Gustafson_Management_Plan_Nov_2010.pdf

Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve

Phase I – FCT Project No. 02-045-FF2 Phase II – FCT Project No. 05-050-FF5 Phase III – FCT Project No. 08-048-FF8

Ed Gustafson Regional Park

Management Plan

Green Cove SpringsGreen Cove Springs Nature PreserveNature Preserve

City of Green Cove Springs

November 2010

- 1 -

Table of Contents

I. Introduction

II. Purpose

III. Site Development and Improvements A. Existing Physical Improvements B. Proposed Physical Improvements C. Landscaping D. Wetland Buffer E. Acknowledgement Sign F. Stormwater Facilities G. Hazard Mitigation H. Permits I. Easements, Concessions, and Leases J. Coordination K. Florida Communities Trust Approval

IV. Natural Resources A. Natural Communities B. Listed Animal Species C. Listed Plant Species D. Inventory of the Natural Communities E. Water Quality F. Trail Network G. Sidewalk Network H. Blueways

V. Resource Enhancement A. Upland Restoration B. Riverine Marsh/Mud Flat Protection C. Invasive Exotic Plant D. Prescribed Burn Plan E. Feral Animal Program

VI. Archeological, Cultural, and Historical Resource Program .. 19

VII. Education Signs and Programs

VIII. Management Needs A. Maintenance B. Security C. Staffing

- 2 -

IX. Cost Estimates and Funding Sources

X. Priority Schedule

XI. Monitoring and Reporting

XII. Appendices A. GCS Nature Preserve & Ed Gustafson Regional Park Location Map B. Master Site Plan Map – Phases I, II and III C. Public Lands & Trail Network Map D. Existing Physical Improvements Map E. Natural Communities Map F. Archeological & Cultural Resource Surveys G. Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council’s List of Invasive Plant Species H. Florida Natural Areas Inventory – Rare Plants I. Florida Natural Areas Inventory – Occurrences of Special Animals J. Florida Natural Areas Inventory – Natural Community K. FEMA 100-Year Flood Plain Map L. Grant Award Agreements

(Phase I/02-045-FF@; Phase II/05-050-FF5; Phase III/08-048-FF8) M. Future Land Use and Zoning Map

- 3 -

CONCEPTUAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

I. Introduction

In 2002, the City of Green Cove Springs applied for and was awarded a FCT grant to purchase property and begin the creation of the Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve. In 2005, the City of Green Cove Springs applied for and was awarded a second FCT grant to add to the Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve. This third phase grant will complete the acquisitions required for the Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve by adding 136 acres to the existing 123 acres to make a total completed project of 259 acres. The completed project will contain both active and passive recreational facilities to serve the citizens of Green Cove Springs and those that reside in the central and southern portions of Clay County.

The purpose of adding 136 acres for Phase III, Ed Gustafson Regional Park, to the Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve is to create a new wildlife corridor, additional nature preserve land, and an active recreational regional park. This project will preserve the pristine beauty of Florida’s natural wetlands and forests and increase active recreational facilities. The project would also act as a springboard for eco-tourism to the City, which is currently very low. The Park will include a stormwater retention area that will reduce flooding in the area that includes a subsidized housing project. The City will also interpret the adjacent historic Gustafson Dairy, a locally historically significant site listed on the Florida Master Site File.

Ed Gustafson Regional Park will consist of 70 acres of uplands to be developed into an active regional recreational facility. The City of Green Cove Springs will ask the County to be a full partner in the operation and development of this Park. The Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve – Ed Gustafson Regional Park will include nature/hiking trails that will be used for biking and jogging. The trail will go around the entire property and link the facilities to Spring Park and the St. Johns River. Boardwalks will be constructed to minimize impact to the wetlands. The nature/hiking trails will be constructed to minimize the impact to any of the natural resources on the site. The active recreational facilities will include:

softball/baseball fields, soccer/football fields, skateboard park, dog park, tennis courts, racquetball courts, shuffleboard courts, and a multi-purpose community center building. The City will seek Federal, State, County, and/or St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD) park grants to help develop the Park. The County will be requested to provide for operational funds depending on the number of unincorporated residents who use the facilities.

The Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve Phase I, II, and III contains 259 acres of property with ½ mile of shoreline along the St. Johns River in Green Cove Springs, Florida. The project area is located in the Green Cove Springs existing urban service area and is within ½ mile of a built-up commercial and high density mixed use area. Also located within ½ mile of the site is a public-semi-public district, a commercial high intensity district, residential medium density district, residential low density district and a historical and conservation area. The City of Green Cove Springs is a small economically disadvantaged community with a population of 6,500. The average income is lower than the State average. The Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve adjoins the City’s Spring Park and will create a new addition to the existing and much used public park, which also lies along the St. Johns River. The existing park and the project site provide a beautiful view of the St. Johns River, which is an American Heritage River as designated by the President of the United States.

