Watson Island State Forest Ten Year Resource Management Plan

TEN-YEAR RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE

WATSON ISLAND STATE FOREST ST. JOHNS COUNTY

PREPARED BY FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND CONSUMER SERVICES DIVISION OF FORESTRY APPROVED ON JULY 20, 2010

TEN-YEAR RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PLAN WATSON ISLAND STATE FOREST TABLE OF CONTENTS Land Management Plan Executive Summary...............................................................................1 I. Introduction ................................................................................................................................2 A. General Mission, Goals for Florida State Forests, and Management Plan Direction ...............................................................................................2 B. Overview of State Forest Management Program .............................................................2 C. Past Accomplishments .........................................................................................................3 D. Goals/Objectives for the Next Ten Year Period ................................................................3 E. Management Needs - Priority Schedule and Cost Estimates ...........................................8 II. Administration Section ..............................................................................................................11 A. Descriptive Information ......................................................................................................11 1. Common Name of Property ...............................................................................................11 2. Location, Boundaries and Improvements ..........................................................................11 3. Legal Description and Acreage ..........................................................................................12 4. Degree of Title Interest Held by the Board ........................................................................12 5. Proximity to Other Public Resources.................................................................................12 6. Aquatic Preserve/Area of Critical State Concern ..............................................................13 B. Acquisition Information ......................................................................................................13 1. Land Acquisition Program .................................................................................................13 2. Legislative or Executive Constraints .................................................................................13 3. Purpose for Acquisition .....................................................................................................13 4. Designated Single or Multiple-Use Management ..............................................................13 5. Alternate Uses Considered .................................................................................................14 6. Additional Land Needs ......................................................................................................14 7. Adjacent Conflicting Uses .................................................................................................14 8. Surplus Land Assessment ..................................................................................................14 C. Agency & Public Involvement ............................................................................................15 1. Responsibilities of Managing Agencies.............................................................................15 2. Public and Local Government Involvement ......................................................................15 3. Compliance with Comprehensive Plan ..............................................................................15 III. Resource Section .......................................................................................................................15 A. Past Uses ...............................................................................................................................15 B. Renewable and Non-Renewable Resources .......................................................................16 1. Soil Types ..........................................................................................................................16 2. Archaeological and Historical Resources ..........................................................................16 3. Water Resources ................................................................................................................16 4. Fish and Wildlife................................................................................................................16 5. Endangered or Threatened Species ....................................................................................17 6. Beaches and Dunes ............................................................................................................18 7. Swamps, Marshes, or Other Wetlands ...............................................................................18 8. Mineral Resources .............................................................................................................18

9. Unique Natural Features ....................................................................................................18 10. Outstanding Native Landscapes .......................................................................................18 11. Timber Resources ............................................................................................................18 IV. Management Concepts by Natural Communities and Proposed Management Activities ..19 A. Existing and Planned Uses ..................................................................................................19 1. Property Boundaries Establishment and Preservation .......................................................19 2. Soil and Water Protection ..................................................................................................20 3. Roads..................................................................................................................................20 4. Recreation Management ....................................................................................................20 5. Fire Management ...............................................................................................................21 6. Silviculture Guidelines & Forest Resource Management Objectives................................23 7. Research Projects/Specimen Collection ............................................................................24 8. Law Enforcement ...............................................................................................................25 9. Wildlife and Fish Management ..........................................................................................25 10. Non-Native Invasive Species ...........................................................................................26 11. Insects, Disease and Forest Health...................................................................................27 12. On-Site Housing...............................................................................................................27 13. Utility Corridors and Easements ......................................................................................28 14. Ground Disturbing Activities ...........................................................................................28 15. Apiaries ............................................................................................................................29 16. Cattle Grazing ..................................................................................................................29 17. Ground Cover...................................................................................................................29 18. Restoration .......................................................................................................................29 B. Description of Natural Communities and Proposed Management Activities ................31 1. Bottomland Forest ..............................................................................................................32 2. Wet Flatwoods ...................................................................................................................33 3. Mesic Flatwoods ................................................................................................................35 4. Floodplain Forest ...............................................................................................................36 5. Baygall ...............................................................................................................................37 6. Floodplain Marsh ...............................................................................................................38 7. Dome Swamp .....................................................................................................................39 8. Other (Ruderal) ..................................................................................................................39 C. Impact of Planned Uses on Property Resources ...............................................................39 1. Timber ................................................................................................................................39 2. Recreation ..........................................................................................................................39 3. Historical/Archaeological ..................................................................................................39 4. Water ..................................................................................................................................39 5. Wildlife ..............................................................................................................................39 V. Management Summary .............................................................................................................40 A. Operations Infrastructure ...................................................................................................40 B. Plans to Locate Fragile, Non-Renewable Natural and Cultural Resources ...................40 C. Conformation to State Lands Management Plan .............................................................41 D. Multiple-Use Potential – Income Producing Activities.....................................................41 E. Potential Use of Private Land Managers ...........................................................................41 VI. References ...................................................................................................................................41

TEN-YEAR RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PLAN WATON ISLAND STATE FOREST EXHIBITS Location Maps .......................................................................................................................Exhibit A Proximity to Other Public Lands Map ...................................................................................Exhibit B Management Prospectus ........................................................................................................Exhibit C Optimum Management Boundary Map ................................................................................Exhibit D Management Plan Advisory Group Summary ......................................................................Exhibit E Local Comprehensive Plan Compliance ...............................................................................Exhibit F Soil Type Maps .....................................................................................................................Exhibit G Management Procedures for Archaeological and Historical Sites and Properties on State Owned or Controlled Lands ................................................................................Exhibit H Wildlife Species List .............................................................................................................Exhibit I Florida Natural Areas Inventory Managed Area Tracking Record ......................................Exhibit J Existing and Planned Recreation/Facilities Map ...................................................................Exhibit K Invasive Plan Inventory .........................................................................................................Exhibit L Natural Community Map .......................................................................................................Exhibit M TABLES Table 1. Estimated Ten-Year Expenditures/Cost Estimates Organized by Uniform Cost Accounting Council Categories .......................................................Page 11 Table 2. Acreage by Parcel ....................................................................................................Page 12 Table 3. Natural Communities Types on WISF Vegetation Types ......................................Page 32

LAND MANAGEMENT PLAN EXECUTIVE SUMMARY LEAD AGENCY: Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Forestry COMMON NAME OF PROPERTY: Watson Island State Forest (WISF) LOCATION: St. Johns County ACREAGE TOTAL: 505.58

Land Cover Classification Bottomland Forest Wet Flatwoods Mesic Flatwoods Floodplain Forest

Acreage

Land Cover Classification

199 129 124 26

Baygall Floodplain Marsh Ruderal Dome swamp

Acreage 23 2 2 1

LEASE/MANAGEMENT NUMBER: 3556 USE: MULTIPLE X

SINGLE __

MANAGEMENT AGENCY Division of Forestry (Lead Agency)

RESPONSIBILITY General Forest Resource Management

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Enforcement Wildlife Laws

Division of Historical Resources

Historical & Archaeological Resources

DESIGNATED LAND USE: Multiple-Use State Forest SUBLEASE: None ENCUMBRANCES: None TYPE ACQUISITION: Watson Island Tract was acquired in 1976 through a special warranty deed from a private individual. Warner Tract acquired November 2005 under the Florida Forever program. UNIQUE FEATURES: Approximately one mile of frontage on St. Johns River; freshwater swamp, live oak hammocks, pine flatwoods, and sawgrass marsh MANAGEMENT NEEDS: Watson Island ecosystem needs restoration through the introduction of prescribed fire, management of timber resources including timber inventory, as well as non-native invasive plant management. ACQUISITION NEEDS/ACREAGE: 9,405 (Exhibit D) SURPLUS LANDS/ACREAGE: None PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT: Management Plan Advisory Group, St. Johns Board of County Commissioners, and the Acquisition and Restoration Council.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE (FOR DIVISION OF STATE LANDS USE ONLY) ARC Approval Date: ___________________________ BTIITF Approval Date: ___________________________ COMMENTS:_________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________

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I.

INTRODUCTION A. General Mission, Goals for Florida State Forests, and Management Plan Direction The primary mission of the Florida Division of Forestry (DOF) in managing Watson Island State Forest (WISF) is to protect and manage the unique resources of the forest through a stewardship ethic to ensure these resources will be available for future generations. This will be accomplished by implementing sound multiple-use management principles, the main objectives of which will be to: •

restore, maintain, and protect in perpetuity all native ecosystems;

•

ensure long-term viability of populations and species considered rare, endangered, threatened, or of special concern;

•

restore, maintain, and protect hydrological functions related to the quality and quantity of water resources and the health of associated wetland and aquatic natural communities;

•

integrate compatible human use through multiple-use concept, not emphasizing any particular use over the others, or over restoration, maintenance and protection of native ecosystems;

•

protect known archeological and historical resources; and

•

practice sustainable forest management utilizing sound silvicultural techniques.

This management plan provides general direction for management of WISF. It is intended to meet the planning requirements of Sections 253.034, 259.032, and 373, Florida Statutes, and was prepared utilizing guidelines outlined in Section 18-2.021 of the Florida Administrative Code. It is not an annual work plan or a detailed operational plan but provides general guidance for the management of WISF for the next ten years and outlines the major concepts that will guide management activities on the forest. B. Overview of State Forest Management Program Watson Island State Forest (WISF) is comprised of 505.58 acres located in St. Johns County, Florida. The Watson Island Tract (275.5 acres) is located along the St. Johns River, which acts as the western boundary of the State Forest, while the Warner Tract (230 acres) is located just a few miles inland from the St. Johns River. The Watson Island Tract was acquired in 1976 through a special warranty deed from a private individual while the Warner Tract was purchased in 2005. The State Forest contains several diverse ecological communities including mesic and wet flatwoods, bottomland forests, floodplain forests, and floodplain marshes. Size and access limitations have been a key factor in management activities to date. Modest accomplishments in public access improvements, fuels management, restoration activities, and boundary maintenance are realizable over the next ten year period. Funding for these and an 2

initial FNAI surveys assessment, as well as the development of five-year operational plans are the most critical management needs. C. Past Accomplishments and Status of Previous Plan’s Goals/Objectives Due to limited access on the original portion of the state forest, the Watson Island Tract has had little more than caretaker activities to date. Many of the planned and alternate uses that were suggested in the preceding management plan have been reassessed. The Warner Tract, acquired in 2005, is also limited in size and access and management needs. Some initial assessments, basic caretaker and maintenance activities have been conducted since acquisition. This plan represents the first formal statement of goals and objectives for this tract. No prescribed burns have been conducted on the Watson Island Tract in recent years. On the Warner Tract in 2007, a 10-acre wildfire was suppressed and resulted in no damage to the timber. Twenty-five acres on the southern portion of the Warner Tract were burned in the fall of 2009. Forest inventory was completed on 120 acres of the Warner Tract in the fall of 2008. In 2010 mechanical treatment with a roller chopper was used to reduce palmetto heights on 53 acres of the Warner Tract through the mesic flatwoods community. The forest boundaries have been re-painted and boundary signs posted on the Warner Tract in the fall of 2009. Non-native invasive plant surveys have been conducted on both tracts by the DOF Forest Health Section showing wild taro (Colocasia esculenta) occurrences on the Watson Island Tract during a survey in 2005. No occurrences were identified the Warner Tract Survey in 2007. Local staff has treated patch occurrences of cogongrass identified on properties adjacent to the Warner Tract and along the roadsides of County Road 13A that pose a threat to the forest. D. Goals/Objectives for the Next Ten Year Period The following goals and objectives provide direction and focus for management resources over the next ten-year planning period. Funding, agency priorities, resources, wildfire, and other natural disasters will be influential in determining the degree to which these objectives are met. Short-term goals shall be achievable within a 2-year planning period, and long-term goals shall be achievable within a 10-year planning period. These short-term and long-term management goals shall be the basis for all subsequent land management activities. GOAL 1: Habitat Restoration and Improvement OBJECTIVE 1: Prescribe burn 210 acres (Warner Tract) on a three year interval. (Short Term/Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURES: Number of acres burned during the dormant season & growing season. OBJECTIVE 2: Conduct habitat/natural community improvement on 210 acres mesic and wet flatwoods (Warner Tract) through implementation of the prescribed burning plan, and thinning of pine stands to promote diversity and obtain desired future conditions. (Long Term Goal/Short Term Goal) 3

