Agenda 01/13/2026 Item #16A14 (Approval of the Conservation Collier Hendrix House property Interim Management Plan and to name the property Black Bear Path Preserve)1/13/2026
Item # 16.A.14
ID# 2025-4943
Executive Summary
Recommendation to approve the Conservation Collier Hendrix House property Interim Management Plan under the
Conservation Collier Program and to name the property Black Bear Path Preserve.
OBJECTIVE: To obtain approval from the Board of County Commissioners (Board) for the Hendrix House property
Interim Management Plan and to designate the official preserve name of the property as Black Bear Path Preserve.
CONSIDERATIONS: The 17.66-acre Hendrix House property, located in the Golden Gate Estates, was purchased in
June 2025 by the Conservation Collier Program. The Conservation Collier Ordinance, No. 2002-63, as amended,
Section 13 (1), requires that an Interim Management Plan be prepared, with review and input by the Conservation
Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee (CCLAAC), for each property within six months of acquisition. The
CCLAAC reviewed the Interim Management Plan for the property on November 5, 2025. The document includes a
description of the property's natural and cultural resources, as well as plans for habitat restoration, public access,
amenities, and site security. A Final Management Plan will be presented to the Board for approval in 2029. The preserve
parcels in this document are referred to by the seller's name, Hendrix House (Frankie Hendrix of Naples), as an official
name has not yet been designated. Once Board direction has been provided with regard to the official preserve name, the
name Hendrix House Preserve will be updated by staff to reflect the final preserve name approved by the Board.
In order to prepare this preserve for public use, staff would like to assign a permanent name. The Conservation Collier
Ordinance is silent as to the procedure for naming acquired preserves. County policy advises that County-owned
facilities are to be named based on the function they perform or services they provide to the public and that the specific
location, including an adjacent right-of-way, body of water, or any prominent landmark, can be included in the name.
County policy for naming facilities after persons is different and very specific, requiring a significant, direct, local
benefit and application supported by at least 1,000 Collier County residents.
In order to accomplish community participation in proposing a name for this Conservation Collier preserve, staff drafted
three name options with public input from the public meeting held in October 2025 and distributed an electronic poll via
the Conservation Collier website and social media. Black Bear Path Preserve received the most votes (63%). The
proposed naming of the preserve to Black Bear Path Preserve was recommended by the CLAAC on November 5, 2025.
This item is consistent with the Collier County strategic plan objectives to preserve and enhance the character of our
community and to protect our natural resources.
FISCAL IMPACT: Estimated costs for the first three (3) years are $66,000 total for initial invasive vegetation removal,
hiking trail installation, and fencing and gate installation. After initial exotic vegetation removal and installation of
visitor and security amenities, the ongoing annual maintenance costs are estimated to be $10,000 per year for the
subsequent five (5) years. Funds are available within the Conservation Collier Land Management Fund (1062) to
accomplish these activities. There is no Fiscal impact associated with naming the preserve.
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. There is no specific Growth Management impact associated with this item.
LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS: The Conservation Collier Ordinance (No. 2002-63, as amended), in Section 13,
provides a legal framework for the development of management plans and the use of environmentally sensitive lands.
This item is approved for form and legality and requires a majority vote for Board action.
This request conforms to the adopted County-owned facility naming policy as reviewed by the County Attorney’s
Office. -SAA
RECOMMENDATION(S): To:
1) Approve the attached proposed Interim Management Plan for Hendrix House property and direct staff to implement
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1/13/2026
Item # 16.A.14
ID# 2025-4943
the interim plan; and
2) Approve the recommended name, Black Bear Path Preserve, for the Conservation Collier property currently referred
to as the Hendrix House property.
