Who needs sand pine scrub? Florida Wildlife. Despite its seemingly harsh nature, many wildlife species depend upon the functions of sand pine scrub for a number of reasons throughout the natural course of ecosystem dynamics in the Ocala National Forest. Particularly the threatened scrub jay, among others makes the Ocala National Forest's sand pines scrub environs its home. Low-growing scrub oaks of the sand pine scrub unique to the area provide habitat and acorns that support them. The loose, sandy soil characteristic of scrub pine areas also serves as an escape from the cold and heat for burrowing species such as the gopher tortoise, mice and push-up beetles.

When fire essential to the health of the sand pine scrub ecosystem comes, inhabiting species take refuge in wet prairies. They serve as an island in a sea of burning scrub for a number of species. These two types of habitat, in conjunction with several others create an important circle throughout which many species reside and use its resources to ensure survival.

For more info online see the article: http://www.gainesvillesun.com/article/20080309/NEWS/549319607

Although the Ocala National Forest may boast protection of the largest area of sand pine scrub ecosystem in the world, species dependent upon such habitat, ranging from scrub to wet prairies to sand hills etc. do not live without some human-induced dangers to their vital habitats. The Ocala National Forest is characterized by a rich and diverse history, resulting in its modern perception by the local community as a "forest of contrasts," balancing between use of the forest's many resources for recreation and livelihood, as well as protection of those resources for sustainable future enjoyment and appreciation.

For more info online see the article: http://www.ocala.com/article/20071230/NEWS/712300354/1001/NEWS01

The Forest Service, Florida Trail Association and other organizations have sought to manage recreational and other types of activities in the forest to protect fragile habitats that are particularly susceptible to degradation as a result of traffic created by human recreation. "Traffic" here refers particularly to the use of OHV's (Off-highway vehicles) in certain areas of the forest, such as areas of deep sand associated with scrub and sandhills ecosystems, resulting in the destruction of sensitive habitat of native species. Of course OHV usage is not inherently bad, and there are several areas of the National Forest designated especially for welcome ATV and off-roading recreation. Unfortunately however, restrictions on more sensitive areas have been problematic for park staff to enforce proper off-road vehicle use in an area as large as the Ocala National Forest.

The short-hand version of the Final Route designation for the Ocala National Forest, issued by the U.S. Forest Service can be accessed online at:

http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/florida/news/documents/PressReleasePhaseII.doc

There are a number of projects geared toward helping out wildlife and plant habitat in the Ocala National Forest, such as those sponsored by the Florida Trail Association and the Sierra Club. Such projects involve help with OHV signs and buffers as well as a multitude of beneficial forest habitat management activities.

More info online at:

http://www.sierraclub.org/outings/national/brochure/08439A.asp

http://www.floridatrail.org/web/index.php