Watson Island State Forest Ten Year Resource Management Plan
EXHIBIT A Location Maps
Exhibit A1
Exhibit A2
EXHIBIT B Proximity to Other Public Lands Map
EXHIBIT C Management Prospectus for St. John’s River Blueway Project
FLORIDA FOREVER MANAGEMENT PROSPECTUS ST. JOHNS RIVER BLUEWAY DIVISION OF FORESTRY DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE & CONSUMER SERVICES Management Goals The St. Johns River Blueway Florida Forever Conservation project encompasses approximately 28,174 acres in western St. Johns County. The boundaries of this project are irregular, and interspersed along the riverfront and inland areas of the central portion of the county. The layout of this project, combined with it’s potential to have odd boundaries will make management a challenge. Central to the north portion of the project is Watson Island State Forest, which is located on the west bank of the St. John’s River, south of Picolata. This project bounds Watson Island State Forest on three sides that are not waterfront. The Division of Forestry proposes to manage the project under a multiple use management regime consistent with the State Forest system. Management would be designed to accomplish the goals and measures for this project. These goals and measures are referenced later in this prospectus. The primary land management goal for the Division of Forestry is to restore, maintain and protect in perpetuity all native ecosystems; to integrate compatible human use; and to insure long-term viability of populations and species considered rare. This ecosystem approach will guide the Division of Forestry's management activities on this project. Qualifications for State Designation The project's location, size, and diversity make it desirable for use and management as a state forest. Management by the Division of Forestry, and more specifically, designation as a state forest is contingent upon acquiring fee simple title to the property. Conditions Affecting Intensity of Management Much of the project’s upland areas have been disturbed, and will require various levels of restoration dependent upon the degree and type of disturbance. Natural communities that have been converted to pine plantation will require removal of off-site species and reforestation with native species. Protection and restoration of wetland communities will be a priority for the DOF. Restoration efforts will concentrate on the removal or filling of ditches and corrections of other hydrological alterations. Public use will be limited to activities that are compatible with any sensitive resources.
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The proximity of nearby residential development could restrict prescribed burning in these areas. The level of management intensity and related management costs is expected to be initially high to obtain the necessary information and resources to restore and manage this project as a State Forest. Once this information is obtained and the resources are available, long-term management costs are expected to be moderate to maintain this area as a State Forest, as the Division of Forestry currently manages lands in this area. Timetable for Implementing Management Once the project area is acquired and assigned to the Division of Forestry, public access will be provided for low intensity outdoor recreation activities. The Division of Forestry proposes to manage a portion of the site as part of Watson Island State Forest, and the remainder as a new state forest. Bunnell District personnel will carry out management activities and coordinate public access and use for all areas. The Division of Forestry will cooperate with and seek the assistance of other state agencies, local government entities and interested parties as appropriate. Initial and intermediate management efforts will concentrate on resource inventory, restoration and reforestation of areas where harvesting has occurred, hydrological restoration, as well as site security, public and fire management access. Inventories of the site's natural resources, threatened and endangered flora and fauna will be conducted to provide a basis for formulation of a management plan. There are many roads throughout the properties, and as such a road plan will need to be developed to determine those to be used for vehicular use by the public, those that are required for administrative use, and unnecessary access points and roads that should be closed. Steps will be taken to insure that the public is provided appropriate access while simultaneously affording protection of sensitive resources. Prior to collection of necessary resource information, management proposals for this project can only be conceptual in nature. Long-range plans for this property will generally be directed toward the restoration of disturbed areas and maintenance of natural communities. To the greatest extent practical, disturbed sites will be restored to conditions that would be expected to occur in naturally functioning ecosystems. Off-site species will eventually be replaced with species that would be expected to occur naturally on those specific sites. Management activities will also stress enhancement of the abundance and spatial distribution of threatened and endangered species. Burning goals for this project will be to establish an all season prescribed burning program on all of the fire dependent community types. Whenever possible, existing roads, black lines, foam lines and natural breaks will be utilized to contain and control prescribed and natural fires. Timber management activities will primarily consist of restoration harvests, and improvement cuts aimed at maintaining and perpetuating forest ecosystems. Stands will not have a targeted rotation age but will be managed to maintain a broad diversity of age classes ranging from young stands to areas with old growth characteristics. This will provide habitat for
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the full spectrum of species that would be found in the natural environment and enhance and maintain biodiversity. The resource inventory will be used to identify sensitive areas that need special attention, protection or management, and to locate areas that are appropriate for any recreational or administrative facilities. Recreation and administrative infrastructure development will primarily be located in disturbed areas and will be the absolute minimum required to allow public access, provide facilities to for public use, and to administer and manage the property. The Division will promote recreation and environmental education in the natural environment. It is anticipated that interpretative and user services recreational facilities will be developed and the use of low impact, rustic facilities will be stressed. High impact, organized recreation areas are not planned because of possible adverse effects on the natural environment. Unnecessary roads, firelines and hydrological disturbances will be abandoned and/or restored to the greatest extent practical. Florida Forever Performance Measures The Division of Forestry has reviewed the project and believes that following Florida Forever Performance Measures appear to apply to this parcel: •
Measure B3: Number of acres acquired of significant landscapes.
•
Measure C1, C4, C5, and C8: Restoration of natural functions; protection of floodplain, surface waters, and functional wetland systems.
•
Measure E1: Acres acquired that are available for natural resource-based public recreation or education.
•
Measure G1, G2, and G4: Acres acquired that are available for sustainable forest management; acres of state owned forestland managed for economic return in accordance with current Best Management Practices (BMPs); and percentage and number of acres identified for restoration actually restored by reforestation.
There is the possibility that other measures apply, however, that may be determined by an inventory of the resources on the project. Revenue Generating Potential As mentioned above, timber sales will be conducted as needed to improve or maintain desirable ecosystem conditions. These sales will primarily take place in pine stands and will provide a variable source of revenue dependent upon a variety of factors. Due to the existing condition of the timber resource on the property, revenue generating potential of this project is expected to be low-medium.
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Capital Project Expenditures Florida Forever capital project expenditures are going to be needed on this parcel for hydrological restoration, for public access and public use. This management prospectus is not intended to be an application for capital project expenditures, however, as more information gathered and an analysis of the site is completed the Division of Forest intends to apply for capital project expenditure funds. It is anticipated that some the existing roads will be used as multi-use trails for hiking, horse back riding and off road biking.