- 4 -

The Phase III project site is made up of eight (8) parcels of land totaling 136 acres owned by six (6) different landowners. The grant objective is to purchase these parcels from their respective owners. The project area will allow for public access to the St. Johns River by way of a nature trail near the shoreline starting at Spring Park. A nature trail will also be provided around and through the Green Cove Springs Swamp and the Ed Gustafson Regional Park. Approximately six (6) miles of nature trails will be linked to the St. Johns River Water Management District’s J. P. Hall Nature Preserve/Bayard Conservation Area (10,000+ acres) through the Reynolds Park Redevelopment project. The St. Johns River also provides a blueway trail to interconnect the Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve with the St. Johns River Water Management District’s J. P. Hall Nature Preserve/Bayard Conservation area.

The project is surrounded by historical resources such as the natural sulphur water spring, which feeds into the City’s public pool and then into the St. Johns River via a spring run through Spring Park. In the late 1800s, these same springs drew wealthy winter tourists to Green Cove Springs to enjoy the warm 78-degree year-round, therapeutic spring-fed pool.

Tourists traveled 25 miles down the St. Johns River from Jacksonville by steamboat to partake of the springs and the beauty of the area. The Timucuan Indians, as well as the Spanish and the British, also found the springs to be a natural draw for settling.

The Phase I and II Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve site of 123 acres contains 90% undisturbed land and is home to many diverse natural and biological resources. The predominate community type is Hydric Hammock, which makes up approximately 70% of the project area. Other communities include the Mudflat Marsh, Bottomland Forest, Pine Plantation/Upland Pine Forest, Upland Mixed Forest, Imperiled Seepage Stream, and the Imperiled Floodplain/Riverine Marsh. These communities are home to the red maple, sweet gum, American elm, water hickory, pop ash, cabbage palm, buttonbush, hackberry, swamp dogwood, lizards tail, bog hemp, blueflag iris, cinnamon fern, mallow, willow, alligator weed, smartweed, loblolly pine, slash pine, water oak, live oak, black gum, wax myrtle, saw palmetto, grapevine, greenbrier, and broomsedge. One of these communities, the upland Mixed Forest, has been disturbed by vegetative clearing and pine beetle infestation but the area appears to be regenerating into a more hardwood dominated community. Another disturbed area is located in the Floodplain/Riverine Marsh and is encroached upon by cattail plants. Some areas of the project are heavily influenced by the tidal changes of the St.

Johns River, which in some areas, prohibit large, woody herbaceous plants from creeping into the land.

Wildlife habitats within the project site include the Hydric Hammock vegetative community, which is suitable as a nesting habitat for the endangered Wood Stork. The Mixed Upland Forest and Bottomland Forest communities support mature pine trees suitable for the threatened Bald Eagle. Other communities support moderate forage habitat for species classified as species of special concern. These include the listed wading birds such as the Little Blue Heron, Reddish Egret, Tricolor Heron, and White Ibis. The Hydric Hammock and Riverine Swamps are used by the American Alligator and the St. Johns River is home to the West Indian Manatee, which can be seen at times feeding near the river’s edge.

The acquisition of the property for the Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve through the Florida Communities Trust (FCT) funding has resulted in the following Management Plan, which is designed to address three (3) major areas:

- 5 -

Protecting environmentally sensitive land, Providing resource-based recreational activities, and Promoting environmental education.

The local elementary, junior high and senior high schools have made a commitment to utilize the project site in their biology and environmental science curriculum. This Management Plan was prepared to ensure the project site will be developed according to the Grant Award Agreement and in furtherance of the purpose of the grant.

II. Purpose

The purpose for purchasing the property for the Green Cove Nature Preserve was to provide future uses of the site that will be limited to user-oriented facilities such as nature/hiking trail, jogging, picnicking, fishing, nature and historical interpretation, observation platforms, canoe/kayak launch, skateboard, and active recreational fields. The project site will be developed in a manner that will allow for the general public reasonable access for observation and appreciation of the natural resources located on the site with minimal disturbance to any natural resource. Tourists, visitors, and citizens will be able to enjoy the Nature Preserve as well as the enhanced adjacent City-owned Spring Park where many recreational facilities already exist, such as the swimming pool, picnic tables, covered pavilions, playground equipment, Spring Run trail sidewalk, river trail, gazebo and City pier.

The project will also promote eco-tourism economic development potential for the City.

The project promotes the goals, objectives and policies of the Conservation Element (CM) and the Recreation and Open Space Element (ROS) of the City’s Comprehensive Plan. The City is committed to the protection of its natural resources to ensure that adequate resources are available for future generations (CM Policies G. 5.5.1, G. 5. 5.2, G. 5.5.4, G.

5.5.5, & G. 5.5.6). Acquisition for recreational uses and access to the Green Cove Nature Preserve (ROS Policies G. 6.61, G. 6.6.2, G.6.6.3, & G. 6.6.4) are a large part of this project.

The City is also committed to meeting the Level of Service Standard set forth in the Recreation and Open Space Element (Policy G. 6.6.3) whereby two (2) acres per 1,000 persons shall be set aside for recreation/open space.

