Tab A Fish and Wildlife Management Plan.pdf

45 SW INRMP

Tab A, Fish and Wildlife Management

Introduction The purpose of fish and wildlife management is to establish procedures for conservation and preservation of non-listed fish and wildlife resources and their habitat on 45 Space Wing (45 SW) properties. In accordance with Air Force Instruction (AFI) 32-7064, Integrated Natural Resources Management, the 45 SW is classified as a Category I installation based on the presence of suitable habitats for conserving and managing fish and wildlife resources. The AFI requires that the Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan (INRMP) address the management of game and non-game fish and wildlife on Air Force (AF) installations. The INRMP, along with its component and companion plans, will be prepared in cooperation with the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The finalized INRMP will reflect the mutual agreement of the installation and the cooperating agencies for the conservation, protection and management of wildlife resources. Updates to any aspect of the INRMP will occur if there are changes in base mission, policy, laws and regulations, or actions that may have the potential to impact fish and wildlife conservation and management at the 45 SW.

The INRMP guidance for fish and wildlife management is to include hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation programs (if applicable); protection of migratory birds; wildlife damage control measures including consideration for Bird Aircraft Strike Hazard (BASH); and enforcement of fish and wildlife laws in the INRMP.

A current list of fish and wildlife species known to exist on properties of the 45 SW, as well as proposed management actions to enhance/protect fish and wildlife resources has been included in this document. Improvements to the current fish and wildlife program are planned in order to comply with the Sikes Act, DODI 4715.3 and AFI 32-7064. A fishing permit program is being evaluated at the request of Headquarters Air Force Space Command as a potential means of generating revenue to support the conservation program. Likewise, a parking fee is being evaluated for beach access locations at PAFB to provide revenue for trash management and habitat enhancements.

The 45 SW INRMP includes the properties of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS), Patrick Air Force Base (PAFB), Malabar Transmitter Annex (MTA), and Jonathon Dickinson Missile Tracking Annex (JDMTA). The main portion of the INRMP contains an installation overview, description of physical environment, ecosystems, mission impacts on natural resources, natural resource management and management goals and objectives for each of the installations.

CCAFS and PAFB are both located on a barrier island, a type of ecosystem that supports many species of plants and animals. A diverse array of wildlife species inhabit, utilize and/or frequent these properties. Specifically, 28 mammalian species, 37 amphibian and reptile species, 175 avian species, and an unknown number of fish species are to known to occur on or in the vicinity of CCAFS.

Prior fish surveys from the early 1980s indicated a minimum of 22 fish species within the northern Banana River adjacent to CCAFS. Eleven mammalian, 16 amphibian and reptile, 62 bird species and an unknown number of fish species occur on PAFB. Fishing within the canal waterways of PAFB is generally restricted because of proximity to the airfield or golf course. Fishing along the Atlantic Ocean and the Banana River that border PAFB may allow the fisherman to encounter 100s of fish species. A complete list of all known species on 45 SW Florida properties can be found in Tables A-1 to A-10 of Appendix 1 of this plan.

Malabar Transmitter Annex is located in Palm Bay, Florida, which is approximately 35 miles southwest of CCAFS. The Annex consists of 640 acres of forest, grassy fields, abandoned runways and numerous transmitter and support buildings. Nine mammalian, 18 amphibian and reptile and 51 bird species are known to occur on or in the vicinity of MTA. The only waterways located on MTA are canals located along the perimeters of the property. A swale system, that remains dry most of the year, is connected to the larger drainage canals. Interconnecting small ponds were developed in the 1960s along the northwestern boundary in order to air condition the adjacent Space Technology Center. Artesian water was dammed with weirs inside culverts under the perimeter road. Maximum water depth was 4 feet and fish and freshwater organisms were observed through the late 1980s. These ponds have filled in since the facilities were removed from this type of cooling system, and drainage canals at MTA have not been regularly dredged.

Jonathon Dickinson Missile Tracking Annex consists of approximately 11 acres in Martin County, Florida. No waterways exist on JDTMA so no fish species would be observed. However, a thorough species survey has not been conducted for JDMTA; therefore, currently there is no full species list available. A species list will be developed in the future and incorporated into revisions of this plan. A recent migratory bird survey was conducted and Appendix 1, Table A-10 documents the observed species at JDMTA.

Hunting, Fishing, Trapping and Outdoor Recreation Programs Per AFI 32-7064, Chapter 6, when public access to military lands is denied to the general public for hunting/ trapping and fishing, the reasons must be explained in the INRMP. The 45 SW does not have a recreational hunting or trapping program for several reasons. First, there aren‟t sufficient resources on MTA, JDTMA, or PAFB for sustainable fishing or hunting. At MTA, an estimated white tail deer population has been approximated to be under 60, and only small canals are found on the property. Additionally, MTA is surrounded by development so even if hunting were proposed for implementation bi-annually for a limited number of individuals, only specialized hunting (bow) could be authorized. A sufficient source of revenue to maintain a hunting program is unlikely. Additionally, JDMTA is unable to sustain wildlife that can be hunted, doesn‟t have any waterways, and possesses launch tracking equipment that is too sensitive for open access to the public. There are limited numbers of wildlife on PAFB property, and canals that could be fished have associated risks of contaminated sediments or are within or near the airfield clear zone or the golf course. The PAFB portion of the Banana River shoreline and the Marina are closed to the public for fishing because of the security risk to the installation unless cost prohibitive fencing was installed to limit public access to fishing locations. Since PAFB beaches are open to the public and fishing is authorized under the jurisdiction of FWC, it is not felt that the public has been completely denied access to 45 SW lands. CCAFS is a special case and will be discussed below.

