Introduction

Alderman’s Ford Nature Preserve is a part of the South Hillsborough Wildlife Corridor, a network of protected lands in Hillsborough County that creates connected habitat for wildlife and protects natural resources like the Alafia River. The corridor's preservation is vital for the region's ecosystems due to rapid urban development in the area. The section of the corridor from the southern preserve boundary to the river and just east of the CSX railroad grade narrows, limiting the riparian habitat in this portion of the preserve. Prior owners of the property converted large portions of the area on the north side of the current preserve into pasture. Habitat protection and restoration of this and other areas of the preserve are priorities of the Environmental Lands Management Team. Revised restoration plans focus on habitat improvement and are in the final stages of development, soon to be out for bid by qualified contractors for execution.

Much of the preserve supports native vegetation, except for the area west of Turkey Creek Road and east of the railroad grade that contains sections of improved pasture. This area contains a natural spring originating in the pasture and flowing south to the river through a deep creek bed. The Alafia River, located in the southern area of the Preserve, flows westward over limestone bedrock, forming rapids during periods of low water, and is an area known for fossils. Several listed plant species have been found on the site, including pecluma and tillandsia species. Listed animal species, including the Florida sandhill crane and gopher tortoise are also residents of the preserve.

An equestrian trail built by volunteers under the supervision of the Environmental Lands Management Team is located within the southern sections of the preserve, with access from Thompson Road. Additionally, there is a 2.5-mile loop hiking trail with access from Turkey Creek. The entire river shoreline is accessible by canoe, and this scenic stretch of the river is very popular.

Background

The management plan for Alderman's Ford Nature Preserve is updated every 10 years. Each time the plan is updated, the public is invited to review and comment on the management of natural habitats and recreational resources on the preserve. The current draft was shared with an advisory group of environmental professionals who also provided comment.