Wj~Ln /"Refuge Manager D Refuge Su Rvisor Review Date

Home , Okefenokee Swamp Park, Peckerwood

REVIEW AND APPROVALS

OKEFENOKEE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

FOLKSTON, GEORGIA 0

ANNUAL NARRATIVE REPORT

Calendar Year 1985

.0 9 6 /wJ~ln /"Refuge Manager D Refuge Su rvisor Review Date

Regional Office Review

INTRODUCTION

The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is situated in the southeastern Georgia counties of Ware, Charlton and Clinch and the northeastern Florida's Baker County . The refuge was established by Executive, Order in 1937 and consists presently of 395,858 _acres . The primary purpose of the refuge is to protect the ecological system of the 438,000-acre Okefenokee Swamp . Approximately 371,000 acres of the Okefenokee Swamp are incorporated into the refuge, and 353,981 acres within the swamp were designated as wilderness by the Okefenokee Wilder- ness Act of 1974 . The refuge headquarters is located at Camp Cornelia, which is 11 miles southwest of Folkston, Georgia .

Okefenokee's natural beauty was first threatened in the 1890's when attempts were made to drain the swamp to facilitate logging operations . The Suwannee Canal was dug 11 .5 miles into the swamp from Camp Cornelia . After the failure of this project, known as "Jackson's Folly," other interests acquired the swamp and began removing timber in 1909, using a network of tramroads extending deep into the major timbered areas . When logging operationswere halted in 1927, over 423 million board feet of timber, most of it cypress, had been removed from the swamp .

The establishment of Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge on March 30, 1937 marked the culmination of a movement that had been initiated at least 25 years earlier by a group of scien- tists from Cornell University who recognized the educational, scientific, and recreational values of this unique area . The Okefenokee Preservation Society, formed in 1918, promoted nationwide interest in the swamp . With the support of State and local interests and numerous conservation and scientific organizations, the Federal Government acquired most of the swamp for refuge purposes in late 1936 .

Okefenokee Swamp is actually a vast peat bog filling a huge saucer-shaped sandy depression that was perhaps once part of the ocean floor . The upper margin of the swamp, or the "swamp line," ranges in elevation from 128 feet above sea level on the northeast side to 103 feet on the southwest side . The shallow, dark-stained waters of Okefenokee flow slowly but continuously across the swamp toward the two outlets--the famed Suwannee River on the southwest side and the historic St . Mary's River on the southeast . The eight predominant habitat types on the refuge include swamp islands, prairies (freshwater marsh), shrub swamp, mixed cypress forests, blackgum forests, bay forests, pure cypress forests, and managed upland pine forests .

Three primary entrances and two secondary entrances exist for the refuge . The Suwannee Canal Recreation Area, an entrance which is located near the refuge headquarters, is managed solely by the Fish and Wildlife Service . The Stephen C . Foster State Park is the refuge's western entrance which is located 18 miles northwest of Fargo, Georgia . This state park is operated on refuge lands under the provisions of a long-term agreement with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources . The refuge's northern entrance is the Okefenokee Swamp Park which is located about 13 miles south of Waycross, Georgia . This park is administered by a non-profit organization on refuge and state forestlands . Kingfisher Landing located between Folkston and Waycross and the Sill area on the west side are considered the secondary entrances into the refuge .

INTRODUCTIC

Page

TABLE CF CCNIENIS i

A. HIGHLIGHTS 1

B. CLIMATIC CCNDITICNS 1

C . LAND AQ UISITICN

1 . Fee Title 4 2 . Easements (Nothing to Report) s 3. Other (Nothing to Report) D. PLANNING

1 . Master Plan (Nothing to Report) 2 . Management Plan 4 3 . Public Participation 4 4 . Carpliance with Environmental and Cultural Resource Mandates 4 5 . Research and Investigations 5 6 . Other 8

E . ADMINISTRATION

1 . Personnel 8 2 . Youth Program 11 3 . Other Manpower Program (Nothing to Report) 4 . Volunteer Piuyrazn 12 0 5 . Funding 15 6 . Safety 15 7 . Technical Assistance 16 8 . Other Items 17

F . HABITAT MANAGEMENT

1 . General 18 2 . Wetlands 18 3 . Forests 20 4 . Croplands (Nothing to Report) 5 . Grasslands (Nothing to Report) 6 . Other Habitats (Nothing to Report) 7 . Grazing (Nothing to Report) 8 . Haying (Nothing to Report)

Page

9 . Fire Management 26 10. Pest Control 32 11 . Water Rights (Nothing to Report) 12 . Wilderness and Special Areas 32 13 . WPA Easement Monitoring (Nothing to Report)

G . WILDLIFE

1 . Wildlife Diversity 33 2 . Endangered and/or Threatened Species 33 3 . Waterfowl 36 4 . Marsh and Water Birds 37 5 . Shorebirds, Gulls, Terns, and Allied Species 39 • 6 . Raptors 39 7 . Other Migratory Birds •, • 40 8 . Game Mammals 40 9 . Marine Marrrnals (No(Nothing to Report) 10 . Other Resident Wildlife 40 11. Fishery Resources 40 12 . Wildlife Propagation and Stocking . (Nothing to Report) 13. Surplus Animal Disposal (Nothing to Report) 14 . Scientific Collections 40 15 . Animal control (Nothing to Report) 16 . Marking and Banding 40 17 . Disease Prevention and Control . . . . (Nothing to Report)

H . PUBLIC USE

1 . General 41 2 . Outdoor Classrooms - Students 42 3 . Outdoor Classrooms - Teachers 44 4 . Interpretive Foot Trails 44 5 . Interpretive Tour Routes 45 6 . Interpretive Exhibits/Demonstrations 46 7 . Other Interpretive Programs 48 8 . Hunting 51 9 . Fishing 52 10 . Trapping (Nothing to Report) 11 . Wildlife Observation 52 12 . Other Wildlife Oriented Recreation 53 13 . Camping (Nothing to Report) 14 . Picnicking (Nothing to Report) 15 . Off-Road Vehicling (Nothing to Report) 16 . Other Non-Wildlife Oriented Recreation (Nothing to Report) . . . 17 . Law Enforcement . . . 53 18 . Cooperating Associations t 54 • 19 . Concessions 54 iii

Page

I . EQUIPMENTAND FACILITWS

1 . New Construction 54 2. Rehabilitation 56 3. Major Maintenance 58 4 . Equiprent Utilization and Replacement 60 5 . Carrmmication Systems 60 6 . Computer Systems 60 7 . Energy Conservatior 60 8 . Other 61

J . O`I}IER ITEMS

1 . Cooperative Programs 61 2i . Other Economic Uses (Nothing to Report) S 3 . Items of Interest 61 4 . Credits 62

K. FEEDBACK 63

L. INFOR'4TICN PACKET - - - (inside back cover)

HIGHLIGHTS

The University of 6eoryia selected the refuge as the site for the construction of a Long Term Ecological Research Station . (Section D .3 and D .5) .

Refuge's waters were determined to be navigable . (Section D .4) .

Nine wildfires occurred at Okefenokee in 1985 . (Section F .9) .

Florida panther was sighted on refuge . (Section G .2) .

Several construction projects which greatly improved refuge's operations were completed during the year . (Section I .1) .

Volunteer boy scouts completely rebuilt chimney . (Section 0 1 .3) . Georgia's Governor and family visited refuge . (Section J .3) .

B . CLIMATIC CONDITIONS

Okefenokee's weather made 1985 a year of extremes . Rainfall during 1985 nearly matched the annual average . However, lower than average rainfall amounts during the first five months of the year caused serious wildfire problems . A monthly low rainfall of only 0 .79 inches was recorded in November . Signi- ficantly higher-than-average rainfall occurred in August . The 11 .39 inches registered that month was the high for the year .

Differences in water level readings were very distinct in 1985 . water levels in the swamp remained six to seven inches below average from January through July . However, heavy rainfalls from August through October alleviated low water conditions, as the year ended with water levels being seven to eight inches above normal .

Extremes in yearly high and low temperatures were also evident in 1985 . Temperatures of over 100 ° F were recorded during a nine-day period in June . The yearly high temperature of 103 ° F was recorded twice during this time . December's reading of 5 °F was the yearly low temperature and set a record as the lowest temperature ever recorded at Okefenokee . Summer daily high temperatures averaged in the low 90's . Summer low averages were in the upper 60's . winter high temperatures averaged in the upper 60's . Winter daily lows averaged 44 F, which is about normal . This weather data is summarized in Tables 1 and 2 .

TABLE 1

TEMPERATURES (inches) RAINFALL 24-Year Average# _ 1985

MONTH 20-Year Average Average Average Average Monthly Monthly Average* 1985 1984 Daily High Daily Low Daily High Daily Low High Low

January 3 .44 2 .00 2 .53 66 41 63 33 81 5 February 3 .79 2 .04 3 .89 69 43 72 45 84 26 March 3 .76 2 .13 8 .86 74 48 80 50 91 31 April 3 .22 3 .06 3 .62 81 55 83 54 96 37 May 4 .47 3 .46 7 .00 87 62 89 62 94 53 June 5 .76 7 .46 5 .13 91 67 95 69 103 62 July 7 .48 6 .74 8 .26 92 70 92 70 97 64 August 7 .65 11 .38 3 .54 92 70 92 71 99 67 September 5 .40 6 .21 4 .40 88 67 87 67 97 54 October 2 .35 4 .08 1 .70 80 58 86 66 92 51 November 2 .34 0 .79 2 .93 73 48 80 60 93 42 December 3 .37 3 .70 0 .30 67 42 66 40 __ 86 *1963-1982 52 .16 TOTALS 53 .03 53 .05 #1946-1969 0

TABLE 2

SUWANNEECANALRECREATION AREA COMPARATIVEWATERLEVELS (Feet Above Mean Sea Level)

Normal 20-Year Average#) 1985 1984 1954* High Low High Low High Low High Low

January 121 .49 121 .09 120 .99 120 .82 121 .60 121 .40 121 .80 121,54 February 121 .67 121 .28 121 .52 121 .16 March 121 .70 121 .18 121 .16 120 .76 April 121 .64 121 .05 120 .74 120 .46 May 121 .34 120 .84 120 .62 120 .06 June 121 .24 120 .68 120 .30 119 .54

July 121 .32 120 .76 121 .04 120 .76 121 .83 121 .56 119 .50 11.8 .66 August 121 .63 120 .00 121 .80 120 .87 121 .86 121 .47 118 .62 118 .18 September 121 .63 121 .13 122 .26 121 .92 121 .53 121 .03 118 .16 117 .92 October 121 .38 120 .92 122 .06 121 .68 121 .45 120 .96 118 .04 117 .70 November 121 .15 121 .15 122 .10 121 .80 121 .18 121 .01. 117 .76 117 .56** December 121 .23 120 .90 122 .06 121 .79 121 .13 120 .93 117 .90 117 .64

*Year last fire-encouraging drought occurred and continued into 1955 . **Lowest water level records during 1954-55 fire year . #1963-1982

C . LAND ACQUISITION

0 1 . FeeTitle

Land acquisition needed on the Okefenokee Refuge to increase the effectiveness of management includes approximately 16,000 acres of swampland inholdings and land adjacent to the entrance road . No funds were provided for land acquisition during 1985 .

D . PLANNING

2 . Management Plan

A considerable amount of work was accomplished on the station's Forest Habitat Management Plan . Due to a change in the approved outline for this plan, the rough draft that was nearing completion had to be completely revised . At the close of the 0 year, a second draft was completed and is being circulated for comments . This plan should be finalized in 1986 .

A Prescribed Burning Plan_ for FY 1986 covering over 12,000 acres was prepared during the year . In addition, Forest Man- agement Prescriptions were prepared which involved eight forestry compartments and over 1,500 acres .

3 . Public Participation

Negotiations continued during the year between the Fish an Wildlife Service, University of Georgia, and officials an citizens of Charlton, Ware, and Clinch Counties on determinin the location of a Long Term Ecological Research (LTER) facilit in the vicinity of the swamp . A final decision WIC -Ha locate the LTER on the refuge at Camp Cornelia .

4 . Compliance with Environmental and Cultura Mandates

In order for the concessioner to order new tour boats, the navigability status of the waters within the Okefenokee Swamp had to be determined . A request to the Corps of Engineers resulted in a finding that a navigability determination had never been made on the swamp's waterways . The request was forwarded to Coast Guard solicitors in Miami who after considerable research determined that the waters in question were indeed navigable . This finding was based on the fact that during the late 1890's and early 1900's both timber and furs were transported via the waterways for commercial purposes . In addition, concession operations are presently charging people for guided boat tours on these waters . The past and present commercial uses in the swamp resulted in V the waters being considered navigable . Although the full effect of this deci- 5

sion on the concession boat operations was not known at the close of the year, all boat operators who take tours in the swamp will probably need to be licensed .

In compliance with cultural resource mandates, Regional Ar- chaeologist Jim Cobb was notified when an Indian artifact site was discovered during the Pocket Wildfire in June . Personnel from Stephen C . Foster State Park located the site which had been disturbed by fire plows during fire suppression efforts . Numerous artifacts were found which included bone fragments . Archaeologist Cobb visited the site and recommended that the site be left uncovered for future evaluation . The site is located on Jones Island which is occupied by Stephen C . Foster State Park .

5 . Research and Investigations

research projects continued on the Okefenokee Refuge this year . 0 =he University of Georgia's (UGA) Institute for Ecology is conducting the most comprehensive study with a National Science Foundation grant . The grant establishes a Long T}_rrr Ecological Research (LTER) station at Okefenokee and is the impetus for the university to develop a permanent laboratory and support station near the swamp . A site on the refuge near Camp Cornelia was selected for the construction of this new facility . The Service approved their Concept Design Draft asking for only minor revisions . At the close of the year, UGA had tentatively been given $500,000 in State funds and was seeking matching funds from the Federal government . In addition, UGA is seeking funds from the National Science Foundation to provide laboratory equipment for this million dollar research station .

in connection with the LTER and at the recommendation of refuge personnel, UGA developed a research proposal which included several management oriented studies to be used in determining 0 what effects the Suwannee River Sill is having on the swamp's ecosystem . This study may lead to a water manipulation program via the sill's water control structure . UGA was to submit this proposal to the National Science Foundation in early 1986 .

Okefenokee NR85-"Ecology and Natural History of the American Alligator" (41590-4) Atlanta Zoological Park

Howard Hunt, Curator of Herpetology for the Atlanta Zoological Park, has been conducting this research for several years . Objectives of this study are as follows : (1) locate nests ; (2) observe parental behavior of alligators and between adult alligators ; (3) monitor young alligators ; and (4) identify predators of alligators' nests . 6

During 1985, Mr . Hunt devoted a considerable amount of time studying and observing nocturnal nesting behavior, the defense, movement and survival of alligator pods and the effects of low water levels on pod survival . Eleven nests were monitored during the year . Mr . Hunt noted through the year that low water levels increased terrestrial predator access to nursing sites and photographed several nests being destroyed by raccoons and bears .

Okefenokee NR85-"Okefenokee Swamp Ecosystem Study" (41590-5) University of Georgia

This program, initiated by Dr . Bernard Patten, and directed in 1985 by Dr . Bob Hodson, is a comprehensive study of the structure and functions of the Okefenokee Swamp ecosystem and those factors essential to its maintenance . The objectives of this long-term and broad-based study are to : (1) develop basic knowledge about the Okefenokee Swamp in regards to ecosystem- species relationships in the development of basic ecological knowledge about the swamp, to investigate the hydrology of the swamp, the patterns and control of primary productivity, and the basis of food webs and (2) integrate this knowledge into a comprehensive whole ecosystem model which should be able to assess various long-term effects of natural and human disturbances . Research will continue in 1986 .

Several studies were conducted during the year under this major research effort . They included : Tracking Nutrient Releases During Hydro Manipulation ; Dragon Flies ; Cation Concentrations ; Mercury and Other Heavy Metal Concentrations ; PH Limitations of Freshwater Fishes ; Root Dynamics ; Bio Mass Investigations ; Nutrient Supply of Zooplankton ; Origin of Sand Islands in the Swamp ; Frog Energetics ; and the Okefenokee Swamp Hydrology . All of these studies will continue in 1986 .

Okefenokee NR85-"Evaluation of Okefenokee NWR As A Site for Developing A Non-Migratory Flock of Whooping Cranes" (41590-7) Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at the University of Georgia

The objectives of this study include : (1) determine if captive- reared sandhill cranes, placed in the wild using the gentle release method, will integrate with the wild sandhills and develop sedentary or migratory behavior ; (2) evaluate the potential of Okefenokee NWR to simultaneously support nesting populations of Florida sandhill and whooping cranes, and to support wintering populations of these two plus greater sandhill cranes ; (3) describe the ecology and annual behavior ratterns of the resident Florida sandhill cranes and the win- 7

!4o very dedicated researchers, Alan and Laurel Bennett devoted considerable amount of time attempting to catch adult Florida sandhill cranes and chicks . Though all attempts failed to capture chicks, five adults were captured and equipped with radio transmitters to monitor their movement in the swamp . A major effort was also oriented towards studying nesting behavior of Florida sandhill cranes, planning and conducting winter roost counts for greater sandhill cranes, and banding greater sandhill cranes in an effort to define their winter range . A total of 35 greater sandhill cranes were banded by the researchers during 1985 .

Researcher Alan Bennett taxes measurements, bands and puts neck collars on captured sandhill cranes . Biological Technician Tony Gooch is providing assistance . (11/85) 85-01 JAB

Okefenokee NR85-"Monitoring Vegetation Transect Lines in the Okefenokee Swamp" (41590-8)

The objectives of the study include : (1) determine at what rate woody vegetation is encroaching into open herbaceous prairie areas of the swamp, (2) determine the effect of fire as it relates to hindering the succession of woody vegetation and enhancing herbaceous vegetation in open prairie areas of the swamp, (3) determine if water level manipulation of the swamp would be needed to enhance open herbaceous prairie areas for migratory and resident wildlife, and (4) provide supportive B aata for other research being conducted by major educational institutions .

During the year, vegetative transect lines were established in Bugaboo, Mizell, and Sapling Prairies . They were evaluated during the period June through October using both the five point vegetative sampling and belt transect techniques . Be- cause this year was the first of the study, the data could not be compared ; therefore, no conclusions were drawn .

6 . Other

In January, Frank Podriznik', regional office, and Paul Schmidt, Washington office, met with Manager Schroer, Assistant Manager Voros and Outdoor Recreation Planners Burkhart and Branagan to cevelop a draft of a proposed regional policy for commercial

tia :nager Sc iro_r att' nci : t .'1_ F''Jr C rk ~; cove V ~1 :)rks 1 ::7 ii Jacksonville in March . The purpose of the meeting was to solicit input from numerous sources to develop a recovery plan for this species .

E . ADMINISTRATION

1 . Personnel

This year was an unusual one in regards to personnel ; the year began and ended with all positions being occupied . However, the year was not without transfers in and out . On March 16, Assistant Manager Algie (Sandy) Jolly transferred from the west side to Frankfort NFH . That position was converted to a Bio- logical Technician position and filled by Richard Weide on July 7 . Outdoor Recreation Planner Cheryl Branagan transferred with a promotion to Great Meadows NWR in April . That vacancy was filled on August 4 by Marie Fernandez, who transferred from Carlsbad Caverns National Park .

For the third consecutive year, a fire crew was employed to assist with wildfire suppression and emergency presuppression activities . Problems with recruitment occurred as most appli- cants could not meet the physical qualifications for the job . As a result, nine crew members were on the rolls during the year ; however, only five were available to work full-time during the summer fire season, June through August . A portion of the crew returned on an intermittent basis in the winter to assist with fuel hazard reduction activities .