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EXHIBIT D Optimal Boundary Map
EXHIBIT E Management Plan Advisory Group Summary
WATSON ISLAND STATE FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN ADVISORY GROUP (MPAG) MANAGEMENT PLAN ADVISORY GROUP ORIENTATION MEETING MINUTES St. John’s County Agriculture Center/Extension Office Windstorm Building. 3125 Agricultural Center Dr. St. Augustine, FL 32092-0572 Wednesday, February 24th, 2010 6:00 P.M. MPAG Members Present: Tony Cubbedge Justin Ellenberger Matt Moore Andrew Thornton Mike Kuypers
Affiliation: St. John’s County Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Meldrim HT., LLC Audubon Society, St. John’s County Florida Division of Forestry
Members Absent: John Sykes
Affiliation: St. Johns County Soil and Water Conservtion District
Staff Present: Gary Carpenter Steve Graham Chris Kincaid Matt Kennard Cathy Lowenstein Vada Jackson
DOF Forest Area Supervisor, Bakersville Work Center DOF Forestry Supervisor II, Tiger Bay State Forest DOF Recreation Coordinator, Bunnell District DOF Forester, Matanzas State Forest DOF Forest Resource Administrator, Bunnell District DOF Senior Clerk
The orientation of the Management Plan Advisory Group was convened @ 6:05 P.M by Bill Korn. Bill Korn gave a brief overview of the purpose of the upcoming public meeting and how the process for developing and approving the Ten-Year Resource Management Plan has progressed to date. He discussed the Acquisitions and Restoration Committee’s (ARC) membership and role in this process. Mr. Korn emphasized that the Watson Island plan is still a draft. This meeting is the opportunity for concerned citizens to make comments, discuss the management plan and suggest changes. Mr. Korn provided guidance regarding the ground rules for facilitating the meeting. He noted that public notices were posted in compliance with Florida Statutes and guidelines, and he noted that this is a government meeting as it related to Florida Sunshine rules.
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Mr. Korn advised MPAG attendees that they need to decide who will be the chair for the public meetings. He noted that Mike Kuypers is willing to chair the meeting if the MPAG members are comfortable with this arrangement. The members indicated that they were comfortable with Mike Kuypers as Meeting Chair. Mr. Korn discussed the role of the public meeting in some detail. He noted that the main purpose is to provide information about the plan. He noted that Matt Kennard will do a PowerPoint presentation; and he noted what types of discussion are appropriate for this part of the presentation. He gave examples of the types of questions that are appropriate & which ones are not. He noted to the group that Speaker / Comment sheets will be made available to general public attendees and that the public will complete comment sheets if they wish to speak during the meeting. All written and/or verbal comments will be included as part of the meeting minutes. Bill advised that all changes and suggestions the MPAG agrees upon will be included in the plan that goes to Tallahassee. Emphasis was made again that the management plan is a working document. Mr. Korn noted that this property would not typically fall under the auspices of a subsequent Land Management Review as it was less than 1000 acres. Mr. Korn noted that introductions had not been made at the onset of this meeting, and asked all MPAG and DOF staff members to introduce themselves. The Management Plan Public Hearing will convene at 6:30 p.m.
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WATSON ISLAND STATE FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN ADVISORY GROUP (MPAG) MPAG Public Hearing Minutes St. John’s County Agriculture Center/Extension Office Windstorm Building. 3125 Agricultural Center Dr. St. Augustine, FL 32092-0572 Wednesday, February 24th, 2010 6:30 P.M. MPAG Members Present: Tony Cubbedge Justin Ellenberger Matt Moore Andrew Thornton Mike Kuypers
Affiliation: St. John’s County Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Meldrim HT., LLC (adjacent landowner) Audubon Society, St. John’s County Florida Division of Forestry
Members Absent: John Sykes
Affiliation: St. Johns County Soil and Water Conservation District
Staff Present: Gary Carpenter Steve Graham Chris Kincaid Matt Kennard Vada Jackson Cathy Lowenstein
DOF Forest Area Supervisor, Bakersville Work Center DOF Forestry Supervisor II, Tiger Bay State Forest DOF Recreation Coordinator, Bunnell District DOF Forester, Matanzas State Forest DOF Senior Clerk DOF Forest Resource Administrator, Bunnell District
Members of the General Public:
Affiliation:
Michael McQuaig David Hiadun G.D. “Sandy” Dunn Diane M. Dunn Greg Dunn
Landowner Landowner Landowner Landowner Landowner
The meeting was convened @ 6:30 p.m. by Mike Kuypers, DOF District Manager, Bunnell District. Mike welcomed all attendees, introduced Bill Korn & turned the session over to him. Mr. Korn discussed the state law regarding the establishment of the Management Plan Advisory Groups, and he explained that the Watson Island Management Plan is to be put together with input from the MPAG – which typically include users of the forest and that the meeting must be public. He noted that the Management Plan Advisory Group meeting will follow this meeting @
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7:30 p.m. He advised members of the public in attendance that they are welcome to stay and listen if they wish. The purpose of this hearing is to provide the opportunity for the general public to get information about the plan and for them to share their concerns, comments and suggestions. He noted that the management plan is a working document in which changes can be incorporated. Input received tonight from the public and from the advisory group will be used to further edit and improve the plan. Mr. Korn noted that the Acquisition and Restoration Council in Tallahassee is the next meeting where this plan will have a public review. Mr. Korn provided a summary of the process this plan is undergoing before it is finalized. He noted that Matt Kennard has a PowerPoint presentation which will provide more information about the plan. He explained that all questions will be answered and then, during the hearing portion of the meeting, people will be allowed to express their opinions and make suggestions/comments about what they like or do not like about the plan. He noted that DOF and the MPAG members are here to listen. Mr. Korn explained the Speaker/Comments Form and its purpose. He noted we need to receive it from any member of the public desiring to speak at this hearing. All of the comment forms will be gathered and then shared at the 7:30 MPAG meeting. At this point, the members of the Management Plan Advisory Group introduced themselves. Mr. Korn noted that Mr. John. Sykes, the 6th member of the MPAG group, was not able to be here. He will be contacted tomorrow to find out whether he had any comments or suggestions he would like to add to the draft plan. Matt Kennard provided some brief historical background information about the Watson Island State Forest via PowerPoint presentation. This piece of land contains 505.58 acres and is comprised of the Watson Island and the Warner Tracts. Matt discussed the management goals, habitat restoration /improvement, sustainable forest management, timber sales, establishment of boundaries and plans for prescribed burning. He noted that a Prescribed Burning Plan was developed and completed in 2009. He talked about future plans for Watson Island, which include fire management plan updates, development of non-invasive species control plan, boundary maintenance, maintenance of good relationships with assisting agencies and fauna/flora inventories with FWC and FNAI Mr. Kennard discussed development of compatible multiple use management plans to include recreation activities, revenue generation through timber sales, development of primitive camping and equestrian facilities – He noted that these may not be feasible due to size of land area. He briefly discussed the current road that may be used as a multi-use trail in the future. Mr. Kennard concluded his PowerPoint presentation with a brief discussion of archaeological/historical resource protection and then asked for any questions. One member of the public inquired regarding additional 27,000 acres to be added to the plan, but it was determined during the course of the discussion that the land in question is part of the St. Johns Blueway Project – a Florida Forever program. There are two different blueway projects in St. John’s County. Tony Cubbage briefly provided information about the Florida Forever program and the Blueway projects.
