Agenda 12/12/2023 Item #16A20 (Approve the Conservation Collier Dr. Robert H Gore III 10-year Final Management Plan)12/12/2023
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Recommendation to approve the Conservation Collier Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve 10 -Year Final
Management Plan under the Conservation Collier Program.
OBJECTIVE: To obtain approval from the Board of County Commissioners (Board) for the Dr. Robert H. Gore
III Final Management Plan.
CONSIDERATIONS: The Conservation Collier Ordinance, No. 2002-63, as amended, Section 14(2), requires
that a Final Management Plan shall be prepared with review and input of the Conservation Collier Land Acquisition
Advisory Committee (CCLAAC). Section 14(3) requires that the management plans prepared during the preceding
year be submitted annually to the Board of County Commissioners for approval.
The 191.44-acre Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve, located in the Golden Gate Estates, was acquired in 2018. The
Board developed and approved An Interim Management Plan on January 28, 2020, Agenda Item 16D4. The
approved plan has been operational for the Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve since that time. This age nda item
provides the initial Final Management Plan as the Conservation Collier Ordinance requires. Hereafter, the plan will
be revised every five (5) years.
Changes in this plan include:
• updated maps,
• updated property status information,
• additions to plant or animal lists,
• status of exotic plant and animal infestations,
• and updates to the conceptual public access amenities for the site.
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, in-person meeting was held on January 25th, 2023, to allow community
input on the draft plan. No public comment was received. The CCLAAC reviewed and approved the updated plan
on February 1, 2023.
FISCAL IMPACT: Annual costs for preserve maintenance following public access amenity installations are
estimated at an average of $17,900 per year for the next nine (9) years. This is primarily for invasive exotic plant
treatment and trail maintenance. Completion of public access amenities, including engineering/design and
construction for a visitor parking lot, access trail expansion, and fencing and gates for site security enhancement, is
estimated to cost $135,000. Funds are available within the Conservation Collier Land Management Fund (1062) to
accomplish these activities.
GROWTH MANAGEMENT IMPACT: Management of Conservation Collier lands to support appropriate
public access is consistent with and supports Policy 1.1.5 and Objective 1.3 in the Recrea tion and Open Space
Element of the Collier County Growth Management Plan.
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 for the use of environmentally sensitive
lands. This item is approved for form and legality and requires a majority vote for Board action.-SAA
RECOMMENDATION: To approve the attached proposed 10-year Final Management Plan for the Dr. Robert H.
Gore III Preserve and directs staff to implement the updated plan.
Prepared by: Molly DuVall, Environmental Specialist II, Development Review Division
ATTACHMENT(S)
1. [Linked] Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve Final Management Plan (PDF)
16.A.20
Packet Pg. 1073
12/12/2023
COLLIER COUNTY
Board of County Commissioners
Item Number: 16.A.20
Doc ID: 27196
Item Summary: Recommendation to approve the Conservation Collier Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve 10-Year
Final Management Plan under the Conservation Collier Program.
Meeting Date: 12/12/2023
Prepared by:
Title: Technician – Development Review
Name: Lucia Martin
11/07/2023 2:30 PM
Submitted by:
Title: Environmental Specialist – Growth Management Community Development Department
Name: Jaime Cook
11/07/2023 2:30 PM
Approved By:
Review:
Development Review Summer BrownAraque Additional Reviewer Completed 11/13/2023 8:52 AM
Operations & Regulatory Management Michael Stark Additional Reviewer Completed 11/14/2023 5:18 PM
Growth Management Community Development Department Diane Lynch Level 1 Department ReviewCompleted
11/14/2023 6:05 PM
Transportation Management Operations Support Evelyn Trimino Additional Reviewer Completed
11/14/2023 10:52 PM
Growth Management Community Development Department Jaime Cook Division Director Completed
11/20/2023 11:23 AM
County Attorney's Office Sally Ashkar Level 2 Attorney Review Completed 11/21/2023 10:25 AM
Growth Management Community Development Department James C French Growth Management Completed
11/27/2023 5:10 PM
Office of Management and Budget Debra Windsor Level 3 OMB Gatekeeper Review Completed 11/28/2023 9:17 AM
County Attorney's Office Jeffrey A. Klatzkow Level 3 County Attorney's Office Review Completed 11/28/2023 9:34 AM
Office of Management and Budget Laura Zautcke Additional Reviewer Completed 11/30/2023 10:39 AM
County Manager's Office Amy Patterson Level 4 County Manager Review Completed 12/01/2023 10:33 AM
Board of County Commissioners Geoffrey Willig Meeting Pending 12/12/2023 9:00 AM
16.A.20
Packet Pg. 1074
Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve
Land Management Plan
Managed By:
Collier County, FL
Conservation Collier Program
December 2023-December 2033 (10 Year Plan)
Prepared by: Collier County Conservation Collier Staff
Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve Land Management Plan
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Contents
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Land Management Plan Executive Summary ....................................................................................................... 5
Table 1. Acquisition History and Status of the Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve ................................. 6
Conservation Collier: Land Acquisition Program and Management Authority ...................................... 6
Purpose and Scope of Plan .......................................................................................................................................... 6
Preserve Location ........................................................................................................................................................... 7
Adjacent Land Use and Regional Significance ..................................................................................................... 8
Figure 2. Adjacent Conservation Lands ............................................................................................................. 9
Partnership Opportunities and Community Involvement Cypress Cove Landkeepers ...................... 10
1.0 VEGETATION MANAGEMENT .............................................................................................................................. 12
1.1 Management Goal ........................................................................................................................................... 12
1.2 Site Assessment ............................................................................................................................................... 12
1.2.1 Natural Plant Communities ................................................................................................................ 12
Table 2. FLUCCS Plant Communities ................................................................................................................ 12
Figure 3. Florida Land Use Cover Classification System (FLUCCS) ...................................................... 14
1.2.2 Invasive Plant Species .......................................................................................................................... 16
1.2.3 Listed Plant Species ............................................................................................................................... 17
Table 3. Listed Plant Species Observed at the Gore Preserve ................................................................ 17
1.3 Management Methods .................................................................................................................................. 17
1.3.1 Invasive Plant Treatment and Removal ........................................................................................ 17
Figure 5. Map of Project Area to Reduce Brazilian Pepper Infestation Along the Right-of-Ways
........................................................................................................................................................................................ 19
1.3.2 Native Plant Restoration ..................................................................................................................... 22
1.3.3 Prescribed Fire and Mechanical Reduction ................................................................................. 23
2.0 WILDIFE MANAGEMENT ....................................................................................................................................... 24
2.1 Management Goal ................................................................................................................................................. 24
2.2 Site Assessment ..................................................................................................................................................... 25
2.2.1 Documented Wildlife Species .................................................................................................................. 25
Table 4. Documented Wildlife Species at the Gore Preserve .................................................................. 27
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2.2.2 Potential Wildlife Utilization .................................................................................................................... 29
Table 5. Imperiled Species That May Utilize the Gore Preserve ........................................................... 30
2.2.3 Imperiled Species Management .............................................................................................................. 30
2.4 Management Methods ........................................................................................................................................ 31
2.4.1 Habitat Modifications .................................................................................................................................. 31
2.4.2 Hunting/ Fishing Opportunities ............................................................................................................. 31
3.0 Hydrology/Water Management/Soils .............................................................................................................. 31
3.1 Management Goal ................................................................................................................................................. 31
3.2 Site Assessment ..................................................................................................................................................... 32
Figure 7. Soils Map of the Gore Preserve ........................................................................................................ 32
3.3 Management Methods ........................................................................................................................................ 33
3.3.1 Berm Degradation and Topographical Alterations ......................................................................... 33
3.3.2 Rehydration Opportunities ....................................................................................................................... 33
4.0 Archaeological, Historical and Cultural Resource Management ............................................................ 33
4.1 Management Goal ................................................................................................................................................. 33
4.2 Site Assessment ..................................................................................................................................................... 33
4.4 Management Methods ........................................................................................................................................ 34
4.4.1 Archaeological Site Assessment and Protection ............................................................................... 34
4.4.2 Preservation of Property History Through Educational Materials ........................................... 34
5.0 PUBLIC ACCESS ......................................................................................................................................................... 35
5.1 Management Goal ................................................................................................................................................. 35
5.2 Site Assessment ..................................................................................................................................................... 35
Figure 8. Existing and Conceptual Public Access Plan .............................................................................. 37
5.4 Management Methods ........................................................................................................................................ 38
5.4.1 Access Improvements ................................................................................................................................. 38
5.4.2 Education and Outreach............................................................................................................................. 38
5.4.3 Signage .............................................................................................................................................................. 38
5.4.4 Eagle Scout Projects/Amenities .............................................................................................................. 40
5.4.5 Easements, Concessions, Leases ............................................................................................................. 41
6.0 Unauthorized Activity Prevention and Response ........................................................................................ 42
6.1 Management Goal ................................................................................................................................................. 42
6.2 Site Assessment ..................................................................................................................................................... 42
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6.4 Management Methods ........................................................................................................................................ 42
6.4.1 Site Security .................................................................................................................................................... 42
6.4.2 Prevention of Off-Road Vehicle Trespass ............................................................................................ 42
6.4.3 Debris Removal ............................................................................................................................................. 42
6.4.4 Contaminant Remediation ........................................................................................................................ 43
7.0 Acquisition/Preserve Expansion ........................................................................................................................ 43
7.1 Management Goal: ................................................................................................................................................ 43
7.2 Site Assessment ..................................................................................................................................................... 43
7.4 Management Methods ........................................................................................................................................ 45
7.4.1 Priority Parcels for Acquisition ............................................................................................................... 45
Figure 9. Acquisition Strategy Map for the Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve ..................................... 46
7.4.2 Partnership Opportunities ........................................................................................................................ 47
MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ....................................................................................................................................... 47
Table 6. Major Accomplishments Since Acquisition .................................................................................. 47
PROJECTED COSTS/OPERATIONAL STRATEGY .................................................................................................. 48
Table 6. Projected Operating Budget through 2032 .................................................................................. 48
APPENDICES ...................................................................................................................................................................... 49
Appendix 1. Legal Descriptions .............................................................................................................................. 49
Appendix 2. Memorandum of Understanding Between Collier County and Cypress Cove
Landkeepers .................................................................................................................................................................. 50
Appendix 3. Letter Recommending Acquisition by the US Fish and Wildlife Service ....................... 54
Appendix 4. Images Documenting the Impacts of the January 2022 Frost Event .............................. 56
Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve Land Management Plan
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INTRODUCTION
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: Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve
Preserve lands consist of five parcels located within Township 49S, Range 28E and Section 33, in
Collier County, Florida (41500040008, 41506600002, 41616920009, 41506800006,
41502560007) Full legal descriptions are provided in Appendix 1.