Due to the vacancies and time lapses in filling positions, only 17 .8 of the 18 .7 FTEs allotted were utilized in FY 1985 . PERSONNEL

1 . John D. Schroer (EOD 03/20/83) Refuge Manager (GM 13, PET) 2 . Donald J. Voros (ECD 09/30/84) Asst. Refuge Manager (GS 11, PFT) 3 . Algie L. Jolly, Jr . (ECD 05/29/83) Asst. Refuge Manager (GS 9, PFT) transferred to Frankfort NFH on 03/16/85 4 . Kimberly A. .Johnson (EOD 06/C1/83) Asst . Refuge Manager (GS 7, PET) 5 . Ronald A. Phernetton (ECD 01/09/74) Forester (GS 11, PET) 6 . Mark A. Williams (ECD 04/01/84) Forestry Technician (GS 6, PFT) 7 . James A. Burkhart (EOD 06/11/78) Chief Outdoor Recreation Planner (GS 11, PFT) 8 . Cheryl L. Branagan (ECD 11/27/83) Outdoor Recreation Planner transferred to Great Meadows NWR (GS 7, PFT) on 04/14/85 9 . Marie K . Fernandez (ECD 08/04/85) Outdoor Recreation Planner (GS 5, PET) 10 . Tony R. Gooch (EOD 08/18/80) Biological Technician (GS 6, PET) 11 . Douglas E . Nuss (ECD 01/16/77) Biological Technician (GS 8, PET) 12 . Richard W. Wbide (EOD 07/07/85) Biological Technician (GS 5, PET) 13. Cecile M . Davis (ECD 10/16/72) Secretary (Typing) (GS 5, PET) 14 . Dartha L . Pittman (FAD 12/06/76) Clerk-Stenographer (GS 5, PET) 15 . Jay W. Burch (ECD 12/07/61) Maintenance Mechanic(WG 9, PET) 16 . Virgil Crews (ECD 01/05/69) Engineering Equipment Operator (WG 8, PET) 17 . Stiner Jones (ECD 09/19/83) Maintenance W rker (WG 6, PET) 18 . Iva Lee Chesser (EOD 10/08/79) Laborer (hr, 2, TAPER, Intermittent 19 . Vannie Clark (ECD 07/14/78) Laborer (W3 2, TAPER, Intermittent ; 20 . Ralph Davis (EOD 03/30/76) Laborer (WG 2, TAPER, Intermittent) 21. Nellie D . Snowden (ECD 07/14/77) Laborer (WG 2, TAPER, Intermittent! 22 . Gracie A. Gooch (EOD 05/29/84) Park Technician (GS 4, Temporary, NTE 1 year) 23 . Curtis J . Mitchell (ECD 06/12/83) Laborer (WG 3, Tamporazy, NTE 1 yet

TEMPORARY FIRE CREW

1 . Sidney S . Brock, Jr . (ECD 06/11/84) Laborer-Firefighter (WG 3, Temporary, NTE 1 year) 2 . Malcolm Dasher (EOD 06/23/85) Laborer Firefighter (WG 3, Temporary, NIE 1 year) 3 . Billy C . Davis (ECD 06/11/84) Laborer-Firefighter (WG 3, Temporary, NIE 1 year) 4 . Reggie Forcine (ECD 06/11/84) laborer-Firefighter (WG 3, Temporary, ?7E 1 year) 5 . Baynard H . Gowen, Jr . (EOD 06/12/83) Laborer-Firefighter (WG 3, Terporary, NTE 1 year) 6 . Andy H. Gowen (ECD 06/12/83) Laborer-Firefighter (WG 3, Temporary, N E 1 year) 7 . John L. Griffis (Em 06/11/84) Laborer-Firefighter (WG 3, Temporary, NTE 1 year) 8 . Barry Hart (ECD 06/23/85) Laborer-Firefighter (WG 3, Temporary, NIE 1 year) 9 . Robert L. Jones (ECD 06/12/83) Laborer-Firefighter (WG 3, Temporary, NIE 1 year)

Front Row : 9, 14, 13, 4, 10, 15, 16, 23, 2 Back Row : 7, 17, 11, 12, 6, 5, 1 (12/85) 85-02 JAB NU!'r. : Key for picture is on page 9 .

Standing : 20 anal 19 Sitting : 18 and 32 (10/81) 85-03 JAB 0 NOTE : Key for picture is on page 9 . FIVE-YEARCOMPARISON REFUGE STAFFING PATTERN

Full-Time Part-Time Temporary TAPER*

FY 1985 16 0 11** 4 FY 1984 16 0 12*** 4 FY 1983 16 0 12*** 4 FY 1982 15 0 2 4 FY 1981 15 2 2 4

*Temporary Appointment Pending Establishment Of A Register **Includes 9 Temporary Fire Crew Members ***Includes 10 Temporary Fire Crew Members

YouthPrograms

The Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) camp at Okefenkee NWR consisted of eleven enrollees, a youth leader and a work leader . The work leader and nine enrollees worked at the Camp Cornelia entrance with the the youth leader and the other two enrollees

YCC Group Leader Phillip Lott gives direction to YCC enrollees in clearing viewing areas along the Suwannee Canal . (07/85) 85-04 KAJ 12

working at the Pocket Unit on the west side . Selections were made in March, and orientation meetings for the enrollees and 0 their parents/guardians were held in April . Assistant Manager Kim Johnson coordinated the YCC efforts throughout the summer .

The enrollees accomplished several labor-intensive projects . In addition to the usual lawn and building maintenance, the enrollees accomplished major trimming along all hiking trails and boardwalks . In addition, the YCC enrollees also cut heavy brush from along much of the wildlife drive in order to permit better wildlife viewing . A major task was also undertaken to increase visitor enjoyment as they boat and/or canoe down the Suwannee Canal ; this project involved removing the vegetation from the banks of the canal in several areas to create viewing areas .

As in 1984, the program was again accident-free . One enrollee did have to be replaced after the first week because of health conditions that did not permit her to work outdoors . Luckily, 0 the pay problems experienced in 1984 did not occur during this y ear .

4 . Volunteer Program

The number of volunteers and the number of hours contributed during FY 1985 increased significantly over the previous year . One hundred nine males and six females contributed a total of 2,872 hours in FY 1985, compared to 1,689 hours in FY 1984 .

The ability to provide quarters for volunteers enabled the program to expand . For the second straight year, a student intern occupied the refuge's trailer and provided forty hours per week for ten weeks of volunteer service . This volunteer, Jim Bowen from Penn State University, is majoring in Parks and i:ecreation and proved to be a valuable asset to the refuge's public use program . He also served as a very capable supervi- 0 sor of YCC enrollees on maintenance type jobs . At the close of the year, another intern was selected to start in January and work through March .

The refuge trailer was also put to valuable use for a three- month period in late winter and early spring, as a volunteer couple, Bert and Doris Baker, put in sixty hours of volunteer work per week in return for lodging . They assisted with the public use and maintenance programs enabling refuge personnel to accomplish the more technical aspects of those programs . This couple from Colorado completed a similar volunteer excur- sion at Aransas NWR in 1984 .

another good source of volunteers was boy scout troops . Sev- r al troops volunteered to accomplish such tasks as trimming along the wildlife drive and canoe trails and cleaning up the refuge boneyard . 0

Volunteer Boy Scout Troops were used during the year for various jobs including the cleaning and reorganizing of the station's "boneyard ." (08/85) 85-05 KAJ

In particular, Boy Scout Troop #123 of Winter Haven, Florida was singled out for a special achievement award during 1985 . This troop has been visiting the refuge annually for the last nine years . During their annual trips, they have requested to work on special projects involving the restoration of the Floyd's Island Cabin which they have adopted as a yearly troop project . To date, their efforts have involved inserting cement piers under the building, replacing termite-damaged floor wall and ceiling joists, roof repairs, wilderness canoe trail trimming/thinning, and most recently, dismantling and completely rebuilding the fireplace and chimney . Without their assistance, the cabin on Floyd's Island could not have been maintained by refuge staff .

The following is a list of FY 1985 volunteer hours donated to various projects :

Project Hours Volunteered

General Maintenance 417 Information/Visitor Center Receptionist 422 Conducting Tours 27 Clerical Work 28 Photography 69 Trail Development or Maintenance 1606 Audio-Visual Productions 94 Habitat Surveys or Transects 31 Fish and Wildlife Censusing 46 Education 51 Landscaping 60 Other 21

TOTAL 2872

Outdoor Recreation Planner Jim Burkhart presented Boy Scout Troop 123 with a Special Volunteer Achievement Award for their annual contributions over the past nine years . (12/85) 85-06 JAB 15

5 . Funding

The final FY 1985 budget amounted to $684,550 . This total included $90,000 earmarked specifically for the purchase of a fire tractor and $18,550 to operate the YCC program . The budget was reduced once during the year as $4,000 of salary savings were used by other offices . The following chart depicts the past five years of Okefenokee's budget situation : FIVE-YEAR FUNDING C WARIS(1J

1200/ 6820/ 8610/ FY 1260 6860 8722 8340 1994 1520 TOTAL

1985 606,000* 55,000 -- 5,000 18,550 $684,550 1984 523,500** 50,000 -- -- 4,000 23,600 601,100 1983 499,300*** 51,000 - 3,000 26,675 579,975 1982 490,400 51,000 8,700 - 550,100 1981 473,900 42,000 4,000 1,700 1,000 - 522,600

*Includes $90,000 of Fire Funding for purchase of fire tractor . **Includes $25,000 of ARM funding and $17,500 of Fire 0 & M funding . ***Includes $17,300 of Fire 0 & M funding . L J

In addition to the 0 & M funding, $78,527 of Emergency Fire Suppression funds, Subactivity 1510, were obligated by this station in FY 1985 . Of this amount, $20,857 were used to train and maintain a fire crew during the fire season and to accomplish other fire emergency presuppression activities . Actual fire suppression activities on this station and at other locations accounted for $52,608 of these funds, and $5,062 were used in fire-related rehabilitation work .

A $39,000 ARMM project to rehabilitate the water systems was also initiated during the year . This project led to two contracts being awarded . One for $13,428 was to replace the Camp Cornelia pumphouse, and the second was for $18,945 to replace water softeners, chlorinators and miscellaneous plumbing at Camp Cornelia, Suwannee Canal Recreation Area and Chesser Island .

6 . Safety

Safety meetings were held for refuge employees each month . Subjects discussed at these meetings included prescribed burning safety, hypothermia, battery safety, seat belts, and

several chapters of the first aid manual . The staff also participated in a relaxation response exercise, a first aid practical, and learned to deploy fire shelters .

A noise level evaluation of heavy equipment, power tools, lawn mowers and boat motors was conducted on March 5, 1985, by Joe Markwitz of the regional office and Safety Chairperson Kim Johnson .

A new safety committee was selected for FY 86 which includes Mark Williams, Rick Weide, Curtis Mitchell and Kim Johnson . Marie Fernandez was selected as the new safety chairperson .

Accidents which occurred in 1985 are as follows :

Refuge Employees

1 . March 21, 1985 -- while installing a battery in the refuge trailcutter, equipment operator Virgil Crews allowed his wrench to contact metal while tightening the clamp on the positive terminal . The battery ex- ploded causing the employee to receive several lacera- tions on his face, some of which required stitches .

2 . October 1, 1985 -- Mechanic Jay Burch began experienc- ing pain in his back and leg from a previous work- related accident . Doctors indicated that the pain was a recurrence from a 1972 accident .

3 . November 8, 1985 -- While returning to his residence after completing the Basic Law Enforcement Course at FLETC, Biological Technician Rick Weide was involved in a head-on collision caused by a third party who accidentally allowed a stump to fall into the path of Mr . Weide's vehicle . The employee received fractures in his right hand and face and also received cuts and bruises over the majority of his body, face, head and limbs . He was hospitalized for 11 days .

7 . Technical Assistance

biological Technician Douglas Nuss continued working on the development of curriculum for a Tractor Plow Tactics Safety Course . He met with representatives from several agencies in Crossnore, North Carolina, August 26-30 .

Forester Ron Phernetton was detailed to western fires twice during the fire season . In July, Ron assisted with basic fire training for Army personnel at Fort Ord, California and in :; .gust, to Yukon Flats National Wildlife Refuge to serve as a a . . . ;r :gal =t or. the Pi r :„ ai . 17

8 . OtherItems

Outdoor Recreation Planner Jim Burkhart assisted the regional office with public use inspections at Cape Romain NWR June 4-8 and at Merritt Island NWR September 3-5 .

Refuge supervisor Travis McDaniel conducted his annual inspection of the refuge during the week of April 15 .

Staff from Eastern National Park and Monument Association conducted an audit of the cooperating bookstore in May .

Ms . Ellen Britton, National Park Service, conducted an inspection of Suwannee Canal Recreation Area to comply with National Registered Landmark requirements . The Okefenokee Swamp was designated as a National Landmark in 1976 .

Manager Schroer and Forester Phernetton attended the Regional Wildlife Resources Project Leaders' meeting in Atlanta on February 4-8 .

Clerk Pittman was detailed to the regional office from March 11 through 15 to assist with administrative matters .

In October, Manager Schroer met as part of a committee to develop a curriculum for the annual law enforcement refresher training .

The following training sessions/workshops were attended by refuge personnel during 1985 :

Interagency Helicopter Management - Tallahassee, FL (January 14-18, 1985) attended by Biological Technician Gooch .

Fire Courses S-230, S-260, and S-270 - Russellville, AR (February 11-15, 1985) attended by Forestry Technician Williams .

Utility Tractor, Crawler Tractor, and Motor-Grader Training - Okefenokee NWR (March 5-7, 1985) attended by 11 refuge employees .

Wood Duck Banding Workshop - Piedmont NWR, GA (April 10, 1985) attended by Assistant Manager Don Voros .

Law Enforcement Refresher - Quincy, Florida (April 23-26 and May 21-24, 1985) attended by all law enforcement personnel .

Smoke Management Workshop - Tallahassee, FL (May 21-23, 1985) attended by Biological Technicians Nuss and Gooch .

Defensive Driving - Okefenokee NWR (June 28, 1985) attended by seven refuge employees, two firefighters, and the YCC crew leader .

Firearms Inspector Training Program - Glynco, GA (July 15- 26, 1985) attended by Biological Technician Nuss .

Multi-media First Aid - Okefenokee NWR (July 17, 1985) attended by refuge employees, YCC, and firefighters .

Fire Courses S-130 and S-190 - Merritt Island NWR, FL (July 23-26, 1985) attended by Biological Technician Weide and firefighters Hart and Dasher .

Basic Law Enforcement Training Course - Glynco, GA (September 5 - November 9, 1985) attended by Biological Technician Weide .

Advanced Operators Training Course - Kinston, NC (October 7-11, 1985) attended by Maintenance Worker Jones .

Explosives Training - Okefenokee NWR (November 19, 1985) attended by eight Okefenokee NWR employees and two Piedmont employees .

. BITAT MANAGEMENT

1 . General

Okefenokee NWR covers the majority of the Okefenokee Swamp with all habitats found in the swamp also being represented on the refuge . The 412,000-acre Okefenokee Swamp has been classified into eight major habitats based on predominant types of vegetation . The habitat types and relative percentages of each were determined from ecological research conducted by the University of Georgia . More than 70 islands exist within the Okefenokee Swamp covering 61,775 acres and comprising 8% of the swamp . Prairies including aquatic macrophyte areas and grass-sedge areas cover 21% of the swamp . Shrub swamp dominated by hurrah bush, titi, sweet spire, and poor man's soap cover 34% . Mixed cypress forests are the largest of the forested wetlands and cover 23% of the total swamp . Mixed cypress forests include pond cypress, blackgum, sweet bay, red bay, and loblolly bay . Blackgum forests contain blackgum and bay species and together with blackgum forests cover 6% of the swamp area . Some pure stands of pond cypress cover 6% of the swamp .

2 . Wetlands

The Okefenokee NWR contains 370,000 acres classified as wetlands . Wetlands management in the refuge is limited because of

insufficient data on the swamp's complex ecosystem . The Uni- versity of Georgia is conducting ecological research which will, hopefully, give refuge personnel a better understanding 0 of the ecological processes unique to the swamp environment . At present, protection of the swamp flora and fauna, management of waterways for public use, and controlling the swamp's water level by means of the Suwannee River Sill are the only types of wetland management being conducted .

The Suwannee River Sill was originally constructed in early 1960's to retain higher water levels in the swamp during droughts, thus reducing the probability and severity of fire . Fire has placed a major role in the evolution of the swamp by setting back plant succession and preventing the conversion of marsh areas to swamp forest . The long-term effect of the Sill and reduced fire potential during low water conditions is not Known at this time . The ecological studies being conducted at present should enable wetland management decisions to be made that would be conducive to the preservation of the Okefenokee Swamp in a natural state .

Okefenokee Swamp encompasses many acres or spectacular wetland habitat . (UK) 85-07 (UK)

j-:aterway management within the swamp is ' limited to canoe trails . Althh:nugh the main purpose of cleari c trails is to

enhance public use, this practice also allows better flow of water through the swamp . The increase in rate of flow of water through the swamp discourages eutrophication and slows down plant suppression .

3 . Forests

Approximately 32,000 acres of upland forest lie within the boundaries of Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge . The refuge forest habitat management program includes 15,210 acres of forestlands, most of which lie just outside or near the swamp line . These managed forestlands are divided into 15 compartments ranging from 150 acres to 2,500 acres . Their locations are shown on the following page . Most of the remaining 17,000 acres of upland forests are located within National Wilderness Area boundaries and are not managed except as noted in the section on wilderness Forestlands .

Objectives of the forest-wildlife habitat management program 0 are :

To provide habitat and protection for those species of plants and animals indigenous to the refuge with emphasis on threatened or endangered species .

To provide appropriate conditions ror wildlife-orientec recreational, environmental educal ,-, interpretive opportunities for people .

To manage wilderness forestlar maintain the wilderness integrity of the area .

Tools used to accomplish these objectives include a long rota- tion (100 years or more), thinning on an eight-year cycle, and prescribed burning on a three-year cycle . The end result of this management is a wide variety of forest stands in many sizes, shapes, ages, and species . These stands, in combination with the unmanaged areas, provide the wide variety of habitats necessary to meet the needs of an optimum number of wildlife species as well as to provide an aesthetically-pleasing variety of forestlands .

Timber Harvest

Ten harvesting permits were active during 1985 . Permit OKE 81 will be completed in early 1986 . Permits OKE 91, 92, 95, and 98 were issued for salvage cuts along fireline and road construction right-of-ways . Permits OKE 99 and 102 were awarded for salvage of forest resources destroyed by wildfire . Permits 106, 107, and 108 were awarded for harvesting operations in accordance with approved forest management prescriptions . Table 3 shows a breakdown of permits issued and forest products

~~F ! .I I \~~hI .I \ t I L%% IIJ)I .II ,I ; Iii ;I'I ( ;i ;

i l II I114 .A\II 4.! .1)111 .1\

FOREST MANAGEMENT COMPARTMENTS TABLENO .3

FORESTPRODUCTSRECEIPTS-1985

SPECIAL USE PERMIT TOTAL TOTAL VALUE CREDIT PERMIT NO . PERMITTEE DAYS PRODUCT VALUE/UNIT VOLUME VALUE TO 1985

OKE 81 L .C . Shave 09/01/83 Pulpwood $36 .25/cd . *1250 .00 cds . $45,000 .00 7,953 .26 03/31/86 OKE 91 Floyd Albritton 11/11/84 Pulpwood 16 .00/cd . 52 .92 cds . 846 .72 793 .46 01/31/85 OKE 92 South Georgia 11/19/84 Pulpwood 15 .00/cd . 7 .52 cds . 112 .80 112 .80 Timber Co . 02/28/85 ' OKE 95 Nassau Timber 04/11/85 Pulpwood 17 .00/cd . 23 .29 cds . 395 .93 395 .93 Company . OKE 98 Floyd Albritton 06/10/85 Pulpwood 16 .00/cd . 14 .11 cds . 225 .76 225 .76 _ 12/31/85 _ OKE 99 W .B .Register 07/15/85 Pulpwood 15 .00/cd . 1223 .83 cds . 18,357 .45 18,357 .45 12/30/85 8 ft .posts .15/post 5288 posts 793 .20 793 .20 6 .5 ft .posts .08/post 20,733 posts 1,658 .64 1,658 .64 OKE 102 South Georgia 09/09/85 Pulpwood 12 .00/cd . 196 .27 cds . 2,355 .24 2,355 .24 Timber Company 12/31/85 OKE 106 L .C . Shave 11/25/85 Pulpwood 27 .00/cd . 45 .00 cds . 1,215 .00 02/28/86 , OKE 107 L .C . Shave 11/25/85 Pulpwood 31 .00/cd . 60 .00 cds . 1,860 .00 236 .22 02/28/86 OKE 108 L .C . Shave 11/25/85 Pulpwood 38 .50/cd . 100 .00 cds . 3,850 .00 0 02/28/86

*Estimated $32,881 .96 TABLE NO . 4 TEN-YEAR FCFEST PRODUCTS RE DIAL SUMMARY

CY SAHTrIMBER PULPWOOD SII JMPWOOD POSTS TOTAL V,~1TJJE (MBF) (C DS) (TONS) (EA) DOLLARS

1976 - 1,243 1,286 4,309 $ 28,890 1977 - 83 430 20,184 4,761

1978 - 33 551 30,754 5,044 1979 - 743 - 46,964 12,428

1980 - 525 560 - 13,370 1981 - 2,777 74 9,745 48,591

1982 92 .3 788 282 22,133 25,180 1983 51 .2 371 115 - 18,176 1984 - 513 - - 16,533 1985 - 1,742 - 26,021 32,882 24

harvested during 1985 . Table 4 is a ten-year summary of forest products harvested .

