Agenda 03/12/2024 Item #16A15 (Conservation Collier Mcllavane Marsh Preserve - Final Management Plan under the Conservation Collier Program)03/12/2024
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Recommendation to approve the Conservation Collier McIlvane Marsh Preserve Final Management Plan
under the Conservation Collier Program.
OBJECTIVE: To obtain approval from the Board of County Commissioners (Board) for the Final Management
Plan for the McIlvane Marsh Preserve.
CONSIDERATIONS: The 380-acre McIlvane Marsh Preserve located in South Naples was acquired between
2007-2015. The Interim Management Plan was developed and approved by the Board on January 12, 2010
(Agenda Item 16E3). With subsequent updates, the approved plan has been operational for the McIlvane Marsh
Preserve since then.
This is the first Final Management Plan; in comparison to the interim management, this plan provides clearer goals
and objectives.
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.
It has been the practice for the Program to hold a public meeting at the time of the initial Final Management Plan
and then for each 10-year update. A public hybrid Zoom and in-person meeting was held on November 1, 2023,
during the CCLAAC meeting to allow for community input on the draft plan. No public com ment was received.
The CCLAAC reviewed and recommended Board approval of the updated plan on November 1, 2023.
FISCAL IMPACT: Annual management costs for a rotational maintenance approach at the preserve are estimated
at $46,000. Funds are available within the Conservation Collier Land Management Fund (1062) to accomplish
these activities.
GROWTH MANAGEMENT IMPACT: No specific growth management impact is associated with this item.
LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS: The Conservation Collier Ordinance (No. 2002-63, as amended), in Section 14,
provides a legal framework for the development of management plans and for the use of environmentally sensitive
lands. This item is approved for form and legality and requires a majority vote for Board action. - SAA
RECOMMENDATION: To approve the attached proposed Final Management Plan for McIlvane Marsh Preserve
and directs staff to implement the updated plan.
Prepared by: Mitchell Barazowski, Environmental Specialist 1, Development Review Division
ATTACHMENT(S)
1. McIlvane Marsh Preserve Final Management Plan (PDF)
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03/12/2024
COLLIER COUNTY
Board of County Commissioners
Item Number: 16.A.15
Doc ID: 27772
Item Summary: Recommendation to approve the Conservation Collier McIlvane Marsh Preserve Final
Management Plan under the Conservation Collier Program.
Meeting Date: 03/12/2024
Prepared by:
Title: Technician – Development Review
Name: Lucia Martin
01/19/2024 2:16 PM
Submitted by:
Title: Environmental Specialist –
Name: Jaime Cook
01/19/2024 2:16 PM
Approved By:
Review:
Operations & Regulatory Management Michael Stark Additional Reviewer Completed 01/23/2024 10:15 AM
Development Review Summer BrownAraque Additional Reviewer Completed 01/23/2024 10:57 AM
Transportation Management Operations Support Evelyn Trimino Additional Reviewer Completed
01/29/2024 2:44 PM
Building Plan Review & Inspections Diane Lynch Additional Reviewer Skipped 02/02/2024 1:46 PM
Unknown Jaime Cook Division Director Completed 02/04/2024 10:57 AM
Growth Management Community Development Department Diane Lynch GMD Approver Completed
02/06/2024 3:29 PM
Growth Management Community Development Department James C French Growth Management Completed
02/09/2024 6:27 PM
County Attorney's Office Sally Ashkar Level 2 Attorney Review Completed 02/15/2024 10:04 AM
Office of Management and Budget Debra Windsor Level 3 OMB Gatekeeper Review Completed 02/15/2024 10:17 AM
County Attorney's Office Jeffrey A. Klatzkow Level 3 County Attorney's Office Review Completed 02/15/2024 2:38 PM
Office of Management and Budget Laura Zautcke OMB Reviewer Completed 02/21/2024 12:43 PM
County Manager's Office Amy Patterson Level 4 County Manager Review Completed 03/06/2024 3:41 PM
Board of County Commissioners Geoffrey Willig Meeting Pending 03/12/2024 9:00 AM
16.A.15
Packet Pg. 460
McIlvane Marsh Preserve
Final Management Plan
Managed by:
Collier County, FL
Conservation Collier Program
January 2024 – January 2034
Prepared by: Collier County Conservation Collier Staff
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Table of Contents
Land Management Plan Executive Summary ............................................................................. 4
Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 5
Parcel Description ...................................................................................................................... 6
1. Location ................................................................................................................................. 6
1.1. Description .................................................................................................................. 6
Figure 1.1.1. Overview map and surrounding conservation areas ................................... 7
Figure 1.1.2. 2022 Aerial close-up ................................................................................... 8
2. Physiography ...................................................................................................................... 9
2.1. Description ................................................................................................................... 9
Figure 2.1.1. Topographical Map (LIDAR) ......................................................................10
Figure 2.1.2. Aquifer Map (CLIP4 Aquifer Priority Map) ..................................................11
Figure 2.1.3. Hydric Soils Map (Collier County Soils Survey) ..........................................12
3. Historical Land Use ...........................................................................................................13
3.1. Description .................................................................................................................13
Figure 3.1.1. Historical Aerial Imagery ............................................................................14
4. Adjacent Land Use ............................................................................................................15
