Agenda 12/13/2016 Item #16D1516.D.15
12/13/2016
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Recommendation to approve the electronic submittal of a Project Application for Florida Fish and
Wildlife Conservation Commission Aquatic Habitat Restoration / Enhancement Section Funding
for the hydrologic modeling of Pepper Ranch Preserve.
OBJECTIVE: To secure funding assistance for hydrologic modeling at Pepper Ranch Preserve as the
first step toward its hydrologic restoration.
CONSIDERATIONS: Pepper Ranch Preserve is located north and west of Lake Trafford in Immokalee,
Florida. The Conservation Collier Program's acquisition of Pepper Ranch in 2009 was recognized as an
opportunity to protect water resource values of the wetlands associated with Lake Trafford. To improve
upon a project developed by Conservation Collier to restore hydrology within Pepper Ranch,
Conservation Collier is currently collaborating with area stakeholders and the South Florida Water
Management District (SFWMD) to develop a more accurate Lake Trafford watershed basin delineation.
Funding and technical assistance from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
Aquatic Habitat Restoration / Enhancement Section (AHRES) is the next necessary component in
restoring Pepper Ranch hydrology and working with SFWMD and FWC to protect the water quality at
Lake Trafford.
To facilitate agricultural activities prior to the County's acquisition of Pepper Ranch, the hydrology of the
ranch had been impacted by a network of canals and ditches intended to drain water quickly off the land
and, in some places, into Lake Trafford. To restore hydrology, many of these ditches and canals must be
filled or blocked. Hydrologic modeling of the ranch will allow engineers to determine the most effective
restoration design that will also not negatively impact adjacent landowners.
AHRES is responsible for managing, enhancing, and preserving aquatic habitat in Florida for the long-
term well-being of fish and aquatic wildlife and the benefit of the people of Florida. AHRES biologists
involved with the management of Lake Trafford have recommended that Collier County apply for project
funding assistance through AHRES. Projects are developed in coordination with other FWC staff through
teams developed to ensure a multi -disciplinary approach to habitat management. Additionally, Collier
County staff will work closely with the Lake Trafford Management Team members to determine the best
restoration design for the ranch.
Collier County submitted this project for AHRES funding last year, but it was not funded. AHRES
biologists have encouraged Collier County to re -submit the project this year. AHRES biologists have also
indicated that if the County can provide additional matching funds, the project has a higher chance of
being funded. Last year, Collier County proposed a match of $24,750, the amount that Collier County
was refunded from the SFWMD after the withdrawal of the Pepper Ranch Preserve Mitigation Bank
Permit Application in 2015. Staff is recommending an additional match of $5,200 so that the total Collier
County proposed match for the project would be increased from 16.5% to 20%.
If funding is awarded, AHRES will pay state contractors for the work that will be performed on the
Pepper Ranch Preserve property. No State funds will be transferred to Collier County. However, a budget
amendment for the County's match, $29,950, will be brought to the Board for approval.
If this item is approved, staff will coordinate with FWC for the electronic submittal of the application. As
such, Chairman Signature of the application is not required.
FISCAL IMPACT: The total cost of the project is $149,750. Collier County is requesting $119,800 in
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16.D.15
12/13/2016
FWC AHRES contractor services. The County will provide a $29,950 cash match toward the hydrologic
modeling. County cash match is available within Conservation Collier Management Fund 174 Reserves.
GROWTH MANAGEMENT IMPACT: This proposal supports Goal 3 and Objective 7.3 of the
Conservation and Coastal Management Element of the County Growth Management Plan, which require
the County to protect its ground water resources to ensure the highest water quality practical and to
continue to implement programs that conserve and protect endangered and threatened wildlife species.
LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS: This item is approved for form and legality and requires a majority vote
for Board approval. - JAB
RECOMMENDATION: That the Board of County Commissioners approves the electronic submittal of
a Project Application for FWC AHRE Section Funding for the hydrologic modeling of Pepper Ranch
Preserve.
Prepared by: Melissa Hennig, Senior Environmental Specialist, Parks and Recreation Division
ATTACHMENT(S)
1. AHRE 17-18 Project Application Long Form (PDF)
2. AHRE adjacent lands - Map (PDF)
3. AHRE project area - Map
(PDF)
4. Directions for Application 1718 (PDF)
5. Pepper Ranch NHD Map
(JPG)
6. Pepper Ranch-LIDAR- Map
(PDF)
7. Pepper Ranch Road Map
(PDF)
8. SFWMD BCB letter 11-15-07
(PDF)
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16,D.15
12/13/2016
COLLIER COUNTY
Board of County Commissioners
Item Number: 16.D.15
Item Summary: Recommendation to approve the electronic submittal of a Project Application for
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Aquatic Habitat Restoration / Enhancement Section
Funding for the hydrologic modeling of Pepper Ranch Preserve.
