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Page 1 of 160 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 Page 2 of 160 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 16-22 c. Acquired/Substantially Acquired Sites 23-54 Alafia River South Prong 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 Page 3 of 160 Rhodine Scrub 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 55-59 Blackwater Creek 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 SITE ASSESSMENT REPORT SUMMARY: Page 4 of 160 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. 4. 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. 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. 6. 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. Page 5 of 160 7. Ease of acquisition. 8. Cost, size, and manageability of site. Recommended rankings for qualifications 1-6 are provided in this report, however, these recommendations are not final, but subject to revision by the Site Selection Committee, which will issue the final ranking at the annual public meeting. REMAINDER OF PAGE LEFT BLANK Page 6 of 160 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 REMAINDER OF PAGE LEFT BLANK Page 7 of 160 Page 8 of 160 Page 9 of 160 Page 10 of 160 Page 11 of 160 Page 12 of 160 Page 13 of 160 Page 14 of 160 Page 15 of 160 Page 16 of 160 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. Provisional Suspended Sites: 1. Egmont Key 2. Lake Park Conservation Park 3. Lake Rogers Conservation Park * NOTE: NOT ALL PROVISIONAL SUSPENDED SITES ARE SHOWN IN THE DOCUMENT. REMAINDER OF PAGE LEFT BLANK Page 17 of 160 Page 18 of 160 Page 19 of 160 Page 20 of 160 Page 21 of 160 Page 22 of 160 Page 23 of 160 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 Page 24 of 160 Page 25 of 160 Page 26 of 160 Page 27 of 160 Page 28 of 160 Page 29 of 160 Page 30 of 160 Page 31 of 160 Page 32 of 160 Page 33 of 160 Page 34 of 160 Page 35 of 160 Page 36 of 160 Page 37 of 160 Page 38 of 160 Page 39 of 160 Page 40 of 160 Page 41 of 160 Page 42 of 160 Page 43 of 160 Page 44 of 160 Page 45 of 160 Page 46 of 160 Page 47 of 160 Page 48 of 160 Page 49 of 160 Page 50 of 160 Page 51 of 160 Page 52 of 160 Page 53 of 160 Page 54 of 160 Page 55 of 160 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) REMAINDER OF PAGE LEFT BLANK Page 56 of 160 Page 57 of 160 Page 58 of 160 Page 59 of 160 Page 60 of 160 SITES TO BE RANKED Page 61 of 160 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 Page 62 of 160 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 Page 63 of 160 Page 64 of 160 Page 65 of 160 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 Page 66 of 160 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 Page 67 of 160 Page 68 of 160 Page 69 of 160 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 Page 70 of 160 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 Page 71 of 160 Page 72 of 160 Page 73 of 160 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 Page 74 of 160 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 Page 75 of 160 Page 76 of 160 Page 77 of 160 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 Page 78 of 160 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 Page 79 of 160 Page 80 of 160 Page 81 of 160 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. Page 82 of 160 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 Page 83 of 160 Page 84 of 160 Page 85 of 160 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 Page 86 of 160 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 Page 87 of 160 Page 88 of 160 Page 89 of 160 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 Page 90 of 160 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 Page 91 of 160 Page 92 of 160 Page 93 of 160 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 Page 94 of 160 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 Page 95 of 160 Page 96 of 160 Page 97 of 160 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 Page 98 of 160 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 Page 99 of 160 Page 100 of 160 Page 101 of 160 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 Page 102 of 160 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 Page 103 of 160 Page 104 of 160 Page 105 of 160 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 Page 106 of 160 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 Page 107 of 160 Page 108 of 160 Page 109 of 160 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. Page 110 of 160 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 Page 111 of 160 Page 112 of 160 Page 113 of 160 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 Page 114 of 160 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 Page 115 of 160 Page 116 of 160 Page 117 of 160 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. Page 118 of 160 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 Page 119 of 160 Page 120 of 160 Page 121 of 160 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 Page 122 of 160 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 Page 123 of 160 Page 124 of 160 Page 125 of 160 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 Page 126 of 160 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 Page 127 of 160 Page 128 of 160 Page 129 of 160 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 Page 130 of 160 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 Page 131 of 160 Page 132 of 160 Page 133 of 160 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 Page 134 of 160 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 Page 135 of 160 Page 136 of 160 Page 137 of 160 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 Page 138 of 160 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 Page 139 of 160 Page 140 of 160 Page 141 of 160 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 Page 142 of 160 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 Page 143 of 160 Page 144 of 160 Page 145 of 160 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 Page 146 of 160 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 Page 147 of 160 Page 148 of 160 Page 149 of 160 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 Page 150 of 160 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 Page 151 of 160 Page 152 of 160 Page 153 of 160 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 Page 154 of 160 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 Page 155 of 160 Page 156 of 160 Page 157 of 160 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 Page 158 of 160 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 Page 159 of 160 Page 160 of 160
