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Agenda 05/27/2014 Item #16D 2 5/27/2014 16.D.2. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Recommendation to approve the Rivers Road Preserve Final Management Plan under the Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Program. OBJECTIVE: To obtain Board approval for the Rivers Road Preserve Final Management Plan (FMP) and for the Board to give direction to the County Manager, or his designee, for its implementation. CONSIDERATIONS: The Conservation Collier Ordinance, No. 2002-63, as amended, Section 14(2), requires that a Final Management Plan be prepared for each property, with review and input by the Land Acquisition Advisory Committee. This plan shall identify management activities necessary to preserve, enhance, restore, maintain and monitor the property, and estimate the costs of the project. Additionally, the plan shall identify how public use compatible to the parcel shall be accomplished. The Rivers Road Preserve is 76.74 acres and is located approximately 2.5 miles east of Collier Boulevard (CR 951) south of Immokalee Road. The last parcel of the preserve was purchased by Collier County in 2010. The Interim Management Plan was approved by the Board in 2011. The Lands Evaluation and Management Subcommittee of the Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee (CCLAAC) reviewed the draft Final Management Plan, and on June 25, 2013 a public meeting was held, inviting all neighbors of the Preserve to attend and provide comment. The final draft was presented to the CCLAAC on July 8, 2013. The CCLAAC unanimously recommended approval. This item has been delayed pending the approval of the Board of the Conservation Collier financial plan which occurred on April 8,2014 (agenda item 11.B). FISCAL IMPACT: The costs of land management activities for the first year of implementation have been estimated to be $116,430 for invasive, exotic plant removal, trail creation and signage. The second and third year will cost an additional $40,600 to $76,500. Then annual costs will lessen after the fourth year to an average estimated at $15,700 per year. Funds are available within the Conservation Collier Land Management Fund to accomplish these activities. Staff will seek grant funding to assist in reducing these costs. The plan budget follows the aforementioned Conservation Collier financial plan. GROWTH MANAGEMENT IMPACT: Management of Conservation Collier lands to support appropriate public access is consistent with and supports Policy 1.1.6 and Objective 1.3 in the Recreation and Open Space Element of the Collier County Growth Management Plan. LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS: This item has been approved for legality and requires a majority vote for Board approval-JAB RECOMMENDATION: That the Board of County Commissioners approves the attached Final Management Plan and directs the County Manager, or his designee, to implement it for the Rivers Road Preserve. Prepared by: Christal Segura, Environmental Specialist, Conservation Collier Program, Parks and Recreation Department Packet Page -951- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. COLLIER COUNTY Board of County Commissioners Item Number: 16.16.D.16.D.2. Item Summary: Recommendation to approve the Rivers Road Preserve Final Management Plan under the Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Program. Meeting Date: 5/27/2014 Prepared By Name: BetancurNatali Title: Operations Analyst,Beach &Water 4/24/2014 1:51:25 PM Submitted by Title: Environmental Specialist, Conservation Collier Name: SeguraChristal 4/24/2014 1:51:26 PM Approved By Name: SuleckiAlexandra Title: Environmental Specialist,Principal, Conservation Date: 4/25/2014 8:58:22 AM Name: Washburnllonka Title: Manager-Park Operations, Parks &Recreation Date: 4/29/2014 11:55:27 AM Name: WilliamsBarry Title: Director-Parks &Recreation, Parks &Recreation Date: 4/30/2014 11:37:22 AM Name: TownsendAmanda Title: Director-Operations Support,Public Services Division Date: 5/1/2014 9:09:24 AM Name: AlonsoHailey Packet Page -952- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Title: Operations Analyst,Public Services Division Date: 5/8/2014 1:53:10 PM Name: BelpedioJennifer Title: Assistant County Attorney, CAO General Services Date: 5/9/2014 10:44:02 AM Name: CarnellSteve Title: Administrator-Public Services,Public Services Division Date: 5/13/2014 10:55:45 AM Name: BelpedioJennifer Title: Assistant County Attorney, CAO General Services Date: 5/14/2014 10:31:07 AM Name: KlatzkowJeff Title: County Attorney, Date: 5/14/2014 3:37:38 PM Name: FinnEd Title: Management/Budget Analyst, Senior, Transportation Engineering&Construction Management Date: 5/1 5/2014 5:10:58 PM Name: OchsLeo Title: County Manager, County Managers Office Date: 5/18/2014 1:40:17 PM Packet Page -953- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan- Final Draft Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan . ac:- -,14c7J -, ... 4 - 4 , ''t. 1 r ., - . J 'Al i - ""/t `1, r A il..t rye`{`' ':� 4 T J ,14' �f fl—41'if !, a s �"'I"+ 7. , , , ,; ` .- a y..ry ' ' h. / - ,;a :. 9 't F i ' \1. � ,it �lrp r t r it lilt:i I :.!t I if - lc T% r , 1 'if ' ' i N 4i9k,:;% '-'r:. 'l''‘ ''' .it" 4L 4''''''''14 i,P.% ,f4,,,,#.:4.1 'Oil.,'.'? . 1 !C :Iv.; --....,-.......-4,4 I i3 f�? i '. f } 5 .t _ A � f` \I - 0,, ,... -. I ,,,,,..,E24,11.1.L. :rf.7.? 0..f 0 f ' f J.,ir...,--, r- .4-4 ,.., '(, 1741j —ii; ' '''1 .1," ,; 41, 11 ' iltr'5, 4-17-I " 'f. Lljr' ' r , , ', - ,' .,-,,,vr''', 7 it,, $1 i iP i .� � t 1 I ! JJ 1,''.. n r z 1 p tk Il -fix { .,I. + +` r Managed by: Collier County Conservation Collier Program January 2014 —January 2024 (10 yr plan) Prepared by: Collier County Conservation Collier Staff 2013 Packet Page -954- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Executive Summary Lead Agency: Conservation Collier Program, Collier County Parks & Recreation Department, Collier County Public Services Division Properties included in this Plan: Rivers Road Preserve Preserve lands consist of four contiguous parcels located within Township 48, Range 27 and Section 30, in Collier County, Florida (00214760000, 00216000001, 00215440002, and 00217080004). Full legal descriptions are provided in Appendix 1. Total Acreage: 76.74 acres Management Responsibilities: Collier County Conservation Collier Program staff Designated Land Use: Preservation Unique Features: The preserve is adjacent to and contributes to an important wildlife corridor connecting two private conservation easements through a wildlife crossing under Immokalee Road to the over 60,000 acre Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed (CREW) owned by the South Florida Water Management District and Audubon Florida. Management Goals: Goal 1: Eliminate or Reduce Human Impacts Goal 2: Remove and Manage Invasive, Exotic Plants Goal 3: Manage Wildlife Goal 4: Create and Implement a Prescribed Fire Program Goal 5: Restore Native Vegetation Goal 6: Prepare Preserve for Public Access Goal 7: Facilitate Uses of the Site for Educational Purposes Goal 8: Provide a Plan for Disaster Preparedness Goal 9: Coordinate with Stakeholders. Partners, and Regional Agencies Goal 10: Open the Preserve for Public Use Public Involvement: A public meeting was held on June 25, 2013 to review this Final Management Plan. The meeting was open to the general public and neighboring property owners received a written invitation. The public meeting gave the general public the opportunity to learn about the Conservation Collier Program, future land management plans and the potential for public use at the Rivers Road Preserve. This forum also allowed the public to voice any concerns or objections they may have with any of these issues as presented here in the Final Land Management Plan. Staff will also reach out to the neighboring churches, and Boy and Girl Scout groups to seek partnership opportunities. Staff will work with the Collier County Sheriff's Department to discuss public use and access issues. Packet Page-955- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Table of Contents LAND MANAGEMENT PLAN EXECUTIVE SUMMARY II LIST OF FIGURES IV LIST OF TABLES V 1.0 INTRODUCTION 6 1.1 Conservation Collier: Land Acquisition Program and Management Authority 7 1.2 Purpose and Scope of Plan 7 1.3 Location 7 1.4 Regional Significance 10 1.5 Nearby Public Lands and Designated Water Resources 11 1.6 Public Involvement 13 2.0 NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES 13 2.1 Physiography 13 2.1.1 Topography and Geomorphology 13 2.1.2 Hydrology/Water Management 13 2.1.3 Geology 14 2.1.4 Soils 14 2.2 Climate 15 2.3 Natural Plant Communities 15 2.4 Native Plant and Animal Species 17 2.5 Listed Species 19 2.5.1 Listed Plant Species 19 2.5.2 Listed Wildlife Species �1 2.6 Invasive,Non-Native and Problem Species 23 2.6.1 Exotic Wildlife Species 24 2.6.2 Invasive and Problem Plant Species 24 2.7 Forest Resources 25 2.8 Archaeological,Historical and Cultural Resources 25 3.0 USE OF THE PROPERTY 26 3.1 Previous and Current Use 26 3.2 Planned Uses and Assessment of their Impacts 27 Packet Page -956- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft 3.3 Identification of Public Uses Consistent with Preservation,Enhancement,Restoration,Conservation and Maintenance of the Resources. 77 3.4 Planned Public Uses and Assessment of their Impacts 28 3.5 Adjacent Land Uses 28 3.6 Prospective Land Acquisitions 28 3.7 Proposed Single-or Multiple-Use Management Error! Bookmark not defined. 4.0 FUTURE USE OF THE RIVERS ROAD PRESERVE INCLUDING MANAGEMENT ISSUES, GOALS AND OBJECTIVES 29 4.1 Management Plan Framework '9 4.1.1 Preserve Manager: Contact Information 30 4.1.2 Preserve Rules and Regulations 30 4.2 Desired Future Conditions 30 4.3 Major Accomplishments during previous years 30 4.4 Goals and Objectives for 10 year period 31 4.5. Establish an Operational Plan for the Rivers Road Preserve 45 4.5.1 Maintenance 45 4.5.2 Estimated Annual Costs and Funding Sources 45 List of Figures Figure 1. Rivers Road Preserve Location Map Figure 2. Rivers Road Preserve Aerial View Figure 3. Conservation Collier Preserves and Designated State and Federal Land or Conservation Easements Existing in Collier County Figure 4. Rivers Road Preserve Lidar and Topographic Contour Map Figure 5. Rivers Road Soils Map Figure 6. Rivers Road Preserve Land Cover/Land Use Map Figure 7. Rivers Road Preserve Proximity to nearby Conservation Areas Wildlife Corridor and Panther Sightings and Telemetry Figure 8. 1985 Aerial Photo Figure 9. Rivers Road Firebreaks and Mechanical Exotic Removal Map Figure 10. Conceptual Plan for Rivers Road Preserve Packet Page -957- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft List of Tables Table 1: Acquisition History and Status of Rivers Road Preserve 6 Table 2: Public Lands Located Near the Rivers Road Preserve 11 Table 3: List of Avian Species Recorded on the Site 18 Table 4:Breeding Bird Species Recorded in the Belle Meade NW Quadrangle Encompassing the Rivers Road Preserve(* =non-indigenous) 18 Table 5: Listed Plant Species Detected at the Rivers Road Preserve 19 Table 6: Listed Wildlife Species Found or Potentially Found at Rivers Road Preserve 71 Table 7:Exotic Plant Species at Rivers Road Preserve �5 Table 8: Analysis of Multiple-Use Potential �g Table 9:Major Accomplishments 30 Table 10:Invasive,Exotic Plant Species Control Plan for the Rivers Road Preserve 34 Table 11: Estimated Annual Land Management Budget 47 List of Appendices Appendix 1 : Legal Description of the Property Appendix 2: Floristic Inventory of the Rivers Road Preserve Appendix 3: Florida Natural Areas Inventory Managed Area Tracking Record and Element Occurrence Summary; FNAI ranking system explanation and Natural Communities Descriptions for Occurring Natural Communities Appendix 4: Master Site File Letter from the Division of Historical Resources indicating no recorded Archaeological or Cultural Sites on the Preserve Packet Page -958- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft 1.0 Introduction The Rivers Road Preserve is a 76.74-acre preserve located approximately 2.5 miles east of Collier Boulevard (CR 951) within the Rural Fringe Mixed Use District (Receiving Area) in Collier County, Florida. Current access to the preserve is from Rivers Road on the west or from Moulder Drive to the east. The preserve is comprised of a mix of vegetative communities, including pine flatwoods, mixed wetland hardwoods, cypress and wetland forested mixed, with small areas of freshwater marsh and inland ponds and will serve the public as a wildlife viewing area. The Preserve was purchased by Collier County in two phases. The first 62.98 acres were purchased in December 2008, followed by an additional 13.76 acres in 2010. The County holds fee simple title. The preserve was officially named on December 22, 2008. The preserve will be open to the public and available for educational tours for local schools and groups. A nature trail, benches, picnic tables and educational interpretive signs will be provided for visitors. The Conservation Collier Program manages this parcel under authority granted by the Conservation Collier Ordinance 2002-63, as amended (available from www.municode.com). Conservation, restoration and passive public recreation are the designated uses of the property. Management activities allowed are those necessary to preserve and maintain this environmentally sensitive land for the benefit of present and future generations. Public use of this site must be consistent with these goals. Table 1: Acquisition History and Status of Rivers Road Preserve Year Benchmark 2007 Property nominated to the Conservation Collier Program 2007 Initial site assessment by Conservation Collier staff 2007 Approval of Initial Criteria Screening Report for first 9 properties by the Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee 2008 Approval of Initial Criteria Screening Report for two additional properties by the Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee 2008 62.98 acres approved for purchase by the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) Closed on •roperties in December 2008 2008 Officially named Rivers Road Preserve 2010 13.76 acres approved for purchase by the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) Closed on remaining properties in January 2010 2011 Developed Interim Management Plan- BCC approved 2013 Completed Final Management Plan An Interim Management Plan for Rivers Road Preserve was approved by the Collier County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) in 2011. This is the Final Management Plan for the Rivers Road Preserve. This management plan will be submitted to the BCC for approval. When approved, this plan will replace the Interim Management Plan. Updates to the plan will be completed every 5 years. Conservation Collier Program 6 Packet Page -959- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft 1.1 Conservation Collier: 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 environmentally sensitive lands within Collier County, Florida (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 Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee (CCLAAC) 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 Board of County Commissioners of Collier County established the Conservation Collier Program to implement the program and to manage acquired lands. As such, Conservation Collier holds management authority for the Rivers Road Preserve. 1.2 Purpose and Scope of Plan The purpose of the plan is to provide management direction for the Rivers Road Preserve by identifying the goals and objectives necessary to eliminate or minimize any threats to the resources and integrity of the preserve. This text is a working document that establishes the foundation of a ten-year plan by identifying the appropriate management techniques necessary to preserve and/or restore the resource. This plan will balance resource restoration and protection with natural resource-based recreational and educational use while looking at listed species protection and maintenance of the site free of invasive, exotic plant and animal species. This plan is divided into sections that include an introduction, descriptions of the natural and cultural resources, projected uses of the property, and management issues, goals and objectives. 