Agenda 01/26/2021 Item #16D 5 (2 yr extension for Conservation Collier Red Maple Swamp Preserve Interim Managemt Plan)01/26/2021
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Recommendation to approve the Conservation Collier Red Maple Swamp Preserve Interim
Management Plan 2-year extension under the Conservation Collier Program.
OBJECTIVE: To obtain approval from the Board of County Commissioners (Board) for the 2-year
extension to the Red Maple Swamp Preserve Interim Management Plan.
CONSIDERATIONS: The Conservation Collier Ordinance, No. 2002-63, as amended, Section 14(1),
requires that an Interim Management Plan be prepared for each property following a cquisition with
review and input by the Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee (CCLAAC). Red
Maple Swamp Preserve is one of Conservation Collier’s two (2) multi-parcel projects in which a
patchwork of parcels are acquired or donated by willing sellers within the boundary of a designated
project area. At the discretion of the Board, an Interim Management Plan for Red Maple Swamp Preserve
will continue to be updated on a 2-year cycle until 100 contiguous acres within the project area boundary
are acquired.
The Red Maple Swamp Preserve, comprised of 213.88 acres, is located in the North Golden Gate Estates
(NGGE) Unit 53. Acquisition of parcels within the project area began in 2004. An Interim Management
Plan was developed and approved by the Board on May 27, 2008, Agenda Item #16A1. The approved
plan has been operational for the Red Maple Swamp Preserve since that time.
Changes in this plan include updated maps, updated property status information, additions to the plant or
animal lists, the status of exotic plant and animal infestations, and streamlining of text. Tracked changes
have been made so that Board members can quickly see the proposed changes.
The CCLAAC reviewed and approved the updated plan on October 12th, 2020.
FISCAL IMPACT: Annual costs are estimated at $14,000 per year for the next two (2) years. This is
primarily for invasive exotic plant treatment. Staff has applied for and been awarded up to $50,000 in
funding assistance from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Upland Invasive
Plant Management Section (IPMS) per year for the past three (3) years to off-set costs for management of
exotics on the preserve. Funds are also available within the Conservation Collier Land Management Fund
(174) to accomplish these activities.
GROWTH MANAGEMENT IMPACT: There is no specific Growth Management impact associated
with this item.
LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS: The Conservation Collier Ordinance (No. 2002-63, as amended), in
Section 14, provides a legal framework for the development of management plans and for use of
environmentally sensitive lands. This item is approved for form and legality and requires a majority vote
for Board action. - JAB
RECOMMENDATION: To approve the attached proposed 2-year extension to the Interim Management
Plan for Red Maple Swamp Preserve and direct staff to implement the updated plan.
Prepared By: Molly DuVall, Senior Environmental Specialist, Parks and Recreation Division
16.D.5
Packet Pg. 678
01/26/2021
ATTACHMENT(S)
1. (linked) RedMapleSwamp_Interim Management Plan_December 2020 for BOCC_clean (PDF)
2. (linked) Red Maple Swamp_Interim Management Plan_ for BOCC strikethrough - underline
(PDF)
16.D.5
Packet Pg. 679
01/26/2021
COLLIER COUNTY
Board of County Commissioners
Item Number: 16.D.5
Doc ID: 14621
Item Summary: Recommendation to approve the Conservation Collier Red Maple Swamp
Preserve Interim Management Plan 2-year extension under the Conservation Collier Program.
Meeting Date: 01/26/2021
Prepared by:
Title: Operations Analyst – Parks & Recreation
Name: Matthew Catoe
12/30/2020 8:55 AM
Submitted by:
Title: Division Director - Parks & Recreation – Parks & Recreation
Name: Barry Williams
12/30/2020 8:55 AM
Approved By:
Review:
Operations & Veteran Services Kimberley Grant Additional Reviewer Completed 01/04/2021 5:52 PM
Public Services Department Todd Henry Public Services Deapartment Completed 01/06/2021 9:17 AM
Public Services Department James C French PSD Dept Head Review Completed 01/08/2021 2:28 PM
County Attorney's Office Jennifer Belpedio Level 2 Attorney of Record Review Completed 01/12/2021 4:10 PM
Public Services Department Melissa Hennig Additional Reviewer Completed 12/30/2020 12:35 PM
Parks & Recreation Barry Williams Additional Reviewer Completed 12/30/2020 1:09 PM
Parks & Recreation Summer BrownAraque Additional Reviewer Completed 12/31/2020 10:06 AM
Parks & Recreation Ilonka Washburn Additional Reviewer Completed 01/04/2021 7:55 AM
Office of Management and Budget Debra Windsor Level 3 OMB Gatekeeper Review Completed 01/12/2021 4:50 PM
County Attorney's Office Jeffrey A. Klatzkow Level 3 County Attorney's Office Review Completed 01/13/2021 11:42 AM
Budget and Management Office Ed Finn Additional Reviewer Completed 01/13/2021 12:58 PM
County Manager's Office Dan Rodriguez Level 4 County Manager Review Completed 01/14/2021 8:15 AM
Board of County Commissioners MaryJo Brock Meeting Pending 01/26/2021 9:00 AM
16.D.5
Packet Pg. 680
Conservation Collier Red Maple Swamp Preserve
Extended Interim Management Plan
Fourth Extension
Prepared By:
