Agenda 09/24/2013 Item #16D 7Proposed Agenda Changes
Board of County Commissioners Meeting
September 24, 2013
Add Item 10G: Recommendation to authorize the Chair to send a letter to the University of Florida expressing
concern, and requesting the inclusion of Collier County agribusiness industry and public sector stakeholders in
discussions regarding recently announced changes in staff, services provided, and future of the UF/IFAS
Southwest Florida Research and Education Center (SWFREC) in Immokalee. (Commissioner Nance's request)
Withdraw Item 16D7: Recommendation to approve the Rivers Road Preserve
Final Management Plan under the Conservation Collier Land Acquisition
Program. (Staff s request)
Continue Item 16E8 to the October 8, 2013 BCC Meeting: Recommendation to authorize the County Manager
and staff to use the Federal GSA schedules (i.e. Schedule 70 and 1122 Program); the State of Florida Contracts,
Agreements and Price Lists; competitively solicited contracts by US Communities, Western States Contracting
Alliance, National Intergovernmental Purchasing Alliance (NIPA), National Joint Powers Alliance (NJPA)
public purchasing consortiums; and, competitive solicitations from State of Florida cities, counties, and other
public municipalities (i.e. Sheriffs Association) for the efficient purchase of goods and services for the
delivery of public services and for which funds were approved in operating budgets. (Staffs request)
Move Item 16K3 to Item 12D: Recommendation to authorize the County Attorney to advertise for future
consideration an ordinance which would amend Ordinance No. 2013 -25, the Collier County Hearing Examiner
Ordinance. (Commissioner Coyle's request)
Note:
Items IOD, 10E and 14A1: It is recommended these items be heard and discussed together, before being
individually voted upon.
Item 11C Legal Considerations should read: This item has been reviewed by the County Attorney. Fl. Stat.
Section 125.045 (County economic development powers) grants the Board extremely broad home rule powers
with respect to economic development. Any Board approved Economic Development Incentive Program will
always only be a part of the County's overall economic development tools, with the Board retaining the broad
powers under Fl. Stat. Sec. 125.045 to enter into an individual economic development agreement tailored to meet
the needs of particular economic development project. With that noted, this item is approved as to form and
legality, requiring majority support for approval. -JAK (County Attorney's request)
Item 161<3 Executive Summary and proposed Ordinance Should read: Conditional Uses. ...any member of
the Board of County Commissioners may direct any conditional use to be heard by the Planning
Commission in an advisory committee... (Commissioner Fiala's request)
Item 16K4 Executive Summary should read: "Employer and Employee shall negotiate ... a performance
based merit system through which Employee shall be eligible for a merit adjustment upon the successful
completion of measurable goals and objects objectives to be completed or attained by the Employee..."
(Commissioner Fiala's request)
Time Certain Items
Item 11A to be heard at 10:00 a.m.
Court Reporter Break at 10:20 a.m.
Items IOD, 10E, 14A1 will be heard at 10:30 a.m. and discussed together before being individually voted upon.
Item 14A2 to be heard immediately following 10D, IOE and 14A1
Item 11E to be heard at 11:00 a.m.
Item 12C to be heard immediately following Item 12B
Item 13A to be heard at 11:30 a.m.
9/24/2013 16.D.7.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Recommendation to approve the Rivers Road Preserve Final Management Plan under the
Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Program.
OBJECTIVE: To obtain approval from the Board of County Commissioners (Board) for the
Rivers Road Preserve Final Management Plan (FMP) and for the Board to give direction to the
County Manager, or his designee, for its implementation.
CONSIDERATIONS: The Conservation Collier Ordinance, No. 2002-63, as amended, Section
14(2), requires that a Final Management Plan be prepared for each property, with review and
input by the Land Acquisition Advisory Committee. This plan shall identify management
activities necessary to preserve, enhance, restore, maintain and monitor the property, and
estimate the costs of the project. Additionally, the plan shall identify how public use compatible
to the parcel shall be accomplished.
The Rivers Road Preserve is 76.74 acres and is located approximately 2.5 miles east of Collier
Boulevard (CR 951) south of Immokalee Road. The last parcel of the preserve was purchased by
Collier County in 2010. The Interim Management Plan was approved by the Board in 2011.
The Lands Evaluation and Management Subcommittee of the Conservation Collier Land
Acquisition Advisory Committee (CCLAAC) reviewed the draft Final Management Plan and on
June 25, 2013, a public meeting was held, inviting all neighbors of the Preserve to attend and
provide comment. The final draft was presented to the CCLAAC on July 8, 2013. The
CCLAAC unanimously recommended approval.
FISCAL IMPACT: The costs of land management activities for the first year of
implementation have been estimated to be $310,500 for invasive, exotic plant removal, trail
creation and signage. The second and third year will cost an additional $38,000-75,000. The
annual costs will lessen after the third year to an estimated $13,500 per year. Funds are available
within the Conservation Collier Land Management Fund to accomplish these activities. Staff
will seek grant funding to assist in reducing these costs.
GROWTH MANAGEMENT IMPACT: Management of Conservation Collier lands to
support appropriate public access is consistent with and supports Policy 1.1.6 and Objective 1.3
in the Recreation and Open Space Element of the Collier County Growth Management Plan.
LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS: This item has been approved as to form and legality and
requires a majority vote for Board approval. —JAB
RECOMMENDATION: That the Board approves the attached Final Management Plan and
directs the County Manager, or his designee,to implement it for the Rivers Road Preserve.
Prepared by: Christal Segura, Environmental Specialist, Conservation Collier Program, Parks
and Recreation Department
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9/24/2013 16.D.7.
COLLIER COUNTY
Board of County Commissioners
Item Number: 16.16.D.16.D.7.
Item Summary: Recommendation to approve the Rivers Road Preserve Final
Management Plan under the Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Program.
Meeting Date: 9/24/2013
Prepared By
Name: BetancurNatali
Title: Operations Analys, Parks&Rec-NCRP Admin
8/28/2013 2:27:27 PM
Submitted by
Title:Environmental Specialist,Facilities Management
Name: SeguraChristal
8/28/2013 2:27:29 PM
Approved By
Name: SuleckiAlexandra
Title: Environmental Specialist, Senior,Facilities Manage
Date: 8/29/2013 3:12:01 PM
Name: AlonsoHailey
Title: Operations Analyst,Public Service Division
Date: 8/29/2013 3:39:00 PM
Name: WilliamsBarry
Title: Director-Parks&Recreation,Parks&Recreation
Date: 9/12/2013 9:13:23 AM
Name: CarnellSteve
Title: Purchasing/General Services Director
Date: 9/13/2013 10:10:27 AM
Name: BelpedioJennifer
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9/24/2013 16.D.7.
Title: Assistant County Attorney,County Attorney
Date: 9/13/2013 11:14:43 AM
Name: KlatzkowJeff
Title: County Attorney
Date: 9/13/2013 1:45:37 PM
Name:FinnEd
Title: Senior Budget Analyst, OMB
Date: 9/13/2013 5:14:30 PM
Name: IsacksonMark
Title: Director-Corp Financial and Mgmt Svs,CMO
Date: 9/16/2013 10:43:19 AM
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9/24/2013 16.D.7.
Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan-Final Draft
Rivers Road Preserve
Land Management Plan
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Managed by:
Collier County
Conservation Collier Program
September 2013 — September 2023 (10 yr plan)
Prepared by: Collier County Conservation Collier Staff
2013
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Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft
Rivers Road Preserve
Land Management Plan Executive Summary
Lead Agency: Conservation Collier Program,Collier County Parks &Recreation Department,
Collier County Public Services Division
Properties included in this Plan: Rivers Road Preserve
Preserve lands consist of four contiguous parcels located within Township 48, Range 27 and
Section 30, in Collier County, Florida(00214760000, 00216000001, 00215440002, and
00217080004). Full legal descriptions are provided in Appendix 1.
Total Acreage: 76.74 acres
Management Responsibilities: Collier County Conservation Collier Program staff
Designated Land Use: Preservation
Unique Features: The preserve is adjacent to and contributes to an important wildlife corridor
connecting two private conservation easements through a wildlife crossing under Immokalee
Road to the over 60,000 acre Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed (CREW) owned by the
South Florida Water Management District and Audubon Florida.
Management Goals:
Goal 1: Eliminate or Reduce Human Impacts
Goal 2: Invasive, Exotic Plant Removal and Management
Goal 3: Wildlife Management
Goal 4: Create and Implement a Prescribed Fire Program
Goal 5: Restoration of Native Vegetation
Goal 6: Prepare Preserve for Public Access
Goal 7: Facilitate Uses of the Site for Educational Purposes
Goal 8: Provide a Plan for Disaster Preparedness
Goal 9: Coordination with Stakeholders, Partners, and Regional Agencies
Goal 10: Officially Open the Preserve for Public Use
Public Involvement: A public meeting was held on June 25, 2013 to review this Final
Management Plan. The meeting was open to the general public and neighboring property owners
received a written invitation. The public meeting gave the general public the opportunity to learn
about the Conservation Collier Program, future land management plans and the potential for
public use at the Rivers Road Preserve. This forum also allowed the public to voice any
concerns or objections they may have with any of these issues as presented here in the Final
Land Management Plan. Staff will also reach out to the neighboring churches, and Boy and Girl
Scout groups to seek partnership opportunities. Staff will work with the Collier County Sheriff's
Department to discuss public use and access issues.
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Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft
Table of Contents
LAND MANAGEMENT PLAN EXECUTIVE SUMMARY II
LIST OF FIGURES IV
LIST OF TABLES V
1.0 INTRODUCTION 6
1.1 Conservation Collier:Land Acquisition Program and Management Authority 7
1.2 Purpose and Scope of Plan 7
1.3 Location 7
1.4 Regional Significance 10
1.5 Nearby Public Lands and Designated Water Resources 11
1.6 Public Involvement 13
2.0 NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES 13
2.1 Physiography 13
2.1.1 Topography and Geomorphology 13
2.1.2 Hydrology/Water Management 13
2.1.3 Geology 14
2.1.4 Soils 14
2.2 Climate 15
2.3 Natural Plant Communities 15
2.4 Native Plant and Animal Species 17
2.5 Listed Species 19
2.5.1 Listed Plant Species 19
2.5.2 Listed Wildlife Species 21
2.6 Invasive,Non-Native and Problem Species 23
2.6.1 Exotic Wildlife Species 24
2.6.2 Invasive and Problem Plant Species 24
2.7 Forest Resources 25
2.8 Archaeological,Historical and Cultural Resources 25
3.0 USE OF THE PROPERTY 26
3.1 Previous and Current Use 26
3.2 Planned Uses and Assessment of their Impacts 27
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3.3 Identification of Public Uses Consistent with Preservation,Enhancement,Restoration,Conservation and
Maintenance of the Resources. 27
3.4 Planned Public Uses and Assessment of their Impacts 28
3.5 Adjacent Land Uses 28
3.6 Prospective Land Acquisitions 28
3.7 Proposed Single-or Multiple-Use Management Error!Bookmark not defined.
4.0 FUTURE USE OF THE RIVERS ROAD PRESERVE INCLUDING MANAGEMENT
ISSUES, GOALS AND OBJECTIVES 29
4.1 Management Plan Framework 29
4.1.1 Preserve Manager: Contact Information 30
4.1.2 Preserve Rules and Regulations 30
4.2 Desired Future Conditions 30
4.3 Major Accomplishments during previous years 30
4.4 Goals and Objectives for 10 year period 31
4.5.Establish an Operational Plan for the Rivers Road Preserve 45
4.5.1 Maintenance 45
4.5.2 Estimated Annual Costs and Funding Sources 45
List of Figures
Figure 1. Rivers Road Preserve Location Map
Figure 2. Rivers Road Preserve Aerial View
Figure 3. Conservation Collier Preserves and Designated State and Federal Land or
Conservation Easements Existing in Collier County
Figure 4. Rivers Road Preserve Lidar and Topographic Contour Map
Figure 5. Rivers Road Soils Map
Figure 6. Rivers Road Preserve Land Cover/Land Use Map
Figure 7. Rivers Road Preserve Proximity to nearby Conservation Areas Wildlife Corridor and
Panther Sightings and Telemetry
Figure 8. 1985 Aerial Photo
Figure 9. Conceptual Plan for Rivers Road Preserve
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List of Tables
Table 1:Acquisition History and Status of Rivers Road Preserve 6
Table 2:Public Lands Located Near the Rivers Road Preserve 11
Table 3: List of Avian Species Recorded on the Site 18
Table 4:Breeding Bird Species Recorded in the Belle Meade NW Quadrangle Encompassing the Rivers Road
Preserve(*=non-indigenous) 18
Table 5: Listed Plant Species Detected at the Rivers Road Preserve 19
Table 6:Listed Wildlife Species Found or Potentially Found at Rivers Road Preserve 21
Table 7:Exotic Plant Species at Rivers Road Preserve 25
Table 8:Analysis of Multiple-Use Potential 29
Table 9:Major Accomplishments 30
Table 10:Invasive,Exotic Plant Species Control Plan for the Rivers Road Preserve 34
Table 11: Estimated Annual Land Management Budget 47
List of Appendices
Appendix 1: Legal Description of the Property
Appendix 2: Floristic Inventory of the Rivers Road Preserve
Appendix 3: Florida Natural Areas Inventory Managed Area Tracking Record and Element
Occurrence Summary; FNAI ranking system explanation and
Natural Communities Descriptions for Occurring Natural Communities
Appendix 4: Master Site File Letter from the Division of Historical Resources indicating no
recorded Archaeological or Cultural Sites on the Preserve
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Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft
1.0 Introduction
The Rivers Road Preserve is a 76.74-acre preserve located approximately 2.5 miles east of
Collier Boulevard (CR 951) within the Rural Fringe Mixed Use District (Receiving Area) in
Collier County, Florida. Current access to the preserve is from Rivers Road on the west or from
Moulder Drive to the east. The preserve is comprised of a mix of vegetative communities,
including pine flatwoods, mixed wetland hardwoods, cypress and wetland forested mixed, with
small areas of freshwater marsh and inland ponds and will serve the public as a wildlife viewing
area.
The Preserve was purchased by Collier County in two phases. The first 62.98 acres were
purchased in December 2008, followed by an additional 13.76 acres in 2010. The County holds
fee simple title. The preserve was officially named on December 22, 2008. The preserve will be
open to the public and available for educational tours for local schools and groups. A nature
trail, benches,picnic tables and educational interpretive signs will be provided for visitors.
The Conservation Collier Program manages this parcel under authority granted by the
Conservation Collier Ordinance 2002-63, as amended (available from www.municode.com).
Conservation, restoration and passive public recreation are the designated uses of the property.
Management activities allowed are those necessary to preserve and maintain this
environmentally sensitive land for the benefit of present and future generations. Public use of
this site must be consistent with these goals.
