Hillsborough County Florida Conservation and Environmental Lands Management Department
We manage more than 61,000 acres of environmentally sensitive wildlife habitat and corridors acquired through the Jan K. Platt Environmental Lands Acquisition and Protection Program (ELAPP).
Management responsibilities include:
Prescribed burning
Invasive species control
Wildlife inventory
Trail maintenance
Feral animal control
Habitat improvements for endangered and threatened species of plants and animals
ELAPP is a voluntary program established for the purpose of providing the process and funding for identifying, acquiring, preserving and protecting endangered, environmentally-sensitive and significant lands in Hillsborough County. It is a citizen-based program with volunteer committees involved in every key aspect of the program. ELAPP is not a regulatory program, but lands are identified for the program because of their environmental significance.
About HCConservation
Hillsborough County FL Conservation and Lands Management
We protect Hillsborough County's natural lands and wildlife through a system of conservation parks and nature preserves, including more than 63,000 acres of environmentally sensitive lands through ELAPP. We also provide unique outdoor recreational activities ranging from picnicking and camping to hiking and kayaking.
Tag Cloud
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HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY
FLORIDA
REPORT TO THE
SITE SELECTION COMMITTEE
SITE ASSESSMENTS
for the
Jan K. Platt Environmental Lands Acquisition
and Protection Program
(ELAPP)
ELAPP Site Assessment Committee
ELAPP Site Review Committee
Conservation and Environmental Lands
Management Department
November 2019
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
I.
Summary
4
II.
Ranking
a. Suspended Sites
6-16
Cypress Lake Flatwoods
Dug Creek
Gray Road
Hoedt Road
New Tampa Flatwoods
Port Tampa Restoration
Town and Country
Valrico Fire Tower
Williams Road
b. Provisional Suspended Sites
17
c. Acquired Sites
18-49
Alderman’s Ford
Alderman’s Ford South Prong Addition
Bahia Beach
Balm Boyette Scrub
Balm Scrub Addition
Balm Scrub
Boy Scout Portion
Brooker Creek Buffer
Brooker Creek Headwaters
Cockroach and Piney Point Creek
Cockroach Bay
Cypress Creek
English Creek
Fish Hawk (AKA Lithia Springs Preserve)
Fish Hawk Creek Preserve
Florida College
Fred and Idah Schultz
Lake Dan
Lake Frances
Little Manatee River Corridor
Lower Green Swamp
Pam Callahan
Rhodine Scrub
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Rivercrest Park Addition
PAGE
Rocky Creek Coastal
Sun City Heritage Park Addition
The Kitchen
Triple Creek Ranch
Upper Little Manatee River
Wolfbranch
d. Special Sites
49-59
Blackwater Creek
Egmont Key
Lake Park
Lake rogers
Lower Green Swamp Addition (F.K.A Cone Ranch Addition)
e. Sites that need to be ranked
60-160
Alafia North Prong
Alafia River
Baker Creek and Tributaries
Balm Boyette Addition
Brooker Creek Buffer Addition
Bullfrog Creek-Nundy
Cockroach Creek Greenway
Cow House Creek
Ekker Addition
Fish Hawk Park Portion
Georgetown
Golden Aster Scrub/Kitchen Connection
Knights-Griffin Property
Lake Stemper
Little Manatee River Corridor Addition
McIntosh/Zack Tract
Nye Park Addition
Old Morris Bridge Road
Pemberton Creek
Rocky/Brushy Creek Greenway
Simmons Hammock Greenway
Sydney Dover Trails
Varn/ Cone Ranch Greenway
Walton Acquisitions FL LLC
Wimauma Scrub
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SITE ASSESSMENT REPORT SUMMARY:
The nomination cycle for the Jan K. Platt Environmental Lands Acquisition and Protection
Program (ELAPP) was extended to June 30, 2019. Prior to June 30, 2019, the Hillsborough County
Conservation and Environmental Lands Management Department received fifteen nominations for
consideration.
Following the review of the Preliminary Sites Assessments by the Site Review Committee, it was
determined that three sites: 1) Daniel (Alafia River Corridor); 2) Giunta (Cypress Creek); and 3)
Stuart Leigh Legacy (Fish Hawk South) are already on the “approved” ELAPP layer. Four
nominations: 1) CA Audubon Owner (Pam Callahan); 2) Duncan Land Development Corp (Pam
Callahan); 3) SNS Trust (Cypress Creek); and 4) New Oak Woods (Rocky Creek Coastal) are
adjacent to “acquired” ELAPP preserves and therefore are being recommended as boundary
modifications. And, three sites: 1) Egmont Key, Walton Acquisitions, and Simmons Hammock
Greenway were recommended for Full Site Assessment.
These three sites, along with all the other “approved” sites in the program were reviewed based on
the new ranking criteria which is as follows:
With the exception of sites deemed “acquired” or “special”, all existing “approved” sites within the
ELAPP Strategic Plan and any new sites will be evaluated and scored on the following eight criteria.
All criteria wil l be scored from one (1) to ten (10). The maximum score for any particular site is eighty
(80). It is understood that all ranking criteria will take into consideration public interest and related
comments.
1. Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands and
transitional systems, representing a natural habitat unique to or scarce within the State of
Florida or Hillsborough County.
2. Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state or federally listed species.
3. Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat. Land
which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and quantity,
including ground water resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife habitat,
but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal regulatory
programs.
4. Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions to
existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
5. Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to the
long-term management and ecological function and ecological function of the preserved
lands.
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6. Ease of acquisition.
7. Cost, size, and manageability of site.
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Suspended: Sites that are no longer eligible for consideration in the program because they have
been developed or otherwise altered, have been preserved through another program, or are
owned by another governmental agency.
Suspended Sites:
SITE NAME
REASON FOR RECOMENDATION
Cypress Lake Flatwoods
Mostly developed/wetlands protected
Dug Creek
Mostly developed
Gray Road
Half has houses/small and isolated
Hoedt Road
Uplands mostly developed/wetlands protected
New Tampa Flatwoods
Protected for wetlands
Port Tampa Restoration
Mostly developed
Town and Country
Mostly developed/wetlands protected
Valrico Fire Tower
Mostly developed/ small and isolated
Williams Road
Mostly developed
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Provisional Suspended Sites:
Provisional Suspended: Sites or parcels that are not actively being considered because (1) the
owner has indicated that they do not want the property in the ELAPP Program, but would be eligible
for negotiations at any time the owner authorizes being considered, or (2) essential or important sites
where an offer has been presented but negotiations were not successful.
Sites/parcels in this classification will have their prior ranking designation reestablished if (1) owner
has indicated that they are wi ing to be considered by ELAPP or the owners have indicated that they
are wi ing to resume negotiations and have provided transaction terms that staff feels warrant further
consideration, (2) there has been no substantive change in the property since it was ranked as a
Provisional Suspended, and (3) there is space in their ranking classification.
At this time, all sites that are ranked provisional suspended have been removed at
the owner’s request. No maps for these sites will be published in this report
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Acquired: Sites where either: (1) the entire site has been preserved or (2) the core parcel has
been preserved and portions of the approved site are not preserved. Negotiations for parcels
within an Acquired site that have not been preserved will be limited to the highest appraised
value unless the parcel meets the following criteria:
1) at least three sides of the parcel have land preserved through ELAPP or preserved through
another state agency,
2) staff has made a diligent effort to acquire within appraised value, and
3) staff can show that the parcel provides significant benefit to the management and ecological
function of the adjoining preservation lands.
Acquired Sites:
1. Alafia South Prong
2. Alderman’s Ford
3. Alderman’s Ford South Prong Addition
4. Bahia Beach
5. Balm Boyette Scrub
6. Balm Scrub Addition
7. Balm Scrub
8. Boy Scout Portion
9. Brooker Creek Buffer
10. Brooker Creek Headwaters
11. Cockroach and Piney Point Creek
12. Cockroach Bay
13. Cypress Creek
14. English Creek
15. Fish Hawk (AKA Lithia Springs Preserve)
16. Fish Hawk Creek Preserve
17. Florida College
18. Fred and Idah Schultz
19. Lake Dan
20. Lake Frances
21. Little Manatee River Cooridor
22. Lower Green Swamp
23. Pam Callahan
24. Rhodine Scrub
25. Rivercrest Park Addition
26. Rocky Creek Coastal
27. Sun City Heritage Park Addition
28. The Kitchen
29. Triple Creek Ranch
30. Upper Little Manatee River
31. Wolfbranch
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Special: Properties proposed for preservation that either have (a) an existing public use or (b) have a
large enough size to provide an environmental landscape. Due to the significance of these properties
to the citizens, staff will seek guidance/direction from the County Administrator’s office regarding
negotiations beyond appraised value.
Special Sites:
1. Blackwater Creek
2. Cone Ranch Addition (Request name changes to Lower Green Swamp Addition)
3. Egmont Key
4. Lake Park
5. Lake rogers
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SITES TO BE RANKED
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Site Name: Alafia North Prong
Site Location: The site is located on the south side of E State Road 60, east of Henry George Road,
and north of Nichols Road.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
This site has some areas of undisturbed habitat. Most of the area that is undisturbed is the riparian
corridor associated with the Alafia River. The mixed hardwood-coniferous (329.25 acres) and wet
prairie (12.55 acres) are ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a
restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other factors) by the Florida Natural Areas
Inventory (https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm). ). Also, while not listed as scarce in the
State, mesic flatwoods (33.19 acres) are disappearing in Hillsborough County.
