Originally published August 28 2005
U.S. coastlines overpopulated by homes and businesses
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
An increase in the residential and commercial buildings along side the coast line has replaced many marinas, which is having a negative impact on some Florida economies.
Along the nation's coastlines, marinas are being replaced by high-priced residential and commercial developments, a trend that leaves increasing numbers of boat owners high and dry, unable to access marine waters.
But a University of Florida researcher says communities can help keep boaters -- and local economies -- afloat by planning for and operating public ramps, docks and waterways more efficiently.
"Access to marine waters is a finite resource, because there's only so much coastline," said Robert Swett, an assistant professor with UF's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.
Nearly 1 million boats are registered in Florida, and visitors bring another 400,000 vessels to the state each year, said Swett, who is also a specialist with Florida Sea Grant, a state and federal partnership dedicated to creating a sustainable coastal economy and environment.
From 1980 to 2000, recreational boat registrations in Florida increased 82 percent, while the population increased 64 percent.
In Florida and other coastal states, developers pay top dollar for oceanfront property to build so-called dockominiums, luxury condominiums with private docking facilities, he said.
Displaced customers may have three options -- seek affordable facilities in the same community, go boating in other communities or stay home, he said.
Before we commit public funds to maintain or upgrade infrastructure we need to be sure the project will accomplish what we want."
"Both small and large marinas are giving way to residential development as waterfront property values have soared and it makes better financial sense to sell out to a developer than to struggle to maintain a marina business," he said.
"Without access points like marinas and boat ramps, America won't be able to get out on the water to recreate."
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