Alafia Corridor Surplus Lands Assessment

Alafia River Corridor
Potential Surplus Parcel Review

PARCEL INFORMATION
SWF Surplus Parcel ID: ARC-1
SWF Parent Parcel(s): 11-709-101
Size:
57
Funding Source(s):
WMLTF
County:
Hillsborough
Date(s) Acquired:
6-20-1996
SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT INFORMATION
Names:
Lisann Morris, Mark Fulkerson, Jamison Janke, Janie Hagberg, Carmen Sanders,
Will VanGelder, Colleen Kruk, Cheryl Hill, Jason Hopp, Steve Blaschka, Margit
Crowell, Trisha Neasman, Ken Frink
Bureaus/Sections:
Water Resources/ Water Supply, Water Resources/Engineering & Watershed

Management, Natural Systems and Restoration/SWIM, Operations & Land
Management/Land Resources, Operations & Land Management/Real Estate
Services, Data Collection/Hydrologic Data, Public Affairs/External Affairs,
Executive
Parcels contribution to
Water Supply Protection
Northeast corner has small overlap with well buffer
Flood Protection
No detailed study, currently not within existing FEMA floodplain
Water Quality Protection
Impairments downstream for dissolved oxygen
Natural Systems Protection
Mostly intact natural systems
Parcel management issues
Managed by and leased to Hillsborough County
Parcels access issues if

surplused
Parcel contains access road that includes the Countys access to another
parcel; service road is important for the Countys future management of
other parcels; access road could be moved if County agrees
Parcels current access

issues
None
Parcels role in maintaining

public access
Provides access to other properties managed by the County
Parcels cultural resources
None mapped
Page 7
Parcels linkage of
conservation corridors
No
Parcels effect on
no net loss of hunting lands
None
Parcels marketability
County staff recommends that the District retain since the parcel
provides recreational benefits and habitat for listed species.
Lands are leased to the County and the County manages in
conjunction with management of its adjoining conservation lands.
County has no problem continuing to manage these lands.
County has the right to acquire these parcels at 50% of appraised
value.
County staff is not supportive of any land use changes, as they have a
direct interest in these properties.
Parcel contains data

collection site(s)
None
Parcel recommended to
continue surplus
evaluation?
No
If parcel recommended for N/A

surplus, list conditions [e.g.,
retain conservation or
access easement]
If parcel is not
recommended for surplus,
recommend fee and/or
management
responsibilities be
transferred to other
governmental agency?
Discuss land exchange or renegotiating payment of management costs

with Hillsborough County.
Page 8
Alafia River Corridor (Surplus IDs - ARC-1, ARC-4, ARC-5)

Surplus Parcel
SWFWMD Fee Acquisition
SWFWMD Less-than-fee
Acquisition
Other Conservation Lands
Surplus ID
ARC-1
Surplus ID
ARC-4
Surplus ID
ARC-5
1.5
uth
Fo
rk
anc
h
So
Miles
Sources: Esri, DeLorme, HERE, TomTom, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO,

USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri
Page 9
Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), swisstopo, and the GIS User Community
Alafia River Corridor (Surplus ID - ARC-1)

Subject
Area
57 ac.
E KEYSVILLE RD
ENGLISH ACRES DR
BERRY FARM RD
Potential Surplus Parcel

0
300
Feet
600
2014 IMAGERY
Lands Owned by the District but

Managed by Hillsborough County Alaiva River Corridor
Page 10
SOUTHWOOD PINES ST

PARCEL INFORMATION
Size:
94
Funding Source(s):
P2000
County:
Hillsborough
Date(s) Acquired:
11-3-1994
Names:
Bureaus/Sections:

Executive
No concern
Flood Protection
No detailed study, currently not within existing FEMA floodplain
Impairments downstream for dissolved oxygen
Majority altered
Managed by and leased to Hillsborough County; parcel used for

trailhead access, parking and portion of equestrian trail. Adjacent to
only access for this portion of property.

surplused
Would need to retain access off Old Welcome Road and would need to
adjust boundary

issues
None

public access
Used for trailhead access, parking and portion of equestrian trail
None mapped
Page 11
Parcels linkage of
Peripheral to a core
Parcels effect on
None
value.

collection site(s)
None
No
continue surplus evaluation?
If parcel recommended for
access easement]
N/A
If parcel is not
management
responsibilities be

Page 12

Surplus Parcel
Acquisition
Surplus ID
ARC-1
Surplus ID
ARC-4
Surplus ID
ARC-5
1.5
uth
Fo
rk
anc
h
So
Miles

Page 13
HOLSTEIN RD
CHAROLAIS RD
BRAHMAN RD
ANGUS LN

Subject
Area
OLD WELCOME RD
39
94 ac.