4.1. Description ..................................................................................................................15
5. Acquisition and Expansion .................................................................................................15
5.1. Acquisition Description ................................................................................................15
Table 5.1.1. Acquired Parcel Attributes...........................................................................15
Figure 5.1.2. Parcel Acquisition History ..........................................................................16
5.2. Potential Preserve Expansion .....................................................................................17
Management .............................................................................................................................17
6. Vegetation Management ....................................................................................................17
6.1. Current Vegetative Community Conditions ..................................................................17
Figure 6.1.1. Florida Cooperative Land Cover Classification System Map ......................19
Table 6.1.2. Threatened and Endangered Plant Species ................................................20
6.1.3. Vegetation Management Concerns .......................................................................20
6.2. Desired Future Conditions ...........................................................................................20
6.3. Management Tools .....................................................................................................20
6.3.1. Invasive Plant Removal ........................................................................................20
6.3.2. Native Plant Restoration .......................................................................................21
6.3.3. Prescribed Fire .....................................................................................................21
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6.3.4. Hydrological Restoration .......................................................................................21
Photoset 6.3.5 Vegetation Management Concerns .........................................................21
6.4. Partnership Opportunities ............................................................................................22
7. Wildlife Management .........................................................................................................22
7.1. Current Wildlife Community Conditions .......................................................................22
Table 7.1.1. Observed Threatened and Endangered Wildlife Species ............................22
Table 7.1.2. Potential Threatened and Endangered Species ..........................................23
7.1.4. Wildlife Management Concerns ............................................................................23
Figure 7.1.5 – Wildlife Spatial Data .................................................................................24
7.2. Desired Future Conditions ...........................................................................................25
7.3. Management Tools .....................................................................................................25
7.3.1. Habitat Improvements ...........................................................................................25
7.3.2. Connectivity ..........................................................................................................25
7.4. Partnership Opportunities ............................................................................................25
8. Preserve Safety and Security Management .......................................................................25
8.1. Current/Predicted Human Conflict Conditions .............................................................25
8.2. Desired Future Conditions ...........................................................................................26
8.3. Management Tools .....................................................................................................26
8.3.1. Site Security Improvements ..................................................................................26
8.3.2. Debris Removal ....................................................................................................26
8.4. Partnership Opportunities ............................................................................................26
9. Budget ...............................................................................................................................26
Table 9.1. Projected Expenditures Table ........................................................................27
10. Appendix .............................................................................................................................27
Photoset 10.1: Representative Site Photos ....................................................................27
Table 10.2. Legal Description .........................................................................................29
10.3. Public Meeting Comments and Staff Responses ...................................................29
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Land Management Plan Executive Summary
Lead Agency: Conservation Collier Program, Development Review Division, Collier County
Growth Management Department
Properties included in this Plan: McIlvane Marsh Preserve consists of 10 parcels located within
Sections 29 and 30, Township 51, and Range 27 East, in Collier County, Florida.
Total Acreage: 380
Management Responsibilities: Collier County Conservation Collier Program staff
Designated Land Use: Preservation
Unique Features: The preserve lies at the junction of three larger conservation areas and
protects and provides habitat/corridors for wildlife and plants, while also protecting water
resources.
Desired Future Conditions:
Vegetation: A preserve with a matrix of high-quality mangrove swamp, marshes, and
flatwoods with mixed-age stands, a diverse understory, and less than 10% infestation of
non-native vegetation.
