PRESERVE MANAGEMENT PLAN
TARA OAKS
GOPHER TORTOISE BURROW SURVEY
AUGUST 1995
PREP ARED FOR:
PUL TE HOME CORPORATION
Prepared By:
C&N Environmental Consultants, Inc.
222 South U.S. Highway 1, Suite 201
Tequesta, Florida 33469
(407) 744-7420
TARA OAKS
GOPHER TORTOISE BURROW SURVEY
1.0 INTRODUCTION
A +24 acre parcel, proposed for development, was surveyed for the presence of
gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) burrows on August 3 and 4, 1995. The property is
located in Section 30, Township 45 South, Range 43 East, Palm Beach County, Florida
(Figure 1). A gopher tortoise burrow survey is required prior to issuance of development
permits.
2.0 SITE DESCRIPTION
TARA OAKS
GOPHER TORTOISE BURROW SURVEY
1.0 INTRODUCTION
A +24 acre parcel, proposed for development, was surveyed for the presence of
gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) burrows on August 3 and 4, 1995. The property is
located in Section 30, Township 45 South, Range 43 East, Palm Beach County, Florida
(Figure 1). A gopher tortoise burrow survey is required prior to issuance of development
permits.
2.0 SITE DESCRIPTION
The + 24 acre parcel is undeveloped and is situated bordering the residential
developments of Quail Ridge Golf Course Community to the west, Banyan Creek to the
north, and Clipper Cove to the east. Woolbright Road occurs to the south. The northern
and southern boundaries are abutted by canals.
The primary soil type (Figure 2) found on site is Pomello fine sand (Phb). This is a
nearly level, moderately well drained, deep, sandy soil that has a dark weakly cemented
layer below a depth of 30 inches. Under natural conditions, the water table is within 24 to
40 inches of the surface for 1 to 4 months during wet periods, and below 40 inches during
the remainder of the year. Pomello sand comprises low ridges and knolls vegetated as
scrubby flatwood communities.
In addition, a small area of Basinger fine sand (Ba) occurs in the northern and
southern edges of the site. This is a nearly level, poorly drained, sandy soil found in broad
grassy sloughs in the eastern part of the county. The water table is within 10 inches of the
surface for 2 to 6 months in most years and within 10 to 30 inches for the rest of the year.
Drainage has occurred via adjacent drainage canals significantly altering the hydroperiod
resulting in a lowered water table throughout the region.
Vegetative species occurring on the property are indicative of clearing activities and
ecosystem disruption. The majority of species occur as secondary growth, resulting from a
dairy farm business that once existed there. Nearly all native vegetation was removed for the
purpose of creating improved pasture for the animals. Secondary growth recruited in the
form of exotic, fast growing, weedy species with which native vegetation cannot compete.
The northernmost portion of the site is completely dominated by a monoculture of
Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius). These mature trees form an extremely dense
canopy and do not allow any sunlight to penetrate beneath. As a result, understory or
ground cover species do not exist in this area.
C&N Environmental Consultants, Inc.
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August 25, 1995
T af a Oaks: Site LocatiOl'J Map
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Thu Sep 07 07:25:17 1995
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FIGURE 2: SOILS MAP
The central section of the site consists of a scattered canopy of mainly scrub oaks
(Quercus geminata), and earleaf acacia (Acacia auriculiformis). Other species such as saw
palmetto (Serenoa repens), fetterbush (Lyoniaferruginea), and gallberry (/lex glabra) are
barely visible due to the preponderance of grape vine (Vitis rotundifolia) which completely
covers the area. Only tiny "island like" formations in this section support native species and
these are stressed from the invasion of Brazilian pepper and Ceasar's weed (Urena lobata).
To the south, small remnants of a scrub community were observed. While this
appears to be the least disturbed portion of the site, exotic species still dominate the area.
Canopy vegetation consists of slash pine (Pinus elliottl), sand pine (Pinus clausa), and
Brazilian pepper. Also observed were prickly pear cactus (Opuntia compressa), panicum
grass (Panicum spp.), downy myrtle (Rhodomyrtus tomentosus), and dog fennel (Eupatorium
capiliffolium) .
