Executive Summary 1 B

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1 Executive Summary There are few places in Florida, or America, that equal the natural resource superlatives of the Rainbow River. One of the world s longest spring runs, and one of the clearest aquatic systems on earth, the Rainbow River is Florida s third largest spring. The Rainbow River is a National Natural Landmark, an Aquatic Preserve, an Outstanding Florida Water and a SWIM Priority Body of Water. On its way to the Gulf of Mexico, the Rainbow River provides habitat for 300 plant species, 70 bird species, 20 reptiles, 15 mammals, and more than 40 species of fish. The Rainbow River is a globally significant resource. The Rainbow River also provides significant economic benefits to Dunnellon, Marion County, and the State of Florida. The City of Dunnellon is closely identified with the Rainbow River, and its residents have supported recent efforts to protect the Rainbow River from threats from inappropriate development. Through the Florida Communities Trust grant program, Dunnellon is working to protect the Rainbow River while providing visitors from across Florida recreational and educational experiences. It has been a major goal of the City of Dunnellon for many years to acquire this property on the Rainbow River for use as a public park. Working with Marion County as the principal partner, and other partners including the Office of Greenways and Trails, the Trust for Public Land, and the Rainbow River Conservation, Inc., the Blue Run of Dunnellon Park Management Plan will provide critical protection and long term management of a significant section of the Rainbow River Corridor. Marion County and Dunnellon have worked closely on the development of this Management Plan, and have executed an Interlocal Agreement outlining the partnership. Marion County has agreed to provide a 10% match of the acquisition cost. The acre property contains a remarkable combination of outstanding features and natural resources ideal for a new public park. First, the Blue Run of Dunnellon Park contains exceptional examples of natural communities including spring run stream, sandhill, hydric hammock, xeric hammock, upland mixed forest, and even a 3-acre spring-fed pond. The forest canopy contains many very large trees, and a lush bald cypress forest along the Rainbow River. The property also supports a rich diversity of wildlife including active gopher tortoise burrows, American alligators, wading birds, otters, and nesting Suwannee cooters. The proposed trail system and river overlook will provide visitors an opportunity to observe wildlife up close, and learn about Florida's springs and natural communities. The vacated Seaboard Railroad right-of way will become a trail that will provide an important connector link in the State Trails Plan. The concept of the Management Plan is to carefully overlay the required public facilities and trails on the property to ensure the long- term protection of the natural communities while providing visitors with exceptional natural resource and interpretive experiences. Interpretive kiosks and wayside exhibits in the parking areas and three trails will present a variety of natural and cultural history themes. The Management Plan identifies the capital improvement facilities required for visitor comfort, access, and safety as well as the maintenance, operational, and regulatory needs. The Management Plan recognizes that importance of a comprehensive approach for a successful park program. The overall goal of the Management Plan is to provide visitors with a safe experience in one of Florida s natural treasures, while ensuring that the park s natural resources are protected for future generations. 1 B

2 Table of Contents Executive Summary...1 Table of Contents...2 I. Introduction...3 II. Purpose...5 III. Natural and Cultural Resources...7 IV. Site Development and Improvement...13 V. Management Needs...18 VI. Cost Estimates and Funding Sources...24 VII. Priority Schedule...26 VIII. Monitoring and Reporting...29 Exhibit A - Location Map... Tab A Exhibit B - Public Lands Map... Tab A Exhibit C - Natural Communities Map...Tab B Exhibit D Soil Map and Soil Description... Tab D Exhibit E - Florida Natural Areas Inventory Report Forms...Tab E Exhibit F - Exotic Pest Council s List of Florida s Most Invasive Species... Tab F Exhibit G - Master Site Plan... Tab G Exhibit H - Trail Network Map... Tab H Exhibit I - Greenway Map...Tab I Exhibit K - Grant Award Agreement... Tab K Exhibit L - Interagency Agreement...Tab L Exhibit N Photos of Historic Resources... Tab N Exhibit O - Biological Survey and Habitat Assessment... Tab O Exhibit P - Controlled Burn Notes... Tab P Exhibit Q - FEMA 100 Year Flood Zone... Tab Q Exhibit R - Wetlands Delineation Map...Tab R Exhibit S Comprehensive Plan Compatibility Statement... Tab S 2 B