Total Acreage: 191.44 acres
Management Responsibilities: Collier County Conservation Collier Program staff
Designated Land Use: Preservation
Unique Features: The preserve contributes to an important wildlife corridor connecting the
Golden Gate Estates to the state and federal conservation lands of the Picayune Strand State Forest,
Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park, and the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge. The
parcels that comprise the preserve were previously purchased and protected by Dr. Robert H. Gore
III, a Collier County resident who was passionate about preserving ecologically sensitive lands and
educating future generations about their importance.
Management Goals:
Goal 1: Restore native plant communities to enhance the integrity of the habitat and resiliency to
future disturbance
Goal 2: Manage habitat and public use to promote utilization of the preserve by focal wildlife
species.
Goal 3: Seek opportunities and partnerships for improvements to site hydrology and water
management that are compatible with surrounding land uses.
Goal 4: Preserve the archeological, historical, and cultural resources of the preserve.
Goal 5: Provide opportunities for compatible, nature-based recreation to the community.
Goal 6: Incorporate methods to prevent unauthorized activities within the preserve and develop a
response procedure to incidents
Goal 7: Pursue the acquisition of parcels adjacent to or nearby the existing preserve boundary.
Public Involvement: As part of the Land Management Plan drafting process, a public meeting was
held on January 25th, 2023 to gather input from members of the public and preserve stakeholders.
Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve Land Management Plan
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Table 1. Acquisition History and Status of the Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve
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 established the Conservation Collier Program to
implement the program and to manage acquired lands. As such, Conservation Collier holds
management authority for the Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve.
Purpose and Scope of Plan
The purpose of the plan is to provide management direction for the Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve
(Gore Preserve) by identifying the goals and objectives necessary to eliminate or minimize any
threats to the resources and integrity of the preserve. This text is a w orking document that
establishes the foundation of a ten-year plan by identifying the appropriate management
techniques necessary to preserve and/or restore the resource.
Table 1: Acquisition History and Status of the Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve
Year Benchmark
2008 Property nominated to the Conservation Collier Program
2009 Property recommended for the Cycle 6 Acquisition B-List by the Conservation
Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee
2017 Application Received by the Acquisition Program for Cycle 9
2018 168.87 acres Gore parcels purchased by Conservation Collier in November
2019 2.34 acres I-75 Berman Trust parcels purchased by Conservation Collier in June
2020 Developed Interim Management Plan- BCC Approved
2022 1.59 acres Rudnick Parcel donated to Conservation Collier
2023 Developed Final Management Plan- BCC Approval Pending
7
Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve Land Management Plan
This plan will balance resource restoration and protection with natural resource-based recreational
and educational use while looking at listed species protection and maintenance of the site free of
invasive, exotic plant and animal species. This plan is divided into sections that include an
introduction, descriptions of the natural and cultural resources, projected uses of the property, and
management issues, goals, and objectives.
An Interim Management Plan for the Gore Preserve was approved by the Collier County Board of
County Commissioners (BCC) in 2020. This is the Final Management Plan for the Gore Preserve.
Updates to this plan will be completed every 5 years following approval by the BCC.
Preserve Location
The Gore Preserve is located adjacent to and directly west of Desoto Blvd in Section 33, Township
49S, and Range 28E within the Northern Golden Gate Estates of Collier County, FL. The properties
are accessible by road via 36th, 38th and 40th Ave SE. The total acreage for the preserve is 191.44
acres. The property is composed of Pine Flatwood, Mixed Wetland Hardwoods, Inland Ponds and
Sloughs, Cypress, and Mixed Shrub Brush.
Existing parcel folios are as follows:
41500040008
41506600002
41616920009
41506800006
41502560007
Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve Land Management Plan
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Figure 1. Gore Preserve Location and Boundary
Adjacent Land Use and Regional Significance
The Gore Preserve is located within 1 mile of several integral state and federal conservation lands
which provide contiguous protected habitat for a wide diversity of imperiled wildlife species. The
federally owned Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge comprises over 26,000 acres of
contiguous habitat along the eastern boundary of the Gore Preserve. To the south, the state-owned
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lands of Picayune Strand State Forest comprising over 78,000 acres and the Fakahatchee Strand
Preserve State Park comprising over 85,000 acres provide opportunities for wildlife utilizing the
Gore Preserve to disperse throughout a contiguous network of conservation land via the wildlife
underpasses beneath Interstate 75. As a result of this close network of managed wildlife habitat, the
Gore Preserve lands record significant and consistent observations of utilization by large, long -
ranging wildlife species like the federally endangered Florida panther, the Florida black bear, white -
tailed deer, and wild turkey, among others.
Figure 2. Adjacent Conservation Lands
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Partnership Opportunities and Community Involvement
Cypress Cove Landkeepers
The 501c3 nonprofit known as the Cypress Cove Landkeepers (formerly the Cypress Cove
Conservancy) was founded in 2015 with a mission to preserve and protect Southwest Florida’s
ecologically sensitive landscape from the impacts of development. Following the acquisition of the
County preserve lands in 2018, the Cypress Cove Landkeepers purchased 10 acres in the center of
the County preserve boundary and named the parcel the Gore Nature Education Center. The Gore
Nature Education Center features the previous home of Dr. Robert H. Gore III which has been
renovated to serve as a nature-learning classroom, demonstration kitchen, and gathering space for
programs and meetings. Along with the educational programming available, the property offers a
series of short walking trails. Currently the Nature Education Center is open for special programs
or by reservation only, except for the first Sunday of each month where it is available for public
visitation from 10am-2pm.
Photo 1. View of the Gore Nature Education Center Managed by the Cypress Cove Landkeepers
Members of the Cypress Cove Landkeepers organization were i nstrumental toward advocating for
the purchase and preservation of the Gore Preserve lands owned by the County. As part of the
continued partnership planning between the two organizations, a Memorandum of Understanding
(MOU) was drafted between Collier County and the Cypress Cove Landkeepers and approved by the
Collier County Board of County Commissioners in June of 2021 (Appendix 2). The MOU defines
expectations for utilization of County Preserve lands by representatives of the Cypress Cove
Landkeepers for education and outreach opportunities and specifies a goal for consistency in
educational signage and materials between the two properties.