Wildlife observed utilizing the parcel include armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus),
mockingbird (Mimus polyglottus), osprey (Pandion haliaetus), quail (Colinus virginianus),
loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludovicianus), muscovy duck (Carina moschata), black racer
(Coluber constrictor), raccoon (Procyon lotor), mourning dove (Zenaida macroura), cardinal
(Cardinalis cardinalis), and blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata). Feral cats (Felis sylvestris) were
observed often during the survey.
3.0 ENDANGERED/THREATENED SPECIES
Listings of plant and animal species considered to be endangered, threatened, or of
special concern by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), Florida Game and Fresh
Water Fish Commission (FGFWFC), and the Division of Plant Industry of the Florida
Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) were examined to develop a
summary list of protected species possibly occurring in Palm Beach County. Seven plant,
one amphibian, four reptile, nine bird, and one mammal species were included on the list of
species possibly occurring within the parcel, based upon known or expected population
distributions, preferred habitat types, and in-field observations. Of these, one state listed
reptile is known to occur on the property.
Only one federally listed and state listed species was observed during field survey of
the parcel. It should be noted that Florida Statute 581.185 generically designates most of the
state's native species of bromeliads, ferns, and orchids as threatened. However, it is likely
that some of the bromeliads, ferns, and orchids that are very common in Palm Beach County
also occur on the site.
Determinations of the probable geographic distribution of endangered or threatened
plant species and the likelihood of their occurrence on the parcel are based upon Ward
(1978), Wunderlin (1982), and Popenoe (1981), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service data, White
(personal communication), and Florida Natural Areas Inventory records. Endangered plants
are defined in Florida Statutes 581.185 as "species of plants native to the state that are in
C&N Environmental Consultants, Inc.
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August 25, 1995
imminent danger of extinction within the state, the survival of which is unlikely if the causes
of a decline in the number of plants continue, and includes all species determined to be
endangered or threatened pursuant to the Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973".
Threatened plants are defined as "species native to the state, but which have not so decreased
in number as to cause them to be endangered" .
Only one federally listed plant species, the four-petal pawpaw, is known to occur
within Palm Beach County. This species occurs in scrub habitats and is designated as
endangered on both federal and state lists. It was not observed during field surveys of the
parcel and its occurrence in the limited scrub habitats of the parcel is considered very
unlikely.
Vertebrate wildlife species considered to be endangered, threatened, or of species
concern by the FGFWFC are designated in Chapter 39-27 of the Florida Administrative
Code. From this overall list, only the gopher tortoise has been verified as occurring with the
parcel.
During the survey, a search was conducted by observation for gopher tortoise burrow
commensal species; many of which are state and federally listed as either endangered,
threatened, or species of special concern. Examples of species that could quite possibly
occur on site include gopher frog (Rana areolata), eastern indigo snake (Drymarchon corais
couperi), Florida mouse (Podomys floridanus), and Florida pine snake (Pituophis melaleucas
mugitus).
In addition to commensal species, the search included other faunal species such as
Shermans fox squirrel (Sciurus niger shermam) and red cockaded woodpecker (Picoides
borealis). However, because of ecosystem disruption, it is unlikely that these species occur
on site at the present time.
State and federally listed floral species included in the search were scrub mint
(Conradina grandiflora), four petal pawpaw (Asimina tetramera), Curtiss' milkweed
(Asclepias curtissl), various air plants (Tilandsia spp.), as well as others thought to occur in
the area.
The results of the vegetative survey include three scrub mint plants (listed as
endangered by the FDA) located just south of Transect #18 on the western portion of the
site. The plants were flagged with blue and red surveyor tape and mapped on an aerial
photograph. No other state or federally listed species were observed during the survey.
4.0 SURVEY METHODOLOGY
A thorough and systematic gopher tortoise burrow survey was conducted on the parcel
in an attempt to determine a total enumeration of active, inactive, and abandoned burrows in
the area. Parallel east-west transects were established approximately 5-10 meters apart
C&N Environmental Consultants, Inc.
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August 25, 1995
depending on vegetative density and suitability throughout every community occurring on the
parcel. The survey commenced at the southern end of the parcel and proceeded northward,
ending at the northwestern corner of the site. Within each transect, the biologists walked a
sinuating "S" pattern to maximize the search potential. A total of 47 transects were
established. Each transect line was delineated by red surveyor tape, as to avoid duplicative
search efforts. Any burrows located within the transects were flagged with surveyors tape;
the color of which reveals the activity status of each individual burrow. Pink surveyor tape
denoted an active burrow; orange for inactive; blue tape indicated abandoned burrows.