Timber Stand Improvement and Other Forest Management Techniques

The following operations were completed this year :

Compartments 2, 6, 7, 10, 11, 13, and 15 -- Pre-prescription inventories were conducted for parts of these forest management compartments . These areas will not actually be inventoried for several years ; however, the pre-prescription inventory will allow thinning in overstocked slash pine plantations in need of immediate attention . Thinning in these areas will produce desirable foraging areas for red-cockaded woodpeckers .

Compartment 3 -- Thinning operations in Compartment 3 which began in 1984 continued during 1985 . Several longleaf pine stands were thinned to improve red-cockaded woodpecker colony and foraging habitat . Several stands surrounding wildlife openings and small ponds next to the Swamp Island Drive were heavily thinned to increase the effective open area and to improve viewing from the drive into the area . A poorly stocked 3-acre area at the north end of the compartment was hand planted with containerized longleaf pine seedlings . Seedling mortality was high due to unfavorable weather conditions and seedling survival problems were compounded by a coneworm (Dioryctria spp .) infestation . Replanting of the area with containerized seedlings is scheduled for 1986 .

Compartment 5 -- The forest management prescription for Compartment 5 was completed in 1985 . The prime habitat objectives for this 1,465-acre compartment are to provide optimum habitat diversity for native wildlife species with emphasis on endangered species using the area . The most important habitat deficiencies to be corrected by the prescription are lack of forest stand diversity, lack of understory diversity, and de- creasing red-cockaded woodpecker habitat . Timber marking began in 1985 on the Soldier Camp area of Compartment 5 . Timber marking operations were 10% completed in the compartment at the close of the year .

Tree Planting,

Longleaf and slash pine seedlings were planted on an 83-acre tract destroyed by a 1983 wildfire in Compartment 11 . Comple- tion of this planting finished a wildfire rehabilitation project began in 1984 . A two-acre area on Chesser Island was planted with oak seedlings in 1985 . Hardwoods had been planted in the area previously ; however, low survival resulted from unfavorable weather conditions .

The above pictured pine plantation was marked (note yellow paint) for a timber harvest to thin the area and provide better wildlife habitat . (01/86) 85-08 DJV

To increase wildlife diversity, a forest/ wildlife opening was created in a pine plantation which had also been heavily thinned . (01/86) 85-69 DJV LC

WildernessForestlands

Wilderness forestlands include 17,000 acres of pine islands located within the swamp and-165,200 acres of swamp forest . The islands and most of the swamp forest are included within the wilderness boundaries . The only management activities which take place in these areas are protection, fire management, wildlife surveys, and habitat surveys . wildlife surveys conducted on wilderness islands included a red-cockaded woodpecker survey . In addition, osprey and other migratory bird surveys were conducted in the forested swamp areas .

A brief description of the wilderness forest areas follows :

Wilderness Islands (16,500 acres - 4% of refuge area) : These islands are very similar to the refuge uplands on the perimeter of the swamp, dominated by pine with hardwood hammocks scattered throughout the higher areas . Major tree i species include longleaf pine, loblolly pine, slash pine, pond pine and several species of oaks . On higher areas where longleaf pine dominates, grasses, palmetto, several species of ground oaks and dwarf blueberry and huckleberry are found in the understory . On wetter areas, gallberry, and fetterbush are more predominant .

Black Gum Forests (22,027 acres - 6%) : Black gum dominates the canopy with cassine holly occasionally attaining canopy height . Cassine holly and Carolina ash are dominant understory plants .

Bay Forests (22,027 - 6%) : Loblolly bay is the major species with an occasional cypress or black gum found in the canopy . The understory consists of fetterbush with some grasses and sphagnum moss .

Mixed Cypress Forests (84,436 acres - 21%) : Canopy and i subcanopy are primarily cypress with a slight mixture of slack gum and bay in the sub-canopy .

Pure Cypress Forests (36,712 acres - 9%) : These are areas dominated by a cypress canopy . The understory is sparse or non-existent .

Fire Management

Prescribed Burning

Some of the many benefits of prescribed burning when properly applied are : reduction of wildfire hazard ; control of diseases, insects and parasites ; increase of available wildlife 2 7

regeneration ; improvement of access for forest and wildlife management ; and enhancement of certain aesthetic qualities .

Prescribed burning is of particular importance in the management of Okefenokee's longleaf pine upland used by the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker . Burning helps to maintain these open park-like stands of longleaf pine by killing back the understory and by removing less desired, competing pine species which are less tolerant to fire .

Extremely dry weather conditions made prescribed burning a slow and risky process in FY 1985 . Numerous spot fires over base lines and control lines we're the rule on most days . Only one of six swamp interior areas where aerial ignition was scheduled could actually be burned . Unavailability of a helicopter or unsuitable burning weather prevented the use of "ping-pong balls" in most areas .

The Bugaboo Scrub-Shrub/Prairie area was burned using the aerial ignition method . This was the first time any form of aerial ignition was used to set any swamp area at Okefenokee . Results were good where fuels were abundant enough to ignite a good line of flame . Other areas burned spotty . Vegetative transects have been set up in the area to document any changes -that may take place due to burning activities . An attempt will be made to burn the area again in FY 1986 .

Overall, 1985 was not a good prescribed burning year at Okefenokee . However, forecasts and conditions indicate im- provements in FY 1986 as over 500 acres were burned it December, 1985 .

Burning activities for all of the areas prescribed for FY 85 are summarized below :

ACRES IABCR EQUIPMENT VEHI('T FS NIISC TOTAL COST AREA BURNED HCURS COST HOURS COST MI IFS CAST COST COST PER ACRE C-3 655 .1 267 $2978 27 $ 460 306 $104 $100 $3692 $5 .56 C-4 161 .9 19 263 2 100 30 12 15 390 2 .41 C-8 1265 .0 138 1593 16 720 250 95 80 2488 1 .97 Bugaboo 1429 .1 40 541 7 2750 30 6 500 3797 2 .66 Area

TUTAIS 3511 .1 464 $5375 52 $4030 616 $217 $695 $10,367 $2 .94 2 8

The use of a helicopter and the Preen III Aerial Ignition Device have greatly increased the efficiency of prescribed burning operations in the swamp . Note helicopter flying over Bugaboo Prairie . (03/85) 85-10 JDS

Wildfire

The 1985 fire season was very active . Below average rainfall was recorded from December 1984 through May 1985 . Low rainfall amounts caused low water level conditions in the swamp and very dry conditions in the upland areas . These adverse conditions coupled with above normal lightning activity produced several 0 wildfires . During 1985, nine wildfires occurred at Okefenokee . Details are described below :

Fire 4010-Toledo Fire : This fire occurred on January 23, 1985 on the east side of the refuge in Charlton County . The fire spotted into a longleaf pine plantation when Toledo Manufactu- ring Co ., Inc ., was conducting a prescribed burn on lands adjacent to Compartment 4 . The fire burned through the small plantation and back onto the timber company's lands . The fire was suppressed by Toledo Manufacturing Co . and Georgia Forestry Commission personnel . Nine acres were burned .

Fire 4053 Bugaboo Fire : This fire occurred on March 14, 1985 in conjunction with a prescribed fire near Bugaboo Island in the Okefenokee Swamp . Actual winds did not coincide with the forecasted wind conditions causing the prescribed fire to burn 2 9

outside the prescribed areas . The fire spread to Bugaboo island and adjacent areas . The island was burned in 1984 and con- tained a very light rough . The fire was allowed to burn out . By March 16, all fire had burned out . In addition to the prescribed areas, 1,045 additional acres were burned . In the future, proposed burn boundaries will be adjusted to take in adjacent areas . Bugaboo Island's prescribed burning cycle will be adjusted to coincide with future burns of this swamp area .

Fire 4099-Smith Lot Fire : This fire occurred on April 14, 1985 on the west side of the refuge in Clinch County . The fire started just outside the refuge boundary and spread into forest management Compartment 9 . Southwest winds gusting up to 15 miles per hour pushed the fire through to the swamp where the fire was controlled by combined efforts of the Georgia Forestry Commission and St . Regis Paper Company . Mopping up efforts were completed by refuge personnel . The fire burned about 35 acres of longleaf and pond pine .

Fire 4106-Langdale-Owens-Illinois Fire : This arson-caused fire occurred near Okefenokee NWR on May 17, 1985 . The fire began approximately three miles from the refuge boundary . The fire involved eleven other sets in Georgia and Florida . At the request of the Georgia Forestry Commission, a west side unit assisted in suppression activities and personnel and equipment on the east side were mobilized and placed on standby . A Florida Division of Forestry tractor operator was killed when his tractor was overtaken by a fire which spotted across his plowed line . A suspect was charged with setting some of the fires . No refuge land was involved in the fire .

Fire 4113-Indian Island Fire : This fire occurred in Com- partment 2 on the east side of the refuge on April 23, 1985 . The fire spotted across the boundary line and several hundred feet of swampland onto Indian Island during a Union Camp Corporation site preparation burn . The fire burned ten acres 0 in a pine plantation inside the refuge boundary . Fire suppression work was completed by Union Camp Corporation personnel and equipment . The area was inspected by refuge personnel on May 1, 1985 . Fire was discovered burning in a thick litter and duff layer next to the perimeter fireline . All residual fires were extinguished by refuge hand crews .

Fire 4124-Pocket Fire (1985) : The Pocket Fire was started by lightning on June 6, 1985 . On June 8, smoke was detected in the vicinity of Billy's Island by a Georgia Game and Fish agent . The fire was found by U .S . Fish and Wildlife Service employees who attacked the fire with a tractor-plow unit about 4 :30 PM that afternoon . Two other tractor-plow units from the Georgia Forestry Commission and commercial, forestland owners soon joined the refuge tractor-plow unit . At the time of initial attack, the fire was about 200 acres in size . The fire 3 0 was located just inside the swamp near the Pocket and adjacent to private forestlands . Suppression efforts continued throughout the night and during the next day along the Pocket unit and commercial forestlands in an effort to confine the fire to the swamp . On Sunday, June 9, in spite of the efforts of 11 tractor-plow units and 1 dozer unit, the fire made a run to the northeast, jumping lines established at the edge of the Pocket . The. fire continued to spread along the Pocket and jumped State Highway #177 in about 100 places .

Control efforts at this time were aimed at keeping the fire on the south and east side of Highway #177 . A Georgia Forestry Commission helicopter equipped with a bucket joined the suppression efforts at this time . Control efforts succeeded in suppressing the spots on the north side of Highway #177, but the fire continued to run northeast along the Pocket toward Stephen C . Foster State Park on Jones Island . During the night, six miles of the Pocket on the south-southeast side of the Pocket were burned out to prevent the fire from making another run from the swamp onto Jones Island where it could destroy the state park .

On June 11, all tourists and non-essential state employees were evacuated from the state park . At this time, the Georgia Forestry Commission, who assumed command of the fire on the 10th, turned the fire back over to the U . S . Fish and Wildlife Service . At this time, an interagency overhead team was requested . The overhead team arrived Monday night, June 11 . Control efforts on this day were aimed primarily at protecting the state park . These activities included more firelines, pushing vegetation back from buildings, burning out a portion of Jones Island and three tanker, long-term retardant drops .

The Dixie Red Overhead Team assumed command of the fire at , 7 :00 AM, June 11 . At this time, the objectives of the control efforts were as follows :

1 . Confine the fire to the south-southeast side of Georgia Highway #177 .

2 . Protect Jones Island and Stephen C . Foster State Park .

3 . Protect Billy's and Honey Islands due to the presence of endangered red-cockaded woodpeckers .

4 . Keep the fire from spreading west onto private land .

Suppression forces at this time consisted of 13 tractors, 6 engines, 2 helicopters with buckets, and 54 personnel . Addi- tional personnel were ordered . Suppression activities inclu- c:c.ci rc :rt r : gin :: lines along the Pocket . Helicopter drops were 3 1 used to cool hot spots in the swamp and to slow several runs toward Honey Island . The fire area at this time was about 2,500 acres . During the afternoon, 0 .31 inches of rain helped suppression efforts .

Efforts to contain the fire continued through June 15 when the fire was declared controlled and turned back to the U .S . Fish and Wildlife Service . The fire was declared out at 2 :30 PM on June 18, 1985 .

Total forces used to suppress the fire included 130 personnel, 3 helicopters, 6 pumper units, and 13 tractor units . The fire burned 2,335 acres of swampland, 500 acres of refuge upland, and 65 acres of private upland .

Fire4126-MoonshineFire : This fire occurred on June 11, 1985 near Compartment 5, in Ware County . The fire started when lightning struck a dead snag and ignited the scrub-shrub area' near Moonshine Ridge . Two tractor-plow units were dispatched from the Georgia Forestry Commission to the fire but could not get to the fire area . The potentially dangerous fire was extinguished by rainfall before causing any serious problems . Five acres were burned in the fire .

Fire4128-Sill Fire : This fire occurred near the Suwannee River Sill on the west side of the refuge on May 18, 1985 . The fire was caused when a site preparation burn on private lands spotted onto the refuge . The Georgia Forestry Commission car- ried out the initial attack and suppressed the fire . Later in the afternoon, high winds spotted the fire across control lines . The fire was then suppressed by refuge personnel and equipment . Four acres of refuge land were burned . Very little damage was done because the area received a prescribed fire last winter .

Fire4156-HoneyIslandFire : This fire occurred on Honey Is- land in Ware County on July 11, 1985 . The fire was discovered by refuge personnel during a routine aerial survey . The fire was started by lightning and the determination was made that natural barriers would prevent the fire from leaving the island . A modified suppression action was used to control the fire . The fire was monitored daily until declared out on July 15, 1985 . The fire burned 1,515 acres and did very little damage . The fire backed and flanked with low to medium inten- sity across most of the island .

Two fire crew members and several refuge personnel assisted in firefighting activities at Pungo NWR in April and May . In August, the Okefenokee fire crew also participated as a squad attached to the first Region 4 Fish and Wi),dlife Service crew

3 2

detailed to an interagency fire . Fire weather conditions improved after the crew arrived in Boise, and the crew remained on standby during their entire stay .

10 . PestControl

In order to reduce future-maintenance, Tordon 101R was sprayed on stumps of-approximately five acres of woody vegetation and roots along the wildlife drive and canoe trails which had been cut by YCC crews . Lindane was applied to approximately 400 acres of trees which were damaged during the Pocket wildfire as an aid to control insect infestations . Amine 2,4-D was sprayed on approximately 15 acres of boat and canoe tails for control of spatterdock and maidencane .

12 . WildernessandSpecialAreas

Some 353,981 acres of Okefenokee were-designated in 1974 for - reservation under the Wilderness Act . Preservation consists primarily of regulatory enforcement and monitoring the biological and physical features within the swamp .

The following areas have been designated as natural areas on the refuge :

1 . ThreatenedCommunityResearchNatural Areas Pond Cypress Research Natural Area 14,989 acres Sweet Bay Research Natural Area 2,560 acres

2 . ResearchNaturalAreas Floyd's Island (swamp island) 160 acres Pine Island (swamp island) 90 acres Territory Prairie (marsh and bog) 1,450 acres Blackjack Island (sphagnum bog) 15,027 acres Cowhouse Island (hardwood hammock) 10 acres Number One Island (swamp island) 126 acres

3 . PublicUseNaturalAreas Chesser Island Bay (swamp forest) 100 acres Chesser Island (hardwood hammock) 11 acres Floyd's Island (swamp island) 575 acres Chesser Prairie Rookery (wading bird colony) 3 acres Chesser Prairie (marsh prairie) 800 acres G . WILDLIFE

1 . Wildlife Diversity

A study completed by the Univerity of Georgia identified 420 vertebrate species which occupy a permanent or temporary niche within the refuge . These resident and migratory wildlife species include 36 fishes, 37 amphibians, 66 reptiles, 233 birds, and 48 mammals . While the Okefenokee Swamp alone provides important habitat interspersion, management of the upland forestry compartments through prescribed burning, providing wildlife openings and conducting wildlife stand improvement thinnings, adds to the faunal richness of the refuge .

2 . Endangered and Threatened Species

a . Florida Panther -- One sighting of a Florida panther on Chesser Island was reported August 5 . The sighting was made by Mr-Howard Hunt, Curator of Herpetology for the Atlanta Zoological Park while conducting his American alligator research . In addition to this sighting, two adult white-tailed deer, one a six point buck and the other a doe, were found killed near the island and partially covered with dirt which is typical of a bobcat or panther killed animal . The tracks around the kill sites appeared to be a bobcat ; however, this assumption was based only on the size of the track .

b . Bald Eagle -- One adult and two immature bald eagles were observed on the refuge in October . No eagles were observed during the 1984-85 winter eagle survey coordinated with the National Wildlife Federation . No nesting activity was reported .

c . Eastern Indigo Snake -- The indigo snake was determined threatened in 1978 and is listed as endangered by the state of Georgia . Two researchers from the Alabama Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit ; Auburn University, Joan E . Diemer and Dan W . Speake, reported in their paper entitled "The Distribution of the Eastern Indigo Snake Drvmarchon corais couperi in Georgia," published in the Society for the Study of Amphibians and Rep- tiles, 1983, that 46 sightings of the species occurred within the Okefenokee Basin and that few sightings were reported from the Okefenokee Swamp . The Okefenokee Basin includes the entire refuge and area east to the Alapaha River which is approximately 20 miles from the edge of the swamp . No sightings were reported by visitors or the staff on the refuge during the year . 3 4

c . timericanAlligator -- A total of 1,069 alligators were counted during the annual alligtor survey which is coordinated through the Alligator Sub-committee of the Southeastern Section -of the Wildlife Society . This figure represents an increase of 160% over the 1984 total . Low water levels in the swamp at the time of the survey may have concentrated alligators along the survey routes resulting in the higher number of obser- vations . Table 5 provides census information in rela- tion to water levels for a four-year period on the refuge .

TABLE 5 : ALT .TGATOR CENSUSES 1982 - 1985

Alliqators Counted ROUTE . 1985 1984 1983 1982 1 120 22 22 103

2 209 15 29 61

3 150 103 142 202

4 73 88 74 183

5 158 20 26 57

6 29 3 5 18

7 59 9 37 86

8 22 9 13 *

9 13 1 15 3

10 42 36 46 45

11 121 104 79 98

12 73 2 30 ** TCYTIS 1,069 412 518 856 VLER LEVEL*** 120 .98 121 .67 121 .50 121 .80

*Figure included in Acute #3 . **Figure included in Route #4 . ***Water levels represent MSL based on Suwannee Canal gauge located at the east side of the refuge .

3 5

Still an endangered species in inland portions of Georgia, the American alligator lives in peace and harmony in the Okefenokee . (09/81) 85-11 JW

e . Ivory-Billedwoodpecker -- Because little evidence is available that this species still exists, the service is currently re-evaluating the official status of this species . During a recent media release about the species, several sightings of the birds were reported to the refuge office by local residents . Investigations into these reports resulted in finding that pileated woodpeckers were being mistaken for ivory-billed woodpeckers . A confirmed sighting of an ivory-billed woodpecker on the refuge has not been documented since 1903 .

f . WoodStork -- The wood stork reached endangered status in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina during 1984 . These birds were found in the swamp with peak populations arriving in the spring . This year a peak of 1,070 wood storks was reported in June . This peak represented a 200% increase over the 1984 peak . These wading birds primarily use the open prairies of the refuge . No nesting activity was reported . Red-Cockaded • 9 • Woodpecker -- The 1 985 red-cockaded woodpecker survey was conducted during the period May 6

3 6

through July 1, 1985 . Results of the survey are summarized in Table 6 .

TABLE 6 : 1985 RCW RESULTS

Forestry RCWP Active Total Birds t Trees Iocated Colonies Colonies Observed 2 1 0 1 1 3 25 3 7 5 4 1 0 1 0 5 9 3 3 6 7 15 2 2 1 10 2 0 1 0 12 14 2 2 1 13 3 1 2 0 15 20 3 4 2 Billy's Island 93 14 18 8

TOTALS 183 28 41 24 .

A total of 41 colonies were surveyed . Of those colonies surveyed, 28 were active and 4 trees were observed with young present . A total of 24 adult birds were also observed during the survey . One adult was seen in Compartment Two where no activity has been documented for several years . A total of ten old cavity trees had holes enlarged by a competing species . Eleven red- cockaded woodpecker colonies known to exist on Honey, Blackjack, Mitchell, Number One and Bugaboo Islands were not surveyed this year due to time, personnel shortages, and the difficulty of reaching these remote areas .

This year had an unusual dry spring and summer at Okefenokee Refuge . Activity was observed in nearly all colonies, but the nesting activity appeared to be later than observed in the past .