The conceptual public access plan detailed in section 5.0 PUBLIC ACCESS of this document provides
a framework for the desired future connectivity of the County preserve land trails with the existing
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Gore Nature Education Center Trails to facilitate the educational opportunities available at the
County preserve lands. The plans for this connection point between the two trails include a locking
gate feature to prevent public unauthorized access to the Gore Nature Education Center Trails
during times when visitation hours differ between the two properties. Additional connection points
may be considered in the future as trail building and public access opportunities expand.
In November of 2021, Conservation Collier staff took part in the Grand Opening celebrations for the
Gore Nature Education Center hosted by the Cypress Cove Landkeepers and provided outreach and
information to members of the public regarding public access opportunities at the County preserve
and future goals for acquisition. Conservation Collier staff will continue to partner with the Cypress
Cove Landkeepers for future outreach and education events that support the conservation and
education goals of both organizations.
Photo 2: Conservation Collier staff providing outreach at the Gore Nature Education Center Grand
Opening in 2021. Photo by Christy Duff
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Fstop Foundation
The 501c3 non-profit Fstop Foundation was founded with a mission to create a positive effect in
conservation by creating awareness through the use of photography. In early 2021, Conservation
Collier staff partnered with the Fstop Foundation team who installed wildlife monitoring cameras
along the public access trails of the Gore Preserve. Fstop Foundation staff maintain these cameras
and download the collected images into a shared database which allows Collier County staff to
monitor activities along the preserve trails and develop an inventory of the wildlife species
observed utilizing the preserve lands. The material collected by the Fstop Foundation has been used
during guided educational hikes with the public, on social media to enhance wildlife awareness
within the community, in educational brochures for the property and on the preserve website. A
sample of photos collected thanks to the wildlife monitoring partnership with the Fstop Foundation
are featured in section 2.0 WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT.
1.0 VEGETATION MANAGEMENT
1.1 Management Goal
Goal: Restore native plant communities to enhance the integrity of the habitat and resiliency to
future disturbance
1.2 Site Assessment
1.2.1 Natural Plant Communities
Characterization of Plant Communities present:
FLUCCS Ground cover Midstory Canopy
411 – pine
flatwoods
grasses, palmetto, St. John’s-wort primrose willow,
twinflower, bachelor button, beautyberry, meadow
beauty, goldenrod, musky mint, tickseed
wax myrtle, bay, saltbush,
myrsine, shining sumac
slash pine
428 –
cabbage palm
grasses, ferns and forbs, poison ivy
vines, wild coffee, dog fennel
cabbage palm cabbage palm,
slash pine
616 - inland
ponds and
sloughs
Swamp fern, maidencane, pickerel weed, sagittaria hog plum, rag weed, salt
bush
pond apple,
cypress, pop ash
617-mixed
wetland
hardwoods
Swamp fern, frog-fruit, blue porterweed Dog fennel, beauty berry,
myrsine
Red maple, pop
ash, red bay,
laurel oak
621-cypress swamp fern, chain fern, smilax cabbage palm, salt brush,
stiff dogwood
cypress, cabbage
palm, red bay
Table 2. FLUCCS Plant Communities
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The Florida Land Use Cover Classification for the preserve defines four native plant communities
within the preserve. As a result of historic efforts to develop the Golden Gate Estates and habitat
alterations that reduced the hydroperiod, a portion of the property has transitioned to pine
flatwoods with upland vegetation in the understory.
In general, the condition of the on-site native plant communities upon acquisition varied from
moderate to poor as a result of the consistent infestation level throughout each community type by
invasive, exotic plant species. The native plant communities found throughout the preserve, while
heavily impacted by exotics feature mature native trees and a diverse midstory and understory
where native plants species occur. Because of this persistence of a rich diversity of native plant
species throughout the impacted communities found within the preserve, restoration forecasts are
optimistic following intensive efforts to kill and remove the exotic plant species dominating the
landscape.
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Figure 3. Florida Land Use Cover Classification System (FLUCCS)
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Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) is a remote sensing method that calculates variable
distances from the earth’s surface and provides a rendering of the topography of an area.
Figure 4. LIDAR Map of the Gore Preserve and Surrounding Area
In the LIDAR Map shown above (Figure 4) variations in elevations throughout the preserve can be
Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve Land Management Plan
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seen with lower elevation areas shown in dark orange and often corresponding to wetland sloughs,
seasonal ponds, and roadside swales. Areas with higher elevations are shown in degrees of lighter
orange, with the lightest shades corresponding to raised spoil piles and areas where upland
vegetation is likely to compose the plant community. A notable feature shown in the map is the
depressional cypress slough at the northeast corner of the Cypress Cove Landkeepers parcel that
provides wetland habitat for listed wading birds, features shoulder-height cypress knees and is a
focal location for many of the educational programs occurring on-site.
The modifications to this area as shown in the LIDAR map are one of the driving forces for the
condition of the preserve upon acquisition. Changes to the regional hydrology through the
installation of roadways, swales, and the Faka Union canal have facilitated a significant infestation
of the native plant communities by exotic, invasive plant species. When first acquired, it was
estimated that more than 65% of the plant community composition on-site was comprised of exotic,
invasive species. This is a considerable infestation compared to other parcels acquired through the
Conservation Collier program and project benchmarks for restoration success may need to factor
in a longer timeframe and more intensive approach to reach the goals defined in this management
plan.
1.2.2 Invasive Plant Species
The invasive, exotic plant species identified as having a significant impact on the native plant
communities within the Gore Preserve include Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolia), air
potato (Dioscorea bulbifera), lantana (Lantana spp.), cogan grass (Imperata cylindrica), and
mission grass (Pennisetum polystachion).
Photo 3. Seasonal air potato infestation occurring within the Gore Preserve
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The preserve will be inspected throughout each year with aims of providing early detection of new
exotic, invasive species of concern. Collier County staff will continue to communicate with
contractors hired for exotic plant removal in order to extend monitoring efforts for new species
observations. Following two sweeps of the entire property in 2020 and 2021, there have been no
observations of sizeable infestations by climbing fern (Lygodium spp.) which is often one of the most
costly and intensive species to eradicate within a preserve. Conservation Collier staff will continue
to monitor for the presence of this exotic species in order to respond when infestation levels are
low and manageable.
1.2.3 Listed Plant Species
A diversity of plant species that are listed as endangered or threatened have been observed within
the preserve. A property wide inventory of all plant species found within the preserve will be
completed in the Spring and Fall of 2022 and provided as an Appendix item to this management
plan. The listed species recorded to date are listed in the Table below.
Common Names Scientific Names FDACS (State)
Hand fern Ophioglossum palmatum Endangered
Reflexed wild pine Tillandsia balbisiana Threatened
Stiff-leaved wild pine Tillandsia fasciculata Endangered
Giant wild pine Tillandsia utricula Endangered
Saw palmetto Serenoa repens Commercially Exploited
Twisted air-plant Tillandsia flexuosa Threatened
Butterfly orchid Encyclia tampensis Commercially Exploited
Table 3. Listed Plant Species Observed at the Gore Preserve
1.3 Management Methods
1.3.1 Invasive Plant Treatment and Removal
When the Gore Preserve was acquired in 2018, one of the initial management and planning concerns
noted was the reduced access to the interior portions of the preserve due to a dense infestation of
exotic Brazilian pepper along the right of ways of the roadways. This reduction of access was
anticipated to significantly increase the quoted price for annual exotic removal treatments during
both the initial and maintenance phase of restoration. As the dense stands of Brazilian pepper were
the primary vegetation type visible along the road edge through the majority of the preserve, there
was also a concern regarding the long-term appearance of the restoration areas of the preserve if
the typical kill-in-place method was used for exotics control as the dominant view for public visitors
would be deteriorating and defoliated pepper shrubs. In order to reduce management costs
overtime, facilitate management access to the interior portions of the preserve, and improve the
aesthetics and visitor experience to the preserve, a project was undertaken in 2019 to mechanically
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remove the Brazilian pepper infesting the right of way along 40th Ave SE, 38th Ave SE, and Desoto
Blvd (Figure 5). This mechanical reduction was followed up by subsequent herbicide treatments of
regrowth to control resprouting. The photos below show the status of the right of way prior to
treatment as well as after. Follow-up reduction of the treated pepper may be considered for future
projects in areas where a dense infestation existed beyond the limit of the precious right of way
project.