RANKING: 6
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
There are most likely several listed species utilizing the riverine system. These species include
plants, birds, and amphibians. The uplands, if restored, could provide additional habitat important
to other species.
RANKING: 5
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 2150.04. Of that, 910.26 acres (42.34%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 4
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
Due to its size, and the fact that the Alafia River runs through this property, it is playing a vital
role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and quantity. The riverine system would
be protected, but the surrounding uplands would not. Development along the river could impact
water resources.
RANKING: 10
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5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site would provide a connection form the Alafia River Corridor (north and south) Preserve,
to English Creek. It is the only viable corridor in this area.
RANKING: 10
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is adjacent to the Alafia River North Prong Preserve and its preservation would provide
a significant benefit to that preserves long-term management and ecological function and all other
preserves along the river.
RANKING: 9
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Site Name: Alafia River
Site Location: This site is located along the Alafia River, east of US 301 and south of Riverview
Drive
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
This site does not contain any unaltered flora or fauna. The majority has been cleared for
agriculture and the remaining wooded areas appear highly disturbed.
RANKING: 0
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
This site is most likely supporting some protected species. Although currently improved pasture,
the xeric soils can be restored to enhance gopher tortoise habitat. In addition, because of its
location along the Alafia River, the area closest to the river could be turned into freshwater
wetlands to create fish and bird habitat.
RANKING: 4
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 62.38 acres. Of that, 25.37 acres (40.67%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 4
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
Because of its size, and the fact that it is directly adjacent to the Alafia River, this site is most
likely playing a role in the enhancement and protection of water quality. Considering the site is
mostly upland soils, it would not be protected by regulatory programs.
RANKING: 6
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This property is not directly adjacent to any existing environmentally sensitive lands, but it is
connected through the Alafia River. The Alafia Scrub Nature Preserve is less than 3000 feet
downriver from this property.
RANKING: 1
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing preservation lands.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Baker Creek and Tributaries
Site Location: The site is located south of Lake Thonotosassa and north of Interstate 4.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
The majority of this site has been disturbed for agriculture and other activities. The mixed
hardwood-coniferous (69.74 acres), and wet prairie (8.55 acres) is ranked as S3 (either very rare
and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other
factors) by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory (https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm). The
wetland systems appear to be ditched and not functioning as natural systems.
RANKING: 3
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The wetlands on this property are providing habitat and foraging areas for several listed species of
birds. If restored, the uplands areas would provide habitat that support listed species.
RANKING: 6
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 1353 acres. Of that, 499.46 acres (36.92%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 3
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
Portions of this site are uplands and would not be protected through regulatory programs. Xeric
uplands are extremely important for water quality because they are a natural filter system.
Considering this site contains the southern tributary for Lake Thonotosassa, it does play a role in
the enhancement and protection of water quality for the area.
RANKING: 8
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This property is not connected to any existing environmentally sensitive lands, but it could act as
a greenway/wildlife corridor on its own.
RANKING: 2
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to and preservation lands.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Balm Boyette Addition
Site Location: The site is located at the corner of Balm Boyette Rd and SR 672.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
The majority of this site has been cleared for agriculture, but one large area of relatively unaltered
habitat remains. The mixed hardwood-coniferous forest (2.06 acres), upland hardwood forest
(1.05 acres), and xeric hammock (30.78 acres) are ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in
Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other factors) by the
Florida Natural Areas Inventory (https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm).
RANKING: 7
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The scrub habitat most likely supports gopher tortoises and their commensal species. There may
also be the endangered Florida golden aster plant because it has been documented on several
preserves in the area. If restored, the area currently being used for grazing would provide habitat
that support listed species.
RANKING: 8
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 197.06 acres. Of that, 89.71 acres (45.52%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 4
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
The site does not play a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and quantity,
but it does play a role. Xeric soils associated with scrub habitat are known to be natural filters of
water as if percolates down to the aquifer. The majority of this site is upland, so it would not be
adequately protected through regulatory programs.
RANKING: 3
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5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This nomination is less than 2000 feet south of the Balm Boyette Scrub Preserve and has a viable
connection through a powerline easement that extends from the northeast corner, to the preserve.
If restored to the scrub it once was, it may also provide important habitat necessary for the Florida
Scrub Jay, a federally protected species, to use as a corridor between Balm Boyette Preserve and
other preserves in the area.
RANKING: 4
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not critical to the management and ecological functions associated with the preserved
lands to the north.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Brooker Creek Buffer Addition
Site Location: The site is located south of Tarpon Springs Rd, East of Patterson Rd, and west of
Boy Scout RD.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
The majority of this site has been cleared for agriculture. The wet prairie (21.1 acres) is ranked as
S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to
extinction
from
other
factors)
by
the
Florida
Natural
Areas
Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm). The wetland systems, although impacted by rim
ditches, are healthy and functioning.
RANKING: 3
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The wetlands on this property are providing habitat and foraging areas for several listed species of
birds. If restored, the uplands areas would provide habitat that support listed species.
RANKING: 6
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 928.54 acres. Of that, 159.26 acres (17.15%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
The majority of this site is uplands and would not be protected through regulatory programs. Xeric
uplands are extremely important for water quality because they are a natural filter system.
Considering this site has a direct connect to Brooker Creek, it does play a role in the enhancement
and protection of water quality for the area.
RANKING: 6
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5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This property connects to the Brooker Creek Buffer Preserve which is connected to the Pinellas
County Brooker Creek Preserve which connects to the Lake Dan and Lake France Preserve north
of Tarpon Springs Road. In total, the total connection would be over 10,000 acres.
RANKING: 10
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site would provide a significant benefit to the long-term management of the Brooker Creek
Preserve because it drains into that preserve. It also enhances the ecological function by allowing
animal movement through the areas, increasing species diversity.
RANKING: 6
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Site Name: Bullfrog Creek-Nundy
Site Location: This site is located along the Alafia River, east of US 301 and south of Riverview
Drive
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
This site does not contain any unaltered flora or fauna. The site was one fishponds and has been
filled.
RANKING: 0
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
This site may be supporting listed species. Restoration may be possible, but depending on what
was used to fill the fishponds, it may be limited. Due to its limited size, this site would not support
a large population of listed species.
RANKING: 2
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 28.64 acres. Of that, 0.00 acres (0%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 0
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
This site is small, but since it is directly adjacent Bullfrog Creek, this site is most likely playing a
small role in the enhancement and protection of water quality. Considering the site is mostly
upland soils, it would not be protected by regulatory programs.
RANKING: 3
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
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This property is not directly adjacent to any existing environmentally sensitive lands.
RANKING: 0
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing preservation lands.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Cockroach Creek Greenway
Site Location: The site is located on Old Morris Bridge Road, East of I-75 and south of Morris
Bridge Road.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
The majority of this site has been cleared for agriculture, but some unaltered habitats remain. The
mixed hardwood-coniferous forest (24.2 acres), upland hardwood forest (10.29 acres) and wet
prairie (3.89 acres) are ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a
restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other factors) by the Florida Natural Areas
Inventory (https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm). Also, while not listed as scarce in the
State, mesic flatwoods (171.78 acres) are disappearing in Hillsborough County.
RANKING: 4
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The remaining natural habitats are most likely supporting some listed species. If restored, this site
could host many more species.
RANKING: 6
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 1784.5 acres. Of that, 76.11 acres (4.25%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
There are several riparian systems that run through this property. Named creeks include Curiosity
Creek, Wildcat Creek, and Cockroach Creek, but there are other tributaries. These systems, and a
buffer, would be protected by regulatory programs, but depending on the density of development
around them, they may suffer.
RANKING: 8
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5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
The parcels directly adjacent to the acquired Cockroach Creek Greenway Preserves would provide
a valuable addition that would allow that preserve to be managed with prescribed fire. Combining
these properties with the lands north of Valroy Road, provide a critical habitat corridor connecting
Tampa Bay to the Little Manatee River.
RANKING: 9
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
The parcels directly adjacent to the acquired Cockroach Creek Greenway Preserves would provide
a significant benefit to the long-term management and ecological function of that site.
RANKING: 5
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Site Name: Cow House Creek
Site Location: The site is located directly west of Interstate 75 and north of East Fowler Ave
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
The majority of this site contains unaltered habitats because it is mostly riverine. Mixed hardwood-
coniferous habitat (4.29 acres) is ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally
in a restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other factors) by the Florida Natural Areas
Inventory (https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm).
RANKING: 5
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The wetlands on this property are providing habitat and foraging areas for several listed species of
birds. Although small, if restored, the uplands could provide some habitat for listed species as
well.
RANKING: 4
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 122.33 acres. Of that, 26.7 acres (21.82%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 2
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
The uplands would not be protected through regulatory programs, but the majority of this site
would be because it is wetlands. Considering this site drains directly into the Hillsborough River,
it does play a role in the enhancement and protection of water quality for the area.
RANKING: 5
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This is not connected to any existing environmentally sensitive lands.
RANKING: 0
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing preservation lands.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Ekker Addition
Site Location: The site is located north of Symmes Road and along Lovegreen Lane.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
The majority of this site was cleared and turned into fishponds, but there are some areas of
unaltered habitat. The salt marsh (approximately 10.16 acres) would be considered scarce in
Hillsborough County and the mixed hardwood-coniferous habitat (13.53 acres) is ranked as S3
(either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to
extinction
from
other
factors)
by
the
Florida
Natural
Areas
Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm).
RANKING: 3
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
Habitat along Bullfrog Creek is most likely providing important habitat for listed species. This
habitat could be expanded through creating more wetlands in the disturbed areas.