Although CCAFS may have sustainable populations of wildlife that could be hunted or trapped (as sport) with proper evaluation, the installation launching mission is too sensitive and dangerous for open public access. There are numerous hazards related to stored explosive and flammable materials, and significant risks associated with hazardous substances and costly launch vehicles and payloads. Minimal white tail deer hunting in the past was used when deer strikes with vehicles were high; this type of specialized hunting hasn‟t been necessary for about 20 years. Feral hogs have the added risk of maintaining ingested contaminated soil residues in their tissues due to their rooting behaviors. Contaminated soils are found at CCAFS due to prior historical hazardous material handling. Clean up of the contamination is progressively occurring but will take years to accomplish based on Air Force site cleanup priorities all over the world. If hunting or trapping were to be organized using specialized groups for wildlife population management, it doesn‟t seem likely that sufficient revenue would be collected to maintain a hunting program. Therefore, only certain species at CCAFS have been targeted for trapping/removal solely due to their impact on threatened and endangered species. This is discussed under „Other Nuisance Wildlife Control‟ later in this plan.

As for fishing, permanently badged CCAFS and KSC employees, and up to four guests, may fish in designated areas on CCAFS. Due to the nature of the mission on CCAFS, the general public is not permitted on CCAFS to fish unless escorted by a permanently badged employee. Currently, there are five fishing areas on CCAFS. There are three beach fishing areas, which are located at Camera Road A, Camera Road B and former Launch Complex 34. One river access is located just south of Hangar AF in the Industrial Area and one fishing area is located at the Trident Basin. Fishing is authorized during daylight hours only, as launch operations permit. Fishing on the beach is allowed on a 0.25 mile stretch north and south of the designated access points. Personnel are required to follow all fishing rules, which are included as Appendix 2. In addition to these fishing rules, personnel are required to abide by all State fishing rules and ensure they have any proper permits/stamps required. Currently, there are no fees collected for fishing on CCAFS. Fishing areas are occasionally closed during launch related operations and during heightened security conditions.

Fishing fees are being evaluated to determine if collection would be able to maintain a management program for CCAFS.

Outdoor recreation is also closed to the public on 45 SW installations unless they are escorted by a badged person. Personnel that are badged and authorized access to CCAFS have use of three established jogging paths, and various outdoor courts for tennis, volleyball, racquetball, and basketball. At CCAFS, there is a „par course‟ located at the Bourne Pavilion just south of the Industrial Area that has several exercise stations located throughout the woods. There are also areas set aside for horseshoes, barbeques and softball. Maintenance of outdoor recreation and fishing areas at CCAFS are reviewed by natural resource personnel to ensure there are no adverse impacts to fish and wildlife.

Additionally, fishing areas are routinely patrolled by natural resource personnel and anyone caught violating the CCAFS fishing policy is approached and educated on the rules. The 45 SW Conservation Officer conducts checks on fishing areas and is responsible for ensuring all State and Federal laws pertaining to fishing are adhered to.

As mentioned earlier, the public has access to PAFB beaches unless elevated security or safety conditions require beach closure. Personnel (active duty, DoD civilians, retirees and dependents, and contracted employees) that are authorized access to PAFB can utilize the 4.6 miles of Banana River shoreline, PAFB‟s western boundary, for wind surfing, boating, fishing and water sports.

The base also has five picnic areas; two near the beach, two near the river and one associated with the Yacht Club. The Family Camping grounds near the river is heavily used by retirees, and also contains a primitive camping area for Boy and Girl Scout activities when coordinated with a base employee. Along the Banana River, a yacht club near the Manatee Cove Marina wet slips and picnic pavilion near the Outdoor Recreation facility (and wet dock) provide boating and dining for active and retired military persons, their dependents, eligible guests and DoD civilians.

Outdoor recreation facilities are operated seven days per week at PAFB. The 45 FSS group handles reservations for designated areas. Persons authorized to use the PAFB outdoor recreation facilities include active duty, retired military, DoD civilian, and others by special permission of the 45 SW/CC. Fees are collected by 45 FSS and included in Non-Appropriated revenue. Refer to Tab H, Outdoor Recreation for additional information.

In summary, as defined by AFI 32-7064, there are no „Open Areas‟ that have unrestricted access for hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation. Most areas on all 45 SW installations are considered „Off Limits Areas‟ for hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation. If defined for only fishing and outdoor recreation, then CCAFS has „Restricted Areas‟ for badged personnel and those they may escort, and some „Off Limits Areas‟ due to security and safety concerns. At PAFB, some „Open Areas‟ exist for fishing and outdoor recreation for the public Atlantic Ocean beaches while „Restricted Areas‟ for badged personnel exist along the Banana

River and marina, and a small number of „Off Limits Areas‟ exist due to sediment contamination concerns.

Wildlife Food Plots Cultivation of food plots for wildlife is not conducted at any 45 SW properties.

Fish and Wildlife Law Enforcement The Conservation Officer (CO) will implement routine enforcement patrols to have all coastal areas within 45th SW boundaries checked to ensure compliance with all applicable fish and wildlife regulations. CO will notify supervisor of location when performing routine patrols.

Anyone who violates any portion of this instruction or any state or federal law or regulation concerning fishing or hunting, natural or cultural resource protection, or an act affiliated with those laws, or any act inconsistent with good safety practices, or commits any act which results in injury or damage to persons or property will have their specific privilege relating to the violation withdrawn pending a final determination of the case by the 45 SW Commander. This action is taken independently of other punitive or adverse administrative action. Any person whose privileges are suspended will not participate or sponsor another in any activity stemming from the suspension (example: if a fishing suspension was issued, the privileges related to fishing are revoked). Personnel who have had privileges suspended must make a written request to 45 SW to have their privileges reinstated. Requests should be made at the end of the suspension period.

