HomeMy WebLinkAbout1999 05 12 EXEMPTION Other Handout
MAY 12,1999
HANDOUT.
Code Enforcement
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA
1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434
WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA 32708-2799
Telephone (407) 327-1800
Fax (407)327-6695
Memorandum
To: BOWS Committee
From: Ray Jarrett
Date: 01/13/99
Re: Green Plan 1999
The Green Plan is underway. I began my evaluation this past month focusing
on our city parks. Please read through and let me know if any questions arise.
The Green Plan will be re-evaluated every year. I am open to suggestions and
encourage your input. If I have missed or left something out please let me
know.
Sincerely,
Ray Jarrett
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Sec. 5-4 Official green plan for public property.
(a) Initial plan. The city forester under the guidance of the director of, community
development ,shall develop an official Winter Springs Green Plan which provides
to the city commission the following information:
(1) Documentation on the current nature of the city forest consisting of
parks, rights-of-way, easements and public facilities.
Each area of concern will be assessed on their current nature based on the age
of the trees and plants, canopy coverage, exotic and native species, and
aesthetic value. Trees that have been planted by the city will be assessed as to
their growth pattern as set forth by the Florida grades and standards for
nurseries by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The
following rating system will be used to assess the current nature of public
lands:
(1) Excellent-
(4) Poor-
Full canopy, no exotics, high diversity of species,
healthy, and has high aesthetic value.
Semi-full canopy, few to no exotics, many species of plants,
good health and good aesthetic value.
Some canopy, exotics present, little diversity of species, fair
health, aesthetic value could be increased.
No canopy, exotics present, little or no diversity of
species, aesthetically unacceptable.
(2) Good-
(3) Fair-
1. Parks and recreation areas.
A. Central Winds Park - 68 acres
Central Winds Park is situated on the south side of Lake Jessup. The natural habitat is hydric
to mesic and many native species thrive making up a hardwood or black hammock
community. lllere are little or no exotic plants visible. Cypress (Ta:codillm distichium),
Hickories (~ spp.), Sweetgums (Liallidambar stvraciflua), and Water oaks (OllerClls
lIi$!fU) make up most of the canopy alongside the shoreline of Lake Jessup. Some evidence of
poaching of cypress knees is visible. TIle entrance to the park and medians separating parking
are lined with oaks (0. laurifolia. O. vil1!illiana) and Chinese elms (Ulmus varvillora) and
they are in excellent condition. All trees planted in the park have maintained a Florida grade of
I or better. The overall assessment of the park is excellent.
B. Trotwood Park - 40 acres
Trotwood Park is located in the eastern part of the Tuscawilla development. TIus is a large,
multi-recreational facility. The northern side of the park, adjacent to Trotwood Boulevard, is
lined with young, healthy oaks planted in the right-of-way. All are Florida grade I or better
and will not reach their full canopy for many years. The southeast side of the park is a picnic
area that is covered with a beautiful canopy of oaks and Sabal Palms. All seem to be in great
health. About a dozen Sabal Palms and four young Bald Cypress (Ta:codium distichium) are
also planted around the small retention pond on the north side and are in great health. TIle park
is situated alongside a portion of Lake Tuscawilla where many native species of plants can be
found. Evening and Weedy Primroses (Ludwi$!ia spp.), Elderberry (Sambllcus canadensis),
Wax Myrtle (Alyrica cerifera) and Cattails (Tvpha spp.) are found growing near the water. TIle
only pest pllmts present are the Cattails growing in Lake Tuscawilla. 'l1le remainder of the
park is open soccer IInd baseball fields. One dying pine WIIS fOllnd on the rear field and was
scheduled for removal. The overall assessment of the park is Good.
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C. Bear Creek Nature Trail. - Y4 mile nature trail
Bear Creek nature trail is located ofT of Winter Springs Boulevard in the Tuscawilla
development community. The natural habitat is a mesic hardwood forest with a small creek
flowing through. This trail supports a wide variety of native species. Hickories (Carm spp),
Sweetgum (Liclllidambar stvracifllla), Cypress (Taxodium distichium), and Oaks (Ouercus
spp.) make up most of the canopy. There are no signs of invasive plant material. In contrast,
protected native orchids (Eoidelldrum callooseum) can be seen growing with ferns and
bromeliads in the canopy. This piece of public property is intended to be left in its natural state
and has an overall assessment of excellent.
