Kenny, My family, my sister's family and my parents are arriving on the 24th and staying at the Navarre Towers. How is the beach? What should we expect regarding restaurants? I remember a place called "Cowboys" that made a good burger. Any comments would be appreciated

Guest		22-Jun-2006 01:15
The Drege.B. E. Lindholm is having engine heating problems that are being repaired. She will be back late tonight or earily Wed.

Guest		22-Jun-2006 00:56
I was wondering where the second dredge ship is? I only see the one west of the Bel Mer. Does anyone know whether it will come back. Thanks, Guest

Patti		22-Jun-2006 00:41
Kenny: Yes, thanks, Peter did a great job answering my question about the accdental turtle kills, and thanks for your comments on my shark sitings - a "Guest" on the forum pretty much called me a liar............I also saw three sharks swim past Navarre Towers and Bel Mer one afternoon around 1 or 2 - everyone exited the water - watched them pass by - and then resumed their swimming......I LOVED seeing the sharks - it was one of the best parts of the week. The May calm, clear water and my 11th floor view afforded me a great vantage point. I also saw a few turtles swim by, several stingrays, and even a pretty large barracuda......... I LOVE Navarre Beach and can't wait to return next May. Thanks.

Guest		21-Jun-2006 22:29
I meant the cutter head has a "device" attached to it, not a "devide" -- Peter Ravella

Guest		21-Jun-2006 22:25
Thanks Joe for the comments on the turtle take explanation. Glad it helped. On the idea of screens, there drag head does have a devide attached to it called a "turtle deflector," which is meant to act like a cow catcher on a train. As the drag head is pulled over the bottom (remember the opening is buried in the sand as it moves), the deflector is supposed to push any curious turtles away from the draghead. You can read a little more about that at this site: http://www.saj.usace.army.mil/pd/draghead.htm I am not aware of any operators who have added a screen to the draghead opening. I would have to investigate the reason because it does seem to make sense at first blush. My guess is that even if there was a screen, the pump pressures are so high the turtle would be dismembered and pulled through the screen or killed just be being pinned on the cutter head and drowning. The RN weeks and RN Lindholm, our ships at Navarre, are rated as 8,000 horsepower dredges. They pull a lot of sand & water up into the ship. -- Peter

Kenny Wilder		21-Jun-2006 21:50
Guest, Project #3 is moving today eastward past the Regency. This morning both Sites were relocating pipe. This happens a lot. ________________________________________ Patti, I hope Peter Ravella answered your questions about how turtles are sometimes accidentally killed by dredge operations. Yes we had a few visits from sharks at the beach last week. About a week ago 3 large sharks were sited off Fort Walton Beach moving west towards Navarre Beach. The Sherriff’s Deputies were clearing everybody out of the water when the 3 sharks swam into site of the Belle Mer. One of the deputies came onto our pool deck at the Belle Mer and used my binoculars to view the sharks as they passed by. The sharks were moving quickly westward towards the National Seashore. Please do not be overly concerned. The chances are better that you will be struck by lightning 3 times in the same day than being bitten by a shark. However, I highly recommend staying out of the gulf in the evening. ________________________________________ Peter Ravella, Thanks for your comments on this forum. You are welcome to post your comments here anytime. Peter Ravella is the Coastal Management Director of Coastal Technology Corporation. Peter is the consultant for Santa Rosa County for the Navarre Beach Restoration Project. He was instrumental in the engineering and planning of the beach restoration contract between the County and Weeks Marine and is involved with the project on a daily basis. ________________________________________ Dan, It is my understanding that the State recently received funding from FEMA for building back the road between Navarre Beach and Pensacola Beach. I believe the road is not expected to start construction until late fall 2006. ________________________________________ READY FOR VACATION, Barracuda’s was demolished after Hurricane Dennis last summer. I know of no plans to rebuild the restaurant. My guess and it is only a guess is that Project #3 moving eastward should be west of the Sugar Beach by July 4th. You wanted a photo of Sugar Beach. I shot Sugar Beach yesterday and the place looks just great. ________________________________________ George, The Robo Cam #1 is located in the Belle Mer. The Navarre Towers blocks the cam’s view of Sugar Beach and the old Holiday Inn Site. However, I’ll see if I can show images of the beach and Gulf in front of the old Holiday Inn. ________________________________________ Dave, The old Fishing Pier is supposed to be turned into a reef sanctuary and a new Fishing Pier is to be built to the east. I think the hold up is because the County and FEMA are still talking about funding. ________________________________________ Jim. Both Project Site #2 and Project Site #3 are working today. The distance between the two sites is 9/10 of a mile. The beach restoration now has 2.6 miles of “NEW” beautiful white sand. I expect to be posting a more detailed Update tomorrow.

Jim Marshall		21-Jun-2006 14:19
Kenny: In looking at the website this morning no work seems to be going on. Did we have another turtle kill? Could you please give another update?

Joe Tarvin		21-Jun-2006 13:43
Peter, Would it be possible to attach a grate to the suction end of the pipe to screen out turtles? It could have large openings... say 4" x 4", or 6" x 6".

April		21-Jun-2006 00:56
Peter, that is the most concise explanation I've read about how turtles happen to get caught up in the dredging activity. Thank you for taking the time to explain it so well to us novices! I hope and pray that no more accidents happen to stall the project. The dune plants are a concern, too. They need time and reasonable conditions to gain a toe-hold in the dunes!

Dave		20-Jun-2006 21:05
I have not read any comments on the fishing pier. Is this going to be repaired or torn down?

READY FOR VACATION		20-Jun-2006 16:17
Thought of another question, is Barracuda's back? Do you have any pics of Sugar Beach on your gallery?

READY FOR VACATION		20-Jun-2006 16:07
JUST WONDERING HOW FAR RESTORATION IS FROM SUGAR BEACH? WE WILL BE COMING THE WEEK OF JULY 8TH, DO YOU THINK IT WILL BE PAST US?

Guest		19-Jun-2006 23:12
Peter: Thank you for the details regarding the operation and turtle situation. Also, well done on the work you are doing and have done in conjunction with the restoration. You are to be commended for all you do on behalf of those of us who own as well as the many visitors that will benefit from the restoration.

Guest		19-Jun-2006 22:22
I have been a owner in Navarre Towers for six years now, and every time we go down and vacation we see sharks just about every morning. Our place is on the 10th floor so it is easy to see all the creatures that swim past. We do not swim until about 10 am ,after all the sharks are done feeding. never at night

Guest		19-Jun-2006 19:09
I've been going to Navarre Beach since 1978 and have never seen a shark. Perhaps she can give us enough detail to convence us that she is telling the truth.

Dan		19-Jun-2006 18:14
Patti, Did you actually see that many sharks (7) during your stay @ Navarre? Who dare or want to get into the water...don't want to be a shark bait?

Patti		19-Jun-2006 18:06
Peter- Thanks for the thorough and easy to understand explanation on how the turtles are accidently killed. It's good to know somebody is looking out for them, even if there is an occasional unfortunate accident. I consider myself an animal lover and environmentalist and struggle with not wanting to see ANY turtles killed with wanting the beach restored - even though it may be messing with what nature may have intended.

Dan		19-Jun-2006 17:55
Do you know if the SR 399 connecting Navarre and Pensacola beaches has been fully repaired? Thanks!

Guest		19-Jun-2006 17:35
Hello Everyone - this is Peter Ravella from Coastal Tech. I wanted to weigh in on the "How the turtles are killed" question. Weeks is using what is called a "hopper dredge", which essentially is a giant vacuum cleaner that sucks up sand off of the seafloor (our "borrow area" is 4 miles offshore). The sand is vacuumed up and stored in the ships hold. Then, the ship sails to shore and the sand is offloaded to the beach through a pipe attached to a bouy. As the dredge is working off shore, the "drag head" (think of this as the attachment at the end of a household cannister vac) is moved over the sea bottom sucking up a layer of sand. When it reaches the edge of the borrow area (like the wall in a room), the ship does a 180 degree turn and heads back the other direction and that's when the risk of taking a turtle occurs. When the dredge pivots, they have to raise the "drag head" off of the sea bottom. In doing so, the operator has to reduce the suction when the drag head is lifted up but sometimes there is still water being sucked into the pipe as the drag head comes off of the bottom. If there is a turtle nearby, it can be sucked up the hose and into the ship. Pump pressures being what they are, the turlte is killed quickly and often dismembered. As the sand comes up the hose and into the dredge ship, it is passes through a screening device, like a big giant collander. On board the ship, agency staff called " turtle observers" watch the screen and look for turtles -- or parts of turtles -- that have been sucked up. Well, on Friday, they saw piece of a Loggerhead turtle. At that point the ship is stopped, an incident report is filed, and a review of the "take" is conducted by the Corps of Engineers. The sucked up turtle -- or what's left of it -- never reaches the beach. In the Gulf, all dredging operations are allowed to "take" 7 Loggerheads a year. Once the limit of 7 is reached, all projects have to cease (at least in theory). Thankfully, this was only the 4th take in the Gulf this year so we were able to continue. Each protected species, like Kemps Ridley Turtles -- have their own limits, so you can't lump all the turtle takes together. Fortunately, we are back up and running now. We are not out of the woods. We must all hope no more turltes are taken. There is a risk that if we have one more turlte take, the regultory agencies could shut the project down until October, when turtle season ends. The Weeks crew is doing all they can to avoid these little guys and we are trawling around the ship 24/7 trying to catch and relocate any turltes that may be in the area of the dredge. We're taking all the precautions we can but there is always a chance one can sneak in and get sucked up. Kenny - thanks for the great site! We hope everyone likes the beach and remember, please do all you can to avoid stepping on the dune plants. -- Peter Ravella l

Patti		19-Jun-2006 16:09
Kenny: I have been looking at this site almost daily for the past several months so I know you are bombarded with questions, but if you would, could you give me just a short, quick, explanation as to HOW the turtles are killed during the restoration? Are they sucked up with the sand out in the ocean and them spit onto the beach or what? By the way, I spent the last week of May/first of June at Navarre Towers - had amazing weather, enjoyed watching the restoration - and best of all, being a shark fanatic - got to experience up close 7 sharks in 4 days along the beach. I had a great time. It was my fourth visit - but first in 3 years. I hope any and all storms of any type miss Navarre this summer so everything on your beautiful beach can be repaired. Keep up the good work with the web site - it probably gets tiring but it looks like a lot of people depend on it and enjoy it.

Guest		19-Jun-2006 14:19
Mr. Wilder, I have been watching the progress of beach restoration through your galleries - you are a great source of encouragement for those land-locked! I have tried to determine how close the Beach Regency beachfront is to the dredging projects, however, I can't remember the exact location of the NBR. I am guessing (barring any unforeseen circumstances) the beachfront may be completed in the next 3 to 4 weeks. Would you mind giving me your best guess? Thank you again for the beautiful photos, the webcams (marvelous!) and answering so many e-mails.

Kenny Wilder		19-Jun-2006 13:26
Rhonda, Project Site Number #2 of the beach restoration is close to the Tom Thumb and the Emerald Surf by Arkansas Street and is moving eastward. Project Site #2 is now only about 5/10 of a mile west of what used to be the old Holiday Inn, which has been demolished. Project Site Number #3 is now beginning to move under the Fishing Pier and heading west toward the three towers at Summerwinds. Project #3 is about 7/10 of a mile east of the old Holiday Inn site. ________________________________________ Jason, If we have good weather, no mechanical breakdowns, no more turtle kills and other unforeseen problems Project #2 could be east of the Navarre Towers by July 1. However, nobody knows for sure. ________________________________________ Guest, If we do not have any of the problems outlined above, Project #2 could be at the Belle Mer in about 7 days less or more. The Belle Mer is now about 2/10 of a mile east of Project #2. ________________________________________ Sam, Thanks for the compliment about my photos. I don’t believe that the local newspapers see me as an adversary. As a matter of fact I subscribe to all three of the newspapers that you mentioned, and they have been very good most of the time about reporting the progress of the Navarre Beach Restoration Project.

Rhonda		19-Jun-2006 01:14
Are they getting close to where the Holiday Inn once stood? Haven't been to Navarre in several years. If I can remember correctly it was about 2 miles west of the pier.

jason		18-Jun-2006 22:29
when will the restoration reach navarre towers we are staying there the 4th of july week and are curious of the state of the beach in that area.

Guest		18-Jun-2006 17:25
Kenny: When will the restoration reach Bel Mer?