Photo 4. Initial Condition of the Preserve Roadways with Dense Stands of Brazilian Pepper
Photo 5. Condition of the Right of Way Following Mechanical Reduction of Brazilian Pepper
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Figure 5. Map of Project Area to Reduce Brazilian Pepper Infestation Along the Right-of-
Ways
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In 2019, Conservation Collier staff applied for and were awarded funding assistance through the
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Upland Invasive Plant Management
Section (IPMS) to carry out an initial exotics treatment in 2020 of 101.5 acres of the Gore Preserve
which equated to the parcels to the North of 40th Ave SE (Figure 6) in the amount of $32,480. Collier
County matched the treatment funds and completed a treatment of the remaining 70 acres for
$37,769.47 utilizing management funds allocated for the Gore Preserve.
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Figure 6. 2020 Initial Exotics Treatments at the Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve
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In 2020, Conservation Collier staff again applied for funding assistance through the FWC IPMS
program to carry out a maintenance exotic treatment on the entire 171.2 acres of the preserve. Staff
were awarded $28,132.50 of funding assistance to complete the treatment. Also in 2020,
Conservation Collier staff completed a maintenance treatment of the vegetation surrounding
4,000ft of the public hiking trail for $3,995 targeting species not included in the IPMS funding
assistance scope of work. Staff competed for funding through the IPMS program again in 2022 and
received funding assistance to complete an additional maintenance exotics treatment of the full
preserve boundary in 2023 valued at up to $50,000.
Photo 6. Aerial Comparison of the Exotics Coverage in an Area in 2019 (left) vs 2022 (right)
Air potato (Dioscorea bulbifera) is listed as a Category 1 exotic by the Florida Exotic Plant Pest
Council and is prolific in localized areas of the preserve from Spring-Fall. As the growth stage for
this vine occurs outside of the typical timeline for annual exotic herbicide treatments, add itional
targeted treatments will be factored into the annual exotic maintenance plan for the preserve, either
through contracted services or in-house spot treatments as needed. It is recommended to carry out
subsequent treatments in late spring and early summer in order to target vines when they are small,
actively growing, and have not yet produced the aerial tubers that feed subsequent invasions.
Mission grass (Pennisetum polystachion) and cogan grass (Imperata cylindrica) are two invasive,
exotic species that are impacting localized areas of the preserve boundary, likely brought in from
routine mowing of the road right of way by large equipment, and may require multiple treatments
each year to eradicate and prevent from spreading. Annual treatments and inspections will be
required until adjacent parcels with significant seed source are acquired and treated, or the private
owners eradicate the grasses from the parcels adjacent to the preserve boundary.
1.3.2 Native Plant Restoration
With any management activity that results in habitat modifications, such as exotic plant removal or
installation of public use infrastructure, the preferred and most cost-effective method for
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revegetation of the native plant community is through natural recruitment via the existing
seedbank.
In some cases, the level of infestation is so high and has been impacting the property for such a
length of time that the native seed bank is depleted and not a reliable source for natural recruitment
and regrowth of a treatment area. On a case-by-case basis, these areas will be considered for native
plant restoration projects where native trees and shrubs are sourced from a native plant nursery
and planted within a project site to facilitate and expedite restoration of the plant community.
Where possible, efforts should be made to utilize sources for plantings that preserve local or on -site
plant genetics.
1.3.3 Prescribed Fire and Mechanical Reduction
Plant communities within the Dr. Robert Gore III Preserve are fire dependent and would benefit
substantially from activities geared toward fuel reduction and the use of controlled burning if it was
deemed feasible. Historic alterations to the hydrology of the region through the installation of
roadways and canal systems that have shortened the hydroperiod as well as long-term suppression
of natural fires to protect homes throughout the Golden Gate Estates has led to significant fuel
loading within the preserve lands and surrounding areas. The infestation of these fire suppressed
parcels by exotic plant species is an additional contributing factor to the high fuel levels and fire risk
of the region. The impacts of uncontrolled wildfires are an annual concern for community members
living within and visiting the Estates Area and are an important concern for lan d managers to
consider when working to safeguard the natural resources of the preserve and surrounding
community.
Given present conditions of fuel levels of parcels adjacent to the preserve, lack of sufficient
firebreaks protecting homesteads, and a history of significant property loss within the Estates due
to wildfires, controlled burning is not a recommended management action at this time. The
feasibility of controlled burning to manage the Gore Preserve lands should be re -assessed at each
5-year update to the plan. As controlled burning is not currently a recommended method for
management, activities that aim to simulate some of the benefits of controlled burning for fuel
reduction such as projects that incorporate mechanical mulching and mowing of herbaceous ground
cover may be considered.
2022 Frost Event
From Thursday, January 27th-Monday, January 31st, 2022, a region-wide frost advisory was in effect
and areas surrounding the Gore Preserve recorded overnight temperatures as low as 28 F.
Freezing temperatures to this extent in this region had not been recorded since 2010. Following the
freeze event, Conservation Collier staff carried out a site visit to observe the effects of the low
temperatures on the native and exotic vegetation species at the preserve. In comparison to all other
Conservation Collier preserves visited during this timeframe, the Gore Preserve showed the
greatest short-term die-off of plant species diversity and extent, speculated to be as a result of inland
temperatures dropping lower than coastal areas throughout the frost event. In February of 2022,
Collier County staff collected aerial images of the preserve to document the frost damage using a
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drone (Appendix 4). Staff have been monitoring the recovery of the vegetation within the preserve
following the frost event and have noted that a regrowth of the native plant species that initially
appeared to be a permanent die-off was first observed in late March and it is anticipated that the
upcoming rainy season will contribute to the natural regrowth of the preserve’s native understory
vegetation. It is unknown what the long-term impacts will be on the cold-sensitive epiphytes within
the preserve such as existing orchid species, but efforts will be made to monitor this where possible.
It is important to note that anecdotal observations were made that there were limited impacts from
the frost on mature Brazilian pepper trees in the region, but plants that were previously treated or
young plants not yet established were observed to be impacted by frost in the short term.
Photo 7. Aerial Drone Imagery of the Understory Vegetation Impacted by the January 2022 Freeze
Event
The aerial image above showing the extent of the frost damage to the understory herbaceous plant
cover provides a good visual representation of the areas of the preserve that may benefit from
consideration for future mechanical reduction of the understory by mowing or mulching to simulate
the effects of controlled fire and reduce overloaded fuels. With these types of activities, dense
overgrown vegetation is reduced in height to allow for regrowth of native species that have a higher
nutrient load to support herbivorous wildlife and increases resources like light and space for native
plants to regrow from the seedbank and ultimately increase species diversity.
2.0 WILDIFE MANAGEMENT
2.1 Management Goal
Goal 2: Manage habitat and public use to promote utilization of the preserve by focal wildlife
species.
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2.2 Site Assessment
The Gore Preserve is an ecologically valuable acquisition for the region, not only due to the
preservation of the native plant communities in this rapidly developing portion of Collier County,
but also for the preservation of a highly utilized wildlife dispersal corridor. Situated North of the
Picayune Strand State Forest, northwest of the Fakahatchee Strand State Preserve, and west of the
Florida Panther Refuge, the lands that comprise the Gore Preserve are highly utilized by far-ranging
species like the endangered Florida panther, the Florida black bear, as well as white -tailed deer,
wild turkey, Eastern diamondback rattlesnake, grey fox, and spotted skunk among others.
Adjacent to the preserve lands along the Faka-Union Canal, a wildlife underpass crossing
constructed by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) provides wildlife with an
opportunity to cross from the Picayune Strand State Forest, under Interstate 75, and into the
protected lands of the Gore Preserve before dispersing throughout the rest of the Golden Gate
Estates. These wildlife underpasses are monitored using game cameras and record consistent
utilization from a wide range of species from American alligator to Florida panther. Currently the
lands directly adjacent to the Gore Preserve side of the underpass are in private ownership and
heavily impacted by Brazilian pepper. If future opportunities become available to acquire these
parcels and restore the habitat to facilitate access for wildlife, the dispersal corridor between state
and county conservation lands could be enhanced significantly.
2.2.1 Documented Wildlife Species
The Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve provides habitat for a wide diversity of wildlife species. Table 4
provides a list of wildlife species observed on-site to date. As additional observations are made, this
list will be updated and republished at subsequent management plan updates.