Burrow locations and status were mapped on an aerial photograph (Figure 3).
Burrow activity status is determined according to criteria established by Auffenberg
and Franz (1982) recommended by the Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission
(FGFWFC) in "Guidelines for Gopher Tortoise Relocation", 1 February 1988. Active
burrows show signs of recent activity such as tracks, fresh digging or scat. Inactive burrows
show no signs of recent activity and may have scattered leaf debris on the mound.
Abandoned burrows have leaf litter and sometimes cobwebs in the burrow mouth, or may
even be partially caved in.
5.0 SURVEY RESULTS
The survey yielded a total of seventy-seven (77) active/inactive burrows occurring on
the +24 acre parcel. Forty-eight (48) of these were designated as active, twenty-nine (29)
were designated as inactive, another twelve (12) as abandoned.
The survey was conducted during intermittent rainfall allowing activity in the burrow
mouth to be seen quite clearly. Dry sand kicked out of the burrow was found above wetter
sands. This was observed several times. In many cases, prints were clearly molded into the
wet ground just outside of the burrow mouths. This evidence allows for high confidence in
determining burrow activity status. However, it should be noted that due to close proximity
of several burrow locations, the possibility remains that the tortoises may have been utilizing
more than one burrow. To achieve a more accurate tortoise estimate, the 9 inactive burrows
were investigated using an infrared video camera. An additional 9 tortoises were observed.
The Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission (FGFWFC) recommends using
a conversion of 0.641 for estimating the tortoise population based on burrow activity (Cox,
et aI., 1987). This factor is representative of native, undisturbed habitat. Ratios are usually
higher in disturbed habitats, such as this parcel. Due to the excessive amount of observed
activity and development of surrounding areas (migration), this parcel was determined to
warrant a site specific conversion factor of 0.796 for disturbed habitat (Cox, et aI., 1987).
0.7 x number of active burrows (57) + number of inactive burrows (29)
0.7 x 77 = 53.9
POPULATION ESTIMATE = APPROXIMATELY 54 TORTOISES
C&N Environmental Consultants, Inc.
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August 25, 1995
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High tortoise densities make population estimates extremely difficult. Using the
infrared video camera to investigate burrows with questionable activity status aid in
determining a more accurate estimate but does not account for tortoises which may be out
foraging or more ten one tortoise in a burrow.
Based on the observed data, C&N estimates that the tortoise population at Tara Oaks
ranges between 50 and 60 tortoises. It is recommended that a permit application be
submitted to relocate up to 65 tortoises to prevent project delays should the population
exceed 60 tortoises.
The FGFWFC recommends using a density of one-half acre per individual tortoise to
accommodate a relocated tortoise. Using this factor with the estimated number of tortoises
(54), approximately 25-30 acres of suitable habitat will be required to support the relocated
tortoises.
C&N Environmental Consultants, Inc.
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August 25, 1995
TARA OAKS
PRESERVE MANAGEMENT PLAN
SEPTEMBER 1995
PREPARED FOR
PULTE HOME CORPORATION
Prepared by
C&N Environmental Consultants, Inc.
222 South US Highway 1, Suite 201
Tequesta, Florida 33469
(407) 744-7420
TARA OAKS
PRESERVE MANAGEMENT PLAN
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Tara Oaks is a proposed residential development project located north of Woolbright
Road in Boynton Beach, Florida (Figure 1). The Tara Oaks Preserve Management Plan has
been developed in response to the development review conditions set forth by the City of
Boynton Beach, Florida. The objective of the following management plan is to provide a
comprehensive program for habitat restoration, management, and long-term maintenance of the
required upland preservation area. Management goals upon implementation of this plan include:
(1) restoration of the upland preserve area through preservation and on-site relocation of suitable
native vegetation and removal of exotic, nuisance, and weedy vegetation to allow native seed
sources to become established; (2) protection of natural resources during all phases of
construction; (3) establish guidelines for continued protection of the preserve area; and (4)
provide a long-term maintenance program for the benefit of all natural resources including
wildlife and protected flora species located within the preserve area. Other components of the
plan include exotic/nuisance plant species removal and control, as well as specific habitat
enhancement techniques necessary to maintain a functioning biocommunity.
