Agenda 03/28/2023 Item #16D6 (Conservation Collier Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve Final Management Plan)03/28/2023
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Recommendation to approve the Conservation Collier Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve Final Management
Plan under the Conservation Collier Program.
OBJECTIVE: To obtain approval from the Board of County Commissioners (Board) for the Rattlesnake
Hammock Preserve Final Management Plan (FMP).
CONSIDERATIONS: The Conservation Collier Ordinance, No. 2002-63, as amended, Section 14(3), requires that
a Final Management Plan be prepared and updated for each property every five (5) years, with review and input by
the Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee (CCLAAC).
The Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve, comprised of 37.16 acres, is located in South Naples and was acquired in
2020. An Interim Management Plan was developed by staff and approved by the Board on February 23, 2021,
Agenda Item #16D4. The approved plan has been operational for the Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve since that
time.
The plan provided with this Agenda Item is the initial draft of the Final Management Plan and provides updated
maps, updated property status information, additions to the plant or animal lists, the status of exotic plant and
animal infestations, and defined management goals and budget projections.
It has been the practice for the Program to hold a public meeting at the time of the initial Final Management Plan
and then for each 10-year update. A public hybrid Zoom and an in-person meeting was held on December 1, 2022,
to allow for community input on the draft plan. The thirteen (13) members of the public all attended in person.
Neighbor comments were recorded and have been provided as an Appendix (p. 53) to the Final Management Plan
which includes staff's responses. The primary concern of the neighbors was the number of parking spaces proposed
in the parking lot. Subsequent to the public meeting, staff presented the Final Management Plan with public
comments to members of the Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee (CCLAAC). Neighbors
of the preserve attended the CCLAAC meeting and restated their public comments to committee members.
The improvements to provide public access have not yet been constructed. In keeping with the intent of the
Ordinance emphasizing public access, the preserve’s Interim Management Plan previously approved by the Board
on February 23, 2021, included a conceptual design for a (twelve) 12 space parking area off Adkins Avenue with
security fencing, a locking gate, and bollards. Following approval by the Board, staff consulted with a contracted
engineering firm Agnoli, Barber, and Brundage, Inc. (ABB) to develop a project scope and received a due diligence
report detailing project cost estimates and a proposed timeline. The project is currently in the design phase and is
planned to be submitted for permitting in Spring 2023. At the recommendation of ABB engineers, the conceptual
parking area, approved in the Interim Management Plan, was reduced from twelve (12) spaces to ten (10) spaces.
Access to the 37.16-acre will be accomplished with the completion of an unimproved public walking trail featuring
educational signage, benches, and wildlife viewing platforms that are accessed via a ten (10) space parking area
located at 6371 Adkins Avenue, Naples, FL.
FISCAL IMPACT: Initial costs in 2023 are estimated to be $184,804, which includes completion of Phase I of the
public access amenities installation (engineering and permitting), mitigation, initial exotic plant treatment, and
restoration planting. In 2024, Phase II of the public amenities’ installation project, educ ational signage, and exotic
plant restoration is estimated to be $149,695. Annual maintenance costs following initial amenities installation and
initial exotic plant restoration projects are estimated at $26,000 per year beginning in 2025 when the preserve enters
the maintenance phase. Funds are available within the Conservation Collier Land Management Fund (174) and
Capital Projects Fund (179) to accomplish these activities.
GROWTH MANAGEMENT IMPACT: There is no specific Growth Management impact associated with this
item.
16.D.6
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03/28/2023
LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS: The Conservation Collier Ordinance (No. 2002-63, as amended), in Section 14,
provides a legal framework for the development of management plans and the use of environmentally sensitive
lands. This item is approved for form and legality and requires a majority vote for Board approval. -SAA
ADVISORY BOARD RECOMMENDATIONS: The CCLAAC reviewed and approved the final management
plan, including the proposed public use amenities on January 4th, 2023.
RECOMMENDATION: To approve the attached proposed Final Management Plan for Rattlesnake Hammock
Preserve and direct staff to implement the updated plan.
Prepared By: Molly DuVall, Environmental Specialist II, Parks and Recreation Division
ATTACHMENT(S)
1. [linked] Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve Final Management Plan 2023. (PDF)
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03/28/2023
COLLIER COUNTY
Board of County Commissioners
Item Number: 16.D.6
Doc ID: 24309
Item Summary: Recommendation to approve the Conservation Collier Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve Final
Management Plan under the Conservation Collier Program.
Meeting Date: 03/28/2023
Prepared by:
Title: – Public Services Department
Name: Todd Henry
01/10/2023 12:26 PM
Submitted by:
Title: Department Head – Public Services Department
Name: Tanya Williams
01/10/2023 12:26 PM
Approved By:
Review:
Operations & Veteran Services Jeff Newman Additional Reviewer Completed 01/11/2023 8:25 AM
Parks & Recreation Molly Duvall Additional Reviewer Completed 01/12/2023 11:22 AM
Parks & Recreation Summer BrownAraque Additional Reviewer Completed 01/13/2023 12:42 PM
Parks & Recreation Olema Edwards Additional Reviewer Completed 01/19/2023 12:37 PM
Public Services Department Todd Henry PSD Level 1 Reviewer Completed 01/19/2023 1:01 PM
County Attorney's Office Sally Ashkar Level 2 Attorney Review Completed 01/25/2023 2:16 PM
Public Services Department Tanya Williams PSD Department Head Review Completed 01/30/2023 3:40 PM
Office of Management and Budget Debra Windsor Level 3 OMB Gatekeeper Review Completed 01/30/2023 3:55 PM
County Attorney's Office Jeffrey A. Klatzkow Level 3 County Attorney's Office Review Completed 01/31/2023 11:09 AM
Office of Management and Budget Susan Usher Additional Reviewer Completed 02/02/2023 1:18 PM
Office of Management and Budget Christopher Johnson Additional Reviewer Completed 02/03/2023 3:46 PM
Community & Human Services Maggie Lopez Additional Reviewer Completed 02/03/2023 4:25 PM
County Manager's Office Dan Rodriguez Level 4 County Manager Review Completed 03/21/2023 2:46 PM
Board of County Commissioners Geoffrey Willig Meeting Pending 03/28/2023 9:00 AM
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Packet Pg. 1707
Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve
Land Management Plan
Managed by:
Collier County, FL
Conservation Collier Program
January 2023 - January 2033
(10 Year Plan)
Prepared by: Collier County Conservation Collier Staff
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Contents
Land Management Plan Executive Summary ............................................................................. 5
Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 7
Table 1. Acquisition History and Status of the Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve .............. 7
Parcel Description ...................................................................................................................... 9
1. Location .............................................................................................................................. 9
1.1. Description ............................................................................................................ 9
Figure 1.1.1. Overview map of Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve and surrounding
conservation areas .........................................................................................................10
Figure 1.1.2. 2022 Aerial close-up ..................................................................................11
2. Physiography .....................................................................................................................12
2.1. Description ..................................................................................................................12
Figure 2.1.1. Topographical Map (LIDAR) ......................................................................13
Figure 2.1.2. Surface Waters Map ..................................................................................14
Figure 2.1.3. Aquifer Map (CLIP4 Aquifer Priority Map and Wellfield Protection Zones) .15
Figure 2.1.4. Hydric Soils Map (Collier County Soils Survey) ..........................................16
3. Historical Land Use ...........................................................................................................17
3.1. Description .................................................................................................................17
Figure 3.1.1. Rattlesnake Hammock Road History, 2002 ...............................................18