PREPARED BY: Julie Motkowicz, Environmental Specialist II, Environmental and Development Review Division
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Interim Management Plan - Hendrix Property
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Hendrix property
Interim Land Management Plan
Managed by:
Collier County, FL
Conservation Collier Program
January 2026 - January 2029
(Interim Plan)
Prepared by: Collier County Conservation Collier Staff
Formerly known as Hendrix House property. Name change approved by Board of County
Commissioners on xxxxxx, 2026
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Table of Contents
Land Management Plan Executive Summary ............................................................................. 5
Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 6
Table 1. Acquisition History and Status of the Hendrix property ...................................... 6
Parcel Description ...................................................................................................................... 7
1. Location .............................................................................................................................. 7
1.1. Description .................................................................................................................. 7
Figure 1.1.1. Overview map of Hendrix property and surrounding conservation areas .... 8
Figure 1.1.2. 2023 Aerial close-up ................................................................................... 9
2. Physiography .....................................................................................................................10
2.1. Description ..................................................................................................................10
Figure 2.1.1. Topographical Map (LIDAR) ......................................................................11
Figure 2.1.2. Aquifer Map (CLIP4 Aquifer Priority Map and Wellfield Protection Zones) .12
Figure 2.1.3. Hydric Soils Map (Collier County Soils Survey) ..........................................13
3. Historical Land Use ...........................................................................................................14
3.1. Description .................................................................................................................14
Photoset 3.1.1. Historical Aerial Imagery ........................................................................14
4. Adjacent Land Use ............................................................................................................17
4.1. Description ..................................................................................................................17
5. Acquisition and Expansion .................................................................................................17
5.1. Acquisition Description ................................................................................................17
Table 5.1.1. Parcel Attributes Table ................................................................................18
5.2. Potential Preserve Expansion .....................................................................................18
Management .............................................................................................................................18
6. Vegetation Management ....................................................................................................18
6.1. Current Vegetative Community Conditions ..................................................................18
Figure 6.1.1. Florida Land Cover Classification Map.......................................................20
Table 6.1.2. Threatened and Endangered Plant Species Table ......................................22
6.1.3. Vegetation Management Concerns .......................................................................22
6.2. Desired Future Conditions ...........................................................................................22
6.3. Management Tools .....................................................................................................22
6.3.1. Invasive Plant Removal ........................................................................................22
6.3.2. Native Plant Restoration .......................................................................................23
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6.3.3. Prescribed Fire .....................................................................................................23
6.3.4. Hydrological Restoration .......................................................................................23
6.4. Partnership Opportunities ............................................................................................23
7. Wildlife Management .........................................................................................................23
7.1. Current Wildlife Community Conditions .......................................................................23
Table 7.1.1. Observed Wildlife Species Table ................................................................24
Table 7.1.2. Potential Threatened and Endangered Species Table ................................24
Photoset 7.1.3. Wildlife Observations .............................................................................25
7.1.4. Wildlife Management Concerns ............................................................................27
7.2. Desired Future Conditions ...........................................................................................29
7.3. Management Tools .....................................................................................................29
7.3.1. Habitat Improvements ...........................................................................................29
7.3.2. Connectivity ..........................................................................................................29
7.3.3. Consumptive Wildlife Use .....................................................................................29
7.3.4. Monitoring .............................................................................................................29
7.4. Partnership Opportunities ............................................................................................30
8. Recreation Management ...................................................................................................30
8.1. Current Recreational Opportunity Conditions ..............................................................30
8.2. Desired Future Conditions ...........................................................................................30
Table 8.2.1. Compatible Recreational Activities ..............................................................30
8.3. Management Tools .....................................................................................................31
8.3.1. Amenity Installation/Enhancement ........................................................................31
9. Preserve Safety and Security Management .......................................................................34
9.1. Current/Predicted Human Conflict Conditions .............................................................34
Photoset 9.1.1: Human use ............................................................................................34
9.2. Desired Future Conditions ...........................................................................................35
9.3. Management Tools .....................................................................................................35
9.3.1. Site Security Improvements ..................................................................................35
9.4. Partnership Opportunities ............................................................................................35
10. Budget .............................................................................................................................36
Table 10.1. Projected Expenditures Table ......................................................................36
12. Appendix .............................................................................................................................37
Photoset 12.1: Representative Site Photos ....................................................................37
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Table 12.2. Legal Description .........................................................................................39
12.3. Public Meeting Comments and Staff Responses ...................................................39
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Land Management Plan Executive Summary
Lead Agency: Conservation Collier Program, Development Review Division, Collier County
Growth Management Community Development Department
Properties included in this Plan: Hendrix property
Preserve lands consist of 4 parcels located within Section 31, Township 49, and Range 28 in
Collier County, Florida. Full legal descriptions are provided in the appendix (Table 12.2).
Total Acreage: 17.66 acres
Management Responsibilities: Collier County Conservation Collier Program staff
Designated Land Use: Preservation
Unique Features: Hendrix property contributes to the conservation of ecologically sensitive lands
within the North Belle Meade/Golden Gate Estates area of Collier County. The preserve contains
mesic flatwoods ecosystems that provide habitat for the federally endangered Florida panther and
a popash swamp ecosystem that provides habitat for several state-threatened and endangered
orchids.
Desired Future Conditions:
Vegetation: A preserve with a matrix of high-quality hydric and mesic flatwoods, scrubby
flatwoods, and mixed scrub shrub wetlands with mixed age trees, a reduced density of
cabbage palms, diverse understory, and less than 10% infestation of non-native species.