D. Sunshine Park - 10 acres
Sunshine Park is a multi-{'ecreational facility found on North Edgemon. The Senior Citizen
Center and Civic Center are located here. Along the entranceway there are some cedars
(Jullioerus spp.) planted between the driveway and the baseball field. TIlese cedars do not
seem to be doing very well and should be replaced in the next year or so. They are a Florida
grade 2 and have not reached their full canopy. In between parking are some elms (Ulmus
spp.) and one oak (Quercus spp.). These trees are fairly young and have not reached their full
canopy. They are a Florida grade 2 or better and one is dead and will be replaced. Next to the
Senior Center are an elm and a Sweetgum (LiQuidambar stvraciflua) that are young and doing
very well. Behind the Senior Center is a wooded area that sits on a retention pond. This
wooded area is natural occurring and has formed a healthy, complete canopy made'up of
Sweetbay Magnolias (Mof!llolia vinrillialla), Cypress (T axodium distichium), Red Maple
(Acerrubrum), Laurel Oaks (Quercus laurifolia), and some Bay trees (Per sea spp.) TIle only
invasive plant material is some cattails (Tvpha spp.) growing at the water's edge of the
retention pond. TIle overall assessment of the park is good.
E. Moss Park - 1 acre
Moss Park has a tennis and basketball court alongside a small creek at Dolphin and Moss
Roads. A few Sweetgums ( LiQUidambar stvracifllla ) are located alongside the creek. TIlere
are no other plants or trees within the park. Grass within the park is sparse and in need of fill
dirt and sod. The overall assessment of the park is poor. Moss Park has been placed on a list as
a projected site for tree plantings for 'Tree City USA' re-certification by the National Arbor
Day Foundation.
F. Ranchlands Park - 1 acre
Ranchlands Park sets at the end of Hayes Road alongside a retention pond. The park is not
heavily wooded and used to be a Turkey Oak (Ouercus laevis) scrub habitat. There are three
young oaks (Ouercus spp.) planted in the park that are young and healthy. There is one elm
(Ulmus spp.) that was planted and seems to have a disease and will be replaced. Alongside the
borders of the park are several Slash Pines (Pill us elLiotii), Camphor trees (CilUlamomum
camohora) and a few more Laurel Oaks (Quercus laurifolia). All of the trees are in good
health. They have not reached maturity and have not filled out a complete canopy. The trees
planted by public works have maintained a Florida grade I with the exception of the diseased
elm. TIle overall a'isessment of the park is good.
G. Sam Smith Park - 5 acres
Sam Smith Park is located in the Tuscawilla development on Winter Springs Boulevard and
was once a Sand Pine scrub habitat. The park has a nice full canopy made up of Sand Pines
(Pill us clausa), Sweetbay Magnolias (Maf!llolia vindlliana), Sweetgums (Liallidambar
stvraciflua) and a few Turkey Oaks (Quercus laevis). The understory is made up mostly of
Saw Plamelto (Serelloa reoells), Wax Myrtle (Myrica cerifera), and Elderberry (Sambucus
canadellsis). All of the trees and paInts are naturally occurring and are in excellent health.
There are no signs of invasive plant material. The overall assessment of the park is excellent.
H. Fruitwood Park - 1/2 acre
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Fruitwood Park is lacated at Panama Raad and Fruitwaad Avenue within a develaped
canununity. 111is is a children's' park with twa swing sets alangside a retentian pond. TIlere
are faur, yaung .oaks ( Ouercus spp. ) in excellent canditian. All faur trees have maintained a
Flarida grade I .or better since their planting. Grass is healthy Bahia (PasDall/m notalum).
There are na ather plants .or trees within the park. llle .overall assessment .of the park is fair.
2. Right-af-ways.
A. Edgemon islands
B. 434 medians
State road 434 is currently being landscaped and will cantinue ta be as the roadway is being
widened aver the next year .or sa. TIle landscaping portian .of state raad 434 is funded by a
grant received from tlte Flarida Department .of Transportatian far their Highway
Beautificatian Praject Native wildflawers alang willi Crape Myrtles (lAf!erstroemia spp.) can
be seen daing extremely well in tlte median in front .of city hall. The .overall assessment on tlte
completed portian .of tlte 434 medians is excellent
C. Moss Rd medians
D. Pearl Road medians
These three medians are grass and Sabal palms and are samewhat unattractive. They have
been place an a list as prajected tree planting sites far re-certificatian as a 'Tree City USA'
cammunity by the Natianal Arbar Day Faundatian.
