Agenda 09/10/2019 Item #16D17 (Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement)09/10/2019
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Recommendation to approve the Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease Agreement with Hood Citrus
Caretaking, Inc., under the Conservation Collier Program, and direct the County Manager, or his
designee, to implement the lease terms.
OBJECTIVE: To obtain the Board of County Commissioners’ (“Board”) approval of the attached
Lease Agreement with Hood Citrus Caretaking, Inc., to graze cattle within the Pepper Ranch Preserve
under the Conservation Collier Program.
CONSIDERATIONS: The prior Lessee of the Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease voluntarily
terminated its Lease on May 31, 2019, after five (5) years. The County issued a new solicitation for
individuals interested in leasing 1,636 acres of land at the Pepper Ranch Preserve for the purpose of beef
cattle production on July 1, 2019. Staff advertised the solicitation on the Conservation Collier website,
an IFAS cattle ranching email listserv, and in the Naples Daily News on July 2, 2019 and July 6, 2019.
Staff also e-mailed the solicitation directly to all parties that had contacted staff and requested an
opportunity to bid on Pepper Ranch Preserve cattle operations.
The proposed cattle lease allows for up to 200 Animal Units (AUs) to be grazed within the Preserve.
Allowing an experienced cattle operator to graze a limited number of cattle will enhance land
management efforts at the Preserve. Under the terms of the proposed lease, the cattle operator will be
required to mow approximately 647 acres of improved pasture annually.
Collier County received three (3) bids for the cattle lease at Pepper Ranch Preserve. Bidders were asked
to provide a per AU price and the number of AUs they anticipated grazing each year for the duration of
the cattle lease. The calculated annual total was used to determine the highest bidder. Staff determined
that Hood Citrus Caretaking, Inc. is the highest qualified bidder with a $206 per AU and a 200 total
AU’s. The remaining qualified bidders were: Brown and Son of FL ($169.33 per AU/200 AU), and
Crawford Ranch, LLC ($130 per AU/200 AU).
FISCAL IMPACT: Rent under the proposed lease agreement will generate revenue of $41,200 per year
for the Conservation Collier Program for at least five (5) years with the option of two (2) one-year
renewal options. The agreement also requires the cattle operator to mow 647 acres of improved pasture
annually - a land management service currently valued at approximately $9,705.
LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS: This Item is approved for form and legality and requires a majority
vote for Board approval. -SRT
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.
RECOMMENDATION: To approve the Lease Agreement with Hood Citrus Caretaking, Inc.,
authorize its Chairman to sign the Lease Agreement, and direct the County Manager, or his designee, to
implement the Lease Agreement terms.
Prepared By: Christal Segura, Sr. Environmental Specialist, Parks and Recreation Division
16.D.17
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09/10/2019
ATTACHMENT(S)
1. Cattle Lease Bid Solicitation Advertisement 2019 (PDF)
2. (linked) Cattle Lease Bid Solicitation Document 2019 (PDF)
3. Hood Citrus Caretaking Cattle Lease Bid (PDF)
4. Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (PDF)
5. Pepper Ranch Preserve Bid Tabulation spreadsheet (PDF)
6. Naples Daily News Order confirmation (PDF)
16.D.17
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09/10/2019
COLLIER COUNTY
Board of County Commissioners
Item Number: 16.D.17
Doc ID: 9848
Item Summary: Recommendation t o approve the Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease Agreement
with Hood Citrus Caretaking, Inc., under the Conservation Collier Program, and direct the County
Manager, or his designee, to implement the lease terms.
Meeting Date: 09/10/2019
Prepared by:
Title: Operations Analyst – Parks & Recreation
Name: Matthew Catoe
08/16/2019 12:13 PM
Submitted by:
Title: Division Director - Parks & Recreation – Parks & Recreation
Name: Barry Williams
08/16/2019 12:13 PM
Approved By:
Review:
Procurement Services Opal Vann Level 1 Purchasing Gatekeeper Completed 08/16/2019 1:20 PM
Parks & Recreation Barry Williams Additional Reviewer Completed 08/16/2019 1:44 PM
Parks & Recreation Ilonka Washburn Additional Reviewer Completed 08/19/2019 7:46 AM
Procurement Services Ted Coyman Additional Reviewer Completed 08/19/2019 1:37 PM
Parks & Recreation Summer BrownAraque Additional Reviewer Completed 08/20/2019 9:00 AM
Public Services Department Kimberley Grant Level 1 Reviewer Completed 08/20/2019 5:53 PM
Public Services Department Todd Henry Level 1 Division Reviewer Completed 08/21/2019 11:42 AM
Public Services Department Steve Carnell Level 2 Division Administrator Review Completed 08/22/2019 8:47 AM
County Attorney's Office Scott Teach Level 2 Attorney Review Completed 08/23/2019 9:05 AM
County Attorney's Office Jeffrey A. Klatzkow Level 3 County Attorney's Office Review Completed 08/23/2019 10:36 AM
Office of Management and Budget Valerie Fleming Level 3 OMB Gatekeeper Review Completed 08/23/2019 4:50 PM
Budget and Management Office Ed Finn Additional Reviewer Completed 08/26/2019 5:08 PM
County Manager's Office Leo E. Ochs Level 4 County Manager Review Completed 08/27/2019 11:24 AM
Board of County Commissioners MaryJo Brock Meeting Pending 09/10/2019 9:00 AM
16.D.17
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NOTICE
COLLIER COUNTY PROPERTY FOR LEASE
INVITATION FOR SEALED BIDS
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF
COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA, IS SOLICITING BIDS FROM ANY PARTY
INTERESTED IN LEASING LAND AT THE PEPPER RANCH PRESERVE, 6315
PEPPER ROAD, IMMOKALEE, FL, FOR CATTLE GRAZING.
A site visit will be held at the preserve on Tuesday, July 9th, 2019 at 10:00 AM. All
prospective bidders are encouraged to attend.
Bid documents will be available on July 1, 2019 at the North Collier Regional Park,
15000 Livingston Road, Naples, FL 34109. Bid documents will also be available for
download at: https://www.colliercountyfl.gov/your-government/divisions-a-
e/conservation-collier/preserve-information/pepper-ranch-preserve.
One Thousand Six hundred and Thirty-six (1,636) acres will be available at the
preserve for grazing a maximum of 200 head of cattle . The term of the lease will be for
five (5) years with the option of two (2), one (1) year extensions. Applicants must meet
minimum insurance requirements for operating on County property and must have at
least five (5) years of experience grazing cattle under a natural resource management
grazing program. The awarded high bidder will be required to maintain an effective
fence around the area of the preserve that will contain any cattle and will be required to
mow the Six hundred and Forty-seven (647) acres of improved pasture within the
leased land a minimum of one (1) time per year.
The bid for annual rent must be a minimum of One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) per
Animal Unit. The minimum amount required is 150 AU and the maximum is 200 AU.
Highest total bidder will be awarded the lease. They shall enter into a Lease Agreement
with Collier County within ninety (90) days from the last publication of this notice to
address additional terms and conditions deemed necessary by Collier County.
For more information, please contact Christal Segura at
Christal.Segura@colliercountyfl.gov
or (239) 252-2495.
PLEASE FORWARD SEALED BIDS TO: (Indicate: "SEALED BID" on envelope)
Christal Segura
Conservation Collier Program
Parks and Recreation Department
15000 Livingston Rd.
Naples, Florida 34109
BIDS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE NOON HOUR ON JULY 19, 2019. THE
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REJECT ALL
BIDS AND/OR NEGOTIATE WITH THE QUALIFIED BIDDERS ON ANY PROVISIONS
OF THE LEASE.
16.D.17.a
Packet Pg. 1572 Attachment: Cattle Lease Bid Solicitation Advertisement 2019 (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
16.D.17.c
Packet Pg. 1573 Attachment: Hood Citrus Caretaking Cattle Lease Bid (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
To whom it may concern
Hello, my name is Justin Hood I own with my wife Hoodcitrus Caretaking. I’m a 5 th generation
Floridian. I grew up in Avon Park fla, graduated the University of Fla with a degree in ag, farmed in
immokalee for to many years to count. We have cattle interests in Polk, Highlands, and Glades county.
We thank you for the opportunity to bid on the grazing rights on such a great property. We operate a
standard cow calf operation with Brahma type commercial cattle. We promise to be outstanding
stewards of this great land.