Wildlife: A preserve with the appropriate vegetative communities, resource use, and
connectivity to support wildlife species native to that habitat.
Recreation: A preserve with the amenities required for the public to safely engage in
passive natural resource-based recreation
Preserve Safety and Security: A preserve free of littering, dumping, illicit activities,
neighbor disturbances, unauthorized vehicles, and after-hours trespass.
Additional Resource Uses: A preserve with the opportunity for additional resource use
that is not only compatible with, but also facilitates vegetation, wildlife, recreation, and site
security management goals.
Public Involvement
As part of the Interim Land Management Plan drafting process, a public meeting will be held in
October 2025 to gather input from members of the public and preserve stakeholders.
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Introduction
The Hendrix property is a 17.66-acre nature preserve located in the North Belle Meade/Golden
Gate Estates areas in Collier County, FL. It is largely comprised of hydric flatwoods, scrubby
flatwoods, cabbage palm forest, mixed scrub-shrub wetland, and popash swamp plant
communities. Future access to the preserve may come from 40th Ave SE. The Preserve was
purchased by Collier County in July 2025 with funds from the Conservation Collier Program
acquisition fund. The County holds fee simple title. Prior to acquisition, the property was referred
to as Hendrix House. Nature-based recreation is planned for the site. The Conservation Collier
Program manages this parcel under authority granted by the Conservation Collier Ordinance
2002-63, as amended. Conservation, restoration, and passive public recreation are the
designated uses of the property. Management activities allowed are those necessary to preserve
and maintain this environmentally sensitive land for the benefit of present and future
generations. Public use of this site must be consistent with these goals.
Table 1. Acquisition History and Status of the Hendrix property
Year Benchmark
2023 Acquisition Application submitted to the Conservation Collier Program for Hendrix
House Section 31 parcels (4 parcels, 17.66 acres) on August 3rd, 2023
2024 Hendrix House parcels recommended for Cycle 12 Acquisition A -List by the
Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee on March 6th, 2024
2025 Purchase agreement approved by Board of County Commissioners on April 22nd, 2025
for $502,500
2025 17.66 acres purchased by Conservation Collier on June 12th, 2025
2025 Developed Interim Management Plan in August for review by subcommittee, committee,
and BCC
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Conservation Collier: Land Acquisition Program and Management Authority
The Conservation Collier Program was originally approved by voters in November 2002 and
subsequently confirmed in the November 2006 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 to manage acquired lands. As such, Conservation Collier holds
management authority for the Hendrix property.
Purpose and Scope of Plan
The purpose of the interim plan is to provide short term management direction for the Hendrix
property by identifying the desired future conditions of each element and the appropriate tools to
achieve these conditions. This plan seeks to balance natural resource conservation (listed
species protection, habitat restoration, and invasive species management) with outdoor
recreational and education use. This plan is divided into sections that include an introduction,
parcel description, management element conditions, objectives, and potential tools, and a
projected budget. This plan will expire upon the completion of the Final Management Plan in 2025.
Parcel Description
1. Location
1.1. Description
The Preserve is in the North Belle Meade/Golden Gate Estates area of Collier County, FL in
Section 31, Township 49, and Range 28. The Preserve is situated immediately north of I-75,
approximately 5 miles south of Golden Gate Blvd E, and 8 miles east of Collier Blvd (Figure 1.1.1).
The Preserve is currently accessible via 40th Ave SE (Figure 8.3.1). The Preserve is comprised
of 4 parcels ranging from 1.59 to 9.8-acres for a total of 17.66-acres (Table 12.2).
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Figure 1.1.1. Overview map of Hendrix property and surrounding conservation areas
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Figure 1.1.2. 2023 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. A lower elevation area exists near the center of
the preserve. The more yellow areas of the map are or were dominated by pine flatwoods. The
darker sections are scrub-shrub wetlands. Most areas of the preserve experience surface water
ponding at some point during the year. The preserve is located within the Henderson-Belle Meade
watershed and drained by the Miller and I-75 canals along its western and southern boundaries.
Aquifer Recharge Potential
The preserve is within a Priority 6 CLIP4 Aquifer Recharge designation and is not included in any
wellfield protection zones. The preserve protects portions of the surficial aquifer that are sensitive
to contamination.