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Mr. Korn said it was time to move into the hearing portion of the meeting and he inquired whether anyone wished to speak. Only one individual had completed a speaker form and wanted to speak Mr. Sandy Dunn, a property owner adjacent to the Warner Tract has concerns about the plan. He expressed that the plan is in his mind, a land use change, that will affect three property owners adjacent to the forest. He was unhappy that the parking area and information kiosks will be located next to his property. This will mean additional traffic and people in the area - with no means to keep people off landowner property. Mr. Dunn suggested moving the parking lot and kiosk further east along Oscar Ashton Road. Mr. Dunn stated that he lives adjacent to the property and was not notified about the ten year plan. He learned about today’s hearing from Greg Dunn (his son). Mr. Dunn stated that all three landowners were not notified of the hearing. He stated that a certified letter is usually sent to owners affected by land changes. Mr. Dunn states that we are not maintaining good relationships with the property owners. He claimed land values will be adversely affected by the changes proposed. Bill Korn noted Mr. Dunn’s concerns and then inquired whether there were any other attendees who had concerns and wished to speak. Mr. Dunn asked for notification of any future meetings regarding this plan. Other members of the public in attendance requested to receive copies of the Ten-Year Management Plan. They were told that if they’d provide their address, a copy of the plan would be sent to them. Bill Korn adjourned the hearing at 7:10 p.m. The MPAG meeting will convene at 7:30 P.M.
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WATSON ISLAND STATE FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN ADVISORY GROUP (MPAG) Management Plan Advisory Group Meeting St. John’s County Agriculture Center/Extension Office Windstorm Building. 3125 Agricultural Center Dr. St. Augustine, FL 32092-0572 Wednesday, February 24th, 2010 7:30 p.m. MPAG Members Present: Tony Cubbedge Justin Ellenberger Matt Moore Andrew Thornton Mike Kuypers
Affiliation: St. John’s County Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Meldrim HT., LLC Audubon Society, St. John’s County Florida Division of Forestry
Members Absent: John Sykes
Affiliation: St. Johns County Soil and Water Conservation District
Staff Present: Gary Carpenter Steve Graham Chris Kincaid Matt Kennard Vada Jackson Cathy Lowenstein
DOF Forest Area Supervisor, Bakersville Work Center DOF Forerstry Supervisor II, Tiger Bay State Forest DOF Recreation Coordinator, Bunnell District DOF Forester, Matanzas State Forest DOF Senior Clerk DOF Forest Resource Administrator, Bunnell District
The meeting was convened by Bill Korn at 7:31 P.M. Mr. Korn went over guidelines for this meeting and what was needed to be accomplished. Cathy Lowenstein passed around the public comment sheet received from Mr. Dunn. Tony Cubbedge noted some edits that he wants incorporated into the plan and inquired about emailing them. Bill Korn noted that they should be sent by tomorrow, as he wanted to get a MPAG-revised plan to Tallahassee by the end of week. The following is a list of changes suggested by members of the MPAG: Page. 3 – Invasive Wild Taro. Andrew Thornton (Audubon Society-St. Johns County Chapter) inquired whether there are any management goals for wild taro? This appears to be a plan discrepancy. Matt noted that addressing treatment of wild taro probably does need to be added to the plan. Cathy Lowenstein noted that page. 29 notes feasibility of treating wild taro is
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covered in the third paragraph from the bottom, and that due to conditions, it is questionable whether it can be adequately treated. Goal 5, Objective 1 – Tony Cubbedge had the same question – he stated that is was not mentioned under the Exotic and Invasive Species Maintenance and Control objective on page 5. It was noted that this should be added to this objective. Page7 – Goal 7, Objective 4: Andy Thornton inquired about certified archaeological monitors. Bill Korn- noted that, per statute, there must be an archaeological site monitor there during certain ground disturbing activities. Tony Cubbedge noted that St. John’s County has an archeologist, Robin Moore, who works for Historic Planning. Robin is in Environmental Division; He offered that if St. John’s County can help, they would be happy to do so. Page 16, #5 Endangered or Threatened Species: Andy Thornton asked if this was a bear conservation area. He inquired whether Bachman’s sparrows are on the Endangered Species list. Bill asked if any have been observed on the property. Matt will investigate status of Bachman’s sparrow and if on Endangered or Threatened list it will be added to the list of endangered or threatened species in the vicinity of Watson Island. Andy Thornton noted the scientific name (Ursus americanus floridanus) and the common name, Florida black bear, and how they should be appropriately listed in the plan. Justin Ellenberger (FWC) inquired about adding the potential Meldrim conservation easement area to within the optimum boundary in Exhibit D. Mike Kuypers noted that we did not include because DOF believed that it being proposed for an conservation easement. It was noted that the St. John Blueways had not as of yet acquired an easement. The easement discussed does not exist, per our map The easement is mentioned on page 13 as part of a Blueways project. A suggestion was made regarding extending the Optimum Boundary to include the Meldrim property. The optimum boundary is to include the Meldrin property as a first priority. Mr. Ellenberger noted that if these changes do happen, hunting could be a possibility at Watson Island State Forest. Tony Cubbedge noted that the county wants some sort of public access to the Meldrim property, if attained as an easement, to interpret the range of historic resources on this property. Mr. Moore stated that - inclusion of the Meldrim property in the WISF’s optimum boundary lends support to acquisition. If the family decides to sell, DOF could leverage funding by partnering with the County to purchase. The map will be updated to show easement extended to include the Meldrin property. Page34 – Mr. Ellenberger made an inquiry regarding even-aged timber management of the stand. Bill Korn explained “selective thinning” to the group. A question about which stands are evenaged and which are uneven-aged was posed. Matt Kennard noted that everything – the natural timber and the 11-acre plantation - are all even-aged.. Bill Korn explained that the ideal is to build in a variety of different age classes throughout the forest – however this goal cannot be attained during the course of the next ten years.