Collier County’s Conservation Collier Program
Parks & Recreation Department
3300 Santa Barbara Blvd.
Naples, FL 34116
December 2020
December 2020 Conservation Collier Red Maple Swamp Updated Interim Management Plan
2
Table of Contents
1.0 Purpose and Scope of the Interim Management Plan………………………… 3
2.0 Management Authority and Responsibilities ……………………………….. 4
3.0 Interim Site Plan ………………………………………………………….… 4
3.1 Location and Site Description ………………………………………. 4
3.2 Signage……………………………….………………..……………. 4
3.3 Easements, Concessions or Leases …………………………………… 4
3.4 Structures………………………………………………………..…… 5
3.5 Surrounding and Adjacent Land Uses…………………………………. 5
4.0 Interim Management Objectives ………………………………………….… 5
4.1 Natural Resource Protection…………………………………….…… 5
4.2 Site Security……………………….………………………...………. 5
4.3 Exotic Vegetation Removal and Maintenance Plan……………….….. 6
4.4 Exotic Animal Plan…………………………………………………… 9
4.5 Cultural, Historical and Archaeological Resource Protection...……… 10
4.6 Public Access……………………………………….………….….... 10
4.7 Site Monitoring Plan………………………………………..…..…… 11
4.8 Partnerships…………………………………………………………. 11
5.0 Exhibits……………………………………………………………………..… 12
EXHIBIT 1: Location Map
EXHIBIT 2: Aerial Map
EXHIBIT 3: Estimated Cost Table
EXHIBIT 4: Implementation Timeline
December 2020 Conservation Collier Red Maple Swamp Updated Interim Management Plan
3
1.0 Purpose and Scope of the Interim Management Plan
Red Maple Swamp Preserve is one of two multi-parcel projects undertaken by the Conservation
Collier Program. The Red Maple Swamp Preserve project boundary encompasses 107 parcels
totaling 305.69 acres within North Golden Gate Estates (NGGE) Unit 53. As of September 2020,
75 parcels or 213.88 acres (70%) have been acquired by Conservation Collier in a checkerboard
fashion throughout the project area. The Board of County Commissioners (BCC) approved the
remaining 32 parcels totaling 96.58 acres for acquisition subject to land values and to being offered
as a “very good deal.” Conservation Collier requested a market study and appraisal in July 2017
that valued these parcels at $5,500 to $6,000 per acre. As of December 2017, the Property
Appraiser is valuing parcels within NGGE Unit 53 at $3,520 per acre.
Conservation Collier will continue to pursue the acquisition of all approved parcels within the Red
Maple Swamp Preserve project area as means to do so present themselves. There are three
potential ways for properties to come under County ownership:
• Outright acquisition
• Offsite alternatives to the Land Development Code’s Off-site native vegetation retention
requirements (LDC, Sec 3.05.07 H.1.f.iii.) offer a way for properties within multi-parcel
projects to be acquired and donated to Conservation Collier in lieu of developers retaining
vegetation onsite at development projects.
If properties cannot be acquired using the above means, or if it becomes apparent that few
properties can be acquired in this manner, Conservation Collier staff will seek to exercise a
provision of the Conservation Collier ordinance (2007-65, Section 14.7) that allows for the
exchange of lands within and between multi-parcel projects in accordance with the goals of the
Program. The objective of any such exchanges will be to consolidate the areas owned by Collier
County under the Conservation Collier Program into one contiguous area. All acquired properties
will be managed only for conservation, protection and enhancement of natural resources and for
public outdoor recreation that will be compatible with the conservation, protection and
enhancement of the site and its surrounding lands. Public use of the site will not be practical until
more contiguous properties within the Red Maple Swamp Preserve project boundary can be
acquired .
This interim management plan is intended to update the key management priorities and issues
within the site and give direction for management through 2022. This document is intended to be
the precursor to a final management plan, which will provide more specific aspects of site
management once a contiguous block of 100 acquired acres can be assembled.
Key Interim Management Objectives
1. Protect and manage the native habitat on site
2. Explore opportunities for grant funding and partnerships
Action Plan
1a. Treat and manage invasive exotic plants within the 53.9 acres of contiguous County
owned land along the western boundary of the preserve, within the 75.8 acres of County
December 2020 Conservation Collier Red Maple Swamp Updated Interim Management Plan
4
owned land along the eastern boundary of the preserve, and within any LDC donation
parcels.