Meeting Date: 12/13/2016
Prepared by:
Title: Operations Analyst — Parks & Recreation
Name: Natali Betancur
11/16/2016 3:44 PM
Submitted by:
Title: Division Director - Parks & Recreation — Parks & Recreation
Name: Barry Williams
11/16/2016 3:44 PM
Approved By:
Review:
Public Services Department
Parks & Recreation
Parks & Recreation
Public Services Department
Public Services Department
Public Services Department
Grants
County Attorney's Office
Office of Management and Budget
County Attorney's Office
Budget and Management Office
Grants
County Manager's Office
Board of County Commissioners
Melissa Hennig
Additional Reviewer
Completed
11/16/2016 3:55 PM
Ilonka Washburn
Additional Reviewer
Completed
11/17/2016 8:37 AM
Barry Williams
Additional Reviewer
Completed
11/17/2016 5:03 PM
Hailey Margarita Alonso
Level 1 Division Reviewer
Completed
11/21/2016 1:29 PM
Amanda 0. Townsend
Additional Reviewer
Completed
11/21/2016 4:14 PM
Steve Carnell
Level 2 Division Administrator Review
Completed
11/21/2016 4:58 PM
Edmond Kushi
Level 2 Grants Review
Completed
11/22/2016 2:59 PM
Jennifer Belpedio
Level 2 Attorney of Record Review
Completed
11/23/2016 3:43 PM
Valerie Fleming
Level 3 OMB Gatekeeper Review
Completed
11/28/2016 9:31 AM
Scott Teach
Level 3 County Attorney's Office Review
Completed
11/29/2016 8:40 AM
Ed Finn
Additional Reviewer
Completed
11/30/2016 11:42 AM
Therese Stanley
Additional Reviewer
Completed
12/05/2016 12:33 PM
Leo E. Ochs
Level 4 County Manager Review
Completed
12/05/2016 12:45 PM
MaryJo Brock
Meeting Pending
12/13/2016 9:00 AM
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16.D.15.a
Project Application for
Aquatic Habitat Restoration/Enhancement Section (AHRE) Funding
FY 2017/18
Project Title (include resource area and project type): Pepper Ranch Preserve Hydrologic Modeling and Design
FWC Requestor/Team: Melissa Hennig and Christal Segura
Phone Number(s): 239-252-2957 (Melissa) and 239-252-2495 (Christal)
Alternate Contact(s): Alexandra Sulecki
Phone Number(s): 239-252-2961
AHRE Staff Contact: Rodney Hudson and Stephanie Burkhardt
Water Body(s): Lake Trafford and Corkscrew Marsh (including Pepper Ranch Preserve)
County(s): Collier
Water Body Acreage: 8,815 (Lake Trafford —1,568, Corkscrew Marsh — 5,000, and Pepper Ranch Preserve — 2,247)
Project Acreage: 2,247
Site inspection Date: 2/24/15 and 10/28/15
Staff Present at Site inspection (list affiliation): R. Hudson (AHRE), M. Madkour (FWC), M. Hennig (Collier County
Conservation Collier), C. Segura (Collier County Conservation Collier)
Management Project Proposals are required to answer questions 1-16.
Type of project assistance requested from AHRE (to be completed by non-AHRE staff only).
❑Funding only. Non-AHRE requestor will be responsible for all aspects of project development and implementation
Only minimal assistance from AHRE staff will be required.
®Funding and assistance from AHRE staff to develop scope of work, bid specifications, permit acquisition, etc.
Requestor (or their staff) will be the on-site project manager.
SCOPE OF WORK
1. Describe the significance of the resource area including biological and social/economic value. Why is your
resource important? (Fishing effort, T&E species, tournaments, eco -tourism, etc.)
Pepper Ranch Preserve provides aquifer recharge, natural flood protection, water purification, preservation of
wildlife habitat, and public recreation. Various hiking and mountain biking trails allow visitors to become
familiar with the area's distinctive natural communities: pine flatwoods, oak hammocks, sawgrass marshes,
and pop -ash sloughs. Managed quota hunting for hog, deer, and turkey is allowed on Pepper Ranch
Preserve during established seasons. Camping is allowed, with a permit.
The preserve is located within Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Priority 1 Habitat for
Florida panther (Puma concolor coryii). Florida panther sightings, wildlife camera data, telemetry points and
the presence of prey species indicate the ranch is used by panthers. Additionally, many other native wildlife
species have been documented on the preserve, and the ranch is included in lands considered to be strategic
habitat areas for black bear and listed wading bird species (Cox, 1994). The following rare wildlife species
have been observed at Pepper Ranch Preserve: American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) T (S/A)
federal, SSC state; Limpkin (Aramus guaran) SSC state; Snowy Egret (Egretta thula) SSC state; White Ibis
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(Eudocimus albus) SSC state; Southeastern American Kestrel (Falco sparverius paulus) T state; Florida
sandhill crane (Grus canadensis pratensis) T state; Bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) T state; Woodstork
(Mycteria americana) E federal and state; Audubon's crested caracara (Polyborus plancus audubonii) T
federal and state; Florida panther (Puma concolor coryii) E federal and state.