E. Tuscawilla PUD
I. Winter Springs Blvd
II. Northern - South
III. Northern - North
3. Easements.
A. Stormwater and retention ponds
4. Public Facilities.
A. Fire Station # 1
B. Fire Station #2
C. Police Station
D. City Hall-
E. Public Works
1. Water Plant - Northern Rd - This plant has been place an a list as a projected
tree planting sites far re-certificatian as a 'Tree City USA' cammunity by the Natianal Arbar
Day Faundatian. Trees will be planted in the right-af-way alang Narthern Raad.
II. Water Reclamation Facility - Winter Springs Blvd.
(2) Proposals for the care, preservation, replacement, and planting of new
trees and plants on city land;
To ensure quality landscape design and enhance the natural beauty of Winter
Springs the following guideline provides for the care, preservation, and
replacement of trees and foliage on public property.
1. Restricted plants.
2. Suggested trees and other foliage recommendations.
3. Replacement guidelines.
4. Care and Presen'ation.
1. Restricted plants.
The following is a list of noxious weeds and invasive plants that have the
highest priority as listed by the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council. The purpose
of this list is to focus the attention on:
A. The impacts exotic pest plants have on native biodiversity in Florida's
ecosystem.
B. The impact of exotic pest plants on the integrity of native plant community
functions.
C. Habitat loses due to exotic pest plant infestations.
D. The need to prevent such loses by comprehensive management of exotic
pests.
These listed here have the highest priority because of their invasive impact on
natural vegetation. The cultivation or landscape use of these plants are
prohibited within the City of Winter Springs. A complete list of pest plants is
available at (www.fleppc.org/97Iist.htm).
INVASIVE I PEST PLANT LIST
Common
Genus
Soecies
Notes
TREES/SHRUBS
Australian Pine
Melaleuca
Casurina all sPP. All species are on the list.
Schinus terebinthifolius Invasive ornamental, member of Poison Ivy family.
Melia azederach
Sapium sebiferum Highly invasive.
Melaleuca auinauinervia Central Florida is northern range.
Mimosa piqra
Brazilian pepper
Chinaberry
Chinese Tallow
Catclaw Mimosa
SHRUBS/SMALL PLANTS
Elephant Ear (sm)
Xanthosoma
saaittifolium Clogs drainage ditches
VINES / llANAS
Air Potato Dioscorea bu/bifera Covers entire canopy killing trees.
CoralVine Antiaonon /eotoous
AQUATIC PLANTS
Water hyacinth Eichhomia crassioes Clogs waterways
Hydrilla Hvdril/a verticil/ata
Water Spinach /oomoea aauatica
Alligator weed A/temanthera ohi/oxeroides Highly invasive, clogging waterways.
2.Suggested trees and other foliage recommendations.
The following is a list of recommended trees and plants that are to be used in
plantings on public property. Others may be used with approval of the City
Forester.
ACCEPTABLE NATIVE I COMMON TREES
Common Genus Species Notes
Chapman Oak Q. chaomanii E
Laurel Oak Q. laurifolia E
Live Oak Quercus virqiniana E
Myrtle Oak Q. mvrtifolia E
ScrubOak Q. aeminafa E
Turkey Oak ~ laevis 0
Water Oak Q. niara E
Willow Oak ~ ohellos 0
Shumard (red) Q. shumardii 0
Longleaf pine P. oalusfris E
Pond pine P. serafina E
Sand Pine P. cia usa E
Slash pine Pinus elliottii E
Loblolly Pine P. taeda E
Red Maple Acer rub rum 0
Sweet Gum Uauidambar styraciflua 0
Loblolly Bay Gordonia lasianthus E, Showy white flowers
Yellow poplar (Tulip Tree) Uriodendron tulipifera
Southern Magnolia Maanolia arandiflora E
Sweetbay Magnolia M. virainiana E
Bald Cypress Taxodium distichum deciduous
Pond Cypress T. ascendens deciduous
Pignut Hickory Carva alabra
Water Hickory Carva aauatica
Red Bay Persea borbonia
Swamp Bay P. palustris
Sycamore Platanus occidentalis deciduous
Cherry laurel Prunus caroliniana
Loquat, (Japanese Plum) Eriobotrva iaponica E
American Elm Ulmus amencana 0
Chinese Elm (Drake) Ulmus parvif/ora 0
Green Ash Fraxinus pennsylvanica 0
Water Ash F. caroliniana 0
Hercules Club (roothacheTree) Zanthoxylum clava-herculis 0
Elderberry Sambucus canadensis E
