USDA

United States Department of Agriculture Big Bend Scenic Byway Forest Service Region 8 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan Apalachicola National Forest March 2010 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Prepared by: • USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Region Center for Design and Interpretation • USDA Forest Service, Apalachicola National Forest

Prepared for: • Florida Foresight and the Big Bend Scenic Byway Corridor Management Entity

This plan was funded in part by the Federal Highway Administration through a National Scenic Byways grant.

Base maps used in this document for the development of proposed wayshowing and interpretive structure locations were originally created by Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. through funding from the Florida Department of Transportation.

Photo credit: Diane Delaney (cover photos and pages 5, 8, 10, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 (lighthouse), 25 (seafood), 27, 41, 67, and 68. All other photos are public domain.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or part of an individual’s income is derived from any public assistance program. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD). To file a complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, DC 20250-9410, or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Page 2 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Contents EXECUTIVE SUMMARY...... 7 Background...... 7 Purpose and Need...... 7 Definition of Wayfinding and Wayshowing...... 8 Definition of Interpretation...... 8 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES...... 9 Wayshowing Goals and Objectives...... 9 Interpretive Goals and Objectives...... 9 Audience Analysis...... 11 Table 1 – Audience Analysis and Implications...... 11 Wayshowing Inventory...... 14 Figure 1 – Locations of Planned FDOT Confidence Markers (July 2007)...... 14 Figure 2 – Locations of Existing FDOT Confidence Markers (September 2009)...... 15 Interpretive Inventory...... 16 INTERPRETIVE THEMES AND STORYLINES...... 17 Primary Theme...... 17 Supporting Themes and Storylines...... 18 Information and Orientation ...... 27 BRANDING ELEMENTS...... 29 Color...... 29 Figure 3 - PMS Color Palette...... 30 Logo...... 30 Figure 4 - Color and Black/White Logo...... 30 Tagline...... 30 Portal Sign Designs...... 31 Figure 5 - Forest and Coastal Trail Portal Signs...... 31

Page 3 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Graphic Elements in Portal Kiosks...... 32 Figure 6 - Forest and Coastal Kiosk Panel Templates (Orientation and Information)...... 32 WAYSHOWING DESIGN GUIDES...... 33 Design Considerations...... 33 Structure Material Colors...... 33 Sign Materials...... 33 Wayshowing and Interpretive Structure Prototypes ...... 34 Figure 7 - Primary Portal Signs...... 34 Figure 9 - Primary Portal Kiosks...... 36 Figure 10 - Secondary Portal Kiosks...... 37 Figure 11- Site Approach Markers...... 38 Figure 12 - Wayside Exhibits...... 39 Figure 13 - Tertiary Identifier Signs ...... 40 WAYSHOWING AND INTERPRETIVE STRUCTURE LOCATIONS...... 41 Criteria for Determining Locations ...... 41 Barrier-free ...... 41 Accessibility...... 41 Proposed Wayshowing and Interpretive Structure Locations ...... 42 Figure 14 - Coastal Trail East...... 42 Figure 15 - Coastal Trail Central...... 44 Figure 16 - Coastal Trail West...... 46 Figure 17 - Forest Trail East...... 48 Figure 18 - Forest Trail Central ...... 50 Figure 19 - Forest Trail West...... 52 Watchable Wildlife Viewing Areas...... 54 Table 2 - Potential Photo Club Sites for “Watchable Wildlife”...... 54

Page 4 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

FDOT DIRECTIONAL SIGNAGE PLAN ...... 55 Background...... 55 Considerations...... 55 Recommendations...... 56 NON-STRUCTURAL INTERPRETIVE MEDIA RECOMMENDATIONS...... 57 Publications...... 57 Programs...... 57 Festivals...... 57 Electronic Media...... 57 Table 3 - Interpretive Theme Matrix...... 59 FUNDING AND IMPLEMENTATION ...... 65 Cost Estimates...... 65 Priorities...... 66 Potential Funding Sources ...... 67 Appendix A - Applicable CMP Goals, Objectives, and Strategies for Interpretation and Wayshowing...... 73 Appendix B – Audience Analysis Data...... 77 Appendix C – Existing Landscape and Design Character...... 85 Appendix D – Structural Material Recommendations...... 87 Appendix E – FDOT Signage Plan (reserved) ...... 89

Page 5 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Notes

Page 6 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTRODUCTION

The Big Bend Scenic Byway Interpretive and Wayshowing Background Plan implements goals and objectives of the 2007 Corridor Management Plan (CMP) by prescribing designs, locations, In 2007, the Big Bend Scenic Byway Corridor Management and themes for structures along the byway. These interpretive Entity (CME), in association with Applied Sustainability and wayshowing structures will enhance the traveler’s visit Enterprises (ASE) and Kimley-Horn Associates, Inc., completed through both an experiential and a safety aspect. a Corridor Management Plan (CMP) and Designation Application for the Big Bend Scenic Byway. It was made Goals and objectives for wayshowing and interpretation possible through a successful collaboration of local residents, were described in the CMP goals but further refined in this federal, state and local government representatives, business plan. Themes and storylines were then developed to focus owners, and community members. attention on the most important stories of the byway region, and to help direct the development of interpretive media. Consistently themed signs and formal wayshowing are some These themes and storylines dictated the tagline and primary of the needs identified in the Byway Vision, Goals, Objectives, graphic elements that will be used to creat a corporate Strategies, and Action Plan. These signs and structures are identity for the byway. Also included in these elements are a needed to improve resource recognition, traffic circulation, color palette, a logo and components for byway signs. and to enhance the scenic nature of the corridor (Big Bend Scenic Byway Corridor Management Plan, page 36). This plan describes the Design Guidelines that will be used for the next phase of implementation by contractors and Purpose and Need fabricators. The guidelines show prototypes for: • Primary and secondary portal signs The Big Bend Scenic Byway connects nine state parks, three • Primary and secondary portal kiosks state forests, a national wildlife refuge, a national forest, • Site approach markers four Florida Waterfronts Partnership Communities, and • Tertiary identifier signs three historic lighthouses, each with its own story and set • Wayside exhibits of wayshowing designs. As such, there is a need for unifying elements among the various entities. The purpose of this Maps of all six byway segments show the location of proposed plan is to provide design concepts, design guidelines, key wayshowing and interpretive structures. Tables list the messages/themes and storylines, and interpretive media interpretive themes and storylines that will be highlighted recommendations that will connect these areas and promote a at each site. Separate maps and tables provide a plan for “sense of place” for the byway. Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) confidence and directional markers. More specifically, interpretation and wayshowing will enhance the byway travelers’ experience by: This plan also includes recommendations for non-structural • Furthering their knowledge, understanding, and interpretion, such as publications and electronic media. Cost appreciation for the intrinsic qualities of the Big Bend area estimates for all recommendations are also provided. (interpretation)

Page 7 Big Bend Scenic Byway

• Providing a safe and positive experience through adequate directional signing, consistent designs, and landmark recognition (wayshowing)

This plan also provides the basis for future partnerships and cooperative agreements as components are implemented.

Definition of Wayfinding and Wayshowing

Urban planner Kevin A. Lynch coined the term in his 1960 book “Image of the City” where he defined wayfinding as “a consistent use and organization of definite sensory cues from the external environment.” In 1984, environmental psychologist Romedi Passini published the full-length “Wayfinding in Architecture” and expanded the concept to include signage and other graphic communication, clues inherent in the building’s spatial grammar, logical space planning, audible communication, tactile elements, and provision for special-needs users.

America’s Byways Resource Center makes a further distinction between wayfinding and wayshowing: Wayfinding of the audience and the meanings inherent in the resource. is the process the visitors use to navigate to their desired (National Association of Interpretation) destination. Wayshowing is what byway managers do in order to assist travelers in safely meeting their travel objectives. Interpretation is: • A teaching technique Along the Big Bend Scenic Byway, wayshowing structures are • A service provided to visitors that entertains and provides extremely important elements to seamlessly guide visitors meanings along the corridor. They will set the tone for the visitor • A management tool that can be used to increase visitors’ experience and add to the sense of place and overall scenic appreciation for, and sensitivity to, the natural and cultural quality. More basic to the traveler’s experience however, is that resources of the area. (Forest Service Manual 2390) wayshowing provides visual cues to aid them in feeling safe and oriented. The focus is on understanding and appreciation, although there is often an element of entertainment. The audience Definition of Interpretation spans all ages, and the programs are usually conducted on- site. Learning happens during leisure time, at the choosing of Interpretation is a communication process that forges the participant. emotional and intellectual connections between the interests

Page 8 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES Objective 2.A: Follow “universal accessibility” principles in the design and construction of wayshowing and Initial goals, objectives, and strategies for wayshowing and interpretive structures. interpretation are shown in the Corridor Management Plan (see Appendix A for a complete listing). Additional Objective 2.B: Use a wide variety of information and goals and objectives were developed as a part of this plan orientation media that will be accessible and engaging to to further frame the direction for future development and people of all ages, interests, and abilities, but particularly implementation. They tier to those shown in the CMP and to those 65 years and older. address the implications in the audience analysis, above. Objective 2.C: Focus the structure development in areas Wayshowing Goals and Objectives where traffic growth increases can be shown to relate to increases in tourism, and/or where an increase in tourism GOAL 1: Create a positive initial impression as well as a traffice is desired. long-term sense of place that complements the intrinsic qualities of the Big Bend Scenic Byway. Interpretive Goals and Objectives

Objective 1.A: Communicate the character and stories GOAL 3: Communicate those stories that engender an of the byway via design and interpretive elements (colors, understanding of, and appreciation for, the intrinsic material, textures, and styles) that reflect the intrinsic resources of the byway, thereby generating a sense of qualities of the scenic byway. In particular, use byway wonder and curiosity. structures to promote the sense of “Old Florida” still being a part of the Big Bend way of life. Objective 3.A: Help visitors recognize the significant relationship that exists between people and land, through Objective 1.B: Promote the consistent use of the emotional, social, and/or intellectual experiences. Wayshowing designs and interpretive themes described in this plan among all corridor management entities. Objective 3.B: Through thematic stories and programs, provide enjoyable opportunities for discovery of the Objective 1.C: Recognize public land management byway’s natural history and cultural traditions. agencies, municipalities, and participating partners at appropriate sites. Objective 3.C: Motivate visitors to seek out additional cultural and heritage experiences, opportunities, and Objective 1.D: Design products and services in a manner events in the local communities. that provides a seamless transition in information dispersal, interpretive stories, and facilities among the Objective 3.D: Respond to the increasing demand for byway and associated private and public lands. short walks, interpretive trails, and support facilities for fishing, birding, photography, and other nature-based GOAL 2: Ensure that safety and the visitor’s physical tourism activities. needs are adequately addressed.