3 . Waterfowl

An estimated peak population of 7,285 wood ducks occurred in July, and a low of 990 was reported in November . The second most abundant waterfowl species on Okefenokee was the mallard with a peak 4,090 reported in February . Lesser numbers of black ducks, pintails, blue and green-winged teal, American wigeon, and ring-necked ducks were also found on the refuge, primarily during winter months . Peak waterfowl use of

3 7

Okefenokee occurred in February when the total number of all species reached an estimated 11,180 which is an increase of approximately 30% over last year's peak winter population .

Wood ducks box use this year was up with 57% usage compared to 43% in 1984 . Hatching success appeared to be up significantly, about 230% over 1984 . Further results of the 1985 wood duck box survey are summarized in Table 7 . The need for wood duck boxes on Okefenokee has been questioned and the future of the program is currently under review .

TABLE 7 : ANNUAL NARRATIVE REPORT FORM WOOD DUCK BOX PROGRAM INFORMATION

NESTING YEAR : 1985

NUMBER PERCENT Total Usable Boxes 98 Estimated Boxes Used by Wood Ducks 56 57% Estimated Boxes Used by Other Ducks 0 0 Estimated Boxes Used by Other Wildlife 0 0 Estimated Wood Duck Broods Produced 33 Estimated Total Wood Ducks Hatched* 396 Estimated Wood Ducks Surviving to Flight Stage** 198 50% Plans for Next Year : Fewer Boxes If Study Indicates that Sufficient Natural Nesting Cavities Are Available

Remarks : High water after laying seemed to have an aaverse effect on hatching .

* Based on average clutch size of 12 . ** Based on survival rate of 50% .

4 . Marshand WaterBirds

This group of birds finds habitat in the Okefenokee Swamp ideal for feeding, roosting and breeding . White ibis, great egrets, sandhill cranes, and great blue herons are the most commonly observed birds of this group . These species in addition to the snowy egret were identified as "indicator" species of the swamp and their populations are closely monitored using a computerized, mathematical model based on habitat, past survey data, survey technique and an index during the year . Estimated peak populations and average use days are summaried in Table 8 . Nesting activity once again occurred at the Mack's Island Rookery . A late breeding bird survey conducted by air resulted in 700 birds being observed in the area . This group was com- posed mostly of white ibis and great egrets .

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TABLE 8 MARSH AND WADING BIRD SURVEY DATA - CY 85

Species Peak Population Peak Number Average Use Period Estimated Days Per Year

Snowy Egret Summer 76 2,883 American Alligator Spring 2,445 122,722 Great Blue Heron Spring 613 27,946 White Ibis Spring 25,642 675,023 Florida Sandhill Crane Winter 400 19,818 Greater Sandhill Crane Winter 2,960 125,640

Yellow-crowned night herons feed in the prairie areas of the refuge . (04/85) 85-12 JD

5 . Shorebirds,Gulls,Terns, andAlliedSpecies

The most commonly occurring species include the common snipe and woodcock . Snipe are normally seen during the winter months in shallow prairies or on peat blow-ups . Woodcock are seldomly seen and little is known about the status of this upland game bird on the refuge . Adjacent lands with similar habitat supports winter. migratory concentrations of these birds based on hunters' reports . Because this bird normally occupies very dense cover during the day, sightings are limited to those who may see one heading for an evening roost site .

6 . Raptors

Black and turkey vultures are the most numerous raptors observed on the refuge . A vulture roost located adjacent to the Suwannee River below the Suwannee River Sill was once again active throughout the year where at times over 200 will gather . Also common are red-shouldered hawks and barred owls .

The 1985 osprey survey was conducted in April which resulted in 27 nests being located . Thirteen nests were active ; however, only two young and two eggs along with 17 adults ospreys were observed . Table 9 summarizes osprey survey results over a 13 year period on the refuge .

TABLE 9 : OSPREY NESTING SURVEY DATA 1973-1985

YEAR TOTAL NESTS I1,)CATED TOTAL ACTIVE NESTS YOUNG PRODUCED

1973 7 7 2 1974 8 7 8 1975 13 10 12 1976 13 12 22 1977 12 12 20 1978 12 11 20* 1979 21 19 13* 1980 14 14 19 1981 16 8 13* 1982 21 13 2* 1983 29** 22 7* 1984 28 7 0* 1985 27 13 4 *

* Data for young produced represents actually observed eggs and young . It is unknown if other data represents actually observed young or a projected number of young . Consult individual station yearly reports for additional information . ** Includes 1 nest off refuge below sill . 4 0

7 . OtherMigratoryBirds

Refuge personnel assisted members of the Okefenokee Bird Club of Waycross in conducting •t he annual Audubon-sponsored Christmas Bird Count . Results from the survey were not available when this report was prepared .

8 . GameMammals

White-tailed deer is the only wildlife species hunted on the refuge . Controlled hunts have helped to stabilize populations which were once considered to be of concern due to high abomasal counts found in a sample of the population in 1980 . Re- sults of an updated abomasal count conducted in 1984 were received this year which revealed that the herd sampled is in satisfactory condition with relatively low parasite loads and good body fat .

The black bear, though not hunted on the refuge, is hunted on adjacent lands in Florida and Georgia . The Okefenokee Swamp is considered one of Georgia's major, if not the major bear sanctuary in the state . The Georgia Department of Natural Resources currently estimates the population of black bears in and around the swamp at 1 bear/1000-2000 acres .

10 . OtherResidentWildlife

In addition to deer and bear, the refuge supports turkeys, quail, and various furbearers . In general, populations of these species are consistent with the slash-longleaf pine association that dominates refuge uplands . While this habitat is not considered optimum, management such as controlled burns and wildlife openings will often favor resident wildlife to a large extent .

11 . FisheryResources

Okefenokee Swamp generally offers good fishing, especially during the spring . Warmouth and sunfish are probably caught more frequently than other species . One of the most sought after fish on the refuge is the largemouth bass .

14 . ScientificCollections

One scientific collection permit was issued to Sandra G . Neuzil of the USDI Geological Survey office in Reston, Virginia to collect peat and water samples in the swamp . The purpose of this collection was to gather data on coal formation process .

16 . MarkingandBanding

Wood duck banding efforts were much more successful this year 4 1

than in the past . A total of 131 was banded in 1985 (April - 64, May - 36, July - 7, September - 24) compared with 21 in 1984 . The use of rehabilitated rocket net sites was probably responsible for much of this increased success . Continued use of these sites may bring the refuge closer to its annual banding quota of 140 wood ducks .

H . PUBLICUSE 1 . General

Several spells of adverse weather, especially on holidays, coupled with low water experienced in the months of May, June, and July were responsible for a slight decrease as compared to 1984 figures . Total visitation to the refuge during CY 1985 was 267,451 . However, visitation figures for Banks Lake NWR which were previously included with visitation figures for Okefenokee NWR were not included in this year's figures as Banks Lake was designated a separate refuge . For 1984, when the Banks Lake visitation of 29,752 is subtracted from the Okefenokee figure of 299,448, a total refuge visitation of 269,696 results . The CY 1985 figure of 267,451 represents a visitation decrease of less than 1% from 1984 . Visitation actually increased in the months of April, August, November, and December . The following chart depicts visitor trends over the last ten years .

ANNUAL VISITATION OKEFENOKEENATIONALWILDLIFEREFUGE 1985 - 1975

YEAR VISITORS

1985 267,451 1984 299,448* 1983 261,896* 1982 266,453* 1981 261,334* 1980 268,984 1979 277,771 1978 344,262 1977 373,384 1976 361,217

*Includes Banks Lake visitation . 4 2

As can be determined from the graph on the following page, peak visitation normally occurs from March through May when the weather is favorable and insects are at a minimum .

2 . OutdoorClassrooms-Students

Budget restrictions on student travel and state legislation limiting the. hours of actual classroom time students may miss during the school year continue to hamper the environmental education programs at the Okefenokee Swamp Park entrance as well as the Suwannee Canal Recreation Area . However, Mr . Don Berryhill, a county extension service specialist, experienced a gratifying increase in visits and activity hours to the facilities operating at Okefenokee Swamp Park . Unfortunately, it was "feast or famine" as some 90% of the use occurred during April and early May . 0

After several years of negotiations with the local school system, an environmental education program was finally conducted at the Suwannee Canal Recreation Area . (05/85) 85-13 MKF

The environmental education program at the Suwannee Canal Re- creation Area, although enthusiastically received by teachers and administrators was not utilized as hoped . The interpretive staff hosted two school groups totaling 29 Students during the calendar year . Efforts to increase this type of public use 0 will continue . * 1985

1984 ------1983 -•---•-~--- .- TOTAL REFUGE VISITATION BY MONTH

50,000 VISITATION

*19'85 - 267,451 1984 - 299,443 1983 - 261,896

40,000

30,000 V I

20,000

i 10,000

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY J UN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

* Does not include Banks Lake N14TR visitation figures

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3 . Outdoor Classrooms-Teachers

An Environmental Education Workshop for local teachers in August resulted in training for seven participants . Although materials and methods of presentation were favorably received, only one classroom group visited the refuge as a result of the training . Another workshpp is scheduled for the fall of 1986 .

The following are visitation figures for outdoor classroom activities in 1985 .

VISITS ACTIVITY HOURS

Students 1,245 4,980 Teachers 191 764

4 . InterpretiveFootTrails

The last leg of the Swamp's Edge foot trail system, the Ridley's Little Island Trail, was officially opened on National Hunting and Fishing Day, September 28 . Much work was done prior to the official opening by Youth Conservation Corps enrollees and volunteers . Boardwalks were repaired and vegetation trimmed on all 4 1/2 miles of hiking trails . Low areas on the Ridley's Little Island trail tend to become swampy after heavy rains . Adding fill to the walking surface areas may be needed to alleviate this situation . The Cane Pole trail was trimmed and the Cane Pole bridge across the canal was completed and painted with the assistance of the YCC and Penn State intern Jim Bowen .

Re-decking of the swamp boardwalk was completed during the year . Several hundred feet of re-decking were completed during the year with Youth Conservation Corps' assistance . As in 1984, CCA-treated pine was used this year as a substitution for cypress, hopefully prolonging the life of this heavily used facility .

Trail counters were installed and periodically moved from trail to trail by refuge staff to determine the number of visitors using the various trails on the refuge . Trail counts were noted for the swamp boardwalk, Homestead Trail, Deerstand Trail, Canal Diggers' Trail, Peckerwood Trail and Songbird Trail . These counts were used in more accurately determining trail use for the Public Use Report .

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Forester Ron Phernetton led a trail walk on National Hunting and Fishing Day . (09/85) 85-14 JAB

5 . InterpretiveTourRoutes

A . WatercraftTours :

The concessioners at each of the three major entrances operated guided boat tours . Extremely low water levels ceased all boat operations at Okefenokee Swamp Park from January through July . The Suwannee Canal Recrea- tion Area concessioner had an increase in tour demands with July the peak month . The remaining two concessions experienced an overall decrease . The following is a listing of the number of visitors using the guided boat tours for the past three years :

1985 1984 1983 Suwannee Canal Recreation Area 14,228 13,199 10,352 Stephen C . Foster State Park 4,012 4,694 3,977 Okefenokee Swamp Park 1,557 6,568 8,314

'This year 3,834 canoeists used the wilderness canoe trail system, as compared to 4,631 in 1984 . Trail 4 6

closures continued to be a problem during periods of low water and the orange trail from the Suwannee Canal Recreation Area to Stephen C . Foster State Park "disappeared" entirely-in sections due to heavy vegetative growth but was found again, trimmed, and remarked .

In accordance with regional policy, special use permits were issued for commercial visitor activities on the refuge . Nine such permits were issued to organizations in 1985 who guided people through the swamp on the wilderness canoe trail system and who received a profit for doing so . Although some difficulty was experienced in determining whether or not organizations were "commercial" or not, 113 canoeists utilized organizations with these permits .

B . Automobile Tours :

During the year, 50,317 visitors toured the Swamp Island Drive . Continuing the effort to_ increase visitation and to curb visitor resistance to the policy of closing the wildlife drive before the official gate closing hours, a staggered staff schedule allotted a late-shift employee to close the drive and offer visitors a half-hour leeway for exiting the area . This method had been used in 1984 and proved to decrease staff time spent searching for overdue hikers and effectively eliminated some visitor/employee confrontations . The wildlife drive hours were also extended well past dusk for two weeks in early spring as well as two additional periods in the fall . Visitors took advantage of this oppportunity to enjoy the facilities, hike and view Okefenokee's spectacular sunsets .

6 . Interpretive Exhibits/Demonstrations

Several additions or changes to exhibits were made in the Swamp's Edge Interpretive Center at the Suwannee Canal Recrea- tion Area . A Revolving Artist Exhibit was initiated in March . Three artists displayed for three-month intervals in the center, and this exhibit was well received by visitors . The refuge received six kiosk panels via a Regional office blanket purchase agreement with Wilderness Graphics, Inc . An addition was made to the alligator exhibit in the interpretive center . A "Measure the Alligator" exercise is being tested which allows visitors to actively participate in the exhibit . This exhibit has proven to be very popular with visitors -- especially the children . Regional Interpretive Specialist Frank Podriznik installed a mounted osprey into an existing, exhibit depicting swamp peat beds in cross section and featuring fish, wading birds, and predators . Several of the new exhibits in the inter-

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pretive center are in need of repairs due to natural wear and tear and some damage caused by visitors . These changes will be made in 1986 . The majority of needed repairs are the result of unprotected silk-screened lettering being accidentally rubbed off by visitors .

Regional Interpretive Specialist Frank Podriznik installs osprey in interpretive center exhibit . (02/85) 85-15 JAB

A three-year look at the number of visitors using the interpretive center and Homestead is as follows :

VISITATION

SWAMP'S EDGE INTERPRETIVE CENTER

CY 1985 CY 1984 CY 1983 31,159 29,242 32,485

CHESSER ISLAND HOMESTEAD

CY 1985 CY 1984 CY 1983 17,919* 20,485 16,515

*Homestead only staffed an average of three days per week during October, November, and December . 4 8

/ . OtherInterpretivePrograms

A variety of interpretive events were offered this year to compliment the regularly-scheduled tours, films, and orientation programs .

A juried art show at Suwagnee Canal Recreation Area highlighted the National . Wildlife Week Celebration on March 23 and 24 . Area artists displayed wildlife paintings, pen and ink drawings, wood carvings, photography, and crafts . A live-bird presentation by Florida's "Eagle Lady" (Doris Mager) was the highlight of the weekend . and attracted an audience of 350 . Doris Mager also presented an educational progam with her birds to schools in Folkston . During the weekend, slide presenta- tions, films, a bird walk, a night "Owl Prowl", a skull workshop, and a biking tour were offered to 152 participants . The Art Show drew in excess of 1,000 visitors to the refuge over the weekend .

"Eagle Lady" Doris Mager discussed the bald eagle and other raptors during a National Wildlife Week program . (03/85) 85-16 JAB

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A series of seven guided "Night Owl Prowls" highlighted the spring, fall, and winter programming efforts . Approximately 132 participants enjoyed the opportunity to view sunsets, hike the boardwalk with flashlights, and experience the "nocturnal- half" of the refuge . Response to this program was extremely favorable especially for the one scheduled over the Thanksgiv- ing weekend . Due to the limited number of visitors allowed on the hike and the advanced reservation system, many visitors who wished to were not able to participate . The last prowl of the year was conducted by a volunteer which proved very successful ; the use of volunteers for this program will be more fully explored in 1986 .

The fourth annual Yule Log Christmas Ceremony at Chesser Island Homestead attracted a crowd of 100 . The evening program, co- sponsored by the Charlton County Historical Society, combined an interpretive program on the significance of the Yule Log with traditional caroling, burning of the Yule Log and holiday 0 refreshments . The following is a list of the visits/activity hours involved in interpretive activities during 1985 :

INTERPRETATION1985

No . Visits Activity Hours

Wildlife Trails -- Non-motorized Self-guided 95,717 237,639 Conducted 977 4,275

Wildlife Tour Routes Motorized Self-guided 50,317 45,284 Conducted 19,949 31,820

. Interpretive Center 31,159 9,349

Visitor Contact Station 82,847 8,287 Interpretive Exhibits Demonstrations Self-guided 165,819 36,862 Conducted 20,544 9,226

Other On-Refuge Programs 46,203 23,953 Environmental Education Students 1,245 4,980 Teachers 191 764

TOTAL 514,9.68 412,439 5 0

To coincide with National Hunting and Fishing Day, a ceremony officially opening the recently completed Cane Pole Trail and bridge was scheduled . In addition, the Ridley's Little Island Trail was officially opened, completing the last link of the 4 1/2-mile Swamp's Edge foot trail system . A guided hike along the trail system from the visitor center to the boardwalk parking area was led by refuge forester Ron Phernetton . Twelve people participated on this guided hike .

In cooperation with local Georgia's Department of Natural Re- source officials, two hunter safety courses were offered at the interpretive center during 1985 .

A Homestead Open House was held on October 19 in conjunction with the Annual Okefenokee Festival in Folkston, Georgia . The day-long event, co-sponsored by the Charlton County Historical Society, attracted 633 visitors . The program provided sample homestead cooking, beekeeping and nature craft displays, quilt making and doll making demonstrations ; farm animals and taxidermy . A "Family Fun Hour" included races, contests, and prizes .

A taxidermy exhibit by Steve Davis (on right) was a welcomed addition to the annual Okefenokee Festival . (10/85) 85-17 JAB 01

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8 . Hunting

In 1985, white-tailed deer were hunted on 1,500 acres of Cow- house island and on 2,062 acres of the Pocket Unit . The total of 3,562 acres open to hunting represents 11% of the 31,728 acres of upland habitat on the refuge . A summary of deer harvest data collected on Suwannee Canal Recreation Area (SCRA), Cowhouse Island ('CI), and the Pocket, Okefenokee NWR from 1981 - 1985 follows :

Type *Hunter Total % Males Females Year Area of Hunt Trips Kill Success No . % No . % 1981 SCRA Shotgun 183 64 35 9 14 55 86 CI Shotgun 24 7 29 3 43 4 57 CI Archery 773 10 1 3 30 7 70

1982 SCRA Shotgun 234 39 17 17 44 22 56 CI Shotgun 120 16 13 3 19 13 81 CI Archery 558 5 1 POCKET Shotgun 191 15 8 11 73 4 27

1983 CI Shotgun 198 28 14 12 43 16 57 CI Archery 212 0 0 POCKET Prim. Weapons 54 4 7 3 75 1 25 POCKET Archery 21 0 0

1984 CI Shotgun 213 13 6 4 31 9 69 CI Archery 155 1 1 0 0 1 100 POCKET Shotgun 54 8 15 2 25 6 75 POCKET Archery 4 1 25 3 75

1985 CI Shotgun 107 7 7 4 57 3 43 CI Archery 121 0 0 POCKET Shotgun 65 9 14 6 67 3 33 POCKET Archery 85 3 4 2 67 1 33

* Each hunter trip represents six hunter hours . 5 2

Shotgun hunts were held at Cowhouse Island on alternate Satur- daysbeginning October 26 and ending December 21, totalling five hunts . A shotgun hunt was held at the Pocket Unit on the first Saturday in November and December . Archery hunting was permitted on both units on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, from September 21 to October 25, for a total of 15 days .

9 . Fishing

Okefenokee's lakes and prairies experienced a good water year for spawning and rearing of fish populations . On the heels of a good water year in 1984, fishing visits during 1985 increased from 17,135 to 20,896 . Optimism is running high for the return of fine fishing of by-gone years when parking lots and boat ramps were jammed with eager participants . The following is a comparison of two years of fishing visitation data :

FISHING VISITS

No . Visits No . Visits 1984 1985

Suwannee Canal Recreation Area 3,725 3,656

Kingfisher Landing 963 1,042

Stephen C . Foster State Park 6,149 7,873

Suwannee River Sill Recreation Area 6,298 8,325

TOTAL 17,135 20,896

11 . WildlifeObservations

Another good year of water levels in the swamp contributed to the enhancement and use of refuge habitat by birds . Coincidentially, general wildlife observation increased with many visitors enjoying the sights and sounds of sandhill cranes, herons, ibis, and egrets from the boardwalk and boat/canoe trails . Beginning in October and running through December many visitors along the wildlife drive and hiking trails witnessed a sharp increase in bear activity as these "bruins of the piney woods" pursued a bumper crop of acorns . Deer, turkey, southern fox squirrel, and various other species of wildlife also seemed to have benefited from this increase in moisture and good mast crop . The following is a comparison of visitation figures for this activity for a two-year period :

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WILDLIFE CBSERVATICN VISITS AND ACTIVITY HCURS 1984-85 1984 1985 i # Visitors Activity Hours # Visitors Activity Hours Foot Trails 58,584 33,995 64,718 38,033 Boardwalk 38,074 53,304 32,392 45,348 Land Vehicles 149,879 37,470 161,998 40,500 Boats and Canoes 20,284 64, 5 23,161 73,147 12 . Other Wildlife Oriented Recreation

Wildlife-oriented camping is a very popular and well known activity at Okefenokee . Wilderness canoe camping, an interna- tionally acclaimed program hosted 3,834 visitors on 2 to 6-day trips through the refuge . *Mixon's Hammock, a wilderness youth camping area accessible only by canoe, hosted 347 participants . Stephen C . Foster State Park, the western entrance to the refuge, hosted 14,125 campers in their state maintained campsites and cabins .