RANKING: 4
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 122.93 acres. Of that, 0.00 acres (0%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 0
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
Because of its size, and the fact that it is directly adjacent to Bullfrog Creek, this site is most likely
playing a role in the enhancement and protection of water quality. The fishponds can be filled and
are not protected by regulatory programs.
RANKING: 6
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site is only separated from the acquired Ekker Preserve by a powerline right-of-way. It would
be a beneficial addition to that preserve.
RANKING: 3
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This addition would allow for the continued use of prescribed fire at the acquired Ekker Preserve,
which is important for long-term management and ecological function.
RANKING: 3
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Site Name: Fish Hawk Park Portion
Site Location: The site is north of osprey ridge Drive and west of Parkset Drive.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
Although not shown on the land cover map, a site visit to this property in 2017 revealed that native
habitat on the site includes mesic flatwoods, mixed hardwood hammock, and a small overgrown
scrub. The flatwoods behind the school are very wet and appear to act as a retention area when
the adjacent ponds overflow.
The mixed hardwood-coniferous habitat (~6 acres) is ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in
Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other factors) and
scrub is ranked S2 (imperiled in Florida because of rarity or because of the vulnerability to
extinction due to some natural or man-mad factor) by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm).
RANKING: 5
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The wetland on this property is most likely providing some habitat and foraging areas for several
listed species of birds, but this site, by itself, is too small to provide significant habitat.
RANKING: 1
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 10.29 acres. Of that, 1.67 acres (16.23%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
This site does not play a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and quantity
nor provide protection for fish and wildlife habitat.
RANKING: 0
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5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site does not buffer any public lands, but it does form a small corridor that could allow animals
to move southeast towards Fish Hawk Creek and into preserved lands.
RANKING: 1
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing preservation lands.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Georgetown
Site Location: This site is located on Tampa Bay at the end of Fair Oaks Avenue.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
This site does not contain native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna. This site was created from
dredge and fill material.
Since its creation, native species have inhabited the site and formed mangrove habitat which is
considered scarce in Hillsborough County. The site is also one of the last undeveloped waterfront
parcels located on Old Tampa Bay.
RANKING: 2
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
Currently the site is providing minimal habitat to support endangered and threatened plants and
animals. If the site were to be utilized for estuarine wetland and coastal upland restoration, it would
provide habitat for a variety of migratory and wading birds.
.
RANKING: 3
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 84.07 acres. Of that, 0.00 acres (0%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 0
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
The site contains a mangrove fringe which is important habitat for an array of wildlife. Also, the
uplands have been approved for a high-rise residential development which could adversely affect
the water quality of Tampa Bay.
RANKING: 5
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5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
There are no existing preserved lands adjacent to this property.
RANKING: 0
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing preservation lands.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Golden Aster Scrub/Kitchen Connection
Site Location: West of Golden Aster Scrub Preserve, East of US. 41 in Gibsonton
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
This site does contain some areas of unaltered habitat. The salt marsh (approximately 16.23 acres)
would be considered scarce in Hillsborough County and the mixed hardwood-coniferous forest
(25.42 acres) is ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive
range or vulnerable to extinction from other factors) by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm)
RANKING: 5
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
Except for the areas that have homes, this site is most likely currently providing habitat to several
listed species including gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) in the xeric habitat and wading
birds in the mangrove forest.
RANKING: 6
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 84.01 acres. Of that, 12.6 acres (15%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
There is a small stream running through this property that brings freshwater from wetlands on the
Golden Aster Preserve to Tampa Bay. These estuarine habitats are important fish breeding/
hatchings areas. Development around this stream could disrupt freshwater flow and impact the
fish habitat.
RANKING: 5
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5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
Although not essential for protection and management, this site is the last available semi-natural
corridor that connects the Golden Aster Scrub Preserve to Tampa Bay and The Kitchen Preserve.
RANKING: 3
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not critical to the management and ecological functions associated with the Golden
Aster Preserve or The Kitchen Preserve.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Knights-Griffin Property
Site Location: This site is in Plant City between Knights Griffin Road and McGee Road.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
This site is mostly unaltered habitat. The mixed hardwood-coniferous (100.48 acres) and wet
prairie habitats (7.61 acres) are ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally
in a restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other factors) by the Florida Natural Areas
Inventory (https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm). The wetlands are also intact.
RANKING: 8
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The wetlands on this property are most likely providing some habitat and foraging areas for several
listed species of birds. The large areas of undisturbed uplands are also most likely providing
habitat important to listed species.
RANKING: 6
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 269.47 acres. Of that, 16.62 acres (6.17%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
Most of this site is uplands which most likely support an array of listed species. Although these
species may be present, they would not prevent the site from being developed.
RANKING: 3
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
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This site is not connected to any existing environmentally sensitive lands.
RANKING: 0
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing preservation lands.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Lake Stemper
Site Location: This site is located east of US-41 and south of Sunset LN, along the northern shore
of Lake Stemper in Lutz
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
The majority of this site is unaltered due to the fact that the eastern half is cypress strand that
appears to connect Commiston Lake to Lake Stemper. The mixed hardwood-coniferous (4.59
acres) is ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive range
or vulnerable to extinction from other factors) by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm).
RANKING: 5
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The wetlands on this property are most likely providing some habitat and foraging areas for several
listed species of birds. Considering the western boundary of the property is commercial and
residential, the north boundary is a road, the east boundary is a cypress strand, and the southern
boundary is a lake, it is highly unlikely that the current gopher tortoise population that resides in
the 10 acres of xeric soils will be sustainable.
RANKING: 4
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 35.58 acres. Of that, 9.54 acres (26.81%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 2
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
The wetlands on this property would be protected and may be playing a role in the enhancement
of local water quality. The uplands would not be protected and are too small to provide significant
habitat for wildlife.
RANKING: 3
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5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site is adjacent to the Nye Park Addition which is an “approved” ELAPP site. If both sites
were acquired, they would form a small corridor for animals to move from Lake Stemper north,
and vice versa, but it would not be considered essential.
RANKING: 1
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing preservation lands.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Little Manatee River Corridor Addition
Site Location: The site is located along the Hillsborough and Manatee County line between CR579
and Hobbs Road
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
The majority of this site has been cleared for agriculture, but some unaltered habitats remain. The
mixed hardwood-coniferous forest (29.18 acres), upland hardwood forest (3.75 acres), and wet
prairie (30.11 acres) are ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a
restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other factors), and the scrubby flatwoods (8.2
acres) is ranked S2 (imperiled in Florida because of rarity or because of vulnerability to extinction
due to some natural or man-made factor) by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm). Also, while not listed as scarce in the State, mesic
flatwoods (48.42 acres) are disappearing in Hillsborough County.
RANKING: 7
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The remaining natural habitats are most likely supporting some listed species. If restored, this site
would provide several different habitats to support listed species.
RANKING: 8
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 2625.99 acres. Of that, 341.98 acres (13.02%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
This site has a riparian wetland system that meanders through its center and discharges into the
Little Manatee River. Although there is a high probability that listed species would be found on
the site, a majority of the site is uplands, thus, is not protected through State and local wetland
regulatory measures.
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RANKING: 5
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This parcel’s northern boundary connects to the Upper Little Manatee River Preserve and is
considered a valuable addition which helps extend the natural corridor system associated with the
Preserve. Also, the Moody Branch Mitigation Park Wildlife and Environmental Area is less than
a mile to the southeast of this addition. Moddy Branch connects into hundreds of acres of other
protected lands creating critical habitat corridor.
RANKING: 10
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This addition connects two preserves and would provide a significant benefit to the long-term
management and ecological function of that site.
RANKING: 7
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Site Name: McIntosh/Zack Tract
Site Location: SE of the current McIntosh Zack Tract, North of E Sam Allen RD in Plant City.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
The mixed hardwood-coniferous forest (308.89 acres) and wet prairie (22.85 acres) are ranked as
S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to
extinction
from
other
factors)
by
the
Florida
Natural
Areas
Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm)
RANKING: 7
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
Because of its size and intact habitats, this site is most likely providing habitat to the support and
protection of state and/or federally listed species, especially in the wetlands and transitional zones.
RANKING: 7
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 480.58 acres. Of that, 36.19 acres (8%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
This site appears to be part of the East Canal drainage that flows through the acquired
Mcintosh/Zack Tract and then on to Lower Green Swamp Preserve where it runs into
Itchepackessa Creek. It is most likely playing a role in the impoundment and cleansing of the
water draining through, which is vital for water quality.
RANKING: 8
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site adjoins the currently acquired McIntosh/Zack Tract at its northwest corner, but is not
essential for protection and management of the site.
RANKING: 0
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
The currently acquired McIntosh/Zack Tract was recontoured to take in water from the east canal
and cleanse it prior to it reaching Itchepackessa Creek. If this property were developed and/or
cleared for farming, it could jeopardize the function of the current ponds and impact our waters.
Purchasing this site and keeping it in a natural form would provide a benefit to the long-term
management of the preserves along the canal system.
RANKING:5
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Site Name: Nye Park Addition
Site Location: The site is located east of US 41, north of Sunset Lane and west of Nye Park.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
This site has some areas of undisturbed habitat. The mixed hardwood-coniferous (33.02 acres) is
ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or
vulnerable to extinction from other factors) by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm). The wetlands are also intact.
RANKING: 6
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
During the 2007 site assessment, twenty active gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) burrows
were counted and are most likely still there. The wetlands are also providing some habitat and
foraging areas for several listed species of birds.