2.0 SITE DESCRIPTION
The +24 acre Tara Oaks parcel is located in Section 30, Township 5 South, Range 43
East, Boynton Beach, Florida is undeveloped and situated adjacent to the residential
developments of Quail Ridge Golf Course Community to the west, Banyan Creek to the north,
and Clipper Cove to the east. Woolbright Road is located south of the parcel boundary. The
northern and southern boundaries are abutted by drainage canals. The site has been previously
cleared of most native vegetation and revegetated in predominately exotic and weedy species.
Extensive refuse dumping has occurred throughout the parcel.
3.0 SOILS
The primary soil type (Figure 2) found on site is Pomello fine sand (Phb). This is a
nearly level, moderately well drained, deep, sandy soil that has a dark weakly cemented layer
below a depth of 30 inches. Under natural conditions, the water table is within 24 to 40 inches
of the surface for 1 to 4 months during wet periods, and below 40 inches during the remainder
of the year. Drainage has lowered the historic water table in this soil type to below 40 inches
throughout the year. Pomello sand commonly occurs on low ridges and knolls vegetated in
scrubby flatwood plant communities.
C&N Environmental Consultants, Inc.
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September 8, 1995
T a( a Oaks Site Location H.ap
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Thu Sep 07 07:25:17 1995
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LEGEND
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TARA OAKS
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FIGURE 2: SOILS MAP
In addition, a small area of Basinger fine sand (Ba) occurs in the northern and southern
edges of the site. This is a nearly level, poorly drained, sandy soil found in broad grassy
sloughs in the eastern part of the county. The water table is within 10 inches of the surface for
2 to 6 months in most years and within 10 to 30 inches for the rest of the year. Drainage has
occurred via adjacent drainage canals significantly altering the hydroperiod resulting in a lowered
water table throughout the entire parcel.
4.0 VEGETATION
Vegetative species occurring on the property are indicative of clearing activities and
ecosystem disruption. The majority of species occur as secondary growth, resulting from a dairy
farm business that once existed there. Nearly all native vegetation was removed for the purpose
of creating improved pasture for the animals. Secondary growth recruited in the form of exotic,
fast growing, weedy species with which native vegetation cannot compete.
The northernmost portion of the site is completely dominated by a monoculture of
Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius). These mature trees form an extremely dense canopy
and allow very little sunlight to penetrate beneath. As a result, understory or ground cover
species do not exist in this area.
The central section of the site consists of a scattered canopy of predominately scrub oak
(Quercus geminata, Q. myrtifolia, Q. Chapmanil), and earleaf acacia (Acacia auriculiformis).
Other species such as saw palmetto (Serenoa repens), fetterbush (Lyonia ferruginea), and
gallberry (/lex glabra) are barely visible due to the preponderance of grape vine (Vitis
rotundifolia) which completely covers the area. Only tiny "island like" formations in this section
support native species and these are stressed from the invasion of Brazilian pepper and Caesar's
weed (Urena lobata).
In the south section, small remnants of the former scrubby flatwoods community continue
to occur. While this appears to be the least disturbed portion of the site, exotic species still
dominate the area. Canopy vegetation consists of slash pine (Pinus elliotti), sand pine (Pinus
clausa), and Brazilian pepper. Also observed were prickly pear cactus (Opuntia compressa),
panicum grass (Panicum spp.), downy myrtle (Rhodomyrtus tomentosus), and dog fennel
(Eupatorium capiliffolium).
5.0 ENDANGERED/THREATENED SPECIES
Listings of plant and animal species considered to be endangered, threatened, or of
special concern by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), Florida Game and Fresh Water
Fish Commission (FGFWFC), and the Division of Plant Industry of the Florida Department of
Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) were examined to develop a summary list of
protected species possibly occurring in southern Palm Beach County. Eight plants, one
amphibian, three reptile, one bird, and one mammal species were included on the list of state
and federally listed species possibly occurring within the parcel, based upon known or expected
C&N Environmental Consultants, Inc.
4
September 8, 1995
population distributions, preferred habitat types, and in-field observations. Of these, one state
listed reptile, gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus), is known to occur on the property.