Table 1: Acquisition History and Status of Rivers Road Preserve
Year Benchmark
2007 Property nominated to the Conservation Collier Program
2007 Initial site assessment by Conservation Collier staff
2007 Approval of Initial Criteria Screening Report for first 9 properties by the Conservation
Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee
2008 Approval of Initial Criteria Screening Report for two additional properties by the
Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee
2008 62.98 acres approved for purchase by the Board of County Commissioners (BCC)
Closed on properties in December 2008
2008 Officially named Rivers Road Preserve
2010 13.76 acres approved for purchase by the Board of County Commissioners (BCC)
Closed on remaining properties in January 2010
2011 Developed Interim Management Plan- BCC approved
2013 Completed Final Management Plan
An Interim Management Plan for Rivers Road Preserve was approved by the Collier County
Board of County Commissioners (BCC) in 2011. This is the Final Management Plan for the
Rivers Road Preserve. This management plan will be submitted to the BCC for approval. When
approved, this plan will replace the Interim Management Plan. Updates to the plan will be
completed every 5 years.
Conservation Collier Program 6
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Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft
1.1 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 ballot referendum. Both voter-approved
referendums enable the program to acquire environmentally sensitive lands within Collier
County, Florida (Ordinance 2002-63, as amended). Properties must support at least two of the
following qualities to qualify for consideration: rare habitat, aquifer recharge, flood control,
water quality protection, and listed species habitat. The BCC appointed a Conservation Collier
Land Acquisition Advisory Committee (CCLAAC) to consider any selected or nominated
properties that an owner has indicated a willingness to sell. The committee recommends
property purchases for final approval by the BCC.
Lands acquired with Conservation Collier funds are titled to "COLLIER COUNTY, a political
subdivision of the State of Florida, by and through its Conservation Collier program." The
Board of County Commissioners of Collier County established the Conservation Collier Program
to implement the program and to manage acquired lands. As such, Conservation Collier holds
management authority for the Rivers Road Preserve.
1.2 Purpose and Scope of Plan
The purpose of the plan is to provide management direction for the Rivers Road Preserve by
identifying the goals and objectives necessary to eliminate or minimize any threats to the
resources and integrity of the preserve. This text is a working document that establishes the
foundation of a ten-year plan by identifying the appropriate management techniques necessary to
preserve and/or restore the resource.
This plan will balance resource restoration and protection with natural resource-based
recreational and educational use while looking at listed species protection and maintenance of
the site free of invasive, exotic plant and animal species. This plan is divided into sections that
include an introduction, descriptions of the natural and cultural resources, projected uses of the
property, and management issues, goals and objectives.
1.3 Location
The Rivers Road Preserve property is located approximately 2.5 miles east of Collier Boulevard
(CR 951) within the Rural Fringe Mixed Use District (Receiving Area) in Collier County,
Florida (Figures 1 & 2). Single family homes exist to the north, east and west of the property,
with one private residence within the boundaries of the preserve. A private Conservation
Easement exists to the south. A church encompassing several parcels exists to the north and
northeast of the property along with a parcel that contains remnants of a small tree nursery.
Collier County District Schools owns a little over 20 acres of land to the northeast of the
property along Immokalee Road, however the District does not plan to build any new schools
within the next 5 years. It is located in Township 48, Range 27 and Section 30, in Collier
County, Florida. The legal descriptions are attached as Appendix 1.
Conservation Collier Program 7
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Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft
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Figure 1: Rivers Road Preserve Location Map
Conservation Collier Program 8
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.Co" Ct)r:.,,,,,: , , Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft
onservation Collier: Rivers Road Preserve Aerial Map
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Figure 2: Rivers Road Preserve Aerial View
Conservation Collier Program 9
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Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft
1.4 Regional Significance
Despite having 877,000 acres, or 68%, of County lands protected in conservation status (FNAI,
Feb 2013), Collier County has lost, and is losing, many of its rare and unique habitats. The
Conservation Collier Ordinance (2002-63, as amended) identifies these specific habitats and
gives preference to them in acquisition evaluations. These habitats include, in order of
preference: tropical hardwood hammocks, xeric oak scrub, coastal strand, native beach, riverine
oak, high marsh (saline) and tidal freshwater marsh. Although the Rivers Road Preserve does
not contain any of these preferred habitats; it does contain eight observed native plant
communities and outstanding examples of pop ash swamp, other wetland dependent plant
species and several listed plant species. The habitat observed and the location supports the
presence of approximately nine listed species and many non-listed wildlife species. This
preserve provides habitat for the listed Florida panther (Puma concolor coryi) with several
telemetry points and other observations of non-collared panthers in close proximity. The
protection and management of these listed species and their habitat is critical to their long term
existence in Collier County and throughout their ranges. The preserve is adjacent to and
contributes to an important wildlife corridor connecting two private conservation easements
through a wildlife crossing under Immokalee Road to the over 60,000 acre Corkscrew Regional
Ecosystem Watershed (CREW) owned by the South Florida Water Management District and
Audubon of Florida's Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary(See Figure 3).
Conservation Collier Program 10
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Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft
1.5 Nearby Public Lands and Designated Water Resources
Conservation Lands, in order of increasin: distance are identified in Table 2 below and Fisure 3.
Table 2: Public Lands Located Near the Rivers Road Preserve
Preserve Name Distance(miles) Direction Type
Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem 1.5 N State/SFWMD
Watershed
Red Maple Swamp Preserve 2.5 N County/Conservation
Collier
Alligator Flag Preserve 4 W County/Conservation
Collier
Nancy Payton Preserve 5 S County/Conservation
Collier
Logan Woods Preserve 5.5 miles NW County/Conservation
Collier
Winchester Head 8 NE County/Conservation
Collier
Picayune Strand State Forest 8 miles S State/DEP
Red Root Preserve 10 NE County/Conservation
Collier
Railhead Scrub Preserve 10 NW County/Conservation
Collier
Florida Panther National 10 miles SE Federal Government
Wildlife Refuge
Panther Walk Preserve 11 NE County/Conservation
Collier
Pepper Ranch Preserve 15 NE County/Conservation
Collier
Caracara Prairie Preserve 15 NE County/Conservation
Collier
Conservation Collier Program 11
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Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft
Conservation Collier Program Lands
and Surrounding Conservation Areas
IL, ,
Caracara Prairie Preserve ,CREW
te o ,__ :If'
Pepper Ranch Preserve
. ...aM kl
hOlt;,r ""EpIF
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f.., 5 pfe1N_Red Root Preserve
Red Maple Swamp ,.,r CREW Sanctua _
Preserve �F,-
U Panther Walk Preserve
Railhead Scrub Preserve ,Ti_ CREW
5 4 _• `i
J 4lhnehester Head
Wet Woods �_ I Alligator Flag r lr� ¢�
preserve `>p Preserve
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' _ �LiM "•'- 0. 'Camp Keels Strand Project
Cocohatchee
Creek Preserve rj!t '`• Rivers Road Preserve C„
ti1I�•
Logan Woods Preserve I
Freedom Park 1 Nancy Payton Preserve csj,� FL Panther NWR
Gordon River ���''' �
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G\Conservation CallierenapsIAcquired properties _ ""' '--.- Lake Trafford
Acquired Map_May2013.mxd and Tag _
CO .;County 0 River's Road Preserve
Figure 3. Conservation Collier Preserves and Designated State and Federal Land or
Conservation Easements Existing in Collier County
Conservation Collier Program 12
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Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft
1.6 Public Involvement
Neighborhood involvement will be sought through direct mailing notices for public meetings to
residents within the surrounding area, owners of properties that border the preserve, and
organizations with an interest in the preserve. Any major changes or management activities,
such as prescribed fire that are likely to generate an intrusive aspect or that in some way affect
neighboring properties will be reviewed with these contacts prior to conducting the activity.
Preserve activities will be posted on the Conservation Collier website and also through public
notices. Staff will also seek volunteers and partnerships through these contacts. Staff will work
with the local Boy and Girl Scout troops and will attempt to partner with neighboring churches.
The Living Word church to the north has a preserve to the south of their property that is directly
adjacent to the Rivers Road Preserve along the northeast side. Staff will attempt to work with
them to coordinate management activities.
2.0 Natural and Cultural Resources
2.1 Physiography
The Rivers Road Preserve lies within the Southwestern Flatwoods District. This largely low, flat
district was developed on rocks and sediments that range mainly form Miocene to Pleistocene in
age. Surficial materials are dominantly sand (often with relatively clayey substrate) limestone
and organic deposits (Myers & Ewel
1990). Rivers Road Preserve Lidar and Topographic Contour Map
2.1.1 Topography and Geomorphology '7;� 44. : ,■
The preserve is located in the �F l a � � 7,,,,:,,,:o:.4-,y '
Southwestern Slope region of the South '� i
61 � L NM}'
Florida Water Management District. 1 ��
Topography has been established using * � �" , ',72---r ;7 �r ,r
a Light Detecting and Ranging (LIDAR) 7:°" - ,- 1,,,,?..`f
map (Figure 4). The topographic , � '�
contours of the preserve range from 7 f°mot` .'( � ' "�.r 7�tt
feet in the pop ash areas and around the 1, V, � `
man-made lake to 14 feet in the upland 1,i-1,,;',,;, ;.-ly
areas. I i1 7t .4e Aid,i 4
v r- j7;1
2.1.2 Hydrology/Water Management
t'`
Flat topography, sandy soils and s . Ax, - . '" F"' ,
seasonal precipitation strongly influence t `�,� ' 'Ah
hydrological processes in flatwoods. '�
L{"'Rn.rs Rad Pnurve a`"� �� "1 ��*a��`
During the rainy season, flatwood soils T.P.YraM�ctamowe...--,•, ; 4 ti- ,
become saturated and poorly aerated ,:.a "i '�r Y..
B
and there may be standing water for ttn
—,2 1 ■ I
varying periods of time. During the dry -;n o . 500F..t .:`
season however, high o, .— a `—
evapotranspiration draws much water
from the upper horizons thus soil moisture Figure 4. Rivers Road Preserve LIDAR and
becomes rapidly depleted and persistent Topographic Contour Map
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droughty conditions result (Myers & Ewel 1990). A small pond was excavated in 2000 on a
residential property to the east of the preserve, with a portion of the pond within the preserve.
The northern portion of the preserve has an unpaved road running alongside the western
boundary while another unpaved road is just beyond the eastern boundary. In between the two
roads and to the north of the preserve are just over 30 acres of land currently being used for
church buildings and mostly cleared open space. To the south of the property is the Olde Florida
Golf Course Conservation Area that was set aside when the golf course was built in the early
1990s. No water management structures exist on the preserve and no water management
improvements are planned for the future. The property is mapped by the South Florida Water
Management District (SFWMD) to contribute significantly to the Lower Tamiami aquifer at 21"-
102" annually and the surficial aquifer significantly at 56"-67"annually.
2.1.3 Geology
The geology of Collier County is characterized by complex sequences of interbeded sands, clays,
and limestone. Closest to the surface is the Holocene aged Pamlico Sand Formation,
approximately ten feet thick and composed primarily of unconsolidated quartz sand and some
silt. The Pamlico Sand unconformably overlies the Pleistocene aged Fort Thompson and
Caloosahatchee Formations, which vary from a few feet to more than twenty feet in thickness
and are characterized by shelly and sandy
limestone with vugs and solution cavities (Miller
1986). Rivers Road Soils Map
Below the Fort Thompson and Caloosahatchee
Formations are the Ochopee and Buckingham
Members of the Pliocene aged Tamiami
Formation, which are at least 200 feet thick in
the surrounding areas (Oaks & Dunbar 1974).
The Ochopee Limestone unconformably overlies
the Buckingham Limestone and/or the equivalent
Cape Coral Clay. This unconformity marks the � 6 :0g FINE
bottom of the surficial aquifer separating it from l
the brackish underlying aquifer below. Then the
Hawthorn Formation, rich in phosphate and
other heavy minerals (Scott 1988), overlies the ( j
Oligocene age Suwannee Limestone and Eocene
age Ocala Limestone that form the Floridan
Aquifer System in Southwestern Florida.
fziametztanwit
2.1.4 Soils
Soils data is based on the Soil Survey of Collier
County, Florida (USDA/NRCS, 1990, rev.
1998). Approximately 55% of the soils mapped
c G o 4.r... ......e,.... I '�Waeceae
on this preserve are Riviera fine sand, limestone �.. a
7,ti�ar-aoximlmoaer tsa
substratum, a hydric soil. This nearly level,
poorly drained slough soil usually supports Figure 5. Rivers Road Preserve Soils
scattered areas of South Florida slash pine, cypress,
cabbage palm, wax myrtle, sand cord grass,
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gulf muhly, blue maidencane, South Florida Bluestem and chalky bluestem. Vegetation
observed in the preserve areas containing this soil includes South Florida slash pine, cypress,
cabbage palm, and wax myrtle. Approximately 45% of the soils mapped on this preserve are
Boca fine sand, a non-hydric soil. This nearly level, poorly drained soil usually supports
scattered areas of pine and cabbage palm and an understory of saw palmetto, chalky bluestem,
creeping bluestem, lopsided Indiangrass, and pineland threeawn. Vegetation observed on the
preserve where these soils are contained includes cabbage palms with an understory of saw
palmetto and some pines.
2.2 Climate
The Rivers Road Preserve is located in an area of Florida that is influenced by both a humid
subtropical climate and a tropical savanna climate in which temperatures are moderated by winds
from the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. A tropical savanna climate is characterized by
sharply delineated wet and dry seasons and average monthly temperatures greater than 64°
Fahrenheit. Monthly rainfalls may exceed ten inches during the wet season. Humid subtropical
climates are characterized by less extreme rainfall fluctuations between wet and dry seasons and
average monthly temperatures less than 64°Fahrenheit in some months.
The average annual temperature for this portion of Collier County is approximately 75°
Fahrenheit. The warmest months are usually July and August. The humidity is high during
these months but frequent afternoon thunderstorms prevent excessively high temperatures.
Two-thirds of the annual rainfall occurs in the wet season from May to October. Thunderstorms
are frequent during the wet season occurring every two out of three days between June and
September. Rainfall records for the area indicate that there is no significant variation in the
annual rainfall throughout much of the county; however, large variations often occur during a
single year. The hurricane season extends from June through November with peak activity
occurring in September and October when ocean temperatures are highest.
2.3 Natural Plant Communities
A plant community refers to the suite of plant species that form the natural vegetation of any
place. In addition to anthropogenic influence, the combination of factors such as geology,
topography, hydrology, underlying soils and climate determine the types of plants found in an
area. These plants in turn determine the animal species that may be found in an area.
The Florida Land Use, Land Cover Classification System (FLUCCS) GIS layer provided by the
South Florida Water Management District classifies the entire preserve as a combination of Pine
Flatwoods-Melaleuca Infested, Mixed Wetland Hardwoods, Cypress-Melaleuca Infested and
Wetland Forested Mixed (Figure 6). Site evaluations confirm the Pine Flatwoods, Mixed
Wetland Hardwoods, Cypress and Wetland Forested mixed designations, however, very few
melaleuca trees were observed throughout the preserve. Other communities observed include
Freshwater Marsh, Cabbage Palm, Pine/Cabbage Palm, Cypress/Cabbage Palm Disturbed,
Cypress, Pine, Cabbage Palm, and Inland Ponds and Sloughs.