Page 9 Big Bend Scenic Byway

GOAL 4: Foster conservation of natural and cultural GOAL 5: Use interpretive media to promote a user- resources of the area, to promote a long-term stewardship friendly, value-added perception of the Big Bend Scenic ethic. Byway.

Objective 4.A: Give priority to interpretive media that Objective 5.A: Cluster interpretive structures near other support nature-based tourism. visitor services/structures for ease of use. (For example, interpretive signs near picnic tables and restrooms will be Objective 4.B: Embed stewardship messages within read by more people than an isolated sign.) interpretive stories (such as “Tread Lightly” or “Traveling Green”). Objective 5.B: Design dynamic interpretive media that continues to engage even after the 2nd and 3rd trip. Objective 4.C: Use interpretation, information, and Components of exhibits should be changeable; electronic orientation to increase regulation compliance among media are continuously updated; and programs and byway users. special events stay new and fresh.

Page 10 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

REVIEW OF EXISTING CONDITIONS

Audience Analysis

Several data sources on the demographics and characteristics of the Big Bend Scenic Byway audience were compiled and analyzed (see Appendix B for a complete listing). From this data, the following observations and implications are pertinent to the Big Bend Scenic Byway.

Table 1 – Audience Analysis and Implications

Observations Implications • Because of the high percentage of repeat visitation, it will be necessary to design Whom are we serving? dynamic interpretive media that continue to engage even after the 2nd and 3rd • Byway travelers tend to be repeat visitors. trip. Components of exhibits should be changeable; electronic media should be • Of the first-time visitors, almost twice as many are from out-of-state continuously updated; and programs and special events should stay fresh. than in-state. • Since many of the byway visitors are from out-of-area, basic wayshowing and • Leon County serves tourists within a 19-county region (5 in south orientation is critical to move them beyond safety and security needs and on to a Georgia) with a combined population of more than 750,000. place where they are comfortable exploring. When are they coming? • St. George Island SP visitation peaks in May, June, and July; December, and January are the lowest visitation months. • Franklin County (Apalachicola, Eastpoint, Carabelle) shows the Monthly visitation does not fluctuate in the byway region as a whole, although certain greatest increase in visitors during July, August, and September. activities and areas experience spikes and dips. Season fluctuations should be taken January, February, and March have the lowest visitation in the year into consideration when developing personal media (such as programs and special with only a fifth of taxable income reported during this season. events) to ensure cost-effective use of time and human capital. Recommendations • The Wildwood Inn reports fairly steady occupancy year-round, for interpretive and wayshowing structural improvements are not affected by seasonal although November and December are somewhat slower. fluctuations. • On the Apalachicola NF, camping peaks during late winter to spring, with March and April being the most popular months. June and July are the most popular months at Silver Lake Recreation Area.

Page 11 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Observations Implications Where are they going? • Portions of the Forest Trail Central and Forest Trail East receive the • It seems likely that this pattern of use will continue, based on the concentration of largest amount of traffic, while the Forest Trail West sees the lowest. intrinsic values along the Coastal Trail, and the commuter use of the Forest Trail • Certain segments of the Big Bend Scenic Byway are experiencing East. Unless there is an identified and significant need to increase traffic on the much more growth than others. Some of this growth may be due to lesser-used segments of the byway, efforts should be more concentrated in the residential and commercial development. However, some segments Forest Trail Central and East segments. may show traffic increases due to tourism. • Priority for interpretive structures should in areas where traffic growth increases • Summer visitation leans more towards those seeking beaches, and can be shown to relate to increases in tourism (such as Hwy. 363 from St. Marks more evening travel along the byway. Other seasons tend to see to the intersection with US 98). visitors traveling along more of the byway. What do they do when they are here, and what are their needs? • Per the Leon County (includes Tallahassee) Visitor Highlights (2007): The number of people attending museums/historical sites and participating in nature-based activities continues to increase. Shopping is still a favorite pastime with a steady increase from 2006 to 2007. Overall visitor spending had gone down 9% in the same time period. • Trends in participation and popularity of activities point to the need for more • The National Survey on Recreation and the Environment (NSRE, 2004) short walks, interpretive trails, and support facilities for fishing, birding, and showed that the most popular outdoor activities for people 65 and older other wildlife-based activities. Because photography is increasing in popularity, are walking, family gatherings, driving for pleasure, picnicking, and programs that support and encourage camera-buffs would be popular. viewing/photographing nature. • Older Americans will continue to be active outdoors, but will require greater • Per a 2003 Mid-Florida Marketing and Research, Inc. report for accessibility for many of their activities. “Universal Accessibility” design principles Wakulla County (St. Marks, Crawfordville, Sopchoppy, and Panacea), should be mandatory. travelers fished (59%), visited Wakulla Springs State Park (52%), • Nature tourism should become a key component in any future marketing plan(s) birded (23%), went to the beach (22%), or took a water cruise (28%). for the byway. Interpretive media that support commercial nature tourism outfitters • St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge suggests that October – April is their should be emphasized when determining priorities for implementation. peak wildlife and birding viewing time. During the summer months • To draw in younger audiences, media types should be specifically marketed to fishing and scalloping is a more prominant activitiy. market to this user group. Specifically, more electronic media (websites, podcasts, • The “baby boomer” generation is the largest user group with or videocasts) and “social networking” opportunities should be implemented. discretionary income, and will desire experiences that cater to their pursuits of lifelong education or recreation. • One of the most important tourism destination trends is the growth of the educational vacation in which people combine fun with learning. These include cultural and historical destinations. According to the Travel Industry Association, visiting historical sites and museums is the third most popular trip activity in the country.

Page 12 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Observations Implications What are the visitation and demographic trends? • This region attracts a growing tourist audience of approximately 2.5 million visitors annually. Wakulla Country continues to grow extremely fast, outpacing Franklin and Leon Counties. • St. Marks NWR shows an upward trend in visitation. • The Office of Greenways and Trails shows a 43% increase in use of • Facilities and structures should be designed in a manner that takes increasing the Tallahassee-St. Marks Trail from 2007-2008. visitation into account. • FDOT traffic counters are located throughout Leon, Wakulla, and • When determining locations for interpretive wayside exhibits, consider how traffic Franklin counties, primarily near intersections. According to FDOT patterns could be affected. Use wayside exhibits as a tool for distributing use Traffic Volume Reports, all segments of the byway show increasing away from over-used locations to under-used. traffic volumes over time. Segments of the byway that are closer • Interpretive media should increasingly cater to older Americans and take to urban areas, especially near or in Tallahassee, Leon County, advantage of emerging technologies. experience the greatest amount of traffic. It is difficult with the current data available to determine how much of this traffic is commuter traffic. • According to the US Census Bureau, the 65 and older age group is projected to continue to grow by 147% between 2000 and 2050. Trends in national forests of the Southern Region indicated that visitation by people over 65 could increase by as much as 280% from 2000-2020. • There are opportunities to “add value” to visitors’ hunting experience by developing interpretive media that connects the value of healthy forest habitat to Apalachicola National Forest their hunting activity. National Visitor Use Monitoring data (NVUM) specific to the national • Because visitation to the national forest is largely from local communities, forest indicates that a large percentage of forest visitors are males; they interpretive media should focus on opportunities to get involved in the are from the counties surrounding the national forest; and hunting is a conservation and stewardship of their own “backyard.” primary activity. However, other popular activities (that may or may not be • Interpretive media should support wildlife viewing (where and when to view; associated with hunting) include hiking/walking, fishing, driving for pleasure, highlight species of interest; wildlife viewing safety tips and ethics). viewing wildlife, and general relaxation. • Those who “drive for pleasure” through the national forest can benefit from improved Wayshowing structures to point them to intrinsic qualities that they may not have been aware of previously.