RANKING: 5
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 71.96 acres. Of that, 22.91 acres (31.84%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 3
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
A large component of this site is wetlands, including part of Lake Commiston, and may play a
vital role in the enhancement and protection of local water quality and quantity. Although there
are Gopher Tortoises (Gopherus polyphemus) located on the uplands, it is unlikely that they would
be protected.
RANKING: 5
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site is adjacent to the Lake Stemper site, which is an “approved” ELAPP site. If both sites
were acquired, they would form a small corridor for animals to move from Lake Stemper north,
and vice versa, but it would not be considered essential.
RANKING: 1
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing preservation lands.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Old Morris Bridge Road
Site Location: The site is located on Old Morris Bridge Road, East of I-75 and south of Morris
Bridge Road.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
This property has some areas of native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna. The mixed hardwood-
coniferous forest (18.8 acres) and mesic hammock (6.01 acres) are ranked as S3 (either very rare
and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other
factors) by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory (https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm)
RANKING: 3
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
Gopher tortoises (Gopherus polyphemus) have been documented on this site in the northern xeric
soils. The portion that contains floodplain forests most likely has listed species as well.
RANKING: 6
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 116.97 acres. Of that, 43.7 acres (37%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 3
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
Although Gopher Tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) are protected through existing regulations, it
is unlikely that they (or others listed species present) would prevent the entire site from being
developed.
RANKING: 3
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
2019 ELAPP SITE ASSESSMENT REPORT
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
These parcels are adjacent to property owned by the Southwest Florida Water Management
District, but they are not essential for protection and management of those lands.
RANKING: 2
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not critical to the management and ecological functions associated with the preserved
lands to the east.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Pemberton Creek
Site Location: The site is located north if Interstate 4, west of Kirkland Road, east of Gallagher
Road.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
This site has some areas of undisturbed habitat. The mixed hardwood-coniferous (85.56 acres)
and wet prairie (17.33 acres) are ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally
in a restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other factors) by the Florida Natural Areas
Inventory (https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm). Some of the wetlands are also intact.
RANKING: 5
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The wetlands are most likley providing some habitat and foraging areas for several listed species
of birds. If restored, the uplands consist of several types of soils that could provide an array of
habitats for listed species.
RANKING: 5
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 334.79 acres. Of that, 44.44 acres (13.27%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
This site might be playing a role in the enhancement of local water quality and quantity. The
uplands would not be protected.
RANKING: 5
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
2019 ELAPP SITE ASSESSMENT REPORT
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing environmentally sensitive lands.
RANKING: 0
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing preservation lands.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Rocky/Brushy Creek Greenway
Site Location: The site is located east of Gunn Hwy, south of Ehrlich Rd, North of Citrus Park
Drive.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
This site has some areas of undisturbed habitat. Most of the area that is undisturbed is the riparian
corridor associated with Rocky Creek. The mixed hardwood-coniferous (9.67 acres) is ranked as
S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to
extinction
from
other
factors)
by
the
Florida
Natural
Areas
Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm).
RANKING: 5
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
Although small, there are most likely listed species utilizing the riparian system, but it is unlikely
they can be sustained on a property this small.
RANKING: 3
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 23.39. Of that, 4.32 acres (18.47%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
This site is playing a small role in the protection of water quality in the area. Most of the
uplands would not be protected by regulatory programs.
RANKING: 2
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site would provide valuable addition to the acquired Rocky Creek Preserve and buffer the site
from outside impacts.
RANKING: 5
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is adjacent to Rocky Creek Preserve. Any addition to that preserve would provide a
significant benefit to the long-term management and ecological function of the preserve.
RANKING: 5
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Site Name: Simmons Hammock Greenway
Site Location: The site is located just south of I-4 and north of Jess Walden Road. The northern
boundary is separated by I-4 from the “approved” Baker Creek & Tributaries Site.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
Most of this site has been disturbed over the years. Of the habitat that remains the mixed
hardwood-coniferous (188.38 acres) and wet prairie (4.66 acres) are ranked as S3 (either very rare
and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other
factors) by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory (https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm).
RANKING: 3
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The wetlands on this site are most likely providing habitat for serval listed species including birds,
amphibians, and plants. The uplands are small, but some listed species could be supported.
RANKING: 3
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 601.64. Of that, 141.37 acres (23.50%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 2
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
This site does not play a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and quantity.
Because of its size, it is most likely providing some protection for wildlife and upland areas would
not be adequately protected through local, state, and federal regulatory programs.
RANKING: 2
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site is not directly connected to any existing preserved land. It is adjacent to the “approved”
Baker Creek & Tributaries Site which is only separated from the north boundary by I-4. If both
sites were preserved, it would form a natural greenway/corridor to Lake Thonotosassa.
RANKING: 1
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing preserves.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Sydney Dover Trails Addition
Site Location: The site is located north of SR 60 and east Sydney Washer Road.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
It appears that most of the uplands have been cleared in the past, but some unaltered habitat
remains. Of the habitat that remains the mixed hardwood-coniferous (71.05 acres) is ranked S3
(either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to
extinction
from
other
factors)
by
the
Florida
Natural
Areas
Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm). The wetlands systems and associated buffers also
appear to be intact.
RANKING: 5
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The wetlands systems and associated buffers are most likely providing habitat to listed species.
The uplands are small, but if restored, could provide some habitat.
RANKING: 3
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 186.53. Of that, 10.42 acres (5.59%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
This site does play a role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and quantity. Turkey
Creek runs along the east side of the property. While the creek and buffer would be protected, the
uplands would not.
RANKING: 5
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
2019 ELAPP SITE ASSESSMENT REPORT
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site is directly east of Sydney Dover Trails Conservation Park, but is not essential for
protection and management of that park.
RANKING: 0
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is adjacent to Sydney Dover Trails Conservation Park, but doe does not provide a
significant benefit to the long-term management and ecological function of the park.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Varn/ Cone Ranch Greenway
Site Location: The site is located west of Paul Buckman Hwy, south of Bruton Rd.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
Approximately 50% of this property has been cleared and replaced with improved pasture. The
natural habitats that remain are unaltered and some have been maintained with prescribed fire.
The mixed hardwood-coniferous forest (105.81 acres) and wet prairie (15.04 acres) are ranked as
S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to
extinction
from
other
factors)
by
the
Florida
Natural
Areas
Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm). Also, while not listed as scarce in the State, mesic
flatwoods (203.22 acres) are disappearing in Hillsborough County.
RANKING: 5
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
Due to its size (1477.74 acres), this site is most likely providing habitat to serval listed species. If
restored, this would increase listed species populations on the property.
RANKING: 8
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 1477.74 acres. Of that, 30.25 acres (2%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
The wetlands on this site would be protected by regulatory programs, but the uplands would not.
The wetlands are also providing surface water retention and aquifer recharge.
RANKING: 5
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5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site named the Varn/ Cone Ranch Greenway because it does provide a natural greenway
corridor.
RANKING: 3
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site enhances the Lower Green Swamp Preserves ecological function by allowing animal
movement through the areas, increasing species diversity.
RANKING: 2
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Site Name: Walton Acquisitions FL LLC
Site Location: The site is located south of E Knights Griffin Road and west of Charlie Taylor
Road.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
Most of this site has been cleared for agriculture. Of the habitat that remains the mixed hardwood-
coniferous (9.21 acres) and wet prairie (17.24 acres) are ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in
Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other factors) by the
Florida Natural Areas Inventory (https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm).
RANKING: 3
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
In its current state, this site is not providing significant habitat important to the support or
protection of endangered or threatened plants and animals, but if resorted to native pine flatwoods,
it would be large enough to host several populations of species.
RANKING: 5
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 546.13. Of that, 73.19 acres (13.40%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
This site does not play a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and quantity.
Because of its size, it is most likely providing some protection for wildlife and upland areas would
not be adequately protected through local, state, and federal regulatory programs.
RANKING: 2
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
2019 ELAPP SITE ASSESSMENT REPORT
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site is directly south of the Lower Green Swamp Nature Preserve. While it is not valuable for
access, it does buffer the existing preserve and adds to the wildlife corridor in the area.
RANKING: 5
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is adjacent to Lower Green Swamp Preserve. Preservation of this property would provide
a significant benefit to the long-term management and ecological function of the preserve.
RANKING: 5
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Site Name: Wimauma Scrub
Site Location: The site is located on the south side of Brigman Avenue, east of West Lake Road,
in Wimauma.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
This site has some areas of undisturbed habitat. The scrubby flatwoods (22.45 acres) and scrub
(2.6 acres) are ranked as S2 (Imperiled in Florida because of rarity or because of vulnerability to
extinction due to some natural or man-made factor) by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm).
RANKING: 7
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
During the 2006 site assessment, several gopher tortoises (Gopherus polyphemus) burrows were
found and the site was home to a family of endangered Florida Scrub Jays (Aphelocoma
coerulescens). It is unknown if these animals are still there, but it is highly likely that the gopher
tortoises can still be found.
RANKING: 5
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 54.41 acres. Of that, 27.44 acres (50.43%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 5
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
Although the gopher tortoises, Florida scrub jay and golden aster are protected through existing
regulations, it is unlikely that any of these factors could prevent the entire site from being
developed.
RANKING: 5
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5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing environmentally sensitive lands.
RANKING: 0
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing preservation lands.