0
300
Feet
600
2014 IMAGERY

Page 14

PARCEL INFORMATION
Size:
15
Funding Source(s):
P2000
County:
Hillsborough
Date(s) Acquired:
11-3-1994
Names:
Bureaus/Sections:

Executive
No concern
Flood Protection
Adjacent to Chito Branch, approximately 17% within the floodplain
Impairments downstream for dissolved oxygen; proximity to tributary;

wetlands in northwest corner and buffer important for water quality
Mostly altered with intact wetland communities
Managed by and leased to Hillsborough County

surplused
None

issues
Doesnt provide access, but important due to proximity to CR 39

public access
None
None mapped
Parcels linkage of
Current boundaries not critical to corridor linkage, but with acquisition

of other lands would contribute to conservation corridors.
Page 15
Parcels effect on
None
value.

collection site(s)
None
continue surplus
evaluation?
No
If parcel recommended for

access easement]
N/A
If parcel is not
management
responsibilities be

Page 16

Surplus Parcel
Acquisition
Surplus ID
ARC-1
Surplus ID
ARC-4
Surplus ID
ARC-5
1.5
uth
Fo
rk
anc
h
So
Miles

Page 17

Subject
Area
39
15 ac.

0
200
Feet
400
2014 IMAGERY

Page 18
Organization
Comments
Last Name First Name
County
Amber
Hillsborough
NO to surplussing ARC-4, 5, and 1 because it is important as a wildlife corridor and for light recreational use
Hillsborough
These reserves are important to local land owners for hiking, horseback riding and wild life preservation. Also,
local water supplies will be detrimentally affected if these areas are not left in their natural state.
Anthony
Jobin
Zegarski
Barksdale
Liz
Hillsborough
I am a frequent user of equestrian trails all over the Tampa Bay area. I travel from the Keystone/Odessa area at
least once a month to ride the Alafia River Corridor trail. It is truly unique, beautiful and well maintained (thank
you). It appears that if ARC-1, ARC-4, and ARC-5 are sold off, this trail would be closed. Please, please re-consider
this decision. Each time I am out on this trail, I see many other happy users (riders and hikers) enjoying it.
De Prospo
Joseph
Hillsborough
Please do not sell off Arc1, Arc4 and Arc5. We NEEDS THESE AREAS TO REMAIN AS THEY ARE.
Dupuis
Raymond
Hillsborough
Findley
Carlene
Hillsborough
My wife and I own 6.4 acres abutting ARC4. We, and our grandchildren, used the park with our horses for 10
years. The horses are gone now, but we still hike in park, most often in the ARC4 area. Others use the park on a
daily basis. This land is home to many wildlife species -- some threatened or near extinction. I sighted a panther
about 12 years ago, a ox squirrel, many deer. The land is a sponge for the aquifer. Development or intensive
farming would would be devastating. Please leave as is.
Please save anything you possibly can of this once beautiful state. It is very sad and depressing to see what has
happened in the last 20 years.
Hillsborough
I see no need in selling the above mentioned properties. These properties will only fall into the hands of
developers and be used to build cookie cutter homes . It is in the best interest of the community to leave these
properties in they're pristine state for the enjoyment of the citizens of the community . What will we do when
these lands are developed ? Where are we going to go then ? to the mall ?
Rick
Hillsborough
Construction has gotten out of hand and wildlife is running out of safe environments. These properties are
supposed to have been purchased to ensure that they would remain undeveloped. To have these properties sold
now would be a terrible blow to the credibility of the original purpose for this whole program. With less and less
wilderness areas we will continue to lose more and more wildlife.
Gremley
Kurt G.
Hillsborough
Hillsborough County
Hachen
Grant
Hillsborough
Flattley
Foley
Phillip
Arc-1, Arc-4, Arc-5 Hillsborough County staff does not support surplusing these parcels due to listed specifics,
recreational uses, and are being managed by Hillsborough County. LDH-2, LDH-3 Hillsborough County manages
adjoining lands for a trail. Staff would recommend these for acquisition & management by County.
Please do not surplus ARC-4, 5, and 1! I believe it is needs to remain a wildlife corridor and for light recreational
use to the public.
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County
Hall
Kristen
Hillsborough
jacobs
Sherri
Pinellas
Jessica
Solis
Hillsborough
Johnson
Alison
Hillsborough
Johnson
Alison & Robert Hillsborough
Jones
Harriett
Levy
Kirk
Esther
Hillsborough
Organization
Comments
Strongly against ARC-4 (old welcome, Alafia) property becoming surplus. Without this property, the wildlife
sanctuary, A to Z managgerie will not be able to continue to rescue and release essential wildlife in the area.
This property directly effects the lives and well being of the wildlife we reserve. I actively use the trails and know
that it is a very loved and essential property for the well being of a ton of wildlife.
please do nor sell any parcels in the Alafia corridor. They are vital to wildlife and necessary to maintain
equestrian pathways. I would much prefer that you purchase mor land to protect!
These parcels of land are incredibly important to wildlife, who use this as a corridor from animal rehabilitation,
to the wild. If this land is disturbed, the wildlife will no longer have a safe haven to join the wild. Please consider
keeping this land natural, this piece is truly valuable.
I am vehemently opposed to making ARC 4(Alafia River Corridor-94 acres on Old Welcome Rd)surplus land. This
property provides habitat for wild life and endangered species as well as recreational opportunity. "The SMEs
then performed a detailed evaluation of the identified portions of District lands to better determine if they did
not provide substantial water resource, were not considered a cultural resource, were not a conservation
corridor and would not affect recreational opportunity".
Strongly opposed to the reclassification of ARC4 (Old Welcome Rd) property to surplus Land. This property is an
active park w/active hores back riding trails. This property also provides habitat for significant wild life,
endangered species and cultural significance. This property is also adjoining the state horse park & is opposed
by Hillsborough County to be sold as Surplus.
I am opposed to selling these properties. The present conservation land is still valuable as further purchases can
be made in the area to connect the parcels and increase control for the preservation of water resources.
This land is important for wildlife as a part of a corridor. We just saw people travel was it for 10 days following
some of the wildlife corridor. Please do not surplus this land. We need to be careful of what land we develop.
Land needs to be left for wildlife before it is too late.
Kirkland
Jackie
Hillsborough
Knight
Carla
Hillsborough
I have recently been advised that SWFWMD is considering selling off as surplus ARC 5, 4, and 1. I believe selling
this land would jeopardize our future in many ways, just to mention a few: wildlife, endangered species, water,
and providing recreational lands where the young can go and learn the beauty of natural Florida.