The City of Green Cove Springs acquired the project site for the purposes of:

Preserving and protecting sensitive natural vegetative and wildlife habitats, Providing additional and enhanced access to the St. Johns River, Providing passive resource-based outdoor recreation and active recreation in appropriate areas, and Providing environmental education.

The Management Plan objectives for the Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve are as follows:

Preservation of environmental resources, Enhancement of environmental resources, Protection of native vegetation and wildlife habitat, Preservation of watershed/wetland areas, Providing recreational activities for the public, and Providing environmental education.

- 6 -

The Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve will further the following key Comprehensive Plan directives.

Conservation Element Objective 5.5 and Policy 5.5.1:

Purchasing the project site will further the directive for the City to work with other agencies to acquire and/or preserve environmentally sensitive land as identified by CARL, DNR, SJRWMD or other State or Federal environmental agencies. Acquiring the proposed property will assure the conservation and protection of the land for future generations. Designating the property as a Nature Preserve will further ensure the preservation of the vegetative and wildlife communities inhabiting the property. The Conservation Element Objective requires the City to cooperate with the State in efforts to acquire and/or manage environmentally sensitive land as well as coordinate with state agencies in protecting the environmentally sensitive land.

Conservation Element Objective 5.6 and Policy 5.6.2:

The project site has been identified as suitable for the nesting of the endangered Wood Stork. The Mixed Upland Forest and Bottomland Forest communities support mature pine trees suitable for the threatened Bald Eagle. Other communities support moderate forage habitat for species of special concern such as the listed wading birds (Little Blue Heron, Reddish Egret, Tricolor Heron, and White Ibis). Because this site is suitable for and/or provides for the habitation of endangered and/or threatened species, it furthers the City’s Comprehensive Plan Policy to identify areas in the City with a high probability of threatened or endangered species habitat. Identifying these species will ensure the property is preserved consistent with all relevant federal and state requirements.

Recreation and Open Space Element Objective 6.3, Policy 6.3.1:

The City has completed a number of the objectives outlined in the Comprehensive Plan;

however, an ongoing objective is to expand the Spring Park area as adjacent property becomes available for purchase. Acquiring the 124 acres of property adjacent to the Spring Park will add a significant two (2) acre addition to the City’s existing six (6) acre Spring Park.

The City has already acquired property at 110 S. Magnolia Avenue, Green Cove Springs, which will become part of the Nature Preserve/Park System. In keeping with the objective to expand the Park, the City purchased this property on July 13, 2001.

Recreation and Open Space Element Objective 6.4, Policy 6.4.3:

On July 26, 2002, the City applied for a $3,392,600 grant from the Florida Communities Trust and was awarded the grant funds to purchase environmentally sensitive property located along the shoreline of the St. Johns River. On December 2005, a Phase II Grant was awarded for $2,625,000. On March 17, 2009, a Phase III Grant was awarded for $3,208,400. This is in compliance with the City’s Comprehensive Plan, which directs the City to pursue available State and Federal grant money to acquire and develop recreation and open space areas. The project site will further enhance the already existing Spring Park by including user-oriented facilities such as nature/hiking trail, jogging, picnicking, fishing, nature interpretation, observation platforms, and canoe/kayak launching in the Nature Preserve and will, at the same time, preserve the natural resources of the property.

- 7 -

The Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve will be managed for the conservation, protection and enhancement of the natural resources and outdoor recreation compatible with the goals of the management plan. The City is currently in the process of amending the Green Cove Springs Comprehensive Plan to include the Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve. The Conservation Element and Recreation/Open Space Element and Future Land Use Map will be amended to identify the Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve. The acquired property will be designated as Recreation/Conservation on the Future Land Use Category. The City will then rezone the property acquired to the Recreation/Conservation zoning category.

All signage, advertising and literature will identify the Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve as being publicly owned and operated as a public outdoor recreation site and natural conservation area providing active and passive activities open to the public. Funding for the acquisition of this site was provided by the Florida Communities Trust.

III. Site Development

A.

Existing Physical Improvements

The Phase I and II project site has a sewage lift station with sewer lines and manholes on the property. The Phase III project site has two (2) permanent residential structures that will be demolished and two (2) mobile home sites where the mobile homes will be removed. Phase III also has a high voltage power line easement. All existing facilities including easements are depicted on the Existing Physical Improvements Map. (Appendix N)

B.

Proposed Physical Improvements

All components of the park and site access will comply with State and Federal construction standards and will also meet American with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. Phase I and II of the Nature Preserve is readily accessible to walkers and bicycles since the City’s sidewalk system is connected to City-owned Spring Park and adjacent to the Nature Preserve property. Phase III of the Nature Preserve project, the Ed Gustafson Regional Park, will be connected with future City-planned sidewalks on Oakridge Avenue, Highland Avenue, Vermont Avenue, Melrose Avenue, and Robert Street.

Although the City will use the most eco-sensitive methods in determining the location and construction of the proposed park improvements, there may be some alteration of portions of the project site. However, the City will select sites for improvement that will minimize the destruction of native vegetation and natural land formations.

