The Florida Department of Environment Protection has determined the barge that washed ashore off Singer Island in Aprildid cause minor damage to the nearshore reef.
However, DEP officials said they do not intend to pursue damages under the Coral Reef Protection Act because the identified impacts have been determined to be minor and do not require any restoration.
According to DEP's report, the Baymaster IV barge damaged 5.2 m2 of nearshore habitat, consisting primarily of scraped hardbottom substrate.
DEP says the responsible party ensured prompt removal of the vessel and conducted an independent impact assessment.
The Department participated in this joint assessment work.
View photos from the scene in April:
