Agenda 01/09/2024 Item #16A 4 (Conservation Collier Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank Habitat Management Plan 10-Year Update)01/09/2024
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Recommendation to approve the Conservation Collier Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank
Habitat Management Plan 10-Year Update under the Conservation Collier Program.
OBJECTIVE: To obtain approval from the Board of County Commissioners (Board) for the Caracara Prairie
Preserve Conservation Bank Habitat Management Plan 10-Year Update.
CONSIDERATIONS: The 368-acre Preserve located in Immokalee was acquired in 2007. The Board developed
and approved a Habitat Management Plan on April 13, 2010, Agenda Item 16E9. The approved plan, with
subsequent updates has been operational for the Caracara Prairie Preserve since that time.
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
• Streamlining of text.
The Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee (CCLAAC) has reviewed and recommends the
Board approve the updated plan on February 1, 2023.
FISCAL IMPACT: Five (5) year annual management costs for the preserve are estimated at $25,000 per year,
primarily for invasive plant maintenance, prescribed fire, site security, and restoration. Funds are available within
the Caracara Prairie Land Management Fund (0674) 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 Recreation 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 updated 10-year Conservation Bank Habitat Management Plan
for the Caracara Prairie Preserve and direct staff to implement the updated plan.
Prepared by: Molly DuVall, Environmental Specialist II, Growth Management Department
ATTACHMENT(S)
1. [Linked] Caracara Prairie Preserve Habitat Management Plan - with markups
2. [Linked] Caracara Prairie Preserve Habitat Management Plan - no markups
16.A.4
Packet Pg. 376
01/09/2024
COLLIER COUNTY
Board of County Commissioners
Item Number: 16.A.4
Doc ID: 27421
Item Summary: Recommendation to approve the Conservation Collier Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation
Bank Habitat Management Plan 10-Year Update under the Conservation Collier Program.
Meeting Date: 01/09/2024
Prepared by:
Title: Technician – Development Review
Name: Lucia Martin
12/05/2023 3:35 PM
Submitted by:
Title: Environmental Specialist –
Name: Jaime Cook
12/05/2023 3:35 PM
Approved By:
Review:
Development Review Summer BrownAraque Additional Reviewer Completed 12/08/2023 11:43 AM
Transportation Management Operations Support Evelyn Trimino Additional Reviewer Completed
12/08/2023 2:29 PM
Operations & Regulatory Management Michael Stark Additional Reviewer Completed 12/08/2023 5:04 PM
Growth Management Community Development Department Evelyn Trimino Department Review Completed
12/09/2023 9:40 AM
Unknown Jaime Cook Division Director Completed 12/11/2023 1:03 PM
County Attorney's Office Sally Ashkar Level 2 Attorney Review Completed 12/13/2023 8:30 AM
Growth Management Community Development Department James C French Growth Management Completed
12/14/2023 6:02 PM
Office of Management and Budget Debra Windsor Level 3 OMB Gatekeeper Review Completed 12/15/2023 8:36 AM
County Attorney's Office Jeffrey A. Klatzkow Level 3 County Attorney's Office Review Completed 12/15/2023 9:02 AM
Office of Management and Budget Laura Zautcke Additional Reviewer Completed 12/28/2023 1:53 PM
County Manager's Office Amy Patterson Level 4 County Manager Review Completed 01/02/2024 10:22 AM
Board of County Commissioners Geoffrey Willig Meeting Pending 01/09/2024 9:00 AM
16.A.4
Packet Pg. 377
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Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank Habitat Management Plan
Introduction
Collier County (County) has acquired the Caracara Prairie Preserve for conservation purposes and
proposes to use the property to offset impacts to the Florida panther (Puma concolor coryi) (panther)
from County projects. The Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank (Bank) will be managed for
conservation, protection, and enhancement of natural resources and for passive and compatible public
outdoor recreation.
Biological Goals
The biological goals are to (1) protect, manage and restore (as appropriate) the native habitats on site,
and (2) monitor management activities as they affect the Florida panther, listed plant and animal
species, native vegetation, water quality and wildlife habitat.
Objectives
The Bank will be managed for conservation and recreational uses by
1. maintaining upland, invasive, exotic vegetation at a manageable level;
2. maintaining grassland habitat through management actions including cattle rotation, mowing,
and burning;
3. maintaining forested land through prescribed fire regime; and
4. conducting scheduled, controlled hunts for feral hogs and turkey
5. maintaining a passive recreational hiking trail for public visitors and guided outreach hikes
throughout the year
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The value and integrity of the Bank will be maintained by
1. marking the property boundaries with conservation land signs;
2. gating the property to reduce uncontrolled access; and
3. conducting routine law enforcement patrols.
Strategy
The Bank was selected and designed to provide conservation value to the panther and other threatened
and endangered species in Collier County, and to provide passive recreational opportunities to local
citizens.
An active management plan is proposed to restore native communities where feasible and control
invasive plants. Sufficient funds will be set aside to maintain these ecological improvements in
perpetuity.
Site Description
The 367.7-acre Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank is located at 2320 Corkscrew Rd. in
Immokalee, Florida (Figure 1). The northwest corner of the property is approximately 13.5 miles east
of Interstate 75 on Corkscrew Rd. The property is located in Section 30, Township 46, Range 28.
The bulk of this property is designated as open space‖ in the Rural Lands Stewardship Area (RLSA)
(Collier County 2007). A small portion, approximately 50 acres, is within the RLSA Habitat and
Flow-way Stewardship Areas. The property has mixed-land use designations consisting of improved
pastureland, former cultivated areas, wetlands, and wooded areas.
The Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank is bordered by CREW lands to the north, east and
south. These lands are designated as conservation areas and were acquired by the South Florida Water
Management District (SFWMD) with funds from the Save our Rivers Program. These lands are
mandated to be managed in an environmentally acceptable manner and restored to their natural state.
SFWMD may make certain capital improvements, i.e. fencing, access roads/trails, and provide basic
public facilities on their lands. In addition, habitat management such as control of exotic species and
prescribed burning may be conducted. The legislation (373.59 F.S.) also requires SFWMD to develop
appropriate public use. The Caracara Prairie Preserve is bordered by active agriculture to the west.
These lands are within the Lee County boundary.
Several historical sites are located nearby but no sites were identified on the Caracara Prairie Preserve
(Figure 2). The Caracara Prairie Preserve is not within an area of historical and archaeological
probability, and the Florida Department of State Division of Historical Resources’ Master Site File
lists no known historical or archaeological sites on the property (Appendix A).
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If evidence is found to suggest that any archaeological or historical resources exist on site, the County
will notify the Division of Historical Resources immediately. Where resources ar e 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).
Portions of the property were used historically for the cultivation of row crops. The property was
undeveloped prior to the 1950’s. A Phase I and II Environmental Site Assessment performed by URS
Corporation in October 2007 identified five areas on-site totaling approximately 105 acres that were
formerly used for agriculture. Furrows used in row crop cultivation are still present on the property.
Historical aerial photographs indicate that the cultivation was conducted between the 1950’s up until
the 1970’s. Pesticide levels found by URS within the pasture soils were not high enough to warrant
concern regarding the use of the property as a conservation area.
Project Area Applicability for Mitigation
The Bank is located within Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Priority 1
Habitat for Florida Panther and within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) Panther Focus
area with about 67% of the Bank in the Primary Zone and 33% in the Secondary Zone (Service 2007)
(Figure 3). The property is surrounded on the north, east, and south sides by conservations lands, and
is made up of habitat suitable for the panther. In addition, a least -cost panther dispersal pathway
crosses the southern portion of the property (Swainson et al. 2005).
Physical Setting
The Caracara Prairie Preserve is located within the Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed
(CREW). CREW is a 60,000-acre watershed spanning Lee and Collier Counties (Figure 1). CREW's
5,000- acre marsh is the headwater for the entire watershed and is located approximately .25miles east
of the Caracara Prairie Preserve. Historically the property was pine flatwoods, wetland hardwood, and
freshwater marsh (Davis 1967).
Soils
The property is composed of seven major soil types (Table 1) of which most are non-hydric (Figure
4). The soil types indicate the historical habitat types were mesic flatwoods and wet prairie.
Table 1. Soil types, area, and expected habitat of the Caracara Prairie Preserve.
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Soil Acres Habitat1
Basinger Fine Sand 1.8 Hydric Flatwood
Chobee; Winder; And Gator Soils; Depressional 41.7 Wet Prairie
Immokalee Sand 50.9 Mesic Flatwood
Riviera Fine Sand; Limestone Substratum 50.1 Wet Prairie
Tuscawilla Fine Sand 9.1 Hammock
Wabasso Sand 211.7 Mesic Flatwood
Winder; Riviera; Limestone Substratum; and Chobee Soils;
Depressional
1Zahina et al. 2007
2.4 Marsh
Vegetation
Four vegetation types were identified in the survey for the Prescribed Grazing Plan (Appendix B)
and described below (Figure 5). Plant common and scientific names follow Wunderlin and Hansen
(2008).
Prairie – 205.5 acres. Prairie areas are currently improved pasture dominated by bahiagrass
(Paspalum notatum) seeded for cattle forage. Most pastures are in fair condition. The pastures
also contain smutgrass (Sporobolus indicus), dogfennel (Eupatorium capillifolium), wax
myrtle (Myrica cerifera), and other weedy undesirable species. Plant composition transects
show an average of 60-70% bahiagrass and 30-40% weedy/undesirable species.
Depressional marsh/ wet prairie – 78.8 acres. These are areas dominated by wetland plants
and flooded for most of the wet season. These are very important habitats for many wildlife
species. Most wetlands are in fair to good condition. Plant composition includes maidencane
(Panicum hemitomon), trompetilla (West Indian marsh grass Hymenachne amplexicaulis),
torpedograss (Panicum repens), pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata) primrosewillow
(Ludwigia spp.), sedges, smartweed (Polygonum spp.), and marshpennywort (Hydrocotyle
spp.). Trompetilla and torpedograss are invasive species.
Mesic Flatwoods – 43.9 acres. The flatwoods areas are mainly composed of pine (Pinus
elliottii), saw palmetto (Serenoa repens), oak (Quercus spp.), wax myrtle, broomsedge
bluestem (Andropogon virginicus), forbs, and sedges. Blue maidencane (Amphicarpum
muhlenbergianum) and chalky bluestem (Andropogon virginicus var. glaucus) are desirable
grasses found in this habitat, and also good indicators of site condition. Most flatwoods are
in fair to good condition.
Shrub and Brush – 37.1 acres. This habitat is an interface between the flatwoods and
depressional marshes that is being reclaimed by native weedy species. The improved pasture
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is being with encroached by woody species such as cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto), oaks, and
wax myrtle.
Biological Resources
The following listed wildlife species have been observed on the property:
COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME STATUS**
State Federal
Plants
leafless beaked orchid Sacoila lanceolate T
Catesby’s lily Lilium catesbaei T
cardinal airplant Tillandsia fasciculata E
re-flexed wild pine Tillandsia balbisiana T
giant airplant Tillandsia utriculata E
Birds
wood stork Mycteria americana T
Audubon’s crested
caracara
Polyborus plancus
audubonii
T
Florida sandhill crane Antigone canadensis
pratensis
T
roseate spoonbill Platalea ajaja T
tricolored heron Egretta tricolor T
little blue heron Egretta caerulea T
Reptiles
American alligator Alligator
mississippiensis
ST (S/A)
gopher tortoise Gopherus Polyphemus T
Eastern indigo snake Drymarchon corais
couperi
T
Mammals
Florida panther Puma concolor coryi E
Big Cypress fox squirrel Sciurus niger
avicennia
T
Table 2. Federally and state-imperiled species observed on Caracara Prairie Preserve
Species to be covered
The Florida panther will be covered by this Habitat Management Plan. Collier County reserves the
right to add the crested caracara to the covered species in the future if conditions on the Bank
property are consistent with Service policy for caracara compensation when the policy is completed.
Local Habitat Requirements
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Florida Panther - Panthers use the mosaic of habitats available to them as resting and denning
sites, hunting grounds, and travel routes. These habitats includ e cypress swamps, hardwood
hammocks, pine flatwoods, seasonally flooded prairies, freshwater marshes, and some agricultural
lands. The cover habitats in south Florida used most often by the panther include: hardwood
swamps, tree islands or hammocks, and pine flatwoods with dense palmetto. These cover areas are
important for denning and rearing of young. Dense understory vegetation comprised of saw
palmetto provides some of the most important resting and denning cover for panthers (Maehr 1990).
Panthers sometimes utilize nonforest cover types, including areas disturbed by humans (Belden et
al. 1988, Maehr et al. 1991, Comiskey et al. 2002). Forest patches of all sizes appear to be important
components of the landscapes inhabited by panthers, not just the larger forest patches.
Panther habitat selection is related to prey availability (Janis and Clark 1999, Dees et al. 2001) and,
consequently, prey habitat use. White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and hogs (Sus scrofa)
constitute 67% of the panther diet. Exotics [hog and armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus)] account
for almost half of the panther diet. Hardwood hammocks and other forest cover types are important
habitat for white-tailed deer and other panther prey (Harlow and Jones 1965, Belden et al. 1988,
Maehr 1990, Maehr et al. 1991, Maehr 1992, Comiskey et al. 1994, Dees et al. 2001). Periodic
understory brushfires (Dees et al. 2001) as well as increased amounts of edge (Miller 1993) may
enhance deer use of hardwood hammocks, pine, and other forest cover types. Marshes, rangeland,
and low-intensity agricultural areas support prey populations of deer and hogs (Comiskey et al.
2002, Beier et al. 2003, Comiskey et al. 2004, Beier et al. 2006).
Site Habitat Available
Florida Panther – The entire Caracara Prairie Preserve (367.7 ac.) is located in the Panther Focus
area north of I-75. Panthers living north of I-75 weigh more, produce more kittens, and raise more
young than panthers to the south (USFWS 2006). Approximately 81.4 ac. of the Caracara Prairie
Preserve consists of mesic pine flatwoods/brush, a preferred cover habitat of the Florida panther.
The 286 ac. of improved pasture and scattered wetlands are suitable habitat for prey populations of
deer and hogs.
Credits Criteria
Florida Panther – Based on recent publications (Cox et al. 2006, Kautz et al. 2006, Land et al. 2008)
values were assigned to the habitats. The proposed panther credit follows the panther habitat units
(PHUs) assigned the each habitat type on-site (Table 3).
Table 3. Habitat category, value, area, and panther habitat units (PHU) for the Caracara Prairie
Preserve.
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Habitat Value Acres PHU
Limerock oil drilling pad and tank battery pad 0 1.6 0
Oil pad access road 0 0.8 0
Prairie (improved pasture) 5.2 205.5 1068.6
Marsh/wet prairie 4.7 78.8 370.4
Pine Flatwoods 9.5 43.9 417.1
Shrub/brush 5.5 37.1 204.1
TOTAL 367.7 2060.2
No habitat restoration is proposed at this time. Thus, 2060.2 PHUs will be released upon bank
certification. The Banker reserved the right to request additional credit if pasture restoration is
undertaken, or alternatively the Banker may seek outside fun ding to complete the pasture restoration
to native conditions. In the second case no additional panther credit will be requested.
Service Area
The Service Area for Florida panther will be Collier County (Figure 6). Credit will only be used for
County projects.
Land Protection
On December 17, 2007, Collier County and the CREW Land and Water Trust acquired the Caracara
Prairie Preserve. The County’s land acquisition program Conservation Collier spent $5,032,000 and
the CREW Land and Water Trust spent $300,000 towards the purchase of the property. Collier
County and CREW Land and Water Trust share title to the Caracara Prairie Preserve. The property
was purchased for conservation, protection, and enhancement of natural resources and for passive and
compatible public outdoor recreation. Additionally, a conservation easement over the Caracara
Prairie Preserve will be granted to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
with the Service as a third party to the agreement.
Interim Management
Initial Restoration and Maintenance
Collier County will be responsible for: (1) upland, invasive, exotic plant maintenance for ten years
after initial removal (initial removal was completed on May 31, 2008), (2) external fencing, (3) initial
fire break creation, (4) burn plans and prescribed burns, (5) posting, (6) vegetation monitoring, and
(7) wildlife monitoring.
Long-term Management
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Collier County will be responsible for burn plans and prescribed burns, invasive, exotic plant
maintenance and mowing after the first 10 years. FWC will be responsible for all administrative and
managerial duties related to public use (i.e., passage of regulation changes, annual publication of area
brochure, bag limits) during the periods of allowed hunting.
The annual operating cost is estimated including maintenance, management, and monitoring costs.
Table 4 outlines the costs of major activities through 2028. All dollar figures are estimates and will
be reviewed from time to time and increased, if necessary, to ensure that all costs of establishing and
managing the Conservation Bank will be covered.
Table 4. Annual maintenance costs for the period 2023 through 2028 for the Caracara Prairie Preserve
Conservation Bank.
Management Trust
Collier County will establish the Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Endowment Fund Trust (the
―Trust‖) for management of the Bank. Management costs for the interim period through credit sell
out will be held in an interim management account within the Trust. All funds required for the interim
period will be transferred into the interim management account upon creation of the Trust.
A separate endowment fund within the Trust will be utilized to manage the Caracara Prairie Preserve
in perpetuity. The endowment fund will be nonwasting providing for the annual operating cost from
the interest only. Based on an average annual cost it is estimated that a fund value of $1,188,900 will
be needed. The cost per credit that will be deposited into the endowment fund was determined by the
average annual cost divided by a 1.5% capitalization rate. For each credit sold $577.08 will be placed
in the endowment fund.
With a 1.5 percent capitalization rate, $1,888,900 ($20,330/0.015) is needed for the endowment fund.
For each credit sold $577.08 ($1,888,900 divided by 2060.2 PHUs) will be deposited in the
endowment fund. Collier County will fully fund the endowment fund ($1,888,900) on January 1,
2018, if the fund is not fully funded through credit sales.
ACTIVITY FY23 FY24 FY25 FY26 FY27 FY28
Prescribed fire- fire line discing
and burn implementation
$5,000 $5,000 $5,000 $5000 $5000 $5000
Site Security: Gate
Repair/Monitoring $500 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500
Exotic Vegetation Treatment $18,000 $18,000 $18,000 $18,000 $18,000 $18,000
Restoration Plantings $1500 $1500 $1500 $1500 $1500 $1500
$25,000 $25,000 $25,000 $25,000 $25,000 $25,000
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The Trust will be invested consistent with the Investment Policy as set forth in the Caracara Prairie
Preserve Conservation Bank Endowment Fund Trust Agreement between Collier County and the
Clerk of the Circuit Court of Collier County.
Control of Public Access
The public will access the northern boundary of the Caracara Prairie Preserve by way of a trail leading
from SFWMD Gate 5. Gate 5 will be open from dawn to dusk, and FWC staff will routinely patrol
the Caracara Prairie Preserve as part of their regular SFWMD CREW lands patrol. Future trails
through the Caracara Prairie Preserve will follow fire breaks and other existing distu rbed areas.
Kissing gates will be installed at points where cattle-fencing crosses the trail. This will alleviate the
need for additional gates.
At public access points, the boundary fence will be marked with signage designating the area as
conservation land.
Approved activities on the Bank
When the Caracara Prairie Preserve land was initially purchased by the County, the oil, gas, and
mineral rights were not included in the sale and the property ca n be drilled lawfully. The Mack Oil
Corporation will construct a 300 X 200 foot limerock pad to facilitate the drilling of an exploration
well. The proposed access road will be an existing limerock road running along the northern edge of
the property and an active, grass-covered pasture situated northeast of the well (3,502.8 feet X 10
feet). Temporary logging mats will be placed over two (2) swales that allow access for the
construction of the limerock pad and exploration well within an improved upland pasture. The logging
mats will be installed at grade in the swales to stabilize the area while allowing any surface flow to
continue. No improvements will be made to the gravel road. The existing primitive trail will be
stabilized with limerock. The oil and gas permit holders will be responsible for consulting with the
Service about impacts to caracara.
The limerock pad will be constructed within uplands designated as improved pasture situated half-
way between wetlands north and south of the location. A berm will surround the limerock pad.
Wetlands begin approximately 100 to 130 feet from the proposed northern and southern perimeter
berms. No wetland impacts are proposed during the construction of the limerock pad. If the
exploration well is considered dry, the limerock pad will be restored to the adjacent grade after the
well has been plugged and abandoned. The logging mats and silt fences will be removed f rom the
swale crossings, unless Collier County chooses to retain the limerock pad and logging mats. If
sufficient minerals are available, additional permitting will be required. Access to the production well
will occur through the northwestern gate. No impacts are proposed during the construction of the
access road.