1b. Treat and manage high density old world and Japanese climbing fern populations located
within any acquired properties.
2a. Seek opportunities for Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Upland Plant
Management Program and US Fish and Wildlife Service Partners Program grant funding.
2b. Seek opportunities with South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) and
Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed (CREW) Land and Water Trust for partnership
and management assistance.
2.0 Management Authority and Responsibilities
The Collier County Conservation Collier Program will be solely responsible for managing the
Red Maple Swamp Preserve, but will seek to obtain funding assistance and partnerships for
management activities.
3.0 Interim Site Plan
3.1 Location and Site Description
Red Maple Swamp Preserve is located north of Immokalee Road and west of Wilson
Boulevard in Section 8 Township 48 Range 27 within Collier County, Florida. It is
comprised of wetland hardwood forests. Approximately 213.88 acres of the 305.69-acre
unit are currently owned by Collier County. Red Maple Swamp Preserve is located
within the Golden Gate Estates boundary of Collier County.
3.2 Signage
Signs denoting parcels as Conservation Collier Land will be installed as contiguous
parcels of 20 acres or more are acquired. A sign indicating that the area is a Conservation
Collier Preserve was installed across from the SFWMD Bird Rookery Swamp parking
area in summer of 2020.
3.3 Easements, Concessions or Leases
There are sixty-foot (60’) platted Right of Way easements dedicated for public right of
way, including utilities, along 41st Ave. NE and Shady Hollow Blvd. No other
easements, concessions or leases currently exist within the site. In the future, well
easements may be proposed for locations along both of these roadways with pipelines to
be located in existing easements. The Conservation Collier Ordinance (2002-63)
prohibits use, infrastructure or improvements inconsistent with the purposes of the
program or not provided by an approved management plan.
There are well easements along Shady Hollow Blvd. for future alignment of wells with
the Northeast Water Treatment Plant. Preliminary studies indicated that these sites may
be viable but currently there are no wells in place. The location of well easements will be
included in a future management plan. There are no other easements, concessions or
leases proposed for the future, unless they further conservation objectives, such as a
conservation easement.
December 2020 Conservation Collier Red Maple Swamp Updated Interim Management Plan
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3.4 Structures
No structures are present on the site at this time. No structures, except potentially
municipal well structures, will be erected within the time span of this interim
management plan.
3.5 Surrounding and Adjacent Land Uses
Red Maple Swamp Preserve is adjacent to SFWMD lands to the north and west. A 43-
acre Collier County-owned, un-restored, fallow agricultural, wetland mitigation parcel
also exists to the north of the preserve. To the east, the preserve is bordered by Estates
zoned property that is mostly undeveloped and to the south by Phase II of the Twin
Eagles Development.
4.0 Interim Management Objectives
4.1 Natural Resource Protection
Existing Vegetation:
The following native plants have been observed within the preserve: red maple
(Acer rubrum), cypress (Taxodium distichum), willow (Salix spp.), bay (Persea
spp.), cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto) and dahoon holly (Ilex cassine). Invasive
exotic plants, Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius), air potato (Dioscorea
bulbifera), Japanese climbing fern (Lygodium japanicum),old world climbing fern
(Lygodium microphyllum), and castor bean (Ricinus communis) were also
observed on some of the parcels.
Unique Natural Features:
Red Maple Swamp Preserve is an excellent example of a wetland hardwood forest
community and contains many mature red maples in areas outside of those
historically farmed. Even previously farmed areas show significant red maple re-
growth.
Listed Species:
Wild coco (Elophia alta) FDA threatened and royal fern (Osmunda regalis)
FDA commercially exploited have been observed within the acquired properties.
State and Federally-listed imperiled species observed utilizing the preserve lands
include the woodstork (Mycteria Americana), little blue heron (Egretta caerulea),
crested caracara (Caracara cheriway), Florida panther (Puma concolor coryi), and
Florida bonneted bat (Eumops floridanus), and American alligator (Alligator
mississippiensis).
4.2 Site Security
Staff have observed ATV riders utilizing a trail along the west side of NGGE Unit 53,
accessing it by both 41st Avenue NW and Shady Hollow Blvd. Staff posted properties
where ATV use is occurring with “No Unauthorized Vehicles” signs and arrangements
were made for law enforcement to occasionally visit and monitor activities. Fencing will
not be addressed unless trespass becomes a major issue and a contiguous block of 100
acquired acres can be assembled within the preserve.