Wildlife: A preserve with the appropriate vegetative communities, resource use, and
connectivity to support wildlife species native to that habitat.
Preserve Safety and Security: A preserve free of littering, dumping, illicit activities,
neighbor disturbances, unauthorized vehicles, and after-hours trespass.
Public Involvement
As part of the Land Management Plan Update drafting process, a public meeting was held on
November 1st, 2023, to gather input from members of the public and preserve stakeholders.
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Introduction
The 380-acre, McIlvane Marsh Preserve lies within the 800-acre McIlvane Marsh area which is
west of the intersection of Tamiami Trail E (US-41) and San Marco Road (State Rd 92) and
northeast of Marco Island (Figure 1.1.2). The preserve is located at the junction of Rookery Bay
National Estuarine Research Reserve, Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, and
Collier Seminole State Park. It is primarily comprised of mangrove swamp, salt marsh, and wet
flatwoods. Parcels in this preserve were acquired between 2007-2015. Acquisitions in this area
have been purchased with funds from the Conservation Collier acquisition fund or received as
donations. County holds fee simple title. The Conservation Collier Program manages this parcel
under authority granted by the Conservation Collier Ordinance 2002-63, as
amended. Preservation is the designated use of the property. Management activities allowed
are those necessary to preserve and maintain this environmentally sensitive land for the benefit
of present and future generations.
Conservation Collier: Land Acquisition Program and Management Authority
Voters originally approved the Conservation Collier Program in November 2002 and subsequently
confirmed it in November 2006 by ballot referendum. On November 3, 2020, the Collier County
electors approved the Conservation Collier referendum with a 76.5% majority which reestablished
the acquisition portion of the Program. These voter-approved referendums enable the program
to acquire environmentally sensitive lands within Collier County, Florida (Ordinance 2002-63, as
amended). Properties must support at least two of the following qualities to qualify for
consideration: rare habitat, aquifer recharge, flood control, water quality protection, and listed
species habitat. The BCC appointed Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee
(CCLAAC) to consider any selected or nominated properties that an owner has indicated a
willingness to sell. The committee recommends property purchases for final approval by the BCC.
Lands acquired with Conservation Collier funds are titled to “COLLIER COUNTY, a political
subdivision of the State of Florida, by and through its Conservation Collier program.” The Board
of County Commissioners of Collier County (BCC) established the Conservation Collier Program
to implement the program and manage acquired lands. As such, Conservation Collier holds
management authority for the McIlvane Marsh Preserve.
Purpose and Scope of Plan
The purpose of the final management plan is to provide management direction for the McIlvane
Marsh Preserve by identifying the desired future conditions of each element and the appropriate
tools to achieve these conditions. This plan is divided into sections that include an introduction,
parcel description, management element conditions, objectives, potential tools, and a projected
budget. This plan will be updated on a five-year cycle, with the next update due in 2028.
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Plan Date Approved by Board of County Commissioners
Interim Management Plan January 12, 2010
Interim Management Plan 1st Extension September 24, 2013
Interim Management Plan 2nd Extension December 8, 2015
Interim Management Plan 3rd Extension April 10, 2018
Interim Management Plan 4th Extension January 26, 2021
Parcel Description
1. Location
1.1. Description
The 380-acre, McIlvane Marsh Preserve lies within the 800-acre McIlvane Marsh area which is
west of the intersection of Tamiami Trail E (US-41) and San Marco Road (State Rd 92) and
northeast of Marco Island (Figure 1.1.2). The preserve is located at the junction of Rookery Bay
National Estuarine Research Reserve, Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, and
Collier Seminole State Park (Figure 1.1.1). Complete legal descriptions are provided in the
appendix (Table 10.2).
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Figure 1.1.1. Overview map and surrounding conservation areas
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Figure 1.1.2. 2022 Aerial close-up
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2. Physiography
2.1. Description
LIDAR and Surface Waters
A Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) map provides information about the elevation of the
Earth’s surface. The topographical map of the Preserve (Figure 2.1.1) indicates surface features
of lower elevation in deepening shades of blue. The preserve is dominated by mangrove swamps
and salt marshes which are flooded for most of the year. The wet flatwoods flood during the height
of the rainy season. There are several borrow pit ponds and ditches as well as the 51-acre Curcie
Lake on the adjacent parcel. These surface waters are tidally influenced to a small degree and
flow into the Big Marco River.