PERFORMANCE MEASURES: Number of acres with restoration underway. OBJECTIVE 3: Restore ground cover in the mesic and wet flatwoods communities (Warner Tract) where the native ground layer has been eliminated or heavily impacted from historical land use. Involves application of mechanical fuel reduction and prescribed fire to encourage native fire-dependent vegetation and reduce oak encroachment. (Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Number of acres restored. OBJECTIVE 4: Improve the health of native ecosystems through integrating a burn plan each year that mimics the natural fire regime for each natural community. (Long Term Goal/Short Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Prescribed Burn Plan updated annually. OBJECTIVE 5: Protect integrity of natural communities through acquisition of adjacent parcels within the optimal management boundary (Long Term Goal). PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Utilize land acquisition funds to expand forest as adjacent properties become available. GOAL 2: Public Access and Recreational Opportunities OBJECTIVE 1: Develop public access and recreational opportunities to allow for a carrying capacity of 20 visitors/day. (Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Number of visitor opportunities/day. OBJECTIVE 2: Create a Five-Year Outdoor Recreation Plan and update annually (Short Term Goal). PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Outdoor Recreation Plan created and updated annually. OBJECTIVE 3: Develop and implement a recreational monitoring program. (Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Monitoring program to record number of visitors. OBJECTIVE 4: Increase visitation by all law enforcement agencies working together to help eliminate illegal hunting and fishing, off-road vehicle use, and litter control. (ShortTerm/Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Number of agency contacts made. Number of citations written. GOAL 3: Hydrological Preservation and Restoration OBJECTIVE 1: Conduct or obtain a site assessment/study to identify potential hydrology restoration needs. (Short Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Assessment completed.

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OBJECTIVE 2: Protect water resources during management activities through the use of Silvicultural Best Management Practices (BMP) for State Lands. (Short Term Goal/Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Percent compliance with State Lands BMPs. GOAL 4: Sustainable Forest Management OBJECTIVE 1: Prepare a silviculture management plan (Warner Tract) including reforestation, harvesting, prescribed burning, restoration, and timber stand improvement activities and goals. (Short Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Completion of silvicultural management plan. OBJECTIVE 2: Implementation of the silviculture management plan. (Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Implementation of plan and number of acres treated. OBJECTIVE 3: Implement the process, as outlined in the State Forest Handbook, for conducting stand descriptions and forest inventory including a GIS database containing forest stands, roads & other attributes (including but not limited to: threatened & endangered species, archeological resources, exotic species locations, historical areas). (Short & Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Complete GIS database and re-inventory ALL attributes every 3-5 years or as needed. OBJECTIVE 4: Conduct timber inventory updates each year, according to established criteria. (Short Term/Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Number of acres inventoried annually. GOAL 5: Exotic and Invasive Species Maintenance and Control OBJECTIVE 1: Develop a 5-year Non-Native Invasive Plant Species management plan to locate, identify, map, and control non-native invasive plant species. A survey on the incidence of these species was completed in 2005 for the Watson Island Tract and in the spring of 2007 for the Warner Tract. There are currently no incidence of these species on the Warner Tract. (Short Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Total number of acres of Exotic Plant Pest Council (EPPC) Category I and II plants successfully treated. GOAL 6: Capital Facilities and Infrastructure OBJECTIVE 1: WISF staff will maintain 1 mile of existing service roads (Warner Tract). (Short Term/Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: The number of miles of existing roads maintained.

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OBJECTIVE 2: WISF staff will assess the Warner Tract to determine the most appropriate location for public parking and trail access. DOF will construct 1.4 miles of proposed multi-use recreational trail, a parking area, and a kiosk on the Warner Tract. (Short Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: (1) Assessment completed. (2) Miles of trail constructed. (3) Parking area/kiosk constructed. OBJECTIVE 3: WISF staff will maintain 1.4 miles of proposed multi-use recreational trails, parking area, and kiosk on the Warner Tract. (Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Miles of proposed trails, parking area /kiosk maintained. OBJECTIVE 4: WISF staff will construct proposed pullout and parking access for Watson Island Tract (Short Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Proposed public access/parking area constructed. OBJECTIVE 5: WISF staff will maintain proposed pullout and parking access for Watson Island Tract (Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Proposed public access/parking area maintained. OBJECTIVE 6: WISF staff will assess the opportunities for construction of a boardwalk for public access to the St. Johns River from the parking area on Watson Island. In addition, staff will assess opportunties for dock/river access. PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Assessment completed. OBJECTIVE 7: Establish and define (boundary line survey and initial line establishment) 3.0 miles of Watson Island Tract and maintain additional 1.9 miles of state forest property boundaries within the first year. Includes boundary survey, initial boundary line establishment, boundary marking and proper signage, and establishing permanent firebreaks as appropriate. (Short Term) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Number of additional miles of boundary line surveyed and maintained. OBJECTIVE 8: Maintain currently established state forest property boundary: 3.75 miles on Warner Tract; 1.1 miles on Watson Island Tract (St. Johns River frontage and north boundary line) every five years to promote the protection of sensitive habitat by eliminating trespassing and minimizing encroachment. Includes boundary marking and proper signage, establishing permanent firebreaks as appropriate and maintaining gates. (Short Term/Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Number of miles of established boundary maintained.

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OBJECTIVE 9: Develop a road management plan to provide land management access, fire protection, and allow public access and recreational use. (Short Term/Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Completion of road management plan. Miles of road improved, upgraded, maintained, etc. OBJECTIVE 10: Conduct annual road/culvert inspection to determine the need for installation or replacement of culverts and low water crossings. (Short Term/Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Annual inspections conducted. OBJECTIVE 11: Install or replace culverts and low water crossings (Short Term/Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Culvert/low water crossings installed or replaced. OBJECTIVE 12: Install permanent DOF welcome/state forest identification signs at entry to Warner and Watson Island Tracts. (Short Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE; Signs constructed and installed. GOAL 7: Cultural and Historical Resources OBJECTIVE 1: Coordinate with the DHR to perform a Cultural Resource Assessment. (Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Assessment report completed. OBJECTIVE 2: Ensure all known sites are recorded in the Florida Division of Historical Resources (DHR) Master Site file. (Short Term/Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Number of recorded sites. OBJECTIVE 3: Monitor recorded sites and send updates to the DHR Master Site File as needed. (Short Term/Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Number of sites monitored. OBJECTIVE 4: Train additional personnel as certified archaeological monitors. (Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Number of personnel trained as monitors. OBJECTIVE 5: Produce a “Sensitive Areas” map, showing locations of archaeological/historical sites for use by WISF. (Short Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Map completed/ updated and sensitive areas training conducted. GOAL 8: Imperiled Species Habitat Maintenance, Enhancement, Restoration, or Population Restoration

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OBJECTIVE 1: Develop baseline imperiled species occurrence inventory list. (Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Completion of baseline imperiled species occurrence inventory list. OBJECTIVE 2: Develop monitoring protocols for selected imperiled species. (Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: The number of imperiled species for which monitoring protocols are developed. OBJECTIVE 3: Implement monitoring protocols for imperiled species. (Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: The number of species for which monitoring is ongoing and monitoring report(s) completed. OBJECTIVE 4: In cooperation with FWC, develop a Wildlife Management Plan that addresses all appropriate fish and wildlife species, including appropriate imperiled species, their habitats, and their sustainability based on site-specific population data. In conjunction with this plan, institute a continuous monitoring program to ensure the viability of these populations. (Long Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Completion of the wildlife management plan. OBJECTIVE 5: Implement the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s National Bald Eagle Management Guidelines (May 2007) for the bald eagle nest located on the Watson Island Tract and any subsequently located bald eagle nests. PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Implementation of guidelines. OBJECTIVE 6: Produce a “Sensitive Areas” map, showing locations of wetlands or listed species, for use by WISF. (Short Term Goal) PERFORMANCE MEASURE: Map completed/ updated and sensitive areas training conducted. E. Management Needs, Priority Schedule and Cost Estimates A prioritized list of management activities and associated estimated costs are summarized below in Table 1. A majority of the management operations will be conducted by DOF personnel, although appropriate activities will be contracted to private sector vendors. All management activities will be focused toward enhancing WISF’s natural resources and increasing the public’s recreational experience. Cost estimates are provided where sufficient information is available to make projections. Costs for some activities cannot be estimated at this time. Other activities will be completed with minimal overhead expense by utilizing existing staff. An operational plan will be developed to address each of these items.