Photoset 3.1.2. Historical Aerial Imagery ........................................................................19
4. Adjacent Land Use ............................................................................................................23
4.1. Description ..................................................................................................................23
5. Acquisition and Expansion .................................................................................................23
5.1. Acquisition Description ................................................................................................23
Table 5.1.1. Parcel Attributes Table ................................................................................23
5.2. Potential Preserve Expansion .....................................................................................24
Figure 5.2.1. Potential Expansion Areas Map .................................................................24
Management .............................................................................................................................25
6. Vegetation Management ....................................................................................................25
6.1. Current Vegetative Community Conditions ..................................................................25
6.1.1. - Figure 9. Cooperative Land Cover Classification Map ........................................26
Table 6.1.2. Threatened and Endangered Species Table ...............................................27
6.1.3. Vegetation Management Concerns .......................................................................27
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6.2. Desired Future Conditions ...........................................................................................27
6.3. Management Tools .....................................................................................................27
6.3.1. Invasive Plant Removal ........................................................................................27
6.3.2. Native Plant Restoration .......................................................................................28
6.3.3. Prescribed Fire .....................................................................................................28
6.3.4. Hydrological Restoration .......................................................................................28
6.4. Partnership Opportunities ............................................................................................29
7. Wildlife Management .........................................................................................................29
7.1. Current Wildlife Community Conditions .......................................................................29
Table 7.1.1. Observed Wildlife Species Table ................................................................29
Table 7.1.2. Potential Threatened and Endangered Species Table ................................30
Photoset 7.1.3. Wildlife Camera Observations................................................................31
7.1.4. Wildlife Management Concerns ............................................................................35
7.2. Desired Future Conditions ...........................................................................................36
7.3. Management Tools .....................................................................................................36
7.3.1. Habitat Improvements ...........................................................................................36
7.3.2. Consumptive Wildlife Use .....................................................................................36
7.3.3. Monitoring .............................................................................................................36
7.4. Partnership Opportunities ............................................................................................37
8. Recreation Management ...................................................................................................37
8.1. Current Recreational Opportunity Conditions ..............................................................37
8.2. Desired Future Conditions ...........................................................................................37
Table 8.2.1. Compatible Recreational Activities ..............................................................37
8.3. Management Tools .....................................................................................................38
8.3.1. Access Improvements ..........................................................................................38
8.3.2. Amenity Installation/Enhancement ........................................................................38
Figure 8.3.3. Conceptual Visitor Amenities .....................................................................39
8.4. Partnership Opportunities ............................................................................................40
9. Preserve Safety and Security Management .......................................................................40
9.1. Current/Predicted Human Conflict Conditions .............................................................40
Photoset 9.1.1: Historic Wastewater Treatment Plant .....................................................40
9.2. Desired Future Conditions ...........................................................................................42
9.3. Management Tools .....................................................................................................42
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9.3.1. Site Security Improvements ..................................................................................42
9.3.2. Debris Removal ....................................................................................................42
9.3.3. Contamination Remediation ..................................................................................42
9.4. Partnership Opportunities ............................................................................................42
10. Cultural Resource Management ......................................................................................42
10.1. Current Cultural Resource Conditions .......................................................................42
10.2. Desired Future Conditions .........................................................................................43
10.3. Management Tools ...................................................................................................43
10.4. Partnership Opportunities ..........................................................................................43
11. Budget .............................................................................................................................44
Table 11.1. Past and Projected Expenditures Table .......................................................44
12. Appendix .............................................................................................................................45
Photoset 12.1: Representative Site Photos ....................................................................45
Figure 12.2. Legal Description ........................................................................................51
Public Meeting Comments and Staff Responses .......................................................53
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Land Management Plan Executive Summary
Lead Agency: Conservation Collier Program, Collier County Parks & Recreation Department,
Collier County Public Services Department
Properties included in this Plan: Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve
Preserve lands consist of two parcels located within Township 50S, Range 26E and Section 16,
in Collier County, Florida (00425920008, 00419160007) Full legal descriptions are provided in
Appendix 14.
Total Acreage: 37.16 acres
Management Responsibilities: Collier County Conservation Collier Program staff
Designated Land Use: Preservation
Unique Features: Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve contributes to the conservation of
ecologically sensitive lands within the urban area of Collier County. Mature live oaks create a
densely shaded canopy atop tropical hardwood species such as red stopper (Eugenia rhombea),
gumbo limbo (Bursera simaruba), and privet senna (Senna ligustrina). The preserve contributes
to an existing wildlife corridor between the Picayune Strand State Forest and Rookery Bay
National Estuarine Research Reserve.
Desired Future Conditions:
Vegetation: A preserve with a matrix of high-quality hammocks, mixed hardwood-
coniferous wetlands, and freshwater marshes, with mixed age trees, a diverse understory,
and less than 10% infestation of non-native species.
Wildlife: A preserve with a rich diversity of wildlife species utilization year-round
comprised of populations with mixed age classes indicating ongoing recruitment and use
of the preserve for denning and nesting activities.
Recreation: A preserve with the amenities required for the public to safely engage in
passive natural resource-based recreation
Preserve Safety and Security: A preserve free of littering, dumping, illicit activities,
neighbor disturbances, unauthorized vehicles, and after-hours trespass.
Cultural Resources: A preserve with intact and secure cultural resources that provide
opportunities for community education about pre-historic settlements.
