Lake Tarpon West Management Area

Background

The Lake Tarpon West Management Area is in the Palm Harbor area of unincorporated Pinellas County just west of Lake Tarpon. Historic aerial photographs show this property has remained relatively undisturbed, while the surrounding area has experienced dramatic urbanization. While many wetlands in the region were drained and filled, the cypress dome swamp in this management area has remained largely intact. A dome swamp is a freshwater community growing in a roughly circular shape. Cypress domes are characterized by the presence of cypress trees.

The management area also protects floodplain marshes associated with Lake Tarpon. The Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners acquired the property in 1992. This natural area, which is closed to the public, is managed by Parks & Conservation Resources.

Characteristics

Surface runoff and nearby Lake Tarpon determine the flow of the groundwater in this area, which is within the Lake Tarpon Drainage Basin. Elevation ranges up to 10 feet above sea level, with low-lying areas flooded frequently. The soils are mainly classified as frequently-flooded mucks and fine sands. The main natural community is dome swamp with swamp tupelo, dahoon holly, pond cypress, swamp bay and loblolly bay.

The eastern side of the management area is comprised of floodplain marsh containing sawgrass, buttonbush and maidencane. These natural communities support a diverse array of native wildlife, including frogs, snakes, American alligators, raccoon, river otter and numerous species of birds. Some disturbance has resulted from neighboring residences, which has encouraged the spread of invasive, non-native species such as air potato, skunkvine, Chinese tallow tree, carrotwood and guinea grass.

Management

Since assuming management of this area, the County has focused its efforts on controlling exotic species and conducting biological assessments. To date, relatively small-scale efforts have controlled non-native vegetation. Eventually, more extensive clearing may be done along the heavily invaded borders of the property.

As with all small, natural areas surrounded by development, exotics will be an ongoing challenge. The county plans regular assessments of the biodiversity of this area, especially of wetland-dependent species. Additional efforts to enhance the Lake Tarpon West Management Area may include making improvements to the water flow and planting native vegetation.

Value

While The Lake Tarpon West Management Area has special significance to local residents and provides economic and environmental benefits to its neighbors, this natural space provides valuable services to all residents and visitors to the region.

By enhancing native biodiversity, it supports countless organisms ranging from microbes to mammals. For example, a variety of birds, reptiles and amphibians are known to inhabit the area. This management area also makes important contributions to the region’s natural water system by improving the quality of surface water, promoting the recharge of groundwater and controlling floodwaters.

For additional information:

Parks & Conservation Resources
12520 Ulmerton Road
Largo, FL 33774
Phone: (727) 582-2100
Fax: (727) 582-2550