Soils
There are 2 soil types mapped within the preserve (Figure 2.1.3). Soils present are various types
of fine sands: “Pineda fine sand, limestone substratum” – a hydric, nearly level, poorly drained
soil that is associated with sloughs and poorly defined drainageways, and “Boca fine sand” – a
non-hydric, nearly level, poorly drained soil that is associated with flatwoods. A hydric soil is a soil
that formed under conditions of saturation, flooding, or ponding long enough during the growing
season to develop anaerobic conditions in the upper part (Federal Register, 1994). The highest
areas of elevation near the north central part of the preserve are composed of Boca fine sands
(Figure 2.1.1).
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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 and Wellfield Protection Zones)
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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
Historical aerial imagery (Photoset 3.1.1) between 1995 and 2025 shows the preserve contiguous
with conservation lands to the west and to the south. Interstate 75 (also known as Alligator Alley)
borders the preserve to the south. Construction of Alligator Alley finished in 1968, which included
the installation of a canal between Alligator Alley and the preserve lands. Prior to the construction
of these barriers, water on the preserve would sheet flow south to what is present day Picayune
Strand State Forest. The installation of this canal, along with hydrological alterations to the north,
significantly shortened the hydroperiod of the region. The preserve landscape has remained
relatively unaltered between 2008-present, with only the clearing of a primitive trail on the east
side and understory clearing in the early 90s. Present day lands surrounding the preserve to the
west remain rural, while residential clearing and building increases to the east and north.
Photoset 3.1.1. Historical Aerial Imagery
1995
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2008
2012
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2018
2022
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2025
4. Adjacent Land Use
4.1. Description
Surrounding land uses include residential, transportation, and conservation. Nearby conservation
lands include the Picayune Strand State Forest on the south side of I-75, Conservation Collier’s
Dr. Robert H. Gore III Preserve less than two miles to the east, and Conservation Collier’s North
Belle Meade Preserve three miles to the west of the preserve (Figure 1.1.1). There are several
residential homes within Section 32 to the north and east of the preserve.
5. Acquisition and Expansion
5.1. Acquisition Description
In 2023, Frankie Hendrix applied for 4 parcels totaling 17.66 acres during Conservation Collier
Acquisition Cycle 12. In 2024, the Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee
recommended the parcels for the acquisition A-list. In 2025, the Board of County Commissioners
approved the purchase of the parcels for $502,500. Conservation Collier closed on the parcels
on June 12th, 2025.
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Table 5.1.1. Parcel Attributes Table
Folio(s) Acreage Seller Acquisition
Date Price
41711000002
41770120004
41770080005
41770040003
1.59
2.85
3.42
9.8
Hendrix House, Inc
Restoration Church,
Inc.
6/12/2025 $502,500
5.2. Potential Preserve Expansion
Conservation Collier is looking to acquire additional parcels in this area, included in the I-75 &
Everglades Target Protection Mailing Area (TPMA). Within this TPMA, there are 167 parcels
totaling 510.9 acres. Acquiring additional parcels in this TPMA would create a larger protected
wildlife corridor. The proximity to the wildlife underpass under I-75 makes this area particularly
critical for corridor protection for Florida panthers, black bears, and others.
Management
6. Vegetation Management
6.1. Current Vegetative Community Conditions
The following are the Florida Land Cover Classification System habitats identified. 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.
22211 Hydric Pine Flatwoods – Forest with sparse to moderate canopy of slash pine. The
understory is grasses, wiregrass, forbs, and at times with sparse saw palmetto.
Notes: Has been impacted lack of prescribed fire and the invasion of cabbage palm and non-
native plant species.
Major Canopy Components: Slash pine (Pinus elliottii), cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto), laurel
oak (Quercus laurifolia), myrsine (Myrsine cubana)
Major Midstory Components: Cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto), saw palmetto (Serenoa repens),
Brazilian pepper* (Schinus terebinthifolia), Rusty Staggerbush (Lyonia fruticosa), beauty berry
(Callicarpa americana), winged sumac (Rhus copallinum), gallberry (Ilex glabra)
Major Understory Components: Wiregrass (Aristrida stricta), muscadine grapevine (Vitis
rotundifolia), torpedo grass* (Panicum repens), greenbriar (Smilax spp.), poison ivy
(Toxicodendron radicans), Spanish needles (Bidens alba)
2112 Mixed Scrub-Shrub Wetlands – Wetlands that are dominated by woody vegetation less
than 20ft in height. This can occur in many situations, but in most cases involves transitional or
disturbed communities on dried sites. Persistent examples of shrub wetlands include shrub bogs
and willow swamps.
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Notes: This plant community has been impacted by the invasion of cabbage palm and non-native
plant species.