3 I. Introduction The Blue Run of Dunnellon Park site is a rich example of the City of Dunnellon s natural, scenic and cultural heritage. The acre site is located along the east side of the Rainbow River, historically known as Blue Run. It is within city limits and is a key element of a biologically diverse natural corridor on the fringes of this Main Street community. Two aerial views and a map of this loacation are shown in Exhibit A. The proposed Blue Run Park offers the public access advantage of being at the intersection of the crystal clear Rainbow River fed by the third largest spring in the world and a major transportation artery (CR 484) into Dunnellon. Local government commitments for park facilities for this passive recreation, resource based park are intended to enhance and protect native natural systems while providing compatible public use and education. The western part of the site is in the Rainbow Springs Aquatic Preserve, a special management area. The Rainbow River has been designated as a National Natural Landmark by the US Department of the Interior. The site is within the Dunnellon Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) District. Dunnellon is a Main Street Community. The Management Plan details developing a passive park with trails and a water access point. These uses are fully compabile with adjacent land uses including Greenways open space and trails to the south, the Rainbow Springs Aquatic Preserve to the west, Agricultural land to the north and residential land to the east. A few of the primary goals of the park site plan include: 1. Education and interpretation of the site resources 2. Provision for compatible access to the delicate ecosystem in and along the Rainbow River 3. Connectivity to the statewide greenway system as well as the near-by historic main street downtown area 4. Protection of the water quality of the Rainbow River These goals illustrate some of the multiple uses that can be expected at this park in the not too distant future. Interpretive kiosks and signs will introduce the visitors to the site and explain the various types of wildlife and natural systems to be encountered while touring the proposed trail system including upland gopher tortoise habitat, mesic hardwood forests and wetland forests. Another goal is to provide safe access and egress from the Rainbow River. Currently, a portion of the site is under a lease agreement by the Marion County Parks and Recreation Department as a tuber s exit for people who launch tubes, canoes and kayaks from the County operated facility, KP Hole, approximately 3.3 miles upriver. The proposed improvements for river access and egress will help mitigate erosion issues along the river bank and provide a safer transfer point for the river users while also providing parking and an area for shuttle services loading. The Blue Run Park offers trail and open space connectivity to the Department of Environmental Protection, Office of Greenways and Trails (OGT) Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway 3 B

4 that is adjacent to the site at the southern boundary. Public lands, including the Office of Greenways property south of the Blue Run of Dunnellon Parcel, are shown in maps in Exhibit B. An Office of Greenways and Trails trail system map is shown in Exhibit I. The Rainbow River, forming the western boundary of the property, is State of Florida submerged soverign lands managed as the Rainbow River Aquatic Preserve. Gaining access and providing a trail connection from the Greenway property into the City of Dunnellon is a goal of the OGT. This site offers an opportunity to provide this connection. A proposed paved trail in the Blue Run of Dunnellon Park will run along the eastern bank of the Rainbow River where a railroad bed once existed. This trail will provide non-motorized users with all levels of mobility, unequaled views and experiences along the river while providing access into downtown Dunnellon. Planned trail connectivity is shown in Exhibit H This new trail connection opens up significant opportunities for both trail users and the City business community. The conceptual site plan addresses not only multiple user groups who may be drawn to this part of Marion County, but also provides an example of how creative park design can deliver a wide range of park amenities with ecological compatibility. In fact, the majority of the park site design preserves existing natural areas and offers opportunities for proposed natural plant community planting and restoration. The trail system is designed to keep users out of more sensitive areas while at the same time providing access to areas, such as the bird blinds (observation platforms), where they can simply pause and experience wildlife viewing. Picnic pavilions offer a place to rest and enjoy an outdoor meal, furthering the riverine experience. Grant funding from the Florida Communities Trust program and the Marion County budget sources was used to acquire the Blue Run Park site and the Management Plan was developed to ensure that the Project Site will be developed in accordance with the Grant Award Agreement and in furtherance of the purpose of the grant application. None of the adjacent land uses pose a conflict with the activity defined in this Management Plan. Property to the east is a residential development (Dunnellon Heights) that would benefit from the development of a passive park. Property to the south is Office of Greenways and Trails Property or Property owned by Dunnellon for their wastewater treatment plan. The spray field for this wastewater plant is over 4000 feet south east of the plant and does not present a conflict. The river is to the west of the property and will be protected by the acquisition of a park. Agricultural and Conservation lands exists north of CR 484 which bounds the property on the north side and does not present a potential conflict with the goals of the Blue Run of Dunnellon Park. 4 B

5 II. Purpose The Blue Run of Dunnellon Property will be acquired and managed as a passive park to protect its ecological value and provide recreational non-motorized access to trails and the Rainbow River. The site supports listed species including Suwannee cooters and gopher tortoises nesting on the property and the outstanding shoreline emergent and bald cypress community on this waterfront site. The Project Site will be managed for the conservation, protection and enhancement of natural resources and for public outdoor passive recreation that is compatible with the conservation, protection and enhancement of the site. Management objectives for the site include the following: 1. To improve access to recreation opportunities for all Dunnellon and Marion County citizens and visitors to the area 2. To offer high quality, cost effective maintenance and resource management of public lands 3. To improve existing parks and recreation opportunities to satisfy current and future demand 4. To plan, develop and provide new recreational opportunities to better serve community needs 5. To assist in the development of partnership programs with other local, state, federal agencies and private organizations/businesses. 6. To Protect the water resources of the Rainbow Springs Aquatic Preserve The desired future condition and uses of the site include the provision of two trailheads with parking areas (CR 484 and San Jose Boulevard), comfort station/service building, picnic shelter, interpretive kiosks, wildlife observation platform, canoe/kayak launch, and tuber takeout in addition to the two interpretive loop trails and paved multi-use trail connection to the Cross Florida Greenway. The preservation of this site as an alternative to development provides recreation access to the Rainbow River and will continue its historic use as a recreational tuber takeout point. The City of Dunnellon major Comprehensive Plan directives that would be furthered by managing the site as proposed include Policy 1.8, Policy 1.9 and Policy 4.2. Each directive supports the management and development of the site utilizing public resources. Recreation and Open Space Element, Objective 1,Policy 1.8: The existing tuberparking site on CR 484 (a.k.a. Blue Run Park), which is the only public site for the drop off and pickup of tubers on the Rainbow River, is currently in private ownership and leased to Marion County. The City shall coordinate with the County and various citizen recreation committees in developing alternatives to public access if the lease were to become nonrenewable, including joint public purchase by the County and City. Recreation and Open Space Element, Objective 1, Policy 1.9: By 1993 the City will research the possibility of purchasing parcels for recreation facilities such as 5 B