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Justin Ellenberger inquired about the desired future conditions for the flatwoods. Bill Korn responded that the State uses FNAI standards. Discussed noting climbing fern when eagle surveys are done in winter. Mr. Ellenberger stated that there was an eagle’s nest sighted on the property and that it should be noted in the plan. He suggested that DOF get on the FWC website and get information on latitude and longitude to the map the resident eagle nest location. Mr. Ellenberger also noted that no annual survey was done in 2009. Page.19 Public Access Issue – Andy Thornton noted that there is pressure to provide public access to state lands; There is limited access to the Warner Tract. There is a proposed entrance road, but no road to enter the property exists currently. Question arose as to whether there is a plan to access the property. Mr. Moore expressed concern about public access. He noted that he could find no way to get there. He drove out to the Warner Tract, but could not get in. He has private access to the Rayonier road south Watson Island property, however. He suggested the State consider access somewhere along that point. 13A logging road at southern end could be an access point. The State has permission to access it, but not the public. It is rare for the State to purchase easement for public access noted Bill Korn. The State tends to shy away from that preferring to acquire fee simple title. The management plan makes a statement that DOF have plans for parking and trail. Given the concerns voiced by Mr. Dunn during the public hearing – it was asked how can DOF tweak what has been proposed in order to site a parking area that would be amenable. There was discussion about why the parking area was planned where it is currently shown on the map. The location was chosen for its location along an existing trail and its proximity to the upland habitat. Mr. Moore noted that the public comment was to put the parking lot further east along Oscar Ashton Rd. He asked can the parking be pushed down a ways from the Dunn property? Oscar Ashton is paved to a point and is in a large hardwood area. The south side slopes down into a creek. The corner of the area in question has flatwoods. Cathy Lowenstein noted that if the parking/access point is moved to a point just in front of the homes, the same complaint will be voiced by landowners affected. Tony Cubbedge suggested meeting with Mr. Dunn and presenting 3-4 options for the parking area and try to find a compromise that works for everybody. Mr. Kuypers agreed this would be a good idea. Bill Korn briefly brought up the lack of state forest welcome/identification signage at this time. Mr. Moore spoke about access for handicapped & elderly consumers to the property. He likes the catwalk idea at the Watson Island Tract because it would be accessible for these consumers. Handicapped and elderly access not mentioned at all in the plan and will be added. Page 6, Objective #5. A question was asked as to whether the State is maintaining fences and gates on the property. Matt Kennard stated that there are no fences at this time nor are there any planned. This needs to be deleted from the plan.
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Page 22. Silviculture Operations, sentence #2 Mr. Moore asked who was here to represent the water district? An inquiry was posed wondering if there is a conflict between two agencies regarding the use of chemicals for hardwoods and invasive species control. No chemical control planned for hardwood competition at this time, only invasive exotic plants– this option will be looked at in the plan. Page 8 & 10. Largest Cost is Natural Community mapping; Mr. Moore asked if this is where our funds need to go? Bill Korn asked if we want it as priority#1 or should it be moved to priority#2. Justin Ellenberger noted that FNAI mapping is very important because it provides much information, species inventory; they document whatever they find. His concern is the FNAI map should be a first priority. Mr. Moore expressed concern regarding what kind of recreation we have because properties are small. He noted the property cannot accommodate 4-wheelers. Hunting is not one of the primary issues right now. Hunting is included in the plan only to suggest it for future review at some point. Tony Cubbedge likes the plans for boating access, the boardwalk, and the parking area along the access road on the Watson Island Tract. He noted FERDAP grants can be used for capital improvements relating to recreational development. Mr. Moore noted that access is in a narrow area between two property owners and that to maintain good relationships it would be wise to talk to the owners before doing any access improvements. Mr. Korn emphasized that State is obligated to propose access. Andy Thornton inquired whether funding is available for proposing access planning and what are the State’s specific objectives for recreation? It was discussed that Goal# 6 covers trails, parking areas, kiosks. The group decided that this is adequately covered on page 6. Mr. Cubbedge also referenced page 6, regarding low water crossings. The State will use them instead of culverts where appropriate, Bill Korn explained. Page10 – Hydrological Management. – Mr. Cubbedge stated that there are no bond proceeds attached to Watson Island, so if the need to connect hydrology via low water crossings occurs, a potential tool could be by way of private funding through mitigation grants administered by Florida Forever program. Page.10 – Regarding 10-year expenditures – Mr. Cubbedge pointed out a discrepancy in the dollars cost amounts. Page.16, #5 –Regarding the eagle nest on property, it was pointed out that a map could be added. Mr. Korn stated that typically listed animal and plant location maps are not included in the plan He asked if the plan text could be changed to provide information on the nest. Page 17 – Timber Resource – It was asked if DOF wanted to establish basal area targets for the desired future conditions (DFC’s) for the flatwoods. Mike Kuypers responded that as of right
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now, there are no specific basal area targets. Generally, DOF will follow FNAI guidelines regarding DFCs and will establish basal area targets as the stands mature. Page 25 – Tony Cubbedge liked the fact that we are working with landowners regarding treatment of invasive species outside the boundary of the state forest. He noted the language regarding onsite housing – that there is a possibility that DOF might site three homes/ location – that he said would be a little close and too dense for these small, generally wet, tracts. Bill Korn asked if there are any other issues with the exhibits. Justin Ellenberger asked whether the Watson Island Tract adjoins CR 13. Mike Kuypers answered, yes. He stated that the Exhibit map could be more clear in this regard. Mr. Coppedge noted that three properties (“County Watson Island Tracts”) indicated on DOF’s Optimum Bounday Map (Exhibit D) are county owned. They are not contiguous w/ Watson Island State Forest however. It was suggest then that DOF recolor these properties as being owned by St. Johns County. Discussion was completed and the meeting was adjourned at approximately 9:15 P.M. Respectfully submitted by Vada Jackson Senior Clerk DOF, Tiger Bay State Forest
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From:
andrew thornton [[email protected]] Sent:
To:
Kennard, Matt
Wed 2/24/2010 10:02 PM
Cc: Subject:
few little edits
Attachments:
Hey Matt, here's the list, some are edits, some are just questions. I don't need answers, some of this stuff I've already looked up, others we talked about tonight. This is just the format I had it in, I hope that's allright. I've added page numbers for easier reference. p. 3 second paragraph, some numbers are in number format, some are written? same paragraph, mention cogon grass but not wild taro, which has a map later. Should wild taro be mentioned? p. 4 Objective 4: Is this currently an issue? p. 7 Objective 4: How costly is this? How much benefit? p. 8 Prescribed Burning: Estimated cost is $3300, but that was the "three-year cost," shouldn't the estimated cost be for 10 years, and match the table on page 10, ie $11,000? p. 8 Timber Management: why focus towards even-aged forest? p. 16 Endangered Species: Is Bachman's Sparrow state listed? They have been recorded at Bayard Conservation Area, and seem potential for this area. p. 19 Recreation Management: what extent of boardwalk? Maybe slightly more specifics should be offered? Maybe not. p. 24 C: potential for limited hunt: Would this affect other public access? Is this related to a WMA? p. 26 On-site housing: Is this standard clause, or some sort of plan in the works? Three houses seems like a lot for a small piece of property. Exhibits - might be nice to have a map showing relation of Watson Island to Warner Tract, distance, roads, etc. Overall comments: Access would be the primary consideration for recreational use. A boardwalk would be ideal in terms of wildlife viewing in an area not commonly accessed (Watson Island tract). Species list is extremely slim, work with Audubon on developing birdlist? Invasives management attention in the plan is very good, but could include "mapping" along with attempts to control. And that's all I have. I took out some of the ones that were explained, like the scientific names. I saw how that worked, though it still ends up looking kind of odd in the lists later on. Thanks, good work. Let me know if you want me to email our group about putting together a bird list. Andrew
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Exhibit A1
Exhibit A2
EXHIBIT B Proximity to Other Public Lands Map
EXHIBIT C Management Prospectus for St. John’s River Blueway Project
FLORIDA FOREVER MANAGEMENT PROSPECTUS ST. JOHNS RIVER BLUEWAY DIVISION OF FORESTRY DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE & CONSUMER SERVICES Management Goals The St. Johns River Blueway Florida Forever Conservation project encompasses approximately 28,174 acres in western St. Johns County. The boundaries of this project are irregular, and interspersed along the riverfront and inland areas of the central portion of the county. The layout of this project, combined with it’s potential to have odd boundaries will make management a challenge. Central to the north portion of the project is Watson Island State Forest, which is located on the west bank of the St. John’s River, south of Picolata. This project bounds Watson Island State Forest on three sides that are not waterfront. The Division of Forestry proposes to manage the project under a multiple use management regime consistent with the State Forest system. Management would be designed to accomplish the goals and measures for this project. These goals and measures are referenced later in this prospectus. The primary land management goal for the Division of Forestry is to restore, maintain and protect in perpetuity all native ecosystems; to integrate compatible human use; and to insure long-term viability of populations and species considered rare. This ecosystem approach will guide the Division of Forestry's management activities on this project. Qualifications for State Designation The project's location, size, and diversity make it desirable for use and management as a state forest. Management by the Division of Forestry, and more specifically, designation as a state forest is contingent upon acquiring fee simple title to the property. Conditions Affecting Intensity of Management Much of the project’s upland areas have been disturbed, and will require various levels of restoration dependent upon the degree and type of disturbance. Natural communities that have been converted to pine plantation will require removal of off-site species and reforestation with native species. Protection and restoration of wetland communities will be a priority for the DOF. Restoration efforts will concentrate on the removal or filling of ditches and corrections of other hydrological alterations. Public use will be limited to activities that are compatible with any sensitive resources.
