PARK HIGHLIGHTS
This 450-acre site is a mixture of scrubby flatwoods, mesic flatwoods, xeric and mesic hammocks, scattered depressional marshes and mangrove swamp. The western and northern portions of the site consist of mesic and scrubby flatwoods, with a few depressional marshes and hydric hammocks. This area supports a vegetative structure that could provide suitable habitat for scrub-jays and other scrub dependent species. The southern and eastern portions of this site transition into high marsh and mangrove communities, that are typically flooded. Most of the upland areas were historically transitional habitat between mesic flatwoods and scrubby flatwoods, meaning these uplands have characteristics of both these habitat types.
The site has been historically fire-suppressed, allowing for an accumulation of fuels. In 1995 a wildfire burned most of the site, resulting in the vegetative structure of most of the upland habitats structurally resembling scrub, but the soils and species diversity still reflect mesic to scrubby flatwoods. The scattered depressional marshes were also improved by the fire; however they continue to be excessively drained by ditches. Park amenities include a nature trail , nature preserve, and birding. Peace River Preserve is located at 28000 Sandhill Blvd., Punta Gorda, FL 33983
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