Agenda 12/08/2015 Item #16D1112/8/2015 16.D. 11.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Recommendation to approve the five -year update of the Final Management Plan for the
Conservation Collier Railhead Scrub Preserve.
OBJECTIVE: To update the Railhead Scrub Preserve Final Management Plan.
CONSIDERATIONS: The Railhead Scrub Preserve is located south of the Railhead Industrial Park and
East of Old US 41. The Conservation Collier Program acquired the northern 80 acres of the preserve in
July 2004 and the southern 55 acres in June 2007. A revised, final Ten -year Management Plan was
developed and approved by the Board on June 22, 2010, Agenda item 16EL The approved plan has been
operational for the Railhead Scrub Preserve since that time.
The Conservation Collier Ordinance No. 2002 -63, as amended, in section 14.3, directs that "ten -year
plans shall be updated at least every 5 years." The attached plan has been updated pursuant to that
direction.
Updates include the Division change from Facilities to Parks and Recreation, updated maps, updated
property status information, additions to plant or animal lists, status of exotic plant infestations,
streamlining of text, removal of public access amenities, and revision of the management budget to reflect
the Board - approved Conservation Collier Financial Plan approved at the April 8, 2014 Board meeting
(Agenda item 1113).
The Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee reviewed the updated plan and
unanimously recommended approval at its public meeting held on October 12, 2015 (Agenda item VC).
Tracked changes have been made so that Board members can quickly see the proposed changes. Any
formatting irregularities caused by tracked changes will be resolved in the final document.
FISCAL IMPACT: There is no new fiscal impact associated with approving this management plan
update. Management costs are consistent with the Conservation Collier Financial Plan approved at the
April 8, 2014 Board meeting (Agenda item 11 B ).
GROWTH MANAGEMENT IMPACT: There is no growth management impact associated with this
item.
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 attached proposed five -
year update to the Final Management Plan for Conservation Collier's Railhead Scrub Preserve and directs
staff to implement the updated plan.
Prepared by: Melissa Hennig, Senior Environmental Specialist, Parks and Recreation Division
Attachment: Five -year updated Final Management Plan for Railhead Scrub Preserve
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COLLIER COUNTY
Board of County Commissioners
Item Number: 16.16.D.16.D.11.
Item Summary: Recommendation to approve the five -year update of the Final
Management Plan for the Conservation Collier Railhead Scrub Preserve.
Meeting Date: 12/8/2015
Prepared By
Name: BetancurNatali
Title: Operations Analyst, Parks & Recreation
11/3/2015 12:40:20 PM
Submitted by
Title: Environmental Specialist, Senior, Conservation Collier
Name: HennigMelissa
11/3/2015 12:40:21 PM
Approved By
Name: HennigMelissa
Title: Environmental Specialist, Senior, Conservation Collier
Date: 11/4/2015 9:30:59 AM
Name: AlonsoHailey
Title: Operations Analyst, Public Services Department
Date: 11/5/2015 1:55:56 PM
Name: Washburnllonka
Title: Manager - Park Operations, Parks & Recreation
Date: 11/9/2015 10:21:25 AM
Name: WilliamsBarry
Title: Division Director - Parks & Recreation, Parks & Recreation
Date: 11/10/2015 9:49:51 AM
Name: TownsendAmanda
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Title: Division Director - Operations Support, Public Services Department
Date: 11/13/2015 1:11:39 PM
Name: CarnellSteve
Title: Department Head - Public Services, Public Services Department
Date: 11/13/2015 2:12:53 PM
Name: BelpedioJennifer
Title: Assistant County Attorney, CAO General Services
Date: 11/13/2015 4:36:46 PM
Name: KlatzkowJeff
Title: County Attorney,
Date: 11/16/2015 10:57:53 AM
Name: FinnEd
Title: Management/Budget Analyst, Senior, Office of Management & Budget
Date: 11/16/2015 3:17:48 PM
Name: Casa] anguidaNick
Title: Deputy County Manager, County Managers Office
Date: 11/16/2015 5:12:17 PM
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Railhead Scrub Preserve
Land Management Plan
Managed by
Conservation Collier Program
Collier County
May 2010 — May 2020 (10 -yr plan)
Updated: September 2015
Originally Prepared by:
URS Corporation, with the cooperation of
The Institute for Regional Conservation
September 2007
Revised by: Collier County Facilities Management Department
Conservation Collier Program Staff
May 2010
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Railhead Scrub Preserve Land Management Plan
Railhead Scrub Preserve
Land Management Plan Executive Summary
Lead Agency: Collier County Board of County Commissioners, Conservation Collier Program
Properties included in this Plan: "Railhead Scrub Preserve" 135- acres.
Folio numbers 00143120009 and 00152600002
* Full legal description provided in Appendix 1
Management Responsibilities:
Agency: Collier County - Conservation Collier Program
Preserve Manager: Designated Collier County Environmental Specialist
Designated Land Use: Conservation and natural resource -based recreation
Unique Features: Xeric uplands habitat
Archaeological/Historical: N/A
Management Goals:
Goal 1: Continue to eliminate or significantly reduce human impacts to indigenous flora and
fauna
Goal 2: Continue to develop baseline monitoring reports
Goal 3: Continue to remove or control populations of invasive, exotic or problematic flora
and fauna to restore and maintain natural habitats
Goal 4: Continue to implement prescribed fire program
Goal 5: Continue to restore native vegetation
Goal 6: Maintain native and listed species management;
Goal 7: Continue to evaluate potential for access and public use;
Goal 8: Facilitate uses of the site for educational purposes
Goal 9: Maintain plan for security and disaster preparedness
Public Involvement:
A publie fneeting was held in the spring of 20 10 with residents a*d neigghbar-s 40M b
lands Feview 4ie Final Management Nan. 'Future public meetings will be held before major
management activities such as prescribed burning. Staff will also keep working with Mediterra
Community, Railhead Industrial Park property owners and Collier County Sheriff's Department
to control trespass issues.
Conservation Collier Program
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Table of Contents
Land Management Plan Executive Summary
Listof Tables ...................................................................................... ............................... iv
Listof Figures .................................................................................... ............................... iv
Listof Appendices .............................................................................. ............................... v
1.0 Introduction ................................................................................... ..............................1
1.1 Purpose and Scope of the Plan ................................................................ ............................... l
1.2 Regional Significance of the Railhead Scrub Preserve ......................... ............................... 2
1.3 Land Acquisition Program and Management Authority ..................... ............................... 3
1.4 Nearby Public Lands and Designated Water Resources ...................... ............................... 6
1.5 Public Involvement .................................................................................. ............................... 6
2.0 Natural and Cultural Resources ................................................. ............................... 7
2.1 Physiography ............................................................................................ ............................... 7
2. 1.1 Topography and Geomorphology ........................................................ ............................... 7
2.1.2 Geology ............................................................................................... ............................... 7
2.1.3 Soils ..................................................................................................... ............................... 9
2.1.4 Hydrology/Water Management ........................................................... ............................... 9
2.2 Climate ...................................................................................................... ............................... 9
2.3 Natural Communities ............................................................................ ............................... 11
2.4 Native Plant and Animal Species .......................................................... ............................... 21
2.5 Listed Species ......................................................................................... ............................... 23
2.5.1 Listed Plant Species ........................................................................... ............................... 23
2.5.2 Listed Animal Species ....................................................................... ............................... 26
2.6 Invasive Non - native and Problem Species ........................................... ............................... 28
2.6.1 Invasive and Problem Plant Species .................................................. ............................... 28
2.6.2 Invasive and Problem Animal Species .............................................. ............................... 29
2.7 Archaeological, Historical and Cultural Resources ............................ ............................... 31
2.8 Scenic Resources .................................................................................... ............................... 32
3.0 Use of the Property ....................................................................... .............................32
3.1 Previous and Current Use ..................................................................... ............................... 32
3.2 Planned Uses and Assessment of their Impacts .................................. ............................... 33
3.2.1 Identification of Public Uses Consistent with Preservation, Enhancement, Restoration,
Conservation and Maintenance of the Resources .............................. ............................... 33
3.2.2 Planned Public Uses and Assessment of Impacts .............................. ............................... 33
3.3 Adjacent Land Uses ............................................................................... ............................... 34
3.4 Potential Surplus Lands ........................................................................ ............................... 35
3.5 Prospective Land Acquisitions .............................................................. ............................... 35
Conservation Collier Program
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3.6 Analysis of Multiple -Use Potential ....................................................... ............................... 35
4.0 Management Issues, Goals and Objectives ................................ .............................35
4.1 Management Framework ...................................................................... ............................... 35
4.1.1 Preserve Manager .............................................................................. ............................... 36
4.1.2 Preserve Rules and Regulations ........................................................ ............................... 36
4.1.3 Land Management Review and Revision Summary ......................... ............................... 36
4.2 Desired Future Conditions .................................................................... ............................... 36
4.3 Major Accomplishments during Previous Years ................................ ............................... 37
4.4 Goals for the 10 year period 20010 -2020 ............................................. ............................... 38
4.5 Establish an Operational Plan for the Railhead Scrub Preserve ...... ............................... 56
4.5.1 Maintenance ....................................................................................... ............................... 56
4.5.2 Estimated Annual Costs and Funding Sources .................................. ............................... 56
4.5.3 Potential for Contracting Restoration and Management Activities by Private Vendors.. 58
4.6 Partnerships and Regional Coordination ............................................ ............................... 58
5.0 Literature Cited .......................................................................... ............................... 60
List of Tables
Table 1: Acquisition History and Status for Railhead Scrub Preserve ............ ............................... 3
Table 2: Public Lands Located near the Railhead Scrub Preserve .................. ............................... 6
Table 3: Land UseVegetative Association (FLUCFCS) within Railhead Scrub Preserve......... 11
Table 4: Breeding Bird Species Recorded in the Bonita Springs Quadrangle in the Vicinity of the
Railhead Scrub Preserve ................................................................. ............................... 22
Table 5: Listed Plant Species at Railhead Scrub Preserve ............................. ............................... 24
Table 6: Invasive Plant Species at Railhead Scrub Preserve ......................... ............................... 28
Table 7: Major Accomplishments during Previous Years ............................. ............................... 37
Table 8: Fire Frequency by Plant Community ............................................................
47
Table 9: Estimated Annual Land Management Budget (Amounts in $) ....... ............................... 57
Table 10: Potential Contracting for Restoration and Management Activities .............................. 58
List of Figures
Figure 1: Conservation Collier Preserves and Designated State and Federal Land or
Conservation Easement Existing in Collier County
Figure 2: Previous Distribution of Scrub Habitat in Collier County
Figure 3: Railhead Scrub Preserve — 2009 Aerial
Figure 4: Railhead, Scrub Preserve Soils Map
Figure 5: Historical Aerial Photographs
Figure 6: Railhead Scrub Preserve Land Cover
Figure 7: Preliminary Delineation of Fire Lines
Figure 8: Railhead Scrub Preserve Conceptual Masterplan
Conservation Collier Program
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List of Appendices
Appendix 1: Legal Description
Appendix 2: List of Plant Species Observed at the Railhead Scrub Preserve
Appendix 3: Lists of Birds observed by Mr. Doug Suitor from Collier County Environmental
Services Department in 2004 and 2006
Appendix 4: Florida Natural Areas Inventory (FNAI) Managed Area Tracking Record and
Element Occurrence Summary; FNAI ranking system explanation
Appendix 5: Plant Species Suitable for Landscaping and Restoration at Railhead Scrub Preserve
Conservation Collier Program
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Railhead Scrub Preserve Land Management Plan
1.0 Introduction
The Railhead Scrub Preserve is an approximately 135 -acre natural area located in the northwest
corner of Collier County, south of the Railhead Industrial Park and East of Old US 41 (Section
10 Township 48 Range 25 and Section 30 Township 51 Range 27). The preserve protects
significant areas of xeric upland habitat surrounded by industrial and commercial developments
to the west and north, a residential community to the east, and Krehling Industries, Inc to the
south. Current physical access to the preserve is from Old US 41 through Sun Century Road, a
private road.
The Conservation Collier Program acquired the northern 80 acres of the preserve in July 2004
and the southern -most "RR Land Trust" property in June 2007. The RR Land Trust property has
been incorporated into the existing preserve; therefore, this plan applies to both properties, and
both properties are collectively referred to as the Railhead Scrub Preserve. The preserve
includes approximately 117 acres of upland habitat, primarily Pine Flatwoods and Xeric Uplands
(Scrub /Scrubby Flatwoods), and 19 acres of wetland habitat including Cypress and Hydric Pine
Flatwoods. The preserve was purchased with funds from the Conservation Collier Program. The
County holds fee simple title to the Railhead Scrub Preserve. The Conservation Collier Program
manages these lands under authority granted by the Conservation Collier Ordinance (2002 -63, as
amended) (2007 -65; available from www.municode.com). Conservation, preservation and
public use and enjoyment consistent with conservation are the designated uses of the property.
Management activities allowed include those necessary to preserve, enhance, restore, conserve,
and maintain environmentally sensitive lands for the benefit of present and future generations.
Uses of the site must be consistent with these management goals. Grant funding will continue to
be sought for management.
This site management plan is divided into four main sections including an introduction, which
describes the location, zoning, land acquisition, significance, management authority, and extent
of public participation. Section two describes the current condition of natural resources existing
in the preserve; section three discusses the historic, existing and proposed use of the property;
and finally, section four presents the set of goals and objectives of the plan and describes the
management actions needed to meet those goals and objectives.
1.1 Purpose and Scope of the Plan
The purpose of the plan is to facilitate management of the environmentally sensitive lands in the
Railhead Scrub Preserve for the preservation of some of Collier County's most threatened plant
communities. These lands are important for ensuring the long -term survival of endemic and
listed species and plant communities, protecting water resources and enhancing local ecological
awareness. The preserve will be managed for conservation, protection, and enhancement of
natural resources and for public outdoor recreation compatible with natural resource
management. The scope of this plan is to provide management direction for the Railhead Scrub
Preserve by identifying the goals and objectives necessary to eliminate or minimize any threats
to the resource base and integrity of the site, and to identify management actions to achieve those
goals and objectives. Key management objectives outlined below are provided in order of
priority:
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• Removal and exclusion of invasive exotic plants;
• Securing of boundaries to eliminate dumping and ORV trespass and to facilitate Collier
County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) monitoring;
• Removal of solid waste;
• Restoration of damage caused by ORV use on the site;
• Management of wildlife, including surveys and habitat management to benefit wildlife;
• Application of prescribed fire or prescribed fire alternatives to mimic natural fire
frequency in fire dependent communities;
• Determination of public use needs; and
• Promotion of maximum biological diversity.
The current and future land -use designation of Railhead Scrub Preserve is Industrial; however,
Conservation Collier lands are considered similar to Essential Services in the Land Development
Code (Section 2.01.03) and conservation uses on acquired lands are permitted in all zoning
districts. A "protection" in the Conservation Collier Ordinance (2002 -63, as amended, Section
14.7) permanently extinguishes development rights on a parcel once purchased under the
Conservation Collier Program. These actions were taken to avoid the need for and cost of
rezoning individual properties.
This management plan is a working document, which is submitted to the Collier County Board
of County Commissioners (BCCI for its approval. Upon approval, this plan shall replace the
fff-st-final management plan that was approved by the BCC -in
gep er-- Tune 2010. No use, infrastructure, or improvement shall be permitted on any
property acquired or managed under the Conservation Collier Program that is inconsistent with
the purposes of the program or that is not provided by an approved management plan for the
property.
All development and resource alteration encompassed in this plan are subject to the granting of
appropriate permits, development plan approvals, easements, licenses, and other required legal
instruments. Approval of the management plan does not constitute an exemption from
complying with the appropriate local, state, or federal permitting agencies.
1.2 Regional Significance of the Railhead Scrub Preserve
Collier County has approximately 67% of its area (more than 868,040 acres) protected in
conservation areas (FNAI 2009)(Figure 1). Despite this vast acreage of protected land, Collier
County has lost most of its xeric upland communities. Most preserve areas are dominated by
wetlands or mesic uplands. Xeric communities such as Scrubby Flatwoods and scrub have
always been rare in Collier County. The Vegetation Map of South Florida by Davis (1943)
shows only about 2,217 acres of "scrub" in the county (Figure 2), although he seems to have not
mapped some areas, including Railhead Scrub Preserve.