Thank you
Justin Hood
16.D.17.c
Packet Pg. 1574 Attachment: Hood Citrus Caretaking Cattle Lease Bid (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
16.D.17.d
Packet Pg. 1575 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1576 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1577 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1578 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1579 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1580 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1581 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1582 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1583 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1584 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1585 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1586 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1587 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1588 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1589 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1590 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1591 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1592 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1593 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1594 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1595 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1596 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1597 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Cattle Lease Agreement_ lessee signature (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
Ranking Name Organization Bid/AU # of AU Annual rent*
1 Justin Hood Hood Citrus Caretaking $206 200 $41,200
2 Michael E. Brown Brown and Sons of FL.$169 200 $33,866
3 Donnie Crawford Crawford Ranch $130 200 $26,000
Pepper Ranch Preserve Bid Tabulation Spreadsheet
*See Lease for specific provisions for annual rent to increase if the lessee choses to renew the lease after 5 years
16.D.17.e
Packet Pg. 1598 Attachment: Pepper Ranch Preserve Bid Tabulation spreadsheet (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
Net Amount Tax Amount Total Amount Payment Method Payment Amount Amount Due
COLLIER COUNTY PARKS
3299 TAMIAMI TR E 700
NAPLES FL 34112-
$680.40 $0.00 $680.40 $680.40Credit Card $0.000003658151
AD#
1304416
Account
Sales Rep: dlindberg Order Taker: dlindberg 06/28/2019Order Created
End DateStart Date# InsProduct
07/01/2019 07/06/2019 2NDN-Naples Daily News
07/01/2019 07/06/2019 2NDN-naplesnews.com
* ALL TRANSACTIONS CONSIDERED PAID IN FULL UPON CLEARANCE OF FINANCIAL INSTITUTION
16.D.17.f
Packet Pg. 1599 Attachment: Naples Daily News Order confirmation (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
Text of Ad: 06/28/2019 16.D.17.f
Packet Pg. 1600 Attachment: Naples Daily News Order confirmation (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
Text of Ad: 07/05/2019
16.D.17.f
Packet Pg. 1601 Attachment: Naples Daily News Order confirmation (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1602 Attachment: Naples Daily News Order confirmation (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
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Packet Pg. 1603 Attachment: Naples Daily News Order confirmation (9848 : Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease)
Public Services Division
Parks & Recreation Department
Conservation Collier
15000 Livingston Road, North Collier Regional Park, Naples, FL 34109
239.252.2961 www.colliergov.net/conservationcollier
1
Collier County
Pepper Ranch Preserve
Invitation to Bid for Cattle Lease
Issue Date: July 1, 2019
Revised July 11, 2019
Point of Contact:
Christal Segura
239-252-2495
ChristalSegura@CollierCountyFL.gov.gov
2
Invitation to Bid
Table of Contents
Contents
I. INVITATION TO BID ........................................................................................................ ….3
II. MINIMUM APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS ......................................................................... 3
III. PROPOSAL SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS & DEADLINE .............................................. 3
IV. SUBMITTAL OF WRITTEN QUESTIONS ........................................................................... 4
V. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF AWARD CRITERIA ................................................................... 5
VI. BACKGROUND AND LEASE REQUIREMENTS ............................................................... 5
A. COUNTY GOALS ................................................................................................................................. 5
B. AVAILABLE PROPERTY OVERVIEW ............................................................................................. 6
C. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND PROHIBITIONS ................................................................. 6
D. MINIMUM BID ..................................................................................................................................... 7
VII. BID PROPOSAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR APPLICANTS ...................................................... 8
A. COVER LETTER: .................................................................................................................................. 8
B. BID: ........................................................................................................................................................ 8
C. STATEMENT OF EXPERIENCE: ........................................................................................................ 9
D. REFERENCES ..................................................................................................................................... 10
E. INSURANCE REQUIREMENT .......................................................................................................... 10
F. CATTLE LEASE AGREEMENT ........................................................................................................ 10
ATTACHMENT A – DRAFT Cattle Lease Agreement .......................................................................... 11
ATTACHMENT B – USDA Pepper Ranch Preserve Prescribed Grazing Plan ...................................... 12
ATTACHMENT C – Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Infrastructure Map ................................................ 17
ATTACHMENT D – Pepper Ranch Preserve Improved Pasture Map .................................................... 18
3
I. INVITATION TO BID
Date: July 1, 2019
From: Christal Segura, Senior Environmental Specialist
(239) 252-2495 (Telephone)
(239) 252-3310 (FAX)
Christal.Segura@colliercountyfl.gov (Email)
To: Prospective Bidders
Subject: Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease
The Collier County Board of County Commissioners Parks and Recreation Department’s
Conservation Collier Program is pleased to announce the opportunity for livestock operators to
provide resource management services in the form of livestock grazing. The County is seeking
proposals from qualified cattle operators for grazing at Pepper Ranch Preserve in Immokalee. The
County invites qualified firms or individuals to submit a proposal to work with the County to
maintain and enhance the diversity of native plant and animal communities, manage vegetative fire
fuel loads, and maintain and improve grazing infrastructure.
This bid was publicly posted on the Collier County Conservation Collier website:
www.colliergov.net/conservationcollier on July 1, 2019.
II. MINIMUM APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS
Applicants that do not meet the following minimum requirements shall be deemed nonqualified and
their proposal will not be considered:
A. Ability to meet minimum Insurance Requirements for operating on County property if
chosen to enter into a cattle lease agreement with Collier County.
B. Five years of experience grazing cattle under a natural resource management grazing
program.
III. PROPOSAL SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS & DEADLINE
A non-mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held on July 9, 2019, commencing promptly at 10:00 A.M.
at Pepper Ranch Preserve, 6315 Pepper Road, Immokalee, FL 34142.
Firms or individual livestock operators interested in submitting a proposal must submit one (1)
complete hard copy of their bid in a sealed envelope. The envelope will be date and time stamped
upon receipt and must be clearly labeled on the outside with "Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Lease
Proposal".
4
Bids shall be submitted NO LATER THAN 12:00 P.M. Eastern Time on July 19, 2019
addressed to:
North Collier Regional Park
Conservation Collier Program
ATTN: Pepper Ranch Preserve Grazing Lease Proposal
15000 Livingston Road
Naples, FL 34109
Bids may be hand delivered or delivered via certified mail. Any proposal received after the due
date and time cannot be accepted and will be rejected and returned to the applicant unopened.
The envelope MUST contain the applicant's name and return address on the outside.
Collier County does not discriminate based on age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin ,
disability or marital status.
IV. SUBMITTAL OF WRITTEN QUESTIONS
Individuals and firms interested in submitting a proposal should exercise their best judgment in
analyzing and interpreting the requirements of this ITB. If additional clarification is necessary, or
desired, interested parties may submit a written request for clarification of the ITB.
Please submit all written questions via e-mail to Christal Segura at
ChristalSegura@colliercountyfl.gov.
Written questions or requests for clarification must be received by 4:00 p.m. on
Friday, July 12, 2019.
Answers to questions and requests for clarification that are received by the July 12, 2019, deadline
will be listed on an addendum to the ITB and posted on the Conservation Collier website:
www.colliergov.net/conservationcollier. An e-mail announcing the posting of the addendum will be
sent to all interested applicants who have provided the County with an e-mail address. Additional
written questions pertaining to the addendum must be received no more than two (2) days after the
addendum is posted. The County will respond to additional questions regarding the original
addendum in the same manner. The County reserves the right to post addenda until 48 hours prior
to the proposal submittal date and time.
5
Projected Timetable
Event Date
Issue Solicitation Notice July 1, 2019
Non-mandatory pre-bid meeting July 9, 2019 at 10:00
A.M.; Pepper Ranch
Preserve
Last Date for Receipt of Written Questions July 12, 2019 at 4:00
P.M., Naples Local
Time
Addendum Issued Resulting from Written Questions or Pre-Proposal
Conference
July 16, 2019
Solicitation Deadline Date and Time July 19, 2019; 12:00
P.M. North Collier
Regional Park
Anticipated Evaluation of Submittals July 22- July 24, 2019
Anticipated Board of County Commissioner’s Lease Approval Date September 10, 2019
V. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF AWARD CRITERIA
ITB award criteria is as follows:
• It is the intent of Collier County to award the cattle lease to the qualified and responsive
vendor that submits the highest bid per Animal Unit (AU)-highest total bid will be awarded.
• Award shall be based upon the responses to all questions on the Bid Response Page s.
• Further consideration may include but not be limited to, references, completeness of bid
response and past performances on other County bids/projects.
• The County’s Conservation Collier Program reserves the right to clarify a vendor’s proposal
prior to the award of the solicitation.
• The contract will be in the form of the lease agreement. A draft sample cattle lease
agreement is included in this ITB as Attachment A.
VI. BACKGROUND AND LEASE REQUIREMENTS
A. COUNTY GOALS
The County utilizes livestock grazing as one of many tools to achieve resource management
objectives within its preserves, which include reducing non-native invasive plant species,
reducing wildfire fuel loads, enhancing biodiversity, and promoting the growth of native
vegetation. Grazing should be conducted in a manner that does not negatively impact fresh
water resources or lead to increased soil erosion. Livestock operators are expected to
implement adaptive management techniques so that intensity, frequency and duration of
grazing achieve the County's resource management goals.
The intent of this ITB is to solicit a livestock operator to ente r into a lease agreement to graze a
minimum of 150 AU and a maximum of 200 AUs of cattle on 1,636 acres of County land subject
to the terms and conditions of a Prescribed Grazing Plan that will be drafted collaboratively with
the new cattle operator, Collier County, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural
Resources Conservation Service. The current Prescribed Grazing Plan for the preserve is
attached as Attachment B.