Page 13 Big Bend Scenic Byway

20 57 Wayshowing Inventory 58 69 56 Ft. Braden 263

20 58 68 Tallahassee 69 67

Capital Circle sW 263 66 Existing wayshowing structures 55 65 64 Tallahassee 54 consist of standard Scenic LEON 68 2203 67 Highway markers installed 375

by the Florida Department of 66 Capital Circle sW Tallahassee 65 Transportation (FDOT). These Regional Airport 64 53 375 52 373 signs serve as “confidence 63 61 47 45 Rose st 49 46 48 markers” to assure travelers 299 Sopchoppy 375 that they are on the right road. 60 267 62 They do not currently contain Newport

36 any directional information. 59 35 38 34 98 37 Crawfordville 32 31 51 50 A signing plan was developed WAKULLA 363 33 St. Marks 30 98 in July 2007 that showed 69 29 1 59 2 3 signs with directional arrows. 98 Apalachicola Carrabelle 28 Medart 19 21 This plan was revised in 20 18

30A gulf Ave 98 October 2007 during which 375 47 45 49 Sopchoppy time the signs were reduced 46 48 267 Bottoms Rd 27 36 Newport 59 to 32, and directional arrows 35 37 38 299 Panacea 98

34 41 taken off. Implementation of 65 31 98 32 44 26 42 59 39 98 363 the October 2007 plan was 14 15 319 the responsbility of FDOT as 98

well as local municipalities, 319

depending on the jurisdiction 98 43 25 of the road. FRANKLIN 24

23 22 98

98 13 Sign Detail 1 Sign Detail 2 Figure 1 – Locations of 4 98 19 21 5 Carabelle 20 65 18 65 12 65 30A Eastpoint Planned FDOT Confidence gulf Ave 6 11 7

Markers (July 2007) 40

98

16 17 Apalachicola 39 14 300 15 LEGEND Eastpoint 98 Big Bend Scenic Byway 13 1 4 11 12 98 5 6 2 3 Sign Location 7 Scenic Byway Sign Scenic Byway Sign w/ M6-2 R Scenic Byway Sign w/ M6-6 R

Scenic Byway Sign w/ M6-1 L Scenic Byway Sign w/ M6-3 Scenic Byway Sign w/ M6-7 L

300 Scenic Byway Sign w/ M6-1 R Scenic Byway Sign w/ M6-4 Scenic Byway Sign w/ M6-7 R e gulf Beach Dr St. George Island 9 e gulf Beach Dr Scenic Byway Sign w/ M6-2 L Scenic Byway Sign w/ M6-6 L 10 St. George Island 8

9 8 P:\040619- HDR Engineering, Inc\007 - TWO#3 D-W - EMOAssistance\3100 - Big Bend Scenic Byway\GIS\Map Files\SigningPlan_guidemap_070702.mxd

Note: All signage shall meet clear zone requirements and be installed per FDOT standards. Milepost figures were calculated using a Geographic Information System file. Actual sign locations may change 0 1.5 3 6 9 12 Big Bend Scenic Byway - Signing Plan according to field conditions, FDOT maintenance office, and/or local government installation Miles procedures.

Page 14 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Figure 2 – Locations of Existing FDOT Confidence Markers (September 2009)

20

Ft. Braden 263 Tallahassee

Capital Circle sW LEON 2203

375

373

375 267

Newport

Crawfordville 98 WAKULLA 363

98 St. Marks

59

Medart

375 Sopchoppy

Bottoms Rd

299 Panacea

319

319

98 FRANKLIN

98

Carabelle gulf Ave 65 30A

98

Apalachicola

Eastpoint 98 Scenic Byway Signage

98 24" x 36" Sign

24" x 36" Sign with Supplement Panel

16" x 24" Sign 300 e gulf Beach Dr St. George Island Big Bend Scenic Byway P:\040619 - HDR Engineering, Inc\007 - TWO#3 - D-W EMO Assistance\3100 - Big Bend Scenic Byway\GIS\Map Files\SigningPlan_guidemap_070921.mxd TWO#3 - D-W EMO P:\040619 - HDR Engineering, Inc\007

Note: All signage shall meet clear zone requirements and be installed per FDOT standards. Actual sign locations may change according to field conditions, FDOT maintenance office, and/or local 0 2.5 5 Big Bend Scenic Byway - Signing Plan government engineering judgement. Miles Revised September 2009

Page 15 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Interpretive Inventory businesses are closed.

A review of existing interpretive media for the Big Bend 3. Target Audiences: Because interpretation of the Big Scenic Byway resulted in the following generalizations: Bend Scenic Byway is in its infancy, there is not yet a clear strategy for matching interpretive media to specific 1. Visitor Centers and Museums: There is a wealth of audiences. Currently, interpretation is geared to the visitor centers and museums along the byway, particularly “general public.” As interpretation develops, it will be on the Coastal Trails and Forest Trail East. There should appropriate to tailor certain media to your targets (e.g., be further investigation into their potential role as 65+, families, adventurous 20-30 year olds). The CME interpretive partners with the byway story. For example, should consider the development of a marketing plan to a temporary rotating exhibit about the byway could be work in concert with the interpretive media developed as developed that would travel among the various visitor a part of this Interpretive and Wayshowing Plan. centers/museums to connect with audiences that might not otherwise be aware of the byway story. 4. Design Theme: Because an interpretive plan has not yet been implemented for the byway, there is no established 2. Information: Currently, visitors are able to obtain “in- design theme for byway-specific media. For any new person” information about the byway at the following interpretive media or structure not specific to the byway, venues: individual agencies and organizations should consider • Tallahassee Regional Airport Visitors Center including the byway logo and/or other references to • Tallahassee Museum their relationship to the byway. If incorporating the • Sopchoppy Depot logo or other byway designs, they should adhere to the • Carrabelle Chamber of Commerce Wayshowing Design Guides in this plan. • Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce • Wakulla County Welcome Center, Panacea 5. Byway Story: Each of the public agencies along the • St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge byway has a good collection of publications for its site; • Wakulla Springs State Park several also have excellent websites for both trip planning • Apalachicola National Forest, Wakulla Ranger District, and educational information. Currently, none of these Crawfordville publications or websites references the Big Bend Scenic • St. George Island Visitors Center Byway. The Big Bend Scenic Byway website is an excellent • Ft. Braden Branch Library resource, as is the “Guide to the Big Bend Scenic Byway,” • Visit Tallahassee Center, although it is Tallahassee currently out of print. Other than the Big Bend Scenic Byway website, there are no venues for getting byway information when these visitor centers and

Page 16 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

INTERPRETIVE THEMES AND STORYLINES of the forest’s resources while perpetuating the special attibutes of the forest. Public awareness of the diverse Interpretation of the Big Bend Scenic Byway is based on cultural and natural resources will dominate interpretive unifying themes, each of which tells a part of the Big Bend and educational efforts.” story. A theme is the central message or key idea that we want to convey about a topic. The topic is simply the Primary Theme subject matter. Themes are stated in short, simple, and complete sentences that serve as the basis for organizing the • “Come take a drive on the “The Wild West” along Florida’s interpretive message. Storylines tier to themes and provide Big Bend Scenic Byway” more detail and focus to different aspects of the theme. • “Open the door to a world of memories: Florida’s Big Bend Scenic Byway is waiting for you” Each theme and storyline also supports the larger primary • “Florida’s Great Northwest” theme that visitors will take home with them. This is also the • “Come take a drive on the Wild Side” primary message and/or slogan used to introduce, identify and • “Experience “Old Florida,” where life is slower-paced, promote the Big Bend Scenic Byway. relaxed, and friendly” • “Wildlife outnumbers people here” Topics, themes, and storylines should complement each • “Florida’s Forgotten Coast” other and support the over-arching primary theme. However, • “The Big Bend region is home to a globally important they should be able to stand on their own as well, since not bird area, one of the most productive estuaries in North every visitor will stop at every interpretive site or read every America, and the best remaining example of a native interpretive brochure. longleaf pine and wiregrass ecosystem in the United States”

The principal source for the development of byway themes These statements (and more) have been used in publications, were the topics listed in the CMP Action Plan - Objectives websites, and in the CMP to capture the essence of the Big 4.1 and 4.2, and Action Item Table 14.6: Interpretive Signage. Bend Scenic Byway. Literature about the Big Bend provides Additional topics proposed by members of the CME were also even more examples of the area’s superlatives in both its included (see Appendix B for a complete listing of CMP and natural and cultural resources. A visitor from outside the CME-proposed topics). Other references consulted include: region—expecting the theme parks and bright lights that characterize much of Florida—will likely be surprised! • Big Bend Scenic Byway intrinsic resource assessment (CMP, pages 83-114) It is a synthesis of these “statements of significance” that led to • The Big Bend Scenic Byway Story (CMP, page 153) the byway’s Primary Theme: • Statement of Qualification (2008 National Scenic Byway Nomination, page 2) • The “Guide to the Big Bend Scenic Byway” • The National Forests of Florida Interpretive and Conservation Apalachicola NF Theme Statement: The Apalachicola NF management strategies will reflect responsible stewardship

Page 17 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Supporting Themes and Storylines • The specific soil characteristics The potential interpretive stories of the Big Bend Scenic and/or nutrients Byway are nearly endless. In order to focus our themes and in the water may storylines on the most important topics, each potential theme/ contribute to the story was filtered through three screens: dwarfing effect. • The dwarf cypress 1. Does the theme/storyline address a topic that has been trees are thought proposed by the CMP or CME (see Appendix B)? to be genetically 2. Does the theme/storyline support the Primary Theme? In similar to some of particular, does the story promote the element of “surprise,” the largest trees in “astonishment,” or “wonder?” the world. 3. Is the theme/storyline already addressed at a park, refuge, visitor center, or in a publication, video, or other media? A.1.b: This area is one If so, it will be a lower priority for elsewhere along the of the last places where byway. the endangered red- cockaded woodpecker In addition to the CMP and CME input, other references used (RCW) survives. in the development of the themes and storylines included: • It is dependent on • Big Bend Scenic Byway intrinsic resource assessment (CMP, distinctive habitat of the longleaf pine forests. pages 83-114) • Only 1% of the bird’s original numbers remains in the • The Big Bend Scenic Byway Story (CMP, page 153) nation. • Statement of Qualification (2008 National Scenic Byway • The forests along the Big Bend Scenic Byway are home Nomination, page 2) to the largest population of red-cockaded woodpeckers • The “Guide to the Big Bend Scenic Byway” in the United States. • Input from the CME • Prescribed fire helps maintain and/or create RCW habitat. TOPIC CATEGORY A: WILDLIFE AND WOODS • RCW are a “keystone species” because they play a vital role in the intricate web of life. • Longleaf pine trees marked with painted white bands THEME A.1 around tree indicate roosting sites, or other RCW There are distinctive ecological conditions in this region activity. that allow for unusual species of plants and animals to survive and thrive. A.1.c. Capturing more than water for food, stands of carnivorous plants can be found in bogs and other STORYLINES wetlands in the Big Bend Scenic Byway area. A.1.a: The Ralph Kendrick Boardwalk overlooks • Carnivorous plants get their nutrients from trapping dwarf cypress trees that are unique in their size and and consuming insects. concentration, for reasons that are not entirely understood.