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PRIORITY 1 1. Prescribed Burning - A fire management plan will be developed to aid in the prevention of destructive wildfires and to restore the natural fire regime to the native communities that are fire dependent. This plan will reduce fuel loading, increase public safety, facilitate timber management, and restore, maintain and protect native ecosystems. The burnable acres are estimated to be 210 acres (Warner Tract); therefore an annual burn target is projected to be 210 acres on a three years cycle). Based on DOF Fire Manual rates this cost would be $3,900 every three years. Estimated Cost every three years: $3,900 2. Timber Management - A timber resource plan will be developed to assist in restoration of stands within WISF. Thinning specific forest stands that need a reduction in basal area is essential to reach desired future conditions for certain forest communities, and is feasible on the Warner Tract. After the forest inventory has been assessed and data analyzed, initial thinning will be conducted where needed. Thinning will provide timber sale revenue for the State of Florida and during this current 10-year period timber management will be focused on using even-aged silvicultural practices within the Warner Tract. Estimated Annual Cost: To be determined 3. Road Management - The road system is almost non-existent. In order to facilitate resource management, public access, and fire response, roads need to be established and existing relic trails (firelines, etc.) should continue to be maintained and improved where necessary. Development and implementation of a Road Management Plan will facilitate safe public access and resource protection. The establishment, maintenance, and improvement costs will be determined once the plan has been completed. Estimated Annual Cost: To be determined 4. Natural Community Mapping - A survey determining the historical ecological communities within WISF will need to be conducted during this ten-year period. This project should be done in cooperation with FNAI. Estimated cost: $7,600 5. Forest Boundary Marking – WISF has a total of 6.75 miles of boundary line. The Watson Island Tract, with 3 miles of boundary, has not had a boundary line survey; it will be necessary in order to mark, post, and maintain the entire perimeter. However 1.1 miles of boundary, including St. Johns River frontage and a north property line established by a neighboring property survey, could be posted at this time. Warner Tract’s 3.0 miles of boundaries have been marked, but need posting. Boundaries will be assessed on a routine basis and the entire boundary will be evaluated regularly to monitor for maintenance issues. Posting boundary signs: $350.00 9

Total estimated cost of boundary maintenance: $1,650.00 Boundary survey, Watson Island Tract: To be determined 6. Public Access Improvements – Public access improvements have not yet been provided on either tract of the forest. The costs of installing a proposed access road, parking area, and information kiosk on Warner Tract, as well as the possible pullout, parking area, and kiosk on Watson Island Tract will need to be determined. Estimated cost: To be determined PRIORITY 2 1. Listed Species Survey, Occurrence Records and Mapping - A rare and endangered animal and plant species inventory and monitoring program will be conducted in accordance with FNAI, FWC and the DOF. The FNAI report provides information for managing rare plant species and FWC provides background in managing endangered animal species, while monitoring should be the responsibility of the DOF. Estimated Cost: To be determined 2. Outdoor Recreation Plan - Developing an outdoor recreation plan will provide additional public recreational opportunities. The cost will be determined based on recreation activities outlined in the plan. Estimated Costs: To be determined 3. Non-Native Invasive Plant Control Development and implementation of a non-native invasive species management plan to address eradicating invasive exotics within WISF. The cost for control will be determined once the feasibility of control efforts within the floodplain area of the Watson Island Tract is established. The cost of treating occurrences on properties adjacent to the Warner Tract will also need to be included. Estimated Costs: To be determined PRIORITY 3 1. Hydrological Management - A surface and ground water analysis and monitoring program should be planned and implemented in cooperation with agencies that have statutory responsibility such as the SJRWMD and the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). In addition, DOF will look for opportunities to use wetland mitigation funds to perform hydrological restoration. Estimated Costs: To be determined

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Table 1. Estimated Ten-Year Expenditures Organized by Uniform Cost Accounting Council Categories

PRIORITY PRIORITY PRIORITY 1 2 3

CATEGORY

TOTAL

Resource Management: Exotic Species Control

TBD

Prescribed burning Timber Management

$13,000

$13,000

TBD

TBD

Hydrological Management

TBD

Biological monitoring

$7,600

TBD

$7,600

Administration: Units/Projects Staff/Housing Needs Capital Improvements: New Facility Construction

TBD

Facility Maintenance

$1,650

$1.650

$350

$350

Tools/Equipment Visitor Services/Recreation: Information/Education Programs Operations Law Enforcement/Security TOTAL

$22,600

TBD

TBD

$22,600

II. ADMINISTRATION SECTION A. Descriptive Information 1. Common Name of Property The common name of the property is Watson Island State Forest (WISF). 2. Location, Boundaries and Improvements The forest is comprised of two individual tracts located in St. Johns County in close proximity to one another. The Watson Island Tract is located along the east side of the St. Johns River, approximately 6 miles west of Bakersville, Florida. The Warner Tract is located a few miles east of Watson Island, and just a few miles from the St. Johns River (Exhibit A). There are no permanent structures or improvements on the property. 11

3. Legal Description and Acreage The Watson Island Tract is located in Section 41, Township 7 South, Range 27 East (197 acres), a portion of Section 16, Township 7 South, Range 27 East (77.5 acres), and a portion of the southeast corner of Section 39, Township 7 South, Range 27 East described as “East 100 feet South of SR 13” (1 acre). Total acreage for the Watson Island Tract is 275.5. The Warner Tract is located within Section 17, Township 7 South, Range 28 East and is 230 acres in total. Detailed legal descriptions for the property can be found in lease agreement #3556. A copy of the lease is located in the Department of Environmental Protection, Division of State Lands office in Tallahassee and the WISF headquarters. Table 2. Acreage by Parcel Parcel Watson Island Warner

Lease Date

Lease No.

Funding Source

County

Acres

3/19/79

3556

Other

St. Johns

275.50

11/14/2005

3556

FL Forever

St. Johns

230.08

TOTAL

505.58

4. Degree of Title Interest Held by the Board The Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund (BOT) holds fee simple title to WISF. 5. Proximity to Other Public Resources The western boundary of the forest is the St. Johns River, a major water resource of Florida. The following public lands are within 20 miles of WISF (Exhibit B): TRACT St. Johns Co. Watson Island Bayard Conservation Area Turnbull Creek Mitigation Area Jack Wright Island Conservation Area Twelve Mile Swamp Conservation Area Deep Creek Conservation Area Castillo de San Marcos National Monument Stokes Landing Conservation Area Fort Moses Historic State Park Anastasia State Park Deep Creek State Forest Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve Guana River Wildlife Management Area Moses Creek Conservation Area 12

AGENCY DISTANCE St. Johns County 2 miles SJRWMD 3 miles St. Johns County 4.5 miles SJRWMD 6.2 miles SJRWMD 7 miles SJRWMD 8 miles NPS

11 miles

SJRWMD DRP DRP DOF

11 miles 11.5 miles 13 miles 14 miles

CAMA

14 miles

FWC SJRWMD

14 miles 14.5 miles

TRACT Matanzas State Forest Faver-Dykes State Park DOF - Florida Division of Forestry DRP - Division of Recreation and Parks NPS - National Parks Service

AGENCY DOF DRP

DISTANCE 16 miles 18 miles

SJRWMD - St. Johns River Water Management District CAMA - Division of Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas

6. Aquatic Preserve/Area of Critical State Concern This property is not within an aquatic preserve or an area of critical state concern. B. Acquisition Information 1. Land Acquisition Program Watson Island Tract was acquired through a special warranty deed from a private individual on November 18, 1976. The Watson Island Tract encompasses 275.5 acres. The Warner Tract was acquired through the Florida Forever Program on November 14, 2005. The Warner Tract encompasses 230.08 acres. 2. Legislative or Executive Constraints There are no known legislative or executive constraints specifically directed toward management of WISF. 3. Purpose for Acquisition The Watson Island Tract was acquired as a donation to the DOF in 1976. The Warner Tract was acquired as part of the St. Johns River Blueway Florida Forever Conservation Project. The St. Johns River Blueway was designed to preserve the last remaining shorelines of the St. Johns River and several of its tributaries. The overall management of the forest has been guided by the Management Prospectus for the St. Johns River Blueway Project (Exhibit C). 4. Designated Single or Multiple-Use Management WISF is designated for multiple-use management and is managed under the authority of Chapters 253 and 589, Florida Statutes. Sustainable multiple-use management is the overall goal for the property. One of the primary goals of the DOF is to restore, protect, and manage ecosystems, as well as to maintain biological diversity and ecosystem functions while allowing compatible public use. Multiple-use resource management includes, but is not limited to, silvicultural management, recreation, wildlife management, archaeological and cultural resource management, ecosystem restoration, environmental education, and watershed management. The goals of the DOF are to protect and manage ecosystems, restore and maintain biological diversity, and integrate public use through multiple-use of the forest resources. Multiple-use resource management and the practice of sustainable forestry will provide for the greatest public benefit in perpetuity, while at the same time protecting all the values and resources of the land. Local demands and geographic factors influence the array of uses to be applied to any area of the forest. Only uses compatible with the forest 13

and its ecosystems will be implemented. Forest management practices should ensure that all resources of the forest are sustained for the future. Sustainable forest management will be practiced to ensure long-term forest health. 5. Alternate Uses Considered The following uses were considered and determined not compatible: water resource development projects, water supply projects, storm-water management projects, linear facilities and communication towers and antennas, except as otherwise outlined in this plan. 6. Additional Land Needs Various parcels, especially portions of the remaining St. Johns River Blueway project, should be considered for acquisition if they become available for purchase. Two small outparcels totaling ten acres are located within the Warner Tract. Highest emphasis for purchase should be given to the adjacent Meldrim properties, which are being considered for purchase of a conservation easement by the State of Florida and St. Johns County. Of second interest for acquisition are all other adjoining lands as identified in the optimal management boundary map (Exhibit D). These are properties that would facilitate restoration, protection, maintenance, and management of the natural resources on WISF. 7. Adjacent Conflicting Uses During the development of this management plan, DOF staff identified and evaluated adjacent land uses; reviewed current comprehensive plans and future land use maps in making the determination that there are currently no known conflicting adjacent land uses. Additionally, DOF staff met with adjacent land owners and maintains liaison with those land owners to ensure that any conflicting future land uses may be readily identified and addressed. DOF welcomes the opportunity to meet with any adjacent property owner(s), prospective owner(s), or prospective developer(s) to discuss methods to minimize negative impacts on management, resources, facilities, roads, recreation, etc. DOF also looks forward to hearing/sharing ideas on how the property owner(s)/developer(s) may develop the property adjacent to the shared property line, and perhaps provide buffers to minimize encroachment into the forest and to reduce any management impacts. Currently there are no conflicting uses regarding the Watson Island Tract. However, future plans for development to the northeast and southeast of the Warner Tract may require special planning for smoke management as well as encroachment issues. 8. Surplus Land Assessment All of the land within WISF is suitable for its proposed use and none should be declared surplus.

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C. Agency & Public Involvement 1. Responsibilities of Managing Agencies The DOF is the lead managing agency, responsible for overall forest management, recreation, and security. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), in cooperation with DOF, are responsible for the development and enforcement of hunting regulations, wildlife monitoring, and wildlife management activities. The DOF will cooperate with the Division of Historical Resources (DHR) regarding appropriate management practices on historical or archaeological sites on the property as stated in Section 267.061, Florida Statutes. DHR will be notified prior to the initiation of any ground disturbing activity by the DOF or any other agency involved with the forest. St. Johns County will provide assistance as appropriate. The St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD) will be consulted and involved in matters relating to water management and hydrological restoration. 2. Public and Local Government Involvement This plan has been prepared by the DOF and will be carried out primarily by that agency. The DOF encourages public involvement through direct communication with individuals, user groups, and government officials. The plan was developed with input from the WISF Management Plan Advisory Group through a process of review and comment. The advisory group conducted a public hearing and public meeting at the St. Johns County Agricultural Extension Office on February 24, 2010 to receive input from the general public. A summary of the advisory group’s discussions, as well as written comments received on the plan, are included in Exhibit E. The Acquisition and Restoration Council (ARC) review of the plan serves as an additional forum for public input and review. 3. Compliance With Comprehensive Plan This plan was submitted to the Board of County Commissioners in St. Johns county for review of compliance with their local comprehensive plan (Exhibit F). III. RESOURCE SECTION A. Past Uses In the early 1900s, pine, cypress, and hardwood timber were harvested from the Watson Island Tract and then rafted down the river. This is the only significant man-made disturbance that is known to have taken place on the tract. This tract has been used for occasional hunting by a few local families for many years. Limited access due to wetlands which almost entirely surround the property and rough undergrowth conditions hinders public access to the property. Game species that have been hunted on this property in the past are white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), hogs (Sus scrofa), squirrels (Sciurus spp.), and turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo). Evidence of past camping activities (small tin shed, campfire site) was found on the Watson Island Tract after the initial purchase.