6 hiking and biking trails within the abandoned CSX corporation rail corridor located adjacent to the Rainbow River by exploring state and federal grant and/or loan programs such as the Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program (FRDAP) and the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) administered by the Office of Greenways and Trails. Recreation and Open Space Element, Objective 2, Policy 4.2: The City shall protect the following areas as open space amenities: a. The Withlacoochee and Rainbow Rivers, and conservation wetlands. c. Areas within the Florida Barge Canal Authority (a.k.a. Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway), including areas, which may be leased or acquired in the future for spray irrigation or recreation. The City of Dunnellon will amend the future land use designation to conservation, outdoor recreation, open space, or other similar category within a year of acquiring the site. Furthermore, both Dunnellon and Marion County will amend the zoning designation to conservation, outdoor recreation, open space or other similar category within a year of acquiring the site. The Project Site will be identified in all literature and advertising as acquired with funds from the Florida Communities Trust and operated as a natural conservation area, outdoor recreation area or other appropriate descriptive language. 6 B

7 III. Natural and Cultural Resources Natural Communities The Blue Run of Dunnellon project site contains several imperiled natural communities (FNAI) including sandhill, xeric hammock, hydric hammock and spring run stream. Other rare habitats present are floodplain forest and upland mixed forest. There is an exceptional stand of bald cypress in a floodplain forest community along the Rainbow River. In addition, the project site contains some of the widest emergent vegetation shoreline borders to be found along the lower Rainbow River. This lush vegetative habitat is particularly critical for a number of wildlife species because the opposite western shoreline is primarily developed along most of the 5.7 mile spring run. This habitat is heavily utilized by several listed bird species, and many turtles including the Suwannee cooter. There is an approximate 3-acre pond on the site that provides excellent habitat for a number of species including American Alligator, wood ducks and a variety of wading birds. The pond exhibits a strong spring flow that supports a population of fresh water mussels at its outlet. Although the site has been disturbed by the phosphate industry during the late 1800 s, the natural communities are in remarkably good condition displaying representative plant and animal species in each of the natural communities. In 2004, professional biologist Michael G. Czerwinski completed a comprehensive Biological Survey and Habitat Assessment of the Blue Run of Dunnellon property that is included Exhibit O in the Management Plan. This survey, that includes transect field investigations as well as additional field studies, provides detailed analysis of many Management Checklist items. Examples are: natural community descriptions and maps, FNAI listed species list, soils map, plant inventory, wildlife inventory, FEPPC invasive exotic list, wading bird survey, gopher tortoise survey and management recommendations, and a variety of relevant maps and exhibits. Rather than repeat the detailed information included in the Biological Survey and Habitat Assessment, where appropriate, refer to the detailed information in Exhibit O. The Blue Run of Dunnellon Park will be a natural resource based management program designed to maintain and improve the natural resources of the park. Public access and the construction of new facilities will take advantage of disturbed areas of the property to the maximum extent possible. The Office of Greenways and Trails connection trail will utilize the Seaboard Railroad right of-way and require no additional clearing. The interpretive trails will be located mainly on existing rutted jeep trails that will be filled, graded, and planted to minimize erosion and disturbance. The primary public facilities including a public comfort station will be sited on cleared areas adjacent to the Seaboard Railroad right-of-way and require no removal of trees. A perimeter fence will eliminate the encroachment of off-road vehicles that is now occurring. The management techniques will be designed to direct public use to designated trails to protect the natural features on the site. Access to the water will utilize the existing path and boardwalks that will be ADA compliant. The City of Dunnellon will install one GPS photo-monitoring location, (N, E, S, W) in each natural community and monitor every five years. Invasive Exotic plants The Florida Exotic Pest Council Category I and II invasive exotic plants found on the site include Champhor Tree (Cinnamomum camphora), Cogon grass (Imperata cylindrica), Air yam 7 B