6
B. AVAILABLE PROPERTY OVERVIEW
Livestock infrastructure within the preserve including fencing, gates, water systems, and corral
facilities vary in condition across the property and will require maintenance, and in some cases
replacement, to conduct grazing practices in accordance with the resource management
objectives of the County. The livestock operator will be required to maintain, repair, and install
infrastructure on the property so that all cattle will be contained and grazed in accordance with
the Prescribed Grazing Plan.
A map of current infrastructure is attached as Attachment C. Fencing that has been verified by
Conservation Collier staff is identified on the map in three categories based on field inspection.
The categories and descriptions include approximate measurements:
1. Not good (3,613 linear ft.) – Fence needs major repair or complete replacement
2. Ok - but might need work (20,954 linear ft.) – Majority of fence will contain cattle, but some
areas need repair.
3. Very good (34,981 linear ft.) – Fence in excellent condition. No repair or maintenance
needed
4. Will be installed (5,280 linear ft.) – County will be installing within the first year of the lease
C. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND PROHIBITIONS
The Prescribed Grazing Plan will include a planned rotational grazing system and other
management tools, as may be required; such as ro ller chopping, mowing, and prescribed
burning. The cattle operator will be required to mow the six hundred forty-seven (647) acres of
improved pasture within the leased land a minimum of one (1) time per year. A map of
improved pastures is attached as Attachment D. This requirement will become part of the lease
document. It will also be the responsibility of the cattle operator to provide to the County, on an
annual basis, an inspection report of the property and its operations.
Configuration of the fencing and pastures may change to accommodate the establishment of
appropriate ecological based management units under the Prescribed Grazing Plan. The
installation of any new pasture fencing and gates will be the responsibility of the cattle operator,
with prior written approval from the County. Permanently installed fencing/gates will become the
property of the County upon termination of the lease.
There will be no fertilization of the pasture areas, unless specifically approved by the County. In
no case will phosphorus containing fertilizer be allowed on the land. No lime or dolomite shall
be applied. Plowing, ditching or digging of water holes is prohibited without prior written
approval from the County. The County reserves the right/ability to monitor sur face and
subsurface water quality in the leased area.
Public access activities, including hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and limited hunting
occur within the preserve on weekends November-June. Livestock operators shall conduct their
operation in a manner that provides for visitor access, recreational opportunities, and the safety
of preserve visitors.
Some wetlands within the property may also be subject to restoration that will require changes
in the land uses for this property. It will be necessary for the cattle operator to work with the
County and be flexible with cattle operations during management of the preserve.
7
Management will include but not be limited to exotic vegetation treatment, wetland restoration,
and prescribed fire.
There is also a possibility that wetland restoration activities within the property may necessitate
the exclusion of cattle from portions of the preserve in the future. The cattle operator should be
aware that there are "listed species" on the property, and that these speci es are protected by
either state or federal law or both.
The cattle operator will be required to notify the County at least three days prior to any planned
cattle round-up or cattle releases to allow a County representative the option to observe the
cattle round-up or release. The cattle operator shall report any violation observed pertaining to
rules and regulations promulgated by the County or the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation
Commission (FWC). The FWC and Collier County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) regularly patrols this
property.
The property will be open to the public for recreation purposes Friday-Sunday from November -
June each year as conducted by the County, including but not limited to bicycling, hiking,
horseback riding, birdwatching, and hunting. The cattle operator shall immediately report any
incidence of the following:
• Fire
• Vandalism
• Theft
• Poaching
• Trespassing
• Any hazard, condition or situation that may become a liability to the County or may be
damaging to the property or improvements on the property.
D. MINIMUM BID
The County has established a minimum annual bid of $100.00 per AU. Rent will be paid
annually in advance upon execution of the lease and on or before the anniversary date each
successive year. The contract period will be for five years, commencing on the date the
County executes the lease. The Cattle operator will be granted the option to renew the lease
for two additional terms of one year each with a 5% rent increase for each ensuing one year
renewal term, compounded. Annual payment to the County shal l be accompanied by a
certification stating the number and age class of AU's being grazed on the preserve. An AU is
defined as one mature cow plus one calf of six to nine months of age, or their equivalent. The
following table summarizes other A.U. equivalents:
Species Average Weight
(pounds)
Animal Unit
Equivalent (AUE)
Cow, dry 950 0.92
Cow with calf 1,000 1.00
Bull, mature 1,500 1.35
Cattle, 1 year old 600 0.60
Cattle, 2 year old 800 0.80
The total number of animal units (AU) for the preserve shall not exceed 200.
8
VII. BID PROPOSAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR APPLICANTS
Individuals or firms shall prepare and submit their proposal in the fo rmat established below. All
proposals shall be type written on standard 8.5” X 11” paper.
Each individual or firm must submit only one proposal.
Each section of the proposal shall be clearly labeled as such and shall be separated from other
sections by a single blank page. The proposal should be organized in the following format and
order and must contain all items listed below:
A. Cover Letter
B. Bid
C. Statement of Experience
D. References
E. Proof of Insurance
F. Cattle Lease Agreement
A. COVER LETTER:
Cover letter should contain the following information:
1. The name(s) of submitting individual(s) or firm. Indicate if the proposal is being submitted as
a joint venture, partnership and/or other entity other than an individual. Include a description
of the ownership structure, including names of individual partners, investors, and/or officers.
2. The full name, title, and contact information (telephone number, physical address, e-mail
address and fax number) of:
a. Individual authorized, on behalf of the organization, to contact for clarification.
b. Individual authorized, on behalf of the organization, to negotiate the contract.
c. Individual authorized, on behalf of the organization, to contractually obligate the
organization.
3. Acknowledgment of receipt of any and all addenda to this ITB.
4. Signature of the individual authorized, on behalf of the organization, to contractually obligate
the organization
B. BID:
Provide a bid that the individual/organization is willing to pay per Animal Unit (AU) per year. Bids
must be a minimum of $100.00/AU per year with a minimum of 150 AU and a maximum of 200 AU.
Highest total bidder will be awarded the lease.
Example = $__________ bid per AU x __________ number of AU = $________ annual rent
9
C. STATEMENT OF EXPERIENCE:
Proposal shall include a Statement of Experience briefly describing relevant experience and
success managing cattle and/or other livestock for natural resources management. Please include
the following where applicable:
1. Length of time managing cattle grazing on (a) publicly owned lands and (b) private
lands.
2. A list of each property that you currently graze (private and publicly owned) or
incorporate into your livestock operation. For each property, please include the following
information:
a. Location
b. Size
c. Duration of grazing agreement or lease
d. Description of rangeland/vegetation types
e. Season of use
f. Type of livestock grazed
g. Name of the land owner
3. Experience managing cattle grazing operation(s) under a resource management plan.
a. Number of years experience grazing cattle under a resource management plan
b. Description of cattle management techniques you have employed and their results
(positive or negative).
4. Area(s) of specialization and expertise (if applicable).
5. Description of ability to install new fence/gates and repair existing fences/gates
6. Description or list of all equipment owned or readily available for use that will directly
enhance livestock operation and ability to achieve the desired resource management
objectives and infrastructure improvements. (Tractors, cattle trucks, portable welders,
wood chippers, etc.)
7. Description of the need for site presence and how often operator and/or employee(s)
plan to be on the property. Indicate expected presence on the property as it may vary by
season (calving, shipping, construction, etc.).
8. It is extremely important that the livestock operator or employees have the capacity to
respond to an emergency (livestock/human conflict, sick or injured livestock, cattle on a
roadway, etc.) in a reasonable amount of time. Describe the availability and expected
response time (minimum and maximum response time) of the operator or employees of
the operator, in the event of an emergency.
9. How often will you monitor range health condit ions in each pasture and who is
responsible for determining when pasture rotations are necessary?
10
10. Have you ever worked with the Natural Resources Conservation Service or applied for
grant funds to assist in infrastructure improvements relevant to your livestock operation?
REFERENCES:
Provide three (3) references. References should be three (3) different external
agencies/clients/advisors who have extensive knowledge of your cattle grazing operation and are
willing to validate your past performance managing livestock and natural resources on leased
and/or owned land. At least one (1) reference should be a past or current land owner/agency from
whom the individual or firm submitting this proposal has been in a grazing contract or agreement
with in the past five (5) years. Please include:
1. Name of Contact Person
2. Name of Company/Agency
3. Telephone Number
4. Physical Address
5. E-Mail Address
D. INSURANCE REQUIREMENT:
Individuals or firms submitting a proposal in response to this ITB will be required to obtain
insurance coverage in accordance with the provisions listed in Article 10 of the 'DRAFT Cattle
Lease Agreement' included as Attachment A to this ITB. Please indicate that the cattle operator will
be able to obtain the required minimum insurance requirements for operating on County property
should the cattle operator be chosen to enter into a cattle lease agreement with Collier County.