1.3 Location The Rivers Road Preserve property is located approximately 2.5 miles east of Collier Boulevard (CR 951) within the Rural Fringe Mixed Use District (Receiving Area) in Collier County, Florida (Figures 1 & 2). Single family homes exist to the north, east and west of the property, with one private residence within the boundaries of the preserve. A private Conservation Easement exists to the south. A church encompassing several parcels exists to the north and northeast of the property along with a parcel that contains remnants of a small tree nursery. Collier County District Schools owns a little over 20 acres of land to the northeast of the property along lmmokalee Road, however the District does not plan to build any new schools within the next 5 years. It is located in Township 48, Range 27 and Section 30, in Collier County, Florida. The legal descriptions are attached as Appendix I. Conservation Collier Program 7 Packet Page -960- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft <.F., - ''.• d U C H0 iv r=t CD -7 •-2 ,,-, r co _. .,-", 0 rg'■ o .".- ..... ,',!, a T, a, :-,,,L,,,,,,,,, 0 — ,P,ilra+.1)H 0 r kt Lr,'''''' ce ■-■-+ a 0 .—II . ,.... 7, '- ■iI "" CD 2„,1--.0 1.-- f Cli ' Ilt > -"''''"t i '"."" ''^I •." IR'I ...... /.... "." 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'.;Y:;.`;211F1,,'",'"' ,,',.,,,,r...,,. :.,'' ;',„''. .. - ,-;, .: '..1-' ,,*;- ' t ' '''''4-'''''1'84,g''''&'01{..:' 4"..''1 :'"'■' ''' si 4'''," ,11..'.‘t -'''''''..`":"'''. '''' ..,;.`",-;!."Z.:/.(...`",?`" "..."4."I."1..,'-• ''''...,"'7..`."... ''''':'''''' '"-.":'',.,'.r: ',.,i ,,1„ ',,,,.: ,,,,,i,,,:.:,:,,,,,,i,„,.,,,.,,,,,, ,,._.„ ,. , , , ,, ,. , ,_ _ -_1ii41z.-4A.p.r t. .7..'-.i.z4i.,1,..‘.t,: -,-,•p,..,,,::.,.,1. -1,-,...T,r- i;.',`:::,?.:: L-e---g en a Non-Conservation P ;-_‘0 500 '"2 7 Rivers Road Preserve ...,-- Sea"aEr,ca-',,::s.,e-a.cd,. ,, rvCeollier Lands C-'Conse-vatol Co .a-rr,,r.'e,'.R C4111fe 1 C.,-. f(11 V11.1 Figure 2: Rivers Road Preserve Aerial View Conservation Collier Program 9 Packet Page -962- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. RitiVers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft 1.4 Regional Significance Despite having 877,000 acres, or 68%, of County lands protected in conservation status (FNAI, Feb 2013), Collier County has lost, and is losing, many of its rare and unique habitats. The Conservation Collier Ordinance (2002-63, as amended) identifies these specific habitats and gives preference to them in acquisition evaluations. These habitats include, in order of preference: tropical hardwood hammocks, xeric oak scrub, coastal strand, native beach, riverine oak, high marsh (saline) and tidal freshwater marsh. Although the Rivers Road Preserve does not contain any of these preferred habitats; it does contain eight observed native plant communities and outstanding examples of pop ash swamp, other wetland dependent plant species and several listed plant species. The habitat observed and the location supports the presence of approximately nine listed species and many non-listed wildlife species. This preserve provides habitat for the listed Florida panther (Puma concolor coryi) with several telemetry points and other observations of non-collared panthers in close proximity. The protection and management of these listed species and their habitat is critical to their long term existence in Collier County and throughout their ranges. The preserve is adjacent to and contributes to an important wildlife corridor connecting two private conservation easements through a wildlife crossing under Immokalee Road to the over 60,000 acre Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed (CREW) owned by the South Florida Water Management District and Audubon of Florida's Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary (See Figure 3). Conservation Collier Program 10 Packet Page -963- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft 1.5 Nearby Public Lands and Designated Water Resources Conservation Lands, in order of increasing distance are identified in Table 2 below and Figure 3. Table 2: Public Lands Located Near the Rivers Road Preserve Preserve Name Distance(miles) Direction Type Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem 1.5 N State/SFWMD Watershed Red Maple Swamp Preserve 2.5 N County/Conservation Collier Alligator Flag Preserve 4 W County/Conservation Collier Nancy Payton Preserve 5 S County/Conservation Collier Logan Woods Preserve 5.5 miles NW County/Conservation Collier Winchester Head 8 NE County/Conservation Collier Picayune Strand State Forest 8 miles S State/DEP Red Root Preserve 10 NE County/Conservation Collier Railhead Scrub Preserve 10 NW County/Conservation Collier Florida Panther National 10 miles SE Federal Goverment Wildlife Refuge Panther Walk Preserve 11 NE County/Conservation Collier Pepper Ranch Preserve 15 NE County/Conservation Collier Caracara Prairie Preserve 15 NE County/Conservation Collier Conservation Collier Program 11 Packet Page -964- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Conservation Collier Program Lands and Surrounding Conservation Areas , L+ Caracara Prairie Preserve CREW L ._ 7 ,l y. e`'f�ICokscrew - - Swamp I Red Root Preserve i Red Maple Swamp CREW" Sanctuan 1 Preserve , — Panther Walk Preserve \ Railhead Scrub Preserve L i2 CREW Winchester Head Wet Woods „e Alligator Flag Ifs ' Preserve ` II Preserve ,y , tii• I - Camp Keais Strand Project Cocohatchee — i-4— �: s,,. " . Rivers Road Preserve Creek Preserve au.rl ` I' I Logan Woods Preserve ,::., ( f ---II Freedom Parts .i '`Nancy Payton Preserve FL Panther PJWR Gordon River �l\I 8 _ Greenway Preserve i �' , :11_ "& , L`` Picayune Strand -- State Forest —< a I t t Y r . LL f•{ 1, h5 Shell Island Preserve I � Mcllvane Marsh Project t r '''i.....", - 4 t't ^r j r 1 d / .1 \, 1_., , ,N Otter Mound Preserve ___ 1 r, Legend 0 2 4 Miles CONtsf-R ATiON I I I CfL1IFIR. CO n sen,atiJD ColierAcquired u� ;Other Aa n ti Conservation Lands o; oaatnr r 'S,',-:',' Mitioarien I Cons n.atlon Easements f l F n r:n r a 7 s :,_221:3 at El, ,n,.=_ra on..cIie-.,., • Lake Trafford !'_:on ,.st,on Cnll r a a.Acr n s oertiess. "'-'." 4. n rr , 1.',. ,,swo and 1ng COI tier COT.1ntY River s Road Preserve Figure 3. Conservation Collier Preserves and Designated State and Federal Land or Conservation Easements Existing in Collier County Conservation Collier Program 12 Packet Page -965- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan.Second Draft 1.6 Public Involvement Neighborhood involvement will be sought through direct mailing, notices for public meetings to residents within the surrounding area, owners of properties that border the preserve, and organizations with an interest in the preserve. Any major changes or management activities, such as prescribed fire that are likely to generate an intrusive aspect or that in some way affect neighboring properties will be reviewed with these contacts prior to conducting the activity. Preserve activities will be posted on the Conservation Collier website and also through public notices. Staff will also seek volunteers and partnerships through these contacts. Staff will work with the local Boy and Girl Scout troops and will attempt to partner with neighboring churches. The Living Word church to the north has a preserve to the south of their property that is directly adjacent to the Rivers Road Preserve along the northeast side. Staff will attempt to work with them to coordinate management activities. 2.0 Natural and Cultural Resources 2.1 Physiography The Rivers Road Preserve lies within the Southwestern Flatwoods District. This largely low, flat district was developed on rocks and sediments that range mainly form Miocene to Pleistocene in age. Surficial materials are dominantly sand (often with relatively clayey substrate) limestone and organic deposits (Myers & Ewe! 1990). Rivers Road Preserve Lidar and Topographic Contour Map 2.1.1 Topography and Geomorphology "1 12 3 _i The preserve is located in the � Southwestern Slope region of the South ' Florida Water Management District. Topography has been established using T s = a Light Detecting and Ranging (LIDAR) ,w r 2 8, p map (Figure 4). The topographic ` o a contours of the preserve range from 7 „; � r � 111 feet in the pop ash areas and around the man-mad, lake to 14 feet in the upland 1f areas. N .� r 70 �3 ' 2.1.2 Hydrology/Water Management ^� ; s2 ,; Flat topography, sandy soils and seasonal precipitation strongly influence � � �� ' 3 hydrological processes in flatwoods. 3.e„..,, During the rainy season, flatwood soils 7Lop 0 ;:”.o t::E'lavaions.Feet^ '777 become saturated and poorly aerated and there may be standing water for varying periods of time. During the dry .3 4 season however, high Lida,a7,07'0eL0k° - evapotranspiration draws much water from the upper horizons thus soil moisture Figure 4. Rivers Road Preserve L1DAR and becomes rapidly depleted and persistent Topographic Contour Map Conservation Collier Program 13 Packet Page -966- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft drought conditions result (Myers & Ewel 1990). A small pond was excavated in 2000 on a residential property to the east of the preserve, with a portion of the pond within the preserve. The northern portion of the preserve has an unpaved road running alongside the western boundary while another unpaved road is just beyond the eastern boundary. In between the two roads and to the north of the preserve are just over 30 acres of land currently being used for church buildings and mostly cleared open space. To the south of the property is the Olde Florida Golf Course Conservation Area that was set aside when the golf course was built in the early 1990s. No water management structures exist on the preserve and no water management improvements are planned for the future. The property is mapped by the South Florida Water Management District(SFWMD) to contribute significantly to the Lower Tamiami aquifer at 21"- 107- annually and the surficial aquifer significantly at 56"-67" annually. 2.1.3 Geology The geology of Collier County is characterized by complex sequences of interbeded sands, clays, and limestone. Closest to the surface is the Holocene aged Pamlico Sand Formation, approximately ten 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 twenty feet in thickness and are characterized by shelly and sandy limestone with vugs and solution cavities (Miller Rivers Road Soils Map 1986). ,a Below the Fort Thompson and Caloosahatchee ;i. Formations are the Ochopee and Buckingham , ' . Members of the Pliocene aged Tamiami Y Formation, which are at least 200 feet thick in .. I the surrounding areas (Oaks & Dunbar 1974). "" k The Ochopee Limestone unconformably overlies _.s� _= � r f the Buckingham Limestone and/or the equivalent q'( w " Cape Coral Clay. This unconfornity marks the „ BOOA.FINFSA ND bottom of the surficial aquifer separating it from �`� the brackish underlying aquifer below. Then the 1 i -'':'•:, Hawthorn Formation, rich in phosphate and .,�1 other heavy minerals (Scott 1988), overlies the z,1 Oligocene age Suwannee Limestone and Eocene 1: y - �� age Ocala Limestone that form the Floridan -� ° . r Aquifer System in Southwestern Florida. t r x ^' RIVIERA FINE SAND LIMESTONE SUBSTRATUM , "i s fit' 2.1.4 Soils < BOLA FINE SAN Soils data is based on the Soil Survey of Collier , ._., .,, x` �,` County, Florida (USDA/NRCS, 1990. rev. _ 1998). Approximately 55% of the soils mapped ` 7. 1,... - �`�w�,,:: on this preserve are Riviera fine sand, limestone ,_o- .<,«..-..„... t,,,,17°.:� e,�,, Oarr La. substratum, a hydric soil. This nearly level, poorly drained slough soil usually supports Figure 5. Rivers Road Preserve Soils scattered areas of South Florida slash pine, cypress, cabbage palm, wax myrtle, sand cord grass, Conservation Collier Program 14 Packet Page -967- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft gulf muhly, blue maidencane, South Florida Bluestem and chalky bluestem. Vegetation observed in the preserve areas containing this soil includes South Florida slash pine, cypress, cabbage palm, and wax myrtle. Approximately 45% of the soils mapped on this preserve are Boca fine sand, a non-hydric soil. This nearly level, poorly drained soil usually supports scattered areas of pine and cabbage palm and an understory of saw palmetto, chalky bluestem, creeping bluestem, lopsided Indianarass, and pineland threeawn. Vegetation observed on the preserve where these soils are contained includes cabbage palms with an understory of saw palmetto and some pines. 2.2 Climate The Rivers Road Preserve is located in an area of Florida that is influenced by both a humid subtropical climate and a tropical savanna climate in which temperatures are moderated by winds from the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. A tropical savanna climate is characterized by sharply delineated wet and dry seasons and average monthly temperatures Greater than 64° Fahrenheit. Monthly rainfalls may exceed ten inches during the wet season. Humid subtropical climates are characterized by less extreme rainfall fluctuations between wet and dry seasons and average monthly temperatures less than 64°Fahrenheit in some months. The average annual temperature for this 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 no 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. 2.3 Natural Plant Communities A plant community refers to the suite of plant species that form the natural vegetation of any place. + nthr pogenic influence, the combination of factors such as rgeolorgy, .ace. .;n addition to a„�. �c topography, hydrology, underlying soils and climate determine the types of plants found in an area. These plants in turn determine the animal species that may be found in an area. The Florida Land Use, Land Cover Classification System (FLUCCS) G1S layer provided by the South Florida Water Management District classifies the entire preserve as a combination of Pine Flatwoods-Melaleuca Infested, Mixed Wetland Hardwoods, Cypress-Melaleuca Infested and Wetland Forested Mixed (Figure 6). Site evaluations confirm the Pine Flatwoods, Mixed Wetland Hardwoods, Cypress and Wetland Forested mixed designations, however, very few melaleuca trees were observed throughout the preserve. Other communities observed include Freshwater Marsh, Cabbage Palm, Pine/Cabbage Palm, Cypress/Cabbage Palm Disturbed, Cypress, Pine, Cabbage Palm, and Inland Ponds and Sloughs. The preserve also has several cleared areas, several areas designated for single family residences, a portion of a small pond excavated in 2000 and several infestations of exotic plants, including 25-40% coverage of Brazilian Pepper (Schiinus lerebinthifolius) and a significant infestation of air potato (Dioscorea bulbifera)throughout on the western side of the preserve and on the Conservation Collier Program 15 Packet Page -968- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Mana,ernent Plan Second Draft Rivers Road Preserve Land Use Cover Map 6216 . • 6216 r T' y t 6172 � r a �i 6'50 t 6250 .27 p4, ,'i91�: 3 Fi f 6170 1 E (2Y 0)::'1 r, 1130 6250} Cannon Blvds 1 '� + i' c x�'s:}a, # r 1 \`-. 1700 �`. �Y T 4k 2 ;r, ^�� to N' S 2 f.. 9 ak .. X110 P �� ._ O.. co r �I CD ..1.1 1 : 280 6210 w '•:— y>-" r L s 10 . , ". - - 6410 --- 6210 6170 6210 Legend Rivers Road Preserve __1110 Fixed Single Family Units oide Ftor,d co�r "� 1700 Institutional 6210 4280 Cabbage Palm coN it�,AT1ow t� C'OLLIER 6170 Mixed Wetland Hardwoods 6172 Mixed Shrubs 1 "� 0 250 500 Feet 6210 Cypress 6250 Wet Pinelands ""°"7...._.. .•li.."tea, 6410 Freshwater Marshes '" °""-" " Figure 6: Rivers Road Preserve Land Cover/Land Use Map Conservation Collier Program 16 Packet Page -969- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft southeastern portion as well. Additional details are provided in Section 2.6 and plans for management of exotics will be covered in Invasive, Exotic Plant Species Control Plan (Table 10). 