8 (Diroscorea bulbifera), Skunk vine (Paderia foetida), Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), Chinaberry (Melia azedarach), waterlettuce (Pistia stratiotes), lantana (Lantana camara), Japanese climbing fern, (Lygodium japonicum), and Chinese tallow, (Sapium sebiferum), and wild taro (Colocasia esculenta). The Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council s 2007 List of Invasive Plant Species is included as Exhibit F. Although these plants are disbursed throughout the site, except for water lettuce and Cogon grass, they are not found in dense stands, have not displaced the natural communities, and can be removed on an individual plant basis. It is estimated that one tenth acre of Cogon grass, one quarter acre of Water Lettuce and less than an acre of scattered invasive plants need to be managed at this time. Invasive plant removal is essential to prevent the loss of natural communities on the property, and to permit the reestablishment of native species on which the wildlife of the Rainbow River Corridor depends. An Invasive Exotic Remove Plan will be developed in the first 6 months of ownership in consultation with DEP experts. Grant requests for support for invasive plant removal will be initialized as soon after acquisition is practical. The first phase of invasive plant control will be completed within the first two years of ownership. Invasive plant management will be an ongoing maintenance task. A photo monitoring program will be initiated at several invasive plant management locations. Included in the Exhibit G is a letter from the Rainbow River Aquatic Preserve Manager, Jeff Sowards, outlining treatment recommendations for the site. The letter is the result of a site visit with the City of Dunnellon and the Rainbow River Conservation, Inc. to begin planning for the removal of invasive plants. Follow up meetings will be scheduled with the appropriate State of Florida professionals to develop a more detailed plan, budget and possible use of volunteers to assist in removal efforts. Marion County has agreed to assist in implementing the plan and it is anticipated that the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) will also play a role through their grant programs. It is not anticipated that restoration planting in the effected areas will be necessary, as good stands of native species are immediately adjacent. The Rainbow River Conservation, Inc., working with the Rainbow River Aquatic Preserve Manager, will monitor the site for re-infestations of invasive exotic plants on an annual basis. Restoration The Blue Run of Dunnellon site includes approximately 33 acres, most of which will not require restoration. There are several areas that are planned for restoration including the rutted jeep trails, disturbed areas along San Jose Drive, the shoreline of the interior pond and areas adjacent to the parking lot on Rt These areas will be planted with native species recommended by the State of Florida Division of Forestry, State of Florida Division of Recreation and Parks and the Rainbow River Aquatic Preserve. Natural reproduction of longleaf pine is occurring in the sandhill community that may be enhanced with selected plantings. The shoreline of the pond will be planted with approved native wetland plants. Additional plantings will be programmed around the main parking area and adjacent to the Seaboard Railroad right-of-way at the northwest corner of the property. There will be minimal need for landscaping in the public use areas, as the park will feature the natural landscape and native species. The stormwater component of the restoration plan will address the main parking lot along Rt. 484, which is now a compacted lime rock surface. This material produces fine silt during storm events that now drains toward the Rainbow River. Marion County will develop a design for the parking lot that will improve the water quality of the stormwater runoff, and reduce the dust during dry periods. In addition, the existing swale located on the 8 B

9 northwest corner of the parking lot will be re-configured into a small detention basin that will provide additional treatment to the parking lot runoff. A vegetation restoration plan is included in Exhibit G. Marion County will develop a parking lot design within one year of the purchase. A final vegetation restoration plan will be completed within one year, with implementation following in stages beginning in year one. It is anticipated that volunteers will be utilized for implementation of the vegetation restoration plan. Prescribed Burn Plan The Longleaf Pine/Xeric Oak (Sandhill) habitat includes approximately six acres. The sandhill community has not been subjected to fire within recent years, and is being invaded by species from the adjacent Upland Mixed Forest. This community may benefit from the re-introduction of fire. This area is heavily utilized by gopher tortoises and 10 burrows were observed in the Michael Czerwinski transects. (Shown in Exhibit P) Properly controlled prescribed burning can benefit the habitat of gopher tortoises. There is also an adjacent residential community, and a safety concern regarding County Rt. 484, the northern boundary, which has experienced automobile accidents resulting from reduced visibility due to smoke from prescribed fires prescribed burning on nearby lands. Fire-lines will be developed at the property perimeter and at the edge of prescribed burn zones. The approach of this management plan will be to consult with the Division of Recreation and Parks, the Division of Forestry and the City of Dunnellon to develop a plan that considers all of the issues associated with prescribed burning on this site. It is understood that the State of Florida agencies have jurisdiction and the expertise regarding prescribed burning, and the plan will defer to their direction. It is anticipated that a plan could be completed within one year of the purchase of the property. The State of Florida DEP Ecosystems and Fire Frequency guideline is included in Exhibit P to provide guidance regarding the fire issue. Should prescribed burning be recommended by State of Florida resource managers, an outreach program will be developed to educate the public of the benefits of prescribed burns. Feral Animal Program Feral animals have not been observed on the site, but wild hogs are present on adjacent Office of Greenways and Trails lands and do utilize the site occasionally. The feral hogs do present a threat to ground nesting birds, understory plants and various species of turtles that nest in the uplands along the river corridor. The approach will be to address this issue with the Florida Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the Office of Greenways and Trails to determine the most appropriate control method. It is likely that the most feasible approach will be off site in the core habitat area. The site will be monitored annually for feral animals and will be removed if found. Listed Plant Species The Biological Survey and Habitat Assessment report provided in Exhibit O includes a summary of the listed plants found on the site. One plant species listed as Endangered, the Ocala vetch (Vicia ocalensis), is considered likely to occur on the site in the Bottomland or 9 B