Commensal species including gopher frog (Rana areolata), eastern indigo snake (Drymarchon
corais coupen), and Florida mouse (Podomys floridanus) also may occur on the parcel.
It should be noted that Florida Statute 581.185 generically designates most of the state's
native species of bromeliads, ferns, and orchids as threatened. It is likely that some of the
bromeliads (Tillandsia sp.), very common in Palm Beach County, also occur on the site.
Determinations of the probable geographic distribution of endangered or threatened plant
species and the likelihood of their occurrence on the parcel are based upon Ward (1978),
Wunderlin (1982), and Popenoe (1981), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service data, White (personal
communication), and Florida Natural Areas Inventory records. Endangered plants are defined
in Florida Statutes 581.185 as "species of plants native to the state that are in imminent danger
of extinction within the state, the survival of which is unlikely if the causes of a decline in the
number of plants continue, and includes all species determined to be endangered or threatened
pursuant to the Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973". Threatened plants are defined as
"species native to the state, but which have not so decreased in number as to cause them to be
endangered" .
Vertebrate wildlife species considered to be endangered, threatened, or of species concern
by the FGFWFC are designated in Chapter 39-27 of the Florida Administrative Code. From
this overall list, only the gopher tortoise has been verified as occurring with the parcel.
State and federally listed floral species included in the search were scrub mint (Conradina
grandiflora), nodding pinweed (Lechea cemua), four-petal pawpaw (Asimina tetramera), Curtiss'
milkweed (Asclepias curtissl), prickly pear cactus (Opuntia compressa), sand spikemoss
(Selaginella arenicola), scrub palmetto (Sabal etonia), and various air plants (Tilandsia spp.).
Three scrub mint plants and prickly pear cactus were observed on the parcel. Other
protected species not observed during field surveys could potentially recruit following habitat
management.
7.0 WILDLIFE UTILIZATION
Wildlife observed utilizing the parcel include armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus),
mockingbird (Mimus polyglottus), osprey (Pandion haliaetus), quail (Colinus virginianus),
loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludovicianus), muscovy duck (Carina moschata), black racer (Coluber
constrictor), raccoon (Procyon lotor), mourning dove (Zenaida macroura), cardinal (Cardinalis
cardinalis), and blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata). Feral cats (Felis sylvestris) were observed often
during the survey. Feral cats pose a significant problem for native wildlife species due to their
predatory nature. Disease transmission to both wildlife and humans is also a possibility.
Therefore, it is recommended that all feral cats be trapped by a licensed nuisance species
technician and delivered to Palm Beach County Animal Control.
C&N Environmental Consultants, Inc.
5
September 8, 1995
8.0 MANAGEMENT
Due to degraded site conditions, management on the Tara Oaks site must first address
biocommunity restoration within the proposed preserve area. This will necessitate eradication
of exotic weedy and nuisance species which are presently dominating the parcel. Prescribed
burning is the preferred method of scrubby flatwoods habitat management. The potential
benefits of fire are well documented, however, the location and disturbed condition of the
preserve area precludes the use of prescribed fire as a method for achieving management
objectives. Because of the proximity of residential development, the small size of the area, and
high level of litter present, it would be unwise to attempt even a carefully monitored prescribed
fire regime. Therefore, mechanical management is recommended to achieve optimal habitat
conditions.
A. Purpose
The purpose of the management plan is to:
1. implement appropriate techniques necessary to eradicate exotic and weedy
opportunistic species presently dominating the site;
2. provide optimal conditions for restoration of native vegetation and wildlife
habitat;
3. preserve native vegetation and restore a functioning biocommunity;
4. provide a refuge for wildlife residing in the project vicinity;
5. maintain optimal habitat conditions for wildlife through appropriate
management.
Mechanical management of vegetative communities in the preserve area will be
implemented to maintain and enhance the habitat quality and wildlife values for plant and animal
species occurring within the preserve area. While somewhat more intrusive and less natural than
fire as a management tool, mechanical measures can be very effective in achieving the ecological
objectives of habitat management.
B. Objective
Judging from the present condition of the preservation area, benefits from
mechanical management appear limitless. The area has been rendered almost completely useless
as habitat for wildlife or native plant species. Mechanical management activities will include
"opening up" the area by decreasing the density of the vast amount of overgrown weedy species
that are choking out this once productive area. The techniques that follow, if regularly
implemented, will effectively arrest exotic and nuisance species invasion and maintain this
scrubby flatwoods community in a state most beneficial to indigenous wildlife species.