Public Involvement
As part of the Land Management Plan drafting process, a public meeting was held on December
1st, 2022, to gather input from members of the public and preserve stakeholders. Most public
comments and questions on the land management plan pertained to reducing public visitation to
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the preserve. Many participants expressed a desire to keep the preserve “low key”, and some
even questioned whether the preserve should be opened to the public at all or dedicated for
resource protection only. Participants wanted to know how many visitors the preserve would
attract, how it would affect traffic, and how it would affect road maintenance. Participants primarily
discussed reducing the number of proposed parking spaces, parking lot orientation and
construction materials, preventing visitors from parking on the street, not erecting navigational
signage on Santa Barbara Blvd, and limiting visitor amenities and permitted activities. Secondary
topics of discussion centered on a desire to maintain site security and pertained to features as
type and length of fencing, automatic gates, lighting, hours of access, alternate entry points,
preserve cleanup, and monitoring. Other comments and questions included zoning, management
for beneficial insects, trail design, and invasive plant removal. Additional information and staff
responses to questions can be found in the appendix Public Meeting Comments and Staff
Responses.
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Introduction
The Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve is a 37.16-acre nature preserve located in South Naples in
Collier County, FL. It is largely comprised of mixed hardwood-coniferous and mixed scrub-shrub
wetland plant communities. Future access to the preserve is from 6371 Adkins Avenue off of
Santa Barbara Blvd. The Preserve was purchased by Collier County in August of 2020 through
funds from the Conservation Collier Program. The County holds fee simple title. Prior to
acquisition, the property was referred to as SD Corp of Naples. Following a public name
submission and voting contest and approval by the Board of County Commissioners (BCC), the
preserve was officially named the Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve in February of 2021. Public
access opportunities through nature-based recreation are planned for the site following
completion of access infrastructure projects including a conceptual parking lot, bench, overlook
platform, and interpretive signage. 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 the Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve
Year Benchmark
2017 Acquisition Application submitted to the Conservation Collier Program by SD Corp of
Naples, Inc for 115.15 acres
2018 37.16 acres recommended for Cycle 9 Acquisition A -List by the Conservation Collier
Land Acquisition Advisory Committee with remaining 77.99 acres recommended for
Acquisition B-List
2019 Proposal to purchase 37.16 acres of SD Corp brought by Commissioner Fiala approved
by Board of County Commissioners November 12, 2019
2020 37.16 acres purchased by Conservation Collier in August for $1.48m
2021 Public Preserve Naming Competition held. Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve
recommended based on total votes in January.
2021 Developed Interim Management Plan- BCC Approved Plan and Preserve Name in
February
2022 Developed Final Management Plan in October for review by subcommittee, committee,
and BCC
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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 and 2020 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 (BCC) established the Conservation Collier Program
to implement the program and to manage acquired lands. As such, Conservation Collier holds
management authority for the Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve.
Purpose and Scope of Plan
The purpose of the plan is to provide management direction for the Rattlesnake Hammock
Preserve (Rattlesnake Hammock) by identifying the desired future conditions of each element
and the appropriate tools to achieve these conditions. This plan seeks to balance natural resource
conservation (listed species protection, habitat restoration, and invasive species management)
with outdoor recreational and education use. This plan is divided into sections that include an
introduction, parcel description, management element conditions, objectives, and potential tools,
and a projected budget.
An Interim Management Plan for the Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve was approved by the Collier
County Board of County Commissioners in 2021. This is the Final Management Plan for the
Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve. Updates to this plan will be completed every 5 years following
approval by the BCC.
Public Involvement
As part of the Land Management Plan drafting process, a public meeting was held on December
1st, 2022, to gather input from members of the public and preserve stakeholders. Thirteen
members of the public attended the meeting, most were immediate neighbors or resided along
Adkins Ave.
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Parcel Description
1. Location
1.1. Description
The Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve is in South Naples, FL at the address 6371 Adkins Avenue,
Naples, FL 34112. The preserve is situated east of Santa Barbara Blvd, west of Collier Blvd, and
north of Rattlesnake Hammock Rd in Section 16, Township 50S, and Range 26E in the
designated Urban Area of Collier County (Figure 1.1.2. Overview Map). Adjacent to the Wing
South Airpark, Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve is accessible via Adkins Avenue to the north for
both land management and future public access as well as Parkers Hammock Rd to the south for
land management access only. The property is made up of two parcels (00425920008 and
00419160007) comprising 37.16 acres in total (Figure 11, Legal Description). Nearby
conservation and natural lands include the Collier County Serenity Walk Park (0.5 miles) as well
as the Picayune Strand State Forest (3 miles) and Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research
Reserve (3 miles).
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Figure 1.1.1. Overview map of Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve and surrounding
conservation areas
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Figure 1.1.2. 2022 Aerial close-up
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2. Physiography
2.1. Description
LIDAR and Surface Waters
A Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) map provides information about the elevation of the
Earth’s surface. The topographical map of Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve (Figure 2.1.1)
indicates surface features of lower elevation in deepening shades of blue. Five low-elevation
features exist within the Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve that are seasonally flooded and collect
surface waters from May-November each year. Three of these features are naturally occurring
including the North Marsh (herbaceous marsh), Cypress Swamp, West Marsh (willow), while two
of the features are the result of land use alterations including the Historic Water Treatment Area
(willow marsh) and Canal (Stormwater Easement 51101-255 DAME) as indicated in Figure 2.1.2
Surface Waters Map.
Aquifer Recharge Potential
Figure 5. Aquifer Map indicates the preserve is within a Priority 6 CLIP4 Aquifer Recharge
designation. This property lies within the Rookery Bay watershed, with groundwater flowing from
the northeast to the southwest. Most of the community drinking water supply in Collier County
comes from the surficial aquifer, but many residents also have wells to the Lower Tamiami aquifer,
a slightly deeper aquifer. The mapped surficial aquifer recharge for the preserve is 31” to <43”
annually. These parcels contribute moderately to the surficial aquifer. The mapped Lower
Tamiami aquifer recharge is -16” to -1” annually. Protection of this site in an undeveloped state
will help to protect the Lower Tamiami aquifer as there is no confining layer between it and the
surficial aquifer system.
Soils
A hydric soil is a soil that formed under conditions of saturation, flooding, or ponding long enough
during the growing season to develop anaerobic conditions in the upper part (Federal Register,
1994). Three soil types were mapped for the preserve parcels (Figure 2.1.4. Hydric Soils Map)
including: Hilolo, Jupiter, and Margate fine sands (hydric), Boca, Rivera, Limestone substratum,
Copeland FS (hydric, depressional), and Pineda fine sand, Limestone substratum (hydric).