Because of its high elevation, scrub is well suited for development. Most of the scrub and
Scrubby Flatwoods of Collier County have been developed. Less than 200 acres are protected in
the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Rookery Bay and Railhead Scrub
Preserve contain the last significant areas of Xeric Uplands in the County.
Conservation Collier Program 2
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Xeric uplands in Collier County contain several species of rare plants and animals, including
showy dawnflower (Stylisma abdita) which is a rare Florida endemic, Lakela's pinweed (Lechea
lakelae) which was probably endemic to Marco Island and may now be extinct, and gopher
tortoises (Gopherus polyphemus). Protection and management of their habitat is critical to their
long -term existence not only in Collier County, but also throughout their range.
1.3 Land Acquisition Program and Management Authority
The Conservation Collier program was originally approved by voters in November 2002 and
subsequently confirmed in the November 2006 ballot referendum. Both voter - approved
referendums enable the program to acquire, preserve, restore, and maintain vital and significant
threatened natural lands, forest, upland and wetland communities located in Collier County,
Florida for the benefit of present and future generations (Ordinance 2002 -63, as amended).
Properties must support at least two of the following qualities to qualify for consideration: rare
habitat, aquifer recharge, flood control, water quality protection, and listed species habitat. The
BCC appointed a Land Acquisition Advisory Committee to consider any selected or nominated
properties that an owner has indicated a willingness to sell. The committee recommends property
purchases for final approval by the BCC.
Lands acquired with Conservation Collier funds are titled to "COLLIER COUNTY, a political
subdivision of the State of Florida, by and through its Conservation Collier program." The BCC
established the Conservation Collier program to implement the program and to manage acquired
lands. As such, Conservation Collier holds management authority for the Railhead Scrub
Preserve. Table 1 below summarizes relevant acquisition benchmarks.
Railhead Table 1: Acquisition History and Status for Scrub Preserve
Year Benchmark
2003 Appraisal and Assessment to Determine Compliance with Initial Screening
Criteria, including Biological and Hydrological Characteristics
2004 Railhead Scrub Preserve property (northern 80 acres) purchased by
Conservation Collier
2006 RR Land Trust (55 acres) property initially assessed
2007 RR Land Trust parcel purchased and incorporated into Railhead Scrub
Preserve
Conservation Collier Program
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Railhead Scrub Preserve Land Management Plan
Conservation Collier Preserves and Designated State
and Federal Land or Easements in Collier County
Q 2.5 5 Miles
I l
Data Srnnoe:Pamets - Collier County Property Appraiser
FINIAL FL Conservation Lands. 32013
Created By: Conservation Collier CS
G:1Conservation Colhe krnaps'Ac uired properties%
Aequaed_Map January 2014.mzd and .jpg
egend
Conservation Collier Acquired
OtherAgency Conservation Lands
Mitigation / Conservation Easernentsl
Figure l: Conservation Collier Preserves and Designated State and Federal Land or
Conservation Easement Existing in Collier County
Conservation Collier Program
V"
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Legend
Historical Scrub Habitat (Davis, 1943)
Collier County
Approximate Location for Railhead Scrub Preserve
Figure 2: Previous Distribution of Scrub Habitat in Collier County
Conservation Collier Program 5
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1.4 Nearby Public Lands and Designated Water Resources
The closest preserve to Railhead Scrub Preserve is Wet Woods Preserve, a 27 -acre natural area
within the urban boundary of Collier County. Other preserves, in order of increasing distance,
are provided in Table 2. Many areas identified as South Florida Water Management District
Conservation Easements are very close to Railhead Scrub Preserve. No nearby public lands
contain Xeric Uplands (scrub or scrubby flatwoods). The closest preserve that does is Rookery
Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve 14 miles away.
Table 2: Public Lands Located
Preserve
Wet Woods Preserve
near the Raillicad
1
0.69
Scrub Preserve
Direction
SW Conservation Collier
Barefoot Beach Preserve
2.3
W Collier County
Delnor- Wiggins Pass State Park
2.4
SW State
Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem
Watershed
2.9
E State
Imperial River Preserve
3.2
E and NE
Lee County
Pine Lake Preserve
3.3
NE
Lee County
Estero Bay State Buffer Preserve
3.7
NW State
Picayune Strand State Forest
12.7
SE State
Rookery Bay National Estuarine
Research Reserve
14.0
S State
1.5 Public Involvement
Neighborhood involvement will be supported by meetings with the community organized by the
County. Meeting topics may include proposed uses, management actions, progress reports, and
implementation of site management activities. Staff will seek to coordinate management actions,
such as exotic plant removal and prescribed fire with owners of any adjoining lands.
Conservation Collier Program 6
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2.0 Natural and Cultural Resources
This section briefly describes the existing conditions at the Railhead Scrub Preserve. It includes
general descriptions of the natural and cultural resources of the preserve giving particular
attention to the issues that are relevant for conservation. A general view of the preserve is
included in Figure 3.
2.1 Physiography
The Railhead Scrub Preserve lies within the Gulf Coastal Lowlands physiographic province,
characterized by low elevations and poor drainage. The landforms that make up these coastal
lowlands include coastal and sand dune ridges and relic spits and bars with intervening coast -
parallel valleys consisting of poorly drained swampy areas with little recharge. Relic coastal
dune ridges are the most prominent geographic feature in the general vicinity of this site.
2.1.1 Topography and Geomorphology
The site is located in the Southwestern Slope region of the South Florida Water Management
District. According to the Bonita Springs, Florida USGS 7.5 Minute Topographic Quadrangle,
the topography of the area is relatively flat with an average elevation of 15 feet above sea level
and slopes gently westward toward the Gulf of Mexico. Surface water percolates directly into
the uncovered ground or it collects in natural depressions and manmade ponds on adjacent
properties.
2.1.2 Ceolo&-
The geology of northern Collier County, where the Railhead Scrub Preserve is located., is
characterized by complex sequences of interbeded sands, clays, and limestones. Closest to the
surface is the Holocene aged Pamlico Sand Formation, approximately 10 feet thick and
composed primarily of unconsolidated quartz sand and some silt. The Pamlico Sand
unconformably overlies the Pleistocene aged Fort Thompson and Caloosahatchee Formations,
which vary from a few feet to more than 20 feet in thickness and are characterized by shelly and
sandy limestones with vcgs and solution cavities (Miller, 1986).
Further below are the Ochopee and Buckingham Members of the Pliocene aged Tamiami
Formation, vrhi_ch is at least 200 feet thick in the surrounding areas (Oaks and Dunbar, 1974).
The Ochopee Limestone unconformably overlies the Buckingham Limestone and /or the
equivalent Cape Coral Clay. This unconfoimity marks the bottom of the surficia.l aquifer
separating it from the brackish underlying aquifer below. Then the Hawthorn Formation, rich in
phosphate and other heavy minerals (Scott, 1988), overlies the Oligocene age Suwannee
Limestone and Eocene age Ocala Limestone that form the Floridan Aquifer System in
Southwestern Florida.
Conservation Collier Program 7
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Railhead Scrub Preserve Aerial Map
N
0 750 1,500 Feet
1 I r I i I
Data Source: Parcels -Collier County Property Appraiser
Created By: Conservation Collier
G:%Conservation CollierWapMLand Management
1Aquired Properties%Railhead Scrub Preserve
Revised Management PlanlAenal.mxd &jpg
Figure 3: Railhead Scrub Preserve — 2889 -2015 Aerial
Conservation Collier Program
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Legend
- Roads
Railhead Scrub Preserve
Cor County
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Railhead Scrub Preserve Land Management Plan
2.1.3 Soils
According to the Soil Survey of the Collier County Area (Liudahl et al. 1990)., soils mapped at
the Railhead Scrub Preserve include (in descending order by extent) Satellite Fine Sand;
Basinger Fine Sand; Immokalee Fine Sand; Riviera Fine Sand, Limestone Substratum; Urban
Land Holopaw Basinger Complex; and Boca, Riviera, Limestone Substratum and Copeland Fine
Sand, Depressional (Figure 4). The areas mapped as Satellite Fine Sand units are situated on
low -lying coastal ridges and correspond to the Xeric Uplands ecosystem located at the site.
Basinger and Riviera Fine Sands are hydric soils typical of slightly depressional drainage -ways
with poorly defined outlets such as flats and sloughs. Areas mapped as Immokalee Fine Sand
units are associated with pine flatwoods communities.
2.1.4 Hydrology/Water Management
Near the surface, the aquifer is highly permeable and the groundwater flows toward the west.
However, permeability decreases downward from a porous limestone into poorly indurated
sandstone cemented by micrite. The aquifer grades from freshwater downward into brackish
water due to the proximity of the Gulf of Mexico to the west and the brackish water in the
intermediate aquifer made primarily of Miocene aged sediments. Below that, the Hawthorne
formation typically marks the upper boundary of the Floridan aquifer, which is contained within
the underlying Oligocene age Suwannee Limestone.
Groundwater levels have gone down during the recent decades due to drainage on a regional
scale and water management for development purposes. This trend may be very difficult to
control and will gradually reduce the extent of the preserve that floods during the summer
months and reduce the period of time the preserve wetlands are flooded during the year.
2.2 Climate
The Railhead Scrub Preserve is located in an area of Florida where humid subtropical and
tropical savanna climatic patterns overlap, with temperatures moderated by winds from the Gulf
of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. Sharply delineated wet and dry seasons and average monthly
temperatures greater than 64° Fahrenheit characterize a tropical savanna climate. Monthly
rainfalls may exceed ten inches during the wet season. On the other hand, humid subtropical
climates typically show less extreme rainfall fluctuations between wet and dry seasons and
average monthly temperatures is less than 64° Fahrenheit in some months.
The average annual temperature for the coastal portion of Collier County is approximately 75°
Fahrenheit. The warmest months are usually July and August. The humidity is high during
these months but frequent afternoon thunderstorms prevent excessively high temperatures.
Two - thirds of the annual rainfall occurs in the wet season from May to October. Thunderstorms
are frequent during the wet season occurring every two out of three days between June and
September. Rainfall records for the area indicate that there is not significant variation in the
annual rainfall throughout much of the county; however, large variations often occur during a
single year. The hurricane season extends from June through November with peak activity
occurring in September and October when ocean temperatures are highest.
Conservation Collier Program 9
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Railhead scrub Preserve Soils Flap
o .6 Wu 1,700 reer
Data Source: Parcels- Collier Courty PropertyAppraiser
Soils: MRCS via SFWMD
Created By. Conservation Collier
G: Conservation CollierWapstand Management
'Aqured PropertiestiRailhead Scrub Preserve
Revised Managemerd Plan%Soils Map.mxd & jpg
Go'� ''er Cnccxt�y
Legend
N
Railhead Scrub Premne +}i
Soil Types
7 Inmokalee Fine Sand
17 Basinger. Fine Sand !!1
18 Rmera Fine Sand;timesb*,ne Substratum
25 Boca, Ricers, limestone Sub -rabum and Copeland Fine Sands, Depressicnal
33 Man land, Holopaw Basinger Complex
to 39 Satelite Fine Sande
Figure 4: Railhead Scrub Preserve Soils Map
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2.3 Natural Communities
Vegetative association types on Railhead Scrub Preserve were delineated by Johnson
Engineering, Inc. through on -site field - investigations (transects throughout the property) in 2005
and 2008 and digital aerial photographs (2009). -The vegetation assemblages were classified
based on the nomenclature of the Florida Land Use Cover and Forms Classification System
(FLUCFCS - FDOT 1999) to identify habitats on site. The vegetation was re- classified by
Conservation Collier staff in 2015. following several years of invasive, exotic plant management.
Historical aerial photos from 1953, 1962, and 1995 (Figure 5) were geo- referenced and
examined to understand historical vegetation types and changes in the last 6 years. Site - specific
history and conditions for each community are discussed and a summary of relevant information
is included in Table 3. The distribution of these natural communities in the Railhead Scrub
Preserve is depicted in Figure 6.
Table 3: Land
UseNegetative Association (FLUCFCS) within
Description
Railhead
Acreage
(appr ox. )
Preserve
% of
Area
FLUCFCS
Code
321€-3
Saw Palmetto, 25 ^ n0' e.ie ie
0.4-732
0.1-3.23
411
Pine Flatwoods
X62.42
25.3545.
39
444--E4
Pine Flatwoods, 10 24 °;
446-93
exotics
444--E-2-
Pine Flatweea 25 noose
?-$1
2.04
exetie-s
4447-E-3
Pine Flat, a 50 740f
334-9
X3-9
, exeties-
421
Xeric Oak Scrub
49.23
35.80
4-21-2
Brazilian Peppef
4.05
0-76
512
Ditch
0.63
0.46
514 EZ
Swale
0.46
0.33
6444
MeWeuea
0,50
8
6 492
,
44-7
0 34
621
Cypress
-5,25,47.89
4:0-35.73
5?I-E4
°
0:40
07?9
62-1-E3
0-1.0
0-.0-7
6224 -E-3
0
135
0-9.9
624
Cypress-Pine-Cabbage Palm
02.25
0:41 -1.64
r .� 5 � i o*4
CA
�$
42-2
625 Q
Hydric Pine, 25 ^O0; exeties
5.75
4.18
643
Wet Prairie
2.84
2.07
721
Bare Sand
04-23.82
0:452.78
742
Borrow Pit
0.06
0.04
832
Electrical Power Transmission Line
1.86
1.35
Total
137.53
100.00
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Descriptions of the land uses and plant communities on the subject property are provided below.
FLUCFCS Code 321 -E-3: Saw Palmetto
This vegetative community surrounds a small wet prairie in the southwest portion of property. It
lacks a canopy and is comprised of dense saw palmetto (Serenoa repens). Other groundcover
vegetation present includes wiregrass (Aristida spp.) and broom sedge (Andropogon virginicus).
This habitat is infested with exotic and invasive vegetation, specifically downy rose -myrtle
(Rhodomyrtus tomentosa) and Caesar's weed (Urena lobata), which comprise 25 -49% of this
habitat.
FLUCFCS Code 411, 4"' E', t 1 1 E29 11E.I: Pine Flatwoods
This upland community is located throughout the property- with v i-ying extent" of exet."
Pine Flatwoods observed in the Railhead Scrub Preserve. Photo by
Kirsten Wilkie
Pine Flatwoods occurs in the northeastern
corner and south along the eastern edge,
embedded in the center of the property, and
northwest of the property. Inspection of
1953, 1962, and 1995 aerial photographs
(see Figure 5) does not conclusively reveal
historical vegetation types in areas now
occupied by Pine Flatwoods. Most Pine
Flatwoods areas on the site '°°^°„* the -se
south of the afea4 occurred between
Xeric Oak Scrub and wetlands (marshes or
cypress areas- i.e., occurring on slopes
intermediate between xeric and hydric plant
communities). Based on current
conditions, is that a saw palmetto
dominated flatwoods community,
probably with slash pines in the canopy,
dominated the slope between uplands and wetlands. Saw palmetto often forms dense stands in
such areas, which do not burn frequently because of their proximity to two communities which
burn very infrequently. Logging activities before 1952 probably removed most slash pines,
leaving only a few scattered seed trees. Pine stumps observed in the Xeric Oak Scrub provide
evidence of past logging, even though no logging roads were seen on historical aerials. The Pine
Flatwoods in the northwestern portion of the property, surrounded by Xeric Oak Scrub on three
sides and a cypress area, which was cleared of melaleuca ( Melaleuca quinquenervia), is in very
good condition. The area seems to have experienced some localized fires, as evidenced by burn
scars and the understory conditions, which have kept the height and cover of understory saw
palmettos and hardwoods low. The herb layer is diverse and dense.
The plant community in the southeast and central portions of the property is more xeric and
scrubby in nature compared to other pine flatwoods on the property. The subcanopy in the more
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xeric areas is sparse, and where present, comprised of dwarf live oak (Quercus minima) and
rusty lyonia (Lyonia ferruginea). Groundcover in the more xeric pine flatwoods of the property
consist of saw palmetto and herbaceous /forb areas. The subcanopy of the remainder of the pine
flatwoods on the site is more overgrown with dense saw palmetto. Groundcover in the remainder
of the pine flatwoods is limited by the extent of saw palmetto.