Aquifer Recharge Potential
The preserve is within a Priority 6 CLIP4 (Critical Lands and Waters Identification Project) Aquifer
Recharge designation and not within the protection zone of the Collier County Utilities Golden
Gate Wellfield (Figure 2.1.2).
Soils
Four soil types can be found within the preserve (Figure 2.1.3). Hydric soils present include Durbin
and Wulfert Mucks (Frequently Flooded), Estero and Peckish Soils (Frequently Flooded), and
Basinger Fine Sand (Occasionally Flooded). A Hydric is soil formed under saturation, flooding, or
ponding conditions long enough during the growing season to develop anaerobic conditions in
the upper part (Federal Register, 1994). Drier, Ft. Drum and Malabar, High, Fine Sands are found
along the northern boundary of the preserve (Figure 2.1.3).
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Figure 2.1.1. Topographical Map (LIDAR)
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Figure 2.1.2. Aquifer Map (CLIP4 Aquifer Priority Map)
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Figure 2.1.3. Hydric Soils Map (Collier County Soils Survey)
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3. Historical Land Use
3.1. Description
Aside from some trails, this area was undeveloped until the 1970’s, after which borrow pits, roads,
and a communications tower array were installed. Limestone fill mining began 1984 which
resulted in the creation of the 51-acre Curcie Lake. A Section, Township, and Range query of the
Florida Master Site File for Sections 29 & 30, T51S, R27E, with result received on July 22, 2009,
shows no recorded historical or archaeological sites present within the search area.
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Figure 3.1.1. Historical Aerial Imagery
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4. Adjacent Land Use
4.1. Description
The preserve lies at the junction of Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, Ten
Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, and Collier Seminole State Park (Figure 1.1.1).
Immediately to the north is a defunct vehicle scrapyard and a cattle pasture. Further north are the
Eagle Lakes and Fiddlers Creek communities, a low-density residential neighborhood, and
several agricultural areas. Within McIlvane Marsh are several undeveloped private inholdings and
the Relevant Radio communications tower array.
5. Acquisition and Expansion
5.1. Acquisition Description
Acquisition in this area began in 2007 when six parcels totaling 259-acres were acquired (Table
5.1.1., Figure 5.1.2.). Additional parcels were acquired in a piecemeal fashion between 2008 and
2015 as they became available (Table 5.1.1, Figure 5.1.2.).).
Table 5.1.1. Acquired Parcel Attributes
Seller Folio(s) Acreage Price Acquisition
Date
Ralph A. Calo and Barbara Calo 00775000005 40 $270,000 7/2/2007
Robert Reed Rivers Jr. 00775520006 19.54 $133,500 7/2/2007
William C. Scherer and Irene K.
Scherer 00775440005 80 $540,000 7/16/2007
James L. Price Jr. 00775480007 20 $135,000 7/16/2007
Edward L. Connolly Jr. Revocable
Trust 00775400003 70 $472,500 10/30/2007
RJS, L.L.C. 00775680001 30 $202,500 11/16/2007
An Trinh 00775360004 80 $760,000 12/15/2008
Triangle Licensing Corporation 00775080009 29.33 $289,400 7/27/2009
Ginnie Evans Poovey Kania 00775560008 10 Donation 12/24/2012
Earl Willett 00775760002 2.02 $2,500 7/7/2015
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Figure 5.1.2. Parcel Acquisition History
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5.2. Potential Preserve Expansion
Parcels adjacent to the preserve must be evaluated and approved on an individual basis before
acquisition. Acquisition of parcels to the north of the preserve is a high priority because they
include rare upland habitats and provide a buffer between the current preserve and nearby
developments.
Management
6. Vegetation Management
6.1. Current Vegetative Community Conditions
The Florida Land Cover Classification System habitats are identified in Figure 6.1.1. Non-native
species are denoted with an *. Plant communities identified statewide under this cooperative land
cover system partially rely on aerial imagery for plant community classification. Plant communities
are listed below in order of most to least common.
5250 Mangrove Swamp - Estuarine wetland on muck/sand/or limestone substrate; inundated
with saltwater by daily tides; central peninsula and Keys; no fire; dominated by mangrove and
mangrove associate species; red mangrove, black mangrove, white mangrove, buttonwood.
(Florida Natural Areas Inventory).
