HARBOUR HEIGHTS
SCRUB JAY PRESERVE

Initiated in 2007, this project is intended to permanently protect from development 800 acres within the 1,432 acre Harbour Heights community. The planned Preserve abuts Deep Creek Delta,100 acres already protected by Conservation Charlotte. The Preserve features over 3 miles of shoreline along the Peace River. It is critical wildlife habitat for numerous species, including the endangered Florida Scrub jay and threatened gopher tortoise. Florida Scrub jays spend their entire lives in a single 25-acre habitat, never migrating. Their offspring remain close to “home,” moving only far enough to ensure adequate food and nesting for each family. The gopher tortoise is a keystone species that excavates burrows up to 10 feet deep and 40 feet in length. They are good neighbors: Cohabitating in their extensive burrows are as many as 350 other species among which are numerous other listed creatures. While the tortoises may be relocated, these other species cannot.

The Preserve will link SWFWMD’s Lower Peace River Preserve in Desoto County, the Charlotte County Deep Creek Delta, and preserved land at the mouth of Shell Creek., helping to create a significant bridge between Myakka River State Park and Babcock Ranch. This wildlife corridor will provide safe passage for endangered Florida panthers and black bears that need ranges of hundreds of square miles for each individual.

The beauty of these protected lands would provide mankind access to a planned wilderness area for passive outdoor recreation. Trails dotted with informational kiosks and park benches will be maintained for hiking and birding and provide an opportunity for the Preserve to qualify as part of the Florida Birding Trail and the Florida Blue Ways Trail. Access to the Peace River for canoeing, kayaking and fishing will be provided. The Preserve will serve as a basis for eco-tourism opportunities that will bring tourist dollars to the area, bolstering our local economy.

Other Projects of Interest

Cape Haze Preserve
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Lemon Creek Preserve
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Tree Park Environmental
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