In 1990, the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) purchased the lands that encompass the
major wetland slough located west and northwest of Pepper Ranch. These lands are referred to as the
Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed (CREW). Through its adjacency to CREW project lands, Pepper
Ranch is connected to several thousands of acres of preserved land in Southeast Lee County and northern
Collier County, including diverse systems located in Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Panther Island Mitigation
Bank, other CREW lands, the Southwest Florida Regional Airport 7,000 -acre mitigation site and Conservation
Collier's Caracara Prairie Preserve. Four state entities, including University of Florida, Florida Department of
Environmental Protection, Florida Natural Areas Inventory, and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation
Commission consider the CREW area a priority for conservation. The state's Florida Forever lists the CREW
Project (encompassing the Pepper Ranch Preserve) as one of the 21 most important projects on its 2008 list
that would: protect habitat for wildlife including the Florida panther and the Florida black bear, provide
connections between conservations lands, protect pristine cypress swamps to maintain water flow, and
provide passive public recreation opportunities.
2. Describe the significance of the project area to the resource area (how do enhancements to the project area
enhance the resource area?).
The project area consists of the 2,247 acres of Pepper Ranch located north and west of Trafford Oaks Road.
To facilitate agricultural activities within this area of the ranch, hydrology was impacted by a network of
ditches intended to drain water quickly off the land. By identifying and blocking some of these key ditches,
historically isolated wetlands will be isolated again and drainage of the property will be slowed, thus reducing
point -source run-off into Lake Trafford and adjacent CREW lands and increasing seasonal hydro -periods
within the entire ranch. Increased, seasonal hydro -periods will benefit listed wading bird species and other
wetland dependant wildlife utilizing the ranch.
- 3. Describe need/problem (include background/history, justification for AHRE funds).
Pepper Ranch Preserve has been identified by the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) Big
Cypress Basin as an important location for groundwater recharge and an essential water quality buffer for
Lake Trafford. A November 15, 2007 letter from the Director of the Big Cypress Basin to the County
(attached) indicates that the purchase of Pepper Ranch would improve water quality and quantity of a local
drinking water source. Specifically the letter states "If the agricultural water use of the ranch is eliminated, and
the irrigation and perimeter ditches are removed, there will be more water to recharge the Water Table and
lower Tamiami Aquifers, Conservation of the Pepper Ranch lands will also provide important buffer for filtering
of nutrient runoff to Lake Trafford which will contribute toward better ecological health of the presently
restored lake." After purchasing Pepper Ranch Preserve in February 2009 for $32,525,000 through its
Conservation Collier Program (a tax -payer funded conservation land acquisition program), Collier County
pursued the creation of a wetland mitigation bank in order to fund the hydrologic restoration of Pepper Ranch
while off -setting the mitigation costs of County development projects. The request for creation of a mitigation
bank was denied, and without the secure funding that would have be provided by a mitigation bank,
hydrologic restoration of Pepper Ranch cannot be achieved with the limited management funding available for
the preserve through the Conservation Collier Program. The management funds available for Pepper Ranch
Preserve have been used, and continue to be used, for habitat management and public access. Since 2009,
Collier County has spent $1,066,800 and secured another $175,000 in federal and state funding to remove
invasive, exotic plants; create firebreaks and trails; and build and improve public use facilities. AHRE funding
would allow Collier County to restore the hydrology of the preserve, while continuing the current level of
habitat and public use management activities.
State the specific project objective(s) and timeframe. Include in your objective(s) the measurable
change(s) you will make to the habitat. You may use the table in the directions to assist you in
developing your project objectives.
The primary objective of this project is to restore water depth and duration to that appropriate for the target
communities. Changes in water depth should be noticeable immediately after restoration. Both water depth
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and duration during the wet season (approx. July -November) should increase throughout the project area.
Qualitative vegetation monitoring will also occur within wetlands presumed to be most affected by hydrologic
restoration. Increased hydro -period should expand the extent of existing wetlands and may change the
vegetation structure within the deeper portions of some wetlands. Changes to vegetation should be evident
within the first rainy season after restoration.
5. Describe specific management activity proposed to address need/problem. If multi-year phase project,
describe each year/phase.
This project will be a multi-year project. Phase 1 (FY17/18) will be a data collection and design phase.
During Phase 1, hydrologic modeling will occur to determine the annual fluctuations of the water within the
ranch. Existing wells will be complimented with new strategically located wells throughout the ranch to
measure water level depths and fluctuations. Data will also be gathered from University of Florida Institute of
Food and Agricultural Sciences researchers currently measuring ground and surface water flow in and around
Pepper Ranch. All data gathered will be used to determine and design the most effective restoration plan for
the ranch. It is anticipated that restoration activities will primarily involve blocking and filling ditches with
adjacent berm material. Depending upon the results from the modeling, restoration along the ditch leading to
Lake Trafford may also include some type of engineered flap structure or weir to allow only a one way flow of
water from Pepper Ranch to Lake Trafford. Wet season access areas may also be required to be built into the
existing ranch road to ensure safe passage along the road during the wet season. Phase 2 (FY 18/19 and FY
19/20) will be a permitting and earthwork phase. The design generated from Phase 1 will be used to acquire
all necessary permits and then to perform the restoration.
6. How will you evaluate success towards meeting your project objective(s)? Evaluation must address defined
habitat changes and timeline of project. You may use the table in the directions to assist you in developing
your method of assessment.
Water depths will be measured using pressure -based water level loggers either at ground water level or
surface water level and will be compared to target hydro -period ranges before, during and after restoration.
Target ranges will be determined through modeling and design. Photo points will be established prior to
restoration and photos will be taken every 6 months for a minimum of 5 years following restoration.
