City of Tampa - Passive Recreation In Significant Wildlife Habitat

(Author - Gregory Howe) It is not the intent of the Upland Habitat Protection Ordinance or its referenced Appendix B that Significant Wildlife Habitat (SWH) areas contain some type of passive recreation area within them nor is it best management practices for these areas to contain passive recreation within them. To an extent anthropological use of the conservation area is detrimental to the flora and fauna while at the same time can hinder fire or mechanical management. Trails can provide access for vandalism, plant theft, illegal wildlife collecting and since the construction exposes fresh soils evasive plants can take root all of which reduce the overall purpose of retaining the SWH. Developers, Community Development Districts, Homeowner Associations and individual home owners within developments containing SWH must realize that the Significant Wildlife Habitat Conservation Easement Areas are NOT parkland or green spaces but set aside as conservation areas for wildlife and habitat protection as part of the City’s Comprehensive Plan.

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