Notes: Area dominated by red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle) with buttonwood (Conocarpus
erectus) forests in upper tidal areas and in transitional zones. Some slash pine (Pinus elliottii) and
cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto) islands present within mangrove swamp.
Major Canopy Components: Red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle) and buttonwood
(Conocarpus erectus)
Major Midstory Components: none
Major Understory Components: Giant leather fern (Acrostichum danaeifolium)
5240 Salt Marsh - Estuarine wetland on muck/sand/or limestone substrate; inundated with
saltwater by daily tides; statewide; occasional or rare fire; treeless, dense herb layer with few
shrubs; saltmarsh cordgrass, needle rush, saltgrass, saltwort, perennial glasswort, seaside
oxeye. (Florida Natural Areas Inventory)
Notes: Encroachment by coastal plain willow (Salix caroliniana) and common cattail (Typha
latifolia)
Major Canopy Components: None
Major Midstory Components: Coastal plain willow (Salix caroliniana)
Major Understory Components: Black needle rush (Juncus roemerianus), saltgrass (Distichlis
spicata), cordgrass (Spartina sp.), sawgrass (Cladium jamaicense), and common cattail (Typha
latifolia)
2221 Wet Flatwoods – Flatland with sand substrate; seasonally inundated; statewide except
extreme southern peninsula and Keys; frequent fire (2-4 years for grassy wet flatwoods, 5-10
years for shrubby wet flatwoods); closed to open pine canopy with grassy or shrubby understory;
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slash pine, pond pine, large gallberry, fetterbush, sweetbay, cabbage palm, wiregrass, toothache
grass. (Florida Natural Areas Inventory)
Notes: Previously heavily infested with Melaleuca (Melaleuca quinquenervia)* and old-world
climbing fern (Lygodium microphyllum)*
Major Canopy Components: Slash pine (Pinus elliottii), cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto), and
laurel oak (Quercus laurifolia)
Major Midstory Components: Wax myrtle (Myrica cerifera), buttonbush (Cephalanthus
occidentalis), and Dahoon holly (Ilex cassine)
Major Understory Components: Swamp fern (Telmatoblechnum serrulatum), broomsedge
(Andropogon spp.), grapevine (Vitis spp.), greenbriar (Smilax spp.), old world climbing fern
(Lygodium microphyllum)*, and wedelia (Sphagneticola trilobata)*
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Figure 6.1.1. Florida Cooperative Land Cover Classification System Map
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Table 6.1.2. Threatened and Endangered Plant Species
Common Name Scientific Name Protection Status
Giant air plant Tillandsia utriculata State Endangered
Stiff-leaved wild-pine, Cardinal air plant Tillandsia fasciculata State Endangered
Twisted air plant Tillandsia flexuosa State Threatened
Reflexed wild-pine, Northern needleleaf Tillandsia balbisiana State Threatened
Butterfly orchid Encyclia tampensis State Threatened
6.1.3. Vegetation Management Concerns
Invasive vegetation appears to be most prevalent in the wet flatwoods and along the roadsides of
the preserve. Due to difficulty of access, the infestation status of the mangrove swamps in the
southern half of the preserve is unknown. It is assumed that these tidal areas are inhospitable to
most species, but old aerials suggest that climbing fern may be present on some of the cabbage
palm islands. Primary species of concern are old world climbing fern, Brazilian pepper, and
melaleuca. To date, only the RJS, Trinh, and Calo parcels of the preserve have been treated for
invasive vegetation. These parcels had extremely heavy infestations of melaleuca and climbing
fern in their more upland areas. Much progress has been made on controlling these species since
efforts began in 2020, but the disturbance caused by their removal has allowed other invasive
species such as cogon grass (Cylindrica imperata) and wedelia to invade. Thick rachis mats from
treated climbing fern remain and are preventing recruitment of native species. Application of
prescribed fire is necessary for restoration of the flatwoods and maintenance of the salt marsh
communities.
6.2. Desired Future Conditions
A preserve with high-quality mangrove swamp, salt marsh, and flatwoods with mixed-age stands,
with less than 10% infestation of non-native vegetation.