7. How long will the expected benefits from the management action last? If long term maintenance is required,
what is the plan and who will be responsible?
The benefits from this restoration are expected to last in perpetuity. As the vegetation throughout the ranch
adapts to the new hydro -periods generated from the restoration, Collier County will monitor for any new
populations of invasive, exotic vegetation and treat it quickly to avoid infestation. No other long term
maintenance is anticipated.
8. List all staff and/or other Subject Matter Experts (SME) (include affiliation) you have consulted
regarding project impacts (positive or negative). All comments must be verified through written
documentation.
Staff and/or other SME Contacted
Barron Moody, FWC Div of Freshwater
Fisheries
Comments
I think the partnership established with Conservation
Collier (land managers at Pepper Ranch) is at least as
valuable as the hydrologic modeling proposed here. I
support this project. I hope it leads to more projects
that integrate benefits at Pepper Ranch and at Lake
Trafford. For example, at one time we considered this
property for use as a disposal site for mechanical
removal of Primrose Willow and other dense, less
beneficial plants in the Lake Trafford littoral areas.
Perhaps compost created by such work could serve as
fill in the future for re -sculpting ditched areas.
I Staff and/or other SME Contacted I Comments
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Jason Waller, FWC Alligator
Activities
Management Program
No comment
Staff and/or other SME Contacted
Comments
Tyler Beck, Snail Kite Conservation
This project has the potential to benefit Snail Kites by
Coordinator
improving hydrology, water quality and possibly
providing some wet season foraging areas.
Staff and/or other SME Contacted
Comments
Carol Rizkalla, FWC HSC Species
The applicant should avoid well placement near
Conservation Planning Section
nesting areas. Otherwise, looks good.
Staff and/or other SME Contacted
Comments
Keven McBride, FWC Waterfowl Mgmt
I certainly support this project. The restoration of I
Subsection
natural wetlands will provide beneficial habitat for
resident and miqratory waterfowl.
i
Staff and/or other SME Contacted
Comments
ne: enter activities, amounts and funding entities below. List total estimated monetary value of non-AHRE
funds and/or in-kind services in 0-fi . "" "t jj',. Do not include salaries, overhead, administrative, etc.
for established positions. Eligible in-kind services include surveying, engineering, permitting and construction,
labor, material and equipment, etc. (costs which would otherwise be incurred by the Cooperator from out-
sourced contractors). Consult participating AHRE biologist for types of in-kind services that are acceptable to
count as partner contributions.
FY
Activities
AHRE
Fundinq
Other
Fundin
Funding Entity(s)
Total
17-18
Hydrologic
Modeling
and
Restoration
Desi n
$119,800
$119,800
17-18
Hydrologic
Modeling
and
Restoration
Design
$29,950
Collier County
$29,950
$149,750
10. Enter the partner(s) contribution* ranging from 0% -100%. *Total of all non-AHRE funds divided by the
project total x100. 20%
11. Is the project located on a FMA, WEA or WMA? No If yes, is FWC the lead agency on the WEA or WMA?
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12. Maps Required:
Attach a map that allows someone unfamiliar with the area to drive to the site (not written driving
directions). http://maps.google.com/
Instructions to attach a file: click on the insert tab, then click the down arrow next to "Object' and choose
"object'. This takes you to a navigation box to choose "create new" or "create from file". Choose create from
file, browse to find the document you wish to attach. Be sure to check "display as icon" before selecting OK.
917-
PepperRanchRoad M
ap.pdf
Insert Google link. https://www.google.com/maps/place/Pepper+Ranch+Preserve/@26.4447029,-
81.5234297,17z/data=!3ml !4bl !4m2!3ml !1 sOx88dba756e531 c71 f:Ox43df585f792fbeel
Attach map with project area outlined (aerial images preferred).
"I.-
AHREprojectarea. pd
f
Provide GPS coordinates of the project work site. Project work site: 26.450579°N; 81.510639°W
13. Include any additional details or supporting documentation as necessary.
Pepper
Ranch-LiDAR. pdf
14. Additional comments.
pepper -ranch topo pepper ranch NHD SFWMD BCB AHREadjacentLands.
rrep,jpg Map Jpg letterl1-15-07. pdf pdf
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Novembcr 15, 2007
AlMandrn J. Sulecki
Coordinator, Conservation Collier Land AQquisitian Prosr'•Im
Collier Cotat7ly Envirotlr[Mltal Services Departlnent o
2800 Orth i-iorseshue DviVe �
Naples FT., 31104
Dear tvls_ Sulecki,
'1'bank yott far your recent inquiry regarding the Pepper Rancil Screening Report that c
states (lie significance orconserviug the Raltch lands for bufferil)g the }1+etlm17ds of the e,
CorLscrem, Regional Ecosyslem Watershed (CREW) and Preser'vius the groundwater
tr,charge potendfil for drinking water supplies in the Lower Tatniami Aquifer in the �
Immok-tlee area, °
LL
The parcel presently has ei eater Usc PermiL (WUP) retie A'al appticReion w1d7 rile
District (lint is u7 a `response deny' status, al7d epPears to nol. hxti'e a surFace water
tamagemal7t:penrtlt or Miv rcn nit ral Aesoutee C� Iznit{t- , '}. The otig,in€tl WIJI
iiialudes wells open to eater TaIb1z, Lower farnian i anti "Sandstone aquifers. The
Di strict ER1' reviewers are tint aware of any pending mitigation Propos&ls, The
property is also idGlltified b), the SOullnrest Florida Fitsibility+ Study; as'l potential site
jpr Imbhe acquisition.