Sam Montgomery		17-Jun-2006 23:47
Mr. Wilder, the Pensacola News Journal, NW Florida Daily News and the Navarre Press must hate you. It seems that you are always one step ahead of the local news media in reporting about the beach restoration. Thanks for letting us all know that the beach restoration is back on track. Your photos are wonderful.

Kenny Wilder		17-Jun-2006 20:11
The Dredge B.E. Lindholm and the Dredge R.N. Weeks both arrived at their Project Sites just about 5 minutes ago. Are you ready to see some more sand pumped onto the beach?

Kenny Wilder		17-Jun-2006 19:36
Suspension Lifted for the Navarre Beach Restoration Project About an hour ago I received a phone call from Peter Ravella with Coastal Tech, which is the consultant for Santa Rosa County regarding the Navarre Beach Restoration Project. Ravella said that the US Army Corps of Engineers has lifted the suspension for the Navarre Beach Restoration Project where a Loggerhead turtle was killed yesterday. Both the Dredge B.E Lindholm and the Dredge R.N. Weeks should both be working again at their respective project sites this afternoon. My Comments: I am truly saddened that another sea turtle has met its death, and I hope that this is the last sea turtle killed during the beach restoration. It may be that there just was not enough conclusive evidence to support a suspension. The only evidence of a kill is a partial top shell of a Loggerhead turtle. It may be that the Corps of Engineers could not definitely determine if in fact the death was caused yesterday by the Dredge B.E. Lindholm. Shown below is a photo link of the turtle shell inspected yesterday by Charles Jourdant, whom I suspect was the observer for the Corps of Engineers. I obtained the photo today from the Corps of Engineers website. Just click the link below to review the photo. http://www.pbase.com/kennywilder/image/62000230/original

Kenny Wilder		17-Jun-2006 18:53
THE SUSPENSION HAS BEEN LIFTED DURING THE PAST HOUR I will post the details in a few minutes.

Kenny Wilder		16-Jun-2006 22:01
Loggerhead Turtle Kill Stops Navarre Beach Restoration Project The Dredge B.E. Lindholm killed a Loggerhead turtle today in its dredging operation and because of this the Navarre Beach Restoration Project is in a shut down process. The shutdown process will require the following by the US Army Corps of Engineers: 1. The Loggerhead turtle kill will be verified. 2. Notifications to all federal and State agencies. 3. US Army Corps of Engineers will initiate incident review. At this point I would speculate things will go over the weekend in accordance to the last turtle kill the project had on a Friday before a weekend. The last turtle kill incident was on a Friday, and the bureaucratic wheels did not seem to turn until the following Monday. And I believe the start up did not take place until that following Tuesday after the Friday incident. I do not know exactly what this turtle kill will do to the project. Of the 5 sea turtles the Loggerhead is the least one of the endangered species. This may allow us to continue the project. I just don’t know. A lot of praying wouldn’t hurt right now. ________________________________________ Source of Report: E-mail today at 3:41 PM CDT from Peter Ravella with Coastal Technology the consultant for Santa Rosa County in regards to the County’s Contract with Weeks Marine for the Navarre Beach Restoration Project.

Joseph Lewis		16-Jun-2006 12:40
Kenny, I am a professional photographer that lives in New York. I have been following your image documentary for several weeks. I’m sure that the people that have commented in your forum have no idea of the time and money that you have spent to bring them your spectacular photos and information.

Kenny Wilder		15-Jun-2006 16:35
Ann, The area that you are referring to which I call Project #2 started moving eastward for the first time this morning. The last 200 feet that you have referred to may be the very western end of the beach adjacent to the National Seashore. It is my understanding that when Weeks Marine completes Project #2 and Project #3 they will add several hundred feet past the end of the Navarre Beach western end. I hope this answers your question.

Kenny Wilder		15-Jun-2006 16:08
Today’s (June 15) Navarre Beach Restoration Update I have some great news! The beach restoration Project #1 is now completed that includes two thirds of Navarre Beach from the National Seashore to a couple of blocks west of Tom Thumb, which by the way opened last week. Project #2 is NOW moving eastward from the Tom Thumb area and at this moment sand is pumping around the last waterfront beach house on Navarre Beach. All that is remaining of the beach restoration is the core area that includes the high rise condos. Project #3 is moving very fast westward toward the Fishing Pier. I imagine that the beach restoration and dune will pass westward under the Fishing Pier within the next 24 hours. My guess is that Project #2 and Project #1 will meet together in about 4 to 6 weeks at the Pearl condo area. With good weather the project completion may happen sooner. I’ll post photos later in my beach restoration photo gallery. You can also see the process live on my two webcams.

Kenny Wilder		14-Jun-2006 19:05
For those that want to construct walkovers over the dunes the cross over forms can be obtained by going to the following links: DUNE CROSSOVER FORMS Application http://www.navarrebeach.org/2006%20Dune%20Crossover%20forms/Application.pdf Dune Walkover Guidelines http://www.navarrebeach.org/2006%20Dune%20Crossover%20forms/Dune%20Walkover%20Guidelines.pdf General Permit Conditions http://www.navarrebeach.org/2006%20Dune%20Crossover%20forms/General%20Permit%20Conditions.pdf Guidelines http://www.navarrebeach.org/2006%20Dune%20Crossover%20forms/guidelines.pdf Permit Fee Worksheet http://www.navarrebeach.org/2006%20Dune%20Crossover%20forms/Permit%20Fee%20Worksheet.pdf

Guest		14-Jun-2006 15:35
the specs for dune crossovers are posted on navarre beach leaseholders web site

Bryan		14-Jun-2006 04:40
I was wondering if any body knew when the beach walkovers would be required. I planned on waiting to build mine after the hurricane season passed, but not totally sure if they will allow it. Also does anyone know the requirement for the walk over? Do they have to have a cretin height over the dune and a cretin extension past the plants? Any information would be great.

Kenny Wilder		14-Jun-2006 01:12
Ron, Thanks for your comments about the dune walkovers.

Kenny Wilder		14-Jun-2006 01:11
Beth, You will be absolutely amazed at the shells you will collect next week at Navarre Beach during your visit. The best and largest shells will be found along the surf of the "new" beach restoration areas.

Kenny Wilder		14-Jun-2006 01:07
Today’s (June 13) Navarre Beach Restoration Update The last medium size waves subsided about 10:00 AM this morning just after high tide. At 6:30 PM my wife and I spotted the Dredge B.E. Lindholm on the horizon. She should be docking up in the next 5 minutes with the mono buoy just off the Fishing Pier at the Project Site #3. Then she should be getting back to the business of pumping more sand onto the beach. I have not spotted the R.N. Weeks yet where she should be coming to Project Site #2. Tropical Storm Alberto only caused us to lose two days of beach restoration and very little beach erosion.

Beth		13-Jun-2006 21:06
We will be arriving next week to stay a week on the beach at Emerald Surf. We were wondering about the shells in the new sand being pumped in. Are there any shells on the beach?

Guest		13-Jun-2006 14:48
Kenny, I just received the following information from Ferrell Tibbs, Administrative Assistant regarding dune walkover construcion information. I thought others might be interested. Step One. Contact DEP Reginald Bradley 850-595-8300 Extension 1245 or 1-877-314-1329 to obtain the DEP Permit. Step Two. Contact Santa Rosa County Building Inspections Department (once you have the DEP Permit) to obtain a SRC County Permit 850-981-7000. I hope this helps all homeowners take the steps necessary to protect those dunes! Ron

Guest		12-Jun-2006 14:04
Wow!!!! I can't believe how much of the new beach is under water!! scary…

Sandra Ashland		11-Jun-2006 13:07
Kenny, Navarre Beach is very lucky indeed to have such an accomplished nature photographer such as you making beautiful pictures for all to see of the beach restoration project. Are you going to publish a book of your photos showing the beach restoration? I’m sure everybody would buy a copy.

Kenny Wilder		11-Jun-2006 11:45
Guest, Thanks for your comments below about the beach dune and my photos. The “new” Beach Restoration of Navarre Beach is about two thirds completed. The beach restoration appears to have about 300 feet to 400 feet of new sand. As the project moves along the beach a gradual 14 foot high dune (berm) is being added for the entire project. About 5 different types of vegetation are currently being planted on the dune (berm) that started about two weeks ago on the western end of the beach. About 80% of the vegetation will consist of sea oats. The estimated time for the sea oats and other vegetation to mature and add additional storm protection is about 18 months. The 14 foot high berm is designed to protect the beach gulf properties and the beach properties north of Gulf Blvd. It is my understanding that the newly added sand to the existing beach and the 14 foot high berm will withstand a Category 1 or Category 2 Hurricane.

Kenny Wilder		11-Jun-2006 11:44
Curtis, It was a pleasure seeing you at Navarre Beach this past Friday when Weeks Marine was setting up Project Site #3 just east of the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier. Good luck to you on your next business trip to China.

Guest		10-Jun-2006 19:08
Sorry for being so malinformed on this whole project, but what are the plans as far as Dunes go? I'd hate to see this whole new beach be gone after one TS or something like that. Thanks for the beautiful pictures. There is always a place in my heart for Navarre Beach, so hopefully it can be restored to it's full beauty!

Curtis Bailey		09-Jun-2006 21:14
Hey Kenny, I am the China Guy you met today on the beach while taking photos. I have looked your site over and it is wonderful. Thanks for what you do and posting it for everyone to see. It was great to meet you in person and look forward to making your site one of my favorites. If you ever need under cabinet lighting for your kitchen cabinets then check out my site @ www.furnlite.com and we can take care of your under cabinet ligthing needs. Talk to you soon, Curtis

Kenny Wilder		09-Jun-2006 19:29
Today’s (June 9) Navarre Beach Restoration Update A lot of things are happening so fast with the Navarre Beach Restoration Project that it is becoming very difficult for me to keep up with everything. Project Site #1 and Project Site #2 are only about 100 feet to 200 feet from meeting each other on the western end of the beach. The Pipe in the water from Project Site #1 that started the Navarre Beach Restoration Project on March 17 has moved down the beach to the east of the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier. The Project east of the Fishing Pier will now be referred to by me as Project Site #3. I have been shooting photos all morning of Project Site #3, and hope to have them posted tonight on my beach restoration photo gallery. Also, I have added a lot of “new” photos to this gallery just about everyday this week. Also, you should be able to follow the beach restoration at the Project Site #3 and Project Site #3 on my Robo Cam. The link is as follows: http://www.navarrebeachphotos.com Project Site #2 should be completed in a day or two and then Project Site #2 will move back to the Arkansas Street area and start moving eastward. The “new” Project Site #3 will most likely start moving westward tomorrow according to employees of Weeks Marine that I talked to today about noon.

Tammy Wendlandt		09-Jun-2006 13:48
Sue, I am an owner of a unit in Sugar Beach. The restoration has not yet come that far East. There is an interactive map on the Century 21 Island View Realty website that gives you the names of condo's/townhouses located along the beach, simply by clicking on them. Go to www.c21ivr.com and click on vacation rentals. There should be a link on that page. Although I don't live there, (I'm in Minnesota) I know you will love Navarre Beach, regardless of the restoration location. Thanks for visiting Sugar Beach! Tammy C-9 Sugar Beach

Sue		09-Jun-2006 03:22
Kenny, Can you tell me if the beach has been restored in front of the Sugar Beach Condo's? I'm not familiar with Navarre and I've read all of your notes in reference to beach restoration being completed in front of certain Condo's but I dont know the location of them. I will be visiting in early July and am curious if the beach will be ready at Sugar Beach at that time or will it be right in the middle of pumping? My children are looking forward to the beach and I'm a little concerned. Thanks!

Guest		08-Jun-2006 22:57
Kenny, It is truly great to be able to see our super beach through the eyes of a professional who knows how to capture such pictures. I was elated to see a picture taken from the porch of the home next to mine which gave a clear view of the work just today right behind my home in the 7900 block of Gulf Blvd.. My family is at home but I'm travelling and it was like being at home and seeing what happened there!

Kenny Wilder		08-Jun-2006 11:58
Freddie, If the beach restoration project continues to stay on course it appears that the project could be completed in front of the Emerald Surf within the next 4 to 6 days. Please be advised that this is only my opinion. Weeks Marine the contractor is not going to say exactly where the beach restoration will be on a given day. If you are coming to the Emerald Surf in two weeks you should be in good shape. I hope you and your family enjoy your vacation at Navarre Beach.

Freddie		08-Jun-2006 01:48
Kenny, Thanks for all the pictures. My family and I are going to arrive in 2 weeks. This is our first time to Navarre. We are going to stay at Emerald Surf. How is restoration to the building. Also, It appears that there is a good chance that the beach restoration will be right in front of the condo while we are there. How inconveinient will this be for my family, especially our two small boys and their safety. We are looking foward to a fun relaxing vacation.