6.3. Management Tools
6.3.1. Invasive Plant Removal
It is cost prohibitive to treat the southern and western portions of the preserve due to their
inaccessibility. Treatment strategy will focus on continuing maintenance treatment of old-world
climbing fern, melaleuca, Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolia), seaside mahoe (Thespesia
populnea), Java plum (Szygium cumini), earleaf acacia (Acacia auriculiformes), and cogon
grass on the RJS, Trinh, and Calo parcels. The RJS and Calo parcels received 3 treatments
between 2020-2022, and the Trinh parcel has received 4 treatments between 2020-2023. When
funding becomes available, the Triangle parcel will be included into the annual treatment
rotation. Treatment costs at this preserve are largely driven by the difficulty in traversing the
terrain so prices are not expected to drop significantly as the infestation level lowers. In 2023,
trails were re-cleared in order to improve accessibility (Figure 1.1.2).
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6.3.2. Native Plant Restoration
Native plants are naturally recolonizing areas previously infested with invasive vegetation. Large
scale replanting does not appear necessary and may be a poor investment as the upland areas
are increasing transitioning to mangrove swamp.
6.3.3. Prescribed Fire
The wet flatwood and salt marsh communities’ health depends on a 5–10-year fire return interval.
The preserve has not seen significant fire activity since acquisition and as a result is experiencing
fuel loading and encroachment of woody species such as mangroves, willow, and oak in areas
that should either be grassy or herbaceous. On March 24th, 2021, a great egret collided with a
powerline and ignited a 3-acre wildfire on the Triangle parcel. Interagency plans are in progress
to conduct a prescribed burn of the saltmarsh and flatwoods on the Calo and Triangle parcels as
well as the Rookery Bay parcels in between. The Trinh parcel will be burned once a firebreak is
installed along the northern boundary. Burning the Trinh parcel will expedite restoration by
consuming rachis mats and slash from previous invasive vegetation treatments.
6.3.4. Hydrological Restoration
The construction of roads, ditches, canals, and mines has interrupted the natural flow of water
into the marsh. These interruptions have altered the hydroperiod and, therefore, the
distribution/composition of plant communities. McIlvane Marsh is situated near and is expected
to be influenced by the Picayune Strand Restoration Project, a sub-project of the Comprehensive
Everglades Restoration Project. The project area includes 55,000 acres located between Alligator
Alley and Tamiami Trail in southeastern Collier County and involves plugging canals, building and
operating pump stations, placing culverts under the Tamiami Trail, removing old roadbeds and
removing exotic vegetation. The goal of the project is to improve estuarine water quality by
increasing groundwater recharge and reducing large and unnatural freshwater inflows to the
estuaries along the southwest Florida coast. While this project does not directly affect the
County’s parcels within the McIlvane Marsh area, it is expected to increase surface water in the
general area. If funding is available, construction of features designed to improve the local
hydrological conditions will be pursued.
Photoset 6.3.5 Vegetation Management Concerns
Old-world climbing fern (Lygodium microphyllum) on the Trinh parcel, post-initial treatment, 2020.
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6.4. Partnership Opportunities
Conservation Collier will continue to seek funding assistance from the Florida Fish and Wildlife
Conservation Commission (FWC) Upland Invasive Exotic Plant Management Program. This
program has been critical in conducting initial and otherwise cost-prohibitive invasive plant
removal projects over the past 20 years. Like other Conservation Collier preserves, management
partnerships will continue to exist within the prescribed fire realm. In conducting prescribed burns,
Conservation Collier will continue its partnerships with the Florida Forest Service, U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service, FWC, Greater Naples Fire Department, South Florida Water Management
District, and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Staff will seek opportunities to
partner with researchers from higher education institutions to enhance conservation efforts of the
native plant communities found on the preserve.
7. Wildlife Management
7.1. Current Wildlife Community Conditions
The estuary meets uplands along the northern edge of the preserve. This mixture of habitats
provides for the needs of both terrestrial and aquatic wildlife. The preserve also provides a buffer
between development and the breeding and foraging grounds of protected wading birds, bald
eagles, and American crocodiles on the adjacent properties. The flatwoods and marsh on the
northern edge of the preserve protect a path for Florida panthers and black bears to travel
between larger conservation areas that is more traversable than the mangrove swamps to the
south.
