Natural Resources Management

Seth Helms is the Natural Resources Supervisor. He manages a team of 8 technicians and seasonal employees within the Natural Resources Division of Public Works.

Mission

The Natural Resources department is responsible for managing the city's natural resources. This includes monitoring the Tree Protection Ordinance, reporting on water quality, and maintaining the public stormwater system, streets, sidewalks, rights-of-way, and the waste transfer station. The department also implements best management practices for stormwater and reports to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) as part of the city's National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit. Additionally, the team operates according to the city’s Emergency Operations Plan for natural disaster preparedness and response.

Click the link below to learn more about stormwater best practices and what you can do to help prevent stormwater pollution!

Stormwater Management and NPDES

Tree Removal Permit: Free to Get and Costly to Skip!

Before removing a tree or clearing land, it is highly recommended that you read the city's tree brochure to avoid costly mistakes. The city's ordinance protects nearly all trees with a caliper of 12 inches or greater, except in certain cases. There is no fee for obtaining a permit or having your request reviewed; however, the cost of removing a tree without a permit can be significant. Click the links below to learn more!

Tree Protection Brochure - Know Before You Cut

Tree Removal Application Page

Vertical Oyster Gardens

On December 2, 2024, Charlie Hewette of Boy Scout Troop 417 presented his Eagle Scout Vertical Oyster Gardens Project to the Gulf Breeze City Council. The initiative is sponsored by the Natural Resources Division of the Public Works Department.

During his presentation, Charlie explained how the project aims to improve water quality in local bayous by installing vertical oyster gardens on private docks throughout Gulf Breeze. Each garden consists of a coconut fiber rope strung with 20 dead oyster shells, which provide a surface for new oyster growth. In just six months, each garden can cultivate approximately 170 adult oysters, collectively filtering up to 5,000 gallons of water per day. The gardens are placed in the intertidal zone, allowing them to thrive with natural tidal changes.

To further support the project, Charlie requested the city’s assistance in installing an informational sign with a QR code at Woodland Park and $100 in funding for materials to create 100 oyster gardens. Volunteers will distribute supplies and guide residents through the installation process. Over time, the gardens will either naturally form permanent oyster beds or can be harvested after five years.

For more details, please refer to Charlie’s brochure or watch the YouTube video below explaining how you can help by creating your own oyster garden.

How to Build a Vertical Oyster Garden

🌿Recognizing the Dedication of Natural Resource Team🌳

Every day, our Natural Resource employees dedicate their time and expertise to maintaining the beauty, health, and sustainability of our parks, forests, and public spaces. Their work doesn’t just beautify our community—it protects it.

From planting trees and restoring habitats to preserving wildlife, managing stormwater systems, and ensuring clean waterways, these dedicated individuals are true stewards of the environment. Their efforts help prevent flooding, reduce pollution, and protect vital ecosystems, all while enhancing the natural spaces we enjoy every day.

💚 Let’s take a moment to appreciate their tireless work and show our gratitude for the incredible impact they make every day.

Whether it’s by volunteering, reducing waste, or simply saying “thank you” the next time you see them, we can all do our part to support their mission of a greener, safer, and more beautiful community.
🌏 Together, we thrive!