Diane		07-Jun-2006 19:01
Wow! Kenny, I just checked the web cams. I can't believe how much of the beach is now restored. I sure wish I could see in in person; but this is the next best thing as I sit watching the rain, yet again. Thanks again for keeping those of us that can't be there up dateded. And, believe me, if we had our choice, we would have stayed at Navarre Beach when we were there in April - it's the BEST!!

Paul		06-Jun-2006 17:54
Hey, just a thought, if you store all of the pictures you could do a time elapse of the progress, it would be pretty neat to see the progress in action.

Kenny Wilder		06-Jun-2006 12:58
Current Mileage of Navarre Beach Restoration Navarre Beach Restoration Mileage 3.5 Miles from Navarre Beach State Park to National Seashore 3.4 Miles from Navarre Beach Causeway to National Seashore 0.2 Miles from Project Site #1 to Project Site #2 (almost completed) Completed Beach 2.2 Miles from beginning of Project Site #2 to National Seashore Uncompleted Beach 1.3 Miles from beginning of Project Site #2 to Navarre Beach State Park Notes: The mileage above was calculated yesterday, June 5 at 7:00 PM CST. I have changed the reference of Pipe #1 and Pipe #2 to Project Site #1 and Project Site #2, because the big 36” diameter Pipes are constantly being moved at their respective Project Sites. In the next few days another Project Site will begin east of the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier. I will be referring to this Site as Project Site #3. Project Site #3 will move westward until it meets Project Site #2. Yeah, I know it’s a little confusing.

Kenny Wilder		05-Jun-2006 22:55
Today’s (June 5) Navarre Beach Restoration Update For about three hours this morning Pipe #2 was moved westward about a half mile down the beach. The buoy with the rubber 36” flexible pipe from Pipe #2 is now more out in front of the Emerald Surf. I will have to change my Robo Cam later today to accommodate the location change. Based upon the fact that we have had in the past few weeks both the Dredge R.N. Weeks and the Dredge B.E. Lindholm working simultaneously 24/7 in pumping sand onto Navarre Beach, I estimate that by the middle of July the entire beach project could be close to completion. This is an estimate, only. Since Pipe #1 and Pipe #2 or very close in the next few days of completing two thirds of the western end of the beach, it is my understanding that two things are about to happen. First, the Pipe #2 project along Gulf Blvd. will very soon start moving eastward again. Secondly, the Pipe #1 project will be moved to the east of the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier adjacent to the State Park and move westward. I will refer to this Pipe as the Pipe #3 project. Expect all this to happen any day now. The last of the beach restoration could be completed in Pearl condo area. I’ll be posting “new” photos including events of today later in the day. Peter Ravella with Coastal Tech who is the consultant for Santa Rosa County regarding the Navarre Beach Restoration Project called me and said he is going to propose to the County walkovers to protect the 14 foot high sand dune and newly planted vegetation. Peter is going to suggest to the County that he conduct two workshops at the beach to discuss how all this will play out. If the workshops are conducted it would be open to all leaseholders. It is my understanding that the discussions would include the condo walkovers, the beach house walkovers, walkover permits, controlled footpaths and sand fencing.

Tony		05-Jun-2006 19:38
Kenny, your photos are great. Myself and some friends will down the week of June 10-17. We've rented the Buckeye house (any photos?), across the street from the beach. Hopefully the beach restoration will be completed by the time we get there. They are making good progress.

Guest		05-Jun-2006 18:36
Kenny, How far have they gotten with the planting of sea oats? Are they putting up barriers to keep people off?

Kenny Wilder		05-Jun-2006 13:26
Guest, Based upon the fact that we have had in the past few weeks both the Dredge R.N. Weeks and the Dredge B.E. Lindholm working simultaneously 24/7 in pumping sand onto Navarre Beach, I estimate that by the middle of July the entire beach project could be close to completion. This is an estimate, only. Since Pipe #1 and Pipe #2 or very close in the next few days of completing two thirds of the western end of the beach, it is my understanding that two things are about to happen. First, the Pipe #2 project, which is close to Arkansas Street along Gulf Blvd. will very soon start moving eastward. Secondly, the Pipe #1 project will be moved to the east of the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier adjacent to the State Park. I will refer to this Pipe as the Pipe #3 project. ________________________________________ Diane, Thanks for the kind words. I hope that your stay at Pensacola Beach was a pleasurable one. The next time you vacation at the Gulf Coast please consider staying at Navarre Beach. I promise you that you will not regret it. ________________________________________ Joe, Thanks for informing me that the Robo Cam was not working a few days ago. After receiving your message, I immediately found out the problem. It seems that the BellSouth DSL internet connection to the Robo Cam dropped from 3Mbps to about 20Kbps, which was not enough bandwidth to drive the live video. After calling BellSouth tech support, the problem was quickly corrected. Again, thanks for letting me know. ________________________________________ Jackyjack, The Navarre Beach State Park is presently being considered to be given back to Santa Rosa County from the State of Florida. It is my understanding that the County is requesting that the roads, walkovers, pavilions, and restrooms be repaired by the State caused by Hurricane Ivan on September 16, 2006 before the County will agree to take back the Park. There never were cabins or cottages built at the State Park. However, there were about 15 RV hook ups. The State has already agreed to pay for the beach restoration at the State Park, which will not start until the beach restoration at Navarre Beach is completed.

Guest		03-Jun-2006 16:35
Kenny What part of the beach will they be working on in mid July? Will they be down by the pier? kerbex@swbell.net

Diane		01-Jun-2006 19:05
Kenny, Thanks so much for keeping those of us that cannot be there up-to-date on the restoration project and for the wonderful pictures and web cams. We had the pleasure to visit Navarre Beach in April (unfortunately we were not staying in NB, but Pensacola Beach) and saw the beginning of the project. Until Ivan wrecked havoc with the island, we owned a time share at the Beach Condominiums and miss staying at Navarre Beach. In the meantime, it helps to be able to see your beautiful pictures. Your dog great - but I'm not so sure about the ones with the NY Yankee hat!

jackyjack		01-Jun-2006 15:27
Kenny, what can you tell us about the Navarre Beach State Park and the (fairly) new cabins/cottages built there. Did they get destroyed and will they be reparied soon? Thanks.

Kenny Wilder		01-Jun-2006 13:32
Today’s (June 1) Navarre Beach Restoration Update Yesterday the beach restoration came much closer between Pipe #1 and Pipe #2 projects. The two projects are now less than four tenths of a mile from each other. Based upon this progress the two projects may meet and complete the beach restoration project in 7 to 10 days between the Arkansas Street area and the National Seashore on the western end of Navarre Beach. When you open my beach restoration gallery click on page 6 and page 7 for the most current photos. I’ll post later today maps showing you where the two projects are in relation to Gulf Blvd. It is my understanding that once the western end of the beach is completed, the Pipe #2 project will start moving eastward. And that Pipe #2 will move to the Fishing Pier area and move westward until the two projects meet. Once the Navarre Beach project is finished, Weeks Marine will complete the restoration for the Navarre Beach State Park. It’s going to be another great day at Navarre Beach.

Guest		30-May-2006 21:51
My husband & I were just there last week and could not believe the destruction. We have only been coming to Navarre Beach since about 1998. We usually stay at the Holiday Inn - The Tropics. We drove over to see what was left of it and saw that it had been torn down! Are they planning on re-opening it or will there just be nothing but condos from now on? We really enjoyed staying there so much!! We wish nothing but the best for Navarre Beach and the people that live and visit there.

Curdoglsu		30-May-2006 16:51
Kenny, do you have any updates on the street address? I am curious as to its location in relation to the Summerset at 7945 (the tall white 3-plex building). Thanks.

Kenny Wilder		30-May-2006 16:30
Today’s (May 30) Navarre Beach Restoration Update This morning the landscaping contract for the Navarre Beach Restoration Project began planting vegetation on the dune (berm) about 3 blocks east of the last beach house at the beach. I witnessed this during my daily 5 mile walk down to the National Seashore and back. I’ll try to shoot some photos today of this event.

Guest		30-May-2006 12:19
Kenny, I"m going to be in Navarre this Friday through Monday. My address is 7749 Gulf Blvd. I would like to apply for a walkover permit. Can you tell me where to go to apply? Thanks. Ron

Curt		29-May-2006 14:38
Kenny, If they continue at this pace when do you estimate the two dredges will meet? I’m looking forward to seeing page 7.

Kenny Wilder		26-May-2006 13:22
Today’s (May 26) Navarre Beach Restoration Update Peter Ravella the Coastal Management Director for Coastal Tech, which is the consultant for Santa Rosa County regarding the Navarre Beach Restoration Project, visited me yesterday at my condo at the Belle Mer. We both were able to view the project site at Pipe #2 from the Belle Mer pool deck. I’ll post photos of Peter and myself later today of our meeting yesterday. Peter said that it was his understanding that the landscaping contractor should begin next week with the planting of vegetation on the dune (berm) at the western end of the beach that has been completed. The vegetation will include 5 different plants. About 80% of the vegetation to be planted will consist of sea oats. We discussed walkovers over the dune (berm) for beach access for beach leaseholders, their guests and the public. Peter thinks that it might not be a bad idea for leaseholders with beach front property to begin obtaining the required permits NOW for the walkovers. The walkovers will protect the sea oats and other vegetation. Also, Peter said that he and the County were very concerned about the impact of another turtle kill. It is my understanding that the project will add another trawler to the two current trawlers that are in operation around the dredging areas about 4 miles in the Gulf off the beach. The reasoning is that if there is a mechanical problem, refueling or other reasons where a particular trawler is not operational, there will be at least two trawlers always working 24/7. And that 3 trawlers working together may help to avoid a turtle kill, which could shut down the beach restoration as it did to Destin last week. I think to date Weeks Marine has done an outstanding job in catching turtles in the trawler nets and then releasing them to a safe area. Keep praying that we do not have another turtle kill.

Curdoglsu		26-May-2006 13:09
Thanks Kenny. The berm looks like it is further from the houses than the old dunes. Is this correct? If so, do you think they will still build walkways to preserve the berms or do you think that we will just walk over them? As I recall from pictures of Pensacola, the berm there appeared too large for the walkways so it was just higher beach that everyone walked over.

Guest		26-May-2006 04:15
Kenny, When will they start planting sea oats?

Kenny Wilder		25-May-2006 21:51
Curdoglsu, You are right that the project is beyond 7705 Gulf Blvd. I’m sorry for my mistake. Weeks Marine is completing the dune (berm) as they proceed to pump sand onto the beach from Pipe #1 and Pipe #2. I will provide an update tomorrow with maps showing where the two projects are currently located along with photos. For those that want to type a comment please scroll down to the very bottom of this page.

Curdoglsu		25-May-2006 14:06
Kenny, With respect to your answer to Nickie below, I thought the project was beyond 7705 Gulf Blvd already. Did you mean to refer to a different address? Are they going to be coming back to "build" the dunes or are they finished once they pass an area?

Kenny Wilder		24-May-2006 20:34
Curt, The sand is being dredged about 4 to 5 miles off Navarre Beach anywhere between the Navarre Beach State Park and the National Seashore, because the sand at this location was found to be similar to the sand already on the beach.

Kenny Wilder		24-May-2006 20:30
Nickie, My guess is that the beach restoration will be finished at 7705 Gulf Blvd. by the first of July. However, my opinion is only a guess. I have stated many times in this comment section that Weeks Marine, Santa Rosa County, and their consultant do not know exactly where the project will be on a given day or week. There are just too many factors that can stall or shut down the project such as stormy seas, refueling, equipment failure and turtle kills.