Category Common Name Scientific Name
Protection
Status
BIRDS mourning dove Zenaida macroura
turkey vulture Cathartes aura
red-shouldered hawk Buteo lineatus
black vulture Coragyps atratus
wild turkey Meleagris gallopavo
common ground-dove Columbina passerina
red-bellied woodpecker Melanerpes carolinus
red-headed woodpecker
Melanerpes
erythrocephalus
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downy woodpecker Picoides pubescens
blue jay Cyanocitta cristata
white-eyed vireo Vireo griseus
Northern cardinal Cardinalis cardinalis
great-crested flycatcher Myiarchus crinitus
blue-grey gnatcatcher Polioptila caerulea
swallow-tailed kite Elanoides forficatus
pileated woodpecker Dryocopus pileatus
house wren Troglodytes aedon
Caroline wren Thryothorus ludovicianus
little blue heron Egretta caerulea State-Threatened
great blue heron Ardea herodias
great egret Ardea alba
great horned owl Bubo virginianus
MAMMALS white-tailed deer Odocoileus virginianus
Florida black bear Ursus americanus
Florida panther Puma concolor coryi
Federally
Endangered
Eastern spotted skunk Spilogale putorius
raccoon Procyon lotor
Virginia opossum Didelphis virginiana
nine-banded armadillo Dasypus novemcinctus
hispid cotton rat Sigmodon hispidus
grey squirrel Sciurus carolinensis
REPTILES
Cottonmouth/ Water
Moccasin
Agkistrodon piscivorous
conanti
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Eastern diamondback
rattlesnake Crotalus adamenteus
brown anole Anolis sagrei *Exotic
green anole Anolis carolinensis
INSECTS queen butterfly Danaus gilippus
zebra longwing Heliconius charithonia
monarch butterfly Danaus plexippus
gulf fritillary Agraulis vanillae
green darner Anax junius
Eastern pondhawk Erythemis simplicicollis
Table 4. Documented Wildlife Species at the Gore Preserve
The nonprofit Fstop Foundation maintains a network of trail cameras throughout the preserve. A
highlight of the wildlife observations collected on their camera located throughout the Gore
Preserve is below:
Photo 8. Florida black bear and cubs
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Photo 9. A great horned owl pair was recorded nesting within the preserve in 2021
Photo 10. White tailed deer and fawn are a frequent capture along the trails
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Photo 11. A Florida panther at the Gore Preserve
Photo 12. Bobcat resting by the FStop Foundation wildlife monitoring camera
2.2.2 Potential Wildlife Utilization
Table 5 provides a list of state and federally imperiled wildlife species that may be observed
utilizing the Gore preserve lands and immediately surrounding area.
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Category Common Name Scientific Name Protection Status
Reptiles American Alligator Alligator
mississippiensis
Federally threatened
for similar
appearance
Eastern indigo snake Drymarchon corais
couperi
Federally threatened
Gopher tortoise Gopherus polyphemus State threatened
Birds Audubon’s crested
caracara
Polyborus plancus
audubonii
Federally threatened
Everglade’s snail kite Rostrhamus sociabilis
plumbeus
Federally endangered
Florida sandhill crane Antigone canadensis
pratensis
State threatened
Little blue heron Egretta caerulea State threatened
Red-cockaded
woodpecker
Picoides borealis Federally endangered
Roseate spoonbill Platalea ajaja State threatened
Tricolored heron Egretta tricolor State threatened
Wood stork Mycteria americana Federally threatened
Mammals Big Cypress fox
squirrel
Sciurus niger
avicennia
State threatened
Everglades mink Neovison vison
evergladensis
State threatened
Florida bonneted bat Eumops floridanus Federally endangered
Florida panther Puma concolor coryi Federally endangered
West Indian manatee Trichechus manatus
latirostris
Federally threatened
Table 5. Imperiled Species That May Utilize the Gore Preserve
2.2.3 Imperiled Species Management
Currently, the list of observed imperiled wildlife species at the Gore Preserve include the Federally
endangered Florida panther, and state threatened bird species like the little blue heron.
Management activities previously undertaken and conceptually planned such as the restoration of
native plant communities through exotic vegetation removal are compatible with management
activities that will enhance habitat for these listed species. Other management activities that may
be of benefit are the preservation of vegetation conditions that promote denning and nesting of
these listed species and continuing and enhancing efforts to monitor for and inventory utilization
of the preserve by these focal wildlife species.
Conservation Collier will coordinate with the appropriate agency officials tasked with imperiled
species management to facilitate wildlife management activities and research that enhance the
goals of imperiled species recovery where possible. Management activities on the preserve should
align with the best management practices outlined in the Florida’s Imperiled Species Management
Plan 2016-2026 published by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
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2.4 Management Methods
2.4.1 Habitat Modifications
Habitat modifications that aim to aim to improve conditions for a particular species should consider
potential negative impacts to other wildlife species that utilize the preserve.
2.4.2 Hunting/ Fishing Opportunities
The Gore Preserve is currently under 200 acres in size with a patchwork of private parcels adjacent
to the current preserve boundary. At this time, hunting is not deemed to be a compatible public use
of the property due to a lack of contiguous acreage and property size large enough to sustain an
ongoing hunting program. Hunting opportunities are available at the neighboring conservation
areas of Picayune Strand State Forest and the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge through
limited quota hunts managed by the FWC.
Conservation Collier staff will research the compatibility of fishing as a consumptive recreational
usage of the property and if it is deemed compatible, determine methods to provide fishing
opportunities to the community. The adjacent Faka Union Canal could be a suitable site for fishing
with access provided via a trail through the preserve leading to the canal. Public visitors
undertaking fishing activities at the Gore Preserve would be required to follow all applicable state
laws administered through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
3.0 Hydrology/Water Management/Soils
3.1 Management Goal
Goal 3: Seek opportunities and partnerships for improvements to site hydrology and water
management that are compatible with surrounding land uses.
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3.2 Site Assessment
Figure 7. Soils Map of the Gore Preserve
Approximately one-half of the properties are mapped as consisting of depressional Boca, Riviera,
limestone substratum, and Copeland fine sands. These soils are hydric, very poorly drained and
found in depressions, swamps, and marshes. Typical vegetation includes cypress, pickerel weed,
and alligator flag. Another approximate one-quarter is mapped as Hallandale and Boca fine sands,
a slough soil. This soil type is nearly level, poorly drained and found in sloughs a nd drainageways.
The natural vegetation consists of scrub cypress, sand cordgrass, wax myrtle and maidencane. The
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remaining one-quarter is mapped as containing Hallandale fine sand. This soil type is poorly drained
and typical of flatwoods. Slash pine, saw palmetto, and creeping bluestem are often found in this
soil type.
A notable feature to the geology of portions of the preserve is the existence of a formation of
limestone known as Karst. Karst terrain is a land surface feature caused by the dissolution of soluble
bedrock to create sinkholes.
3.3 Management Methods
3.3.1 Berm Degradation and Topographical Alterations
A LIDAR map of the preserve and surrounding area (Figure 4) provides a guide for the historic
topographical alterations that have been made to the preserve lands prior to acquisition. Raised
roadways with swales bisect the preserve parcels at 36th Ave, 38th Ave, 40th Ave SE and Desoto Blvd.
Land scars from an historic tram road South of 40th Ave SE are evidenced by the map and have since
been re-vegetated and are an area of low elevation that holds water in the wet season. Parcels
adjacent to the Faka-Union Canal on the West and Southwest portion of the preserve show raised
berms along the canal edge where material was dredged during construction and stacked and later
vegetated with invasive Brazilian pepper. It is unlikely that restoration of these topographical
alterations can be achieved as the roadways and canals are integral to the current infrastructure of
the region. These higher elevation areas likely lead to a higher density of exotic plant infestation
especially by Brazilian pepper and can be targeted for restoration of plant community coverage.
3.3.2 Rehydration Opportunities
Currently there are limited opportunities to restore the historic natural sheet flow to the preserve
and surrounding areas that has been reduced as a result of the construction of roads, the adjacent
Faka-Union Canal, housing, and vegetation changes from fire suppression and exotic vegetation
infestation. Conservation Collier staff will research opportunities to facilitate the restoration of
water movement across the landscape in localized areas through the installation of culverts and
other features within the remaining wetlands on the preserve.
4.0 Archaeological, Historical and Cultural Resource Management
4.1 Management Goal
Goal 4: Preserve the archeological, historical, and cultural resources of the preserve.
4.2 Site Assessment
The Gore Preserve is not within an area of historical and archaeological probability, and no
historical or archaeological sites appear to be present on the property beyond remnants of the
signage posted at various locations by Dr. Gore prior to acquisition . While conducting pre-
acquisition site visits, staff were made aware of the presence of several “pointer trees” throughout
the property that may have indigenous cultural origins. Efforts will be made to locate these trees to
preserve them.