The following conditions will be included in the State drilling permit Number 1335 for the No. 30 -2
Caracara Prairie Preserve drilling site:
Access
Deleted: Oil drilling will be allowed within the Caracara
Prairie Preserve (Figure 7) (Appendix D).
Deleted: Mack Oil Corporation
Deleted: grass
Deleted: , a tank battery (100 feet X 100 feet) will need to
be constructed in the northwest corner. Access
Deleted: the tank battery and
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• Well site access will occur via gated entry in the Northwest corner of the property utilizing the lime r ock
access road shown in attached map.
• Operator will be responsible for ensuring perimeter gate is closed and locked after each use and access to
the preserve by designated parties is not impeded through the perimeter access gate.
• Operator will be responsible for the replacement of all culverts along the lime rock access road from the
access gate to the existing pad, before drilling rig construction commences. Operator must comply with all
federal, state, and local laws and permitting procedures required for culvert replacement.
• Operator will be responsible for maintaining the access road to the well site and completing necessary
repairs or maintenance in a timely manner. Trend Exploration will submit a Road Maintenance Plan to the
County Preserve Manager within 30 days of commencement of drilling activities.
• All vehicle operators accessing the preserve will follow the posted speed restrictions of less than 15mph
and remain vigilant for wildlife and cattle in close proximity to the oil pad and access road. State-
threatened Big Cypress fox squirrel have been observed foraging within 15 feet of the oil well access
gate. State-threatened Florida sandhill cranes and their flightless young have been observed foraging
along the oil well access road and in the marshes and pastures surrounding the oil well.
• All vehicles and equipment required for oil and gas activity will remain within the footprint of the well -
site access road and well pad at all times.
• No vehicles, equipment, or debris may be stored or traverse the designated preserve area without prior
approval from Collier County.
• Operators will be responsible for providing an additional combination lock on the access gate for use by
all personnel, to be removed after activities have ceased. This combination lock will remain locked
between uses by personnel to maintain site security.
Wildlife and Public Disturbance Mitigation
• Caracara Prairie Preserve is located within the USFWS Crested Caracara Consultation Area. Federally
threatened Audubon’s crested caracara utilize the preserve year-round and have been recorded nesting on
the property. Trend Exploration will be responsible for consulting with the USFWS regarding impacts to
the crested caracara and all Federally listed species that may be found on the preserve, as well as the Florida
Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWCC) regarding State-listed species that may be impacted.
• Exploratory drilling operations are requested to occur outside of the Federally threatened Audubon’s
Crested Caracara primary breeding season from November 1 through May 1 due to the proximity of known
nesting locations to the well site.
• Permit applicants will be responsible for consulting with the USFWS and FWC regarding impacts to listed
species, wildlife permit conditions, seasonal drilling restrictions, and mitigation requirements. Permit
applicants will be responsible for ensuring required wildlife surveys are conducted by a professional
biologist with the necessary experience in listed species survey protocols.
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• From FWC CREW WEA wading bird survey data, we know that many state-and-federally-listed avian
species roost and forage in the ephemeral wetlands surrounding the oil pad and access road. Caution should
be used by vehicles accessing the oil pad, so as not to cause injury or mortality to these listed species. In
addition, best management practices should be taken into account during operation, so equipment or debris
left on and near the oil pad does not inadvertently injure wildlife.
• Federally and state-listed species that may be found on Caracara Prairie Preserve include the Florida
panther (FE), Everglade’s snail kite (FE), Florida bonneted bat (FE), American Alligator (FT), Eastern
indigo snake (FT), Wood stork (FT), Big Cypress Fox Squirrel (ST), Gopher tortoise (ST), Crested
Caracara (ST), Florida burrowing owl (ST), Florida sandhill crane (ST), Little blue heron (ST), Roseate
Spoonbill (ST), Southeastern American kestrel (ST), Tricolored heron (ST), and Osprey (SSC).
FE = Federally designated Endangered, FT = Federally-designated Threatened, ST = State-designated Threatened,
SSC = State Species of Special Concern
o A listed species identification chart will be provided to Trend Exploration by the Preserve Manager
to be posted at the drill site. Crew members will be responsible for notifying the Preserve Manager
if direct impacts to listed species are observed by drilling activities: (ex: burrows located within
100 ft of well pad, mortality due to equipment collision, etc.)
• Trend Exploration will be encouraged to follow practices that limit impacts to wildlife and public users of
the preserve as a result of drilling activities including, but not limited to:
o Noise that has the potential to disturb wildlife, livestock, and surface owners or neighbors should
be controlled to reduce sound levels. Suitable mufflers should be installed on all internal
combustion engines and certain compressor components.
o Lighting for night-time operations (if utilized) should aim to increase visibility for grounds crew
and reduce sky-glow and unnecessary light pollution. When applicable, flood lights should be
aimed down to illuminate the work area rather than the horizon or fitted with manufacturer shields.
LEDs should be limited to 3,000 Kelvin. When possible and safe to do so, use of site lighting
should be restricted to limit impacts to wildlife.
o All long-term facility structures on-site (if built) should be painted a color that enables the facilities
to blend with the natural background color of the landscape as seen from a viewing distance. The
selected color should be one to two shades darker than the dominant background color, typically a
vegetation color. Safety hazards such as tripping hazards should be painted a bright color to contrast
the permanent structure.
Site Requirements: Further conditions of the drilling permit are specified within the Caracara
Prairie Preserve Land Management Plan
• Before commencing any drilling or unplugging activities, Trend Exploration will be responsible for making
necessary repairs to the containment berm surrounding the well site including reinforcing the height and
width of the berm to previously permitted standards and mowing existing vegetation atop the berm.
• It is requested that the surface layout as detailed in the application be changed such that battery, tanks, and
flow lines (if built on-site) are re-located to within the existing well pad infrastructure and updated maps
with these requirements are submitted to the Preserve Manager within 60 days of the start of any drilling
activities.
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• Trend Exploration will be responsible for constructing secondary containment berms around existing water
supply wells located within the main containment berm.
• Prior to drilling activities, Trend Exploration will be responsible for removing and properly disposing of
existing debris on-site related to previous oil activity including the catwalk infrastructure wood pile and
unused cellar material located outside of the Southwest corner of the pad.
• Trend Exploration will keep the well-site tidy of debris for the duration of the exploratory drilling activities
in consideration of the public users of the preserve.
• Position propane tank on the lime rock pad no closer than 50’ from the perimeter berms. Ensure that the
existing containment berm surrounding this 18,000-gallon tank is adequate for spill containment.
• The Caracara Preserve Manager will conduct an on-site assessment and cataloging of well pad conditions
prior to the commencement of activities. If desirable, Collier County will decide in the future if they want
to retain the lime rock pad after the well has been plugged and abandoned. If it is decided that the County
does not desire to retain the pad and site, Trend Exploration will be responsible for returning the impacted
areas to the original state prior to drilling activity.
• Retain one water supply well for fire protection after the exploratory oil well has been plugged and
abandoned. After the oil well has gone through required plugging and abandonment procedures, Trend
Exploration will degrade the secondary-containment berm surrounding the water supply well to an elevation
level with the surrounding landscape.
• In the event that the exploratory well is deemed not to be commercially productive and/or cap and
abandonment action is taken, the operator will remove all equipment and storage tanks from the preserve,
including, but not limited to, the 18,000 gallon storage tank, cellars, catwalk material, debris, and any
residual fluids, and rig securing infrastructure from previous drilling operations within 30 days of ceasing
of exploratory activities.
• At Collier County’s discretion, remediation and restoration of the oil pad and oil well access road will be
carried out and funded by the operator. Restoration activities may include: degrading all containment berms,
ensuring that the oil pad is returned to the same grade as the surrounding preserve area, removing the oi l
pad access road and bringing the road footprint down to the grade of the surrounding preserve area, seeding
or sodding the project footprint with appropriate native vegetation, obtaining any necessary state or federal
permits required for restoration activities, conducting any required wildlife surveys for federally or state
listed species that may be impacted during restoration activities following consultation with the USFWS
and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
• Site restoration will take place no later than (1) year from the date that the exploratory well is deemed to be
not commercially productive.
Reporting
• Trend Exploration will notify the Caracara Prairie Preserve Manager prior to commencement of culvert
replacement and road maintenance, rig construction, drilling activities and site access by vehicular traffic.
• Collier County, as the surface owner, will be notified in the event of any modifications or additions to
existing application activities, including, but not limited to, permit modifications, permit extension
13
applications, additional well applications, deep injection site applications, and listed species incidental take
permit applications.
• Residential housing and government operations reside within 1.2 miles of the Trend Exploration oil pad.
Residents and the government offices should be notified if seepage from the containment unit or any
emergency occurs that could be considered a health or safety hazard. Contact information for these
individuals is below:
o FWC Biologist for CREW WEA
o SFWMD CREW Management Area Land Manager
• The following staff must be notified within 24-hours of any impacts to State or Federally listed species
(mortality or injury to listed species, destruction to habitat of listed species, etc):
o Preserve Manager
o FWC Biologist for CREW WEA
• The Caracara Prairie Preserve manager will be notified prior to any scheduled wildlife surveys taking place
within the preserve and will be provided a copy of the schedule, methods, data, and final reports.
• The Caracara Prairie Preserve manager will be notified of the exploratory oil well project timeline no less
than 30 days before activities commence.
If built, the tank battery pad will be subject to a separate permit through the Florida Department of
Environmental Protection Oil and Gas Section. A condition of the permit will be that the oil well
operator will bear the future cost of remediation from any spills or contamination that may result from
its operations and that the oil well operator will maintain, keep in force and effect, and provide an
ongoing Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasures Program or protocol and will comply with all
applicable laws and regulations governing its operations.
Cattle grazing will be an approved activity on the Bank (Appendix J). Cattle grazing will be applied
to the site according to present habitat conditions and vegetative management goals. If cattle grazing
is active on the site, the cattle lessee will graze cattle in accordance with an approved Cattle Lease
Agreement (Appendix J)
Additionally, the following recreational activities are appropriate and encouraged on the Caracara
Prairie Preserve per the CREW Management Area General Management Plan 2021 – 2031 South
Florida Water Management District, Land Stewardship Division:
Nature Appreciation
Nature appreciation includes wildlife viewing, nature photography, natural history study, and plant
and wildflower identification.
Environmental Education
Environmental education is similar to nature appreciation but involves a structured learning process
with facilitators and students. The CREW Land and Water Trust has developed an extensive program
Deleted: at Kathleen.Smith@MyFWC.com
Deleted: Joe Bozzo,
Deleted: at jbozzo@sfwmd.gov
Deleted: Federally-listed
Deleted: Molly DuVall,
Deleted: at Molly.DuVall@CollierCountyFL.gov¶
Deleted: <#>Kathleen Smith, FWC Biologist CREW
WEA at Kathleen.Smith@MyFWC.com¶
Joe Bozzo, SFWMD CREW Management Area Land
Manager at jbozzo@sfwmd.gov¶
Deleted: The cattle lessee
Deleted: the
Deleted: 2006
Deleted: 2011
14
in cooperation with the Lee and Collier County School Boards. Students in the Lee and Collier County
School Systems and other groups participate in these programs. Guided hikes are also provided to the
general public on a regular basis.
Hiking
Hiking trails will be established that will link the Caracara Prairie Preserve to the SFWMD Gate 5
hiking trail system. These trails will provide access to a variety of habitats including hammocks,
marshes, and flatwoods. The CREW area is remote and provides abundant backcountry opportunities.
Visitors must be self-reliant. Supervision and visitor services are not provided, and users will be
advised of these facts at access points. Users are required to pack out their trash.
Primitive Camping
Primitive camping is currently allowed in other areas of CREW by special use permit, at designated
sites. Primitive camping via special use permit would be an allowable activity within the Caracara
Prairie Preserve.
Hunting
Recreational hunting has been a primary use of CREW lands. The Caracara Prairie Preserve is
incorporated into the FWC Corkscrew Marsh Unit Wildlife and Environmental Area (CREW WEA)
via an interlocal agreement (Appendix C) and will be managed under the same regulations currently
in place on the WEA. No hunting will be allowed to take place within Caracara Prairie Preserve prior
to the approval of this interlocal agreement between FWC and Collier County. Recommendations for
the next five years include:
• Manage the current hunting program as established by FWC rules and regulations.
• Employ management hunts as necessary to address specific needs. Management hunts will be
scheduled during nonpeak periods when conducted in areas where other types of recreation are the
primary activity.
• Restrict or halt hunting if panther prey species surveys indicate a decline in panther prey base.
• Prohibit the use of vehicles for hunting within the preserve boundaries.
• Follow guidelines and regulations established for hunting and other recreational use on the FWC
CREW WEA for hunts conducted on the preserve. There will be no exemptions to the permit
requirement.
Equestrian Use
15
There will be opportunity for special equestrian events during dry periods in coordination with CREW
Water & Land Trust. Staging these events will be evaluated individually, as conditions permit. A
maximum of two equestrian events will be held per year with a maximum of five horses allowed p er
event. Collier County will consult with the Service prior to the staging of any equestrian events.
Vehicular Use
No unauthorized public vehicle use including off -road vehicles will be allowed within the Caracara
Prairie Preserve.
Target Natural Community
The Flatwoods and Freshwater Marshes within the Caracara Prairie Preserve will be enhanced for
wildlife. Under this Habitat Management Plan, the pastureland within the Caracara Prairie Preserve
Conservation Bank will remain pasture, and will be managed in accordance with the Prescribed
Grazing Plan (Appendix B). Any future restoration of the pastureland will be considered separate
from this Habitat Management Plan and any PHUs recovered from the Caracara Prairie Preserve
Conservation Bank.
Restoration
All management activities occurring within the Caracara Prairie Preserve will be done in accordance
with the CREW Management Area Five-Year General Management Plan (SFWMD 2021).
Vegetation
Initial Invasive Species Removal
Collier County will be responsible for invasive, exotic plant maintenance in perpetuity
after initial removal (initial removal was completed on May 31, 2008). A Collier County
contractor will target Category I and II nonnative plant species as identified on the Exotic
Pest Plant Council’s biennially updated list of Florida’s Most Invasive Species
(http://www.fleppc.org/), with the exception of torpedograss. Treatments (basal and/or
foliar) will be quarterly for the first 2 years after initial treatment, and twice a year for the
3rd, 4th, and 5th year after initial treatment. After the first 5 years of maintenance
treatments, invasive plants, with the exception of torpedograss, will be basal or foliar
treated annually and will not be allowed to make up more than 1 percent cover. Because
the pasture land is actively grazed and torpedograss is a good food source for the cattle,
torpedograss will only be treated if its coverage expands past its current extent. Time
zero monitoring will assess the baseline overall percent cover by torpedo grass in each
marsh within the preserve. All pesticide treatments will be consistent with Service -
approved pesticide treatments (Appendix G).
Deleted: 2006
16
Initial restoration vegetation management will include the following measures taken from the CREW
Management Area Five-Year General Management Plan (SFWMD 2021).
5.2.1 Mowing for Wildlife Benefits
In CREW, openings may be mowed every two to three years to maintain their structural
integrity. Mowing is considered an alternative to prescribed burns when weather
conditions or other constraints prohibit fire application. It will be avoided during the
spring to protect ground-nesting birds. Mowing can provide similar benefits as grazing
and fire by suppressing woody plant growth, and by encouraging grasses and low -
growing herbs to produce new growth. Mowing improves brood habitat conditions for
wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) by reducing dense understory vegetation in
hardwood hammocks, and invasion of woody plants in grassy fields. Mowing benefits
rabbits (Sylvilagus floridanus) by providing a supply of growing forage. Smooth cuts are
not required when mowing to improve wildlife habitat conditions. Mowing height is also
generally not important, although a higher cut in early spring may leave important nesting
cover for bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus).
5.2.2 Exotic/Invasive Plants
South Florida’s subtropical climate provides an excellent growth environment for the
rapid spread of exotic plants that can cause extensive alterations to natural ecosystems.
Environmental changes caused by extensive hydroperiod alterations have been an
important factor in exotic plant invasion. Exotic plant invasion can result in partial or
total displacement of native plants, loss of wildlife habitat, and the degradation of public
use areas. Collier County targets Category I and II non-native plant species as identified
on the Exotic Pest Plant Council’s biennially updated list of Florida’s Most Invasive
Species (http://www.fleppc.org/). Category I species include non-native plants that
invade and disrupt Florida native plant communities. Category II plants have the potential
to invade and disrupt natural successional processes. Both Category I and II exotics are
considered invasive and a threat to the function and ecological stability of Florida’s
natural communities. Control efforts were initiated by SFWMD staff, v olunteers from
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, and the CREW Land and Water Trust from 1990 through
1992 on lands adjoining Caracara Prairie Preserve. Work was concentrated in the
flatwoods of Corkscrew Marsh where access was available via public roads. Control
work in Flint Pen Strand began in 1994 using contractors. Since 1994, contract work
teams spent an average of six months per year in Bird Rookery Swamp, Corkscrew Marsh
and Flint Pen Strand. The prominent problem species were melaleuca (Melaleuca
quinquenervia), Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolia), downy rose myrtle
(Rhodomyrtus tomentosa), cogon grass (Imperata cylindrica), and Old World climbing
fern (Lygodium microphyllum). Of significant concern is Old World climbing fern,
which persists in spite of consistent treatment since 1994. The District treats and surveys
Lygodium infested areas several times a year to control established infestations and
locate new ones in the CREW Management Area (MA). Invasive exotic plant control
measures at Caracara Prairie Preserve will include a combination of herbicide
Deleted: 2006
17
application, prescribed fire, and physical removal. Selection of control measures will be
dependent upon species type, environmental factors, and natural communities impacted.
Private contractors will conduct exotic plant control activities in cooperation with Collier
County. After 5 years of intense maintenance, treatments at Caracara Prairie Preserve
will be scheduled so that the entire preserve is covered annually. Areas of treatment will
be scheduled based on groundwater conditions, time since last treatment, severity of
infestation, public use, and consistency with other management operations. All
treatments will follow herbicide Best Management Practices (BMPs) and use the best
available science
5.3.2 Prescribed Fire Planning
A fire management plan will be developed for each management area within the preserve.
Each plan will include a description of location and natural community types, fire history,
fire management objectives and constraints, and a burn prescription. Collier County will
base all fire management plans on ecological research and professional experience. Fire
frequency schedules for each natural community will consider recommendations
provided in The Natural Communities of Florida (FNAI 1990). To mimic historic fire
conditions, Collier County will emphasize growing or lightning season burns (April -
August) where possible, though weather conditions and smoke sensitive areas may make
the timing difficult. Natural firebreaks will be utilized where possible to promote historic
fire patterns, avoid soil disturbance, and reduce hydrologic flow disruption created by
fire lines. Listed species life requirements and welfare will be elements of prescribed fire
planning. Application of fire, with appropriately timed herbicide treatments, will be used
as a tool for control of invasive plants. To mimic historical fire patterns, Collier County
will endeavor to burn during the growing season. Burns will be executed using proven
safety measures as defined by the Prescribed Burning Act of 1990, 590.026 Florida
Statute. This legislation and associated administrative rules outlines accepted forestry
burn practices and is administered through DOF. Collier County will utilize its own
employees and will utilize other cooperating agency staff— SFWMD, DOF, Lee County,
the CREW Land and Water Trust, and FWC to conduct burns at the preserve. All county
staff will complete the state certified burn course to ensure fire safety and burning
efficiency. Prescribed fire will be applied within the preserve at appropriate fire intervals
for each natural community:
Scrubby, Mesic and Wet Flatwoods
These natural communities will be burned to maintain an open pineland structure
with less than 50% canopy cover. Shrub hardwood densities, especially palmetto
and gallberry (Ilex glabra), will be targeted at less than 20% coverage to
encourage species diversity in herbs and grasses. Desired fire frequency is three
to five year intervals for mesic flatwoods, and three to eight years for wet
flatwoods to maintain targeted vegetative cover composition and avoid hazardous
fuel accumulation.
18
Depression Marsh
Small isolated marshes are dispersed throughout the flatwoods of CREW.
Marshes will be burned with flatwoods to maintain open herbaceous ponds and
control woody plants found on the edge of these depressions. The center of
depression marshes may require drier conditions to carry fire, and a separate burn.
Prescribed fire and mowing will be used to maintain the property in the appropriate
successional state for wildlife.