No ground disturbance or physical improvements will be initiated until the archaeological, plant and animal surveys are complete for each specific area of development. Trash and recycle receptacles will be place at all active use, parking areas, and at trail access points. Water fountains will be placed at the ball fields and where feasible in Phases I and II. Resting benches will be situated along the trails.

The Park will be developed in stages as indicated on the Priority Schedule. The following proposed physical improvements that may impact the site are:

- 8 -

Nature Observation/River Overlook Areas (Platforms) 1,500 s.f.

One (1) elevated platform will minimize impacts to the site by only requiring holes to be dug for each footing/piling. Sunlight will be reduced to a minimum under the structures retarding the growth of vegetation within their footprint.

Phase I

Hiking Trails 210,000 s.f.

Trails will be field located and constructed to minimize their impact on woody/canopy vegetation. Impacts shall primarily be localized to understory/ shrub vegetation. Trail surfaces will be stabilized to meet ADA requirements necessitating 95% soil compaction and surface treatment (i.e.-asphalt/crushed shell, asphalt millings, etc.); however, trail construction shall not impede the natural watershed or land formations of the site.

Approximately six (6) miles of 12’ wide hiking trails will be constructed in the project.

Phase I, II and III

Recreational Fields and Recreational Courts 130,000 s.f.

Approximately 40 acres will be developed into recreational ball fields (softball, baseball, soccer, football, basketball court and tennis court) along with a central multi-purpose building with concession stand and restrooms.

Sports fields will have bleachers but no lighting is anticipated at this time.

Existing shade trees will be protected and the City will plant shade trees, i.e.

live or laurel oaks, within the fields to provide sun relief for players and spectators between and along the perimeter of the fields.

Phase III

Skateboard Park 40,000 s.f.

Construct a 200’ x 200’ skateboard park. Benches will be placed around the Park for spectators and boarders.

Picnicking Area 0 s.f.

A covered picnic area or covered bench area will be located at the area of former residences between Ferris Street and Bay Street. No clearing required. Trash cans will be placed in this area.

- 9 -

Canoe/Kayak Launch 800 s.f.

The Canoe/Kayak launch area will be an area for drop off and launching. No other facilities will be located at the canoe launch. Intended to be minimally intrusive, but may require clearing and piling locations necessitating holes to be dug. The canoe launch is to be located at the end of Ferris Street. Trash cans will be placed in this area. Parking will be created for the canoe launch at the corner of Ferris Street and Magnolia Avenue.

Interpretive Signage 100 s.f.

Educational signage will be situated on each Park phase to educate the public about the natural resources and history of the area. Kiosks and signs will be posted at each phase as indicated on the Master Site Plan Map.

(Appendix B) Small holes to be dug for sign posts. May require some minor understory/shrub clearing for sign visibility.

Phase I, II, and III

Boardwalks 3,000 s.f.

Piling holes to be dug for each piling, underbrush/shrub clearing may be required along the boardwalk path.

Parking 7,000 s.f.

Trash cans will be placed in all parking areas. Stormwater run-off will be attenuated in all parking areas by swales. Vehicles will be contained within designated parking areas by wheel stops made from wood poles and landscape shrubs.

A new 20 space parking area will be located at the corner of Ferris Street and Magnolia Avenue. No clearing required. A 32’x 32’ maintenance storage utility building will be constructed on this site to serve Spring Park and the Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve. Parking lot design will consider the use of pervious materials. Large trees on the property will remain.

20 unpaved parking spaces will be provided in existing right-of-way of Golfair Boulevard.

20 unpaved parking spaces will be provided in existing right-of-way of Melrose Avenue and the Southwest Regional Stormwater Retention Pond property.

20 unpaved parking spaces will be provided in existing right-of-way along the eastside of Roberts Street between Melrose Avenue and Green Cove Avenue.

- 10 -

The Ed Gustafson Regional Park will provide a minimum of 40 unpaved parking spaces per recreational field.

Bike racks will be posted in each phase of the Park and will be located at trail and recreational facility road access points including at the ball fields, the skate park, picnic areas, and at trailheads. Rack locations are indicated on the Master City Plan. (Appendix B)

Approximate Site Improvement Area in Square Feet for Phase I, II and III:

388,100 s.f. or 8.9 acres of 259 acres (3.4 % impact)

All improvements to be made to the property that may have an impact on the vegetative and land formations will be located and constructed taking into account information made available by FFWCC, DEP, SJRWMD and environmental assessment reports regarding the density, habitat, and location requirements for the listed plant and animal species as found in the Florida Natural Area Inventory (FNAI). The City will do everything possible to avoid or lessen any negative impact on the property.

The City will coordinate all ground disturbance activities to maximize the protection of the listed plant and animal species. (Appendix H and I)

The City will monitor development on adjacent property to ensure that development will not negatively affect the resources on the project site. The City’s Site Development Review Team will review development on adjacent property and ensure that it will not negatively affect the resources on the project site.

C.