December 2020 Conservation Collier Red Maple Swamp Updated Interim Management Plan
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4.3 Exotic Vegetation Removal and Maintenance Plan
Invasive exotic plant species observed include: Brazilian pepper (Schinus
terebinthifolius), creeping signalgrass (Urochloa plantaginea), air potato (Dioscorea
bulbifera),old world climbing fern (Lygodium microphyllum, Japanese climbing fern
(Lygodium japanicum), and castor bean (Ricinus communis).
LDC donation parcels are initially treated for invasive, exotic vegetation prior to
donation, and a management endowment is included with each donation parcel.
Conservation Collier will only actively manage invasive, exotic vegetation within LDC
donation parcels, within the 75.8 acres of County owned land along the eastern boundary
of the preserve, and within the 53.9 contiguous acres along the western edge of the
preserve that are adjacent to SFWMD lands until more contiguous acreage can be
acquired. All observed invasive exotic vegetation in this section will be treated and
managed. High density infestations of old world climbing fern will be treated when
located on any acquired property within Red Maple Swamp Preserve.
Staff will pursue funding assistance for exotic plant maintenance.
In January of 2018, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) CREW
biologists notified Conservation Collier land managers of aerial observations of a high
density area of exotic, invasive climbing fern seen during a monthly wading bird
monitoring flight. Conservation Collier Staff mapped the area of concern, carried out a
site inspection and collected data on the area of infestation. Staff also set up “before”
photomonitoring points of the area of concern (Figures 2 and 3) and coordinated with the
FWC Invasive Plant Management Section to secure funding for an Early Detection Rapid
Response (EDRR) treatment for the 12.78 acre infestation area given its size and location
adjacent to significant natural areas (Figure 1).
December 2020 Conservation Collier Red Maple Swamp Updated Interim Management Plan
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Figure 1. Initial treatment of the (12.78 acre) EDRR area took place in spring of 2018.
The following photos show the area before treatment (March 2018) and following
treatment (May 2018).
Figure 2. Before and After Treatment Photo of Photomonitoring Point 2
December 2020 Conservation Collier Red Maple Swamp Updated Interim Management Plan
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Figure 3. Before and After Treatment Photo of Photomonitoring Point 5
Staff applied for and secured $50,000 in funding assistance from the FWC IPMS program
in 2019 to carry out a maintenance exotic treatment on 52.3 acres within treatment Units
2 and 3 as well as an initial treatment of the remaining 23.5 acres within the contiguous
block of acquired parcels (Figure 4).
Figure 4. Initial and Maintenance treatments carried out using FWC IPMS funding
assistance.
Staff again applied for $50,000 in funding assistance from the FWC IPMS program in
2020 to carry out a maintenance treatment on 129.5 acres of the site to transition all
December 2020 Conservation Collier Red Maple Swamp Updated Interim Management Plan
9
treated units into a maintenance rotation (Figure 5). Staff are working with FWC IPMS to
determine the amount of assistance that will be available to fund this project in 2021.
Figure 5. Planned FY21 maintenance treatment that was not selected to receive FWC
IPMS funding assistance.
4.4 Exotic Animal Plan
In March 2015, a SFWMD staff member observed a large black and white tegu lizard
(Salvator merianae) crossing Shady Hollow Blvd (Figure 6). Members of the SW
Florida Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA) attempted to trap the
lizard, but were unsuccessful. In July 2015, CISMA members set up camera traps on
Conservation Collier and SFWMD land adjacent to Shady Hollow Blvd., and in August
2015, the CISMA organized a tegu lizard rapid response survey for lands surrounding the
location of the initial sighting. Conservation Collier staff will continue to coordinate with
CISMA members to monitor and/or trap exotic animals within Red Maple Swamp
Preserve.
December 2020 Conservation Collier Red Maple Swamp Updated Interim Management Plan
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Figure 6. Black and White Tegu Lizard – March 18, 2015, Shady Hollow Blvd.
Photo courtesy of Joe Bozzo
4.5 Cultural, Historical and Archeological Resource Protection
Red Maple Swamp Preserve is not within an area of historical and archaeological
probability, and no historical or archaeological sites appear to be present in the property.
The County will notify the Division of Historical Resources immediately if evidence is
found to suggest any archaeological or historic resources are present on County-owned
lands. If such properties 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).
The collection of artifacts or the disturbance of archaeological and historic sites within
the Red Maple Swamp Preserve will be prohibited unless prior authorization has been
obtained from the Collier County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of
State, Division of Historical Resources.