RANKING: 0
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HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY
FLORIDA
REPORT TO THE
SITE SELECTION COMMITTEE
SITE ASSESSMENTS
for the
Jan K. Platt Environmental Lands Acquisition
and Protection Program
(ELAPP)
ELAPP Site Assessment Committee
ELAPP Site Review Committee
Conservation and Environmental Lands
Management Department
November 2019
2019 ELAPP SITE ASSESSMENT REPORT
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
I.
Summary
4
II.
Ranking
a. Suspended Sites
6-16
Cypress Lake Flatwoods
Dug Creek
Gray Road
Hoedt Road
New Tampa Flatwoods
Port Tampa Restoration
Town and Country
Valrico Fire Tower
Williams Road
b. Provisional Suspended Sites
17
c. Acquired Sites
18-49
Alderman’s Ford
Alderman’s Ford South Prong Addition
Bahia Beach
Balm Boyette Scrub
Balm Scrub Addition
Balm Scrub
Boy Scout Portion
Brooker Creek Buffer
Brooker Creek Headwaters
Cockroach and Piney Point Creek
Cockroach Bay
Cypress Creek
English Creek
Fish Hawk (AKA Lithia Springs Preserve)
Fish Hawk Creek Preserve
Florida College
Fred and Idah Schultz
Lake Dan
Lake Frances
Little Manatee River Corridor
Lower Green Swamp
Pam Callahan
Rhodine Scrub
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Rivercrest Park Addition
PAGE
Rocky Creek Coastal
Sun City Heritage Park Addition
The Kitchen
Triple Creek Ranch
Upper Little Manatee River
Wolfbranch
d. Special Sites
49-59
Blackwater Creek
Egmont Key
Lake Park
Lake rogers
Lower Green Swamp Addition (F.K.A Cone Ranch Addition)
e. Sites that need to be ranked
60-160
Alafia North Prong
Alafia River
Baker Creek and Tributaries
Balm Boyette Addition
Brooker Creek Buffer Addition
Bullfrog Creek-Nundy
Cockroach Creek Greenway
Cow House Creek
Ekker Addition
Fish Hawk Park Portion
Georgetown
Golden Aster Scrub/Kitchen Connection
Knights-Griffin Property
Lake Stemper
Little Manatee River Corridor Addition
McIntosh/Zack Tract
Nye Park Addition
Old Morris Bridge Road
Pemberton Creek
Rocky/Brushy Creek Greenway
Simmons Hammock Greenway
Sydney Dover Trails
Varn/ Cone Ranch Greenway
Walton Acquisitions FL LLC
Wimauma Scrub
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SITE ASSESSMENT REPORT SUMMARY:
The nomination cycle for the Jan K. Platt Environmental Lands Acquisition and Protection
Program (ELAPP) was extended to June 30, 2019. Prior to June 30, 2019, the Hillsborough County
Conservation and Environmental Lands Management Department received fifteen nominations for
consideration.
Following the review of the Preliminary Sites Assessments by the Site Review Committee, it was
determined that three sites: 1) Daniel (Alafia River Corridor); 2) Giunta (Cypress Creek); and 3)
Stuart Leigh Legacy (Fish Hawk South) are already on the “approved” ELAPP layer. Four
nominations: 1) CA Audubon Owner (Pam Callahan); 2) Duncan Land Development Corp (Pam
Callahan); 3) SNS Trust (Cypress Creek); and 4) New Oak Woods (Rocky Creek Coastal) are
adjacent to “acquired” ELAPP preserves and therefore are being recommended as boundary
modifications. And, three sites: 1) Egmont Key, Walton Acquisitions, and Simmons Hammock
Greenway were recommended for Full Site Assessment.
These three sites, along with all the other “approved” sites in the program were reviewed based on
the new ranking criteria which is as follows:
With the exception of sites deemed “acquired” or “special”, all existing “approved” sites within the
ELAPP Strategic Plan and any new sites will be evaluated and scored on the following eight criteria.
All criteria wil l be scored from one (1) to ten (10). The maximum score for any particular site is eighty
(80). It is understood that all ranking criteria will take into consideration public interest and related
comments.
1. Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands and
transitional systems, representing a natural habitat unique to or scarce within the State of
Florida or Hillsborough County.
2. Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state or federally listed species.
3. Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat. Land
which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and quantity,
including ground water resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife habitat,
but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal regulatory
programs.
4. Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions to
existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
5. Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to the
long-term management and ecological function and ecological function of the preserved
lands.
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6. Ease of acquisition.
7. Cost, size, and manageability of site.
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Suspended: Sites that are no longer eligible for consideration in the program because they have
been developed or otherwise altered, have been preserved through another program, or are
owned by another governmental agency.
Suspended Sites:
SITE NAME
REASON FOR RECOMENDATION
Cypress Lake Flatwoods
Mostly developed/wetlands protected
Dug Creek
Mostly developed
Gray Road
Half has houses/small and isolated
Hoedt Road
Uplands mostly developed/wetlands protected
New Tampa Flatwoods
Protected for wetlands
Port Tampa Restoration
Mostly developed
Town and Country
Mostly developed/wetlands protected
Valrico Fire Tower
Mostly developed/ small and isolated
Williams Road
Mostly developed
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Provisional Suspended Sites:
Provisional Suspended: Sites or parcels that are not actively being considered because (1) the
owner has indicated that they do not want the property in the ELAPP Program, but would be eligible
for negotiations at any time the owner authorizes being considered, or (2) essential or important sites
where an offer has been presented but negotiations were not successful.
Sites/parcels in this classification will have their prior ranking designation reestablished if (1) owner
has indicated that they are wi ing to be considered by ELAPP or the owners have indicated that they
are wi ing to resume negotiations and have provided transaction terms that staff feels warrant further
consideration, (2) there has been no substantive change in the property since it was ranked as a
Provisional Suspended, and (3) there is space in their ranking classification.
At this time, all sites that are ranked provisional suspended have been removed at
the owner’s request. No maps for these sites will be published in this report
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Acquired: Sites where either: (1) the entire site has been preserved or (2) the core parcel has
been preserved and portions of the approved site are not preserved. Negotiations for parcels
within an Acquired site that have not been preserved will be limited to the highest appraised
value unless the parcel meets the following criteria:
1) at least three sides of the parcel have land preserved through ELAPP or preserved through
another state agency,
2) staff has made a diligent effort to acquire within appraised value, and
3) staff can show that the parcel provides significant benefit to the management and ecological
function of the adjoining preservation lands.
Acquired Sites:
1. Alafia South Prong
2. Alderman’s Ford
3. Alderman’s Ford South Prong Addition
4. Bahia Beach
5. Balm Boyette Scrub
6. Balm Scrub Addition
7. Balm Scrub
8. Boy Scout Portion
9. Brooker Creek Buffer
10. Brooker Creek Headwaters
11. Cockroach and Piney Point Creek
12. Cockroach Bay
13. Cypress Creek
14. English Creek
15. Fish Hawk (AKA Lithia Springs Preserve)
16. Fish Hawk Creek Preserve
17. Florida College
18. Fred and Idah Schultz
19. Lake Dan
20. Lake Frances
21. Little Manatee River Cooridor
22. Lower Green Swamp
23. Pam Callahan
24. Rhodine Scrub
25. Rivercrest Park Addition
26. Rocky Creek Coastal
27. Sun City Heritage Park Addition
28. The Kitchen
29. Triple Creek Ranch
30. Upper Little Manatee River
31. Wolfbranch
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Special: Properties proposed for preservation that either have (a) an existing public use or (b) have a
large enough size to provide an environmental landscape. Due to the significance of these properties
to the citizens, staff will seek guidance/direction from the County Administrator’s office regarding
negotiations beyond appraised value.
Special Sites:
1. Blackwater Creek
2. Cone Ranch Addition (Request name changes to Lower Green Swamp Addition)
3. Egmont Key
4. Lake Park
5. Lake rogers
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SITES TO BE RANKED
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Site Name: Alafia North Prong
Site Location: The site is located on the south side of E State Road 60, east of Henry George Road,
and north of Nichols Road.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
This site has some areas of undisturbed habitat. Most of the area that is undisturbed is the riparian
corridor associated with the Alafia River. The mixed hardwood-coniferous (329.25 acres) and wet
prairie (12.55 acres) are ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a
restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other factors) by the Florida Natural Areas
Inventory (https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm). ). Also, while not listed as scarce in the
State, mesic flatwoods (33.19 acres) are disappearing in Hillsborough County.
RANKING: 6
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
There are most likely several listed species utilizing the riverine system. These species include
plants, birds, and amphibians. The uplands, if restored, could provide additional habitat important
to other species.
RANKING: 5
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 2150.04. Of that, 910.26 acres (42.34%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 4
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
Due to its size, and the fact that the Alafia River runs through this property, it is playing a vital
role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and quantity. The riverine system would
be protected, but the surrounding uplands would not. Development along the river could impact
water resources.
RANKING: 10
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5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site would provide a connection form the Alafia River Corridor (north and south) Preserve,
to English Creek. It is the only viable corridor in this area.
RANKING: 10
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is adjacent to the Alafia River North Prong Preserve and its preservation would provide
a significant benefit to that preserves long-term management and ecological function and all other
preserves along the river.
RANKING: 9
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Site Name: Alafia River
Site Location: This site is located along the Alafia River, east of US 301 and south of Riverview
Drive
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
This site does not contain any unaltered flora or fauna. The majority has been cleared for
agriculture and the remaining wooded areas appear highly disturbed.
RANKING: 0
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
This site is most likely supporting some protected species. Although currently improved pasture,
the xeric soils can be restored to enhance gopher tortoise habitat. In addition, because of its
location along the Alafia River, the area closest to the river could be turned into freshwater
wetlands to create fish and bird habitat.