2.4 Native Plant and Animal Species The 76.74 acre preserve is a combination of Cabbage Palm, Inland Ponds and Sloughs, Mixed Wetland Hardwoods, Cypress, Pine Flatwoods, Mixed Wetland Forests and Freshwater Marsh. The preserve also contains an outstanding example of pop ash swamps and several wetlands. One hundred sixty-two vascular plant species were recorded on the preserve and 36 (22%) of these plants are indicated as not native to our area (Appendix 2). All invasive exotic plants will require removal and maintenance. The canopy is dominated by slash pine trees (Pinus elliottii), cabbage palms (Sabal palmetto), scattered cypress (Taxodium ascendens) in the upland areas. Willow(Saliz caroliniana), pop ash (Fraximus caroliniana) and red maple (Ater rubrum) can be found in the wetland areas. The midstory contains areas of ragweed (Ambrosia sp.), dogfennel (Eupatorium capillifolium), sawgrass (Cladium jamaicense), saw palmetto (Serenoa repens), American beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) and myrsine (Rapanea punctata). The groundcover is a combination of ferns such as bracken fern (Pteridnum aquilimum), swamp fern (Blechmaum serrulatum), chain fern (Woodwardia virginica), alligator flag (Thalia geniculata) and sagittaria (Sagittaria lancifolia), amongst other groundcovers common in Pine/Cabbage Palm communities and freshwater marsh communities. Ephiphytes and vines have been observed throughout the preserve. Listed plant species include common wild pine (Tillandsia fasciulata), hand fern (Ophioglossum palmatum) and reflexed (inflated) wild pine (Tillandsia balbisiana). Occurrences of fauna at the preserve are based on direct visual and auditory observations of animals by Collier County staff and outside researchers during site visits 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's interim management plan, • 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 white-tailed deer (Odocoilcus virginianus). Florida black bear (Ursus americanus foridanus), and wild feral hogs (Sus scrofa). Numerous Florida panther (Puma concolor cowl) telemetry points and photo accounts have been recorded in the area and one point was recorded approximately 1/3 mile from the preserve. There are anecdotal reports of panthers on the southern portion of the preserve. There is a wildlife underpass under Immokalee Road north of the preserve that provides access through the Twin Eagles subdivision to over 60,000 acres of conservation lands, including state-owned lands, Audubon's Corkscrew Swamp and the Corkscrew Ecosystem Lands. Bird observations by Collier County staff are included in Table 3. Conservation Collier Program 17 Packet Page -970- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Table 3:-List of on the Site Common Name Scientific Name Common Name Scientific Name Red-winged Blackbird Agelaius phoeniceus Gray Catbird Dumetella carolinensis Red-shouldered Hawk Buteo lineatus Blue Jay Cranocitia cristata Mourning Dove Zenaidura macroura Blue-gray Gnatcatcher Polioptila caerulea Common Ground-dove Columbina passerina White-eyed Vireo Vireo griseus Red-bellied Woodpecker Melanerpes carolinus Northern Cardinal Cardinalis cardinalis Turkey Vulture Cathartes aura Wild Turkey Meleagris gallopavo '�' The Florida Breeding Bird Atlas lists 32 bird species that have been r recorded as confirmed, probable. or possibly breeding in the '1 vicinity of the site (in Corkscrew SW USGS quadrangle) that may k� be present at Rivers Road 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 Rivers Road Preserve. Wild Turkey on the River Road Preserve Photo Taken by Hans Van Cleave Table 4:Breeding Bird Species Recorded in the Belle Meade NW Quadrangle Encompassing the Rivers Road preserve Common Name Scientific Name Common Na me Scientific Name Northern Bobwhite Colinus virginianus Purple Martin Progne subis Green Heron Butorides striatus Northern Rough-winged Stelgidopielyx Swallow serripennis Swallow-tailed Kite Elanoides forfrcatus Tufted Titmouse Parus bicolor Red-shouldered Hawk Buteo lineatus Carolina Wren Thrvothonrs ludovicianus Mourning Dove Zenaida macroura Blue-gray Gnatcatcher Polioptila caerulea Common ground dove Coltrnrbina passerina Northern Mockingbird !Minna pol •glottos Yellow-billed Cuckoo Cncer:us americamrs Brown Thrasher Toxostoma rufuin Barn Owl Trio alba Pine Warbler Dendroica pines Common Nighthawk Chordeiles minor Prairie Warbler Setophaga discolor Red-bellied Melanerpes carolinus Common Yellowthroat Geothlvpis irichas Woodpecker Downy Woodpecker Picoides pubescens Eastern Towhee Pipilo en'ihrophihalmus Red-cockaded Picoides borealis Northern Cardinal Cardinalis cardinalis Woodpecker Great Crested Awiarcbus crinitus Red-winged Blackbird Agelaius phoeniceus Flycatcher Loggerhead Shrike Lrnuus hrdovicianus Eastern Meadowlark Sturnella Inagua White-eyed Vireo Vireo gri.scus Common Grackle Ouiscalus quiscula Blue Jay Cvanocitta cristata Boat-tailed Grackle Ouiscalus major (Breeding Bird Atlas Explorer(online resource).2012 U.S.Geological Survey) Conservation Collier Program 18 Packet Page -971- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Ricers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft The only reptile species observed to date on the preserve are the s � w "�:. Cottonmouth/Water Moccasin (Agkistrodon piscivorous conanti) 4` N„" and the Southern Black Racer (Coluber constrictor priapus). There w t have been no amphibian species observed on the site to date besides �;�, - ir the exotic brown anole (Anolis sagrei), however staff will continue x ' to monitor the site during site visits and will document any other ,. :: ', , s" , reptiles and/or amphibians found. Cottonmouth Snake on the Rivers 1 Road Preserve Photo Taken by % Hans VanCleave ' ply !4.W,-''',,,;'''.:: :; '''',4-*: ,,qa fig ', ^ 4' `' Invertebrates observed at the preserve include butterflies such as u 1 � ° � `1+�H _*�� '�;; Queen (Danaus gili>>zss) and Zebra LonRwinQ (Heliconius '.a charithonia. Other wildlife species noted on the preserve include �`" '° .. a the Tree Snail (Order Pulmanata), and Crayfish (Order Deca oda . Tree Snail. Photo taken by County Staff on the Rivers Road Preserve Other wildlife species that have not been recorded undoubtedly occur at Rivers Road Preserve. Future, more detailed, wildlife surveys will be conducted on the preserve and the plan will be updated as new species are documented. 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. 2.5.1 Listed Plant Species Three plant species found at the Rivers Road Preserve are listed by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) - (2) as Endangered. (I) as Threatened, and none as Commercially Exploited. There are no federally listed endangered or threatened plant species. A brief description of these species and their status is included in Table 5 and in the following paragraphs. Additional listed plant species may be found at Rivers Road Preserve following further field surveys. Confirmation of listed plant identifications should be made by a qualified botanist. Table S :Listed Plant Species Detected.at the 1 ivers Road Preserve Common Names Scientific Names FDACS(State) Hand fern Ophioglossum palmation Endangered Reflexed wild pine Tillandsia balbisiana Threatened Stiff-leaved wild pine Tillandsia fasciculata Endangered Giant wild pine Tillandsia utricula Endangered Conservation Collier Program 19 Packet Page -972- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rives Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Hand Fern (Ophioglossurn palmatum) This plant is commonly found on cabbage palms and has been �� arI II found in multiple areas along the east and southern coast of -,. Florida. Early 20th century observers spoke of hand ferny gathered by the wagon load from Florida's swamps. Hand fern n -s44 ''tkk:is still collected but it dies in cultivation due to lack of essential ' f 4 �-- fungi. When palm boots decay, and fall to the ground, or are - , 4 , �, destroyed by fire, hand ferns are killed. Only 50 populations . ,:~ ` •, remain in Florida, about half in conservation areas. """7,!/- Hand fern found on site. Photo taken by Conservation Collier staff Reflexed wild pine (Tillandsia balbisiana) This air plant is abundant and occurs throughout the preserve. It is also considered threatened by the State of Florida due to the Mexican r . X4 Bromeliad Weevil. It is equally well-adjusted to deep shade where leaves A,` grow long or to bright sunlight where they are contorted and highly 4'' �, colored from gray-green to blue-bronze or red (NAS 2007). Reflexed Wild Pine Photo by Melissa Abdo Courtesy of The Institute for Regional Conservation Stiff-leaved wild pine(Tillandsia fasciculata) 4, il Although this air plant is abundant throughout South Florida. it is listed by N the State as endangered as they are threatened by the Mexican Bromeliad ; ! x weevil. Leaves may grow to as much as forty inches, they form large ,l plants in tree tops and arc often mistaken for bird or squirrel nests. They glow equally well in canopy or near ground (NAS 2007). It is also _:} , 'r referred to as a common wild pine or cardinal air plant. This air plant has '1 17, been noted in several areas throughout the preserve. The photo to the left ;, ,. was taken in the northern portion of the preserve within a small pop ash - F `Lw marsh. Still-leaved wild pine Photo by Collier County ',.;.'''4,';'" Staff _ �� g� tt � ?' ' 't; ate, 1 ,q�p 'oat ' '` ' i „g x 'C; Giant wild pine (Tillandsia utriculata) is the largest epiphyte and is 4.;'`,., , - relatively common in hammocks and swamps in South Florida. It can reach a ‘ ' { 12-30 inches in height and its flower spike may be more than six feet in Jt Y> ,-� At ,1� ' height. It is also listed by�the State of Honda as endangered ti4.rahy> ` Giant Wild Pine ''' , t,7,1, '1° t Photo by Rodger Hammer "*`�:tJ. courtes. 01 the Institute for Regional Conservation svebsite Conservation Collier Program 20 Packet Page -973- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft 2.5.2 Listed Wildlife Species The Florida Natural Areas Inventory (FNAI) maintains a database of occurrences of rare, threatened, and endangered species in Florida. Within the Rivers Road Preserve, The Florida Natural Areas Inventory (FNAI) has documented the occurrence of the endangered Florida panther (Puma concolor cotyi) (Appendix 3). The FNAI database report indicated three (3) other species likely to be found in this area including Florida back bear (Ursus americanus floridanus), Mangrove fox squirrel (Sciurus niter avicennia), and the Wood stork (Mycteria americana). Florida black bear have been detected and documented by the former property owners on the southern portion of the preserve. The habitat of the preserve also supports the presence of Gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus), Eastern indigo snake (Diymarchon couperi), Florida bonneted bat (Eumops floridanus), and Snail kite�(Rostrhamus sociabilis plumbeus). Table 6 below identifies the status of each and a brief description of the only documented listed species is included in the following paragraphs. Cottonmouth/Water Moccasin (Agkistrodon piscivorous conanti) have also been observed on the preserve. Table 6:Listed Wildlife Species Found or Potentially Found at Rivers Road Preserve Observed Common Name Scientific Name Federal State FNAI or Potential Florida black bear Ursus americanus,floridanus T L 0 Cottonmouth/Water Moccasin Agkistrodon piscivorous conanti T SSC 0 Florida panther Puma concolor con,i ©® D 0 Big Cvsress fox s•uirrel Sciurus nicer avicennia T L P Wood Stork M>>cteria americana 111111111.1111 L P Florida Burrowing Owl Athene cunicularia floridana Mal P P Eastern Indigo Snake Drt�marclron couperi T P P Florida bonneted bat Eranopsfloridanns T P P Red-cockaded Woodpecker Picoides borealis E E P P Snail Kite Rostrhamus s 'ciabilis plumberrs F E P P E—Endangered, T—Threatened, SSC—Species of Special Concern, O—Observed, P—Potential, L-Likely Florida Black Bear (Ursus americanus floridanus) The Florida black bear is a subspecies of the black bear found throughout North America. Black bears have been observed on several occasions at Rivers Road Preserve. Florida black bears in south Florida are listed as threatened by the FWC. Because of its large home range and low population density the black bear is particularly vulnerable to habitat loss. Even though their population is affected by illegal killing and road kills, habitat loss is the major cause of concern (Humphrey 1992). x c Black Boar photos taken In the Riv crs Road S», 't U s f 7; � � Preserve. Photos taken be former property , z i ' •��,� 3� * , �"�*�',��,i4 � � �� ? owner Hans VanC levc Conservation Collier Program 21 Packet Page -974- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Cottonmouth/Water Moccasin (Agkislrodon piscivorous conanti) Cottonmouth snakes are listed as a species of special concern by the State of Florida. The coloration of this snake can be variable. Older and larger snakes tend to be uniformly black, brown to reddish brown, while the young are banded with a dark color against a lighter background. Most abundant in flooded woodlands, the Florida Cottonmouth is also found around rivers, streams and ponds. It is often seen along the water's edge, on the bank or on a log or rock and it can also be found in pine woods or other dry habitats. Though the Cottonmouth occurs throughout the state, it is not as abundant as the many species of harmless water snakes that occur in much the same habitat. Florida Panther (Puma concolor corvi) This large cat is a year-round resident of undeveloped lands in South Florida. The Florida Panther is listed as a Federally and State endangered species. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and FWC track radio-collared panthers in Collier County. Radio telemetry reports as well as wildlife camera photos of non-collared panthers have verified that Panthers do pass through this area. These large cats require extensive blocks of mostly forested communities. Large wetlands that are generally inaccessible to humans are important for diurnal refuge. A large tract of land may be developed to the east of the preserve within the next couple of years. Environmental groups have worked with the developer to protect a vital wildlife corridor along the western boundaries of their developmental area. This corridor connects two conservation areas and runs through a wildlife underpass under Immokalee Road (see Figure 7). The corridor is currently part of a SFWMD environmental resource permit and most likely will become part of the developer's required preserve area. Conservation Collier Program 22 Packet Page -975- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Presen'e Land Management Plan.Second Draft Rivers Road Preserve Proximity to nearby Conservation Areas Wildlife Corridor and Panther Sightings and Telemetry cotiLrCo„,rr, � ,r ✓” P° Y t 7 d3." .d ::ka w y d� #f��Et �Yv" ( 1' a a".?",l r!�e 7',�r ,{f�. ' { A 1 I f` .'3I xt' x Y"s i s p • ' a ..;....4;,,,L, ..4 t J;—e . .x 9 •i t 7 v� t ar Ii r� d . 4�" a e - a ^ t r j r471;/1. Ir15241 li (..- t.� � g ' ,„ a � � !v ,4k a ��` i �1 fir sue , '�4 ' j r d ., i ) s ` is r a r + ,r�?t ','' Panther Photo 2 `r-,,'',-", x7 r 1 r,,d$ s r Y '1 4 '' k • ''4,, ,{ + . r 4 rt � r,. t _ ! G r" " -+G+4 d r f v Wfe UTerpass 4 -t . » w;y„ { 9:,_4,3.1,...,-71.1'.. . Imkal,e Road `'-`°" ' r ..'} " o t mrr"fi' l a iL6 . ]Ya ri r..k li mq t 1 i t r. *1.' . 1: j' t a"'j ' � x -?'f ir a --�+ r ?- ' '4,'-'R ' Road '' ! Ys.. ^T5 r +klq . ,-- X5 +7,q� �w I 1. x� • ry _ !i w 1 i • , r tE yv :' ' tF ,V,-. . '1g b 1.#i",,,...:,;.,�'^ Preserve r f f+� ;r f T".3 cy A s*y s 1 ='Y" !` �a 3 .k rG I ' a i".7 � t i..,11::'-'f''' a I i 1 $41. • , S'• 0 x, s ta e 1, ' „ iii ,x t, M ,p l'''',, tXt- R3 / ,7.-T fi ,t a S < u _ -T-___"_f 1 k 1,-. "y ,: .f fr a 1 P s •+.1..S .dx+- Y'.,,. , vip s i ''Y ' t , :{ 33_px,a r• "t . t r*P i i 4 I t''''''j( f ,, : ^ v" d a,s ,$.{ y 4fh }! a .w ul t "a-. ;,": k to 9 as -vu� s 4w ',"..,'-r,.. �: c, .w $ '''4' t -nw x t -ral 4 #i rt't'-g..4."'2,',.'".77_1' 1, ii,T .0 ._.:2.1,5:,,,,....,, s 4t .e a , et 5 } S xr a e a °r frt",, z� r s is F ' .0 ' a+ k 1 *-� n x t ` ^� . P .� ' .J ..ta MS 4 ,a+i t- - • t,7.)0 t. � ( t, =.1.- -;:',,j:..7.,..,.,-4.-'3.......i.,-„,->* ,,A14:-?',%,,J;--A:.:,. .1,,,,--,-',f- ' '�T - { "# R'..Cp r r .r,4,.-a , 9° ,1:-..i...':-'..,,,..1, L t R 7-' .-1'fi9 t r d : " . ra > ,S : s . ' ' at. '� '' ' ldl 1e Uderpass � 4,„<.. ... Figure 7. Rivers Road Preserve Proximity to nearby Conservation Areas Wildlife Corridor and Panther Sightings and Telemetry. Also shows locations where wildlife camera photos below were taken. 54.'+k r Photo 1 { " ': Photo of an uncoiiared panther taken by an FWC Wildlife Camera along a canal bridge over 1..,sm Ave. N.W. f' `'�` , . _ ;;.�.L`,, i y southeast of the preserve. Photo taken i, 11. -�'1�t.�x� ,^ -gyp ”` - t # 4i w t.' =,sus:, � .. . w e-... 4f * t'4- " '' '"".�`xr s„d - . nut •, .!t" i Photo 2 +44, a'- � � Wildlife camera photo showing an uncollared panther •; + ;,�, " 4. a ,,' ' 4 F r +„,exiting the wildlife underpass under hnmokalee Road ' _ northwest of the preserve. Photo taken 3/14113. 1? "` �, �',: 1 '5:" -"=-' s d/,WdNC 4 ul40li aaa ON - Con cert'ation Collier Program 23 Packet Page -976- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft 2.6 Invasive, Non-Native and Problem Species Several invasive, non-indigenous plant and animal species are known to occur within Florida. A comprehensive list of invasive 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, and approximately 125 species are established. 2.6.1 Exotic Wildlife Species ,�r ,.