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Figure 2.1.1. Topographical Map (LIDAR)
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Figure 2.1.2. Surface Waters Map
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Figure 2.1.3. Aquifer Map (CLIP4 Aquifer Priority Map and Wellfield Protection Zones)
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Figure 2.1.4. Hydric Soils Map (Collier County Soils Survey)
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3. Historical Land Use
3.1. Description
Historic aerial imagery (Photoset 3.1.2) from the 1940s indicates that the preserve lands were
part of a large, contiguous network of Cypress strand and hardwood hammock with seasonal
wetlands and surrounding graminoid-dominated prairies composed of grasses, sedges, and rush
species. While much of the foundational community within today’s preserve boundary have not
had significant alterations, the land use of the adjacent area including historic water flow, habitat
connectivity, and cover have changed significantly. Aerials from 1978 show significant alterations
in place in the lands surrounding and within the preserve including the footprints of the roadways
and residential lots and communities that comprise today’s neighborhood. Along the eastern
boundary of the preserve is the Wing South Airpark community and corresponding runway for
small aircraft. Constructed within the current preserve boundaries at this time is the water
treatment structure that serviced the community. Also apparent in the aerials from 1978 is a
removal of vegetation in the northern portion of today’s preserve that would later become the
melaleuca-infested seasonal wetland adjacent to Adkins Avenue. Maps of 1985 through to the
2000s indicate growing development and expansion of the lands adjacent to the preserve for
residential use and enhancement of roadway infrastructure. In the 2000s, aerials are of a high
enough resolution to show the first indications of significant infestation of exotic plant species
within the current preserve boundary.
Conservation Collier staff contacted representatives from the Collier County Museum to research
the history of the area within and surrounding the preserve and it was determined there was not
an abundance of historical information on record about the area. A newspaper clipping (Figure
3.1.1) provided by museum staff indicated that the area was notable historically amongst
residents for having a high population of Eastern diamondback rattlesnakes and was sought out
as an area for dumping.
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Figure 3.1.1. Rattlesnake Hammock Road History, 2002
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Photoset 3.1.2. Historical Aerial Imagery
Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve- 1940
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Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve- 1978
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Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve- 1985
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Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve- 2000
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4. Adjacent Land Use
4.1. Description
Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve is located within the urban area of Collier County and is adjacent
to a low-density residential community along the western and northern property boundary. The
eastern boundary of the property is adjacent to a stormwater canal and the Wing South Airpark
and runway. The 78 acres to the northeast of the preserve (formally a Cycle 9 acquisition
application parcel recommended for the B-List) was clear-cut in the summer of 2022 with a high-
density housing development planned for the parcel that was historically an integral wildlife
dispersal corridor and connection point between the Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve and the
Picayune Strand State Forest. To the South of the preserve is a residential community known as
Parker’s Hammock. Lands to the north and the east are existing residential communities and golf
courses which may provide lasting habitat dispersal corridors for long-ranging wildlife species.
The Picayune Strand State Forest to the east is the most significant large conservation area. The
existing corridor to the south of the property has historic connection linkages with the Rookery
Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Stormwater control features and major roadways
bisect these habitat linkages on all sides of the preserve.
5. Acquisition and Expansion
5.1. Acquisition Description
In 2017, SD Corp of Naples, Inc applied for three parcels totaling 115.15-acres during
Conservation Collier Acquisition Cycle 9. In 2018, the Conservation Collier Land Acquisition
Advisory Committee recommended two parcels totaling 37.16-acres for the acquisition A-list and
the remaining 77.99-acres for the acquisition B-list. The Board of County Commissioners (BCC)
ranked the property as A-category. However, the BCC initially did not recommend for purchase
due to lack of budget. In November 2019, Commissioner Fiala proposed the purchase of the SD
Corp A-list parcels. This was approved by the BCC on November 12, 2019 (Agenda item #10.A).
Conservation Collier purchased the 37.16-acres on August 10th , 2020.
Table 5.1.1. Parcel Attributes Table
Folio(s) Acreage Seller Acquisition Date Price
425920008 7.16
SD Corp of
Naples Inc. 8/10/2020 $1,480,000.00 419160007 30
Total 37.16
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5.2. Potential Preserve Expansion
Conservation Collier is targeting the only remaining undeveloped parcel adjacent to the preserve.
The 4.5-acre parcel (00419840000) indicated in Figure 5.2.1 is located southwest of the preserve
at the eastern terminus of Everett St. Increasing development, especially to the north, is isolating
the preserve from surrounding natural areas. Acquiring this parcel would protect the last linkage
between the preserve and the conservation easements to the south.
Figure 5.2.1. Potential Expansion Areas Map
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Management
6. Vegetation Management
6.1. Current Vegetative Community Conditions
Cooperative Land Cover Classification System Habitats Identified. Non-native species are
denoted with an *
1400 Mixed Hardwood-Coniferous - Mix of hardwood and coniferous trees where neither is
dominant.
Notes: This community is found throughout the preserve. The center of the preserve is composed
primarily of the oaks, palms, and slash pines. The more upland portions of the preserve have a
prominent tropical hardwood component. These species give way to cypress, wetland hardwoods,
melaleuca, and various non-native species as the elevation drops and in the disturbed margins.
Major Canopy Components – Cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto), laurel oak (Quercus laurifolia),
slash pine (Pinus elliotti), bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), strangler fig (Ficus aurea), royal
palm (Roystonea regia), gumbo limbo (Bursera simaruba), melaleuca (Melaleuca quinquenervia)
*, Java plum (Szygium cumini)*, and earleaf acacia (Acacia auriculiformes)
Major Midstory Components – Simpson’s stopper (Myricanthes fragrans), myrsine (Myrsine
cubana), fire bush (Hamelia patens), bay (Persea sp.), wax myrtle (Myrica cerifera), buttonbush
(Cephalanthus occidentalis), saltbush (Baccharis angustifolia), dahoon holly (Ilex glabra), and
Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolia) *
Major Understory/Groundcover Components – Wild coffee (Psychotria nervosa), swamp fern
(Blechnum serrulatum), pokeweed (Phytolacca americana), air potato (Dioscorea bulbifera) *,
caesarweed (Urena lobata) *, sword fern (Nephrolepis sp.)*
2112 Mixed Scrub-Shrub Wetland - Wetland areas that are dominated by woody vegetation less
than 20 feet in height. This can occur in many situations, but in most cases involves transitional
or disturbed communities on drier sites. Persistent examples of shrub wetlands include shrub
bogs and willow swamps. (SJRWMD)
Notes: This community is not identified on map but is found in two natural marshes and one
historic water treatment area.