Hydrology
The County may seek to restore the hydrology at a later date. No changes to drainage
will be made to further restore the natural communities. The prairie areas within the
site will remain in pasture grasses under this Plan. Any restoration to the prairie that
might include changes in hydrology will be considered at a future date a nd any
additional PHUs proposed then.
Enhancement
No vegetation planting is planned under this Habitat Management Plan. Should unforeseen or
changed circumstances occur such as devastating wildfire or flood, vegetation enhancement will be
employed to restore the Caracara Prairie Preserve to the appropriate successional state for wildlife,
as will be established through vegetation monitoring and habitat type.
Success Criteria
Restoration and enhancement success will be measured through monitorin g – see ―Monitoring‖
section below. If monitoring of the Flatwoods and Freshwater Marsh reveals a vegetation composition
inconsistent with the FNAI description, fire, woody vegetation removal, exotic plant removal, or
planting (if necessary, after possible wildfire) will be enacted. If monitoring of the prairie areas
reveals a vegetation composition inconsistent with recommended composition in the attached
Prescribed Grazing Plan, cattle rotation, mowing, and burning may be performed.
Maintenance
There will be no on-site equipment stored on the Caracara Prairie Preserve beyond temporary staging
of equipment such as a tractor mower throughout the duration of an annual mowing event .
Monitoring
Baseline monitoring will be completed by a consultant within 60 days of approval of the Bank by
Service and a baseline monitoring report will be forwarded to Service staff in Vero Beach within 45
days of the monitoring event. Time-zero monitoring will be completed within 60 days of the
completion of exotic and nuisance vegetation removal. As with the baseline monitoring report, the
Deleted: If the test oil well is a producer, a tank battery
pad will be installed along the western boundary of the
preserve. Oil and brine water will be stored on top of a
limerock pad inside a bermed area. The tank battery pad
will be maintained by the oil company using best
management practices.
19
time-zero monitoring report will be forwarded to Service staff in Vero Beach within 45 days of the
monitoring event. Annual monitoring will begin 12 months following the time-zero monitoring event
and continue for a total of five years. Annual monitoring reports will be forwarded to Service staff in
Vero Beach prior to January 31 each year. If, at the end of five years of m onitoring, the Bank has
reached success criteria, monitoring will be conducted once every five years to ensure that success
criteria are met in perpetuity. If success criteria are not met, then annual monitoring will continue
until met. A summary of the reporting schedule can be found in Table 5.
Table 5. Monitoring and Reporting Schedule
Report Monitoring Implemented Delivery
Baseline Monitoring Within 60 Days of Approval 45 days
Time-Zero Monitoring Within 60 Days of Initial Restoration 45 days
Annual Monitoring Year 1 12 Months After Time-Zero Monitoring 45 days
Annual Monitoring Year 2 1 Year from Previous Report January 31
Annual Monitoring Year 3 1 Year from Previous Report January 31
Annual Monitoring Year 4 1 Year from Previous Report January 31
Annual Monitoring Year 5 1 Year from Previous Report January 31
Five-Year Monitoring (Year 10) 5 Years from Previous Report January 31
Every 5 years thereafter 5 Years from Previous Report January 31
Vegetation Monitoring:
Permanent monitoring transects will be established during the time zero monitoring event and
located throughout the site to include a thorough representation of the various habitats onsite. Three
vegetative strata will be sampled along each transect and will be representative of habitat types
throughout the site. These strata are: overstory [plants >4 inches diameter breast height (DBH)],
understory (plants <4 inches DBH and greater than 3 feet in height), and ground cover (all non -
woody plants and woody plants less than 3 feet in height). The overstory and understory vegetation
will be sampled in 10 square meter plots and the ground cover vegetation sampled in 1 square meter
plots along each monitoring transect. Panoramic photographs will be taken at the beginning of each
transect to provide physical documentation of the condition and appearance of the property as well
as any changes taking place. The panoramic photographs will be included in each monitoring report.
For the overstory and understory stratums, the relative canopy closure for each species will be
recorded. Average shrub height will be recorded for all species identified in the understory stratum.
Percent coverage and average height for all saw palmetto will be recorded for plots located within
habitats with saw palmetto. The percent cover of groundcover species and bare ground will be
estimated for the herbaceous study plots along the transects. Exotic and nuisance vegetation
coverage within the plots will be recorded. Survival rate evaluations will occur throughout the site
to include a thorough representation of the various habitats onsite. There will be a maximum of six
transects with a total of 23 sample plots (approximately 5 per each transect).
Exotic and Nuisance Species Monitoring:
20
In addition to the permanent monitoring transects, existing disturbed areas, such as fence lines, fire
breaks, and primitive roads / trails, will be surveyed annually, using the FWC protocol, by vehicle
and meandering pedestrian transects to assess the site for the presence and percent coverage of exotic
vegetation species. Following the annual exotic vegetation surveys, an exotic vegetation map will be
prepared illustrating the locations of exotic and nuisance vegetation in need of corrective action. The
map will be provided to the County contractor and SFWMD annually to ensure timely and effective
treatment.
Wildlife Utilization:
Regular and periodic observations of wildlife will be made during all monitoring events and other site
visits by qualified ecologists. This will consist of recording evidence and signs of wildlife (i.e., direct
sightings, vocalizations, burrows, nests, tracks, droppings, etc.). The number of white tailed deer, feral
hog, and panther observations at the site will be recorded during each monitoring event and included
in the annual reports. In addition, permanent wildlife transects will be established in representative
habitats onsite from which surveys for panther and panther prey tracks will be conducted. Efforts will
be made to establish the wildlife transects in areas that are conducive to track detection and
identification with as little disturbance by vehicular traffic as possible. The wildlife transects will be
monitored annually for a 5-day period, and results submitted in conjunction with the vegetation
monitoring in the monitoring report. Updated panther radio tele metry data (when available) within a
2-mile radius of the site will be included in the monitoring report to document radio-collared panther
activity in the Bank vicinity over the course of the monitoring period. There will be a maximum of 5
wildlife transects to be monitored for a 5-day period.
In addition to the information outlined above, the monitoring report will also include a general
overview of the land management activities (i.e. prescribed burns, exotic vegetation maintenance,
pasture restoration activities, etc.) conducted since the previous monitoring report and planned
maintenance and management activities during the next period.
Literature Cited
Beier P., M. R. Vaughan, M. J. Conroy, and H. Quigley. 2003. An analysis of scientific literature
related to the Florida panther. Final report, Project NG01-105, Florida Fish and Wildlife
Conservation Commission, Tallahassee, FL.
Beier P., M. R. Vaughan, M. J. Conroy, and H. Quigley. 2006. Evaluating scientific inferences
about the Florida panther. Journal of Wildlife Management 70(1):236-245.
Belden, R. C., W. B. Frankenberger, R. T. McBride, and S. T. Schwikert. 1988. Panther habitat use
in southern Florida. Journal of Wildlife Management 52:660-663.
21
Coile, N. C. and M. A. Garland. 2003. Notes on Florida’s Endangered and Threatened Plants.
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Plant Industry,
Gainesville, FL. http://www.doacs.state.fl.us/pi/enpp/botany/images/Notes2003.pdf
Collier County. 2007. Collier County Growth Management Plan Future Land Use Element Adopted
October, 1997. Collier County Planning Services Department Comprehensive Planning
Section, Naples, FL.
Comiskey, E. J., L. J. Gross, D. M. Fleming, M. A. Huston, O. L. Bass, Jr., H. Luh, and Y. Wu.
1994. A spatially-explicit individual-based simulation model for Florida panther and white-
tailed deer in the Everglades and Big Cypress landscapes. Pages 494-503 in D. Jordan (ed).
Proceedings of the Florida Panther Conference. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Gainesville,
FL.
Comiskey, E. J., O. L. Bass, Jr., L. J. Gross, R. T. McBride, and R. Salinas. 2002. Panthers and forests
in south Florida: an ecological perspective. Conservation Ecology 6:18.
Comiskey, E.J., Eller, J.A.C., and D.W. Perkins. 2004. Evaluating Impacts to Florida Panther Habitat:
How Porous is the Umbrella? Southeastern Naturalist. 3:51-74.
Cox, J., D. Maehr, and J. Larkin. 2006. Florida panther habitat use: A new approach to an old problem.
The Journal of Wildlife Management. 70(6):1778 -1786.
Davis, J. H. 1967. General map of the natural vegetation of Florida. Circular S-178, Institute of
Food Agricultural Sciences, Agricultural Experimental Station, University of Florida,
Gainesville, FL.
Dees, C. S., J. D. Clark, and F. T. Van Manen. 2001. Florida panther habitat use in response to
prescribed fire. Journal of Wildlife Management 65:141-147.
Florida Natural Areas Inventory and Florida Department of Natural Resources. 1990. Guide to
the Natural Communities of Florida. Florida Natural Areas Inventory, Tallahassee, FL.,
Tallahassee, FL.
Gruver, B. J. 2007. Florida’s endangered species, threatened species, and species of special
concern. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Tallahassee, FL.
http://myfwc.com/imperiledspecies/pdf/Threatened-and-Endangered-Species-2007.pdf
Harlow, R. F., and F. K. Jones. 1965. The white-tailed deer in Florida. Florida Game and Fresh Water
Fish Commission Technical Bulletin 9, Tallahassee, FL.
22
Janis, M. W., and J. D. Clark. 1999. The effects of recreational deer and hog hunting on the behavior
of Florida panthers. Final report to Big Cypress National Preserve, National Park Service,
Ochopee, FL.
Kautz, R., R. Kawula, T. Hoctor, J. Comiskey, D. Jansen, D. Jennings, J. Kasbohm, F.
Mazzotti, R. McBride, L. Richardson, and K. Root. 2006. How much is enough?
Landscape-scale conservation for the Florida panther. Biological Conservation.
130:118-133.
Land, D., R. Kawula, J. Benson, M. Lotz, and D. Onorato. 2008. Florida panther habitat selection
analysis of concurrent GPS and VHF Telemetry Data. The Journal of Wildlife Management.
72(3):633-639.
Maehr, D. S. 1990. Florida panther movements, social organization, and habitat utilization. Final
Performance Report 7502. Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission, Tallahassee,
FL.
Maehr, D. S. 1992. Florida panther. Pages 176-189 in S.R. Humphrey (ed). Rare and endangered
biota of Florida. Volume I: mammals. University Press of Florida, Gainesville, FL.
Maehr, D. S., E. D. Land, and J. C. Roof. 1991. Social ecology of Florida panthers. National
Geographic Research & Exploration 7:414-431.
Miller, K. E. 1993. Habitat use by white-tailed deer in the Everglades: tree islands in a seasonally
flooded landscape. M.S. Thesis. University of Florida, Gainesville, FL.
South Florida Water Management District [SFWMD]. 2006. CREW Management Area FiveYear
General Management Plan (2006 – 2011). Land Stewardship Division. South Florida Water
Management District. West Palm Beach, FL
Swainson, K., D. Land, R. Kautz, and R. Kawula. 2005. Use of least cost pathways to identify key
highway segments for Florida panther conservation. Pages 191 -200 in R.A. Beausoleil and
D.A. Martorello, (eds). Proceedings of the Eighth Mountain Lion Workshop, Olympia, WA.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service [USFWS]. 1999. South Florida Multi-species Recovery Plan.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Regional Office, Atlanta, GA.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service [USFWS]. 2006. Technical/Agency Draft, Florida Panther Recovery Plan
(Puma concolor coryi), Third Revision. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Atlanta, GA.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service [USFWS]. 2007. Letter to the Army Corps of Engineers on the
revised Panther Key. February 2, 2007. South Florida Ecological Services Office, Vero
Beach, FL.
23
http://www.fws.gov/verobeach/images/pdflibrary/20070219_Letter_SF ESO%20to%20C
OE_Panther_Key.pdf
Wunderlin, R. P., and B. F. Hansen. 2008. Atlas of Florida Vascular Plants. Institute for Systematic
Botany, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL.
http://www.plantatlas.usf.edu/
Zahina, J., W. Park Said, R. Grein, and M. Duever. 2007. Pre-development vegetation communities
of southern Florida. Technical Publication HESM-02. South Florida Water Management
District. West Palm Beach, FL.
24
FIGURES
Figure 1. Aerial Location Map of Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank in Collier County,
Florida.
25
Figure 2. Archeological sites nearby the Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank.
26
Figure 3. Panther zones and least-cost pathways in relationship to the Caracara Prairie Preserve
Conservation Bank.
27
Figure 4. Soil map of the Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank.
28
Figure 5. Land Cover types on the Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank.
29
Figure 6. Service area for Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank.
30
31
APPENDICES
Appendix A. State Historic Preservation Officer letter.
Appendix B. Prescribed Grazing Plan
Deleted: ¶
Deleted: ¶
¶
¶
32
Prescribed Grazing Plan
Prepared for
Collier County
Collier County, Florida
In cooperation with
South Florida Water Management District,
Collier Soil & Water Conservation District
And
United States Department of Agriculture
Natural Resources Conservation Service
Table of Contents:
Formatted: Space After: 0 pt
33
1. Definition
2. Purpose
3. General Description
4. Objectives
5. Livestock Forage Inventory
6. Livestock Forage Inventory Map
7. Annual Grazing Schedule
8. Plan Map/Proposed plan map
9. Recommended Grazing Heights
10. Recommendations For Grazing Buffer Areas
11. Operations and Maintenance
12. Contingency Management Plan
1. Definition:
34
Prescribed grazing is a controlled harvest of vegetation with grazing and browsing animals.
Prescribed grazing will be used on lands where grazing animals are managed. Prescribed
grazing will be used in conjunction with Nutrient Management, Pest Manageme nt, and/or other
practices needed to meet the resource concerns and the landowner’s objectives.
2. Purpose:
This practice will be applied as part of a conservation management system to accomplish the
following objectives:
Maintain a stable and desired plant community, improve or maintain the health and vigor of
selected plants.
Maintain or improve animal health and productivity. Maintain or
improve water quality.
Note: This plan will be reviewed yearly by the owner/operator. If the number of livestock (10%
or more) or the forage condition changes the plan may need to be revised.
3. General Description:
The project area is located within the boundaries of CREW WEA which is located in Collier
County. The property is currently managed as a cow/calf operation. The project area is
currently using a continuous grazing system. The principal forage species in the pastures is
Bahia grass (Paspalum notatum), which have been planted for improved pasture. Other plant
communities include South Florida Flatwoods, Brush areas and Freshwater Marshes. The
pasture areas are currently managed as a cow/calf operation. The pastures in their current
condition and capable of producing enough forage to support 53 animal units (AUs). The
system in its present condition can support an average of 49 cows, with an average weight of
1000 lbs., and 3 bulls, with an average weight of 1350 lbs with a suggested 20:1 Cow/Bull ratio.
One animal unit (AU) is one mature cow of approximately 1,000 pounds and a calf up to
weaning, usually six (6) months of age, or their equivalent. To estimate animal units for Heifers
and Bulls use the following AU values.
Table 1: Animal Unit Equivalent Guide
Species Average
Weight
(pounds)
Animal Unit
Equivalent
(AUE)
- - - - Forage Consumed (pounds) - - - -
day month year
Cow, dry 950 0.92 24 727 8,730
Cow with calf 1,000 1.00 26 790 9,490
Bull, mature 1,500 1.35 35 1,067 12,811
Cattle, 1 year old 600 0.60 15.6 474 5,694
Cattle, 2 year old 800 0.80 20.8 632 7,592
Deer, white-tailed, mature 150 0.15 3.9 118 1,423
4. Objectives: The landowner’s objectives are to operate a productive cow/calf operation and
minimize impacts to the resources. The objectives of a prescribed grazing plan are to improve or
maintain an optimum level of quality of forages to ensure livestock health, profi tability, and
protect the resources.
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5. Livestock Forage Inventory:
Livestock Forage Inventories are estimates of available forage in each pasture. These estimates
are then used to project stocking rates and feed requirements annually. The following Livestock
Forage Inventory was evaluated at the time of the development of this plan. Forage availability
will vary due to climatic conditions and management of grazing system. The forage inventory
should be evaluated on a regular basis to ensure proper forage requirements of the livestock are
met.
The main forage is Bahia grass. Smut grass and other undesirable species cover at least 3040%
of the plant composition, with Bahia production 60 -70 %. The Rangeland areas were not
studied in detail. Some of the Rangelands plants are listed in section 9. These plants are good
indicators to help you manage the grazing periods.
The inventory of the project area identified the following conditions or concerns: The
project area encompasses approximately 369 acres.
The sustainable annual carrying capacity of the project area is estimated at approximately
53 Animal Units (AU) in the existing conditions. The carrying capacity of the site is
expected to change with the implementation of the land management practices such as brush
management. These changes may significantly increase or decrease the amount of forage
produced.
Overall vegetative conditions and plant species indicate that the project area is stocked at or
above the sustainable carrying capacity. .
Noxious and invasive weeds including Brazilian Pepper-Tree (Schinus terebinthifolia),
Primrose Willow (Ludwigia peruviana), and Tropical Soda Apple (Solanum viarum) were
observed on the Starne Lease Property. An aggressive weed control program is needed to
maintain wildlife habitat values.
Shrub densities on upland areas are above levels expected for the site. Shrub density is
expected to increase and reduce habitat values unless changes to the prescribed burning and
brush management plan are implemented.
The increased shrub density is reducing habitat values for several ground nesting birds on
several Flatwoods and Freshwater Marsh sites.
Livestock nutritional supplements are not well distributed. This reduces the potential for
livestock to be well dispersed across the landscape. Consequently, remote areas of the
grazing units will receive little or no grazing pressure until areas in close proximity to the
supplement feeders have been heavily grazed.
The Prescribed Grazing Plan contains 10 items which should be implemented annually in order to
achieve the desired results.
1. Rotational Grazing should be applied to maintain and improve the health and vigor of the
plant community.
2. Proper Grazing Use will be applied to all grazed areas to regulate the amount of herbage
removed by grazing animals. During the growing season, the degree of use of native
vegetation will be limited to 50% (by weight) of the current year’s growth.
Deleted: terebinthifolius
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3. Stubble heights will be used to guide grazing management decisions.
4. Nesting Period – The rotational grazing system should be managed to provide an
undisturbed nesting period for ground nesting species at least once every 4 years. Livestock
should be removed from the grazing unit for a period 4 to 6 weeks in length during the
period between February 1 and June 30.
5. Deferment periods should be provided following all mechanical and/or chemical brush
management activities. This will allow desirable plants to recover from the stress or damage
caused by the treatment. The length of the deferment periods will be at least 90 consecutive
days during the period of June 1 through October 1.
6. Supplemental feed will be provided to livestock during periods when forage quality and
quantity is low.
7. Weed prevention and control - All planting material, hay and other supplemental feed will
be free of noxious or invasive weed seed. An aggressive pest management plan has already
been implemented to combat encroachment of invasive-exotic species.
8. Feeding Area Management - All hay and supplemental feed provided to domestic livestock
will be fed on upland areas at least 100 feet away from wetlands, streams, ditches, and
ponds. Supplement feeders will be well dispersed across the landscape. Supplemental
feeding locations will be moved at least once every 30 days.
9. Portable feeders will be used to provide protein, mineral, and other supplements to
livestock. These feeders will be moved as needed to improve livestock distribution and
prevent undesirable effects on the landscape.
10. Plan Review – Annual reviews should be scheduled with the local Natural Resources
Conservation Service (NRCS) office, South Florida Water Management District- Crew
WEA and Collier County Environmental department to ensure the plan meets the goals and
objectives of the property and those of the livestock owner.
Plant Communities Descriptions
Pasture – Main forage is Bahia Grass. Most pastures are in fair to good condition. Bahia
pastures contain Smut Grass, Dog fennel, Wax Myrtle and other weedy undesirable
species. Plant composition transects shows an average of 60-70 % Bahia and 30-
40 % Weedy/undesirable. Suggested stocking rate is 3-5 AUM/Acre (2.4-4.5
Ac/AU).
South Florida Flatwoods – These are areas mainly composed of Saw Palmetto, Pine, Runner
Oak Wax Myrtle, Broomsedge Bluestem, Chalky Bluestem, Forbs, Sedges and
Little Blue Maidencane and Chalky Bluestem are desired and also good indicators of
site condition ( See section 9). Most flatwoods on the ranch are in fair condition.
Brush control and prescribed burning are tools that will help improve these flatwoods.
Suggested stocking rate is 14-25 Ac./AU.
Freshwater Marsh/ Slough – Wet areas with mainly wetland plants. Flooded for most of the
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Wet Season and are considered very important habitat for many wildlife species.