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The proximity of nearby residential development could restrict prescribed burning in these areas. The level of management intensity and related management costs is expected to be initially high to obtain the necessary information and resources to restore and manage this project as a State Forest. Once this information is obtained and the resources are available, long-term management costs are expected to be moderate to maintain this area as a State Forest, as the Division of Forestry currently manages lands in this area. Timetable for Implementing Management Once the project area is acquired and assigned to the Division of Forestry, public access will be provided for low intensity outdoor recreation activities. The Division of Forestry proposes to manage a portion of the site as part of Watson Island State Forest, and the remainder as a new state forest. Bunnell District personnel will carry out management activities and coordinate public access and use for all areas. The Division of Forestry will cooperate with and seek the assistance of other state agencies, local government entities and interested parties as appropriate. Initial and intermediate management efforts will concentrate on resource inventory, restoration and reforestation of areas where harvesting has occurred, hydrological restoration, as well as site security, public and fire management access. Inventories of the site's natural resources, threatened and endangered flora and fauna will be conducted to provide a basis for formulation of a management plan. There are many roads throughout the properties, and as such a road plan will need to be developed to determine those to be used for vehicular use by the public, those that are required for administrative use, and unnecessary access points and roads that should be closed. Steps will be taken to insure that the public is provided appropriate access while simultaneously affording protection of sensitive resources. Prior to collection of necessary resource information, management proposals for this project can only be conceptual in nature. Long-range plans for this property will generally be directed toward the restoration of disturbed areas and maintenance of natural communities. To the greatest extent practical, disturbed sites will be restored to conditions that would be expected to occur in naturally functioning ecosystems. Off-site species will eventually be replaced with species that would be expected to occur naturally on those specific sites. Management activities will also stress enhancement of the abundance and spatial distribution of threatened and endangered species. Burning goals for this project will be to establish an all season prescribed burning program on all of the fire dependent community types. Whenever possible, existing roads, black lines, foam lines and natural breaks will be utilized to contain and control prescribed and natural fires. Timber management activities will primarily consist of restoration harvests, and improvement cuts aimed at maintaining and perpetuating forest ecosystems. Stands will not have a targeted rotation age but will be managed to maintain a broad diversity of age classes ranging from young stands to areas with old growth characteristics. This will provide habitat for
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the full spectrum of species that would be found in the natural environment and enhance and maintain biodiversity. The resource inventory will be used to identify sensitive areas that need special attention, protection or management, and to locate areas that are appropriate for any recreational or administrative facilities. Recreation and administrative infrastructure development will primarily be located in disturbed areas and will be the absolute minimum required to allow public access, provide facilities to for public use, and to administer and manage the property. The Division will promote recreation and environmental education in the natural environment. It is anticipated that interpretative and user services recreational facilities will be developed and the use of low impact, rustic facilities will be stressed. High impact, organized recreation areas are not planned because of possible adverse effects on the natural environment. Unnecessary roads, firelines and hydrological disturbances will be abandoned and/or restored to the greatest extent practical. Florida Forever Performance Measures The Division of Forestry has reviewed the project and believes that following Florida Forever Performance Measures appear to apply to this parcel: •
Measure B3: Number of acres acquired of significant landscapes.
•
Measure C1, C4, C5, and C8: Restoration of natural functions; protection of floodplain, surface waters, and functional wetland systems.
•
Measure E1: Acres acquired that are available for natural resource-based public recreation or education.
•
Measure G1, G2, and G4: Acres acquired that are available for sustainable forest management; acres of state owned forestland managed for economic return in accordance with current Best Management Practices (BMPs); and percentage and number of acres identified for restoration actually restored by reforestation.
There is the possibility that other measures apply, however, that may be determined by an inventory of the resources on the project. Revenue Generating Potential As mentioned above, timber sales will be conducted as needed to improve or maintain desirable ecosystem conditions. These sales will primarily take place in pine stands and will provide a variable source of revenue dependent upon a variety of factors. Due to the existing condition of the timber resource on the property, revenue generating potential of this project is expected to be low-medium.
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Capital Project Expenditures Florida Forever capital project expenditures are going to be needed on this parcel for hydrological restoration, for public access and public use. This management prospectus is not intended to be an application for capital project expenditures, however, as more information gathered and an analysis of the site is completed the Division of Forest intends to apply for capital project expenditure funds. It is anticipated that some the existing roads will be used as multi-use trails for hiking, horse back riding and off road biking.