Page 18 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

• Carnivorous plants are adapted to habitats like bogs STORYLINES where the soil is poor in nutrients (especially nitrogen). A.2.a: Wetlands—including marshes, swamps, and bogs— are crucial to a healthy environment. A.1.d: Eons of glacial activity and climate change • Wetlands support an astonishing array of fish and throughout north Florida created small colonies of plants wildlife; they feed fish in the bays, provide nutrients and animals that occur nowhere else in the world. For to the food chain in estuaries, and serve as breeding example, the Apalachicola River area harbors the Florida areas and shelter to numerous sport and commercial yew (Taxus floridana), an extremely rare tree on the federal fisheries. listing of endangered species. • Wetlands also serve as water storage and filtering systems, moderating run-off and keeping water clean. A.1.e: The gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) is so named because of its ability to dig large, deep burrows, A.2.b: Longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) once covered most of up to 40 feet in length. This tortoise is a valuable the upland of the southeastern US. This species has always ecosystem component because it is considered a “keystone been valued for its high quality wood. In addition, longleaf species” and can inform managers about the health of the pine forests are some of the most ecologically significant ecosystem. More than 360 other species have been known forest ecosystems of the region and support numerous to take refuge in tortoise burrows. endemic plants and animals. • Wiregrass (Aristida A.1.f: Alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) live in the Big stricta and/or Aristida Bend area as living fossils having survived for over 200 beyrichiana) is of million years. Although alligators have a heavy body and a particular importance slow metabolism, they are capable of short bursts of speed, in longleaf pine forests especially in very short lunges. In Florida, it is illegal to because it forms the fine feed wild alligators at any time. If fed, the alligators will fuel that promotes fire. eventually lose their fear of humans thereby becoming a • Ongoing efforts greater danger as they associate people with food. to restore native ecosystems are A.1.g: The hot, dry, sandy soils of the sandhills are extensive both on the probably remnants of ancient beach dunes or offshore Apalachicola National sandbars when oceans covered what is now forest. The Forest and the Florida Munson Hills Bike Trail is one place where you can “ride State Forests. on the ocean floor.” A.2.c: The Florida National THEME A.2 Scenic Trail traverses a wide assortment of ecosystems. From bone-dry to squishy-wet, the forests of the Big Designated by Congress in 1983 as a National Scenic Bend Scenic Byway contain an astonishing diversity of Trail, it will connect Gulf Shores National Seashore near ecosystems. Pensacola to Big Cypress National Preserve near Miami.

Page 19 Big Bend Scenic Byway

A.2.d: Cabbage palms have a long history of use, as food, adaptations that maximize its ability to thrive in a construction materials, and shelter for people and wildlife. frequent fire regime. Wakulla Springs boasts a palm made famous in Tarzan • Red-cockaded woodpeckers and gopher tortoises both movies, and old growth groves can be viewed along the rely on fire to create and maintain the habitats they byway. The cabbage palm is remarkably resistant to fire, need. floods, coastal conditions, cold, high winds and drought. • Extensive long-term efforts are underway to restore this ecosystem through burning in cycles that mimic THEME A.3 natural fire regimes. Fire has, and continues to play a major role in determining flora and fauna distribution in the Big Bend Scenic Byway A.3.c: Other prescribed fire benefits include: stimulation area. of seed production; improvement of forage for animals; and the creation of “edges” that benefit deer, turkey, and STORYLINES other animals. A.3.a: Prescribed fire and lightning strikes are nothing new. Historically, fires were intentionally set by American A.3.d. Prescribed fires can provide an important public Indians and early settlers to provide access routes, improve safety benefit by reducing the amount of “hazardous fuels” hunting, and clear fields for farming. adjacent to private property.

A.3.b: Some species have evolved with fire over millions THEME A.4 of years—typically high frequency summer fires caused Spotting a Florida black bear along the Big Bend Scenic by lightning—and have adaptations that are enhanced by Byway is a thrilling sight, and one that is becoming more periodic burning. common for both visitors and residents. There are many • Longleaf pine and wiregrass forests actually depend on things people can do to keep these encounters positive burning for their survival. Longleaf pine has developed for both themselves and the bears.

STORYLINES A.4.a: The Florida black bear is a unique subspecies of the American black bear that once ranged throughout Florida but now lives in six core areas across the state. The Big Bend Scenic Byway is in the “Apalachicola Core Area” where forests and interconnected greenways provide essential habitat.

A.4.b: Since the 1980s, the black bear population has been expanding along with the human population. As a result bears and people are encountering each other more than ever.

Page 20 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

A.4.c: Proper storage of food, garbage, and other attractants managed the almost miraculous feat of reintroducing is crucial to prevent bears from becoming accustomed seven cranes to the refuge as a wintering ground. This is to people and losing their natural fears of them. Feeding only the beginning—the program hopes to increase the bears can lead to personal injury, property damage, and number of cranes and their chances of survival. the need to destroy the problem bears. A.5.d: The Apalachicola River WEA lies on the eastern A.4.d: Black bears can fringe of the Mississippi Flyway and hosts large numbers sometimes be spotted of birds from both the Midwest and the Atlantic seaboard along the ocean, foraging during migratory periods. Occasionally, a “fall-out” for crabs and turtle eggs. phenomenon occurs when a severe storm causes exhausted Local residents refer to songbirds to land, sometimes carpeting the ground with them as “seaside bears;” their numbers. A good place to spot “fall-out” is on St. sometimes they can be George State Park. spotted dining on oyster bars at low tide. A.5.e: Many birds of prey, including bald eagles, osprey, and seahawks, also call this area home. THEME A.5 The Big Bend region is a globally important area for birds THEME A.6 and waterfowl. In Florida, butterflies and their migration create a colorful spectacle. STORYLINES A.5.a: The Big Bend Scenic Byway is a bird and birder’s STORYLINES: paradise, thanks to its diversity of habitats, its location on A.6.a: More than 160 butterfly species breed in Florida. In migration routes, the extent of its remaining wildlands, addition, approximately 200 other species have been recorded and its geographic span of both temperate and subtropical passing through Florida. Many are not found anywhere else in climates. It provides a safe haven for a number of federally North America. listed threatened or endangered species, such as the red- cockaded woodpecker. A.6.b: From September to A.5.b: The Great Florida Birding Trail (GFBT) is a network November, monarchs of almost 500 sites throughout Florida, selected for their and other butterflies excellent bird watching or bird education opportunities. are especially Many of these sites are along the Big Bend Scenic Byway. noticeable as they migrate through from A.5.c: The whooping crane is one of the most famous the north, turning endangered birds in North America with only a few west along the Gulf hundred left in the wild. St. Marks NWR, in partnership Coast as they head to with the Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership, has Mexico.

Page 21 Big Bend Scenic Byway

A.6.c: Habitat for butterflies is plentiful and diverse with numerous wildflower species providing food for resident and migrating populations.

TOPIC CATEGORY B: WATER AND WATERWAYS

THEME B.1: The striking array of habitats, plants, fish, reptiles and amphibians in the Apalachicola River basin make it one of the most productive estuaries in North America, and a treasure of biodiversity.

STORYLINES B.1.a: The Apalachicola River together with its tributaries-the Chattahoochee and Flint Rivers- drains a 20,000-square-mile watershed. It is the largest floodplain forest in Florida. It is estimated that its discharge into the Gulf of Mexico accounts for 35 percent of the total fishing industry along the coast. The mix of salt and freshwater contribution to the west coast of Florida. freshwater is vital and delicate. “No marsh–no seafood.”

B.1.b: The Apalachicola Bay supplies 10% of all oysters B.2.b: Water flowing from the salt marshes into the bay harvested nationally and has the 3rd largest shrimp supports vital sea grass beds. The sea grasses, which harvest in Florida. It is also the second largest of 25 thrive in the shallow water, produce oxygen necessary for existing National Estuarine Research Reserve (NERR) sites all other fish and animal life in these waters. They are in the nation. also valuable for water birds and other aquatic predators because they serve as nurseries for fish and shellfish. B.1.c: The variety of habitats and unique geography make Apalachee Bay contains one of the most productive the river, bay, and surrounding forests home to numerous sea grass beds in Florida. They are easily impacted by endemic, rare, and imperiled species pollution, boat propellers, and storm water run-off.

THEME B.2 B.2.c: Tidal flats (or mud flats) are sumptuous feeding Healthy coastal and inland aquatic habitats are vital for grounds for many animals looking for their next meal. community livelihoods, and sustainable fish and wildlife ecosystems. B.2.d: Many of the rivers along the byway are called “blackwater”—deep, slow-moving channels that flow STORYLINES through swamps and wetlands. As vegetation decays in B.2.a: Salt marshes and estuaries are extremely productive the water, tannins are leached out, resulting in tea-colored ecosystems that support an active sport and commercial acidic water. Most major blackwater rivers are in the

Page 22 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Amazon River system and the southern United States resilient to salt spray, wind, and floods - but not to the where they support unusual flora and fauna. footprints of man. Take care when exploring this place.