Most wetlands on the ranch are in fair to good condition. Plant compostion includes,
Maidencane, West Indian Marsh grass, Torpedo grass, Pickerel weed, Primrose
Willow, Sedges, Smart Weed, hydrocotile and Others. The suggested stocking rate is
3-13 Ac./AU
.
Forage Inventory
DATE: 8/2008 Technician: George Poole
FIELD Plant Community ACRES AUM AC/AU AU
Field 1 Bahia 213 2.1 37.2
Field 1 FWM 77 7 11.0
Field 1 Brush 43 15 2.8
Field 1 SFF 37 22 1.7
369.4 TOTAL AU 53
Definitions
AUM = Animal Unit Month, the amount of forage needed to support one (1) animal unit for one (1) month.
By definition an AUM is equivalent to 780 lbs. of forage.
Ac/AU = Acres per Animal Unit, an abbreviation used to describe the number of acres needed to support
one (1) Animal Unit (AU) for 12 months.
AU = Animal Unit = One (1) animal unit (AU) is equivalent to one (1) mature cow of approximately 1,000
pounds and a calf up to weaning, usually six (6) months of age, or their equivalent. To estimate
animal units for various kinds and classes of animals refer Table 1
6. Livestock Forage Inventory Map:
38
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7. Annual Grazing Schedule:
Annual Grazing Schedules are designed to account for variations in the amount and growth of
forage due to changes in climatic conditions. The following schedule should be used as a guide
only. .
Suggested Annual Grazing Schedule
Cooperator: Collier County
Technician George Poole
Date:
Field Acres AU Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
1 369 53 53 53 53 53 53
53 53 53
53 53 53
53
Total AU 53
Supplements:
X = Protein O = Mineral
XO XO XO O XO XO XO
Suggested Breeding Season
Use as a guide only
Important: base grazing periods on the forage plants required on the required
stubble heig hts
as shown in Section 9. Environmental conditions such as soil
moisture, temperature, forage
quality, ect, will be considered by the manager when
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8. Plan Map-Continuous Grazing System with existing fence locations.
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8a. Proposed Plan Map- 3 pasture rotation system
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9. Recommended Grazing Heights and Length of Grazing Periods:
Grazing animals can rapidly and substantially alter the productivity and amount of forage in each
pasture because of grazing preferences and animal distribution. Overgrazing adversely affects
wildlife habitat, plant growth, water, soil conservation, and plant persistence. Animals prefer
improved pasture forages like the one listed below and avoid plants that are coarse and hard to
digest. During the late spring, summer and early fall cattle tend graze upland areas and avoid
grazing in wetlands such as sloughs and marshes if adequate forage is available. However, limited
availability of forage plants on upland areas may induce more grazing of the wetland plants in some
seasons, and could result in overgrazing. Under-grazing results in forage waste, reduced quality,
and reduced tiller development. Therefore, the number of animals on a specific area must be
balanced with available forage to achieve the goals and objectives for this site. This will require
monitoring of the forage availability on a regular basis and adjusting the stock density as needed to
maintain a unique balance of desirable forage and important wetland vegetation.
The following table lists common forages found in South Florida along with recommended heights to
maintain healthy stands of forage:
FORAGE TYPE Min. Ht. To Begin Grazing Min. Grazing Ht.
Bahia grass 6‖ 2‖
Limpo grass 12‖ 4‖
Pangola Digitgrass 8‖ 6‖
Maidencane (FWM) 12‖ 6-8‖
Chalky bluestem (Rangeland) 12‖ 6-8‖
Grazing heights for native forage plants is dependent upon the species and the time of year the
plant is grazed. For Native Grasses, remove no more that 50% (by weight) of the plant in any
grazing event This will provide proper use of the forage while maintaining sufficient plant
material to, provide wildlife habitat, protect the soil resource, and maintain the health of the
plant community.
Grazing periods should be kept relatively short to prevent the plants from being grazed before
they have the opportunity to recover from the last grazing event. This will depend on the size of
the herd and the area to be grazed. Use the forage heights shown in the previ ous table to
determine the length of the grazing periods.
Rest Periods should be provided between grazing events to all the plants to recovery from the
effects of grazing. The recovery periods should be long enough to allow the forages to reach the
Minimum Height to Begin Grazing. Because the rest periods are based on the growth rate of the
plants the length of the rest period will vary. The recommended recovery periods are shown in
the following table:
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Resting Periods Based on Forage Growth Rate
Forage Type
Forage Growth Rate
Fast (June1-
Sept 1)
Moderate
(Mar 1-June 1
Sept 1 – Nov 1)
Dormant (Nov
1- Mar 1)
Bahiagrass 14-28 days 28-35 days 35-60 days or more
Limpograss 14-21 days 28-35 days 35-60 days or more
Pangolagrass 7-21 days 21-28 days 28-60 days or more
Maidencane 28-35 days 35-45 days 45-60 days or more
Chalky bluestem 28-35 days 35-45 days 45-60 days or more
10. Adjustments to the Grazing System:
Adjustments in the grazing management system will be necessary during and after management
activities, such as planting, prescribed burning or pest management. The adjustments will
provide a suitable period for the vegetation to recover from the management activity or as
dictated by pesticide label restrictions. A deferment from grazing means the complete removal
of all domestic animals for the duration of the deferment.
If buffer areas are developed around specific wetlands or other areas within the Ranch during
the restoration process, livestock grazing may be permitted during dry periods of the year. This
will help to utilize available forages within the buffer and control woody vegetation. Stocking
rates should be adjusted to assure that grazing is complete within one week. The minimum
grazing heights listed in Section 9 for corresponding grasses shall not be exceeded.
When prescribed burning is applied, grazing shall be deferred as follows:
Improved pasture areas 30-60 days during the growing season (Mar1-Oct1)
Flatwoods 30-90 days during the growing season (Mar1-Oct1)
Fresh Water Marsh and Slough 30-90 days during the growing season (Mar1-Oct1)
Areas that have been disturbed and planted to native vegetation shall be deferred from grazing
for a minimum of 1 complete growing season following planting or until the g rass is well
established and produces seed. Native grass plantings generally require 2 complete growing
seasons to become well established. The deferment shall continue until a NRCS Rangeland or
Grazing Land Specialist has provided approval. Temporary fences may be used to protect small
areas during the deferment period.
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Areas that have been mechanically treated and/or planted, will be provided a deferment period
to allow herbaceous plants to recover. The deferment will be minimum of 90 consecutive day s
during the period of March 1 to December 1, unless only spot control was applied.
If herbicides used to control common weeds and invasive species the grazing management will
be adjusted to meet the requirements (if any) listed on the herbicide label.
11. Operation and Maintenance:
The location of mineral and supplement feeders will be moved routinely to evenly distribute
grazing animals throughout the pasture. The herd will be rotated to a fresh pasture when the
average stubble height falls below the recommended minimum grazing hei ght (See Section 9).
When possible, the grazing period should be 14 days or less and the pastures allowed a
recovery period of 21 days or until the forage reaches the recommended height to begin
grazing (See Section 9).
12. Contingency Management Plan:
Forage supplies will be evaluated weekly to determine if forage supplies and quality are
adequate to meet livestock demand. When the forage is not adequate, the grazing system will
be adjusted or supplemental feed will be supplied.
When prolonged periods of adverse climatic condition effect the supply of forage, the grazing
system and/or stocking rates will be adjusted or additional supplemental feed will be provided.
Appendix C. FWC Interlocal Agreement
Deleted: Cattle will not be allowed to re-enter the area
for the duration shown on the herbicide label.
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COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT
BETWEEN
THE COLLIER COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AND
THE FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION
This Agreement is entered into on ______________, 20___, between the COLLIER COUNTY
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS, 3335 Tamiami Trail, East, Suite 101, Naples, Florida
34112, hereafter called COUNTY, THE FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION
COMMISSION, 620 South Meridian Street, Tallahassee, Florida 323991600, hereafter called
COMMISSION.
WITNESSETH THAT:
WHEREAS, the COUNTY is a political subdivision created by the Florida Legislature and
given those powers and responsibilities enumerated in Chap ter 125, Florida Statutes to include
entering into contracts with public agencies, private corporations or other persons; and
WHEREAS, the COUNTY, its successors and assigns, hold title to an undivided ninety four
point four (94.4%) percent interest to 367.7 acres of land, known as the Caracara Prairie Preserve, and
Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed Land and Water Trust, Incorporated (TRUST) holds title
to an undivided five point six (5.6%) percent interest to the Caracara Prairie Preserve; and
WHEREAS, the COMMISSION is the state entity responsible for protecting and
managing Florida’s wildlife and aquatic life; and
WHEREAS, this Agreement is authorized by Chapter 163, Florida Statutes which allows the
parties to make the most efficient use of their governmental powers; and
WHEREAS, any land management activities implemented for the natural communities
identified at the Caracara Prairie Preserve will be the responsibility of the COUNTY, as set forth in
the Interlocal Agreement between the COUNTY and the TRUST (Exhibit ―A‖); and
WHEREAS, the COUNTY desires to provide recreational opportunities, including
opportunities for hunting, to the public on Caracara Prairie Preserve; and
WHEREAS, the COUNTY deems it necessary, appropriate, and in the public interest to
authorize the COMMISSION to incorporate the Caracara Prairie Preserve into the Corkscrew Marsh
Unit of the Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed Wildlife and Environmental Area (CREW
WEA), in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 68A, Florida Administrative Code; and
WHEREAS, the COMMISSION currently manages the Corkscrew Marsh Unit of the CREW
WEA for the purpose of recreational hunting; and
46
WHEREAS, the COMMISSION will publish and distribute a pamphlet, example is attached
hereto as Exhibit ―B‖, a similar pamphlet will be published regularly setting forth the regulations and
dates on which hunting will be allowed at the CREW WEA, as well as a map of the area; and
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements hereinafter
contained, the COUNTY agrees to allow the COMMISSION to manage the Caracara Prairie Preserve
subject to the following terms and conditions:
1. DESCRIPTION OF PREMISES. The Caracara Prairie Preserve subject to this
Agreement is situated in the County of Collier, State of Florida and is described in Exhibit ―C‖
attached hereto.
2. TERM OF THE AGREEMENT. It is understood and agreed that the relation established by
this Agreement is meant to be for the benefit of both parties, and that this Agreement shall be
effective on the date of execution by both parties and shall remain in effe ct unless otherwise
terminated by either party.
3. TERMINATION. Either party may terminate this Agreement by giving written notice to the
other party specifying the termination date, by certified mail, return receipt requested, at least
sixty (60) days prior to the termination date specified in the notice. However, if such notice is
given after February 15, the termination date shall be April 30 of the following calendar year.
4. PURPOSE. The COMMISSION shall manage the Caracara Prairie Preserve only for the
conservation and protection of natural and historical resources and resource based public outdoor
recreation which is compatible with the conservation and protection of these public lands, as set
forth in Collier County Ordinance No. 2007-65 (Exhibit ―D‖), along with other authorized uses
necessary for the accomplishment of this purpose as designated in the Habitat Management Plan
approved by the COUNTY.
5. QUIET ENJOYMENT AND RIGHT OF USE. The COMMISSION shall have the right of
ingress and egress to, from and upon the Caracara Prairie Preserve for all purposes necessary to
the full quiet enjoyment by said COMMISSION of the rights conveyed herein.
6. CONSIDERATIONS. The COMMISSION shall be responsible for all administrative and
managerial duties related to public use (i.e., passage of regulation changes, annual publication
of area brochure, bag limits) during the periods of allowed hunting. The COMMISSION shall
provide law enforcement patrol periodically throughout the year.
7. AUTHORIZED USES. Authorized uses for the purposes of this Agreement shall be defined
as those management activities that the COMMISSION is authorized to perform under this
Agreement and the approved Habitat Management Plan. The authorized uses shall be consistent
with statutory requirements that the Caracara Prairie Preserve be managed and maintained in an
environmentally acceptable manner to restore and protect its natural state and condition,
including permitting of compatible recreational use. The authorized uses shall at minimum,
47
always include essential site management measures including security, policing, resource
protection, public access and recreational use, and habitat management.
8. UNAUTHORIZED USES. The COMMISSION shall, through their agents and employees,
prevent the unauthorized use of the Caracara Prairie Preserve or any use thereof not in
conformance with this Agreement.
9. INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS. The COUNTY shall be responsible for any improvements
or structures located on the Caracara Prairie Preserve. This protection shall be afforded through
the purchase of a Real and Personal Property Insurance Policy or through Self Insurance, as the
COUNTY deems appropriate.
10. PLACEMENT AND REMOVAL OF IMPROVEMENTS. The COMMISSION shall obtain
prior written approval from the COUNTY before constructing or locating any structures on the
Caracara Prairie Preserve. No trees shall be removed or major land alterations done without the
prior written approval of the COUNTY. All permanent structures shall remain the sole and
exclusive property of the COUNTY. Temporary structures constructed or located on the
Caracara Prairie Preserve by the COMMISSION shall remain the property of the
COMMISSION.
11. ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORICAL SITES. Execution of this Agreement in no way
affects any of the parties’ obligations pursuant to Chapter 267, Florida Statutes. The collection
of artifacts or the disturbance of archaeological and historic sites on the Cara cara Prairie Preserve
is prohibited unless prior authorization has been obtained from the Department of the State,
Division of Historical Resources. The Habitat Management Plan shall be reviewed by the
Division of Historical Resources to insure that adequate measures have been planned to locate,
identify, protect and preserve the archaeological and historic sites and properties on the Caracara
Prairie Preserve. The COUNTY will notify the Division of Historical Resources immediately if
evidence is found to suggest that any archaeological or historic resources may exist.
12. PERMITS. The COUNTY shall be responsible for securing all local, State and Federal permits
required for management actions under this agreement.
13. HUNTING. Hunting shall be approved and regulated through the COMMISSION. No hunting
shall be allowed on the Caracara Prairie Preserve prior to the effective date of this Agreement.
The Caracara Prairie Preserve shall be incorporated into the existing Corkscrew Marsh Unit of
the CREW WEA. All hunting regulations, monitoring, and enforcement activities associated
with the Corkscrew Marsh Unit of the CREW WEA shall also apply to the Caracara Prairie
Preserve.
14. SIGNAGE. The COMMISSION shall legally post appropriate signage along the perimeter of
the Caracara Prairie Preserve.
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15. MODIFICATION OF AGREEMENT. No waiver or modification of this Agreement shall be
valid unless in writing and lawfully executed by all parties. It is the intention of the
COMMISSION and the COUNTY that no evidence of any waiver or modification shall be
offered or received in evidence in any proceeding or litigation between and among the parties
arising out of or affecting this Agreement unless such waiver or modification is in writing and
executed as aforesaid.
16. RELATIONSHIP OF PARTIES. It is understood that an employer-employee relationship
does not exist between the COMMISSION and the COUNTY and neither of the parties shall be
responsible for providing Workers’ Compensation Insurance and withholding services f or the
other party or its employees. Each of the parties stipulates that they are not aware of any conflict
of interest prohibiting them from entering into this Agreement.
17. OTHER AGREEMENTS. This Agreement contains the complete agreement between the
COMMISSION and the COUNTY. Each party acknowledges reliance on its own judgment in
entering into this Agreement. The COMMISSION and the COUNTY further acknowledge that
any representations that may have been made outside of those specifically contained he rein are
of no binding effect and have not been relied upon by either party in their dealings with the other
party in entering into this Agreement.
18. PUBLIC RECORDS. The COMMISSION and the COUNTY shall abide by the provisions of
Chapter 119, Florida Statutes, allowing public access to all documents, papers, letters, or other
material as applicable.
19. NOTICES. Any and all notices shall be delivered to the parties at the following addresses (or
such changed address or addressee as may be provided by notice). A notice or other
communication shall be deemed received by the addressee on the next business day after having
been placed in overnight mail with the U. S. Postal Service, or other overnight express service
such as FedEx, UPS, or similar service. Notices sent by means other than overnight delivery
shall be deemed received when actually received by the addressee:
FOR THE COUNTY: FOR THE COMMISSION:
Melissa Hennig Mike Brooks
Collier County Board of County Commissioners Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation
Conservation Collier Program Commission
3335 Tamiami Trail, East, Suite 101 620 South Meridian Street
Naples, FL 34112 Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600
Tel. 239-252-2957 Tel. 850-617-9583
melissahennig@colliergov.net mike.brooks@myfwc.com
20. PUBLIC RECORDS. All records in conjunction with this Agreement shall be public records
in accordance with the laws applicable to the parties.
49
21. LIABILITY. Each party hereto agrees that it shall be solely responsible for the negligent or
wrongful acts of its employees and agents. However nothing herein shall constitute a waiver by
either party of sovereign immunity or statutory limitations on liability.
22. STATE REQUIRED CLAUSES.
a. Non-discrimination. No person, on the grounds of race, creed, color, national origin,
age, sex, or disability, shall be excluded from participation in, be denied the proceeds or
benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination in performance of th is
Agreement.
b. Prohibition of Discriminatory Vendors. In accordance with Section 287.134, Florida
Statutes, an entity or affiliate who has been placed on the discriminatory vendor list may
not submit a bid, proposal, or reply on a contract to provide an y goods or services to a
public entity; may not submit a bid, proposal or reply on a contract with a public entity
for the construction or repair of a public building or public work; may not submit bids,
proposals, or replies on leases of real property to a public entity; may not be awarded or
perform work as a supplier, sub or consultant under a contract with any public entity;
and may not transact business with any public entity.
c. Public Entity Crimes. In accordance with Section 287.133(2)(a), F.S., a person or
affiliate who has been placed on the convicted vendor list following a conviction for a
public entity crime may not perform work as a grantee, supplier, sub, consultant or by
any other manner under a contract with any public entity, and may not t ransact business
with any public entity in excess of the threshold amount provided in Section 287.017,
F.S., for Category Two, for a period of 36 months from the date of being placed on the
convicted vendor list.
d. Legislative appropriation. For contracts whose term extends beyond the State fiscal
year in which encumbered funds were appropriated, the State of Florida's performance
and obligation to pay is contingent upon an annual appropriation by the Legislature.
23. NON-ASSIGNMENT. This Agreement and may not be assigned in whole or in part without
the written approval of all parties. Any such assignment or attempted assignment shall be null
and void.
24. SEVERABILITY AND CHOICE OF VENUE. This Agreement shall be construed in
accordance with the laws of Florida. Wherever possible, each provision of this Agreement shall
be interpreted in such manner as to be effective and valid under applicable law, but if any
provision of this Agreement shall be prohibited or invalid under applicable law, such provision
shall be ineffective to the extent of such prohibition or invalidity, without invalidating the
remainder of such provision or the remaining provisions of this Agreement. Any action in
connection herewith, in law or equity, shall be brought in Leon County, Florida.
50
25. NO THIRD PARTY RIGHTS. The parties hereto do not intend nor shall this Agreement be
construed to grant any rights, privileges or interest to any person not a party to this Agreement.
26. JURY TRIAL WAIVER. As part of the consideration for this Agreement, the parties hereby
waive trial by jury in any action or proceeding brought by any party against any other party
pertaining to any matter whatsoever arising out of or in any way connected with this Agreement,
or with the products or services provided under this Agreement; including but not limited to any
claim of quantum meruit.
27. PROHIBITION OF UNAUTHORIZED ALIENS. In accordance with Executive Order 96-
236, the Commission shall consider the employment by th e County of unauthorized aliens a
violation of section 274A(e) of the Immigration and Nationalization Act. Such violation shall
be cause for unilateral cancellation of this Agreement if the County knowingly employs
unauthorized aliens.
28. ENTIRE AGREEMENT; AMENDMENT. This Agreement with all incorporated
attachments and exhibits represents the entire agreement of the parties. This Agreement may be
amended by mutual written agreement of the parties.
The remainder of this page intentionally left blank
51
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Memorandum of Agreement to be
executed through their duly authorized signatories on the day and year last below written.
Each party is signing this agreement on the date stated below that party’s signature. The latest
date of signing shall be inserted in the first sentence of the first page and shall be deemed the
effective date of this Agreement.
Attachments and Exhibits in this Contract include the
following:
Exhibit A Interlocal Agreement between Collier County and the Corkscrew Regional
Ecosystem Watershed Land and Water Trust
Exhibit B CREW Wildlife and Environmental Area Brochure Pamphlet
Exhibit C Caracara Prairie Preserve Property Legal Description
Exhibit D Collier County Ordinance No. 2007-65
Exhibit E Corkscrew Regional Watershed Map
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE
OF COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA
CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Fred W. Coyle, CHAIRMAN FLORIDA
Date:
ATTEST:
DWIGHT E. BROCK, CLERK
Approved as to form and legal
sufficiency
Executive Director (or designee)
Date:
Approved as to form and legality:
Commission Attorney
STATE OF FLORIDA
52
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EXHIBIT A
PROPERTY TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 00053080006
LEGAL DESCRIPTION:
WEST HALF (W1/2) OF SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 46 SOUTH, RANGE 28 EAST, OF
COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA.