10 Riparian wetlands habitat. The approach of the Management Plan is to direct public use to designated areas through marked trails and boardwalks. The Seaboard Railway Office of Greenways and Trails (OGT) connector trail will be a paved accessible multiple use trail. This trail will be an important link in the OGT statewide trails plan. Motorized use will not be permitted. The two interpretive trails will receive a natural material surface, and the Rainbow River access overlook will be via a boardwalk. Appropriate signing at the two trailheads will educate visitors regarding the importance of staying on the designated trails. Along San Jose Drive, a wood, plank and post perimeter fence will blend with the landscape and restrict vehicles from the park. Interpretive wayside exhibits will discuss the story of listed plants and what visitors can do to protect these valuable components of the Florida landscape. Prescribed fire programs are often useful to help listed species such as the gopher tortoise. Listed Animal Species The Biological Survey and Habitat Assessment report provided in Exhibit O includes a summary of listed animal species found on the site. The report details animal species by natural community. The site does not contain a Strategic Habitat Conservation Area as identified by the Florida FWC. The report also includes specific recommendations for managing the gopher tortoise population on the site. The Rainbow River Conservation, Inc. will place gopher tortoise motorist warning signs along San Jose Drive. In addition to gopher tortoise, the listed animal species that have been confirmed on the site include Suwanee cooter, American alligator, Snowy egret, and White ibis, all designated as Species of Special Concern by the FFWCC. Several additional listed species are considered likely to occur. The Blue Run of Dunnellon Park will provide exceptional opportunities to educate visitors from across Florida on the importance of protecting Florida s springs, their associated listed animal species and their forest corridors. Three trails through the site will include a variety of interpretive wayside exhibits that will present a number of primary themes as well as specific topic exhibits. There will be larger 24 X36 theme exhibits supplemented by 12 X12 wayside exhibits that will interpret specific plants, animals or natural features. A What You Can Do exhibit is planned. A list of possible exhibit subjects is included in Exhibit G. It is expected that Blue Run of Dunnellon Park will serve as a regional resource for educating visitors about the importance of protecting Florida s listed species and their habitats. The management techniques including perimeter fencing, designated trails and informational signing will enhance the protection of listed species and other wildlife on the site. Regular patrols by Marion County Sheriff officers and Dunnellon City Police officers will be an important component in protecting the site from off road vehicles, collection of wildlife, or damaging vegetation. Park regulations will be posted at access locations. The FWCC will be contacted to determine what specific measures may be required for protection of the Suwannee cooter, which nests on the site. The acquisition of a significant section of the Rainbow River Corridor and placing it under public ownership and management will be the most important step in protecting the habitat of a number of listed species of plants and wildlife. Soil Types A Soil Map and a listing of soil types are given in Exhibit D. 10 B

11 Inventory of Natural Communities The Biological Survey and Habitat Assessment Report includes an inventory of the natural communities found on the site and is included in Exhibit O. In addition, a map is included showing the FNAI natural communities. The report is comprehensive and site specific. The natural communities, with the exception of the sandhill community, appear to be relatively stable, and will be monitored once every five years. The six acre sandhill community, due to the possibility of the re-introduction of fire, will need monitoring once every two years. This will be accomplished by establishing four mapped GPS points that will be photographed (N,E,S,W.) and submitted to the appropriate agencies. The City of Dunnellon will be responsible for forwarding the information on identified listed species to the Florida Natural Areas Inventory (FNAI) every five years. FNAI species reporting forms are included in Exhibit E and can be found on the web at the location. Architectural Cultural And Historical Resource Protection In the early 1900 s, the property was used for the phosphate industry and the existing pond was a phosphate pit. A railroad line to service the phosphate industry was built on the western edge of the property. The right-of-way of this railroad exists today. The Rainbow River flows along the western boundary of the property. In earlier times, this River went under the name the Wekiva River, or Blue Run, due to the color of the springs at the river s headwaters. More recently, an access point was established at the northwest corner of the property to allow tubers to exit the Rainbow River and allow kayakers and canoers to access the Rainbow River. The goal of the Florida Community Trust acquisition is to create a passive park on this property and maintain the natural habitat and the existing trails. Some improvements, such as a comfort station, are planned to enhance the park users experience. A vast majority of the property will not be disturbed from its current status. The City of Dunnellon will perform a cultural resource survey of any area within the project site that is proposed for development prior to the commencement of proposed development activities in that area. All planned activities involving known cultural resources will be closely coordinated with the Department of State, Division of Historical Resources, in order to prevent the disturbance of significant sites. Management of the onsite cultural resources will comply with the provisions of the Florida Historical Resources Act, specifically (2)(a) and (b), Florida Statutes. The City will recover, record, and map any archaeological material encountered during site development and a Florida Master Site File form will be completed and submitted to the Division of Historical Resources. In addition, if future park development is proposed which would involve large areas of ground disturbance, archaeological testing will be conducted. The City will notify the Division of Historical Resources immediately if evidence is found to suggest additional archaeological or historic resources at the Project Site. The collection of artifacts or the 11 B