4.6 Public Access
The SFWMD Bird Rookery Swamp parking area and trails are located at 1295 Shady
Hollow Blvd., across the street and to the east of the 53.9 contiguous eastern acres
proposed for management in the Red Maple Swamp project area. During the Red Maple
Swamp Preserve final management plan development, County staff will meet with
CREW Land and Water Trust staff and SFWMD staff to determine whether it would be
feasible to create a seasonal trail within Red Maple Swamp Preserve that could be
accessed from the Bird Rookery Swamp parking area. The Bird Rookery Swamp portion
of the CREW Wildlife and Environmental Area (WEA) adjacent to Red Maple Swamp
December 2020 Conservation Collier Red Maple Swamp Updated Interim Management Plan
11
Preserve is closed to hunting, Therefore, incorporating Red Maple Swamp Preserve into
the CREW WEA to facilitate hunting would not be feasible at this time.
4.7 Site Monitoring Plan
Monitoring of the site shall consist of a walk-through by staff at semi-annual intervals.
Conservation Collier shall be responsible for exotic plant treatment with tasks contracted
out as deemed necessary. Prior to any land management activities, photo monitoring points
will also be established at strategic locations within the project area to monitor vegetation
communities.
4.8 Partnerships
SFWMD staff has indicated that they are open to the potential for expanding the CREW
project boundaries around NGGE Unit 53, or portions thereof, and there may be
opportunity for management assistance once a larger area of contiguous parcels is
acquired. County staff has also had discussions with CREW about the possibility of
CREW acquiring and conveying NGGE Unit 53 properties over to Collier County. In
May 2011, the CREW Land and Water Trust conveyed two parcels to Collier County to
be incorporated within the boundary layer of the NGGE Unit 53 acquisition parcels.
Those units are shown in light green on Figure (7) below.
Figure 7. CREW Land and Water Trust parcels conferred to Collier County in May 2011.
A letter went out to private owners within NGGE Unit 53 in 2012 from the CREW Trust
asking if there was interest in selling; however, no positive response was returned.
December 2020 Conservation Collier Red Maple Swamp Updated Interim Management Plan
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5.0 Exhibits
EXHIBIT 1: Location Map
December 2020 Conservation Collier Red Maple Swamp Updated Interim Management Plan
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EXHIBIT 2: Aerial Map
December 2020 Conservation Collier Red Maple Swamp Updated Interim Management Plan
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EXHIBIT 3: Estimated Cost Table
Management Element Initial Cost Annual
Recurring Costs
Comments
Exotics Control $14,000 -$78,000 Staff will seek FWC
funding for maintenance of
invasive exotics
Conservation Collier signs $650 2 (2’X3’) with posts and
hardware
“No Unauthorized
Vehicles” signs
$150 2 (20” X 28”) signs and
posts
Total $800 $14,000-$78,000
EXHIBIT 4: Estimated Implementation Time Line
Monitoring Site
Visit
Seek
Partnerships
Exotic Plant
Treatment
Completion of final management plan (or update of
interim management plan if acquired parcels are
still scattered)
Jan-18 x x
April-18 x
July-18 x
Jan-19 x x
April-19 x
July-19 x
Jan-20 x x
Sept-20 x x x
Nov-20 x
March 21 x x x
July 21 x
Oct-21 x
Nov-21 x x
Oct-22 x x x
Conservation Collier Red Maple Swamp Preserve
Extended Interim Management Plan
Fourth Extension
Prepared By:
Collier County’s Conservation Collier Program
Parks & Recreation Department
3300 Santa Barbara Blvd.
Naples, FL 34116
December 2020
December 2020 Conservation Collier Red Maple Swamp Updated Interim Management Plan
2
Table of Contents
1.0 Purpose and Scope of the Interim Management Plan………………………… 3
2.0 Management Authority and Responsibilities ……………………………….. 4
3.0 Interim Site Plan ………………………………………………………….… 4
3.1 Location and Site Description ………………………………………. 4
3.2 Signage……………………………….………………..……………. 4
3.3 Easements, Concessions or Leases …………………………………… 4
3.4 Structures………………………………………………………..…… 5
3.5 Surrounding and Adjacent Land Uses…………………………………. 5
4.0 Interim Management Objectives ………………………………………….… 5
4.1 Natural Resource Protection…………………………………….…… 5
4.2 Site Security……………………….………………………...………. 5
4.3 Exotic Vegetation Removal and Maintenance Plan……………….….. 6
4.4 Exotic Animal Plan…………………………………………………… 9
4.5 Cultural, Historical and Archaeological Resource Protection...……… 10
4.6 Public Access……………………………………….………….….... 10
4.7 Site Monitoring Plan………………………………………..…..…… 11
4.8 Partnerships…………………………………………………………. 11
5.0 Exhibits……………………………………………………………………..… 12
EXHIBIT 1: Location Map
EXHIBIT 2: Aerial Map
EXHIBIT 3: Estimated Cost Table
EXHIBIT 4: Implementation Timeline
December 2020 Conservation Collier Red Maple Swamp Updated Interim Management Plan
3
1.0 Purpose and Scope of the Interim Management Plan
Red Maple Swamp Preserve is one of two multi-parcel projects undertaken by the Conservation
Collier Program. The Red Maple Swamp Preserve project boundary encompasses 107 parcels
totaling 305.69 acres within North Golden Gate Estates (NGGE) Unit 53. As of September 2020,
75 parcels or 213.88 acres (70%) have been acquired by Conservation Collier in a checkerboard
fashion throughout the project area. The Board of County Commissioners (BCC) approved the
remaining 32 parcels totaling 96.58 acres for acquisition subject to land values and to being offered
as a “very good deal.” Conservation Collier requested a market study and appraisal in July 2017
that valued these parcels at $5,500 to $6,000 per acre. As of December 2017, the Property
Appraiser is valuing parcels within NGGE Unit 53 at $3,520 per acre.