--, Evidence of wild hog (Sus scrofa) exists on the preserve, multiple hog wallows are present, especially in the southern portion of the preserve indicating this species could potentially '1 VA become a nuisance. They can also be referred to as wild boar or �07-44 feral pig, and may have been introduced to Florida as earl as 't ; „` 1539 (FFWCC 2002). According to Kevin Love, a land _ - manager with the Southwest Florida Water Management Feral Hogs photo provided by USGS District, "Feral hogs are a big problem on all conservation lands. and taken by NASA [They are] one of the most severe exotic problems facing Florida." Their favorite food is acorns but they roam in large groups and will eat native frogs, snakes and ground nesting birds while rooting up the ground with their snouts—destroying acre upon acre. They may weigh over 150 pounds, grow to be 5- 6 feet long and reproduce at a rapid rate. They travel in herds containing several females and their offspring. Wild hogs occur throughout Florida in various habitats, but prefer moist forests, swamps and pine flatwoods. They are omnivorous and feed by rooting with their broad snouts. They may cause great damage of the understory and leave an area looking like a plowed field (Hoppe 2006). Feral hogs consume ground-nesting bird eggs and disturb soil and sensitive vegetation, which in turn invites invasive exotic plant growth. 2.6.2 Invasive and Problem Plant Species Invasive and exotic plants on the preserve include air potato (Dioscorca bulbifera), Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius), earleaf acacia (Acacia auriculiformis), Caesar's weed (Urena lobata), bougainvillea (Bougainvillea glabra), citrus (Citrus spp.), lantana (Lantana camera), java plum (Sv_vgium cumini), rosary pea (Abrus precalorius), melaleuca (llelaluecua guinguteneri•ia), monk orchid (Oeceoclades maculata), tabeubuia (Tabeubuia spp.), and wedelia (14 edelia trilobata). All exotic plants documented on the preserve are listed in Table 7. Of the exotic plants found on the preserve, the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council considers nine of these species to be Category I Invasive plants that may alter native plant communities by displacing native species, changing community structures or ecological functions, or hybridizing with natives. Four species are considered Category II plants. meaning they have increased in abundance or frequency but have not yet altered Florida plant communities to the extent shown by Category I species. These definitions do not rely on the economic severity or geographic range of the problem, but on the documented ecological damage caused (FLEPPC 2007). Treatment of these species is covered in Section 4.4, Goal 3 and in Table 11. Conservation Collier Program 24 Packet Page -977- 5/27/2014 16.D2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Table 7:Invasive Exotic Plant'Species at Rivers Road Preserve FLEPPC Scientific Name Common Name(s) Category Abrus precatorius Rosary pea I Acacia auriculiformis Earl eaf acacia Dioscorea bulbifera air potato Lantana camara Shrub verbena/Lantana Melaluecua quinquenervia melaleuca I Pennisetum purpureum Napier grass II Psidium guajava guava Pteris vittata Chinese brake fern II Sanseverina hyacinthoides bowstring hemp II Schinus terebinthifolius Brazilian pepper 1 Sv. ygium cumini Java plum Urena lobata Caesar's Weed Wedelia trilobata wedelia II The majority of the Brazilian pepper and air potato present is located within the disturbed areas of the preserve, such as the power line corridors and pathways that may have previously been used to traverse the property. Air potato appears to exist primarily in areas where dilapidated structures were removed prior to county purchase of the property. Under certain conditions, especially following hydrologic disturbance, some native plant species can become invasive. For example, Cabbage palms can also become invasive when hydrology is altered and without fire. Management of these species may be necessary. 2.7 Forest Resources No commercial forests exist, and timber extraction may not appropriate for this site. If portions of the preserve require thinning, prescribed fire could assist to thin out young pines. 2.8 Archaeological, Historical and Cultural Resources The Rivers Road Preserve property is not within an area of historical and archaeological probability. According to a letter obtained by County Staff dated, January 8, 2013, the Florida Master Site file of the Division of Historical Resources show that no archaeological sites or any other cultural resources have been recorded for the section, township and range in which the preserve exists (see Appendix 4). The County will notify the Division of Historical Resources immediately if evidence is found to suggest otherwise. If such resources are identified 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 267.061 2 (a) and (b). Consenn'ation Collier Program 25 Packet Page -978- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan.Second Draft 3.0 Use of the Property 3.1 Previous and Current Use •.r... k.. '. 5ps z h INI.CFA _ 1 , d '�n''fa 4j� )� � ' = f s:l • i C. _ - a k �� 3 '6 k r r t au,•:( 1!! e tt . k .l ` m1 aJ 1 '+` 5' ,, !:. w ,-...„4,;,-;:„;i:',41.;,,,,.„ s �'4' ,y s 1 ;i? E i a 3 y wn fK r � "nr. r � .8� S[i. i {j ate„ � F n „ ��x y ,ii" ` vi J wcJ�w_ T , d sEx i k ,TS V t f �� '^S" 'b,1 - P 4' C � ,( � 4 ;x v t � '`' 4 "�"°'" `" L. . . A tx�r: a• e sy x l ,�y Js tY�xrn �� 'r 11 • z.& L � J il 1 ` . r ,3 � z i; � t� i - ma r„r 't,W r � , t x4� s -y � y ' � '�.}1r 3(t r '' y 3�' ;i •. ,� x r a 2:�1 u + �°1, C ' ` e7 rt 1x� F: ''. ,dt q ,H j 7 ri ue Krf ..-I -c,' $'Ari2f45:FA�'tger l 3 I�k '' w r d i h' i, `h/" � ,tp". , : n�a t � '” t . r- '§f ; [ ,r F * mss" iw A " •sk 4,e,is # t t , xF. r d " r 0 t t'o ,#r ' • e- ; q fi- t*�7;..1,1' ^4 „ g ',".q 'f ti }'.y � h`8., xcn 4.- .: ;itJ r. , iF x s + ..,...i„'=,,,,.' � d+?-�tc J - „ ! , i ,N,ti A : l� : o-;,,,v-„,,,' Z '74,-,,..7-,7;,:,-1',1 .4 * "'s, s.#i t . v wf ;,.7.< s . Y`..4. r „s� T'- l`a r Yx 1x. � c y �,A.,., , r°I, . ` 'h w, ' �r�4,` [f r 04-.Zw 'y i' 3 t i � tL ^,> '3 t ,^t,a t,triz t Figure 8. 1985 Aerial Map (Collier County Property Appraiser's Office) Historical Aerials were researched back to 1940, however, flights were taken to the north, east and west of the property but not directly over the current preserve property. The 1958 aerial shows that lmmokalee Road had been built to the north with no additional development surrounding. The 1963 surrounding aerials showed new roads and existing farm fields to the west. The 1973 aerials showed small roads being cleared just east of Rivers Road and one parcel cleared_just south of Imniolcalee Road where the Living Word Church now exists and some small homes N. E. and W of the preserve. The 1985 aerial (Figure 8) shows that the majority of the preserve land was still undeveloped and undisturbed. River's Road existed at that time. A small home existed on the Northwestern most parcel and some clearing and single family development had occurred on the two parcels west of Rivers Road. The area that will be used as the parking area (discussed later in the plan)was cleared sometime between 1975 and 1985. The majority of the site was previously zoned agriculture with a Mobile Home Overlay, allowing for minimal development at no greater than one unit per five acres. There were a few small structures on the site such as sheds and trailers, including one abandoned trailer. Several formerly cleared roads cut across portions of the property to serve as access to power lines and/or to allow the former property owners access. A small pond constructed on an adjacent parcel to the east overlaps onto the preserve. The entire perimeter of the pond has been cleared and saw grass, sagittaria, ragweed, willow, red maple, cypress trees, pine and cabbage palms surround the clearing. Prior to conveyance of the properties, a significant amount of trash and debris was Conservation Collier Program 26 Packet Page -979- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land A7ana<zement Plan Second Draft removed by the former property owners, including several very dilapidated structures scattered throughout. The site is accessed by Rivers Road, which is off Immokalee Road. Currently the site is not open to the public for recreational use and a locked gate permits access to some portions only to those with permission to visit the property and to the property owner that owns a 5-acre out- parcel within the preserve. Recent site visits have revealed small pockets of trash in several areas. On the northern portion of the preserve, there is evidence that a small structure may have been once used and abandoned. Water piping and timber is piled up and nearby there is fencing and old appliances near the property line. Temporary signs identifying the property as a Conservation Collier Preserve and listing prohibited activities have been posted at the CONSERVATION northern most part of the preserve along Rivers Road and Moulder COLLIER Drive. There are no current concessions or leases on the preserve PRESERVE 'GUuivulW'' property. " n Evidence that the preserve has been used for baiting and possibly hunting has been found near the property line so coordination with neighbors will be critical as restoration plans are implemented. particularly during active restoration, prescribed burns and when 7 - public access is granted. Following removal of old structures, including septic tanks and trailers, the southwestern portion of the property is beginning to show signs of natural restoration, with natural recruitment of pines, grasses and myrtle. Removal of exotics will further encourage natural revegetation. 3.2 Planned Uses and Assessment of their Impacts Public access will be limited to special requests until initial exotics are removed and safe trails are established. Future planned uses include passive recreational opportunities for the public. Public hunting will not be allowed within the preserve. Details of planned uses for the Rivers Road Preserve and assessment of their potential impacts are provided in the following sections. 3.3 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 natural resource- based uses consistent with Rivers Road Preserve: • Hiking: Consistent with the nature of the site and its purpose. • Nature Photography: There is potential for nature photography of wildlife and plant life. • Bird Watching: There is potential for bird watching on this site. • Environmental Education: After trails are established. Conservation Collier Program 27 Packet Page -980- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft 3.4 Planned Public Uses and Assessment of their Impacts Trail Network — Trails will be established throughout the property in at least two phases to allow for hiking and nature observation within the preserve. Firebreaks will double as hiking trails as much as possible to avoid altering additional habitat. Once established, trails will need to be maintained and monitored to ensure that visitors stay on them and no new trails are being made. Clearing the trails of fallen trees and debris and creating new trails may also enable and increase the illegal use of all terrain vehicles (ATVs) and dirt bikes on the property so monitoring will be necessary. Easements, Concessions and Leases An ingress/egress easement exists over Rivers Road, which extends through the preserve and ends at a private residence at 1920 Rivers Road that is enclosed within the preserve boundaries as an out-parcel. There are no current concessions or leases on the preserve property. Parking / Handicap Facilities - A small mowed parking area will be created in the southwest portion of the preserve in an area that is already disturbed resulting from the previous existence of old structures. Physical access to the parking area will be from Rivers Road, an unpaved road easement. In the future if funds allow, parking spaces may be created to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and will lead to an accessible picnic area and connect to a compliant trail. An information kiosk will be created adjacent to the picnic area. Landscaping — There may be minimal native landscaping installed around the future parking area. if required under development regulations. Natural area restoration of the preserve should include only site specific native plant material that has been determined to be non-problematic to 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. Fencing / Gates — Fencing along the northern and western portions of the preserve may be necessary to deter dumping, encroachment and illegal access. The existing gate on Rivers Road may be relocated farther south to the entrance of the parking/trailhead area or to the entrance of the private property out-parcel driveway. 3.5 Adjacent Land Uses Single family homes exist to the north, east and west of the property, with one private residence within the boundaries of the preserve as an out-parcel. A church encompassing several parcels exists to the north and northeast of the property along with a parcel that contains remnants of a small tree nursery. A conservation easement exists to the south of the property. Collier County District Schools owns a little over 20 acres of land to the northeast of the property along Immokalee Road, however the District does not plan to build any new schools within the next 5 years. 3.6 Prospective Land Acquisitions There are currently no surrounding properties under consideration as prospects for acquisition. The only parcel that was previously considered, is an outparcel that is completely surrounded by preserve land. As of February 2013, it is owned by CSC Equity, a Texas Limited Liability Conservation Collier Program 28 Packet Page -981- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Mana,Tement Plan Second Draft Company. This parcel was determined to not be a viable purchase by the County due to the existing structure that exists on the property. 3.7 Proposed Single - or Multiple-Use Management Management of this parcel for public use will focus on maintenance of the trail, signage, and picnic area (Table 8). All of the uses are restricted to those consistent with conservation of plants, animals, any historical/archaeological features, and passive enjoyment of these resources by visitors. Table 8:Analysis'of Multiple-Use Potential Activity Approved Conditional Rejected Protection of endangered and threatened species y Ecosystem maintenance Y Soil and water conservation y Hunting N Fishing N Wildlife observation y Hiking y Bicycling Horseback riding Timber harvest }' Cattle grazing N Camping N Apiaries N Linear facilities N Off road vehicle use N Environmental education Y Citriculture or other agriculture N Preservation of archaeological and historical sites Y I (Other uses as determined on an individual basis) 4.0 Future Use of the Rivers Road Preserve including Management Issues, Goals and Objectives This section describes the main management issues, goals, and objectives for Rivers Road 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. 4.1 Management Plan Framework Each property purchased by Conservation Collier shall have its own management plan. At the time the property was purchased, the Conservation Collier Ordinance required that an "Interim" Management Plan be developed within 60 days of closing. Interim plans include basic items such as removal of invasive exotics and trash, establishing site security, developing management partnerships and planning for public access. The interim plan for this site was officially approved in September 2011. The ordinance then requires a "Final" management plan be developed within two years. Subsequently, the property management plan must be updated every five years. Final management plans, however, are considered living documents and can be Conservation Collier Program 29 Packet Page -982- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft updated at any time. Review of all management plans start in the Lands Evaluation and Management Subcommittee and must be approved by both the CCLAAC and the BCC. 4.1.1 Preserve Manager: Contact Information The Site Manager for Rivers Road Preserve will be a designated Collier County Environmental Specialist who can be contacted through electronic mail: ConservationCollier @Colliergov.net. 4.1.2 Preserve Rules and Regulations No dumping, use of unauthorized vehicles, or removal or destruction of any natural or historical/archaeological resources shall be permitted within the preserve. The goal is to allow limited, non-destructive public access to maintain natural resource habitat and native plant communities and animal species. 