A process to find a balance in Florida Bay between protecting the natural resources and protecting boater access ends one phase -- but a critical one -- on Friday.

That's when the period to submit written comments on preliminary alternatives offered by Everglades National Park staff for managing its Florida Bay waters will close. Planners will then consider what their public response will be.

For an easy-to-understand guide to the park proposals, click here.

It's important for everyone, especially our local residents, to make their voices heard," said Islamorada resident Jim Trice, who has been closely involved in the process as an avid angler.

Trice and other members of the ad hoc Alternative E group submitted their own suggested regulatory plan to Everglades staff.