Oevil's Waliking Stick Aralia soinosa 0, Araliaceae (ginseng family)
Persimmon Diosovros virainiana 0
Ironwood, Blue or waler beech Carpinus caroliniana 0, wet habitat
Flowering Dogwood Comus f/orida 0, showy white flowers
Swamp Black Gum Nyssa svlvatica vBrfforidBnB o I wet areas
Florida Elm Ulmus americanavar noridana
Dahoon Holly /lex cassine E, wet areas
Southern Red Cedar Junioerus virgin ia navar slicicola E
ACCEPTABLE SHRUBS
Salt Myrtle Baccharis halimifolia
American Beautyberry Callicama americana
Inkberry, Galberry /lex ala bra
Rusty Lyonia Lvonia ferruainea
Shiny Lyonia L. lucida
Wild Olive Osmanthus americana
Elderberry Sambucus amencana
Saw Palmetto Serenoa reoens
Adam's Needle, BearGrass Yucca filamentosa
Azalea Rhododendron ~
Boxwood, Japanese Buxus microohv/la
Crape Myrtrle Laaerstroemia indica
American Holly /lex ooaca
Yaupon Holly L. vomitoria
Juniper Junioerus WL
Saw Palmeto Serenoa reoens
Photinia, Red-tip Ph o tin ia q/abra
Photinia, Red-leaf P. (raserii
Pittosporum Pitlosoorum tobira
.,
Podocarpus, Nagi Podocarous naai
Podocarpus, Yew P. macrophvllus
Privet, Chinese Liaustrum sinense
Privet, Florida Forestiera seareaata
Privet, Japanese Liaustrum iaponicum
Silverthorn Elaeaanus punaens
Viburnum, Sandanka Viburnum suspensum
Viburnum, Sweet V. odoratissimum
Wax Myrtle Mvrica cerifera
Indian hawthorn Rapheolepis indica
ACCEPTABLE ORNAMENTALS
Aspargus Fern Asparaaus densiflorus
Cast Iron Plant Aspidistra elatior
Coontie Zamia pumila Threatened native, beautiful foliage plant
Crinum Lilly Crinum a siaticum
Crown of Thorns Euphorbia milli
Day Lily Hemerocallis ~
Garlic, Society Tulbaahia violacea
Jasmine, Confederate Trachelospermum iasminoides
Jasmine, small -leaf Trachelosoermum asiaticum
Lily Turf (creeping) Liriope spicata
Liriope Liriooe muscari
Mondo Grass Ophioooqon iaoonicus
Palm, Sago Cycas ~
, .
Pampas Grass Cortaderia selloana
Sunflower, Beach Helianthus debilis
ACCEPTABLE GRASSES
Bahia Pasoalum notatum
Bermuda Cynodon dactYlon
Centipede Eremochloa oohiuroides
St Augustine Stenotaohrum secundatum
Zoysia Zoysia mm.:.
3. Replacement Guidelines.
The city arborist and the public works administration, on an individual case
basis, will assess replacement of foliage on public property. Guidance from
the BOWS committee (Beautification of Winter Springs) and the city
commission board hearings will aid in the design and budget allocation. A
work plan is submitted each year to the National Arbor Day Foundation for
re-certification for the 'Tree City USA' award. This work plan outlines public
properties that are in need of new or replacement trees. This yearly work plan
and other properties of interest will become priority projects for reforestation
of public property. These properties will then be re-evaluated the following
year as outlined in the Green Plan, city code Sec.5-4 (1).
4. Care and Presen1ation.
Routine care, maintenance, and preservation will be carried out by the city
arborist and public works administration on an individual case basis based on
the species of plant and habitat. Close care will be carried out as given in Your
Florida Landscape: A Complete Guide to Planting and Maintenance and
other publications printed by the Florida Department of Agriculture and
Consumer Services. The city forester and selected public works staffwill also
participate in continuing education opportunities, when available.
(3) Projected budgetary data for at least the subsequent five- (5) years.
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The Prunin!! of Trees. Shrubs. and Conifers
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!
INVASION
They are guiet, patient, deadl}!, and insatiable.
Alien weeds are stealing our land and killing
our native plants. BY S T EVE M IRS K Y
700 million acres of public land are
seriously infested." In 1985 the Bureau
of Land Management (BLM) did a sur-
vey of public lands in western states
and found aliens on about 2.5 million
acres. In 1995 that amount had
increased to 8 million acres.