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The Warner Tract was predominantly planted in row crops from the 1930s-40s. After the 1940s, the Tract was left to naturally regenerate into slash pine and mixed hardwood/pine stands. In 1985, a wildfire burned a majority of the tract. In 1987, eleven acres of slash pine were planted while the remaining acres were left to naturally regenerate slash pine and mixed hardwoods in the bottomland forest. B. Renewable and Non-Renewable Resources 1. Soil Types Soil information for WISF was obtained from the USDA - Natural Resources Conservation Service “Soil Survey of St. John’s County, Florida”. For detailed information on soils, see (Exhibit G): 2. Archaeological and Historical Resources A cultural resource assessment for the existence of archaeological and historical resources has not been conducted on the tract. However, a January 2010 review of DHR’s Florida Master Site File confirmed that there are no archaeological or historical sites recorded within WISF. The DHR has indicated there is potential for existence of such sites on both tracts, though neither seems promising. On Watson Island Tract the areas DHR indicate as most likely for archaeological sites are along the St. Johns River frontage and live oak hammock areas, and on Warner Tract where portions of higher ground abut the stream which passes through the property. DOF will consult with DHR on the procedure for having a cultural resource assessment conducted. The DOF will comply with all appropriate provisions of Section 267.061(2), F.S. The DHR will be contacted before any significant ground disturbing activities are conducted on the forest, and will follow the “Management Procedures for Archaeological and Historical Sites and Properties on State-Owned or Controlled Lands” (Exhibit H). The forester assigned to WISF will be trained as an archaeological site monitor through the DHR’s training program for land managers. 3. Water Resources The St. Johns River, which forms the western boundary of this forest, has been designated as an “Outstanding Florida Water” and is classified as Class III Surface Water- suitable for recreation, propagation, and maintenance of a healthy, wellbalanced population of fish and wildlife in accordance with Rule 62-302.400, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C). A branch of Six Mile Creek runs through the eastern part of the Warner Tract. All silvicultural activities conducted in close proximity to water resource features will be in compliance with the most current version of DOF’s current Silviculture Best Management Practices (BMP) Manual. 4. Fish and Wildlife Management on WISF will be directed toward the maintenance of biological diversity and species composition consistent with existing natural community types. This will be accomplished through habitat management. All biological resources will be managed to maintain diversity. A list of species observed by the DOF, FNAI, and 16

FWC will be kept and updated as needed. WISF staff will work with the local Audubon Society to develop a bird list for the property. A list of species that have been observed on WISF are included as Exhibit I. Species that are known to be found on lands adjacent to WISF include: bald eagle (Haliaetus leucocephalus), osprey (Pandion haliaetus), pileated woodpecker (Dryocopus pileatus), wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo), and yellow-bellied sapsucker (Sphyrapicus varius). Although not observed, Florida black bear (Ursus americanus floridanus), bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus), striped skink (Mabuya maculilabris), Eastern diamondback rattlesnake (Crotalus adamanteus), cottonmouth moccasin (Agkistrodon piscivorus), and limpkin (Aramus guarauna) are species that occasionally inhabit the forest according to local sources. 5. Endangered or Threatened Species Specialized forest management techniques will be used as necessary to protect or increase habitat for listed species. Species specific management plans will be developed when necessary. Technical assistance will be solicited from other governmental agencies and private interests to provide expertise for further surveys and identification of species. If any endangered species are found to occur in the future, measures for protection of such species will be implemented. According to the FNAI, endangered and threatened species have been mapped for the vicinity surrounding the Watson Island Tract and the St. Johns River, but not in the vicinity of the Warner Tract. The West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus) and short-nose sturgeon (Acipenser brevirostrum) are known to be present in the adjacent St. Johns River. While not federally listed the Bachman’s sparrow (Aimophila aestivalis) has been recorded on the Bayard Conservation Area and may occur on the forest. An active bald eagle nest (SJ015) occurs on the Watson Island Tract (see Exhibit J). The nest is embedded within a forested wetland. Due to its isolation, little or no management activity is likely to occur in proximity to the nest. DOF will follow the USFWS National Bald Eagle Management Guidelines in carrying out any management activities within the area. The following management practices are recommended to protect listed species that may be found on the forest: i. Locate and map feeding areas, critical resources, and breeding places for all listed species; ii. Protect and properly manage habitat important to rare and endangered species; iii. Implement other specialized management practices for listed species as deemed necessary. This includes designation of buffers for aquatic and wetland resources; iv. Establish a monitoring plan to ensure species populations are being maintained and to measure success of management practices. 17

6. Beaches and Dunes There are no beaches or dunes located within WISF. 7. Swamps, Marshes, or Other Wetlands Approximately 26 acres of WISF is floodplain forest in association with the floodplain of the St. Johns River. Floodplain marshes cover approximately 2 acres. Bottomland forest, which is very closely associated with wetlands, comprises 199 acres. The WISF also contains other smaller isolated wetlands and strands of wetlands. Wetland systems also include dome swamps, depression marshes, baygalls, and wet flatwoods, while the higher elevations within the swamp are occupied by pine islands. 8. Mineral Resources There are no known significant mineral deposits on WISF. 9. Unique Natural Features The most unique natural feature that exists on WISF is the pattern of wet flatwoods and bottomland forest interlaced amongst the marshes and swamps with meandering live oak hammocks dispersed throughout. On the Watson Island Tract there is a little over one mile of frontage on the St. Johns River. 10. Outstanding Native Landscapes The most outstanding native landscape present on WISF is the natural area where the St. Johns River meets the tidal marshes of the forest. The native landscape then traverses through bottomland forests and wet flatwoods to provide a sense of the old and untouched natural Florida. 11. Timber Resource The DOF will implement silvicultural practices, including timber harvesting, prescribed burning, and reforestation, in an attempt to establish a healthy forest with an age distribution that best duplicates natural conditions. Well timed and executed timber harvests play an integral role in the health of ecosystems in the forest. Thinning dense forest stands helps to improve understory composition, forest health, and allows for less damaging prescribed burns. Within the State Forest System, the annual harvest volume on each forest will be determined by the forest health needs. Good stewardship and resource sustainability are essential goals for any proposed silvicultural activity. The health of the forest ecosystem is paramount in importance. The DOF practices sustainable timber management in the state forest system, which means annual harvest volume on each state forest is not to exceed the annual growth rate. This is accomplished by maintaining and updating accurate estimates of standing timber in order to assure that the timber resources retain their sustainability.

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Inventory on WISF is currently being conducted to determine the condition of the timber resources. The Warner Tract may have areas where timber harvests would help restore the natural communities. These areas are currently under review and will be resolved when inventories are assessed. There are no plans to harvest any hardwood or cypress timber during this ten-year planning period unless there is a natural disaster that would result in harvesting these species. On the Warner Tract, pine stands will be thinned as needed to maintain forest health. A regular prescribed burning program will be followed to ensure that off-site species are controlled, reduce hardwood encroachment, promote healthy ground cover, and to encourage natural regeneration of longleaf pine. Areas with heavy fuel levels will receive several dormant season burns until they can safely support growing season (April to August) burns. Uneven-aged and even-aged management are methods utilized for managing pines on state forest lands. This will not prohibit the option of continuing to manage existing stands under the even-aged system. All forestry activities will be conducted in accordance with the guidelines outlined in the current Silviculture BMP manual. IV. MANAGEMENT CONCEPTS BY NATURAL COMMUNITIES AND PROPOSED MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES A. Existing and Planned Uses WISF will be managed under the multiple-use concept. Management activities will include restoration, maintenance, and protection of all native ecosystems (prescribed burning, silvicultural management, wildlife management, soil, and water resources protection, etc.), integration of compatible human uses (recreation management), and ensuring long-term viability of populations and species considered endangered, threatened, or of special concern. Existing and planned uses are as follows: 1. Property Boundary Establishment and Preservation State Forest boundary lines are to be maintained by periodic clearing, repainting, reposting, and placement of state forest boundary signs by DOF personnel. WISF has 6.75 miles of boundaries. To date, only the boundaries on the Warner Tract (3.75 miles) have been marked as part of the initial acquisition survey. These areas remain in need of posting. On the Watson Island Tract (3.0 miles), no acquisition survey was conducted, and no boundary lines have been marked. Currently, posting is feasible only along the river frontage and perhaps the north boundary line where an adjacent property line was surveyed by the owner, a total of 1.1 miles. A boundary line survey will be needed in order to establish, post and maintain the entire Watson Island Tract boundary.

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2. Soil and Water Protection The Watson Island Tract borders the St. Johns River, which constitutes the western boundary. The St. Johns River serves as a major water resource for Florida and is designated as “Outstanding Florida Waters” and is classified as a Class III Surface Water- Recreation, Propagation, and Maintenance of Healthy Well-balanced population of Fish and Wildlife in accordance with Rule 62-302.400, F.A.C. The western portion of Watson Island Tract is composed of intact, undisturbed natural communities with no known soil or erosion problems. The Warner Tract will have a hydrologic assessment and the need for a FNAI survey evaluated within the next year. All silvicultural practices within the WISF will be conducted in compliance with the most current edition of the Silviculture BMPs Manual. Specific guidelines are outlined in the BMP Manual, as well as applications for use on public lands. Copies of this publication are available upon request from the DOF Hydrology Section. The WISF falls within the jurisdiction of the SJRWMD. The DOF will coordinate with SJRWMD and/or DEP, as necessary, on activities pertaining to water resource protection and management. Any activities requiring water management district permits will be handled accordingly. The DOF will work with SJRWMD to ensure that levels and quality of ground and surface water resources are appropriately monitored. 3. Roads The Watson Island Tract currently has no public access via roads, and is only accessible by boat. The Warner Tract is located in close proximity to County Road 13-A. The Warner Tract has public access via Oscar Ashton Road, Located off of County Road 13-A. An unnamed service road (former logging road) and various types of relic trails (firelines, ATV, mowed) are scattered throughout the tract. WISF uses the guidelines and regulations (road closures, maintenance, etc.) outlined by the DOF Road Standards. A Road Management Plan for WISF is being considered. A short entry road is planned (Exhibit K) and will be necessary to provide management and public access on the Warner Tract, Plans for the establishment of new roads, if any, will be reviewed by the DOF, DHR, FNAI, and the ARC. 4. Recreation Management The demand for resource-based outdoor recreational activities on WISF is expected to be low, considering that public access to the forest is limited by topography (Watson Island Tract), public roads proximity and size (both tracts). Planned public access points and those public use improvements that can be accomplished in the short term are illustrated in Exhibit K.