RANKING: 4
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 62.38 acres. Of that, 25.37 acres (40.67%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 4
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
Because of its size, and the fact that it is directly adjacent to the Alafia River, this site is most
likely playing a role in the enhancement and protection of water quality. Considering the site is
mostly upland soils, it would not be protected by regulatory programs.
RANKING: 6
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This property is not directly adjacent to any existing environmentally sensitive lands, but it is
connected through the Alafia River. The Alafia Scrub Nature Preserve is less than 3000 feet
downriver from this property.
RANKING: 1
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing preservation lands.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Baker Creek and Tributaries
Site Location: The site is located south of Lake Thonotosassa and north of Interstate 4.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
The majority of this site has been disturbed for agriculture and other activities. The mixed
hardwood-coniferous (69.74 acres), and wet prairie (8.55 acres) is ranked as S3 (either very rare
and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other
factors) by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory (https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm). The
wetland systems appear to be ditched and not functioning as natural systems.
RANKING: 3
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The wetlands on this property are providing habitat and foraging areas for several listed species of
birds. If restored, the uplands areas would provide habitat that support listed species.
RANKING: 6
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 1353 acres. Of that, 499.46 acres (36.92%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 3
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
Portions of this site are uplands and would not be protected through regulatory programs. Xeric
uplands are extremely important for water quality because they are a natural filter system.
Considering this site contains the southern tributary for Lake Thonotosassa, it does play a role in
the enhancement and protection of water quality for the area.
RANKING: 8
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This property is not connected to any existing environmentally sensitive lands, but it could act as
a greenway/wildlife corridor on its own.
RANKING: 2
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to and preservation lands.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Balm Boyette Addition
Site Location: The site is located at the corner of Balm Boyette Rd and SR 672.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
The majority of this site has been cleared for agriculture, but one large area of relatively unaltered
habitat remains. The mixed hardwood-coniferous forest (2.06 acres), upland hardwood forest
(1.05 acres), and xeric hammock (30.78 acres) are ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in
Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other factors) by the
Florida Natural Areas Inventory (https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm).
RANKING: 7
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The scrub habitat most likely supports gopher tortoises and their commensal species. There may
also be the endangered Florida golden aster plant because it has been documented on several
preserves in the area. If restored, the area currently being used for grazing would provide habitat
that support listed species.
RANKING: 8
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 197.06 acres. Of that, 89.71 acres (45.52%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 4
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
The site does not play a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and quantity,
but it does play a role. Xeric soils associated with scrub habitat are known to be natural filters of
water as if percolates down to the aquifer. The majority of this site is upland, so it would not be
adequately protected through regulatory programs.
RANKING: 3
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5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This nomination is less than 2000 feet south of the Balm Boyette Scrub Preserve and has a viable
connection through a powerline easement that extends from the northeast corner, to the preserve.
If restored to the scrub it once was, it may also provide important habitat necessary for the Florida
Scrub Jay, a federally protected species, to use as a corridor between Balm Boyette Preserve and
other preserves in the area.
RANKING: 4
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not critical to the management and ecological functions associated with the preserved
lands to the north.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Brooker Creek Buffer Addition
Site Location: The site is located south of Tarpon Springs Rd, East of Patterson Rd, and west of
Boy Scout RD.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
The majority of this site has been cleared for agriculture. The wet prairie (21.1 acres) is ranked as
S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to
extinction
from
other
factors)
by
the
Florida
Natural
Areas
Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm). The wetland systems, although impacted by rim
ditches, are healthy and functioning.
RANKING: 3
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The wetlands on this property are providing habitat and foraging areas for several listed species of
birds. If restored, the uplands areas would provide habitat that support listed species.
RANKING: 6
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 928.54 acres. Of that, 159.26 acres (17.15%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
The majority of this site is uplands and would not be protected through regulatory programs. Xeric
uplands are extremely important for water quality because they are a natural filter system.
Considering this site has a direct connect to Brooker Creek, it does play a role in the enhancement
and protection of water quality for the area.
RANKING: 6
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5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This property connects to the Brooker Creek Buffer Preserve which is connected to the Pinellas
County Brooker Creek Preserve which connects to the Lake Dan and Lake France Preserve north
of Tarpon Springs Road. In total, the total connection would be over 10,000 acres.
RANKING: 10
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site would provide a significant benefit to the long-term management of the Brooker Creek
Preserve because it drains into that preserve. It also enhances the ecological function by allowing
animal movement through the areas, increasing species diversity.
RANKING: 6
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Site Name: Bullfrog Creek-Nundy
Site Location: This site is located along the Alafia River, east of US 301 and south of Riverview
Drive
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
This site does not contain any unaltered flora or fauna. The site was one fishponds and has been
filled.
RANKING: 0
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
This site may be supporting listed species. Restoration may be possible, but depending on what
was used to fill the fishponds, it may be limited. Due to its limited size, this site would not support
a large population of listed species.
RANKING: 2
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 28.64 acres. Of that, 0.00 acres (0%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 0
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
This site is small, but since it is directly adjacent Bullfrog Creek, this site is most likely playing a
small role in the enhancement and protection of water quality. Considering the site is mostly
upland soils, it would not be protected by regulatory programs.
RANKING: 3
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
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This property is not directly adjacent to any existing environmentally sensitive lands.
RANKING: 0
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing preservation lands.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Cockroach Creek Greenway
Site Location: The site is located on Old Morris Bridge Road, East of I-75 and south of Morris
Bridge Road.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
The majority of this site has been cleared for agriculture, but some unaltered habitats remain. The
mixed hardwood-coniferous forest (24.2 acres), upland hardwood forest (10.29 acres) and wet
prairie (3.89 acres) are ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a
restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other factors) by the Florida Natural Areas
Inventory (https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm). Also, while not listed as scarce in the
State, mesic flatwoods (171.78 acres) are disappearing in Hillsborough County.
RANKING: 4
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The remaining natural habitats are most likely supporting some listed species. If restored, this site
could host many more species.
RANKING: 6
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 1784.5 acres. Of that, 76.11 acres (4.25%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
There are several riparian systems that run through this property. Named creeks include Curiosity
Creek, Wildcat Creek, and Cockroach Creek, but there are other tributaries. These systems, and a
buffer, would be protected by regulatory programs, but depending on the density of development
around them, they may suffer.
RANKING: 8
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5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
The parcels directly adjacent to the acquired Cockroach Creek Greenway Preserves would provide
a valuable addition that would allow that preserve to be managed with prescribed fire. Combining
these properties with the lands north of Valroy Road, provide a critical habitat corridor connecting
Tampa Bay to the Little Manatee River.
RANKING: 9
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
The parcels directly adjacent to the acquired Cockroach Creek Greenway Preserves would provide
a significant benefit to the long-term management and ecological function of that site.
RANKING: 5
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Site Name: Cow House Creek
Site Location: The site is located directly west of Interstate 75 and north of East Fowler Ave
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
The majority of this site contains unaltered habitats because it is mostly riverine. Mixed hardwood-
coniferous habitat (4.29 acres) is ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally
in a restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other factors) by the Florida Natural Areas
Inventory (https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm).
RANKING: 5
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The wetlands on this property are providing habitat and foraging areas for several listed species of
birds. Although small, if restored, the uplands could provide some habitat for listed species as
well.
RANKING: 4
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 122.33 acres. Of that, 26.7 acres (21.82%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 2
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
The uplands would not be protected through regulatory programs, but the majority of this site
would be because it is wetlands. Considering this site drains directly into the Hillsborough River,
it does play a role in the enhancement and protection of water quality for the area.
RANKING: 5
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This is not connected to any existing environmentally sensitive lands.
RANKING: 0
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing preservation lands.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Ekker Addition
Site Location: The site is located north of Symmes Road and along Lovegreen Lane.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
The majority of this site was cleared and turned into fishponds, but there are some areas of
unaltered habitat. The salt marsh (approximately 10.16 acres) would be considered scarce in
Hillsborough County and the mixed hardwood-coniferous habitat (13.53 acres) is ranked as S3
(either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to
extinction
from
other
factors)
by
the
Florida
Natural
Areas
Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm).
RANKING: 3
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
Habitat along Bullfrog Creek is most likely providing important habitat for listed species. This
habitat could be expanded through creating more wetlands in the disturbed areas.
RANKING: 4
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 122.93 acres. Of that, 0.00 acres (0%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 0
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
Because of its size, and the fact that it is directly adjacent to Bullfrog Creek, this site is most likely
playing a role in the enhancement and protection of water quality. The fishponds can be filled and
are not protected by regulatory programs.
RANKING: 6
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site is only separated from the acquired Ekker Preserve by a powerline right-of-way. It would
be a beneficial addition to that preserve.
RANKING: 3
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This addition would allow for the continued use of prescribed fire at the acquired Ekker Preserve,
which is important for long-term management and ecological function.
RANKING: 3
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Site Name: Fish Hawk Park Portion
Site Location: The site is north of osprey ridge Drive and west of Parkset Drive.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
Although not shown on the land cover map, a site visit to this property in 2017 revealed that native
habitat on the site includes mesic flatwoods, mixed hardwood hammock, and a small overgrown
scrub. The flatwoods behind the school are very wet and appear to act as a retention area when
the adjacent ponds overflow.
The mixed hardwood-coniferous habitat (~6 acres) is ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in
Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other factors) and
scrub is ranked S2 (imperiled in Florida because of rarity or because of the vulnerability to
extinction due to some natural or man-mad factor) by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm).