Fortunately, some folks in Washing-
ton, D.C., occupied themselves with
activities other than making Al Gore
president before 2001. This past Febru-
ary President Clinton signed an execu-
tive order that commits the United
States to fighting the scourge of invad-
ing species, both animals and plants.
The order sets in motion federal efforts
to intercept fresh troops of
invaders at the border and
to snuff out any infestations
that are already here.
Visit the Alien Plant Working
Group's web site to learn more
<www.nps.gov/plants/alien/>.
Being aware of nonnative species
can make anyone an eeo-hero: If you
spot an outbreak, snip a cutting and
call the cooperative-extension service
of your county, the weed specialist of
your state's department of agriculture,
or Westbrooks (910-648-6762).
On the following pages are in-
depth looks at a few of the worst
offenders among alien weeds. Think of
them as MOST WANTED posters.
I.
j;
'I
I
I
!
T
HEY'RE OUT THERE. They have traveled far to do their
damage. Some are quite beautiful, which only adds to
their threat. Preposterous though it may be to think of
plants as a pestilence, several hundred species truly are.
These interlopers have already swept through millions of
acres across the United States. Fortunately, we're fighting back.
Often simply called weeds, invasive plants are destructive species alien
to an area. Aliens serve as staples of science fiction, and one movie's
vegetative invading force comes. to mind when thinking of true alien
plants: the plant-people of Invasion of the Body Snatchers, who grow in
pods and wipe out the human population. In the real-life incursion now
under way, the invaders snatch land. Finally free of whatever
ate them back in the old country, these killer plants reduce
biodiversity, destroy wetlands and streams, and decrease
forage for animals. In other words, they're bad.
Historically, alien plants have invaded in various and devious
ways. Some showed up in grain shipments or ship ballast. Others were
purposefully brought here to prettify lawns or to control erosion.
Between 3,500 and 4,000 species have made themselves at home; of
these, at least 400 are considered truly dangerous. In fact, alien plants
threaten two-thirds of all endangered native plants. Animals that depend
on specific plants for food and shelter suffer, too. Last year the extent of
the damage led Secretary of the Interior Bruce Babbitt to call the spread
"an explosion in slow motion." He summed up the problem thus: "The
invasion of noxious alien species wreaks a level of havoc on America's envi-
ronment and economy that is matched only by the damage caused by
floods, earthquakes, mud slides, hurricanes, and wildfire."
Randy "Weeds Have Been My Life For 20 Years" Westbrooks, the
invasive-plant specialist who serves as a liaison between the U.S. depart-
ments of Agriculture and the Interior,
believes that "about 5 percent of the
ILLUSTRATIONS BY JASON HOLLEY
May-June 1999 AUDUBON
71
1. Brazilian Pepper
Once sold as a landscape ornamental, it
now infests more than 700,000 acres in
central and south Florida.
2. Australian Melaleuca Tree
Introduced to south Florida in 1906 and
planted as windbreaks, it has invaded
1.5 million acres and is taking over an
additional 50 acres every day. It
produces little of use to wildlife.
3. Skunk Vine
A pernicious, pesky, smelly plant now
in 18 counties. It smothers underbrush
and strangles trees.
4. Tropical Soda Apple
Covers 500,000 acres of Florida
pastures, roadsides, ditchbanks,
cultivated and natural areas.
5. Cogon Grass
Found in sandhills, f1atwoods, grass-
lands, swamps and river margins
throughout the state. Its rough edges
will slice the skin. Cogon grass
produces chemicals that inhibit growth
of other plants.
6. Australian Pine
Grows in pinelands, sandy shores and
dunes, where its dense shade and
chemicals from leaf litter displace
native vegetation. Sea turtles become
entangled and trapped in the trees'
exposed roots.
7. Water Hyacinth and Hydrilla
Hydrilla has invaded about 40 percent
of the state's rivers and lakes. DEP
estimates it will spend $100 million in
a decade to control hydrilla and water
hyacinths.
8. Chinese Tallow
Sometimes called the popcorn tree, it
first arrived in Florida in the late 1700s,
Ben Franklin was a fan. It thrives in
undisturbed areas such as canopy
forests, bottomland hardwood forests,
lake shores and floating islands.
9. Air Potato
Climbs high into tree canopies and
engulfs surrounding vegetation.