The preserve also has several cleared areas, several areas designated for single family residences,
a portion of a small pond excavated in 2000 and several infestations of exotic plants, including
25-40% coverage of Brazilian Pepper (Schimus terebinthifolius) and a significant infestation of
air potato (Dioscorea bulbifera) throughout on the western side of the preserve and on the
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Rivers Road Preserve Land Use Cover Map
flow . x:�� t
1 ,
, I
E, /.., , . 1130
"' i "
■: ., i 1700
.. ,.s .trt; _. , '
G
CD
.. .... " '1 250
6210
a
4 J 1 -- fy
..,..
„...,
....,,
. .,,
,..,
i ,..,!,.!...,'..<„,--1.
,,...
y
5zt6 3"1 '' r .. -;.,4-,.
.
, „„,..1
,...
: .,,,„,:.,...,
. . ,:„.......,...,
. ,• . ,. . _ „,,,,„
',,,,,,,,,,,1
..
617D
n-_,':','!:,;.ii.'..
Legend
i E,21',', -,,,'-,;`,:.;;;1
=Rivers Road Preserve ( �
.�1110 Fixed Single Family Units on a., cIfcwb�o me"'
TT'1700 Institutional 6210
74280 Cabbage Palm CON y.,ATION
'6170 Mixed Wetland Hardwoods , �"1.1.,ER
'
6172 Mixed Shrubs I '
0 250 500 Feet
1176210 Cypress - �
6250 Wet Pinelands .:.: •^'°
� :_•'" Gorier County
6410 Freshwater Marshes °°""`°."`^ 104111 ...— "..-,,...."„.,r,,,
Figure 6: Rivers Road Preserve Land Cover/Land Use Map
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southeastern portion as well. Additional details are provided in Section 2.6 and plans for
management of exotics will be covered in Invasive, Exotic Plant Species Control Plan (Table
10).
2.4 Native Plant and Animal Species
The 76.74 acre preserve is a combination of Cabbage Palm, Inland Ponds and Sloughs, Mixed
Wetland Hardwoods, Cypress, Pine Flatwoods, Mixed Wetland Forests and Freshwater Marsh.
The preserve also contains an outstanding example of pop ash swamps and several wetlands.
One hundred sixty-two vascular plant species were recorded on the preserve and 36 (22%) of
these plants are indicated as not native to our area (Appendix 2). All invasive exotic plants will
require removal and maintenance. The canopy is dominated by slash pine trees (Pinus elliottii),
cabbage palms (Sabal palmetto), scattered cypress (Taxodium ascendens) in the upland areas.
Willow (Saliz caroliniana), pop ash (Fraximus caroliniana) and red maple (Acer rubrum) can be
found in the wetland areas. The midstory contains areas of ragweed (Ambrosia sp.), dogfennel
(Eupatorium capillifolium), sawgrass (Cladium jamaicense), saw palmetto (Serenoa repens),
American beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) and myrsine (Rapanea punctata). The
groundcover is a combination of ferns such as bracken fern (Pteridnum aquilimum), swamp fern
(Blechmaum serrulatum), chain fern (Woodwardia virginica), alligator flag (Thalia geniculata)
and sagittaria (Sagittaria lancifolia), amongst other groundcovers common in Pine/Cabbage
Palm communities and freshwater marsh communities. Ephiphytes and vines have been
observed throughout the preserve. Listed plant species include common wild pine (Tillandsia
fasciulata), hand fern (Ophioglossum palmatum) and reflexed (inflated) wild pine (Tillandsia
balbisiana).
Occurrences of fauna at the preserve are based on direct visual and auditory observations of
animals by Collier County staff and outside researchers during site visits or evidence of activity
such as spoor, scat, or burrows, and from the site information available in documents such as:
• the site's initial criteria screening report,
• the property's interim management plan,
• anecdotal information from persons with knowledge of the site.
Mammal species known to occur or individuals and/or evidence of activity directly observed
within the preserve include the white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), Florida black bear
(Ursus americanus floridanus), and wild feral hogs (Sus scrofa). Numerous Florida panther
(Puma concolor coryi) telemetry points and photo accounts have been recorded in the area and
one point was recorded approximately 1/3 mile from the preserve. There are anecdotal reports of
panthers on the southern portion of the preserve. There is a wildlife underpass under Immokalee
Road north of the preserve that provides access through the Twin Eagles subdivision to over
60,000 acres of conservation lands, including state-owned lands, Audubon's Corkscrew Swamp
and the Corkscrew Ecosystem Lands. Bird observations by Collier County staff are included in
Table 3.
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Table 3: List of Avian Species Recorded on the Site
Common Name Scientific Name Common Name Scientific Name
Red-winged Blackbird Agelaius phoeniceus Gray Catbird Dumetella carolinensis
Red-shouldered Hawk Buteo lineatus Blue Jay Cyanocitta cristata
Mourning Dove Zenaidura macroura Blue-gray Gnatcatcher Polioptila caerulea
Common Ground-dove Columbina passerina White-eyed Vireo Vireo griseus
Red-bellied Woodpecker Melanerpes carolinus Northern Cardinal Cardinalis cardinalis
Turkey Vulture Cathartes aura Wild Turkey Meleagris gallopavo
The Florida Breeding Bird Atlas lists 32 bird species that have been
recorded as confirmed, probable, or possibly breeding in the
vicinity of the site (in Corkscrew SW USGS quadrangle) that may
be present at Rivers Road Preserve (Table 4). The Breeding Bird
Atlas documents breeding distributions of all bird species in Florida
between 1986 and 1991. Some of these species may breed at
Rivers Road Preserve.
Wild Turkey on the River Road Preserve
Photo Taken by Hans Van Cleave
Table 4:Breeding Bird Species Recorded in the Belle Meade NW Quadrangle
Encompassing the Rivers Road Preserve
Common Name Scientific Name Common Name Scientific Name
Northern Bobwhite Colinus virginianus Purple Martin Progne subis
Green Heron Butorides striatus Northern Rough-winged Stelgidopteryx
Swallow serripennis
Swallow-tailed Kite Elanoides forficatus Tufted Titmouse Parus bicolor
Red-shouldered Hawk Buteo lineatus Carolina Wren Thiyothorus
ludovicianus
Mourning Dove Zenaida macroura Blue-gray Gnatcatcher Polioptila caerulea
Common ground dove Columbina passerina Northern Mockingbird Mimus polyglottos
Yellow-billed Cuckoo Coccyzus americanus Brown Thrasher Toxostoma rufum
Barn Owl Tvto alba Pine Warbler Dendroica pinus
Common Nighthawk Chordeiles minor Prairie Warbler Setophaga discolor
Red-bellied Melanerpes carolinus Common Yellowthroat Geothlypis trichas
Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker Picoides pubescens Eastern Towhee Pipilo elythrophthalmus
Red-cockaded Picoides borealis Northern Cardinal Cardinalis cardinalis
Woodpecker
Great Crested Myiarchus crinitus Red-winged Blackbird Agelaius phoeniceus
Flycatcher
Loggerhead Shrike Lanius ludovicianus Eastern Meadowlark Sturnella magna
White-eyed Vireo Vireo griseus Common Grackle Quiscalus quiscula
Blue Jay Cyanocitta cristata [Boat-tailed Grackle Quiscalus major
(Breeding Bird Atlas Explorer(online resource).2012.U.S.Geological Survey)
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Hand Fern(Ophioglossum palmatum)
This plant is commonly found on cabbage palms and has been r' ` : �,' 4 :
found in multiple areas along the east and southern coast of
Florida. Early 20th century observers spoke of hand fern
gathered by the wagon load from Florida's swamps. Hand fern x .'
is still collected but it dies in cultivation due to lack of essential ,r v '� '
fungi. When palm boots decay and fall to the ground, or are `
destroyed by fire, hand ferns are killed. Only 50 populations
remain in Florida, about half in conservation areas. -
Hand fern found on site.
Photo taken by Conservation Collier staff
Reflexed wild pine (Tillandsia balbisiana)
This air plant is abundant and occurs throughout the preserve. It is also
k considered threatened by the State of Florida due to the Mexican
' y " Bromeliad Weevil. It is equally well-adjusted to deep shade where leaves
,} ` , grow long or to bright sunlight where they are contorted and highly
` It colored from gray-green to blue-bronze or red (NAS 2007
�� � g y-g � 2007).
Reflexed Wild Pine Photo by
r Melissa Abdo Courtesy of The
Institute for Regional Conservation
0
Stiff-leaved wild pine (Tillandsia fasciculata) ill 1 ii, 'f
Although this air plant is abundant throughout South Florida, it is listed by ', +f, ' j
the State as endangered as they are threatened by the Mexican Bromeliad !,it 6 4 I., ii',
weevil. Leaves may grow to as much as forty inches, they form large t i
plants in tree tops and are often mistaken for bird or squirrel nests. They
grow equally well in canopy or near ground (NAS 2007). It is also
referred to as a common wild pine or cardinal air plant. This air plant has
been noted in several areas throughout the preserve. The photo to the left
was taken in the northern portion of the preserve within a small pop ash
marsh. Stiff-leaved wild pine
Photo by Collier County
Staff
Giant wild pine (Tillandsia utriculata) is the largest epiphyte and is
relatively common in hammocks and swamps in South Florida. It can reach
j i�' e. 12-30 inches in height and its flower spike may be more than six feet in
. ''- height. It is also listed by the State of Florida as endangered
'- Giant Wild Pine
Photo by Rodger Hammer
courtesy of the Institute for
Regional Conservation website
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The only reptile species observed to date on the preserve are the rr a
Cottonmouth/Water Moccasin A kistrodon
( g piscivorous conanti)
and the Southern Black Racer(Coluber constrictor priapus). There '.
have been no amphibian species observed on the site to date besides :.' ""
the exotic brown anole (Anolis sagrei), however staff will continue '
to monitor the site during site visits and will document any other „
reptiles and/or amphibians found. J
Cottonmouth Snake on the Rivers
Road Preserve Photo Taken by
Hans VanCleave
S� ee� f
Invertebrates observed at the preserve include butterflies such as
Queen (Danaus gilippus) and Zebra Longwing (Heliconius
charithonia. Other wildlife species noted on the preserve include
the Tree Snail (Order Pulmanata), and Crayfish (Order Decapoda).
Tree Snail. Photo taken by County
Staff on the Rivers Road Preserve
Other wildlife species that have not been recorded undoubtedly occur at Rivers Road Preserve.
Future, more detailed, wildlife surveys will be conducted on the preserve and the plan will be
updated as new species are documented.
2.5 Listed Species
Official listings of rare and endangered species are produced at the federal level by the U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service, and at the state level by the
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Florida Department of Agriculture
and Consumer Services. FNAI produces a list of rare and endangered species, and maintains a
database of occurrences of these species in Florida.
2.5.1 Listed Plant Species
Three plant species found at the Rivers Road Preserve are listed by the Florida Department of
Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) - (2) as Endangered, (1) as Threatened, and none
as Commercially Exploited. There are no federally listed endangered or threatened plant species.
A brief description of these species and their status is included in Table 5 and in the following
paragraphs. Additional listed plant species may be found at Rivers Road Preserve following
further field surveys. Confirmation of listed plant identifications should be made by a qualified
botanist.
Table 5: Listed Plant Species Detected at the Rivers Road Preserve
Common Names Scientific Names FDACS(State)
Hand fern Ophioglossum palmatum Endangered
Reflexed wild pine Tillandsia balbisiana Threatened
Stiff-leaved wild pine Tillandsia fasciculata Endangered
Giant wild pine Tillandsia utricula Endangered
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2.5.2 Listed Wildlife Species
The Florida Natural Areas Inventory (FNAI) maintains a database of occurrences of rare,
threatened, and endangered species in Florida . Within the Rivers Road Preserve, The Florida
Natural Areas Inventory (FNAI) has documented the occurrence of the endangered Florida
panther (Puma concolor coryi) (Appendix 3). The FNAI database report indicated three (3)
other species likely to be found in this area including Florida back bear (Ursus americanus
floridanus), Mangrove fox squirrel (Sciurus niger avicennia), and the Wood stork (Mycteria
americana). Florida black bear have been detected and documented by the former property
owners on the southern portion of the preserve. The habitat of the preserve also supports the
presence of Gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus), Eastern indigo snake (Drymarchon
couperi), Florida bonneted bat (Eumops floridanus), and Snail kite (Rostrhamus sociabilis
plumbeus). Table 6 below identifies the status of each and a brief description of the only
documented listed species is included in the following paragraphs. Cottonmouth/Water Moccasin
(Agkistrodon piscivorous conanti) have also been observed on the preserve.
Table 6: Listed Wildlife Species Found or Potentially Found at Rivers Road
Preserve
Observed
Common Name Scientific Name Federal State FNAI or Potential
Florida black bear Ursus americanus floridanus T L 0
Cottonmouth/Water Moccasin Agkistrodon piscivorous conanti T SSC 0
Florida panther Puma concolor coryi E E D 0
Big Cypress fox squirrel Sciurus niger avicennia T L P
Wood Stork Mvcteria americana E E L P
Florida Burrowing Owl Athene cunicularia floridana SSC P P
Eastern Indigo Snake Drvmarchon couperi T T P P
Florida bonneted bat Eumops floridanus T P P
Red-cockaded Woodpecker Picoides borealis E E P P
Snail Kite Rostrhamus sociabilis plumbeus E E P P
E—Endangered, T—Threatened,SSC—Species of Special Concern, O—Observed, P—Potential,L-Likely
Florida Black Bear (Ursus americanus floridanus)
The Florida black bear is a subspecies of the black bear found throughout North America. Black
bears have been observed on several occasions at Rivers Road Preserve. Florida black bears in
south Florida are listed as threatened by the FWC. Because of its large home range and low
population density the black bear is particularly vulnerable to habitat loss. Even though their
population is affected by illegal killing and road kills, habitat loss is the major cause of concern
(Humphrey 1992).
, Black Bear photos taken in the Rivers Road
$ r. Preserve. Photos taken by former property
' '' t owner Hans VanCleve.
, ,:.,_,;,, , , ., ....„-:, .. 444tke„1„,,,, ,,,,„
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Cottonmouth/Water Moccasin (Agkistrodon piscivorous conanti)
Cottonmouth snakes are listed as a species of special concern by the State of Florida. The coloration of
this snake can be variable. Older and larger snakes tend to be uniformly black, brown to reddish
brown, while the young are banded with a dark color against a lighter background. Most
abundant in flooded woodlands, the Florida Cottonmouth is also found around rivers, streams
and ponds. It is often seen along the water's edge, on the bank or on a log or rock and it can also
be found in pine woods or other dry habitats. Though the Cottonmouth occurs throughout the
state, it is not as abundant as the many species of harmless water snakes that occur in much the
same habitat.