Protection of Migratory Birds The 45 SW is home to numerous birds listed in 50 CFR Part 10.13, all of which are protected at the Federal level by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) under the auspices of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS). The MBTA makes it illegal to “pursue, hunt, take, capture, kill, attempt to take, capture, or kill, possess, offer for sale, sell, offer to barter, barter, offer to purchase, purchase, deliver for shipment, ship, export, import,” etc., migratory birds, parts of their bodies, or their eggs or nests. Furthermore, Executive Order (EO) 13186, signed in 2001, requires Federal agencies to avoid or minimize the negative impact of AF actions on migratory birds, and take active steps to protect birds and restore or enhance their habitat wherever possible. This includes incorporating migratory bird conservation into agency planning processes whenever possible. Per the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with FWS and DoD (Tab N, Appendix 7), conservation measures for migratory birds will be developed and implemented and included in the INRMP to avoid or minimize the take of birds and enhance the quality of installation habitat utilized. The 45 SW INRMP has included goals and objectives that support the MOU such as prevention and removal of invasives from habitat, restoration of habitat through introduction of prescribed fire, conducting of bird counts, and identification of breeding, wintering, and migration habitat on 45 SW properties, etc. Future studies will work at identification of specific migration corridors and stop-over habitat that will help in pinpointing management strategies that won‟t conflict with the mission while providing for collaborative planning with FWS and FWC. This planning should aid in the determination of ecologically important areas that will allow integration with comprehensive species management plans for the region.

The entire region should be held accountable for migratory bird conservation, with 45 SW property being a component of the conservation plan.

The majority of CCAFS consists of scrub habitat with small portions identified as maritime hammock and riverine hammock. CCAFS provides habitat for numerous bird species, both resident and migratory. A list of bird species found on CCAFS is provided in Appendix 1 Table A-1. Designated an „Important Bird Area‟ by the American Bird Conservancy, CCAFS has been identified as being significant for world bird conservation based on numbers, species and habitat present. Recent migratory bird studies (2007) found significant use of mangrove, scrub hammock taller than seven meters, oak-palmetto shorter than seven meters, and coastal strand habitats. A follow on second year study is being reviewed now, and the results will be included in the next INRMP revision.

Strategies for land management are being devised and implemented now to conserve and enhance habitat identified as significantly important to migratory bird species.

Management of migratory birds is achieved through several programs. The current scrub habitat restoration program, which primarily supports the Florida Scrub-jay, is beneficial to numerous other bird species. Detailed information on the Scrub-jay and the scrub restoration program can be found in the Threatened and Endangered Species Tab D (Tabs D-2 and D-3). The FWS has determined that CCAFS is a core Scrub-jay area as highly valuable to the recovery of the species, regardless of scrub condition. The recent migratory bird study is allowing 45 SW natural resource managers to adaptively manage under the scrub habitat restoration program to prevent conflicts with the needs of other migratory bird species at CCAFS.

Specific management actions for numerous other bird species have been identified and will be implemented, as required, to protect the species and ensure there are no mission conflicts. Additionally, per the Migratory Bird Treaty Reform Act (MBTRA) of 2004, bird species that aren‟t native to the United States or its territories, and aren‟t found in the United States as a result of natural biological or ecological processes, are not protected. Bird species that fall under this umbrella will not be protected on 45 SW properties, but will be treated humanely if depredation is required.

Least terns have been documented as nesting on the CCAFS beach, as well as other areas such as rooftops and abandoned road beds. Since least tern nesting season corresponds somewhat with the sea turtle nesting season, personnel on the beach must remain aware of their nesting areas. Prior to sea turtle nesting each year, personnel will identify those areas on the beach where least terns are known to be nesting. Additionally, any other birds observed nesting on the beach, such as black skimmers and Wilson‟s plovers, will be identified.

Personnel will avoid the areas as much as possible, while still performing required sea turtle surveys, to prevent any direct impacts to nesting birds, eggs or chicks. Some amount of disturbance is expected, since the adult birds typically take flight when approached, such as riding by on an ATV. Based on 15+ years of sea turtle survey work, this type of disturbance does not have any direct impacts to birds nor does it interfere with nesting processes. If required, shore bird nesting areas will be cordoned off to keep other personnel utilizing the beach (i.e. security, fishermen, etc.) from disturbing nesting areas. Signs will be installed warning personnel of the presence of the area as a protected bird nesting site with no admittance permitted, and will inform personnel that the birds are protected by State and Federal law

In 2005, a project was completed on a stretch of land in the Banana River to create a shore bird nesting area. All invasive vegetation was removed, which created a significant opening with direct access to the river. A follow up project will provide a suitable substrate (such as beach sand or gravel) for shore birds to nest, and provide artificial platforms amongst the mangroves in an effort to attract long-legged waders to nest in the area.

A significant percentage of osprey pairs in Florida nest on power poles and other man made structures. Ospreys have typically nested on man made structures at both CCAFS and PAFB throughout the years. These structures include weather towers, antennas and light poles. These structures require periodic maintenance that can disturb nesting birds or chicks if completed during the nesting season.

Over the past 15 years, several artificial platforms have been placed adjacent to these structures, as well as other areas to provide nesting sites for this species.

If an active nest is present on a manmade structure, maintenance is not permitted until the chicks have fledged the nest. After the chicks have fledged, the nesting material is moved to the artificial platform to encourage birds to utilize the platform the next year. All attempts at moving birds from manmade structures to these platforms have been successful. Although some of the platforms placed in other areas have been successful as well, there are several that are still not active. These platforms will remain in place and will be moved, as needed, to replace any other structures that become utilized by osprey.

