Benthic surveys help identify sensitive marine habitats—such as seagrass, coral, and sponge communities—that may be affected by construction.
At Glen Boe & Associates, we perform FKNMS-compliant benthic surveys to support marine permitting in the Florida Keys. Our team documents whether submerged resources are present within your proposed project area. This allows regulatory agencies to evaluate environmental impacts early in the process. As a result, your project moves forward with fewer surprises or delays.
If you are building a dock, repairing a seawall, or installing mooring piles, a benthic survey can make a major difference. These surveys often save time, reduce permitting obstacles, and help ensure full compliance with agency rules. In fact, the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (FKNMS), Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers frequently require them before issuing permits.
What’s Included in a Benthic Survey?
Our benthic surveys follow strict FKNMS protocols and include:
- Visual identification of seagrasses, sponges, and coral
- Underwater photography and GPS mapping
- Permit-ready documentation
- Expert guidance on potential ecological impacts
Each survey is tailored to your specific project and location. We focus on clear reporting, actionable insights, and environmental compliance.
What Happens During a Benthic Survey
Step 1 — Site Assessment
Before entering the water, our biologist reviews the project area, water depth, and proximity to known sensitive resources. This determines the survey boundaries and methodology required by the permitting agencies.
Step 2 — In-Water Survey
Our FKNMS-authorized biologist surveys the seafloor within and around the proposed project area, documenting seagrass species and density, coral presence, sponge communities, and any other resources that could be affected by construction. All survey activities comply with Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary permit requirements — including restrictions on placing equipment on the seafloor without authorization.
Step 3 — Survey Report
We prepare a written survey report documenting the findings, including photographs, species identification, and density estimates where required. This report is formatted to meet the specific requirements of ACOE, FDEP, and FKNMS — so it goes directly into your permit application without revision requests from the agencies.
Step 4 — Integration With Your Permit Application
Because Glen Boe & Associates handles both the benthic survey and the permit application, the survey data feeds directly into your submission. There is no handoff between a separate survey firm and your permit agent — which eliminates one of the most common sources of delay in the Florida Keys permitting process.
How Long Is a Benthic Survey Valid?
Benthic surveys are typically valid for approximately one year from the date of the survey. If your project experiences significant delays, agencies may require an updated survey before continuing their review. Glen Boe & Associates tracks your project timeline to flag this before it becomes a problem.
When Is a Benthic Survey Required?
Many dock, seawall, boat lift, and dredging permit applications in Monroe County require a benthic survey. The specific requirement depends on project type, location, and the agencies involved. At your free site consultation, we will tell you upfront whether a survey will be required for your project and what it will involve.
Need a benthic survey in the Florida Keys?
We’re here to help. Our team offers on-site assessments, fast turnaround, and full permitting support.
👉 Contact Glen Boe & Associates today to schedule a visit or learn more about our marine permitting services.