Landscaping

Native shade trees will be planted around parking and recreational areas. Existing native trees will be protected to provide shade and interest. Flowering and seasonal color native shrubs will be planted around public gathering areas, i.e. parking ingress/egress, along sidewalks, and trails and recreational facilities. Native trees to be planted will include live oaks, hollys, red maples and palms. Other natives to be planted will include native azaleas and wax myrtles. The ground cover will include turf grass (such as St. Augustine, Bermuda and Bahia grass) only in areas of heavy recreational use, i.e. play fields, picnic areas, and around the skateboard park and courts. Native groundcover will be left intact in the natural areas. In Phase I, approximately one-half (1/2) acre will be landscaped at the location of the former two (2) residences. The parking area between Ferris Street and Spring Street and the picnic area bordering the St. Johns River between Ferris Street and Bay Street will be landscaped. The landscaping will enhance the large pavilion the City erected on the area bordering the St. Johns River between Ferris Street and Spring Street in the City-owned Spring Park approximately 100 feet north of Phase I. Another area to be landscaped in Phase I will be at the corner of Ferris Street and Magnolia Avenue. Most of Phase II is natural and does not require landscaping around facilities. Phase I and III landscaping plans are indicated on the Master Site Plan Map. (Appendix B) This landscaping effort should be complete by 2012 for Phase I and II, and 2020 for Phase III.

- 11 -

D.

Wetland Buffer

All wetland areas within the Park Phases will have a minimum 25-foot buffer landward of the upland edge. No development shall be located within this zone with the limited exception of minimal boardwalks and public access structures. The City will setback the location of minor facilities further to protect wetland resources. A 100-foot buffer will be provided between major facilities and wetlands wherever possible, most particularly between parking areas, internal park roads, and restrooms. The City will work with the St. Johns River Water Management District to design facilities to minimize adverse impacts to wetlands and maximize buffer zones.

E.

Acknowledgement Sign

A permanent sign was placed on U.S. Highway 17 on Phase I FCT Project Property recognizing the Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve site was purchased with funds from the FCT. The sign is two (2) x three (3) foot in size and includes the FCT logo and the year the site was acquired.

Two additional signs, a minimum of three (3) x four (4) foot in size will be placed on Phase II and on the recently added Phase III property. The sign will include the FCT logo (in teal, black or white) and state, “The project site was purchased with funds from the Florida Communities Trust using Florida Forever funds.” The next line should indentify the year funded, i.e. “Acquired in XXXX.”

F.

Stormwater Facilities

The Phase III project will have a new stormwater retention pond located south of Green Cove Avenue and east of Melrose Avenue extension. In addition, swales collecting parking area run-off are planned adjacent to all grass parking areas and will be shown on the Site Plan Map. All stormwater management systems within the FCT acquired phases are depicted on the Master Site Plan Map. (Appendix B) All stormwater facilities will be designed to mimic a natural system and provide wildlife habitat and open space recreational areas. Facilities will be designed to include shallow slopes, i.e. slopes of 8/1 to 12/1. The stormwater management system(s) littoral zone will be planted with native wetland vegetation to appear like a natural system. Stormwater facilities will be designed to accommodate surface water run-off from park site development to resolve any potential flooding problems as well as improve the quality of adjacent surface waters contributing to the St. Johns River.

The City will coordinate the design and construction of these systems (swales and ponds) with the St. Johns River Water Management District. If necessary, the Master Site Plan Map will be revised to show the change in location of the planned facilities and provided to FCT for approval prior to construction. (Appendix B)

G.

Hazard Mitigation

Portions of the project are located within the 100-year flood plain. Acquisition of the property will assist the City in directing residential and commercial development away from the 100-year flood plain. No major structures or facilities are planned within the 100-year flood plain. The City will buffer wetlands from development, as indicated on page 11, to ensure the continued function and capacity of the floodplain.

- 12 -

Clay County has adopted a Local Mitigation Strategy of which the City is a cooperating partner. One of the mitigation initiatives includes the acquisition of areas within the 100-year flood plain. Portions of the project site are located within the 100-year flood plain and its acquisition has been identified as a mitigation priority in the County’s Local Mitigation Strategy. (Appendix K)

H.

Permits

FCT will be updated in the annual Stewardship Report of permits being sought and obtained for park development activities. Permits may be required from Department of Environmental Protection, St. Johns River Water Management District, and/or the Army Corps of Engineers. All necessary permits will be obtained prior to initiation of construction on the site.

I.

Easements, Concessions, and Leases

In Phases I and II, there is a City of Green Cove Springs sewage lift station with sewer lines and manholes.

In Phase III, the Ed Gustafson Regional Park, there are two (2) City of Green Cove Springs electric high voltage power line easements crossing the property. Once of the lines will be in the recreational field area and will be put underground for safety reasons. The other line borders the south property line of the project ans is anticipated to remain an overhead high voltage power line.

Existing easements and physical improvements are depicted on the Existing Physical Improvements Map. (Appendix N)

No concessions or leases currently exist on the property. The City will provide written notice and information 60 days prior to, regarding any lease of any interest, the operation of any concession, any sale or option, and management contracts.

The City will not execute any contract document without the prior written approval of the FCT. Any fees collected from the grant project will be placed into a segregated account solely for the upkeep and maintenance of the project site.