Major Canopy Components – Melaleuca (Melaleuca quinquenervia) *
Major Midstory Components – Coastal plain willow (Salix caroliniana), Brazilian pepper
(Schinus terebinthifolius) *
Major Understory/Groundcover Components – Smartweed (Polygonum sp.), swamp fern
(Blechnum serrulatum), climbing hempvine (Mikania scandens), sawgrass (Cladium jamaicense),
and torpedo grass (Panicum repens) *
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Figure 6.1.1. Cooperative Land Cover Classification Map
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Table 6.1.2. Threatened and Endangered Species Table
Imperiled Plant Species Conservation Status
Common Name Scientific Name State Federal
Cardinal Airplant Tillandsia fasciculata Endangered Not Listed
Northern Needleleaf Airplant Tillandsia balbisiana Endangered Not Listed
Giant Airplant Tillandsia utriculata Endangered Not Listed
Royal Palm Roystonea regia Endangered Not Listed
6.1.3. Vegetation Management Concerns
High woody and vining invasive species cover is the primary concern on this preserve. Not only
do these species out compete and smother native plants, they also provide little in the form of
forage for wildlife. Monocultures of Brazilian pepper and melaleuca will require re-vegetating once
treated or removed. Trees that are treated and left in place may present hazards and negatively
impact aesthetics, where they abut the trail and neighboring properties, and easements. Coastal
plain willow (Salix caroliniana) is acting as a nuisance native in previously herbaceous wetlands.
Special considerations should be made to preserve and enhance the tropical hardwood elements
present as they represent one of the rarest plant communities in Collier County. A full botanical
inventory is required to create a baseline to measure our native restoration against.
6.2. Desired Future Conditions
A preserve with a matrix of high-quality hammocks, mixed hardwood-coniferous wetlands, and
freshwater marshes with mixed age trees, a diverse understory, and less than 10% infestation of
non-native species.
6.3. Management Tools
6.3.1. Invasive Plant Removal
Upon acquisition, the preserve was >75% infested with invasive plants, primarily melaleuca
(Melaleuca quinquenervia), Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius), Java plum (Szygium
cumini), and air potato (Dioscorea bulbifera). In some areas, particularly the north and west sides,
these species occur in single species stands that are so dense that even if treated in place, native
vegetation will have difficulty recolonizing the area. Other notable species include old world
climbing fern (Lygodium microphyllum), arrowhead vine (Syngonium podophyllum), Asian sword
fern (Nephrolepis sp.), torpedo grass (Panicum repens), cogon grass (Imperata cylindrica),
Bishopwood (Bischofia javanica), and elephant ear (Xanthosoma sagittifolium). There is a diverse
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array of non-native landscaping plants found along the margins of the preserve. A combination of
mechanical and repeated herbicidal treatments of all Florida Invasive Species Partnership
Category I&II species will be pursued to achieve the desired future conditions.
Actions taken thus far to reach these goals include Conservation Collier staff hand clearing
melaleuca from the north marsh, mechanical removal of melaleuca, Brazilian pepper, and Java
plum stands along Adkins Avenue and along the east and south sides of the historic water
treatment area to allow for access and debris removal, and herbicidal treatment of all Brazilian
pepper, melaleuca, Java plum, and old-world climbing fern in the southern 30-acre parcel of the
preserve. This treatment was conducted using funding assistance from the Florida Fish and
Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Upland Invasive Exotic Plant Management Program.
6.3.2. Native Plant Restoration
Native plantings have been, and will continue to be used, to increase diversity, improve wildlife
forage, enhance aesthetics, and to revegetate mechanically cleared areas. Thus far all
mechanically cleared areas, aside from the footprint of the conceptual parking lot and trail, have
received native plantings. A combination of herbaceous plants, shrubs, and trees were planted to
create a visual buffer between the proposed parking lot and adjacent private residence.
Volunteers planted a wide variety of emergent aquatic plants as well as pop ash (Fraxinus
caroliniana) and pond apple (Annona glabra) in the north marsh post melaleuca-removal and
coastal plain willow reduction. The non-profit organization, Growing Climate Solutions organized
a corporate volunteer workday and provided 150 trees to plant in the remaining cleared areas.
These included slash pine, cypress, laurel oak, and red maple. In addition to removing invasive
species, staff plans on reducing willow cover in the historic water treatment area. Lack of
disturbance has led to willow dominating this marsh, reducing the herbaceous diversity and
limiting the available foraging habitat for wading birds and among other species.
6.3.3. Prescribed Fire
Natural communities within this preserve have exceeded their fire return interval. The herbaceous
marshes and more upland portions of hammock may benefit from patchy understory fire.
However, application of prescribed fire is unlikely for this site due to its urban nature, proximity to
the Wing South Airpark, high surrounding fuel loads, and extent of safety improvements required.
6.3.4. Hydrological Restoration
The preserve sits within the center of an extensively altered watershed. The historic northeast to
southwest flow through the area has been intercepted and drained by canals and swales resulting
in a shorter duration hydroperiod. This change in hydroperiod partially explains the transitional
nature of the vegetative communities present. Areas of the preserve that were historically cypress
strand forests and depressional marshes are shifting towards less flood tolerant species. Due to
the forces altering hydrology being largely upstream and off property, the onsite flow cannot be
restored to its pre-development state. The preserve must be managed to benefit the vegetative
communities most suited for its current and future conditions. Proposed mastication of large
stands of melaleuca may further affect hydrology by creating a mulch layer and reducing water
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loss by transpiration. Hydrological mitigation may be required for some or all the proposed visitor
amenities. These areas will be planted with appropriate native plants.
6.4. Partnership Opportunities
Conservation Collier will continue to seek funding assistance from the FWC Upland Invasive
Exotic Plant Management Program. This program has been critical in conducting initial and
otherwise cost prohibitive invasive plant removal projects over the past 20 years. Revegetation
needs are expected to grow as invasive vegetation is removed, and Conservation Collier intends
to cultivate a lasting partnership with Growing Climate Solutions to meet those needs when
feasible.
7. Wildlife Management
7.1. Current Wildlife Community Conditions
The Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve is comprised of a rich mosaic of plant communities and
habitat types that contribute to utilization of the property by a wide diversity of bird, mammal,
reptile, amphibian, and invertebrate species. The residential neighborhood adjacent to the
preserve is made up of low-density, larger acreage lots that have been maintained in a natural
state and contribute to the dispersal and persistence of species through the preserve and into the
surrounding neighborhood lands. White-tailed deer and wading bird foraging are the most
frequently observed groups along existing management access trails by visitors. Ample
opportunities exist to enhance the preserve’s wildlife community conditions through habitat
restoration activities and management.