C&N Environmental Consultants, Inc.
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September 8, 1995
1. Preserve Size and Configuration
The preservation area, comprising + 1.7 acres, was selected on the basis
of degree of disturbance and potential for restoration as compared to other areas within the Tara
Oaks property boundaries. It is located on the southern portion of the site, an area less impacted
by disruptive grazing activities of dairy cattle that once utilized the parcel. The northern portion
of the site supports a tall and extremely dense monoculture of Brazilian pepper forming an
almost impenetrable thicket which allows for no understory growth. There are virtually no
native plants remaining on this portion of the site. The southern area of the property, although
still dominated by weedy and exotic species, supports visible remnants of the former scrub
community. The L-shaped configuration preserves a cross-section of the parcel rather than a
linear area on either side of the property. This wide configuration provides a more viable area
and a more open ecotone to satisfy habitat requirements (Figure 3).
2. Habitat Quality
The preserve area is primarily comprised of a low quality remnant scrubby
flatwoods community with a preponderance of highly invasive weedy plant species, mostly
muscadine grape (Vitis sp.) vines. These vines completely cover the ground to a height of two
to three feet in most areas. Ground cover species still persisting in the area include shiny
blueberry (Vaccinium myrsinities), camphorweed (Heterotheca subaxillaris), and golden aster
(Crysopsis spp.); as expected they are exhibiting characteristic signs of stress.
Native canopy species losing the battle against the suffocating grape vine include slash
pine (Pinus elliottil), cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto), saw palmetto (Serenoa repens), and various
scrub oak species. Earleaf acacia (Acacia sp.), an exotic canopy species, the only competitor
for the grape vine due to its propensity for rapid growth, is thriving.
Portions of the preserve not covered by muscadine grape vine have been taken over by
a thickets of staggerbush (Lyoniafruticosa). This species occurs in great densities as a virtual
monoculture within the southeast portion of the preserve area. Although not usually considered
a "weedy" species, lack of natural disturbances and competition have added to the proliferation
of this species on site.
Loss of a diverse native seed source has allowed the invasion of opportunistic weedy
plant species within the preserve which have eliminated all areas of bare soil have valued by
scrub wildlife species. However, with effective mechanical management techniques, the
preserve could again provide excellent habitat for wildlife and native plant species. The
following prescription minimizes adverse impacts whenever possible to protect the ecosystem
under management.
C&N Environmental Consultants, Inc.
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September 8, 1995
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3. Mechanical Management Prescription
Prior to the implementation of mechanical management and clearing
activities, the entire site will be surveyed for the presence of vegetative candidates for relocation.
This will include all listed species previously mentioned as well as others that would contribute
to the creation of a viable scrubby flatwoods habitat. These species will be flagged to prevent
disturbance during construction. Species already occurring on the preserve area will be flagged
also.
Once the survey is completed, mechanical management of the preserve area will
commence. Due to the extent of unwanted vegetative species, hand cutting/removal is not a
practical method of eradication. A small-bladed bulldozer is recommended to lightly scrape down
the area but minimize impacts to the soil and to minimize disturbances to the surrounding
(flagged) native vegetation. At no time will track equipment be allowed within the dripline of
canopy species in the preserve area as scrubby flatwood species are sensitive to compaction.
Areas comprised of staggerbush and other overgrown native vegetation will be thinned out
manually. Larger exotic trees will be removed by cutting to stump and treatment with herbicide
will follow. Native trees will be carefully avoided.
Grape vine will be eradicated by cutting with chainsaws, hand pulling, and applying
herbicide treatment to the stembase on a periodic basis. Due to the abundance of this species
on site, treated vegetation will be hauled away.
Earleaf acacia and Brazilian pepper will be eradicated from the preserve area by using
the chemical agent, Garlon 3A. Garlon 3-A-Tricolpyr (3,5,6-Tricloloro-2-pyrid inxloxyacetic
acid) and should be applied by a licensed operator. The trees will be cut-stumped. The cut
surfaces will be sprayed or painted with undiluted Garlon 3A. Every precaution will be used
to contain the chemical to the application site. Fallen trees will be removed and chipped. Haul
routes will be minimized to avoid disturbance to soils and native vegetation remaining. After
the initial Garlon treatment, the site will be monitored quarterly for a period of one year.