Curt		24-May-2006 17:55
Kenny, I noticed the dredge’s are in and out a lot. I’m assuming that means they dredge the sand way out and bring it back in? Or are they just required to stay a certain distance off shore when they aren’t pumping? Just curious…

Kenny Wilder		23-May-2006 13:56
Today’s (May 23) Navarre Beach Restoration Update PIPE #1 The first 1.3 miles of the beach restoration at Pipe #1 is now complete at the western end of the beach adjacent to the National Seashore. As the beach restoration at Pipe #1 continues to move eastward sections of pipe or disassembled and moved further east. It’s kind of like playing leap frog. The Pipe #1 beach restoration has now moved eastward to 7747 Gulf Blvd. A map showing the current location of Pipe #1 can be viewed by clicking on the linkhttp://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=7747+Gulf+Blvd.,+Navarre+Beach,+FL+32566&om=1&ll=30.366359,-86.878166&spn=0.052876,0.087204 PIPE #2 The first 300 feet of the beach restoration at Pipe #2 is moving nicely westward towards the project at Pipe # 1 that is moving eastward. A map showing the current location of Pipe #2 moving past 8185 Gulf Blvd. can be viewed by clicking on the linkhttp://www.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&q=8185+Gulf+Blvd.,+Navarre+Beach,+FL+32566&ll=30.377466,-86.903229&spn=0.05287,0.087204&om=1 ROBO CAM #1, STATIONARY CAM #2 & ECO-BEACH CAM The Navarre Beach cams will continue to show the beach restoration at the following links: http://www.navarrebeachphotos.com http://www.navarrebeachwebcam.com/nbwebcam.htm BEACH RESTORATION PHOTO GALLERY I’ll be posting photos today of the beach restoration at both Pipe #1 and Pipe #2. To view my recent beach restoration photos click on the linkhttp://www.pbase.com/kennywilder/startrestoration DESTIN BEACH RESTORATION Beach restoration in Walton County and Destin has shut down yet again while the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers investigate another endangered sea turtle death. A loggerhead turtle died early Sunday morning when it got caught in the dredging equipment aboard the hopper dredge Liberty Island, which is pumping sand from the East Pass for the beach restoration project.

Guest		23-May-2006 11:56
Kenny, I was looking at your web cam down at pipe #1 at the west end of the beach. It looks as though the pipes are all disconnected. Has the restoration stopped down there for some reason. If so, I hope its only temporary. Thanks for all of your updates!

Kenny Wilder		22-May-2006 14:13
Navarre Beach Robo Cam #1 Has Been Modified I spent several hours yesterday modifying Navarre Beach Robo Cam #1. I think you are really going to be happy with the new live images. The modifications are as follows: • All current wide angle and zoom live images have been changed. • The Robo Cam tour from the Fishing Pier to the western end of the beach has been changed from 12 live images to 17 live images. • Navarre Towers now has wide angle and zoom live images of the beach. • Belle Mer now has wide angle and zoom live images of the beach. • Live wide angle and zoom images of the Gulf in front of the Belle Mer showing the Dredge R.N. Weeks when she is docked to Pipe #2. Pipe #2 comes on shore a few blocks west Arkansas Street and Gulf Blvd. • Live wide angle and zoom images of the beach restoration at Pipe #2. • Live wide angle and zoom images of the beach restoration at Pipe #1 at the western end of the beach. • At night the Robo Cam #1 now changes from day color images to infrared black and white so you can see things happening at the beach. Of course the images will not be as good as daylight, but you should be able to see the Dredge R.N. Weeks when she is anchored out in the front of the Belle Mer. The Belle Mer is about 1 mile east of Cocodrie’s restaurant. And you should be able to see the night beach restoration action at Pipe #2. ________________________________________ The Stationary Cam #2 will remain unchanged. This cam allows you to view the same live image of two thirds of Navarre Beach. It will allow you to view the two beach restorations (Pipe #1 and Pipe #2) as they head towards each other. Mike Martino’s Eco-Beach Cam has a magnificent view at ground level of the beach restoration action at Pipe #2 that is moving westward. Mike’s cam is located on a tall pole on the north side of Gulf Blvd. directly across the street from Pipe #2. Mike’s live web cam is at link http://www.navarrebeachwebcam.com/nbwebcam.htm I will continue to make changes from time to time to the Robo Cam #1 so that you will be able to better see Navarre Beach from wherever you may be. I will be posting more photos today on this Navarre Beach Restoration gallery at the linkhttp://www.pbase.com/kennywilder/startrestoration. It’s going to be another great day at Navarre Beach!

Kenny Wilder		21-May-2006 18:23
The B.E. Lindholm at Pipe #1 is now about 3 blocks east of Missouri Street and is continuing to pump sand toward the east. The R.N. Weeks is at Pipe #2 about 4 blocks east of Arkansas Street and after the first 30 hours is continuing to move toward the west. When the pumping of sand of the two dredges meet, the pumping at Pipe #2 will begin moving to the east. It is my understanding that then Pipe #3 will be placed east of the Fishing Pier and pump sand to the west. And then when the two dredges meet the pumping at Pipe #3 will then move east to complete the Navarre Beach State Park.

Guest		21-May-2006 14:32
Kenny, thanks so much for keeping us informed! Can you tell us whether the Lindholm will be working its way east toward the fishing pier or west toward the Weeks? Thanks again!

Kenny Wilder		20-May-2006 15:26
Both Dredges Are Now Hooked Up Both the R.N. Weeks and the B.E. Lindholm are both hooked up to Pipe #1 and Pipe #2. The R.N. Weeks is hooked up to the mono buoy at Pipe #2 and the B.E. Lindholm is hooked up to Pipe #2. All systems are GO!

Julia Martin		20-May-2006 14:04
Kenny thanks for letting us know that the 2nd dredge has arrived. The photos that you have displayed for all to see in your galleries are all fabulous. But the beach restoration gallery and your updates are priceless. Your beach restoration gallery is the most positive thing I have seen at Navarre Beach since Ivan and Dennis. Thanks for your time and effort in helping to bring life back to Navarre Beach through your photos.

Kenny Wilder		20-May-2006 13:37
The 2nd Ship Has Arrived at Navarre Beach The 2nd Ship the Dredge B.E. Lindholm was sighted in the Gulf at the horizon about 7:45 AM CST by yours truly. The B.E. Lindholm should be hooking up to the 2nd Pipe mono buoy within the next hour or two. I will be shooting photos of her when she comes in for a closer view. We now will have both the B.E. Lindholm and R.N. Weeks both working simultaneously in pumping all that “new” beautiful white sand onto our beach at Pipe #1 and Pipe #2. You will be able to watch all the action on my Robo Web Cam #1 and my Stationary Cam #2 at my website www.NavarreBeachPhotos.com. Most of you I’m sure have already bookmarked my two cams and my beach photo gallery, but be sure to bookmark Mike Martino’s Eco-Beach Cam for all the action, too. Mike’s camera has a close up view of the 2nd Pipe at the Arkansas Street area. You should start seeing a lot of action on Mike’s cam this morning at Pipe #2 along the surf and Gulf Blvd. Mike’s Eco-Beach Cam is at the linkhttp://www.navarrebeachwebcam.com/nbwebcam.htm

Kenny Wilder		19-May-2006 20:51
MSBU Assessment Workshops Coastal Tech, the County’s consultant, is working to bring forward an MSBU assessment alternative to be considered by the Board on June 8, 2006. Peter Ravella of Coastal Tech is leading this effort. Coastal Tech will host two more work shops with interested lease holders on the MSBU assessment method. Work shop #1: May 24, 2006, 12:00 Noon to 2:00 pm Navarre Beach Regency Meeting Room Work shop #2: May 24th, 2006, 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm Navarre Beach Regency Meeting Room For more information on the work session you may call Mr. Ravella at 512-236-9494 or e-mail him at pravella@coastaltechcorp.com.

Kenny Wilder		19-May-2006 20:17
Dredge B.E. Lindholm Expected at the Beach In the Morning I talked on the phone a few minutes ago with Santa Rosa County’s consultant Peter Ravella with Coastal Tech regarding the Navarre Beach Restoration Project. According to Ravella the Dredge B.E. Lindholm is not here yet, because it experienced some type of engine problem and had to dock in Panama City. The problem is supposed to be resolved today and the B.E. Lindholm should be ready to pump sand in the morning.

Pamela Fox		19-May-2006 15:42
Hello Kenny, I love your beach photos. I think Im asking about the same thing as Kimber. We are due to arrive Sunday..and on the cams it looks as though the water isnt all pretty like in the pics...It must stir up alot of dirt. I however am so glad they are putting more sand on the beaches. We are staying near Buena Vida...do you happen to know how the water and beaches are there?!Or do you know anywhere we can drive to get outta the way and enjoy the beaches? Thanks for all the updates. I have been watching this site for months.Thanks for all your help. Augusta, Ga

Guest		19-May-2006 15:02
Hey Kenny, I have been keeping up with your updates and am planning on being down next sat. Staying @ Beachhouse Villas 7665 Gulf Blvd. from reading and looking @ Mapquest looks like they are right there in front of us. would you PLEASE let me know??? I planned this family vacation months ago thinking that it would be past us..and we have little ones.....PLEASE if you can let me know....Thanks for all you do to keep us informed it takes a lot of time and I am thankful for your updates. New Market, Alabama Kimber

Kenny Wilder		19-May-2006 12:52
Today’s Navarre Beach Restoration Update I would estimate that the 2nd Pipe at the surf line is about a half mile or less west of Navarre Towers. However, the mono buoy that is already in place is directly in front due south of the Belle Mer and the Navarre Towers. The pipe runs under water about 4,000 feet at a sharp angle from the pipe on shore close to Arkansas Street along Gulf Blvd. to the mono buoy. The 2nd ship the Dredge B.E. Lindholm will dock up to the mono buoy that is already in place. As soon as the B.E. Lindholm arrives I will change the Robo Cam #1 to zoom in for close up viewing day and night and I may allow the image to be viewed longer. The Robo Cam has the ability to be viewed at night if enough light is present. Therefore, the B.E. Lindholm should be visible at night when she is pumping sand in front of the Belle Mer and Navarre Towers. All week long heavy equipment and a lot of big pipe have been brought to Pipe #2 at the Arkansas Street area. Stacks of big pipe on the beach at Pipe #2 are located just west of the pipe at the surf. This leads me to think that maybe the pumping of sand will go westward to meet the sand being pumped from Pipe #1. It is also possible that the sand pumped onto the beach from Pipe #2 may move eastward instead. We should know very soon what direction Weeks Marine has decided upon. I will certainly let everybody know as soon as Weeks Marine starts pumping sand at Pipe #2. As of 7:49 AM CST this morning the B.E. Lindholm has not arrived. The R.N. Weeks continues to pump sand 24/7 eastward past Missouri Street.

Guest		18-May-2006 19:39
We will be staying at Summerwinds August 5th - 12th. This will be our second visit to Navarre Beach. We were there the week Ivan came and had to evacuate. Have been back to Florida twice, but not to Navarre. It is still the most beautiful and peaceful place we have been to. Do you think the restoration will be complete by then?

Guest		18-May-2006 18:00
Kenny, About how far is the second pipe from Navarre Towers?

Joe Tarvin		18-May-2006 13:50
Kenny, I see the dozer has been moved to the second outlet pipe in preparation for the second dredge. If my numbers are right, it took 52 days to complete the first mile, which is 100 feet of beach per day for one dredge. so when the second dredge starts they should get 200 feet per day, If all goes well and we don't have any more work stops, they should get everything completed up to the park by July 20, and the park by August 5th. Any idea then they will start planting sea oats?

Dan		18-May-2006 01:31
Kenny, I have enjoyed your photos and updates and have come to depend on you to keep me abreast of what is happening on the beach. As an out of state Summerwind owner I appreciate all that you have done and continue to do. I look forward to meeting you some time this summer. You are a very talented photographer. THANKS

Kenny Wilder		17-May-2006 20:22
The Navarre Beach restoration is about 3.4 miles from the Navarre Beach State Park western boundary to the National Seashore. The total restoration does include the Navarre Beach State Park that adds about an additional 0.6 miles. This would make the total restoration come to about 4.0 miles.

Guest		17-May-2006 18:23
Kenny, I thought the project was 4 miles and included the State Park frontage.

Kenny Wilder		17-May-2006 16:29
Navarre Beach Restoration Update The 2nd ship the Dredge B.E. Lindholm is scheduled to leave Tampa today and is expected to be here tomorrow. Once the Dredge B.E. Lindholm arrives she will work simultaneously with the Dredge R.N. Weeks. The sand restoration project is continuing today and is moving eastward and has now reached Missouri Street along Gulf Blvd. This means that the first mile of the 3.4 miles of Navarre Beach has been completed. I have lots of new photos that I’ll be posting soon on my online restoration gallery of the Missouri Street area. A map of the current location of the beach restoration can be viewed at the link http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&q=7665+Gulf+Blvd.,+Navarre+Beach,+FL+32566&ll=30.38339,-86.841602&spn=0.105733,0.174408&om=1

Guest		17-May-2006 15:33
Kenny, are they still pumping sand?

Curdoglsu		17-May-2006 15:04
Kenny, any news or sightings of the second dredge? Also, when can you post some more pictures? I am getting spring fever and counting down the days to Navarre.