B.2.e: Even though there is an abundance of rivers, B.3.b: From turtles, skinks, and crabs, to alligators, white- marshes, and wetlands, conservation and stewardship is tailed deer, and bobcats, this area is home to both the everyone’s responsibility to sustain these resources for small and the mighty. future generations. In addition to the invaluable fish and wildlife habitat that they provide, they also buffer inland B.3.c: Seemingly inhospitable sands with little capacity areas from large storms and hurricanes. for holding nutrients or water can support the habits of “scrub.” The resilient xeric oak and sand pine scrub (as B.2.f: River systems in the Big Bend region support well as some non-woody plants) prosper in this tough habitat for “sea cows” or manatees. Considered vulnerable environment. to extinction, the manatee depends on the healthy environment in Big Bend area waters. An herbivore, the B.3.d: Sea kayakers can enjoy Florida’s rich heritage and manatee may eat as many as 60 different plant species. develop an appreciation for the state’s fragile coastal environment via the 1,515-mile Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. Three segments of the trail (Forgotten Coast; Crooked River/St. Marks Refuge; and Big Bend) traverse the Big Bend region.

THEME B.4 The region of Big Bend Scenic Byway is internationally known for its “karst topography” where rain and groundwater have dissolved the underlying porous limestone bedrock over long periods of time resulting in a “Swiss cheese” layer of rock. The overlying rock collapses into these holes, resulting in sinkholes, sinkhole lakes, disappearing rivers, springs, and underground caverns.

STORYLINES THEME B.3 B.4.a: Leon Sinks Geological Area is considered a “mature” Along the coast, what is fragile or small is also strong and karstic area, and is one of the most extensive underwater mighty, creating many paradoxes along the way. cave systems in the world. It connects to Wakulla Springs.

STORYLINES B.4.b: Karst topography extends into the ocean, creating B.3.a: The delicate plant communities between the ocean tunnels and caves of fresh water that support unique and upland soil of the coastal strand are surprisingly aquatic species and are popular with divers.

Page 23 Big Bend Scenic Byway

TOPIC CATEGORY C: WAY OF LIFE transporting their Note: The “Way of Life” topic area includes not only current products. cultural and community stories, but historical as well. However, since many of the historical stories are already being told at C.1.d: Lighthouses existing historical sites, they are not repeated here. scattered along the Coastal Trail are THEME C.1 reminders of Florida’s Evidence of ancient people in the Big Bend area indicates shipping and port that they were drawn to the area more than 10,000 years industry. ago for many of the same reasons that European explorers came centuries later. Today, people still flock to this C.1.e: Harvesting tar area for those reasons: climate, food, forests, wildlife, and or sap from trees for water. the purposes of making turpentine was historically STORYLINES one of the most important C.1.a: The earliest people were probably nomadic, moving industries in the Big Bend with the seasons. Eventually, they settled and began to area. farm and trade with neighbors. European settlement in the • Turpentine was a vital early 1800s was spurred by the Forbes Purchase which product for naval stores comprises most of present-day Apalachicola NF. Native in an era dependent on Americans lost huge amounts of land in the purchase, wooden sailing vessels. starting a chain of events that eventually led to the Indian • Watch for the cat-faced Removal Act of 1832. scarred pines which are reminders of this hot, C.1.b: Coastal access for seafaring explorers and merchant dirty, back-breaking job mariners, plus wide river “highways” providing inland that often held little access, made this area desirable for post-American Indian reward for the worker. settlement. • Once an area had been tapped out for turpentine, it • San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park tells of was usually logged. A large sawdust pile can still be its shifting occupation as the strongest and most spotted near the Florida National Scenic Trail, evidence persistent laid claim to this area. of the many sawmills that once existed here. • The military had been in and out of this area over the past 150 years. Camp Gordon Johnston Museum C.1.f: During the Civil War, salt was Florida’s primary represents the World War II era, when the area was contribution to the Confederate States’ economy, and the used for training for the D-Day landing in Normandy. industry was centered in the Big Bend area. Production efforts arose along the miles of flat coastline and marshes. C.1.c: The timber industry was initially developed along the riverways as the most economical means of C.1.g: Steamboats first visited the Big Bend in 1829, and

Page 24 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan they remained a vital mode of travel until the turn of the STORYLINES century. They transported cotton, timber, naval stores, and C.3.a: Along the Big Bend Scenic Byway, warehouses once other commodities down the Suwannee, St. Marks, and filled with goods bound for New England and Europe Apalachicola Rivers to coastal towns. Between 1828 and 1861, are now picturesque galleries and antique shops. Fishing 64 steamboats listed Apalachicola—the third largest port on villages have been revitalized for tourism, but maintain the Gulf—as their home (Florida Foresight website). the “Old Florida” feel.

(Note: For a Big Bend heritage timeline, visit the www. C.3.b: Located at the juncture of the St. Marks and floridaforesight.org/tourism_heritage_timeline.htm.) Wakulla Rivers, St. Marks has one of the longest histories of any place in Florida, first visited by Panfilo de Narvaez THEME C.2 in 1528. It may be the third oldest settlement in North America. (Guide to the Colorful traditions bring charm and intrigue to many of Big Bend Scenic Byway) the communities along the byway. C.3.c: There is a STORYLINES plethora of historic C.2.a: Tupelo honey, a sweet southern delicacy, has long structures along the been known as “liquid gold” and is the only type of Big Bend Scenic Byway, honey that won’t crystallize. Northwest Florida is the only many of which are on place in the world where it is produced commercially. the National Register of Look for beehives near waterways from which, during Historic Places. Outstanding examples of historic limestone April and May, the bees fan out through blossom-laden construction can be viewed at the Sopchoppy School and swamps. In the Apalachicola National Forest, beekeepers Gymnasium, and Fort Braden School. produce honey throughout the year from a variety of other flowering plants such as the titi, gallberry, and palmetto. C.3.d: In the mid-1800s, Apalachicola physician Dr. John Gorrie’s work focused on developing artificial cooling. In C.2.b: Worm gruntin’, fiddling, or charming, is a local 1851 a patent was granted for his ice machine, laying the tradition initially providing a livelihood for those groundwork for modern refrigeration and air-conditioning. harvesting fish bait, but has more recently been capturing The city has a monument to him, and a replica of his ice a healthy and seasonal machine at the John Gorrie Museum. tourist industry. C.3.e: The “Cracker Cowboys” of the Big Bend region were THEME C.3 cow herders of the 19th and early 20th centuries. They The vibrant history and were given this nickname because of the sound made by charming architecture their whips cracking in the air. This name was also given along the byway help to the small, agile Spanish horses that were essential for define and inspire its working Spanish cattle. (Side note: the term “cracker” has communities. several meanings historically, but no definitive one.)

Page 25 Big Bend Scenic Byway

C.3.f: Navigating storms is a necessary way of life for C.4.c: Caviar was canned in towns like Sopchoppy in the residents in the Big Bend area, who have adapted to living 1930s. Spring runs of sturgeon would mass in the bays with extreme weather. before spawning upriver (Florida Foresight website).

C.3.g: The Langston House is an example of vernacular C.4.d: The Big Bend region continues to have a lively architecture representing a poorer segment of society commercial seafood industry, including shrimp, stone crab, with little historical clams, striped mullet, blue crab, grouper, and oysters. documentation. One of the best ways of understanding the lives of these working class people is through the research into what they left behind. Preservation of structures such as the Langston House safeguards this historical record.

THEME C.4 Historically, the Big Bend way of life has been greatly influenced by seafood industries.

STORYLINES THEME C.5 C.4.a: Seine fisheries, in operation before the Civil War, Tourism and local lifestyles have shaped each other in supplied locals and tourists alike with striped mullet the Big Bend area. North Florida’s wildlife, waterways, and roe. Operated in the spring and fall to coincide with woods, and way of life are a natural draw for visitors; in spawning or “run” seasons, the seine yards produced rich turn, local communities rely on the tourism industry for catches of mullet, which were salt cured and packed in much of their livelihood. barrels to serve as barter for fresh produce from farm families. (Florida Foresight website). STORYLINES C.5.a: Visitors have been drawn to the area’s mineral C.4.b: For over a century, the oyster industry has played springs as early as the 1840s, when the Wakulla Hotel a major role in the Big Bend economy. Today’s “tongers” began marketing its sulfur springs for medicinal purposes. (fishers who collect oysters) still haul in oysters from In 1894, the Panacea Mineral Springs Hotel held 125 wooden boats, using tongs that resemble two rakes guests. In 1925, Wakulla Springs was developed as a tourist attached like scissors. Franklin County produces 90% of attraction with glass-bottom boats that peered through the Florida’s oysters and 10% of the national supply. crystal-clear waters.

Page 26 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

C.5.b: At the turn of the 20th century, the Lanark Village area was promoted by the Georgia, Florida, and Alabama Railroad as a fashionable resort for Georgians, ushering in the era of luxury hotels.

C.5.c: Visitors can enjoy many of the same attractions today as well as a focus on nature tourism and living green.

Information and Orientation In addition to interpretation, the byway travelers need information and orientation to help them plan their trip, acquire the services they need, and choose the recreational activities best suited to their desires and expectations. The following items will be included in the “Information and Orientation” portion of portal kiosks and other interpretive media of a general nature:

1. Safety tips (weather, traffic, heat, wildlife viewing, evacuation routes, etc.) 2. Location of restrooms 3. Maps showing distances in both miles and time 4. Regulations 5. Recreational activities (hiking, biking, kayaking, camping, birding, photography, etc.) 6. Food and shopping options 7. Lodging and camping 8. Outfitters and guides 9. Community services and information

Page 27 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Notes

Page 28 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

BRANDING ELEMENTS

Branding elements refer to the graphics and text used to create a corporate identity for the byway. They include: • Color • Logo • A “tagline” • Portal sign designs • Graphic elements used in interpretive exhibits

Key to effective branding is a simple design, short text, and instant recognizability.