Conservation Collier will continue to pursue the acquisition of all approved parcels within the Red
Maple Swamp Preserve project area as means to do so present themselves. There are three
potential ways for properties to come under County ownership:
• Outright acquisition
• Offsite alternatives to the Land Development Code’s Off-site native vegetation retention
requirements (LDC, Sec 3.05.07 H.1.f.iii.) offer a way for properties within multi-parcel
projects to be acquired and donated to Conservation Collier in lieu of developers retaining
vegetation onsite at development projects.
If properties cannot be acquired using the above means, or if it becomes apparent that few
properties can be acquired in this manner, Conservation Collier staff will seek to exercise a
provision of the Conservation Collier ordinance (2007-65, Section 14.7) that allows for the
exchange of lands within and between multi-parcel projects in accordance with the goals of the
Program. The objective of any such exchanges will be to consolidate the areas owned by Collier
County under the Conservation Collier Program into one contiguous area. All acquired properties
will be managed only for conservation, protection and enhancement of natural resources and for
public outdoor recreation that will be compatible with the conservation, protection and
enhancement of the site and its surrounding lands. Public use of the site will not be practical until
more contiguous properties within the Red Maple Swamp Preserve project boundary can be
acquired .
This interim management plan is intended to update the key management priorities and issues
within the site and give direction for management through 2022. This document is intended to be
the precursor to a final management plan, which will provide more specific aspects of site
management once a contiguous block of 100 acquired acres can be assembled.
Key Interim Management Objectives
1. Protect and manage the native habitat on site
2. Explore opportunities for grant funding and partnerships
Action Plan
1a. Treat and manage invasive exotic plants within the 53.9 acres of contiguous County
owned land along the western boundary of the preserve, within the 75.8 acres of County
December 2020 Conservation Collier Red Maple Swamp Updated Interim Management Plan
4
owned land along the eastern boundary of the preserve, and within any LDC donation
parcels.
1b. Treat and manage high density old world and Japanese climbing fern populations located
within any acquired properties.
2a. Seek opportunities for Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Upland Plant
Management Program and US Fish and Wildlife Service Partners Program grant funding.
2b. Seek opportunities with South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) and
Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed (CREW) Land and Water Trust for partnership
and management assistance.
2.0 Management Authority and Responsibilities
The Collier County Conservation Collier Program will be solely responsible for managing the
Red Maple Swamp Preserve, but will seek to obtain funding assistance and partnerships for
management activities.
3.0 Interim Site Plan
3.1 Location and Site Description
Red Maple Swamp Preserve is located north of Immokalee Road and west of Wilson
Boulevard in Section 8 Township 48 Range 27 within Collier County, Florida. It is
comprised of wetland hardwood forests. Approximately 213.88 acres of the 305.69-acre
unit are currently owned by Collier County. Red Maple Swamp Preserve is located
within the Golden Gate Estates boundary of Collier County.
3.2 Signage
Signs denoting parcels as Conservation Collier Land will be installed as contiguous
parcels of 20 acres or more are acquired. A sign indicating that the area is a Conservation
Collier Preserve was installed across from the SFWMD Bird Rookery Swamp parking
area in summer of 2020.
3.3 Easements, Concessions or Leases
There are sixty-foot (60’) platted Right of Way easements dedicated for public right of
way, including utilities, along 41st Ave. NE and Shady Hollow Blvd. No other
easements, concessions or leases currently exist within the site. In the future, well
easements may be proposed for locations along both of these roadways with pipelines to
be located in existing easements. The Conservation Collier Ordinance (2002-63)
prohibits use, infrastructure or improvements inconsistent with the purposes of the
program or not provided by an approved management plan.
There are well easements along Shady Hollow Blvd. for future alignment of wells with
the Northeast Water Treatment Plant. Preliminary studies indicated that these sites may
be viable but currently there are no wells in place. The location of well easements will be
included in a future management plan. There are no other easements, concessions or
leases proposed for the future, unless they further conservation objectives, such as a
conservation easement.
