Marine Max Fuel Dock

I want to remind everyone that there will be a meeting tonight at 6:30 at South Pasadena City Hall (7047 Sunset Drive South) regarding the proposed fueling facility.

The City does not have any regard for environmental conditions and has deemed the fueling facility safe because it is not installed in an aquatic land!

Everyone is encouraged to attend, sign in and leave a comment card. Please note that we need your voice as the City has already recommended approval: see below:

The waters here in Boca Ciega Bay are rich in wildlife that would be affected by any fuel spill.

Really, boats have other options for fuel, Gulfport, Tierra Verde, yard tanks on site, and fuel trucks, etc.

I have no beef with the existing Marine Max. The workers are nice, but sometimes let supplies they use get away from them. I have cleaned up many blue skid pads and empty cleaning bottles, etc. I paddle my kayak over to the marina every day. The manager of Marine Max (John) did come over and rescue me one day when my kayak sunk while I was in the marina.

I moved to my residence 25 years ago because I found it to be the only estuary around, the natural wetlands adjacent to the Bay.

Following are photographs taken in the area

As I reflect on the proposed fuel dock in our area, I am filled with a deep sense of concern regarding the negative impact this development could have on our environment and local wildlife. The fuel dock would be located such to degrade everything downstream from Marine Max. This has significant implications for our property. We are at risk of being adversely affected by more floating debris and fuel spills that could result from Marine Max's operations.The introduction of a fuel dock could lead to an alarming increase in pollution levels and cause considerable damage to our local ecosystem. As a result, delicate aquatic creatures could be adversely affected, and the recreational activities and wildlife that depend on a healthy environment could be negatively impacted.I am reaching out to you officials to express our concerns and urge them to prioritize the welfare of our natural environment above all else. Together, I trust that we can create a brighter and more sustainable future for everyone.

As a coastal area with prevailing winds going NE to SW, any spill in the vicinity would have a significant impact on both the local environment and environmentally sensitive areas such as the oyster bar. Even small spills can cause long-term damage to the marine ecosystem and hurt the wildlife who rely on it. The movement of pollutants could impact water quality and aquatic life. In addition to the direct economic costs, spills could have long-lasting implications for the reputation and sustainability of the oyster bar and the surrounding area. Therefore, it is necessary to take proactive measures to prevent spills and to respond quickly and effectively in the event of any incidents to mitigate the potential damage.

Recently, a juvenile bald eagle was spotted at the oyster bar. This was a unique sighting, as bald eagles are not often seen in this type of environment. The young bird was likely on the hunt for food, as bald eagles are known to consume a variety of prey, including fish and shellfish. I was excited to see this majestic bird up close, as bald eagles are a symbol of strength and freedom in many cultures. Overall, this sighting demonstrates the amazing adaptability and resourcefulness of bald eagles, which are known to thrive in a variety of environments across North America. It also reminds us of the importance of preserving and protecting the habitats of these remarkable birds, which are considered one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring species in the world.

An Anhinga swoops down into the still waters of the marina. His sharp beak pierces the surface, and he deftly catches a small fish in his beak. With fish in his beak, the Anhinga emerges from the water and takes flight to a nearby perch. He bobs his head back and forth before tossing the fish into the air and swallowing it whole. As he rests on his perch, he stretches his wings out to dry in the morning sun. The Anhinga will continue to hunt and fish throughout the day, taking advantage of the peaceful waters of the marina as his personal hunting ground. Any fuel spill would adversely affect him!

This photo depicts the bow of my kayak that shows the result of some spills that have accumulated over time. I am concerned that with the installation of a new fuel dock, things may worsen. While these recent spills may not pose a significant problem, if they continue to pile up, they could become a concern. It is important to address even minor spills immediately to prevent them from getting worse. A good approach would be to clean the area regularly and to make sure the area is secure. Additionally, it may be helpful to develop better practices such as using a drip tray or changing fuel containers with more care. By being proactive, the owner can avoid the need for expensive mitigation in the future.

