| Columbus G. McLeod Preserve (CGMP) was acquired in 1999 and is nearly 10 acres in size. It was named to honor Columbus G. McLeod, an Audubon warden, charged with protecting the rookeries in northern Charlotte Harbor and surrounding areas, possibly including the Caloosahatchee River. He disappeared and was presumed murdered in November 1908. This second death - the first being Guy Bradley, an Audubon warden based in the Everglades in July 1905 - sparked a national campaign against plume hunting and the fashion of wearing feathers.
CGMP consists of five plant communities: The dominant ones include tidal swamp (mangroves), mesic hammock and hydric hammock. The land, which makes up the Preserve, was once connected to the northern mainland until dredging operations detached it in 1887. Therefore, CGMP is not a true oxbow island, although it is now surrounded by the Caloosahatchee River.
CGMP is home to a variety of animal species, including white ibis, little blue heron and red-shouldered hawk. West Indian manatees, American alligators and common moorhens have been noted just offshore in the Caloosahatchee River.
In February 2010, the Department of Corrections Exotic Plant Removal Crew & staff began removing Brazilian pepper trees from the island. Once exotic plant removal and shoreline erosion control projects are completed, a canoe/kayak landing for paddlers on the Great Calusa Blueway will be installed to allow easier access. Paddlers will be able to stretch their legs as they hike along a trail to enjoy bird watching or nature photography. The proposed ΒΌ mile nature trail will be marked. A sign with a map of the trail system and Preserve information will be posted at the trailhead. See the Land Stewardship Plan for the timeline of planned activities. |