Table 7.1.1. Observed Wildlife Species Table
Type Common Name Species Protection Status
Mammals bobcat Lynx rufus
Florida black bear Ursus americanus floridanus
Florida panther Puma concolor coryi Federally Endangered
gray squirrel Sciurus carolinensis
nine-banded armadillo Dasypus novemcinctus
North American river
otter Lontra canadensis
Ten Thousand Islands
raccoon Procyon lotor marinus
Virginia opossum Didelphis virginiana
white-tailed deer Odocoileus virginianus
Birds blue jay Cyanocitta cristata
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great-crested
flycatcher Myiarchus crinitus
mottled duck Anas fulvigula
mourning dove Zenaida macroura
northern cardinal Cardinalis
northern mockingbird Mimus polyglottos
red-bellied
woodpecker Melanerpes carolinus
Reptiles brown anole Anolis sagrei
Florida banded water
snake Nerodia pictiventris
Table 7.1.2. Potential Threatened and Endangered Species Table
Type Common Name Species Protection Status
Mammals Big Cypress fox
squirrel Sciurus niger avicennia State Threatened
Everglade’s mink Neovison vison evergladensis State Threatened
Florida panther Puma concolor coryi Federally Endangered
Florida bonneted bat Eumops floridensis Federally Endangered
Birds Audubon’s crested
caracara Polyborus plancus audubonii Federally Threatened
Everglade’s snail kite Rostrhamus sociabilis
plumbeus Federally Endangered
Little blue heron Egretta caerulea State Threatened
Roseate spoonbill Platalea ajaja State Threatened
Tricolored heron Egretta tricolor State Threatened
Wood stork Mycteria americana Federally Threatened
Reptiles American alligator Alligator mississippiensis Federally Threatened
SA
Eastern indigo snake Drymarchon corais couperi Federally Threatened
Gopher tortoise Gopherus polyphemus State Threatened
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Photoset 7.1.3. Wildlife Camera Observations
Photo: White-tailed deer (fStop Foundation, 2021)
Photo: White-tailed deer (fStop Foundation, 2022)
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Photo: White-tailed deer (fStop Foundation, 2022)
Photo: Florida black bear (fStop Foundation, 2021)
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Photo: Black vulture (fStop Foundation, 2021)
Photo: Florida panther and kittens (fStop Foundation, 2022)
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Photo: Nine-banded armadillo (fStop Foundation, 2022)
Photo: Florida bobcat (fStop Foundation, 2022)
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Photo: Florida black bear (fStop Foundation, 2022)
7.1.4. Wildlife Management Concerns
As preserve land in the urban area of South Naples, one of the most significant threats to wildlife
species that utilize Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve is the loss of habitat connectivity and safe
dispersal corridors between larger conservation lands due to land use changes like development
and expansion of roadways. Wildlife cameras within the preserve have continually documented
longer ranging larger mammals utilizing the preserve like Florida black bear, bobcat and Florida
panther. Due to the surrounding land use changes, each of these species routinely crosses major
roadways in order to access the undeveloped habitat within the preserve. Camera footage of
injured bears and reports of a panther kitten mortality in 2022 as a result of crossing roadways
adjacent to the preserve shed light on the threats wildlife that utilize lands within the urban area
face. Actions such as providing educational outreach to surrounding communities, supporting the
addition of wildlife crossing signage on nearby roadways, and continuing to target lands within
the acquisition area to reduce development pressure along the existing wildlife corridor may help
to reduce these conflicts.
Florida black bear are consistently observed utilizing the preserve lands on the wildlife monitoring
cameras. Since acquisition, Conservation Collier staff have been notified by neighbors of a
number of incidents of conflicts with Florida black bear causing property damage to access food
source attractants such as nest boxes and occasionally garbage. As land development expands
on parcels adjacent to the existing preserve, staff have the opportunity to partner with adjacent
developments and the FWC Florida Black Bear Program to support bear-wise practices for
garbage management and attractant reduction to help safeguard the black bears and other
species like raccoon and black vulture that utilize the preserve.
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7.2. Desired Future Conditions
A preserve with a rich diversity of wildlife species utilization year-round comprised of populations
with mixed age classes indicating ongoing recruitment and use of the preserve for denning and
nesting activities.
7.3. Management Tools
7.3.1. Habitat Improvements
Management activities undertaken within the preserve will consider impacts to wildlife and
opportunities to enhance resources for the species that utilize the property. Ongoing restoration
efforts such as invasive plant removal, historic debris removal, and plantings will provide
progressive habitat improvements for wildlife species that rely on the Rattlesnake Hammock
Preserve. Removal and continued maintenance of exotic plant species that were dominant within
the preserve upon acquisition, such as Brazilian pepper and melaleuca, will allow for native forage
species to recover from the existing seed bank to support herbivore and carnivore populations.
Restoration plantings and exotics removal within the wetlands and marshes of the preserve will
enhance foraging habitat for imperiled wading birds, migratory birds, and species like river otter
that have been observed using the preserve. Removal of historic, nuisance debris will enhance
safe wildlife access and dispersal throughout the plant communities within the preserve. Access
trails created for land management and potential future public access are routinely utilized by
wildlife and provide opportunities to monitor preserve utilization by species with passive wildlife
camera observations.
7.3.2. Consumptive Wildlife Use
Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve is a 37- acre property within the Urban area of Naples and
surrounded by residential housing units. In its current state, the property is not compatible with
consumptive wildlife uses such as hunting. Wetlands within the preserve are seasonal. As
restoration efforts continue, staff will re-evaluate opportunities for consumptive use such as fishing
that are not compatible with the current state of the property.
7.3.3. Monitoring
Following acquisition, Conservation Collier staff partnered with the non-profit conservation
organization called the fStop Foundation to install and maintain a network of motion-sensor trail
cameras throughout the preserve (Photoset 7.1.3: Wildlife Camera Observations) to contribute to
data collection for a wildlife utilization species inventory. fStop Foundation cameras provided the
first known observations of Florida panther utilizing the property since 2013 and captured mating
activities of a male and female panther within the preserve and the kittens that resulted from the
interaction. Footage is shared with the FWC Panther Team and provides opportunities for
researchers to track utilization of lands within the urban area by imperiled wildlife species.
Cameras will continue to be deployed at the preserve to maintain passive monitoring of wildlife.
Property restoration, invasive vegetation removal, and plantings provide staff with an opportunity
to utilize wildlife surveys to measure enhanced utilization of the preserve’s plant communities by
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wildlife in response to management and maintenance actions. It is recommended that regular
surveys for breeding birds, reptiles, amphibians, insects, and small and large mammals be
conducted on a routine basis to enhance wildlife monitoring and data collection on the preserve.
7.4. Partnership Opportunities
Conservation Collier staff will continue to partner and share data and observations with wildlife
management agencies such as the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission as well
as the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) where possible. Grant funding may be
available to enhance imperiled wildlife species habitat such as the USFWS Partners Grant. Staff
will continue to partner with organizations such as the fStop Foundation for monitoring and
outreach opportunities. Staff will continue to work collaboratively with the residents of the
neighborhood surrounding the preserve who collect and share observations of wildlife species
and conflicts and concerns. Staff will seek opportunities to partner with researchers from higher
education institutions to enhance conservation efforts of the wildlife species that utilize the
preserve.