Exotic vegetation is still present in very low densities in various loeat ei+ throughout the
southern portion of the property- inext�Eeeabe- (11=- 18- ZSo�,�- ��6 -'0-£ —
50 740%). The exotic vegetation p -re- rg owth is predominantly comprised of downy rose -
myrtle. Other exotic vegetation found in this community includes scattered ear leaf acacia
(Acacia auriculiformis), Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius), and rosary pea
(Abrusprecatorius). ,
are leeated along the seut",estem edge of the pr-apefty as well as at the sau4hearstefn extei:A a
the p -t `
FLUCFCS Code 421: Xeric Oak Scrub
At Railhead Scrub Preserve, the Xeric Oak Scrub ar-e-is intermediate between scrub and Scrubby
Flatwoods, as defined by FNAI & FDNR (1990). These two communities are closely related and
can be found in association along elevation gradients, with scrub occupying higher elevations.
At Railhead Scrub Preserve, the Xeric Oak Scrub does not develop into classic scrub as is found
on Florida's high sand ridges, such as the La
sands at Railhead Scrub Preserve, while
well drained, are very close to the water
table at the peak of the summer -wet
season. Because of this, South Florida
slash pine (Pinus elliottii var. densa) is
present at the preserve instead of sand pine
(Pinus clausa), and some Pine Flatwoods
species are present in the herb layer (e.g.
Lachnocaulon anceps). Some of the
higher elevations lack these Pine
Flatwoods species, and more closely
approach the composition of scrub flora,
except for the presence of sand pine. The
Xeric Oak Scrub at Railhead Scrub Preserve A general view of the existing conditions of the Xeric Oak Scrub
are typical of ecosystems that have been community in the Railhead Scrub Preserve - Photo by Conservation
classified as "scrub" in much of Collier Collier Staff
County.
This community is located in the northern, central, and southern portions of the property. The
vegetation in all of these areas is similar. The exotic and invasive vegetation in this community is
sparsely present wAin the uthef pei4ie of toe prepe -, (less than 4-85% coverage).
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° *,.,,, SffiiSs}0
line
aiid the
The
this
•
pea
lft� a 1W.90-r-WIMPr.
swa4e.
ep-y— and - ubcanepy
- of eemmunity
s
The
is
,
sparse and the
is
groundeover-
at
, eempfised
of r-agweed
i
,
grape
,
and whitevine
FLUCFCS Code 514E4514E2: Swale
This FLUCFCS category designates the swale that parallels the west side of the electrical
power transmission line at the western extent of the property. Occasional willow (Salix
caroliniana), saw palmetto, and wax myrtle are present in the canopy and subcanopy.
Groundcover is sparse due to the dense canopy of Brazilian pepper that was removed in 2009 by
FPL and where present ground cover consists of swamp fern (Blechnum serrulatum). Muscadine
grapevine is present in dense patches throughout this FLUCFCS category. Guinea grass
1Panicum maximum), natal crass (Rhvnchelytrwn repens). and castor bean (Ricinus communis)
continue to be a problem in this area. There are also small amounts of Brazilian pepper regrowth
and some air potato (Dioscorea bulbifera).
FLUCFCS Code 621E I, 621E2, 621E3: Cypress
This community is composed primarily of cypress, which is dominant in the canopy and is
present in both the north and south portions of the propert y with N, inn r *'
a
b . A cypress dome in the center of the northern
portion of the property was once heavily disturbed. Inspection of 1952 and 1962 aerials show
that the dome was historically about 0.9 acres. It was ringed with depression marsh and probably
a fringe of saw palmetto against Xeric Uplands. This dome was dominated by a dense canopy
and understory of melaleuca. The melaleuca invasion probably occurred as the result of drainage
and fire suppression. The melaleuca was cleared using a Brontosaurus clearing machine in
May /June 2007. Grazing, once common in such habitats in Collier County, may have also
occurred here. Many native goundcover species have recruited
back intoiirthis habitat since the mowing of the melalueca. Even peed eyp -ess (T.....,,a,, Hi
fire ities afe vei-y lewwith- enly =a - few lafga- ea-nepytrees. The dome is too small to
be attractive for logging operations and no evidence of past logging was observed.
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lft� a 1W.90-r-WIMPr.
MNVRTW� rKHRIFIVE MR
' -
FLUCFCS Code 621E I, 621E2, 621E3: Cypress
This community is composed primarily of cypress, which is dominant in the canopy and is
present in both the north and south portions of the propert y with N, inn r *'
a
b . A cypress dome in the center of the northern
portion of the property was once heavily disturbed. Inspection of 1952 and 1962 aerials show
that the dome was historically about 0.9 acres. It was ringed with depression marsh and probably
a fringe of saw palmetto against Xeric Uplands. This dome was dominated by a dense canopy
and understory of melaleuca. The melaleuca invasion probably occurred as the result of drainage
and fire suppression. The melaleuca was cleared using a Brontosaurus clearing machine in
May /June 2007. Grazing, once common in such habitats in Collier County, may have also
occurred here. Many native goundcover species have recruited
back intoiirthis habitat since the mowing of the melalueca. Even peed eyp -ess (T.....,,a,, Hi
fire ities afe vei-y lewwith- enly =a - few lafga- ea-nepytrees. The dome is too small to
be attractive for logging operations and no evidence of past logging was observed.
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In the southwestern portion of the property, melaleuea is present in the eanopy and dominant in
the subeffl epy. Ddahoon holly, willow, cabbage palm, and wax myrtle also occur in the
subcanopy. Ground cover species include swamp fern, shield fern (Thelypteris spp. ), blue flag
iris (Iris virginica), broom sedge, maidencane (Panicum hemitomon), chalky bluestem
(Andropogon capillipes), marsh fleabane (Pluchea rosea), wax myrtle, and downy rose - myrtle.
Exotic vegetation in this habitat is ~ ~ °s° ~+ in a^ 4rg degr -e°- 'being maintained at low levels and
includes melaleuca, Brazilian pepper, downy rose - myrtle, and old world climbing fern.
FLUCFCS Code 624,624E2: Cypress- Pine - Cabbage Palm 25 491i ,.xe
This community is comprised of a mix of cypress, pine, and cabbage palm in the canopy (in
which none of the species achieve dominance). Vegetation in the subcanopy and groundcover is
similar to that found in the cypress community. In the northern portion of the property, the
southeastern corner had dense stands of melaleuca which were treated in place in 2007.
FLUCFCS Code 625L22: Hydric Pine
These areas are located in the southeastern portion of the property and are dominated by a slash
pine canopy. EaAeaf aeaeia afid melaleuea are also present in the eaiiepy. The subcanopy is
predominantly comprised of -~°' myrsine -_and wax myrtle, a *d Wazili ~ peppef are a4se
pr-es nt in the subeanep . Groundcover species include wiregrass, yellow -eyed grass, broom
sedge, swamp fern, melaleuca — seed-1-111g1umbrella grass (Fuirena scirpoidea), pineland
heliotrope (Heliotropium polyphyllum), torpedo grass (Panicum repens), big carpet grass
(Axonopus furcatus), semaphore thoroughwort (Eupatorium mikanioides), marsh thoroughwort
(Eupatorium leptophyllum), finger grass (Eustachys glauca), smooth buttonweed (Spermacoce
assurgens), lacy bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum), beakrush (Rhynchospora microcarpa),
florida tickseed (Coreopsis floridana), bog- buttons (Lachnocaulon spp. ), panic grass (Panicum
dichotomiflorum Michx.), and blue maidencane (Amphicarpum muhlenbergianum).
FLUCFCS Code 643: Wet Prairie
Large depression marshes formerly occurred at the northwest
portion of the property, as well as surrounding the cypress °
dome. Thick melaleuca that once dominated the marsh in the
northwest corner and the marsh surroundin g Yl� the cypress dome
was cleared using a Brontosaurus clearing machine in
May /June 2007. Several, mostly very small ( <0.1 acre)
depression marshes are the only ones with native plant species,
including marsh fern (Blechnum serrulatum), bloodroot
(Lachnanthes caroliana), giant whitetop (Rhynchospora
latifolia), and Virginia chain fern (Woodwardia virginica). Views of the pond area during dry and wet
The 1952 aerial photography of the property shows that the seasons showing the effect that ORV have had
depression marsh in the center of the property, was connected over vegetation. Photos by A. Vega and K. Bradley
hydrologically to the west, probably only during peak
summer water levels, to a large marsh which ended at the southwest corner of the site. 74YtYThe
marsh along the south edge of the northern portion that was used for many years by off road
vehicle riders and was almost completely devoid of vegetation, f • frog. ^ small pond
when water- levels afe hi . In 2011, funds from the USFWS Partners' for Fish and Wildlife
Program were used to plant the marsh with native vegetation.
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In the southern portion of the property, this vegetative community includes two isolated wet
prairie areas located in the southwestern pei4ion -- section of the site. They lack a canopy or
subcanopy. Groundcover is comprised of broom sedge, blue maidencane, and yellow -eyed grass.
FLUCFCS Code 721: Bare Sand
This area is located at the center of the property and boarders the proposed future road (Veterans
Memorial Boulevard ). It is at a higher elevation than the rest of the site and is comprised of
unvegetated sand dunes. Inspection of 1953 aerials indicates that this area was once vegetated.
Vegetative cover most likely resembled Xeric Oak Scrub. When the southern fence was
installed in 2010. the northern fenceline was located south of the property line so that trespassers
could still access the area east of Railhead without cutting the fence. In 2014 the northern
boundary of the southern fence was moved north to the property line in an attempt to assist the
Collier Countv Sheriffs Office with trespass. The bare sand is now enclosed within a fence
The area will be monitored for native recruitment.
FLUCFCS Code 742: Borrow Pit 0.06
This feature is located in a depressional area at the northeastern extent of the property. It
is at a much lower elevation than the surrounding sand dune areas and holds water during the wet
season. It is unvegetated.
FLUCFCS Code 832: Electrical Power Transmission Line
This land use is along the western edge of the property. It has been cleared of canopy
and subcanopy vegetation to accommodate an electrical power transmission line. Groundcover
vegetation includes bahia grass (Paspalum notatum), torpedo grass, natal rgrass, Caesar weed,
beggar -ticks (Bidens alba), and creeping oxeye (Wedelia trilobata). Vines include love vine
(Cassytha filiformis) and morning glory (Qpomoea indica).
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Railhead Scrub Preserve 1953 aerial
Source: Parcels -Collier County Property Appraiser
1953 aerial - USDA via University of Florida h
G :Conservation Collier /maps /acquired properties/Railhead Scrub/ ��
s and management/Revised Management Plan /1953.mxd t��F 0 250 500 Feet
911109
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Railhead Scrub Preserve 1962 aerial
Source: Parcels - Collier County Property Appraiser
1962 aerial - USDA via University of Florida N
G.Conservation Collier/maps /acquired properties /Railhead Scrub! ,yA,
land management/Revised Management PlanH962.mxd wdw E 0 320 640 Feet
9/1/09 VVV9
s
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Railhead Scrub Preserve 1995 aerial
Source: Parcels & 1995 aerial- Collier County Property Appraiser
G:Conservation Collier /maps /acquired properties/Railhead Scrub/
land management/Revised Management Plan /1995.mxd ws 0 300 600 Feet
9/1/09
s
Figure 5: Historical Aerial Photographs
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Railhead Scrub Preserve Land Cover
Source: Parcels & 2015 aerial- Collier County Property Appraiser
G:Conservation Collier /maps /acquired properties /Railhead Scrub/ w ': 0 500 1,000 Feet
land management/Revised Management PlanlFLUCFCS.mxd
7/17115 s car Y
Figure 6: Railhead Scrub Preserve Land Cover
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2.4 Native Plant and Animal Species
The approximate 135 -acre Railhead Scrub Preserve with its —a large area of Xeric Uplands
dominated by xeric oaks and saw - palmetto that, along with pine flatwoods communities, wetland
communities dominated by mela4ette , wetland a � cleared of melaleuca, seasonal ponds, and
small areas of herbaceous wetland, provides habitat for resident and migratory species of animals
that typically use such plant communities.
Four hundred nine (409) plant species have been recorded at Railhead Scrub Preserve (Appendix
2). Data has been collected by Bradley in 2006 (one spring and one summer visit) and 2007 and
by Jim Burch in 1990, 1991, and 1994. Of these 409 species, 328 (80.2 %) are native to the site
and 81 are exotic (19.8 %). None are southern Florida endemics.
Due to the dearth of specific surveys for the occurrence of animal species (in contrast to plants)
and the lack of on -site staffing, little is recorded for actual occurrences of animals at the
preserve. Occurrences of fauna at the preserve are based on direct visual and aural observations
by Collier County staff during routine site visits since 2004 and by URS personnel during site
visits on May 11 — 12 and September 15 — 16, 2006 of animals or evidence of activity such as
spoor, scat, or burrows, and from the site information available in documents such as:
• the site's initial criteria screening report;
• the property interim management plan;
• the Environmental Resource Permit (ERP) application;
• gopher tortoise surveys conducted at the site in January 2005 and February/March 2008
• bird observations by Collier County Environmental Services Department staff; and
• anecdotal information from persons with knowledge of the site.
Mammal species known to occur or individuals and/or evidence of activity directly observed
within the preserve include the Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana), eastern mole (Scalopus
aquaticus), nine -banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus), raccoon (Procyon lotor), feral
domestic dog (Canis familiaris), gray fox ( Urocyon cinereoargenteus), white - tailed deer
(Odocoileus virginianus), eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus), marsh rabbit (Sylvilagus
palustris), eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), and hispid cotton rat (Sigmodon hispidus).
Tracks of an unidentified canid were observed on the sand trails present throughout the preserve.
The size and orientation of the tracks and characteristics of nearby scat are consistent with that of
the coyote (Canis latrans) indicating that this canid may be present at the preserve. In
September 2006, an excavation that appeared to be an enlargement of an existing gopher tortoise
burrow was observed in the Scrubby Flatwoods community in the northern portion of the
Railhead Scrub Preserve. In 2009, a similar excavation was observed within the eastern
Mediterra fence berm. These excavations appeared to be large enough to accommodate an
animal the size of a coyote and may have been enlarged to be utilized as a coyote den site, or
may have been an attempt by some person(s) to dig out the gopher tortoise. Neighbors have also
reported coyote sightings at the preserve.
Bird species observed perching, foraging, or exhibiting nesting behavior at the preserve include
the northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos), brown thrasher (Toxostoma rufum), eastern
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towhee (Pipilo erythrophthalmus), northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), , boat - tailed
grackle (Quiscalus major), blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata), pine warbler (Dendroica pinus), blue -
gray gnatcatcher (Polioptila caerulea), great crested flycatcher (Myiarchus crinitus) red - bellied
woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus), common nighthawk (Chordeiles minor), mourning dove
(Zenaida macroura), common ground dove (Columbina passerina), eastern bluebird (Sialia
sialis), wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo), belted kingfisher (Ceryle alcyon), Cooper's hawk
(Accipiter cooperii), red - shouldered hawk (Buteo lineatus), and great egret (Ardea alba). In
addition, several bird species were observed flying over the preserve but were not observed
utilizing the habitats within the preserve, including red - winged blackbirds (Agelaius phoeniceus),
fulvous whistling -ducks (Dendrocygna bicolor), mottled ducks (Arras fulvigula), great blue
herons (Ardea herodias), tricolor herons (Egretta tricolor), and white ibis (Eudocimus albus).
Bird observations by staff from the Collier County Environmental Services Department were
conducted in 2004 and 2006. The lists for each campaign are included in Appendix 3 with 36
species documented in 2004 and 42 species in 2006. As many as 19 species are probable
breeders at the Railhead Scrub Preserve site.
The Florida Breeding Bird Atlas lists 44 bird species that have been recorded as confirmed,
probable, or possible breeding in the vicinity of the site (in the Bonita Springs USGS quadrangle)
that may be present at The Railhead Scrub Preserve (Table 4). The Breeding Bird Atlas
documents breeding distributions of all bird species in Florida between 1986 and 1991. Some of
these species may breed at the Railhead Scrub Preserve.