Please do not jeopardize the future of Florida by selling this land.
I object to the sale of the above parcels. These areas are crucial for wildlife, the environment and recreation.
They need to be protected by the water management district. Thank you.
Hillsborough
I am opposed to the sale of 166 acres of the current Alafia River Corridor Nature Preserve(Old
Welcome)including the parking area & a section of the horse trails & I am opposed to any other parcels of this
preserve's lands being placed on a surplus lands list. The sale of this property will adversely affect recreational
opportunities which your own Subject Matter Experts (SEMs) and Hillsborough Co. Parks are opposed to. I
request these parcels be permanently removed from the surplus lands list.
Lauer
Miriam
Page 20
County
Organization
Comments
Sarasota
The three parcels listed for Alafia river corridor contain native habitat and are contiguous to other land. Arc 4 is
especially critical as a corridor connecting other larger parcels. Rather than surplus the three Arc parcels every
effort should be made to acquire additional parcels to more fully incorporate these into the larger landholdings.
Hillsborough
The property in question, has for 15 years plus been quietly doing its job as a recreational area for equestrians &
hikers,
It is also a home to many endangered, threatened or special concern animals, along with native plants.
By the very nature of the property with open fields
and hammock areas it assists in capturing rain water.
How could this property suddenly cease to meet the criteria
for land to be preserved?
I strongly oppose the action of listing the land as surplus. It is wrong.
Hillsborough
my family and I use this park land every week. Many other families bring their children here to ride horses and
introduce them to the beauties of nature. There are dozens of species of wildlife living on this property and
many are endangered or protected by law. To surplus this land would be grossly unethical and would display a
blatant disregard to not only the protected wildlife which lives here but the wishes of hundreds of tax paying
voters who have expressed their extreme opposition to this
Mandarelli Sam
Hillsborough
Against ARC 4,5, & 1 My first concern is that the area I am contesting the sale of is mislabeled on all of the
representation maps. This area around Old Welcome Rd. borders my property. It is currently used as a horse
park by hundreds of people. Many children and young adults are brought to this park to ride and interact with
their Families and learn valuable life lessons on dealing with horses and the value of wildlife areas. With all the
construction of subdivisions in the area it would be irresponsible to take away the santuary. This is home to so
many forms of wildlife that destroying it would be tragic. And for the record, I am a licensed contracotr. I make
my living from sub-division construction. This is not the right place for development.
Melillo
Penny
Hillsborough
Please do not sell this land except for environmental and recreational use.
do NOT sell off these environmentally sensistive mands that provide habitat for many species of concern (gopher
tortoise) et al.
Moreda
Lori
Hillsborough
These lands offer great horse riding trails and areas to explore "natural florida".
Hillsborough
In reference to ARC-4 it would be devastating to me and my family if this property is sold. This is an area where
my family can safely ride horses and enjoy nature and is an asset to the county. The county is allowing the
building of more and more developments and green space is becoming scarce. This would also greatly affect the
property values of everyone on Old Welcome road and surrounding areas for the negative. Please do not sell
this property.
Lewis
Lynn
William
Ryder
mandarelli Samuel
Packham
Brad
Page 21
Packham
Naomi
County
Hillsborough
Organization
Comments
We fell in love with our property on Old Welcome Rd because of the SWFWMD area directly behind the house.
We love that when we look out our back window we get to see nature. Over the course of 5 years my young
daughter has had the opportunity to see deer, coyotes, bobcats, and many different animals because of that
property. We cherish that land, please do not sell it so it can be developed into more homes. Selling it would be
a tragedy not only for my family but for all those on Old Welcome Rd.
Governing Board
I am writing to contest the planned sell of the 94 acres known as surplus land ID- ARC-4. This property should not
be placed into the public hands where it will not doubt be developed for residential homes. This property is
valuable as part of the park system and provides access for the equestrian trails and walking path from Old
Welcome Rd.
It is also a refuge for wildlife that is frequently seen such as gopher turtles, American Bald Eagles and many bird
species.
Parker
Parks
Anthony
Mandy
Hillsborough
Hillsborough
Tony Parker
Please do not sell the access and parking area (ARC-4) to one of the best equestrian parks around affectionately
known as Old Welcome (also Arc-1 and Arc-5). The areas that are available to equestrians are dwindling. This is a
well-used equestrian park that allows us to actually get out and enjoy land purchased with our tax dollars.
Versus other parcels which provide no, or difficult, public access.
Will the comments from citizens who submitted prior to the April 14th meeting going to be considered? It
appears the EAC packet only contains comments through April 5, 2015?
Parks
Mandy
Hillsborough
Patrias
Sherry
Hillsborough
Patrias
Greg
Hillsborough
The only notification given of the meeting was a concerned citizen's home made sign leaned against a stop sign
that said to visit the SWFWMD web-site. Why is more official notice not given out on the nearest adjacent major
road?
The sale/surplus of the land on Old Welcome Road with the horse riders staging area/trails, etc. is purely a
business decision to sell the land to a developer since the real estate market is booming again. This CANNOT be
allowed due to environmental concerns and recreational purposes.
The sale/surplus of the land on Old Welcome Road with the horse riders staging area/trails, etc. is purely a
business decision to sell the land to a developer since the real estate market is booming again. This CANNOT be
allowed due to environmental concerns and recreational purposes.
Hillsborough
this property is teeming with fauna and a major spot for rehabbers to release native wildlife and keep an eye on
those that have been let loose. Most of the animals in the area have been cared for by local wildlife rescuers and
are kept a close eye on while they are integrated into existing colonies and territories. If this property is
destroyed it will be a major devastation to all the hard work put into saving these animals.
peacock
Kacey
Page 22
County
Purcell
marna
Hillsborough
Rate
Kim
Hillsborough
Ryder
Lynn
Hillsborough
Ryder
Lynn
Hillsborough
Simmons
Conner
Hillsborough
Smith
Dolly
Hillsborough
Solis
Jessica
Hillsborough
Organization
Comments
Steinbraker Irene
Hillsborough
Stetson
Suwannee
This property is very valuable to our wildlife we need to preserve.