Major Canopy Components: Cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto), Brazilian pepper* (Schinus
terebinifolia)
Major Midstory Components: Cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto), Brazilian pepper* (Schinus
terebinthifolia), Guinea grass* (Urochloa maxima), nettletree* (Trema micranthum)
Major Understory Components: Muscadine grapevine (Vitis rotundifolia), torpedo grass*
(Panicum repens), cogon grass* (Imperata cylindrica), bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum), smut
grass* (Sporobolus sp.), peppervine (Nekemias arborea)
Additionally, staff have recognized the following plant communities in the preserve:
22131 Dome Swamp – Small or large and shallow isolated depression in sand/marl/limestone
substrate with peat accumulating toward center; occuring within a fire-maintained community;
seasonally inundated; still water.
Notes: This plant community is being encroached upon by willows and sabal palms due to a lack
of fire in the surrounding scrub-shrub habitat.
Major Canopy Components: popash (Fraxinus caroliniana), coastal plain willow (Salix
caroliniana), and calusa grape (Vitis shuttleworthii)
Major Midstory Components: Cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto), swamp fern (Telmatoblechnum
serrulatum)
1312 Scrubby Flatwoods – Flatland with sand substrate; xeric-mesic; widely scattered pine
canopy over saw palmetto and scrub oaks, saw palmetto, and wiregrass.
Notes: This plant community has been affected by lack of fire, with encroaching vines and cabbag
palms.
Major Canopy Components: popash (Fraxinus caroliniana), coastal plain willow (Salix
caroliniana), and calusa grape (Vitis shuttleworthii)
Major Midstory Components: Cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto), winged sumac (Rhus
copallinum), rusty staggerbush (Lyonia fruticosa)
Major Understory Components: wiregrass (Aristrida stricta), pennyoryal (Piloblephis rigida),
muscadine grape (Vitis rotundifolia)
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Figure 6.1.1. Florida Land Cover Classification Map
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Figure 6.1.2. Additional habitats
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Table 6.1.2. Threatened and Endangered Plant Species Table
Imperiled Plant Species Conservation Status
Common Name Scientific Name State Federal
Giant Airplant Tillandsia utriculata Endangered Not Listed
Cardinal Airplant Tillandsia fasciculata Endangered Not Listed
6.1.3. Vegetation Management Concerns
Restoring native plant communities and reducing all Category I and II invasive plants are the
primary vegetation management concerns on this preserve. Brazilian pepper (Schinus
terebinthifolia) is the most prevalent non-native, invasive species found on the preserve. Florida’s
native cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto) has invaded pine flatwoods plant communities,
outcompeting appropriate native mid-canopy species such as rusty staggerbush (Lyonia
fruticosa) and winged sumac (Rhus copallinum). The cabbage palm canopy dominance is partially
due to the region’s altered hydroperiod and lack of prescribed burning.
The removal of Brazilian pepper and reduction of cabbage palm will allow large quantities of light
to reach the forest floor, stimulating understory growth. This will create ideal growing conditions
for non-native and invasive understory plants already present on the preserve, such as cogon
grass (Imperata cylindrica), Caesar weed (Urena lobata), and torpedo grass (Panicum repens).
Special consideration should be made to monitor these treatment areas and plan for subsequent
herbicide applications targeting these non-native and invasive species. Native plantings in these
treated areas will be imperative.
6.2. Desired Future Conditions
A preserve with a matrix of high-quality hydric and mesic flatwoods, scrubby flatwoods, and mixed
scrub shrub wetlands with mixed age trees, a reduced density of cabbage palms, diverse
understory, and less than 10% infestation of non-native species.
6.3. Management Tools
6.3.1. Invasive Plant Removal
The preserve is ~35% infested with non-native, invasive plants, primarily Brazilian pepper
(Schinus terebinthifolia), torpedo grass (Panicum repens), and Guinea grass (Urochloa maxima).
In addition, the native cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto) on the preserve can be categorized as a
nuisance in some areas. A combination of mechanical and repeated herbicidal treatments of all
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Florida Invasive Species Council (FISC) Category I & II species, along with a reduction in cabbage
palm density, will be implemented to achieve the desired future conditions.
6.3.2. Native Plant Restoration
Native plantings will be appropriately utilized following the reduction of non-native and invasive
species by chemical and mechanical means. A combination of herbaceous plants, shrubs, and
trees will be utilized to restore native plant communities as determined by Conservation Collier
land managers.
6.3.3. Prescribed Fire
Plant communities within this preserve are dependent on varying fire return intervals. However,
urban interface and local smoke sensitive areas make prescribed fire difficult to utilize. Before any
prescribed fire can be utilized or even planned, installation of strong fire breaks and a reduction
of cabbage palms (Sabal palmetto) is necessary.