Picnicking on the refuge occurs in conjunction with the pursuit of other wildlife-oriented recreational activities . Two sites, Suwannee Canal Recreation Area and Stephen C . Foster State Park, recorded 11,279 visits during the year for picnicking . These totals represent a net increase of only 62 visits over 1984 totals for this activity .

17 . Law Enforcement

Law enforcement operations within a vast wilderness area the size of Okefenokee is always a difficult management problem . With only a few people capable of breaking free from higher priority projects and administrative tasks, efforts must be aimed primarily at the serious trespass problems such as possible cannabis trafficking, poaching and fur trapping . To effectively put a stop to these problems, prolonged overnight stays on the perimeter of the swamp would be necessary . Unfor- tunately, few station officers can be spared for this type of duty on a regular basis .

Apprehensions made through the year included :

VIOLATION NUMBER OF CASES

Possession of Firearms 1 Illegal Camping 5 Trespass (General) 3 Littering 4 Feeding Wildlife 1 Insufficient Number of Life Jackets 2 Violation of Canoe Permit 2 Fishing w/o License 5 5 4

18 . CooperatingAssociations

The cooperative agreement with Eastern National Park and Monu- ment Association (ENPMA) to operate a bookstore continued in 1985 . The bookstore underwent an evaluation and restocking program throughout the winter and spring . Slow-selling titles were deleted from the inventory, and approximately nine items were ordered .. Visitors had 81 items to select from, including topographic maps, atlases, vacation guides, children's books, field guides, interpretive brochures, and craft books . Total sales for 1985 equaled $5,355 . This figure surpassed that of 1984 sales by $995 . An ENPMA donation to the refuge of $500 permitted the reprinting of three brochures for visitor distribution .

19 . Concessions

Concession operations at the three major entrances to Okefenokee National wildlife Refuge provided refuge visitors with tours, rentals, supplies and general services . . Only the concessioner at Suwannee Canal Recreation Area pays the Government a percentage of the gross income less state sales tax . This concessioner's gross receipts for CY 1985 totaled $212,300 .65 . Total visitation at this entrance was 82,558 . Stephen C . Foster State Park which operates under a leasing agreement with the Fish and Wildlife Service, hosted 85,740 visitors in 1985 . Okefenokee Swamp Park, operated by a private, non-profit corporation, reported a visitor total of 85,473 this year .

I . EQUIPMENTANDFACILITIES

1 . NewConstruction

Four major construction contracts were active during the year . Sirmans-Vickers, Inc ., Waycross, Georgia, completed the construction of both the east and west side fire cache buildings in February . This project was initiated in 1984 . In addition, 290 tons of gravel were purchased and spread under these buildings and along the roads leading to the new structures by force account means .

Dixie Concrete Service, Inc ., Waycross, Georgia, was contractd during 1984 to construct firelines and fire access roads in several upland compartments on the refuge . The contract extended into and was completed in July 1985 . This contract provided for the completion of 18 .5 miles of fire access roads, 6 .5 miles of firelines, and the purchase and installation of 30 culverts . The work was performed in forestry compartments 1-3, 5-7, and 11-15 at a cost of $75,000 . 5E

Sirmans and Vickers, Inc ., Waycross, Georgia, was awarded the contract to replace the well house at Camp Cornelia in September and all work was completed by November .

Century Water, Inc ., Jacksonville, Florida, was granted the contract to replace the potable water systems at the Suwannee Canal Recreation Area, Chesser Island Homestead and Camp Cornelia . The project was initiated during October and was 95% completed by December . Several problems and deficiencies were identified during a final inspection on December 27 by the Regional Engineering Office . At the close of the year, the problems still were not corrected .

In addition to these major contracts, the completion of a 1984 contract which provided for the purchase and installation of rip-rap on the down stream side of sill structure #2 was completed early in the year .

The new fire cache/fire equipment storage building was completed during the year and will assist greatly in increasing efficiency during fires . (01/86) 85-18 DJV

A rocket net site was constructed near the new Pocket Unit maintenance and office site in an effort to put more emphasis on meeting banding quotas during the year . The work involved cleaning out a small area near a slough outside the wilderness area and spreading approximately, 12 tuns of pea caravel over the 55 A

A contract was used to construct 25 miles of fire access roads and firelines . (03/85) 85-19 MAW

The sill's water control structure was rip-rapped during the year . This structure may one day be used to return the swamp's water level to the original and more "natural" level . (04/85) 85-20 DJV 56 site . This site was operational by tray, and in conjunction with the rocket net site rehabilitated in 1984 at Chesser Island, proved to be effective during the year .

Clinch County volunteered to construct a new parking area near the sill structure with minimal assistance from the refuge . The refuge's responsibilities included removing trees and stumps from the site, assisting with transporting fill dirt and providing two culverts for drainage . The county will provide the remainder of the work which will result in two paved parking areas . At the close of the year, the project was halted due to wet soil conditions .

2 . Rehabilitation

During the year, one of the two residence structures located on the Pocket Unit was converted into a subheadquarters office and temporary quarters . The conversion of the residence in conjunction with the new fire cache and support facilities has provided those employees who report to the west side of the refuge daily with some long overdue working facilities . All west side field operations were moved from Jones Island to the new location .

Three small lot sales were conducted during the year which consisted of miscellaneous non-accountable property and surveyed property which accumulated over the years in the "boneyard" . The sales brought approximately $2,245 in receipts and also assisted in cleaning up two junk sites .

The sewage treatment plant which services the Suwannee Canal Recreation Area had a number of costly problems throughout the year . Check valves required removal and overhauling, and all the aerators were replaced .

Several deteriorated signs were replaced during the year . The two most significant replacements included a new major entrance sign located on the Camp Cornelia/Suwannee Canal Recreation Area entrance road and a new Swamp Island Drive sign located at the entrance to the wildlife drive . Eleven new steel pipe gates were constructed and erected at several locations on the refuge . The new gates replaced old steel cable gates in accordance with Service guidelines . Plans are to replace 10 gates each year until all cable gates have been removed .

Using open market vendors, six electric hand dryers were installed to eliminate the annual need of thousands of paper towels at the Suwannee Canal Recreation concession and visitor center restrooms and the Chesser Island restroom facility . Also, gutters and downspouts were installed on the center . 57

Down with the old . . (09/85) 85-21 JDS

And up with the new . To many, the flying goose will always symbolize a National Wildlife Refuge . (09/85) 85-22 KAJ 58

An old fishing pier located along the sill structure and several old storage buildings at Camp Cornelia were disposed of in accordance with Departmental policy . Disposal of these structues eliminated a safety hazard and eyesore .

3 . MajorMaintenance

The refuge staff with assistance from the YCC and firecrew replaced 150' yards of boardwalk decking leading to the owls Roost observation tower overlooking the swamp . This effort completed the entire replacement of the 3/4 mile boardwalk deck over a four-year period .

Equipment Operator Virgil Crews (left) and firefighter Andy Gowen redeck a portion of the boardwalk . (07/85) 85-23 KAJ

The chimney at the Floyd's Island Cabin, which serves as an overnight camping site for wilderness canoeists, was completely rebuilt after a "ground critter" dug under the foundation causing the chimney to collapse . A volunteer boy scout troop provided the labor to completely tear down the old chimney, clean the bricks, and build a new one . Refuge personnel transported concrete, mortar, blocks, and reinforcement rods to the work site which was 14 miles in the swamp . 59

Canoe and boat trail maintenance during the year included using the trailcutter on 40 miles of waterways . Scouts and an explorer group provided additional support in trail maintenance . Explosives were used in areas of extremely dense vegetation and where large trees blocked trails . Chemicals were used sparingly in some areas in an effort to hinder the growth of aquatic plants .

Toilet maintenance was a high priority during the year . After evaluating the system over the years, modification continued in an effort to enhance the task of servicing these facilities in the swamp . New toilet cabannas and toilet plumbing features were constructed and installed at six locations . An experimen- tal pit (tub) toilet system was installed at the Roundtop Shelter located in Chase Prairie . This toilet system, if successful, will significantly assist refuge efforts in reducing toilet maintenance costs . In addition to this project, two platforms located at Big Water and Canal Forks were redecked .

A vault type toilet replaced a chemical toilet at the Round Top canoe shelter . Toilet maintenance was cut drastically by using this type of toilet . (01/86) 85-24 DJV

Boundary line maintenance during the year resulted in six miles of boundary being posted in Compartment 1 . 0 60

4 . Equipment UtilizationandReplacement

A new D-5 Caterpillar crawler tractor arrived during the year . The new tractor will be located at the Pocket Unit and used for fire presuppression and suppression operations .

A new engine and electrical system were installed in the Panther airboat . The engine has increased horsepower and the new prop provides 15% more thrust than the old . The extra power is needed to transport waste material from toilets out of the swamp during low water periods . The old engine could not handle the load any longer after being in operation for 10 years .

Several equipment pooling efforts were accomplished during the year . The trailcutter was loaned to Loxahatchee Refuge . J . N . "Ding" Darling Refuge borrowed the station's road grader . Pungo and Merritt Island Refuges borrowed the station's Case (1150C) crawler tractor, and Chassahowitzka Refuge loaned Okefenokee a front-end loader/backhoe -. Merritt Island Refuge also loaned this station a Fiat crawler tractor which was later transferred to Chassahowitzka .

The TD-9 crawler was equipped with a boundary posting carrying cage designed and built at the station to carry pipe and other boundary posting materials . This cage attached to the crawler will make boundary posting along the uplands much easier in the future .

5 . Communication Systems.

A permit was granted to Stephen C . Foster State Park to install an antenna on the station radio tower located at the Pocket Unit in an effort for the State Park to improve their communication system . The antenna is expected to have no effect on the station system . 0 6 . Computer Systems Use of the Digital Rainbow computer system has proven to be a valuable asset to several refuge programs . The computer is currently being used to track the station budget, send urgent correspondence to the Regional Office, type major reports, run various programs which provide figures for output reports and maintain property inventory and red-cockaded woodpecker tree records .

7 . Energy Conservation

Gasoline consumption was 13,901 gallons which was well within the allotment of 17,131 gallons . No aviation fuel was used though 600 gallons were allotted . This was a result of conver- ting the station airboats to gasoline . Diesel fuel consumption I 61 during the year rose due to numerous force accounts projects requiring diesel equipment . The allotment of 5,000 gallons was exceeded by 293 gallons .

8 . Other

Shortly after completion of the Sill contract, numerous major leaks were identified in the water control structure which resulted in requiring an inspection from the Denver Engineering Center and three contract consultants . The goal of the inspection was to develop a strategy and cost estimate for the consultants to engineer a plan for the rehabilitation and/or the replacement of both sill structures . A tentative conclu- sion was made that the rapid deterioration of the #2 structure which was replaced in 1980 may be due to failure of the contractor to follow concrete specifications in the original contract . Tests were to be scheduled to confirm the suspicion but were not performed during the year .

J . OTHERITEMS

1 . CooperativePrograms

As part of the U . S . Department of Agriculture's Forest Pest Management Progam, gypsy moth traps were placed in high public use areas on the refuge . The program is to detect the movement of the moths early to aid in their control . No moths were found on the refuge .

The refuge provided daily wind direction and speed information to the National Weather Service in Atlanta . The Weather Ser- vice provided and installed all the equipment needed for this project . This equipment has proved a valuable asset in the prescribed burning and wildfire suppression programs . Two weather stations were also maintained on the refuge . One was i located at Camp Cornelia and one at Jones Island . Temperature and rainfall for both stations were furnished to the National Weather Service on a monthly basis . Information was also provided to the State of Florida Water Management District and the U . S . Department of Agriculture .

Forestry students from Lake City Community College, Florida installed and checked continuous forest inventory (CFI) plots in the refuge forest compartments . The students, under the direction of Mr . Don Lewis, Forest Engineering Technology In- structor, will continue monitoring established plots over a five-year period .

3 . ItemsofInterest Georgia Governor Joe Frank Harris, his wife and son visited the

refuge in March . They received a tour of the west side which included visiting Billy's Island and Stephen C . Foster State Park, and one out of Kingfisher Landing on the east side which gave the group a look at various habitats and wildlife species found in the swamp .

Manager Schroer, Assistant Manager Voros, Outdoor Recreation Planner Burkhart, Clerk Pittman and Maintenance Worker Jones were presented special achievement awards for FY 1984 . The awards to Schroer, Voros, and Burkhart were initiated in the Regional Office for their contributions to A-76 activities . Pittman's award was for overall performance with particular emphasis on her ability to' fill in for others, work with the computer, and her detail to the Regional Office, and Jones' award was for overall performance with emphasis on his outstanding maintenance of outboard motors during the year .

The Georgia Chapter of the Wildlife Society held their semi- annual meeting at the refuge's interpretive center on October 8 and 9 . Approximately 20 people were in attendance .

4 . Credits

As in past years, the production of this narrative involved many staff members . All the participants received their assignments with the enthusiasm that can only be shown by a dedicated refuge employee who would rather be in the great outdoors than behind a desk . The following individuals should receive all the credit praise and/or criticism for the sections listed :

Section A Manager Schroer Section B Forestry Technician Williams Section C Manager Schroer Section D Manager Schroer, Assistant Manager Voros, and Outdoor Recreation Planner Burkhart Section E Manager Schroer and Assistant Manager Johnson Section F Assistant Manager Johnson, Forester Phernetton and Forestry Technician Williams Section G Assistant Manager Voros and Biological Technician Weide Section H Assistant Manager Voros, Outdoor Recreation Planners Burkhart and Fernandez Section I Assistant Manager Voros Section J Manager Schroer and Assistant Manager Johnson Section K Manager Schroer

This narrative was edited by Manager Schroer, re-edited, typed and compiled by Clerk Pittman, and proofed by Clerk Davis .

11 63

FEEDBACK

During the year, the region went through a process with field input to establish a "Base Funding Level" (BFL) for each station . The BFL was established based on the summation of fixed costs, a management factor, and a fuel cost allotment . This process resulted in an "equitable" distribution of the funds ; however, on most refuges, the BFL will not allow for the normal and timely replacement of thelarger items of equipment, such as vehicles, boats, boat motors, ATVS, etc . Expansion packages were supposed to fill this need ; however, pending budget cuts in FY 1986 resulted in expansion packages not being d istri- buted . i n future years and if funding is available, the establishment of the BFL with an equitable distribution of expansion packages should result in a more efficient system than was present in the past .

irre region also established a "Basic Operation Staff Pattern" fir each station during the year . This staffing pattern repre- E ,_- nts the regionally approved staffing plan for th -e refuge wnich should be attained as positions become vacant . Although the process used lacked needed field input, each station should have an approved but fexible staffing pattern . Some stations received cuts in the number of FTEs ; some position titles were changed ; and some grade changes were made . This system will work and be effective only if each proposed change is reviewed carefully and critically as to the impact on the station's efficiency and effectiveness in meeting objectives .

Several sources of funding continue to benefit the refuge despite the economic situation . Although small ARMM funding is now lost in the normal routine maintenance conducted on the refuge, large ARMM projects continue to help in replacing c2nd/or rehabilitating refuge facilities . Fire funding LDntinues to assist operations by covering all wildfire suppression and rehabilitation costs and in providing for a ten-person seasonal fire crew which not only worked in the fire management program but assisted in other programs when no fire management need existed . In addition, RPRP funds were received in FY 1986 to conduct a study on precribed fire in the swamp ; such a study which will influence future swamp management practices, could not have been considered without this special funding .

REVIEb: AND APPROVALS

0 ,7,'~'E;':!T- ! WILDLIFE REFUGE LAITI,N-M, GEORGIA

ANNUAL N. RRATIVE REP C`1 0 Calendar Year 1985

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0 INIRCDUCTICN

Banks lake National Wildlife Refuge was acquired February 22, 1985 from The Nature Conservancy . This refuge, containing approximately 3,500 acres, is located in Zanier County near Iakeland, Georgia . The refuge contains a variety of habitat types including 1,000 acres of open water, 1,500 acres of marsh, and 1,000 acres of cypress swamp . Scattered through these types are sane hardwood swamp, pine forest, and other upland types . The refuge was established for the protection and conservation of migratory and resident wildlife and a unique environment .

On April 16, 1980, the U . S. Fish and Wildlife Service entered a lease agreement with The Nature Conservancy to manage approximately 3,500 acres of the Banks lake/Grand Bay wetland complex, located in Lanier and Iowndes Counties in southeastern Georgia . The original intent of the lease was to eventually establish a National Wildlife Refuge on this area . Changes in the emphasis of the land acquisition program resulted in no funds being i appropriated for acquiring this land . This area remained in a state of limbo during 1982 and 1983 with the U . S . Fish and Wildlife Service maintaining a caretaker position over Banks lake . In 1984, funds were added to the FY 1985 budget for the purchase of this area at a land value of $356,000 . The refuge was authorized under the Fish and Wildlife Act of 1956 and funded through provisions of the land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1955 with strong local support from the Lakeland community and the congressional delegation .

INIRODUCTICN Page

TABLE CF CCNTE['PIS I

A. HIGHLIGHTS 1

B. CLIMATIC CC DITICNS 1

C. LAND AOXISITICN

1. Fee Title 1 2 . Easements (Nothing to Report) 3 . Other (Nothing to Report)

D . PLANNING

1 . Master Plan (Nothing to Report) 2 . Management Plan (Nothing to Report) 3 . Public Participation 1 4 . Compliance with Environmental and Cultural Resource Mandates 5 . Research and Investigations 2

E . AD 1IMISTRATIQc

1 . Personnel 2 2 . Youth Program 3 3. Other Manpower Programs . . (Nothing to Report) 4 . Volunteer Program 3 5 . Funding 3 6 . Safety 3 7 . Technical Assistance (Nothing to Report) 8 . Other Items 3

F . HABITAT MANP EVENT

1 . General 3 2 . Wetlands 4 3. Forests (Nothing to Report) 4 . Croplands (Nothing to Report) 5 . Grasslands (Nothing to Report) 6 . Other Habitats (Nothing to Report) 7 . Grazing (Nothing to Report) 8 . Haying (Nothing to Report) 9 . Fire Management (Nothing to Report) 10 . Pest Control (Nothing to Report) 11 . Water Rights (Nothing to Report) 12 . Wilderness and Special Areas . . . . (Nothing to Report) 13 . WA Easement Monitoring (Nothing to Report)

G . WILDLIFE

1. Wildlife Diversity 2 . Endangered and/or Threatened Species 3 . Waterfowl 4 . Marsh and Water Birds 5 . Shorebirds 6 . Raptors 7 . Other Migratory Birds (Nothing to Report) 8 . Game Birds (Nothing to Report) 9. Marine Mamnals (Nothing to Report) 10 . Other resident Wildlife (Nothing to Report) 11 . Fisheries Resources 5 12 . Wildlife Propagation and Stocking . (Nothing to Report) 13 . Surplus Animal Disposal (Nothing to Report) 14 . Scientific Collections (Nothing to Report) • 15 . Animal Control (Nothing to Report) 16 . Marking and Banding (Nothing to Report) 17 . Disease Prevention and Control . . . . (Nothing to Report)

H . PUBLIC USE

1 . General 6 2 . Outdoor Classrooms - Students (Nothing to Report) 3 . Outdoor Classrooms - Teachers (Nothing to Report) 4 . Interpretive Foot Trails (Nothing to Report) 5 . Interpretive Tour Routes (Nothing to Report) 6 . Interpretive Exhibits/Demonstration . . (Nothing to Report) 7 . Other Interpretive Programs (Nothing to Report) 8 . Hunting (Nothing to Report) 9 . Fishing 6 10 . Trapping (Nothing to Report) 11 . Wildlife Observation (Nothing to Report) • 12 . Other Wildlife Oriented Recreation . . . (Nothing to Report) 13 . Carping (Nothing to Report) 14 . Picnicking (Nothing to Report) 15 . Off-Road Vehicling (Nothing to Report) 16 . Other Non-Wildlife Oriented recreation . . . (Nothing to Report) 17 . law Ehforc rent 6 18 . Cooperating Associations (Nothing to Report) 19 . Concessions 6

I . EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES

New Construction 7 Rehabilitation (Nothing to Report) Major Maintenance (Nothing to Report) Equipment Utilization and Replacement : 7 Ccmnmication System (Nothing to Report) Computer System (Nothing to Report) Energy Conservation (Nothing to Report) Other (Nothing to Report) J . OIT ER ITEMS

1 . Cooperative Programs 7 2 . Other Econanic Uses (Nothing to Report) 3 . Its of Interest 7 4 . Credits 7

K . FEEDBACK . . . . (Nothing to Report)

L. IWOPI-ATICN PACKET - - - (None) y, 1

HIGHLIGHT'S

Ranks lake National Wildlife FZefuge was acquired Fcbrea 22, ly82 .