Article 10 – Cattle Lease Agreement:
“LESSEE shall provide and maintain a farm liability policy which shall be approved by the Collier
County Risk Management Department, for not less than an amount of One Million Dollars and
No/100 Cents ($1,000,000.00) throughout the term or any renewals thereof to this Agreement. In
addition, LESSEE shall provide and maintain Worker's Compensation Insurance covering all
employees meeting Statutory Limits in compliance with the applicable state and federal laws. The
coverage shall include Employer's Liability with a minimum limit of One Hundred Thousand Dollars
and No/100 Cents ($l00,000.00) each accident.”
Under FL Statute 440, only cattle operators that employ four (4) or more part or full-time
employees must obtain workers’ compe nsation coverage. Sole proprietors, partners, or day
laborers that are not on the operator’s payroll and are covered under separate insurance are not
considered part or full-time employees.
E. CATTLE LEASE AGREEMENT:
Please provide a statement of the applicant's acceptance of the terms in the "DRAFT Cattle Lease
Agreement" (Attachment A) or any reservations the applicant has with the Lease Requirements.
11
ATTACHMENT A – DRAFT Cattle Lease Agreement
1
Cattle Lease
Lease#____CC-103____________
LEASE AGREEMENT
THIS LEASE AGREEMENT entered into this _____ day of ______________, 2019, between
____________________________whose address is______________________________________,
hereinafter referred to as "LESSEE", and COLLIER COUNTY, a political subdivision of the State of
Florida, whose mailing address is 3299 Tamiami Trail East, Naples, Florida 34112, hereinafter referred to
as "LESSOR".
W I T N E S S E T H
In consideration of the mutual covenants contained herein, and other valuable consideration, the
parties agree as follows:
ARTICLE l. Demised Premises and Use
LESSOR hereby leases to LESSEE and LESSEE hereby leases from LESSOR One thousand, Six
hundred and Thirty-six (1,636) acres of property described in Exhibit "A," and shown in Exhibit “C”, which
is attached hereto and made a part of this Lease, hereinafter called the "Demised Premises," situated in the
County of Collier and the State of Florida, for the sole purpose of cattle grazing and incidental activities
that are directly related to beef cattle production.
All animal husbandry principles and practices applicable to the property and efficient use of grazing
resources shall be followed at all times. The LESSEE shall be responsible for the establishment and
implementation of sound grazing practices based on the best management guidelines of the U.S.
Department of Agriculture’s National Resources Conservation Service (EXHIBIT “G”).
Consistent with its status as a tenant the LESSEE will have exclusive use and possession of the
Demised Premises, however, the LESSOR may, as specified below: (i) alter its boundaries and/or (ii) make
use of portions of it for hunting EXHIBIT “I”, public access EXHIBIT “H”, and other activities consistent
with the Conservation Collier program, as described below in this Article 1 and in Article 16(d). LESSOR’S
use shall not, however, interfere with LESSEE’S permitted use of the Demised Premises, nor expose
LESSEE to liability to third parties based on the use that LESSOR is permitted to make of the Demises
Premises.
The Demised Premises is leased in its “As Is, Where Is, and With All Faults” condition. LESSEE
has examined the Demised Premises to its complete and total satisfaction and accepts it in its present
condition. LESSEE has had adequate opportunity to investigate the land use and zoning of the Demised
Premises and is satisfied that it can use the Demised Premises for LESSEE’s purpose.
This LEASE AGREEMENT may be amended from time-to-time in order to change the
size of the Demised Premises as necessary to accomplish the goals, policies, and objectives of the
Conservation Collier Implementation Ordinance (Ordinance 02-63, as amended). LESSOR’S
representative (e.g., Real Estate Services Staff) shall advise LESSEE, in writing, of its intent to recommend
that LESSOR amend this LEASE AGREEMENT.
2
ARTICLE 2. Term of Lease
LESSEE shall have and hold the Demised Premises for a term of five (5) years, commencing on
______, 2019. LESSEE is granted the option, provided LESSEE is not in default of any of the terms of
this Lease, to renew same for two (2) additional terms of one (1) year, under the same terms and conditions,
except as to the rental amount, as provided herein, by giving written notice of LESSEE'S intention to do so
to the LESSOR not less than thirty (30) days prior to the expiration of the leasehold estate hereby created.
LESSOR reserves the right to deny LESSEE, in writing, of any renewal term.
Both LESSOR and LESSEE reserve the right to terminate this lease, without cause, by providing
the other party with at least thirty (30) days written notice to the address set forth in ARTICLE 14 of this
Lease.
LESSEE and LESSOR reserve the right to terminate this Lease, with cause, upon default by the
other party as described in Article 12 and in Article 13, after any cure or grace period during the entire term
of this Lease, by providing the other party with thirty (30) days written notice to the addre ss set forth in
ARTICLE 14 of this Lease.
Upon termination of this Lease by either party, LESSEE will have sixty (60) days to make
arrangements to remove the existing cattle, during which sixty (60) days the cattle must remain. LESSOR
will remit to LESSEE any prepaid and unearned rent for any period that exceeds sixty (30) days after such
60 days. During the sixty (60) day period that LESSEE remains in possession after termination, LESSEE
shall continue to have said mowing obligations as described in Article 3 or may pay rent prorated at the
amount described in Article 12, however, LESSEE shall not be liable for any interest thereon as described
in said Article 12. Such mowing or rent obligations shall cease when LESSEE vacates the Demised
Premises.
All notices shall be effective upon placement of the notice in an official depository of the United
States Post Office, Registered or Certified Mail, Postage Prepaid.
ARTICLE 3. Rent
LESSEE hereby covenants and agrees to pay as rent the annual sum of
____________________________($___________) for grazing ________________ ( ) Animal Units
(A.U.) within the Demised Premises throughout the duration of the lease, subject to increases as provided
in ARTICLE 4. During the Lease, LESSEE shall maintain the referenced number of Animal Units on the
Demised Premises, subject to the occasional need to replace or substitute Animal Units to maintain that
number, as necessary. LESSEE must certify to the Collier County Preserve Manager the number of A.U.
it is keeping on the Demised Premises at the time the LESSEE submits its Lease payment, along with a
certification stating the number and age class of Animal Units being grazed on the parcel. Annual rent shall
be paid in full on the effective date provided in ARTICLE 2 and by that date for each subsequent year of
the Lease Agreement, including renewal terms.
Should Collier County require an adjustment to the number of A.U.’s allowed on the Demised
Premises, it shall provide written notice to the Lessee no less than sixty (60) days before such changes are
to take effect and the annual rent will be adjusted in accordance with the rate per A.U. bid by LESSEE.
In the event LESSEE elects to renew this Lease, as provided for in ARTICLE 2, the rent set forth
in ARTICLE 3 shall be increased utilizing the method outlined in ARTICLE 4.
3
ARTICLE 4. Renewal Term Rent
In the event LESSEE elects to renew this Lease, as provided for in ARTICLE 2, the rent set forth
in ARTICLE 3 shall be increased for each ensuing one (1) year renewal term by five (5) percent from the
previous year, compounded.
ARTICLE 5. Modifications to Demised Premises
Prior to making any changes, alterations, additions or improvements to the Demised Premises,
LESSEE will provide to LESSOR all proposals and plans for alterations, improvements, changes or
additions to the Demised Premises for LESSOR'S written approval, specifying in writing the natur e and
extent of the desired alteration, improvement, change, or addition, along with the contemplated starting and
completion time for such project. LESSOR, or its designee, will then have sixty (60) days within which to
approve or deny in writing said request for changes, improvements, alterations or additions. LESSOR shall
not unreasonably withhold its consent to required or appropriate alterations, improvements, changes or
additions proposed by LESSEE. If after sixty (60) days there has been no response from LESSOR, or its
designee, to said proposals or plans, then such silence shall be deemed as a denial to such request to
LESSEE.
LESSEE must maintain all fencing and gates needed to contain cattle or to protect water
resources. Any repairs or modifications made to existing fence infrastructure must be in compliance with
LESSOR’s standards and materials as contained in the Specifications for 4-Strand Barbed Wire Fence
Construction EXHIBIT “F”).
LESSEE covenants and agrees in connection with any maintenance, repair work, erection,
construction, improvement, addition or alteration of any authorized modifications, additions or
improvements to the Demised Premises, to observe and comply with all then and future applicable laws,
ordinances, rules, regulations, and requirements of the United States of America, State of Florida, County
of Collier, and all governmental agencies.
All alterations, improvements and additions to the Demised Premises shall at once, when made or installed,
be deemed as attached to the freehold and to have become property of LESSOR. Prior to the termination of
this Lease or any renewal term thereof, or within thirty (30) days thereafter, if LESSOR so directs, LESSEE
shall promptly remove the additions, improvements, alterations, fixtures and installations which were
placed in, on, or upon the Demised Premises by LESSEE, and repair any damage occasioned to the Demised
Premises by such removal; and in default thereof, LESSOR may complete said removals and repairs at
LESSEE'S expense.
LESSEE covenants and agrees not to use, occupy, suffer or permit said Demised Premises or any part
thereof to be used or occupied for any purpose contrary to law or the rules or regulations of any public
authority.