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EXHIBIT D Optimal Boundary Map
EXHIBIT E Management Plan Advisory Group Summary
WATSON ISLAND STATE FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN ADVISORY GROUP (MPAG) MANAGEMENT PLAN ADVISORY GROUP ORIENTATION MEETING MINUTES St. John’s County Agriculture Center/Extension Office Windstorm Building. 3125 Agricultural Center Dr. St. Augustine, FL 32092-0572 Wednesday, February 24th, 2010 6:00 P.M. MPAG Members Present: Tony Cubbedge Justin Ellenberger Matt Moore Andrew Thornton Mike Kuypers
Affiliation: St. John’s County Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Meldrim HT., LLC Audubon Society, St. John’s County Florida Division of Forestry
Members Absent: John Sykes
Affiliation: St. Johns County Soil and Water Conservtion District
Staff Present: Gary Carpenter Steve Graham Chris Kincaid Matt Kennard Cathy Lowenstein Vada Jackson
DOF Forest Area Supervisor, Bakersville Work Center DOF Forestry Supervisor II, Tiger Bay State Forest DOF Recreation Coordinator, Bunnell District DOF Forester, Matanzas State Forest DOF Forest Resource Administrator, Bunnell District DOF Senior Clerk
The orientation of the Management Plan Advisory Group was convened @ 6:05 P.M by Bill Korn. Bill Korn gave a brief overview of the purpose of the upcoming public meeting and how the process for developing and approving the Ten-Year Resource Management Plan has progressed to date. He discussed the Acquisitions and Restoration Committee’s (ARC) membership and role in this process. Mr. Korn emphasized that the Watson Island plan is still a draft. This meeting is the opportunity for concerned citizens to make comments, discuss the management plan and suggest changes. Mr. Korn provided guidance regarding the ground rules for facilitating the meeting. He noted that public notices were posted in compliance with Florida Statutes and guidelines, and he noted that this is a government meeting as it related to Florida Sunshine rules.
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Mr. Korn advised MPAG attendees that they need to decide who will be the chair for the public meetings. He noted that Mike Kuypers is willing to chair the meeting if the MPAG members are comfortable with this arrangement. The members indicated that they were comfortable with Mike Kuypers as Meeting Chair. Mr. Korn discussed the role of the public meeting in some detail. He noted that the main purpose is to provide information about the plan. He noted that Matt Kennard will do a PowerPoint presentation; and he noted what types of discussion are appropriate for this part of the presentation. He gave examples of the types of questions that are appropriate & which ones are not. He noted to the group that Speaker / Comment sheets will be made available to general public attendees and that the public will complete comment sheets if they wish to speak during the meeting. All written and/or verbal comments will be included as part of the meeting minutes. Bill advised that all changes and suggestions the MPAG agrees upon will be included in the plan that goes to Tallahassee. Emphasis was made again that the management plan is a working document. Mr. Korn noted that this property would not typically fall under the auspices of a subsequent Land Management Review as it was less than 1000 acres. Mr. Korn noted that introductions had not been made at the onset of this meeting, and asked all MPAG and DOF staff members to introduce themselves. The Management Plan Public Hearing will convene at 6:30 p.m.
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WATSON ISLAND STATE FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN ADVISORY GROUP (MPAG) MPAG Public Hearing Minutes St. John’s County Agriculture Center/Extension Office Windstorm Building. 3125 Agricultural Center Dr. St. Augustine, FL 32092-0572 Wednesday, February 24th, 2010 6:30 P.M. MPAG Members Present: Tony Cubbedge Justin Ellenberger Matt Moore Andrew Thornton Mike Kuypers
Affiliation: St. John’s County Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Meldrim HT., LLC (adjacent landowner) Audubon Society, St. John’s County Florida Division of Forestry
Members Absent: John Sykes
Affiliation: St. Johns County Soil and Water Conservation District
Staff Present: Gary Carpenter Steve Graham Chris Kincaid Matt Kennard Vada Jackson Cathy Lowenstein
DOF Forest Area Supervisor, Bakersville Work Center DOF Forestry Supervisor II, Tiger Bay State Forest DOF Recreation Coordinator, Bunnell District DOF Forester, Matanzas State Forest DOF Senior Clerk DOF Forest Resource Administrator, Bunnell District
Members of the General Public:
Affiliation:
Michael McQuaig David Hiadun G.D. “Sandy” Dunn Diane M. Dunn Greg Dunn
Landowner Landowner Landowner Landowner Landowner
The meeting was convened @ 6:30 p.m. by Mike Kuypers, DOF District Manager, Bunnell District. Mike welcomed all attendees, introduced Bill Korn & turned the session over to him. Mr. Korn discussed the state law regarding the establishment of the Management Plan Advisory Groups, and he explained that the Watson Island Management Plan is to be put together with input from the MPAG – which typically include users of the forest and that the meeting must be public. He noted that the Management Plan Advisory Group meeting will follow this meeting @
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7:30 p.m. He advised members of the public in attendance that they are welcome to stay and listen if they wish. The purpose of this hearing is to provide the opportunity for the general public to get information about the plan and for them to share their concerns, comments and suggestions. He noted that the management plan is a working document in which changes can be incorporated. Input received tonight from the public and from the advisory group will be used to further edit and improve the plan. Mr. Korn noted that the Acquisition and Restoration Council in Tallahassee is the next meeting where this plan will have a public review. Mr. Korn provided a summary of the process this plan is undergoing before it is finalized. He noted that Matt Kennard has a PowerPoint presentation which will provide more information about the plan. He explained that all questions will be answered and then, during the hearing portion of the meeting, people will be allowed to express their opinions and make suggestions/comments about what they like or do not like about the plan. He noted that DOF and the MPAG members are here to listen. Mr. Korn explained the Speaker/Comments Form and its purpose. He noted we need to receive it from any member of the public desiring to speak at this hearing. All of the comment forms will be gathered and then shared at the 7:30 MPAG meeting. At this point, the members of the Management Plan Advisory Group introduced themselves. Mr. Korn noted that Mr. John. Sykes, the 6th member of the MPAG group, was not able to be here. He will be contacted tomorrow to find out whether he had any comments or suggestions he would like to add to the draft plan. Matt Kennard provided some brief historical background information about the Watson Island State Forest via PowerPoint presentation. This piece of land contains 505.58 acres and is comprised of the Watson Island and the Warner Tracts. Matt discussed the management goals, habitat restoration /improvement, sustainable forest management, timber sales, establishment of boundaries and plans for prescribed burning. He noted that a Prescribed Burning Plan was developed and completed in 2009. He talked about future plans for Watson Island, which include fire management plan updates, development of non-invasive species control plan, boundary maintenance, maintenance of good relationships with assisting agencies and fauna/flora inventories with FWC and FNAI Mr. Kennard discussed development of compatible multiple use management plans to include recreation activities, revenue generation through timber sales, development of primitive camping and equestrian facilities – He noted that these may not be feasible due to size of land area. He briefly discussed the current road that may be used as a multi-use trail in the future. Mr. Kennard concluded his PowerPoint presentation with a brief discussion of archaeological/historical resource protection and then asked for any questions. One member of the public inquired regarding additional 27,000 acres to be added to the plan, but it was determined during the course of the discussion that the land in question is part of the St. Johns Blueway Project – a Florida Forever program. There are two different blueway projects in St. John’s County. Tony Cubbage briefly provided information about the Florida Forever program and the Blueway projects.