Guest		15-May-2006 22:58
Mike's cam is athttp://www.navarrebeachwebcam.com/nbwebcam.htm

Curt		15-May-2006 20:48
A previous post mentioned "Mike's cam"?? What's the link to Mike's cam? I’d like to see the black smoke billowing out of the dredge. However, I can’t make it out from cam1 or 2. Thanks again for all the news and pictures you provide.

Kenny Wilder		15-May-2006 19:34
The Dredge R.N. Weeks Is Pumping Again I was down at the restoration site this afternoon when the Dredge R.N. Weeks started pumping that beautiful white sand again onto the beach at exactly 1:36 PM. You can always tell when the Dredge is pumping sand. First, you will see the flexible pipe with the yellow buoy hoisted up to the bow of the Dredge. Secondly, you will see black smoke billowing out of the Dredge’s smokestack. Thirdly, you will see the plume of water and sand gushing onto the beach through its 36 inch diameter pipe. I will be posting yesterday and today’s photos on my beach restoration gallery site later today. I personally think that the quality of the sand is of extremly high quality compared to Penscaloa Beach. The sand appears to be very white and in a few months the sun will bleach the sun to greater whiteness.

Kenny Wilder		15-May-2006 14:37
There were several tugboats yesterday of various sizes extending the pipe more to the southeast directly in front of the Belle Mer. I suppose that this was done to be ready for the 2nd Dredge B.E. Lindholm when she leaves maintenance dry-docks on about May 17 and arrives at the beach on May 18. The moving of the 2nd pipe yesterday took about 5 hours and a floating flexible pipe was added at the end off shore. I will post photos of yesterday’s action to my beach restoration gallery today. The Dredge R.N. Weeks has been in a holding pattern since daylight this morning about a mile south of the Belle Mer. I do not know why the R.N. Weeks is not working. The Gulf is almost completely calm.

Guest		15-May-2006 12:55
Kenny, what happened to the second pipe on the beach? Based upon your cams and Mike's cam, it appears to have shifted or been pulled.

Kenny Wilder		13-May-2006 13:21
The Dredge R.N. Weeks Is Back! I’m in Birmingham this morning and I was wondering if the Dredge R.N. Weeks was back at the site pumping sand onto the beach. I went to my www.NavarreBeachPhotos.com website and clicked on Stationary Cam #2 and I could see the R.N. Weeks at the mono buoy bellowing out her smoke, which is usually an indication that she is pumping sand onto the beach. I’m up here to see my Mother today and for Mother’s Day tomorrow. Happy Mother’s Day to all you ladies!

Kenny Wilder		12-May-2006 18:03
As of 12:58 PM today the Dredge R.N. Weeks is back, but is in a holding pattern off the beach in front of the Belle Mer. The barges and tugboats have been at the Ohio Street and Gulf Blvd. area since about 7:00 AM this morning working around the mono buoy. I think the Weeks will be hooking up soon.

Guest		12-May-2006 14:56
Thanks for the update Kenny. Hopefully the barges are not there to pick up the pipe until October.

Kenny Wilder		12-May-2006 14:25
There has been no work at the site since Monday. I asked the County Consultant yesterday at the County Commissioner’s meeting in Milton did he know why work has not been resumed. He was very quick to say he knew nothing. Rumor has it that because of the turtle kill at Destin on Sunday where they are shut down until October, that there may have been a trade off with another US Corps of Engineers district. And that maybe the project will start back today. All I can say is that the government agencies are tight lipped. I’ll post an update when I hear something on my restoration photo gallery. In the past few minutes two barges have shown up at the mono buoy. However, the Dredge R.N. Weeks is no where in sight.

Kathi		12-May-2006 14:17
Kenny, My husband and I have property and a condo on Navarre Beach. I appreciate all the news and pictures you provide. We live in Colorado so you are a very important link to my beach! I am sorry for all the negative comments and mean spiritedness on the Navarre Beach forum lately. Please don't let a few people drive you away. Kathi

Jim Marshall		12-May-2006 03:30
Kenny: My name is Jim Marshall and I am one of your neighbors at Beach Colony. I appreciate all that you have done to keep us informed in words and pictures about the Navarre Beach Renourishment project. From the information that you have do you feel that the work will be continued? It has been very difficult to read the comments from some of the individuals who choose to express their views in the PNJ forum. Thanks for all that you have done.

Curt		11-May-2006 16:17
Kenny Thank you or the updates and pictures. My family stays in the Goldstone close to South Carolina St every June and we’re so excited to see that sections done! Keep up the good work and thanks again. Curt

Kenny Wilder		11-May-2006 01:52
The dredging was stopped yesterday, because a pipe was clogged with packed sand. I went down to the dredging site last night about 9:00 PM CST and talked the supervisor for Weeks Marine. While I was at the site the Dredge R.N. Weeks tried unsuccessfully to force water through its pump to clear up the clogging. The Weeks Supervisor said that they would next cut a 4 inch hole in the top of the pipe in hopes of clearing up the pipe. When I left the site Weeks was still working on this problem. I went down to the site this morning and I could not determine if the pipe was cleared of packed sand. The Dredge R.N. Weeks was scheduled to leave the area today for refueling. I expect to see the R.N. Weeks tomorrow resuming her dredging and pumping of sand onto the beach. According to my calculations the new sand that has been pumped onto the beach is 9/10 of a mile from the National Seashore to one to two blocks west of Missouri Street. I posted new photos yesterday on my website of the progress in the Missouri Street area.

Guest		10-May-2006 21:14
kenny, can you update on the renourishment? are they pumping with destin shut down? the bb's are too polluted with save the turtle nuts

Kenny Wilder		09-May-2006 22:29
Yes, I have some "new" photos. I'll post them very soon.

Guest		09-May-2006 20:56
Kenny, Do you have any new pictures?

Ben Fault		09-May-2006 19:11
Kenny, Thank you very much for your insight into this project. It took quite a bit of research on the internet, and I have spoken to a couple of people down there, trying to get an idea as to what the beach restoration is. With your pictures, and updates, it makes it quite easy for me to see what is going on. We like Navarre very much, as we are tired of the crowds in Destin. Hopefully I can talk my wife into going, ( I know the 3 kids are ready) as it looks like the impact even if right at Belle Mer would be minimal to our vacation. I say it's a go!!! Thanks again for your time, I know you are keeping many people informed, and I know they appreciate it too. Hopefully mother nature will be a bit more kind to your piece of paradise this year. Ben Fault Alpharetta, Ga.

Kenny Wilder		09-May-2006 18:41
Navarre Beach Restoration Update The sand dredging project was suspended last night for pipeline repairs caused by a clogged pipe from the mono buoy to the beach restoration site. In addition the Dredge R.N. Weeks is scheduled tomorrow for refueling. This means that sand dredging should resume tomorrow or Thursday. The 2nd Dredge ship the Dredge B.E. Lindholm has been under maintenance for several weeks. According to Santa Rosa County the Lindholm is on track to leave dry dock in Tampa on May 17th and begin dredge operations about May 18th. Once the two dredge ships are both working together the estimated dredging could be 20,000 cubic yards of sand per day or about 200 feet per 24 hours. The Destin beach restoration project had a kemps ridley turtle kill on Sunday morning at about 5:00 AM. It is my understanding that their project is shut down at this time, because this is their 2nd kemps ridley kill from dredging in the past few weeks. I do not know how this will affect the Navarre Beach Restoration Project. The US Corps of Engineers District that includes the west coast of Florida is allowed 4 kemps ridley kills for 2006. The kill at Destin on Sunday brings the total number of kills to 4. Hopefully, we will be allowed to continue to dredge sand at Navarre Beach.

Kenny Wilder		09-May-2006 13:51
The sand is 300 to 400 feet wide, because the County made a change order to add more sand. This was a good thing. The Project is moving a few hundred feet a day, however the Dredge R.N. Weeks has not operated since last night. I called the Project consultant about 30 minutes ago and he is checking into why the Project has stopped.

Guest		09-May-2006 03:57
Hey Mr. Wilder, I have enjoyed looking @ the restoration of the beach.....I was wondering if you may know how the beach looks in front of the New Beachhouse townhomes @ 7665 Gulf blvd. I have planned a vaction for our family and after looking @ the pictures I am afraid they will be right in front of us working . We are planning for the end May. C21 couldn't tell me anything about the progress and if they were close to the property or past it. If you could help me I would greatly appreciate it.....Huntsville, Alabama

Guest		08-May-2006 21:38
Kenny, We sure would like to see your new pictures.

Guest		08-May-2006 21:37
Kenny, About how far are they from Belle Mer? How far down the beach do they complete each day? About 100 feet or so?

Guest		07-May-2006 20:28
I was wondering why the new sand is 300 to 400 feet wide? Did they say why they are getting wider? I am intrested in that. Let me know if you know anything.

Kenny Wilder		06-May-2006 13:01
The Dredge R.N. Weeks is not visible in the Robo Cam #1, but you can see the Weeks in the upper left hand corner of the Stationary Cam #2. However, the Weeks is only visible when she brings a load of sand from about 4 ½ miles from the beach to the pumping platform about 2,000 feet off the beach. This going out and coming back to the beach 24/7 takes about 3 to four hours to complete a cycle. The new sand is moving nicely to the east. The new sand is about 300 to 400 feet wide and is not an elliptical illusion. What you see is what we are getting. I will be shooting photos this morning of the continued eastward movement of the beach restoration project and post them in this gallery later today.

Guest		05-May-2006 14:32
Kenny, It looks like they are building the beach furthur out as they move eastward. Is that an optical illusion?

Guest		05-May-2006 14:24
Kenny, We sure would kile to see those new photos. I don't see the ship in your web cam. Has it left?

Kenny Wilder		03-May-2006 02:22
The Beach Restoration began moving eastward today from about two blocks east of Ohio Street. Most of all the large pipes on top of the western 15 foot high dune have been removed. The pipes will be used for pumping sand eastward. I will post photos tomorrow showing all of this.

Guest		01-May-2006 14:27
Sometimes in life bad things happen and sometimes good things happen. When we go through life’s struggles it is amazing how often a single voice will rise to the occasion. When nothing but nothing was happening for months and months at Navarre Beach about the beach restoration, Kenny Wilder rose to the occasion with his beautifully detailed photos and his positive voice. We will all be greatly indebted to Kenny for years to come for his dedication and time in bringing his positive photos and web cam of the beach restoration into our homes and work places via our computers no matter where we happen to be. Kenny, thanks for being there for Navarre Beach when we desperately needed somebody like you.

Guest		01-May-2006 13:55
Sometimes in life bad things happen and sometimes good things happen. When we go through life’s struggles it is amazing how often a single voice will rise to the occasion. When nothing but nothing was happening for months and months at Navarre Beach about the beach restoration, Kenny Wilder rose to the occasion with his beautifully detailed photos and his positive voice. We will all be greatly indebted to Kenny for years to come for his dedication and time in bringing his positive photos and web cam of the beach restoration into our homes and work places via our computers no matter where we happen to be. Kenny, thanks for being there for Navarre Beach when we desperately needed somebody like you.

Kenny Wilder		01-May-2006 12:50
Bill, The “other” dredge that you are referring to is the Dredge B.E. Lindholm that left about 16 days ago for dry dock in Tampa for what I understand has to undergo major maintenance. The consultant for Santa Rosa County told me that he estimated that the maintenance time for the B.E. Lindholm could be about 30 to 40 days and could be more or less. I received an e-mail about two weeks ago from a friend that visited the shipyards where the B.E. Lindholm is in dry dock. He was told that the maintenance will take about 6 weeks. Once the Dredge B.E. Lindholm comes back to the beach she will join the Dredge R.N. Weeks that is currently at our beach. Because of stormy seas and extremely high winds of 40 miles per hour plus on Saturday and Sunday the Dredge R.N. Weeks has not been in the area. The seas are beginning to settle down a little this morning. Hopefully, the R.N. Weeks will be able to begin work again later today.

Guest		28-Apr-2006 21:09
Kenny: Any word on the other dredge. When it gets back we will kick into high gear. Bill Lovvorn

Tammy Wendlandt		27-Apr-2006 18:22
Hi Kenny. Thank you so much for the GREAT pictures. I am part owner of a townhouse in Sugar Beach but live in Minnesota. It is great to see the restoration finally take place and to be able to visualize how it actually is done... Almost like blowing snow up here in the winter! You are providing a wonderful service to numerous people and just wanted to give credit where credit is due. P.S. Your web cam is awesome. Tammy Wendlandt, Hutchinson, MN

Kenny Wilder		27-Apr-2006 17:07
Good News! The Navarre Beach Restoration today reached the last home on the western end of the beach. I imagine in a few days the restoration will go back to the big pipe at the Ohio Street area and start moving the beach restoration towards the east. I shot photos this morning of this happening and they are now posted on page 5 and page 6 of my photo gallery.