LESSEE shall not at any time set, or cause to be set, any fire on the Demised Premises without prior
notification to the Collier County Preserve Manager. The County may grant or refuse permission for a
prescribed burn in its sole discretion.
4
ARTICLE 7. Access to Demised Premises
LESSOR, its duly authorized agents, representatives and employees, shall have the right to enter
into and upon the Demised Premises or any part thereof at any time, without notice to the LESSEE, for the
purpose of examining the same and making repairs, inspecting or curing a default or nuisance, or providing
maintenance service therein, and for the purposes of inspection for compliance with the provisions of this
Lease Agreement. If LESSOR should need to utilize the property for any length of time, for any purpose,
the LESSOR shall advise the LESSEE of its intentions by oral notice.
LESSEE must not hunt, trap, fish or capture any wildlife upon the Demised Premises or allow
others to do so unless: (1) the Demised Premises is established by Collier County as a public hunting area
and hunting occurs in compliance with the laws and rules established for that area (EXHIBIT “I”); (2)
LESSEE obtains prior written approval from the Collier County Preserve Manager.
ARTICLE 8. Assignment and Subletting
LESSEE covenants and agrees not to assign this Lease or to sublet the whole or any part of the
Demised Premises, or to permit any other persons to occupy same without written approval from the
LESSOR
Any such assignment or subletting, even with the consent of LESSOR, shall not relieve LESSEE from
liability for payment of rent or other sums herein provided or from the obligation to keep and be bound by
the terms, conditions and covenants of this Lease. The acceptance of rent from any other person shall not
be deemed to be a waiver of any of the provisions of this Lease or to be a consent to the assignment of this
Lease or subletting of the Demised Premises.
ARTICLE 9. Indemnity
LESSEE, in consideration of Ten Dollars ($10.00), the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby
acknowledged, shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless LESSOR, its agents and employees from and
against any and all liability (statutory or otherwise), damages, claims, suits, demands, judgments, costs,
interest and expenses (including, but not limited to, attorneys' fees and disbursements both at trial and
appellate levels) arising directly from any injury to, or death of, any person or persons or damage to property
(including loss of use thereof) related to (A) LESSEE'S use of the Demised Premises, (B) any work or thing
whatsoever done, or any condition created (other than by LESSOR, its employees, agents or contractors)
by or on behalf of LESSEE in or about the Demised Premises, (C) any condition of the Demised Premises
due to or resulting from any default by LESSEE in the performance of LESSEE'S obligations under this
Lease, or (D) any act, omission or negligence of LESSEE or its agents, contractors, employees, subtenants,
licensees or invitees.
It is acknowledged that in accord with the terms of this Lease (i) certain uses may be made of the
Demised Premises by the LESSOR and (ii) LESSOR may permit third parties to make use of the Demised
Premises. The Demised Premises is unimproved agricultural pasture lands and/or naturally vegetated areas.
LESSEE’S responsibilities for maintenance in accord with Article 11, and its responsibility and liability to
LESSOR under this Article 9 are and shall be based on the standards of care required of a tenant of lands
having the forgoing characteristics and uses and an absence of business invitees. In case any action or
proceeding is brought against LESSOR by reason of any one or more thereof, LESSEE shall pay all costs,
attorneys' fees, expenses and liabilities resulting there from and shall defend such action or proceeding if
LESSOR shall so request, at LESSEE'S expense, by counsel reasonably satisfactory to LESSOR.
The LESSOR shall not be liable for any injury or damage to person or property caused by the
elements or by other persons in the Demised Premises, or from the street or sub surface, or from any other
5
place, or for any interference caused by operations by or for a governmental authority in construction of
any public or quasi-public works. The LESSOR shall not be liable for any loss of livestock, livestock
operation, equipment, improvements, or any other property of LESSEE resulting from any public use,
The LESSOR shall not be liable for any damages to or loss of, including loss due to petty theft, any
property, occurring on the Demised Premises or any part thereof, and the LESSEE agrees to hold the
LESSOR harmless from any claims for damages, except where such damage or injury is the result of the
gross negligence or willful misconduct of the LESSOR or its employees.
ARTICLE 10. Insurance
LESSEE shall provide and maintain a farm liability policy which shall be approved by the Collier
County Risk Management Department, for not less than an amount of One Million Dollars and No/100
Cents ($1,000,000.00) throughout the term or any renewals thereof to this Agreement. In addition, LESSEE
shall provide and maintain Worker's Compensation Insurance covering all employees meeting Statutory
Limits in compliance with the applicable state and federal laws. The coverage shall include Employer's
Liability with a minimum limit of One Hundred Thousand Dollars and No/100 Cents ($100,000.00) each
accident.
Such insurance policy(ies) shall list Collier County as an additional insured thereon. Evidence of
such insurance shall be provided to the Collier County Risk Management Department, 3335 Tamiami Trail
East, Suite 101, Naples, Florida, 34112, for approval prior to the commencement of this Lease Agreement;
and shall include a provision requiring ten (l0) days prior written notice to Collier County c/o County Risk
Management Department in the event of cancellation or changes in policy(ies) coverage. LESSOR reserves
the right to reasonably amend the insurance requirements by issuance of notice in writing to LESSEE,
whereupon receipt of such notice LESSEE shall have thirty (30) days in which to obtain such additional
insurance.
LESSOR shall maintain such liability insurance, or self-funded liability reserves, as are appropriate
to protect itself and LESSEE from third party claims based on use of the Demised Premises that the
LESSOR is permitted to make, or allows third parties to make, in accord herewith.
ARTICLE 11. Maintenance
LESSEE shall be allowed to store, within the Demised Premises, in a location approved in writing
by the Collier County Preserve Manager, any functional maintenance equipment and supplies required for
activities directly related to beef cattle production on the Demised Premises.
LESSEE, at its sole cost and expense, shall mow the Six Hundred and Forty-Seven (647) acres of
improved pasture within the Demised Premises a minimum of one (1) time per year (EXHIBIT “D”).
LESSEE may roller chop specific areas of pasture when needed to control exotic and woody plant growth.
LESSEE will notify the Collier County Preserve Manager before undertaking mowing or roller-chopping
activities. Any off-site mowers or other equipment must be cleaned thoroughly prior to entering the
Demised Premises to prevent the introduction of nuisance or exotic plant species. LESSEE shall develop
the mowing schedule and include variables such as excessive rainfall, drought or other unforeseen
conditions, and provide such schedule to the Collier County Preserve Manager.
Each individual improved pasture within the Demised Premises may include mineral feeders,
supplemental feed trough, and molasses feed tanks to control cattle concentration areas. A map of existing
fencing and pasture configurations can be found in EXHIBIT “E”. No outside hay may be brought into the
Demised Premises to prevent introduction of nuisance or exotic plant species. Rotation of cattle shall
6
continue throughout the year on a scheduled basis. In the event there has been an extremely dry and cold
winter or an exceptionally wet season, the cattle will be managed by LESSEE to fit the available forage.
LESSEE may not fertilize improved pasture areas.
Unless specifically authorized in writing by LESSOR in advance, plowing, ditching or digging of
water holes shall be prohibited.
LESSEE shall, at its sole cost and expense, keep the Demised Premises free from debris, litter,
abandoned equipment and vehicles, and the like, at all times. If said Demised Premises are not kept free
from debris, litter, abandoned equipment and vehicles, and the like, in the opinion of LESSOR, LESSEE'S
manager will be so advised in writing. If corrective action is not taken within ten (10) days of the receipt of
such notice, LESSOR will cause the same to be cleaned and corrected and LESSEE shall assume and pay
all necessary cleaning costs and such costs shall constitute additional rent which shall be paid by LESSEE
within ten (10) days of receipt of written notice of costs incurred by LESSOR.
The LESSEE, at its sole cost, shall repair all damage to the Demised Premises caused by LESSEE,
its employees, agents, independent contractors, guests, invitees, licensees, and patrons.
The LESSEE, at its sole cost, shall remove from the Demised Premises in accordance with all
applicable rules, laws and regulations, all non-naturally occurring solid, liquid, semisolid, and gaseous trash
and waste (but not animal waste) and refuse of any nature whatsoever which might accumulate and arise
from the operations of the LESSEE'S business. Such trash, waste and refuse shall be stored in closed
containers approved by the LESSOR.
LESSEE shall make monthly inspections of fences and gates used to contain cattle and make repairs
to the fencing as needed in compliance with LESSOR’s standards and materials as contained in the
Specifications for 4-Strand Barbed Wire Fence Construction (EXHIBIT “F”).
LESSOR shall be responsible for all invasive exotic plant maintenance treatments and prescribed
burning of non-pastureland habitats within the Demised Premises.
LESSEE must not apply or allow application of agricultural chemicals including herbicides or
pesticides on the Demised Premises without prior, written approval from the Collier County Preserve
Manager. If the County approves a request from LESSEE, LESSEE must, at a minimum: (1) comply with
all federal, state and local laws, best management practices, regulations and guidelines including those
administered by Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS); and (2) comply with
any other condition of the Collier County Preserve Manager written approval.
