Carol Soustek, treasurer for Save Anna Maria Inc., attended the Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification Committee meeting March 2 to extend her organization’s support for restoration work at Grassy Point Preserve.
SAM is a grassroots organization dedicated to maintaining a balance between development and preservation on the Island.
Soustek said SAM has always been interested in the restoration plans for Grassy Point Preserve, but noted the city’s efforts to follow-through have so far been stalled by lack of funding.
“Our members want to see something jump-started,” said Soustek. “We were happy to read in the paper that you’re actively pursuing this project, and we want to back you anyway we can.”
Soustek said SAM has old maps, the original land study and plans for making the area a passive park. She said members also are willing to volunteer for cleanup work.
However, Soustek told the committee that SAM is interested in bringing more to the table than just support.
“We’re thinking about pursuing the Manatee County Commission to succeed the water rights to Grassy Point,” said Soustek.
According to Soustek, when SAM member Billie Martini was a Holmes Beach commissioner in the late 1990s there was interest, led by then-Mayor Robert VanWagoner, to obtain riparian water rights to the area, but nothing resulted.
“It’s essential to get the water rights to protect the baby nursery,” said Soustek. “The mangrove roots provide a safety net for your fishery. Grassy Point is not just land and marsh; it’s a whole habitat. Riparian rights offer the ability to patrol and protect the delicate habitat.”
Beautification committee member Ruth deHaan said the additional focus on preserving the fishery linked to Grassy Point might broaden the scope of the grant opportunities the committee is currently exploring.
“We wanted to hang it out there for your consideration,” said Soustek. “It’s a beautiful, pristine area and we think this is a plus-plus.”
In the meantime, the beautification committee has submitted an application to the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program for a Bay Partners Grant.
If awarded funds, the beautification committee said it would clear invasive plants from the area, plant native plants and install educational signs.
The beautification committee also is interested in seeking funding from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission coastal partners program.
The beautification committee will next meet at 5 p.m. Wednesday, April 6, in the city hall conference room, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.