Banks Lake National Wildlife Refuge was dedicated on April 9, 1985 .

B. CLIMATIC CCNDITICNS

Weather information is not collected at Banks Lake Refuge . The closest reporting weather station is in Bomerville, Georgia, approximately 15 miles from the refuge . Tbtal precipitation for the year totaled 44 .25 inches, which is 4 .63 inches lower than normal . Rainfall was fairly well dispersed over the year with the heaviest rains being recorded in July and August .

C . LAND ACQUISITICN

1. Fee Title

Ch February 22, 1985, approximately 3,500 acres of land in Lanier County, Georgia, were purchased fran The Nature Conservancy ; the land value cost was $356,000 . Although a change in the emphasis of the U . S . Fish and Wildlife Service's land acquisition program prevented the land purchase for several years, strong local and congressional support lead to the funds being appropriated in FY 1985 . The Nature Conservancy held the land since March 9, 1980 .

D. PLANNING

3 . Public Participation

A request was received from the chairman of Lanier County C)armissioners, Mr . Jim White, to raise the water level of Banks Lake approximately six to eight inches . Carments were solicited from same adjacent landovners who might be impacted by such an action . Most reaction was negative, and additional information and justifications were requested from the county . No additional word was received by the end of 1985 .

Although not directly on the refuge, the Defense Departirent proposed to construct a barbing range imrediately adjacent to the refuge . The Air Force conducted several public meetings and received a considerable mount of objections to the proposed site . A number of the adverse reactions con- cerned the disturbance to the newly established wildlife refuge .

5 . Research and Investigations

Although no research was conducted on this station in 1985, a need for research exists . Banks Lake has a tremendous fishery resource, and submerged aquatic vegetation is growing at what appears to be an increasing rate. The relationships, both beneficial and not, between the fish populations and aquatics needs to be understood so that proper management can occur .

E. ADMINISTRATION

1. Personnel

Biological Technician Gus Saville retired on January 2, 1985, after having been stationed at Banks lake since 1980 . Due to the uncertainty of Banks Lake at the time, his position was not filled, and no immediate plans are to have an employee at Banks -Lake Refuge . Personnel from Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge administer, manage, and maintain the area .

Gus Saville (01/82) 85-01 iAE

Personnel

1 . Okefenokee Refuge Staff (See Narrative for Okefenokee NWR) . 2 . Augustus H . Saville (ECD 07/22/80) Biological Technician (Retired 01/01/85) GS-8, PFT

2 . Youth Programs

A Youth Conservation Corps (YOC) program was initiated at Banks lake during 1985 . the enrollee, Ashley O'Quinn, was hired from the Lakeland area . ¶Ihe coneessioner at Banks Lake acted as supervisor for the enrollee . Ashley proved to be an excellent enrollee who acearplished sore much needed general clean-up work and grounds maintenance around the concession area . In addition, a foot bridge was redecked, and vegetation was removed fran a fence row .

Without the volunteer supervision by the concession, the program would have been inpossible to conduct . Current plans include hiring another enrollee for 1986 .

4 . Volunteer Program

Anticipating the problems sometimes associated with the transition to retired life, Biological Technician Gus Saville signed on as a volunteer, with the effective date being the day following his retirement date . Gus kept the Ckefenokee staff informed of the problems and needs of Banks Lake and assisted with several projects, including the first installation of a Banks Lake NWR entrance sign . At year end, Gus was still involved as the only Banks Lake volunteer .

5 . Flmding

Banks Lake is an unfunded refuge . All funding support canes frorn the Ckefenokee budget .

6 . Safety

No accidents occurred during the year .

8 . Other

During his annual inspection of Ckefenokee Refuge in April, Refuge Supervisor Travis McDaniel also inspected Banks Lake Refuge .

F . HABITAT MAI 4ENT

1 . General

The 3,500 acre refuge contains a variety of wetland habitat types including 1,000 acres of open water, 1,500 acres of marsh, and 1,000 acres of cypress swamp . Management of these habitat types will be dependent upon the results of future research efforts which will be oriented towar$s the need of a water manipulation program . A shallow dam and water control structure constructed during the early 1900's which formed Banks lake permits drainage northeast- ward into a tributary of the Alapaha River and is the main outlet for excess 4

lake water . If research identifies a need for a water manipulation program to enhance or perpetuate the existing wildlife resources, this structure, after rehabilitation, could be used .

2 . Wetlands

The refuge wetlands consist of open water, shallow cypress pond, and shrub swamp . The shallow cypress pond type is dominated by such trees as pond cypress, black gun (Nyssa sylvatica), slash pine, sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), and red maple (Acer rubrum) . Shrubs found in the cypress pond area include swamp red bay (Persea palustris), and fetterbush (Lyonia lucida) . Shrub swamp found in the tract consists of such species as pondpine (Pinus serotina), sweet bay (Magnolia virginiana), loblolly bay (Gordonia lasianthus) red maple, red bay, titi (Cyrilla racerniflora), and fetterbush all as shrubs or small trees .

Scattered stands of cypress are found throughout the open water areas of the refuge . (10/80) 85-02 WK

The majority of wetland in the lake can be classified as cypress pond . About 13% of the lake consists of a deep cypress pond with the only trees being groups of pond cypress (Taxodium ascendens) scattered in open water . Aquatic vegetation in this are-a--'includes lemon bacopa (Bacopa caroliniana), fanwort (Cabrn-ba p.), dollar bonnett (Brasenia sch eberi), fragrent waterlily (Nymphaea odorata), spatterdock (Nuphar advena) and water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) . 5

G . WI LDLIFE

1. Wildlife Diversity

As one of the largest lake and swamp systems in the Coastal Plain of Georgia, the Banks lake Refuge and adjacent Grand Bay wetlands area is important to a wide variety of wildlife . Wildlife population information is currently not available ; however, indexing and population estimate models are currently being developed and will be available for use during 1986 .

2 . Endangered and/or Threatened Species

Federally endangered species known to use the refuge regularly include the American alligator and wood stork . The bald eagle and peregrine falcon are occasional winter visitors . The refuge also lies within the range of the red-cockaded woodpecker and threatened indigo snake, but no confirmed sightings of the species have occurred .

0 3 . Waterfowl

Banks lake is located off the main Atlantic Flyway route and does not have large concentrations of migratory waterfowl . rffe resident wood duck is common and attracts waterfowl hunters from the area to adjacent wetlands .

4 . March and Water Birds

American egrets, double-crested cormorant, anhingas, and great blue herons . are the most commonly observed marsh and water birds on the refuge . Sandhill cranes, snowy egrets, little blue herons, green-backed herons, cattle egrets, and white ibis have also been observed . No known rookeries for any of these species are found on the refuge .

5 . Shorebirds, Gulls, Terns, and Allied Species

Because of the limited amount of shallow shoreline for these species, their numbers are low. During periods of low water, killdeer, snipe, and woodcock use the area .

6 . Raptors

Raptors eamionly seen on the refuge include the red-tailed and red-shouldered hawk, kestrel, and barred owl . The great homed owl and golden eagle have also been observed on the refuge, but sightings are rare .

11 . Fisheries

Banks lake supports several species of popular game fish such as the largemouth bass, bream, crappie, and chain pickerel . he good fishing attracts anglers across the state. Fishery activity peaks during the spring and summer in conjunction with spawning activity . 6

H. PUBLIC USE

1 . General

Banks Lake has a noted sport fishery resource . Each year the area hosts thousands of fishermen and numerous fishing tournaments . Facilities at Banks Lake are limited to a private eoncessioner with boat ramp and parking . This newest acquisition awaits planning and funding necessary to bring it up to Fish and Wildlife Service standards .

9 . Fishing

Monthly visitation for fishing averaged 500 to 3,000 visitors per month with a peak of 7,483 visitors fishing during May . Twelve tournaments were . registered and permitted during the year .

17 . Law Enforcement

Law enforcement efforts during the year were primarily oriented towards making the public aware of the approximate location of the refuge boundary and of what changes would occur in public use now that the area is being managed as a National Wildlife Refuge . One change in public use was eli- minating waterfowl hunting from within the refuge boundary . This action required close monitoring by refuge officers detailed to Banks Lake from Ckefenokee Refuge . Verbal warnings were given to all violators hunting on the refuge during the year because the actual boundaries were not clearly defined nor were they posted . However, several migratory bird cases were made by refuge officers who worked along the boundary off the refuge . Rou- tine patrols were also conducted on the refuge to curtail the use of illegal fish traps and to conduct boater safety, fishing license, and creel limit inspections .

Apprehensions made on and adjacent to the refuge during the year included :

Violation Number of Cases

Fishing w/o license 6 Over the daily bag limit (waterfowl) 1 Late Shooting (waterfowl) 2 No Duck Stanp 1 Insufficient # of life jackets in boat 3

19 . Concessions

Banks Lake has had a concession operation since 1981 . The concession operates from a privately-owned building and a government-furnished boat rarp . Services provided include boat and motor rentals, fishing tackle, and miscellaneous food and drink items . The Tanlinsons, who began the year as the concessieners, elected to terminate their contract . Tl-~e concession contract was advertised during the late summer and after sane difficulty in finding someone, Mr . Ricky Poe was selected to take over the operation in November .

l o percent of the gross receipts were paid to the government . The following were the 1984-85 gross receipts for this refuge .

1984 1985 $60,327 .59 $58,764 .74

I . EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES

1. New Gonstruction

A Banks Lake NWR sign was erected to identify the area as a separate refuge rather than as a unit of Okefenckee Refuge .

4 . Dquipment Utilization and Replacement

Because the refuge is not staffed and is managed_ as a satellite station to the Ckefenokee Refuge, no equipment or support facilities are currently required . No development on the refuge is planned in the near future other than upgrading the existing concession facilities to a limited degree and posting .

J . CYIHER ITEMS

1 . Cooperative Programs

With the pending development of a bombing range adjacent to the refuge, refuge personnel met with military personnel in Nover±er at Moody AFB in order to discuss possible impacts of the range on refuge's wildlife and public use . The outoame of the meeting was to attempt to develop a Memorandum of Understanding between the two agencies which would mitigate the adverse impacts to the refuge .

3 . Items of Interest

On April 9, a ceremony was held to dedicate the newly acquired Banks Lake National Wildlife Refuge . The dedication was held at the concession area on the refuge and was attended by over 80 people . Speakers at the dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony included U . S . Congressman Charles Hatcher, Regional Director James Pulliam, State Senator Ed Perry, State Representa- tive Robert Patten, Lakeland Mayor Jay Shaw, and a representative of The Nature Conservancy .

4 . Credits

This report was compiled by Manager Schroer, Assistant Managers Voros and Johnson and Outdoor Recreation Planner Burkhart. Clerk Pittman typed the report which was proofread by Secretary Davis . AD

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held during the dedication . Pictured left to right are State Senator Ed Perry, Regional Director James Pulliam, State Representative Robert Patten, U . S . Conqressman Charles Hatcher and Iakeland Mayor Jay Shaw . (04/85) 85-04 DJV OKEFENOKEE NWR - CY 1985

FEEDBACK

During the year, the region went through a process with field input to establish a "Base Funding Level" (BFL) for each station . The BFL was established based on the summation of fixed costs, a management factor, and a fuel cost allotment . This process resulted in an "equitable" distribution of the funds ; however, on most refuges, the BFL will not allow for the normal and timely replacement of thelarger items of equipment, such as vehicles, boats, boat motors, ATVS, etc . Expansion packages were supposed to fill this need ; however, pending budget cuts in FY 1986 resulted in expansion packages not being distributed . In future years and if funding is available, the establishment of the BFL with an equitable distribution of expansion packages should result in a more efficient system than was present in the past .

The region also established a "Basic Operation Staff Pattern" for each station during the year . This staffing pattern represents the regionally approved staffing plan for the refuge which should be attained as positions become vacant . Although the process used lacked needed field input, each station should have an approved but fexible staffing pattern . Some stations received cuts in the number of FTEs ; some position titles were changed ; and some grade changes were made . This system will work and be effective only if each proposed change is reviewed carefully and critically as to the impact on the station's efficiency and effectiveness in meeting objectives .

Several sources of funding continue to benefit the refuge despite the economic situation . Although small ARMM funding is now lost in the normal routine maintenance conducted on the refuge, large ARMM projects continue to help in replacing and/or rehabilitating refuge facilities . Fire funding continues to assist operations by covering all wildfire suppression and rehabilitation costs and in providing for a ten-person seasonal fire crew which not only worked in the fire management program but assisted in other programs when no fire management need existed . In addition, RPRP funds were received in FY 1986 to conduct a study on precribed fire in the swamp ; such a study which will influence future swamp management practices, could not have been considered without this special funding . CONSPICUOUS PLANTS OF OKEFENOKEE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

OpenPrairiesandWaterCoursesinForest

White waterlily - Nymphaea odorata Spatterdock - Nuphar advena Neverwet - Orontium aquaticum Pipewort - Eriocaulon compressum Floating heart - Nymphoides aquaticum Beakrush - Rhynchospora inundata Wampee - Peltandra lgauca Water plaintain - Sagittaria graminea Yellow-eyed grass -yris smalliana Bladderwort - Utricularia purpurea Spikerush - Eleocharis elongata

PrairieEdge

Herbaceous Plants

Sphagnum - Sphagnum sip .* Chain fern - Woodwardia virginica Gerardia - Lgalinis fascicuLta Club moss - Lycopodium carolinianum Maidencane - Panicum hemitomum Broomsedge bluestem - Andropogon glomeratus Pickerelweed - Pontederia cordata Paintroot - Lachnanthus tinctoria Swamp iris - Iris caroliniana Grass pink - Calopogon pulchellus Pitcherplant - Sarracenia minor Golden trumpet - Sarracenia flava_ Sundew - Drosera intermedia Aquatic spikerush - Eleocharis baldwinii Marsh St . Johnswort - Hypericum virginicum Water pennywort - Hydrocotyle umbellata Marsh marigold - Bidens coronata* Rose Pogonia - Pogonia ophioglossoides

Woody Plants

Buttonrush - Cephalanthus occidentalis Swamp loosestrife - Decodon verticillata Virginia sweetspire - Itea virginica* Red chokeberry - Pyrus arbutifolia Hurrah bush - Lyonia lucida* Titi - Cyrilla racemiflora* WoodyPlants (Continued)

St . Johnswort - Hypericum fasciculatum (only where sand is near the surface) Poor-man's soap - Clethra alnifolia* Swamp fetterbush - Leucothoe racemosa* Black bamboo vine - Smilax laurifolia Red bamboo vine - Smilax walteri* Bullace - Vitis munsoiana*

Swamp Forest

Understory plants same as those marked with an asterisk (*) above .

Trees

Pond cypress - Taxodium distichum nutans_ Swamp blackgum - Nyssa sylvatic biflora Red maple - Acer rubrum White bay - Persea virginiana Red bay - Persea borbonia Loblolly bay - Gordonia lasianthus Titi - Cyrilla racemiflora Cassena - Ilex cassine

Swamp Edge

All the swamp forest and prairie edge species listed above plus :

Ogeche lime - Nyssa ogeche Pinckneya - Pinckneya nubens Wax myrtle - Nyrica cerifera Red chokeberry - Pyrus arbutifolia Sandweed - Hypericum fasciculatum United States Department of the Interior

FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge Waycross, Georgia

SPORT FISHING REGULATIONS

Sport fishing on the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, Waycross, Georgia, is permitted in the open water areas connected by established boat runs . Sport fishing shall be in accordance with all applicable State regulations subject to the following special conditions :

(1) Fishing permitted during posted hours only .

(2) Boats with motors not larger than 10 h .p ., canoes and rowboats permitted .

(3) Artificial and live bait (except live minnows) permitted,

(4) Trotlines, limb lines, nets, or other set tackle prohibited .

(5) Persons entering refuge from main access points must register with the respective concessioner or at a registration station

(6) Persons using the sill access ramp on the pocket are required to sign the register when they enter the swamp and again when they leave . Use of launching facilities is permitted as long as parking regulations are not violated . Park regulations are posted at registration station .

(7) Persons using the Kingfisher Landing access ramp are reauired to sign the register when they enter the swamp and again when they leave .

(8) All persons will comply with the regulatory signs posted in all areas

Okeif6oke,en National Wildlife Refuge

As you travel through this country, you may see the sign of the flying goose - emblem of the National Wild- life Refuges . Wherever you meet this sign, respect it, for it means that lands and waters have been dedicated to preserving a vital part of our nation's heritage, our native wildlife .

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ST GEORGE REGULATIONS

Travel on the refuge is restricted to designated areas . All visitors should register with the concessioners before leaving the boat docks to enter refuge waters .

Guides must operate through existing concessioners and must have valid licenses obtained from the refuge manager .

Visitors are allowed on the refuge during posted hours .

Fires are prohibited on the refuge except in specially designated places.

Firearms and other weapons are not allowed on the refuge except during specially designated periods .

Outboard motors are limited to 10 hp or less . For safety reasons each occupant of a boat is required to have a Coast Guard approved life preserver.

Fishing is permitted in accordance with Georgia State fishing laws. To prevent the introduction of non-native species, no live fish may be used as bait .

Due to the danger from snakes and alligators, swimming is prohibited .

For their own safety and the safety of other visitors, pets must be kept in vehicles or on a leash . Pets are not permitted in public buildings or boats.

Disturbing or collecting plants or animals is prohibited . OKF_'FENOKEE SWAMP, in southeastern Georgia near stained the color of tea from the tannic acid of swamp the Florida boundary, is one of the oldest and most well vegetation . The principal outlet of the swamp is the Su- preserved freshwater wetland complexes in America . It ex- wannee River, which starts deep in the heart of Okefeno- tends about 38 miles from north to south and about 25 kee and flows southwest into the Gulf of Mexico . The St . miles across at its widest part and contains approximately Marys River empties some of the swamp water into the 412,000 acres . Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, es- Atlantic Ocean . tablished in 1937, occupies over nine-tenths of this fas- cinating region and is administered by the United States Okefenokee's natural beauty was threatened in 1889 Fish and Wildlife Service. when attempts were made to drain the swamp to facilitate timber removal . Millions of board feet of cypress, Okefenokee is actually a vast peat filled bog with many pine, red bay, and gum were removed . Not until the best unusual forms of plant and animal inhabitants . The timber had been cut were the region's other values given actual origin of the swamp is still subject to much debate much consideration. with theories ranging from total marine origin to the idea that several freshwater streams and rivers that once trans- In 1974, 353,981 acres of the Okefenokee Refuge were versed the swamp basin have gradually been filled with included in the National Wilderness System to preserve peat. this unique region of peace and beauty for future genera- tions to enjoy . The variety of life, as seen by a visitor to Okefenokee, changes throughout the day . Except during the quietness In its management of the Okefenokee, the Fish and Wild- of noonday, the squealing cries of wood ducks and the life Service plans no development which might disrupt discordant squawks of herons and egrets are heard repeat- the swamp's natural processes . Nature itself is the land- edly as you move along the glassy waterways . High over- scaper. Already stands of young cypress have hidden the head a turkey vulture may be soaring, while a flock of stumps left by early loggers, and eventually they will grow white ibis glides at tree top level . The persistent song of into a new generation of moss-bearded giants to replace the Carolina wren and hammering of woodpeckers on the old . shells of dead trees are most evident while you listen for rolling guttural notes of the Florida sandhill crane . In the There are three public entrances . At each entrance guided spring the bellowing of the old bull alligators furnishes a boat tours, walking trails, swamp exhibits, and picnic background for amazing frog choruses . facilities are available. Information on tour rates and other details may he obtained from the concessioners . In the tangled forest of cypress, bay, and gum - with hang- ing streamers of Spanish moss - are raccoons, bobcats, Besides guided tours, boat rentals and launching, and opossums, and otter . There are also abundant signs of fishing facilities are available at Stephen Foster State bear and white-tailed deer. Park and the Suwannee Canal Recreation Area .

The waters of Okefenokee move slowly, and as they make Privately owned or rented outboard motors of 10 horse- their lazy way through the cypress forests, they become power or less may be used on either private or rented boats. Travel through the swamp is permitted along designated boat trails during posted hours .

Fishing may be done throughout the year with a Georgia State fishinglicense and in accordance with Georgia fishing regulations . No live fish may be used as bait . Largemouth bass, bluegill, warmouth, catfish, and pickerel are the fish most commonly taken.