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History of the Property
Dr. Robert H. Gore III was a noted research scientist, environmentalist, educator, consultant, and
author. He earned his PhD in Marine Invertebrate Zoology from the University of Miami and spent
ten years conducting research in marine biology and ecology with the Smithsonian Institute. He later
worked for the Collier County Natural Resources Department specializing in Coastal Zone
Management.
In the 1980s, Dr. Gore set out to preserve natural lands in the eastern portion of Collier County
known as the Golden Gate Estates. Over the course of 20 years, he purchased and protected 71
parcels at risk for future development and built an Old Florida Cracker-style home on the 10-acre
parcel in the center of his preserve. He opened his sanctuary to the community, providing guided
walks and nature-based events to school children and adults alike. In 2008, Dr. Gore applied to have
his parcels considered for acquisition and long-term preservation through the Conservation Collier
Program. At that time, the parcels were recommended for acquisition at a later date or when
additional funds became available through the passing of a subsequent voter approved referendum.
Following his passing in 2017, Dr. Gore’s family sought to continue his mission to preserve this land
and provide environmental education to the community and sold 171 acres to the County through
the Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Program. The ten acres in the center of this newly created
County Nature Preserve, were purchased by the non-profit Cypress Cove Landkeepers and Dr. Gore’s
house renovated to become the Gore Nature Education Center. Dr. Gore’s mission to protect wild
Florida and build community connections with nature continues to this day and into the future.
4.4 Management Methods
4.4.1 Archaeological Site Assessment and Protection
The County will notify the Division of Historical Resources immediately if evidence is found to
suggest any 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, per provisions of the
Land Development Code Section 2.2.25. This report shall be sent to the Division of Historical
Resources. The County shall cooperate fully with direction from the Division of Historical Resources
on the protection and management of archaeological and historical resources. The management of
these resources will comply with the provisions of Chapter 267, Florida Statutes, specifically
Sections 267.061 2 (a) and (b).
4.4.2 Preservation of Property History Through Educational Materials
Conservation Collier staff aim to preserve not only the unique natural resources within the preserve
but also the legacy of Dr. Robert H. Gore III and his goals for conservation of these parcels.
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Conservation Collier staff intend to incorporate the history of the land and Dr. Robert H. Gore III’s
education and preservation goals for the area into future interpretive signage, educational
materials, and management planning.
5.0 PUBLIC ACCESS
5.1 Management Goal
Goal 5: Provide opportunities for compatible, nature-based recreation to the community.
5.2 Site Assessment
Photo 13: Public access trails at the Gore Preserve
Passive, nature-based recreational opportunities are available at the Gore Preserve in the form of
hiking, biking, wildlife photography, guided hikes, birdwatching, and leashed dog walking.
Currently, the preserve provides a 2-mile trail for visitors that is one way in, one way out. A
conceptual design of the future additions to the public access trail at the preserve is shown in Figure
8 with an aim to provide a trail loop that brings visitors back to a conceptual parking area . The
existing trails appear in white while the conceptual trail enhancements appear in blue.
Included in these conceptual trail enhancements are additional mileage for visitors to explore both
the northern portion of the preserve as well as the south. Future enhancements also include a
connection point of the County trails to the Gore Nature Education Center Trails with a gate between
the two access points. It may be desirable to add a second trail connection to the Gore Nature
Education Center along the eastern portion of the property to greater facilitate a loop path for
educational events and guided hikes. Also included in the conceptual plans is a parking area for
visitors to the preserve. At this time there are conceptual and alternate parking lot locations which
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will be finalized depending on future acquisitions. Future goals would be to install a 5-10 space
parking area with access across the road right of way. The parking area would be surrounded by
wildlife friendly fencing with trail access points and bollards. If a buffer is required, native
vegetation will be planted that does not require additional irrigation. Currently, visitors to the
preserve park along 40th Ave SE to access the trail with no official parking lot yet established.
Also included in the conceptual trail enhancements are separate trail entrances for land
management and emergency response vehicles that will be locked and gated and will allow for the
construction of trailhead entrances for public visitors that facilitate access via hiking and biking but
prevent access by off-road vehicles. Currently the one entrance to the trailhead is multiuse with
access required for both pedestrians and land management equipment and the capabilities to limit
off-road vehicle access to the trails are reduced.
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Figure 8. Existing and Conceptual Public Access Plan
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5.4 Management Methods
5.4.1 Access Improvements
In 2019 the Collier County Road and Bridge Department set to complete the resurfacing and paving
of 40th Ave SE which is the access road for current and conceptual public access to the preserve.
Upon learning that the planned road improvements to the preserve only covered to the driveway of
the Gore Nature Education Center and that the remaining road access point to the County Preserve
hiking trails would remain unpaved and mowed grass, Conservation Collier staff worked with the
Road Maintenance Department of Collier County to develop a plan to extend the paving of the access
road to the preserve trailhead. A contractor was hired to ensure the right of way vegetation
requirements were met to facilitate the project and paving was completed to the preserve trailhead.
This partnership with the Road and Bridge Department will greatly enhance public access to the
preserve by providing infrastructure for members of the community to locate and access the
designated entrance to the preserve.
Photo 14. View of the access to 40th Ave SE prior to paving the road and current conditions.
5.4.2 Education and Outreach
5.4.3 Signage
Signage will be utilized to provide information regarding locations, regulations, and educational
outreach to public visitors of the preserve. Prior to installation, a sign draft will be provided to the
Cypress Cover Landkeepers per the MOU.
In June of 2020, a preserve entrance sign was developed and installed at the hiking trailhead for the
preserve. Additional signage has been developed and installed along the trails to provide directional
information with additional signage planned. Educational and interpretive signage is planned for
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Photo 15. An entrance sign was designed and installed at the current preserve trailhead.
Photo 16. Directional signage provided throughout the public access trails
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Photo 17. Educational signage available to public users of the access trails.
Photo 18. Additional signage was added in response to unleashed dogs at the preserve.
5.4.4 Eagle Scout Projects/Amenities
In the winter of 2022, Tristan Robbins with Troop 2 Alligator District completed a preserve
improvement project at the Gore Preserve which featured an enhancement to the public access
trailhead with native landscaping plants and overgrown vegetation removal as well as the
installation of three benches made of recycled materials to provide resting locations for community
visitors along the trail.
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Photo 19: Trailhead Improvements by Tristan Robbins, Eagle Scout Troop 2 Alligator District
Photo 20: Eagle Scout Tristan Robbins exhibiting the native planting area project
Future Eagle Scout Projects that could benefit the preserve include the installation of an
informational kiosk, wildlife nesting/roosting boxes, and projects to improve ADA accessibility to
areas of the preserve.
5.4.5 Easements, Concessions, Leases
No easements exist currently over the Gore Preserve parcels. There are no concessions or leases on
the preserve parcels or proposed for the future, unless they further conservation objectives, such
as a conservation easement.
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6.0 Unauthorized Activity Prevention and Response
6.1 Management Goal
Goal 6: Incorporate methods to prevent unauthorized activities within the preserve and develop a
response procedure to incidents
6.2 Site Assessment
The land that now comprises the Gore Preserve has a history of unauthorized uses in the form of
off-road vehicle trespass, pedestrian trespass, and illegal dumping.
6.4 Management Methods
6.4.1 Site Security
One of the most significant concerns regarding the long-term protection of the natural resources
within the preserve involves disturbance from unauthorized off-road vehicle (ORV) trespass.
6.4.2 Prevention of Off-Road Vehicle Trespass
Methods to prevent off-road vehicle trespass that are currently utilized or conceptually planned
include the use of bollards or public trail access obstructions that promote the regulated use of the
property via foot and bicycle traffic but limit the access capabilities to ORVs. Consideration must be
made to provide alternative, gated, and locked access points to the trail for permissible vehicle use
such as land management equipment for trail maintenance, contractor access, and emergency
vehicle access points. The conceptual trail plan includes gated access points to each section of the
future trail system to facilitate the use of bollards and ORV restrictive access features.
Neighbors to the preserve have reported increased ORV activity along the roadway boundaries of
the Gore Preserve in 2022. Staff have observed the results of ORV riders creating trails through the
buffer vegetation along the roadways of the preserve and causing damage to the vegetation.
Methods to reduce these activities will be investigated and implemented, including the addition of
barriers or wildlife friendly fencing to prevent access to the most sensitive portions of the preserve
edges such as wetlands and restoration planting areas.
Conservation Collier staff will work in close coordination with the Collier County Sheriff’s Office and
the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Law Enforcement to report and respond to
incidents of property trespass and damage.