I am against the sale of ARC-4, ARC-5 and ARC-1 in the Alafia River Corridor. The properties are crucial to wildlife
and the environment. Sale of this land would cut off access to equestrian and hiking trails. Development of this
land would displace animals. It is my understanding that neither the adjacent property owners nor
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY are for the sale of this land. Please do the right thing and retain/preserve these parcels
of property.
Strongly against surplus of ARC 1, 4, 5. This property has met all requirements for over 20 years! Now suddenly it
does not. Something is wrong. We would have no access to old. welcome
My property adjoins this land and I am very concerned about the status of the land changing. This is a beautiful
property and should be preserved. This land is used by a variety of people and there is no benefit from
separating it from the rest of the corridor.
This land is needed for a natural wildlife area and buffer from development. I have seen Gopher tortoises, deer,
turkey, coyote and various other wildlife on this land. This is also great undeveloped land for unpolluted ground
water absorption.
Please save horse riders access to our Old Welcome Trail in Hillsborough County. Please don't sell as surplus
land.
These parcels of land are incredibly important to wildlife, who use this as a corridor from animal rehabilitation,
to the wild. If this land is disturbed, the wildlife will no longer have a safe haven to join the wild. Please consider
keeping this land natural, this piece is truly valuable.
My Family uses the park all the time. I am a volunteer with Renee Zegarski and it would be a crime to take this
park from our wildlife and enjoyment of the park for home owners. We need to quit taking all vacant beautiful
woods that is Gods land.
I am writing this for concern of property being considered for sale for the Alfia Ricer corridor. Remember these
decisions are made they are done and a lot is lost. Land is not made folks. It needs to be protected and
preserved. Selling these parcels cuts off valuable trails of use to not only the local counties but for FLORIDA
residents. Please value these lands not as a price tag but as in passing on the beauty, protection and recreation
it provides to our future generations to enjoy.
Polk
These 94 acres should remain public land, as it is now. If 'sold', equestrians & others will not only loose usage of
these 94 acres but will also loose public access to the many miles of trails on the rest of the property. If another
parking area is somehow created, then there will be even MORE of a loss of trails. It is unbelievable that this
property could be butchered up in this way without realizing the huge potential loss to the public citizens.
Turbeville
Sarah
Karen
Turbeville
Karen
Polk
These 94 acres should remain public land, as it is now. If 'sold', equestrians & others will not only loose usage of
these 94 acres but will also loose public access to the many miles of trails on the rest of the property. If another
parking area is somehow created, then there will be even MORE of a loss of trails. It is unbelievable that this
property could be butchered up in this way without realizing the huge potential loss to the public citizens.
Valentine
Robert
Pasco
Do not sell this corridor of land at Alifia.

Page 23
Walters
Mike
Whittleton Cynthia
County
Hillsborough
Hillsborough
I am concerned about your intent on selling or transferring of the parcels of land at ARCP. The 93 acre(ARC-4)
tract is what includes the entrance and parking areas to access the park. There are no others areas for public
parking of trucks and horse trailers. This is one of the best riding areas in the county. These parcels include
populated Gopher Tortoise colonies. Selling off the tract would also cut off a beautiful section of the riding trails.
Once lost it will be unreplaceable.
How can you think of selling this beautiful preserve, it is filled with wildlife and old growth trees. I love walking
there, it is peaceful and quiet. How can you think of selling it to a developer who would build the maximum
structures and make the site as ugly as other places in the USA. This would only raise taxes and diminish
tourism, who wants to vacation in a place with buildings that crowded and ugly?
Elaine
Hillsborough
Zegarski
Brian
Hillsborough
zegarski
Renee
Renee
Comments
Do not sell this property! I have been using the equestrian trails on this land for years. This type of
property/land use is dwindling fast and before long there will no longer be a place in Hillsborough county to
pursue this activity. I also am concerned with the environmental impact if this land is developed or used for
agricultural purposes and the impact on ground water. Keep this natural green land.
Zegarski
zegarski
Organization
NO to surplussing ARC-4, 5 and 1 because of their importance as a wildlife corridor and for light recreational use!
NO! This land is part of an ELAPP preserve (paid for with tax dollars) and wildlife corridor. Besides low impact
recreational uses there are numerous protected and endangered species living there, as I have documented
(over 20 gopher tortoise burrows, fox squirrels, indigo snakes, bobcats, grand oak trees, etc.). As a Florida
A to Z Menagerie, Licensed Rehabitating Facility bordering the preserve I am able to soft-release numerous wildlife in my
sanctuary, who can then follow the corridor and thrive in the wild.
Hillsborough Inc.
Hillsborough
Against ARC-4 (Alafia River Corridor, Old Welcome Rd.) becoming surplus. This is an ELAPP Conservation Area - I
use the trails, value the wildlife corridor, and am a licensed wildlife rehabilitator who monitors and documents
the wildlife in the park. Bobcats, owls, hawks, deer, occasional grand oaks, eagles, panther, etc.
Page 24
BoARD oF CouNTY CoMMISSIONERS
Chairman
Michael S. Merrill
County Administrator
AI Higginbotham, District 7
Vice Chairman
C hip Fletcher
County Attorney
Lesley "Les" Mi ller, Jr., District 3

Chaplain
Michelle Leonhardt
County Internal Auditor
Sandra L. Murman , District I
Vicmr D . Crist, District 2

Stacy R. White, District 4
Ken H agan, District 5
Kevin Beckner, District 6
April 7, 2015
Michael A. Babb, Chair

Southwest Florida Water Management District
23 79 Broad Street
Brooksville, FL 34604-6899
Dear Chair Babb:

The purpose of this correspondence is to convey my concerns regarding some parcels that have
recently been listed as potential surplus lands for the Southwest Florida Water Management
District.
When I was reviewing the parcels in question, I recognized their value as a recreational
destination. They also serve the community as a water recharge and home for native Florida
flora and fauna.
I am particularly concerned with ARC-1 , ARC-4, and ARC-5, as they lie within my district. One
of my goals as a commissioner is to increase the green and recreational space within
Hillsborough County. It is disappointing to see the Water Management District, which has long
been a tremendous partner in conservation efforts, seeking to sell these properties.
Additionally, these parcels are in a rural part of the county, which is currently enjoyed by the
equestrian community and outdoorsmen of all kinds . As you can see from the correspondence I
have attached for your review, there is a desire within the community to preserve these lands as
pristine environmental preserves.
As you know, Hillsborough County is known for our renowned Jan K. Platt Environmental
Lands Acquisition and Protection Program. Furthermore, I have begun my own efforts to
conserve our natural heritage, recreational lands, and environmentally sensitive lands.
Post Office Box 1110 Tampa, Florida 33601

Phone (813) 272-5660
HillsboroughCounty.org
An AJ!innativf Action/Equal Opportunity Employ.r
Page 25
I am strongly committed to doing my part in conservation efforts and value the Southwest
Florida Water Management District as a partner in this endeavor. I implore you to not dispose of
these lands at this time.
Sincerely,
~il~
Stacy R. White
Hillsborough County Commissioner
District 4
SRW/mkn
CC :
Southwest Florida Water Management District Governing Board

Executive Director Robert Beltran
Southwest Florida Water Management District
2379 Broad Street
Brooksville, FL 34604-6899
Jan Tomlinsin Smith, Chair
Environmental Lands and Protection Program
3627 Berger Road
Lutz, FL 33549
Ms. Lynn Ryder
817 Old Welcome Road
Lithia, FL 33547
Ms. Alison Johnson
815 Old Welcome Road
Lithia, FL 33547
File
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Nikki Johnson
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
nikki johnson <nikkij39@gmail.com>

Monday, April 13, 2015 4:34 PM
Nikki Johnson
Fwd: (WEB mail) - Save Our Preserve - ARC 1, 5 & 4 Lithia FL
---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Henderson, Matt - BOCC <HendersonM@hillsboroughcounty.org>

Date: Tuesday, April 7, 2015
Subject: RE: (WEB mail) - Save Our Preserve - ARC 1, 5 & 4 Lithia FL
To: "nikkij39@gmail.com" <nikkij39@gmail.com>
GreetingsAllison,
MynameisMattHendersonandIamanaidetoCommissionerHigginbotham.Ihavesomegoodnewsforyouonvariousfronts.
IcalledSWFWMDandspoketoafewpeopleandreceivedthefollowingnewsaboutthisissue:
Becausethese parcels of land around the ARC have a tremendous amount of natural systems and they are the main
recreation areas SWFWMD has apparently changed their mind about and dont believe that anything will happen in
regards to them becoming surplus land (and potentially being sold). There have been 4 public hearings about this issue
in Bartow, Sarasota, Tampa, and Brooksville) and there are still 2 meetings where you can get involved and speak if
you would like. The website (watermatters.org) lists the dates and locations if you have any interest in attending and
speaking. April 14th is the Environmental Advisory Committee and then it goes before the governing board. Everyone
I spoke to seems to believe that the issue is off the table due to public backlash. Let me know if I can be any further
assistance. I hope you have a great rest of your day.
MatthewHenderson
AidetoCountyCommissionerAlHigginbotham
District#7,Countywide
"Togetherwewillmakeadifference"
HendersonM@hillboroughcounty.org
Office:8132725735
Fax:8132727054
From:nikkij39@gmail.com[mailto:nikkij39@gmail.com]
Sent:Tuesday,April07,20159:54AM
1
Page 78
To:Higginbotham,Al
Cc:Rodriguez,Eli;Henderson,MattBOCC
Subject:(WEBmail)SaveOurPreserveARC1,5&4LithiaFL
Importance:High
The following Commissioner(s) received a direct copy of this email:

Commissioner Al Higginbotham (District 7)
Date/Time Sent: 4/7/2015 9:54:08 AM
Name: Alison Johnson
Address: 815 Old Welcome Rd
City, State Zip: Lithia,, FL 33547
Phone: (813) 477-7492
Email: nikkij39@gmail.com
Subject: Save Our Preserve - ARC 1, 5 & 4 Lithia FL
Message: Commissioner Higginbotham, I would like your support in preserving the land that currently makes up the
Alafia River Corridor. It has come to my attention (and interestingly enough NOT by an easily found public notice) that
ARC-1, ARC, 5 & ARC-4 are being proposed by SWFWMD as potential surplus land. ARC 1 & 4 are part of the
MUCH larger property used as community recreation for horseback riding and hiking trails. This would be a
tremendous loss to the community as this property is comprised of centuries old majestic grandfather oaks and wildlife
habitat that are irreplaceable. It's also noted that this area has four archaeological sites recorded in the Florida Master
Site File. As the county wide liaison to the SWFWMD please document your opposition to the sale of this wonderful
and irreplaceable nature resource.
This email was automatically generated from:
https://webappsnet.hillsboroughcounty.org/Forms/BOCC/ContactCommissioners
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From: Renee Zegarski [mailto:atozmenagerie@gmail.com]