Hunting and weapons are not allowed on the refuge except during specially designated periods. Dogs are permitted only at the public entrances and must be kept on a leash . Collecting or molesting plants or wildlife is prohibited .

STEPHEN C. FOSTER STATE PARK - This area on Jones Island, managed by the Georgia Park and Historic Sites Division under a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, is the west entrance to the swamp. It is from here that Billy's Lake, Minnie's Lake, and Big Water are most easily accessible . A trip through the winding watercourses connecting these lakes is a never-to-be-forgotten experience.

The visitor may stop at Billy's Island, once the scene of Many swamp stories are told on the boat tours and along a busy logging town with over 500 residents . He may the walks, trails, and drives . try his luck as a photographer, or relax and enjoy the solitude and beauty of the swamp . This entrance may be reached by traveling State Highway 23 about 7 miles southwest of Folkston, Georgia, and This is the only entrance where overnight facilities are proceeding west about 4 miles. For further information available . There are camp sites for tents, trailers, or camp- visit the Swamp's Edge Interpretive Center located at the ers as well as cottages for rent . Recreation Area or write the U .S . Fish and Wildlife Service, Route 2, Box 338, Folkston, Georgia 31537 The Park may be reached by leaving U .S . Highway 441 or phone 912/496-3331 . For information dealing with about half a mile southeast of Fargo, Georgia, and follow- guided tours, boat and canoe rentals or fishing, contact ing State Road 177 northeast for about 18 miles . For in- the Concessioner, Suwannee Canal Recreation Area, formation on rates and reservations, write Stephen C . Folkston, Georgia 31537 or phone 912/496-7156 . Foster State Park, Fargo, Georgia 31631 . (Telephone 637-5224 AC 912) . OKEFENOKEE SWAMP PARK -This park, the north entrance to the swamp, is managed by the Okefenokee SUWANNEE CANAL RECREA TION AREA - This, the Swamp Park Association, Inc ., a nonprofit private organ- east entrance, is operated cooperatively by the U .S . Fish ization . The park is distinct from the Okefenokee National and Wildlife Service and a concessioner . Here the visitor Wildlife Refuge, and most of it is located outside the re- may follow the Suwannee Canal for 11 miles into the fuge boundary . Here the visitor can take guided tours by heart of the swamp . From the canal he may enter Chesser, boat along winding watercourses through part of the Grand, and Mizell Prairies, the swamp's most extensive swamp's most beautiful cypress forest . open areas. The little lakes and 'gator holes that dot the prairies offer some of the Nation's finest freshwater sport There is much to see during a stroll through the park fishing . The prairies are also favorite areas for bird watch- grounds . The boardwalk, museum, animal habitats, ing and are the home of the rare Florida sandhill crane . serpentarium, botanical gardens, and the observation tower, which is high in the cypress trees, put a lot of Wildlife observation facilities include a wildlife drive, a Okefenokee in a compact package for all to see . rubber-tired interpretive tram, hiking trails, a 4,000 ft . boardwalk over the swamp, three observation towers, a The park is open at variable hours throughout the year specially equipped night tour boat, and a restored home- and is located about 8 miles south of Waycross, Georgia, stead. and 5 miles off U.S . . Highway 1 and 23 . For further information write, wire, or call Okefenokee Swamp Park, Waycross, Georgia 31501, telephone 283-0583 AC 912 .

WILDERNESS CANOEING - Six canoe trails through the Okefenokee Wilderness may be traveled by canoe campers holding permits for trips lasting from two to six days . For information on the Okefenokee Wilderness Canoe Trail System contact the Refuge Manager, U.S . Fish and Wild- life Service, Route 2, Box 338, Folkston, Gerogia 31537 or phone 912/496-3331 .

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR U.S . Fish and Wildlife Service RF-41590-1 April 1993

82 Waycross X82 84- HUNTING COWHOUSE 177 ISLAND REGULATIONS 195 252 441 Folkstl n \ ) i lhORFI 1985 hAI1IM41 w"UlUi POCKET-- "I/ucI UNIT 177f; _9 Far o Ga 441 9 St . George

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR OKEFENOKEE U .S . FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE RF-41590 .I . June 1995 ARCHERY HUNTERS SIGN AND KEEP WITH YOU ------OKEFENOKEE N 1A R ARCHERV'DEFR HUNT PERMIT

NA''

ADDRESS

I have read and hunting regulatr

THIS PERMIT IS VALID ONLY WHEN SIGNET .

htNtIIAL rMUV ISIUr'm punters must remain on merr slams before sunrise until 9 :00 AM and t Okefenokee Refuge is one of over 400 national wild- • sunset until sunset unless a deer is taF life refuges . The primary objective of a national wildlife refuge is to provide habitat for the conservation Hunting with dogs is prohibited. and protection of all species of wildlife . The harvest Scouting by foot is allowed during of surplus animals is one tool used to manage wildlife from September 1 through December populations . Carefully managed hunts maintain wild- k . ._# e life populations at a level compatible with the environment, provide wholesome recreational opportunities, and permit the use of a valuable renewable resource . HOW TO ORTAIN RFFIIGE HIJNT PEF

GENERAL HUNTING REGULATIONS ARCHERY PERMITS : Complete and sign the att coupon marked Archery/Deer Hunt Permit . Th Public hunting on the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is permitted on Cowhouse Island Unit - 1,500 acres, and Pocket Unit - 2,062 acres . GAME PERMITS SEASON arlu i uurv rtriivll i o : une-aay permits win De Deer-either sex No quota Archery : Cowhouse issued by public drawing . Complete the attached appli . Islandand Pocket Unit- cation and return it to the address listed below . Only Thurs ., Fri ., & Sat ., one application per person per hunting unit accepted, during the State arch• APPLICATIONS FOR SHOTGUN PERMITS MUST ery season. Deer-either sex 150 only Shotgun : Cowhouse Island-Alternate Satur- days beginning on the lietuge, Houte L, Box JJ , Iolkston, UA s or first Saturday of State drop application off at one of the refuge offices located firearm season . at Suwannee Canal Recreation Area, Folkston, GA, phone (912)496-7836, or Jones I sl and subheadquarters, Deer-either sex 60 only Shotgun : Pocket Unit- Fargo, GA, phone (912) 637-5322 . First Sat . in Nov . and Dec . NOTE : Stand-by lists will be maintained on a first- come, first-served basis each morning of the shotgun hunts to fill no-show openings . GENERAL HUNTING REGULATIONS All State and Federal regulations are in effect . Permits are required and are not transferable . Hunters must sign the register upon entering and exiting the hunt area . Hunters must enter, park and exit the refuge at designated points . Motor vehicles are allowed only on the roads shown on the attached map. Please do not block roadways. Overnight camping and fires are prohibited . Hunting from a tree in which a metal object has been driven to support a hunter is prohibited . PLEASE LEAVE THE AREA CLEAN Hunt areas are open on hunt dates from two hours DISPOSE OF LITTER PROPERLY before sunrise until one hour after sunset, except no entry or exit during stand hours .

OKEFENOKEE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE I SHOTGUN DEER HUNT APPLICATION I POCKET HUNT AREA COWHOUSE ISLAND UNIT I I Place a number (1-6) in priority order next to the dates you wish to hunt . Remember, you can be selected for only one I date . I OCT . 26 NOV . 9 NOV . 23 I I DEC, 7 DEC . 21 I I If you wish to hunt on the sar date as one or two other I persons, staple the applications together and submit . Party I hunt of three people maximum . I I

NAME 1I ADDRESS I I I 0 I PHONE I I I Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge I In I Return to I Route 2, Box 338 I I Folkston, GA 31537 I

ARCHERY AND SHOTGUN HUNT AREA

I I I OKEFENOKEE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE I COWHOUSE ISLAND UNIT I SHOTGUN DEER HUNT APPLICATION I i POCKET UNIT I I I Place a number (1 .2) in priority order next to the dates I I you wish to hunt . Remember, you can be selected for only I I one date . I I I I I NOV .2 DEC .7 I I I If you wish to hunt on the same date as one or two other I I persons, staple the applications together and submit . Party I I hunt of three people maximum . I I I NAME I I I ADDRESS t HUNT ENTRY POINT HUNT AREA BOUNDARY I I ROAD I I FIRE LANE I PHONE I ARCHERY AREA I I I Return to : Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge I = SHOTGUN AND ARCHERY AREA I Route 2, Box 338 I I Folkston, GA 31537 I I VISITOR INFORMATION The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge encom- Calendar of passes one of the most pristine wilderness areas in the United States . The refuge contains 396,000 acres of cypress swamp, pine islands, aquatic prairies and hard- Wildlife Events wood hammocks, and is home to 3 tremendous diversity of plant and animal life. There are three main public entrances into the Okefenokee Refuge - Suwannee Canal Recreation Area (12 miles southwest of Folkston. Georgia), Stephen C . Foster State Park (17 miles northeast of Fargo, Georgia), and Okefenokee Swamp Park (8 miles south of Waycross, Georgia), A variety of wildlife viewing opportunities is available at each of these entrances including : guided boat tours, boardwalks and hiking trails. In addition, boat and canoe rentals are available at the Suwannee Canal Recreation Area and at Stephen C. Foster State Park . Wilderness canoe camping trips into the Okefenokee Refuge aie possible by obtaining permits from the refuge headquarters . For more information about the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, write Refuge Manager, Route 2, Box 338, Folkston, Georgia 31537 or call (9121496-3331 . 410. [!!N NOTES 1*1 r6G14 1i

E 0Okef [i) enokee 1i lLI'AR'I'MI .NT OF THE INTERIOR t ; .S . I'itih and Wildlife Service National Wildlife Refuge 1LENDAR 01 This calendar is meant to provide visitors with a general AUGUST - Small flocks of blue-winged teal arrive . guide to seasonal wildlife events. (Weather may cause Alligator nests hatch and the young alligators may variations of two to three weeks .) be heard "clucking" to their mother . Nighthawks and chuck-will's widow frequent the evening sky, scoop- JANUARY - Concentration of waterfowl - mallards, ring-necked and wood ducks, green-winged teal, coots . ing insects from the air . and hooded mergansers are seen in the prairies along SEPTEMBER - Fall migration begins as many different with large numbers of greater sandhill cranes. warblers move through the area . Fall fishing begins to FEBRUARY - Ospreys are seen frequently as nesting improve as daytime temperatures lower . activity begins . Watch for aerial courtship displays of OCTOBER - Black bears are active, feeding on acorns red-tailed hawks. Brown-headed nuthatches become and other fall nuts and berries . Marsh hawks are seen very active and wild turkey begin gobbling for mates gliding low over the prairies . during the latter part of the month . NOVEMBER - Robins arrive for the winter in large MARCH - Overwintering ducks, tree swallows, robins, phoebes, cedar waxwings, and the greater sandhill flocks. The migrating greater sandhill cranes arrive with cranes depart for their northern nesting areas . Purple the cool weather as the cypress needles turn golden brown . Watch for the occasional bald eagle, migrating martins, parula warblers, and eastern kingbirds arrive . through the swamp to Florida wintering areas . Swallow-tailed kites are spotted occasionally . Watch for the nesting dances of the resident Florida sandhill DECEMBER - Otters are seen swimming in the lakes cranes. Spring wildflowers begin to bloom as the prai- and boat trails as the alligators become less active and ries fill with golden clubs and bladderworts . Bass begin cease feeding . Many white ibis, egrets and herons are to spawn . Alligators are seen sunning on the banks of feeding in the shallow lakes and prairies. the water trails . APRIL - Wading bird rookeries are active . Prothono- tary warblers are common along the cypress lined waterways . Sandhill crane chicks are hatching, and ospreys are seen feeding their young in their high, bulky nests. Alligators bellow territorial warnings as mating begins . Many orchids and the unusual insect eating pitcher plants are blooming . Best month for bass fishing. MAY - The endangered red-cockaded woodpeckers are best viewed around their nesting colonies this month . Florida soft-shell turtles are laying eggs, and raccoons are just as rapidly digging up and eating the eggs. Turkey poults are seen walking in close proces- sion behind their hen . Warmouth perch fishing is im- proving . Newborn fawns appear . JUNE - Chorus, carpenter, pig and green tree frogs, along with over a dozen other species of frogs are heard during the evenings . White water lilies and the fragrant sweet-bay flowers bloom . Good bream fishing this month . JULY - Young herons, egrets and ibis, now fully fledged, leave the rookeries . Wood storks are observed feeding in the prairies. Red-headed woodpeckers and pine warblers are seen in pine forest uplands . Deer are best viewed in the early morning ; the bucks are show- ing their new sets of velvet-covered antlers .

Okefenokee Swamp, a 412,000-acre peat-filled bog in NOTES Ware, Chariton, and Clinch Counties, Georgia, and Baker REPTILES, IAM1711I'I4NS, County, Florida, is one of the nation's great unspoiled areas . Although a considerable amount of timber has been harvested here in past years, most of this great AND F154453 swamp is still little different from what it was when first seen by white men . About four-fifths of the swamp is included in the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, OF MEF5NOKFE which is administered by the U . S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in the Department of the Interior . Except for some fifty islands which total about 25,000 acres, Okefenokee Swamp is usually shallowly flooded . Most of the flooded area is more or less densely forested with cypress, blackgum, bay, and maple, with an understory and interspersal of a variety of heaths, smilax, titi, and cassena. About 60,000 acres is flooded marshland or "prairie" which is covered principally with waterlilies, neverwet, pipewort, ferns, maidencane, and a variety of sedges and grasses. Open water areas are the water courses, the prairie lakes, smaller prairie ponds known as 'gator holes, the twelve- mile-long Suwannee Canal which was dug in 1891-2, and the borrow pit of the Suwannee River Sill, which was constructed in 1958 . The islands and the adjacent upland on the periphery of the swamp are usually covered by pine forests . This variety of wooded swamp, prairies, lakes, water courses, islands, and pine barrens supports a varied fauna . The following list of reptiles, amphibians, and fishes is based on specimens collected or reliably reported . Most of the species listed are supported by specimens from Cornell University, Philadelphia Academy of Natural Sciences, United States National Museum, University of Georgia Museum of Natural History, University of Mich- igan Museum of Zoology, and Florida State Museum . Scientific and common names are based on "A list of common and scientific names of fishes from the United States and Canada" 1970 American Fisheries Society, and "Standard common and scientific names for North American amphibians and reptiles" 1978 Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles .

For further information write Refuge Manager, Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, Rt . 2, Box 338, Folkston, Georgia 31537 .

A CHECKLIST OF ANIMALS LIVING DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR IN AND AROUND THE OKEFENOKEE U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service SWAMP ON THE OKEFENOKEE RF 41590-5 JANUARY 1982 NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE REPTILES Turtles Mole Salamander (Ambvstoma talpoideum) Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina serpentine) Tiger Salamander (Ambvstoma tigrinum) Crocodilians Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macroc/emys temmincki) Two=toed Amphiuma (Amphiuma means) American Alligator (Alligator missrssippiensis) Florida Red-bellied Turtle (Chrysemys nelsons) Southern Dusky Salamander (Desmognathus fuscus auriculatusl Eastern Chicken Turtle (Deirochelys reticularia reticularia) Southern Two-lined Salamander (Eurycea bislineatat cirriger) Lizards Florida Cooter (Pseudemys floridana floridana) Dwarf Salamander (Eurycea quadridigitatus) Eastern Slender Glass Lizard (Ophisaurusattenuatuslongicaudus) Red-Eared Pond Slider (Pseudemys scripta elegans) Slimy Salamander (Plethodon glutinosus glutinosusl Island Glass Lizard (Ophisaurus compressus) Yellow-bellied Pond Slider (Pseudemys scripta scrip ta) Gulf Coast Mud Salamander (Pseudo triton montanus floridanus) Eastern Glass Lizard (Ophisaurus ventralls) Florida Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina bauril Many-lined Salamander (Stereochilus marginatus) Green Anole (Arrnhs carolinensisl Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina) Striped Newt (Notophthalamus perstriatus) Southern Fence Lizard (Sceloporus undulatus undulatus) Striped Mud Turtle (Kinosternon bauri palmarum) Central Newt (Notophthe/am us viridescens louisianensis) Broadheaded Skink (Eumeces /aticcps) Eastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon subrubrum subrubrum) Dwarf Siren (Pseudobranchus striatus spp) Northern Mole Skink (Eumeces egreyius similes) Loggerhead Musk Turtle (Sternotherus minor minor) Eastern Lesser Siren (Siren in termedia in termedia) Five-lined Skunk (Eurneces fasciatus) Stinkpot (Sternotherus odoratusl Greater Siren (Siren lacertina) Southern Five-lined Skink (Eumeces snexpectatus) Gopher Tortois (Gopherus polyphenrus) Ground Skink (Srincella /aterale) Florida Softshell (Trionyz ferox) FISHES Six-lined Race Runner (Crumudophorus sexlineatus sexleneatus) Florida Gar (Lepisosteus platyrhincus) Snakes Bowfin (Amia calva) Northern Scarlet Snake (Cernophora coccinea copes) Eastern Mudminnow (Umbra pygmaea) Southern Black Racer (Coluber constrictor priapus) Redfin Pickerel (rsox americanus americanus) Southern Ring-necked Snake (Diadophis puncratus punctatus) Chain Pickerel (Esox nigerl Indigo Snake (Dryenarchun con, is coupes) Lake Chubsucker (Erimyzon sucette) Corn Snake (Elaphe yuttata yurtata) Spotted Sucker (Minytrema melanops) Yellow Rat Snake (Flaplrc obsolete quadnvitrate) Yellow Bullhead (fctalurus natalis) Gray Rat Snake (Flaphe obsolete spiluides) Brown Bullhead (fctalurus nebulosus) Eastern Mud Snake (Farancia abacura abacura) Channel Catfish (fctalurus puncratus) Rainbow Snake 1 F.i r recta erytrogramma) Tadpole Madtom (Noturus gyrinus) Eastern Hognose Snake (Hetero(ion platyrhinos) Speckled Madtom (Noturus leptacanthus) Southern Hognose Snake (Heterodon sirnus) American Eel (Anguilla rostrate) Mole Snake (L,unpropeltis calligaster rhombomaculata) Toads and Frogs Golden Topminnow (Fundulus chrysotus) Eastern Kingsnake (Larnpropelhs getufus yntulus) Oak Toad (Bufo quercicus) Banded Topminnow (Fundulus cinguletus) Scarlet Kingsr .ake (Lanrpropelbs trianqulum elapsoides) Southern Toad (Bufo terrestris) Lined Topminnow (Fundulus lineolatus) Eastern Coachwhip (Masticophis flagellum flagellum! Florida Cricket Frog (Acres gryllus dorsalis) Starhead Topminnow (Fundulus notti) Florida Green Water Snake (Nerodea cyclopion floridana) Gray Treefrog (Hyla chrysoscelis) Mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis) Yellow-bellied Water Snake (Nerodia ervthrogas ter ery th royaster) Green Treefrog (Hyla cinerea cinerea) Pygmy Killifish (Leptolucania ommata) Bander Water Snake (Nerodea fasciata fasciata) Southen Spring Peeper (Hyla crucifer bartramiana) Least Killifish (Hererandria formosa) Florida Water Snake (Nerodea lasciata pictiventris) Pine Woods Treefrog (Hyla femoralis) Pirate Perch (Aphredoderus sayanus) Brown Water Snake (Nerodea raxespilota) Barking Treefrog (Hyla gratiosa) Mud Sunfish (Acantharchus pomotis) Rough Green Snake /Ophcodrys acttivus) Squirrel Treefrog (Hyla squire/la) Flier (Centrarchus macropterus) Florida Pine Snake (Petuophis melanoleucus mugitus) Little Grass Frog (Limnaoedus ocularis) Warmouth (Lepomis gulosus) Striped Swamp Snake (Hegina alteni) Southern Chorus Frog (Pseudacris nigrita nigrita) Everglades Pygmy Sunfish (Elassoma everglades) Eastern Glossy Water Snake (Regina rigida rigida) Ornate Chorus Frog (Pseudacris ornate) Okefenokee Pygmy Sunfish (Elassoma okefenckee) Pine Woods Snake (Rhadinaea flavilata) Eastern Narrow-mouthed Toad (Gastrophryne carolinensis) Blackbanded Sunfish (Enneacanthus cheetodon) holbrooki holbrooki) North Florida Black Swamp Snake (Seminatrix pygaea pygaeal Eastern Spadefoot Toad (Scaphiopus Bluespotted Sunfish (Enneacanthus gloriosus) Florida Brown Snake (Storeria dekayi victa) Florida Gopher Frog (Rana areolata aesopus) Banded Sunfish (Enneacanthus obesus) (Rana catesbeiana) Florida Red-bellied Snake (Storeria occipitomaculata obscure) Bullfrog Redbreast Sunfish (Lepomis auritus) Bronze Frog (Rang clamitans clamitans) Eastern Ribbon Snake (Thamnophis sauritus sackeni) Bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) Pig Frog (Rana grylio) Eastern Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis) Dollar Sunfish (Lepomis marginatus) River Frog (Rana heckscheri) Rough Earth Snake (Virginia striatula) Spotted Sunfish (Lepomis puncratus) Southern Leopard Frog (Rana utricularia) Eastern Smooth Earth Snake (Virginia valeriae valeriae) Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides) Carpenter Frog (Rana virgatipes) Eastern Coral Snake (Micrurus fulvius fulvius) Black Crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus) Florida Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus conanti) Scalyheed Darter (Etheostoma barratti) Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus adamanteus) Salamanders Swamp Darter (Etheostoma fusiforme) Canebrake Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus atricaudatus) Flatwoods Salamander (Ambystoma cingulatum) Blackbanded Darter (Percina nigrofasciata) Dusky Pigmy Rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius barbouri) Marbled Salamander (Ambvstoma opacum) Brook Silverside (Labidesthes sicculus)