White Pelicans, known for their striking white plumage and impressive wingspan of up to nine feet, are known to travel long distances during migration. At times, these birds make pit stops in various locations along the way, and one such location is this bay. Here, they find a temporary sanctuary to rest and rejuvenate before continuing their journey. White Pelicans are social creatures and enjoy living in large flocks, which is why the bay is an ideal location for them to take refuge, as the wide expanse of water offers ample space to accommodate them. These birds are also skilled fishers and can often be seen diving their heads into the water to catch their next meal. Overall, the presence of white pelicans in the bay adds to the beauty and diversity of this ecosystem.

Located south of the marina and adjacent bay is a phenomenal oyster bar where bird visitors can indulge in delicious seafood. Recently, an ibis was spotted enjoying a meal at this bar, adding to the charm and natural beauty of the location. Whether one is an animal enthusiast or simply seeking a location to stop and fish, the area is definitely worth a visit. With its proximity to the coastline and reputation for excellent oysters and a great fishing location, the oyster bar is a great destination for anyone looking to explore the area's offerings. Don't miss the chance to visit this remarkable spot and perhaps catch a glimpse of the local wildlife in action.

A pair of Oyster Catchers and their friend waddled around the oyster bar with beaks clicking in excitement. The trio had been using the oyster bar for a reliable source of food for themselves and their young. They knew that the oyster bar was known for its delicious and succulent oysters that were perfect for their growing hatchlings. As they feasted on the juicy oysters, they chatted away to each other, glad that they had found a place that suited their needs perfectly. As they left, the Oyster Catchers couldn't help but feel grateful for the plentiful food supply that the oyster bar had provided for them and their adorable young.

The Anhinga, also known as the "water turkey," is a unique bird species commonly found near and in water bodies. They exhibit a peculiar habit of spreading their wings to dry them after diving in water to catch fish. The dense feathered wings of Anhingas are perfectly adapted to their diving lifestyle, but they are susceptible to damage caused by oil spills. Oil spills can contaminate the birds' feathers, destroy their insulating properties, and alter their buoyancy. Consequently, oil-soaked Anhingas may experience hypothermia, and are unable to fly, hunt, and care for their young. The consequences of an oil spill can be catastrophic to this species and many others that depend on clean water for survival. Proper safety measures and practices are necessary to prevent oil spills in water bodies and protect the delicate balance of the ecosystem. A new fuel dock may be the death nell of many of these birds if a spill occurs.

This stunning picture captures the essence of nature's charm in the most unexpected of places - the Marine Max marina. The focal point of the photograph is a brilliant Little Green perched on a hose, effortlessly fishing from atop. The crisp and vivid colors of the bird are juxtaposed against the background of a boat in the marina, creating a beautiful contrast between the wild and the man-made. The intricate details of the bird's feathers, beak, and claws are captured meticulously in this photograph, making it a work of art. The photograph also highlights the importance of coexisting with nature and finding beauty in the midst of the mundane. Overall, this photo encapsulates the joy and wonder of nature in its purest form. Lets not ruin it.

The Cormorant with the hook at the end of his beak is well adapted for swimming and fishing underwater. With its sleek body and strong webbed feet, the bird can swim quickly and efficiently, and its sharp, curved beak is perfectly suited for catching fish. Unfortunately, Cormorants and other aquatic birds are vulnerable to oil spills, which can disrupt the delicate balance of their environment and damage their feathers, making it hard for them to swim and hunt. When oil gets into the water, it can also contaminate the fish that Cormorants rely on, causing further harm to these important birds. As a result, it's important for humans to protect aquatic environments and prevent oil spills from occurring whenever possible, in order to help preserve the habitat of the Cormorant and other aquatic creatures.

When looking at this breathtaking photo of a dolphin swimming and fishing near the Marine Max entrance, we can't help but imagine the devastating consequences of an oil spill in this area. Potentially, an oil spill could be catastrophic for the marine life that calls these waters home and the delicate ecosystem that supports them. The dolphin in the photo may be particularly vulnerable to an oil spill, as exposure to oil contamination could result in severe health issues or even death. As an apex predator, this dolphin is integral to maintaining balance in the local food chain, and any disruptions could have far-reaching implications throughout the entire ecosystem. It is of paramount importance that steps are taken to prevent such disasters from occurring, and that there are effective response plans in place should a worst-case scenario unfold. In light of this, it begs the question: does Marine Max have floating barriers in place, and a plan to dispatch them at a moment's notice if needed? This should be manditory with periodic inspections by the City, is the City ready for that resposibility?