Color The colors used in Big Bend Scenic Byway interpretive media are representative its intrinsic resources.

Colors shown are identified by their Pantone Matching System (PMS) number in order to communicate exact formulas to potential graphic designers, fabricators, and/or other vendors.

Figure 3 - PMS Color Palette

PMS 634 PC PMS 357 PC PMS 130 PC PMS 462 PC

PMS 632 PC PMS 362 PC PMS 127 PC PMS 140 PC

PMS 628 PC PMS 358 PC PMS 7499 PC PMS 139 PC

Page 29 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Logo Tagline

The logo for the Big Bend Scenic should quickly communicate The tagline for the Big Bend Scenic Byway is an abbreviated the identity of the area. The viewer of a logo should be able version of the primary theme that can be used for marketing to easily identify an interpretive product or structure as purposes. It captures the essence of the Big Bend story, grabs belonging to the Big Bend Scenic Byway family of media, the attention of the viewer, and compels him to linger a bit without having to read anything on the logo. longer on the image or story. Like the logo, the tagline is not intended to give the full story of the byway; rather it serves to The key to a successful logo is simplicity, especially at small entice the reader to find out more. sizes. The logo should be the face of your identity, not the whole body. By keeping the logo simple, you will ensure that Two versions of the tagline may be used for marketing, it can be recognized in a fraction of a second without any depending on the context: significant cognitive work on the part of the viewer. (Think: Nike “swoosh.”) • Short version, suitable for short and/or small graphics and text, and verbal communications (such as public service By keeping a logo simple, it will also be easily reproducible in announcements or podcasts: a number of formats (black and white; in print; on-line; on a site approach sign; even on a T-shirt). “North Florida’s Big Bend Scenic Byway - Explore the Undiscovered!” Figure 4 - Color and Black/White Logo • Long version, includes the entire primary theme and is suitable for website banners, publications, and audio-video communications such as videocasts: ig B end 0.8” Explore Undiscovered North Florida! Scenic Byway The Big Bend Scenic Byway will transport you to a different time and place through its wildlife, waterways, woods, 1.5” and way of life.

The tagline can be combined with the logo, as appropriate.

ig B end Scenic Byway

Page 30 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Portal Sign Designs

Both the primary and secondary portal sign designs incorporate elements of the logo, but reflect differences between the Forest and Coastal trail via color schemes.

Figure 5 - Forest and Coastal Trail Portal Signs

ig ig B end B end

Scenic Byway Scenic Byway

Forest Trail Portal Sign Coastal Trail Portal Sign

Page 31 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Graphic Elements in Portal Kiosks

Portal kiosk panels will include information, orientation, and an introduction to the byway’s primary themes, and in some cases, a full interpretive storyline. The templates below illustrate the colors and graphic element placement to be followed. Text and map locations are shown as examples only.

Figure 6 - Forest and Coastal Kiosk Panel Templates (Orientation and Information)

Big Bend Scenic Byway Big Bend Scenic Byway

Theme Introduction Outtters & Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, Guides Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consec consec tetuer adipiscing elit, tetuer adipiscing elit, sed diem sed diem nonummy nibh Lodging & nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut euismod tincidunt ut lacreet Restaurants lacreet dolore. Ut wisis enim ad minim dolore. Ut wisis enim ad veniam, quis nostrud exerci tution minim veniam, quis nostrud ullamcorper suscipit lobortis nisl ut aliquip ex ea commodo.

Map Recreational Activities

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consec tetuer adipiscing elit, sed diem nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut lacreet dolore. Ut wisis enim ad minim Safety tips veniam, quis nostrud exerci tution Lorem ipsum dolor sit ullamcorper suscipit lobortis nisl ut amet, consec tetuer aliquip ex ea commodo. adipiscing elit, sed diem nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut lacreet dolore.

Forest Trail Kiosk Panel Coastal Trail Kiosk Panel

Page 32 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

WAYSHOWING DESIGN GUIDES Structure Material Colors

The Big Bend Scenic Byway has a sense of place all of its The material colors for interpretive and wayshowing own. Wayshowing design guidelines will define the built structures should remain basically the same for both trails environment that designers and managers will use to to maintain the architectural theme. Color differences in the maintain and/or enhance that character. These guidelines signs and panels will distinguish between the Coastal and are necessary to provide focus and design continuity for Foret Trails. implementation of all wayshowing projects. The existing condition is described in Appendix C, along with a synopsis • Wood timbers: Olympic Semi-transparent Deck Stain - of current agency direction for the built environment. Pearl Grey or Storm Grey

Design Considerations In addition to designing for safety and compliance to agency regulations, the Big Bend Scenic Byway Wayshowing designs were developed with the following considerations (adapted from “Scenic Byways: A Design Guide for Roadside Improvements” 2002): • Roofing and etalm trim: Powder-coated light charcoal grey • Identity: Designs should create a unique feeling that promotes name and logo recognition.

• Consistency: Even though designs can vary depending on the level of development, as well as between the Coastal and Forest Trails, the basic elements should retain consistency for ease of recognition and professionalism. For a display of wood stains proposed for portal sign timbers, • Regional Character: One of the main reasons people visit http://www.olympic.com/stain_products/color_and_ travel scenic byways is to experience the unique character inspiration/semitrans_colors.htm of a particular area. The Big Bend Scenic Byway structures should maintain and promote that character by visually Refer to Appendix D - Structural Materials Recommendations mimicking the landscape and architecture. for more information on wood, roofing, and concrete specifications. • Architectural Theme: Byway travelers should be able Sign Materials to recognize that a structure is part of the Big Bend Scenic Byway without having to read the text, via the • Portal Signs - Sand-blasted recycled plastic composite architectural theme. The theme is represented through the • Interpretive and Kiosk Signs - High pressure digital repetition of design elements, such as roof pitch, colors, laminate or fiberglass embedment materials, and support columns.

Page 33 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Wayshowing and Interpretive Structure Prototypes

Figure 7 - Primary Portal Signs These are the points at which travelers receive their first impression of the Big Bend Scenic Byway. The structure and information convey a sense of arriving at a special place.

Primary Portal Sign - Coastal Trail

Primary Portal Sign - Forest Trail

Page 34 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Figure 8 - Secondary Portal Signs These serve the same purpose as the primary portals, but are smaller in scale. They are appropriate at towns and secondary entrance points to the byway.

Secondary Portal Sign - Coastal Trail

Secondary Portal Sign - Forest Trail

Page 35 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Figure 9 - Primary Portal Kiosks These kiosks—often located in conjunction with a primary or secondary portal sign—welcome visitors, provide orientation via maps, give information about services and programs along the byway, and introduce major interpretive themes.

Kiosks may be located without a portal sign if the proposed location is not a byway entry point. For example, kiosks are proposed at the Panacea Welcome Center, the St. George Island Lighthouse, and the Apalachicola NF office in Crawfordville; however, these are not byway entry points and so there would be no portal sign with the kiosk.

Perspective View

Primary Portal Kiosk - Forest Trail

Plan View

Page 36 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Figure 10 - Secondary Portal Kiosks These serve the same function as Primary Portal Kiosks, but are smaller in scale and more suitable for lower traffic areas. They could also be used as wayside exhibit structures in places where the masonry base wayside exhibit structure (Figure 12) is not appropriate, or where a roof is desired.

Perspective View

Secondary Portal Kiosk - Coastal Trail

Plan View

Page 37 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Figure 11- Site Approach Markers These are signs that serve to reinforce the byway identity and indicate that there is a landmark, attraction, or other site destination ahead. They can also include directional information (such as “Exhibit 1 mile” with an arrow pointing to the appropriate side of the road). These are not intended for use at intersections as confidence or directional makers (in place of FDOT signs).

ig B end

Scenic Byway

Exhibit 1/2 mi.

Site Approach Marker - Coastal Trail

Site Approach Marker - Forest Trail

Page 38 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Figure 12 - Wayside Exhibits Exhibits tell the story of the byway, interpreting the themes inherent in the intrinsic qualities. They can be 1, 2, or 3 panels depending on scope and complexity of story.

3-Panel Wayside, Plan View

1-Panel Wayside, Plan View

1-Panel Wayside

3-Panel Wayside

Page 39 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Figure 13 - Tertiary Identifier Signs

These are small aluminum signs (approximately 15” x 9”) that are used in conjunction with existing agency entrance signs to convey the message that the state, park, refuge, or other public area is a part of the Big Bend Scenic Byway. They could also be added to existing brown and white tourism directional markers. When co-located onto existing directional makers, the tertiary identifier signs must be at least 5’ above the ground. Permission from each agency is required and FDOT must also approve each location within the right-of-way.

ig ig B end B end Scenic Byway Scenic Byway Coastal Trail Tertiary Sign Forest Trail Tertiary Sign

Examples

Page 40 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

WAYSHOWING AND INTERPRETIVE Barrier-free STRUCTURE LOCATIONS Accessibility

Criteria for Determining Locations There is a greater public awareness and expectation In developing recommendations for structure locations, the for public sites and following criteria were considered: facilities to be accessible to all. All site planning and 1. Need design should: • Is the structure needed to designate entry into a special • Consider a full range place (i.e., a “gateway”)? of access needs as • Is there a need to orient travelers at this place? a key element in • Is there an intrinsic resource at the location? project planning and • Are visitors expecting information at this site? development • Ensure that appropriate 2. Use Level and Type site furnishings meet • Is this a high traffic location? or exceed minimum • Are the people traveling this section of road visitors or design standards and commuters? federal regulations • Is this a location where an increase in use is desired?