12 disturbance of archaeological or historic sites on the Project Site is prohibited unless prior authorization has been obtained from both the City and the Department of State, Division of Historical Resources. In order to protect any newly discovered archaeological or historical sites from possible vandalism, the City will not provide detailed information to the public about the location of the sites. Instead, interpretive literature will mention the existence of the resources as evidence of prehistoric use of the site. Historical photos of the phosphate industry and railroads of the early 1900 s are shown in Exhibit N. 12 B

13 IV. Site Development and Improvement. Acknowledgment Sign A sign at least 3 by 4 will be placed at the main entrance to the Blue Run of Dunnellon Park, acknowledging that the site was purchased with funds from the Florida Community Trust (FCT) and include the FCT logo. The sign will note the year of acquisition. This sign will be located at the main entrance to the park on the north side next to the main parking lot and County Route 484. Existing Physical Improvements Nearly 100 years ago, this property was used for the production of phosphate as part of the phosphate industry in the City of Dunnellon. A significant phosphate pit lies in the middle of the property that has now become a pond. During this industrial period, a railroad right of way was built, running north to south on the western side of the property. While the phosphate business and railroad tracks have been gone for over 60 years, the terrain changes that were needed to support this industry remain. More recently, a parking area has been built on the northwest corner of the property to provide parking for a tuber exit point. People float down the Rainbow River, adjacent to the property, on inner tubes and depart the River at this exit point. There is a cyclone fence on the southern edge of the parking lot. There is a jeep road on the east side of the former phosphate pit, which runs from San Jose Boulevard to the southern edge of the property. A map of these improved (or disturbed) areas is shown in Exhibit G of the Management Plan. Beyond these changes, the property is basically wooded and has remained natural for the last 50 years with many large trees in the upland area and bald cypress trees and marsh along the River. Proposed Physical Improvements The objective of this property acquisition is to create a passive park with water access, hiking and biking trails and a few picnic shelters for low impact use. To implement this plan, nature trails will be laid out, picnic pavilions and comfort station built, and observation platform overlooking the river and pond planned. No active use facilities are planned. The existing water access point, which allows the exit of tubers and access of kayakers to and from the River will be improved. The existing 33,000 sq feet parking lot will be improved and a new parking lot on San Jose Boulevard for approximately 10 cars will be created. The property will be fenced on the north and east sides to provide physical security and delineate the park s boundary. The boundary of the property next to the water treatment plant is already fenced and the remaining south side of the property is contiguous with Office of Greenways and Trails property. Possible water, sewage and electrical service will be provided to the new comfort station, (approximately 14 x26 ) on the northwest corner of the property, by the City of Dunnellon. This facility will also have a drinking fountain. No additional utility services are anticipated to the property. The bike path, which will be an extension of the Office of Greenways and Trails Withlacoochee Trail, will have a paved surface on the existing former right-of-way of the Seaboard Railroad. This will yield a minimum new disturbance of the existing natural terrain of the property. Bike 13 B

14 racks will be located at the parking lots on CR 484 and San Jose Boulevard. One of the walking trails on the east side of the property will use the existing jeep road as its right-of-way. Pervious fill material will be used to improve the surface. A second walking trail will wind through the sandhill communities on the eastern side of the property and will require cutting of a small number of trees. Beyond that there will be very little disturbance in the current natural setting of the property. Our goal is to minimize the human impact on the park, both in the woodlands and upland tracts and along the 1,300 foot River corridor. A map of these improvements is shown below and in Exhibit G of the Management Plan. The picnic shelters located along the multiuse bike trail will include picnic tables. The shelters will be approximately 20 x 33. The bird observation platform, overlooking the Rainbow River, will also have a bench at the furthest point to allow people to rest and enjoy the view. Trash receptacles will be placed at the entrance of the main parking lot, at the parking lot on San Jose Boulevard and near the comfort station area. The utility lines to the comfort station building will be buried to enhance the user experience. A bike and pedestrian bridge will be built to cross the Rainbow River and connect the Withlacoochee Bike Trail with the sidewalks of the downtown area of Dunnellon. Accommodations for visitors with disabilities will be made with regard to parking spaces, picnic tables, rest rooms, drinking water fountains, and some (not all) trails. Trails will be routed to eliminate impact on listed species. When the state approves this improved water access point to be part of the Withlacoochee State Canoe Trail, a sign will be posted to note this trail and include a map of the paddling trail. Any major changes in the Master Plan or proposed site modifications will be sent to the Florida Community Trust for review and approval. 14 B