The (tinter levels of the Lower Tan7iami Aquifer have been adversely impacted by
oxittl5ive irri&arion Water Me in the lnimokalce area. If the n,gricultural tenter use of the
rapell is eliminated, e+utl the irrigatioll and perimeter ditches are removed, there shill be
More ~ aLor to recharge tite Waler Table And t.,a%ver TRntiatni Aquifors Conservation of
.he. Pel.iper Iiancl7 lands Will also PtoAde Important buf% for filtering of autrient rOnOff
to Lake Trafford which will contribute tcawa !,,leder ecological health of die presently
restol•ed lake.
The District supports Conservation Collier's efforts of acquiring [lie eliVirntu77cnrallY
sen%itive [auris to protect die. water tesoltreas of the regiean. St7ould frau hate any
quvaim), or ►7eed additional i 1farmation, please do not hesitate to contact les.
Sie`telt';
aretice S. `Gears, Jr.
Diremor, Big Cyliress BES117
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On t SLtib. �r T75.1�.
JG7t❑ f °i,..•v Ile• 1 , , ('in:r„ ;\',q l.0 I il.ltt' �rnkfsnn , i,arh', `
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Immokalee Master Plan and Visioning Committee
Immokafee Local Redevelopment Advisory Sward
November 13, 2007
Alexandra J, Sulecki, Coordinator
Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Program
Collier County Facilities Management Department
3301 East Tamiami Trail, Building W
Naples, Fl, 34112
Re: Pepper Ranch in Immokalee Area
Dear Ms. Sulecki;
During the regular October 17, 2007, joint meeting of the Immokalee Master Plan
and Visioning Committee and the Immokalee Local Redevelopment Advisory
Board, County staff informed both advisory bodies that an application was
recently received by the Conservation Collier Program from the owners of the
2,500 -acre Pepper Ranch requesting consideration to sell this property for use in
the Conservation Collier Program.
After discussing what types of uses and recreational opportunities this may
property may afford tQ the public and understanding that acquisition of the ranch
might provide in -county mitigation opportunities for County prnjeots,_..where
mitigation enhancements and/or restoration of lands could benefit the citizens of
Collier County, both advisory boards voted unanimously to recommend to
Conservation Collier and to the Board of County Commissioners the following:
To support the acquisft`ion of Pepper Ranch and to support any opportunity
for mitigation Mone by Collier County to be dome within Collier County
In closing, both advisory boards feel this is an excellent opportunity to protect the
rural nature of Immokalee and the wonderful adjoining natural resources.
Sine lrr .✓`
T
shed -mas �lia
Immokelee Master Plan and Visioning Committee
Immokalee Local Redevelopment Advisory Board
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Page ! of 2
suleckiia
From: Jim monsvvHliamsQpoI.not
Sent: Monday, November 12, 2007 1;00 PM
To: sulecki-a
Subject: Re: Pepper Ranch bird lists
Novc;mber 12, 2007
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Conservedon Collier Diad Acquisition Advisory Committee
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ToWhom it May Cmicem:
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1 mroa)d urQc the C:mmniilLee to purchiise the Pepper Ranch property. (have censused the ranch over the 2
last 15 years as part of die Audubon Society Christmas Bird Count. Much of the property is in good
condition, and represcnts biowe5 ol`pinc flatwoods, willow marsh, and cvpress wetiand54 There, are
pasture lands as well, but ovorail dere is relatively little invasion ofexodo plari,_spccles. It seem -c- than �
the land is a excellent corridor btLivccn the CREW lands to rhe north and the Corkscrew Sutamp
Sancaiwv Al the vvesL, The property- would be a valuable asses; in presen,ing native flora and fauna and' E
protecting theuatural hydrology of easlern Collier County. ,o
Sincerely, Richard K. Nk'iltiams, AD.
N aplcs; FL
Ki Ms. Sulecki i hope this helps. Ii' you neecic.d snmething sur lizr, plca;e [et nie rn,vw. l f you need an
address ror me or c,ontact # they are D-73 1?idgc Drivt, Naples, 34108 and 239-591-5031 (or 598-2903).
6oud luck. hick
Dear Dr. Williams,
Thank you very much for sending me the Laird lists from Papper,Ranchl 1 will use the informa-50n in the report I am
preparing an the ranch property. If you think this is a wottfly prtrpeity for Comervation Cplllerto purchase (tr nodi
your input will be valued by our 9 -member citizens advisory committee members,- .particularly because you have
been to so many parts of the ranch over the years. Pie ase ,feel free to rnake a recommendation by a -mail and l
11/13/2007
. ............. W. z....