3. Site Appropriateness • Is it a “funnel” location? • Is site distance adequate for motorists? • Is there available space? • What is the land ownership? • Would a new structure be compatible with existing structures? • What is the proximity to an existing accommodations and services?

4. Other • Is there an opportunity to coordinate a planned improvement or project in the FDOT Work Program? • Is there power available to the site for night lighting?

Page 41 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Proposed Wayshowing and Interpretive Structure Locations

Figure 14 - Coastal Trail East

Map Location Category A Themes Category B Themes Category C Themes # Portal Portal Exhibit Primary Secondary Interpretive

Newport County Park / X 1 St. Marks River, US 98, Primary theme Primary theme Primary theme

Wakulla County St. Marks River Park, City C.1.b (coastal access); 2 X Primary theme Primary theme of St. Marks C.4.b (oyster industry) Junction of SR 365/367, A.2.d (cabbage palms/ B.4.b (springs/Shepherd’s 3 X south of 98 Cathedral of the Palms) Springs) FNST/US 98, west of 4 X A.2.c (Florida NST) C.1.e (sawdust pile) Wakulla River Skipper Bay Turpentine 5 X C.1.E (turpentine) Stand, SMNWR Bottoms Road Landing, B.2.a (salt marshes); B.2.f 6 X C.3.f (hurricanes) Panacea Unit-SMNWR (conservation & stewardship) Otter Lake Rec. Area, A.5.a (migration routes); A.5.b 7 X Panacea, SMNWR (GFBT); A.5.e (birds of prey) Wakulla Welcome Center, C.4.d (seafood); C.5.a 8 X Primary theme Primary theme Panacea, Wakulla County (springs); C.5.c (tourism)

Big Bend Maritime Center, B.3.d (FL Paddling Trail); B.4.c C.1.f (salt works); C.4.a 9 X Panacea, Wakulla County (freshwater to ocean) (seine yards) Leonard’s Landing, St. 10 X B.2.b (sea grass); C.4.b (oysters) Teresa, FDOT/FDoA A.3.a-d (prescribed fire, FSU Marine Lab, St. 11 X species evolution, fire benefits, Teresa, FSU reduced fuels) St. Joe Summer Camp, 12 X Primary theme Primary theme Primary theme Information Center, St. Joe

Page 42 Please refer to page 70 for a listing of Tertiary Identifier Signs for the Coastal Trail East. Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Coastal Trail East - Proposed Way nding and Interpretive Structures

!

! !

! !

! Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park ST363! ! ! 1 1 !

Wakulla River ! 1

! !

! ! ! !

!

! !

! !

!

!

!

!

! !

!

! !

! !

!

!

! ! !

! ! 61 ! !

! !

G ! ! !

! H

! !

!

! !! !

! ! !

!

!

! !

!

! ! !

! !

! ! 98

! ! !

! ./ ! ! !

Apalachicola ! !

! !

! ! !

! ! ! ! !

! ! !

! ! ! !

! ! !

! ! !

! !

National Forest !

!

!

!

! !

! ! ! ! !

! !

!

!

! ! !

! !

! ! !

!

! ! !

! ! Crawfordville

! ! !

! !

! ! ! !

!

! !

!

!

!

! ! ! !

! ! !!

! ! !

! !

! ! !

! ! ! ! ! St Marks River

! ! ! !

! ! ! ! !

!!!

! !

! ! ! !

!! !

! ! !

! !

! !

!

!

!

! ! !

! !

! ! 2

!

!

!

! !

!

! 5

!

! ! !

! !

! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

! 6 !

! ! ! 7 2

!! 8

! ! ! ! ! !

! 4! ! ! ! ! 319 !

! !

! ! ! !

!! !

! ./ ! ! !

!

! !

!

! !

!

!

!

!

! !

!

!

! ! ! !

!

!

! !

!

! !

3 ! !

!

!

!

!

! ! St. Marks

!

!

!

9 !

!

! !

! ! !

! ! ! !

!

!

!

! !

! !

! ! !

!

! !

! 59

10 ! !

! !

! G !

! ! H

! !

! !

!

!

! ! !

! ! !

!

! !

!

!

!

! ! !

! !

! !

! !

!

! !

!! ! !

!

! !

! !

! !

! ! ! ! ! !

!

!

!

! ! !! !

!

! !

!

! ! !

! ! !

! !!! !

!

! !

! !

!

!

!

!

! !

! !

4 !

! !

!

!

St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge ! ! !

! !

!! !! !

! !

! ! !

! !

!

! ! ! ! ! ! !

! !!

Lake !

! !

!

!! ! !

!

!

! !! ! !

W A K U L L A !

!! Ellen !

W A K U L L A ! ! ! !

!

!

! ! ! !

!

! !

! ! !

! ! ! !

! !

! ! ! ! !

! ! ! ! !

! !

375 !

! !

! G ! H !

! ! ! ! ! !

! ! !! !

! !

! !

! !

!

! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

! ! !

!

! !! ! !!

!

!

Medart !

!! !

! ! ! ! ! ! !!

! !

! !! ! ! ! !

! !!

!

319 !

! !

! !

./ !

! ! !

! !

! !

! ! !

! !

!

! !

! !

! !

! ! ! !

! ! ! ! !! !

! ! ! 367

!! ! !

! G !

! ! ! H

! ! ! ! !

! ! !

!

! !

! ! ! ! !

!

! !

! !

! !

! ! !

!

! ST375 ! 3 Sopchoppy 5 HG367A 6 Oyster Bay 7 11 14 12 8 Gulf of Mexico 13 Panacea 9 Ochlockonee River State Park Goose Creek Bay Legend Tate's Hell State Forest Forest Trail Central HG372 15 Mashes Sands County Park 1 Primary Portal Sign ./319 Ochlockonee Bay 1 Primary Portal Kiosk FF RR AA NN KK LL II NN Apalachee Bay 1 Secondary Portal Sign ST377 16 1 Secondary Portal Kiosk Bald Point State Park 11 17 ./98 10 1 Interpretive Exhibits 12 Alligator Harbor 1 Tertiary Identi er Sign 12 John S. Phipps Preserve HG370

Page 43 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Figure 15 - Coastal Trail Central

Map Location Category A Themes Category B Themes Category C Themes # Portal Portal Exhibit Primary Secondary Interpretive

Riverwalk, City of Carrabelle C.1.a (early population); 1 X Primary theme Primary theme & Waterfronts Partnership C.1.c (timber industry) Frog Pond, 30-A, City of 2 X A.2.a (wetlands) Carrabelle Carrabelle Beach, City of B.3.a-c (coastal strand, small 3 X Carrabelle and mighty, scrub habitat) Crooked River Lighthouse, 4 City of Carrabelle & X C.1.d (lighthouses) Association

Please refer to page 70 for a listing of Tertiary Identifier Signs for the Coastal Trail Central.

Page 44 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Coastal Trail Central - Proposed Way nding and Interpretive Structures

GH67 Legend Forest Trail Central 1 Primary Portal Sign 1 Primary Portal Kiosk FF RR AA NN KK LL II NN Lanark 1 Secondary Portal Sign Village 1 Secondary Portal Kiosk 1 Interpretive Exhibits ./98 1 Tertiary Identi er Sign Carrabelle 1 1 2 2 3 4 4 3

Jeff Lewis Wilderness Preserve 5

Dog Island ST65 6 St George Sound

Gulf of Mexico Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park

St. George Island

Page 45 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Figure 16 - Coastal Trail West

Map Location Category A Themes Category B Themes Category C Themes # Portal Exhibit Secondary Interpretive Primary Portal

C.1.g (steamboats); C.3.a Waterfront Trail Park, (Old Florida); C.3.c (historic 1 opposite War Memorial, City X Primary theme Primary theme structures); C.3.d (Dr. of Apalachicola Gorrie)

2 Millender Park, Eastpoint X B.2.c (tidal flats) C.3.f (hurricanes)

St. George Island C.1.d (lighthouses); B.3.a 3 Lighthouse Park and X (coastal strand) Information Center

Tertiary Sign Locations for Coastal Trail West (7 signs) Location Sign Agency/Entity No. . Marion Millender Site and Interpretation Franklin County US 98/Coastal Hwy and SR 30/Patton Dr. . Apalachicola National Estuarine Research 2 ANERR Reserve SR 300/Bryant Patton Bridge and CR St. George Island Lighthouse and Visitor Center Franklin County 1 300/Gulf Beach Dr. CR 300/Gulf Beach Dr. St. George Island State Park FSP 1 . St. Vincent NWR Visitors Center SVNWR Apalachicola . John Gorrie State Park FSP 3 . Ormand House State Park FSP

Page 46 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Coastal Trail West - Proposed Way
nding and Interpretive Structures

Apalachicola River Wildlife and Tate’s Hell State Forest Environmental Area

GULF

TS65

Eastpoint /.98 Apalachicola !!!!!!!! 1 ! ! ! ! ! ! 2 1 Dr. Julian G. Bruce 2 St. George Island State

98 !!!!!! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! /. ! GH30A Park

4 ST300

Apalachicola National Estuarine St. VincentSt. Island Vincent National Research Reserve 3 3 Wildlife Refuge

Legend 5 1 1 Forest Trail Central 1 Primary Portal Sign HG384 St. George Island7 1 Primary Portal Kiosk Apalachicola 6 1 Secondary Portal Sign 1 Secondary Portal Kiosk ./98 1 Interpretive Exhibits HG384 1 Tertiary Identi
er Sign

Page 47 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Figure 17 - Forest Trail East

Map Location Category A Themes Category B Themes Category C Themes # Portal Portal Exhibit Primary Secondary Interpretive

Lake Bradford Tract (A kiosk and sign are appropriate at this location regardless of whether the ANF office 1 X A.1.g (sand hills) Primary theme locates here; site planning must be done prior to kiosk/sign installation for either option.) New Apalachicola NF Office, 2 X Primary theme Primary theme Primary theme Bloxham Cutoff/SR 267

Wakulla State Forest, SR 267 at 3 X A.2.b (pine and wiregrass) B.4 (karst geology) trailhead

Tertiary Sign Locations for Forest Trail East (10 signs) Location Sign Agency/Entity No. SR 267/Bloxham Cutoff and SR 363/Woodville Hwy FDEP/Office of Greenways and Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad Trail 1 in Wakulla Station Trails SR 267 west of SR 363 Wakulla State Forest Trailhead FSF 1 SR 267 north of JCT with SR 363 Wakulla Springs State Park FSP 1 SR 373/Springhill Rd. and New Light Church Rd. Leon Sinks Geological Site ANF 1 US 319 Leon Sinks Geological Site ANF 1 . FG&A Bike Trail SR 373/Springhill Rd . Trout Pond Recreation Area ANF 1 . Lost Lake Recreation Area SR 263/Capital Circle SW and SR 371/Orange Ave Tallahassee Museum TM 2 Museum Drive Tallahassee Museum TM 2

Page 48 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Forest Trail East - Proposed Way nding and Interpretive Structures

!