10. Kudzu
Introduced in Florida in the 1920s, it
can grow 60 feet annually. It infests 7
million acres throughout the southeast-
ern United States. Kudzu forms a dense
thicket of little use to wildlife and
crowds out other plants, disrupting the
ecosystem.
!llIstraliall pillcs.
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Cogoll grass (.1'11011'11 left o.f lI'ater).
M<Jy-Junc IY9Y I FLORIDA WILDLIFE 7
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Grcenplan 1999
Sec. 5-4 Official green plan for public property.
(a) Initial plan. The city forester under the guidance of the director of, community
development ,shall develop an official Winter Springs Green Plan which provides
to the city commission the following information:
Each area of concern will be assessed on their current nature based on the age
of the trees and plants, canopy coverage, exotic and native species, and
aesthetic value. Trees that have been planted by the city will be assessed as to
their growth pattern as set forth by the Florida grades and standards for
nurseries by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The
following rating system will be used to assess the current nature of public
lands:
(1) Excellent - Full canopy, no exotics, high diversity of species,
healthy, and has high aesthetic value.
(2) Good - Semi-full canopy, few to no exotics, many species of plants,
good health and good aesthetic value.
(3) Fair - Some canopy, exotics present, little diversity of species, fair
health, aesthetic value could be increased.
(4) Poor - No canopy, exotics present, little or no diversity of
species, aesthetically unacceptable.
1. Rq!i!f~q!t.4;t~€r4q!,q,~:qr~q;~J
A. Central Winds Park - 68 acres
Central Winds Park is situated on the south side of Lake Jessup. TIle natural habitat is hydric
to mesic and many native species thrive making up a hardwood or black hammock
community. There are little or no exotic plants visible. Cypress (Taxodium distichillm),
Hickories (~ spp.), Sweetgums (Liauidambar stvraciflua), and Water oaks (Ollercus
lIiJ?lU) make up most of the canopy alongside the shoreline of Lake Jessup. Some evidence of
poaching of cypress knees is visible. The entrance to the park and medians sepamting parking
are lined with oaks (O./aurifolia. O. viIYilIialIa) and Chinese elms (U/mlls pan/iflora) and
they are in excellent condition. All trees planted in the park have maintained a Florida grade of
1 or better. TIle overall assessment of the park is excellent.
B. Trotwood Park - 40 acres
Trotwood Park is located in the eastern part of the Tuscawilla development. Tllis is a large,
multi-recreational facility. The northern side of the park, adjacent to Trotwood Boulevard, is
lined with young, healthy oaks planted in the right-of-way. All are Florida grade 1 or better
and will not reach their full canopy for many years. 11le southeast side of the park is a picnic
area that is covered WiUl a beautiful canopy of oaks and Sabal Palms. All seem to be in great
health. About a dozen Sabal Palms and four young Bald Cypress (Taxodium dislichillm) are
also planted around the small retention pond on the north side and are in great health. TIle park
is situated alongside a portion of Lake Tuscawilla where many native species ofpl1Ults can be
found. Evening and Weedy Primroses (Llldwi$!ia spp.), Elderberry (Sambucus calladellsis),
Wax Myrtle (Mvrica cerifera) and Cattails (Tvpha spp.) are found growing near the water. 11le
only pest plants present arc the Cattails growing in Lake Tuscawilla. The remainder of the
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Greenplan 1999
park is open soccer and baseball fields. One dying pine was found on the rear field and was
schcduled for removal. The overall assessment of the park is Good.
C. Bear Creek Nature Trail. - Y4 mile nature trail
Bear Creek nature trail is located off of Winter Springs Boulevard in the Tuscawilla
development conununity. The natural habitat is a mesic hardwood forest with a small creek
flowing through. This trail supports a wide variety of native species. Hickories (~spp),
Sweetgum (LiQuidambar stvraci([ua), Cypress (Taxodium distichium), and Oaks (Ouercus
spp.) make up most of the canopy. There are no signs of invasive plant material. In contrast,
protected native orchids (Epidendrom canopseum) can be seen growing with ferns and
bromeliads in the canopy. This piece of public property is intended to be left in its natural state
and has an overall assessment of excellent.