15 Landscaping No landscaping is currently planned for the site, however if landscaping is planned in the future only native plant species will be used. Wetland Buffer The western edge of the property, approximately 1,300 feet, is adjacent to the Rainbow River and includes a significant wetland with bald cypress trees and nesting habitat for wading birds and ducks. With the exception of the water access point at the northwest corner of the property, the remaining length of wetlands will be protected with a 100 foot buffer zone. The bird observation platform will use a boardwalk structure to reduce any long-term disturbance of the wetlands. A wetlands delineation survey is included in the attached boundary survey map set. Parking The main parking area adjacent to CR 484 on the north side of the property will have space for approximately 45 cars. The secondary parking area on San Jose Boulevard will have 10 parking spaces for cars. Both of these parking lots will have pervious surfaces to enhance storm water management. The parking lots will be separated from the main part of the park with fencing. The proposed site plan includes the stabilization of the parking lot and improvements to the take out area on the riverbank to minimize runoff. In addition, bio-swales/bio-retention areas will be created including the addition of a small berm at the River end of the swale to create a retention basin to provide stormwater treatment. Presently, the swale in the northwest corner of the parking lot directs stormwater runoff directly into the Rainbow River. Within one year, Marion County will redesign the existing parking lot to include design features that will reduce the silt run-off from the parking lot as well as the lime rock dust which now present environmental concerns. The surface of the parking lot will be a pervious material to minimize sheet flow toward the Rainbow River. Both parking lot designs will include designated handicapped accessible parking spaces. Stormwater Facilities The park facility will include a stormwater treatment system, as needed, to prevent runoff from impacting wetlands and water quality, and the stormwater treatment system will be designed to provide either additional recreational space, or to function as natural habitat for wildlife. In either case, the design will incorporate shallow sloping sides, and will not be fenced. The development of the stormwater facilities shall be coordinated with the Southwest Florida Water Management District. Except for the water access improvement project and the access boardwalk to the Rainbow River observation platform, the 100 foot buffer area along the river will be undisturbed and provide significant absorption of any sheet flow to the River. The topography will remain as it was before this project began. The improvement and paving of the north-south multiuse bike trail will provide a natural berm, which will contain and direct runoff from rainfall onto the property. A map of the 100-year flood zone for the property is shown in Exhibit Q. The existing water access point will be improved with a berm to minimize storm water flow at that point. The site development plan has no significant re-grading of the property. 15 B

16 Hazard Mitigation The planned comfort station will not be located in the FEMA hundred year floodplain. No other hazardous materials or situations are anticipated. Educational Signs Two three-panel kiosks will be located inside of the parking areas to provide information about the park, the trails and the rules of park use. Three wayside exhibits, 24" x 30", will be located in the park to educate the public about special features in the park. In addition, 12 interpretive signs, 12" x 12", will be located along the trail educating trail goers with special features in each area. Exhibit G includes an Interpretive Trail Conceptual Plan. Educational Program Twelve (12) regularly scheduled interpretive programs, outlining the environmental and historical resources of the park and the community will be conducted on the project site each year. Rainbow River Conservations has agreed to coordinate the interpretive programs. Commitments have been made by the following organizations to give programs: Rainbow River Conservation (Three on-site programs) Greater Dunnellon Historical Society (One on-site programs) Marion County Parks and Recreation Department (Three on-site programs) Marion County Audubon Society (Two interpretive field trips) Citrus County Audubon Society (Two interpretive field trips) Rainbow Springs Kayak Club. (One paddle day with river interpretive program) Permits Permits will be required from the City of Dunnellon, Marion County, the Southwest Florida Water management District and/or the Department of Environmental Protection for the development of the comfort station, picnic shelters, trails and the pedestrian bridge that is planned over the Rainbow River. Easements, Concessions, Leases The City of Dunnellon plans to issue a conservation easement to Marion County Parks and Recreation to ensure permanent protection of the property. Once title to the property is obtained, the City of Dunnellon will work with the Office of Greenways and Trails and Florida Communities Trust to provide access to extend the Withlacoochee Trail extension to County Road 484. The City of Dunnellon has an easement to run an underground wastewater line under the existing parking area in the northwest corner of the property. A force main wastewater line from the downtown Dunnellon area runs under the Rainbow River, under the parking lot to San Jose Boulevard. This line then runs along the San Jose right-of-way to the wastewater plant southeast of the property. The applicant will provide FCT written notice 60 days prior to any additional lease, concession, sale or option contract, or use by any person other than interested persons, as a member of the general public. 16 B

17 Any and all fees collected for use of this property will be placed in a segregated account and used solely for the upkeep and maintenance of this project site. Commercial use of the property will be prohibited except by written agreement approved by the City of Dunnellon and FCT. 17 B

