On June 17, 2024, BOEM joined the groundbreaking ceremony for the Flagler County, Florida Coastal Storm Risk Management (CSRM) Project.
This project aims to protect and enhance a portion of Florida’s cherished but critically eroded beaches. Coastal resilience efforts, like these, strengthen the ability of individuals, communities, and infrastructure to "bounce back" after hazardous weather events.
At the event, BOEM joined officials of Flagler County, the State of Florida, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Jacksonville District to mark a significant milestone in these efforts. Dr. Megan Carr, Chief of BOEM’s Office of Strategic Resources, praised the many integrated partnerships and collaborative efforts required to support coastal resilience.
“We value our partnership with Flagler County and the Corps of Engineers Jacksonville District, as well as the open communication and consistent engagement that our teams have had as the project has evolved over the years,” Carr shared at the event. “BOEM will remain engaged throughout dredging operations, providing resource stewardship guidance and environmental oversight as the project progresses.”
Earlier this year, BOEM signed an agreement with USACE and Flagler County authorizing use of Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) sand resources for the project's initial construction. USACE committed to maintaining the project through its 50-year authorization process and may enter into future agreements with BOEM if subsequent renourishments require OCS sand.
This coastal resilience project exemplifies ongoing collaboration between BOEM, counties, local communities, and the USACE to reduce storm damage and preserve cherished recreational beaches. By working together, we ensure the continued prosperity of our coastal communities and their tourism-driven economies.
Why are Marine Minerals Important?
Marine mineral resources, such as the sand provided for this project, are in critical supply along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. As the sole steward of the marine minerals found in federal waters, BOEM must know the location, and quantity, and character of sand resources available for coastal protection and restoration projects. The Bureau invests millions annually in state-of-the-art mineral resource identification and complementary environmental research to support these crucial projects that preserve America’s beautiful beaches.
To learn more about BOEM’s role in beach replenishment projects, check out the Marine Minerals page on our website or check the 5 facts to know about the Minerals Program article.
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The Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) manages development of U.S. Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) energy, mineral, and geological resources in an environmentally and economically responsible way.