9ECEiVED
October 10, 2007 OCT 15 7007
fAVL1TIE$
Paul 'Midney CfiNsiRVAT►at+Ct7wER
1807 Roberts Ave,
Immokalce, FL 34142
Land acquisirionAdvisor), Conunittoe
cio Alexandra Sulecki
Program CoardinaMr, Conservation Collier
Collier County Facilities,Management Department
330] L. Tamiarni Trail, Building W
Naples, Florida 2,> L� 1(L-
Dear
tL-Dear Committee --Members:
I am writing to urge you to offir whatever price is zeasonable to the owners of the Pepper
Ranch, near Lake Trafford. For the past several years my wife and I surveyed the ranch
for the Cluisamas Audubon Bird Count with Dr, and Mrs, Rick Williams.
The propeTty is vital habitat for a number of bird species which we observed there,
especially sandhill crane, turkey, Nvading birds, eagles, ha -Arks; and Eastern meadmvlark.
It is also good panther and black beax habitat; and connects ocher nearby preserved areas.
immokalee and Collier County will be much better places to live 30 years from now, if
na[ ral areas such as the Pepper Ranch property are presen�ed, This is exactly the kind of
purchase for which we voters approved funding for Conservation Collier, Failure to act
now could open the area in back of Lake TralTord up to development, and negatively
atTect the surrounding naturel areas. We are fortunax now to have the opportunity to do
something really good for the County ar a reasonable price.
Sincerely voil s„
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Directions for FY16/17 Application
Aquatic Habitat Restoration/ Enhancement Section (AHRE) Funding
Background
The Aquatic Habitat Restoration/Enhancement (AHRE) Subsection funds aquatic enhancement projects for the
purpose of improving habitat conditions for Florida's freshwater fish and wildlife communities. This multi-
disciplinary, team -oriented approach to aquatic habitat enhancement provides the agency with a broader, more
holistic approach toward enhancing fish and wildlife habitat. Funded activities are limited to freshwater resources
with public access.
Applications for projects designed to enhance or restore freshwater aquatic habitat in Florida must be received by
December 15, 2015 to be considered for funding in FY16/17. Applicants are encouraged to discuss their projects
with other FWC and non-FWC staff early enough in the application development process to ensure adequate time
for exchange of information relating to impacts (positive and negative) to ongoing fish and/or wildlife research
and management activities and sensitive fish and wildlife species. All applications must be developed in
coordination with an AHRE biologist.
Once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed by the AHRE Standing Team. This team is composed of
FWC staff from disciplines associated with freshwater systems. The team conducts a biological review and ranking
of each proposal. Projects deemed appropriate for AHRE funding and possessing biological merit are reviewed by
Tallahassee staff and then compiled into a Work Plan.
Only electronic applications will be accepted.
Please find the applications and application links in the attached email.
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16.D.15a
To assist you in answering Question #1 (significance of the resource area), we are providing you the link to the
Aquatic Restoration Prioritization and Evaluation Tool (ARPET). The ARPET document and included ranking
tables were developed to assist in prioritizing Florida lakes for aquatic restoration funding based on their
economic, ecological and management importance (i.e., the significance of the resource area). If you have
specific questions, please contact Jessica Griffith, David Douglas or Beacham Furse.
http://porta 12.fwc.state.fl.us/sites/HSC/AHRE/Shared%20DocumentsI/Forms/AllItems.aspx?RootFolder=%2Fsites%2FHSC
2FAH RE%2FShared%20Documents1%2FAguatic%20Restoration%20Prioritization%20and%20Eva1uation%20Too1%20%28
ARPET%29&Fold erCTID=0X01200012F31CA99 D21174087D7E6DA2008A530&View=f 6F640575-723E-4AA6-9F2D-
731D75C2B6BF}
To assist you in answering Questions #4 (project objective) and #6 (project assessment), you may refer to the
table below to assist you in developing your objectives and assessment plan.
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Directions for FY17/ 18 Application
Aquatic Habitat Restoration/ Enhancement Section (AHRE) Funding
Background
The Aquatic Habitat Restoration/Enhancement (AHRE) Subsection funds aquatic enhancement projects for th
purpose of improving habitat conditions for Florida's freshwater fish and wildlife communities. This multi
disciplinary, team -oriented approach to aquatic habitat enhancement provides the agency with a broader, mor
holistic approach toward enhancing fish and wildlife habitat. Funded activities are limited to freshwater resource
with public access.
Applications for projects designed to enhance or restore freshwater aquatic habitat in Florida must be receive
B
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by December 15, 2016 to be considered for funding in FY17/18. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the'
projects with other FWC and
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863.824.4167
adequate time for exchange of information relating to impacts (positive and
negative) to ongoing fish and/c
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species. All applications must b
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developed in coordination with an AHRE biologist.
; 561.882.5751
863.697.0851
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AHRE Related Issues
WorkArea
office
Mobile
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David Douglas
Statewide
352.800.5022
= 352.516.0120
Don Fox
? Statewide
1863.824.4160
863.697.0280
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Beacham Furse
Statewide
E 863.824.4164
863.634.4441
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Deanna Vinson
Statewide
352.800.5020
352.636.3416
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Protect Related Issues
, .