4.2 Desired Future Conditions This section includes a description of the proposed future condition for the site's natural areas. Management techniques to achieve these conditions are listed in the following sections. After management goals are met, Rivers Road Preserve will consist of pine flatwoods, mixed wetland hardwoods, cypress, wetland forested and freshwater marsh habitats. Several outstanding examples of pop ash swamp will be present. The canopy will be comprised of maple, pop ash, red bay, slash pine, laurel oak, cabbage palm, willow and cypress. The mid- story will be maintained and continue to consist of scattered natives including: marlberry, saltbush, American beautyberry, common button bush, sawgrass, dog fennel, dahoon holly, gallberry, rusty lvonia, red mulberry, wax myrtle, wild coffee, myrsine, winged sumac, saw palmetto, saffron plum and hog plum. Groundcover will remain native and will include: swamp fern, habernaria, ludwigia, maidencane, passion flower, frog-fruit, pickerelweed, Bracken fern sagittaria, blue porterweed, alligator flag, southern cattail and chain fern. Prescribed burns will be conducted in the Pine Flatwoods areas on a 3-5 year cycle to reduce saw palmettos and keep hardwoods and palm cover sparse (<25%), allowing for a diverse and dense herb layer. Management of the preserve will also improve habitat for the non-fisted wildlife species that have been observed on the preserve and will make the habitat desirable for the listed species that may be in the area of the preserve. 4.3 Major Accomplishments during previous years Table 9..Major Accomplishments Accom lishment Year(s) Initial removal of dilapidated structures, old automobiles.septic and other 2008 trash by previous property owners Posting temporary signage along Rivers Road and Moulder Drive 2008 Posted additional signage along Rivers Road and Moulder Drive 2013 Final Management Plan Completed 2014 Conservation Collier Program 30 Packet Page -983- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft 4.4 Goals and Objectives for 10 year period A set of goals and objectives for the Rivers Road Preserve were developed in conjunction with the drafting of this Management Plan. The goals and objectives in this plan are tailored specifically for the Rivers Road Preserve, based on the purposes for which the lands were acquired, the condition of the resources present, and management issues for the property. On- site managers should be familiar with the entire Management Plan. Goals and objectives from the interim management plan for the Rivers Road Preserve were reviewed to determine if they remain meaningful and practical and if so, were carried over into this plan. The goals and objectives presented here reflect programmatic goals and ideas of Conservation Collier personnel in charge of managing and protecting the area. These goals shall not be modified, but specific application of management techniques may take into consideration input by user groups and other stakeholders from outside the program, accommodating user needs and desires where practicable and where overarching management goals are not violated. 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 Rivers Road Preserve: Goal 1: Eliminate or Reduce Human Impacts Goal 2: Remove and Manage Invasive, Exotic Plants Goal 3: Manage Wildlife Goal 4: Create and Implement a Prescribed Fire Program Goal 5: Restore Native Vegetation Goal 6: Prepare Preserve for Public Access Goal 7: Facilitate Uses of the Site for Educational Purposes Goal 8: Provide a Plan for Disaster Preparedness Goal 9: Coordinate with Stakeholders,Partners, and Regional Agencies Goal 10: Open the Preserve for Public Use Goal 1: Eliminate or Reduce Human Impacts The preserve is currently easily accessible for dumping, use of off road vehicles and hunting. In order to provide for the safety of those who will be lawfully using this site for passive recreation and research, and to ensure that the programs of ecological preservation and restoration can take place unabated, strong security measures will be put into place. Action Item 1.1: Removal of refuse and dilapidated structures Although former property owners were required to remove trash prior to conveyance to Conservation Collier, recent site visits have revealed small pockets of trash in several areas. On the northern portion of the preserve, there is evidence that a small structure may have been once used and abandoned. Water piping and timber is piled up and nearby there is fencing and old appliances near the property line. This refuse will be removed either by contract or by use of the Sheriffs Office Weekenders Work Program. Conservation Collier Program 31 Packet Page-984- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Action Item 1.2: Prohibit unauthorized access to the preserve/ Security management Staff will continue to maintain the site as legally posted. `No Trespassing-Collier County" signs will be posted every 500 feet or less and at every corner of the property. Conservation Collier signs also exist in two locations, one on Rivers Road and one on Moulder Drive. The signs make it clear that there is to be "no littering" and "no hunting" and "no unauthorized vehicles". Similar signs will be posted at the trailhead areas once constructed. This will fulfill the legal posting requirement. If signs are removed or vandalized, they will be fixed and replaced as needed. They may need to be stabilized with concrete if they continue to be removed. Staff will continue to work with enforcement agencies such as the Collier County Sheriffs Department Agriculture Division and FFWCC to enforce trespassing by citizens on off-road vehicles, poachers and litterers. One warning will be given by the Sheriffs office officers, followed by arrest for repeat offenders. If anyone is caught poaching on the property or in possession of a firearm, they will automatically be arrested and taken to jail. Staff has received approval from the BCC to sign Sheriffs Department affidavits to press charges as needed. Staff will also continue to stay in contact with preserve neighbors for trespassing updates. A fence may need to be installed along the northern and westernmost portion of the preserve along Rivers Road and Moulder Drive. Once installed, fencing will be monitored on a regular basis to ensure that fencing is not disturbed and that no trespassing or unauthorized activities are occurring. Staff will also consider installing an electronic gate along Rivers Road that would automatically close each night at dusk. Action Item 1.3: Identify locations of rare and listed native plant and animal species The location of rare listed plant species will be identified using a global positioning system (GPS) device and mapped to allow staff to monitor them. Public trails will be constructed to avoid areas where rare and listed species exist. Actual and potential locations of resident animal life will also be identified and documented and steps will be taken to construct visitor amenities away from animal nesting sites. Action Item 1.4: Monitor public access Public access will be limited to special requests until initial exotics are removed and safe trails can be created. Once the site is opened up for public access, visitors will be encouraged to stay on established trails. Staff will frequent the site to conduct inspections and will coordinate with visiting children's groups to educate them on the importance of protecting this natural resource. Well-mannered dogs will be allowed in the preserve on leash only. Pick-up bags will be provided at trail heads. If problems start to occur, this privilege will no longer be allowed. Action Item 1.5: Enforce regulations prohibiting trash in or near the preserve Staff will monitor the trails on a regular basis and if excessive dumping or littering start to occur, enforcement actions will be sought through the County Sheriffs Department. Action Item 1.6: Discourage visitation to the park at night A sign designating park hours as dawn to dusk will be installed at the entrance to the preserve and adjacent landowners will be given an emergency phone number if they detect human activity on the preserve after hours. If problems arise, the Collier County Sheriffs Office will be contacted to patrol the area and preserve on a routine basis. Conservation Collier Program 32 Packet Page -985- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Goal 2: Invasive, Exotic Plant Removal and Management Action Item 2.1: Map location of exotics Exotics have been noted in several areas and sporadically throughout the preserve. Detailed mapping of the location and type of exotics is necessary to determine the extent of each population and for identifying the estimated method and cost of removal. Action Item 2.2: Set up permanent photo points throughout the preserve Identify locations for photo points throughout the preserve and record photo points with a GPS. During photo documentations, one photo is taken in each of the cardinal directions (north, east, south and west) and a 360-degree panoramic photo is taken. These photos will help to monitor exotic removal and native plant recruitment over time. If necessary, more photo points will be established to aid in management decision activities. Action Item 2.3: Explore grants for exotic vegetation removal Staff received notification in April 2014 from the USFWS, Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program that a grant of $15.000 would be awarded specifically for exotic removal within the preserve. Additional exotic vegetation removal grants from USFWS and Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FLDEP) will be pursued in the future for continued maintenance of the exotic vegetation as appropriate. Action Item 2.4 Monitor biological control beetle project The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)-Agricultural Research Service (ARS) selected the preserve to be part of an Air potato beetle (Lilioceris cheni) statewide release project. The beetles are a host-specific specialist and only feed on air potato leaves. Five pairs of the beetles were released on July 10th, 2013. USDA-ARS and County staff will monitor the amount of damage the beetles may inflict on the air potato plants over the next year. Staff will refrain from doing any type of an potato removal or treatment until the research project in complete. Permission to release this beetle was acquired from USDA-APHIS after extensive �� f� ¢" " testing demonstrated its host specificity with virtually no �� r risk to other plant species. If this bio-control program is 4 �� : '6 successful. this could potentially save the program money s , t- ,;f, that otherwise would have been spent to treat the plants With herbicide. Air potato beetle(iauoceris cheni) Photo by USDA Conservation Collier Program 33 Packet Page -986- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Action Item 2.5: Treat exotics The following exotics will require removal using the recommended methods. Table 10: Invasive,Exotic Plant Species Control Plan for the Rivers Road Preserve Scientific Name Common Name(s) Description and Recommended Control(s) 96rus precator its Rosary pea, Crab eves Cut stem or basal bark and treat with 10%Garlon 4. Site must be revisited frequently to pull seedlings. Acacia auriculiforrnis Earleaf acacia Hand pull seedlings,basal bark application of 10%Garlon 4 or cut-stump treatment with 50°4 Garlon 3A. Pick up/dig up potatoes in the winter, cut and remove Dioscorea bulbifera air potato above ground vines;Foliar treat with 1.5-2%glyhosate;or 1.5%Glyphosate±Escort(0.5 grams per gallon) Lantana camas Shrub verbena Basal application with 10%Garlon 4 or cut stump treatment with Garlon 3.A or 10°ro Garlon 4. For seedlings and saplings: (1)hand pull, being sure not to break plant off of root system and remove or place in piles to help reduce the chance that they will re-root or; (2) Treat with foliar, low volume spot application of 5%Rodeo.For Melaluecua mature trees: (1)Fell large trees with chain saw leaving a quinquenervia melaleuca level surface, or fell small trees with machete and treat with triclopyr or glyphosate products according to frill and girdle directions on SLN.Use aquatic versions where standing water is present. Monitor for resprouting and retreat as necessary. (3)Mature trees are very difficult to control with foliar applications. Foliar 1-3%glyphosate-if surrounded by natives, cut the Penniseturn purpureum Napier grass plants close to ground level and spray with glyph. When it regrows to 8-12 inches in height-remove stems from site Psidium spp. Guava spp. Basal bark application of 10%Garlon 4 in carrier oil. Pteris viitata* chinese brake fern 2 to 3%solution of glyphosate,hand pull remove from site Foliar apply 5%-10%Garlon 4 in oil or water. In sandy Sanseverina soils where a greater potential exists for non-target damage hvacinthoides* bowstring hemp plants can be cut and 15 90-25%Roundup applied to the cut surfaces Hand pull seedlings. Mechanical mowing andior cut-stump treatment with 50%Garlon 3A, 10%Garlon 4 or a basal bark application of 10%Garlon 4. Foliar application of Schinus terebinthifolius Brazilian er Garlon 4,Garlon 3A,Roundup Pro, Roundup Super Pepe Concentrate, or Rodeo, according label directions may be used where appropriate. Glyphosate products are less effective when used alone in spring and early summer.Use Rodeo where plants are growing in aquatic sites. Mature trees may take up to 9 months to die. Cut-stump Sr_1°s,4ium cumin? Java plum treatment with 50%Garlon 3A or 10%Garlon 4. or use a basal hark treatment with 10%Garlon 4. Hand pull seedlings, Foliar treatment with 2-5% glyphosate arena lohata Caesar's Weed in water can be sprayed on young plants. Its best to treat in the spring or summer prior to seed maturation. Responds aggressively to fire Treat with a 2°0 solution of elyphosate while large, dense 11edelia trilobata wedelia populations may require a 5%solution. Follow-up treatments should be conducted as needed. Triciopyr at 1- 2% is also effective. Conservation Collier Program 34 Packet Page-987- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Action Item 2.6: Remove, treat and monitor populations of invasive exotic plants The control of invasive, exotic species is critical for the preservation of the natural communities in the Rivers Road Preserve. Approved Collier County contractors will be hired to remove and treat the invasive exotic plants. These contractors will chemically treat in place or cut and treat all shrub and tree-like species on the FLEPPC Category I or 11 list as well as identified nuisance weedy species. Dense mono-cultures of Brazilian pepper along Rivers Road will be mechanically reduced to ground level and stumps will be treated with herbicide. Specific treatment methods should be done according to the recommended control column in Table 10, unless new treatments are discovered that work well and do not cause non-target damage. Extreme care should be used to avoid any non-target damage, near sensitive natives, native seedlings and mature pine trees. The use of imazapyr containing herbicides should be avoided on site. After initial removal and treatment, staff will continue to ensure treatment areas are inspected for re-sprouting and that new seedlings are treated as needed until maintenance state is achieved. Once maintenance state is achieved, exotic maintenance will be done once a year and will become a minimal expense. Action Item 2.7: Establish long-term vegetation monitoring Long-term management of the preserve should be based on biological data. Changes following baseline conditions should be assessed as negative or positive, and management strategies changed appropriately. Goal 3: Wildlife Management Action Item 3.1: Establish long-term wildlife monitoring While some wildlife data has been collected, additional baseline data should also be collected, especially on invertebrates, small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. The site manager may contract this work out or enlist the assistance of local educators to coordinate student research projects. Wildlife and plant sampling, including bird surveys, should take place at regular intervals (ca. 5-10 years) to detect long-term trends. Action item 3.2: Native wildlife species management Management of native animal species at the Rivers Road Preserve should correspond with the management goals of the pine flatwoods, mixed wetland hardwoods, cypress, wetland forested and freshwater marsh habitats. Maintenance of viable populations of native animal species should be conducted by implementing management measures that maintain the viability of the natural habitat. The Rivers Road Preserve should be managed to provide adequate habitat for listed species found on or near the site. Some management recommendations for state and federally listed plant and animal species found on the preserve are listed below. General management for all listed species would be consistent with general vegetation management recommendations, exotic species control, and fire management. Action Item 3.3: Problem wildlife species management 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. To date, evidence of wild hogs making wallows on the preserve has been noted, but no actual hogs have been seen. Conservation Collier Program 35 Packet Page -988- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Action Item 3.4: Acquire services of licensed or qualified contractors for the removal of invasive exotic or problematic animal species Wild hogs have not been observed on the preserve, however, if they become a nuisance, they may be trapped using pens with trap doors and baited with acorns or old corn. A contractor can be hired to accomplish this if the need arises. Wild hogs may be hunted in other areas of the County that are designated wildlife management areas however; hunting will be prohibited on the preserve. Total exclusion of hogs is not usually possible; however, the amount of hog damage will be monitored to determine the appropriate action needed. 