Table
CommonName
Least bittern
•d in the
of the Railhead
Ixobrychus exilic
Bonita Springs Quadrangle in the Vicinity
Scrub Preserve
on
Great Crested Flycatcher Myiarchus crinitus
Green Heron
Butorides virescens
Gray Kingbird
Tyrannus dominicensis
Muscovy Duck
Cairina moschata
White -eyed Vireo
V17•eo griseus
Osprey
Pandion haliaetus
Black- whiskered Vireo
Vireo altiloquus
Bald Eagle
Haliaeetus leucocephalus
Blue Jay
Cyanocitta cristata
Cooper's Hawk
Accipiter cooperii
Florida Scrub -Jay
Aphelocoma coerulescens
Northern Bobwhite
Colinus virginianus
Fish Crow
Corvus ossifragus
Common Moorhen
Gallinula chloropus
Purple Martin
Progne subis
Limpkin
Aramus guarauna
Tufted Titmouse
Baeolophis bicolor
Killdeer
Charadrius vociferus
Carolina Wren
Thryothorus ludovicianus
Least Tern
Sternula antillarum
Blue -gray Gnatcatcher
Polioptilia caerulea
Rock Pigeon (Rock Dove)
Columba livia
Northern Mockingbird
Mimus polyglottos
Mourning Dove
Zenaida macroura
Brown Thrasher
Toxostoma rufum
Common Ground -Dove
Columbina passerina
European Starling
Sturnus vulgaris
Eastern Screech -Owl
Megascops asio
Common Yellowthroat
Geothlypis trichas
Barred Owl
Strix varia
Eastern Towhee
Pipilo eythrophthalmus
Common Nighthawk
Chordeiles minor
Northern Cardinal
Cardinalis cardinalis
Chuck - will's -widow
Caprimulgus carolinensis
Red - winged Blackbird
Agelaius phoeniceus
Red - bellied Woodpecker
MelanePes carolinus
Eastern Meadowlark
Sturnella magna
Downy Woodpecker
Picoides pubescens
Common Grackle
Quiscalus quiscula
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Northern Flicker
Colaptes auratus
Boat - tailed Grackle
Quiscalus major
Pileated Woodpecker
Dryocopus pileatus
House Sparrow
Passer domesticus
Source: Florida Breeding Bird Atlas, www.wildflorida.org/bba
Reptile and amphibian species observed at the preserve include the gopher tortoise (Gopherus
polyphemus), brown anole (Anolis sagrei), six -lined racerunner (Cnemidophorus sexlineatus),
southern black racer (Coluber constrictor priapus), coachwhip (Masticophis flagellum), green
treefrog (Hyla cinerea), chorus frog (Pseudacris nigrita), oak toad (Anaxyrus quercicus) and box
turtle (Terrapene Carolina).
Invertebrates observed during the May 2006 site visit include two butterfly species: the Gulf
fritillary (Agraulis vanillae) and white peacock (Anartia jatrophae). An additional two butterfly
species were identified at the preserve in September 2006: the cloudless sulphur (Phoebis
sennae) and the soldier (Danaus eresimus). Florida harvester ants (Pogonomyrmex badius) were
common in the Scrubby Flatwoods habitat at the preserve. Cicadas (Cicadidae) were prevalent
in the Scrubby Flatwoods habitats at the preserve. Tiger Beetles - (Cicindela trifasciata) Ant lion
(Myrmeleontidae) funnels and evidence of mole crickets (Scapteriscus spp.) in the form
meandering raised ridges in the sand were prevalent in Scrubby Flatwoods habitat. Arachnids
observed include the black -and- yellow garden spider (Argiope aurantia) and an unidentified crab
spider (Thomisidae).
Other wildlife species that have not been recorded undoubtedly occur at the Railhead Scrub
Preserve. During the migration periods, transient bird species would be expected to utilize this
area for short periods of time. The developed character of the adjacent areas may inhibit
transient use by many mammal, reptile, and amphibian species limiting the utilization of the
preserve to resident individuals or inhibit the dispersal of many species to and from the preserve.
2.5 Listed Species
Official listings of rare and endangered species are produced at the
federal level by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National
Marine Fisheries Service, and at the state level by the Florida Fish
and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Florida Department
of Agriculture and Consumer Services. FNAI produces a list of
rare and endangered species, and maintains a database of
occurrences of these species in Florida. The Institute for Regional
Conservation (IRC) also ranks native plant species by conservation
status in the 10- county area of South Florida.
2.5.1 Listed Plant Species
There are 10 plant species at Railhead Scrub Preserve that are listed
by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
(FDACS), five (5) as Endangered, four (4) as Threatened, and one
(1) as Commercially Exploited. The Florida Natural Areas
Inventory (FNAI) lists five (5) species as Imperiled to Critically
Imperiled in Florida. The Institute for Regional Conservation
(IRC) lists four (4) species as Critically Imperiled in South Florida
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Ophioglossum nudicaule, a rare fern
observed during fieldwork for this plan at
the Railhead Scrub Preserve. Photo by
Keith Bradley
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(Gann et al., 2002). There are no species listed as Endangered or Threatened by the U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service. In total there are thirteen (13) plants at Railhead Scrub Preserve that are
listed by at least one of these groups (Table 5).
One other listed plant that was reported for Railhead Scrub Preserve in the 2004 Interim
Management Plan is fuzzy wuzzy airplant (Tillandsia pruinosa). The photo taken of this plant is
a related, but common species, potbelly airplant (Tillandsia paucifolia). Fuzzy wuzzy airplant
has not been confirmed to occur on the site, and is unlikely to be found there because it's
preferred habitat, strand swamp, does not exist on the property. Wild coco (Eulophia alta) was
also reported as a listed species in the 2004 Interim Management Plan. This species is present on
the site but is not listed as rare by any agency or organization — it is widespread and frequent in
peninsular Florida. Jim Burch reported two additional species of rare plants, Polygala polygama,
and Digitaria filiformis var. dolichophylla, which were not confirmed by the URS Team during
the site visits.
Many of the listed plant species are actually not particularly rare in Florida or in Collier County.
The four Tillandsia species on the site, for example, are listed mainly because of the threat of
infestation from an introduced weevil, the Mexican bromeliad weevil (Metamasius callizona).
They are still quite common to abundant in most of South Florida. Each of the thirteen listed
plant species is briefly described below.
Table 5: Listed Plant Species
Scientific Name
at Railhead Scrub Preserve
Common Names
Curtiss' milkweed
IRC
State
E
FNAI
S3
Asclepias curtissii
Chamaesyce cumulicola
Sand -dune spurge; Coastal dune sandmat
E
S2
Encyclia tampensis
Florida butterfly orchid
C
Lechea cernua
Nodding pinweed
T
S3
Lilium catesbaei
Cateby's lily
T
Lipocarpha maculata
American halfchaff sedge
SF1
Ophioglossurn nudicaule
Slender adder's tongue
SF1
Scleria ciliata var. curtissii
Curtiss' nutrush
SF1
Stylisma abdita
Showy dawnflower
SF1
E
S2S3
Tillandsia balbisiana
Reflexed wild -pine,
Northern needleleaf
T
Tillandsia fasciculata var.
densis ica
Stiff - leaved wild -pine, Cardinal airplant
E
Tillandsia flexuosa
Banded wild -pine, Twisted airplant
T
S3
Tillandsia utriculata
Giant wild -pine, Giant airplant
E
E: Endangered, T: Threatened, C: Commercially Exploited, SF1: Critically Imperiled,
S2: Critically Imperiled, S3: Imperiled
Curtiss' Milkweed (Asclepias curtissii)
This herb is endemic to peninsular Florida where it has been reported from 21 counties
(Wunderlin and Hansen, 2006). It is apparently extremely rare in Collier County where it has
only been reported from two preserves - Railhead Scrub Preserve and Rookery Bay National
Estuarine Research Reserve (IRC, 2006). Jim Burch recorded this species at this site in Xeric
Uplands in the early 1990s. It was recorded very rarely in Xeric Uplands on the site by Bradley.
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Sand -dune spurge (Chamaesyce cumulicola)
This herb is endemic to Florida where it has been reported from 12 counties (Wunderlin and
Hansen, 2006). In Collier County it has only been recorded from two preserves, Railhead Scrub
Preserve and Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (IRC, 2006). It has also been
recorded in the past from Marco Island and Horr Island, but may no longer exist in those places
due to habitat destruction. In southwest Florida it has also been recorded from Cayo Costa State
Park in Lee County. Jim Burch recorded this species at Railhead in Xeric Uplands in the early
1990s. Bradley observed a small population in disturbed sand just inside the gate opposite Sun
Century Road.
Florida butterfly orchid (Encyclia tampensis)
This epiphytic orchid is common throughout peninsular Florida. It is endemic to Florida where it
has been recorded in 32 counties. It has been found at most preserves in Collier and Lee
counties. It is listed as Commercially Exploited by the State of Florida because poachers
frequently collect it for its showy flowers. At Railhead Scrub Preserve, it occurs in both Xeric
Uplands and in the cypress dome. In Xeric Uplands, sparse populations exist on some larger
scrub oaks, especially sand live oak. In the cypress dome it was found to be rare on melaleuca
(Melaleuca quinquenervia). A survey of all the melaleuca prior to the clearing located six
butterfly orchids. The melaleuca limbs on which these orchids were rooted were cut and affixed
to a cypress tree that was flagged with pink tape.
Nodding pinweed (Lechea cernua)
This subshrub is endemic to peninsular Florida. It has been recorded in 18 counties (Wunderlin
and Hansen, 2006), where it has declined due to development of scrub and Xeric Uplands other
than Railhead Scrub Preserve. It has been recorded from a number of sites in Collier County, but
only two preserves, Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve and Delnor- Wiggins
State Park (IRC, 2006). While it was formerly known from Lee County, no populations are now
known to exist there in preserves (it may still persist for now on private lands). This species is
common in Xeric Uplands at Railhead Scrub Preserve.
Catesby's Lily (Lilium catesbaei)
This herb is endemic to the U.S. southeastern coastal plain and is found nearly throughout
Florida (Wunderlin and Hansen, 2006). It has been recorded in 50 counties (Wunderlin and
Hansen, 2006). In Collier County it has only been found at Railhead Scrub Preserve, Big
Cypress National Preserve, Collier Seminole State Park, Florida Panther National Wildlife
Refuge, and Picayune Strand State Forest. It was found at the preserve by Alexandra Sulecki in
October 2006 in Mesic Flatwoods.
American halfchaff sedge (Lipocarpha maculata)
This small sedge is widespread in the eastern United States but is Critically Imperiled in South
Florida (Gann et al., 2002). It has been recorded in 41 counties nearly throughout Florida, but
only in 3 counties in South Florida — Collier, Lee, and Hendry. At Railhead Scrub Preserve,
Bradley observed it in disturbed ground on the edge of a trail in 2006.
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Slender adder's tongue (Ophioglossum nudicaule)
..., This small terrestrial fern is known from the southeastern United States to South America and
the old world. It is Critically Imperiled in southern Florida (Gann et al., 2002). It has been
recorded from 23 counties nearly throughout in Florida ( Wunderlin & Hansen, 2006). Prior to
the discovery at Railhead Scrub Preserve by Bradley in 2006, it was previously extant in South
Florida only at one site in Palm Beach County (Gann et al., 2002). It has never before been seen
in Collier County. At Railhead Scrub Preserve it was found along the edges of a sandy trail next
to disturbed flatwoods.
Curtiss' nutrush (Scleria ciliata var. curtissii)
This sedge is known from Florida, Georgia, and Cuba. In Florida, it has been found in only four
counties, three of them in South Florida (Gann et al., 2002) and is considered Critically
Imperiled. In Collier County it was formerly reported only from Marco Island where it was
collected in 1966 and 1968. It was observed at Railhead Scrub Preserve in Mesic Flatwoods in
the center of the site by Bradley in 2006.
Showy dawnflower (Stylisma abdita)
This tiny herb is endemic to peninsular Florida. It has been recorded in 10 counties ( Wunderlin
& Hansen, 2006). It has been recorded in a number of scrub fragments in Collier and Lee
counties in the past, but may only remain at a few in Collier because of development. All
populations in Lee County have probably been destroyed. It is known to be present in two
preserves in Southwest Florida, Railhead Scrub Preserve and Rookery Bay National Estuarine
Research Reserve. It is otherwise absent from South Florida, with the closest populations in
Highlands County (Gann et al., 2002, Wunderlin & Hansen, 2006). This herb is rare in Xeric
Uplands at Railhead Scrub Preserve. It is known to be present in both the northern and southern
portions of the site. Railhead Scrub Preserve is extremely important to the long -term existence
of this species in South Florida.
Tillandsia spp.
Four species of wild pines have been found at Railhead Scrub Preserve, T. balbisiana, T.
fasciculata var. densispica, T. flexuosa, and T. utriculata. All of these species except T. flexuosa
are abundant throughout southern Florida. T. flexuosa is less common, but still frequent,
especially in coastal habitats. They are threatened by the introduced Mexican bromeliad weevil.
T. flexuosa was recorded at Railhead Scrub Preserve by Jim Burch in the early 1990s, but has not
been found by Bradley. The other three species, frequent at Railhead, often form dense colonies
in larger sand live oaks in Xeric Uplands. Both T. balbisiana and T. fasciculata var. densispica
were also found to be rare in cypress dome.
Additional rare plant species may be found at Railhead Scrub Preserve following further field
surveys. Confirmation of rare plant identifications should be made by a qualified botanist.
2.5.2 Listed Animal Species
The Florida Natural Areas Inventory (FNAI) maintains a database of occurrences of rare,
threatened, and endangered species in Florida. Within the Railhead Scrub Preserve, FNAI has
documented the occurrence of the gopher tortoise (Appendix 4, FNAI Managed Area Tracking
Record and Element Occurrence Summary). In addition, the FNAI database report indicated two
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other listed species that have the potential to occur at the preserve based on the known or
predicted range of the species. They are the eastern indigo snake (Drymarchon couperi) and the
gopher frog (Rana capito). The xeric upland communities at the site provide habitat for all three
species. A brief description of these species and their status is included in the following
paragraphs.
Gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus)
This medium -sized native land turtle is listed by the
State as a Threatened. Gopher tortoises are typically
found in dry upland habitats including scrub, xeric oak
hammock, sandhills, and dry pine flatwoods. Burrows
are excavated for protection from weather, fire, and
predators; they also provide refugia for more than 300
other species of animals that have been recorded in
them. More than half of the Railhead Scrub Preserve,
primarily the Xeric Uplands community, provides
habitat for the gopher tortoise.
Gopher Tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus)
Photo by Kirsten Wilkie
A gopher tortoise burrow survey was conducted within the northern portion of the preserve
(Johnson Engineering, 2005) in November and December 2005, and within the southern portion
of the preserve in February and March 2008. According to the reports, the northern portion of
the preserve had a total of 85 active, 139 inactive, and 43 abandoned gopher tortoise burrows.
The southern portion of the preserve had a total of 89 active, 40 inactive, and 27 abandoned
gopher tortoise burrows. Calculations based on the number of active and inactive burrows
identified and the acreage of the preserve indicated that 172 gopher tortoises occupied the
property at a density of approximately 2.5 tortoises per acre in the northern portion of the
preserve. Calculations based on the number of active and inactive burrows identified and the
acreage of the preserve indicated that 165 gopher tortoises occupied the property at a density of
approximately 2.17 tortoises per acre in the southern portion of the preserve. The density of
gopher tortoises within an off -site recipient area can be no greater than two times the number of
acres of suitable tortoise habitat, or two tortoises per acre, according to FWC. The Railhead
Scrub Preserve tortoise population currently exceeds the carrying capacity for off -site recipient
areas. Current threats to the tortoise population include the illegal ORV activity that has taken
place at the site during the recent past and potential poaching for pets or consumption.
Eastern indigo snake (Drymarchon coupert)
This large, Federally and State- listed Threatened
snake inhabits a broad range of habitats but requires
very large tracts of appropriate natural habitat
unfragmented by roads to support viable populations.