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The Watson Island Tract is surrounded almost entirely by wetlands, and approximately 1 ½ mile of the St. Johns River. There is one small upland area that touches Scenic Route 13 where access for parking could be provided via a pullout and small parking area. However, only foot access is possible from that point due to the immediate transition to the bottomland forest community which dominates the tract (Exhibit K). The only other possible access to the island may be by building a dock on the St. Johns River in order to access the tract by boat, or construction of a boardwalk through the swamp from SR 13. Primitive camping could be considered on the interior upland ‘island’ accessed by this boardwalk; location will need to include consideration of the appropriate buffer zones for the exisiting eagle nest. Other expected activities might include birding and nature study. It is especially critical on this tract that considerations to develop public use improvements include management capacity (access, staff) to monitor impacts, provide maintenance, and or law enforcement needs associated with the public use. The Warner Tract has one public road access via Oscar Ashton Road from SR 13A. A designated public access point is planned that will require construction of a short entrance road, small parking area, and kiosk. A 1.4 mile multi-use trail leading from the parking area and following the route of an existing service road and fireline is also planned (Exhibit K). Expected activities for this tract might include hiking, horseback riding, limited hunting (foot access only), birding, nature studies, and primitive camping. The DOF will continue to promote and encourage recreational use by the public while protecting resources and practicing multiple-use management. In any development of public access or recreation facilities, DOF will make every effort to accommodate Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) related concerns. Hunting and fishing activities are regulated by FWC. Due to size and access constraints, there are no current plans to institute a Wildlife Management Area (WMA). A Five-Year Recreation Plan will be developed that will outline proposed improvements to the forest to provide resource-based recreation opportunities. The Bunnell District Recreation Coordinator will provide support and proper direction. 5. Fire Management To achieve forest resource management objectives, prescribed fire will be utilized as the primary tool. The management goal of the prescribed fire is to restore, stimulate, maintain and protect the integrity of native ecosystems and their processes, and to recreate a natural fire regime. In addition, prescribed fires provide many valuable support characteristics such as enhancement of timber management operations, reduction of fuel loading, reduction of woody shrubs, promoting the recovery and regeneration of native pines and native herbaceous grassy ground cover, and enhancing populations of fire adapted threatened and endangered species. The DOF utilizes a total fire management program on State Forests that includes wildfire prevention, detection, suppression, and prescribed burning. Primary 21

detection and suppression of wildfires are the responsibility of the DOF under the direction of the Bunnell District (District 10), particularly the rangers assigned the Bakersville Forestry Station, Dupont and Durbin Tower sites. Emphasis will be placed on prescribed burning, fire prevention, and education to help reduce wildfire occurrence on the forest. The incident Commander responding to wildfires on WISF has three paramount considerations, listed in order of priority: protection of the firefighters and general public, protection of structures, and protection of natural resources. WISF contains 505 acres of community types that are variable in their fire dependency. Prescribed fire will be utilized to re-establish a fire regime in 210 acres of fire dependent slash pine stands (Warner Tract). A fire management plan is currently being developed for WISF. The plan will be reviewed annually and amended if necessary. Sensitive areas and species, archaeological sites, and wetlands will be identified. New firelines will meet the state-required BMPs and all efforts will be put into motion to avoid areas within the State Forest that are classified as sensitive areas. Evaluations of the prescribed fire management program will be conducted both prior to burns and post-burn. This element is essential in our program to determine if objectives that we set forth are being met. In using prescribed fire in the various pyric communities on this forest, it is important to understand the ecological richness of the ecotones that divide them, especially those margins between wetland and upland communities. Every effort will be made to avoid the construction and/or maintenance of firelines in these environmentally sensitive areas. Staff will be trained to recognize sensitive areas and will be provided with guidelines for fireline construction. Whenever possible, existing roads and natural firebreaks will be used to contain and control prescribed and natural fires. The biological diversity of these ecotones will benefit from prescribed fire being allowed to burn uninterrupted into the edges of the adjacent hydric communities. In this manner, fire also serves to limit the invasion of less fire-adapted, hydric species (e.g. loblolly bay) into the adjacent, more mesic communities. Wetland communities, such as fresh water marshes and seasonal ponds, benefit from occasional fire which serves to limit peat accumulation and invasion of woody vegetation and helps to prevent the undesired transition to plant species associated with more mesic conditions. In addition, moderately intense fire in swamps can benefit cypress and retard invasion of less fire-adapted hardwood species. Where these wetland communities are not sufficiently hydrated to prevent undesirable fire intensity, consideration should be given to delaying prescribed fire. When proceeding with burning in these conditions, and fire lines are required, they should be located well out of the ecotone and up in the more mesic community type. Presuppression lines should avoid sensitive seepage slopes adjacent to swamps and in any other area that would disrupt the natural hydrology.

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All guidelines as outlined in DOF’s Fire Management Policy will be used on the forest. The smoke screening system will be used as a smoke management tool and to minimize the adverse impact of smoke. 6. Silvicultural Guidelines & Forest Resource Management Objectives Timber is a valuable economic resource and timber harvesting for the purposes of biological restoration and improving forest health are recognized silvicultural objectives on State Forests. a. Objectives The objectives of forest resource management are: i. To restore health and vigor to the forest ecosystem through thinning, prescribed burning, and reforestation, both naturally and artificially with species native to the site, including longleaf pine and slash pine. ii. To manage the forest for the long-term using natural regeneration, unevenaged, and even-aged timber management techniques. iii. To create a naturally regenerating forest with old growth characteristics that yields sustainable economic, ecological, and social benefits. b. Silvicultural Operations The forest will be managed to promote and improve overall forest health. Restoration of native species, even-age and uneven age management of pine stands, selected thinning, removal of off-site species, and prescribed fire are all actions used to promote healthy forest stands. Mechanical treatments may be used to reduce hardwood competition and fuel structure. Mechanical treatments may include “walkdowns”, mowing, selective thinning, chopping, and removal of off-site species through harvesting. Prescribed fire following mechanical applications will help remove the vegetation, and must occur within 12 to 18 months to prevent the conversion of the cut vegetation to duff, making prescribed burning more difficult. This in turn will promote native vegetation and stand density to meet desired future conditions. The protection of native groundcover and sensitive areas will be emphasized during all silvicultural operations. One of the primary objectives on WISF is to practice sustainable forest management. A timber inventory and 5-Year Silviculture Plan will be completed to pursue even-aged management. There have been no timber harvests on WISF since the state has acquired the property. Due to limited access, it is unlikely that timber harvesting will occur on the Watson Island Tract. The Warner Tract has both planted and naturally regenerated pine stands that will require management. c. Timber Inventory Control Within the State Forest System, the annual harvest volume on each forest will be determined by the health of the forest. To insure that the timber will not be depleted, an accurate estimate of the standing timber volume is documented. 23

Stands will be selected for periodic re-inventory, so as to complete the entire forest over a ten-year cycle according to parameters established by the state lands staff. Overall volume will be determined using updated inventory data and the growth and yield model for the remaining stands. Overstocked pine stands and heavy fuel buildups are susceptible to damage from wildfire, insects and disease. These stands require improvement thinning to allow more room for growth of residual trees. Thinning will help the trees regain their vigor and resistance to pathogens and will facilitate safe prescribed burning. d. Timber Sales Timber sales will follow the guidelines stated in Chapter 6.4 of the most currently approved State Forest Handbook. e. Reforestation Reforestation plans as part of an even-aged or uneven-aged system will be developed for each under stocked site on a site-specific basis. Natural regeneration is the preferred method of reforestation, but artificial regeneration will be used when there is an inadequate seed source. Stocking levels, species selection, and site preparation techniques will be addressed in the 5-Year Silviculture Plan Reforestation will be a key component in restoring the natural ecosystems. In preparing restoration areas for reforestation, site preparation techniques will be selected that promote seedling survival while having the least damaging impact on existing desired ground cover species. Fire will be the preferred technique; however, herbicide applications, mowing, and roller-chopping or combinations of the above may be necessary. Private vendors may be used whenever possible to implement silvicultural prescriptions. 7. Research Projects/Specimen Collection Research projects may be performed on certain areas of the forest on a temporary or permanent basis for the purpose of obtaining information which expands the knowledge of and assists in management of ecosystems. The DOF cooperates with other governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions, whenever feasible, on this type of research. Research projects that do not require specimen collection (observation only) may be conducted after obtaining a Bunnell District special use permit. However research projects that require specimen collections must be approved by the DOF Forest Ecologist before they are initiated. Any requests for research projects should be submitted in writing to the WISF Forester or to the Bunnell Forest Resource Administrator for forwarding to the Forest Management Bureau for approval. Requests must include a letter outlining the scope of the project, methodology, and the location of the proposed project. Requests are 24

subject to review by DOF Biologists, the Forest Entomologist or the Forest Pathologist, as appropriate. Permission to conduct research will require that the investigator provide copies of any reports or studies generated from research projects to the WISF personnel. The status of existing projects will be subject to periodic review by State Forest staff. 8. Law Enforcement Primary law enforcement responsibilities are handled by law enforcement officers from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), Office of Agriculture Law Enforcement (OALE). Additional support and assistance will be provided by the FWC law enforcement and the St. Johns County Sheriff’s office. Special rules of the FDACS, (Chapter 5I-4 of the Florida Administrative Code) have been promulgated for the public use of state lands and control of forest traffic and camping. 9. Wildlife and Fish Management Wildlife is an important element of the WISF ecosystem. The forest is open to the public year round except in portions of the forest where access is limited during wet periods, most notably the Watson Island Tract. There is currently no hunting at WISF, however in general FWC is responsible for providing technical assistance for the biological aspect of the management of wildlife and fish populations and overall fish and wildlife law enforcement. In order to assist the FWC with sustaining wildlife populations at levels that can be produced and sustained through multiple-use management, the following guidelines will be used: a. Timber Management Timber management will be carried out to best meet the needs of both the wildlife and forest resources. Timber harvesting will be conducted in the manner specified in this plan. DOF recognizes the importance of snags for wildlife value. Hardwood and pine snags will be left alone in their natural environment unless they are deemed to be a potential safety hazard. Timber salvages should occur due to natural disasters, as needed. b. Prescribed Burning The DOF has an aggressive prescribed burning program utilizing both growing and dormant season burns. The DOF utilizes prescription burns to decrease fuel loads, promote restoration, and maintain native community structure. The long-term objective of prescribed burning is to simulate, as much as possible, a natural fire regime in which the majority of acres are burned during the lightning season. To the greatest extent possible, areas that are burned will be spread over the forest in a mosaic pattern. Whenever possible, existing roads and natural barriers will be used as fire breaks for prescribed fires. c. Hunting Hunting and fishing activities are regulated by FWC. Due to size and access constraints, there are no current plans to institute a Wildlife Management Area