Additional platforms will be purchased in the future should the need arise. The 45 SW follows the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation (FWC) Osprey Nest Removal Policies, which outlines the proper procedures for replacing active and inactive nests and any reporting and permit requirements for doing so. An osprey nest census is periodically conducted to determine success of this species, as well as success of platforms that have been installed.

Like osprey, owls have been documented nesting on man made structures at CCAFS. They are attracted to launch towers providing a high place with many areas to nest and not be disturbed. Natural resource managers have removed several eggs over the years to prevent their loss as the result of launches. One juvenile was also removed from a nest prior to launch, returned two days later, and successfully fledged. All eggs and/or juveniles are taken to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. All viable eggs are incubated and, if successful, fledglings are released back to CCAFS.

Wildlife Damage Control Installation pest management personnel have primary responsibility for the control of nuisance wildlife species within facilities; however, natural resources management personnel will normally respond to any call it receives dealing with wildlife. Natural resources personnel at the 45 SW are the main point of contact for any wildlife issues that arise at the 45 SW that don‟t involve routine pest control related activities.

The 45 SW Integrated Pest Management Plan (Tab G) and Bird Aircraft Strike Hazard (BASH) Plan (Tab L) designate responsibilities for pest management and natural resources personnel for the control of nuisance wildlife.

Migratory Birds From the „Final Rule from FWS‟ (50 CFR Part 21, March 2007), bird protection should be factored into planning and execution of military readiness training as well, however any migratory birds that are incidentally taken during military training is authorized to prevent diminishment of training effectiveness.

A bird/aircraft strike hazard exists at 45 SW airfields (PAFB and CCAFS) and vicinity due to the presence of resident and migratory bird species. Daily and seasonal bird movements create various hazardous conditions. The 45 SW Operational Plan (OPLAN) 91-212, Bird Hazard Reduction Plan (Tab L) establishes procedures to minimize these hazards at 45 SW airfields. No single solution exists to the BASH problem and a variety of techniques and organizations are involved in the control program.

The 45 SW holds a Federal Depredation Permit (see Tab N), which permits the removal of migratory birds for depredation control purposes (BASH) and the take of active nests when those nests are impeding the safety of weather towers, launch support structures and launch towers. A set of Standard Conditions are required to be followed, with yearly reporting required.

Incidental take of migratory birds during military readiness or training activities does not occur at the 45 SW. During the EIAP process, natural resources personnel will survey areas to determine the presence/absence of any migratory bird species. If such species are present and the activity has the potential to adversely impact the species, the activity is directed to an alternate location or to a different time of the year when there would be less impact, such as outside the nesting season.

The only intentional take of migratory bird species that occurs is done under BASH, which is discussed below. To date, no intentional take due to BASH has been required at the CCAFS Skid Strip; however, the Federal Depredation Permit does cover this action if it becomes necessary and conditions will be followed. Intentional take of migratory birds at the PAFB airfield has occurred and is discussed below.

Bats A bat survey was conducted in the 1990s and only small populations exist on 45 SW Florida properties. Thus far bats have been observed in crevices of 45 SW facility fascia and roofing, but have not been known to damage these facilities. However, a few bats have been documented in aircraft strike reporting on PAFB. The MOU (Tab N, Appendix 7) between DoD and Bat Conservation International (2006) has established a relationship for bat conservation on DoD lands. If through observations it appears that bat populations may be in jeopardy, the 45 SW Environmental will contact BCI and work towards developing strategies to minimize or avoid impacts.

Nuisance Wildlife Control OPLAN 91-212 outlines the responsibilities of each organization involved with BASH and establishes methods that can be utilized to control/minimize the bird/aircraft strike hazard. Implementation of specific portions of the plan is continuous, while other portions will be implemented as required by bird activity.

Control methods for migratory birds emphasize non-lethal processes, but some lethal methods are needed. The first method employed at the CCAFS Skid Strip and the PAFB airfield is operational control, i.e., keeping the grass mowed to a specific height to reduce use by birds. Other non-lethal methods are scaring the birds away from the airfield with vehicles, air cannons, screamer devices, and/or bird scare shot. Depredation and shooting is used as a last resort.

At CCAFS, one bird/aircraft strike occurred in 2005. A flock of killdeer caused “below reportable” damage to aircraft (under $20K). Bird strike incidents could involve health hazards that include potential injury, and possible death, to aircraft personnel.

Propane air cannons were recently installed at the CCAFS Skid Strip to minimize BASH incidents. Air Cannons are active wildlife control devices in accordance with AFPAM 91-212, Bird/Wildlife Aircraft Strike Hazard Management Techniques. The air canon system is used to scare birds away from the Skid Strip prior to aircraft takeoff and landing. Large frame aircraft deliver one-of-a-kind payloads for space launch to the CCAFS Skid Strip. Bird impacts to these aircraft could result in the loss of aircraft, crew and payload and may impact national security.

Beginning in calendar year 2000, lethal means to control birds at PAFB were employed. Initially, lethal methods were used more frequently but non-lethal methods, such as air cannons and scare shot, have become the main BASH reduction tools. Education and establishment of a BASH airfield officer has reduced quick use of lethal methods. Six bird/aircraft strikes occurred in 2005 at PAFB involving laughing gull, osprey, mourning dove, and some smaller unidentified birds. All incidents were documented as no damage except for the osprey strike which was “below reportable” damage to aircraft (under $20K).

Sixty-seven birds comprised of four species were shot on the PAFB airfield in 2005 to ensure pilot and aircraft safety. Although slightly higher than the 47 in 2004, this was a dramatic reduction from the 275 in 2003, and 557 shot in 2002.