Although it was not directly observed on the
preserve, it may occur at the site based on its range
and habitat preferences (i.e., the close association
with gopher tortoise burrows). If this species occurs
in the preserve, it is not likely that it can maintain a
viable population due to the relatively small area of
From: Florida Cooperative Extension Service,
Conservation Collier Program 27 Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences,
University of Florida. http: / /edis.ifas.ufl.edufUW063
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natural habitat available within an area surrounded by development that is relatively isolated
from other natural habitats. According to USFWS Multi- Species Recovery Plan for South
Florida, contiguous tracks of land in order of 10,000 acres or greater are required for the
maintenance of a viable indigo snake population.
Gopher frog (Rana capito)
This amphibian is listed by the State as a Species of Special Concern. The gopher frog is a
chunky medium- sized, boldly spotted frog that normally inhabits gopher tortoise burrows in dry
sandy uplands that are within one mile of ephemeral or seasonal ponds and wetlands. Although
the frog was not directly observed, its presence is possible given its association with gopher
tortoise burrows.
Gopher frogs migrate to ponds during the breeding season (summer in southern Florida). A
seasonal pond located in the southern portion of the site may provide breeding habitat if this frog
occurs at the preserve. Maintaining the gopher tortoise population and enhancing the ephemeral
wetland will benefit gopher frogs at the Railhead Scrub Preserve.
2.6 Invasive Non - native and Problem Species
Several invasive, non - indigenous species are known to occur within Railhead Scrub Preserve. A
list of plant species is available from the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council (FLEPPC). Although
Florida does not have an official invasive non - indigenous animal species list, at least 400 exotic
fish and wildlife animal species have been reported in Florida, and approximately 125 species
are established.
2.6.1 Invasive and Problem Plant Species
A total of 81 introduced plant species have been found at Railhead Scrub Preserve, 19.8% of the
existing flora. Of these, 223-24 are considered Category L• Invasive, and €ouf 4 are considered
Category II: Potentially Invasive by the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council (FLEPPC) (see Table
6).
Table
Scientific Name
Abrus recatorius
.d Scrub Preserve
Common
rosary-pea, crab -eyes
FLEPPC
11'
I
Acacia auriculiformis
earleaf acacia
I
Albizia lebbeck
woman's tongue
I
Ardisia elliptica
shoebutton ardesia
I
Bauhinia varie ata
mountain ebony, orchidtree
I
Bischofia javanica
bisho wood
I
Casuarina equisetifolia
Australian pine
I
Cu anio sis anacardioides
carrotwood
I
Dioscorea alata
white yam
I
Dioscorea bulbi era
air potato
I
Ficus microcarpa
laurel fig, Indian laurel
I
Hymenachne amplexicaulis
west Indian marsh grass
I
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Lantana camara
Shrubverbena
I
Leucaena leucoce hala
white leadtree
II
Ly odium micro hyllum
old world climbing fern
I
Melaleuca quinquenervia
Melaleuca
I
Momordica charantia
balsam apple
'III
Ne hrole is multi flora
Asian sword fern
I
Panicum maximum
Guinea grass
II
Panicum re ens
torpedo grass
I
Psidium cattleianum
strawberry guava
I
Pteris vittata
China brake
II
Rhodomyrtus tomentosa
downy myrtle, rose -myrtle
I
Rhynchel trum re ens
rose natal grass
I
Ricinus communis
Castor -bean
II
Sansevieria h acinthoides
bowstring-hemp, mother -in -laws tongue
II
Schinus terebinthi olius
Brazilian-pepper
I
Sche era actino h lla
Australian umbrellatree
I
Solanum viarum
tropical soda-apple
I
Urena lobata
Caesarweed
I�
Wedelia trilobata
I creeping oxeye
II
The most problematic invasive plant species at Railhead Scrub Preserve are rose natalgrass,
Guineagrassmelale e , Brazilian pepper-, torpedo grass, A , and old -world climbing
fern. The nerth °r^ ^r^^+ portion of *'' °entire preserve is currently in a maintenance state, while
eabbage palm
Border. D&A%y rose rayrtle is begimaing to invade Pine Flatm,oeds areas in the .
Torpedo grass is invading wetlands throughout the site, and old world climbing fern has -gam
acontinues to re- sprout tep ratteh of the habita within the southwestern section of the property,
just south of the existing right of way, where it used to be growing high up into the canopy.
Rose natalarass and Guineagrass are invading within and along the edges of the firebreaks -
particularly in the southeastern and southwestern portions. Most of the other species in Table 6
are either restricted to property edges and disturbed areas, not yet problematic in natural areas on
the site, or occur at low densities.
Under certain conditions, especially following soil disturbance or drainage, some native plant
species can become invasive. There are no native plants species at Railhead Scrub Preserve that
are currently a management problem on the site. Management actions may cause some species
to become problematic.
2.6.2 Invasive and Problem Animal Species
An obvious problem with invasive and problem animal species was not observed at the Railhead
Scrub Preserve. However, several species have the potential to impact the Railhead Scrub
Preserve to varying degrees.
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Feral domestic cat (Felis catus)
Domestic cats originated from an ancestral wild species, the European and African wildcat (Felis
silvestris). Humans facilitated the global distribution of cats due to their highly efficient
predatory skills. Egyptians took cats with them on shipping vessels to keep rodent populations
down, and they likely introduced domestic cats to Europe. Today, the impact of feral cats on
wildlife is difficult to quantify; however, literature (FFWCC 2001; Karim 2007; Masterson
2007) strongly indicates that they are a significant factor in the mortality of small mammals,
birds (including migratory birds), reptiles, and amphibians in Florida. Because free - ranging cats
often receive food from humans, they may reach abnormally high numbers. An increase in the
population of feral cats may lead to increased predation rates on native wildlife. When the
wildlife prey is a threatened or endangered species, the result may be extirpation or extinction.
Regular monitoring should include the presence of feral cat colonies near the Railhead Scrub
Preserve and their impacts to native fauna.
Feral dogs (Canis familiaris)
As with feral cats, feral dogs may impact native wildlife at the preserve through increased
predation, possibly resulting in extirpation or extinction of native species.
Red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta)
The red imported fire ant (RIFA) was introduced into the U.S. from Brazil into either Mobile,
Alabama or Pensacola, Florida between 1933 and 1945 (Collins and Scheffrahn, 2001). RIFA
have been documented to cause harm to humans and wildlife as well as economic harm (Stimac
and Alves, 1994; Collins and Scheffrahn, 2001; Willcox and Giuliano, 2006). RIFA are
omnivorous, but they tend to prefer insects as their primary food source (Willcox and Guiliano,
2006). S. invicta have a number of impacts on wildlife. They have eliminated many areas of
native ant populations through competition and predation and have eliminated food sources
utilized by some wildlife species. Ground- nesting wildlife is especially susceptible to RIFA.
Within the Railhead Scrub Preserve, S. invicta have the potential to affect ground- nesting birds;
small mammals; reptiles such as gopher tortoise and native lizard and snake species; and native
invertebrates (Willcox and Giuliano, 2006).
Coyotes (Canis latrans)
Although coyotes are not an exotic species, they are not indigenous to Florida, having moved
eastward from their original range in the western United States as a result of anthropogenic
changes to the countryside favoring their habitat requirements. Evidence of the presence of
coyotes has been observed at the preserve in the form of tracks and scat, and recently, an
excavation that appears to have been a former gopher tortoise burrow enlarged for use by
coyotes was observed in the northern portion of the site. Coyotes commonly enlarge burrows
made by other animals such as armadillos or gopher tortoises to use as dens. Coyotes may have
a negative influence on indigenous wildlife as direct predators or as potential competitors for
other predators that may occur at the preserve such as foxes or bobcats; however, this species
may prove beneficial in controlling potential problem species such as feral cats and raccoons.
Feral pig (Sus scrofa):
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Hogs were first brought to Florida in the mid 1500's to provision settlements of early explorers.
Their high rate of reproduction and their ability to adapt to Florida's natural areas has led them to
populate every county in the state. Today, Florida is second only to Texas in its feral hog
population (Giuliano & Tanner 2005a; 2005b). While feral pigs are able to survive in a variety
of habitats, they prefer large forested areas interspersed with marshes, hammocks, ponds, and
drainages; cover in the form of dense brush; and limited human disturbance (Giuliano & Tanner
2005b). Dense cover is used as bedding areas and provides protection from predators and
hunters. Feral pigs are omnivorous, opportunistic feeders consuming grasses, forbs, and woody
plant stems, roots, tubers, leaves, seeds, fruits, fungi, and a variety of animals including worms,
insects, crustaceans, mollusks, fish, small birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and carrion.
Their propensity for digging for foods below the surface of the ground (rooting) destabilizes the
soil surface, resulting in erosion and exotic plant establishment. Additionally, this behavior
uproots or weakens native vegetation (Giuliano & Tanner 2005a; 2005b). If feral hogs are
present on the property then a feral hog management program will be developed.
Other potential problem species
Certain indigenous animals such as raccoons and pine bark beetles (Dendroctonus frontalis, Ips
spp.) may exhibit nuisance tendencies as a result of anthropogenic or natural disturbances of the
ecosystem. Lack of predators and a prevalence of artificial food sources in adjacent areas may
result in an unnatural increase in raccoon populations that may impact certain small vertebrate
species and/or create a nuisance to adjacent residential areas. Alterations of the existing
community structure by disturbances may facilitate severe outbreaks by native species such as
the pine bark beetle. Both pine bark beetles and turpentine beetles have invaded mature pine
trees within the northwest section of the preserve. Several trees are standing dead within this
area of the northern preserve. Staff will monitor all pine trees in this area and coordinate with
IFAS and Department of Forestry to employ the most beneficial management practices (which
may include removal) to reduce the effects of the beetles to the remaining pine population.
The lobate lac scale (Paratachardina lobata lobata), a scale insect native to India and Sri
Lanka, was observed in the northeastern portion of the site. The lobate lac scale infests the
woody portions of twigs and small branches and less frequently main stems less than one inch in
diameter. Fire will help to reduce infestations and chemical treatment can protect landscape and
agricultural plants. Biological control would be the most likely management approach for
natural areas, but biological control agents for this exotic insect are not available at this time.
The lobate lac scale was first documented in Florida (Broward County) in 1999 and has since
become widely spread in southern Florida.
A colony of honeybees (Apis mellifera) was observed within a cavity in a pond cypress located
in a wetland in the north - central portion of the preserve. The presence of this colony may
represent a hazard to visitors, particularly if the bees are Africanized.
2.7 Archaeological, Historical and Cultural Resources
According to studies done for the County by Coastal Engineering Consultants, published April
2000, there are no known archaeological "finds" on this site. The property is not within an area
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of historical and archaeological probability, and no historical or archaeological sites appear to be
present in the property.
The County will notify the Division of Historical Resources immediately if evidence is found to
suggest any archaeological or historic resources are present at the Railhead Scrub Preserve. If
any artifacts are observed on -site, staff shall cordon off the area, and a professional survey and
assessment shall be instituted. The archaeologist shall prepare a report outlining results of the
assessments and issue recommendations to County staff about management of any sites
discovered, per provisions of the Land Development Code Section 2.2.25. This report shall be
sent to the Division of Historical Resources. The County shall cooperate fully with direction
from the Division of Historical Resources on the protection and management of archaeological
and historical resources. The management of these resources will comply with the provisions of
Chapter 267, Florida Statutes, specifically Sections 267.0612 (a) and (b).
The collection of artifacts or the disturbance of archaeological and historic sites within the
Railhead Scrub Preserve is prohibited unless prior authorization has been obtained from the
Collier County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of State, Division of
Historical Resources.
2.8 Scenic Resources
There are many scenic opportunities in the preserve, including views of scrub and wetland
communities which will be enhanced through time and appropriate management. The population
of animal life may increase with time and add to the overall scenic character.
3.0 Use of the Property
3.1 Previous and Current Use
Aerial photography taken 1940, 1952, 1962, 1975, 1985, 1989, 1993, 1996, and 1997 and recent
physical visits to the site show that there has never been any development of the site. The
photographs are available in the public records and available at the Collier County Property
Appraisers Office.
Currently, there is no sanctioned -
public use of the site. The only "..�
paved roadway accessing the site
is Sun Century Road, a privately
owned roadway. Even if it were
public, vehicular access could not
legally be accomplished, as the �
railroad parcel presents a
significant barrier. To allow the
public to cross the railroad parcel
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in vehicles would mean bringing any crossing up to federal railroad crossing standards, including
grade elevation changes and installation of a railroad crossing signal. While not legally
sanctioned, this entry is a major access point for ORVs and dumping. Signage clearly describes
the site as off limits to trespassers, however, the use by vehicular traffic and the dumping of
refuse continues. Pedestrian/bicycle railroad crossings do not require the same standards as
vehicular crossings. Conservation Collier staff has investigated the possibility of allowing
pedestrian/bicycle access to the preserve prior to vehicular access; however, the cost would be
over $100,000.
3.2 Planned Uses and Assessment of their Impacts
Future planned use will be consistent with the primary goals of conservation, preservation,
restoration and maintenance of the resource. Details of planned uses for the Railhead Scrub
Preserve and an assessment of their potential impacts are provided in the following sections.
3.2.1 Identification of Public Uses Consistent with Preservation, Enhancement, Restoration,
Conservation and Maintenance of the Resources
As defined in Ordinance 2002 -63, as amended, Section 5.9 the following are uses consistent with
the site's classification:
• Hiking: Consistent with the nature of the site and its purpose;
• Nature Photography: There is potential for photography of wildlife and plant life;
and
• Bird Watching: There is potential for bird - watching on the site.
Other uses that may be in principle compatible with preservation goals that are not feasible in
this preserve include:
• Kayaking /Canoeing: There is no potential for boating of any kind on this site;
• Swimming: There is no potential for swimming;
• Hunting: The site is not large enough or remotely located enough to allow hunting;
and
• Fishing: There is no potential for fishing on this site.
3.2.2 Planned Public Uses and Assessment of Impacts
Trail Network: A trail network will be installed to allow for hiking and nature observation
within the preserve. The trails will incorporate former ORV trails where practical to minimize
the impact of the construction
Parking Lot: A parking area shall be developed to facilitate vehicular public access to the site.
This parking lot shall be located along the future Veterans Memorial Blvd. in a specific location
to be determined in the future and which is least likely to require disturbance of the natural
ecosystem and gopher tortoise population. If vehicular access is developed sooner by creating a
dirt road that can be used to access the site, the same "least disturbance" principle shall apply.
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Easements, Concessions, and Leases: A 130' railroad line property owned by CVX, a national
railway line, and leased to Gulf Seminole Railway, a local railroad company, runs north -south
adjacent to the northern portion of the preserve and down the center of southern portion of the
preserve. The tracks are not active at this time, but the leaseholder, advises that there is potential
to make the rail active again in the future. Providing vehicular crossing over this railroad
property (which includes bicycles) would be extremely expensive and will eventually be
incorporated into the future Veterans Memorial Blvd. Pedestrian access would cost over
$100,000.
Florida Power and Light (FPL) has a 50' minimum active easement that runs north -south through
the southern portion of the property 30' east of the western property line, and Collier County
maintains a 30'stormwater drainage easement east of, adjoining, and parallel to the FPL
easement. The FPL easement may be utilized as a public trail. FPL stipulates that the easement
must remain clear so that FPL property can be maintained and any plantings along the edges of
the easement must remain under 14 ft. in height. Staff will research whether the stormwater
drainage easement can be vacated.
In accordance with the management goals of the preserve, no future easements, concessions, or
leases are appropriate in association with this site, other than conservation related easements.
Landscaping: Future landscaping and natural area restoration of Railhead Scrub Preserve should
include only site - specific native plant material that has been determined to be non - problematic at
the site and whenever possible, site - specific seed sources should be utilized. In addition,
hardwoods that may invade the natural areas should not be planted. An appropriate list of native
species is attached as Appendix 5.
3.3 Adjacent Land Uses
Surrounding the preserve is a mixture of industrial, residential and office properties. Within the
residential properties, there are a mixture of mobile home rental properties on the northwest
corner, the residential community of Landmark Naples on the southwestern perimeter, -and the
residential community of Mediterra on the eastern perimeter. Undeveloped properties exist to
the south. -2009.