The osprey is an apex predator that feeds almost exclusively on fish. This bird of prey relies heavily on clean waterways to thrive, making it highly vulnerable to any kind of fuel spill. The toxic chemicals from spilled oil can contaminate the water, killing off fish populations and reducing the availability of food for ospreys. Ingesting contaminated fish can also cause health problems for these birds, leading to illness or death. Moreover, the presence of oil on their feathers can affect the osprey's flight and hunting abilities, making it difficult for them to catch fish and survive. The osprey, like many other wildlife species, is integral to the balance of the ecosystem and any disruption caused by a fuel spill could have a significant impact on the environment and other species.

The Laughing Gull, also known as Leucophaeus atricilla, is a common species of gulls found in the marina and its surroundings. These birds are scavengers and opportunistic feeders, and they pick up anything in the water that looks edible. This makes them vulnerable to the harmful effects of fuel spills in the water. Fuel spills can contaminate the water and endanger marine life, including gulls that depend on it for food. The toxic chemicals found in fuels can harm or even kill the Laughing Gull. Therefore, it is important to ensure that fuels are handled and managed properly to avoid any accidents that could lead to spills.

Fiddler crabs are small, shore-dwelling crustaceans that make up an important part of the coastal ecosystem. They are vulnerable to oil spills since they live in intertidal areas where oil floats on the surface of the water. Oil spills can have significant impacts on fiddler crabs by coating them with oil, making it difficult to breathe, move, and find food. The toxic chemicals in oil can also impact the development and reproductive success of the crabs, leading to long-term population declines. In addition to direct impacts, oil spills can also harm the habitats and food sources that fiddler crabs rely on, including mangroves, marshes, and plankton. Therefore, it is essential to prevent oil spills from happening and respond quickly in the event of a spill to minimize the impacts on fiddler crab populations and the health of the coastal ecosystem.

The seawall located across the marina has prominent lines that have been formed due to previous oil stains. These stains have permanently marked the wall, leaving behind traces of their occurrence. The lines are prominent and are visible to the naked eye. The severity of the oil spills is clear from the intensity of the lines, reminding visitors of the adverse effects of such spills on the environment. It serves as a visual reminder of the importance of environmental conservation and the need to remain vigilant when it comes to preventing oil spills. Overall, it is a reminder of the fragility of the ecosystem and the need for environmental responsibility. A fuel dock would only make it worse.

The presence of fuel in the water could have a catastrophic impact on the several flocks of ducks that reside in the area. These birds rely on clean water to survive and thrive, and the addition of oil or other fuels could wreak havoc on their habitats and food sources. The toxic chemicals in the fuel could damage the feathers of the ducks, impairing their ability to fly and stay warm. The fumes from the fuel could also cause respiratory problems for the birds, making it difficult for them to breathe and eventually leading to death. In addition to the environmental toll, the loss of these flocks of ducks could also have economic and cultural impacts. The advertisements for Dawn showing the cleanup of ducks is very real.

A duck with caked feathers and a smeared food source would look unhealthy and unkempt. Feathers are an essential part of a duck's body as it helps them swim, fly, stay warm, and protect against water and wind. If the feathers are caked, it could cause a lack of waterproofing and thermal insulation, leading to hypothermia and other health issues. Similarly, a smeared food source could attract harmful bacteria and parasites, leading to diseases and infections. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that ducks and other animals receive proper protection and care to maintain their health and well-being.

The Snowy Heron is a majestic bird that can be found wading in shallow water and hunting for fish along coastlines and wetlands. Their pure white feathers and delicate features make them a sight to behold. However, with an oil spill, this beauty can turn into a nightmare. Oil spills pose a significant threat to coastal environments and the wildlife that depend on them. The thick and toxic oil coats the bird's feathers, making it impossible for them to fly, swim, or hunt, ultimately leading to dehydration, starvation, and death. It's essential to protect our coastal habitats, so incidents like oil spills don't occur. By doing so, we can ensure that our Snowy Herons, along with other coastal wildlife, remain thriving and continue to enchant us with their natural beauty.