AND
PROPERTY TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 00053080200
LEGAL DESCRIPTION:
NORTHWEST QUARTER (NW1/4) OF NORTHEAST QUARTER (NE1/4) OF
SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 46 SOUTH, RANGE 28 EAST, OF COLLIER COUNTY,
FLORIDA.
56
EXHIBIT “B”
57
58
59
60
61
62
EXHIBIT “C”
PROPERTY TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 00053080006
LEGAL DESCRIPTION:
WEST HALF (W1/2) OF SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 46 SOUTH, RANGE 28 EAST, OF
COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA.
AND
PROPERTY TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 00053080200
LEGAL DESCRIPTION:
NORTHWEST QUARTER (NW1/4) OF NORTHEAST QUARTER (NE1/4) OF
SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 46 SOUTH, RANGE 28 EAST, OF COLLIER COUNTY,
FLORIDA.
63
EXHIBIT “D ”
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72
73
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EXHIBIT “E”
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Appendix D. Oil, Gas, and Mineral Lease
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83
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Appendix E. 2019 Oil & Gas Drilling Final Permit 1335D
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105
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Appendix F. July 2020 Notice of Extension of Drilling Permit No. 1335D
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110
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Appendix G. 2018 Letter Submitted to FL DEP regarding Permit # 1335D from Conservation Collier
Staff
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114
115
116
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Appendix H. 2019 Letter Submitted to FL DEP regarding Permit # 1335D from Conservation Collier
Staff
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119
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Deleted: ¶
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Appendix I. 2018 Letter Submitted to FL DEP regarding Permit # 1335D from the Conservancy of
Southwest Florida
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133
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135
136
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Appendix J. 2007 and 2019 Cattle Lease Agreements
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Appendix G. Service-approved Pesticide List
Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank 2023 182
Deleted: – February 2010
Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank 2023 183
Deleted: –
Deleted: February 2010
Deleted: September 2020
1
Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank Habitat Management Plan
Introduction
Collier County (County) has acquired the Caracara Prairie Preserve for conservation purposes and
proposes to use the property to offset impacts to the Florida panther (Puma concolor coryi) (panther)
from County projects. The Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank (Bank) will be managed for
conservation, protection, and enhancement of natural resources and for passive and compatible public
outdoor recreation.
Biological Goals
The biological goals are to (1) protect, manage and restore (as appropriate) the native habitats on site,
and (2) monitor management activities as they affect the Florida panther, listed plant and animal
species, native vegetation, water quality and wildlife habitat.
Objectives
The Bank will be managed for conservation and recreational uses by
1. maintaining upland, invasive, exotic vegetation at a manageable level;
2. maintaining grassland habitat through cattle rotation, mowing, and burning;
3. maintaining forested land through prescribed fire regime; and
4. conducting scheduled, controlled hunts for feral hogs and turkey
5. maintaining a passive recreational hiking trail for public visitors and guided outreach hikes
throughout the year
2
The value and integrity of the Bank will be maintained by
1. marking the property boundaries with conservation land signs;
2. gating the property to reduce uncontrolled access; and
3. conducting routine law enforcement patrols.
Strategy
The Bank was selected and designed to provide conservation value to the panther and other threatened
and endangered species in Collier County, and to provide passive recreational opportunities to local
citizens.
An active management plan is proposed to restore native communities where feasible and control
invasive plants. Sufficient funds will be set aside to maintain these ecological improvements in
perpetuity.
Site Description
The 367.7-acre Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank is located at 2320 Corkscrew Rd. in
Immokalee, Florida (Figure 1). The northwest corner of the property is approximately 13.5 miles east
of Interstate 75 on Corkscrew Rd. The property is located in Section 30, Township 46, Range 28.
The bulk of this property is designated as open space‖ in the Rural Lands Stewardship Area (RLSA)
(Collier County 2007). A small portion, approximately 50 acres, is within the RLSA Habitat and
Flow-way Stewardship Areas. The property has mixed-land use designations consisting of improved
pastureland, former cultivated areas, wetlands, and wooded areas.
The Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank is bordered by CREW lands to the north, east and
south. These lands are designated as conservation areas and were acquired by the South Florida Water
Management District (SFWMD) with funds from the Save our Rivers Program. These lands are
mandated to be managed in an environmentally acceptable manner and restored to their natural state.
SFWMD may make certain capital improvements, i.e. fencing, access roads/trails, and provide basic
public facilities on their lands. In addition, habitat management such as control of exotic species and
prescribed burning may be conducted. The legislation (373.59 F.S.) also requires SFWMD to develop
appropriate public use. The Caracara Prairie Preserve is bordered by active agriculture to the west.
These lands are within the Lee County boundary.
Several historical sites are located nearby but no sites were identified on the Caracara Prairie Preserve
(Figure 2). The Caracara Prairie Preserve is not within an area of historical and archaeological
probability, and the Florida Department of State Division of Historical Resources’ Master Site File
lists no known historical or archaeological sites on the property (Appendix A).
If evidence is found to suggest that any archaeological or historical resources exist on site, the County
will notify the Division of Historical Resources immediately. Where resources are identified on-site,
staff shall cordon off the area, and a professional survey and assessment shall be instituted. The
3
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 protec tion 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).
Portions of the property were used historically for the cultivation of row crops. The property was
undeveloped prior to the 1950’s. A Phase I and II Environmental Site Assessment performed by URS
Corporation in October 2007 identified five areas on-site totaling approximately 105 acres that were
formerly used for agriculture. Furrows used in row crop cultivation are still present on the property.
Historical aerial photographs indicate that the cultivation was conducted between the 1950’s up until
the 1970’s. Pesticide levels found by URS within the pasture soils were not high enough to warrant
concern regarding the use of the property as a conservation area.
Project Area Applicability for Mitigation
The Bank is located within Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Priority 1
Habitat for Florida Panther and within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) Panther Focus
area with about 67% of the Bank in the Primary Zone and 33% in the Secondary Zone (Service 2007)
(Figure 3). The property is surrounded on the north, east, and south sides by conservations lands, and
is made up of habitat suitable for the panther. In addition, a least-cost panther dispersal pathway
crosses the southern portion of the property (Swainson et al. 2005).
Physical Setting
The Caracara Prairie Preserve is located within the Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed
(CREW). CREW is a 60,000-acre watershed spanning Lee and Collier Counties (Figure 1). CREW's
5,000- acre marsh is the headwater for the entire watershed and is located approximately .25miles east
of the Caracara Prairie Preserve. Historically the property was pine flatwoods, wetland hardwood, and
freshwater marsh (Davis 1967).
Soils
The property is composed of seven major soil types (Table 1) of which most are non-hydric (Figure
4). The soil types indicate the historical habitat types were mesic flatwoods and wet prairie.
Table 1. Soil types, area, and expected habitat of the Caracara Prairie Preserve.
4
Soil Acres Habitat1
Basinger Fine Sand 1.8 Hydric Flatwood
Chobee; Winder; And Gator Soils; Depressional 41.7 Wet Prairie
Immokalee Sand 50.9 Mesic Flatwood
Riviera Fine Sand; Limestone Substratum 50.1 Wet Prairie
Tuscawilla Fine Sand 9.1 Hammock
Wabasso Sand 211.7 Mesic Flatwood
Winder; Riviera; Limestone Substratum; and Chobee Soils;
Depressional
1Zahina et al. 2007
2.4 Marsh
Vegetation
Four vegetation types were identified in the survey for the Prescribed Grazing Plan (Appendix B)
and described below (Figure 5). Plant common and scientific names follow Wunderlin and Hansen
(2008).
Prairie – 205.5 acres. Prairie areas are currently improved pasture dominated by bahiagrass
(Paspalum notatum) seeded for cattle forage. Most pastures are in fair condition. The pastures
also contain smutgrass (Sporobolus indicus), dogfennel (Eupatorium capillifolium), wax
myrtle (Myrica cerifera), and other weedy undesirable species. Plant composition transects
show an average of 60-70% bahiagrass and 30-40% weedy/undesirable species.
Depressional marsh/ wet prairie – 78.8 acres. These are areas dominated by wetland plants
and flooded for most of the wet season. These are very important habitats for many wildlife
species. Most wetlands are in fair to good condition. Plant composition includes maidencane
(Panicum hemitomon), trompetilla (West Indian marsh grass Hymenachne amplexicaulis),
torpedograss (Panicum repens), pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata) primrosewillow
(Ludwigia spp.), sedges, smartweed (Polygonum spp.), and marshpennywort (Hydrocotyle
spp.). Trompetilla and torpedograss are invasive species.
Mesic Flatwoods – 43.9 acres. The flatwoods areas are mainly composed of pine (Pinus
elliottii), saw palmetto (Serenoa repens), oak (Quercus spp.), wax myrtle, broomsedge
bluestem (Andropogon virginicus), forbs, and sedges. Blue maidencane (Amphicarpum
muhlenbergianum) and chalky bluestem (Andropogon virginicus var. glaucus) are desirable
grasses found in this habitat, and also good indicators of site condition. Most flatwoods are
in fair to good condition.
Shrub and Brush – 37.1 acres. This habitat is an interface between the flatwoods and
depressional marshes that is being reclaimed by native weedy species. The improved pasture
is being with encroached by woody species such as cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto), oaks, and
wax myrtle.
5
Biological Resources
The following listed wildlife species have been observed on the property:
COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME STATUS**
State Federal
Plants
leafless beaked orchid Sacoila lanceolate T
Catesby’s lily Lilium catesbaei T
cardinal airplant Tillandsia fasciculata E
re-flexed wild pine Tillandsia balbisiana T
giant airplant Tillandsia utriculata E
Birds
wood stork Mycteria americana T
Audubon’s crested
caracara
Polyborus plancus
audubonii
T
Florida sandhill crane Antigone canadensis
pratensis
T
roseate spoonbill Platalea ajaja T
tricolored heron Egretta tricolor T
little blue heron Egretta caerulea T
Reptiles
American alligator Alligator
mississippiensis
ST (S/A)
gopher tortoise Gopherus Polyphemus T
Eastern indigo snake Drymarchon corais
couperi
T
Mammals
Florida panther Puma concolor coryi E
Big Cypress fox squirrel Sciurus niger
avicennia
T
Table 2. Federally and state-imperiled species observed on Caracara Prairie Preserve
Species to be covered
The Florida panther will be covered by this Habitat Management Plan. Collier County reserves the
right to add the crested caracara to the covered species in the future if conditions on the Bank
property are consistent with Service policy for caracara compensation when the policy is completed.
Local Habitat Requirements
Florida Panther - Panthers use the mosaic of habitats available to them as resting and denning
sites, hunting grounds, and travel routes. These habitats include cypress swamps, hardwood
hammocks, pine flatwoods, seasonally flooded prairies, freshwater marshes, and some agricultural
6
lands. The cover habitats in south Florida used most often by the panther include: hardwood
swamps, tree islands or hammocks, and pine flatwoods with dense palmetto. These cover areas are
important for denning and rearing of young. Dense understory vegetation comprised of saw
palmetto provides some of the most important resting and denning cover for panthers (Maehr 1990).
Panthers sometimes utilize nonforest cover types, including areas disturbed by humans (Belden et
al. 1988, Maehr et al. 1991, Comiskey et al. 2002). Forest patches of all sizes appear to be important
components of the landscapes inhabited by panthers, not just the larger forest patches.
Panther habitat selection is related to prey availability (Janis and Clark 1999, Dees et al. 2001) and,
consequently, prey habitat use. White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and hogs (Sus scrofa)
constitute 67% of the panther diet. Exotics [hog and armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus)] account
for almost half of the panther diet. Hardwood hammocks and other forest cover types are important
habitat for white-tailed deer and other panther prey (Harlow and Jones 1965, Belden et al. 1988,
Maehr 1990, Maehr et al. 1991, Maehr 1992, Comiskey et al. 1994, Dees et al. 2001). Periodic
understory brushfires (Dees et al. 2001) as well as increased amounts of edge (Miller 1993) may
enhance deer use of hardwood hammocks, pine, and other forest cover types. Marshes, rangeland,
and low-intensity agricultural areas support prey populations of deer and hogs (Comiskey et al.
2002, Beier et al. 2003, Comiskey et al. 2004, Beier et al. 2006).
Site Habitat Available
Florida Panther – The entire Caracara Prairie Preserve (367.7 ac.) is located in the Panther Focus
area north of I-75. Panthers living north of I-75 weigh more, produce more kittens, and raise more
young than panthers to the south (USFWS 2006). Approximately 81.4 ac. of the Caracara Prairie
Preserve consists of mesic pine flatwoods/brush, a preferred cover habitat of the Florida panther.
The 286 ac. of improved pasture and scattered wetlands are suitable habitat for prey populations of
deer and hogs.
Credits Criteria
Florida Panther – Based on recent publications (Cox et al. 2006, Kautz et al. 2006, Land et al. 2008)
values were assigned to the habitats. The proposed panther credit follows the panther habitat units
(PHUs) assigned the each habitat type on-site (Table 3).
Table 3. Habitat category, value, area, and panther habitat units (PHU) for the Caracara Prairie
Preserve.
7
Habitat Value Acres PHU
Limerock oil drilling pad and tank battery pad 0 1.6 0
Oil pad access road 0 0.8 0
Prairie (improved pasture) 5.2 205.5 1068.6
Marsh/wet prairie 4.7 78.8 370.4
Pine Flatwoods 9.5 43.9 417.1
Shrub/brush 5.5 37.1 204.1
TOTAL 367.7 2060.2
No habitat restoration is proposed at this time. Thus, 2060.2 PHUs will be released upon bank
certification. The Banker reserved the right to request additional credit if pasture restoration is
undertaken, or alternatively the Banker may seek outside funding to complete the pasture restoration
to native conditions. In the second case no additional panther credit will be requested.
Service Area
The Service Area for Florida panther will be Collier County (Figure 6). Credit will only be used for
County projects.
Land Protection
On December 17, 2007, Collier County and the CREW Land and Water Trust acquired the Caracara
Prairie Preserve. The County’s land acquisition program Conservation Collier spent $5,032,000 and
the CREW Land and Water Trust spent $300,000 towards the purchase of the property. Collier
County and CREW Land and Water Trust share title to the Caracara Prairie Preserve. The property
was purchased for conservation, protection, and enhancement of natural resources and for passive and
compatible public outdoor recreation. Additionally, a conservation easement over the Caracara
Prairie Preserve will be granted to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
with the Service as a third party to the agreement.
Interim Management
Initial Restoration and Maintenance
Collier County will be responsible for: (1) upland, invasive, exotic plant maintenance for ten years
after initial removal (initial removal was completed on May 31, 2008), (2) external fencing, (3) initial
fire break creation, (4) burn plans and prescribed burns, (5) posting, (6) vegetation monitoring, and
(7) wildlife monitoring. Collier County’s cattle lessee shall maintain any necessary internal fencing
required to implement the Prescribed Grazing Plan (Appendix B).
Long-term Management
Collier County will be responsible for burn plans and prescribed burns, invasive, exotic plant
maintenance and mowing after the first 10 years. FWC will be responsible for all administrative and
8
managerial duties related to public use (i.e., passage of regulation changes, annual publication of area
brochure, bag limits) during the periods of allowed hunting.
The annual operating cost is estimated including maintenance, management, and monitoring costs.
Table 4 outlines the costs of major activities through 2028. All dollar figures are estimates and will
be reviewed from time to time and increased, if necessary, to ensure that all costs of establishing and
managing the Conservation Bank will be covered.
Table 4. Annual maintenance costs for the period 2023 through 2028 for the Caracara Prairie Preserve
Conservation Bank.
Management Trust
Collier County will establish the Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Endowment Fund Trust (the
―Trust‖) for management of the Bank. Management costs for the interim period through credit sell
out will be held in an interim management account within the Trust. All funds required for the interim
period will be transferred into the interim management account upon creation of the Trust.
A separate endowment fund within the Trust will be utilized to manage the Caracara Prairie Preserve
in perpetuity. The endowment fund will be nonwasting providing for the annual operating cost from
the interest only. Based on an average annual cost it is estimated that a fund value of $1,188,900 will
be needed. The cost per credit that will be deposited into the endowment fund was determined by the
average annual cost divided by a 1.5% capitalization rate. For each credit sold $577.08 will be placed
in the endowment fund.
With a 1.5 percent capitalization rate, $1,888,900 ($20,330/0.015) is needed for the endowment fund.
For each credit sold $577.08 ($1,888,900 divided by 2060.2 PHUs) will be deposited in the
endowment fund. Collier County will fully fund the endowment fund ($1,888,900) on January 1,
2018, if the fund is not fully funded through credit sales.
The Trust will be invested consistent with the Investment Policy as set forth in the Caracara Prairie
Preserve Conservation Bank Endowment Fund Trust Agreement between Collier County and the
Clerk of the Circuit Court of Collier County.
ACTIVITY FY23 FY24 FY25 FY26 FY27 FY28
Prescribed fire- fire line discing
and burn implementation $5,000 $5,000 $5,000 $5000 $5000 $5000
Site Security: Gate
Repair/Monitoring $500 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500
Exotic Vegetation Treatment $18,000 $18,000 $18,000 $18,000 $18,000 $18,000
Restoration Plantings $1500 $1500 $1500 $1500 $1500 $1500
$25,000 $25,000 $25,000 $25,000 $25,000 $25,000
9
Control of Public Access
The public will access the northern boundary of the Caracara Prairie Preserve by way of a trail leading
from SFWMD Gate 5. Gate 5 will be open from dawn to dusk, and FWC staff will routinely patrol
the Caracara Prairie Preserve as part of their regular SFWMD CREW lands patrol. Future trails
through the Caracara Prairie Preserve will follow fire breaks and other existing distu rbed areas.
Kissing gates will be installed at points where cattle-fencing crosses the trail. This will alleviate the
need for additional gates.
At public access points, the boundary fence will be marked with signage designating the area as
conservation land.
Approved activities on the Bank
When the Caracara Prairie Preserve land was initially purchased by the County, the oil, gas, and
mineral rights were not included in the sale and the property can be drilled lawfully. The Mack Oil
Corporation will construct a 300 X 200 foot limerock pad to facilitate the drilling of an exploration
well. The proposed access road will be an existing limerock road running along the northern edge of
the property and an active, grass-covered pasture situated northeast of the well (3,502.8 feet X 10
feet). Temporary logging mats will be placed over two (2) swales that allow access for the
construction of the limerock pad and exploration well within an improved upland pasture. The logging
mats will be installed at grade in the swales to stabilize the area while allowing any surface flow to
continue. No improvements will be made to the gravel road. The existing primitive trail will be
stabilized with limerock. The oil and gas permit holders will be responsible for consulting with the
Service about impacts to caracara.
The limerock pad will be constructed within uplands designated as improved pasture situated half-
way between wetlands north and south of the location. A berm will surround the limerock pad.
Wetlands begin approximately 100 to 130 feet from the proposed northern and southern perimeter
berms. No wetland impacts are proposed during the construction of the limerock pad. If the
exploration well is considered dry, the limerock pad will be restored to the adjacent grade after the
well has been plugged and abandoned. The logging mats and silt fences will be removed from the
swale crossings, unless Collier County chooses to retain the limerock pad and logging mats. If
sufficient minerals are available, additional permitting will be required. Access to the production well
will occur through the northwestern gate. No impacts are proposed during the construction of the
access road.
The following conditions will be included in the State drilling permit Number 1335 for the No. 30-2
Caracara Prairie Preserve drilling site:
Access
• Well site access will occur via gated entry in the Northwest corner of the property utilizing the lime r ock
access road shown in attached map.
• Operator will be responsible for ensuring perimeter gate is closed and locked after each use and access to
the preserve by designated parties is not impeded through the perimeter access gate.
10
• Operator will be responsible for the replacement of all culverts along the lime rock access road from the
access gate to the existing pad, before drilling rig construction commences. Operator must comply with all
federal, state, and local laws and permitting procedures required for culvert replacement.
• Operator will be responsible for maintaining the access road to the well site and completing necessary
repairs or maintenance in a timely manner. Trend Exploration will submit a Road Maintenance Plan to the
County Preserve Manager within 30 days of commencement of drilling activities.