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 control (i.e. refuse bins, dumpsters, and supplementary feeding by humans). Traps may also be set if other methods are unsuccessful. A similar approach shall be taken to control feral dog populations, through elimination of the elements that sustain their undesirable population. Goal 4: Create and Implement a Prescribed Fire Management Plan Fires were a naturally occurring event in native communities prior to mankind's intervention. The primary ecological functions of fire are to eliminate accumulated plant material, return nutrients to the soil, and germinate fire-dependent species. In today's preserve areas prescribed burning is an essential tool in both land and wildlife management, and helps reduce potential catastrophic wildfires that can occur in the wildland/urban interface areas. Proper prescribed burns promote the growth of green shoots, roots, and rhizomes of grasses and sedges that are then available for foraging. In wetlands, burning creates deep pools and edges for nesting and feeding of waterfowl and controls undesirable vegetation. Much of Collier County is comprised of natural communities that are dependent on fire to maintain species composition and diversity. The use of prescribed fire as a management tool will be critical to the long-term health of the natural communities and native species at the Rivers Road Preserve. Action Item 4.1: Create a Prescribed Fire Management Plan Below is the prescribed fire management plan for Rivers Road Preserve. The preserve land manager with assistance from the Florida Forest Service (F FS) and/or a Certified Prescribed Burn Manager will implement the prescribed fire management plan according to the specific needs of Rivers Road Preserve. Staff may coordinate this effort with other local qualified agencies for review and approval. Objectives The prescribed fire plan for the Rivers Road Preserve will be a.program that mimics the natural fire cycle for the various natural community types identified within the preserve. Timing, based on weather conditions and ignition practices can be modified to accomplish goals ranging from exotic vegetation control to wildlife habitat enhancement and fuel reduction within burn units. This prescribed fire management plan will be implemented at Rivers Road Preserve for ecological purposes. The goals and objectives established for the preserve will be clearly laid out and incorporated into each prescription. Generally, prescribed burns conducted at the Rivers Road Preserve will involve a variety of firing Conservation Collier Program 36 Packet Page -989- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft techniques over a range of weather conditions to create mosaic burn patterns that will benefit an array of wildlife species. Burn Units The Preserve can be divided into smaller burn units. The creation of burn units not only facilitates the application of prescribed fire, it will also help create a mixture of burned and unburned areas across the preserve. Patches of unburned habitat in conjunction with newly burned areas will increase habitat heterogeneity, ensuring a wide range of habitat compositions year round for use by a diversity of wildlife species. The size and boundaries of each burn unit should be established based on the preserve boundaries and the location of existing barriers such as fence lines, ditches, roads and other existing structures. Fire breaks will consist of primitive roads, trails disked to bare mineral soil, wet lines or foam lines and/or natural vegetation breaks. If new fire breaks are needed, efforts will be made to minimize disturbance to existing native vegetation during their creation and maintenance, and no wetlands will be adversely impacted as a result of fire break construction. In the event of a wildfire FFS may create fire breaks within existing wetlands. If plow lines are put in as a result of a wildfire, whether they are in a wetland or upland, efforts will be made to restore those areas to prior grade. Burn Frequency and Burn Season Historically the frequency of wildfire in Florida's ecosystem varied from year to year. However, fire frequency for natural communities as found within the Rivers Road Preserve will generally follow these guidelines (FNAI 1990): • mesic pine flatwoods—frequent(2-4 year cycle); • wet pine flatwoods—frequent (3-7 year cycle); • depression marshes—more frequent around the periphery (3-7 year cycle) and becoming more occasional toward the center (8-25 year cycle); • cypress/pine/cabbage palm —transitional community from moist upland to hydric sites—occasional (8-25 year cycle); • upland mixed forest— rare or no fire: densely closed canopy limits air movement and light penetration. making high humidity relatively constant. Burn units incorporating multiple natural communities under different fire cycles will be burned based on the community requiring the shortest cycle. The other communities within that burn unit that are on a longer fire cycle will likely not burn as frequently since fuels will not have built up. The seasonality, weather factors, or ignition techniques of the prescribed burn will also be chosen to selectively burn the community within the unit with the shortest fire cycle. Fire maintenance of hydric hammocks will be accomplished primarily by burning the adjacent flatwoods and marshes. reducing the fuel needed to ignite the hammock. Maintenance of natural species composition and protection from excess fuel build-up will be accomplished by allowing fire to enter the edges but not completely burn through the hammocks. Fire will be introduced into the edges of hammocks under moist conditions that Conservation Collier Program 37 Packet Page -990- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Manazement Plan Second Draft will not result in a destructive fire through the hammock. Fire frequency in this situation will be dictated by the frequency of fires in adjacent communities. Fire will be applied to freshwater marshes in conjunction with the burning of surrounding pine flatwoods to maintain open herbaceous ponds and control woody plants found primarily on the edge of these depressions. The centers of depression marshes are much wetter than the surrounding flatwoods and may not burn at the same time the flatwoods are ignited. h1 this case, a separate fire under guarded conditions may be needed to carry the fire across the marsh. Qualitative observations will be made within each burn unit on an annual basis to determine current fuel loads, habitat structure, and habitat quality. The burn schedule will then be modified as needed based on these qualitative observations. Areas where fire cannot be implemented will instead be mowed, roller chopped, or pruned to mimic effects of fire. The burn manager will conduct post-burn inspections to ensure the burn objectives are being met for each natural community. When possible, vegetation monitoring activities will be conducted around burn events to help assess the effectiveness of the prescribed burn regime. Burn Schedule Generally, prescribed burns within the Rivers Road Preserve will be conducted during the growing season (mid-March through early September) as well as during the dry season (November to mid-May). Essentially, burns will be scheduled when conditions allow, and the timing selected to best suit the objectives for each burn unit, as well as to provide protection to listed species. Burn Manager Duties Florida Statute 590.125 and Chapter 51-2 of the Florida Administrative Code (FAC) grant the Florida Forest Service the authority to regulate prescribed burning in Florida. Prescribed burning will be planned and carried out by a Certified Prescribed Burn Manager (as licensed by the FFS) and experienced fire crews utilizing a Prescribed Burn Plan form, referred to from here on as the prescription. The planning and application of prescribed burning will comply with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations. Each prescription will include the following at a minimum: • purpose for the burn; • brief description of the natural community type(s) to be burned; • a map depicting the location of the burn, firebreak locations, potential hazard areas and escape routes for the fire crew; • acceptable ranges of weather and soil moisture conditions; • a pre-burn inspection of burn unit. firebreaks and any potential hazards (including power transmission lines, active cattle grazing locations, and existing manmade structures) within the burn unit; • names and contact information for neighbors, lease holders, local fire district and other pertinent stakeholders to be contacted prior to ignition; • techniques used to ignite the controlled burn; • personnel, equipment and safety requirements; • personnel assignments and responsibilities; and • post-burn evaluation. Conservation Collier Program 38 Packet Page -991- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Manareenrent Plan Second Draft All necessary permits and authorizations will be obtained by the Certified Prescribed Burn Manager before implementation of the burn. As part of each prescription, the burn manager will develop an emergency action plan that will include escape routes for all personnel and actions to be taken in the event of unexpected weather changes or fire behavior. Weather and Fuel Considerations When developing recommendations for a prescribed burn, the Burn Manager will give careful consideration to weather and fuel conditions including, but not limited to: wind, relative humidity, temperature, rainfall and soil moisture, air mass stability and atmospheric dispersion. It will be the responsibility of the Burn Manager to obtain current weather forecasts from FFS, and other weather sources as necessary, prior to executing the prescribed burn. Although preferred weather and fuel conditions may vary based on specific burn objectives, Wade and Lundsford (1989) suggest the following as preferred conditions for prescribed burns in southern forests: • 6 to 20 mph persistent surface winds; • 30 to 55 percent relative humidity; • temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit are recommended when the primary objective is to control undesirable species; • damp soil moistures; • slightly unstable or neutral air'nass stability; and • KBDI of 0 to 600 dependent on burn objectives. Smoke Management Smoke management is an essential component of the burn prescription. The Burn Manager will evaluate the potential impacts of each prescribed burn to smoke-sensitive areas located within a 20-mile radius from the location of the burn by employing a Screening System, such as recommended in Wade and Lundsford (1989). Based on definitions contained within the state regulations, smoke sensitive areas are areas within which smoke could have an adverse impact for reasons of visibility, health or human welfare (NRCS 2003). Monitoring of the prescribed burn will continue until smoke no longer presents a potential hazard and there is no potential for the fire to reignite and cause an uncontrolled fire. Post-Burn Evaluation The purpose of the post-burn evaluation is to ensure the objectives of the burn were attained and gain information to be used in future burns (Wade and Lundsford 1989). The post-burn evaluation will be conducted by the Burn Manager within one week following the burn, as well as a second evaluation after the first post-fire growing season. Quantitative vegetation monitoring, photo documentation and wildlife monitoring can be implemented to further aid in determining if the objectives of each burn were met. Action Item 4.2: Develop Burn Units Burn units will need to be delineated for Rivers Road Preserve, as outlined in the prescribed fire management plan above prior to the implementation of the plan. Conservation Collier Program 39 Packet Page -992- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Action Item 4.3• Conservation Collier:Rivers Road Preserve Firebreaks '.. Mechanical Exotics Removal Install Perimeter Fire Lines Fire lines will be installed utilizing best r t management practices to minimize impacts to mature trees. natural communities and wildlife populations. Firebreaks will be disked or mulched � ► ,% -,> w' down to soil and mature pine trees will ` be avoided. Firebreaks will be .� approximately 15-20 feet wide due to i� the amount of thick canopy adjacent to neighboring residences (Figure 9). Firebreaks will double as hiking trails .: m several areas. r r L t yr 3< ,• " r Action Item 4.4: Hold Pre-Fire Public Meetings and Notify `v Y Surrounding Community ` ' Public meeting(s) will be held before �� ^ iLegend each burn and a system of notifying .- , Feel 1=1,..,..- 4 prO ,,r.o.,A.mmb neighboring landowners in advance of prescribed burns will be established (via door postings, email, phone trees, etc.) EFigure otic R 9.emova Rivers l Ma Road Firebreaks and Mechanical x this system will be executed before each p prescribed fire. A press release will also be sent out to notify the newspaper, radio and news channels. Information will also be provided to the County Manager. County Commissioners and local fire departments prior to any burns. The use of prescribed fire as a management tool will be critical to the long-term health of the natural habitat and native species at the Rivers Road Preserve. Pine Flatwoods communities and marshes require periodic fires. If pine flatwoods areas such as this go without fire for too many years. fuels build up and wildfires can occur. The first controlled burn should be conducted in the winter. The site should be burned in 3-5 year increments eventually moving towards burning in the growing season. The County will work closely with the Florida Forest Service (FFS) to conduct the first prescribed burn on the property. We will also work with the County Fire Department to protect the surrounding structures and property. Goal 5: Restoration of Native Vegetation Action Item 5.1: Encourage natural recruitment In at least one area of the preserve where several old structures were removed, signs of natural recruitment of pines, grasses and myrtle have been noted. Removal of exotics will further encourage restoration. Further planting of pines may be considered in this area and due to the proximity to the planned parking / picnic area and trailhead, may provide an opportunity for educating visitors about restoration. As exotics are removed throughout the preserve, progress of natural recruitment will be monitored via photo points. Conservation Collier Program 40 Packet Page -993- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Action Item 5.2: Plant supplemental ground cover species After a burn regime is established, vegetation monitoring will take place. If natural restoration does not occur, supplemental ground cover species will be planted. Action Item 5.3: Monitor and treat new invasive, exotic species that may occur post-fire and in fire breaks to prevent them from hindering native recruitment and re-growth After prescribed burns, any newly identified areas of invasive, exotics will be noted and a treatment plan prepared. Goal 6: Prepare Preserve for Public Access Action Item 6.1: Relocate Gate There is currently a locked gate on Rivers Road just north of the privately —owned outparcel in the center of the preserve. Staff will coordinate the relocation of the gate with the property owner to just north of the planned parking area, to the entrance to the private driveway, or to another mutually agreed upon location. Action Item 6.2: Develop an ADA accessible parking area A small mowed parking area will be developed in the short terms to accommodate a few vehicles. In the future if funds allow, one or two handicapped parking spaces will be built (Figure 9) using crushed/hardened rock, shell or concrete. Action Item 6.3: Develop a picnic area A picnic table will be placed under the pines adjacent to the planned parking area. Action Item 6.4: Develop a trail system After