The great Blue Heron is a magnificent bird that has adapted itself to live in the estuary adjacent to the marina - the area where freshwater Bear Creek meets the salty seas. They are known to feed on fish, crustaceans, amphibians, and insects. However, their habitat is highly vulnerable to oil spills. The impact of an oil spill could be disastrous for the herons as it could contaminate their food sources and impair their ability to hunt. The oil can also stick to their feathers, causing them to lose their insulating properties and making it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. Moreover, the ingestion of oil can cause severe health problems and may even lead to death. Therefore, it is crucial to take all necessary measures to prevent oil spills and minimize their impacts on our precious estuaries and the wildlife that calls them home, like the great Blue Heron.

The Yellow Crown Night heron is a beautiful species that can be found wading in the waters surrounding Marine Max. These majestic birds rely heavily on their environment to survive, with clean water being an essential factor in their survival. Unfortunately, many water bodies around the world have been heavily polluted due to human activities, which has posed a great threat to the Yellow Crown Night heron and other aquatic birds. The pollution of waterways can lead to a range of problems, including the death of species, the spread of diseases and the destruction of habitats. It is therefore important for us to take measures that will help protect the environment and ensure that the water is clean and safe for the Yellow Crown Night heron to live in.

The Little Blue is a small, beautifully colored bird that is popular among birders. However, as an adult Little Blue that fishes from the shore, any oil spill would be detrimental to its survival. Oil spills can have devastating effects on marine life, including birds, fish and their habitats. The toxic chemicals in oil spills can contaminate the water, making it impossible for birds to thrive. Ingesting these pollutants can lead to internal injuries and even death, while the destruction of their habitats can result in a loss of food sources and shelter. As a result, it is imperative to prevent oil spills from occurring and prepare for their mitigation in case of an accident to save the Little Blue and other marine life from harm.

The juvenile Little Blue heron is an interesting sight to see. This bird is easily distinguishable from adult Little Blue herons by its predominantly white feathers with grayish tips. Juvenile Little Blues have not yet developed the full blue-grey plumage that adult birds have. This young bird spends most of its time immersed in water, searching for crabs, mollusks, fish, and other aquatic creatures. Juvenile Little Blues can be found in a wide variety of habitats, including marshes, swamps, wetlands, shallow ponds, and even estuaries. They use their long pointed beaks to catch prey, and when they find something to eat, they often stab it with their beak before swallowing it whole. These birds are fascinating to observe, particularly when they are still learning to survive in the wild.

The Brown and White Pelicans are two bird species that are commonly seen fishing in the waters located south of the marina. These birds primarily depend on the cleanliness of their habitat for their survival. Unfortunately, if oil is present in the water, it can severely harm these birds' health and threaten their lives. Oil causes damage to bird's feathers, making it difficult for the birds to fly and swim. Moreover, if the birds accidentally consume oil-contaminated fish, they can become ill or die. Therefore, it is essential to keep these waters free of oil to preserve the natural habitat for these birds, maintain the food chain balance of the ecosystem, and protect the environment.

As the juvenile Caspian Tern flew along the shoreline, its keen eyes caught sight of an oyster bar below, glistening in the sun. Diving down towards the inviting water, it extended its wings to slow down, before landing gracefully on the oyster bar's edge. Looking around, the tern spotted a large oyster, and with its sharp beak swiftly pried open the shell to extract the flesh, enjoying the salty taste. Suddenly, the air filled with the loud calls of other Caspian Terns, and the juvenile instinctively knew it was time to move on. Taking off from the oyster bar, it soared into the sky, raring to explore new territories on its migratory path. The oyster bar, once still and silent, now teemed with life, as other seabirds arrived to sample the bounty it had to offer.

2 replies on “Marine Max Fuel Dock”

Thank you ,John, for making the effort to stop this project and to help your patrons become aware of the situation. Do you have information that could help others address this issue as well. We all care and you are right about the potential problems…it goes without saying. This is already a fragile spot if you ask me.

Email me any time with your concerns, I will pass them on to the City.

2 replies on “Marine Max Fuel Dock”

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