LESSEE shall be responsible for providing to the LESSOR, on an annual basis at the time of rent
payment, an inspection report of the property and its operations. At a minimum, the report must include the
information identified in the Annual Cattle Information Report (EXHIBIT “B”).
LESSOR/ Collier County Preserve Manager shall visit the property at least semi -annually to
evaluate the management and grazing operation. The LESSOR/ Collier County Preserve Manager and the
LESSEE/Managing Partner shall meet annually to review and, if necessary, revise any grazing and/or
pasture management plans.
LESSEE shall report any violation observed pertaining to rules and regulations promulgated by
Collier County or the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. LESSEE shall immediately
report any incidence of the following:
7
• Fire
• Vandalism
• Theft
• Poaching
• Trespassing
• Any hazard, condition or situation that may become a liability to the County or may be damaging to
the property or improvements on the property.
LESSEE has no affirmative duty to actively monitor conditions for discovery of such activities.
Any expense related to utilities used solely by the LESSEE shall be paid for by the LESSEE.
ARTICLE 12. Default by LESSEE
Failure of LESSEE to comply for thirty (30) days with any material provision or covenant of this
Lease shall constitute a default, LESSOR may, at its option, terminate this Lease after thirty (30) days
written notice to LESSEE, unless the default be cured within the notice period (or such additional time as
is reasonably required to correct such default). However, the occurrence of any of the following events shall
constitute a default by LESSEE, and this Lease may be immediately terminated by LESSOR:
(a) Abandonment of Demised Premises or discontinuation of LESSEE’S operation.
(b) Falsification of LESSEE or an agent of LESSEE of any report required to be furnished to
LESSOR pursuant to the terms of this Lease.
(c) Filing of insolvency, reorganization, plan or arrangement or bankruptcy.
(d) Adjudication as bankrupt.
(e) Making of a general assignment for the benefit of creditors.
(f) If LESSEE suffers this Lease to be taken under any writ of execution.
In the event of the occurrence of any of the foregoing defaults in this ARTICLE, LESSOR, in
addition to any other rights and remedies it may have, shall have the immediate right to enter and remove
all persons and property from the Demised Premises. Such property may be removed and stored in a public
warehouse or elsewhere at the cost of and for the account of LESSEE, all without service of notice or resort
to legal process and without being deemed guilty of trespass or being liable for any loss or damage which
may be occasioned thereby.
LESSOR may, at its option, terminate this Lease after receipt by LESSEE of thirty (30) days’ notice
in writing if a lien is filed against the property or the leasehold interest of the LESSEE, and not removed
within thirty (30) days by LESSEE, pursuant to the Florida Mechanics Lien Law.
If LESSEE fails to pay the rental amount or any additional charges when due to LESSOR as
specified in this Lease, and if said amounts remain unpaid for more than ten (10) days past the due date, the
LESSEE shall pay LESSOR a late payment charge equal to five (5) percent of any payment not paid
promptly when due. Any amounts not paid promptly when due shall also accrue compounded interest of
two (2) percent per month or the highest interest rate then allowed by Florida law, whichever is higher,
which interest shall be paid by LESSEE to LESSOR.
8
ARTICLE 13. Default by LESSOR
LESSOR shall in no event be charged with default in the performance of any of its obligations
hereunder unless and until LESSOR shall have failed to perform such obligations within thirty (30) days
(or at LESSOR’S sole discretion, such additional time as is reasonably required to correct such default)
after notice to LESSOR by LESSEE properly specifying wherein LESSOR has failed to perform any such
obligations.
ARTICLE 14. Notices
Any notice which LESSOR or LESSEE may be required to give to the other party shall be in writing
to the other party at the following addresses:
LESSOR: LESSEE:
Board of County Commissioners
c/o Real Property Management
3335 Tamiami Trail East, Suite 101
Naples, Florida 34112
cc: Office of the County Attorney cc:
3299 Tamiami Trail East, Suite 800
Naples, Florida 34112
Conservation Collier Program Coordinator
Golden Gate Community Park
3300 Santa Barbara Blvd.
Naples, FL 34116
ARTICLE 15. Surrender of Premises
LESSEE shall remove any improvements completed by LESSEE prior to the expiration of this
Lease and shall deliver up and surrender to LESSOR possession of the Demised Premises and any
improvements not removed upon expiration of this Lease, or its earlier termination as herein provided, in
as good condition and repair as the same shall be at the commencement of the term of this Lease or may
have been put by LESSOR or LESSEE during the continuance thereof, ordinary wear and tear and damage
by fire or the elements beyond LESSEE'S control excepted.
9
ARTICLE 16. General Provisions
LESSEE agrees to contain cattle within the Demised Premises and prevent cattle from roaming off
of the Demised Premises.
LESSEE shall give oral notice to the Collier County Preserve Manager at least three (3) days prior
to any planned cattle round-up or additional cattle release, to allow Environmental Specialist the option to
observe the cattle round-up or release.
At all times during the Lease, LESSEE shall maintain the designated number of Animal Units on
the Demised Premises as set forth in ARTICLE 3. Under no circumstance shall LESSEE maintain less than
one hundred and fifty (150) or more than two hundred (200) Animal Units at the Demised Premises without
written authorization from LESSOR. Increases to the maximum stocking rate shall be subject to acceptable
range conditions as determined by the Collier County Preserve Manager. Animal Units will be established
based on the following table:
Table 1: Animal Unit Equivalent Guide
Species Average
Weight
(pounds)
Animal Unit
Equivalent
(AUE)
Cow, dry 950 0.92
Cow with calf 1,000 1.00
Bull, mature 1,500 1.35
Cattle, 1 year old 600 0.60
Cattle, 2 year old 800 0.80
LESSEE shall have the right to camp overnight on the Demised Premises, at LESSEE’S own risk,
and shall be required to obtain any necessary permits, if required, for this use.
If LESSEE should elect to destroy sick cattle, any use of firearms shall be permitted by LESSOR
so long as LESSEE is legally permitted to possess such firearm in the County of Collier and / or the State
of Florida, as applicable.
LESSEE acknowledges that there shall be no game hunting or any dispensation of firearms by
LESSEE or his invitees upon the Demised Premises except as specifically allowed under this Lease.
LESSEE fully understands that the police and law enforcement security protection provided by law
enforcement agencies for the above referenced Demised Premises is limited to that provided to any other
business or agency situated in Collier County, and acknowledges that any special security measures deemed
necessary for additional protection of the Demised Premises shall be the sole responsibility and cost of
LESSEE and shall involve no cost or expense to LESSOR.
LESSEE expressly agrees for itself, its successor and assigns, to refrain from any use of the
Demised Premises which would interfere with or adversely affect the operation or maintenance of
LESSOR'S standard operations where other operations share common facilities.
(a) Rights not specifically granted the LESSEE by this Lease are hereby reserved to the LESSOR.
(b) LESSEE agrees to pay all sales tax imposed on the rental of the Demised Premises where applicable
under law.
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(c) If applicable, LESSEE agrees to pay all tangible personal property taxes that may be imposed due to
the creation, by this Lease, of a leasehold interest in the Demised Premises or LESSEE'S possession
of said leasehold interest in the Demised Premises.
(d) LESSEE acknowledges that LESSOR will allow limited seasonal hunting on the Demised Premises
under the regulations of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission CREW Wildlife Environmental
Area.
ARTICLE 18. Extent of Liens
All persons to whom these presents may come are put upon notice of the fact that the interest of
the LESSOR in the Demised Premises shall not be subject to liens for improvements made by the LESSEE,
and liens for improvements made by the LESSEE are specifically prohibited from attaching to or becoming
a lien on the interest of the LESSOR in the Demised Premises or any part of either. This notice is given
pursuant to the provisions of and in compliance with Section 713.10, Florida Statutes.
ARTICLE 19. Quiet Enjoyment
Subject to LESSOR'S rights provided in this Lease, LESSOR covenants that LESSEE, on paying
the rental amount and performing the covenants, terms and conditions required of LESSEE contained
herein, shall peaceably and quietly have, hold and enjoy the Demised Premises and the leasehold estate
granted to LESSEE by virtue of this Lease Agreement.
ARTICLE 20. Waiver
No failure of LESSOR to enforce any terms or conditions herein shall be deemed to be a waiver.
ARTICLE 21. Effective Date
This Lease shall become effective on _____________ , 2019.
ARTICLE 22. Governing Law
This Lease shall be governed and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Florida.
ARTICLE 23. Assignment
LESSEE shall have the right to assign this Lease to a legal entity owned or controlled by LESSEE.
LESSOR must be advised of any such assignment in writing.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have hereunder set forth their hands and seals.