December 2020 Conservation Collier Red Maple Swamp Updated Interim Management Plan
5
3.4 Structures
No structures are present on the site at this time. No structures, except potentially
municipal well structures, will be erected within the time span of this interim
management plan.
3.5 Surrounding and Adjacent Land Uses
Red Maple Swamp Preserve is adjacent to SFWMD lands to the north and west. A 43-
acre Collier County-owned, un-restored, fallow agricultural, wetland mitigation parcel
also exists to the north of the preserve. To the east, the preserve is bordered by Estates
zoned property that is mostly undeveloped and to the south by Phase II of the Twin
Eagles Development.
4.0 Interim Management Objectives
4.1 Natural Resource Protection
Existing Vegetation:
The following native plants have been observed within the preserve: red maple
(Acer rubrum), cypress (Taxodium distichum), willow (Salix spp.), bay (Persea
spp.), cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto) and dahoon holly (Ilex cassine). Invasive
exotic plants, Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius), air potato (Dioscorea
bulbifera), Japanese climbing fern (Lygodium japanicum),old world climbing fern
(Lygodium microphyllum), and castor bean (Ricinus communis) were also
observed on some of the parcels.
Unique Natural Features:
Red Maple Swamp Preserve is an excellent example of a wetland hardwood forest
community and contains many mature red maples in areas outside of those
historically farmed. Even previously farmed areas show significant red maple re-
growth.
Listed Species:
Wild coco (Elophia alta) FDA threatened and royal fern (Osmunda regalis)
FDA commercially exploited have been observed within the acquired properties.
State and Federally-listed imperiled species observed utilizing the preserve lands
include the woodstork (Mycteria Americana), little blue heron (Egretta caerulea),
crested caracara (Caracara cheriway), Florida panther (Puma concolor coryi), and
Florida bonneted bat (Eumops floridanus), and American alligator (Alligator
mississippiensis).
4.2 Site Security
Staff have observed ATV riders utilizing a trail along the west side of NGGE Unit 53,
accessing it by both 41st Avenue NW and Shady Hollow Blvd. Staff posted properties
where ATV use is occurring with “No Unauthorized Vehicles” signs and arrangements
were made for law enforcement to occasionally visit and monitor activities. Fencing will
not be addressed unless trespass becomes a major issue and a contiguous block of 100
acquired acres can be assembled within the preserve.
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4.3 Exotic Vegetation Removal and Maintenance Plan
Invasive exotic plant species observed include: Brazilian pepper (Schinus
terebinthifolius), creeping signalgrass (Urochloa plantaginea), air potato (Dioscorea
bulbifera),old world climbing fern (Lygodium microphyllum, Japanese climbing fern
(Lygodium japanicum), and castor bean (Ricinus communis).
LDC donation parcels are initially treated for invasive, exotic vegetation prior to
donation, and a management endowment is included with each donation parcel.
Conservation Collier will only actively manage invasive, exotic vegetation within LDC
donation parcels, within the 75.8 acres of County owned land along the eastern boundary
of the preserve, and within the 53.9 contiguous acres along the western edge of the
preserve that are adjacent to SFWMD lands until more contiguous acreage can be
acquired. All observed invasive exotic vegetation in this section will be treated and
managed. High density infestations of old world climbing fern will be treated when
located on any acquired property within Red Maple Swamp Preserve.
Staff will pursue funding assistance for exotic plant maintenance.
In January of 2018, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) CREW
biologists notified Conservation Collier land managers of aerial observations of a high
density area of exotic, invasive climbing fern seen during a monthly wading bird
monitoring flight. Conservation Collier Staff mapped the area of concern, carried out a
site inspection and collected data on the area of infestation. Staff also set up “before”
photomonitoring points of the area of concern (Figures 2 and 3) and coordinated with the
FWC Invasive Plant Management Section to secure funding for an Early Detection Rapid
Response (EDRR) treatment for the 12.78 acre infestation area given its size and location
adjacent to significant natural areas (Figure 1).
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Figure 1. Initial treatment of the (12.78 acre) EDRR area took place in spring of 2018.
The following photos show the area before treatment (March 2018) and following
treatment (May 2018).
Figure 2. Before and After Treatment Photo of Photomonitoring Point 2
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Figure 3. Before and After Treatment Photo of Photomonitoring Point 5
Staff applied for and secured $50,000 in funding assistance from the FWC IPMS program
in 2019 to carry out a maintenance exotic treatment on 52.3 acres within treatment Units
2 and 3 as well as an initial treatment of the remaining 23.5 acres within the contiguous
block of acquired parcels (Figure 4).
Figure 4. Initial and Maintenance treatments carried out using FWC IPMS funding
assistance.