18 V. Management Needs. Coordinated Management The Blue Run of Dunnellon Park site lies within the City of Dunnellon, east of the Rainbow River and south of CR 484. The site is immediately north of Office of Greenways and Trails Property. There are three government entities that have a direct interest in management of the Blue Run of Dunnellon Park. These are the City of Dunnellon, Marion County and the Office of Greenways and Trails. Management coordination between these governmental bodies is required to have a smooth operation of the park. The City of Dunnellon will own the property and have primary responsibility for management of the park. Marion County has a companion park, KP Hole Park, that is 3.3 miles north on the Rainbow River. This is where tubers enter the River and float down to the existing tuber takeout point. The Office of Greenways and Trails has a trail system, crossing the Withlacoochee River on an adjoining site. The Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway comes from the east to the southern boundary of the park. The Office of Greenways and Trails has an interest in providing trail connectivity to the City of Dunnellon and to the north and west. Coordinated management of the park through the leadership of the City of Dunnellon is required to satisfy the interests of these three governmental bodies. Each will participate in the planning, capital development and maintenance of the park. A map showing adjacent public lands is given in Exhibit B. A map showing the larger view of the OGT trail system is shown in Exhibit I of this Management Plan. A Management Plan Advisory Committee consisting of representatives of the City of Dunnellon, Marion County Parks and Recreation, Rainbow Springs State Park, Rainbow Springs Aquatic Preserve, Office of Greenways and Trails and Rainbow River Conservation Inc. will be created and tasked to insure the commitments presented are fulfilled. Immediately south of the Blue Run of Dunnellon are public lands managed by the Office of Greenways and Trails, and the western boundary is the Rainbow River Aquatic Preserve. Both agencies are included within the Florida DEP. Approximately 1.3 miles north is Rainbow Springs State Park administered by the Florida Division of Recreation and Parks, also within Florida DEP. OGT manages two regional trails that will require coordination between Dunnellon and OGT. The Withlacoochee State Trail Extension is planned to transect the Blue Run of Dunnellon via the Seaboard Railroad right-of way, and also follow the southern boundary of the park to connect with OGT managed lands east of the park including the Dunnellon ball fields. The Withlacoochee Trail Extension is programmed to cross the Rainbow River at the Blue Run of Dunnellon Park, and continue into Dunnellon and then west connecting to the Go the State Forest. The Cross Florida Greenway extends east of the Blue Run of Dunnellon Park, following the abandoned Florida Barge Canal route. The Office of Greenways and Trails plans to connect the Blue Run of Dunnellon trailhead to this proposed trail in the future. Dunnellon will maintain close communication with OGT to ensure the required coordination. The Florida Great Birding Trail administered by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has been extended to include the Rainbow River, with the Blue Run of Dunnellon Park identified as an access location. Once the water access point is improved it will 18 B

19 be logical to extend the Withlacoochee State Canoe Trail into the Rainbow River with a designated access at the Blue Run of Dunnellon Park. The primary objective of the Management Plan it to preserve the natural communities of the Blue Run of Dunnellon Park for future generations, while providing natural resource based recreation for visitors the Blue Run of Dunnellon Park will provide an important wildlife corridor connector the Rainbow River with the Withlacoochee River. The recommended facilities are modest, and carefully overlay facilities on existing disturbed areas. The mission statements of all of the adjacent public land management agencies are consistent with the Blue Run of Dunnellon Park Management Plan. Included in Appendix M are letters of agreement with the Blue Run of Dunnellon Management Plan from the Rainbow River Aquatic Preserve, Rainbow Springs State Park, and the Director of The Office of Greenways and Trails. Although not an adjacent land owner, Marion County has executed a conservation easement with the City of Dunnellon Park ensuring that the park will be managed for conservation purposes in perpetuity, and consistent with the Management Plan. The Rainbow River Aquatic Preserve, Marion County, FWC and the Office of Greenways and Trails have long-term, ongoing relationships with Dunnellon, which will continue. These partnerships will be strengthened and directed more specifically to share resources where possible to implement the Management Plan. The Rainbow River Aquatic Preserve has made a commitment to assist with exotic invasive plant removal, as has Marion County and The Southwest Florida Water Management District. Dunnellon will work with SWFWMD to implement the Rainbow River SWIM Plan. The table on page 22 includes a list of responsibilities that Dunnellon has agreed to share with Marion County. Marion County maintains a number of facilities nearby, restroom cleaning contracts, EMS service, as well as specialized equipment. The FWC and Marion County Sheriff maintain law enforcement patrols on the Rainbow River, and can assist with wildlife or feral animal issues, and enforcing park rules. The Blue Run of Dunnellon regulations ordinance will be developed to be consistent and include policies and regulations of appropriate State agencies to ensure consistency between Florida State agencies and the Blue Run of Dunnellon Management Plan. The presence of many governmental agencies in close proximity, with compatible missions will facilitate the implementation of the Management Plan. These partnerships will improve the quality of visitor experience, visitor safety, resource protection, and the most cost effective management. Dunnellon will work to strengthen partnerships, and seek additional partners to provide the most efficient and effective management possible. Trail Network The trail systems planned for the Blue Run of Dunnellon Park will support both local and regional use. The extension of the Withlacoochee bike trail will allow a bike connection from Inverness to Dunnellon. This trail extension will also allow bike traffic from the City of Dunnellon to the Little League ball fields currently located on Greenways property southeast of the park. Two unpaved interpretive trails are planned to educate visitors about the natural communities of the site, the plants and animals, Florida springs, the cultural history of Dunnellon and the Rainbow River. The loop trails provide access to a diversity of natural communities including the three acre pond and the Rainbow River. It is anticipated that this park will attract visitors from across Florida. Maps of these trails are shown in the Management Plan in Exhibit G and Exhibit I. 19 B