6.3.4. Hydrological Restoration
The preserve sits within an extensively altered watershed. The historic northeast to southwest
flow through the area has been intercepted and drained by canals and swales, resulting in a
shorter hydroperiod. Due to the upstream and downstream hydrological alterations being largely
off the property, the onsite flow cannot be restored to its pre-development state. The preserve
must be managed to benefit the vegetative communities most suited for its current and future
conditions.
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 implementing
prescribed fire 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 Hendrix property is within a large matrix of undeveloped, residential, and conservation
lands. This expanse provides habitat for wide ranging carnivores such as the federally
endangered Florida panther (Puma concolor coryi), Florida black bear (Ursus americanus
floridanus), and bobcat (Lynx rufus), as well as their prey such as white-tailed deer (Odocoileus
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virginianus) and feral hogs (Sus scrofa). The seasonally inundated portions of the property
provide habitat for a variety of imperiled wading birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Ample
opportunities exist to enhance the preserve’s wildlife community conditions through habitat
restoration activities and management.
Table 7.1.1. Observed Wildlife Species Table
Type Common Name Species Protection Status
Mammals Florida panther Puma concolor coryi Federally
Endangered
Bobcat Lynx rufus
White-tailed deer Odocoileus virginianus
Raccoon Procyon lotor
Feral hog* Sus scrofa
Gray squirrel Sciurus niger
Eastern cottontail rabbit Sylvilagus floridanus
Birds Red-bellied woodpecker Melanerpes carolinus
Great-crested flycatcher Myiarchus crinitus
Blue jay Cyanocitta cristata
Northern mockingbird Mimus polyglottos
Gray catbird Dumetella carolinensis
Palm warbler Setophaga palmarum
Blue-gray gnatcatcher Polioptila caerula
Northern cardinal Cardinalis cardinalis
Boat-tailed grackle Quiscalus major
European starling* Sturnus vulgaris
Mourning dove Zenaida macroura
Common ground dove Columbina passerina
Red-shouldered hawk Buteo lineatus
Wild turkey Meleagris gallipavo
Reptiles brown anole Anolis sagrei
Gopher Tortoise Gopherus polyphemus State Threatened
Amphibians Southern leopard frog Lithobates
sphenocephalus
Table 7.1.2. Potential Threatened and Endangered Species Table
Type Common Name Species Protection Status
Mammals Big Cypress fox squirrel Sciurus niger avicennia State Threatened
Florida bonneted bat Eumops floridensis Federally
Endangered
Birds Little blue heron Egretta caerulea State Threatened
Roseate spoonbill Platalea ajaja State Threatened
Tricolored heron Egretta tricolor State Threatened
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Wood stork Mycteria americana Federally
Threatened
Reptiles American alligator Alligator mississippiensis Federally
Threatened SA
Photoset 7.1.3. Wildlife Observations
White-tailed Deer track (Odocoileus virginianus)
Golden Silk Spider (Trichonephila clavipes)
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Gopher Tortoise burrow (Gopherus polyphemus)
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7.1.4. Wildlife Management Concerns
Wildlife communities utilizing the preserve are threatened by habitat degradation, fragmentation,
and poaching. Infestation of nuisance native and invasive vegetation has altered vegetative
communities to the detriment of wildlife by reducing plant diversity, habitat heterogeneity, and
skewing forest age structure younger. Dense cabbage palms prevent pine recruitment through
shading and intensify fires which kill any remaining canopy pines. Gopher tortoises, a federally
protected species, are present on and nearby the preserve. Gopher tortoises are an “umbrella
species” because managing land for their benefit improves habitat for a wide variety of other
species. Managing the canopy and understory is important when considering the gopher tortoise
population, as they need plenty of forage. While the preserve is not large enough to shelter any
populations of large mammals such as bears and panthers, Hendrix property plays an important
role in the local wildlife corridor and should have quality managed habitat for these animals that
utilize the preserve.
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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 that habitat.
7.3. Management Tools
7.3.1. Habitat Improvements
Treatment and removal of invasive and nuisance plant species, primarily melaleuca, cogon grass,
cabbage palm, and Brazilian pepper will allow desired native species to recover. Removal of
guinea grass thickets in the scrub-shrub wetlands will create openings that improve foraging for
wading birds and allow native forbs, such as sawgrass and pickerelweed, to grow. Treatment and
thinning of cabbage palms will also create more favorable conditions for native plant regeneration.
Once major treatments have been completed, regular exotics treatments and potential prescribed
fire will help maintain a diverse understory and sparse midstory traditionally associated with pine
flatwoods ecosystems.