Kenny Wilder		27-Apr-2006 03:12
Ron, The Dredge R.N. Weeks was down over the weekend because of a pump that malfunctioned, but since then she has been working everyday around the clock even during stormy seas yesterday and today.

ron		27-Apr-2006 02:30
Kenny, I have been enjoying the new web cam thank you very much. I have a town home on gulf blvd and I can see it clearly with the new cam. I have not seen any action from the dredge ship in the last few days, has it stopped again.

Kenny Wilder		26-Apr-2006 17:19
There is really no way to know exactly when the beach restoration will reach the Emerald Surf or any other location. However, it is my guess that the beach restoration could reach the Emerald Surf sometime in June. This is not exact science. We have environmental factors to deal with, equipment failures, weather and other factors to deal with. All I know is that sometime within the next few months Navarre Beach will have a “NEW” and beautiful restored beach.

Freddie		26-Apr-2006 13:31
How about the beach restoration in front of Emerald Surf? Will it be there by June 24? I have never been to Navarre so I am not sure from the gallery where the Emerald surf is in relation to current beach restoration. My family and I are very excited to visit Navarre. We have visited relatives in Pensacola several times but have never been to Navarre beach.

Ursula Heilman		26-Apr-2006 09:35
Kenny, John and I want to thank you for being able to view our beautiful beach even when we are in Auburn. Thank you so so much, you can't imagine what this means for us to look at your webcam and see it all so close! We have a condo at Beach Colony and love Navarre Beach. Looking forward to seeing all the dredging at the new site. Your pictures are wonderful. Thanks again Ursula Heilman

Kenny Wilder		26-Apr-2006 00:29
I know that WEARTV Channel 3 reported a turtle kill at Navarre Beach last Friday night and the TV station reported it again this morning. Both reports were inaccurate. There has been no turtle kill at Navarre Beach in the past several weeks due to dredging. The work stoppage over the weekend of the Dredge R.N. Weeks was caused by a problem with a pump aboard the ship. This problem was corrected a few days ago.

R. Dils		25-Apr-2006 19:21
Hi Kenny, I'm enjoying the new "Robocam". It seems to be sweeping in a pattern. Is it being controlled by someone or is it a "programmed" scan pattern? Tell us more about it. Keep up the good work. DD

Guest		25-Apr-2006 17:37
Kenny: Just to let you know we are really enjoying your "New" web cam pictures. Your Wyoming friend met on the beautiful roof instalation day.

Kenny Wilder		25-Apr-2006 17:18
Freddie, I shot some photos of the Emerald Surf on April 21. Just click on this link to my Emerald Surf galleryhttp://www.pbase.com/kennywilder/emeraldsurf .The building has been completely remodeled and appears to be about 90% complete. For several months the workers have been working 7 days a week. You can also view the beach side of my webcam by clicking on the linkhttp://www.navarrebeachphotos.com .The Emerald Surf is the condo on my webcam that shows a lot of the roof.

Freddie		25-Apr-2006 14:17
I am planning to visit Navarre for the first time June 24 - July 1. I will be staying at the Emerald Surf. How far is the restoration from the Emerald Surf? Do you think that it will make it there by that time. What is the status of the rebuilding of the Emerald Surf complex.

Guest		25-Apr-2006 13:09
Over the weekend WEAR TV3 in Pensacola reported that the beach project was stopped because of another killed turtle. And the TV station reported again this morning about the turtle kill at Navarre Beach. Is the report true?

Susan Black		25-Apr-2006 13:01
Kenny everybody already knows that you make fabulous photos. What a lot of people may not know is that your photographic website of the beach restoration is really the only reliable and up to date information about the beach restoration. I’ve been reading the comments below where people have decided to vacation at Navarre Beach this summer because of your positive photos and webcam. My husband and our kids will be coming to Navarre Beach in June based upon your uplifting photos. The Navarre Beach Chamber of Commerce must really love you. Thanks for being our eyes and hears at the beach.

Bill Lovvorn		25-Apr-2006 11:53
Kennny; The new cam is great. What a great service you do for us. We check in every day to see what is going on. We hope to thank you personally in July. Bill and Pam Lovvorn

Brad Haber		25-Apr-2006 00:44
Kenny, Thank you for the update. We just left Navarre Beach this afternoon and the new beach did exceed my expectations. It was awesome! Hopefully we can get on a roll with a few consecutive weeks of pumping sand coming down your way. The island is also looking much better. I am also hopeful the real estate market will come back. Take care, Brad Haber Sunset Harbor in The Palms

Kenny Wilder		24-Apr-2006 21:52
Mary Jane, Weeks Marine has estimated that the beach restoration completion date to be about July 15. If that is the case the beach restoration may be to the east of the Belle Mer by the middle of June. There is no way to know for sure when all of this will happen. Even if the restoration was right out front of the Belle Mer you would still have access to the beach by walking around the project site. I say come on down to the most beautiful beach in the world during 2006, because Navarre Beach is back!

Mary Jane Ward		24-Apr-2006 20:55
I noticed that the restoration began again. How fast are they moving down the beach? We are planning a trip June 17 - 24 to Belle Mer and are wondering if it will be past there when we arrive. Any idea???? Thanks for keeping all of us who love Navarre informed!!

Kenny Wilder		24-Apr-2006 19:40
The Dredge R.N. Weeks was back in operation about 1:00 AM this morning and has been working as of this hour. All systems are GO!

Guest		24-Apr-2006 18:45
Dear Kenny, We were on Navarre Beach from 4/13 thru 4/21. The new beach is so wonderful to see . On Easter we noticed the workers had stopped and didn't know why. Even the next day there was no activity going on. We missed your emailed pictures and explanations of what was happening as we had no computer. You are doing a great job of keeping us all informed. Thank you from your informed public. Please let us know if there is something we can do to help you. A.Olech

Kenny Wilder		23-Apr-2006 14:06
My source talked with Weeks Marine this morning and asked why the Beach Restoration Project has been shut down since Friday night (three days ago). The shut down is not because of a turtle kill. It seems that the Dredge R.N. Weeks is having a problem with the pump used to pump sand into the pipe located right off the beach. Hopefully, the pump will be repaired soon.

John Thomlinson		22-Apr-2006 21:21
I heard that there was another turtle kill last night and that the beach renourishment project is shut down again. Is this true?

Kenny Wilder		22-Apr-2006 12:45
I posted “new” photos in this gallery yesterday. They are located on page 5 of this gallery. And I will be posting more “new” photos in about 20 minutes with more “new” photos within the hour. Please note that all “new” photos will always appear on the last page of all of my galleries. If you scroll down below the photo it will show the date that I shot the photo.

Guest		22-Apr-2006 04:39
Hey Kenny, when are you going to post those photos?

Bryan Hanneke		21-Apr-2006 21:29
If you have anyquestions about La Chateau send me an e-mail at HannekeBryan@aol.com. I am the owner's grandson.

Theresa		21-Apr-2006 17:54
Is the La Chateau habitable now? Amazing pictures as always.

Noel Prescott		21-Apr-2006 16:06
Kenny, I happened upon your website and fantastic photos and webcam. Looking at the webcam, my fears that we would have no beach to pitch a tent this summer seemed realized. Then I found the photo gallery with wonderful beach reclamation shots! Woo-hoo!! We are in Le Chateau for the second year, and were thrilled to see the shots of the house and wonderful new stretch of beach in front. We are Louisiana folk who practically live for our two weeks on Navarre Beach each summer, where we have gone for almost 30 years. Thanks for posting these photos. They lifted our spirits considerably. Sincerely Noel Prescott Baton Rouge, LA

Kenny Wilder		21-Apr-2006 15:32
I'll be posting more photos today that were shot in the past few days.

Guest		20-Apr-2006 15:36
Hey Kenny, when are you going to post those new photos?

Kenny Wilder		18-Apr-2006 16:29
At about 10:15 AM this morning the Dredge R.N. Weeks started pumping sand onto the beach. It was good to see Weeks Marine in action again after being down for the past three or four days. I believe I shot some good photos of the sand shooting out onto the beach. I'll post photos later.

Kenny Wilder		18-Apr-2006 14:56
There is a New Dredge Ship at Navarre Beach The Dredge B.E. Lindholm left Navarre Beach Saturday afternoon and headed to Tampa, FL for maintenance. The Dredge B.E. Lindholm is being replaced by the Dredge R.N. Weeks, which arrived at Navarre Beach yesterday morning. The Dredge R.N. Weeks has not been able to pump sand on the beach since its arrival yesterday, because of a connection gasket that has to be repaired or replaced. I was at the project site this morning and as of 9:30 AM the connection gasket may not have been corrected, because the Dredge R.N. Weeks has not started pumping sand onto the beach. I will post photos today of photos that I shot early this morning and photos throughout the day. It was my understanding that the two dredge ships were going to work simultaneously at the site once the R.N. Weeks arrived. This is what had been reported by the press and Santa Rosa County for months. It is my understanding that the B.E. Lindholm that is dry docked in Tampa will require extensive maintenance that could take from 30 to 35 days. However, my source yesterday said that he was not sure exactly how long the maintenance will take.

R Dils		18-Apr-2006 14:42
Hi Kenny, You take wonderful pictures. As a 7 year snowbird at Navarre Beach, I'm very interested in the beach restoration. Hope the hurricanes stay away in 2006. Keep taking those great pictures and providing comments here on how things are going. Could you possibly clean the lens on your webcam? Looks like some crud has gotten on it and its making the area where the dredge unloads look pretty fuzzy. Thanks - DD

larochelle		18-Apr-2006 12:24
Thanks for keeping us updated. I didn't see the boat for a few days and it was great to have a place to find out what is going on. Thank goodness they didn't kill another turtle. If I can do anything to help please let me know I live on the beach and love to help. thanks again great job keep it up larochelle

Bryan Hanneke		18-Apr-2006 03:20
I was wondering if you would be able to take some more aerial pictures soon. They provide the best shots of how big the beach really is!

Kenny Wilder		17-Apr-2006 23:05
We have a “new” dredge ship about 4 to 5 miles off the beach. My source says that it is the Dredge R.N. Weeks that we have all been expecting to arrive. My view through my spotting scope this morning indicated that this dredge ship is different in design. It is my understanding through my source that the Dredge R.N. Weeks’ pump out line gasket replacement has not gone well and is being further delayed due to rough seas. The Dredge R.N. Lindholm is headed to dry dock in Tampa and the R.N. Weeks is standing offshore to the east awaiting repair of the pump out line. The Dredge R.N. Weeks has cleared the US Army Corps of Engineers inspection and procedures testing. The two dredge ships are waiting on the seas to subside.

Kenny Wilder		17-Apr-2006 19:14
We have a “new” dredge ship about 4 to 5 miles off the beach. My source says that it is the Dredge R.N. Weeks that we have all been expecting to arrive. My view through my spotting scope this morning indicated that this dredge ship is different in design. It is my understanding through my source that the Dredge R.N. Weeks’ pump out line gasket replacement has not gone well and is being further delayed due to rough seas. The Dredge R.N. Lindholm is headed to dry dock, and the R.N. Weeks is standing offshore to the east awaiting repair of the pump out line. The Dredge R.N. Weeks has cleared the US Army Corps of Engineers inspection and procedures testing. The two dredge ships are waiting on the seas to subside.

Kenny Wilder		17-Apr-2006 15:32
Laurel Eiler St. Joseph Peninsula Beach Advisory Committee Laura, I sent you an e-mail today where I have granted certain conditions of the use of my “copyrighted” photos to be used on the website www.savethecape.com for the St. Joseph Peninsula Beach Restoration Project. If for some reason you did not receive my e-mail please let me know by sending me an e-mail to Kenny@NavarreBeachPhotos.com.

Kenny Wilder		17-Apr-2006 15:30
Joe, The height of the berm (sand dune) is supposed to be 14 feet high. After spending days at the site I am absolutely convinced that the height of the dune is at least 14 feet high. It is my understanding that Weeks Marine has made it about 15 feet high to be sure. And the height seems to be consistent along the beach.