RANKING: 5
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The wetland on this property is most likely providing some habitat and foraging areas for several
listed species of birds, but this site, by itself, is too small to provide significant habitat.
RANKING: 1
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 10.29 acres. Of that, 1.67 acres (16.23%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
This site does not play a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and quantity
nor provide protection for fish and wildlife habitat.
RANKING: 0
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5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site does not buffer any public lands, but it does form a small corridor that could allow animals
to move southeast towards Fish Hawk Creek and into preserved lands.
RANKING: 1
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing preservation lands.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Georgetown
Site Location: This site is located on Tampa Bay at the end of Fair Oaks Avenue.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
This site does not contain native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna. This site was created from
dredge and fill material.
Since its creation, native species have inhabited the site and formed mangrove habitat which is
considered scarce in Hillsborough County. The site is also one of the last undeveloped waterfront
parcels located on Old Tampa Bay.
RANKING: 2
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
Currently the site is providing minimal habitat to support endangered and threatened plants and
animals. If the site were to be utilized for estuarine wetland and coastal upland restoration, it would
provide habitat for a variety of migratory and wading birds.
.
RANKING: 3
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 84.07 acres. Of that, 0.00 acres (0%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 0
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
The site contains a mangrove fringe which is important habitat for an array of wildlife. Also, the
uplands have been approved for a high-rise residential development which could adversely affect
the water quality of Tampa Bay.
RANKING: 5
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5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
There are no existing preserved lands adjacent to this property.
RANKING: 0
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing preservation lands.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Golden Aster Scrub/Kitchen Connection
Site Location: West of Golden Aster Scrub Preserve, East of US. 41 in Gibsonton
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
This site does contain some areas of unaltered habitat. The salt marsh (approximately 16.23 acres)
would be considered scarce in Hillsborough County and the mixed hardwood-coniferous forest
(25.42 acres) is ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive
range or vulnerable to extinction from other factors) by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm)
RANKING: 5
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
Except for the areas that have homes, this site is most likely currently providing habitat to several
listed species including gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) in the xeric habitat and wading
birds in the mangrove forest.
RANKING: 6
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 84.01 acres. Of that, 12.6 acres (15%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
There is a small stream running through this property that brings freshwater from wetlands on the
Golden Aster Preserve to Tampa Bay. These estuarine habitats are important fish breeding/
hatchings areas. Development around this stream could disrupt freshwater flow and impact the
fish habitat.
RANKING: 5
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5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
Although not essential for protection and management, this site is the last available semi-natural
corridor that connects the Golden Aster Scrub Preserve to Tampa Bay and The Kitchen Preserve.
RANKING: 3
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not critical to the management and ecological functions associated with the Golden
Aster Preserve or The Kitchen Preserve.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Knights-Griffin Property
Site Location: This site is in Plant City between Knights Griffin Road and McGee Road.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
This site is mostly unaltered habitat. The mixed hardwood-coniferous (100.48 acres) and wet
prairie habitats (7.61 acres) are ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally
in a restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other factors) by the Florida Natural Areas
Inventory (https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm). The wetlands are also intact.
RANKING: 8
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The wetlands on this property are most likely providing some habitat and foraging areas for several
listed species of birds. The large areas of undisturbed uplands are also most likely providing
habitat important to listed species.
RANKING: 6
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 269.47 acres. Of that, 16.62 acres (6.17%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
Most of this site is uplands which most likely support an array of listed species. Although these
species may be present, they would not prevent the site from being developed.
RANKING: 3
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
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This site is not connected to any existing environmentally sensitive lands.
RANKING: 0
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing preservation lands.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Lake Stemper
Site Location: This site is located east of US-41 and south of Sunset LN, along the northern shore
of Lake Stemper in Lutz
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
The majority of this site is unaltered due to the fact that the eastern half is cypress strand that
appears to connect Commiston Lake to Lake Stemper. The mixed hardwood-coniferous (4.59
acres) is ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive range
or vulnerable to extinction from other factors) by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm).
RANKING: 5
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The wetlands on this property are most likely providing some habitat and foraging areas for several
listed species of birds. Considering the western boundary of the property is commercial and
residential, the north boundary is a road, the east boundary is a cypress strand, and the southern
boundary is a lake, it is highly unlikely that the current gopher tortoise population that resides in
the 10 acres of xeric soils will be sustainable.
RANKING: 4
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 35.58 acres. Of that, 9.54 acres (26.81%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 2
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
The wetlands on this property would be protected and may be playing a role in the enhancement
of local water quality. The uplands would not be protected and are too small to provide significant
habitat for wildlife.
RANKING: 3
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5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site is adjacent to the Nye Park Addition which is an “approved” ELAPP site. If both sites
were acquired, they would form a small corridor for animals to move from Lake Stemper north,
and vice versa, but it would not be considered essential.
RANKING: 1
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing preservation lands.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Little Manatee River Corridor Addition
Site Location: The site is located along the Hillsborough and Manatee County line between CR579
and Hobbs Road
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
The majority of this site has been cleared for agriculture, but some unaltered habitats remain. The
mixed hardwood-coniferous forest (29.18 acres), upland hardwood forest (3.75 acres), and wet
prairie (30.11 acres) are ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a
restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other factors), and the scrubby flatwoods (8.2
acres) is ranked S2 (imperiled in Florida because of rarity or because of vulnerability to extinction
due to some natural or man-made factor) by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm). Also, while not listed as scarce in the State, mesic
flatwoods (48.42 acres) are disappearing in Hillsborough County.
RANKING: 7
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The remaining natural habitats are most likely supporting some listed species. If restored, this site
would provide several different habitats to support listed species.
RANKING: 8
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 2625.99 acres. Of that, 341.98 acres (13.02%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
This site has a riparian wetland system that meanders through its center and discharges into the
Little Manatee River. Although there is a high probability that listed species would be found on
the site, a majority of the site is uplands, thus, is not protected through State and local wetland
regulatory measures.
2019 ELAPP SITE ASSESSMENT REPORT
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RANKING: 5
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This parcel’s northern boundary connects to the Upper Little Manatee River Preserve and is
considered a valuable addition which helps extend the natural corridor system associated with the
Preserve. Also, the Moody Branch Mitigation Park Wildlife and Environmental Area is less than
a mile to the southeast of this addition. Moddy Branch connects into hundreds of acres of other
protected lands creating critical habitat corridor.
RANKING: 10
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This addition connects two preserves and would provide a significant benefit to the long-term
management and ecological function of that site.
RANKING: 7
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Site Name: McIntosh/Zack Tract
Site Location: SE of the current McIntosh Zack Tract, North of E Sam Allen RD in Plant City.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
The mixed hardwood-coniferous forest (308.89 acres) and wet prairie (22.85 acres) are ranked as
S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to
extinction
from
other
factors)
by
the
Florida
Natural
Areas
Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm)
RANKING: 7
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
Because of its size and intact habitats, this site is most likely providing habitat to the support and
protection of state and/or federally listed species, especially in the wetlands and transitional zones.
RANKING: 7
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 480.58 acres. Of that, 36.19 acres (8%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
This site appears to be part of the East Canal drainage that flows through the acquired
Mcintosh/Zack Tract and then on to Lower Green Swamp Preserve where it runs into
Itchepackessa Creek. It is most likely playing a role in the impoundment and cleansing of the
water draining through, which is vital for water quality.
RANKING: 8
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
2019 ELAPP SITE ASSESSMENT REPORT
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site adjoins the currently acquired McIntosh/Zack Tract at its northwest corner, but is not
essential for protection and management of the site.
RANKING: 0
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
The currently acquired McIntosh/Zack Tract was recontoured to take in water from the east canal
and cleanse it prior to it reaching Itchepackessa Creek. If this property were developed and/or
cleared for farming, it could jeopardize the function of the current ponds and impact our waters.
Purchasing this site and keeping it in a natural form would provide a benefit to the long-term
management of the preserves along the canal system.
RANKING:5
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Site Name: Nye Park Addition
Site Location: The site is located east of US 41, north of Sunset Lane and west of Nye Park.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
This site has some areas of undisturbed habitat. The mixed hardwood-coniferous (33.02 acres) is
ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or
vulnerable to extinction from other factors) by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm). The wetlands are also intact.
RANKING: 6
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
During the 2007 site assessment, twenty active gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) burrows
were counted and are most likely still there. The wetlands are also providing some habitat and
foraging areas for several listed species of birds.
RANKING: 5
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 71.96 acres. Of that, 22.91 acres (31.84%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 3
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
A large component of this site is wetlands, including part of Lake Commiston, and may play a
vital role in the enhancement and protection of local water quality and quantity. Although there
are Gopher Tortoises (Gopherus polyphemus) located on the uplands, it is unlikely that they would
be protected.
RANKING: 5
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
2019 ELAPP SITE ASSESSMENT REPORT
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site is adjacent to the Lake Stemper site, which is an “approved” ELAPP site. If both sites
were acquired, they would form a small corridor for animals to move from Lake Stemper north,
and vice versa, but it would not be considered essential.
RANKING: 1
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing preservation lands.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Old Morris Bridge Road
Site Location: The site is located on Old Morris Bridge Road, East of I-75 and south of Morris
Bridge Road.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
This property has some areas of native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna. The mixed hardwood-
coniferous forest (18.8 acres) and mesic hammock (6.01 acres) are ranked as S3 (either very rare
and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other
factors) by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory (https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm)
RANKING: 3
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
Gopher tortoises (Gopherus polyphemus) have been documented on this site in the northern xeric
soils. The portion that contains floodplain forests most likely has listed species as well.