In 2005, the area experienced a higher than normal amount of rain events because several hurricanes impacted Florida‟s East Coast. In 2005 cattle egrets, American crows, mourning doves, and pigeons were the species killed for BASH purposes. No BASH depredation has occurred at CCAFS, although increased use of the Skid Strip may require depredation in the future.

Other Nuisance Wildlife Control In an effort to protect the nesting sea turtle populations at the 45 SW, a wildlife pest control program was initiated in 1985 to minimize depredation of sea turtle nests by nuisance species on 45 SW beaches. This program is conducted each year to lower the density of nuisance species on and near the beach prior to and during the marine turtle nesting season. Prior to the initiation of this program, raccoons were depredating close to 95% of all turtle nests deposited on CCAFS.

Since the initiation of the trapping program, depredation rates have been as low as 5.4% (1988), but have varied between 10% and 40% over the past five years.

According to the Recovery Plans for the U.S. populations of loggerhead and green turtles, actions needed to achieve recovery of the species include ensuring at least 60% hatch success. Factors that affect nest success include depredation, tidal inundation, and unsuccessful development of eggs due to unsuitable surrounding substrate. Raccoon depredation has been the greatest factor affecting nest success on CCAFS. Removal of the animals has proved to be the most effective method to control predation. Relocation of the raccoons from the beach to the western shoreline of CCAFS was unsuccessful when it was attempted in the 1980‟s. The tagged animals returned to the beach within days of their release.

An average of 115 raccoons are trapped and removed from CCAFS each year.

The majority of these are removed from inland areas prior to the beginning of the nesting season. Once nesting season starts, traps are moved to the beach.

Throughout the nesting season, traps are then moved depending on where the depredation is occurring at the time. Trapping of raccoons is accomplished primarily by 45 CES/CEVP personnel.

Removal of raccoons from CCAFS is coordinated with both state and federal agencies, as well as with the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). Data is kept regarding the location of every animal captured and the sex of the animal.

Trapping of raccoons from the beach area at PAFB is the responsibility of the pest control shop and is done in support of the sea turtle program.

The population of feral hogs on CCAFS has increased significantly in recent years. Hogs emigrate from KSC by way of a common boundary. Hogs are descendants from the original population kept by previous landowners on Merritt Island. The increase in the hog population creates the potential for serious damage and safety hazards throughout CCAFS. Hogs damage improved grounds, create a hog/vehicle or hog/aircraft strike hazard and can impact the survival of state and federally protected species on CCAFS. Since hogs are not an indigenous species on CCAFS, and they inflict significant damage to the Wing‟s resources, the Air Force has implemented an ongoing hog removal program.

In 1985, the CCAFS Security Police supported the sea turtle preservation program by hunting hogs. Selective hunting of offending hogs did not significantly reduce the overall hog population. To address this problem, the Air Force contracted the CCAFS Security Police to remove 300 hogs installation-wide during FY 1987. Nearly 200 hogs were removed from CCAFS during this period. Although short of the initial goal of 300 animals, the removal effort was sufficient to significantly reduce the CCAFS hog population and corresponding depredations of sea turtle nests.

An agreement between the Air Force and Florida Hog Hunters Association (FHHA) initiated in 1986 facilitated hog population control efforts on CCAFS.

Hog numbers on the station were significantly reduced by 1988 and hunting efforts by FHHA decreased correspondingly. Since 1990, the FHHA has periodically trapped and removed hogs, with the average trip netting approximately 1-2 hogs. Shooting and trapping of hogs is now conducted only when needed and based on observations of increased activity. The Environmental Support Contractor currently subcontracts hog removal, as well as other predator removal, as required, to support the sea turtle preservation program.

In the early 2000s, coyote tracks were observed on the beach, although predation of sea turtle nests was never documented. A coyote scent survey was completed for two years, which resulted in so sign of coyotes, even though they were known to be present. In 2003, 45 CES/CEVP personnel observed coyote tracks on the beach but, again, predation on nests was not documented. In 2005, coyotes began predating sea turtle nests in small numbers (<1% of nests).

In 2006, numerous tracks were seen and predation on nests became significant enough to institute a coyote trapping program. The subcontractor that was hired to trap hogs trapped three coyotes and predation ceased. Additional trapping will be conducted in the future, as needed, to protect sea turtle nests. It is interesting to note that raccoon predation on the beach was reduced during the time in which coyote activity was high. When the coyotes were removed, raccoon predation increased significantly. This is something that may warrant further study in the future.

Emergency Wildlife Control Normal procedures for any injured wildlife on CCAFS are transported to the nearest animal rehabilitation center for care. If immediate dispatch is necessary the Conservation Law Enforcement Officer will ensure humane treatment of the animal.

Other Fish and Wildlife Programs White-tailed Deer In 1983, resource managers suggested that the white-tailed deer population on CCAFS had the potential to exceed its carrying capacity. The CCAFS herd was estimated to be as high as 1,500 individuals (IRNMP, 1997). These high deer densities created a safety hazard to vehicles traveling on the station roads.

Documentation of the number of strikes on CCAFS was supplied by the Cape Security Police Department. This led to a culling of the deer herd. Between 1972 and 1980, the Florida Game and Freshwater Fish Commission (GFC) , now FWD, trapped deer on CCAFS, relocating them to enhance deer populations elsewhere in the state. Economic factors precluded the continuation of this operation. Vehicle/deer strikes increased through the 1980‟s reflecting an assumed increase in herd size after deer relocation was suspended. The Commission suggested a special public hunt on CCAFS, but concerns of Air Force Safety and Department of Defense Security prohibited this activity.