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(WMA) on WISF; however the potential for limited hunt will be reviewed with FWC. d. Managing Non-Game Species Non-game species, including rare and sensitive species, will be managed and protected through the restoration and maintenance of native ecosystems found on WISF. Research will provide valuable information in determining future management objectives of nongame wildlife species. e. Sensitive Species Specialized forest management techniques will be used, as necessary, to protect or increase endangered and threatened species and species of special concern, as applicable for both plants and animals. Species-specific management plans will be developed as needed. Continued biological surveys will be conducted to determine locations of these species. Management needs of sensitive species will be carried out as directed in the “Endangered or Threatened Species” section (III.B.5.) of this plan. The management goals that are outlined in the “Existing Conditions and Management Direction” section (IV.B.1.) will benefit sensitive species by improving, restoring or maintaining native communities that provide critical habitat. The following management practices are recommended to protect and preserve endangered or threatened species that are present on the forest: i. Locate cover, habitat/foraging ranges and breeding areas used by rare and endangered species and include locations on a vegetation map. ii. Protect and properly manage habitat important to rare and endangered species. iii. Implement other specialized management practices for rare and endangered species. 10. Non-Native Invasive Species The practice of the DOF is to locate, identify, and eradicate non-native invasive species. State Forest personnel will continually monitor the forest for non-native invasive species while conducting management activities. When non-native invasive species are discovered, an eradication plan will be developed and implemented based upon the severity of the infestation and the availability of personnel and funding. Adjacent landowners who are known to have these species on their property will be approached in an effort to cooperate on control measures. The DOF will enlist support from the FWC in the effort to control non-native invasive animals. In regards to the invasive plant populations on WISF, personnel will be scheduled for training in the identification and control of invasive species as time and resources permit. Non-native invasive plants training courses will be coordinated by the DOF Forest Health Section. Control/ eradication of non-native invasive species will be plant specific, and may require the use of treatments such as herbicides. 26

A survey of non-native invasive plants was completed on the Watson Island Tract in the summer of 2005, and on the Warner Tract in the spring of 2007 by the DOF Forest Health Section. The following listing of confirmed occurrences includes one species, wild taro (Colocasia esculenta), based on the Watson Island survey (Exhibit L), and a listing for lantana (Lantana camara) based on State Forest personnel sighting. No occurrences from the Exotic Pest Council’s list of non-native invasive plants were located on the Warner Tract survey. A Five-year Non-Native Invasive Plant Management Plan to address these occurrences will be drafted. 11. Insects, Disease and Forest Health Forest management practices will be conducted in such a way as to avoid insect and disease problems. If outbreaks do occur, operational and strategic plans will be implemented to control any infestations. Specific long range strategies to avoid and/or minimize losses to such outbreaks in the future will be the management objective. State Forest staff will consult with the Forest Health Section to develop scientifically sound responses and/or management prescriptions. In compliance with Chapter 388.4111, Florida Statutes, all lands contained within this lease have been evaluated and subsequently designated as environmentally sensitive and biologically highly productive. Such designation is appropriate and consistent with the previously documented natural resources and ecosystem values and affords the appropriate protection for these resources from arthropod control practices that would impose a potential hazard to fish, wildlife, and other natural resources existing on this property. After approval of this plan, the local arthropod control agency will be contacted and will be provided a description of the management objectives for WISF. The local arthropod control agency must then prepare a public lands control plan that is subsequently approved by the DOF, prior to conducting any arthropod control activities on WISF. 12. On-Site Housing DOF may establish on-site housing (mobile/manufactured home) on WISF if deemed necessary to alleviate security and management issues. The need and feasibility specific for the state forest will be evaluated and established if considered appropriate by the center/district manager and approved by the DOF Director. On-site housing will only be available to individuals approved by the Director. Prior to the occurrence of any ground disturbing activity for the purpose of establishing on-site housing, a notification and packages sent to the DHR and FNAI for review and recommendations. The package will contain a description of the project (location, number of units, type and amount of ground disturbance, affected natural community type and nearby known archaeological or historical sites), maps (topographic and aerial) and photographs of the area.

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13. Utility Corridors and Easements There is an existing 60-foot wide by 230-foot long ingress and egress easement, on the Warner Tract containing 0.32 acres, more or less, (ORB 845, p. 1435) identified in an August 25, 2005 DEP Land Acquisition Survey Review. This easement extends from and provides access from the end of Oscar Ashton Road to the east line of the property, and provides access for three residential parcels clustered there. There are powerlines associated with the residences crossing this easement. There are no other utility lines, pipelines, linear facilities, and transportation corridors located within WISF. The use of state forest property for utility lines, pipelines, linear facilities and transportation corridors will be discouraged to the greatest extent possible in compliance with the Board of Trustees Linear Facilities Policy. The placement of these linear facilities fragments the natural communities. Requests for linear facility uses will be handled according to the Governor and Cabinet’s Linear Facilities Policy which can be found in Chapter 2 of the State Forest Handbook The DOF does not favor the fragmentation of natural communities with linear facilities; consequently, easements or transfers of land for such uses will be discouraged. The DOF does not consider WISF suitable for any new linear facilities. When such encroachments are unavoidable, previously disturbed sites will be the preferred location. The objectives, when identifying possible locations for new linear facilities, will be to cause no damage to sensitive resources (e.g., listed species and archaeological sites), to avoid habitat fragmentation and to limit disruption of management activities and resource-based recreation. Collocation with existing corridors will be considered but will be used only where expansion of existing corridors does not increase the level of habitat fragmentation and disruption of management and multiple-use activities. The DOF will further encourage the use of underground cable where scenic considerations are desirable. Easements are subject to the approval of the BOT and will follow the procedure outlined in Chapter 18-2, F.A.C. covering easements. 14. Ground Disturbing Activities Although the DOF’s approach to handling ground disturbing activities is identified in various sections of this plan, the overall approach to this issue is summarized here. The DOF recognizes the importance of managing and protecting sensitive resources and will take all necessary steps to insure that ground disturbing activities will not adversely impact sensitive resources. This includes areas such as archaeological and/or historical sites, ecotones, wetlands, and listed species. The construction of new pre-suppression fire lines will be limited to the greatest extent practicable. When new pre-suppression firelines, recreational trails, or other low-impact recreational site enhancements are necessary their placement will be carefully reviewed by state forest field staff and developed to avoid sensitive areas. DOF will consult with the FNAI, DHR, and when necessary the Division of State Lands (DSL) for other ground disturbing activities such as construction of buildings, parking lots, and new roads. 28

15. Apiaries There are currently no apiary leases on WISF. The feasibility of pursuing and establishing apiary leases on WISF in areas where appropriate will be evaluated in accordance with guidelines stated in Chapter 9.1 of the State Forest Handbook (DOF, 2004). 16. Cattle Grazing There are currently no cattle leases on WISF. Cattle grazing can be a useful tool in fuel reduction planning and will be evaluated where appropriate. However due to its small size and largely wetland habitats, WISF is unlikely to provide a cost effective lease site for cattle. 17. Ground Cover Management activities will be designed and conducted to protect and enhance the condition and integrity of the native ground cover. Management techniques, such as prescribed fire in the growing season, will be used to rejuvenate, recover, and maintain a diversity of native ground cover to the greatest extent practical. 18. Restoration Like many areas in Florida, fire and hydrology represent the key ecosystem processes. Thus, the WISF restoration vision focuses on fire and hydrologic patterns. This restoration philosophy has produced the following three classes of restoration goals restoring proper fire regime, hydrology, and species composition. These goals often interact and build upon each other. Specific actions that will be taken to accomplish restoration goals are outlined in the natural community management section (IV.B.) of this plan. a. Fire Prior to European settlement, fires in Florida generally burned on a landscape scale until stopped by rain, a body of water, or other natural fire barriers. These fires were frequent and burned most often in the lightning season. The combination of pronounced wet/dry seasons and nutrient poor soils produced a pyrogenic flora rich in one-hour and waxy fuels. Prescribed burning provides numerous benefits to the forest. Many plant and wildlife species are adapted to frequent fires. Wiregrass (Aristida stricta) in particular is dependent on fire. Burning improves wildlife habitat by promoting the growth of tender new vegetation. This new vegetation is utilized by deer, rabbits, and many other animals, while quail and other birds prefer the seeds produced by recently burned plants. Burning opens up the forest and helps control competing vegetation. Prescribed burning also reduces the chances of detrimental wildfires by reducing the buildup of fuels. Areas to be burned will be distributed throughout the forest in a mosaic pattern. An allseason burning program will be established utilizing existing information concerning

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prescribed fire practices. Whenever possible, roads and natural breaks will be utilized to contain and control prescribed and natural fires. Management techniques to mirror ancient fire processes include conducting lightning season prescribed burns at frequent intervals, burning across ecotones and transition zones, and restoring fuels to carry fire where the understory has been eliminated. b. Hydrology A marked wet and dry season coupled with permeable soils and lack of topographic relief results in great extremes of flooding and drought in Florida. Human habitation has made Florida rich in roads, canals, and retention ponds but has altered historic water flows. With the assistance of the DOF Hydrology Section, WISF staff will evaluate the need for hydrologic management or restoration. Small-scale restoration of individual roads and firelines on the forest is achievable and productive. Any activities associated with hydrological restoration on WISF will be implemented with the approval and coordination of the DOF Hydrology Section. WISF contains smaller isolated wetlands and strands of wetlands. Wetland systems also include dome swamps, depression marshes, baygalls, and wet flatwoods, while the higher elevations within the swamp are occupied by pine islands. The transition area from the upland forest to the forested wetlands may host a variety of threatened or endangered species depending on the occurrence of fire. These areas should be allowed to burn as much as possible when prescribed burning is conducted in the adjacent uplands. Maintaining the integrity of the natural hydrology and wetlands community is a high priority. All forestry activities will be conducted in accordance with the “Silviculture BMP” manual. Wetlands restoration will be coordinated with the SJRWMD. Any activities requiring permits from the water management district will be handled accordingly. The water resources on WISF perform essential roles in the protections of water quality, groundwater recharge, flood control and aquatic habitat preservation. In the interest of maintaining these valuable resource functions, state forest management personnel will work with the DOF’s Hydrology Section personnel to incorporate wetland restoration into the overall resource management program as opportunities arise, particularly where wetland systems have been impaired or negatively impacted by previous management activities or natural disasters. Wetland restoration objectives on the State Forest include erosion control, restoration of hydrology and/or hydro-period, and restoration of wetland plant and animal communities. To achieve these objectives, restoration activities may involve road and soil stabilization, water level control structure removal or installation, exotic species control, site preparation and re-vegetation with native wetland species, and project monitoring. These activities may be conducted individually or concurrently, implemented by DOF personnel or by non-DOF 30