• All vehicle operators accessing the preserve will follow the posted speed restrictions of less than 15mph
and remain vigilant for wildlife and cattle in close proximity to the oil pad and access road. State-
threatened Big Cypress fox squirrel have been observed foraging within 15 feet of the oil well access
gate. State-threatened Florida sandhill cranes and their flightless young have been observed foraging
along the oil well access road and in the marshes and pastures surrounding the oil well.
• All vehicles and equipment required for oil and gas activity will remain within the footprint of the well-
site access road and well pad at all times.
• No vehicles, equipment, or debris may be stored or traverse the designated preserve area without prior
approval from Collier County.
• Operators will be responsible for providing an additional combination lock on the access gate for use by
all personnel, to be removed after activities have ceased. This combination lock will remain locked
between uses by personnel to maintain site security.
Wildlife and Public Disturbance Mitigation
• Caracara Prairie Preserve is located within the USFWS Crested Caracara Consultation Area. Federally
threatened Audubon’s crested caracara utilize the preserve year-round and have been recorded nesting on
the property. Trend Exploration will be responsible for consulting with the USFWS regarding impacts to
the crested caracara and all Federally listed species that may be found on the preserve, as well as the Florida
Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWCC) regarding State-listed species that may be impacted.
• Exploratory drilling operations are requested to occur outside of the Federally threatened Audubon’s
Crested Caracara primary breeding season from November 1 through May 1 due to the proximity of known
nesting locations to the well site.
• Permit applicants will be responsible for consulting with the USFWS and FWC regarding impacts to listed
species, wildlife permit conditions, seasonal drilling restrictions, and mitigation requirements. Permit
applicants will be responsible for ensuring required wildlife surveys are conducted by a professional
biologist with the necessary experience in listed species survey protocols.
• From FWC CREW WEA wading bird survey data, we know that many state-and-federally-listed avian
species roost and forage in the ephemeral wetlands surrounding the oil pad and access road. Caution should
be used by vehicles accessing the oil pad, so as not to cause injury or mortality to these listed species. In
addition, best management practices should be taken into account during operation, so equipment or debris
left on and near the oil pad does not inadvertently injure wildlife.
11
• Federally and state-listed species that may be found on Caracara Prairie Preserve include the Florida
panther (FE), Everglade’s snail kite (FE), Florida bonneted bat (FE), American Alligator (FT), Eastern
indigo snake (FT), Wood stork (FT), Big Cypress Fox Squirrel (ST), Gopher tortoise (ST), Crested
Caracara (ST), Florida burrowing owl (ST), Florida sandhill crane (ST), Little blue heron (ST), Roseate
Spoonbill (ST), Southeastern American kestrel (ST), Tricolored heron (ST), and Osprey (SSC).
FE = Federally designated Endangered, FT = Federally-designated Threatened, ST = State-designated Threatened,
SSC = State Species of Special Concern
o A listed species identification chart will be provided to Trend Exploration by the Preserve Manager
to be posted at the drill site. Crew members will be responsible for notifying the Preserve Manager
if direct impacts to listed species are observed by drilling activities: (ex: burrows located within
100 ft of well pad, mortality due to equipment collision, etc.)
• Trend Exploration will be encouraged to follow practices that limit impacts to wildlife and public users of
the preserve as a result of drilling activities including, but not limited to:
o Noise that has the potential to disturb wildlife, livestock, and surface owners or neighbors should
be controlled to reduce sound levels. Suitable mufflers should be installed on all internal
combustion engines and certain compressor components.
o Lighting for night-time operations (if utilized) should aim to increase visibility for grounds crew
and reduce sky-glow and unnecessary light pollution. When applicable, flood lights should be
aimed down to illuminate the work area rather than the horizon or fitted with manufacturer shields.
LEDs should be limited to 3,000 Kelvin. When possible and safe to do so, use of site lighting
should be restricted to limit impacts to wildlife.
o All long-term facility structures on-site (if built) should be painted a color that enables the facilities
to blend with the natural background color of the landscape as seen from a viewing distance. The
selected color should be one to two shades darker than the dominant background color, typically a
vegetation color. Safety hazards such as tripping hazards should be painted a bright color to contrast
the permanent structure.
Site Requirements: Further conditions of the drilling permit are specified within the Caracara
Prairie Preserve Land Management Plan
• Before commencing any drilling or unplugging activities, Trend Exploration will be responsible for making
necessary repairs to the containment berm surrounding the well site including reinforcing the height and
width of the berm to previously permitted standards and mowing existing vegetation atop the berm.
• It is requested that the surface layout as detailed in the application be changed such that battery, tanks, and
flow lines (if built on-site) are re-located to within the existing well pad infrastructure and updated maps
with these requirements are submitted to the Preserve Manager within 60 days of the start of any drilling
activities.
• Trend Exploration will be responsible for constructing secondary containment berms around existing water
supply wells located within the main containment berm.
12
• Prior to drilling activities, Trend Exploration will be responsible for removing and properly disposing of
existing debris on-site related to previous oil activity including the catwalk infrastructure wood pile and
unused cellar material located outside of the Southwest corner of the pad.
• Trend Exploration will keep the well-site tidy of debris for the duration of the exploratory drilling activities
in consideration of the public users of the preserve.
• Position propane tank on the lime rock pad no closer than 50’ from the perimeter berms. Ensure that the
existing containment berm surrounding this 18,000-gallon tank is adequate for spill containment.
• The Caracara Preserve Manager will conduct an on-site assessment and cataloging of well pad conditions
prior to the commencement of activities. If desirable, Collier County will decide in the future if they want
to retain the lime rock pad after the well has been plugged and abandoned. If it is decided that the County
does not desire to retain the pad and site, Trend Exploration will be responsible for returning the impacted
areas to the original state prior to drilling activity.
• Retain one water supply well for fire protection after the exploratory oil well has been plugged and
abandoned. After the oil well has gone through required plugging and abandonment procedures, Trend
Exploration will degrade the secondary-containment berm surrounding the water supply well to an elevation
level with the surrounding landscape.
• In the event that the exploratory well is deemed not to be commercially productive and/or cap and
abandonment action is taken, the operator will remove all equipment and storage tanks from the preserve,
including, but not limited to, the 18,000 gallon storage tank, cellars, catwalk material, debris, and any
residual fluids, and rig securing infrastructure from previous drilling operations within 30 days of ceasing
of exploratory activities.
• At Collier County’s discretion, remediation and restoration of the oil pad and oil well access road will be
carried out and funded by the operator. Restoration activities may include: degrading all containment berms,
ensuring that the oil pad is returned to the same grade as the surrounding preserve area, removing the oi l
pad access road and bringing the road footprint down to the grade of the surrounding preserve area, seeding
or sodding the project footprint with appropriate native vegetation, obtaining any necessary state or federal
permits required for restoration activities, conducting any required wildlife surveys for federally or state
listed species that may be impacted during restoration activities following consultation with the USFWS
and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
• Site restoration will take place no later than (1) year from the date that the exploratory well is deemed to be
not commercially productive.
Reporting
• Trend Exploration will notify the Caracara Prairie Preserve Manager prior to commencement of culvert
replacement and road maintenance, rig construction, drilling activities and site access by vehicular traffic.
• Collier County, as the surface owner, will be notified in the event of any modifications or additions to
existing application activities, including, but not limited to, permit modifications, permit extension
applications, additional well applications, deep injection site applications, and listed species incidental take
permit applications.
13
• Residential housing and government operations reside within 1.2 miles of the Trend Exploration oil pad.
Residents and the government offices should be notified if seepage from the containment unit or any
emergency occurs that could be considered a health or safety hazard. Contact information for these
individuals is below:
o FWC Biologist for CREW WEA
o SFWMD CREW Management Area Land Manager
• The following staff must be notified within 24-hours of any impacts to State or Federally listed species
(mortality or injury to listed species, destruction to habitat of listed species, etc):
o Preserve Manager
o FWC Biologist for CREW WEA
• The Caracara Prairie Preserve manager will be notified prior to any scheduled wildlife surveys taking place
within the preserve and will be provided a copy of the schedule, methods, data, and final reports.
• The Caracara Prairie Preserve manager will be notified of the exploratory oil well project timeline no less
than 30 days before activities commence.
If built, the tank battery pad will be subject to a separate permit through the Florida Department of
Environmental Protection Oil and Gas Section. A condition of the permit will be that the oil well
operator will bear the future cost of remediation from any spills or contamination that may result from
its operations and that the oil well operator will maintain, keep in force and effect, and provide an
ongoing Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasures Program or protocol and will comply with all
applicable laws and regulations governing its operations.
Cattle grazing will be an approved activity on the Bank (Appendix J). The cattle lessee will graze
cattle in accordance with the Cattle Lease Agreement (Appendix J)
Additionally, the following recreational activities are appropriate and encouraged on the Caracara
Prairie Preserve per the CREW Management Area General Management Plan 2006 – 2011 South
Florida Water Management District, Land Stewardship Division:
Nature Appreciation
Nature appreciation includes wildlife viewing, nature photography, natural history study, and plant
and wildflower identification.
Environmental Education
Environmental education is similar to nature appreciation but involves a structured learning process
with facilitators and students. The CREW Land and Water Trust has developed an extensive program
in cooperation with the Lee and Collier County School Boards. Students in the Lee and Collier County
School Systems and other groups participate in these programs. Guided hikes are also provided to the
general public on a regular basis.
14
Hiking
Hiking trails will be established that will link the Caracara Prairie Preserve to the SFWMD Gate 5
hiking trail system. These trails will provide access to a variety of habitats including hammocks,
marshes, and flatwoods. The CREW area is remote and provides abundant backcountry opportunities.
Visitors must be self-reliant. Supervision and visitor services are not provided, and users will be
advised of these facts at access points. Users are required to pack out their trash.
Primitive Camping
Primitive camping is currently allowed in other areas of CREW by special use permit, at designated
sites. Primitive camping via special use permit would be an allowable activity within the Caracara
Prairie Preserve.
Hunting
Recreational hunting has been a primary use of CREW lands. The Caracara Prairie Preserve is
incorporated into the FWC Corkscrew Marsh Unit Wildlife and Environmental Area (CREW WEA)
via an interlocal agreement (Appendix C) and will be managed under the same regulations currently
in place on the WEA. No hunting will be allowed to take place within Caracara Prairie Preserve prior
to the approval of this interlocal agreement between FWC and Collier County. Recommendations for
the next five years include:
• Manage the current hunting program as established by FWC rules and regulations.
• Employ management hunts as necessary to address specific needs. Management hunts will be
scheduled during nonpeak periods when conducted in areas where other types of recreation are the
primary activity.
• Restrict or halt hunting if panther prey species surveys indicate a decline in panther prey base.
• Prohibit the use of vehicles for hunting within the preserve boundaries.
• Follow guidelines and regulations established for hunting and other recreational use on the FWC
CREW WEA for hunts conducted on the preserve. There will be no exemptions to the permit
requirement.
Equestrian Use
There will be opportunity for special equestrian events during dry periods in coordination with CREW
Water & Land Trust. Staging these events will be evaluated individually, as conditions permit. A
maximum of two equestrian events will be held per year with a maximum of five horses allowed per
event. Collier County will consult with the Service prior to the staging of any equestrian events.
15
Vehicular Use
No unauthorized public vehicle use including off-road vehicles will be allowed within the Caracara
Prairie Preserve.
Target Natural Community
The Flatwoods and Freshwater Marshes within the Caracara Prairie Preserve will be enhanced for
wildlife. Under this Habitat Management Plan, the pastureland within the Caracara Prairie Preserve
Conservation Bank will remain pasture, and will be managed in accordance with the Prescribed
Grazing Plan (Appendix B). Any future restoration of the pastureland will be considered separate
from this Habitat Management Plan and any PHUs recovered from the Caracara Prairie Preserve
Conservation Bank.
Restoration
All management activities occurring within the Caracara Prairie Preserve will be done in accordance
with the CREW Management Area Five-Year General Management Plan (SFWMD 2006).
Vegetation
Initial Invasive Species Removal
Collier County will be responsible for invasive, exotic plant maintenance in perpetuity
after initial removal (initial removal was completed on May 31, 2008). A Collier County
contractor will target Category I and II nonnative plant species as identified on the Exotic
Pest Plant Council’s biennially updated list of Florida’s Most Invasive Species
(http://www.fleppc.org/), with the exception of torpedograss. Treatments (basal and/or
foliar) will be quarterly for the first 2 years after initial treatment, and twice a year for the
3rd, 4th, and 5th year after initial treatment. After the first 5 years of maintenance
treatments, invasive plants, with the exception of torpedograss, will be basal or foliar
treated annually and will not be allowed to make up more than 1 percent cover. Because
the pasture land is actively grazed and torpedograss is a good food source for the cattle,
torpedograss will only be treated if its coverage expands past its current extent. Time
zero monitoring will assess the baseline overall percent cover by torpedo grass in each
marsh within the preserve. All pesticide treatments will be consistent with Service-
approved pesticide treatments (Appendix G).
Initial restoration vegetation management will include the following measures taken from the CREW
Management Area Five-Year General Management Plan (SFWMD 2006).
5.2.1 Mowing for Wildlife Benefits
16
In CREW, openings may be mowed every two to three years to maintain their structural
integrity. Mowing is considered an alternative to prescribed burns when weather
conditions or other constraints prohibit fire application. It will be avoided during the
spring to protect ground-nesting birds. Mowing can provide similar benefits as grazing
and fire by suppressing woody plant growth, and by encouraging grasses and low-
growing herbs to produce new growth. Mowing improves brood habitat conditions for
wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) by reducing dense understory vegetation in
hardwood hammocks, and invasion of woody plants in grassy fields. Mowing benefits
rabbits (Sylvilagus floridanus) by providing a supply of growing forage. Smooth cuts are
not required when mowing to improve wildlife habitat conditions. Mowing height is also
generally not important, although a higher cut in early spring may leave important nesting
cover for bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus).
5.2.2 Exotic/Invasive Plants
South Florida’s subtropical climate provides an excellent growth environment for the
rapid spread of exotic plants that can cause extensive alterations to natural ecosystems.
Environmental changes caused by extensive hydroperiod alterations have been an
important factor in exotic plant invasion. Exotic plant invasion can result in partial or
total displacement of native plants, loss of wildlife habitat, and the degradation of public
use areas. Collier County targets Category I and II non-native plant species as identified
on the Exotic Pest Plant Council’s biennially updated list of Florida’s Most Invasive
Species (http://www.fleppc.org/). Category I species include non-native plants that
invade and disrupt Florida native plant communities. Category II plants have the potential
to invade and disrupt natural successional processes. Both Category I and II exotics are
considered invasive and a threat to the function and ecological stability of Florida’s
natural communities. Control efforts were initiated by SFWMD staff, volunteers from
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, and the CREW Land and Water Trust from 1990 through
1992 on lands adjoining Caracara Prairie Preserve. Work was concentrated in the
flatwoods of Corkscrew Marsh where access was available via public roads. Control
work in Flint Pen Strand began in 1994 using contractors. Since 1994, contract work
teams spent an average of six months per year in Bird Rookery Swamp, Corkscrew Marsh
and Flint Pen Strand. The prominent problem species were melaleuca (Melaleuca
quinquenervia), Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolia), downy rose myrtle
(Rhodomyrtus tomentosa), cogon grass (Imperata cylindrica), and Old World climbing
fern (Lygodium microphyllum). Of significant concern is Old World climbing fern,
which persists in spite of consistent treatment since 1994. The District treats and surveys
Lygodium infested areas several times a year to control established infestations and
locate new ones in the CREW Management Area (MA). Invasive exotic plant control
measures at Caracara Prairie Preserve will include a combination of herbicide
application, prescribed fire, and physical removal. Selection of control measures will be
dependent upon species type, environmental factors, and natural communities impacted.
Private contractors will conduct exotic plant control activities in cooperation with Collier
County. After 5 years of intense maintenance, treatments at Caracara Prairie Preserve
will be scheduled so that the entire preserve is covered annually. Areas of treatment will
17
be scheduled based on groundwater conditions, time since last treatment, severity of
infestation, public use, and consistency with other management operations. All
treatments will follow herbicide Best Management Practices (BMPs) and use the best
available science
5.3.2 Prescribed Fire Planning
A fire management plan will be developed for each management area within the preserve.
Each plan will include a description of location and natural community types, fire history,
fire management objectives and constraints, and a burn prescription. Collier County will
base all fire management plans on ecological research and professional experience. Fire
frequency schedules for each natural community will consider recommendations
provided in The Natural Communities of Florida (FNAI 1990). To mimic historic fire
conditions, Collier County will emphasize growing or lightning season burns (April-
August) where possible, though weather conditions and smoke sensitive areas may make
the timing difficult. Natural firebreaks will be utilized where possible to promote historic
fire patterns, avoid soil disturbance, and reduce hydrologic flow disruption created by
fire lines. Listed species life requirements and welfare will be elements of prescribed fire
planning. Application of fire, with appropriately timed herbicide treatments, will be used
as a tool for control of invasive plants. To mimic historical fire patterns, Collier County
will endeavor to burn during the growing season. Burns will be executed using proven
safety measures as defined by the Prescribed Burning Act of 1990, 590.026 Florida
Statute. This legislation and associated administrative rules outlines accepted forestry
burn practices and is administered through DOF. Collier County will utilize its own
employees and will utilize other cooperating agency staff— SFWMD, DOF, Lee County,
the CREW Land and Water Trust, and FWC to conduct burns at the preserve. All county
staff will complete the state certified burn course to ensure fire safety and burning
efficiency. Prescribed fire will be applied within the preserve at appropriate fire intervals
for each natural community:
Scrubby, Mesic and Wet Flatwoods
These natural communities will be burned to maintain an open pineland structure
with less than 50% canopy cover. Shrub hardwood densities, especially palmetto
and gallberry (Ilex glabra), will be targeted at less than 20% coverage to
encourage species diversity in herbs and grasses. Desired fire frequency is three
to five year intervals for mesic flatwoods, and three to eight years for wet
flatwoods to maintain targeted vegetative cover composition and avoid hazardous
fuel accumulation.
Depression Marsh
Small isolated marshes are dispersed throughout the flatwoods of CREW.
Marshes will be burned with flatwoods to maintain open herbaceous ponds and
control woody plants found on the edge of these depressions. The center of
depression marshes may require drier conditions to carry fire, and a separate burn.
18
Prescribed fire and mowing will be used to maintain the property in the appropriate
successional state for wildlife.
Hydrology
The County may seek to restore the hydrology at a later date. No changes to drainage
will be made to further restore the natural communities. The prairie areas within the
site will remain in pasture grasses under this Plan. Any restoration to the prairie that
might include changes in hydrology will be considered at a future date and any
additional PHUs proposed then.
Enhancement
No vegetation planting is planned under this Habitat Management Plan. Should unforeseen or
changed circumstances occur such as devastating wildfire or flood, vegetation enhancement will be
employed to restore the Caracara Prairie Preserve to the appropriate successional state for wildlife,
as will be established through vegetation monitoring and habitat type.
Success Criteria
Restoration and enhancement success will be measured through monitoring – see ―Monitoring‖
section below. If monitoring of the Flatwoods and Freshwater Marsh reveals a vegetation composition
inconsistent with the FNAI description, fire, woody vegetation removal, exotic plant removal, or
planting (if necessary, after possible wildfire) will be enacted. If monitoring of the prairie areas
reveals a vegetation composition inconsistent with recommended composition in the attached
Prescribed Grazing Plan, cattle rotation, mowing, and burning may be performed.
Maintenance
There will be no on-site equipment stored on the Caracara Prairie Preserve beyond temporary staging
of equipment such as a tractor mower throughout the duration of an annual mowing event.
Monitoring
Baseline monitoring will be completed by a consultant within 60 days of approval of the Bank by
Service and a baseline monitoring report will be forwarded to Service staff in Vero Beach within 45
days of the monitoring event. Time-zero monitoring will be completed within 60 days of the
completion of exotic and nuisance vegetation removal. As with the baseline monitoring report, the
time-zero monitoring report will be forwarded to Service staff in Vero Beach within 45 days of the
monitoring event. Annual monitoring will begin 12 months following the time-zero monitoring event
and continue for a total of five years. Annual monitoring reports will be forwarded to Service staff in
Vero Beach prior to January 31 each year. If, at the end of five years of m onitoring, the Bank has
reached success criteria, monitoring will be conducted once every five years to ensure that success
19
criteria are met in perpetuity. If success criteria are not met, then annual monitoring will continue
until met. A summary of the reporting schedule can be found in Table 5.