Florida Panther(Puma concolor corgi)
This large cat is a year-round resident of undeveloped lands in South Florida. The Florida
Panther is listed as a Federally and State endangered species. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
and FWC track radio-collared panthers in Collier County. Radio telemetry reports as well as
wildlife camera photos of non-collared panthers have verified that Panthers do pass through this
area. These large cats require extensive blocks of mostly forested communities. Large wetlands
that are generally inaccessible to humans are important for diurnal refuge. A large tract of land
may be developed to the east of the preserve within the next couple of years. Environmental
groups have worked with the developer to protect a vital wildlife corridor along the western
boundaries of their developmental area. This corridor connects two conservation areas and runs
through a wildlife underpass under Immokalee Road (see Figure 7). The corridor is currently
part of a SFWMD environmental resource permit and most likely will become part of the
developer's required preserve area.
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rr. ,I Rivers Road Preserve Proximity to nearby Conservation Areas
Wildlife Corridor and Panther Sightings and Telemetry Ciiiier County■• ,J,.,...:' t ,
i
. H j./.ij iiI
:.,P )
o as . f .¢f{# y
Sat'- a r rtfvS { �,r 1� s-
L rl' '. VV1It
Immokalse Road .e �' —`° '- 1, -
i r ^I ' Y. ]p .sSv
tr,} 5,,,' < r t^ aw it
°-1.R .,,K
;Rivera Road
' � ' Peerve x ax k _ b
.∎ - . ' ; t •
1, , s. :4 •
a •%
. 9@ m_
3�i a
` e
c
'_ ' . .hd MIN
ATIDN
I • 1 I tj•,u srt
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 Miles {
•rte.,..M Mnrr
HIM r�Nrrw MwYdt.wr.\.+H.n.MMP+sMWY.warw.a\rY.Fww..KWYe..wwu.I •^
Figure 7. Rivers Road Preserve Proximity to nearby Conservation Areas Wildlife Corridor
and Panther Sightings and Telemetry. Also shows locations where wildlife camera photos
below were taken.
' "" 'w Photo 1
" r' - - '. Photo of an uncollared panther taken by an FWC Wildlife
0.
.'n` ` x Camera along a canal bride over 13`h Ave. N.W.
{ - 101' m southeast of the preserve.Photo taken 1/22/11,
' �M
'd`datY+vr
- ) —
`"F § a .:
Photo 2
Wildlife camera photo showing an uncollared panther . = `,.
exiting the wildlife underpass under Immokalee Road .-‘,I,':I : r
northwest of the preserve. Photo taken 3/14/13. a
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2.6 Invasive,Non-Native and Problem Species
Several invasive, non-indigenous plant and animal species are known to occur within Florida. A
comprehensive list of invasive plant species is available from the Florida Exotic Pest Plant
Council (FLEPPC). Although Florida does not have an official invasive, non-indigenous animal
species list, at least 400 exotic fish and wildlife animal species have been reported, and
approximately 125 species are established.
2.6.1 Exotic Wildlife Species
Evidence of wild hog (Sus scrofa) exists on the preserve,
multiple hog wallows are present, especially in the southern
portion of the preserve indicating this species could potentially
i become a nuisance. They can also be referred to as wild boar or
"" "'; feral pig, and may have been introduced to Florida as early as
� 'r o 1539 (FFWCC 2002). According to Kevin Love, a land
manager with the Southwest Florida Water Management
Feral Hogs photo provided by USGS District, "Feral hogs are a big problem on all conservation lands.
and taken by NASA [They are] one of the most severe exotic problems facing
Florida." Their favorite food is acorns but they roam in large
groups and will eat native frogs, snakes and ground nesting birds while rooting up the ground
with their snouts—destroying acre upon acre. They may weigh over 150 pounds, grow to be 5-
6 feet long and reproduce at a rapid rate. They travel in herds containing several females and
their offspring. Wild hogs occur throughout Florida in various habitats, but prefer moist forests,
swamps and pine flatwoods. They are omnivorous and feed by rooting with their broad snouts.
They may cause great damage of the understory and leave an area looking like a plowed field
(Hoppe 2006). Feral hogs consume ground-nesting bird eggs and disturb soil and sensitive
vegetation, which in turn invites invasive exotic plant growth.
2.6.2 Invasive and Problem Plant Species
Invasive and exotic plants on the preserve include Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius),
earleaf acacia (Acacia auriculiformis), Caesar's weed (Urena lobata), bougainvillea
(Bougainvillea glabra), citrus (Citrus spp.), air potato (Dioscorea bulbifera), lantana (Lantana
camera),java plum (Syzygium cumini), rosary pea (Abrus precatorius), melaleuca (Melaluecua
quinquenervia), monk orchid (Oeceoclades maculata), tabeubuia (Tabeubuia spp.), and wedelia
(Wedelia trilobata). All exotic plants documented on the preserve are listed in Table 7.
Of the exotic plants found on the preserve, the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council considers nine
of these species to be Category I Invasive plants that may alter native plant communities by
displacing native species, changing community structures or ecological functions, or hybridizing
with natives. Four species are considered Category II plants, meaning they have increased in
abundance or frequency but have not yet altered Florida plant communities to the extent shown
by Category I species. These definitions do not rely on the economic severity or geographic
range of the problem, but on the documented ecological damage caused (FLEPPC 2007).
Treatment of these species is covered in Section 4.4, Goal 3 and in Table 11.
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Table 7: Invasive Exotic Plant Species at Rivers Road Preserve
FLEPPC
Scientific Name Common Name(s) Category
Abrus srecatorius Rosary .ea I
Acacia auriculi ormis Earleaf acacia I
Dioscorea bulbifera air sotato I
Lantana camara Shrub verbena/Lantana I
Melaluecua •uin'uenervia melaleuca I
Pennisetum .ur.ureum .. _• II
Psidium •ua'ava •uava I
Pteris vittata Chinese brake fern II
Sanseverina hvacinthoides bowstrin_ hem. II
Schinus terebinthi olius Brazilian .e..er I
Java slum I
Urena lobata Caesar's Weed I
Wedelia trilobata wedelia II
The majority of the Brazilian pepper and air potato present is located within the disturbed areas
of the preserve, such as the power line corridors and pathways that may have previously been
used to traverse the property. Air potato appears to exist primarily in areas where dilapidated
structures were removed prior to county purchase of the property.
Under certain conditions, especially following hydrologic disturbance, some native plant species
can become invasive. For example, Cabbage palms can also become invasive when hydrology is
altered and without fire. Management of these species is necessary.
2.7 Forest Resources
No commercial forests exist, and timber extraction may not appropriate for this site. If portions
of the preserve need thinning, fire should assist to thin out young pines.
2.8 Archaeological, Historical and Cultural Resources
The Rivers Road Preserve property is not within an area of historical and archaeological
probability. According to a letter obtained by County Staff dated, January 8, 2013, the Florida
Master Site file of the Division of Historical Resources show that no archaeological sites or any
other cultural resources have been recorded for the section, township and range in which the
preserve exists (see Appendix 4). The County will notify the Division of Historical Resources
immediately if evidence is found to suggest otherwise. If such resources are identified on-site,
staff shall cordon off the area, and a professional survey and assessment shall be instituted. The
archaeologist shall prepare a report outlining results of the assessments and issue
recommendations to County staff about management of any sites discovered, per provisions of
the Land Development Code Section 2.2.25. This report shall be sent to the Division of
Historical Resources. The County shall cooperate fully with direction from the Division of
Historical Resources on the protection and management of archaeological and historical
resources. The management of these resources will comply with the provisions of Chapter 267,
Florida Statutes, specifically Sections 267.061 2 (a) and (b).
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3.0 Use of the Property
3.1 Previous and Current Use
F
xaru'.yl r I N.
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Figure 8. 1985 Aerial Map (Collier County Property Appraiser's Office)
Historical Aerials were researched back to 1940, however, flights were taken to the north, east
and west of the property but not directly over the current preserve property. The 1958 aerial
shows that Immokalee Road had been built to the north with no additional development
surrounding. The 1963 surrounding aerials showed new roads and existing farm fields to the
west. The 1973 aerials showed small roads being cleared just east of Rivers Road and one parcel
cleared just south of Immokalee Road where the Living Word Church now exists and some small
homes N, E, and W of the preserve. The 1985 aerial (Figure 8) shows that the majority of the
preserve land was still undeveloped and undisturbed. River's Road existed at that time. A small
home existed on the Northwestern most parcel and some clearing and single family development
had occurred on the two parcels west of Rivers Road. The area that will be used as the parking
area (discussed later in the plan) was cleared sometime between 1975 and 1985.
The majority of the site was previously zoned agriculture with a Mobile Home Overlay, allowing
for minimal development at no greater than one unit per five acres. There were a few small
structures on the site such as sheds and trailers, including one abandoned trailer. Several
formerly cleared roads cut across portions of the property to serve as access to power lines and/or
to allow the former property owners access. A small pond constructed on an adjacent parcel to
the east overlaps onto the preserve. The entire perimeter of the pond has been cleared and
sawgrass, sagittaria, ragweed, willow, red maple, cypress trees,pine and cabbage palms surround
the clearing. Prior to conveyance of the properties, a significant amount of trash and debris was
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removed by the former property owners, including several very dilapidated structures scattered
throughout.
The site is accessed by Rivers Road, which is off Immokalee Road. Currently the site is not
open to the public for recreational use and a locked gate permits access to some portions only to
those with permission to visit the property and to the property owner that owns the only out-
parcel of the preserve. Recent site visits have revealed small pockets of trash in several areas.
On the northern portion of the preserve, there is evidence that a small structure may have been
once used and abandoned. Water piping and timber is piled up and nearby there is fencing and
old appliances near the property line.
cam` Anr r
Temporary signs identifying the property as a Conservation Collier
Preserve and listing prohibited activities have been posted at the CONSERVATION
northern most part of the preserve along Rivers Road and Moulder COLLIER
Drive. There are no current concessions or leases on the preserve PRESERVE
property.
tanear.naion
CuW.r.M...rw
Evidence that the preserve has been used for baiting and possibly
hunting has been found near the property line so coordination with
neighbors will be critical as plans are implemented, particularly 9 `'
during active restoration,
g , prescribed burns and when public access
is granted. ''
Following removal of old structures, including septic tanks and trailers, the southwestern portion
of the property is beginning to show signs of natural restoration, with natural recruitment of
pines, grasses and myrtle. Removal of exotics will further encourage natural restoration.
3.2 Planned Uses and Assessment of their Impacts
Public access will be limited to special requests until initial exotics are removed and safe trails
are established. Future planned uses include passive recreational opportunities for the public.
Public hunting is not allowed within the preserve. Details of planned uses for the Rivers Road
Preserve and assessment of their potential impacts are provided in the following sections.
3.3 Identification of Public Uses Consistent with Preservation, Enhancement, Restoration,
Conservation and Maintenance of the Resources.
As defined in Ordinance 2002-63, as amended, Section 5.9, the following are natural resource-
based uses consistent with Rivers Road Preserve:
• Hiking: Consistent with the nature of the site and its purpose.
• Nature Photography: There is potential for nature photography of wildlife and plant life.
• Bird Watching: There is potential for bird watching on this site.
• Environmental Education: After trails are established.
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3.4 Planned Public Uses and Assessment of their Impacts
Trail Network — Trails will be established throughout the property in at least two phases to
allow for hiking and nature observation within the preserve. Firebreaks will double as hiking
trails as much as possible to avoid altering the habitat. Once established, trails will need to be
maintained and monitored to ensure that visitors stay on them and no new trails are being made.
Clearing the trails of fallen trees and debris and creating new trails may also enable and increase
the illegal use of all terrain vehicles (ATVs) and dirt bikes on the property so monitoring will be
necessary.
Easements, Concessions and Leases
An ingress/egress easement exists over Rivers Road, which extends through the preserve and
ends at a private residence at 1920 Rivers Road that is enclosed within the preserve boundaries
as an out parcel. There are no current concessions or leases on the preserve property.
Parking / Handicap Facilities - A permanent parking area will be installed in the southwest
portion of the preserve in an area that is already disturbed resulting from the previous existence
of old structures. Physical access to the parking area will be from Rivers Road, an unpaved road
easement. Parking spaces will be Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant and lead to
an accessible picnic area and connect to a compliant trail. An information kiosk will be created
adjacent to the picnic area.
Landscaping — There may be minimal native landscaping installed around the future parking
area. Natural area restoration of the preserve should include only site specific native plant
material that has been determined to be non-problematic to the site and whenever possible, site
specific seed sources should be utilized. In addition, hardwoods that may invade the natural
areas should not be planted.
Fencing / Gates — Fencing along the northernmost portion of the preserve is necessary to deter
dumping and illegal access by ATV riders and hunters. The existing gate on Rivers Road may
be relocated farther south to the entrance of the parking/trailhead area or to the entrance of the
private property outparcel driveway.
3.5 Adjacent Land Uses
Single family homes exist to the north, east and west of the property, with one private residence
within the boundaries of the preserve as an outparcel. A church encompassing several parcels
exists to the north and northeast of the property along with a parcel that contains remnants of a
small tree nursery. A conservation easement exists to the south of the property. Collier County
District Schools owns a little over 20 acres of land to the northeast of the property along
Immokalee Road, however the District does not plan to build any new schools within the next 5
years.
3.6 Prospective Land Acquisitions
There are currently no surrounding properties under consideration as prospects for acquisition.
The only parcel that was previously considered, is an outparcel that is completely surrounded by
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preserve land. As of February 2013, it is owned by CSC Equity, a Texas Limited Liability
Company. This parcel was determined to not be a viable purchase by the County due to the
existing structure that exists on the property.
3.7 Proposed Single-or Multiple- Use Management
Management of this parcel for public use will focus on maintenance of the trail, signage, and
picnic area (Table 8). All of the uses are restricted to those consistent with conservation of
plants, animals, any historical/archaeological features, and passive enjoyment of these resources
by visitors.
Table 8: Analysis of Multiple-Use Potential
Activity Approved Conditional Rejected
Protection of endangered and threatened species Y
Ecosystem maintenance Y
Soil and water conservation Y
Hunting N
Fishing N
Wildlife observation Y
Hiking S'
Bicycling Y
Horseback riding Y
Timber harvest Y
Cattle grazing N
Camping N
Apiaries N
Linear facilities N
Off road vehicle use N
Environmental education Y
Citriculture or other agriculture N
Preservation of archaeological and historical sites Y
(Other uses as determined on an individual basis)
4.0 Future Use of the Rivers Road Preserve including Management Issues,
Goals and Objectives
This section describes the main management issues, goals, and objectives for Rivers Road
Preserve as well as the overall management framework. Central to the management of the
Preserve is the mission of the Conservation Collier Program, and the goals and objectives set
forth in this management plan.