personnel under mitigation or grant contractual agreements. Wetland restoration projects should be conducted in conjunction with other restoration activities indicated elsewhere in this plan. To the extent possible, WISF, with assistance from the DOF’s Hydrology Section, will pursue funding to develop and implement wetland restoration projects. In addition, cooperative research among the DOF, other state agencies, and the federal government will provide valuable information in determining future management objectives of wetland restoration. Wetlands restoration will be coordinated with the SJRWMD. Any activities requiring permits from the water management district will be handled accordingly. c. Species Composition Ensuring that species vital to ecosystem processes are in place on WISF is a restoration priority. A continuous pyrogenic ground cover in fire-adapted species is important, as is the presence of longleaf pine. Juvenile longleaf pine tolerates fire earlier than other woody vegetation, allowing a shorter fire return interval to coexist with silviculture. The multiple-use management approach should maintain habitat conditions suitable for the array of species typically found within the various ecosystems. As restoration proceeds and the habitats on the forest are enhanced, monitoring will be conducted to determine whether there have been any changes in species composition on WISF. There are no current plans to reintroduce any species that are thought to have been extirpated from WISF. However habitat conditions for key species will be monitored and if habitat conditions become suitable, the case for reintroduction will be examined and attempted if it makes sense ecologically and from the standpoint of species recovery. Restoration also aspires to control non-native invasive species. Long-term monitoring is vital and will be conducted as staffing and funding allow. This ten-year resource management plan represents the best knowledge of the DOF at this time. Since restoration is inherently experimental, it is important to periodically monitor and evaluate land management to ensure it meets our mission statement. Evaluations will both highlight unsatisfactory management practices as well as those practices that have succeeded. B. Description of Natural Communities and Proposed Management Activities Currently, an FNAI natural community mapping project has not been completed for WISF. Listed below are the vegetation types found on WISF along their desired future conditions, existing conditions, and the management actions that will be used to restore these natural community types. This information was gathered using SJRWMD’s data on community types found within WISF (Exhibit M).

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Table 3. Natural Community Types found on WISF Acres Burn Natural Mapped Interval Communities (Existing) (Years) Bottomland Forest 199 N/A Wet Flatwoods 129 2-5 Mesic Flatwoods 124 2 to 4 Floodplain Forest 26 N/A Baygall 23 N/A Floodplain Marsh 2 N/A Dome Swamp 1 3 to 5 Ruderal 2 N/A 1. Bottomland Forest Desired Future Condition The bottomland forest is characterized by a low-lying, closed canopy forest of deciduous tree species with close proximity to bodies of water. This natural community is well noted for its high diversity of trees, plants, and animals that is very widespread along much of the coastal plain. Typical flora include water oak (Quercus nigra), live oak (Quercus virginiana), sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), red maple (Acer rubrum), cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto), loblolly pine (Pinus taeda), southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), loblollybay (Gordonia lasianthus), dahoon holly (Ilex cassine), and waxmyrtle (Myrica cerifera). Typical animals include cottonmouth, Great Horned owl (Bubo virginianus), pileated woodpecker, Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana) grey squirrel, raccoon (Procyon lotor), nine-banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus), bobcat (Felis rufus), white-tailed deer. The bottomland forest is a very stable community that is closely related to the floodplain forest and upland mixed forests where the communities sometimes overlap along ecotones. These communities are extremely sensitive and take more than a century to mature. Existing Conditions Although strands of the bottomland forest community type meander through the Warner Tract, most of this community exists along the St. John’s River on the Watson Island Tract. The bottomland forest community has been relatively undisturbed due to its remoteness, and is currently very comparable to the desired future condition. However, the non-native Wild taro was found growing along the shore of the St. John’s River and inland for about 30 feet during a DOF Forest Health Section 2005 survey, likely vectored by the river (Exhibit L). Due to the low air movement and light penetration in the bottomland forest environment, high humidity levels are generally very constant, therefore bottomland forests rarely ever burn. Area mapped: 199 acres Fire Requirements: N/A

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Restoration Restoration of this community type will focus on maintaining current conditions and monitoring water quality within the bottomland forest. Restoration and maintaining the surrounding uplands and community types will assist in sustaining high water quality. Elimination of the wild taro along the St. Johns River shoreline is unlikely considering the ongoing vectoring of the plants from external locations. The occurrence was identified as a third priority species for treatment by the Forest Health Section survey. Groundcover Groundcover restoration projects are not required for this community. Hydrology Bottomland forests are susceptible to disturbances in hydrological regimes and tend to recover poorly when hydrology has been disturbed. Due to the level of remoteness from management activities hydrologic restoration is not currently required for this community. This natural community should be monitored for disturbances when significant events occur. Silviculture There are no silvicultural activities currently planned for this community. 2. Wet Flatwoods Desired Future Condition The wet flatwoods community type is characterized as relatively open-canopy forests of uneven aged pines with a somewhat sparse understory and dense groundcover of herbs, grasses, and shrubs. Typical plants found within this community are slash pine (Pinus elliottii), pond pine (Pinus serotina), sweetbay (Magnolia virginiana), spike rush (Eleocharis spp.), beaksedges (Rhynchospora spp.), gallberry (Ilex glabra), saw palmetto (Serenoa repens), deer tongue (Carphephorus spp.), bluestem (Andropogon glomeratus), and pitcher plants (Sarracenia sp.) Typical animals that represent the wet flatwoods are oak toad (Bufo quercicus), chorus frog (Pseudacris nigrita verrucosa), eastern diamondback rattlesnake, yellow rat snake (Elaphe obsolete quadrivittata), cottontail rabbit, raccoon, white-tailed deer, bobcat, and red-shouldered hawk (Buteo lineatus). The natural fire regime for this type is 2-5 years. Existing Conditions The wet flatwoods found on both the Watson Island and Warner Tracts are comprised of natural slash pine stands. Most of the areas on the Warner Tract have been affected by activities that were implemented within the past few decades by a private land management company focused primarily on timber management. There are remnants of intact groundcover resembling this community type scattered throughout these stands, but due to the lack of fire there is encroachment of woody/hardwood vegetation with heavy fuel loads that appears to be a problem in this community where fire is an important factor. No non-native invasive plants have been observed within this community. Area mapped: 129 acres Fire Requirements: 2-5 years 33

Restoration Restoring a fire regime to the wet flatwoods will be the focus in this community type because it is dependent on and well adapted to frequent fire. Restoration of this community type will also focus on conversion of the few remaining plantations to even-aged or uneven-aged management, reforestation of harvested areas, frequent prescribed fires, and hydrologic restoration of adjacent wetlands. Groundcover Initially, dormant season fires at 2-3 year intervals will be the most effective way to reduce the rough that has accumulated due to the absence of fire for so many years. After the initial fuel loads have been reduced through several burns, early growing season burns will be most effective in rejuvenating native groundcover to its original vegetation type. Once fuel levels are returned to a maintenance condition, the ongoing fire frequency will return to every 2-5 years. Since wet flatwoods are often associated with hydric hammocks, mesic flatwoods, basin swamps, and wet prairie, it would be beneficial to allow prescribed fires to burn into the swamps and low wetland areas to various extents depending on fuel and weather parameters Hydrology Wet Flatwoods are susceptible to disturbances in the fire and hydrological regimes and tend to recover poorly when hydrology has been disturbed. Assessments will be made by WISF personnel and the DOF Hydrology Section in areas where the natural hydrology has been impacted due to prior land management practices. Rehabilitation of these sensitive areas will be implemented with direction from the hydrology section. Silviculture Selective thinning for both natural and planted stands will be conducted to promote an open forest canopy, vigor of select trees, and the regeneration of native ground cover. With this understanding basal area will be managed with stand densities to allow more adequate sunlight to penetrate the forest canopy to restore and maintain native groundcover. The long-term management goal within this community type will be to restore even-aged or uneven aged stands and native ground cover. However, on Warner Tract, even-aged management will be utilized during this planning period. Silvicultural activities will be sensitive to soil moisture conditions so that these activities will not cause further hydrological impacts. 3. Mesic Flatwoods Desired Future Condition The mesic flatwoods areas are pine flatwoods with abundant grasses and shrubs in the groundcover. They are characterized as an open canopy forest of native pine trees with little or no understory, but a dense ground cover of herbs and shrubs (FNAI 1990). Tree species consist of slash and longleaf pines. Existing Conditions The mesic flatwoods community appears to be primarily found in the Warner Tract. This community is scattered throughout much of this tract intermingling with much of the wet flatwoods community. The community consists of naturally regenerated slash pine and scattered longleaf pine, except for one eleven-acre planted slash pine stand established in 1987. The areas where the mesic flatwoods are located are slightly elevated above the nearby wet flatwoods 34

communities. Due to the past absence of fire in this community heavier fuel loads have become more common and woody vegetation has become very thick throughout much of the mesic flatwoods. Due to the absence of a fire regime within the mesic flatwoods and along the ecotones where this community coincides with the wet flatwoods, it has become abnormally concentrated with competing vegetation. Area mapped: 124 acres Fire Requirements: 2-4 years Restoration Restoration of this community type will focus predominantly on the use of prescribed fire. Mechanical fuel reduction, such as mowing, light roller chopping or a thinning harvest operation, would be a positive component to reduce competition and put the fuels on the ground for a prescribed burn soon after. The combination of mechanical fuel reduction and prescribed fire could reduce the dense, overly competitive understory, and allow for a more open canopy and sparse understory that would promote further prescribed fire management in a more reasonable manner. Groundcover Dormant season fires will be the most effective way to reduce the rough that has accumulated due to the absence of fire for so many years. After the initial rough has been alleviated, early growing season burns will be most effective in restoring the natural fire regime, native groundcover to its original spatial pattern, and vegetation type. Hydrology Mesic flatwoods are as susceptible to disturbances in the fire and hydrological regimes as any of the other natural communities. Assessments will be made by State Forest personnel and the DOF Hydrology Section in areas where the natural hydrology has been impacted due to prior land management practices. Rehabilitation of these sensitive areas will be implemented with direction from the DOF Hydrology Section. Silviculture Creating an even-aged mixture of longleaf and slash pines along with scattered oak species will be a primary silvicultural objective during this planning period. Selective thinning for both natural and planted stands will be conducted to promote an open forest canopy, vigor of select trees, and the regeneration of native ground cover. Basal area will be managed with stand densities to allow more adequate sunlight to penetrate the forest canopy to restore and maintain native shrubbery and groundcover. Restoring native ground cover, and an open spatial pattern among species will be the long-term management goal within this community type. 4. Floodplain Forest Desired Future Condition The floodplain forest is characterized by its unique hardwood forests that are a scattered mosaic throughout much of the community. This natural community is identified by its close proximity to estuarine systems and its diverse array of trees, plants, and animals. The floodplain forest is a community that critically depends on the maintenance of the natural hydrologic regime to support the health of the forest community. 35