Table 5. Monitoring and Reporting Schedule
Report Monitoring Implemented Delivery
Baseline Monitoring Within 60 Days of Approval 45 days
Time-Zero Monitoring Within 60 Days of Initial Restoration 45 days
Annual Monitoring Year 1 12 Months After Time-Zero Monitoring 45 days
Annual Monitoring Year 2 1 Year from Previous Report January 31
Annual Monitoring Year 3 1 Year from Previous Report January 31
Annual Monitoring Year 4 1 Year from Previous Report January 31
Annual Monitoring Year 5 1 Year from Previous Report January 31
Five-Year Monitoring (Year 10) 5 Years from Previous Report January 31
Every 5 years thereafter 5 Years from Previous Report January 31
Vegetation Monitoring:
Permanent monitoring transects will be established during the time zero monitoring event and
located throughout the site to include a thorough representation of the various habitats onsite. Three
vegetative strata will be sampled along each transect and will be representative of habitat types
throughout the site. These strata are: overstory [plants >4 inches diameter breast height (DBH)],
understory (plants <4 inches DBH and greater than 3 feet in height), and ground cover (all non-
woody plants and woody plants less than 3 feet in height). The overstory and understory vegetation
will be sampled in 10 square meter plots and the ground cover vegetation sampled in 1 square meter
plots along each monitoring transect. Panoramic photographs will be taken at the beginning of each
transect to provide physical documentation of the condition and appearance of the property as well
as any changes taking place. The panoramic photographs will be included in each monitoring report.
For the overstory and understory stratums, the relative canopy closure for each species will be
recorded. Average shrub height will be recorded for all species identified in the understory stratum.
Percent coverage and average height for all saw palmetto will be recorded for plots located within
habitats with saw palmetto. The percent cover of groundcover species and bare ground will be
estimated for the herbaceous study plots along the transects. Exotic and nuisance vegetation
coverage within the plots will be recorded. Survival rate evaluations will occur throughout the site
to include a thorough representation of the various habitats onsite. There will be a maximum of six
transects with a total of 23 sample plots (approximately 5 per each transect).
Exotic and Nuisance Species Monitoring:
In addition to the permanent monitoring transects, existing disturbed areas, such as fence lines, fire
breaks, and primitive roads / trails, will be surveyed annually, using the FWC protocol, by vehicle
and meandering pedestrian transects to assess the site for the presence and percent coverage of exotic
vegetation species. Following the annual exotic vegetation surveys, an exotic vegetation map will be
20
prepared illustrating the locations of exotic and nuisance vegetation in need of corrective action. The
map will be provided to the County contractor and SFWMD annually to ensure timely and effective
treatment.
Wildlife Utilization:
Regular and periodic observations of wildlife will be made during all monitoring events and other site
visits by qualified ecologists. This will consist of recording evidence and signs of wildlife (i.e., direct
sightings, vocalizations, burrows, nests, tracks, droppings, etc.). The number of white tailed deer, feral
hog, and panther observations at the site will be recorded during each monitoring event and included
in the annual reports. In addition, permanent wildlife transects will be established in representative
habitats onsite from which surveys for panther and panther prey tracks will be conducted. Efforts will
be made to establish the wildlife transects in areas that are conducive to track detection and
identification with as little disturbance by vehicular traffic as possible. The wildlife transects will be
monitored annually for a 5-day period, and results submitted in conjunction with the vegetation
monitoring in the monitoring report. Updated panther radio telemetry data (when available) within a
2-mile radius of the site will be included in the monitoring report to document radio-collared panther
activity in the Bank vicinity over the course of the monitoring period. There will be a maximum of 5
wildlife transects to be monitored for a 5-day period.
In addition to the information outlined above, the monitoring report will also include a general
overview of the land management activities (i.e. prescribed burns, exotic vegetation maintenance,
pasture restoration activities, etc.) conducted since the previous monitoring report and planned
maintenance and management activities during the next period.
Literature Cited
Beier P., M. R. Vaughan, M. J. Conroy, and H. Quigley. 2003. An analysis of scientific literature
related to the Florida panther. Final report, Project NG01-105, Florida Fish and Wildlife
Conservation Commission, Tallahassee, FL.
Beier P., M. R. Vaughan, M. J. Conroy, and H. Quigley. 2006. Evaluating scientific inferences
about the Florida panther. Journal of Wildlife Management 70(1):236-245.
Belden, R. C., W. B. Frankenberger, R. T. McBride, and S. T. Schwikert. 1988. Panther habitat use
in southern Florida. Journal of Wildlife Management 52:660-663.
Coile, N. C. and M. A. Garland. 2003. Notes on Florida’s Endangered and Threatened Plants.
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Plant Industry,
Gainesville, FL. http://www.doacs.state.fl.us/pi/enpp/botany/images/Notes2003.pdf
21
Collier County. 2007. Collier County Growth Management Plan Future Land Use Element Adopted
October, 1997. Collier County Planning Services Department Comprehensive Planning
Section, Naples, FL.
Comiskey, E. J., L. J. Gross, D. M. Fleming, M. A. Huston, O. L. Bass, Jr., H. Luh, and Y. Wu.
1994. A spatially-explicit individual-based simulation model for Florida panther and white-
tailed deer in the Everglades and Big Cypress landscapes. Pages 494-503 in D. Jordan (ed).
Proceedings of the Florida Panther Conference. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Gainesville,
FL.
Comiskey, E. J., O. L. Bass, Jr., L. J. Gross, R. T. McBride, and R. Salinas. 2002. Panthers and forests
in south Florida: an ecological perspective. Conservation Ecology 6:18.
Comiskey, E.J., Eller, J.A.C., and D.W. Perkins. 2004. Evaluating Impacts to Florida Panther Habitat:
How Porous is the Umbrella? Southeastern Naturalist. 3:51-74.
Cox, J., D. Maehr, and J. Larkin. 2006. Florida panther habitat use: A new approach to an old problem.
The Journal of Wildlife Management. 70(6):1778-1786.
Davis, J. H. 1967. General map of the natural vegetation of Florida. Circular S-178, Institute of
Food Agricultural Sciences, Agricultural Experimental Station, University of Florida,
Gainesville, FL.
Dees, C. S., J. D. Clark, and F. T. Van Manen. 2001. Florida panther habitat use in response to
prescribed fire. Journal of Wildlife Management 65:141-147.
Florida Natural Areas Inventory and Florida Department of Natural Resources. 1990. Guide to
the Natural Communities of Florida. Florida Natural Areas Inventory, Tallahassee, FL.,
Tallahassee, FL.
Gruver, B. J. 2007. Florida’s endangered species, threatened species, and species of special
concern. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Tallahassee, FL.
http://myfwc.com/imperiledspecies/pdf/Threatened-and-Endangered-Species-2007.pdf
Harlow, R. F., and F. K. Jones. 1965. The white-tailed deer in Florida. Florida Game and Fresh Water
Fish Commission Technical Bulletin 9, Tallahassee, FL.
Janis, M. W., and J. D. Clark. 1999. The effects of recreational deer and hog hunting on the behavior
of Florida panthers. Final report to Big Cypress National Preserve, National Park Service,
Ochopee, FL.
Kautz, R., R. Kawula, T. Hoctor, J. Comiskey, D. Jansen, D. Jennings, J. Kasbohm, F.
Mazzotti, R. McBride, L. Richardson, and K. Root. 2006. How much is enough?
Landscape-scale conservation for the Florida panther. Biological Conservation.
130:118-133.
22
Land, D., R. Kawula, J. Benson, M. Lotz, and D. Onorato. 2008. Florida panther habitat selection
analysis of concurrent GPS and VHF Telemetry Data. The Journal of Wildlife Management.
72(3):633-639.
Maehr, D. S. 1990. Florida panther movements, social organization, and habitat utilization. Final
Performance Report 7502. Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission, Tallahassee,
FL.
Maehr, D. S. 1992. Florida panther. Pages 176-189 in S.R. Humphrey (ed). Rare and endangered
biota of Florida. Volume I: mammals. University Press of Florida, Gainesville, FL.
Maehr, D. S., E. D. Land, and J. C. Roof. 1991. Social ecology of Florida panthers. National
Geographic Research & Exploration 7:414-431.
Miller, K. E. 1993. Habitat use by white-tailed deer in the Everglades: tree islands in a seasonally
flooded landscape. M.S. Thesis. University of Florida, Gainesville, FL.
South Florida Water Management District [SFWMD]. 2006. CREW Management Area FiveYear
General Management Plan (2006 – 2011). Land Stewardship Division. South Florida Water
Management District. West Palm Beach, FL
Swainson, K., D. Land, R. Kautz, and R. Kawula. 2005. Use of least cost pathways to identify key
highway segments for Florida panther conservation. Pages 191-200 in R.A. Beausoleil and
D.A. Martorello, (eds). Proceedings of the Eighth Mountain Lion Workshop, Olympia, WA.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service [USFWS]. 1999. South Florida Multi-species Recovery Plan.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Regional Office, Atlanta, GA.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service [USFWS]. 2006. Technical/Agency Draft, Florida Panther Recovery Plan
(Puma concolor coryi), Third Revision. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Atlanta, GA.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service [USFWS]. 2007. Letter to the Army Corps of Engineers on the
revised Panther Key. February 2, 2007. South Florida Ecological Services Office, Vero
Beach, FL.
http://www.fws.gov/verobeach/images/pdflibrary/20070219_Letter_SFESO%20to%20C
OE_Panther_Key.pdf
Wunderlin, R. P., and B. F. Hansen. 2008. Atlas of Florida Vascular Plants. Institute for Systematic
Botany, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL.
http://www.plantatlas.usf.edu/
23
Zahina, J., W. Park Said, R. Grein, and M. Duever. 2007. Pre-development vegetation communities
of southern Florida. Technical Publication HESM-02. South Florida Water Management
District. West Palm Beach, FL.
24
FIGURES
Figure 1. Aerial Location Map of Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank in Collier County,
Florida.
25
Figure 2. Archeological sites nearby the Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank.
26
Figure 3. Panther zones and least-cost pathways in relationship to the Caracara Prairie Preserve
Conservation Bank.
27
Figure 4. Soil map of the Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank.
28
Figure 5. Land Cover types on the Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank.
29
Figure 6. Service area for Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank.
30
31
APPENDICES
Appendix A. State Historic Preservation Officer letter.
32
33
34
Appendix B. Prescribed Grazing Plan
Prescribed Grazing Plan
Prepared for
Collier County
Collier County, Florida
In cooperation with
South Florida Water Management District,
Collier Soil & Water Conservation District
And
United States Department of Agriculture
Natural Resources Conservation Service
35
Table of Contents:
1. Definition
2. Purpose
3. General Description
4. Objectives
5. Livestock Forage Inventory
6. Livestock Forage Inventory Map
7. Annual Grazing Schedule
8. Plan Map/Proposed plan map
9. Recommended Grazing Heights
10. Recommendations For Grazing Buffer Areas
11. Operations and Maintenance
12. Contingency Management Plan
36
1. Definition:
Prescribed grazing is a controlled harvest of vegetation with grazing and browsing animals.
Prescribed grazing will be used on lands where grazing animals are managed. Prescribed
grazing will be used in conjunction with Nutrient Management, Pest Management, and/or other
practices needed to meet the resource concerns and the landowner’s objectives.
2. Purpose:
This practice will be applied as part of a conservation management system to accomplish the
following objectives:
Maintain a stable and desired plant community, improve or maintain the health and vigor of
selected plants.
Maintain or improve animal health and productivity. Maintain or
improve water quality.
Note: This plan will be reviewed yearly by the owner/operator. If the number of livestock (10%
or more) or the forage condition changes the plan may need to be revised.
3. General Description:
The project area is located within the boundaries of CREW WEA which is located in Collier
County. The property is currently managed as a cow/calf operation. The project area is
currently using a continuous grazing system. The principal forage species in the pastures is
Bahia grass (Paspalum notatum), which have been planted for improved pasture. Other plant
communities include South Florida Flatwoods, Brush areas and Freshwater Marshes. The
pasture areas are currently managed as a cow/calf operation. The pastures in their current
condition and capable of producing enough forage to support 53 animal units (AUs). The
system in its present condition can support an average of 49 cows, with an average weight of
1000 lbs., and 3 bulls, with an average weight of 1350 lbs with a suggested 20:1 Cow/Bull ratio.
One animal unit (AU) is one mature cow of approximately 1,000 pounds and a calf up to
weaning, usually six (6) months of age, or their equivalent. To estimate animal units for Heifers
and Bulls use the following AU values.
Table 1: Animal Unit Equivalent Guide
Species Average
Weight
(pounds)
Animal Unit
Equivalent
(AUE)
- - - - Forage Consumed (pounds) - - - -
day month year
Cow, dry 950 0.92 24 727 8,730
Cow with calf 1,000 1.00 26 790 9,490
Bull, mature 1,500 1.35 35 1,067 12,811
Cattle, 1 year old 600 0.60 15.6 474 5,694
Cattle, 2 year old 800 0.80 20.8 632 7,592
Deer, white-tailed, mature 150 0.15 3.9 118 1,423
4. Objectives: The landowner’s objectives are to operate a productive cow/calf operation and
minimize impacts to the resources. The objectives of a prescribed grazing plan are to improve or
37
maintain an optimum level of quality of forages to ensure livestock health, profitability, and
protect the resources.
5. Livestock Forage Inventory:
Livestock Forage Inventories are estimates of available forage in each pasture. These estimates
are then used to project stocking rates and feed requirements annually. The following Livestock
Forage Inventory was evaluated at the time of the development of this plan. Forage availability
will vary due to climatic conditions and management of grazing system. The forage inventory
should be evaluated on a regular basis to ensure proper forage requirements of the livestock are
met.
The main forage is Bahia grass. Smut grass and other undesirable species cover at least 3040%
of the plant composition, with Bahia production 60-70 %. The Rangeland areas were not
studied in detail. Some of the Rangelands plants are listed in section 9. These plants are good
indicators to help you manage the grazing periods.
The inventory of the project area identified the following conditions or concerns: The
project area encompasses approximately 369 acres.
The sustainable annual carrying capacity of the project area is estimated at approximately
53 Animal Units (AU) in the existing conditions. The carrying capacity of the site is
expected to change with the implementation of the land management practices such as brush
management. These changes may significantly increase or decrease the amount of forage
produced.
Overall vegetative conditions and plant species indicate that the project area is stocked at or
above the sustainable carrying capacity. .
Noxious and invasive weeds including Brazilian Pepper-Tree (Schinus terebinthifolia),
Primrose Willow (Ludwigia peruviana), and Tropical Soda Apple (Solanum viarum) were
observed on the Starne Lease Property. An aggressive weed control program is needed to
maintain wildlife habitat values.
Shrub densities on upland areas are above levels expected for the site. Shrub density is
expected to increase and reduce habitat values unless changes to the prescribed burning and
brush management plan are implemented.
The increased shrub density is reducing habitat values for several ground nesting birds on
several Flatwoods and Freshwater Marsh sites.
Livestock nutritional supplements are not well distributed. This reduces the potential for
livestock to be well dispersed across the landscape. Consequently, remote areas of the
grazing units will receive little or no grazing pressure until areas in close proximity to the
supplement feeders have been heavily grazed.
The Prescribed Grazing Plan contains 10 items which should be implemented annually in order to
achieve the desired results.
1. Rotational Grazing should be applied to maintain and improve the health and vigor of the
plant community.
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2. Proper Grazing Use will be applied to all grazed areas to regulate the amount of herbage
removed by grazing animals. During the growing season, the degree of use of native
vegetation will be limited to 50% (by weight) of the current year’s growth.
3. Stubble heights will be used to guide grazing management decisions.
4. Nesting Period – The rotational grazing system should be managed to provide an
undisturbed nesting period for ground nesting species at least once every 4 years. Livestock
should be removed from the grazing unit for a period 4 to 6 weeks in length during the
period between February 1 and June 30.
5. Deferment periods should be provided following all mechanical and/or chemical brush
management activities. This will allow desirable plants to recover from the stress or damage
caused by the treatment. The length of the deferment periods will be at least 90 consecutive
days during the period of June 1 through October 1.
6. Supplemental feed will be provided to livestock during periods when forage quality and
quantity is low.
7. Weed prevention and control - All planting material, hay and other supplemental feed will
be free of noxious or invasive weed seed. An aggressive pest management plan has already
been implemented to combat encroachment of invasive-exotic species.
8. Feeding Area Management - All hay and supplemental feed provided to domestic livestock
will be fed on upland areas at least 100 feet away from wetlands, streams, ditches, and
ponds. Supplement feeders will be well dispersed across the landscape. Supplemental
feeding locations will be moved at least once every 30 days.
9. Portable feeders will be used to provide protein, mineral, and other supplements to
livestock. These feeders will be moved as needed to improve livestock distribution and
prevent undesirable effects on the landscape.
10. Plan Review – Annual reviews should be scheduled with the local Natural Resources
Conservation Service (NRCS) office, South Florida Water Management District- Crew
WEA and Collier County Environmental department to ensure the plan meets the goals and
objectives of the property and those of the livestock owner.
Plant Communities Descriptions
Pasture – Main forage is Bahia Grass. Most pastures are in fair to good condition. Bahia
pastures contain Smut Grass, Dog fennel, Wax Myrtle and other weedy undesirable
species. Plant composition transects shows an average of 60-70 % Bahia and 30-
40 % Weedy/undesirable. Suggested stocking rate is 3-5 AUM/Acre (2.4-4.5
Ac/AU).
South Florida Flatwoods – These are areas mainly composed of Saw Palmetto, Pine, Runner
Oak Wax Myrtle, Broomsedge Bluestem, Chalky Bluestem, Forbs, Sedges and
Little Blue Maidencane and Chalky Bluestem are desired and also good indicators of
site condition ( See section 9). Most flatwoods on the ranch are in fair condition.
39
Brush control and prescribed burning are tools that will help improve these flatwoods.
Suggested stocking rate is 14-25 Ac./AU.
Freshwater Marsh/ Slough – Wet areas with mainly wetland plants. Flooded for most of the
Wet Season and are considered very important habitat for many wildlife species.
Most wetlands on the ranch are in fair to good condition. Plant compostion includes,
Maidencane, West Indian Marsh grass, Torpedo grass, Pickerel weed, Primrose
Willow, Sedges, Smart Weed, hydrocotile and Others. The suggested stocking rate is
3-13 Ac./AU
.
Forage Inventory
DATE: 8/2008 Technician: George Poole
FIELD Plant Community ACRES AUM AC/AU AU
Field 1 Bahia 213 2.1 37.2
Field 1 FWM 77 7 11.0
Field 1 Brush 43 15 2.8
Field 1 SFF 37 22 1.7
369.4 TOTAL AU 53
Definitions
AUM = Animal Unit Month, the amount of forage needed to support one (1) animal unit for one (1) month. By definition an AUM is equivalent to 780 lbs. of forage.
Ac/AU = Acres per Animal Unit, an abbreviation used to describe the number of acres needed to support one (1) Animal Unit (AU) for 12 months.
AU = Animal Unit = One (1) animal unit (AU) is equivalent to one (1) mature cow of approximately 1,000 pounds and a calf up to weaning, usually six (6) months of age, or their equivalent. To estimate animal units for various kinds and classes of animals refer Table 1
6. Livestock Forage Inventory Map:
40
41
7. Annual Grazing Schedule:
Annual Grazing Schedules are designed to account for variations in the amount and growth of
forage due to changes in climatic conditions. The following schedule should be used as a guide
only. .
Suggested Annual Grazing Schedule
Cooperator: Collier County
Technician George Poole
Date:
Field Acres AU Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
1 369 53 53 53 53 53 53
53 53 53
53 53 53
53
Total AU 53
Supplements:
X = Protein O = Mineral XO XO XO O XO XO XO
Suggested Breeding Season
Use as a guide only
Important: base grazing periods on the forage plants required on the required
stubble heig hts
as shown in Section 9. Environmental conditions such as soil
moisture, temperature, forage
quality, ect, will be considered by the manager when
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8. Plan Map-Continuous Grazing System with existing fence locations.
