| Deep Lagoon Preserve (DLP) contains four parcels (totalling nearly 272 acres) that were purchased through Lee County's Conservation 20/20 Program from 1999 through 2006. Natural plant communities found at DLP include tidal swamps, tidal marshes, coastal grasslands, wet prairies, prairie hammocks and mesic flatwoods. Deep Lagoon Preserve provides habitat for several listed animal and plant species. A bald eagle nest is located in the central portion of the Preserve and smalltooth sawfish, a federally endangered species, has been seen swimming off the coast of the Preserves peninsula.
The Preserve has undergone tremendous alterations from human related activities. Approximately 3% of the DLP consists of ditches created for mosquito control and as part of the Iona Drainage District. Nine percent (9%) is currently pasture that previously was used for growing gladiolus flowers. Almost 20% of the Preserve, scattered throughout all three sections, consists of invasive exotic plant monocultures, primarily Australian pines (Casuarina equisetifolia), Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius) and melaleuca (Melaleuca quinquenervia).
Currently there is limited access to the Preserve (only direct access by boat). No plans have been made for recreation opportunities at this Preserve due to the ongoing restoration projects (see Land Stewardship Plan for more information). |