Sent: Thursday, April 09, 2015 6:32 PM
To: whites@hillsboroughcounty.org; murmans@hillsboroughcounty.org; hagank@hillsboroughcounty.org;
becknerk@hillsboroughcounty.org; dickersonr@hillsboroughcounty.org; Ross Morton
Cc: newsroom@wmnf.org; news@wfla.com; tips@wtsp.com; news@wtvt.com; Renee Zegarski
Subject: Urgent Land Conservation Crisis
I am writing to request your intervention in a matter that concerns all of the citizens of eastern Hillsborough
County; the designation by Southwest Florida Water Management District of important conservation land as
"surplus", to be sold "as-is". The tracts in question are ACR-4, ARC-5, and ARC-1 on the SWFWMD
website (https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/projects/surplus-lands/evaluation-list.php) and are jointly owned by
Hillsborough County's Environmental Lands Acquisition and Protection Program, who also oppose the sale.
This land is directly connected to other conservation lands owned by SWFWMD, ELAPP, and Florida State
Parks, and is part of a wildlife corridor that greatly needs protection. Besides numerous species of
endangered wildlife, including gopher tortoises, indigo snakes, fox squirrels, and kestrels, the land is also a
valued resource for hikers and horsemen. There is a network of trails enjoyed by residents of this area as
well as non-residents who travel here to enjoy this respite from all of the development our county is
undergoing.
The plan to "surplus" this property was not locally advertised, yet many residents turned out to the public
workshop on April 1st, 2015 to express our disagreement. Since then we have created both written and online petitions (https://www.change.org/p/save-our-preserve-alafia-river-corridor-swfwmd-proposal-toreclassify-as-surplus-land) with well over 400 signatures obtained in three days, and many of us will be
attending the Environmental Advisory Committee meeting next Tuesday, April 14th, 2015 at 1:30 PM, 7601
US Hwy. 301, Tampa, FL, and the Governing Board 9:00 AM May 19, 2015, same location, to be sure our
voices are heard.
I ask you to stand up with your fellow citizens and contact SWFWMD to express your wish to protect this
preserve, and attend the meetings, if possible. It is rumored, from several reputable sources, that a written
contract for sale "as-is" to a large agricultural business has already been signed prior to this land
being deemed "surplus", though I sincerely hope if someone within the SWFWMD organization was guilty
of blatantly violating due process and our "Sunshine" law, an investigation would be immediately launched
and the surplus process scrutinized. An "as-is" sale, especially with the guaranteed "agricultural exemption"
permit granted farms, would allow the legal decimation of all of the protected attributes this land offers; over
25 gopher tortoise burrows, and grand oak trees.
I am a Florida Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator, as well as an 18 year employee of Hillsborough County, and
will gladly show documentation of the wildlife and answer any questions I can.Thank you for your
immediate attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
Renee Zegarski
President, A to Z Menagerie, Inc.
PO Box 204
Lithia, FL 33547
863-808-6822
atozmenagerie@gmail.com
Page 83

Alafia Corridor Surplus Lands Assessment

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Alafia Corridor Surplus Lands Assessment

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Alafia River Corridor

Potential Surplus Parcel Review

SWF Surplus Parcel ID: ARC-1

SWF Parent Parcel(s): 11-709-101

SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT INFORMATION

Water Resources/ Water Supply, Water Resources/Engineering & Watershed

Northeast corner has small overlap with well buffer

No detailed study, currently not within existing FEMA floodplain

Impairments downstream for dissolved oxygen

Mostly intact natural systems

Parcel management issues

Managed by and leased to Hillsborough County

Parcels access issues if

Parcels current access

Parcels role in maintaining

Provides access to other properties managed by the County

Parcels cultural resources

Parcel contains data

If parcel recommended for N/A

Discuss land exchange or renegotiating payment of management costs

Alafia River Corridor (Surplus IDs - ARC-1, ARC-4, ARC-5)

Sources: Esri, DeLorme, HERE, TomTom, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO,

Alafia River Corridor (Surplus ID - ARC-1)

Potential Surplus Parcel

Lands Owned by the District but

Alafia River Corridor

Alafia River Corridor

SWF Surplus Parcel ID: ARC-4

SWF Parent Parcel(s): 11-709-101

SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT INFORMATION

Water Resources/ Water Supply, Water Resources/Engineering & Watershed

No detailed study, currently not within existing FEMA floodplain

Impairments downstream for dissolved oxygen

Parcel management issues

Managed by and leased to Hillsborough County; parcel used for

Parcels access issues if

Parcels current access

Parcels role in maintaining

Used for trailhead access, parking and portion of equestrian trail

Parcels cultural resources

Parcel contains data

Discuss land exchange or renegotiating payment of management costs

Alafia River Corridor (Surplus IDs - ARC-1, ARC-4, ARC-5)

Sources: Esri, DeLorme, HERE, TomTom, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO,

Alafia River Corridor

Alafia River Corridor (Surplus ID - ARC-4)

Potential Surplus Parcel

Lands Owned by the District but

Alafia River Corridor

SWF Surplus Parcel ID: ARC-5

SWF Parent Parcel(s): 11-709-101

SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT INFORMATION

Water Resources/ Water Supply, Water Resources/Engineering & Watershed

Adjacent to Chito Branch, approximately 17% within the floodplain

Impairments downstream for dissolved oxygen; proximity to tributary;

Mostly altered with intact wetland communities

Parcel management issues

Managed by and leased to Hillsborough County

Parcels access issues if

Parcels current access

Doesnt provide access, but important due to proximity to CR 39

Parcels role in maintaining

Parcels cultural resources

Current boundaries not critical to corridor linkage, but with acquisition