8. Recreation Management
8.1. Current Recreational Opportunity Conditions
The preserve is currently closed to the public. There is an access trail that begins at Adkins
Avenue and creates a loop throughout the preserve that may be converted to a visitor trail once
mechanical vegetation removal is completed and parking lot is installed.
8.2. Desired Future Conditions
A preserve with the amenities required for the public to safely engage in passive natural resource-
based recreation. These include a parking lot, visitor trail, educational signage, and
viewing/resting areas.
Table 8.2.1. Compatible Recreational Activities
Recreational Activity Compatible Use
Passive nature-based recreation (hiking, photography, wildlife viewing,
environmental education, etc.) Yes
Hunting No
Fishing No
Water-based Recreation (paddling, swimming, etc) No
Biking No
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8.3. Management Tools
8.3.1. Access Improvements
Direct roadway access is only available via Adkins Avenue. In order to remove debris and
damaged fencing along Adkins Avenue a large Brazilian pepper hedge was removed. This
cleared area is the proposed location for an 8-10 space parking lot and trailhead. There is an
existing gate and right of way which crosses the roadside swale in this area. Design and materials
for the parking lot will be determined by the constraints of the site.
8.3.2. Amenity Installation/Enhancement
Amenities dedicated to visitors include converting the current 3000ft unimproved utility trail into a
visitor hiking trail, adding viewing decks/overlooks to the north marsh and historic water treatment
area, installing an informational kiosk and interpretive signage, and placing benches. If site
conditions allow the portion of the trail that connects the parking lot to the southern viewing deck
may be improved to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards for accessibility. Native
plantings will be utilized to enhance the aesthetics surrounding visitor amenities.
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Figure 8.3.3. Conceptual Visitor Amenities
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8.4. Partnership Opportunities
Residents adjacent to the preserve have expressed their desire to help maintain trails and
plantings and have assisted during volunteer workdays. Once the preserve is open to the public,
staff would like to further cultivate this neighborhood volunteer group and train them to
independently monitor and clean the trails.
9. Preserve Safety and Security Management
9.1. Current/Predicted Human Conflict Conditions
Prior to acquisition this property had a long history of illegal dumping and housed a package
wastewater treatment plant that serviced the adjoining Wing South Airpark for approximately 25
years from starting in the mid-1970s (Photoset 9.1.1: Historic Water Treatment Plant). The
wastewater plant structures were demolished and removed from the site in April of 2018. There
were no remaining structures on site at the time of acquisition except for approximately 1000ft of
6ft tall, dilapidated, chain link fencing was left surrounding the water treatment area and along
Adkins Avenue. Additionally, a large pile of broken concrete, tires, and various other debris was
located immediately south of Adkins Avenue. In 2020, invasive vegetation was cleared to allow
for machinery to remove and dispose of this fencing and debris. It is likely that more debris will be
uncovered as additional stands of invasive vegetation are removed. The previously undeveloped
properties to the north of the preserve experienced frequent off-road vehicle trespass. There is
currently little off-road vehicle trespass on the site, but it may become more vulnerable as stands
of invasive trees are cleared creating potential points of entry. Like other secluded, public
properties, the preserve may attract those wishing to engage in illicit activities.
Photoset 9.1.1: Historic Wastewater Treatment Plant
Photo: Collier County Pollution Control, 2017
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Photo: Collier County Pollution Control, 2017
Photo: Collier County Pollution Control, 2017
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9.2. Desired Future Conditions
A preserve free of littering, dumping, illicit activities, neighbor disturbances, unauthorized vehicles,
and after-hours trespass.
9.3. Management Tools
9.3.1. Site Security Improvements
To prevent trespass, staff installed a temporary barbed wire fence along Adkins Avenue that runs
between the neighboring residence and ties into the existing Stormwater Treatment fence that
runs along the east side of the preserve. A more permanent solution that is more aesthetically
pleasing and blocks vehicles, but not wildlife is necessary before the preserve can be opened to
the public. This proposed fence will need an automatic gate to allow visitors to access the
proposed parking lot between sunrise and sunset. Additional fencing and removable bollards will
be necessary to prevent vehicles from entering the trail during times when the gate is open. Trees
have already been planted and will continue to be planted to block openings where invasive
vegetation has been removed. Preventing access to the parking lot after dark should aid in
preventing after hours trespass and illicit activities. Preserve regulations will include signage to
the public of carry-in, carry-out practices to reduce impact to the preserve and no trash
receptacles will be available along the trail in order to prevent wildlife conflicts.
9.3.2. Debris Removal
Debris will continue to be removed and disposed of offsite as it is encountered. Staff will monitor
the preserve boundaries for signs of illegal dumping, erect education signage, and work
collaboratively with the Collier County Sheriff’s Office to address repeat offenses.
9.3.3. Contamination Remediation
A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment was conducted by Tetra Tech on behalf of Collier
County prior to acquisition. This assessment determined no Recognized Environmental
Conditions associated with the preserve lands and prior wastewater treatment activities.
9.4. Partnership Opportunities
Staff will collaborate with both the Collier County Sheriff’s Office and FWC Law Enforcement to
both prevent and respond to any criminal site security and safety issues as they present
themselves. Adjacent neighbors have kept staff apprised of notable human and wildlife activity.
10. Cultural Resource Management
10.1. Current Cultural Resource Conditions
A due diligence cultural resource assessment conducted by Archaeological and Historical
Conservancy, Inc. in April 2017 revealed two black earth midden archaeological sites (“Porque
Pig” 8CR710 and “Wing South 1” 8CR1482) within the SD Corp Preserve boundary. This
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assessment included a pedestrian survey and judgmental shovel testing in 11 identified higher
probability target areas. A total of 51 shovel tests were excavated. Fourteen shovel tests were
positive for prehistoric material including shell tools, faunal bone, and pottery. This site is
potentially eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places due to the likelihood that
it contains information bearing on an important archaeological research question. It is
recommended that the two sites be avoided during ground disturbing activities. Although not
ground disturbing, archaeological monitoring was conducted by Archaeological and Historical
Conservancy, Inc. on November 19, 2020, during debris removal and initial exotic removal near
site 8CR710. No disturbance or artifacts were recorded.
10.2. Desired Future Conditions
A preserve with intact and secure cultural resources that provide an opportunity for community
education about pre-historic settlements.
10.3. Management Tools
The County will notify the Division of Historical Resources immediately if evidence is found to
suggest any additional archaeological or historic resources are discovered. 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. 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).
10.4. Partnership Opportunities
Staff will seek out opportunities to partner with organizations including the Division of Historical
Resources, the National Register of Historic Places and research institutions to enhance the
knowledge and safeguarding of the properties rich, cultural resources. Staff will seek opportunities
to partner with organizations and agencies that can enhance monitoring and enforcement efforts
to maintain site security.