Work Area
Office
---
Mob&/e
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B.J. Jamison
Northwest Florida
850.410.0847
850.528.3915
,Megan Keserauskis
Northwest Florida
:850.410.0847
850.630.7691
=
Jordan Hults
i Northwest Florida
i 850.410.0847
850.597.6106
Ed Hayes
=Central Florida
352.800.5023
352.516.7101
Dan Kolterman
Y Central/West Central Florida
` 352.800.5024
352.519.9400
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Annie Roddenberry
'Northeast Florida /Lower St. Johns River
s 863.648.3823
' 407.509.4468
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Patrick McCord
= Orange Creek Basin/North Central Florida
P 352.620.7344
` 352.516.1551
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Dale Jones
North Central Florida
= 352.272.0595
352.272.0595
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Joel Andreas
East Central Florida / U per St. Johns River
321.726.2862
321.624.9468
_
Tim Coughlin
Kissimmee Chain of Lakes
407.846.5247
407.908.5296
0
Adriene Landrum
Kissimmee Chain of Lakes
407.846.5269
407.508.8063
Kevin McDaniel
Kissimmee Chain of Lakes
407.846.5276_
321.624.9470_
Steve Gornak
~ South Florida/Lake Okeechobee/Lake Istokpoga
863.824.4166
X863.697.6256
Carly Althoff
Lake Istokpoga/Highlands Counter
863.824.4168
r 863.697.6323
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863 824 4163
863 697 2154
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Alyssa Jordan
Lake Okeechobee/SW Florida
863.824.4167
863.697.2181
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Stephanie Burkhardt
"Southwest Florida
941.613.0945
' 863.581.6898
Rodney Hudson
Southeast Florida
; 561.882.5751
863.697.0851
Once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed by the AHRE Standing'Team. This team is composed c
FWC staff from disciplines associated with freshwater systems. The team conducts a biological review and rankin
of each proposal. Projects deemed appropriate for AHRE funding and possessing biological merit are reviewed t
Tallahassee staff and then compiled into a Work Plan.
Only electronic applications will be accepted.
Please find the applications and application links in the attached email.
Packet Pg. 1469
To assist you in answering Question #1 (significance of the resource area), we are providing you the lin'Is.D.15.d
Aquatic Restoration Prioritization and Evaluation Tool (ARPET). The ARPET document and included rank11 ly
tables were developed to assist in prioritizing Florida lakes for aquatic restoration funding based on their
economic, ecological and management importance (i.e., the significance of the resource area). If you have
specific questions, please contact Jessica Griffith, David Douglas or Beacham Furse.
http://porta12.fwc.state.fl.us/sites/HSC/AHRE/Shared/`20Documentsl/Forms/AllItems.aspx?RootFolder=/`2Fsites/o2FHSC
%2 FAH RE/o2FShared /o20Documentsl/o2FAguatic%20Restoration /o20Prioritization/o20and%20Eva1uation%20Too1%20%2!
ARPET%29&FolderCTID=Ox01200012F31CA99D21174087D7E6DA2008A530&View={6F640575-723E-4AA6-9F2D-
731D75C2B6BFJ
To assist you in answering Questions #4 (project objective) and #6 (project assessment), you may refer to the
table below to assist you in developing your objectives and assessment plan.
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Novernbcr 15, 2007
Alexandra J. Sulecki
C aDrdimator, Conservation Collier Land AcgttisiLioll Pratgranz
collier County Environmental Services Deparmient
2800 North I-Torseshoe Drive
Naples Fl. 3� 104
Dear TAs_ ;Solecki,
Thank Von fRr YOUr MCCIA ingttiry regarding the Pepper Ranch Screening Report that
states the significance L)Cconserving the RaMll igDdS for bufferiva the nretlands of the
Corl!:screMr Regional I:cosyste,rl (CREW) and preserving the groundwater
ir,eharge p tendal fir drinking waver supl)lies in >he Lower Tmriiarni requiter in the
brimokalee ares.
The parcel presently has a eater USG PerntzL (WUP) renewal apptication with the
District that is in a'mSpolrse dMY' status, and appears ic1 no have a Su►'fttcc Waicr
rrlanagenaent penifit or Ewviroranental Resource Ppnnit (ERP). The original WUP
includes wells open to Water Table, Lower'ratniartai and Sandstone aquiCcrS, The
District ERP reviewers are ncli AwRre of any pot>ding l-ijaigation proposals. The,
prolacrty is also identified by the Soulim.est Florida Feasibility Study as a potential site
for public .acquisition.
The grater li:vcls of the Lower Tamianai .Aquifer have bee[) adversely impacted by
extetasive irrig,ri)n',latff Me in the Inimukalce area. If 1[je n,gricultttz-al >, aLer Me 01'111C
rimch is eliminated, 1an.1 the irrigation and perimcter ditches are removed, there will be.
more xvatcr to recharge the Waler Table and tower Tamiaini ,aquifers. Conservairit}rt of
.lac Pepper Ranch lands m, ll also provide important buffer for lilteritag of mitrient runoff
to L akr Trafford which will contribute toward better ccol€+gical health of die presently
1-CIVOMd, lake.
The District suppUrts C011sert'aticatt Collier's effor'Ls of acquiring (lie eavironmeniallt1
sensi tine lauds to protect the %water resources of the region, Should you have an
question. or need additional inftia tnatitait, lalct9sc: Cin ttt�t 11CsltatP- (0 contaot LIS.
Sit -ly,.
"
fell= S. Tears. Jr.