The City will obtain the proper state sovereignty submerged lands lease, consent, or waiver for all in or over water structures planned on the park area prior to beginning development. The City will provide a copy of the lease, consent, or waiver to the FCT with the annual Stewardship Report.

J.

Coordination

The City will request the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Office of Environmental Services, to review and comment on the Management Plan project to development of the project site. The City will submit a copy of any comments received from the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Office of Environmental Services, on the Management Plan to the FCT, within 10 days of receiving any comments.

- 13 -

K.

Florida Communities Trust Approval

Written approval from the FCT shall be received by the City before undertaking any site alterations or physical improvements that are not addressed in the approved Management Plan.

IV. Natural Resources

Natural Communities

The City’s objective in acquiring the property was to preserve the natural habitats of the property as well as provide additional recreation and activities. The project will further enhance the City’s existing Spring Park facility and public access to the St.

Johns River. Nature trails, observation areas, canoe/kayak launch, picnic areas, environmental education, skateboard park and active recreational fields will be provided for visitors to the Preserve.

The initial vegetative survey was conducted in July 2002 and included a walk through the Nature Preserve to determine the plant and animal species inhabiting the project site. A natural communities map was prepared by the SJRWMD showing the communities in the Nature Preserve (Appendix C). Prior to any site development, a biological inventory of the natural communities found on the site, including the dominant and listed plant and animal species, shall be conducted. To ensure the protection of biological resources, this inventory will be used to adjust the design of park facilities as needed. The City will periodically update the biological inventory. Although most species inhabiting the project site should be identified during the original survey, the discovery and identification of other species will be an ongoing process as part of the overall Management Plan. Included in the Appendix will be the FNAI special forms to report information on plants, animals, and natural communities. (Appendix H, I and J)

The base line survey for vegetation and wildlife in the project site identified the types and locations of the native plant communities, which will now be protected and preserved through transferring the property into public ownership with passive recreation activities. The only anticipated disturbances will be invasive species, which will be identified and removed. The communities identified will be managed to ensure their long-term viability.

Listed species will be protected because of the transfer to public ownership of the property, which, in turn, will prevent private development on the property. The City will now be able to manage the property, ensuring the preservation of the natural resources of the Nature Preserve.

The management strategies to be used for the Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve include:

Protect wildlife, Protect native plant communities, Conduct and maintain plant and animal surveys, including species, and Establish methods to control exotic species, where applicable.

- 14 -

The Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve is comprised of eight (8) distinct vegetative communities, categorized by their Florida Land Use Cover Forms Classification System (FLUCFCS) designation:

Hydric Hammock, Floodplain/Riverine Marsh, Mudflat Marsh, Bottomland Forest, Pine Plantation/Upland Pine Forest, Upland Mixed Forest, Imperiled Seepage Stream, and Imperiled Floodplain/Riverine Marsh.

The Hydric Hammock encompasses approximately 85 acres of the project area.

This vegetative community is dominated by red maple, sweet gum, American elm, water hickory, pop ash, cabbage palm, buttonbush, hackberry, ash, swamp dogwood, lizards tail, bog hemp, blueflag iris, and cinnamon fern. The forest is mature with dense canopy, with a sparse understory made up of various associated groundcovers. Old U.S. Highway 17-Palmetto Avenue (abandoned paved roadbed) and new U.S. Highway 17 (existing 4-lane paved highway) are two (2) disturbed areas in the eastern portion of the system. Wild taro and air potato are two invasive exotics growing along the edges of these disturbed areas.

The Floodplain/Riverine Marsh encompasses approximately five (5) acres and is dominated by mallow and willow, with cattail starting to encroach. The St. Johns River tidally influences the water levels in this area. There are no apparent disturbances to this system other than cattail encroachment.

The Mudflat Marsh encompasses approximately four (4) acres and is dominated by alligator weed, smartweed, and mallow. The St. Johns River tidally influences the water levels in this area. This marsh begins at the mouth of a small channel that flows out of the Hydric Hammock community and into the St. Johns River.

The Bottomland Forest encompasses approximately two (2) acres and is dominated by loblolly pine, slash pine, water oak, live oak, sweet gum, and cabbage palm. The forest is mature with a mixed pine/hardwood canopy. The eastern fringe of this community contains mature bald cypress along the St. Johns River.

The Pine Plantation/Upland Forest encompasses approximately nine (9) acres and is dominated by slash pine. The planted pines appear to be approximately 20 years old and exist in rows. The pine plantation will be selectively thinned and native hardwood species of trees will be introduced.

The Upland Mixed Forest encompasses approximately 15 acres and is dominated by loblolly pine, sweet gum, black gum, cabbage palm, laurel oak, slash pine, water oak, wax myrtle, saw palmetto, blackberry, grapevine, greenbrier, and broom sedge.

Some portions of this community have been disturbed through vegetative clearing and pine beetle infestation. The disturbed areas appear to be regenerating into a more hardwood-dominated community.