appropriate actions have been taken to reduce or eliminate exotic vegetation, trails will be established throughout the property in at least two phases to allow for hiking and nature observation within the preserve (Figure 10). The Phase I hiking trails are proposed to be approximately 1.35 miles long and will wind throughout the northern portion of the preserve, with trail heads near the future parking area and adjacent to Rivers Road. Trails will overlap firebreaks in several areas. The trailhead along Rivers Road will lead into a trail that partially follows a formerly cleared road adjacent to a power line corridor. The trail will then lead to the north and west up into the northern portion of the preserve and back down adjacent to Rivers Road and will follow as closely as possible any areas that are cleared of exotics. This area has scattered Brazilian Pepper, some melalueca and significant quantities of cabbage palm. There are several marshy areas that will be avoided, however, allowing the trail to come close to these areas for viewing will be considered. Also, the desirability of a trail segment leading to the edge of the western side of the pond will be coordinated with adjacent property owners. The second trailhead in Phase I will be located adjacent to the planned parking / picnic area and will direct visitors through an area that will be cleared of air potato and Brazilian pepper and then potentially follow an old fire line. The University of Florida has started a biological control program to reduce the prevalence of air potato in this area. Trails may be marked with information regarding this program and the results if successful. Hiking trails in Phase II are proposed to be approximately 0.45 miles long and will connect to Phase I trails on the eastern side of the preserve and will continue south into the pop ash marsh Conservation Collier Program 41 Packet Page -994- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft area, with a potential boardwalk (approximately 600 feet long) constructed to allow viewing of the marsh while prohibiting access. The boardwalk would be built only if future funding or grant funding allows. Once established, trails will need to be maintained and monitored to ensure that visitors stay on them and no new trails are being made. Clearing the trails of fallen trees and debris and creating new trails may also enable and increase the illegal use of all terrain vehicles (ATVs) and dirt bikes on the property. Local birding groups may frequent the preserve and County staff may provide quarterly public tours of the site. Local schools may also use the site for nature based field trips. Signs will be installed on the fire line to ask visitors to respect the privacy of adjacent landowners where appropriate. Goal 7: Facilitate Uses of the Site for Educational Opportunities Action Item 7.1: Develop interpretive signage to educate preserve visitors Once a trail system is complete, site specific signage will be developed to educate visitors on plant and animal identification and ecosystem information. A small kiosk will be built and placed near the parking area with a sign and map of the trails if funds allow. Another educational sign will be installed near the picnic area. Action Item 7.2: Provide preserve brochures in rainproof box on site A brochure outlining the native plant communities and wildlife present at the preserve will be created by County staff and kept in rainproof boxes attached to the kiosk near the preserve entrance(s). These boxes will be inspected monthly by the Preserve Manager and refilled as necessary. Action Item 7.3: Coordinate with local groups to encourage site visitation Staff will work within the Parks and Recreation Department to encourage visitation by summer campers. Local Boy and Girl Scout Troop and local church groups will be notified about the site and will be encouraged to assist in small projects on site such as building picnic tables, benches and a kiosk. Girding Groups will also be notified about the girding opportunities on site. Goal 8: Provide a Plan for Disaster Preparedness The Conservation Collier Program has a plan in place to examine the presery e and future access was after storms. Essentially, this is a visit before a storm to secure the property and a visit after the storm within 48 hours to assess damage (see Action Items 8.3 and 8.4). Collier County has several vendors under contract for disaster debris removal. Action Item 8.1: Establish pathway for emergency rescue crews to access Creating pathways for fire and rescue will include maintaining fire breaks around the preserve. Emergency medical technician and paramedic access may be accommodated via these fire breaks or on at-grade stabilized pathways. They may use Rivers Road or Moulder Drive. Fire lines will be cut and maintained to allow for FFS to access areas of the property however, once controlled burns are conducted the chances of a wildfire will be greatly reduced. Helicopter landing GPS coordinates will be included in the final approved burn plan. Conservation Collier Program 42 Packet Page -995- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Drafi Action Item 8.2: Survey trees along the trail and the perimeter of the property annually for damage Staff will utilize the services of a certified arborist to determine diseased, weak, or damaged trees/limbs surrounding the trails and kiosks that should be removed for safety reasons and prior to hurricane season. This activity is intended to reduce the risk of visitor injury. Action Item 8.3: Visit preserve within 48 hours after a storm event to assess damage Staff will take photos of damage and fill out appropriate Collier County Risk Management Department forms. If damage is extensive, the preserve will be closed until public safety hazards are cleared. Action Item 8.4: Promptly clear storm debris from preserve If necessary, a Collier County emergency debris removal contractor will be contracted as soon as possible after the storm to schedule clean-up. Removal of debris and damaged or downed trees along the trail system may be needed. Downed trees and limbs that do not appear to be a public safety hazard will be cleared at the discretion of the Preserve Manager. As much of the hurricane debris as possible may be chipped and retained on-site to be used as mulch for the trail system. Goal 9: Partnerships and Regional Coordination Action Item 9.1: Coordinate with and notify stakeholders Notify surrounding property owners, including adjacent public schools, churches, and interested community members of the plans for the preserve and receive input on the final management plan. Action Item 9.2: Interagency Agreements and Cooperating Agencies An interagency agreement may be formed between two or more agencies that frequently assist each other in performing prescribed burning activities. The Florida Forest Service may also require the County to sign an interagency agreement before they can offer assistance. Action Item 9.3: Cooperating Agencies Coordinate with the following as appropriate: • Florida Audubon Society-bird watching opportunities • Florida Forestry Service-prescribed burning assistance • Collier County Fire Department • Collier County Sheriff's Office Action Item 9.4: Potential Cooperating Organizations Coordinate with the following as appropriate: • Naples Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society • Local Boy and Girl Scout Troops • Other community groups to assist with trail creation and other similar projects Conservation Collier Program 43 Packet Page -996- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Goal 10: Officially Open the Preserve for Public Access Action Item 10.1: Onsite grand opening ceremony Once the access issues are resolved. the site is determined to be safe for public access, and after the parking area and trails and signage have been installed, the site will become officially open for public use. A ceremony will be held on site to commemorate the event. The District Collier County Commissioner will be invited to speak. 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Establish an Operational Plan for the Rivers Road Preserve This section provides management recommendations for operation of the Rivers Road 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 the control of dumping and littering within and around the preserve and trail. Other preliminary maintenance activities for the preserve will include invasive exotic species control and trail creation. Once the preserve is open to the public other significant maintenance activities will be necessary for the upkeep of all amenities and signage including but not limited to the trailhead/parking areas and interpretive si enage. 4.5.2 Estimated Annual Costs and Funding Sources Preliminary budget estimates for Rivers Road 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 11 shows the activities planned for the next ten years and the initial and annual cost estimate of each activity. This budget was developed using data from Conservation Collier and other cooperating entities, and is based on actual costs for land management activities and maintenance. The budget considers available funding and is consistent with the direction necessary to achieve the goals and objectives for Rivers Road Preserve. The cost estimates provided in Table 1 I are based on best available knowledge, are subject to change and many could not he given at this time. Staff received notification in April 2014 from the USFWS, Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program that a grant of $15,000 would be awarded specifically for exotic removal within the preserve. Additional Grants will also he sought to supplement existing management funds. Staff will also utilize the Collier County Sheriffs Department weekenders program for certain labor projects and may also separately involve the County Scout programs for trail and amenity creation and enhancement. Private conservation organizations may also provide funding for specific projects. Conservation Collier 45 Program Packet Page -998- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 O 0 O 0 0 0 O O O 0 O O 0 0 O tC ,fl 0 0 0 7..; 0 0 0 0_ 0_ 0, o 0 a CD 0 .,� o - •- 69- - M a. •5 of r N 4A tD w M EA N 00', o 0 CO 0 N co N 0 b3 H3 N E9 a. w w' - c7 0O 0 0)up O ,n N „y N• r» 69 • tO o 69 w N O 0 �� a o 0 m cv CO ty 7 69 t5 a 69 a w N p o 0 0 00 T, 0 0 o N N c N , 69 , Ofd ,p p 41 N 0 o 0 0 0 N 0) 0 0 0 0, o N o o I� co. N, 0 f a ^ 69 WI j/j 69 69 ,n `—. ti N N v C = t CO o o w CO 69 y N 4. 0 o 0 M m N M N w I ti m N co i r_ rr ■1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 o O ' 0 0 0 0 o O O O 69 y as 1 w 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 co N 69 ,�""- fP. 69 u = V .4= (a9 69 fH {CV ,.. .w) -0j. ! : ! ! 1 : : ! w N N = _ ' '•: j n J �z J J J V D u I 12 - s J Packet Page -999- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Appendix 1 Rivers Road Legal Descriptions Conservation Collier 1 Program Packet Page -1000- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Property Identification Number: 00216000001 Legal Description: THE WEST ONE-HALF (W 1/2) OF SOUTHWEST QUARTER (SW %) OF SOUTHWEST QUARTER (SW 1/4) OF NORTHEAST QUARTER (NE 1/4), LESS WEST AND SOUTH TEN (10') FEET THEREOF, LOCATED IN SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 48 SOUTH, RANGE 27 EAST, COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA. AND Legal Description: THE EAST HALF (E 1/2) OF THE SOUTHWEST QUARTER (SW 1/4) OF THE SOUTHWEST QUARTER (SW 1/4) OF THE NORTHEAST (NE 1/4) QUARTER, LESS THE SOUTH TEN (10') FEET THEREOF, IN SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 48 SOUTH, RANGE 27 EAST, COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA. Property Identification Number: 00215440002 Legal Description: THE WEST 1/2 OF THE NORTH ONE HALF (N1/2) OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER (NW 1/4) OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER (SE 1/4), LESS NORTH TEN (10') FEET AND WEST (10') FEET, AND THE EAST (10') FEET THEREOF, SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 48 SOUTH, RANGE 27 EAST, COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA. AND Legal Description: N 1 nF SW 1,4 OF NW 1/ OF SE 1/4, LESS \ni 1n FT AND LESS S 10 FT, WITHIN SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 48 SOUTH, RANGE 27 EAST, COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA. AND Legal Description: SOUTHEAST QUARTER (SE 1/4) OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER (NW 1/4) OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER (SE 1/4), OF SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 48 SOUTH, RANGE 27 EAST, COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA. Conservation Collier 2 Program Packet Page -1001- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Property Identification Number: 00217080004 Legal Description: THE SOUTH HALF (S 1/2) OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER (NE 1/4) OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER (NE 1/4) OF THE SOUTHWEST QUARTER (SW %), LESS THE NORTH 130' FEET OF THE EAST 335.08 FEET THEREOF, IN SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 48 SOUTH, RANGE 27 EAST, COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA. AND Legal Description: THE NORTH HALF (N 1/2) OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER (SE %) OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER (NE 1/4) OF THE SOUTHWEST QUARTER (SW 1/4), LESS THE EAST 10 FEET THEREOF, IN SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 48 SOUTH, RANGE 27 EAST, COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA. AND Legal Description: S'/2 OF SE 1/4 OF NE % OF SW 1/4, LESS E 10 FT AND LESS S10 FT, WITHIN SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 48 SOUTH, RANGE 27 EAST, COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA. Property Identification Number: 00214760000 Legal Description: N 1/2 OF SW 1/4 OF SE %, LESS N 10 FT, LESS E 10 FT AND LESS W 10 FT, WITHIN SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 48 SOUTH, RANGE 27 EAST, COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA. AND Legal Description: SW % OF SW 1/4 OF SE '/4, LESS W 10 FT AND LESS S 10 FT, WITHIN SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 48 SOUTH, RANGE 27 EAST, COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA. Conservation Collier 3 Progrcznz Packet Page -1002- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Drafi Appendix 2 Floristic Inventory of the Rivers Road Preserve Conservation Collier 4 Program Packet Page -1003- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan.Second Draft Comprehensive Plant List. Data compiled by Dr. James Burch, Phd. Summer 2013 (Other plants documented by County staff noted in table). Plants listed in the State of Florida Hydric Soil Field Indicators and National List of Plant Species that Occur in Wetlands are indicated, respectively, beneath each species as appropriate. Listing is from State of Florida Wetland Plant List(State of Florida Nydric Soil Field Indicators,lists for Chapter 62340;Tobe et al. 1998)and National List of Plant Species that Occur in Wetlands(Reed 1998).FAC=facultative wetland species; FACW=facultative to wet wetland species;OBL=obligate wetland species; *=non-native plant species. All plants listed by the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council as invasive exotic are noted in table as Category I or 11. Other exotic plants are noted with an asterisk following the scientific name. Listed FLEPPC Scientific Name Common Name Wetland status status Cate.ory Staff A brus precatorius* rosary pea Acacia auriculiformis* earleaf acacia Acer rubrum red maple FACW,FAC Aeschvnomene Americana jointvetch - .FACW Agave sp.* agave Aloe vera* aloe _Alternanthera ramosissima chaff flower Ambrosia artemesiifolia ragweed FAC, FAC Andropogon glomeratus bushvbeard bluestem FACW.FACW+ _Andro?ozon virginicus bluestem FAC,FAC- Ardisia escallonioides marlberry FAC x Arecastrum roman:offianum* queen palm Baccharis halimifolia salt bush FAC,FAC Berchemia scandens rattan vine --,FAC- Bidens alba beggar ticks FAC blechnum, swamp Blechnum serrulatum fern FACW.FACW+ I _ Boehmeria cilindrica false nettle OBL. FACW+ Bougainvillea glabra* bougainvillea x Buchne7 a.7 i11LrrCai7a blue hearts Burnrelia celastrina buckthorn FAC, -- Bumelia tenax buckthorn FAC. -- Callicarpa americana beauty berry Campsis radicans trumpet creeper --. FAC Carex gigantea large sedge OBL, OBL Carphephorous corvmbosus chaffhead Cassia chamaecrista pigeon pea • Cassvtha,filiformis love vine -- , FAC- Conservation Collier 5 Program Packet Page -1004- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Madagascar Catharanthus roseus* periwinkle Cenchrus incertus sandspur Centella asiatica spadeleaf FACW,FACW Cephalanthus occidentalis button bush OBL. OBL Cereus sp.