A pilot project was initiated in November 1983 with the installation of 190 Swareflex reflectors at intersections that had a large number of deer/vehicle strikes. The northbound lane on South Cape Road at the Lighthouse Road intersection was the site of the most accidents within a given area on CCAFS.

Within a year after the reflectors were installed, deer strikes there decreased by greater than 75 percent. Due to the effectiveness of the reflectors additional reflectors were installed at the Pier Road and Flight Control Road intersections.

In March 1991 all the reflectors were removed due to deterioration of the reflective surfaces of many of the devices.

The primary method of controlling the deer population was shooting animals observed on the road shoulders. In 1984, the CCAFS received a GFC permit to shoot 100 deer. Security personnel were tasked to hunt and remove deer from CCAFS road shoulders. Animals grazing on road shoulders, referred to as “offending deer,” were considered most likely to be involved in vehicular accidents. The shooting was expected to dissuade other deer from using the heavily traveled roads. As many as 74 accidental deer/automobile collisions occurred in a single year on CCAFS (1985, see Figure 6). From 1985 through 1987, about 200 deer/year were removed. The ease of fulfilling the annual harvest quota of 200 deer, along with the increase in the number of documented collisions, prompted CCAFS to increase the annual harvest quota. In 1988 and 1989, GFC granted a harvest of 300 animals/year. However, actual deer harvest levels for 1989/90 were significantly lower than previous years (122 deer harvested in 24-month period). After 1990, wildlife control officers and security police reported a marked decrease in deer observed along road shoulders. Deer harvests were discontinued after 1990.

Installation-wide deer/vehicle collision incidents have remained low since 1990 and apparently continue to decline. In the future, if deer removal becomes necessary, harvest levels will be based on a valid deer survey that enables the maintenance of a stable population. Test surveys were conducted in March 1999 by contractor staff using a helicopter and Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) video system. These surveys revealed very low numbers of deer (maximum count: 47 deer). In the summer of 2000, the same contractor conducted night-time spotlight counts using various roads on CCAFS. A maximum number of 56 animals were seen during one spotlight count during the month of July. The average number of animals seen during four spotlight counts was 42.8 with a range of 36 to 56 deer.

Natural resources managers plan to re-institute the spotlight surveys, completing them preferably in the July/August timeframe. The surveys will be conducted during the full moon phase to help observers distinguish between make and female individuals. The surveys will yield relative abundance data that can be used to detect trends in the deer number and composition over time.

Fish The 45 SW hasn‟t managed fish populations on its properties. A law enforcement officer, brought on staff in 2002, will ensure that all federal and state fishing regulations are followed in the designated fishing areas at CCAFS.

Information on designated fishing areas is provided earlier in this plan.

The 45 SW recently received funding to perform a characterization of biological resources within the Trident Submarine Basin on CCAFS, which will include fish species. The purpose of the study is to develop a comprehensive inventory of the marine flora and fauna inhabiting hard bottom (rock revetments and wharf structures), soft bottom, and pelagic habitats of the CCAFS Trident Submarine Basin, Port Canaveral, Florida. The results of this study will be incorporated into future revisions of this plan. There is also a project currently programmed for FY10 to perform a biological survey of borrow pits, ponds, canals and ditches at the 45 SW. This survey will help natural resources managers better understand what species may be present and whether any type of management is required.