AS TO THE LESSOR:
DATED:_______________
ATTEST: CRYSTAL K .KINZEL BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA
____________________________ BY:________________________________________
,Deputy Clerk , Chairman
AS TO LESSEE:
DATED:________________
WITNESSES:
__________________________
(Signature) _____________________________________-
__________________________
(Print Name) BY:___________________________________
__________________________ , Owner
(Signature)
__________________________
(Print Name)
__________________________
(Signature)
__________________________
(Print Name)
__________________________
(Signature)
__________________________
(Print Name)
Approved as to form and legality
__________________________________
Jennifer A. Belpedio
Assistant County Attorney
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Exhibit “B”
(Required Information for Annual Cattle Operation Report)
For each field:
1 Date animals are moved from one pasture to the next.
2 Name of herd.
3 Number of animals in the herd.
4 Field the animals were moved from.
5 Field the animals are moved to.
6 Notes on forage conditions when animals are moved into and out of each field (i.e. forage height,
forage quality, weeds, insects, etc.).
7 Body condition score of animals when they are moved.
8 Notes on management activities that have been conducted, such as when supplement feeders were
moved, and when supplemental water sources were cleaned or repaired
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Exhibit “C”
(Property Boundary & Lease Area Map)
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Exhibit “D”
(Pepper Ranch Preserve Pasture Map)
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Exhibit “E”
(Cattle Fencing, Water Sources, Service Roads and Access Gates)
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Exhibit “F”
(Specifications for 4-Strand Barbed Wire Fence Construction)
Fence Line Clearing:
1. A fence line clearing devoid of all shrubs, trees, and stumps shall be established sufficient
to set posts, erect the new fence, and permit full range of travel for all gates.
2. Any earth disturbed during line clearing shall be returned, as close as possible, to the area’s
original grade.
3. All removed vegetation shall be properly disposed. Vegetation may be burned on-site with
permission of the LESSOR once all necessary permits have been obtained. If not burned,
all vegetation shall be disposed of off-site and evidence of proper disposal shall be provided.
Fence Construction:
1. A boundary fence with gates shall be constructed to securely contain cattle within the
grazing unit. Fence lines shall run as straight as possible. The fence shall be four (4 ) strand
barbed wire spaced equal distance apart starting sixteen (16) inches above the ground up to
a height of forty-two 42 inches. All barbed wire shall be stretched completely so that it is
springy to the touch before being fastened to the post. Wire shall be fastened and run on the
inside of posts. The space between the top two strands shall be a minimum of 10” with 12”
being most ideal. When possible, the bottom-most strand shall be smooth wire to facilitate
wildlife movement.
2. The barbed wire shall be at least class 3, 15.5 gauge high tensile with minimum breaking load
950 lbs. Barbs shall be 15.5 gauge, 4-point double wrap with 5 inch spacing. Barbed wire shall
conform to A.S.T.M. A 121 standards.
3. Staples shall be a standard galvanized, 9-gauge, minimum 1-1/4 inch heavy duty barbed
wire fence type.
4. All posts and braces shall be southern pine or other treatable species and shall meet
current industry standards for physical quality and wood preservation.
5. Line posts (3 1/2-inch top and 6 1/2 feet long) shall be installed plumb, a maximum of 16
feet apart, and embedded 24 inches in the ground. Backfill posts by thoroughly tamping soil
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around the post after every 4” of depth. Posts shall not be shortened to avoid rock removal
or additional excavation.
6. Brace posts (6-inch top and 8 feet long) shall be used in brace assemblies. Brace posts shall
be installed plumb and embedded 3 1/2 feet in the ground. A double brace assembly shall
be placed at the beginning and end of each fence run and single brace assemblies at 1/4-mile
intervals. All corners shall have double brace assemblies on each side. A single brace
assembly consists of two brace posts connected at their midpoints with a line post (a single
“H”) will be installed at ¼ mile intervals with two strands of #9 slick wire connected
diagonally from the top of one post to the bottom of the other post. The connecting line post
shall have a support line post to the ground at its midpoint. This wire shall be tightly wound.
Connection points of all posts shall be securely nailed using galvanized, 16d, 3” nails.
Double brace assemblies shall consist of three brace posts, two connecting line posts, and
two support posts (a double “H”). A strand of #9 slick wire shall be fastened at the top of
the “pull side” post and run diagonally, on either side of the connecting line post, to the
bottom of the other brace post (away from the direction of the pull) This wire shall be tightly
wound. Connection points of all posts shall be securely nailed using galvanized, 16d, 3” nails.
Backfill posts by thoroughly tamping soil around the post after every 4” of depth. Posts
shall not be shortened to avoid rock removal or additional excavation.
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Exhibit “F”
(Specifications for 4-Strand Barbed Wire Fence Construction)
Gate Construction and Placement:
4. Gate locations and sizes shall be determined by the LESSOR. Gates shall be set 6” off the
ground or as close to that as possible. All gates shall swing level in both directions, shall
meet square, and be no more than 6” apart when closed (except as noted below for 4’ gates).
Double brace assemblies shall be constructed on either side of all gates.
5. All gates shall be utility-type, galvanized, 6-rail with vertical braces, and constructed of 1-
5/8” 20-gauge tube steel with a smooth finish. All gates shall be 50” in height and individual
lengths shall depend on LESSOR needs. Technical specifications and drawings of gates
similar to LESSOR requirements can be found at www.behlencountry.com.
3. Four-foot gates shall be hinged to swing to the inside and when closed the leading edge shall
extend approximately 4 inches onto the corresponding brace post so that the gate will not
swing to the outside. A galvanized metal spring shall be attached to the outside of the gate
so that it tightly holds the gate closed but a person can easily open.
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Exhibit “G”
(Cattle and Calf Best Management Practices Resources)
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Exhibit “H”
(Public Hiking Trails at Pepper Ranch Preserve)
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Exhibit “I”
(Pepper Ranch Preserve Hunting Regulations)
For information regarding area hunting regulations and season dates,
please reference the Pepper Ranch Preserve regulations brochure at:
https://www.colliercountyfl.gov/your-government/divisions-a-e/conservation-collier/pepper-ranch-hunt-
program
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ATTACHMENT B – USDA Pepper Ranch Preserve Prescribed Grazing Plan
Definition:
Prescribed grazing is the controlled harvest of vegetation with grazing and browsing animals, managed
with the intent to achieve a specified objective.
For this project, Prescribed Grazing may be used as a tool to assist in the restoration/maintenance of
the ranch, in conjunction with Brush Control, Pest Management, and other practices needed to restore
wildlife habitat, natural hydrology, and native plant communities. The grazing plan will be adjusted as
needed to address resource concerns and the restoration objectives.
Livestock Forage Inventory:
Livestock Forage Inventories are estimates of available forage in each pasture. These estimates are
then used to project stocking rates and feed requirements annually. The following Livestock Forage
Inventory was evaluated at the time of the development of this plan. Forage availability will vary due to
climatic conditions and management of grazing system. The forage inventory should be evaluated on a
regular basis to ensure proper forage requirements of the livestock are met.
The main forage is Bahia grass planted in pastures. Smut grass, Dog fennel, TSA and Pigweed covers
at least 5-10% of the plant composition in pastures, with grass production ranging from 90-95 %. The
Rangeland areas were not studied in detail. The overall vegetative conditions suggested the ranch is
stocked at or slightly below the carrying capacity.
Forage Inventory Identified the following conditions/ concerns:
− The carrying capacity of the site is expected to change with the implementation of the land
management practices such as brush management. These changes may significantly increase or
decrease the amount of forage produced.
− Overall vegetative conditions and plant species indicate that the project area is stocked at or below
the sustainable carrying capacity.
− Noxious and invasive weeds including Brazilian Pepper-Tree and Tropical Soda Apple were
observed on the property, the landowner has and will continue to implement an aggressive pest
management program.
A high number of wildlife utilize to area to include Turkey, White-tailed deer and various other
species.
Most pastures are in good condition and show no signs of being overgrazed.
The Prescribed Grazing Plan contains 10 items which should be implemented annually in order to achieve
the desired results.
1. Rotational Grazing should be applied to maintain and improve the health and vigor of the plant
community.
2. Proper Grazing Use will be applied to all grazed areas to regulate the amount of herbage removed by
grazing animals. During the growing season, the degree of use of native vegetation will be limited to
50% (by weight) of the current year’s growth.
3. Stubble heights will be used to guide grazing management decisions.
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4. Nesting Period – The rotational grazing system should be managed to provide an undisturbed nesting
period for ground nesting species at least once every 4 years. Livestock should be removed from the
grazing unit for a period 4 to 6 weeks in length during the period between February 1 and June 30.
5. Deferment periods should be provided following all mechanical and/or chemical brush management
activities. This will allow desirable plants to recover from the stress or damage caused by the treatment.
The length of the deferment periods will be at least 90 consecutive days during the period of June 1
through October 1.
6. Supplemental feed should be provided to livestock during periods when forage quality and quantity is
low.
7. Weed prevention and control - All planting material and other supplemental feed will be free of
noxious or invasive weed seed. An aggressive pest management plan has already been implemented
to combat encroachment of invasive-exotic species.