7.3.2. Connectivity
Protecting land on both the north and south side of I-75 is integral for the wildlife corridor as
Hendrix property sits right at the crossroads with the wildlife underpass directly southwest of the
preserve. The I-75 & Everglades TPMA is adjacent to the Gore TMPA, creating connectivity
between Picayune Strand State Forest, Golden Gate Estates, and the Florida Panther Wildlife
Refuge. Connecting the Golden Gate Estates area to Picayune Strand State Forest would
greatly benefit many species, especially the Florida panther which has a well-documented
history of highway mortality in this area (Figure 7.1.5). Protecting and managing quality habitat
in these areas will directly impact this local wildlife corridor. Additional opportunities for wildlife
crossings and underpasses can further improve this corridor.
7.3.3. Consumptive Wildlife Use
There is a plethora of game species present, most notably, white-tailed deer, feral hogs, and wild
turkey. The restricted size and nearby residences and roadways would make managing hunters
difficult. Safe hunting on this preserve cannot be accomplished due to local residences and
roadways.
7.3.4. Monitoring
Conservation Collier staff will partner with the non-profit conservation organization called the fStop
Foundation to install and maintain a network of motion-sensor trail cameras throughout the
preserve to contribute to data collection for a wildlife utilization species inventory. Footage is
shared with the FWC Panther Team and provides opportunities for researchers to track utilization
by imperiled wildlife species. Cameras will continue to be deployed at the preserve to maintain
passive monitoring of wildlife. Property restoration and invasive vegetation removal provide staff
with an opportunity to utilize wildlife surveys to measure enhanced utilization of the preserve’s
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plant communities by wildlife in response to management and maintenance actions. Regular
observational wildlife data will be helpful to update the species inventory. It is presumed that
several additional listed species such as Florida bonneted bats and Big Cypress fox squirrels will
be documented on the preserve.
7.4. Partnership Opportunities
Conservation Collier staff will continue to partner and share data and observations with wildlife
management agencies such as the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission as well
as the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) where possible. Grant funding may be
available to enhance imperiled wildlife species habitat such as the USFWS Partners Grant. Staff
will continue to partner with organizations such as the fStop Foundation for monitoring and
outreach opportunities. Staff will seek opportunities to partner with researchers from higher
education institutions to enhance conservation efforts of the wildlife species that utilize the
preserve.
8. Recreation Management
8.1. Current Recreational Opportunity Conditions
The preserve is currently closed to the public. The preserve can be easily accessed via 40th Ave
SE where there is a preexisting trail that is likely used by locals on off road vehicles. Additionally,
there is a cleared area along the canal that has been used for fishing.
8.2. Desired Future Conditions
A preserve with the amenities required for the public to safely engage in a variety of natural
resource-based recreational activities.
Table 8.2.1. Compatible Recreational Activities
Recreational Activity Compatible Use
Passive nature-based recreation (hiking, photography, wildlife viewing,
environmental education, etc.) Yes
Hunting No
Fishing Yes
Water-based Recreation (paddling, swimming, etc.) No
Biking No
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8.3. Management Tools
8.3.1. Amenity Installation/Enhancement
A public hiking trail will be planned and installed to allow hikers to visit the different ecosystems
within the preserve. Staff will also maintain a fishing area along the western canal, installing and
maintaining a short trail to the canal access point. Amenities to improve visitor experience include
benches and interpretive signage. Trails and amenities will be designed in such a way as to
minimize disturbance to sensitive species and habitats.
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Figure 8.3.1. Current Routes to Hendrix property
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Figure 8.3.2. Proposed amenities for public use
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9. Preserve Safety and Security Management
9.1. Current/Predicted Human Conflict Conditions
Like other secluded, public properties, the preserve may attract those wishing to trespass and
engage in illicit activities. There are trails throughout the Preserve and the surrounding areas,
including a wide, driven road to the south in between the canal and the preserve. These are likely
being used by offroad vehicle trespassers. The cleared “fishing” location on the west side of the
property has evidence of bonfires and potential camping. If this is a regularly used site, staff may
need to combat future use of people expecting to have continued use of this established spot.
Photoset 9.1.1: Human use
Cleared fishing area with bonfire remnants and trash can
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Unauthorized vehicle tracks
9.2. Desired Future Conditions
A preserve free of littering, illicit activities, neighbor disturbances, unauthorized vehicles, and
after-hours trespass.
9.3. Management Tools
9.3.1. Site Security Improvements
Staff will monitor for signs of trespass/illegal activities. Staff will collaborate with adjacent
landowners to address issues as they arise. Site security may be enhanced by installing and
locking gates whenever feasible, and removable bollards at trailheads.