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"Packet Pg. 1476
Immokalee Master Plan and Visioning Committee
fir mo Local Redevelopment Advisory Board
November 13, 2007
Alexandra J. Sulecki, Coordinator
Conservaticn Collier Land Acquisitlon Program
Collier County Facilities Management Department
3301 East Tamiarn! Trail, Building W
Naples, Fl, 34112
Re: Pepper Ranch in Immokalee Area
Dear Ms. Suleoki.
During the �gular October 17, 2007, joint meeting of the Immokalee Master Plan
and Visioning Committee and the Immokalee Local Redevelopment Advisory
Bcard, County staff informed both advisory bodies that an application was
recently I received by the Conservation Collier Program from the owners of the
2,500 -acre Pepper Ranch requesting consideration to sell this property for use in
the Conservation Collier Program.
After discussing what types of uses and recreational opportunities this may
property may afford to the public and understanding that acquisition of the ranch
might provide in -county mitigation opportunities for. County prc)jects, where
mitigation enhancements and/or restoration of lands could benefit the citizens of
Collier County, both advisory boards voted unanimousily to recommend to
Conservation Collier and to the Board of County Commissioners the following:
In closing, both advisory boards feel this is an excellent opportunity to protect the
rural nature of Immokalee and the wondefful adjoining natural resources.
'Ifi, 0 M S aK/
Immokalee Master Plan and Visioning Committee
I m mo ka lee Local Redevelopment Advisory B oa rd
I Packet Pg. 1477 1
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1 E:
sulecki a
From: limrnOrswillian1s@Pal,net
Sent: Monday, November 12, 2007 1:00 PIVI
To: sulecki_a
subject• Re: Pepper Ranch bird lists
Nov(-,Mber 12, 2007
Consen-'atinn Collier I.and Acquisidon Advisory Commit=
To'Whor) Ir Nlay Concern:
0
1 % ould urge the C ommi itee to purchase the Pepper Ranch property. I have censused the ranch o ger the o
last 15 years as }part of die Audubon Society Christmas Bird Count. Mach of dic properry is in good N
condidon and represents biomes caf pine flamroods, wrilIow marsh, and ct�press )vetlands. T c, are �
P&Ourc lams us tour ovcra.11 dwe is rclativcly little invasion of exoric plart spt tics. It seems than w
the land is a excellent conickn-1ieL)vccn the CREW' lands ro rhe north and [hc Corkscrew Svmmp �
San cntary in rhe 4,vesi. the pro.peM wouId be a. valuable asset. hi prescr),inc mit ve tlora and fauna and' �
promo nt rhe natural hydrology- of easLem Collier County, �
M
N_
$incervI y, Ricliard K. �N`iITiamns, N1.D
MITAC,s. FL ,
1 fi Ms. Sulecki i hop. c this helps. Ii yoii zieedc.d ,cmeThing funliet, please ler me luiow, I f you need an
address ror me or Contactil rliey are 573 Ridge Drive e, Naples, 34108 and 239-591-5031 (or 598-2903).
Good luck. Rick
Czar Cyr, Williams,
I -hank you very much for se:tding me the Laird lists from Pepper Ranchl I will use t'he cn;orma-ion In the report I arty
preparing on the ranch property. If you think this is a worthy property for Conservation rcllier to purt:has6 (or not!)
your input will be valued by our 9 -member citizens advisory committee members, ,particularly because you have
been to so many parts of the rarich over the years. Please feel free to rnake_a recommendation by e-mail and I
Packet Pg. 1478''
RF-CENEID
Oc-tobc-r 10, 2007 OCT 15 2007
FACILITIES
Paul Midney
1 SO 7 Roberts Av. e,
lmnlokalcC, FL 34142
Land acquisition Advisory CoTamittea
c/o Alexandra Sifleoki
Program Coordinaion. Conseiiatian Collier
Collier Counly Yacififics Maruakemc�iit Dcparr=nt
3301 E. Tamiami Trail, Building W
Naples, Florida � H W{ --
Dear Commifte Menibcrs:
I am 'w.6610 S LO Urge YDU bo offer VV attver price is masonable to the oN, ners of the Pepper
Ranch, PeoT Lake Trafford, For the past several yex-s n rife and I stuveyed the ranch
for the. Chrisunus Atidkibon Bird Count with Dr, and Mra. Rick Williams.
The prupe,-tiy is vital habitat for a number of bird species which v.,c observeed (here,
especi,,l ly sandl-Lill cranc., wrkey, -wading birds, eaglet, hawts, and Easte-ru me3dov.4aTk.
It is a1sc) good paiidicr and black- bear babiw. acid connects ocher nearby preserve.d. Eirea-s.
imniGk,alee and Collier Counq, will be much better places LQ) livc. 30 year,-; from now, if
ra-curalaxeas such a -s the. Pepper Ranch property are presc.r-ved. This is, exactly the kind of
purchase for which we vou-,rs appnvedfunding for ConseivaLion Collie.r. Fatiluieto act
now, could open the anez iii bank of Lak�- TratTord tip to dcvelopment, and aegatively
Nett the siirrolmding nal jrsl u -en, We are fortunace now to have. the oppoilunity to do
sornething nAly good for the Couniy ac a reasonable price.
S i n c C rt. 0u s
,7,-�7
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