APPENDIX 1- LISTS OF SPECIES ON 45 SW FLORIDA PROPERTIES

Table A-1: Mammals Present on CCAFS

Common Name Scientific Name

Opossum Didelphis virginiana

Seminole Bat Lasiurus seminolus

Yellow Bat Lasiurus intermedius

Raccoon Procyon lotor

River Otter Lutra canadensis

Spotted Skunk Spilogale putorius

Feral Cat Felis domesticus

Bobcat Lynx rufus

Gray Fox Urocyon cinereoargenteus

Eastern Gray Squirrel Sciurus carolinensis

Eastern Mole Scalopus aquaticus

Least Shrew Cryptotis parva

Short-tailed Shrew Blarina brevicauda

Pocket Gopher Geomys pinetis

Cotton Mouse Peromyscus gossypinus

Florida Mouse Podomys floridanus

Southeastern Beach Mouse Peromyscus polionotus viveiventris

Cotton Rat Sigmodon hispidus

Black Rat Rattus rattus

Norway Rat Rattus norvegicus

Round-tailed Muskrat Neofiber alleni

Long-tailed Weasel Mustela frenata

Eastern Cottontail Rabbit Sylvilagus floridanus

Marsh Rabbit Sylvilagus palustris

Feral Hog Sus scrofa

White-tailed Deer Odocoileus virginianus

Armadillo Dasypus novemcinctus

Table A-2: Amphibians and Reptiles Present on CCAFS

Eastern Spadefoot Toad Scaphiopus holbrooki holbrooki

Green Treefrog Hyla cinerea

Squirrel Treefrog Hyla squirella

Eastern Narrow-mouthed Toad Gastrophryne carolinensis

Southern Leopard Frog Rana utricularis

Gopher Frog Rana capito

American Alligator Alligator mississippiensis

Snapping Turtle Chelydra serpentina

Striped Mud Turtle Kinosternon bauri

Florida Box Turtle Terrapene carolina bauri

Northern Diamondback Terrapin Malaclemys terrapin terrapin

Florida Cooter Chrysemys floridana floridana

Florida Red-bellied Turtle Chrysemys nelsoni

Gopher Tortoise Gopherus polyphemus

Green Sea Turtle Chelonia mydas

Hawksbill Sea Turtle Eretmochelys imbricata

Atlantic Loggerhead Sea Turtle Caretta caretta

Kemp‟s Ridley Sea Turtle Lepidochelys kempi

Leatherback Sea Turtle Dermochelys coriacea

Florida Softshell Trionyx ferox

Mediterranean Gecko Hemidactylus turcicus

Green Anole Anolis carolinensis

Brown Anole Anolis sagrei

Six-lined Racerunner Cnemidophorus sexlineatus

Broad-headed Skink Eumeces laticeps

Eastern Garter Snake Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis

Mangrove Salt Marsh Snake Nerodia clarkii compressicauda

Southern Ringneck Snake Diadophis punctatus punctatus

Black Racer Coluber constrictor

Eastern Coachwhip Masticophis flagellum flagellum

Rough Green Snake Opheodrys aestivus

Eastern Indigo Snake Drymarchon corais couperi

Corn Snake Elaphe guttata guttata

Florida Pine Snake Pituophis melanoleucus mugitus

Dusky Pygmy Rattlesnake Sistrurus miliarius barbouri

Eastern Diamondback Crotalus adamanteus

Eastern Coral Snake Micrurus fulvius fulvius

Table A-3: Birds Present on CCAFS

Common Loon Gavia immer

Pied-billed Grebe Podilymbus podiceps

Greater Shearwater Puffinus griseus

Audubon‟s Shearwater Puffinus lherminieri

Magnificent Frigatebird Fregata magnificens

White Pelican Pelecanus erythrorhynchos

Brown Pelican Pelecanus occidentalis

Northern Gannett Morus bassanus

Anhinga Anhinga anhinga

Double-crested Cormorant Phalacrocorax auritus

Black-crowed Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax

Green Heron Butorides virescens

Tricolored Heron Egretta tricolor

Little Blue Heron Egretta caerulea

Reddish Egret Egretta rufescens

Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis

Snowy Egret Egretta thula

Great Egret Ardea albus

Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias

Wood Stork Mycteria americana

Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus

White Ibis Eudocimus albus

Roseate Spoonbill Ajaia ajaja

Snow Goose Chen caerulescens

Mottled Duck Anas fulvigula

Northern Pintail Anas acuta

Shoveler Anas clypeata

Blue Winged Teal Anas discors

Lesser Scaup Aythya affinis

Common Eider Somateria mollissima

Black Scoter Melanitta nigra

Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator

Clapper Rail Rallus longirostris

Virginia Rail Rallus limicola

Sora Porzana carolina

Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus

American Coot Fulica americana

American Oystercatcher Haematopus palliatus

Black-necked Stilt Himantopus mexicanus

Piping Plover Charadrius melodus

Wilson‟s Plover Charadrius wilsonia

Semipalmated Plover Charadrius semipalmatus

Killdeer Charadrius vociferus

Black-bellied Plover Pluvialis squatarola

Marbled Godwit Limosa fedoa

Willet Catoptrophorus semipalmatus

Greater Yellowlegs Tringa melanoleuca

Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes

Solitary Sandpiper Tringa solitaria

Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularia

Short-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus griseus

Snipe Gallinago gallinago

Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres

Red Knot Calidris canutus

Dunlin Calidris alpina

Sanderling Calidris alba

Western Sandpiper Calidris mauri

Laughing Gull Larus atricilla

Bonaparte‟s Gull Larus philadelphis

Ring-billed Gull Larus celawarensis

Herring Gull Larus argentatus

Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus

Common Tern Sterna hirundo

Forster‟s Tern Sterna forsteri

Gull-billed Tern Sterna nilotica

Least Tern Sterna antillarum

Black Tern Chlidonias niger

Royal Tern Sterna maxima

Caspian Tern Sterna caspia

Sooty Tern Sterna fuscata

Black Skimmer Rynchops niger

Turkey Vulture Cathartes aira

Black Vulture Coragyps atratus

Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus

Northern Harrier Circus cyaneus

Mississippi Kite Ictinia mississippiensis

Sharp-shinned Hawk Accipiter striatus

Cooper‟s Hawk Accipiter cooperii

Red-shouldered Hawk Buteo lineatus

Red-tailed Hawk Buteo jamaicensis

Osprey Pandion haliaetus

Southeastern American Kestrel Falco sparverius

Merlin Falco columbarius

Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus

Northern Bobwhite Colinus virginianus

Rock Dove Columba livia