Table 7.1.1. Observed Threatened and Endangered Wildlife Species
Type Common Name Species Protection Status
Birds Everglades snail kite Rostrhamus sociabilis plumbeus Federally Endangered
Crested caracara Caracara cheriway Federally Threatened
Wood stork Mycteria americana Federally Threatened
Florida sandhill crane Antigone canadensis pratensis State Threatened
Little blue heron Egretta caerulea State Threatened
White crowned pigeon Patagioenas leucocephala State Threatened
Roseate spoonbill Platalea ajaja State Threatened
Mammals Florida Panther Puma concolor coryi Federally Endangered
Reptiles American Crocodile Crocodylus acutus Federally Threatened
American Alligator Alligator missisippiensis
Federally Threatened
due to similarity of
appearance
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Table 7.1.2. Potential Threatened and Endangered Specie s
Type Common Name Species Protection Status
Mammals Big Cypress fox squirrel Sciurus niger avicennia State Threatened
Everglade’s mink Neovison vison evergladensis State Threatened
Florida bonneted bat Eumops floridensis Federally Endangered
Birds Tricolored heron Egretta tricolor State Threatened
Eastern black rail Laterallus jamaicensis Federally Threatened
Reptiles Eastern indigo snake Drymarchon corais couperi Federally Threatened
Gopher tortoise Gopherus polyphemus State Threatened
7.1.4. Wildlife Management Concerns
Disturbance, destruction, and poaching of the adjacent wading bird rookery and crocodile nests
is the primary concern at this preserve. In 2009 a group of trespassers shot and killed at least 21
birds on the rookery on Curcie Lake. A heavy-duty gate was installed at Curcie Rd to deter
trespassers. This gate is monitored with cellular enabled trail cameras by Rookery Bay and
USFWS staff. Encroachment of woody vegetation in the salt marsh may degrade foraging habitat
for wading birds. A breeding population of invasive Burmese pythons is present in the area and
is a threat to all wildlife but especially the wading birds.
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Figure 7.1.5 – Wildlife Spatial Data
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7.2. Desired Future Conditions
A preserve with the appropriate vegetative communities, resource use, and connectivity to
support wildlife species native to present habitat.
7.3. Management Tools
7.3.1. Habitat Improvements
Treatment and removal of invasive plant species, primarily melaleuca, Brazilian pepper, and old-
world climbing fern, will promote the growth of native species that provide natural forage and
cover for wildlife. Restoring fire to the landscape where feasible will increase diversity in the
understory and benefit pine flatwood and salt marsh species as well as counteract woody
encroachment.
7.3.2. Connectivity
The preserve is contiguous with the 110,000-acre Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research
Reserve, 7,271-acre Collier Seminole State Park, and 35,000-acre Ten Thousand Islands
National Wildlife Refuge, as well as several conservation easements and other undeveloped
lands. Wildlife moves freely between the preserve and surrounding areas. The preserve is used
as a foraging and dispersal area for threatened and endangered species that breed around Curcie
Lake. Acquiring more parcels to the north of the preserve would further safeguard the upland
wildlife corridor already present.
7.4. Partnership Opportunities
Conservation Collier staff continue to assist Rookery Bay, University of Florida, Conservancy of
Southwest Florida, USFWS, and FWC staff with wildlife monitoring and habitat improvements in
the marsh including bird and crocodile surveys, Burmese python removal, invasive vegetation
management, and prescribed burning. Staff will continue to monitor the preserve for signs of
trespass and work with local law enforcement to prevent damage to sensitive wildlife resources.
8. Preserve Safety and Security Management
8.1. Current/Predicted Human Conflict Conditions
The preserve is closed to the public to protect threatened and endangered wildlife breeding areas.
All current access to the preserve is via the Curcie Rd gate on the Ten Thousand Islands National
Wildlife Refuge. In 2009, a group of trespassers shot and killed a number of wading birds,
including listed species, roosting on the islands in Curcie Lake. After this, a heavy-duty gate was
installed on Curcie Rd. The gate is monitored with cellular-enabled trail cameras by USFWS and
Rookery Bay staff. Trespassers still enter the property on foot, often looking to access the lake to
fish. A potential point of access is the unmaintained trail that connects the preserve to Auto Ranch
Rd. Clearing this trail would improve access and safety for prescribed fire activities but may
increase the risk of trespass.
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8.2. Desired Future Conditions
A preserve free of littering, dumping, illicit activities, neighbor disturbances, unauthorized vehicles,
and after-hours trespass.