6.4.3 Debris Removal
Illegal Dumping has been a historic problem in this area of the County, largely as a result of the
surrounding neighborhood streets and parcels being sparsely developed. Occurrences of illegal
dumping along the streets adjacent to the preserve area have declined significantly since public
visitation to the preserve began.
Conservation Collier staff will continue to monitor and address any instances of illegal dumping and
report them to the appropriate agency representatives at Collier County Code Enforcement.
Conservation Collier staff will also continue to partner with community neighbors of the preserve
to enhance the monitoring efforts of the daily activities around the boundary of the preserve.
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To date, no significant instances of debris piles have been located within the preserve boundary. In
the event that historic debris is located within the preserve, Collier County staff will utilize
volunteers or debris removal specialist contractors to address the issue on a case-by-case basis.
6.4.4 Contaminant Remediation
At this time, Conservation Collier staff have no record of any historic contamination or
contamination concerns occurring within the Gore Preserve or surrounding area. If a concern of
contamination is encountered, Collier County staff will address the concern with the appropria te
enforcement agency.
7.0 Acquisition/Preserve Expansion
7.1 Management Goal:
Goal 7: Pursue the acquisition of parcels adjacent to or nearby the existing preserve boundary.
7.2 Site Assessment
Collier County Conservation Collier is a land acquisition program that purchases ecologically
sensitive lands from willing sellers. Priorities for acquisition are based on the criteria in
the Conservation Collier Implementation Ordinance and include factors such as protection of
Collier County’s surface and drinking water resources, protection of wildlife habitat, flood
protection to the surrounding community, and opportunities for nature-based outdoor
recreation.
History of the Conservation Collier Program
A series of community planning initiatives, begun in the late 1980s, culminated in 2001 with the
Community Character and Design visioning process. This process identified the need for a
greenspace acquisition program. The resulting initiative, “Vote Conservation 2002” placed a
referendum question on the November 2002 ballot, asking voters whether they would be willing
to tax themselves one quarter mill for 10 years to buy conservation lands and greenspace and
to approve a $75 million limited tax general obligation bond. Nearly sixty percent of Collier
County voters responded with a resounding YES! As a result, the Conservation Collier Ordinance
(Ordinance No. 2002-63, as amended) was developed, with citizen input and County
Commission approval, to make conservation and protection of environmental resources into a
real plan for the future. In 2003, the Conservation Collier Program was initiated.
In November 2006 Voters were again asked in a referendum "straw vote" question whether they
understood and approved that the Conservation Collier Program would be fund ed by a quarter
mill ad valorem property tax for a period of ten (10) years, until 2013. Eighty-two
percent (82%) of voters approved! Active acquisition proceeded through 2010. At that point,
reduced revenues resulting from economic conditions created uncertainty
about future revenues. The initial acquisition phase was closed in January 2011 and available
funds were appropriated in a maintenance trust fund. At that time, the program moved into a
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preserve management phase, including opening the preserves for public access and managing
and hosting visitors.
The Program remained in a management phase until 2017 when the Board authorized the use
of management funds for the acquisition of more land. In 2018 and 2019, three (3) projects
totaling 237 acres were purchased for $3 million, including the purchase of the Dr. Robert H.
Gore III Preserve Parcels. In 2020, a voter referendum passed with 77% voter approval to
restart the acquisition program for up to 10 years. Following this vote, the Board of
County Commissioners authorized the start of the Cycle 10 acquisition cycle in 2021, followed
by Cycle 11 in 2022. With the start of these acquisition cycles, Conservation Collier began
accepting applications from willing sellers for parcels to acquire.
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7.4 Management Methods
7.4.1 Priority Parcels for Acquisition
Cycle 10 and Cycle 11 Acquisition Strategy
Following the start of Cycle 10 in 2021, Conservation Collier staff, land acquisition committee
members, public stakeholders, and authorizing members of the board of county commissioners
contributed to the development of Cycle 10 Target Protection Mailing Areas (TPMAs). These
TPMAs defined parcels of greatest interest for acquisition. Through the Cycle 10 TPMA process,
68 property owners were identified surrounding the Gore Preserve and received letters inviting
the owners to apply to this willing seller program. The 68 property owners represented a total
of 165.7 acres of land potentially suitable for acquisition and directly adjacent to the Gore
Preserve boundary. Of the 68 property owners contacted, 5 property owners submitted
applications to be considered for acquisition in Cycle 10. One property, the Rudnick parcel
totaling 1.59 acres, was offered as a donation to the Conservation Collier program and was
incorporated into the Gore Preserve boundary in 2022. The remaining 4 parcels in the Cycle 10
Gore TPMA were ranked as A-list acquisitions and are pending offers.
In 2021, in response to stakeholder feedback from the Florida Wildlife Federation, the
Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Committee and later the Board of County Commissioners
voted to approve a request to develop Priority Preserve Expansion Areas which would designate
parcels directly adjacent to two Conservation Collier preserves, the Dr. Robert H. Gore III
Preserve and Panther Walk Preserve, as priority expansion areas to be ranked for acquisition as
part of Cycle 10 and as funds became available, authorize that offers could be made to property
owners within these designated zones should they be interested in selling. At that time, 66
Parcels were identified within the Gore Priority Expansion Area totaling 157 acres (Figure 9).
Gore Priority Expansion Area parcels were approved for ranking on the A-List for acquisition
and offers for purchase were made to all property owners within the Cycle 10 Preserve
Expansion Area.
Cycle 11 was authorized to begin in January of 2022. The Conservation Collier Program accepted applications from willing sellers through June of 2022. As part of acquisition
planning, additional parcels were identified surrounding the Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve to
include in the Preserve Expansion Area. These additional Preserve Expansion Area parcels were approved for ranking on the Cylce 11B A-List for acquisition by the BCC. The Gore Preserve Expansion Area is now known as the Gore Preserve Multi-Parcel Project. Property owners within the Gore Preserve Multi-Parcel Project will receive offer letters for purchase following a market study appraisal. One hundred forty seven (147) parcels totaling 377.2 acres within the Gore Preserve Multi-Parcel Project are currently under private ownership. To date six owners within the Project (9 Parcels totaling 29.0 acres) have pending contracts to sell their parcels to the Conservation Collier Program (Figure 9).
The undeveloped lands surrounding the existing Gore Preserve boundary provide an
opportunity to expand protection to the east and west of the preserve and enhance the habitat
available to wildlife utilizing this important dispersal corridor.
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Figure 9. Acquisition Strategy Map for the Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve
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7.4.2 Partnership Opportunities
Staff will seek out partnership opportunities for conservation, protection, education, and funding
opportunities. Staff will explore possible land management funding assistance programs for the
preserve. These may include but are not limited to grants offered by the USFWS South Florida
Coastal Ecosystems Program, USFWS Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program (Conservation Collier
Cooperative Agreement Modification would be required), the U.S. Department of Agriculture and/or
FWC Upland Weed Management Working Group Funding.
Conservation Collier Program staff will continue to build a strong partnership with members of the
non-profit Cypress Cover Landkeepers to enhance environmental education program offerings and
awareness of this up-and-coming resource for the residents and visitors of Collier County. Staff will
continue to collaborate with the non-profit FStop Foundation to enhance the wildlife utilization
monitoring throughout the preserve.
Staff will also coordinate with the Collier County Scouts BSA and Girl Scouts of the USA for possible
trail enhancement projects.
MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS
2018 Preserve Acquired and Named
2019 Completed Brazilian pepper removal project along preserve boundary
2019 Installed access trail for land management and future public access
2019 Awarded $32,480 in funding assistance for exotic treatment by FWC IPMS
2020 Awarded $28,132.50 in funding assistance for exotic treatment by FWC IPMS
2020 Interim Management Plan approved by the BCC
2020 Installed entrance sign and public use amenities
2021 Participated in the grand opening of the Gore Nature Education Center
2022 Developed the Final Management Plan
2022 Awarded up to $50,000 in funding assistance for exotic treatment by FWC IPMS
Table 6. Major Accomplishments Since Acquisition
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PROJECTED COSTS/OPERATIONAL STRATEGY
Operational
Costs 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032
Exotics
Removal $30,000 $45,000 $15,000 $15,000 $15,000 $15,000 $15,000 $15,000 $15,000 $15,000 $15,000
Trail
Installation
&
Maintenance
$2500 $12,000 $3000 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500
Fencing &
Gates $800 $10,000 $10,000 $250 $250 $250 $0 $5000 $0 $250 $0
Educational
Material:
Signage and
Brochures
$500 $1000 $1000 $200 $0 $200 $0 $200 $0 $200 $0
Restoration/
Planting $300 $0 $800 $0 $0 $200 $0 $0 $200 $0 $0
Parking Lot
Amenities $0 $30,000 $70,000 $1000 $1000 $1000 $1000 $1000 $1000 $1000 $1000
Equipment/
Supplies $500 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500
Total
Anticipated
Costs
$34,600 $98,500 $100,300 $17,450 $17,250 $17,650 $17,000 $22,200 $17,200 $17,450 $17,000
Table 6. Projected Operating Budget through 2032
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APPENDICES
Appendix 1. Legal Descriptions
EXHIBIT “A”
COUNTY’S PROPERTY – DR. ROBERT H. GORE III PRESERVE
Physical Address: 4055 40th Ave SE, Naples, FL 34117
1.PORTION OF GOLDEN GATE EST UNIT 91, GOLDEN GATE EST UNIT 91A,
GOLDEN GATE EST UNIT 92, AND GOLDEN GATE EST UNIT 92A AS DESC IN OR
5573 PG 688, AND GOLDEN GATE EST UNIT 91 N 150FT OF TR 76, LESS GOLDEN
GATE EST UNIT 92 TR 84, LESS GOLDEN GATE EST UNIT 92 W 180FT OF TR 86,
LESS GOLDEN GATE EST UNIT 91, N 150FT OF TR 74 GOLDEN GATE ESTATES,
PLAT BOOK 5, PAGES 30-31 OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF COLLIER COUNTY,
FLORIDA.
TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 41500040008 (160.46 acres)
2.GOLDEN GATE EST UNIT 91 N 150FT OF TR 74. GOLDEN GATE ESTATES, PLAT
BOOK 5, PAGE 30 OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA.
TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 41506600002 (2.34 acres)
3.GOLDEN GATE EST UNIT 92 TR 84. GOLDEN GATE ESTATES, PLAT BOOK 5,
PAGE 31 OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA. TAX
IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 41616920009 (5.68 acres)
4.GOLDEN GATE EST UNIT 92 W 180FT OF TR 86 OR 1836 PG 276. GOLDEN GATE
ESTATES, PLAT BOOK 5, PAGE 30 OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF COLLIER
COUNTY, FLORIDA. TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 41617120002 (2.73 acres)
APPROXIMATELY 171.2 ACRES COMBINED
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Appendix 2. Memorandum of Understanding Between Collier County and Cypress
Cove Landkeepers
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN COLLIER COUNTY
AND
CYPRESS COVE LANDKEEPERS, INC.
This Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) is entered into this _____ day of
_________________, 2020 between COLLIER COUNTY, a political subdivision of the State of
Florida (“COUNTY”) and CYPRESS COVE LANDKEEPERS, INC. (“CYPRESS COVE”).
Recitals
WHEREAS, on July 10, 2018 COUNTY acquired the properties identified on Exhibit “A”
from The Robert H. Gore III Inter Vivos Trust, dated July 25, 1986, for public use in COUNTY’s
Conservation Collier Program (COUNTY’s PROPERTY or DR. ROBERT H. GORE III
PRESERVE); and
WHEREAS, on January 28, 2020the County approved the Interim Management Plan for
the DR. ROBERT H. GORE III PRESERVE; and
WHEREAS, June 7, 2019 CYPRESS COVE acquired the properties identified on Exhibit
“B” from The Robert H. Gore III Inter Vivos Trust , dated July 25, 1986 for public use as nature
center (“CYPRESS COVE’s PROPERTY” OR “NATURE CENTER”); and
WHEREAS, the COUNTY and the CYPRESS COVE wish to provide for coordination and
cooperation of environmental, educational, and historical outreach information and signage on
the properties for the benefit of the citizens of Collier County and others that may visit the
properties.
NOW THEREFORE, it is agreed as follows:
1.Authority.
This MOU is entered into pursuant to Conservation Collier Ordinance No. 07 -65, as
amended (Section 4, Paragraph 12) and the Action Plan set forth in COUNTY’s Interim
Management Plan.
2.Duration.
This MOU shall remain in effect until it is terminated in writing by either party upon 30
days written notice to the other party.
3.Effect of Recitals.
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The recitals set forth above are adopted as findings of fact and incorporated into this
MOU.
4. COUNTY PROPERTY – DR. ROBERT H. GORE III PRESERVE.
A. The County agrees to use the DR. ROBERT H. GORE III PRESERVE in accordance
with the Interim Management Plan, as it may be amended or become a Final
Management Plan, as amended (“Management Plan”).
B. As with all Conservation Collier Property, the Preserve Management Ordinance No.
11-38, as it may be amended or otherwise modified or replaced applies at the DR.
ROBERT H. GORE III PRESERVE.
C. No pets will be permitted in on the COUNTY’s Property unless the Management Plan
indicates that pets are allowed.
D. COUNTY will install a lime-rock parking area on COUNTY’s Property. The need for
parking spaces and the number of spaces will be determined by COUNTY and is
initially expected to be 5-6 parking spaces.
E. Events that are to occur at the DR. ROBERT H. GORE III PRESERVE after dusk will
be coordinated with CYPRESS COVE.
F. CYPRESS COVE employees and volunteers providing services on COUNTY’s
Property pursuant to this MOU are not considered agents or employees of COUNTY.
G. The Interim Management Plan does not allow hunting on COUNTY’s property due to
the limited acreage and proximity of adjacent homesites. “No hunting” signs will be
installed on COUNTY’s Property. Signs prohibiting trespass, litter, firearms, all-terrain
vehicles and poaching will also be installed on COUNTY’s Property,
H. Signs on COUNTY’s Property will be coordinated with CYPRESS COVE such that
signs on COUNTY’s Property and signs on CYPRESS COVE’s Property are
consistent in content. CYPRESS COVE and COUNTY will send each other signage
for review that includes mention of each other. Use of each party’s logo on signage
shall be approved in advance.
5. CYPRESS COVE’s PROPERTY – NATURE CENTER
A. In the event the NATURE CENTER and/or CYPRESS COVE property is open after
dusk, CYPRESS COVE will notify the COUNTY. The intent is for evening events to
be limited to reduce traffic for safety of wildlife after dusk.
B. Gate located to 40th Avenue SE will be locked when the NATURE CENTER is not
open.
C. CYPRESS COVE will cooperate with COUNTY regarding any well installation
COUNTY decides to pursue.
D. Signs on CYPRESS COVE’s Property will be coordinated with COUNTY such that
signs on CYPRESS COVE’s Property and signs on COUNTY’s Property are
consistent in content and appearance.
E. CYPRESS COVE will coordinate its grand opening celebration with COUNTY.
F. CYPRESS COVE’s use of the COUNTY’s trails is limited to open hours.
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6. Indemnification.
Each party to this MOU agrees to be responsible for the liabilities arising out of their own
conduct and the conduct of their officers, employees and agents with COUNTY’s
indemnification subject to Section 768.28, Florida Statutes.
7. Notice.
Any notice sent pursuant to this Memorandum of Understanding shall be sufficient if sent
by regular U.S. Mail to the following addresses:
A. COLLIER COUNTY: CONSERVATION COLLIER COORDINATOR
Golden Gate Community Park
3300 Santa Barbara Blvd.
Naples, FL 34116
ConservationCollier@colliercountyfl.gov
239-252-2961
B. CYPRESS COVE: CYPRESS COVE LANDKEEPERS, INC.
Attention: Current President
Mailing Address:
PO Box 110308
NAPLES, FL 34108
(239)-308-0281
info@wildnaples.com
8. Amendment.
Any amendment to this MOU or its exhibits shall be in writing and shall not be effective
until executed by both parties.
9. Assignment.
In light of the scope and rationale for this MOU, neither party may assign, transfer, or sell
any of the rights set forth in this MOU, or associated with this MOU, without the express
written consent of the other party.
10. Relationship of the Parties.
No employee of either party shall be deemed an employee of the other party. Nothing in
this MOU shall be construed to create an agency relationship, partnership, association,
or joint venture between the parties.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this MOU as of the date set forth above.
ATTEST: BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
CRYSTAL K. KINZEL, CLERK COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: ________________________ By: __________________________________
, DEPUTY CLERK BURT L. SAUNDERS, CHAIRMAN
Approved as to form and legality:
____________________________
Jennifer A. Belpedio
Assistant County Attorney
CYPRESS COVE LANDKEEPERS, INC.
By: ____________________________
Shane Duff
PRESIDENT
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Appendix 3. Letter Recommending Acquisition by the US Fish and Wildlife Service
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Appendix 4. Images Documenting the Impacts of the January 2022 Frost Event
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