S F w OKEFENOKEE SWAMI' . a huge . shallow, peat-tilled depression of flooded and semi-flooded forests and prairies . House Sparrow' o o a located in southeastern Georgia and a small part of adjacent Bobolink r r Florida, is one of the most primitive wilderness areas in the Eastern Meadowlark' c c c c Nation . This swamp covers approximately 412,000 acres . Red-winged Blackbird' c e c c About 396,315 acres of this area with 12 .0(X) acres of periph- Orchord Oriole* u u u eral upland are included in the Okefenokee National Wildlife Northern Oriole r r r Refuge Rusty Blackbird u u u Brewer's Blackbird 0 o 0 Most of the swamp is covered with cypress, black gum, Boat-tailed Grackle r r r and bay forests. About 15 percent is flooded or semi-flooded Common Grackle' c c c c prairie, and islands make up another 6 percent . The prairies _Brown-headed Cowbird o 0 o 0 are dotted with little lakes and ponds and various sized ` Scarlet Tanager r r clumps of trees and shrubs, locally called "houses." The Summer Tanager' u u u peripheral upland and the islands within the swamp are Northern Cardinal' c c c c forested with pine interspersed with hardwood hammocks . Rose-breasted Grosbeak r r Blue Grosbeak r r r r • This diversified habitat is attractive to a wide variety of Indigo Bunting u o u birds. The following list contains 234 species recorded from Painted Bunting o the swamp and surrounding uplands by visiting ornithologists Purple Finch u u u and refuge personnel . Those species denoted with an a nest in Pine $iskin r r r the area, or have been known to do so . Abundance symbols _ American Goldfinch c c c are coded as follows : Rufous-sided Towhee c c c c Savannah Sparrow u u u S-March-May a-abundant _Grasshopper Sparrow o o 0 S-June-August c-common _- Le Conte's Sparrow r r r F-September-November u-uncommon W-December-February Hens low's Sparrow o o o o-occasional _Vesper Sparrow u u u r-rare _ Bachman's Sparrow' c c c c Dark-eyed Junco r r Chipping Sparrow u u u ------NOTES: Field Sparrow u u u _white-throated Sparrow c c c _Fo . Sparrow u u u Swamp Sparrow c c c Song Sparrow c e e ------

------These additional 25 species are of very rare or ------accidental occurence :

American White Pelican Arctic Tern ------Roseate Spoonbill Common Barn Owl Whistling Swan Ivory-Billed Woodpecker ------Snow Goose lformerlvl Vermilion Flycatcher Gray Kingbird Eurasian Wigoon Western Kingbird Golden Eagle Bachman's Warbler Limpkin Lark Sparrow Semipelmated Plover American Tree Sparrow Whimbrel Connecticut Warbler A CHECK-LIST OF BIRDS LIVING Laughing Gull Clapper Rail DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR ON THE OKEFENOKEE Forster's Tern Rough-legged Hawk . Common Merganser Yellow Rail U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE RF-41590-2 January 1981 _ W S S F W 5 5 F W House Wren u u u Common Loon r f r Purple Gallinule' u u u u _}Homed Grebe u u u Common Moorhen • u u u u Winter Wren u u u Pied-billed Grebe c r c c American Coot c C C Bewick's Wren r r r Carolina Wren* c c c c ____Daub le-cr .sted Cormorant o r o 0 Killdeer c C C Marsh Wren 0 o 0 Anhingo' c c c c American Woodcock u r u u Sedge Wren u V u Great Blue Heron' c c c c Common Snipe c c c Northern Mockingbird* C c c c Green Backed Heron' c C c o Spotted Sandpiper u u Grey Catbird c c c c Little Blue Heron * c c c c Solitary Sandpiper o o Brown Thrasher* c c c c Cattle Egret* C c c Willet r r c a a Great Egret' c c c c Greater Yellowlegs u u American Robin u u u Snowy Egret' u u u o Lesser Yellowlegs u u wood Thrush* 1__Tri Colored Heron' 0 Hermit Thrush V u u a 0 o _Lunlin r r Night Heron c c Swainson'sThrush r r Block-crowned o c Dowitcher lspeci .s?) 0 a 0 Yellow-crowned Night Heron u u u u Gray-ch. .ked Thrush r r - Semipolmated Sandpiper o a a Vestry u u Lost Bittern' a o r Western Sandpiper r r r Eastern Bluebird' c c c c American Bittern u u u c _Sanderling o 0 a Wood Stork' o c c o Blue-gray Gnotcatchor' u u u o Glossy Ibis r r r Herring Gull r r f Golden-crowned Kinglet u u 0 Whit. Ibis' c a a c Black Tern r r r Ruby-crowned Kinglet c c c Canada Goose a o a Mourning Dove' c c C C Water Pipit o o o Mallard c c c Common Ground Dove - c _ c c c Cedar Waxwing c u c American Black Duck c c c Yellow-billed Cuckoo* c c c Loggerhead Shrike' c c c c Godwa l l 0 0 Block-billed Cuckoo r r European Starling a 0 o o Northern Pintail u u u Eastern Screech Owl' u u u u White-eyed Vireo' c c c u Green-winged Tool c c c Greet Horned Owl u u u u Yellow-throated Vireo' r r r Blue-winged Tool u u u Barred Owl' c c c c Solitary Virec O O O American Wigeon u u u Chuck-will's-widow' c c c Red-eyed Vireo' u u u Northern Shoveler u u u Whip-poor-will o o r u o Wood Duck' c c c c Black-and-white Warbler u o Common Nighthawk* c c c c Redhead o 0 a Prothonotary Warbler' c c Chimney Swift c c c Ring.reck .d Duck c c c Swainson's Warbler' r r r Ruby-throated Hummingbird' u u u u r Canvasback r r r Worm-eating Warbler u Grater Scaup r r r Belted Kingfisher' c u c c Golden-winged Warbler o 0 a Lesser Scaup u u u Northern Flicker' c c c c Blue .winged Warbler o u u Common Golden .ye r r r Pileated Woodpecker' c c c c Orange-crowned Warbler u Northern Porula Warbler' c c c a Bulfleheod r r r Red-bellied Woodpecker' c c c c u u Ruddy Duck o 0 o Red-headed Woodpecker* c u c u Yellow Warbler Hooded Merganser' c r e c Yellow-bellied Sapsucker c c c Magnolia Warbler r u Cape May Warbler u u R .d-oreast .d Merganser r r r Hairy Woodpecker* 0 0 0 0 Black-throated Blue Warbler u u Turkey Vulture' c c c c Downy Woodpecker' c c c c Yellow .rumped Warbler a a a Black Vulture* c c c c Rod-cockaded Woodpecker` u u u u Block-throated Green Warbler r r American Swallow-Tailed Kite r f r Eastern Kingbird' c c c Cerulean Warbler r r Sharp-shinned Hawk r r r Great Crested Flycatcher' c c c Blackburnian Warbler u u Cooper's Hawk o r o 0 _Eastern Phoebe c c c Yellow-throated Warbler' c c c o Red-tailed Hawk' u r u u Acadian Flycatcher' u u u Chestnut-aided Warbler r Red-shouldered Hawk* c c c c Eastern Wood Pewee' c c c Blackpoll Warbler u V Brood-winged Hawk o 0 Tree Swallow c a c Pine Warbler' c u c c Bold Eagle r r r Born Swallow c c c Prairie Warbler u u o Norhern Harrier 0 0 0 Purple Martin' r u c o Palm Warbler c c c Uspr .y' u u r u Blue Jay ' c c c c Ovenbird u u Per .grin . Falcon r r r American Craw' o o 0 0 Northern Waterthrush r r Merlin r r r Fish Crow' c c c c Louisiana Woterthrush o r o American Kestr .l' c a c c Carolina Chickadee' V u u u Kentucky Warbler o o c c c c Northern Bobwhite' Tufted Titmouse' c c c c Connecticut Warbler o 0 Turkey' r r r r White-breasted Nuthatch r r r r Common Yellowthroot' c u c c c c c c r Sondhill Crone' Red-breasted Nuthatch r r Yellow-breasted Chat r King Roil' r r r r Brown-headed Nuthatch • c c c c Hooded Warbler' u u u Virginia Roil r r Canada Warbler r r _Brown Creeper O O O Sore r r r American Redstort c r c

EASTERN HARVEST MOUSE (Reithrodontomys humi- EASTERN COTTONTAIL (Sylvilagus floridanus mal- lus humilus). Found in the prairies and in old fields near lurus) . Common around clearings and in the more sparse the swamp's edge . pinewoods on the uplands surrounding the swamp and on some of the islands . HISPID COTTON RAT (Sigmodon hispidus hispidus) . A common mammal in the pine woods and old fields on Mammals the upland around the swamp . MARSH RABBIT (Syluilagus palustris palustris). Fairly common on the swamp edge. of the OLDFIELD M01 IS F (Peromyscus polionotus polionotus) . Feeds on seeds arid berries . Okefenokee WILD PIG (Sus scrofa) . These feral pigs were introduced by the early settlers of the swamp . EASTERN WOOD RAT (Neotonui floridana floridana) . Fairly common throughout the swamp and in the ham- National Wildlife Refuge mocks on the upland . WHITE-TAILED DEER (Odocoileus virginianus) . These deer are to be found on the upland entirely around the WOODLAND VOLE (Microtus pinetorum parvulus) . swamp and on the islands within the swamp . Occasionally Tunnels through leaf mold and loose soil near the surface they may be seen from the deer stand observation plat- of the upland areas and eats bulbs, tubers and seeds . form, and in the time of low water they may be seen in the prairies . ROUND-TAILED MUSKRAT (Neofiberalleniexoristus) . Common in the prairies. ARMADILLO (Dasypus novemcinctus mexicanus) . This unusual "armored" mammal was first seen on the refuge in 1963 . Since then it has become more numerous and is commonly seen along roadways and trails .

HOUSE MOUSE (Mus musculus musculus) . Formerly common around habitations but now that few people live within the swamp, it has probably disappeared from the area. Very likely it is still common around human habitations in the vicinity of the swamp .

NORWAY RAT (Rattus norvegicus) . Like the above species, this mammal has probably disappeared from the area with the cessation of human habitation .

BLACK RAT (Ratlus rattus rattus) . This and the following subspecies were the common barn rats when farming was practiced on some of the islands within the swamp . t r,t(i' e 1,r,, , , • y , -% Ili, ..,ot11 It probably occurs now on farmsteads in the vicinity of DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR the swamp but not on the refuge . U .S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE th "

RF-41590-3 January 1982 ,11r111 1(1 rifrrt 1 ROOF RAT (Rattus rattus alexandrinus) . See above . ,,,, . 1 i 4 The varied habitat of Okefenokee Swamp forest and BIG BROWN BAT (Eptesicus fuscus fuscus). An uncom- RED FOX (Vulpes fulva fulva). This species is rare but prairie, of swamp edge and of moist and dry upland af- mon species in the area. occurs occasionally on the upland in the vicinity of the fords a home for most mammalian species that are known swamp . to the southeastern coastal plain . RED BAT (Lasiurus borealis borealis). An uncommon species in the area . FLORIDA GRAY FOX (Urocyon cinereoargenteus flori- Most mammals are night prowlers and difficult to observe . dan us), Fairly common on the upland around the swamp . Sometimes their tracks, or other signs of activity are all SEMINOLE RED BAT (Lasiurus seminolus). A common that is visible to remind us that they do eyist . A few bat of the Okefenokee. RED WOL" (Canis niger niger)- Formerly this was the kinds such as squirrels, otters, deer, rabbits, bobcats and species of wolf native to this area . It is believed not to be bears are often or sometimes seen during daytime . How- HOARY BAT (Lasiurus cinercuscinereus) . This yellowish- present here now . ever, early morning and late afternoon are the best times brown bat flies high in the air late at night and will hang to observe mammals . in trees when resting . FLORIDA BOBCAT (Lynx rufus floridanus) . Common throughout the swamp and on the surrounding upland . The following list includes 49 species that now live or NORTHERN YELLOW BAT (Lasiurus intermedius flori- Occasionally seen along the nature drive. have recently lived in, or in the immediate vicinity of, danus) . Apparently a rare species in the area. Two speci- Okefenokee Swamp. The list of mammals includes mens were collected at King's Canal . FLORIDA PUMA (Fells concolor coryi) . Apparently museum records from Cornell University, Florida State this species was never more than of rare occurence in the Museum, Philadelphia Academy of Natural Sciences, RAFINESQUE'SBIG-EAREDBAT(Plecofus rafinesquii) . vicinity of the swamp . United States National Museum and University of A rather uncommon species in the area . Georgia Museum of Natural History . SOUTHERN GRAY SQUIRREL (Sciurus carolinensis FREE-TAILED BAT (Tadarida brasiliensis cynocephala). carolinensis) . Abundant in the blackgum-bay forests in Mammals to look for in or near Okefenokee are : An uncommon species in this area although it has been the swamp and in the oak woodlands on the upland . collected at Camp Cornelia. VIRGINIA OPOSSUM (Didelphis virginiana pigra) . SOUTHERN FOX SQUIRREL (Sciurus niger niger) . Un- Common on the swamp edge and on the islands within BLACK BEAR (Ursus americanus floridianus) . Bear, common in the pine forests surrounding the swamp . the swamp . A night prowler, "Pogo" is often seen by range throughout the refuge . While they are rarely seen, campers at Stephen C . Foster State Park . their signs are found in all habitats . SOUTHERN FLYING SQUIRREL (Glaucomys volans querceti) . This species is rarely seen but is probably fairly STAR-NOSED MOLE (Condylura cristala) . Apparently RACCOON (Procyon lotor elucus) . The most abundant common . It has been collected on Floyd's and Billy's rare . Has been collected in the swamp near Mixon's large mammal on the refuge . It is found in all habitats Islands and Chesser Island . Ferry and on Chesser Island . but is most numerous on the swamp edge . They are commonly seen at the Stephen C. Foster State Park camping GEORGIA POCKET GOPHER (Geomys pinetis pinetis) . EAS'T'ERN MOLE (Scalopus aquaticus austrails) . Gen- area and occasionally along boat trails . Uncommon on dry, sandy sites on the east side of the erally distributed on the upland adjacent to the swamp swamp . and has been found on some of the islands within the LONG-TAILED WEASEL (Mustela frenata olivacea) . swamp . This species is probably more common than the few ob- SOUTHEASTERN POCKET GOPHER (Geomys pinetis servations would indicate . Specimens have been collected floridianus). An uncommon species of this area . LEAST SHREW (Cryplotusparvaparva). Rarely seen but on Billy's Island and on Chesser Island . probably fairly common. Specimens have been collected BEAVER (Castor canadensis carolinensis) . The first record on several of the islands, on the swamp edge, and in the of beavers actually in the swamp was in 1969 . Apparently FLORIDA RIVER OTTER (Lontra canadensis vega). Oc- pine woods around the swamp . they have disappeared since then, probably because of casionally observed along the water courses, especially alligators . during the winter. SOUTHERN SHORT-TAILED SHREW (Blarina carolinensis). A specimen was collected on Floyd's Island June COTTON MOUSE (Peromyscus gossypinus gossypinus, . FLORIDA STRIPED SKUNK (Mephitis mephitis elon- 12, 1921 . Common throughout the area. gata) . This species is generally distributed on the upland surrounding the swamp and is found occasionally on the EVENING BAT (Nycticeius humeralis) . One of the most GOLDEN MOUSE (Ochrotomys nuttalli aureolis) . This islands. common bats of the Okefenokee . This and other bats are species is probably rare . It has been found in hammocks seen at dusk on warm nights in search of flying insects . on the islands . MINK (Mustela vison mink)- Very rarely seen in the EASTERN PIPISTRELLE (Pipistrelius subflavus sub- Okefenokee, this chiefly nocturnal animal is an ex- MARSH RICE RAT (Oryzomys palustris palustris). A flavus) . A fairly common species in the area . cellent swimmer. fairly common mammal throughout the sw .-.-np .

The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge exists for the maintenance and protection of its plant and animal .OKEFENOKEE life. Please respect the area by observing the following NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE regulations: Natural Features- To help preserve the natural beauty and the historic and scientific values of the refuge, please leave all plants, flowers, treesandanimalsundisturbed . Please do not drive vehicles off established roadways . Please keep trails, roadsides and other Suwannee Canal areas clean . Use trash receptacles for all wastes . Recreation Area • Hunting and firearms are permitted only during specifically designated Folkston, Georgia periods. Wildlife- Wild animals are unpredictable and can be dangerous. All wild animals will protect themselves, their young and defend their territories . Potential conflicts can be reduced if you take the following precautions : When photographing wild animals, use a telephoto lens instead of trying to get close . • Never feed any wild animals . Fishing- Okefenokee's many lakes offer Illany opportunities to fish . A Georgia fish- imglicense is required . Neither live minnows or trot lines are allowed . Outboard motors must be under 10 H .P. Swimming- Swimming or wading is not allowed due to the danger from poisonous • snakes and alligators. Visitor Hours - Visitor use is permitted during the following times : March 1-September 10, 7 :00 A.M . - 7 :30 P. M . September I I - February 28, 8 :00 A.M . - 6 :00 P.M . Closed Christmas Day . Refuge Managers, who are responsible for enforcing regulations, will give information and assistance to help make your visit more rewarding . Report all accidents, injuries or other emergencies to the nearest refuge employee . Other regulations pertaining to National Wild- life Refuges are listed in the U .S. Code of Federal Regulations. "Land of Trembling Earth " Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge emcompasses Also at Suwannee Canal, motorists have access to 396,000 acres of the Okefenokee Swanip, one of the the 4 .5-mile Swamp Island Wildlife Observation Drive . most primitive areas in America. Public access is pro- This drive provides access to the recreated Chesser vided at three primary and two secondary entrances, Island Homestead, a 3,400 foot Swamp Boardwalk with each entrance providing the public with unique and the 40 foot Owls Roost Observation Tower . I likers opportunities to view and enjoy the everchanging and and bicyclists are welcome on the drive and several truly magnificent swamp . interpretive walking trails may be taken along the way . Hours of operation for the wildlife drive vary with the season . please inquire about closing times before you beein your trip .

The Suwannee Canal Recreation Area is the primary U .S. Fish and Wildlife Service entrance and is located twelve miles southwest of Folkston, Georgia . Here visitors are invited to take time to get back in touch with the natural world around them . The Okefenokee's vast open prairies, cypress bays, lakes, and pine islands are home to over 390 species of wildlife. Suwannee Canal visitors may explore over twenty miles of marked waterways by motor boat or canoe . For the more adventurous, overnight canoe trips into the swamp interior are available by advance reservation . A concessionaire offers guided boat tours, motors, boats, canoe and bicycle rentals as well as supplies and souvenirs. OKEFENOKEE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

Suwannee Canal. Recreation Area LEGEND

ROADS WALKING TRAILS CANOES / DAY USE ONLY ~ ! SWAMP AREA BOAT TRAILS

A - INTERPRETIVE CENTER B - CONCESSION CENTER AND BOAT LAUNCHING C - PICNIC AREA D - CANAL DIGGER'S TRAIL ( .55 mile ) E - SONGBIRD TRAIL ( .97 mile ) F - VISTA TOWER G - PECKERWOOD TRAIL ( .17 mile ) H - PRESCRIBED BURNING EXHIBIT I - CHESSER ISLAND HOMESTEAD / TRAIL ( .49 mile ) J - DEERSTAND TRAIL AND TOWER ( .53 mile) K- BOARDWALK TO TOWER ( 1 .5 miles round trip) L - RESTROOMS M - DAY-USE SHELTER WITH RESTROOM N - OVERNIGHT SHELTER O - RIDLEY'S LITTLE ISLAND TRAIL (1 .68 miles)

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