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Mr. Korn said it was time to move into the hearing portion of the meeting and he inquired whether anyone wished to speak. Only one individual had completed a speaker form and wanted to speak Mr. Sandy Dunn, a property owner adjacent to the Warner Tract has concerns about the plan. He expressed that the plan is in his mind, a land use change, that will affect three property owners adjacent to the forest. He was unhappy that the parking area and information kiosks will be located next to his property. This will mean additional traffic and people in the area - with no means to keep people off landowner property. Mr. Dunn suggested moving the parking lot and kiosk further east along Oscar Ashton Road. Mr. Dunn stated that he lives adjacent to the property and was not notified about the ten year plan. He learned about today’s hearing from Greg Dunn (his son). Mr. Dunn stated that all three landowners were not notified of the hearing. He stated that a certified letter is usually sent to owners affected by land changes. Mr. Dunn states that we are not maintaining good relationships with the property owners. He claimed land values will be adversely affected by the changes proposed. Bill Korn noted Mr. Dunn’s concerns and then inquired whether there were any other attendees who had concerns and wished to speak. Mr. Dunn asked for notification of any future meetings regarding this plan. Other members of the public in attendance requested to receive copies of the Ten-Year Management Plan. They were told that if they’d provide their address, a copy of the plan would be sent to them. Bill Korn adjourned the hearing at 7:10 p.m. The MPAG meeting will convene at 7:30 P.M.
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WATSON ISLAND STATE FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN ADVISORY GROUP (MPAG) Management Plan Advisory Group Meeting St. John’s County Agriculture Center/Extension Office Windstorm Building. 3125 Agricultural Center Dr. St. Augustine, FL 32092-0572 Wednesday, February 24th, 2010 7:30 p.m. MPAG Members Present: Tony Cubbedge Justin Ellenberger Matt Moore Andrew Thornton Mike Kuypers
Affiliation: St. John’s County Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Meldrim HT., LLC Audubon Society, St. John’s County Florida Division of Forestry
Members Absent: John Sykes
Affiliation: St. Johns County Soil and Water Conservation District
Staff Present: Gary Carpenter Steve Graham Chris Kincaid Matt Kennard Vada Jackson Cathy Lowenstein
DOF Forest Area Supervisor, Bakersville Work Center DOF Forerstry Supervisor II, Tiger Bay State Forest DOF Recreation Coordinator, Bunnell District DOF Forester, Matanzas State Forest DOF Senior Clerk DOF Forest Resource Administrator, Bunnell District
The meeting was convened by Bill Korn at 7:31 P.M. Mr. Korn went over guidelines for this meeting and what was needed to be accomplished. Cathy Lowenstein passed around the public comment sheet received from Mr. Dunn. Tony Cubbedge noted some edits that he wants incorporated into the plan and inquired about emailing them. Bill Korn noted that they should be sent by tomorrow, as he wanted to get a MPAG-revised plan to Tallahassee by the end of week. The following is a list of changes suggested by members of the MPAG: Page. 3 – Invasive Wild Taro. Andrew Thornton (Audubon Society-St. Johns County Chapter) inquired whether there are any management goals for wild taro? This appears to be a plan discrepancy. Matt noted that addressing treatment of wild taro probably does need to be added to the plan. Cathy Lowenstein noted that page. 29 notes feasibility of treating wild taro is
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covered in the third paragraph from the bottom, and that due to conditions, it is questionable whether it can be adequately treated. Goal 5, Objective 1 – Tony Cubbedge had the same question – he stated that is was not mentioned under the Exotic and Invasive Species Maintenance and Control objective on page 5. It was noted that this should be added to this objective. Page7 – Goal 7, Objective 4: Andy Thornton inquired about certified archaeological monitors. Bill Korn- noted that, per statute, there must be an archaeological site monitor there during certain ground disturbing activities. Tony Cubbedge noted that St. John’s County has an archeologist, Robin Moore, who works for Historic Planning. Robin is in Environmental Division; He offered that if St. John’s County can help, they would be happy to do so. Page 16, #5 Endangered or Threatened Species: Andy Thornton asked if this was a bear conservation area. He inquired whether Bachman’s sparrows are on the Endangered Species list. Bill asked if any have been observed on the property. Matt will investigate status of Bachman’s sparrow and if on Endangered or Threatened list it will be added to the list of endangered or threatened species in the vicinity of Watson Island. Andy Thornton noted the scientific name (Ursus americanus floridanus) and the common name, Florida black bear, and how they should be appropriately listed in the plan. Justin Ellenberger (FWC) inquired about adding the potential Meldrim conservation easement area to within the optimum boundary in Exhibit D. Mike Kuypers noted that we did not include because DOF believed that it being proposed for an conservation easement. It was noted that the St. John Blueways had not as of yet acquired an easement. The easement discussed does not exist, per our map The easement is mentioned on page 13 as part of a Blueways project. A suggestion was made regarding extending the Optimum Boundary to include the Meldrim property. The optimum boundary is to include the Meldrin property as a first priority. Mr. Ellenberger noted that if these changes do happen, hunting could be a possibility at Watson Island State Forest. Tony Cubbedge noted that the county wants some sort of public access to the Meldrim property, if attained as an easement, to interpret the range of historic resources on this property. Mr. Moore stated that - inclusion of the Meldrim property in the WISF’s optimum boundary lends support to acquisition. If the family decides to sell, DOF could leverage funding by partnering with the County to purchase. The map will be updated to show easement extended to include the Meldrin property. Page34 – Mr. Ellenberger made an inquiry regarding even-aged timber management of the stand. Bill Korn explained “selective thinning” to the group. A question about which stands are evenaged and which are uneven-aged was posed. Matt Kennard noted that everything – the natural timber and the 11-acre plantation - are all even-aged.. Bill Korn explained that the ideal is to build in a variety of different age classes throughout the forest – however this goal cannot be attained during the course of the next ten years.