4.1 Management Plan Framework
Each property purchased by Conservation Collier shall have its own management plan. At the
time the property was purchased, the Conservation Collier Ordinance required that an "Interim"
Management Plan be developed within 60 days of closing. Interim plans include basic items
such as removal of invasive exotics and trash, establishing site security, developing management
partnerships and planning for public access. The interim plan for this site was officially
approved in September 2011. The ordinance then requires a "Final" management plan be
developed within two years. Subsequently, the property management plan must be updated
every five years. Final management plans, however, are considered living documents and can be
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updated at any time. Review of all management plans start in the Lands Evaluation and
Management Subcommittee and must be approved by both the CCLAAC and the BCC.
4.1.1 Preserve Manager: Contact Information
The Site Manager for Rivers Road Preserve will be a designated Collier County
Environmental Specialist who can be contacted through electronic mail:
ConservationCollier @Colliergov.net.
4.1.2 Preserve Rules and Regulations
No dumping, use of unauthorized vehicles, or removal or destruction of any natural or
historical/archaeological resources shall be permitted within the preserve. The goal is to
allow limited, non-destructive public access to maintain natural resource habitat and
native plant communities and animal species.
4.2 Desired Future Conditions
This section includes a description of the proposed future condition for the site's natural areas.
Management techniques to achieve these conditions are listed in the following sections.
After management goals are met, Rivers Road Preserve will consist of pine flatwoods, mixed
wetland hardwoods, cypress, wetland forested and freshwater marsh habitats. Several
outstanding examples of pop ash swamp will be preserved and enhanced. The canopy will be
comprised of maple, pop ash, red bay, slash pine, laurel oak, cabbage palm, willow and cypress.
The mid-story will be maintained and continue to consist of scattered natives including:
marlberry, saltbush, American beautyberry, common button bush, sawgrass, dog fennel, dahoon
holly, gallberry, rusty lyonia, red mulberry, wax myrtle, wild coffee, myrsine, winged sumac,
saw palmetto, saffron plum and hog plum. Groundcover will remain native and will include:
swamp fern, habernaria, ludwigia, maidencane, passion flower, frog-fruit, pickerelweed, Bracken
fern sagittaria, blue porterweed, alligator flag, southern cattail and chain fern. Prescribed burns
will be conducted in the Pine Flatwoods areas on a 3-5 year cycle to keep saw palmettos low and
hardwoods and palm cover sparse (<25%), allowing for a diverse and dense herb layer.
Management of the preserve will also improve habitat for the non-listed wildlife species that
have been observed on the preserve and will make the habitat desirable for the listed species that
may be in the area of the preserve.
4.3 Major Accomplishments during previous years
Table 9: Major Accomplishments
Accom I lishment Year(s)
Initial removal of dilapidated structures,old automobiles,septic and other 2008
trash by previous .ro.e owners
Postin: tem•orary si.nage alon_Rivers Road and Moulder Drive 2008
Final Management Plan Com•leted 2013
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4.4 Goals and Objectives for 10 year period
A set of goals and objectives for the Rivers Road Preserve were developed in conjunction with
the drafting of this Management Plan. The goals and objectives in this plan are tailored
specifically for the Rivers Road Preserve, based on the purposes for which the lands were
acquired, the condition of the resources present, and management issues for the property. On-
site managers should be familiar with the entire Management Plan. Goals and objectives from
the interim management plan for the Rivers Road Preserve were reviewed to determine if they
remain meaningful and practical and if so, were carried over into this plan. The goals and
objectives presented here reflect programmatic goals and ideas of Conservation Collier personnel
in charge of managing and protecting the area. These goals shall not be modified, but specific
application of management techniques may take into consideration input by user groups and
other stakeholders from outside the program, accommodating user needs and desires where
practicable and where overarching management goals are not violated.
Management issues are discussed below in separate sections. Within each section, approaches
for dealing with these issues are described. The ability to implement the specific goals and
objectives identified in this plan is dependent upon the availability of funding resources. The
following goals have been identified for the Rivers Road Preserve:
Goal 1: Eliminate or Reduce Human Impacts
Goal 2: Invasive, Exotic Plant Removal and Management
Goal 3: Wildlife Management
Goal 4: Create and Implement a Prescribed Fire Program
Goal 5: Restoration of Native Vegetation
Goal 6: Prepare Preserve for Public Access
Goal 7: Facilitate Uses of the Site for Educational Purposes
Goal 8: Provide a Plan for Disaster Preparedness
Goal 9: Coordination with Stakeholders, Partners, and Regional Agencies
Goal 10: Officially Open the Preserve for Public Use
Goal 1: Eliminate or Reduce Human Impacts
The preserve is currently easily accessible for dumping, use of off road vehicles and hunting. In
order to provide for the safety of those who will be lawfully using this site for passive recreation
and research, and to ensure that the programs of ecological preservation and restoration can take
place unabated, strong security measures will be put into place.
Action Item 1.1: Removal of refuse and dilapidated structures
Although former property owners were required to remove trash prior to conveyance to
Conservation Collier, recent site visits have revealed small pockets of trash in several areas. On
the northern portion of the preserve, there is evidence that a small structure may have been once
used and abandoned. Water piping and timber is piled up and nearby there is fencing and old
appliances near the property line. This refuse will be removed either by contract or by use of the
Sheriff's Office Weekenders Work Program.
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Action Item 1.2: Prohibit unauthorized access to the preserve/Security management
Staff will continue to maintain the site as legally posted. "No Trespassing-Collier County" signs
will be posted every 500 feet or less and at every corner of the property. Conservation Collier
signs also exist in two locations, one on Rivers Road and one on Moulder Drive. The signs make
it clear that there is to be "no littering" and "no hunting" and "no unauthorized vehicles".
Similar signs will be posted at the trailhead areas once constructed. This will fulfill the legal
posting requirement. If signs are removed or vandalized, they will be fixed and replaced as
needed. They may need to be stabilized with concrete if they continue to be removed.
Staff will continue to work with enforcement agencies such as the Collier County Sheriff's
Department Agriculture Division and FFWCC to enforce trespassing by citizens on off-road
vehicles, poachers and litterers. One warning will be given by the Sheriffs office officers,
followed by arrest for repeat offenders. If anyone is caught poaching on the property or in
possession of a firearm, they will automatically be arrested and taken to jail. Staff has received
approval from the BCC to sign Sheriffs Department affidavits to press charges as needed. Staff
will also continue to stay in contact with preserve neighbors for trespassing updates. A fence
may need to be installed along the northern most properties along Rivers Road and Moulder
Drive. Once installed, fencing will be monitored on a regular basis to ensure that fencing is not
disturbed and that no trespassing or unauthorized activities are occurring. Staff will also
consider installing an electronic gate along Rivers Road that would automatically close each
night at dusk.
Action Item 1.3: Identify locations of rare and listed native plant and animal species
The location of rare listed plant species will be identified using a global positioning system
(GPS) device and mapped to allow staff to monitor them. Public trails will be constructed to
avoid areas where rare and listed species exist. Actual and potential locations of resident animal
life will also be identified and documented and steps will be taken to construct visitor amenities
away from animal nesting sites.
Action Item 1.4: Monitor public access
Public access will be limited to special requests until initial exotics are removed and safe trails
can be created. Once the site is opened up for public access, visitors will be encouraged to stay
on established trails. Staff will frequent the site to conduct inspections and will coordinate with
visiting children's groups to educate them on the importance of protecting this natural resource.
Well-mannered dogs will be allowed in the preserve on leash only. Pick-up bags will be
provided at trail heads. If problems start to occur, this privilege will no longer be allowed.
Action Item 1.5: Enforce regulations prohibiting trash in or near the preserve
Staff will monitor the trails on a regular basis and if excessive dumping or littering start to occur,
enforcement actions will be sought through the County Sheriffs Department. Garbage cans will
be present at the parking area and picnic area to provide a place for visitors to place their refuse
and to attempt to prevent littering.
Action Item 1.6: Discourage visitation to the park at night
A sign designating park hours as dawn to dusk will be installed at the entrance to the preserve
and adjacent landowners will be given an emergency phone number if they detect human activity
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on the preserve after hours. If problems arise, the Collier County Sheriff's Office will be
contacted to patrol the area and preserve on a routine basis.
Goal 2: Invasive, Exotic Plant Removal and Management
Action Item 2.1: Map location of exotics
Exotics have been noted in several areas and sporadically throughout the preserve. Detailed
mapping of the location and type of exotics is necessary to determine the extent of each
population and for identifying the estimated method and cost of removal.
Action Item 2.2: Set up permanent photo points throughout the preserve
Identify locations for photo points throughout the preserve and record photo points with a GPS.
During photo documentations, one photo is taken in each of the cardinal directions (north, east,
south and west) and a 360-degree panoramic photo is taken. These photos will help to monitor
exotic removal and native plant recruitment over time. If necessary, more photo points will be
established to aid in management decision activities. Before and after any prescribed burn,
photos will be taken at each photo point station with a vegetation profile board in each photo.
Action Item 2.3: Explore grants for exotic vegetation removal
Explore possible exotic vegetation removal grants from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
and Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FLDEP).
Action Item 2.4 Monitor biological control beetle project
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)-Agricultural Research Service (ARS)
selected the preserve to be part of an Air potato beetle (Lilioceris cheni) statewide release
project. The beetles are a host-specific specialist and only feed on air potato leaves. Five pairs of
the beetles were released on July 10th, 2013. USDA-ARS and County staff will monitor the
amount of damage the beetles may inflict on the airy >
potato plants over the next year Staff will refrain from } :
doing any type of air potato removal or treatment until the
research project in complete. Permission to release this \:
beetle was acquired from USDA-APHIS after extensive
testing demonstrated its host specificity with virtually no t:
risk to other plant species. If this bio-control program is
successful, this could potentially save the program money ,;
that otherwise would have been spent to treat the plants -- - --
with herbicide. Air potato beetle(Lilioceris cheni)
Photo by USDA
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Action Item 2.5: Treat exotics
The following exotics will require removal using the recommended methods.
Table 10: Invasive, Exotic Plant Species Control Plan for the Rivers Road Preserve
Scientific Name Common Name(s) Description and Recommended Control(s)
Abrus precatorius Rosary-pea,Crab eyes Cut stem or basal bark and treat with 10%Garlon 4. Site
must be revisited frequently to pull seedlings.
Acacia auriculiformis Earleaf acacia Hand pull seedlings,basal bark application of 10%Garlon
4 or cut-stump treatment with 50%Garlon 3A.
Pick up/dig up potatoes in the winter,cut and remove
Dioscorea bulbifera air potato above ground vines;Foliar treat with 1.5-2%glyhosate;or
1.5%Glyphosate+Escort(0.5 grams per gallon)
Lantana Camara Shrub verbena Basal application with 10%Garlon 4 or cut stump treatment
with Garlon 3A or 10%Garlon 4.
For seedlings and saplings:(1)hand pull,being sure not to
break plant off of root system and remove or place in piles
to help reduce the chance that they will re-root or;(2)Treat
with foliar,low volume spot application of 5%Rodeo.For
mature trees: (1)Fell large trees with chain saw leaving a
Melaluecua
melaleuca level surface,or fell small trees with machete and treat with
quinquenervia triclopyr or glyphosate products according to frill and girdle
directions on SLN.Use aquatic versions where standing
water is present. Monitor for resprouting and retreat as
necessary.(3)Mature trees are very difficult to control with
foliar applications.
Foliar 1-3%glyphosate-if surrounded by natives,cut the
Pennisetum purpureum Napier grass plants close to ground level and spray with glyph.When it
regrows to 8-12 inches in height-remove stems from site
Psidium spp. Guava spp. Basal bark application of 10%Garlon 4 in carrier oil.
Pteris vittata* Chinese brake fern 2 to 3%solution of glyphosate,hand pull remove from site
Foliar apply 5%-10%Garlon 4 in oil or water. In sandy
Sanseverina bowstrin hemp soils where a greater potential exists for non-target damage
hvacinthoides* g p plants can be cut and 15%-25%Roundup applied to the
cut surfaces
Hand pull seedlings. Cut-stump treatment with 50%Garlon
3A, 10%Garlon 4 or a basal bark application of 10%
Garlon 4.Foliar application of Garlon 4,Garlon 3A,
Schinus terebinthifolius Brazilian pepper Roundup Pro,Roundup Super Concentrate,or Rodeo,
according label directions may be used where appropriate.
Glyphosate products are less effective when used alone in
spring and early summer.Use Rodeo where plants are
growing in aquatic sites.
Mature trees may take up to 9 months to die.Cut-stump
Syzygium cumini Java plum treatment with 50%Garlon 3A or 10%Garlon 4,or use a
basal bark treatment with 10%Garlon 4.
Hand pull seedlings,Foliar treatment with 2-5%glyphosate
Urena lobata Caesar's Weed in water can be sprayed on young plants. Its best to treat in
the spring or summer prior to seed maturation. Responds
aggressively to fire
Treat with a 2%solution of glyphosate while targe,dense
Wedelia trilobata wedelia populations may require a 5%solution.Follow-up
treatments should be conducted as needed.Triclopyr at 1-
2%is also effective.
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Action Item 2.6: Monitor populations of invasive exotic plants in maintenance state
The control of invasive, exotic species is critical for the preservation of the natural communities
in Rivers Road Preserve using the treatments mentioned above. Staff will continue to inspect
and treat all areas of the site for new invasive exotic growth or invaders. Approved Collier
County contractors will be hired to remove any invasive exotics on an annual basis or if only a
small amount exists, in-house removal and/or treatment will be conducted.
Small seedlings should be pulled by hand to avoid unnecessary herbicide application.
Contractors or staff will chemically treat in place or cut and treat all shrub and tree-like species
on the FLEPPC Category I or II list as well as identified nuisance weedy species. Specific
methods should be done according to the recommended control column in Table 10, unless new
treatments are discovered that work well and do not cause non-target damage. Extreme care
should be used to avoid any non-target damage, near sensitive natives, native seedlings and
mature pine trees. The use of imazapyr containing herbicides should be avoided on site.
Action Item 2.7: Establish long-term vegetation monitoring
Long-term management of the preserve should be based on biological data. Changes following
baseline conditions should be assessed as negative or positive, and management strategies
changed appropriately.
Goal 3: Wildlife Management
Action Item 3.1: Establish long-term wildlife monitoring
While some wildlife data has been collected, additional baseline data should also be collected,
especially on invertebrates, small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. The site manager may
contract this work out or enlist the assistance of local educators to coordinate student research
projects. Wildlife and plant sampling, including bird surveys, should take place at regular
intervals(ca. 5-10 years) to detect long-term trends.
