Long Branch Management Area

Background

The Long Branch Management Area is located between the cities of Largo and Clearwater in unincorporated Pinellas County. This area of the county has experienced dramatic changes over the years because of surrounding urbanization. Historic aerial photographs show the area once supported an extensive tidal creek.

The wetlands have remained largely natural with the exception of minor ditching for mosquito control and dredging to straighten the channel. In contrast, the surrounding uplands have undergone major changes since the 1980s related to extensive urban development. The Board of County Commissioners acquired these parcels in 1986 and 1996. This natural area, which is closed to the public, is managed by Parks & Conservation Resources.

Characteristics

This management area is located within the Long Branch Drainage Basin, and the natural groundwater flow in this management area is governed by the Long Branch Creek that flows to Old Tampa Bay. The creek system is influenced by the tide, and low-lying areas in the region flood frequently. Elevation ranges up to 10 feet above sea level. The soils are predominantly classified as frequently flooded fine sands. Natural communities include tidal swamps comprised in large part by mangroves and oak hammocks mainly populated by live oak, laurel oak, longleaf pine, palmetto, American beautyberry and greenbriar.

Human disturbance has resulted in areas with weedy, scrubby growth and has encouraged the spread of invasive exotic species, including Brazilian pepper, air potato, and chinaberry tree. The spread of other non-natives, such as carrotwood and camphor tree, has been encouraged by the landscaping of nearby residential areas.

Management

Since assuming management of this area, the County has focused on using chemical treatment to control non-native vegetation. To date, this has involved relatively small-scale projects, but eventually could include more extensive clearing behind neighboring residences and along the creek.

As with all small, natural areas surrounded by development, the growth of non-native plants will be an ongoing challenge. The boundary of Long Branch Management Area is fenced and signs are posted. Reintroduction of controlled burning is not a practical management strategy given the small size of this area and the closeness of neighboring residences.

Instead, mechanical thinning may be used to reduce the amount of flammable material in overgrown upland areas. Additional efforts to restore this management area may include improving the natural groundwater system and planting native vegetation.

Value

While The Long Branch 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, white-tailed deer and other wildlife live in this area. This management area also makes important contributions to the region’s natural water system by improving the quality of surface water and by promoting the refreshment of groundwater.

For additional information:

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