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Justin Ellenberger inquired about the desired future conditions for the flatwoods. Bill Korn responded that the State uses FNAI standards. Discussed noting climbing fern when eagle surveys are done in winter. Mr. Ellenberger stated that there was an eagle’s nest sighted on the property and that it should be noted in the plan. He suggested that DOF get on the FWC website and get information on latitude and longitude to the map the resident eagle nest location. Mr. Ellenberger also noted that no annual survey was done in 2009. Page.19 Public Access Issue – Andy Thornton noted that there is pressure to provide public access to state lands; There is limited access to the Warner Tract. There is a proposed entrance road, but no road to enter the property exists currently. Question arose as to whether there is a plan to access the property. Mr. Moore expressed concern about public access. He noted that he could find no way to get there. He drove out to the Warner Tract, but could not get in. He has private access to the Rayonier road south Watson Island property, however. He suggested the State consider access somewhere along that point. 13A logging road at southern end could be an access point. The State has permission to access it, but not the public. It is rare for the State to purchase easement for public access noted Bill Korn. The State tends to shy away from that preferring to acquire fee simple title. The management plan makes a statement that DOF have plans for parking and trail. Given the concerns voiced by Mr. Dunn during the public hearing – it was asked how can DOF tweak what has been proposed in order to site a parking area that would be amenable. There was discussion about why the parking area was planned where it is currently shown on the map. The location was chosen for its location along an existing trail and its proximity to the upland habitat. Mr. Moore noted that the public comment was to put the parking lot further east along Oscar Ashton Rd. He asked can the parking be pushed down a ways from the Dunn property? Oscar Ashton is paved to a point and is in a large hardwood area. The south side slopes down into a creek. The corner of the area in question has flatwoods. Cathy Lowenstein noted that if the parking/access point is moved to a point just in front of the homes, the same complaint will be voiced by landowners affected. Tony Cubbedge suggested meeting with Mr. Dunn and presenting 3-4 options for the parking area and try to find a compromise that works for everybody. Mr. Kuypers agreed this would be a good idea. Bill Korn briefly brought up the lack of state forest welcome/identification signage at this time. Mr. Moore spoke about access for handicapped & elderly consumers to the property. He likes the catwalk idea at the Watson Island Tract because it would be accessible for these consumers. Handicapped and elderly access not mentioned at all in the plan and will be added. Page 6, Objective #5. A question was asked as to whether the State is maintaining fences and gates on the property. Matt Kennard stated that there are no fences at this time nor are there any planned. This needs to be deleted from the plan.
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Page 22. Silviculture Operations, sentence #2 Mr. Moore asked who was here to represent the water district? An inquiry was posed wondering if there is a conflict between two agencies regarding the use of chemicals for hardwoods and invasive species control. No chemical control planned for hardwood competition at this time, only invasive exotic plants– this option will be looked at in the plan. Page 8 & 10. Largest Cost is Natural Community mapping; Mr. Moore asked if this is where our funds need to go? Bill Korn asked if we want it as priority#1 or should it be moved to priority#2. Justin Ellenberger noted that FNAI mapping is very important because it provides much information, species inventory; they document whatever they find. His concern is the FNAI map should be a first priority. Mr. Moore expressed concern regarding what kind of recreation we have because properties are small. He noted the property cannot accommodate 4-wheelers. Hunting is not one of the primary issues right now. Hunting is included in the plan only to suggest it for future review at some point. Tony Cubbedge likes the plans for boating access, the boardwalk, and the parking area along the access road on the Watson Island Tract. He noted FERDAP grants can be used for capital improvements relating to recreational development. Mr. Moore noted that access is in a narrow area between two property owners and that to maintain good relationships it would be wise to talk to the owners before doing any access improvements. Mr. Korn emphasized that State is obligated to propose access. Andy Thornton inquired whether funding is available for proposing access planning and what are the State’s specific objectives for recreation? It was discussed that Goal# 6 covers trails, parking areas, kiosks. The group decided that this is adequately covered on page 6. Mr. Cubbedge also referenced page 6, regarding low water crossings. The State will use them instead of culverts where appropriate, Bill Korn explained. Page10 – Hydrological Management. – Mr. Cubbedge stated that there are no bond proceeds attached to Watson Island, so if the need to connect hydrology via low water crossings occurs, a potential tool could be by way of private funding through mitigation grants administered by Florida Forever program. Page.10 – Regarding 10-year expenditures – Mr. Cubbedge pointed out a discrepancy in the dollars cost amounts. Page.16, #5 –Regarding the eagle nest on property, it was pointed out that a map could be added. Mr. Korn stated that typically listed animal and plant location maps are not included in the plan He asked if the plan text could be changed to provide information on the nest. Page 17 – Timber Resource – It was asked if DOF wanted to establish basal area targets for the desired future conditions (DFC’s) for the flatwoods. Mike Kuypers responded that as of right
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now, there are no specific basal area targets. Generally, DOF will follow FNAI guidelines regarding DFCs and will establish basal area targets as the stands mature. Page 25 – Tony Cubbedge liked the fact that we are working with landowners regarding treatment of invasive species outside the boundary of the state forest. He noted the language regarding onsite housing – that there is a possibility that DOF might site three homes/ location – that he said would be a little close and too dense for these small, generally wet, tracts. Bill Korn asked if there are any other issues with the exhibits. Justin Ellenberger asked whether the Watson Island Tract adjoins CR 13. Mike Kuypers answered, yes. He stated that the Exhibit map could be more clear in this regard. Mr. Coppedge noted that three properties (“County Watson Island Tracts”) indicated on DOF’s Optimum Bounday Map (Exhibit D) are county owned. They are not contiguous w/ Watson Island State Forest however. It was suggest then that DOF recolor these properties as being owned by St. Johns County. Discussion was completed and the meeting was adjourned at approximately 9:15 P.M. Respectfully submitted by Vada Jackson Senior Clerk DOF, Tiger Bay State Forest
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From:
andrew thornton [[email protected]] Sent:
To:
Kennard, Matt
Wed 2/24/2010 10:02 PM
Cc: Subject:
few little edits
Attachments:
Hey Matt, here's the list, some are edits, some are just questions. I don't need answers, some of this stuff I've already looked up, others we talked about tonight. This is just the format I had it in, I hope that's allright. I've added page numbers for easier reference. p. 3 second paragraph, some numbers are in number format, some are written? same paragraph, mention cogon grass but not wild taro, which has a map later. Should wild taro be mentioned? p. 4 Objective 4: Is this currently an issue? p. 7 Objective 4: How costly is this? How much benefit? p. 8 Prescribed Burning: Estimated cost is $3300, but that was the "three-year cost," shouldn't the estimated cost be for 10 years, and match the table on page 10, ie $11,000? p. 8 Timber Management: why focus towards even-aged forest? p. 16 Endangered Species: Is Bachman's Sparrow state listed? They have been recorded at Bayard Conservation Area, and seem potential for this area. p. 19 Recreation Management: what extent of boardwalk? Maybe slightly more specifics should be offered? Maybe not. p. 24 C: potential for limited hunt: Would this affect other public access? Is this related to a WMA? p. 26 On-site housing: Is this standard clause, or some sort of plan in the works? Three houses seems like a lot for a small piece of property. Exhibits - might be nice to have a map showing relation of Watson Island to Warner Tract, distance, roads, etc. Overall comments: Access would be the primary consideration for recreational use. A boardwalk would be ideal in terms of wildlife viewing in an area not commonly accessed (Watson Island tract). Species list is extremely slim, work with Audubon on developing birdlist? Invasives management attention in the plan is very good, but could include "mapping" along with attempts to control. And that's all I have. I took out some of the ones that were explained, like the scientific names. I saw how that worked, though it still ends up looking kind of odd in the lists later on. Thanks, good work. Let me know if you want me to email our group about putting together a bird list. Andrew
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