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11. Budget
Table 11.1. Past and Projected Expenditures Table
Projected Operating Costs 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030
Debris Removal $21,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 0
Trail Installation and
Maintenance $0 $0 $0 $5,000 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500 500
Trailhead Amenities and
Parking Lot (Permitting,
Design, Construction, and
Maintenance)
$0 $0 $5,498 $104,304 $110,696 $5,000 $5,000 $5,000 $5,000 $5,000 $5,000
Educational Materials
(Kiosks, signs, etc.)$0 $0 $0 $0 $3,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 0
Restoration Planting $0 $800 $0 $25,000 $5,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 0
Invasive Plant
Treatment/Removal
$37,972 (Paid for
with FWC funding
assistance)
$9,700 $0 $50,000 $30,000 $20,000 $20,000 $20,000 $20,000 $20,000 $20,000
Equipment and Supplies $0 $0 $0 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500 Total
Total Projected Costs $58,972 $10,500 $5,498 $184,804 $149,696 $26,000 $26,000 $26,000 $26,000 $26,000 $26,000 $565,470
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12. Appendix
Photoset 12.1: Representative Site Photos
Photo: North Marsh, herbaceous marsh
Photo: Mixed Scrub-Shrub Wetland, North marsh, herbaceous marsh
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Photo: Mixed Scrub-Shrub Wetland, North marsh, herbaceous marsh
Photo: Mixed Scrub-Shrub Wetland, Historic Water Treatment Area (Willow Marsh)
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Photo: Mixed Scrub-Shrub Wetland, Historic Water Treatment Area (Willow Marsh)
Photo: Mixed hardwood-coniferous, heavy melaleuca infestation
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Photo: Mixed hardwood-coniferous, heavy melaleuca infestation
Photo: Cypress and melaleuca along stormwater canal
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Photo: Cypress Swamp
Photo: Mixed hardwood-coniferous
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Photo: Mixed hardwood-coniferous
Photo: Southern boundary line adjacent to Parkers Hammock residences
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Figure 12.2. Legal Description
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Public Meeting Comments and Staff Responses
Thirteen members of the public attended the meeting, most were immediate neighbors or resided
along Adkins Ave. Attendees had a favorable opinion of the preserve and were supportive of the
wildlife, vegetation, and cultural resource management aspects of the plan. Most questions,
comments, and concerns pertained to the recreation management, preserve safety, and site
security management section. Attendees expressed a desire to limit/prevent visitation to the
preserve to maintain the “character” and privacy of their neighborhood. Questions and staff
responses are grouped into categories below.
Access:
Question: Does the preserve have to be opened to the public or can it be designated for resource
protection?
Staff Response: Conservation Collier preserves belong to all residents of Collier County and are
opened to the public when they are accessible, and their site conditions and conservation goals
are compatible with outdoor recreation. This preserve was purchased for its ability to both protect
wildlife and provide public greenspace in the urban area.
Question: Can you not place a sign advertising the location of the preserve on Santa Barbara
Blvd?
Staff Response: Signage would attract visitors to the preserve and aid in navigation but is not
critical to meeting public recreation goals.
Question: What kind of amenities will be present on the preserve that will attract visitors?
Staff Response: Proposed amenities are minimal and include a short hiking trail, interpretive
signage, observation decks, and a bench at the furthest point of the trail. These features are
intended to improve visitor’s ability to connect with nature. Typical park-type amenities, such as
picnic tables, shade structures, playgrounds, and trash cans are not proposed as they may attract
non-nature-based recreationists and detract from the natural setting.
Question: How wide will the trail be and what kind of surface will it have?
Staff Response: The proposed trail will be 6 - 8ft wide and have a dirt or mulch substrate.
Question: How many visitors do you expect to use the preserve? How much additional traffic will
these visitors create?
Staff Response: This is currently unknown. It is expected that very few people will visit from May-
November due to flooded conditions during these months.
Question: Who will be responsible for maintaining Adkins Avenue?
Staff Response: Adkins Avenue is a public road maintained by Collier County.
Parking Lot Design:
Question: Can you reduce the proposed parking lot from ten to five spaces?
Staff Response: The nearby Serenity Walk Park has five parking spaces which is inadequate for
the volume of people who would like to visit that park. We expect a similar number of potential
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visitors. Ten parking spaces is not excessive. In addition, funding put towards a parking lot should
provide adequate parking; it would be a similar cost to build 5 spaces as it would be to build 10
spaces due to the permitting and design costs. An appropriate parking lot is necessary to provide
the taxpayers a way to derive the benefits of their contribution. In addition, if adequate parking is
not provided then visitors would end up parking along the street which is not desired by the
neighbors.
Question: Can you prevent visitors from parking on the road shoulder?
Staff Response: Signs instructing visitors to avoid parking on the road shoulder could be installed
but building an adequately sized parking lot would better prevent this occurrence.
Question: Can you construct the parking lot from crushed shell/gravel/natural materials?
Staff Response: These materials are more difficult to maintain than the proposed permeable
concrete surface.
Question: Can you face the parking stalls into the preserve instead of towards the road?
Yes.
Site Security:
Question: How will you prevent unauthorized access to the preserve?
Staff Response: The proposed parking lot will have an automatic gate that remains closed from
sunset to sunrise, a fence that runs along the frontage with Adkins Ave, and partially down the
western boundary, and bollards at the trailhead. This fence will be constructed so that it will be
aesthetically pleasing and stop vehicles but not negatively impact the movement of wildlife. No
additional access points are proposed. Dense vegetation prohibits vehicle access to the preserve
via Everett St.
Question: Will there be lighting installed in the parking lot?
Staff Response: No. The preserve will be closed from sunset to sunrise, so lighting is
unnecessary.
Question: How often will the parking lot be maintained and inspected?
Staff Response: Conservation Collier staff will regularly visit the preserve to inspect/maintain
amenities and landscaping.
Question: Who will respond to issues at the preserve?
Staff Response: Emergency/criminal issues should be directed to the Collier County Sheriffs,
wildlife issues should be directed to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Law
Enforcement, and all other issues should be directed to Conservation Collier staff.
Other:
Question: Can the preserve be developed?
Conservation Collier Rattlesnake Hammock Preserve 10-year Land Management Plan
55
Staff Response: In accordance with Conservation Collier Ordinance 2019-03, purchasing land
using Conservation Collier program funds permanently extinguishes all development rights
except those strictly compatible with the purposes and goals of Conservation Collier.
Question: Would you consider you planting beneficial plants for pollinating insects?
Staff Response: Yes. We have already installed some native flowering plants and intend to do
more.