Mourning Dove Zenaida macroura

Eurasian Collared Dove Strptopelia decaocto

Common Ground-Dove Columbina passerina

Yellow-billed Cuckoo Coccyzus americanus

Common Barn-Owl Tyto alba

Great Horned Owl Bubo virginianus

Barred Owl Strix varia

Eastern Screech-Owl Otus asio

Chuck-will‟s-widow Caprimulgus carolinensis

Whip-poor-will Caprimulgus viciferus

Common Nighthawk Chordeiles minor

Chimney Swift Chaetura pelagica

Belted Kingfisher Ceryl alcyon

Red-bellied Woodpecker Melanerpes carolinus

Northern Flicker Colaptes auratus

Downy Woodpecker Picoides pubescens

Pileated Woodpecker Dryocopus pileatus

Eastern Kingbird Tyrannus tyrannus

Gray Kingbird Tyrannus dominicensis

Western Kingbird Tyrannus verticalis

Great-crested Flycatcher Myiarchus crinitus

Eastern Wood-Pewee Contopus virens

Eastern Phoebe Sayornis phoebe

Tree Swallow Tachycineta bicolor

Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica

Florida Scrub Jay Aphelocoma coerulescens

Blue Jay Cyaocitta cristata

American Crow Corvus brachyrhynchos

Fish Crow Corvus ossifragus

House Wren Troglodytes aedon

Carolina Wren Thryothorus ludovicianus

Sedge Wren Cistothorus platensis

Marsh Wren Cistothorus palustris

Ruby-crowned Kinglet Regulus calendula

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher Polioptila caerulea

Veery Catharus fuscescens

Hermit Thrush Catharus guttatus

American Robin Turdus migratorius

Loggerhead Shrike Lanius ludovicianus

Gray Catbird Dumetella carolinensis

Northern Mockingbird Mimus polyglottos

Brown Thrasher Toxostoma rufum

Cedar Waxwing Bombycilla cedrorum

European Starling Sturnus vulgaris

White-eyed Vireo Vireo griseus

Yellow-throated Vireo Vireo flavifrons

Solitary Vireo Vireo solitarius

Red-eyed Vireo Vireo olivaceus

Pronthonotary Warbler Protonotaria citrea

Blue-winged Warbler Vermivora pinus

Orange-crowned Warbler Vermivora celata

Nashville Warbler Vermivora ruficapilla

Northern Parula Parula americana

Black-and-white Warbler Mniotilta varia

Black-throated Blue Warbler Dendroica caerulescens

Blackburnian Warbler Dendroica fusca

Chestnut-sided Warbler Dendroica pensylvanica

Cape May Warbler Dendroica tigrina

Yellow-rumped Warbler Dendroica coronata

Black-throated Green Warbler Dendroica virens

Prairie Warbler Dendroica discolor

Blackpoll Warbler Dendroica stirata

Pine Warbler Dendroica pinus

Palm Warbler Dendroica palmarum

Kentucky Warbler Oporornis formosus

Hooded Warbler Wilsonia citrina

Worm-eating Warbler Helmitheros vermivorus

Ovenbird Seiurus aurocapillus

Louisiana Waterthrush Seiurus motacilla

Northern Waterthrush Seiurus noveboracensis

Common Yellowthroat Geothlypis trichas

Yellow-breasted Chat Icteria virens

American Redstart Setophaga ruticilla

Rose-breasted Grosbeak Pheucticus ludovicianus

Northern Cardinal Cardinalis cardinalis

Blue Grosbeak Guiraca caerulea

Indigo Bunting Passerina cyanea

Painted Bunting Passerina ciris

Eastern Towhee Pipilo erythrophthalmus

Grasshopper Sparrow Ammodramus savannarum

Savannah Sparrow Passerculus sandwichensis

Bobolink Dolichonyx oryzivorus

Red-winged Blackbird Agelaius phoeniceus

Brown-headed Cowbird Molothrus ater

Common Grackle Quiscalus quiscula

Boat-tailed Grackle Quiscalus major

Orchard Oriole Icterus spurius

Summer Tanager Piranga rubra

House Sparrow Passer domesticus

Table A-4: Mammals Present on PAFB

Raccoon Procyon lotor

Opossum Didelphis virginianus

Rabbits Sylvilagus spp.

House mouse Mus musculus

Armadillo Dasypus novemcinctus

Gray squirrel Sciurus carolinensis

Table A-5: Amphibians and Reptiles Present on PAFB

Alligator Alligator mississippiensis

Green tree frog Hyla cinerea

Brown anole Anolis sagrei

Corn snake Elaphe guttata guttata

Northern black racer Coluber constrictor

Florida cooter Chrysemys floridana

Florida softshell Trionyx ferox

Snapping turtle Chelydra serpentina

Table A-6: Birds Present on PAFB

Pied-billed grebe Podilymbus podiceps

American White pelican Pelecanus erythrorhynchos

Double-crested cormorant Phalacrocorax auritus

Anhinga Anhinga anhinga

Great Blue Heron Ardea herodius

Great egret Ardea albus

Cattle egret Bubulcus ibis

Green heron Butorides virescens

Black-crowned night heron Nycticorax nycticorax

Glossy ibis Plegadis falcinellus

Mottled duck Anas fulvigula

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos

Blue-winged teal Anas discors

Northern shoveler Anas clypeata

American widgeon Anas americana

Ring-necked duck Aythya collaris

Lesser scaup Aythya affinis

Common moorhen Gallinula chloropus

American coot Fulica americana

Black-bellied plover Pluvialis squatarola

Semipalmated plover Charadrius semipalmatus

Killdeer Charadrius vociferus

Willet Catoptrophorus semipalmatus

Spotted sandpiper Actitis macularia

Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus

Ruddy turnstone Arenaris interpres

Sanderling Calidris alba

Dunlin Calidris alpina

Common snipe Gallinago gallinago

Laughing gull Larus atricilla

Bonaparte‟s gull Larus philadelphia

Ring-billed gull Larus delawarensis

Herring gull Larus argentatus

Great black-backed gull Larus marinus

Caspian tern Sterna caspia

Royal tern Sterna maxima

Sandwich tern Sterna sandvicensis

Black tern Chilidonias niger

Osprey Pandion haliaetus

American redstart Setophaga ruticilla

Magnolia warbler Dendroica magnolia

Black-throated blue warbler Dendroica caerulescens

Black-throated green warbler Dendroica virens

Prairie warbler Dendroica discolor

Yellow-rumped warbler Dendroica coronata

Savannah sparrow Passerculus sandwichensis

Table A-7: Mammals Present on MTA

White-tailed deer Odocoileus virginianus

Gray squirrel Sciurus carolinensis

Spotted skunk Spilogale putorius

Otter Lutra canadensis

Armadillo Dasypus novemcinctus

Bobcat Lynx rufus

Raccoon Procyon lotor

Rabbits Sylvilagus spp.

Opossum Didelphis virginianus

Table A-8: Amphibians and Reptiles Present on MTA

Green tree…