8. Feeding Area Management - All supplemental feed provided to domestic livestock will be fed on
upland areas at least 100 feet away from wetlands, streams, ditches, and ponds. Supplement feeders
will be well dispersed across the landscape. Supplemental feeding locations will be moved at least once
every 30 days.
9. Portable feeders will be used to provide protein, mineral, and other supplements to livestock. These
feeders will be moved as needed to improve livestock distribution and prevent undesirable effects on the
landscape.
10. Plan Review – Annual reviews should be scheduled with the local Natural Resources Conservation
Service (NRCS) office, to ensure the plan meets the goals and objectives of the property and those of
the livestock owner.
Plant Communities Descriptions:
Improved Pasture – Main forage is Bahia grass in all pastures. Most pastures are in good condition.
Some pastures contain Smut Grass, some Dog Fennel and Tropical Soda Apple. Plant
composition transects shows an average of 65-80 % Bahia grass and 5-15 % Smut grass, Dog
fennel, Pigweed and TSA, 5% sedges and other grass-likes.
Suggested stocking rate for is Bahia 2-5 AUM/Acre.
Freshwater Marsh-1 - Wet areas with mainly wetland plants, flooded for most of the wet
season and are considered very important habitat for many wildlife species. Fresh water
marshes have been split into two categories based on plant composition and wetland
functionality. FWM-1 contains many native plants such as Maidencane, Bluestems, pickerel
weed, Juncus and invasive torpedo grass. These wetlands are believed to be close to
functioning wetland’s holding water through most of the year due to limited impacts to
hydrology.
Suggested stocking rate is 3-13 Ac/AU.
Freshwater Marsh-2 - Wet areas with mainly wetland plants, flooded for most of the wet
season and are considered very important habitat for many wildlife species. FWM-2 is
considered heavily degraded based on plant composition. Plant composition is mainly
comprised of Bluestems, Bahia, Wax myrtles, Willows and other invasive plants. These areas
now function similar to wet prairie, and stocking rate varies based on amount of woody
invasion.
Suggested stocking rate is 3-13 Ac/AU.
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Wet Prairie – This community is primarily comprised of Bluestems at 75%, Bahia 20% and other native
grasses. Wet Prairie areas were noted to be in good condition.
Suggested stoking rate is 3-6 Ac/AU.
Wetland Hardwood Hammock - This community is present but not widespread. This community
mainly consists of Bay, Cypress and Red Maple trees. This community has a low Potential
for producing forage due to the dense canopy cover of hardwoods and associated palms.
These will provide protection from cold weather and shade during hot summer months. There
will be little forage available when the canopy cover exceeds 60 percent. Suggested stocking
rate is 20-25 Ac/AU.
Semi-improved/South Florida Flatwoods- This area is mainly composed of slash pine over story and
an understory mainly consisting of Bahia, Bluestems and saw palmetto. Stocking rate will
decrease as canopy density increases, due to loss of sun reaching competing understory.
The Suggested Stocking rate is 3-7 Ac/AU.
Recommended Grazing Heights and Length of Grazing Periods:
Grazing animals can rapidly and substantially alter the productivity and amount of forage in each
pasture because of grazing preferences and animal distribution. Overgrazing adversely affects wildlife
habitat, plant growth, water, soil conservation, and plant persistence. Animals prefer improved pasture
forages like the one listed below and avoid plants that are coarse and hard to digest. During the late
spring, summer and early fall cattle tend graze upland areas and avoid grazing in wetlands such as
sloughs and marshes if adequate forage is available. However, limited availability of forage plants on
dryer areas may induce more grazing of the wetland plants in some seasons, and could result in
overgrazing. Under-grazing results in forage waste, reduced quality, and reduced tiller development.
Therefore, the number of animals on a specific area must be balanced with available forage to achieve
the goals and objectives for this site. This will require monitoring of the forage availability on a regular
basis and adjusting the stock density as needed to maintain a unique balance of desirable forage and
important wetland vegetation.
The following table lists common forages found in South Florida along with recommended heights to
maintain healthy stands of forage:
FORAGE TYPE Min. Ht. To Begin Grazing Min. Grazing Ht.
Bahia grass 6” 2”
Limpo grass 12” 4”
Pangola Digitgrass 8” 6”
Maidencane 12” 6-8”
Chalky bluestem 12” 6-8”
Grazing heights for native forage plants is dependent upon the species and the time of year the plant is
grazed. For Native Grasses, remove no more that 50% (by weight) of the plant in any grazing
event This will provide proper use of the forage while maintaining sufficient plant material to, provide
wildlife habitat, protect the soil resource, and maintain the health of the plant community.
Grazing periods should be kept relatively short to prevent the plants from being grazed before they
have the opportunity to recover from the last grazing event. This will depend on the size of the herd and
the area to be grazed. Use the forage heights shown in the previous table to determine the length of the
grazing periods.
Rest Periods should be provided between grazing events to all the plants to recovery from the effects
of grazing. The recovery periods should be long enough to allow the forages to reach the Minimum
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Height to Begin Grazing. Because the rest periods are based on the growth rate of the plants the length
of the rest period will vary. The recommended recovery periods are shown in the following table:
Adjustments to the Grazing System:
Adjustments in the grazing management system will be necessary during and after restoration and other
management activities, such as planting, prescribed burning or pest management. The adjustments will
provide a suitable period for the vegetation to recover from the management activity or as dictated by
pesticide label restrictions. A deferment from grazing means the complete removal of all domestic
animals for the duration of the deferment.
If buffer areas are developed around specific wetlands or other areas within the area during the
restoration process, livestock grazing may be permitted during dry periods of the year. This will help to
utilize available forages within the buffer and control woody vegetation. Stocking rates should be
adjusted to assure that grazing is complete within one week. The minimum grazing heights for
corresponding grasses shall not be exceeded.
When prescribed burning is applied, grazing shall be deferred as follows:
Improved pasture areas 30-60 days during the growing season (Mar1-Oct1)
Flatwoods 30-90 days during the growing season (Mar1-Oct1)
Fresh Water Marsh and Slough 30-90 days during the growing season (Mar1-Oct1)
Areas that have been disturbed and/or planted to native vegetation shall be deferred from grazing for a
minimum of 1 complete growing season following planting or until the grass is well established and
produces seed. Native grass plantings generally require 2 complete growing seasons to become well
established. The deferment shall continue until a NRCS Rangeland or Grazing Land Specialist has
provided approval. Temporary fences may be used to protect small areas during the deferment period.
Areas that have been mechanically treated to control and other planted will be provided a deferment
period to allow herbaceous plants to recover. The deferment will be a minimum of 90 consecutive days
during the period of March 1 to December 1, unless only spot control was applied.
Resting Periods Based on Forage Growth Rate
Forage Type Forage Growth Rate
Fast
(June1-Sept 1) Moderate
(Mar 1-June 1
Sept 1 – Nov 1)
Dormant
(Nov 1- Mar 1)
Bahiagrass 14-28 days 28-35 days 35-60 days or more
Limpograss 14-21 days 28-35 days 35-60 days or more
Pangolagrass 7-21 days 21-28 days 28-60 days or more
Maidencane 28-35 days 35-45 days 45-60 days or more
Chalky bluestem 28-35 days 35-45 days 45-60 days or more
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If herbicides used to control common weeds and invasive species the grazing management will be
adjusted to meet the requirements (if any) listed on the herbicide label. Cattle will not be allowed to re-
enter the area for the duration shown on the herbicide label.
Operation and Maintenance:
The location of mineral and supplement feeders will be moved routinely to evenly distribute grazing
animals throughout the pasture. The herd will be rotated to a fresh pasture when the average stubble
height falls below the recommended minimum grazing height. When possible, the grazing period should
be 14 days or less and the pastures allowed a recovery period of 21 days or until the forage reaches the
recommended height to begin grazing.
It is recommended that records be kept regarding the management of the grazing system in order to
properly evaluate and modify the grazing system. These records may be maintained by the manager of
the grazing system and provided to representatives of the USDA-Natural Resources Conservation
Service for plan revisions. If records are maintained, the following information for each field is
recommended:
1 Date animals are moved from one pasture to the next.
2 Name of herd.
3 Number of animals in the herd.
4 Field the animals were moved from.
5 Field the animals are moved to.
6 Notes on forage conditions when animals are moved into and out of each field (i.e. forage
height, forage quality, weeds, insects, etc.).
7 Body condition score of animals when they are moved.
8 Notes on management activities that have been conducted, such as when supplement
feeders were moved, and when weeds were sprayed.
The records will help to identify problems and refine the grazing schedule.
Contingency Management Plan:
Forage supplies shall be evaluated daily or weekly to determine if forage supplies and quality are
adequate to meet livestock demand. When the forage is not adequate, the grazing system should be
adjusted or supplemental feed may be supplied.
When prolonged periods of adverse climatic condition effect the supply of forage, the grazing system
and/or stocking rates shall be adjusted or additional supplemental feed may be provided.
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ATTACHMENT C – Pepper Ranch Preserve Cattle Infrastructure Map
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ATTACHMENT D – Pepper Ranch Preserve Improved Pasture Map