Joe Tarvin		17-Apr-2006 15:21
Kenny, The new beach looks really wide, but it doesn't look very high. Are the dunes there? Maybe the height doesn't show up much in the photos. How high is the highest point above the water? I know it's supposed to eventually be 14 ft. high, but it may not be yet. Will you please comment on this? Joe Tarvin

Ron		16-Apr-2006 03:25
I would like to thank Bart Pullum of Pullum Realty for the spectacular aerial photography of Navarre Beach and of your photos too, Kenny. We the people of Laguna Beach Ca wish you the people of Navarre Beach the best of luck in your beach restoration project.

Kenny Wilder		15-Apr-2006 22:40
Navarre Beach Restoration Update I visited the beach restoration site this morning about 9:00 AM and noticed that the Dredge B.E. Lindholm was at the site, but that the flexible pipe was not hooked up to the bow of the ship in order to pump sand. I was at the site shooting photos and about two hours later I left for lunch. About 2:00 PM this afternoon I noticed that the Dredge B.E. Lindholm was no where in sight. About 4:00 PM this afternoon I called Peter Ravella with Coastal Tech, which is the beach restoration consultant for Santa Rosa County and also coordinates the project with Weeks Marine the contractor. I told Peter what had happened and he said he would contact Weeks Marine and call me back as soon as he had an answer as to why the project had stopped dredging sand at the beach. About 15 minutes later Peter called me and said that they blew a connection gasket on the pipe to the buoy that connects to the bow of the Dredge B.E. Lindholm. He said that the connection gasket should be repaired within a few hours. Peter said that a second ship the Dredge R.N. Weeks that left South Carolina last week is now docked at Pensacola Harbor. He said that once the ship is inspected by the US Army Corps of Engineers and the US Coast Guard early next week it should be joining the Dredge B.E. Lindholm where they are expected to work together for 3 or 4 days. Then the Dredge B.E. Lindholm will go to Tampa for long overdue maintenance. After the ship’s maintenance is completed it will join the Dredge R.N. Weeks where they will both work together until the project is finished. The expected completion date is about July 15. The project this morning is now a little less than two tenths of a mile from the western end of Navarre Beach. Hopefully, the western end will be completed within the next week. I’ll be posting a lot of photos tonight or tomorrow in my gallery of the photos I shot this morning. I can not express to you in words of how great the beach restoration is looking. So I’ll let my photos do the talking. Happy Easter!

Laurel Eiler		15-Apr-2006 18:09
Kenny: Just came back to check on your site. First of all, your beach is looking fabulous! Congratulations to you all. Secondly, I see you had planned to contact me. I never got your email so please resend! We are cheering you all on from the east. Please email me again or let me know where I can call you to discuss use of your photos. Happy Easter (which for you folks probably seems more like Christmas this year!)

Kenny Wilder		14-Apr-2006 16:29
George, Currently the main pipe is still along Gulf Blvd. between Ohio Street and just past South Carolina Street to the west. The western beach restoration is now less than a quarter of a mile from the end of the beach, which is adjacent to the Gulf Islands National Seashore. The project should never use more than two main pipes, because the project calls for no more than two dredge ships at one time. The second dredge ship is expected to arrive any day and it most likely will work at the main pipe at the Arkansas Street area that is about 1.1 miles from Cocodrie’s Restaurant. It is my understanding that both dredge ships will work together for a few days and that the current dredge ship will go to Tampa for long overdue maintenance that is supposed to take 30 to 35 days.

george H		12-Apr-2006 21:02
Kenny ,any idea how many places they will position the main pipe coming from the gulf?In other words will there be say maybe 6 places they will pour sand onto the beach?.Many thanks for the web cam also.

Kenny Wilder		12-Apr-2006 13:34
My source told me a few days ago that the Restoration Project according to Weeks Marine is expected to be completed about July 15 assuming that there is no bad weather, equipment problems or turtle incidents.

Guest		12-Apr-2006 13:08
A map is a great idea!

Kenny Wilder		12-Apr-2006 12:50
Project Close to the Western End of the Beach I will be shooting and posting more photos today of the progress of the Beach Restoration Project at the western end of Navarre Beach. As of today huge amounts of “new” sand has arrived at the So. Carolina Street area. The Project is now only about three to four blocks from the western end of the beach. I’m sure in a few days that the Project will move back eastward to the Ohio Street area and start its path of new sand to the east. It is my understanding that very soon a second dredge ship the Dredge R.N. Weeks is expected to arrive from a project in South Carolina by the end of the week. The Dredge R.N. Weeks most likely will operate at the large pipe that has already been installed at the Arkansas Street area. My sources say that the two dredges will work opposite of each other for about three days. The Dredge B.E. Lindholm must then go to dry dock for a U.S. Coast Guard inspection. If no major repairs are needed, the dredge will return to Navarre Beach one to two weeks later and remain with the Dredge R.N. Weeks through the completion of the project. All photos being posted in my gallery have captions under each photo that indicates what street area the photo was shot from in relation to the beach. I may post a map in the gallery showing the street areas of the project.

Guest		11-Apr-2006 22:23
Kenny, we sure would appreciate seeing some photos of the completed beach.

Guest		11-Apr-2006 14:00
Any new pictures? New info?

Kenny Wilder		07-Apr-2006 13:39
Joe, My information comes directly from the environmental consultant that works with both Santa Rosa County and Weeks Marine. I have talked on the phone twice this week with this consultant and we have exchanged e-mails with each other. I’ll try to answer your questions the best I can. First, Weeks Marine is pumping 24/7. Secondly, they are building the 14 feet high berm (dune) as they go. Thirdly, there has been no word on when the second pumping area will start at the Arkansas Street area. It is my understanding that sometime soon another dredge ship will arrive to relieve the present dredge ship so that it can go back to Tampa for extensive overdue maintenance. It is hoped that the dredge ship that goes to Tampa will then come back so that two dredge ships can operate at the same time. The originally proposed 150 feet to 200 feet of sand looks to me more like 250 feet to 300 feet. The berm (dune) is much further away from the dwellings than I expected and this is good. I believe that everybody is going to be extremely pleased with the Restoration Project. Navarre Beach is back!

Joe Tarvin		07-Apr-2006 00:59
enny, Please answer 3 questions. Are they pumping around the clock? Are they building the dunes as they go, or will they come back and do that? When do they expect to start pumping from the second dredge?

Guest		06-Apr-2006 21:55
Thanks Kenny for your photos. You have presented Navarre Beach in a positive way. Your photos have helped my family to decide that we want to vacation at Navarre Beach this summer. When are you going to post another sunset photo?

Brad Haber		06-Apr-2006 00:19
In your discussions with Weeks Marine, have they said when they build the 14 ft. dunes which are key to our protection?

Joe Tarvin		05-Apr-2006 14:39
Kenny, what are you hearing about a start time for the second dredge? Also, when will you be able to post more photos?

Gloria Patterson		05-Apr-2006 13:46
Kenny thanks for being the Man of the Hour, the Man of the Month and the Man of the Year at Navarre Beach. Without your graphic photos and web cam of the beach many of us would have no idea as to what is going on at Navarre Beach.

bl		05-Apr-2006 12:20
What a great shot this morning on your web cam. Look like its going to be a great day at Navarre Beach. We can't wait to get back.

Guest		05-Apr-2006 01:50
Thanks, Kenny for being our eyes and ears.Joe

Kenny Wilder		04-Apr-2006 23:13
The Dredge B.E. Lindholm Is Back The Dredge B.E. Lindholm is back and has hooked up to the docking platform at the Beach Restoration Ohio Street area and as of 5:15 PM was pumping sand. Wear TV Channel 3 was down at the site, but they were well away from being able to video the actual pumping, because there was a mountain of sand in front of their camera. I will be posting photos of all the action in about two hours on this gallery.

Kenny Wilder		04-Apr-2006 13:10
The Dredge B.E. Lindholm Has Moved The Dredge B.E. Lindholm about one hour ago (7:00 AM CT) started moving back out to sea. The Ship is now about thee miles off the beach from the old Holiday Inn area. This is the first time the Hopper Dredge has moved from its holding pattern at the western end of the beach since Friday morning after the killing of the 12” kemp’s riddley sea turtle. I’ll provide an update later.

Kenny Wilder		03-Apr-2006 16:08
Below is an e-mail this morning from Roger Blaylock the County Navarre Beach Engineer that the Restoration Project may start up again tomorrow, Tuesday, April 4. -----Original Message----- From: Roger Blaylock To: Board of County Commissioners ; Hunter Walker ; Tom Dannheisser CC: Terry Wallace Sent: Mon Apr 03 09:10:20 2006 Subject: Fw: FW: Weeks Marine, Inc. response to Risk Assessment Questions Here's the latest information on the project. The ACOE is working to complete their risk assessment and we hope to receive a Notice to Proceed by mid-morning tomorrow. I'll keep you posted,

Guest		03-Apr-2006 03:29
Hey Kenny, Did we at least get some stew from the turtle? Joe

Kenny Wilder		02-Apr-2006 17:42
It is my understanding that since Summerwinds has adequate beach sand it will be the last area completed of the Beach Restoration Project. My estimation is that the Project may not be completed until July or later in the Summerwinds area.

Morland		02-Apr-2006 16:05
Thanks for the quick response... Do you think they will continue the beach restoration any time soon? And if so do you think it will happen around the Summerwinds? Once again thanks for the great website!

Kenny Wilder		02-Apr-2006 12:16
I don’t think that you and your family will regret vacationing this spring or summer at Navarre Beach. It is still the most beautiful beach in the world. All the debris from previous storms has been removed from the beach. If you like driving in traffic in places like Atlanta and Chicago you may prefer Destin. However, if you and your family want to vacation at a relaxing, quite and peaceful beach then Navarre Beach is the place. Navarre Beach is still Florida’s best kept secret.

Morland		02-Apr-2006 06:27
Hi, I just stumbled across your website...It really helps to see how things are at Navarre beach. My family and I stayed at the Summerwinds two years ago and are wanting to return this summer around June 1st. We really enjoyed our stay but are wondering if it is ok to come back or is everything still pretty messy? Also would it be better to look at the Destin area? Any information would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.. Morland

Guest		01-Apr-2006 21:35
Kenny: It was a pleasure meeting you and your wife last week. As I mentioned while we were on the beach, we are indebted to you for providing an open line of visual communications with Navarre Beach. I look forward to my next visit.

Kenny Wilder		01-Apr-2006 20:28
Good News – Good News – Good News Weeks Marine at mid morning today installed a 2nd dredge pipe on the beach. The location is one block west of Arkansas Street, two blocks from the Tom Thumb, and about 4 blocks from the Belle Mer. Weeks Marine workers at the 2nd site said that the 2nd dredge ship is already off the coast a few miles waiting to start. If we get the one 12” turtle incident resolved with the US Corps of Engineers we should be able to have two dredge ships working at the same time. My prediction is that the sand dredging will start again on Monday morning. However, it is very important that you still send e-mails to Governor Bush and the Director of the US Corps of Engineers urging them to start up the Project again. I’ll be posting later today photos that I shot of today’s events. You can see all this new action by clicking on my “Live” Web Cam at the link below: http://www.navarrebeachphotos.com

Guest		01-Apr-2006 16:46
What a great job you are doing. My husband is an engineer for Weeks Marine on the B.E.Lindholm, the dredge that is working in your area, Thanks for the opportunity to see the dredge at work. Charlene

Kenny Wilder		01-Apr-2006 15:01
Send Your E-mail Today for the Beach Project The Navarre Beach Restoration Project was stopped yesterday, because a 12 inch turtle was killed in the sand dredging project according to Wear TV Channel 3. Stopping this Project now could cost property owners and others billions of dollars if this Project is not resumed immediately. I urge all lovers of Navarre Beach to send an e-mail TODAY to Lawrence Evans, Division Chief of the US Corps of Engineers and Jeb Bush the governor of Florida. Their e-mail addresses are as follows: US Corps of Engineers Jacksonville District Lawrence C. Evans, Division Chief Lawrence.C.Evans@saj02.usace.army.mil Gov. Jeb Bush jeb.bush@myflorida.com Your message may say something like the following: Governor Bush & Mr. Evans, The Navarre Beach Restoration Project was stopped yesterday, because a 12 inch turtle was killed during sand dredging. Stopping this Project now could cost property owners and others billions of dollars if this Project is not resumed immediately. June is the beginning of the hurricane season. The stoppage of the Project will be catastrophic to the Navarre Beach tourism industry. Can you help us complete the Navarre Beach Restoration Project?

John Racine		01-Apr-2006 10:30
Kenny, thanks so much for all your efforts in support of Navarre Beach and the restoration project. Love the pictures. My wife wants to know if there are a lot of shells on the beach. When Pensacola Beach was re-sanded she found tons of shells.