.
Tthere is a trail just south of the northern section of the preserve and Mediterra that
connects to a network of access trails. , some ^r'. ^high ra *4eugh the soufliam seetior of the
pr-esei e-On the south side of the site, there is Krehling Industries, Inc. There is a €tie -ROW
for the future Veterans Memorial Blvd., anywhere from 130' to 200' wide thru the middle of the
site. This road is not slated for completion until at least 2035. T44s -The ROW is the principal
point of intrusion for off road vehicles. The west boundary of the preserve is abutting a railroad
parcel, which rail line is not currently in use. To he setth aiid east, eheel is planned
,,p in 204-6-.
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3.4 Potential Surplus Lands
There are no potential surplus lands at Railhead Scrub Preserve. The Conservation Collier
Ordinance (2002 -63, as amended, Section 6, 1(f)) states that any resale or lease of Conservation
Collier lands must be in accordance with the goals of the Program, specifically, to conserve,
protect, restore and manage environmentally sensitive lands.
3.5 Prospective Land Acquisitions
No prospective lands acquisitions at this time.
3.6 Analysis of Multiple -Use Potential
Although the Railhead Scrub Preserve encompasses lands that the public has historically
accessed via trespass to use ORVs and to gather for recreational purposes, future potential uses
of this site will be restricted to conservation, preservation and restoration with controlled public
access primarily for passive recreation. The Conservation Collier Ordinance (2002 -63, as
amended,) constrains the use of this property to "primary objectives of managing and preserving
natural resource values and providing appropriate natural resource -based recreational &
educational opportunities."
The Railhead Scrub Preserve will not provide opportunities for active outdoor recreation such as
public camping, fishing, hunting, boating, or "sports," however, there is still opportunity for
multiple public types of passive public use, such as hiking, nature photography, wildlife
observation, bird watching, etc. The site may also serve as a learning lab to be used by local
environmental educational programs and a research site for student environmental projects if
such projects do not conflict with management goals.
4.0 Management Issues, Goals and Objectives
This section describes the main management issues, goals, and objectives for Railhead Scrub
Preserve as well as the overall management framework. Central to the management of the
preserve is the mission of the Conservation Collier Program, and the goals and objectives set
forth in this management plan. As a preamble to the specific set of goals and objectives for the
next ten (10) years, a vision of the desired future conditions for the preserve was developed.
4.1 Management Framework
Each property purchased by Conservation Collier shall have its own management plan. The
Conservation Collier Ordinance requires that an "Interim" Management Plan be developed
within 90 days of purchase and that a "Final" management plan be developed within 2 years.
After that, property management plans must be updated every 5 years. Interim plans shall be
concerned with basic items such as removal of invasive exotics and trash, establishing site
security, developing management partnerships and planning for public access. All management
plans start in the Lands Evaluation and Management subcommittee and must be approved by
both the Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee (CCLAAC) and the Board
of County Commissioners.
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This property shall be managed only for conservation, protection, and enhancement of natural
resources and for public outdoor recreation that will be compatible with the conservation,
protection, and enhancement of the site. Public use of the site will not be possible until legal
public access can be created. In September 2007, a Final Management Plan was developed for
the property (URS. October 2007). The original plan identified the key management priorities
and issues within the site and gave direction for management during the first ten years. The
current plan is a revision of the original 2007 plan and includes the southern Railhead addition.
Collier County will be solely responsible for managing the Railhead Scrub Preserve, but will
seek to obtain grants and partnerships for management activities.
4.1.1 Preserve Manager
The site manager for Railhead Scrub Preserve will be a designated Collier County
Environmental Specialist who may be contacted through electronic mail:
ConservationCollier @Colliergov.net.
4.1.2 Preserve Rules and Regulations
9144 a Speeifie efdifiwiete is eve.-Ated te govem visitor- use of pr-esen,e land, this pr-esef=ve as well
as ether- Gaiasen,ation Genie" sites A4 This preserve operates under Collier County Ordinance
X2011 -4938 as ameaded (the cur-eat version r81 3) the Paws Or -di,. ae-e
No dumping, use of unauthorized vehicles, or removal or destruction of natural resources shall
be permitted within the preserve. The goal is to allow limited nondestructive public access to
natural resource habitat and native plant communities and animal species.
4.1.3 Land Management Review and Revision Summary
Railhead Scrub Preserve was not acquired with any state or federal funds, and Collier County has
not yet entered into any land management review process. Therefore, the only land management
review to which the Railhead Scrub Preserve is constrained is the one required by the
Conservation Collier Ordinance every 5 years.
4.2 Desired Future Conditions
This section includes a narrative of proposed future conditions for the site's natural areas.
Management techniques to achieve these conditions are described in the following sections.
Following recommended management actions, and the results of adaptive management where
needed, Railhead Scrub Preserve will have vegetative communities with a similar structure and
composition to those that existed before non-
indigenous people settled the region.
Xeric uplands on the site will not be
fragmented by a mosaic of trails, but instead
will have larger blocks of vegetated areas,
fragmented by only a few management
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trails. Most ORV trails will be restored (some left for management access), with vegetation
structure and composition resembling intact Xeric Uplands areas. The community will have
undisturbed ecotones with Pine Flatwoods and other plant communities. Vegetation structure
will vary naturally with time since fire; most shrubs will be topkilled or dead, with large areas of
bare sand between hardwood patches. Shrub gaps will grow increasingly close together,
reducing the size of open sand areas. When shrubs have grown sufficiently close together, fire
will again be necessary.
Most Pine Flatwoods in the preserve will burn every 3 -7 years. Pine Flatwoods will be managed
to keep saw palmettos at heights of less than 3 feet and hardwoods and palm cover sparse (<
25 %), allowing for a diverse and dense herb layer. Pine flatwoods on slopes around the edges of
the property will have dense saw palmetto fringes, but fires will be used every 8 -25 years,
reducing the total area covered by dense palmettos to improve habitat for native herbs and
grasses. Fires will be allowed to bum into surrounding plant communities, including Xeric
Uplands and cypress, where they will extinguish themselves due to limiting vegetation structure
and moisture levels.
The cypress will have a canopy of pond cypress trees, and an open canopy pond or marsh in the
interior. Larger pond cypress trees and hardwoods will be present in the deeper water of the
interior of the dome. The understory will consist of sparse native hardwoods and a diverse
native herb layer. Melaleuca and other exotic plants will be eradicated. Fires will enter the
edges of the cypress and other wetlands from the adjacent plant communities but will be
extinguished by standing water or soil moisture levels.
A diverse assemblage of native plants will dominate the wet prairies. Exotic plants will not be
present. Fires will enter the prairies as they burn from surrounding plant communities.
4.3 Major Accomplishments during Previous Years
Major accomplishments that have been achieved at Railhead Scrub Preserve since acquisition are
listed in Table 7.
Table 7: Major Accomplishments during Previous Years
Accomplishment Year(s)
Complete Interim Management Plan 2004
Install temporary signs
2004
Gopher tortoise surveys
2005, 2006, &
2008
Clear thick melaleuca using brontosaurus by way of DEP grant award
2006
Install fence along northern boundary
2007
Cleared firebreaks line along northern most boundary
2007
Cleared firebreaks southern portion of preserve
2010
histall fence along southern boundary
2010
Completed 100% initial treatment of exotics
2011
Moved large boulders east of railroad to block ROW access
2014
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Moved SE northern fenceline north to property line. 12014
4.4 Goals for the 10 year period 200102015- 28382025
A set of goals for Railhead Scrub Preserve were developed in conjunction with the drafting of
this Management Plan. The goals in this plan are tailored specifically for the Railhead Scrub
Preserve, based on the purposes for which the lands were acquired, the condition of the resources
present, and management issues for the property. The preserve manager should be familiar with
the entire Management Plan. Goals and objectives from the first final management plan for the
Railhead Scrub Preserve were reviewed to determine if they remain meaningful and practical and
should be included in this revised plan. The goals presented here reflect programmatic goals and
ideas from Conservation Collier personnel in charge of managing and protecting the area, as well
as input from cooperative managers, user groups, and other stakeholders from outside the
program. Conservation Collier staff believes the goals are consistent with the various forms of
guidance provided to managers.
Management issues are discussed below in separate sections. Within each section, approaches
for dealing with these issues are described. The ability to implement the specific goals and
objectives identified in this plan is dependent upon the availability of funding resources. The
following goals have been identified for the Railhead Scrub Preserve:
Goal 1: Continue to eliminate or significantly reduce human impacts to indigenous flora and
fauna
Goal 2: Continue to develop a baseline monitoring report
Goal 3: Continue to remove or control populations of invasive, exotic or problematic flora
and fauna to restore and maintain natural habitats
Goal 4: Continue to implement prescribed fire program
Goal 5: Continue to restore native vegetation
Goal 6: Maintain native and Listed Species management;
Goal 7: Continue to evaluate potential for access and public use;
Goal 8: Facilitate uses of the site for educational purposes
Goal 9: Maintain plan for security and disaster preparedness
GOAL 1: CONTINUE TO ELIMINATE OR SIGNIFICANTLY RED UCE HUMAN IMPACTS TO
INDIGENOUS FLORA AND FAUNA
Action Item 1.1: Continue to eliminate trespass of off road vehicles (ORVs);
Action Item 1.2: Continue to remove solid waste;
Action Item 1.3; Post and maintain no dumping and no trespass signs at all entry locations in
preserve until the preserve is opened to the public, then remove the no trespass signs;
and
Action Item 1.4: When Veteran's Memorial Blvd. is constructed, place barrier fencing to
reduce construction impacts and retain barrier fencing along the roadway to reduce
animal mortality.
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Action Item 1.5 Security Management
Security recommendations are identified in the paragraphs below.
1. Site Securitv:
v ... s-unte- the - site. - address- this issue, 4The entire perimeter was of Railheads Scrub
Preserve is fenced with 4 -foot field fencing and staff continues to worked with the Collier
County Sheriff's office to address trespass incursions. County staff has had multiple fence
breaches along the southern boundary to which staff has responded by erecting cables where the
breaches occurred. Staff will continue monitoring all fencing and will employ different methods
to secure the site if necessary - such as erecting chain link fence or placing large boulders along
the boundaries.
View of cable along fence breach.
Photo by Kirsten Wilkie
illegal
tr-espassin4 should . Establishing a site visit schedule will allow staff to monitor
ongoing activity. However, if this is not effective, additional solutions will be sought, up to and
including utilizing volunteers and Friends organizations and contracting private security.
2. Emergency Response Access:
Management shall coordinate emergency pathways with emergency entryways around the
preserve. Emergency management access may be accommodated by at -grade stabilized
pathways.
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these �A @ will be lawftilly using the site
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Security recommendations are identified in the paragraphs below.
1. Site Securitv:
v ... s-unte- the - site. - address- this issue, 4The entire perimeter was of Railheads Scrub
Preserve is fenced with 4 -foot field fencing and staff continues to worked with the Collier
County Sheriff's office to address trespass incursions. County staff has had multiple fence
breaches along the southern boundary to which staff has responded by erecting cables where the
breaches occurred. Staff will continue monitoring all fencing and will employ different methods
to secure the site if necessary - such as erecting chain link fence or placing large boulders along
the boundaries.
View of cable along fence breach.
Photo by Kirsten Wilkie
illegal
tr-espassin4 should . Establishing a site visit schedule will allow staff to monitor
ongoing activity. However, if this is not effective, additional solutions will be sought, up to and
including utilizing volunteers and Friends organizations and contracting private security.
2. Emergency Response Access:
Management shall coordinate emergency pathways with emergency entryways around the
preserve. Emergency management access may be accommodated by at -grade stabilized
pathways.
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Action Item L 6 Control Dumping
In add,'6on to removing the debris and litter, the site manager shall establish a strategy for the
long + ;n-n ccora.rol o 'I'e -gai dumping. The strategy should include signs indicating the fines and
pena, t --.s for it egal d: rnping, a phone number for reporting incidents, and other targeted
enforcement efforts. In order to improve the effectiveness of the overall dumping control efforts
all ora "Yortuni"es 'D increase community outreach and involvement shall be considered.
The lcc�y to conty o,. i in«; clumping successfully may be to increase public awareness of tb_e problem
and illegal dumping control programs must use a combination of p=ublic
educ ..,,r: cE i :e f; A �xtioil; site maintenance, and enforcement measures to aodn� s i.l,e,al
was�.c on "win -wi =n" scenarios nn
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work out or enlist the assistance of local educators to coordinate student research projects.
Wildlife sampling, like plant sampling, should take place at regular intervals (ca. 5 -10 years) to
detect long -term trends.
Photo points have been established in both the northern peAien and shall be established in t and
southern portions en-of the property. Photo point locations behave been marked with a
rebar and the position recorded with a GPS. All photo points eare taken at a standard
height and angle of view.
GOAL 3: CONTINUE TO REMOVE OR CONTROL POPULATIONS OF INVASIVE, EXOTIC
OR PROBLEMATIC FLORA AND FAUNA TO RESTORE AND MAINTAIN NATURAL PLANT
COMMUNITIES
Action Item 3.1 Eliminate Brazilian- pepper, Australian pine, and old world climbing fern
around perimeter, disturbed areas, and Pine Flatwoods;
Action Item 3.2: Remove by hand incipient populations of melaleuca in small depression
marshes and other habitats;
Aetionitem '21 Remove dense populations of melaleuea;
Action Item 3.43: Ensure that control measures are not deleterious to native plants and
animal species, particularly rare species;
Action Item 3.54: Develop and implement a surveillance program for potential problem
species including invasive plant species; and
Action Item 3.55: Manage potential problem species populations.
1. Exotic Plant Control by Plant Community
This section provides management recommendations for invasive non - native plant species, in
each community type. In addition, specific control techniques suitable for the preserve are
provided. Staff will introduce bio- controls, when and if they are available.
Scrub /Scrubby Flatwoods
There is currently almost no problem with invasive plants in the Xeric Uplands. Brazilian-
pepper plants are rarely found. Some natal grass has been found along disturbed ed .Res. Other
ruderal species may sometimes be found in areas with soil disturbance. Natal grass should be
pulled - and bagged if seeding. Any other exotic plants should be up lied - killed with herbicides.
The community should be continually monitored for new populations of exotic plants and these
should be tfeated with hefbieides ontrolled immediately.
Hydric Flatwoods and Cypress -Pine- Cabbage Palm
Brazilian- pepper -an4-. melaleuca. and downy rose -myrtle are present are sib ifiean* pFeblems in
some parts of this community. Deway fese fnyAle is also stafting . These
species should be controlled with herbicides and removed from the site if possible. Mechanical
mowing of these areas is acceptable only if possible without damage to mature native trees.
Dense ffeas vvher-e mewing, is not feasible sheuld be out a*d f:emeved in order- to r-eduee fuel
leads as r to fife f ^r ggewe L1 L* . The herb layer should be monitored for other exotic
VV111 V
species as the palm and shrub layer is opened (with removal of exotic hardwoods and after
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prescription fires). Torpedo grass and other exotic herbs and grasses may invade. They should
be treated with herbicides.
Pine Flatwoods
Downy rose -myrtle and melaleuca is star inn to ",v ade rp went in some areas. These species
should be controlled with herbicides as needed.
Cypress
Melaleuca deminates-resprouts are present at times in the cypress ecosystem. Re- sprouts should
be pulled or treated with an appropriate herbicide on an as needed basis. in the seut e+ aAie
r- fe. p sk
Wet Prairies
,
staeked, and stumps tfeated with Iffe;Fbie-A-dea, _Mea 11 a I Fe u ee a with a d.b.h. ave-if 3 in-e-h-es; should b-e
Odin plaeeWithin-these areas,--mMelaleuca re- sprouts should be pulled or treated with an
appropriate herbicide. n an as needed basis
until ,,,,aua maintenance is feasi''° Following removal, especially of dense stands, the herb
layer should be monitored for establishment of other exotic species, especially torpedo grass.