Action Item 3.2: Native wildlife species management
Management of native animal species at the Rivers Road Preserve should correspond with the
management goals of the pine flatwoods, mixed wetland hardwoods, cypress, wetland forested
and freshwater marsh habitats. Maintenance of viable populations of native animal species
should be conducted by implementing management measures that maintain the viability of the
natural habitat. The Rivers Road Preserve should be managed to provide adequate habitat for
listed species found on or near the site. Some management recommendations for state and
federally listed plant and animal species found on the preserve are listed below. General
management for all listed species would be consistent with general vegetation management
recommendations, exotic species control, and fire management.
Action Item 3.3: Problem wildlife species management
Indigenous and non-native vertebrate and invertebrate species may become pests under certain
conditions. Control of indigenous pest species is recommended if they interfere with
management goals. To date, evidence of wild hogs making wallows on the preserve has been
noted, but no actual hogs have been seen.
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Action Item 3.4: Acquire services of licensed or qualified contractors for the removal of Ask
invasive exotic or problematic animal species
Wild hogs have not been observed on the preserve, however, if they become a nuisance, they
may be trapped using pens with trap doors and baited with acorns or old corn. A contractor
would most likely be hired to accomplish this if the need arises. Wild hogs may be hunted in
other areas of the County that are designated wildlife management areas however; this will be
strongly prohibited on the preserve. Total exclusion of hogs is not usually possible. However,
the amount of hog damage will be monitored to determine the appropriate action needed.
If feral cat colonies are found near the preserve, the element that sustains an undesirable
population should be identified and efforts made to ask property owners to control (i.e. refuse
bins, dumpsters, and supplementary feeding by humans). Traps may also be set if other methods
are unsuccessful. A similar approach shall be taken to control feral dog populations, through
elimination of the elements that sustain their undesirable population.
Goal 4: Create and Implement a Prescribed Fire Management Plan
Fires were a naturally occurring event in native communities prior to mankind's intervention.
The primary ecological functions of fire are to eliminate accumulated plant material, return
nutrients to the soil, and germinate fire-dependent species. In today's preserve areas prescribed
burning is an essential tool in both land and wildlife management, and helps reduce potential
catastrophic wildfires that can occur in the wildland/urban interface areas. Proper prescribed
burns promote the growth of green shoots, roots, and rhizomes of grasses and sedges that are
then available for foraging. In wetlands, burning creates deep pools and edges for nesting and
feeding of waterfowl and controls undesirable vegetation.
Much of Collier County is comprised of natural communities in general, that are dependent on
fire to maintain species composition and diversity. The use of prescribed fire as a management
tool will be critical to the long-term health of the natural communities and native species at the
Rivers Road Preserve.
Action Item 4.1: Create a Prescribed Fire Management Plan
Below is the prescribed fire management plan for Rivers Road Preserve. The preserve land
manager with assistance from the Florida Forest Service (FFS) and/or a Certified Prescribed
Burn Manager will implement the prescribed fire management plan according to the specific
needs of Rivers Road Preserve. Staff may coordinate this effort with other local qualified
agencies for review and approval.
Objectives
The prescribed fire plan for the Rivers Road Preserve will be a program that mimics the
natural fire cycle for the various natural community types identified within the preserve.
Timing, based on weather conditions and ignition practices can be modified to accomplish
goals ranging from exotic vegetation control to wildlife habitat enhancement and fuel
reduction within burn units. This prescribed fire management plan will be implemented at
Rivers Road Preserve for ecological purposes. The goals and objectives established for the
preserve will be clearly laid out and incorporated into each prescription. Generally,
prescribed burns conducted at the Rivers Road Preserve will involve a variety of firing
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techniques over a range of weather conditions to create mosaic burn patterns that will benefit
an array of wildlife species.
Burn Units
The Preserve can be divided into smaller burn units. The creation of burn units not only
facilitates the application of prescribed fire, it will also help create a mixture of burned and
unburned areas across the preserve. Patches of unburned habitat in conjunction with newly
burned areas will increase habitat heterogeneity, ensuring a wide range of habitat
compositions year round for use by a diversity of wildlife species. The size and boundaries of
each burn unit should be established based on the preserve boundaries and the location of
existing barriers such as fence lines, ditches, roads and other existing structures. Fire breaks
will consist of primitive roads, trails disked to bare mineral soil, wet lines or foam lines
and/or natural vegetation breaks.
If new fire breaks are needed, efforts will be made to minimize disturbance to existing native
vegetation during their creation and maintenance, and no wetlands will be adversely
impacted as a result of fire break construction. In the event of a wildfire FFS may create fire
breaks within existing wetlands. If plow lines are put in as a result of a wildfire, whether
they are in a wetland or upland, efforts will be made to restore those areas to prior grade.
Burn Frequency and Burn Season
Historically the frequency of wildfire in Florida's ecosystem varied from year to year. However,
fire frequency for natural communities as found within the Rivers Road Preserve will generally
follow these guidelines (FNAI 1990):
• mesic pine flatwoods—frequent (2-4 year cycle);
• wet pine flatwoods—frequent (3-7 year cycle);
• depression marshes—more frequent around the periphery(3-7 year cycle) and
becoming more occasional toward the center(8-25 year cycle);
• cypress/pine/cabbage palm—transitional community from moist upland to hydric
sites—occasional (8-25 year cycle);
• upland mixed forest—rare or no fire; densely closed canopy limits air movement and
light penetration, making high humidity relatively constant.
Burn units incorporating multiple natural communities under different fire cycles will be
burned based on the community requiring the shortest cycle. The other communities within
that burn unit that are on a longer fire cycle will likely not burn as frequently since fuels will
not have built up. The seasonality, weather factors, or ignition techniques of the prescribed
burn will also be chosen to selectively burn the community within the unit with the shortest
fire cycle.
Fire maintenance of hydric hammocks will be accomplished primarily by burning the
adjacent flatwoods and marshes, reducing the fuel needed to ignite the hammock.
Maintenance of natural species composition and protection from excess fuel build-up will be
accomplished by allowing fire to enter the edges but not completely burn through the
hammocks. Fire will be introduced into the edges of hammocks under moist conditions that
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will not result in a destructive fire through the hammock. Fire frequency in this situation will
be dictated by the frequency of fires in adjacent communities.
Fire will be applied to freshwater marshes in conjunction with the burning of surrounding
pine flatwoods to maintain open herbaceous ponds and control woody plants found primarily
on the edge of these depressions. The centers of depression marshes are much wetter than
the surrounding flatwoods and may not burn at the same time the flatwoods are ignited. In
this case, a separate fire under guarded conditions may be needed to carry the fire across the
marsh.
Qualitative observations will be made within each burn unit on an annual basis to determine
current fuel loads, habitat structure, and habitat quality. The burn schedule will then be
modified as needed based on these qualitative observations. Areas where fire cannot be
implemented will instead be mowed, roller chopped, or pruned to mimic effects of fire. The
burn manager will conduct post-burn inspections to ensure the burn objectives are being met
for each natural community. When possible, vegetation monitoring activities will be
conducted around burn events to help assess the effectiveness of the prescribed burn regime.
Burn Schedule
Generally, prescribed burns within the Rivers Road Preserve will be conducted during the
growing season (mid-March through early September) as well as during the dry season
(November to mid-May). Essentially, burns will be scheduled when conditions allow, and
the timing selected to best suit the objectives for each burn unit, as well as to provide
protection to listed species.
Burn Manager Duties
Florida Statute 590.125 and Chapter 5I-2 of the Florida Administrative Code (FAC) grant the
Florida Forest Service the authority to regulate prescribed burning in Florida. Prescribed
burning will be planned and carried out by a Certified Prescribed Burn Manager (as licensed
by the FFS) and experienced fire crews utilizing a Prescribed Burn Plan form, referred to
from here on as the prescription. The planning and application of prescribed burning will
comply with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
Each prescription will include the following at a minimum:
• purpose for the burn;
• brief description of the natural community type(s) to be burned;
• a map depicting the location of the burn, firebreak locations, potential hazard areas
and escape routes for the fire crew;
• acceptable ranges of weather and soil moisture conditions;
• a pre-burn inspection of burn unit, firebreaks and any potential hazards (including
power transmission lines, active cattle grazing locations, and existing manmade
structures) within the burn unit;
• names and contact information for neighbors, lease holders, local fire district and
other pertinent stakeholders to be contacted prior to ignition;
• techniques used to ignite the controlled burn;
• personnel, equipment and safety requirements;
• personnel assignments and responsibilities; and Aiork
• post-burn evaluation.
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All necessary permits and authorizations will be obtained by the Certified Prescribed Burn
Manager before implementation of the burn. As part of each prescription, the burn manager
will develop an emergency action plan that will include escape routes for all personnel and
actions to be taken in the event of unexpected weather changes or fire behavior.
Weather and Fuel Considerations
When developing recommendations for a prescribed burn, the Burn Manager will give
careful consideration to weather and fuel conditions including, but not limited to: wind,
relative humidity, temperature, rainfall and soil moisture, air mass stability and atmospheric
dispersion. It will be the responsibility of the Burn Manager to obtain current weather
forecasts from FFS, and other weather sources as necessary, prior to executing the prescribed
burn. Although preferred weather and fuel conditions may vary based on specific burn
objectives, Wade and Lundsford (1989) suggest the following as preferred conditions for
prescribed burns in southern forests:
• 6 to 20 mph persistent surface winds;
• 30 to 55 percent relative humidity;
• temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit are recommended when the primary
objective is to control undesirable species;
• damp soil moistures;
• slightly unstable or neutral airmass stability; and
• KBDI of 0 to 600 dependent on burn objectives.
Smoke Management
Smoke management is an essential component of the burn prescription. The Burn Manager
will evaluate the potential impacts of each prescribed burn to smoke-sensitive areas located
within a 20-mile radius from the location of the burn by employing a Screening System, such
as recommended in Wade and Lundsford (1989). Based on definitions contained within the
state regulations, smoke sensitive areas are areas within which smoke could have an adverse
impact for reasons of visibility, health or human welfare (NRCS 2003). Monitoring of the
prescribed burn will continue until smoke no longer presents a potential hazard and there is
no potential for the fire to reignite and cause an uncontrolled fire.
Post-Burn Evaluation
The purpose of the post-burn evaluation is to ensure the objectives of the burn were attained
and gain information to be used in future burns (Wade and Lundsford 1989). The post-burn
evaluation will be conducted by the Burn Manager within one week following the burn, as
well as a second evaluation after the first post-fire growing season. Quantitative vegetation
monitoring, photo documentation and wildlife monitoring can be implemented to further aid
in determining if the objectives of each burn were met.
Action Item 4.2: Develop Burn Units
Burn units will need to be delineated for Rivers Road Preserve, as outlined in the prescribed
fire management plan above prior to the implementation of the plan.
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Action Item 4.3: Install Perimeter Fire Lines
Fire lines will be installed utilizing best management practices to minimize impacts to mature
trees, natural communities and wildlife populations. Firebreaks will be disked or mulched
down to soil and will go around all mature pine trees; they will be a maximum of 8-10 feet
wide.
Action Item 4.4: Hold Pre-Fire Public Meetings and Notify Surrounding Community
Public meeting(s) will be held before each burn and a system of notifying neighboring
landowners in advance of prescribed burns will be established (via door postings, email,
phone trees, etc.) this system will be executed before each prescribed fire. A press release
will also be sent out to notify the newspaper, radio and news channels. Information will also
be provided to the County Manager, County Commissioners and local fire departments prior
to any burns.
The use of prescribed fire as a management tool will be critical to the long-term health of the
natural habitat and native species at the Rivers Road Preserve. Pine Flatwoods communities and
marshes require periodic fires. If pine flatwoods areas such as this go without fire for too many
years, fuels build up and wildfires can occur. The first controlled burn should be conducted in
the winter. The site should be burned in 3-5 year increments eventually moving towards burning
in the growing season. The County will work closely with the Florida Forest Service (FFS) to
conduct the first prescribed burn on the property. We will also work with the County Fire
Department to protect the surrounding structures and property.
Goal 5: Restoration of Native Vegetation ,
Action Item 5.1: Encourage natural recruitment
In at least one area of the preserve where several old structures were removed, signs of natural
recruitment of pines, grasses and myrtle have been noted. Removal of exotics will further
encourage restoration. Further planting of pines may be considered in this area and due to the
proximity to the planned parking / picnic area and trailhead, may provide an opportunity for
educating visitors about restoration. As exotics are removed throughout the preserve,progress of
natural recruitment will be monitored via photo points.
Action Item 5.2: Plant supplemental ground cover species
After a burn regime is established, vegetation monitoring will take place. If natural restoration
does not occur, supplemental ground cover species will be planted.
Action Item 5.3: Monitor and treat new invasive, exotic species that may occur post-fire
and in fire breaks to prevent them from hindering native recruitment and re-growth
After prescribed burns, any newly identified areas of invasive, exotics will be noted and a
treatment plan prepared.
Goal 6: Prepare Preserve for Public Access
Action Item 6.1: Relocate Gate
There is currently a locked gate on Rivers Road just north of the privately—owned outparcel in
the center of the preserve. Staff will coordinate the relocation of the gate with the property
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owner to just north of the planned parking area, to the entrance to the private driveway, or to
another mutually agreed upon location.
Action Item 6.2: Develop an ADA accessible parking area
A small parking area will be developed to facilitate a few vehicles and will also provide one or
two handicapped parking spaces (Figure 9). Crushed/hardened rock, shell or pervious concrete
may be used to create the parking lot. Contractors will provide a design and pricing to County
staff to determine how to implement while providing the least amount of impacts to the chosen
site.
Action Item 6.3: Develop an ADA accessible picnic area
Adjacent to the planned parking area is an area identified as an ideal location for a picnic area.
Staff will determine the size and scope of the picnic area based upon the size and location of the
parking area that is needed, the vegetation available to provide natural cover and cost.
Action Item 6.4: Develop a trail system
After appropriate actions have been taken to reduce or eliminate exotic vegetation, trails will be
established throughout the property in at least two phases to allow for hiking and nature
observation within the preserve (Figure 9). The Phase I hiking trails are proposed to be
approximately 1.34 miles long and will wind throughout the northern portion of the preserve,
with trail heads near the future parking area and adjacent to Rivers Road. The trailhead along
Rivers Road will lead into a trail that partially follows a formerly cleared road adjacent to a
power line corridor. The trail will then follow to the north and west up into the northern portion
of the preserve and back down adjacent to Rivers Road and will follow as closely as possible any
areas that are cleared of exotics. This area has scattered Brazilian Pepper, some Melalueca and
significant quantities of cabbage palm. There are several marshy areas that will be avoided,
however, allowing the trail to come close to these areas for viewing will be considered. Also, the
desirability of a trail segment leading to the edge of the western side of the pond will be
coordinated with adjacent property owners.
The second trailhead in Phase I will be located adjacent to the planned parking/picnic area and
will direct visitors through an area that will be cleared of air potato and Brazilian pepper and
then potentially follow an old fire line. This area has recently seen some natural restoration and
pine recruitment following the removal of some old structures when the property was conveyed.