Staff again applied for $50,000 in funding assistance from the FWC IPMS program in
2020 to carry out a maintenance treatment on 129.5 acres of the site to transition all
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treated units into a maintenance rotation (Figure 5). Staff are working with FWC IPMS to
determine the amount of assistance that will be available to fund this project in 2021.
Figure 5. Planned FY21 maintenance treatment that was not selected to receive FWC
IPMS funding assistance.
4.4 Exotic Animal Plan
In March 2015, a SFWMD staff member observed a large black and white tegu lizard
(Salvator merianae) crossing Shady Hollow Blvd (Figure 6). Members of the SW
Florida Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA) attempted to trap the
lizard, but were unsuccessful. In July 2015, CISMA members set up camera traps on
Conservation Collier and SFWMD land adjacent to Shady Hollow Blvd., and in August
2015, the CISMA organized a tegu lizard rapid response survey for lands surrounding the
location of the initial sighting. Conservation Collier staff will continue to coordinate with
CISMA members to monitor and/or trap exotic animals within Red Maple Swamp
Preserve.
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Figure 6. Black and White Tegu Lizard – March 18, 2015, Shady Hollow Blvd.
Photo courtesy of Joe Bozzo
4.5 Cultural, Historical and Archeological Resource Protection
Red Maple Swamp Preserve is not within an area of historical and archaeological
probability, and no historical or archaeological sites appear to be present in the property.
The County will notify the Division of Historical Resources immediately if evidence is
found to suggest any archaeological or historic resources are present on County-owned
lands. If such properties 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).
The collection of artifacts or the disturbance of archaeological and historic sites within
the Red Maple Swamp Preserve will be prohibited unless prior authorization has been
obtained from the Collier County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of
State, Division of Historical Resources.
4.6 Public Access
The SFWMD Bird Rookery Swamp parking area and trails are located at 1295 Shady
Hollow Blvd., across the street and to the east of the 53.9 contiguous eastern acres
proposed for management in the Red Maple Swamp project area. During the Red Maple
Swamp Preserve final management plan development, County staff will meet with
CREW Land and Water Trust staff and SFWMD staff to determine whether it would be
feasible to create a seasonal trail within Red Maple Swamp Preserve that could be
accessed from the Bird Rookery Swamp parking area. The Bird Rookery Swamp portion
of the CREW Wildlife and Environmental Area (WEA) adjacent to Red Maple Swamp
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Preserve is closed to hunting, Therefore, incorporating Red Maple Swamp Preserve into
the CREW WEA to facilitate hunting would not be feasible at this time.
4.7 Site Monitoring Plan
Monitoring of the site shall consist of a walk-through by staff at semi-annual intervals.
Conservation Collier shall be responsible for exotic plant treatment with tasks contracted
out as deemed necessary. Prior to any land management activities, photo monitoring points
will also be established at strategic locations within the project area to monitor vegetation
communities.
4.8 Partnerships
SFWMD staff has indicated that they are open to the potential for expanding the CREW
project boundaries around NGGE Unit 53, or portions thereof, and there may be
opportunity for management assistance once a larger area of contiguous parcels is
acquired. County staff has also had discussions with CREW about the possibility of
CREW acquiring and conveying NGGE Unit 53 properties over to Collier County. In
May 2011, the CREW Land and Water Trust conveyed two parcels to Collier County to
be incorporated within the boundary layer of the NGGE Unit 53 acquisition parcels.
Those units are shown in light green on Figure (7) below.
Figure 7. CREW Land and Water Trust parcels conferred to Collier County in May 2011.
A letter went out to private owners within NGGE Unit 53 in 2012 from the CREW Trust
asking if there was interest in selling; however, no positive response was returned.
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5.0 Exhibits
EXHIBIT 1: Location Map
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EXHIBIT 2: Aerial Map
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EXHIBIT 3: Estimated Cost Table
Management Element Initial Cost Annual
Recurring Costs
Comments
Exotics Control $14,000 -$78,000 Staff will seek FWC
funding for maintenance of
invasive exotics
Conservation Collier signs $650 2 (2’X3’) with posts and
hardware
“No Unauthorized
Vehicles” signs
$150 2 (20” X 28”) signs and
posts
Total $800 $14,000-$78,000
EXHIBIT 4: Estimated Implementation Time Line
Monitoring Site
Visit
Seek
Partnerships
Exotic Plant
Treatment
Completion of final management plan (or update of
interim management plan if acquired parcels are
still scattered)
Jan-18 x x
April-18 x
July-18 x
Jan-19 x x
April-19 x
July-19 x
Jan-20 x x
Sept-20 x x x
Nov-20 x
March 21 x x x
July 21 x
Oct-21 x
Nov-21 x x
Oct-22 x x x