8.3. Management Tools
8.3.1. Site Security Improvements
Staff will monitor for signs of trespass/illegal activities. Staff will collaborate with adjacent
landowners/agencies to address issues as they arise. If the connecting trail between the preserve
and Auto Ranch Rd is cleared, a heavy-duty gate and accompanying fence will be installed.
8.3.2. Debris Removal
Prior to acquisition there was a history of dumping on the preserve and the surroundin g area.
Debris will continue to be removed and disposed of offsite as it is encountered. Staff will monitor
the preserve boundaries for signs of illegal dumping and work collaboratively with the Collier
County Sheriff’s Office to address repeat offenses.
8.4. Partnership Opportunities
Staff will collaborate with USFWS Law Enforcement, Collier County Sheriff’s Office, and FWC
Law Enforcement to prevent and respond to any criminal site security and safety issues as they
present themselves.
9. Budget
Proposed expenditures include invasive plant treatments, firebreak installation and maintenance,
and road maintenance. It is proposed that the RJS, Trinh, Calo, and Triangle parcels be treated
annually for all FISC Category I & II species. Based on previous quotes, these treatments are
estimated to cost between $400-600/acre, so $84,400-126,600 for the entire 211-acre treatment
unit. Cost is largely determined by difficulty to traverse the unit, not the levels of infestation, so
prices are not expected to decrease significantly over time. If full funding is unavailable, these
units will be treated in a 2–3-year rotation with the Trinh parcel taking priority. Installation of the
northern firebreak is estimated to cost $10,000-20,000. Maintenance of the firebreaks is estimated
to cost $2,000-5,000 and be completed on an as needed basis. Conservation Collier will
contribute materials and labor along with Rookery Bay and USFWS to maintain Curcie Rd as
needed. Projected expenditures based on the current available budget are listed in the Table 9.1.
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Table 9.1. Projected Expenditures Table
Projected Operating
Costs
2023
FY Actuals 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028
Vegetation
Treatment/Removal $35,488.00 $36,000.00 $41,000.00 $46,000.00 $41,000.00 $46,000.00
Road/Firebreak
Installation and
Maintenance
$5,006.56 $10,000.00 $5,000.00
Debris Removal $5,000.00
Total Projected
Costs $40,494.56 $46,000.00 $46,000.00 $46,000.00 $46,000.00 $46,000.00
10. Appendix
Photoset 10.1: Representative Site Photos
Heavy-duty gate installed at the intersection of Curcie and San Marco Rd.
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Triangle parcel looking south
Trinh parcel looking west
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Table 10.2. Legal Description
Folio Total
Acres
Calculated
Acres Legal Description
775360004 80 79.59 30 51 27 S1/2 OF NE1/4 80 AC
775680001 30 30.32 30 51 27 W1/2 OF SE1/4 OF NW1/4, NE1/4 OF SE1/4 OF NW1/4
775000005 40 43.59 29 51 27 NW1/4 OF SW1/4 40 AC OR 1518 PG 108
775560008 10 10.07 30 51 27 SE1/4 OF NW1/4 OF SW1/4, LESS E 30FT AND N 30FT
775440005 80 80.74 30 51 27 S1/2 OF SE1/4 80 AC OR 268 PG 715
775520006 19.54 18.76 30 51 27 W1/2 OF SW1/4 OF NW1/4 LESS S 30FT 19.54 AC
775480007 20 19.61 30 51 27 W1/2 OF NW1/4 OF SW1/4 20 AC OR 291 PG 422
775400003 70 70.28 30 51 27 S1/2 OF SW1/4, LESS W1/2 OF W1/2 OF SW1/4 OF
SW1/4 70 AC
775760002 2.02 1.99 30 51 27 N 267FT OF W1/2 OF W1/2 OF SW1/4 OF SW1/4 2.02
AC OR 583 PG 1620
775080009 29.33 29.33
29 51 27 N 30FT OF NE1/4 OF SW1/4, N 50FT OF W1/2 OF SE1/4,
E 100FT OF W1/2 OF SE1/4, S 1054FT OF E 1320FT OF SE1/4,
LESS BEG AT SE CNR OF SEC 29, N 230FT, S89DEG W 92.83FT,
SLY230.70FT ALG CURVE, N 89DEG E 75.37FT TO POB, LESS N
854FT OF S 1054FT OF W 534FT OF E 1320FT OF SE1/4
10.3. Public Meeting Comments and Staff Responses
No public comment received.
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