Visitors will be provided with information about this restoration and trails will be developed to
allow viewing of the restoration area, but not access. The University of Florida has started a
biological control program to reduce the prevalence of air potato in this area. Trails will be
marked with information regarding this program and the results.
Hiking trails in Phase II are proposed to be approximately 0.45 miles long and will connect to
Phase I trails on the eastern side of the preserve and will continue south into the pop ash marsh
area, with a potential boardwalk (approximately 600 feet long) constructed to allow viewing of
the marsh while prohibiting access. The boardwalk would only be built if future funding allows.
Once established, trails will need to be maintained and monitored to ensure that visitors stay on
them and no new trails are being made. Clearing the trails of fallen trees and debris and creating
new trails may also enable and increase the illegal use of all terrain vehicles (ATVs) and dirt
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bikes on the property. Local birding groups may frequent the preserve and County staff may Atet4,
provide quarterly public tours of the site. Local schools may also use the site for nature based
field trips.
Goal 7: Facilitate Uses of the Site for Educational Opportunities
Action Item 7.1: Develop interpretive signage to educate preserve visitors
Once a trail system is complete, site specific signage will be developed to educate visitors on
plant and animal identification and ecosystem information. A small kiosk will be built and
placed near the parking area with a sign and map of the trails. Another educational sign will be
installed near the picnic area.
Action Item 7.2: Provide preserve brochures in rainproof box on site
A brochure outlining the native plant communities and wildlife present at the preserve will be
created by County staff and kept in rainproof boxes attached to the kiosk near the preserve
entrance(s). These boxes will be inspected monthly by the Preserve Manager and refilled as
necessary.
Action Item 7.3: Coordinate with local groups to encourage site visitation
Staff will work within the Parks and Recreation Department to encourage visitation by summer
campers. Local Boy and Girl Scout Troop and local church groups will be notified about the site
and will be encouraged to assist in small projects on site. Birding groups will also be notified
about the birding opportunities on site.
Goal 8: Provide a Plan for Disaster Preparedness
The Conservation Collier Program has a plan in place to examine the preserve and future access
ways after storms. Collier County also has several vendors under contract for disaster debris
removal.
Action Item 8.1: Establish pathway for emergency rescue crews to access
Creating pathways for fire and rescue will include maintaining fire breaks around the preserve.
Emergency medical technician and paramedic access may be accommodated via these fire breaks
or on at-grade stabilized pathways. They may use Rivers Road or Moulder Drive. Fire lines will
be cut and maintained to allow for FFS to access areas of the property however, once controlled
burns are conducted the chances of a wildfire will be greatly reduced. Helicopter landing GPS
coordinates will be included in the final approved burn plan.
Action Item 8.2: Survey trees along the trail and the perimeter of the property annually
for damage
Staff will utilize the services of a certified arborist to determine diseased, weak, or damaged
trees/limbs surrounding the trails and kiosks that should be removed for safety reasons and prior
to hurricane season. This activity is intended to reduce the risk of visitor injury.
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Action Item 8.3: Visit preserve within 48 hours after.a storm event to assess damage
Staff will take photos of damage and fill out appropriate Collier County Risk Management
Department forms. If damage is extensive, the preserve will be closed until public safety hazards
are cleared.
Action Item 8.4: Promptly clear storm debris from preserve
If necessary, a Collier County emergency debris removal contractor will be contracted as soon as
possible after the storm to schedule clean-up. Removal of debris and damaged or downed trees
along the trail system may be needed. Downed trees and limbs that do not appear to be a public
safety hazard will be cleared at the discretion of the Preserve Manager. As much of the
hurricane debris as possible may be chipped and retained on-site to be used as mulch for the trail
system.
Goal 9: Partnerships and Regional Coordination
Action Item 9.1: Coordinate with and notify stakeholders
Notify surrounding property owners, including adjacent public schools, churches, and interested
community members of the plans for the preserve and receive input on the final management
plan.
Action Item 9.2: Interagency Agreements and Cooperating Agencies
An interagency agreement may be formed between two or more agencies that frequently assist
each other in performing prescribed burning activities. The Florida Forest Service may also
require the County to sign an interagency agreement before they can offer assistance.
Action Item 9.3: Cooperating Agencies
Coordinate with the following as appropriate:
• Florida Audubon Society-bird watching opportunities
• Florida Forestry Service-prescribed burning assistance
• Collier County Fire Department
• Collier County Sheriff's Office
Action Item 9.4: Potential Cooperating Organizations
Coordinate with the following as appropriate:
• Naples Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society
• Local Boy and Girl Scout Troops
• Other community groups to assist with trail creation and other similar projects
Goal 10: Officially Open the Preserve for Public Access
Action Item 10.1: Onsite grand opening ceremony
Once the access issues are resolved, the site is determined to be safe for public access, and after
the parking area and trails and signage have been installed, the site will become officially open
for public use. A ceremony will be held on site to commemorate the event. The District Collier
County Commissioner will be invited to speak.
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Rivers Road Preserve Conceptual Plan
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4.5. Establish an Operational Plan for the Rivers Road Preserve
This section provides management recommendations for operation of the Rivers Road Preserve.
It discusses maintenance and budgeting needs, the possibilities for contracting the restoration
activities, coordination, and other management issues.
4.5.1 Maintenance
The primary maintenance activities for the preserve will include the control of dumping and
littering within and around the preserve and trail. Other preliminary maintenance activities for
the preserve will include invasive exotic species control and trail creation. Once the preserve is
open to the public other significant maintenance activities will be necessary for the upkeep of all
amenities and signage including but not limited to the trailhead/parking areas and interpretive
signage.
4.5.2 Estimated Annual Costs and Funding Sources
Preliminary budget estimates for Rivers Road Preserve include cost breakdowns associated with
resource restoration and management. The funding source identified for the restoration and
management activities is the Conservation Collier Program Management Trust Fund. Table 11
shows the activities planned for the next ten years and the initial and annual cost estimate of each
activity. This budget was developed using data from Conservation Collier and other cooperating
entities, and is based on actual costs for land management activities and maintenance. The
budget considers available funding and is consistent with the direction necessary to achieve the
goals and objectives for Rivers Road Preserve. The cost estimates provided in Table 11 are based
on best available knowledge, are subject to change and many could not be given at this time.
Grants will be sought to supplement existing management funds. Staff will also utilize the
Collier County Sheriff's Department weekenders program for certain labor projects and may also
separately involve the County Scout programs for trail and amenity creation and enhancement.
Private conservation organizations may also provide funding for specific projects.
Conservation Collier 45
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Appendix 1
Rivers Road Legal Descriptions
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Property Identification Number: 00216000001
Legal Description: THE WEST ONE-HALF (W 1/2) OF SOUTHWEST QUARTER
(SW '/4) OF SOUTHWEST QUARTER
(SW ' ) OF NORTHEAST QUARTER (NE 14), LESS WEST
AND SOUTH TEN (10') FEET THEREOF, LOCATED IN
SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 48 SOUTH, RANGE 27 EAST,
COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA.
AND
Legal Description: THE EAST HALF (E 1/2) OF THE SOUTHWEST QUARTER
(SW %) OF THE SOUTHWEST
QUARTER (SW '/) OF THE NORTHEAST (NE ' )
QUARTER, LESS THE SOUTH TEN (10') FEET THEREOF,
IN SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 48 SOUTH, RANGE 27 EAST,
COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA.
Property Identification Number: 00215440002
Legal Description: THE WEST 1/2 OF THE NORTH ONE HALF (N'/2) OF
THE NORTHWEST QUARTER (NW 1/) OF THE
SOUTHEAST QUARTER (SE 1/4), LESS NORTH TEN
(10') FEET AND WEST (10') FEET, AND THE EAST
(10') FEET THEREOF, SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 48
SOUTH, RANGE 27 EAST, COLLIER COUNTY,
FLORIDA.
AND
Legal Description: N 1/2 OF SW 1/4 OF NW 1/4 OF SE '/4, LESS W 10 FT
AND LESS S 10 FT, WITHIN SECTION 30,
TOWNSHIP 48 SOUTH, RANGE 27 EAST, COLLIER
COUNTY, FLORIDA.
AND
Legal Description: SOUTHEAST QUARTER (SE '/) OF THE
NORTHWEST QUARTER (NW ' ) OF THE
SOUTHEAST QUARTER (SE 1/4), OF SECTION 30,
TOWNSHIP 48 SOUTH, RANGE 27 EAST,
COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA.
Amok
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Property Identification Number: 00217080004
Legal Description: THE SOUTH HALF (S 1/2) OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER
(NE %) OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER (NE 'A) OF THE
SOUTHWEST QUARTER (SW '/4), LESS THE NORTH 130'
FEET OF THE EAST 335.08 FEET THEREOF, IN SECTION
30, TOWNSHIP 48 SOUTH, RANGE 27 EAST, COLLIER
COUNTY, FLORIDA.
AND
Legal Description: THE NORTH HALF (N 1/2) OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER
(SE '/4) OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER (NE '/4) OF THE
SOUTHWEST QUARTER (SW 1/4), LESS THE EAST 10 FEET
THEREOF, IN SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 48 SOUTH, RANGE
27 EAST, COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA.
AND
Legal Description: S1/2 OF SE 1/4 OF NE '/4 OF SW 1/4, LESS E 10 FT
AND LESS S10 FT, WITHIN SECTION 30,
TOWNSHIP 48 SOUTH, RANGE 27 EAST, COLLIER
COUNTY, FLORIDA.
Property Identification Number: 00214760000
Legal Description: N '/2 OF SW 1/4 OF SE '/4, LESS N 10 FT, LESS E 10
FT AND LESS W 10 FT, WITHIN SECTION 30,
TOWNSHIP 48 SOUTH, RANGE 27 EAST, COLLIER
COUNTY, FLORIDA.
AND
Legal Description: SW 1/4 OF SW '/4 OF SE '/4, LESS W 10 FT AND
LESS S 10 FT, WITHIN SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP
48 SOUTH, RANGE 27 EAST, COLLIER COUNTY,
FLORIDA.
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Appendix 2
Floristic Inventory of the Rivers Road Preserve
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Comprehensive Plant List. Data compiled by Dr.James Burch, Phd. Summer 2013
(Other plants documented by County staff noted in table).
Plants listed in the State of Florida Hydric Soil Field Indicators and National List of Plant Species that Occur in
Wetlands are indicated,respectively,beneath each species as appropriate.Listing is from State of Florida Wetland
Plant List(State of Florida Hydric Soil Field Indicators,lists for Chapter 62340;Tobe et al. 1998)and National List
of Plant Species that Occur in Wetlands(Reed 1998).FAC=facultative wetland species;FACW=facultative to
wet wetland species;OBL=obligate wetland species; *=non-native plant species.
All plants listed by the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council as invasive exotic are noted in table as Category I or II.
Other exotic plants are noted with an asterisk following the scientific name.
Listed FLEPPC
Scientific Name Common Name Wetland status status Category Staff
Abrus precatorius* rosary pea I
Acacia auriculiformis* earleaf acacia I x
Acer rubrum red maple FACW,FAC
Aeschynomene Americana jointvetch - ,FACW
Agave sp.* agave
Aloe vera* aloe
Alternanthera ramosissima chaff flower
Ambrosia artemesiifolia ragweed FAC, FAC
Andropogon glomeratus bushybeard bluestem FACW, FACW+
Andropogon virginicus bluestem FAC, FAC-
Ardisia escallonioides mariberry FAC x
Arecastrum romanzoffianum* queen palm
Baccharis halimifolia salt bush FAC, FAC
Berchemia scandens rattan vine --, FAC-
Bidens alba beggar ticks FAC
blechnum, swamp
Blechnum serrulatum fern FACW,FACW+
Boehmeria cylindrica false nettle OBL, FACW+
Bougainvillea glabra* bougainvillea x
Buchnera Americana blue hearts
Bumelia celastrina buckthorn FAC, --
Bumelia tenax buckthorn FAC, --
Callicaipa americana beauty berry
Campsis radicans trumpet creeper --,FAC
Carex gigantea large sedge OBL, OBL
Carphephorous coiymbosus chaffhead
Cassia chamaecrista pigeon pea
Cassytha filiformis love vine -- , FAC-
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Madagascar Aft
Catharanthus roseus* periwinkle
Cenchrus incertus sandspur
Centella asiatica spadeleaf FACW,FACW
Cephalanthus occidentalis button bush OBL,OBL
Cereus sp.* cactus
Citrus spp.* citrus
Chiococca parviflora snowberry FAC, --
Cladium jamaicense saw grass OBL,OBL
Commelina diffusa dayflower FACW,FACW
Conoclinium coelestinum mist flower FAC,FAC
Conyza canadensis dwarf horseweed
Coreopsis leavenworthii tickseed FACW,FACW
Crinum americanum swamp lilly OBL,OBL
Crotalaria incana rattlesnake weed
Crotalaria rotundifolia
Croton punctatus Gulf croton
Cyperus sp. sedge FACW
Delonix regia* royal poinciana
Desmodium incanum --
Desmodium tortuosum* --
Dichanthelium acuminatum grass FACW, FAC
Dichanthelium sp. grass
Dioscorea bulbifera* air potato
Emilia sonchifolia* tassel flower
Encyclia tampensis butterfly orchid
Eragrostis elliottii grass FAC,FACW
Eryngium balduinii snakeroot FAC,FACW+
Eupatorium capillifolium dog fennel FAC,--
Eustachys glauca grass FACW,FACW
Ficus aurea strangler fig _ FAC,FACW
Fimbristilis spathacea hurricane grass FAC,FACW+
Fraxinus caroliniana pop ash OBL,OBL
Galactea prostrata milk pea
Gaura angustifolia beeblosom
Gratiola hispida -- FAC,FAC
Habernaria sp. bog orchids FACW x
Hamelia patens fire bush x
Heterotheca subaxillaris camphorweed
osilk
Hypericum tetrapetalum -- FAC,FACW
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Ilex cassine dahoon holly OBL,FACW
Ilex glabra gallberry --,FACW
Ipomoea indica morning glory FAC, --
Ipomoea sagittata morning glory --,FACW
Ipomoea trichocarpa morning glory
Iresine diffusa blood leaf
Lantana camera* lantana I x
Leersia hexandra cut grass OBL,OBL
Leucaena leucocephala* tantan
Lippia nodiflora* carpetweed
Ludwigia sp. ludwigia OBL x
Lyonia ferruginea rusty lyonia x
Lythrum alatum loosestrife OBL,FACW+
Mangifera indica* mango
Melaleuca quinquenervia* cajeput FAC,FAC
Melanthera nivea squarestem FACW, --
Melochia corchorifolia* chocolate weed FAC,FAC
Mikania scandens hempweed --, FACW+
Momordica charantia* bitter gourd
Morus rubra red mulberry FAC,FAC
Myrcianthes fragrans naked wood
Myrica cerifera wax myrtle FAC, FAC+
Mycoblastus sp. blood lichen x
Oeceoclades maculata* monk orchid x
Ophioglassum palmatum hand fern E-FL x
Oplismenus setarius basket grass FAC, --
Oxalis corniculata sorrel
Panicum hemitomon maidencane OBL
Parthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia creeper --,FAC
Passiflora suberosa wild passion vine
Pennisetum purpureum* Napier grass FAC,
Per sea borbonia red bay --, FACW
Phlebodium aureum golden serpent fern _
Phyla stoechadifolia southern fogfruit FAC,FAC
Phyllanthus abnormis phyllanthus
Phyllanthus urinaria* phyllanthus _FAC
Physalis arenicola ground cherry
Pinus elliottii slash pine FACW, FACW
Pluchea odorata fleabane FACW,FACW
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Polygala grandiflora candyroot FACW,--
Polypodium polypodioides resurrection fern
Polypremum procumbens rustweed FAC, --
Pontederia cordata pickerelweed OBL
Psidium guajava* guava II
Psychotria nervosa wild coffee FAC, --
Pteridium aquilinum bracken fern
Pteris vittata*
Quercus laurifolia laurel oak FACW,FACW
Quercus virginiana live oak
Rapanea punctata myrsine --,FAC
Rhoeo discolor* oyster plant
Rhus copallina sumac
Rhynchospora colorata white top sedge FACW,FACW
Rhynchospora intermedia beakrush FACW,FACW
Richardia grandiflora* Richardia
Rubus trivialis dewberry FAC, FAC
Sabal palmetto sabal palm FAC,FAC
Sagittaria lancifolia duck potato OBL,OBL
Salix caroliniana willow OBL,OBL ,
Sanseveria hyacinthoides* bowstring hemp II
Sarcostemma clausum* white vine --,FACW
Schinus terebinthifolius* Brazilian pepper FAC,FAC 1
Scoparia dulcis sweetbroom FAC
Serenoa repens saw palmetto
Setaria geniculata knotroot bristlegrass FAC,FAC
Sida cordifolia Indian mallow
Sideroxylon celastrinum saffron plum FAC
Sideroxylon tenax bully
Smilax auriculata greenbriar
Smilax laurifolia greenbriar FACW+
Smilax tamnoides greenbriar -- FAC
Spermacoce verticillata* --
Sporobolus indicus* smut grass OBL, OBL
Stachytarpheta jamaicensis blue porterweed x
Stenotaphrum secundatum St. Augustine grass
Syzygium cumini* Java plum 1
Tabebuia sp.* Tabebuia x
Taxodium distichum bald cypress OBL, OBL
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Thalia geniculata alligator flag OBL, OBL
Thelypteris normalis fern FACW,FACW
Tillandsia balbisiana air plant T-FL
Tillandsia faciculata cardinal airplant E-FL x
Tillandsia recurvata ball moss
Tillandsia setacea air plant
Tillandsia usneoides Spanish moss
Tillandsia utriculata air plant E-FL
Toxicodendron radicans poison ivy --,FAC
Tripsacum dactyloides Fakahatchee grass FAC,FAC
Typha domingensis Southern Cattail OBL x
Urena lobata* Caesar's weed
Verbesina virginica frostweed FAC
Vitis munsoniana muscadine grape --, FAC
Vittaria lineata shoestring fern --, FAC
Woodwardia virginica chain fern FACW x
Wedelia trilobata* wedelia II
Ximenia americana hog plum
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Appendix 3
Florida Natural Areas Inventory Biodiversity Matrix
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FNAI BiodiversityMatri.x
rrFlorida Natural Areas Inventory
Biodiversity Matrix Query Results
UNOFFICIAL REPORT
Created 5/1512013
NFLOTitiDA (ContectFNAI DataServices Coordinator
a irr N T O " for an official Standard Data Report)
INVENTORY
NOTE:The Biodiversity Matrix includes only rare species and natural communities tracked by FNAI.