Regrowth stumps will be filled and retreated with Garlon 3A at a rate of 3 ml. per cut at 4-inch
intervals. Regrowth greater than one inch dBH will be cut-stumped and treated with Garlon 3A
at a rate of 1 mllinch dBH to ensure 100 percent eradication. Periodic mowing in open areas
will prevent re-seeding of weedy species and prevent their recruitment within other areas of the
preserve.
4. Scrub Restoration and Relocation Methodology
Subsequent to exotic removal and site preparation, listed species identified
previous to clearing activities will be relocated into the preserve area. These include scrub mint
plants (already identified and mapped), prickly pear cactus, and scrub oaks with air plants.
Clumps of native groundcover species and shrubs will be relocated. A 48" to 60" tree spade
will be used to move larger scrub species slated for relocation. A detailed design of relocation
specifications will be submitted prior to these activities.
C&N Environmental Consultants, Inc.
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September 8, 1995
D. Long Term Management
The Tara Oaks Preserve will be maintained as natural habitat in perpetuity by the
Home Owners Association. The prescribed management techniques will be implemented semi-
annually for the first three years to achieve the management objectives set forth in this plan.
The open areas will be maintained as part of the project landscape and will be mowed at regular
intervals. The existing nature paths in the preserve also will be maintained at regular intervals
to provide safe access for members of the community.
Prior to management activities, all required notices and necessary permits will be
submitted to the City of Boynton Beach. Every effort will be made to protect listed species and
other sensitive resources during implementation of the management plan.
1. Additional Management Techniques
a. Exotic/Nuisance Species Removal and Control
Any Brazilian pepper, Australian pine (Casuarina equisetifolia), or
melaleuca (Melaleuca quinquenervia) will be removed by rubber-tired equipment, or hand from
the preserve area. Brazilian pepper will be removed from the preserve area using the chemical
control described in the following section.
Garlon 3 A@: Garlon 3- A - Tricolpyr (3,5,6 - Tricloloro- 2-pyrid
inxloxyacetic acid) will be used by a licensed operator to eradicate Brazilian pepper trees in the
Tara Oaks Preserve area. The trees will be cut-stumped. The cut surfaces will be sprayed or
painted with Garlon 3A@ (undiluted). Garlon 3A@ will be applied by a person licensed by the
State of Florida to h~ndle restricted chemicals. Every precaution will be used to contain the
chemical to the application site. The fallen trees will be removed via a haul route resulting in
minimal disturbance to soils and native vegetation remaining in the preserve area.
Maintenance and Monitoring: After the initial Garlon 3A@
treatment, the site will be monitored at six-month intervals for a period of one year by preserve
owner. Regrowth stumps will be filled and retreated with Garlon 3A@ at a rate of 3ml per cut
at 4-inch intervals. Regrowth greater than one inch DBH will be cut-stumped and treated with
Garlon 3A@ at a rate of 1mllinch DBH to ensure 100 percent eradication.
The Preserve will be managed semi-annually for the first three years for the re-emergence
of exotic species. All new growth will be hand removed.
At the end of one year (maintenance and monitoring period), a letter report will be sent
to the City of Boynton Beach to summarize the implementation and success of the preserve area
management plan.
C&N Environmental Consultants, Inc.
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September 8, 1995
If exotic species invasion continues at this time to be a problem, new eradication
techniques will be implemented in an effort to achieve the goals of the proposed management
and coordinated with the City of Boynton Beach. The preserve will be monitored annually
thereafter.
2. Replacement and Enhancement Program
The highest quality habitat occurring on the project site has been slated to
be preserved, restored, and maintained. Following exotic and nuisance species removal, there
will be large areas available for relocation of native vegetation occurring outside the preserve
area. All transplanted/relocated resources will comply with the requirements of the City of
Boynton Beach's Landscape Ordinance. Proposed upland buffer areas in the northwest portion
of the project site and in parking islands will be available for relocation of native plant species
and enhancement as scrub habitat. Every effort will be made to preserve protected plant species
occurring on the project site. Additionally, use of native plant species adapted to the xeric soils
will be utilized for natural xeriscaping to minimize future water consumption of preserve
maintenance. Surface water management plans will be designed to ensure no runoff occurs into
the preserve area.
