Conserving Florida forest area while protecting the habitat of local wildlife
Otter Creek Improved Forest Management is a forest conservation project utilizing the Improved Forest Management methodology from the American Carbon Registry. The project aims to enhance water quality while securing the long-term viability and integrity of the hardwood structure that provides a significant groundwater recharge area.
The project is composed of a mature bottomland hardwood forest that has been historically part of a harvest rotation in the West Central Florida region known as the Nature Coast. The landowners purchased the land with a conservation easement limiting annual harvest rates. After careful consideration, the landowner’s deemed the project lands to have exceptional environmental benefits and agreed to forego harvest of any kind, thus preserving the integrity of the watershed that is home to a multitude of flora and fauna. The project will serve as a connecting corridor for black bear and white-tailed deer, as well as a home for gopher tortoises. The seasonal wetlands and proximity to the Waccasassa River provide habitat for river otter.
Project partner : 376
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