Report for 1 Matrix Unit: 42028
-j Descriptions
li ri ' DOCUMENTED-There is a documented occurrence in the FNAI
r, database of the species or community within this Matrix Unit.
DOCUMENTED-HISTORIC-There is a documented occurrence in the FNAI database of the species or community within this Matrix
i Unit;howeverthe occurrence has not been observed/reported
4•r- within the last twenty years,
r,. LIKELY -The species or community is known to occur in this
vicinity, and is considered likely within this Matrix Unit because:
..o . ' •� ' .. 1,documented occurrence overlaps this and adjacent Matrix
g Cott rert ° Units, but the documentation isn't precise enough to indicate
which of those Units the species or community is actually
located in;or
!'" _ 2.there is a documented occurrence in the vicinity and there is
suitable habitat for that species or community within this
Matrix Unit,
€ 7 - a POTENTIAL-This Matrix Unit lies within the known or predicted
'- t. range of the speaes or community based on expert knowledge and
. environmental variables such as climate,soils,topography, and
l landcover.
se 'r I '
Matrix Unit ID: 42028
1 Documented Element Found
Scientific and Common Names Global State federal State
Rank Rank Status Listing
Puma conmlor corgi GET1 SI. LE FE
Florida Panther
0 Documented-Historic Elements Found
4 Likely Elements Found
Scientific and Common Names Global State Federal State
Rank Rank Status Listing
Mesic flatwoods G4 S4 N N
Mvctenaa americana
Wood Stork G4 S2 LE FE
Sciurus nicer-avicennra
Mangrove Fox Squirrel GST2 S2 N ST
Ursus americanus floridanus GST2 52 N ST*
http:lldata.labin.o:g/...ing/FNAI_BioMatrix/GndSearch.efm?sel_id-420288cextent=633674.6875,252604.21875,635284.125,254213.538125[511512013 2:31:43 PM)
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FNAI Biodiversity Matrix
!Florida Black Bear
Matrix Unit ID:42028
13 Potential Elements for Matrix Unit 42028
Scientific and Common Names Global State Federal State
Rank Rank Status Listing
Athene cunicularia floridana G4T3 53 N SSC
Florida Burrowing Owl
frvmnrchnn rnunFri G3 53 LT FT
Eastern Indigo Snake
Elytraria carotiniensis var.angustifolla 0412 52 N N
Narrow-leaved Carolina Scelystem
Frrmons florirMnrrs G1 51 PE ST
Florida bonneted bat
Gooherus aolvahemuz G3 S3 C ST
Gopher Tortoise
Lechea cernua G3 S3 N LT
Nodding Pinweed
Jjnum certeri var.smell!! G2T2 S2 N LE
Small's Flax
Musteia frenata peninsulae G5T3 53 N N
Florida Long-tailed Weasel
Memastvlts floridana G2 52 N LE
Celestial Lily
picoides borealis G3 S2 LE FE
Red-cockaded Woodpecker
Polyrrhiza linden!! G2G4 S2 N LE
Ghost Orchid
,Rostrhamus snciahllIs plrrmherrL G4G5T2 S2 LE FE
Snail Kite
Roystonea elate 0203 52 N LE
Florida Royal Palm
AOk
Disclaimer
The data maintained by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory represent the single most comprehensive source of information
available on the locations of rare species and other significant ecological resources statewide.However,the data are not always
based on comprehensive or site-specific field surveys.Therefore,this information should not be regarded as a final statement on
the biological resources of the site being considered,nor should it be substituted for on-site surveys.FNAI shall not be held liable
for the accuracy and completeness of these data,or opinions or conclusions drawn from these data.FNAI is not inviting reliance on
these data. Inventory data are designed for the purposes of conservation planning and scientific research and are not intended for
use as the primary criteria for regulatory decisions.
Unofficial Report
These results are considered unofficial.FNAI offers a St:anrlard nnrn Rem lest option for those needing certifiable data.
http ddaca.labins.nre'_ingfPNAT BinMamxI(ridScarch.cfin?scl id 32023&axt t-633674.6875^526DS 21875,635284.I25,2S4211578125[5,I5 2:11
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Appendix 4
Master Site File Letter from the Division of Historical Resources
indicating no recorded Archaeological or Cultural sites on the
Preserve
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tik
This record search is for informational purposes only and does NOT constitute a
1�)F project review.This search only identifies resources recorded at the Florida Master
Site File and does NOT provide project approval from the Division of Historical
Resources. Contact the Compliance and Review Section of the Division of Historical
Resources at 8504454333 for project review information.
January 8,2013 WFlorida
Mast
Alexandra Sulecki Sitcg•
Coordinator,Conservation Collier Program File
Collier County Parks and Recreation Department
North Collier Regional Park
15000 Livingston Road
Naples,FL 34109
(239)252-2961
E-mail:AlexandraSuleckiri ecolliergov.net
In response to your inquiry of January 7,2013,the Florida Master Site File lists no previously recorded
archeological sites or any other cultural resources in the following section of Collier County
T48S R27E Section 30 based on the project area indicated on map submitted with search request.
When interpreting the results of this search,please consider the following information:
• This search area may contain unrecorded archaeological sites,historical structures
or other resources even if previously surveyed for cultural resources.
• Federal,state and local laws require formal environmental review for most
projects. This search DOES NOT constitute such a review.If your project falls
under these laws,you should contact the Compliance and Review Section of the
Division of Historical Resources at 850-245-6333.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions regarding the results of this search.
Sincerely,
Eman M.Vovsi
Historical Data Analyst
Florida Master Site File
EMVovsi(O DOS.MvJFlorida.com
500 South Bronough Street• Tallahassee.FL 32399-0250 • www tlheritage.conupreservationsitetiile
850.245.6440 ph ; 850.245.6439 fax SiteFile@dos.state.fl.us
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Literature Cited
Correll,D. S.,and H. B.and Correll.1982. Flora of the Bahama Archipelago(Including the Turks ans
Caicos Islands). A. R. G. Gantner Verlag KG. 1692 pp.
Florida Natural Areas Inventory Areas of Conservation Lands By County July 2012
http://www.fnai.org/pdf/MAxCounty.pdf
FLEPPC.2011. Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council. List of Invasive Plant Species. Florida Exotic Pest
Plant Council. Internet: http://www.fleppc.org/listll list..htm or Wildland Weeds Vol. 14(3-4):11-14.
Summer/Fall 2011
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission(FFWCC). 2002. A conceptual management plan for
Caravelle Ranch Wildlife Management Area: 2002—2007.Tallahassee,FL. 218 pp.Available from
http://myfwc.com/wma/planning/CMP/Caravelle%20Ranch%20WMA/Caravelle%20Ranch%20CM
P%202002-2007.pdf (accessed December 2007)
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission(FFWCC). 2003 January 6. Florida's breeding bird
atlas: A collaborative study of Florida's birdlife. http://www.myfwc.com/bba/(accessed June 2008).
Florida Natural Areas Inventory(FNAI)and Florida Department of Natural Resources (FDNR) 1990.
Guide to the Natural Communities of Florida. Florida Natural Areas Inventory and Florida
Department of Natural Resources.
Florida Natural Areas Inventory(FNAI). 2008. Managed Area Tracking Record and Element
Occurrence Summary for Nancy Payton Preserve. FNAI,Tallahassee,Florida.
Godfrey,R. K. and J. W.Wooten. 1981. Aquatic and Wetland Plants of the Southeastern United States.
The University of Georgia Press,Athens. Two Volumes: Monocotyledons: 712 pp; Dicotelydons,
933 pp.
Hoppe, M. K. (Fall 2006)Hogs Gone Wild-Experts Say Feral Pig Problem Here to Stay. Retrieved
April 2008 from Bay Soundings,Tampa Bay's Science and News Journal
Website:(http://baysoundings.com/fal106/hogsgonewild.asp)
Humphrey, S.R. 1992. Florida black bear. Pp. 265-275. In S.R. Humphrey(ed.), Rare and Endangered
Biota of Florida, Mammals. University of Florida, Gainesville,FL.
Langeland and Stocker(2001)Control of non-nativeplants in natural areas of Florida. University of
Florida, IFAS Extension, SP 242 (http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/WG/WG20900.pdf).
Leighty,R. G.,M. B. Marco, G. A. Swenson, R. E. Caldwell,J. R. Henderson,O. C. Olson, and G. C.
Willson. 1954. Soil Survey(Detailed-Reconnaissance)of Collier County,Florida. U.S.D.A. Soil
Conservation Service,U.S. Government Printing Office. 72 pp.,maps.
Miller J. A. 1986. Hydrogeologic Framework of the Floridan Aquifer System in Florida and in parts of
Georgia, Alabama, and South Carolina. United States Geological Survey Professional Paper 1403-
B. United States Government Printing Office,Washington,D.C.
Myers R. L and J.J. Ewel 1990. Ecosystems of Florida. University of Central Florida Press/Orlando,FL
Conservation Collier 6
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Rivers Road Preserve Land Management Plan Second Draft
National Audubon Society(NAS). 2007. Identifying Corkscrew's Common Tillandsia. Website accessed Amok
February 2008.
http://www.audubon.org/local/sanctuary/corkscrew/Wildlife/Tillandsia.html#Trecurvata.
Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS). 2003 Feb. Conservation Practice Standard Prescribed
Burning.Field Office Technical Guide Section IV. (FL): Code 338. 7 p.
Oaks,R. Q. and J. R. Dunbar. 1974. Post Miocene Stratigraphy of the Central and Southern Atlantic
Coastal Plain. Utah State University Press,Logan,Utah
Reed, P. B.,Jr. 1988.National list of plant species that occur in wetlands: Southeast(Region 2). U. S.
Fish Wildl. Serv. Biol. Rep. 88(26.2). 124 pp.
Tobe,J. D.,K. C. Burks,R. W. Cantrell,M. A. Garland,M. E. Sweeley,D. W. Hall,P.Wallace, G.
Anglin, G.Nelson,J. R. Cooper,D. Bickner,K. Gilbert,N. Aymond,K. Greenwood, and N.
Raymond. 1998. Florida Wetland Plants: an Identification Manual. University of Florida. 598. pp.
United States Department of Agriculture(USDA) Forest Service 1989. A Guide for Prescribed Fire in
Southern Forests Technical Report R8-TP 11. (Wade DD,Lunsford. JD, Dixon,MJ,Mobley,
Ed.)National Interagency Fire Center,Boise,Idaho.
U.S. Geological Survey 2012. Breeding Bird Atlas Explorer(online resource). Patuxent Wildlife
Research Center&National Biological Information Infrastructure http://www.pwrc.usgs.gov/bba.
Data extracted from: Florida's breeding bird atlas: A collaborative study of Florida's birdlife.
2003. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.http://www.wildflorida.org/bba/.
Wade D. D., and J. D. Lundsford. 1989. A guide for prescribed fire in southern forests. National Wildfire
Coordinating Group. Technical Publication R8-TP 11. 56 p. Available from: National Interagency
Fire Center,ATTN: Supply, 3833 S. Development Ave.,Boise, ID 83705. Order NFES#2108.
Wunderlin,R. P. 1998. Guide to the Vascular Plants of Florida. University Press of Florida, Gainesville.
806 pp.
b
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