9.4. Partnership Opportunities
Staff will collaborate with both the Collier County Sheriff’s Office and FWC Law Enforcement to
both prevent and respond to any criminal site security and safety issues as they present
themselves.
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10. Budget
Table 10.1. Projected Expenditures Table
Projected Operating Costs 2026 2027 2028
Vegetation Treatment/Removal $18,000 $15,000 $15,000
Equipment and Supplies $3,000 $1,000 $1,000
Trail/Firebreak Maintenance $2,000 $1,000 $1,000
Fencing and Gates $7,000 $1,000 $1,000
Total Projected Costs $30,000 $18,000 $18,000
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12. Appendix
Photoset 12.1: Representative Site Photos
Hydric flatwoods
Scrub-shrub wetlands with few exotics
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Hydric flatwoods with muscadine overgrowth
Dome swamp dominated by popash trees, calusa grapevine, and swamp fern
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Table 12.2. Legal Description
Folio Total
Acres
Legal Description
41711000002 1.59 GOLDEN GATE EST UNIT 93 W 105FT OF TR 16 OR 2065 PG 1722
41770120004 2.85 GOLDEN GATE EST REPLAT UNIT 93A W 150FT OF TR 130 OR 2065 PG
1723
41770080005 3.42 GOLDEN GATE EST REPLAT UNIT 93A E 180FT OF TR 130 OR 2065 PG 1722
41770040003 9.8 GOLDEN GATE EST REPLAT UNIT 93A TR 129
12.3. Public Meeting Comments and Staff Responses
Questions, comments, and concerns from the public meeting will be addressed in this section
Name suggestions from the public included Bear Ridge Preserve, Big Bear Preserve, and Popash
Swamp Preserve. Other suggestions from the public included to keep the preserve as natural as
possible, consider stroller-friendly paths, and to add benches to the trail. One neighbor suggested
that Conservation Collier create a reinforced parking area, such as with gravel, and that they
would enjoy interpretive signage. Another neighbor wanted to ensure that any preserve fencing
would allow wildlife to pass in and out of the preserve. Several neighbors said they would like to
spread the word to vacant land owners in the area about the TPMA. Questions included if dogs
would be allowed on the preserve (yes, on leash) and if hunting will be allowed (no).
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1/13/2026
Item # 16.A.15
ID# 2025-4708
Executive Summary
Recommendation to approve properties on the Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee’s November
and December 2025 recommended Active Acquisition Lists and direct staff to pursue the projects recommended within
the A-Category, funded by the Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Fund.
OBJECTIVE: To obtain Collier County Board of County Commissioners (Board) approval to pursue A-category
properties for acquisition.
CONSIDERATIONS: Pursuant to Section 10 of Conservation Collier Ordinance No. 2002-63, as amended, the
Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee (CCLAAC) recommends qualified acquisition proposals
for the Active Acquisition List (AAL) to the Board for approval.
On November 5, 2025, and December 3, 2025, the CCLAAC selected acquisition proposals for inclusion in the AAL as
follows:
Property/Project Area Name Size
(ac)
Staff Recommended
Category
CCLAAC Recommended
Category
Nichols 9.10 A A
Saintelmy 10-acres 10.09 A A
I-75 & Everglades Blvd TPMA 3.35
Sit 3.35 A A
Collier County (GAC parcel) 1.14 A A
Gomez 2.73 A A
North Belle Meade Preserve TPMA 8.50
North Naples Church 8.50 A A
Panther Walk Preserve TPMA 2.73
Parang Trust 2.73 A A
A-LIST TOTAL November &
December 2025 37.64
Saintelmy 5-acres 5.00 B B
B-LIST TOTAL November &
December 2025 5.00
A detailed summary of each property is attached to this item.
The AAL above includes both the staff and CCLAAC recommendations. The AAL attached as Attachment 1 to this
item provides detailed companion information about the properties on page 2, including whether the owner lives
adjacent to the subject property and estimated maintenance costs.
The proposed AAL has been separated into three (3) categories, A, B, and C, as required by Conservation Collier
Ordinance (No. 2002-63, as amended) Section 10, which states the Active Acquisition List shall separate proposals into
three (3) categories: A (pursue acquisition); B (hold for re-evaluation for one calendar year); and C (no interest in
acquiring). No properties were selected for the C-category during these rankings.
Staff prepared and presented property reports, called Initial Criteria Screening Reports (ICSR), to aid the CCLAAC in
evaluating each property. Each ICSR includes a scoring matrix based on researched and observed data. The ICSRs are
attached to this item.
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