D. Sunshine Park - 10 acres
Sunshine Park is a multi-recreational facility found on North Edgemon. The Senior Citizen
Center and Civic Center are located here. Along the entranceway there are some cedars
(Jrllliperos spp.) planted between the driveway and the baseball field. These cedars do not
seem to be doing very well and should be replaced in the next year or so. TIley are a Florida
grade 2 and have not reached their full canopy. In between parking are some elms (Ulmus
spp.) and one oak (Ouercus spp.). These trees are fairly young and have not reached their full
canopy. They are a Florida grade 2 or better and one is dead and will be replaced. Next to the
Senior Center are an elm and a Sweetgum (LiQuidambar stvraciflua) that are young and doing
very well. Behind the Senior Center is a wooded area that sits on a retention pond. TIus
wooded area is natural occurring and has formed a healthy, complete canopy made up of
Sweetbay Magnolias (Mal!nolia virstiniana), Cypress (Taxodium disticlrium), Red Maple
(Acer robnmr), Laurel Oaks (Quercus laurifolia), and some Bay trees (Persea spp.) TIle only
invasive plant material is some cattails (Tvpha spp.) growing at the water's edge of the
retention pond. The overall assessment ofthe park is good.
E. Moss Park - 1 acre
Moss Park has a tennis and basketball court alongside a small creek at Dolplun and Moss
Roads. A few Sweetgums ( LiQuidambar stvraci([ua ) are located alongside the creek. TIlere
are no other plants or trees within the park. Grass within the park is sparse and in need of fill
dirt and sod. The overall assessment of the park is poor. Moss Park has been placed on a list as
a projected site for tree plantings for 'Tree City USA' re-certification by the National Arbor
Day Foundation.
F. Ranchlands Park - 1 acre
Ranchlands Park sets at the end of Hayes Road alongside a retention pond. TIle park is not
heavily wooded and used to be a Turkey Oak (Ouercus /aevis) scrub habitat. There are three
young oaks (Ouercus spp.) planted in the park that are young and healthy. TIlere is one elm
(Ulmus spp.) that was planted and seems to have a disease and will be replaced. Alongside the
borders of the park are several Slash Pines (Pinus el/iotii), Camphor trees (Cillllamomrlnr
camphara) and a few more Laurel Oaks (Quercus laurifolia). All of the trees are in good
health. They have not reached maturity and have not filled out a complete canopy. TIle trees
planted by public works have maintained a Florida grade I with the exception of the diseased
elm. TIle overall assessment of the park is good.
G. Sam Smith Park - 5 acres
Sam Smith Park is located in the Tuscawilla development on Winter Springs Boulevard and
was once a Sand Pine scrub habitat. llle park has a nice full canopy made up of Sand Pines
(Pill us dausa), Sweetbay Magnolias (Mal!IIolia virl!illialla), Sweetgums (Liauidambar
stvraci([ua) and a few Turkey Oaks (Quercus laevis). 'l1le lUlderstory is made up mostly of
Saw Plametto (Serelloa repens), Wa'{ Myrtle (AIl'rica celifera), and Elderberry (Sambucus
calladellsis). All of the trees and paints arc naturally occurring and arc in excellent health.
There arc no signs of invasive plant material. '111e overall assessment of the park is excellent.
2
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H. Fruitwood Park - Ih acre
Fruitwood Park is located at Panama Road and Fruitwood A venue within a developed
community. This is a children's' park with two swing sets alongside a retention pond. There
are four, young oaks ( Ouerclls spp. ) in excellent condition. All four trees have maintained a
Florida grade I or better since their planting. Grass is healthy Bahia (Pasoall/m lIotatl/m).
There are no other plants or trees within the park. TIle overall assessment of the park is fair.
...................................
2. mgytwJ%#y~.
A. Edgemon islands
B. 434 medians
State road 434 is currently being landscaped and will continue as the roadway is being
widened over the next year or so. The landscaping portion of state road 434 is funded by a
grant received from the Florida Department of Transportation for their Highway
Beautification Project. Native wildflowers along with Crape Myrtles (Laf!erstroemia spp.) can
be seen doing extremely well in the median in front of city hall. The overall assessment on the
completed portion of the 434 medians is excellent.
C. Moss Rd medians
D. Pearl Road medians
These three medians are grass and Sabal palms and are somewhat unattractive. They have
been place on a list as projected tree planting sites for re-certification as a 'Tree City USA'
conuuunity by the National Arbor Day Foundation.