- 15 -

The Imperiled Seepage Stream runs through the center of the large Hydric Hammock forest within the project boundary. This stream originates a short distance up-grade of the project area. The stream’s origin is from the side of a ridge on the western side of the town. The water is clear as it enters the hammock and gets progressively darker as it flows towards the St. Johns River. However, it is unclear if the darkening water is the result of tannins from the hammock or merely the tidal influences of the St. Johns River (which is a brackish-black river water at this point). The length of the stream from the point it crosses the property until it reaches the river is approximately 3,000 feet and averages approximately four (4) feet in width.

The Imperiled Floodplain/Riverine Marsh comprises approximately five (5) acres and is located adjacent to the river. This marsh system is heavily influenced by the tidal changes the St. Johns River undergoes, helping to keep larger, woody herbaceous from creeping in.

Both the Seepage Stream and the Floodplain Marsh shall be maintained in their current conditions, except possibly for some garbage removal. Since fire and/or clearing are unnecessary to maintain these communities, the long-term management strategies will be to maintain and protect them in a natural, undisturbed state.

The Pasture Land of the Phase III project consists of approximately 112 acres of former Gustafson’s Dairy pasture land. The uplands part of the former pasture land will become the new recreational fields area. The 10 acres wooded tract located along Green Cove Avenue of the Phase III project will remain undisturbed.

Listed Animal Species

The Hydric Hammock vegetative community in Phase III was recognized by the FWC as a strategic Habitat Conservation Area. This natural community is suitable nesting habitat for the endangered wood stork. The mixed upland forest and bottomland forest communities support mature pine trees suitable for threatened bald eagle nesting. The two (2) marsh communities support moderate forage habitat for listed wading birds such as little blue heron, reddish egret, tricolor heron, and white ibis, all listed as species of special concern. Also, the Hydric Hammock and Riverine swamps are used by the American Alligator. The St. Johns River adjacent to the project site is home to the West Indian Manatee (Appendix B). The Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve, Phases I, II, and III consisting of approximately 260 acres, is a very sizable natural habitat located within two (2) miles of the SJRWMD 10,000 acre Bayard Conservation Area.

In addition to preserving the eco-systems found with the project area, the City will establish a monitoring program to ensure the continued viability of plant and animal species on the site and work with both the FWC and SJRWMD in defining measures to maintain and enhance this natural area.

- 16 -

The project is being managed in a manner that protects and enhances the habitat for listed wildlife species that utilize or may utilize the preserve. Management of the project site shall be coordinated with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for the protection of listed species and listed species habitat. Periodic surveys of listed species using the project site will be conducted to ensure the protection of listed animal species and their habit.

A vegetative buffer will be provided between the project site and adjacent properties to sufficiently protect listed animal species and their habitat from adverse impacts of adjacent land uses.

Listed Plant Species

Plant species that have been found on the project site are listed above in IV. Natural Resources, A. Natural Communities. Natural communities will be maintained in their current conditions. The long-term management strategy will be to maintain and protect the vegetative communities in a natural, undisturbed state.

Inventory of the Natural Communities

A biological inventory of the natural communities found on the project site will be conducted prior to any site development. The biological inventory shall be updated periodically. Once the baseline inventory is complete, an update shall occur no less than every five (5) years. The City will submit information on listed species to the Florida Natural Areas Inventory (FNAI) for their records. Information obtained on any newly identified listed species found on the site will also be forwarded to FNAI on the appropriate FNAI form.

The FNAI “Field Report Form for Rare Plants” is listed in the Appendix – Appendix “H”.

The FNAI “Field Report Form – Occurrences of Special Animals” is listed in the Appendix – Appendix “I”.

Water Quality

The St. John River borders approximately ½ mile of the easterly boundary of the Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve. The Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve will enhance the water quality of the St. Johns River by protecting the preserve area from development. The removal of two (2) residential structures and associated accessory structures will reduce the stormwater runoff into the river. Future parking areas will provide for stormwater treatment by swale systems.

F.

Trail Network

The Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve will enhance the regional trail system by closing the gap between the existing Clay County’s Black Creek Trail located four (4) miles to the north, the existing St. Johns River Water Management District’s Bayard Conservation Area trails located two (2) miles to the east, and the proposed X trail to the Clay County Agricultural Center located four (4) miles to the west. The Green

- 17 -

Cove Springs Nature Preserve’s six (6) miles of internal recreational trails will link the three (3) park phases and the trail networks together. Trail networks, connections to the network, and internal recreational trail completion dates are indicated in the Priority Schedule.

G.

Sidewalk Network

The City’s sidewalk system is connected to Spring Park and adjacent to the Nature Preserve property. Phase III of the Nature Preserve project, the Ed Gustafson Regional Park, will be connected with future City-planned sidewalks on Oakridge Avenue, Highland Avenue, Vermont Avenue, Melrose Avenue, and Roberts Street.

Sidewalk connections to the Park will be completed as indicated on the Priority Schedule.

H.

Blueways

The Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve will create public access to the St. Johns River by providing a canoe/kayak launch. One-half mile of St. Johns River shoreline will be protected for canoeing/kayaking. Canoes and kayaks will now have access to travel to the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Bayard Conservation Area located two (2) miles by water to the east and Black Creek located three (3) miles by water to the north. The Phase III project will extend the Green Cove Springs Nature Preserve westward to Governors Creek, which could become a future Greenway/Blue Way project for the City.