2 Exotic Plant Control Methodology
Land managers in Florida have developed effective chemical control measures for most of the
state's exotic plant species. Kline & Duquesnel (1996) provide a compilation of control
techniques and appropriate herbicides for control of exotic plant species in Florida, and
specifically discuss eight of the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council (FLEPPC) listed plant species
at Railhead Scrub Preserve. General control guidelines for exotic plants are provided below.
Certain herbicides should not be used at Railhead Scrub Preserve, including Arsenal (imazapyr)
and Velpar (hexazinone) unless absolutely necessary. These herbicides are soil active and can
cause non - target damage and persist on the site for some time. More appropriate chemicals to
use are Garlon 4 and 3a (triclopyr), Roundup and RoundUp Pro (glyphosate), and Rodeo
(glyphosate).
Some exotic plant species can be kept at low densities or killed entirely by application of
prescribed fire. In addition, habitats, which have natural fire regimes, are more resistant to
invasion by exotic pest plants. Prescribed fire following recommendations in Section 4.9 should
be used as much as possible to control exotic plants. Mechanical treatments including roller
chopping are usually not effective at controlling exotic pest plants. Roller chopping, while
effective in the short-term at reducing hardwood cover, usually results in an increase in diversity
and density of exotic plant populations due to soil disturbance. Roller chopping should not be
conducted in natural areas at Railhead Scrub Preserve.
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Trees and Shrubs
Exotic trees and shrubs that have been recorded at Railhead Scrub Preserve include Brazilian -
pepper, downy rose - myrtle, earleaf acacia, laurel fig (Ficus microcarpa), woman's tongue
(Al?iizia lehbecl), strawberry guava, (Psidium cattleianum), shoebutton ardesia (Ardisia
elliptica), Australian umbrellatree (Schefflera actinophylla), white leadtree (Leucaena
leucocephala), bishopwood (Bischofia javanica), Australian pine, carrotwood (Cupaniopsis
anacardioides), orchidtree (Bauhinia variegata), melaleuca, and shrubverbena (Lantana
camara).
Th,se should. be 'op prior ities for removal. In general, saplings and adults of these species can
be cvntroile . ;;Y >it =:s ?tasal applications of Ga�.rlon 4; seedlings can be hand - pulled. Melaleuca
�: d ' �,� . , 4 c �'.
s.:�Pu_.a o : co_,��noflcd ,:,ri:h a cup. surface app'ication of Garlon 3a.
Vines
Exotic vines 1,1at :lave been recorded at Railhead Scrub Preserve include old world climbing
fey:_,, rosary pea, ivi^Lite yam (Dioscorea alata), air potato and wild balsam apple (Momordica
charantia). NTVj file all are invasive species, they are not all expected to become especially
problematic. :' ev J. i11 persist as more coin— anon species in disturbed areas. Rosary pea, air
PcLa 3 an ;l <ia s :,arn, can be controlled with application of Garlon 4 or Garlon 3a. Climbing
feni can b co tIncl:ed tivith the poodle cut method and/or foliar method with Glyphosate. Wild
ba: sa.n: ap p 'Ie cr: -o ' k�, band pulled.
Pere.rnial Farb.,
In °o6,, iced pererjrial i-,= ;=mss that have been recorded at Railhead Scrub Preserve include bowstring
bel ;n (Sansevieria lr;�aeirathoides), Caesar weed. century plant (Agave angustifolia ), cochineal
caddis (01)i r;tia cochenillifera), Colombian waxweed (Cuphea carthagenensis), common
dayflower (orrnnebl?a diffusa), creeping oxeye, hairy indigo (Indigofera hirsuta), lima (Sida
cor "d;folia), lia ,_tie i -onv,;ced (Vernonia cinerea), serpent fern (Phynatosorus scolopendria),
shit -bby false ba; o- mveed. (Spennacoce verticillata), smooth rattlebox (Crotalaria pallida var.
icktrefoil (Desniodium triflorarnz), tropical soda -apple (Solanurrr viarum),
anJ wild be =-an, (1bd c; "optilium lathyroid_es). The most troublesome of these species at Railhead
Sc;zb Preserve is caesarweed, which can invade fire suppressed Mesic Flatwoods, and increase
in abundar cc: ai_tcr b,�rdwood and exotic removal and fires. Caesarweed can be controlled with
basal or folir application of Garlon 4. The other species are primarily weeds of disturbed areas
and arc not expected to become especially problematic at Railhead Scrub Preserve (including
tro ,ical soda -qD -Nlc`. Century plant can be controlled by application of Garlon 4 to the terminal
brz�:'.�Jc._._. a.. �S .are be hard pulled. 'tropical soda -apple can be controlled with a basal
Conlnion dayflo,.ver and creeping oxeye can be controlled with hand
pul.li°z and l . .;cr , .. T` ere should be no need to treat the remaining species.
:�rkral and ET:o,` � °c g:r9ed For° s
Introduced arar rral or short -lived (orbs that have been recorded at Railhead Scrub Preserve
include Dixie tickirefoil (Desmodium tortuosurn), flattop mille graines (Hedyotis corymbosa),
gr- 2 , �af sp n—C �'r t ?or'liia rrafninea), largellovv'er Mexican C10Ver (RZCl2ardia gt "aFf,dl��lQYa),
,,v v_ .,
lily: �� i.r �� ,r�, r �.: � ;' %irJ eoncl�i Qlia), Madagascar periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus), Malaysian
falF- pirg" r cl �z a .� ria crustacea), spiny amaranth (Ama7 "antlluS spinosus), and tropical
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Mexican clover (Richardia brasiliensis). None of these is likely to become invasive in natural
areas at Railhead Scrub Preserve. If control is ever desired, all can be treated with RoundUp.
Grasses and Sedges
Introduced grasses and sedges that have been recorded include: Awned halfchaff sedge
(Lipocarpha aristulata), Bahia grass, Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon), crow's foot grass
(Dactyloctenium aegyptium), guineagrass (Panicum maximum), hurricane sedge (Fimbristylis
cymosa), Indian crabgrass (Digitaria long flora), low flatsedge (Cyperus pumilus), Piedmont
flatsedge (Cyperus distans), red lovegrass (Eragrostis secundiflora subsp. oxylepis), rose
natalgrass (Rhynchelytrum repens), signal grass (Urochloa subquadripara), thalia lovegrass
(Eragrostis atrovirens), torpedograss, West Indian marsh grass (Hymenachne amplexicaulis),
and West Indian dropseed (Sporobolus indicus var. pyramidalis). Bermuda grass, crow's foot
grass, rose natalgrass, and torpedograss are currently invasive or could become invasive
following management activities. Control of all grasses can be achieved by application of
RoundUp. Hand pulling and banging- of rose natalgrass or other species can be done in low
density colonies.
3 Other Problem Species Management
There are currently no major native plant or animal species that are problematic at Railhead
Scrub Preserve (see section 2.6). However, following restoration activities, some may become
problematic. Which species will become problematic, if any, will not be known until several
months after initial management activities.
In Pine Flatwoods, vines may become abundant following burns or exotic plant removal,
particularly muscadine grape. This native vine, already present in Pine Flatwoods at low
densities, can be aggressive after disturbances and form dense colonies, killing hardwoods and
palms, climbing into pines, and persisting for years. It should be controlled with herbicides if its
populations start to grow. In flatwoods, bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) can also become
problematic, especially after high intensity fires. It should be controlled with herbicides,
especially Asulox which is specific to bracken fern, other ferns, and some grasses. It should be
applied to new growth, either soon after disturbance (including fire), or after the plants are cut
manually. More than one application may be required.
In cypress, many plant species could potentially become pests following restoration activities,
but it is hard to predict which will recruit after melaleuca removal.
Indigenous and non - native vertebrate and invertebrate species may become pests under certain
conditions. Control of indigenous pest species is recommended if they interfere with
management goals. Potential pest species mentioned before (section 2.6) should be monitored to
determine if these organisms might develop into problem species.
If feral cat colonies are found near the preserve, the element that sustains an undesirable
population should be identified and efforts made to ask property owners to eliminate it (i.e.,
refuse bins, dumpsters, and supplementary feeding by humans). If any feral cats remain, they
will be trapped and taken to Collier County Domestic Animal Services. A similar approach shall
be taken to control feral dog populations.
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Considerations should be made about the risk involved by the presence of honeybees in the
northern cypress area. Particularly important is the risk that they are or may become Africanized
and pose a threat to visitors using the proposed trail for bird and other wildlife watching. If
management perceives it as a high -level hazard, the colony should be eliminated.
GOAL 4: CONTINUE TO IMPLEMENT PRESCRIBED FIRE PROGRAM
Action Items 4.1: Develop fire management plan for the property by taking the
suggestions herein as a point of departure;
Action Items 4.2: Delineate fire management and rescue access routes, and provide this
information to the police department and emergency services;
Action Items 4.3: Conduct one or more prescribed fires in Xeric Uplands;
Action Items 4.4: Conduct one or more prescribed fires in depression marshes when
native vegetation is established following melaleuca removal;
Action Items 4.5: Conduct one or more prescribed fires in Pine Flatwoods- fell owing
Action Items 4.6: lxstall- Maintain firelines to facilitate fire management, utilizing
practices to minimize impacts to ecotones and wildlife populations;
Action Items 4.7: Establish a system for notifying neighboring landowners in advance of
prescribed burns (via email, phone trees, etc.) and use this system before
each prescribed fire;
Action Items 4.8: Establish pre- and post - burning monitoring to assess fire effects
Action Items 4.9: Protect the Railhead Scrub Preserve from wildfires;
Action Items 4.10: Explore the use of alternatives to fire for those management units
where prescribed burning appears impossible to achieve.
The use of prescribed fire as a management tool will be critical to the long -term health of the
natural habitats and native species at Railhead Scrub Preserve. Every native habitat within
Railhead Scrub Preserve requires periodic fires.
To prepare for fire management, fire lines were installed in 2009 on the northern portion and in
2010 in the southern portion. (Figure 7) Additionally, burn units will be established as
recommended by the Division of Forestry Urban Fire Mitigation Team.
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Unless absolutely necessary, fire breaks should not be created along ecotones. Firebreaks along
ecotones prevent fires from burning across the landscape between different habitat types, and the
trails themselves destroy habitat for species that require specific ecotonal habitats.
Fire Frequency depends on the plant communities' found at Railhead Scrub Preserve. (Table 8).
Xeric Oak Scrub should be burned at an interval of 8 -25 years. Summer headfires will probably
be needed to ensure that most vegetation ignites and that the fire moves across the habitat. For
best results, prescribed fire management in Xeric Oak Scrub at Railhead Scrub Preserve should
begin after ORV activity has been eliminated and permanent firebreaks have been established.
These trails would otherwise limit the ability of the fire to travel across the habitat.
Table Burn Table
Type of Habitat
Fire Frequency
Years
FLUCFCS 321 Saw Palmetto
3 to 7
FLUCFCS 411 Pine Flatwoods
3 to 7
FLUCFCS 62lCypress
3 to 7
FLUCFCS 624 Cypress- Pine - Cabbage
Palm
3 to 7
FLUCFCS 625 H dric Pine
3 to 7
FLUCFCS 643 Wet Prairie
3 to 7
FLUCFCS 421 Xeric Oak Scrub
8 to 25
Pine flatwoods should be burned every 3 -7 years, with the exception of those on slopes, —which
should be burned every 8 -25 years. The fire should be allowed to burn into Xeric Oak Scrub.
Wet Prairie should be burned following restoration and re- establishment of native vegetation.
Prescribed fires should be conducted every 3 -7 years in the wet season to prevent the destruction
of organic soils.
Prior to any prescribed fires, burn teams should assess fuel loads and conduct fuel reduction
where necessary, conduct risk assessment for the planned burn, obtain appropriate permits, and
coordinate with local fire officials. Exotic plant species in particular should be removed prior to
fires. Additionally, a plan of action to notify surrounding residents should be established.
If the application of prescribed fire is absolutely impossible there are several alternatives that are
available, although much less desirable. These options include herbicide application, mechanical
treatment, and grazing. Both herbicide application and mechanical treatments have the
disadvantage of requiring that dead woody material be removed from the site following
treatment, limiting the amount of decomposing vegetation that would create organic soils. Even
with physical removal after treatment, organic matter from all plants on the sites will eventually
accumulate, leaving an organic soil, and thereby reducing diversity of native herbs. Grazing,
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such as by goats, has the disadvantage in introducing trampling effects, nutrients from feces, and
possible spread of exotic pest plant seeds.
Staff will coordinate with the Florida Division of Forestry's Urban Fire Mitigation Team to
create a burn plan for the site, conduct pre -fire fuel reduction and firebreak creation, and to
conduct prescribed burns.
GOAL S: CONTINUE TO RESTORE NATIVE VEGETATION
Action Item 5.1: Maintain a revised GIS map and description of FNAI natural
communities and disturbed areas on the property;
Action Item 5.2: Reestablish soil levels and natural vegetation in the deep trails created
by ORV use in the xeric upland habitat; and
Action Item 5.3: Plant native plant species in their appropriate habitats.
1 Soil Management
Soil management at Railhead Scrub Preserve requires several strategies. The elimination of off
road vehicles (ORV) is the most important. ORVs are a tfeyi baestroyed vegetation in the
Xeric Oak Scrub and Ereat created wide trails. Sand from these trails geroded and,
er-eati*,—created linear depressions in the plant community. ORV use should continue to be
stepped- banned and the trails should be replanted if natural recruitment does not occur. Sand
may have to be augmented in some areas.
Accumulations of leaf and pine needle litter in Pine Flatwoods (and eventually in Xeric _Oak
Scrub), changes soil chemistry and limits habitat quality for native herbaceous species. Periodic
prescribed fires will eliminate organic soils and leaf litter, and prevent their accumulation.
Where there is already excessive accumulation of organic matter, prescription winter backing
fires should be used. Restored wet prairies should only be burned when water is present to
prevent burning of organic soils.
2 Natural Communities Management
Two management actions that are critical for preservation are the prevention of use of
unauthorized ORVs and the control of exotic and invasive species. Specific recommendations
applicable to each community type are included in the paragraphs below.
Xeric Oak Scrub
Onee nvv use is steppe , *The trails and other areas that have been impacted by ORV use can
V11liTi
be revegetated, if necessary. If natural recruitment fails to occur, shrubs can be planted in trails,
including sand live oak, myrtle oak (Quercus myrtifolia), Florida rosemary (Ceratiola ericoides),
hog -plum (Ximenia americana), and coastalplain staggerbush (Lyonia fruticosa). The trails
should be monitored for invasion of exotic plants and native weedy (ruderal) species, which
should be removed when found.
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The Xeric Oak Scrub at Railhead Scrub Preserve have not burned in more than 54 years, much
longer than the normal historical fire frequency. A summer prescription fire should be
conducted when possible (see Goal 4).
Continuous ORV use in the Xeric Oak Scrub 1 -has left deep trails at lower elevations that are
adjacent to undisturbed areas. These trail depressions are causing erosion and leaving plant roots
exposed. Raking sand back into trails may assist in the reestablishment of vegetation in and
along the edges of the trails. "Trials" should be conducted in a few places. These trial areas
should be monitored for invasive plant species before this technique is carried out on a larger
scale.
Pine Flatwoods /Saw Palmetto
Two management strategies will be applied to Pine Flatwoods /Saw Palmetto, — _Exotic plants
should be removed from all areas of Pine Flatwoods /Saw Palmetto. Exotics afe—can be
particularly problematic on slopes, where dense stands of melaleuca and Brazilian- pepper have
had formed in the past.
Pine Flatwoods /Saw Palmetto should be burned every 3 -7 years. Burns should be allowed to
move across ecotones into adjacent plant communities. Burns are recommended during natural
peak season (i.e. spring), but burns should also be conducted at other times of year if logistically
advantageous.
Pine Flatwoods /Saw Palmetto on slopes on the site probably had historically dense understories
of saw palmetto that occurred further down slope. Because of fire suppression at Railhead Scrub
Preserve, the dense palmetto now reaches almost all the way upslope to Xeric Oak Scrub.
Prescription fires should be conducted to minimize saw palmetto densities upslope to improve
habitat for herbs and grasses, but allow a dense zone of taller palmettos down slope. Prescribed
fire crews should assess fuel loads before fires. Some areas may require manual removal of
hardwoods. Fire frequency in these areas is probably similar to Xeric Oak Scrub, about every 8-
25 years.