E. Tuscawilla PUD
An independent landscape company that has done an exceptional job of proper pruning and
maintenance of the trees maintains the majority of Tuscawilla development. They currently
maintain the rights-of-way on each side of Winter Springs Boulevard and Northem Drives
with the exception of the center island medians on Winter Springs Boulevard. Several species
of oaks, pines and other landscape plants are used throughout the development. The trees are
in excellent condition and receive lots of attention. There are a few Slash Pines (Pill us elliotii)
that should be replaced over the next few years and replaced with trees that have better
stability and not prone to damage from weather and insects. TIle overall assessment of the
trees in the rights-of-way is excellent.
1. Winter Springs Blvd and Northern Way
Winter Springs Boulevard runs through the center of the Tuscawilla development from
Tuscawilla Road to SR 426. Landscaped island medians divide Winter Springs Boulevard
along its entire length tllrough Winter Springs. Several different species are used along the
length. 11lese include Laurel Oaks (Ol/ercl/s lal/ri(olia), Chinese Elms (Ulml/s pan'iflora),
Crape Myrtles (Laf!erstroeminia sp.), Slash Pines (Pill us elliotii), Dogwoods (Comus
spp.)...
Some of the slash pines are not doing well. This is either due to quality of the reclaim
water system or a vitamin deficiency. They are yellowing and showing poor growth fomls
with brittle branches. '!llese pines are now slowly being replaced with more adaptable tree
species such as East Palatka Holly (flex sp.), Laurel Oaks (Ouercl/s lal/ri(olia), Red Maples
(Acer I1Ibl1llll) and oUler indigenous hardwood species. Over the ne:-.1 year or so, all of the
pines in the medians along Winter Springs Boulevard will be removed and replaced.
3
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3 . git~liqlq<<,t(n~~.
A. Fire Station #1
Fire station # I is located ofT of Moss A venue. TIlere is quite a di versity of trees planted here.
In the front of the station are Sand pines (PiIlIlS dallsa), Longleafpines (Pill us 1X11ustris),
Sweetbay Magnolias (Mafllloilia virflillialla), Sweetgums (Lilluidambar stvmcilll/a) and one
Red Maple (Acer I1lbrom). Most are naturally occuring except for the pines which look as if
they were planted several years ago. All are healthy and doing well. TIlere are no pest plants
visible. TIle overall assessment of this fire station is excellent. -
B. Fire Station #2
Fire Station #2 is located ofT of Northem Way near Trotwood Park. TIlere are only three oaks
planted in the rear of the station. They are all grade I or better and in excellent condition.
TIlere is plenty of room to add additional trees to the landscaping. The overall assessment is
good.
C. Police Station
D. City Hall
There is quite a diversity of trees growing at City Hall. TIlere are about twenty Laurel Oaks
(Quercus laurifolia), four Live Odks (Quercus virginiana), seven Pond Pines (Pimls serotil/a),
two Sabal Palms, two Crape myrtles (LaJ!.estroemia spp.), three Sand Pines (Pin/IS dal/sa),
and one Camphor Tree (Camohora cillllamomllm). Most are in good health.
There are a few Laurel Oaks in the front that have taken on unusual growth forms. Some have
co-dominant leader trunks. There are three Laurel Oaks that appear to be exfoliating their
leaves. A sign of poor health. These trees should have a full evergreen canopy. They will be
watched carefully and possibly replaced.
In the vacant area in front of City Hall is two Pond Pines that are multi trunk and may grow
become a hazard. Multi trunk pines are especially prone to splitting in storms and falling.
These trees will be carefully monitored and eventually replaced. The rest of the tree canopy at
city hall is very healthy.
Behind City Hall is a vacant area between the high school. This area is naturally occwring
consisting mostly of Laurel Oak and Live Oaks. Several of them have some Mistletoe
(Lellcocarvum spp.) and should be cleaned up. TIle overall assessment of City Hall is good.
E. Public Works
1. Water Plant - Northern Rd - This plant ha~ been place on a list as a
projected tree planting sites for re-certification as a 'Tree City USA' community by tile
National Arbor Day Foundation. Trees will be planted in the right-of-way along Northern
Road.
II. Water Reclamation Facility - Winter Springs Blvd __
m. Public Works Base & Yard - The base and yard are located behind Fire
Station # I ofT of Moss Road. There are some Red Maples (Acer robnml) growing
out front that have co-dominant and multiple tnUlks that appear to have established
on their own. There is also a Live Oak and several Laurel Oaks planted around the
perimeter ofthc yard in thc right-of-way. All are in excellent health with tl1e
exccption of the multi-trunk maple. Tlus condition usually leads to trunk rot and
splitting in latcr ycars.
4
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