Joe		01-Apr-2006 05:50
The Army Corps of Engineers is still a part of the U.S. Army, and I know who the Commander in Chief is. It's time for Governor Bush to call President Bush.

Scott		01-Apr-2006 04:27
Pardon me for being politically incorrect....I love nature, wildlife, turtles, fish..even spotted owls...But it is beyond belief that the very future of Navarre Beach and billions of dollars of property would be put at risk for a turtle. What will determine "if and when dredging operations can resume?" Who will have the guts to stand tall and move this project forward? I fear no one in this county's government. Not unlike the debacle of Katrina in New Orleans, we are seeing the complete loss of common sense by a government entangled in meaningless buearacracy while its citizens stand on the sidelines in utter frustrated amazement. Its is pathetic and sad!

Kenny Wilder		01-Apr-2006 00:16
From: Roger Blaylock Sent: Friday, March 31, 2006 4:42 PM To: Don Chinery Subject: Navarre Beach Turtle Take Don: this needs to go out at your earliest convenience. Thanks, Roger The Navarre Beach dune restoration project has suspended dredging operations as required by their Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) permit due to a sea turtle take earlier today. The ACOE is in the process of conducting a risk assessment on dredging data being provided by Weeks Marine (the county's dredging contractor) and the ACOE will make a determination on if and when dredging operations can resume. Roger A. Blaylock, P.E. Santa Rosa County Engineer 6051 Old Bagdad Highway, Suite 300 Milton, Florida 32583 850 981-7100 850 983-2161 FAX 850 393-9766 CELL

Mitch		31-Mar-2006 21:01
Kenny, Thanks for the photo gallery and the web cam. I will visit the photo gallery regularly, especially until the crew gets down in the vacinity of the web cam. I've imbedded your web cam in my desktop wallpaper so that I can watch the progress down the beach... and of course, just enjoy "almost being at NB"!!

Kenny Wilder		31-Mar-2006 19:30
Joe, The contract with Weeks Marine, which is posted on my website www.NavarreBeachPhotos.com indicates that the additional sand will be 150 feet to 200 feet depending on where the beach location is. It is my understanding that Santa Rosa County recently approved the adding of more sand to the contract. I really don’t know what the exact amount of sand is for all areas of the beach. However, based upon what I have seen over the past five days I would estimate that the added sand is about 200 feet to 300 feet. And the berm seems to be higher than what I was expecting too. It appears that the sand that is being added to the beach is quite substantial.

Joe Tarvin		31-Mar-2006 17:36
Kenny, Are you able to estimate how many feet of beach they are getting per day?

Lloyd Colgate		31-Mar-2006 15:41
Thank you for your wonderful pictures. We still have not been able to return to our Emerald Surf Condo. You make waiting a lot easier. Pat and Lloyd Colgate

Kenny Wilder		31-Mar-2006 15:41
Laurel, I’ll be more than happy to help you and the St. Joseph Peninsula Beach Advisory. I’ll send you today an e-mail to the address that you provided and let you know what I am willing to do for your organization regarding my photos. The St. Joseph Peninsula is very dear to my heart. We have an Aunt that has lived in Port St. Joe for about 50 years. When our children were little we vacationed at the St. Joseph Peninsula State Park camp ground for three weeks every summer for about 10 years. Good luck in obtaining beach restoration for the Peninsula.

Guest		31-Mar-2006 02:34
Kenny, Thanks for all your hard work at keeping people informed and the great photos. Can't wait till June to see all the progress. I will be looking for the man with the Camera to thank him in person. Navarre lovers in Arkansas

BOB AND NANCY		30-Mar-2006 15:28
AT LONG LAST. THIS IS WONDERFUL. GREAT PICTURES. THANKS.

Frank Johnson		30-Mar-2006 15:27
Thanks for your revealing pictures. They are National Geographic quality. Thanks for providing us a view of the beach with your web cam. Thanks mostly for your being the person that almost single handily influenced Santa Rosa County to start the beach renourishment now instead of later. Thanks for being our eyes and voice when we can’t be at the beach.

Greg Gilchrist		30-Mar-2006 15:15
Thanks for all your work and effort to get the good news out. We're looking forward to getting back into our "New" Caribbean Resort Condo and the "New Beach". Greg & Linda Gilchrist

Rick		30-Mar-2006 04:56
Kenny, As soon as the restoration is done we get to start builidng our new house down near the National Seahore end of the Blvd. Thanks for the photos. YeeHah!!!

Rhonda		30-Mar-2006 03:56
It puts a smile on my face to see the rebuilding of such a beautiful beach. It's a little slice of heaven. We drive 12 hrs from Pocahontas, IL to see it when we can!

Guest		30-Mar-2006 01:08
It is great to see Navarre coming around. It is great to see the beaches coming back. Thank you for all the hard work put into this great community! Elizabeth Harbert Cornay

Phyllis Johnson		30-Mar-2006 00:22
I was in Navarre Beach visiting my daughter last November & again in February of this year-it's looking better all the time. I've been coming to Navarre Beach since 1987-Go team Navarre go!

Guest		29-Mar-2006 23:31
Thank you for providing this regular update for all to visit. The most recent aireal pictures, posted today, really underscore the size of the task that is being done. This much needed improvement will bode will for beloved Navarre Beach. Rhonda - Navarre Towers

Guest		29-Mar-2006 21:20
These pictures put a smile on my face

Guest		29-Mar-2006 21:12
Kenny, Greetings from Michigan from two "snowbirds" who spend January and February at the Pearl. I check the Pensacola News Journal Forum daily and your pictures to keep myself updated on the happenings of Navarre Beach. We love it there and thank God this project has finally gotten started. Thank you again for all your information.

Donna Cascio		29-Mar-2006 19:54
Pictures are great! Thanks for keeping us informed. I know a lot of time and effort goes into these pictures and we do appreciate it. Thanks again!

Donna Cascio		29-Mar-2006 19:54
Pictures are great! Thanks for keeping us informed. I know a lot of time and effort goes into these pictures and we do appreciate it. Thanks again!

carol franzman, viewpoint		29-Mar-2006 19:17
Thanks for keeping us informed while we can't be there to see it happening

Kent		29-Mar-2006 19:03
Greetings this is Captain Kent aboard the Dredge B.E. Lindholm , thanks very much for the aerial pictures, we usually only get to see the beach from the seaward side and the perspective looks a lot different to us. these are some great pictures. Hope your happy with the sand we are pumping to you.

Guest		29-Mar-2006 18:04
Thank you for providing this regular update for all to visit. The most recent aireal pictures, posted today, really underscore the size of the task that is being done. This much needed improvement will bode will for beloved Navarre Beach. Rhonda - Navarre Towers

Guest		29-Mar-2006 17:29
KENNY; THANKS SO MUCH FOR THE PICS, I LOVE BEING ABLE TO CHECK THE PROCESS WHILE AT WORK!

Kenny Wilder		29-Mar-2006 14:15
Many people have asked me about the quality and color of the sand that is being dredged in the Gulf 4 ½ miles off the beach. First, the color of the sand is unbelievably bright white. It may even be whiter than the sand that is currently on the beach. And once the sun bleaches it for several months we are going to have a beautiful sugar white beach again. Secondly, the texture quality of the sand is very high. I’m not seeing as much shell mixed with the sand that I have seen at Pensacola Beach’s restoration.

Ed Camp		29-Mar-2006 13:20
What a BEAUTIFUL sight!!! Kenny.. Thank you again for being our eyes on the most incredible beach on the Earth.

Brian Martin		29-Mar-2006 03:03
Thanx for the continued NB photos and webcam. It means alot to those of us owners that are yet not fortunate to live full time at the beach.

Guest		28-Mar-2006 23:45
Thank you so much for the great pictures and the information that they convey!

Joe Tarvin		28-Mar-2006 14:53
Kenny, My wife, children, and I started coming to Navarre Beach in the late 70's, and recently God has made it possible for us to purchase a condo in Navarre Towers. We are so thankful.Our dream is to retire and live there in 3-5 years. In the mean time we're up here in Arkansas wishing we were there. It's so good to be able to log on to your web site and view the web cam and photos in your gallery. It's a way to stay in touch and actually see the progress of the beach restoration. Thank you for doing this. Joe Tarvin

Kenny Wilder		28-Mar-2006 13:06
I really appreciate your nice comments, however I truly believe that my contribution to the Navarre Beach Restoration Project is very small compared to those who have been pushing for years for this Project to happen. And a lot of the credit should go to all the People that have in recent weeks called and e-mailed Santa Rosa County about their concerns of the ongoing delays. Anyway, I think it may be premature to start celebrating at this time. The Project according to Weeks Marine may take up to four months to complete, which may put the completion in the middle of hurricane season. The real celebration should not start until the last grain of sand is pumped onto the beach. I’m very thankful that Weeks Marine and Santa Rosa County started the Beach Restoration two days ago.

Guest		28-Mar-2006 05:06
Kenny thanks for the beautiful photos that you continue to post on your website. We plan to buy some of your photos in a few days. I live in Canada and own a condominium at Navarre Beach. Without your spearheading the movement to persuade Santa Rosa County to start the beach sand project now we most likely would not have seen the project start until May or June. Your devotion to our beach may result in millions of dollars not being lost to property damage. You are a true American!

Robert Garlington		27-Mar-2006 23:56
Thanks for the updates!!! Please keep me informed of progress. Sure is nice to see dredging process started!!!!!!!!!

Kate Wilkes		27-Mar-2006 16:48
Thanks so much Kenny. You are providing a valuable service to all of us who love Navarre Beach. Kate Wilkes, JMEVacations.

Bunnie		27-Mar-2006 15:48
Kenny, We can not tell you how much we appreciate your continued pictorial coverage of Navarre Beach. We live in Memphis, so do not get down to Belle Mer as much as we would like. Thank you!Joe and Bunnie

GC Smith		27-Mar-2006 14:26
Thank you so much. I know we all have been waiting for a long time for this day.

Guest		27-Mar-2006 04:38
Thanks for the up date. Please keep them coming. Gary Baker #305 The Pearl

Guest		27-Mar-2006 00:48
Thanks for the update,Kenny. I waited and watched all weeklong last week when we were down to see this so I'm excited to see it is finally happening! Anne Moulton 1602

Kenny Wilder		26-Mar-2006 23:49
FIRST SAND WILL START PUMPING AT MIDNIGHT TONIGHT. I talked to the supervisor of Weeks Marine at the Project site about 4:30 PM. He said the required turtle trawling that takes 72 hours will end tonight at 8:30 PM. At that time the large dredge ship that is about 1 mile off of the beach project area will move out to 4 ½ miles from the beach where the dredging of sand from the bottom will be sucked up into the dredge ship. This process takes about 4 hours. Then the dredge ship comes in close to shore and couples up with the big pipe that is connected to a floating platform. The platform stays in place with 4 anchors that weigh 10,000 lbs. each. So according to Weeks Marine the first pumping of sand onto the beach will happen about midnight tonight. Once the dredge ship is empty of sand it will take another 4 hours before she comes back with more sand.

Guest		26-Mar-2006 23:34
Kenny, The pictures are so much better than words of the project. Thank you for your efforts. We check in every day to see the changes. Can't wait to see the sand renewing the shore line.

Guest		26-Mar-2006 22:55
Kenny, thank you so much for your efforts to get these pictures out! Has the pumping started? All that machinary looks like it will make A LOT of noise!! Yikes....

Guest		26-Mar-2006 22:54
Kenny, thank you so much for your efforts to get these pictures out! Has the pumping started? All that machinary looks like it will make A LOT of noise!! Yikes....

Sandra		26-Mar-2006 22:44
Thanks for all your hard work (and expense) to keep us informed. We appreciate it!

Bill Lovvorn		26-Mar-2006 20:07
Kenny: can your beach cam catch the view of the project?

Martha		26-Mar-2006 19:06
Kenny, Thank you so much for these photos... We look forward to seeing the new sand!!

SJ Knott		26-Mar-2006 14:11
Thank you so much Kenny. This is so encouraging. We look forward to your updates. thanks again

Ed Camp		24-Mar-2006 12:46
Kenny: Thank you very much for keeping us updated with your pictures and efforts to get things "Pumping". I live in Baltimore but have a place in Summerwind. Hope to meet you this spring. Ed Camp

Guest		23-Mar-2006 16:01
Please.... let's be positive!!!

Guest		22-Mar-2006 13:50
Hope that overturned forklift (or what ever) isn't an omen of things to come.....

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