Cypress
been me,,ved. initial plantings should be b The
herb layer of the cypress sheuld be monitored f r fee of has recovered through native
recruitment. If exotic plants recruit then they should be treated with herbicides. Planting a
fiative and b e e if they do at - -.,tuf �� e d* An appropriate list of
o , �u�ua ua jr
native species for the cypress dome habitat is included in Appendix 5 should planting become
necessary.
Wet Prairie
Aside from drainage, which probably cannot be controlled, the two biggest threats to wet prairie
habitats at Railhead Scrub Preserve are ORV activity and invasion of melaleuca. ORV activity
has completely eliminated vegetation from the wet prairie at the center of the property.
Bare Sand
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The biggest threat to the bare sand area at Railhead Scrub Preserve is ORV activity. ORV
activity has completely eliminated vegetation.
After ORNI ,,,,,ivit., has eaded and A fence has been installed_, Tthe herbaceous layer should be
monitored. Native plant species may naturally recruit. Exotic species, including herbs and
grasses (especially torpedograss) may also appear and should be treated with herbicides. If
recruitment of suitable natives does not occur then native species should be planted. An
appropriate list of native species for the habitat is included in Appendix 5.
Borrow Pit
Exotic plants should be removed from the borrow pit. AAer—NOW that ORV activity on the
property has ended and exotics are controlled, the herbaceous layer should be monitored. Native
plant species may naturally recruit. Exotic species, including herbs and grasses (especially
torpedograss) may also appear and should be treated with herbicides. If recruitment of suitable
natives does not occur then native species should be planted. An appropriate list of native
species for the depression marsh habitat is included in Appendix 5.
GOAL 6. MAINTAIN NATIVE AND LISTED SPECIES MANAGEMENT
Action Item 6.1: Maintain an updated inventory and status of listed plant and animal
species populations ;
Action Item 6.2: Re- establish extirpated populations in restored, formerly occupied sites,
using plants and animals from nearby populations;
Action Item 6.3: Reintroduce the banded wild pine bromeliad if extirpation is confirmed
or enhance its population if found; and
Aetion Item 6.4.1 Assess the pfesenee a-ad infestation level of uppef r-espiratefy tr-aet
a.ca-a.ulc. gopher
I Native Wildlife Management
Management of native animal species at the Railhead Scrub Preserve should correspond with the
management goals of the Xeric Uplands, pine flatwoods, and wetland communities.
Maintenance of viable populations of native animal species should be conducted by
implementing management measures that maintain the viability of the natural communities at the
preserve. Evidence of use of the preserve by white - tailed deer has been noted. Any fences
constructed to exclude ORV use should be limited to a height that deer can jump over. Deer
have been observed jumping over the current 4 -feet high field fence.
2 Listed Species Management
Railhead Scrub Preserve should be managed to provide habitat for listed species found (or
potentially found) on the site. Some of the management recommendations for state and federally
listed plant and animal species found on the preserve are discussed below.
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2.1 Management of Listed Plant Species
There are 13 rare plant species that have been recorded at Railhead Scrub Preserve (Table 5).
All rare plants on the site occur in Xeric Uplands, so management of this ecosystem is the
highest priority for the management of rare plants. Management of rare plant species at the
preserve should in general consist of general vegetation management recommendations in Goal
5, exotic species control in Goal 3, and fire management in Goal 4. Other special needs and
recommendations are listed below.
Off road vehicles pose a threat to rare plant species that occur in Xeric Uplands, including all
rare plants recorded from the site. The most critically threatened species is showy dawnflower,
which is known from only one other preserve in South Florida. ORVs can easily kill these small
plants, and since ORV users commonly break new trails in open sand, the only habitat for this
species, it is particularly sensitive. Management recommendations include locating rare plants,
and planning public and management access routes so as not to damage them.
Special care should be taken whenever management activities take place in the vicinity of rare
plant populations. Herbicide applications should ensure that there is no off target damage.
Vehicles or other machinery should not be used in Xeric Uplands off established trails.
.
sometimes grow ati this exetie tfee. Plai4s of these speeies should be r-eleeated prior- to Y-efneval
of la4eiiea.. —It may also be desirable in Xeric Uplands to remove some populations of orchids
and bromeliads prior to prescribed fires and replant them in the restored cypress community.
Epiphytes are currently common in the community, especially on larger oaks. Fires will
probably kill these epiphyte populations, but historically, they probably recruited back into the
ecosystem from seed blown in from adjacent cypress communities. Establishment in the cypress
may provide a seed source for recruitment after fires.
One rare plant species recorded previously on the site may no longer be present - banded wild
pine. If the species is not found in subsequent surveys then it could be reestablished on the site.
This species should be established in the Xeric Uplands communities using germplasm from
nearby localities.
2.2 Management of Listed Animal Species
The Railhead Scrub Preserve should be managed to maintain or increase populations of rare
animal species as appropriate. Management of rare animal species at the preserve should
correspond with the natural communities' management goals.
The main priority shall be the management of the gopher tortoise population. Other priorities
shall include monitoring of the occurrence of eastern indigo snake and gopher frog. The xeric
upland communities at the Railhead Scrub Preserve provide suitable habitat for all three species
and maintenance of habitat is the key for the protection of these listed species populations.
Therefore, general management for this species at the site would be consistent with general
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vegetation management recommendations in Goal 5, exotic species control in Goal 3, and fire
management in Goal 4.
To protect the tortoise population from direct take such as removal of tortoises for pets or
consumption, the Railhead Scrub Preserve should be fenced in a manner that would inhibit easy
access to more remote portions of the site occupied by gopher tortoise (e.g., the northern portion
of the preserve). Limiting access by ORV would also ensures that tortoises are protected from
collisions and burrow collapses by ORV use.
No transfer of gopher tortoises to the Railhead Scrub Preserve is anticipated as part of future
management actions.
Managing the preserve for the benefit of the gopher tortoise will also benefit eastern indigo
snakes and gopher frogs if these species are present.
GOAL 7: CONTINUE TO EVAL UATE POTENTIAL FOR ACCESS AND PUBLIC USE
Action Item 7.1 Develop access for intended public uses
Construction of Veterans Memorial Blvd. is currently unfunded in the Collier Metropolitan
Planning Organization's 2035 LonjZ Range Transportation Plan. However, funding for
development of the road may pursued in 2026 -2030. Staff will pursue the possibility of
temporary access to the preserve via the Veter-ans Meme. -ial Bl vd. ROW TwO to these
,, spaees will be leeatedwithiii the ROW east of Railhead Sefub ,
at the :,A,est and of the ° isfi g Wetewars Dr-Sun Century Road. "Gates providing pedestrian
b
access only will be installed Deng the existing festie tfail ivithiii he D� r'�'�', and the trail will b�
,
just south of Mediterfa. A ROW pefffiitwill be b
faeilitate these plaffned temper-aFy i.....e.-ments. Stag will also eantinue to purstie the
pessibility of temperai:y aeeess within the We er-ans Memer-ial Blvd. ROW from the west of the
pr-eserwnext to the front gate. Gunshots and wildlife poaching have been reported on and within
the vicinity of the preserve. If the CCSO and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation
Commission are unable to enforce fireann trespass laws because the preserve is open to the
public, temporary access may not be feasible.
Access and tours to educational groups will continue to be available at the preserve
Once legal vehicular access can be established from the proposed future road (Veterans
Memorial Boulevard), facilities will be developed to provide the general public access to the
preserve. These facilities will be limited to an entrance road and gate, a parking lot, portable
restroom, information kiosk and trail. These facilities are depicted in the conceptual level master
plan (Figure 8). The site shall adhere to ADA standards for pathways and facilities onsite. As
permitting for each component of the preserve goes forward a review of ADA compliance should
be done by the County.
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The proposed trail is approximately_6,419 ft long and it will follow existing trails to the extent
possible. Approximately half of the pathways will be ADA accessible. Educational, interpretive
signage regarding the gopher tortoise and habitat shall be present along the trail.
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Source: Parcels &2009 aerial- Collier County Property Appraiser we 0 5QQ 1,000 Feet
G:Conservation Collierimapstacquired properties/Railhead Scrub!
land management/Revised Management Plan /Site Plan.mxd S �y.
10/29/09 � '
Figure 8: Railhead Scrub Preserve Conceptual Masterplan
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GOAL 8: FACILITATE USES OF THE SITE FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES
One of the goals of this management plan is to educate the public and local governments
concerning resources, issues, and management goals and objectives of Railhead Scrub Preserve.
Thesw objectives include:
Actions Item 8.1 Interaction with adjacent landowners via phone, mail, and direct contact
regarding management issues, such as exotics, prescribed fire, and dumping;
Acti€ as Item 8.2 Development of brochures and letters explaining the prescribed burring and
exotic species removal programs;
Actions Item 8.3 Development of natural resource educational materials;
Actions Item 8.4 Encouragement of adjacent landowners to establish control progran s for
invFsive exotic plants; and
AcVans Item 8.5 Providing ef- public service announcements to media contacts.
GOAL 4: MAINTAIN PLAN FOR SECURITY AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS
Becauso the site is devoted to the maintenance of natural conditions, there has been no disaster
plan required for the preserve area itself. Staff will visit the site as soon as possible after storms
or other types of natural disasters to evaluate and address any damage that rnav have occurred,
wit: emphasis on malting sure trees from the preserve have not fallen and damaged ,properlics on
the p ,,simeter. Second priority shall be on the t�ls firebreaks to make sure they are, still passable
and undamaged.
Action Item 9.1 Life Safety
A safety plan will be prepared for removal of visitors and personnel. The plan shall include
specific actions when faced with a list of environmental and physical conditions sjcl as wind,
rain, fire and any physical danger arising from persons acting in an inappropriate nranne .
1. Site Considerations
Because of the hazards of wind, water, and fire the site should be evaluated on a rredeteril in.ed
basis for the following, items:
Tree trix�zming plan for perimeter landscape to insure that the material does n-ot prese -nt a
hazard to surrounding properties. Interior natural material may also be considered for
habitat improvement only.
inspections of entry points, including gates, and security equipment.
Inspections for loose perimeter trash both natural and man made.
Ac -,-c T Itern 9.2 R.ecovery Plan
A 1pla n- should be developed for the period after the disaster to insure as little co fusz on as
possible. The priority in this plan shall consider a site inspection for assessing (xumage to
Zn
ve getation. and addressing the needs for removal of debris from a parking area and trails.
Act:,wn Item 3.3 Fire Department Emergency Response Plan
A plan will be developed to provide emergency fire responders with a map of access points and
locations of listed species so they can avoid if possible. In addition, a strategy should be
devel„ l.)ed, such as, protect surrounding structures or specific areas first.
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4.5 Establish an Operational Plan for the Railhead Scrub Preserve
This section provides management recommendations for operation of the Railhead Scrub
Preserve. It discusses maintenance and budgeting needs, the possibilities for contracting the
restoration activities, coordination, and other management issues.
4.5.1 Maintenance
The primary maintenance activities for the preserve will include control of dumping and littering
within and around the preserve and trail and facilities maintenance. Particularly important are
the security measures to keep intruders out and the maintenance measures to keepi-ag the fencing
and signage in good condition. Signs that effectively convey the desired message provide an
opportunity for increasing environmental education and awareness.
4.5.2 Estimated Annual Costs and Funding Sources
Preliminary budget estimates for Railhead Scrub Preserve include cost breakdowns associated
with resource restoration and management. The funding source identified for the restoration and
management activities is the Conservation Collier Program Management Trust Fund. Table 9
shows the activities planned for the next ten years and the initial and annual cost estimate of each
activity. Private conservation organizations may also provide funding for specific projects.
Funding already secured for management activities at Railhead Scrub Preserve include a May
2007 grant from the state (FDEP - $50,600) to remove melaleuca in the northern portion, a 2005
grant from USFWS Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program ($10,000) for general exotic removal,
a 2008 grant from USFWS Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program ($15,000) for native plants,
and financial assistance from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission ($20,000)
for firebreak creation in March 2010. Similar alternative funding sources will continue be
sought to supplement existing funding.
The budget in Table 9 represents the actual and unmet budgetary needs for managing the lands
and resources of the preserve. This budget was developed using data from Conservation Collier
and other cooperating entities, and is based on actual costs for land management activities,
equipment purchase and maintenance, and for development of fixed capital facilities. The
budget below considers available funding and is consistent with the direction necessary to
achieve the goals and objectives for Railhead Scrub Preserve.
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4.5.3 Potential for Contracting Restoration and Management Activities by Private Vendors
A significant number of Railhead Scrub Preserve management operations and restoration
activities can be considered for outsourcing. Restoration and management activities that can be
considered for outsourcing to private entities are listed in Table 10.
Table 10: Potential Contracting for Restoration and Management
Activity Approved
Prescribed fire application X
Minor fireline installation
X
Fireline, fence, and trail maintenance
X
Fence installation
X
Plant and wildlife inventory and monitoring
X
Listed species mapping and needs assessment
X
Restore /enhance encroachment and ruderal areas
X
Reduce exotic species
X
Literature development and printing
X
Interpretive signs development and installation
X
Trail installation
X
Law enforcement and patrol
X
4.6Partnerships and Regional Coordination
There may be opportunities to collaborate with the Collier County Parks and Recreation
Department. Other potential partnerships may include, but not be limited to:
• Surrounding residential and commercial property owner associations;
• The Conservancy of Southwest Florida;
• The Audubon Society;
• Florida Wildlife Federation;
• Collier County Schools;
• Collier County Sheriff's Office;
• North Naples Fire Department;
• Florida Division of Forestry;
• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service;
• Florida Department of Environmental Protection;
• South Florida Water Management District;
• Big Cypress Basin;
• Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission; and
• Other County Departments, as some goals and purposes will be similar.
4.6.1 Interdepartmental Partnerships and Agreements
Most, if not all, of the management activities on this preserve will be conducted through contract
and by the Conservation Collier Program staff. Other Collier County Departments that may
eventually be involved in management of Railhead Scrub Preserve include:
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• C: }flier County Parks and Recreation Department; and
• C'' flier County Facilities Management Department
4.6.2 C _ per°athig fAgenwies
The preserve is managed in accordance with all applicable Florida Statutes and administrative
rules. zk-,,encies having a major or direct role in the management of f e preserve are discussed in
relevant portions of this plan. The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division
of Fors -- y (DOF), will assist Conservation Collier staff in the development of wildfire
emerg4.- ".. plans and pro-Vide some services _ .d. tlI uthorizatIo � required for prescribed
burnin ; !u ris' �,} /'' �,- kA F-, ;��il
a- di ��,.. -h., <<: ri a s <i an �F "G11ije iA5° �.'ation Co;.�;..f ..,.slon �i t, E..;L) 'v� -� atil
Cons., .; lii Collier with wS dt fe a. , ''teti_ piv; ic.niS, _..._i_..;ng the development and
manac- :.- ent of Vatchable %i d?ix e programs.
4.6.3 4-ocraN, -t `ran
The lo; .g -ierm health and. connectivity of the preserve will be directly 'influenced by the
SUrro�r _ ±i?g lard ;Ise. C CSnSer�✓ t i Collier 4','ill i r }rK `, En Ineighlb tins landown eTs and
reside,::. Lo C cuniv o s{ m -nG s: a. i, and v_t �� .°d officials about th e
potent . , . ,r a„t la--d use li n`sPs o -a N,.eS,n7,
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5.0 Literature Cited
American Ornithologists' Union (AOU). 1998. Check -list of North American birds. Seventh
edition. American Ornithologists' Union, Washington, DC. 829 pp.
Collier County Environmental Services Department. May, 2006. Conservation Collier. Collier
Development Corporation Property Interim Management Plan
Collier County Environmental Services Department. November, 2004. Conservation Collier
America's Business Park Interim Management Plan
Collins Laura and Rudolph H. Scheffrahn. 2001. Red Imported Fire Ant, Solenopsis invicta
Buren (Insecta: Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Myrmicinae). IFAS Extension. University of
Florida. http: / /edis.ifas.ufl.edu/IN352
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