Blind Pass Ecozone Restoration & Sand Bypassing
Photo Provided by: Hans Wilson and Associates Last Updated 6/18/08

Project Description

The restoration consist of maintenance dredging Blind Pass, Wulfert Channel and portions of Roosevelt Channel. Approximately 127,000 cubic yards (cyds) of material will be removed from the pass and interior waters.

Approximately 127,000 cubic yards (cy) of material from Blind Pass and interior waters, to restore a flushing connection to the Gulf of Mexico).  The goals and objectives of the project are as follows:

•          Provide a stable pass opening with a 5 Year maintenance schedule
•           Increase water circulation in Clam & Dinkins Bayou (4 Day Flushing Cycle in Clam Bayou)
•           Improve habitat for Mangroves, Seagrasses, Shorebirds, Benthic Invertebrates,  and Fisheries.
•          Enhance recreational opportunities in the Pass and along the adjacent beach on Sanibel Island.
•          Supplement storm protection along Sanibel Island and Bowmans Beach.
•          Continue a long term management program to maintain Blind Pass and the surrounding ecosystem.

The channel alignment will extend from the -10 NAVD contour in the Gulf of Mexico at a maximum width of 330 feet and narrow to 160 feet as it enters into the interior waters. The dimensions reduce further as the alignment traverses into Wulfert Channel. The dimensions of the channel on the interior of the pass maintain an approximate 100 foot width and 8 foot depth.

As an integral part of the restoration, the City of Sanibel intends to install a connection between Dinkins Bayou and Clam Bayou under San-Cap Road. This connection will alleviate inundated mangrove habitats within Clam Bayou.

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