* cactus Citrus spp.* citrus Chiococca parviflora snowberry FAC. -- Cladium jamaicense saw grass OBL. OBL Comtnelina diffusa dayflower FACW,FACW Conoclinium coelestinum mist flower FAC, FAC Convza canadensis dwarf horseweed Coreopsis leavenii'orthii tickseed FACW, FACW Crinum americanum swamp lilly OBL. OBL Crotalaria incana rattlesnake weed Crotalaria rotundifolia Croton punctatus Gulf croton Ciperus sp. sedge FACW Dclonix regia* royal poinciana Desmodium incanum -- Desmodium tortuosum* -- Dichanthelium acuminatum grass FACW, FAC , Dichanthelium sp. grass Dio.scorea bulbifcra* air potato Emilia sonchifolia* tassel flower Encvclia lampensis butterfly orchid E_ragroslis elliottii grass FAC, FACW Etyngium bal'drtinii snakeroot FAC. FACW+ Eupaloriurn capillifolmum dog fennel FAC, -- Eustachys glauca grass FACW, FACW Ficus aurea strangler fig FAC. hintbristilis spathacca hurricane grass FAC,FACW+ Fraxinus caroliniana pop ash OBL,OBL Galactea prostrata milk pea Gaura angustifolia beeblosom Gratiola hispida -- FAC, FAC Hahernaria sp. bog orchids _ FACW x Hamelia patens fire bush x Heterotheca suhaxillaris camphorweed Hvpericum tetrapetalum -- FAC.FACW Conservation Collier 6 Program Packet Page -1005- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Ilex cassine dahoon holly OBL,FACW Ilex glabra gallberry --,FACW I omoea indica morning glory FAC, -- Ipomoea sagirtata morning glory --,FACW Ipomoea trichocarpa morning glory Iresine diffusa blood leaf 1111111111.1111� Lantana camera* lantana I X Leersia hexandra cut grass OBL, OBL 111111111=1� Leucaena leucocephala* tantan Lippia nodiflora* carpetweed Lua7n'igia sp. ludwigia OBL x Lvonia ferruginea rusty lyonia 111.11111© Lvthrum alatum loosestrife OBL,FACW+ Manczifera indica* mango Alelaleuca quinquenervia* cajeput FAC, FAC Melanthera nivea squarestem FACW, -- IIIIIIMIIM� Melochia corchorifolia* chocolate weed FAC,FAC Alikania scandens hempweed --,FACW+ MEI= Momordica charantia* bitter gourd Mores rubra red mulberry FAC, FAC All Tcianthes Iragrans naked wood Myrica cerifera wax myrtle FAC,FAC+ M>>cohlastus sp. blood lichen x Oeceoclades maculata* monk orchid x Ophioglassum pahnatum hand fern E-FL x Oplismenus setarius basket grass FAC, -- Oxalis corniculata sorrel Panicum hemitomon maidencane I OBL Parthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia creeper - FAC Passiflora suherosa wild passion vine Pennisetum purpureum* Napier grass FAC, -- II Persea borhonia red bay --,FACW Phlebodium aureum golden serpent fern Phyla stoechadifolia southern fogfruit FAC.FAC Phyllanthus abnortuis phyllanthus Phyllanthus urinaria* phyllanthus FAC Pin'salis arc nleola ground cherry Pines elliottii slash pine FACW,FACW Pluchea odorata fleabane FACW, FACW Conservation Collier 7 Program Packet Page -1006- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Polvgala grandiflora _ candyroot FACW, -- Polvpodium polypodioides resurrection fern Pol prernum procumbens rustweed FAC, -- Pontederia cordata pickerelweed OBL Psidium guajava* guava j II Psvchotria nervosa wild coffee FAC, -- Pteridium aquilinum bracken fern Pteris vittata* Ouercus laurifolia laurel oak FACW,FACW Ouercus virginiana live oak Rapanea punctata myrsine --, FAC Rhoeo discolor* oyster plant Rhus copallina sumac Rhynchospora colorata white_top sedge FACW, FACW Rhynchospora intermedia beakrush FACW, FACW Richardia grandiflora* Richardia Rubus trivialis dewberry FAG, FAC Sabal palmetto sabal palm FAC, FAC Sagittaria lanrifolia duck potato OBL. OBL Salix caroliniana willow OBL, OBL Sanseveria hvacinthoides* bowstring hemp II Sarcostenurra clausum* white vine --, FACW Schinus terebinthifolius* Brazilian pepper FAC, FAC Scoparia dr.ticis sweetbroom FAG Serenoa repens saw palmetto Setaria geniculata knotroot bristlegrass FAC, FAC Sida cordifu/ia Indian mallow Sideroxi'lon celastrinum saffron plum FAC Sidcroxylon tenax bully ■Smilax ouriculata greenbriar Smilax greenbriar FAC` '+ Smilax tamnoides greenbriar --, FAG Spervnacoce verticillata* -- Sporobolus indices* smut grass OBL. OBL Stachvtarpheta jamaicensis blue porterweed x Stenotaphrum secundatunr St. Augustine grass Sv:i ium cumini* Java plum Tabebuia sp.* Tabebuia x Taxodium distichum bald cypress OBL, OBL Conservation Collier 8 Program Packet Page -1007- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan.Second Draft Thalia geniculata alligator flag OBL, OBL Thelvpteris normalis fern FACW,FACW 1 ' Tillandsia halhisiana air plant T-FL Tillandsia.faciculata cardinal airplant E-FL x Tillandsia recurvata ball moss 1 Tillandsia setacea air plant Tillandsia usneoides Spanish moss Tillandsia utriculata air plant E-FL Toxicodendron radicans poison ivy --, FAC Tripsacum dactvloides Fakahatchee Grass FAC, FAC Tipha domingensis Southern Cattail OBL x Urena lohata* Caesar's weed I Verhesina virginica frostweed FAC Vitis munsoniana muscadine grape --,FAC Vittaria lineata shoestring fern --. FAC Woodwardia virginica chain fern FACW x 1 Wedelia trilohata* wedelia II Ximenia americana hog plum Conservation Collier 9 Program Packet Page -1008- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Appendix 3 Florida Natural Areas Inventory Biodiversity Matrix Consen•ation Collier 1 Program Packet Page -1009- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Drafi FNAI BiodrrersitrPdIatrix Florida Natural Areas Inventory ~ 'a 1 Biodiversity Matrix Query Results x- +!t`' UNOFFICIAL REPORT Oreated5115:2013 ,�jF1{C RIP-A / ( _ (i oysrtFNPI sta ersiresroardnatnr /Y ti N \�G I 0 T i✓�5 for an official Standard Data Report) ir:vtr�"1a�Y NOTE: The Biodiversity Matrix includes only rare species and natural communities tracked by FN.4I. Report for 1 Matrix Unit: 42028 i i ' - - Descriptions DOCUMENTED-There is a documented occurrence in the FtdAI database of the species or community within this Matrix Unit. cu ff DOCUMENTED-HISTORIC-There is a documented occurrence in the FNAI database of the species or community within this Matnx - _ Unit; however the occurrence has not been observed/reported _ - within the last twenty years. .li -- LIKELY -The species or community is knov,r:to occur in this �L`I`: vicinity, and is considered likely within this Matnx Unit because: Ili 1.documented occurrence overlaps this and adiacent Matra: _ Units, but the documentation isn't precise enough to indicate avhich of those Units the species or community is actually located in; or - . - _• 2.there is a documented occurrence in the vicinity and there is -:- _ . , suitable habitat for that species or community within this _ I Matrix,Unit. - :i - "- j,-. -- - POTENTIAL-This Matrix Unit lies yaithir the kno.:r or predicted ( range of the .peaes or community based on expert knowledge and em"irorimental variables such as climate,soils,topography, and landcover. Matrix Unit ID: 42028 1 Documented Element Found Scientific and Common Names Global State Federal State Rank Rank Status Listing F•1rre;-::ccnh?icon''' �;STl Si LE FE Florida panther 0 Documented-Historic Elements Found 4 Likely Elements Found Global State Federal State Scientific and Common Names Rank Rank Status Listing pglecre?ietwoods 34 14 N N rv!r tend•a•roerr,-1,r,a• G4 S 2 LE FE Wood Stork N ST flangr-oveFor. 'Squirrel G5T2 4-;car. r•_:.3 r:r-f,;-rr sr. s G5T2 1 2 N ST". Idtp:Udate.labirs,ospb...in?Thihl_Ei IlatrnJGndSearch.cfmvsel id=20iM._.tent- ;6i4.t3 t ?260421` ,r3-.X431:-,2-4:.13.-X012.[_:15,IJ'pl- 31.43 PM Conservation Collier 1 Program Packet Page -1010- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft FNAT Biodiversiry Matrix Florida Black Bear Matrix Unit ID:42028 13 Potential Elements for Matrix Unit 42028 Scientific and Common Names Global State Federal State Rank Rank Status Listing Athena cunicularia floridana G4T3 53 N SSC Florida Burrowing Owl Dtymarchon coup an Eastern Indigo Snake G3 53 LT FT Elytraria caroliniensis var, angustifolia G4T2 52 N N Narrow-leaved Carolina Scalystem fiimnpc florid ant G1 s1 PE ST Florida bonneted bat Gooherus oolvshemus G3 S3 C ST Gopher Tortoise Lechea cernua Nodding Pinweed 63 S3 N LT Lrnum carter,var. smalli, G2T2 S2 N LE Small's Flax hlustela frenata peninsulae GST3 S3 N N Florida Long-tailed Weasel Nemestvlis flondana G2 S2 N LE Celestial Lily Picoiden hnraef, Red-cockaded Woodpecker G3 S2 LE FE Polyrrhiza lindenii 6204 S2 N LE Ghost Orchid Snail Kite G4G5T2 S2 LE FE Roystonea elate 6263 S2 N LE Florida Royal Palm Disclaimer The data maintained by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory represent the single most comprehensive source of information available on the locations of rare species and other significant ecological resources statewide. However,the data are not always based on comprehensive or site-specific field surveys.Therefore,this information should not be regarded as a final statement on the biological resources of the site being considered, nor should it be substituted for on-site surveys. FNAI shall not be held liable for the accuracy and completeness of these data,or opinions or conclusions drawn from these data. FNAI is not inviting reliance on I these data. Inventory data are designed for the purposes of conservation planning and scientific research and are not intended for use as the primary criteria for regulatory decisions. Unofficial Report These results are considered unofficial. FNAI offers a Standard Data Penuest option for those needing certifiable data. Imp:%Rlata labns ry .iowFNAI_I3ioMatrix;GndSeaich_cfm"scl_id=4202SC,ex-ten:-633,-4 sIPf.252604 218 td_c3r281_I 2';.^',-4'/3 sry12s[s:15;^_013 2.31:43 PM] Conservation Collier 3 Program Packet Page -1011- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Appendix 4 Master Site File Letter from the Division of Historical Resources indicating no recorded Archaeological or Cultural sites on the Preserve Conservation Collier 4 Program Packet Page -1012- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft •s, This record search is for informational purposes only and does NOT constitute a STOP, project review.This search only identifies resources recorded at the Florida Master Site File and does NOT provide project approval from the Division of Historical Resources. Contact the Compliance and Review Section of the Division of Historical Resources at 850-245-6333 for project review information. January 8,2013 Florida =-Master Alexandra Sulecki . Site ,'" Coordinator.Conservation Collier Program File Collier County Parks and Recreation Department North Collier Regional Park 15000 Livingston Road Naples,FL 34109 (239)252-2961 E-mail:AlcxandraSulecki a eollicreoy.nct In response to your inquiry of January 7.201 the Florida Master Site File lists no previously recorded archeological sites or any other cultural resources in the following section of Collier County: T48S R27E Section 30 based on the project area indicated on map submitted with search request. When interpreting the results of this search.please consider the following information: • This search area may contain unrecorded archaeological sites,historical structures or other resources even if previously surveyed for cultural resources. • Federal, state and local laws require formal environmental review for most projects. This search DOES NOT constitute such a review. If your project falls under these laws,you should contact the Compliance and Review Section of the Division of Historical Resources at 850-245-6333. Please do not hesitate to contact us if v-ou have any questions regarding the results of this search. Sincerely Linen M. Vovsi historical Data Analyst 1.lorida Master Site File I:MVovsi'iDOS.MvFlorida.corn 500 South Pronough Street• Tallahassee.FL 32399-0250 • lvvnyilheritaae.corn presenation sitelile 850.245.0440 ph 850 245.6439 fax SiteFile:ci-dos.state.fl.us Conscvvatiorr Collier 5 Program Packet Page -1013- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Literature Cited Correll, D. S., and H. B. and Corre11.1982.Flora of the Bahama Archipelago (Including the Turks ans Caicos Islands). A. R. G. Gantner Verlag KG. 1 692 pp. Florida Natural Areas Inventory Areas of Conservation Lands By County July 2012 FLEPPC. 201 1. Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council. List of Invasive Plant Species. Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council.Internet: http://www.flepnc.ore/listl1 list..htm or Wildland Weeds Vol. 14(3-4):11-14. Summer/Fall 2011 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FFWCC). 2002. A conceptual management plan for Caravelle Ranch Wildlife Management Area: 2002—2007. Tallahassee,FL. 218 pp. Available from http://myfwc.com/wma/planning/CMP/Caravelle%20Ranch%20WMA%Caravelle%20Ranch%20CM P%202002-2007.pdf (accessed December 2007) Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FFWCC). 2003 January 6. Florida's breeding bird atlas: A collaborative study of Florida's birdlife. http://www.myfwc.com/bba/(accessed June 2008). Florida Natural Areas Inventory (FNAI) and Florida Department of Natural Resources (FDNR) 1990. Guide to the Natural Communities of Florida. Florida Natural Areas Inventory and Florida Department of Natural Resources. Florida Natural Areas Inventory (FNAI). 2008. Managed Area Tracking Record and Element Occurrence Summary for Nancy Payton Preserve. FNAI, Tallahassee,Florida. Godfrey, R. K. and J. W. Wooten. 1981. Aquatic and Wetland Plants of the Southeastern United States. The University of Georgia Press, Athens. Two Volumes: Monocotyledons: 712 pp; Dicotelydons, 933 pp. Hoppe, M. K. (Fall 2006)Hogs Gone Wild -Experts Say Feral Pig Problem Here to Stay. Retrieved April 2008 from Bay Soundings, Tampa Bay's Science and News Journal Website:(http://baysoundings.com/fa1106/hogsgonewild.asp) Humphrey, S.R. 1992. Florida black bear. Pp. 265-275. In S.R. Humphrey (ed.). Rare and Endangered Biota of Florida,Mammals. University of Florida. Gainesville, FL. Langeland and Stocker(2001) Control of non-nativeplants in natural areas of Florida. University of Florida, IFAS Extension, SP 242 (http://edis.ifas.ull.edu/pdffiles/WG/WG20900.pdf). Leighty, R. G.. M. B. Marco. G. A. Swenson, R. E. Caldwell. J. R. Henderson, O. C. Olson, and G. C. Willson. 1954. Soil Survey (Detailed-Reconnaissance)of Collier County, Florida. U.S.D.A. Soil Conservation Service,U.S. Government Printing Office. 72 pp.,maps. Miller J. A. 1986. Hydrogeologic Framework of the Floridan Aquifer System in Florida and in parts of Georgia, Alabama, and South Carolina. United States Geological Survey Professional Paper 1403- B. United States Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. Myers R. L and J.J.Ewel 1990. Ecosystems of Florida. University of Central Florida Press/Orlando, FL National Audubon Society 2007.Identifying Corkscrew's Common Tillandsia. Website accessed February 2008. http://www.audubon.oru!local/sanctuary/corkscrew/Wildlife/Tillandsia.html#Trecurvata. Conservation Collier 6 Program Packet Page -1014- 5/27/2014 16.D.2. Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS). 2003 Feb. Conservation Practice Standard Prescribed Burning. Field Office Technical Guide Section IV. (FL): Code 338. 7 p. Oaks, R. Q. and J. R. Dunbar. 1974. Post Miocene Stratigraphy of the Central and Southern Atlantic Coastal Plain. Utah State University Press, Logan, Utah Reed. P. B., Jr. 1988.National list of plant species that occur in wetlands: Southeast(Region 2). U. S. Fish Wildl. Serv. Biol. Rep. 88(26.2). 124 pp. Tobe, J. D., K. C. Burks, R. W. Cantrell, M. A. Garland, M. E. Sweeley, D. W. Hall, P. Wallace, G. Anglin, G. Nelson, J. R. Cooper,D. Bickner, K. Gilbert,N. Aymond, K. Greenwood, and N. Raymond. 1998. Florida Wetland Plants: an Identification Manual. University of Florida. 598. pp. United States Department of Agriculture(USDA)Forest Service 1989. A Guide for Prescribed Fire in Southern Forests Technical Report R8-TP 11. (Wade DD, Lunsford. JD, Dixon, MJ, Mobley, Ed.)National Interagency Fire Center, Boise, Idaho. U.S. Geological Survey 2012. Breeding Bird Atlas Explorer(online resource). Patuxent Wildlife Research Center&National Biological Information Infrastructure http://www.pwrc.usgs.gov/bba. Data extracted from: Florida's breeding bird atlas: A collaborative study of Florida's birdlife. 2003. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. http://www.wildflorida.ore/bba/. Wade D. D.. and J. D. Lundsford. 1989. A guide for prescribed fire in southern forests. National Wildfire Coordinating Group. Technical Publication R8-TP 1 I. 56 p. Available from: National interagency Fire Center, ATTN: Supply, 3833 S. Development Ave., Boise, ID 83705. Order NFES #2108. Wunderlin, R. P. 1998. Guide to the Vascular Plants of Florida. University of Florida. Gainesville. 806 pp. Conservation Collier 7 Program Packet Page -1015-