Included in the enhancement program will be the cleanup of the numerous dump sites
throughout the preserve area. Some heavy equipment will be required, but no track vehicles will
be employed. Established haul routes will be utilized in the removal of dumped materials.
The preserve area will be surveyed prior to construction activities and designated as a
preserve area with surveyor stakes. Signs will be posted along the perimeter of the preserve
area indicating the preserve boundaries. The preserve will remain as an upland habitat preserve
in a natural state. Passive recreational features, such as a jogging trails, will be maintained in
the preserve area. A buffer comprised of grass will be maintained along the boundary of the
preserve area on the Tara Oaks site.
3. Prohibited Activities
Prohibited activities in preserve areas or preserve easements include
construction or placing of building materials on or above the ground, dumping or placing soil
or other substances such as garbage, trash and cuttings; removal or destruction of native trees,
shrubs or groundcovers; excavation, dredging or removal of soil materials; diking or fencing;
recreation vehicle use; and any other activities detrimental to drainage flood control, water
conservation, erosion control, or wildlife habitat conservation or preservation.
4. Management and Maintenance of the Preserve
The management and maintenance of the upland preserve areas, preserve
easements, and lakes must be in accordance with this plan. Management and maintenance
C&N Environmental Consultants, Inc.
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September 8, 1995
activities must be performed by, or under the supervision of, a qualified environmental
professional.
5. Setbacks
Buildings proposed to be located adjacent to preserve areas or preserve
easements must be set back a minimum of ten (10) feet to allow for construction and
maintenance without encroaching into the preserve. All other structures (i.e., pools, sheds,
decks, etc.) shall be set back a minimum of five (5) feet from preserve areas or preserve
easements.
E. Financial Responsibility
The owner of record of the Tara Oaks residential development project will be
responsible for the financial obligation of the on-site preserve. The financial responsibility will
be transferred with the ownership of the property.
F. Entity Responsible for Management
The Homeowners Association or owner of record of the Tara Oaks residential
development project will be responsible for the long-term management of the on-site preserve.
The management responsibility will be transferred with the ownership of the property.
9.0. REFERENCES
Carpenter, Cheryl M. Management Plan for Sugar Sand Park.
Carpenter, Cheryl M. Management Plan for The Sanctuary Upland Preserve.
Doren, R. F., D. R. Richardson, and R. E. Roberts. 1987. Prescribed burning of the sand pine
scrub community: Yamato scrub, a test case. Fla. Sci. 50: 184-192.
Fernald, R.T. 1989. Coastal xeric scrub communities of the Treasure Coast Region, Florida:
A summary of their distribution and ecology, with guidelines for their preservation and
management. Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Comm. Nongame Wildlife Pgm. Tech. Rep.
No.6. Tallahassee, FL. 113 pp.
Shaffer, M.L. 1981. Minimum population SIzes for speCIes conservation. BioScience
31: 131-134.
Soil Conservation Service Soils Atlas for Palm Beach County, 1978.
Wright, J.S. and S.P. Hubbell. 1983. Stochastic extinction and reserve size: a focal species
approach. Oikos 41:466-476.
C&N Environmental Consultants, Inc.
12 September 8, 1995
ATTACHMENT I
PHOTOGRAPHS
PHOTOGRAPH LOCATION MAP
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TARA OAKS
PHOTO 1: VIEW FACING NORTHEAST
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PHOTO 2: VIEW FACING SOUTHEAST
TARA OAKS
PHOTO 3: VIEW FACING SOUTH
PHOTO 4; VIEW FACING SOUTH
TARA OAKS
PHarO 5: VlEW FACING SOUTH
PHOTO 6: VIEW FACING WEST
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TARA OAKS
PHOTO 7: VIEW F",CING WBlT
PHOTO s: ViEW FACING NOR11\
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TARA OAKS
PHOTO 9: VIEW FACING NORTHEAST
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PHOTO 10: VIEW FACING EAST
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TARA OAKS
PHOTO 13: VIEW FACING NORTH
PHOTO 14: VIEW FACING EAST
TARA OAKS
PHOTO 15: VIEW FACING SOUTH
PHOTO 16: VIEW FACING SOUTH