43
8a. Proposed Plan Map- 3 pasture rotation system
44
9. Recommended Grazing Heights and Length of Grazing Periods:
Grazing animals can rapidly and substantially alter the productivity and amount of forage in each
pasture because of grazing preferences and animal distribution. Overgrazing adversely affects
wildlife habitat, plant growth, water, soil conservation, and plant persistence. Animals prefer
improved pasture forages like the one listed below and avoid plants that are coarse and hard to
digest. During the late spring, summer and early fall cattle tend graze upland areas and avoid
grazing in wetlands such as sloughs and marshes if adequate forage is available. However, limited
availability of forage plants on upland areas may induce more grazing of the wetland plants in some
seasons, and could result in overgrazing. Under-grazing results in forage waste, reduced quality,
and reduced tiller development. Therefore, the number of animals on a specific area must be
balanced with available forage to achieve the goals and objectives for this site. This will require
monitoring of the forage availability on a regular basis and adjusting the stock density as needed to
maintain a unique balance of desirable forage and important wetland vegetation.
The following table lists common forages found in South Florida along with recommended heights to
maintain healthy stands of forage:
FORAGE TYPE Min. Ht. To Begin Grazing Min. Grazing Ht.
Bahia grass 6‖ 2‖
Limpo grass 12‖ 4‖
Pangola Digitgrass 8‖ 6‖
Maidencane (FWM) 12‖ 6-8‖
Chalky bluestem (Rangeland) 12‖ 6-8‖
Grazing heights for native forage plants is dependent upon the species and the time of year the
plant is grazed. For Native Grasses, remove no more that 50% (by weight) of the plant in any
grazing event This will provide proper use of the forage while maintaining sufficient plant
material to, provide wildlife habitat, protect the soil resource, and maintain the health of the
plant community.
Grazing periods should be kept relatively short to prevent the plants from being grazed before
they have the opportunity to recover from the last grazing event. This will depend on the size of
the herd and the area to be grazed. Use the forage heights shown in the previous table to
determine the length of the grazing periods.
Rest Periods should be provided between grazing events to all the plants to recovery from the
effects of grazing. The recovery periods should be long enough to allow the forages to reach the
Minimum Height to Begin Grazing. Because the rest periods are based on the growth rate of the
plants the length of the rest period will vary. The recommended recovery periods are shown in
the following table:
45
Resting Periods Based on Forage Growth Rate
Forage Type
Forage Growth Rate
Fast (June1-
Sept 1)
Moderate
(Mar 1-June 1
Sept 1 – Nov 1)
Dormant (Nov
1- Mar 1)
Bahiagrass 14-28 days 28-35 days 35-60 days or more
Limpograss 14-21 days 28-35 days 35-60 days or more
Pangolagrass 7-21 days 21-28 days 28-60 days or more
Maidencane 28-35 days 35-45 days 45-60 days or more
Chalky bluestem 28-35 days 35-45 days 45-60 days or more
10. Adjustments to the Grazing System:
Adjustments in the grazing management system will be necessary during and after management
activities, such as planting, prescribed burning or pest management. The adjustments will
provide a suitable period for the vegetation to recover from the management activity or as
dictated by pesticide label restrictions. A deferment from grazing means the complete removal
of all domestic animals for the duration of the deferment.
If buffer areas are developed around specific wetlands or other areas within the Ranch during
the restoration process, livestock grazing may be permitted during dry periods of the year. This
will help to utilize available forages within the buffer and control woody vegetation. Stocking
rates should be adjusted to assure that grazing is complete within one week. The minimum
grazing heights listed in Section 9 for corresponding grasses shall not be exceeded.
When prescribed burning is applied, grazing shall be deferred as follows:
Improved pasture areas 30-60 days during the growing season (Mar1-Oct1)
Flatwoods 30-90 days during the growing season (Mar1-Oct1)
Fresh Water Marsh and Slough 30-90 days during the growing season (Mar1-Oct1)
Areas that have been disturbed and planted to native vegetation shall be deferred from grazing
for a minimum of 1 complete growing season following planting or until the grass is well
established and produces seed. Native grass plantings generally require 2 complete growing
seasons to become well established. The deferment shall continue until a NRCS Rangeland or
Grazing Land Specialist has provided approval. Temporary fences may be used to protect small
areas during the deferment period.
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Areas that have been mechanically treated and/or planted, will be provided a deferment period
to allow herbaceous plants to recover. The deferment will be minimum of 90 consecutive days
during the period of March 1 to December 1, unless only spot control was applied.
If herbicides used to control common weeds and invasive species the grazing management will
be adjusted to meet the requirements (if any) listed on the herbicide label. Cattle will not be
allowed to re-enter the area for the duration shown on the herbicide label.
11. Operation and Maintenance:
The location of mineral and supplement feeders will be moved routinely to evenly distribute
grazing animals throughout the pasture. The herd will be rotated to a fresh pasture when the
average stubble height falls below the recommended minimum grazing height (See Section 9).
When possible, the grazing period should be 14 days or less and the pastures allowed a
recovery period of 21 days or until the forage reaches the recommended height to begin
grazing (See Section 9).
12. Contingency Management Plan:
Forage supplies will be evaluated weekly to determine if forage supplies and quality are
adequate to meet livestock demand. When the forage is not adequate, the grazing system will
be adjusted or supplemental feed will be supplied.
When prolonged periods of adverse climatic condition effect the supply of forage, the grazing
system and/or stocking rates will be adjusted or additional supplemental feed will be provided.
47
Appendix C. FWC Interlocal Agreement
COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT
BETWEEN
THE COLLIER COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AND
THE FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION
This Agreement is entered into on ______________, 20___, between the COLLIER COUNTY
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS, 3335 Tamiami Trail, East, Suite 101, Naples, Florida
34112, hereafter called COUNTY, THE FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION
COMMISSION, 620 South Meridian Street, Tallahassee, Florida 323991600, hereafter called
COMMISSION.
WITNESSETH THAT:
WHEREAS, the COUNTY is a political subdivision created by the Florida Legislature and
given those powers and responsibilities enumerated in Chapter 125, Florida Statutes to include
entering into contracts with public agencies, private corporations or other persons; and
WHEREAS, the COUNTY, its successors and assigns, hold title to an undivided ninety four
point four (94.4%) percent interest to 367.7 acres of land, known as the Caracara Prairie Preserve, and
Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed Land and Water Trust, Incorporated (TRUST) holds title
to an undivided five point six (5.6%) percent interest to the Caracara Prairie Preserve; and
WHEREAS, the COMMISSION is the state entity responsible for protecting and
managing Florida’s wildlife and aquatic life; and
WHEREAS, this Agreement is authorized by Chapter 163, Florida Statutes which allows the
parties to make the most efficient use of their governmental powers; and
WHEREAS, any land management activities implemented for the natural communities
identified at the Caracara Prairie Preserve will be the responsibility of the COUNTY, as set forth in
the Interlocal Agreement between the COUNTY and the TRUST (Exhibit ―A‖); and
WHEREAS, the COUNTY desires to provide recreational opportunities, including
opportunities for hunting, to the public on Caracara Prairie Preserve; and
WHEREAS, the COUNTY deems it necessary, appropriate, and in the public interest to
authorize the COMMISSION to incorporate the Caracara Prairie Preserve into the Corkscrew Marsh
Unit of the Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed Wildlife and Environmental Area (CREW
WEA), in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 68A, Florida Administrative Code; and
WHEREAS, the COMMISSION currently manages the Corkscrew Marsh Unit of the CREW
WEA for the purpose of recreational hunting; and
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WHEREAS, the COMMISSION will publish and distribute a pamphlet, example is attached
hereto as Exhibit ―B‖, a similar pamphlet will be published regularly setting forth the regulations and
dates on which hunting will be allowed at the CREW WEA, as well as a map of the area; and
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements hereinafter
contained, the COUNTY agrees to allow the COMMISSION to manage the Caracara Prairie Preserve
subject to the following terms and conditions:
1. DESCRIPTION OF PREMISES. The Caracara Prairie Preserve subject to this
Agreement is situated in the County of Collier, State of Florida and is described in Exhibit ―C‖
attached hereto.
2. TERM OF THE AGREEMENT. It is understood and agreed that the relation established by
this Agreement is meant to be for the benefit of both parties, and that this Agreement shall be
effective on the date of execution by both parties and shall remain in effect unless otherwise
terminated by either party.
3. TERMINATION. Either party may terminate this Agreement by giving written notice to the
other party specifying the termination date, by certified mail, return receipt requested, at least
sixty (60) days prior to the termination date specified in the notice. However, if such notice is
given after February 15, the termination date shall be April 30 of the following calendar year.
4. PURPOSE. The COMMISSION shall manage the Caracara Prairie Preserve only for the
conservation and protection of natural and historical resources and resource based public outdoor
recreation which is compatible with the conservation and protection of these public lands, as set
forth in Collier County Ordinance No. 2007-65 (Exhibit ―D‖), along with other authorized uses
necessary for the accomplishment of this purpose as designated in the Habitat Management Plan
approved by the COUNTY.
5. QUIET ENJOYMENT AND RIGHT OF USE. The COMMISSION shall have the right of
ingress and egress to, from and upon the Caracara Prairie Preserve for all purposes necessary to
the full quiet enjoyment by said COMMISSION of the rights conveyed herein.
6. CONSIDERATIONS. The COMMISSION shall be responsible for all administrative and
managerial duties related to public use (i.e., passage of regulation changes, annual publication
of area brochure, bag limits) during the periods of allowed hunting. The COMMISSION shall
provide law enforcement patrol periodically throughout the year.
7. AUTHORIZED USES. Authorized uses for the purposes of this Agreement shall be defined
as those management activities that the COMMISSION is authorized to perform under this
Agreement and the approved Habitat Management Plan. The authorized uses shall be consistent
with statutory requirements that the Caracara Prairie Preserve be managed and maintained in an
environmentally acceptable manner to restore and protect its natural state and condition,
including permitting of compatible recreational use. The authorized uses shall at minimum,
49
always include essential site management measures including security, policing, resource
protection, public access and recreational use, and habitat management.
8. UNAUTHORIZED USES. The COMMISSION shall, through their agents and employees,
prevent the unauthorized use of the Caracara Prairie Preserve or any use thereof not in
conformance with this Agreement.
9. INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS. The COUNTY shall be responsible for any improvements
or structures located on the Caracara Prairie Preserve. This protection shall be afforded through
the purchase of a Real and Personal Property Insurance Policy or through Self Insurance, as the
COUNTY deems appropriate.
10. PLACEMENT AND REMOVAL OF IMPROVEMENTS. The COMMISSION shall obtain
prior written approval from the COUNTY before constructing or locating any structures on the
Caracara Prairie Preserve. No trees shall be removed or major land alterations done without the
prior written approval of the COUNTY. All permanent structures shall remain the sole and
exclusive property of the COUNTY. Temporary structures constructed or located on the
Caracara Prairie Preserve by the COMMISSION shall remain the property of the
COMMISSION.
11. ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORICAL SITES. Execution of this Agreement in no way
affects any of the parties’ obligations pursuant to Chapter 267, Florida Statutes. The collection
of artifacts or the disturbance of archaeological and historic sites on the Caracara Prairie Preserve
is prohibited unless prior authorization has been obtained from the Department of the State,
Division of Historical Resources. The Habitat Management Plan shall be reviewed by the
Division of Historical Resources to insure that adequate measures have been planned to locate,
identify, protect and preserve the archaeological and historic sites and properties on the Caracara
Prairie Preserve. The COUNTY will notify the Division of Historical Resources immediately if
evidence is found to suggest that any archaeological or historic resources may exist.
12. PERMITS. The COUNTY shall be responsible for securing all local, State and Federal permits
required for management actions under this agreement.
13. HUNTING. Hunting shall be approved and regulated through the COMMISSION. No hunting
shall be allowed on the Caracara Prairie Preserve prior to the effective date of this Agreement.
The Caracara Prairie Preserve shall be incorporated into the existing Corkscrew Marsh Unit of
the CREW WEA. All hunting regulations, monitoring, and enforcement activities associated
with the Corkscrew Marsh Unit of the CREW WEA shall also apply to the Caracara Prairie
Preserve.
14. SIGNAGE. The COMMISSION shall legally post appropriate signage along the perimeter of
the Caracara Prairie Preserve.
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15. MODIFICATION OF AGREEMENT. No waiver or modification of this Agreement shall be
valid unless in writing and lawfully executed by all parties. It is the intention of the
COMMISSION and the COUNTY that no evidence of any waiver or modification shall be
offered or received in evidence in any proceeding or litigation between and among the parties
arising out of or affecting this Agreement unless such waiver or modification is in writing and
executed as aforesaid.
16. RELATIONSHIP OF PARTIES. It is understood that an employer-employee relationship
does not exist between the COMMISSION and the COUNTY and neither of the parties shall be
responsible for providing Workers’ Compensation Insurance and withholding services for the
other party or its employees. Each of the parties stipulates that they are not aware of any conflict
of interest prohibiting them from entering into this Agreement.
17. OTHER AGREEMENTS. This Agreement contains the complete agreement between the
COMMISSION and the COUNTY. Each party acknowledges reliance on its own judgment in
entering into this Agreement. The COMMISSION and the COUNTY further acknowledge that
any representations that may have been made outside of those specifically contained herein are
of no binding effect and have not been relied upon by either party in their dealings with the other
party in entering into this Agreement.
18. PUBLIC RECORDS. The COMMISSION and the COUNTY shall abide by the provisions of
Chapter 119, Florida Statutes, allowing public access to all documents, papers, letters, or other
material as applicable.
19. NOTICES. Any and all notices shall be delivered to the parties at the following addresses (or
such changed address or addressee as may be provided by notice). A notice or other
communication shall be deemed received by the addressee on the next business day after having
been placed in overnight mail with the U. S. Postal Service, or other overnight express service
such as FedEx, UPS, or similar service. Notices sent by means other than overnight delivery
shall be deemed received when actually received by the addressee:
FOR THE COUNTY: FOR THE COMMISSION:
Melissa Hennig Mike Brooks
Collier County Board of County Commissioners Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation
Conservation Collier Program Commission
3335 Tamiami Trail, East, Suite 101 620 South Meridian Street
Naples, FL 34112 Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600
Tel. 239-252-2957 Tel. 850-617-9583
melissahennig@colliergov.net mike.brooks@myfwc.com
20. PUBLIC RECORDS. All records in conjunction with this Agreement shall be public records
in accordance with the laws applicable to the parties.
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21. LIABILITY. Each party hereto agrees that it shall be solely responsible for the negligent or
wrongful acts of its employees and agents. However nothing herein shall constitute a waiver by
either party of sovereign immunity or statutory limitations on liability.
22. STATE REQUIRED CLAUSES.
a. Non-discrimination. No person, on the grounds of race, creed, color, national origin,
age, sex, or disability, shall be excluded from participation in, be denied the proceeds or
benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination in performance of this
Agreement.
b. Prohibition of Discriminatory Vendors. In accordance with Section 287.134, Florida
Statutes, an entity or affiliate who has been placed on the discriminatory vendor list may
not submit a bid, proposal, or reply on a contract to provide any goods or services to a
public entity; may not submit a bid, proposal or reply on a contract with a public entity
for the construction or repair of a public building or public work; may not submit bids,
proposals, or replies on leases of real property to a public entity; may not be awarded or
perform work as a supplier, sub or consultant under a contract with any public entity;
and may not transact business with any public entity.
c. Public Entity Crimes. In accordance with Section 287.133(2)(a), F.S., a person or
affiliate who has been placed on the convicted vendor list following a conviction for a
public entity crime may not perform work as a grantee, supplier, sub, consultant or by
any other manner under a contract with any public entity, and may not t ransact business
with any public entity in excess of the threshold amount provided in Section 287.017,
F.S., for Category Two, for a period of 36 months from the date of being placed on the
convicted vendor list.
d. Legislative appropriation. For contracts whose term extends beyond the State fiscal
year in which encumbered funds were appropriated, the State of Florida's performance
and obligation to pay is contingent upon an annual appropriation by the Legislature.
23. NON-ASSIGNMENT. This Agreement and may not be assigned in whole or in part without
the written approval of all parties. Any such assignment or attempted assignment shall be null
and void.
24. SEVERABILITY AND CHOICE OF VENUE. This Agreement shall be construed in
accordance with the laws of Florida. Wherever possible, each provision of this Agreement shall
be interpreted in such manner as to be effective and valid under applicable law, but if any
provision of this Agreement shall be prohibited or invalid under applicable law, such provision
shall be ineffective to the extent of such prohibition or invalidity, without invalidating the
remainder of such provision or the remaining provisions of this Agreement. Any action in
connection herewith, in law or equity, shall be brought in Leon County, Florida.
52
25. NO THIRD PARTY RIGHTS. The parties hereto do not intend nor shall this Agreement be
construed to grant any rights, privileges or interest to any person not a party to this Agreement.
26. JURY TRIAL WAIVER. As part of the consideration for this Agreement, the parties hereby
waive trial by jury in any action or proceeding brought by any party against any other party
pertaining to any matter whatsoever arising out of or in any way connected with this Agreement,
or with the products or services provided under this Agreement; including but not limited to any
claim of quantum meruit.
27. PROHIBITION OF UNAUTHORIZED ALIENS. In accordance with Executive Order 96-
236, the Commission shall consider the employment by the County of unauthorized aliens a
violation of section 274A(e) of the Immigration and Nationalization Act. Such violation shall
be cause for unilateral cancellation of this Agreement if the County knowingly employs
unauthorized aliens.
28. ENTIRE AGREEMENT; AMENDMENT. This Agreement with all incorporated
attachments and exhibits represents the entire agreement of the parties. This Agreement may be
amended by mutual written agreement of the parties.
The remainder of this page intentionally left blank
53
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Memorandum of Agreement to be
executed through their duly authorized signatories on the day and year last below written.
Each party is signing this agreement on the date stated below that party’s signature. The latest
date of signing shall be inserted in the first sentence of the first page and shall be deemed the
effective date of this Agreement.
Attachments and Exhibits in this Contract include the
following:
Exhibit A Interlocal Agreement between Collier County and the Corkscrew Regional
Ecosystem Watershed Land and Water Trust
Exhibit B CREW Wildlife and Environmental Area Brochure Pamphlet
Exhibit C Caracara Prairie Preserve Property Legal Description
Exhibit D Collier County Ordinance No. 2007-65
Exhibit E Corkscrew Regional Watershed Map
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE
OF COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA
CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Fred W. Coyle, CHAIRMAN FLORIDA
Date:
ATTEST:
DWIGHT E. BROCK, CLERK
Approved as to form and legal
sufficiency
Executive Director (or designee)
Date:
Approved as to form and legality:
Commission Attorney
STATE OF FLORIDA
54
55
56
57
EXHIBIT A
PROPERTY TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 00053080006
LEGAL DESCRIPTION:
WEST HALF (W1/2) OF SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 46 SOUTH, RANGE 28 EAST, OF
COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA.
AND
PROPERTY TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 00053080200
LEGAL DESCRIPTION:
NORTHWEST QUARTER (NW1/4) OF NORTHEAST QUARTER (NE1/4) OF
SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 46 SOUTH, RANGE 28 EAST, OF COLLIER COUNTY,
FLORIDA.
58
EXHIBIT “B”
59
60
61
62
EXHIBIT “C”
PROPERTY TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 00053080006
LEGAL DESCRIPTION:
WEST HALF (W1/2) OF SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 46 SOUTH, RANGE 28 EAST, OF
COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA.
AND
PROPERTY TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 00053080200
LEGAL DESCRIPTION:
NORTHWEST QUARTER (NW1/4) OF NORTHEAST QUARTER (NE1/4) OF
SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 46 SOUTH, RANGE 28 EAST, OF COLLIER COUNTY,
FLORIDA.
63
EXHIBIT “D ”
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79
80
EXHIBIT “E”
81
Appendix D. Oil, Gas, and Mineral Lease
82
83
84
85
Appendix E. 2019 Oil & Gas Drilling Final Permit 1335D
86
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
100
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
Appendix F. July 2020 Notice of Extension of Drilling Permit No. 1335D
109
110
111
Appendix G. 2018 Letter Submitted to FL DEP regarding Permit # 1335D from Conservation Collier
Staff
112
113
114
115
116
Appendix H. 2019 Letter Submitted to FL DEP regarding Permit # 1335D from Conservation Collier
Staff
117
118
119
120
121
122
Appendix I. 2018 Letter Submitted to FL DEP regarding Permit # 1335D from the Conservancy of
Southwest Florida
123
124
125
126
127
128
129
130
131
132
133
134
135
136
137
138
139
140
141
142
143
144
145
146
147
148
149
150
Appendix J. 2007 and 2019 Cattle Lease Agreements
151
152
153
154
155
156
157
158
159
160
161
162
163
164
165
166
167
168
169
170
171
172
173
174
175
176
177
178
Appendix G. Service-approved Pesticide List
Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank 2023 180
Caracara Prairie Preserve Conservation Bank 2023 181