Existing Conditions The floodplain forest community is located on the southern portion of the Warner Tract, and is scattered within the Watson Island Tract along the St. John’s River. This community is very closely associated with the bottomland forest. The floodplain forest community has been relatively undisturbed due to its remoteness. The floodplain forest within Watson Island State Forest is currently very similar to its natural state and is very similar to the desired future condition. Area mapped: 26 acres Fire Requirements: N/A Restoration Restoration of this community will focus on maintaining current conditions and monitoring water quality within the forest community. Restoration and maintaining surrounding community types will contribute to high water quality. Groundcover Groundcover restoration projects are not required for this community. Hydrology Floodplain forests are susceptible to disturbances in hydrological regimes and tend to recover poorly when hydrology has been disturbed. Due to the level of remoteness from management activities hydrologic restoration is not currently required for this community. This natural community should be monitored for disturbances when significant events occur. Silviculture There are no silvicultural activities currently planned for this community. 5. Baygall Desired Future Condition Baygall is a seepage wetland occurring along the bottom of the scrub ridges and at the edges of basin swamp. Typical baygall vegetation includes a canopy dominated by abundant loblolly bay, slash pine, and fewer sweetbay. The sub-canopy is comprised of young loblolly bay, dahoon holly, and occasional swamp tupelo (Nyssa biflora). The shrub shiny lyonia is often abundant and grows over chain fern. Existing Conditions The baygall forest community is located within the Watson Island Tract and is very closely associated with the bottomland forest. The baygall forest community has been relatively undisturbed due to its remoteness, and is currently very similar to its natural state and the desired future condition. Area Mapped: 1 acre Fire Requirements: 3 - 5 Years Restoration 36

Introduction of a fire regime is not feasible due to the community’s location and surroundings. Groundcover Groundcover restoration projects are not required for this community. Hydrology Due to the level of remoteness from management activities hydrologic restoration is not currently required for this community. Silviculture There will be no long term timber management on this community type. 6. Floodplain Marsh Desired Future Condition The floodplain marsh is a wetland community with herbaceous vegetation and emergent grasses that occur in the river floodplains. This natural community is noted for its close proximity to estuarine systems and diverse array of emergent grasses, herbs, shrubs, and wildlife. The floodplain marsh community depends on the natural hydrologic regime that supports the infrastructure of the community. These floodplain marshes are flooded with flowing water some 250 days annually. Existing Conditions The floodplain marsh community is located on a very small portion of the Watson Island Tract along the St. Johns River, and is surrounded by bottomland forest on the landward side. The floodplain marsh is herbaceous community of grasses and low shrubs that are maintained by regimes of fire and water. The floodplain marsh community has been relatively undisturbed due to its remoteness and is currently in good condition. Area mapped: 2 acres Fire Requirements: N/A Restoration The reintroduction of a fire regime is not feasible due to the community’s location and surroundings. Groundcover Groundcover restoration projects are not required for this community. Hydrology Floodplain marsh is susceptible to disturbances in hydrological regimes and tends to recover poorly when hydrology has been disturbed. Due to the level of remoteness from management activities hydrologic restoration is not currently required for this community. This natural community should be monitored for disturbances when significant events occur. Silviculture There are no silvicultural activities currently planned for this community. 37

7. Dome Swamp Desired Future Condition Dome Swamps are characterized as shallow, forested, usually circular depressions that generally present a domed profile because smaller trees grow in the shallower waters at the outer edge, while larger trees grow in the deeper waters of the interior. Pond cypress (Taxodium ascendens), swamp tupelo and slash pine are common plants. Other typical plants include red maple, dahoon holly, swamp bay, sweetbay, loblolly bay, pond apple, Virginia willow, fetterbush, chain fern, netted chain fern (Woodwardia areolata), poison ivy, laurel greenbrier, Spanish moss, wild pine, royal fern, cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea), coastal plain willow, maidencane, orchids, wax myrtle, swamp titi, St. John's wort, sawgrass, lizard's tail, swamp primrose, water hyssop, Carolina redroot (Lachnanthes caroliana), sphagnum moss (Sphagnum spp.), floating heart (Nymphoides aquatica), buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis), green arrow arum (Peltandra virginica), and fire flag (Thalia geniculata). Existing Conditions There is a small dome swamp on Warner Tract surrounded by flatwoods and on the edge of the small planted pine plantation. This is a shallow depressional area isolated from surface water drainage except during periods of flood. Dominant canopy species in dome swamps are pond cypress (Taxodium ascendens), tupelo, with some slash pine. Area Mapped: 1 Acre Fire Requirements: 3 - 5 Years Restoration The ecotone areas of dome swamps often have graminoid groundcover areas that are important for rare plants and animals; many these areas have been disturbed by past silvicultural practices and a lack of fire. Restoration of these ecotones will require frequent prescribed fire, and limited use of heavy equipment to avoid rutting and soil disturbance. Some existing ditches and plowlines, if they interfere with the movement of fire across the ecotone, may require restoration. Groundcover As a general rule allow fire to creep into these areas increasing and enhancing ecotones as conditions allow. These areas may need more frequent fire to restore native groundcover. Existing fire breaks should be rehabilitated wherever possible, and new lines will be established only in extreme situations. Hydrology Existing fire breaks should be rehabilitated wherever possible, and new lines will be established only in extreme situations. Silviculture No long term timber management is planned in this area.

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8. Other (Ruderal) Desired Future Condition Highly disturbed sites that include impoundments, borrow pits, and utility corridors. These are areas that have a high susceptibility to invasion by non-native invasive species. Non-productive areas such as roads and borrow pit fall under this heading. Existing Conditions Ruderal areas noted on the Warner Tract include disturbed areas around an old home site and entrance roads, and are typically dominated by weedy species such as broomsedge and dog fennel (Eupatorium spp.). Area Mapped: 2 Acres Fire Requirements: N/A C. Impact of Planned Uses on Property Resources The renewable resources will be protected as follows: 1. Timber Guidelines outlined in previous sections of this plan will ensure a sustainable timber resource and diverse ecological resources for perpetuity. 2. Recreation Recreational uses will be monitored to evaluate impacts on the natural systems. Modification to recreational uses will be implemented, should significant negative impact be identified. 3. Historical/Archaeological In the event of any significant ground disturbing activity, the DHR and FNAI will be contacted for review and comment. The DOF will follow the management procedures outlined in Exhibit H and will comply with all appropriate provisions of Section 267.061(2) Florida Statutes. 4. Water Resources Water resources will be protected through the use of BMPs and/or other appropriate measures as deemed necessary by the DOF’s Forest Hydrologist and/or Watershed Specialist. Guidelines and activities as outlined in previous sections of this plan will insure and protect water resources on WISF. 5. Wildlife Wildlife resources, both game and non-game species, will be protected through resource management techniques coordinated between DOF and FWC. The DOF and FWC manage these resources through law enforcement, silviculture, restoration techniques, and prescribed burning. Wildlife will be managed and protected through the maintenance of native ecosystems.

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V. MANAGEMENT SUMMARY A. Operations Infrastructure There is no current dedicated annual operating budget for WISF. The following amount includes salary/benefits for positions that are associated with the management of WISF. Salary and Benefits: $4,648 There is currently one forester position assigned to Matanzas State Forest who also manages Deep Creek and Watson Island State Forests in St. Johns County. Approximately 10 % of the forester’s time is allocated to WISF. The Forest Area Supervisor and rangers for St. Johns County will provide assistance and resources with projects that are associated with WISF. Resources from Bakersville, Durbin, and Dupont forestry tower sites are available to assist in resource management activities on the State Forest, as well as to maintain new forest improvements such as trails, roads, and facilities. B. Plans to Locate Fragile, Non-renewable Natural and Cultural Resources Representatives of the DHR and FNAI will be consulted prior to the initiation of any significant ground disturbing activity, not listed in this plan, by DOF or any other cooperating agency. The DOF will make every effort to protect known archaeological and historical resources. Ground disturbing activities not specifically covered by this plan will be conducted under the parameters of the List of ARC/Division of State Lands Approved Interim Management Activities on file at Matanzas State Forest Office. Trained archeological monitors will oversee ground disturbing activities in which DHR recommends monitoring. The DOF will utilize the services of DHR Public Lands archaeologists, when available, to locate and evaluate unknown resources, and to make recommendations in the management of known resources. As information becomes available, and as staffing allows, any known archaeological and historical sites will be identified on maps to aid State Forest and law enforcement personnel in patrolling and protecting sites. As mentioned above, all significant ground disturbing projects that are not specifically identified in an approved management plan will be sent to the DHR for review. Recommendations outlined in “Management Procedures for Archaeological and Historical Sites and Properties on State-Owned or Controlled Lands” (Exhibit H) will be followed whenever and wherever appropriate. Applicable surveys will be conducted by DOF staff or others during the process of planning and implementing multiple-use management activities. DOF personnel will remain alert for any environmentally significant resources and protective actions will be taken as necessary.

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C. Conformation to State Lands Management Plan Management of WISF under the multiple-use concept, complies with the State Lands Management Plan and provides optimum balanced public utilization of the property. Specific authority for the DOF’s management of public lands is derived from Chapters 253 and 589, Florida Statutes. D. Multiple-Use Potential – Income Producing Activities Timber Sales - There are areas within WISF that will need to be harvested to reach desired future conditions, which will produce income or revenue for the state. Recreation - Once the Recreation Plan and any improvements such as road work, trails, and campsites are completed, fee collection will be addressed as appropriate. E. Potential Use of Private Land Managers The forest manager makes ongoing evaluations of use of private land managers, consultants, and/or contractors to facilitate the total resource management activities of this State Forest. Opportunities for outsourcing land management work are anticipated to include: Restoration Activities - There are areas scattered throughout much of WISF that will need restoration efforts. Due to the absence of fire in these communities heavier fuel loads have become more common and woody vegetation has become very thick throughout much of the scrubby and wet flatwoods communities. As a result, there is potential for mechanical fuel reduction to be contracted out. Reforestation - After assessments and inventories have been conducted on WISF, contractual site preparation or tree planting efforts may be needed to assist in establishing longleaf pine. Biological Assessments - FNAI (non-profit) hired to survey current and historic natural communities on WISF (initial survey). VI. REFERENCES Division of Historical Resources. Revised 1995. Management Procedures for Archaeological and Historical Sites and Properties on State-Owned or Controlled Lands. Department of the State, Division of Historical Resources. Tallahassee, Florida. Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Revised 2008. Silviculture Best Management Practices for Florida. Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Forestry. Florida Division of Forestry. December 2008. State Forest Handbook. Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Forestry. Tallahassee, Florida.

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Florida Natural Areas Inventory and Florida Department of Natural Resources. 1990. Guide to the Natural Communities of Florida. Florida Natural Areas Inventory, Tallahassee, Fl and the Florida Department of Natural Resources [now the Florida Department of Environmental Protection], Tallahassee, FL.

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