V. Resource Enhancement

Restoration

The existing nine (9) acres of pine plantations in Phase I will be restored to an upland mixed forest. Parts of the pine plantations will be harvested and native hardwood trees will be replanted over the next 10-year period. Another 10 acre tract in Phase I located immediately east of the CSX railroad tracts is being restored to a native hardwood forest. The Phase III project has approximately 18 acres of mixed forest that will remain untouched. Part of the former pasture land in Phase III that is low will be restored to a swamp hardwood forest. The City will work with the FWC and SJRWMD in further developing restoration plans once the initial biological survey for Phase III and the update for Phases I and II is complete. For Phase I, the plan will include specific plants and number of plants to be planted in the nine (9) acre and 10 acre restoration sites. For Phase III, the plan will define the area / acreage, plants, and number of plants planned to meet both the upland and wetland restoration requirements. Emphasis will be placed on enhancing and buffering the Hydric Hammock which the FWC determined was a Strategic Habitat Conservation Area onsite. The plan will be submitted to FCT as indicated on the Priority Schedule.

- 18 -

Riverine Marsh/Mud Flat Protection

There will be no motorized boats or facilities for motorized boats located on the project site. Water activities will be limited to canoe/kayak launches. All wildlife and Riverine wetlands shall be protected within the Nature Preserve.

Invasive Exotic Plants

The control of invasive exotic vegetation has become an increasingly serious problem in the protection of Florida’s natural communities. The management of invasive exotic vegetation ideally includes the complete removal of such vegetation. Removal of invasive exotic species will facilitate the re-establishment of native plants and animals to the natural community.

An ongoing monitoring and control program for invasive vegetation, including exotic and nuisance native plant species shall be implemented at the project site at a minimum of annually, to prevent re-infestation of invasive exotic plants. Within the first two (2) years of phase acquisition and then annually, the City shall conduct the monitoring and control program, with the objective of the monitoring and control program with the objective of eliminating invasive exotic plant species and the maintenance of a diverse association of native vegetation. Upon invasive plant removal, the City will immediately re-vegetate the affected area with native species to avoid re-infestation. The Management Plan will utilize the Exotic Pest Plant Council’s List of Florida Most Invasive Species to assist in identifying invasive exotics on the project site. The List of Florida Most Invasive Species is included in the Appendix. (Appendix G)

Removal of invasive exotic species will facilitate re-establishment of native plant and animals to the natural community. Examples of invasive exotic plant removal techniques include removal by applications of herbicides, by mechanical means or a combination of the two. Priority will be given to the removal of large trees or plants with heavy fruit / seed potential. Chemical control including cut-stump, basal bark, and foliar treatments will be utilized strictly following all State and Federal label instructions, best management practices, and extreme care to minimize off-target damage.

Prescribed Burn Plan

There is a possibility that the Upland Mixed Forest will need to be burned periodically. The neighborhood residents will be informed of the benefits of burning this upland forest. If a burn plan is implemented, it will be coordinated with the Division of Forestry (DOF). The City will contact the DOF within one (1) year to coordinate and survey the need of establishing a Prescribed Burn Plan in Phases II and III.

The City will install 15-foot wide fire breaks around the Phases II and III based on DOF’s recommendations.

- 19 -

Feral Animal Program

There appears to be no problem with feral animals on the project site. Cats and dogs from neighboring residents may visit the site from time to time; however, if there becomes a problem, the City will have the animals removed. The City will monitor the situation on an ongoing basis.

VI. Archeological, Cultural and Historical Resource Protection

There are two (2) archeological, cultural or historical resources on Phase III of the project area. One is associated with the 1908 Gustafson’s Dairy and Florida Master Site File (FMSF) CL1245 and the second, a circa 1925 residence, FMSF CL00478, is located in the northeast corner of the site. The part of the Dairy that FCT and the City is acquiring for Phase III was used for grazing and does not have any known archeological, cultural or historical resources on it other than the pastureland that was part of the Dairy, which will become part of the active recreational field area. However, the City shall perform a cultural resource survey of any area within the project site that is proposed for development prior to any development activities in that area. Further, a professional survey shall be conducted to determine the integrity and extent of any structures found onsite associated with the Gustafson Dairy or FMSF CL1245. The results of this survey shall reviewed in conjunction with the Department of State, Division of Historical Resources (DHR), to develop an appropriate plan for this historic resource.

The City will notify the DHR immediately if evidence is found to suggest an archeological, cultural or historical resource is found on the project site. The collection of artifacts or the disturbance of archeological, cultural or historical resources on the project site shall be prohibited unless prior approval has been obtained from the DHR. The City’s management of archeological, cultural or historical resources shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 267, Florida Statutes, specifically Sections 267.061, 2(a) and (b). The City will work with DHR on cultural restoration or management measures to protect significant resources found on the park site and will interpret significant historical and archaeological resources for the public.