RANKING: 6
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 116.97 acres. Of that, 43.7 acres (37%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 3
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
Although Gopher Tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) are protected through existing regulations, it
is unlikely that they (or others listed species present) would prevent the entire site from being
developed.
RANKING: 3
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
2019 ELAPP SITE ASSESSMENT REPORT
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
These parcels are adjacent to property owned by the Southwest Florida Water Management
District, but they are not essential for protection and management of those lands.
RANKING: 2
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not critical to the management and ecological functions associated with the preserved
lands to the east.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Pemberton Creek
Site Location: The site is located north if Interstate 4, west of Kirkland Road, east of Gallagher
Road.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
This site has some areas of undisturbed habitat. The mixed hardwood-coniferous (85.56 acres)
and wet prairie (17.33 acres) are ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally
in a restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other factors) by the Florida Natural Areas
Inventory (https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm). Some of the wetlands are also intact.
RANKING: 5
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The wetlands are most likley providing some habitat and foraging areas for several listed species
of birds. If restored, the uplands consist of several types of soils that could provide an array of
habitats for listed species.
RANKING: 5
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 334.79 acres. Of that, 44.44 acres (13.27%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
This site might be playing a role in the enhancement of local water quality and quantity. The
uplands would not be protected.
RANKING: 5
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
2019 ELAPP SITE ASSESSMENT REPORT
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing environmentally sensitive lands.
RANKING: 0
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing preservation lands.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Rocky/Brushy Creek Greenway
Site Location: The site is located east of Gunn Hwy, south of Ehrlich Rd, North of Citrus Park
Drive.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
This site has some areas of undisturbed habitat. Most of the area that is undisturbed is the riparian
corridor associated with Rocky Creek. The mixed hardwood-coniferous (9.67 acres) is ranked as
S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to
extinction
from
other
factors)
by
the
Florida
Natural
Areas
Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm).
RANKING: 5
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
Although small, there are most likely listed species utilizing the riparian system, but it is unlikely
they can be sustained on a property this small.
RANKING: 3
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 23.39. Of that, 4.32 acres (18.47%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
This site is playing a small role in the protection of water quality in the area. Most of the
uplands would not be protected by regulatory programs.
RANKING: 2
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
2019 ELAPP SITE ASSESSMENT REPORT
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site would provide valuable addition to the acquired Rocky Creek Preserve and buffer the site
from outside impacts.
RANKING: 5
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is adjacent to Rocky Creek Preserve. Any addition to that preserve would provide a
significant benefit to the long-term management and ecological function of the preserve.
RANKING: 5
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Site Name: Simmons Hammock Greenway
Site Location: The site is located just south of I-4 and north of Jess Walden Road. The northern
boundary is separated by I-4 from the “approved” Baker Creek & Tributaries Site.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
Most of this site has been disturbed over the years. Of the habitat that remains the mixed
hardwood-coniferous (188.38 acres) and wet prairie (4.66 acres) are ranked as S3 (either very rare
and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other
factors) by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory (https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm).
RANKING: 3
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The wetlands on this site are most likely providing habitat for serval listed species including birds,
amphibians, and plants. The uplands are small, but some listed species could be supported.
RANKING: 3
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 601.64. Of that, 141.37 acres (23.50%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 2
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
This site does not play a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and quantity.
Because of its size, it is most likely providing some protection for wildlife and upland areas would
not be adequately protected through local, state, and federal regulatory programs.
RANKING: 2
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site is not directly connected to any existing preserved land. It is adjacent to the “approved”
Baker Creek & Tributaries Site which is only separated from the north boundary by I-4. If both
sites were preserved, it would form a natural greenway/corridor to Lake Thonotosassa.
RANKING: 1
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing preserves.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Sydney Dover Trails Addition
Site Location: The site is located north of SR 60 and east Sydney Washer Road.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
It appears that most of the uplands have been cleared in the past, but some unaltered habitat
remains. Of the habitat that remains the mixed hardwood-coniferous (71.05 acres) is ranked S3
(either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to
extinction
from
other
factors)
by
the
Florida
Natural
Areas
Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm). The wetlands systems and associated buffers also
appear to be intact.
RANKING: 5
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
The wetlands systems and associated buffers are most likely providing habitat to listed species.
The uplands are small, but if restored, could provide some habitat.
RANKING: 3
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 186.53. Of that, 10.42 acres (5.59%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
This site does play a role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and quantity. Turkey
Creek runs along the east side of the property. While the creek and buffer would be protected, the
uplands would not.
RANKING: 5
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site is directly east of Sydney Dover Trails Conservation Park, but is not essential for
protection and management of that park.
RANKING: 0
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is adjacent to Sydney Dover Trails Conservation Park, but doe does not provide a
significant benefit to the long-term management and ecological function of the park.
RANKING: 0
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Site Name: Varn/ Cone Ranch Greenway
Site Location: The site is located west of Paul Buckman Hwy, south of Bruton Rd.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
Approximately 50% of this property has been cleared and replaced with improved pasture. The
natural habitats that remain are unaltered and some have been maintained with prescribed fire.
The mixed hardwood-coniferous forest (105.81 acres) and wet prairie (15.04 acres) are ranked as
S3 (either very rare and local in Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to
extinction
from
other
factors)
by
the
Florida
Natural
Areas
Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm). Also, while not listed as scarce in the State, mesic
flatwoods (203.22 acres) are disappearing in Hillsborough County.
RANKING: 5
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
Due to its size (1477.74 acres), this site is most likely providing habitat to serval listed species. If
restored, this would increase listed species populations on the property.
RANKING: 8
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 1477.74 acres. Of that, 30.25 acres (2%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
The wetlands on this site would be protected by regulatory programs, but the uplands would not.
The wetlands are also providing surface water retention and aquifer recharge.
RANKING: 5
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5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site named the Varn/ Cone Ranch Greenway because it does provide a natural greenway
corridor.
RANKING: 3
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site enhances the Lower Green Swamp Preserves ecological function by allowing animal
movement through the areas, increasing species diversity.
RANKING: 2
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Site Name: Walton Acquisitions FL LLC
Site Location: The site is located south of E Knights Griffin Road and west of Charlie Taylor
Road.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
Most of this site has been cleared for agriculture. Of the habitat that remains the mixed hardwood-
coniferous (9.21 acres) and wet prairie (17.24 acres) are ranked as S3 (either very rare and local in
Florida or found locally in a restrictive range or vulnerable to extinction from other factors) by the
Florida Natural Areas Inventory (https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm).
RANKING: 3
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
In its current state, this site is not providing significant habitat important to the support or
protection of endangered or threatened plants and animals, but if resorted to native pine flatwoods,
it would be large enough to host several populations of species.
RANKING: 5
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 546.13. Of that, 73.19 acres (13.40%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 1
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
This site does not play a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and quantity.
Because of its size, it is most likely providing some protection for wildlife and upland areas would
not be adequately protected through local, state, and federal regulatory programs.
RANKING: 2
5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
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which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site is directly south of the Lower Green Swamp Nature Preserve. While it is not valuable for
access, it does buffer the existing preserve and adds to the wildlife corridor in the area.
RANKING: 5
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is adjacent to Lower Green Swamp Preserve. Preservation of this property would provide
a significant benefit to the long-term management and ecological function of the preserve.
RANKING: 5
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Site Name: Wimauma Scrub
Site Location: The site is located on the south side of Brigman Avenue, east of West Lake Road,
in Wimauma.
Qualifying Criteria Analysis:
1) Land containing native, relatively unaltered flora and fauna, including wetlands, uplands,
and transitional zones representing a natural habitat unique to, or scarce, within the State
or County.
This site has some areas of undisturbed habitat. The scrubby flatwoods (22.45 acres) and scrub
(2.6 acres) are ranked as S2 (Imperiled in Florida because of rarity or because of vulnerability to
extinction due to some natural or man-made factor) by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory
(https://www.fnai.org/natcom_accounts.cfm).
RANKING: 7
2) Land that provides or could provide, with or without restoration, habitat important to the
support or protection of state and/or federally listed species
During the 2006 site assessment, several gopher tortoises (Gopherus polyphemus) burrows were
found and the site was home to a family of endangered Florida Scrub Jays (Aphelocoma
coerulescens). It is unknown if these animals are still there, but it is highly likely that the gopher
tortoises can still be found.
RANKING: 5
3) Land containing intact xeric habitat or soils suitable for restoration of xeric habitat.
This site is a total of 54.41 acres. Of that, 27.44 acres (50.43%) are xeric soils.
RANKING: 5
4) Land which plays a vital role in the enhancement and protection of water quality and
quantity, including groundwater resources, or which provides protection for fish and wildlife
habitat, but which cannot be adequately protected through local, state, and federal
regulatory programs.
Although the gopher tortoises, Florida scrub jay and golden aster are protected through existing
regulations, it is unlikely that any of these factors could prevent the entire site from being
developed.
RANKING: 5
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5) Land that provides valuable access, urban/rural land links, protection zones, or additions
to existing environmentally sensitive lands or which forms part of a natural greenway system
which functions as a habitat corridor associated with such lands, and which is essential for
protection and management of those environmentally sensitive lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing environmentally sensitive lands.
RANKING: 0
6) Land that protects existing preservation lands and would provide a significant benefit to
the long-term management and ecological function of those preserved lands.
This site is not adjacent to any existing preservation lands.
RANKING: 0
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