! !

20 !

! !

! ST !

! !

! !

! ! Legend

!

!

! !

! 27 Tallahassee! ./ !

!

! Forest Trail Central

! !

! !

!

9 !

! !

! !

!

! 1 Primary Portal Sign !

1 ! 1 !

10 ! 319

!

! ./

!

! !

! 1 Primary Portal Kiosk

!

!

!

!

!

! !

ST263 ! !

! 1 Secondary Portal Sign

! !

!!

! ! ! 8 !

!!

! ! 259 1 Secondary Portal Kiosk ! G ! H

!!

!!

!!

7 ! ! 1 Interpretive Exhibits !!

!!

!!

! 6 !

! 1 ! Tertiary Identi er Sign

! !

! !

! !

4 ! !

! 5 ! LEONLEON ! !

! Eightmile Pond ! ! ST267 ./319 ! ! !

! !

369 ! ST !

! ST61 !

! !

! !

2 ! !

! 373 ! ! HG HG373A ! ! !

! !

! 363!

ST! !

! !

! !

! !

Apalachicola National Forest ! !

! 61 ! HG ! !

! ! JEFFERSON ! !

! !

! !

! Wakulla State Forest ! ! !

! !

! !

2 ! 3 !

369 267 ! ST ST ! WAKULLAWAKULLA ! !

! 3 ! ! 1 !

! Edward Ball ! ! !

! Whiddon Lake Wakulla Springs State Park ! ! !

! !

! HG61 ! ! 365 ! ! HG !

! 319 ! ! ./ Cherokee Sink !

! !

! Wakulla River !

! !

! !

!

! 98

!

!

! ./ !

!! ! !

61 !

!

!

HG !

! ! 98

! !

!

! !!! !

! ./

368 !

!

! !!!

HG !

! St Marks River ! !

! 59 !

! HG

!!

!!

!

!

! Crawfordville !

!

!!

!

! !

! !

! ! !

! !

! ! ! !

! !

!! ! ! !

! !

!

! ! ! !

!

! ! ! ! !

SPRING CREEK HWY

! !

Page 49 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Figure 18 - Forest Trail Central

Map Location Category A Themes Category B Themes Category C Themes # Portal Portal Exhibit Primary Secondary Interpretive

To the west of Geddie Rd, on the 1 X Primary theme Primary theme Primary theme north side of Hwy. 20, Talquin SF Junction of Hwy 20 and CR 375, 2 X Primary theme C.3.e (Cracker Cowboys) Talquin SF; access from Lone Star Rd.) 3 Langston House, CR 375, ANF X C.3.g (Langston House) 4 Mack Landing, CR 375, ANF X B.2.d (black water) C.2.a (honey) A.1.b (RCW); A.2.b Banded Pine/RCW Site, CR 375-5 5 X (wiregrass); A.6.a-c miles north of Sopchoppy, ANF (butterflies & wildlflowers) Sopchoppy Depot, City of Sopchoppy C.2.b (Worm gruntin’); C.2.c 6 The structure may be modified if the X Primary theme Primary theme (historic structures); C.4.c panels are attached directly to an exterior wall of the Depot. (caviar); C.5.b (GF&A) 7 Fire Tower, US 319, FDoF X A.4.a-d (black bear)

Tertiary Sign Locations for Forest Trail Central (17 signs) Location Sign Agency/Entity No. SR 20/Blountstown Hwy. and Silver Lake Rd. Silver Lake Recreation Area ANF 1 SR 20/Blountstown Hwy Lake Talquin State Forest; Fort Braden Trails and Historic School FSF 3 SR 20/ Blountstown Hwy and Jack Vause Landing Rd. Lake Talquin State Park, River Bluff Picnic Site 1 SR 20/ Blountstown Hwy. and Luther Hall Rd. Luther Hall Landing County Park Leon County 1 SR 20/ Blountstown Hwy Vinzant Riding Trail ANF 1 SR 20/Blountstown Hwy. and Lone Star Rd.- Lake Talquin State Forest, Bloxham Tract FSF 1 Pine Creek Landing; Porter Lake Recreation Area; Florida National Scenic CR 375 4 Trail; Mack Landing Recreation Site In Sopchoppy Sopchoppy Historic Depot, School, and Gym; Myron B. Hodge City Park 3 CR 299/Curtis Mill Rd. and Mackery Woods Rd Wood Lake Recreation Area ANF 1 CR 299/Curtis Mill Rd. and US 319/Sopchoppy Hwy. Ochlockonee River State Park FSP 1 Page 50 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Forest Trail Central - Proposed Way nding and Interpretive Structures

!

! 90 !

5 3 2 1 ! ./ ! 375

GADSDEN ! HG

! ! !

4 !

!

!

! 1 ! 27 ! Ft. Braden ! ./

Tallahassee! !

!

!

!

! Sopchoppy

6 ! !

!

8 ! !

2 7 ! !

2 ! 319 6

! ./ !

! !

!! !

Jackson ! ! 299 ! HG ! ! G259 ! H Bluff ! ! L E O N ! ! L I B E R T Y ! ./319 !!

! !

! !

! !

! !

! ST369 ! ! !

! ! 375 ! ! HG ST267 ! !

! !

363! ST!

! 61 ! ! HG !

! !

! !

! Apalachicola National Forest Wakulla State Forest!

! !

! Alligator Ponds !

! !

! 9 W A K U L L A 267 ! !

Edward Ball ST ! !

!

!

! Whiddon Lake

!

!

! !

! JEFFERSON

! !

! !

!

!

! Wakulla Springs

!

! ! !

! ! ! ! !

! ! ! !

! !

! !

! !

! !

! !

!

! State Park !

! !

319 ! ! !

! !

! ./ !

! !

!

!

!

!! !

! ! ! !

!

!

! 365 !

! !

! ! ! ! !

!

! G !

! H

! ! !

!

!

! !

! ! !

!

! !

! ! !

! ! ! !

! Wakulla !

!

Cypress Pond !

! 30

!

!

! ! ! !

! !

! !

! ! ! ! !

! ! ! !

! ! ST ! ! !

! ! !

!

! !

! !

! ! !

! ! ! River

! !!

! ! !

! ! ! !

! ! !!

! !! !

! ! ! !!

!

!

! !

!

! !

! ! ! ! !

! !

! ! !

! ! !

! ! ! ! ! ! !

! ! ! !

!

! !

! !

! ! !

! ! !

!

! !

Tin Top Bay !

! ! !

!

10 ! ! ! ! !

! Crawfordville

! !

! !

! ! !

11 ! ! !

!

!

! !

! !

! ! ! !

! ! ! !

!

!

! !

! !!

! !

! ! !

!! !

!! !

! ! !

! ! !

!

! !

! ! !

! !

!

! !

! !

!

!

! !

!

3 !

! !

!

! !

Preachers Bay ! !

!

!

! !

!

! ! ! ! ! ! !

!

! ! !

!

! ! !

!

!

!

!

!! ! !! !

! !

!

! !

! ! ! ! !

! !

! ! ! !

! ! !

! ! !

! !

! !

! ! ! !

! ! ! ! !

!

! ! ! ! !

!

! ! !

! ! ! St. Marks !

! !! ! !

! ! !

!

! !

!

!

! !

!

!

!

98 ! ! !

! !

! ! !

! ! !

./ !

! ! !

!

! !

!

!

! ! !

!

!

! !

! !

!! !

!

!

!

! ! !

!

!

! ! 375 !

!

!

!

!

! ! !

! ! !

! !

!

! !

! ! G ! ! !

H !

!

!! !

! !

! !

!

! ! ! ! !

! ! !

!

!

!

! ! !

!

Long Bay !

!!

! !

!

!

!

!! ! ! !

!

!

!

!

!! !

St. Marks National ! ! !

! !

! !

! !

!!

! !

!! !

! !

!

!! !

! Wildlife Refuge ! !

! ! ! !

! ! !

!! ! ! !

! 375 ! !

! ! ! !

!! G !

H !

!! ! !

! ! !

! ! ! !

! ! !

! ! ! ! Legend ! ! ! ! !

! ! !

! !

! !

! ! !

! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

!

! ! 5 !

! !

!

Medart! !

! !

!!

! !

! ! !

!

12 ! ! !

! ! ! !

! ! !

! !

!

! !

!

! ! ! !

! ! ! Forest Trail Central 4 Sopchoppy 16 Ochlockonee River 1 Primary Portal Sign 131415 ./98 ./319 1 Primary Portal Kiosk HG299 17 Panacea Ochlockonee River Gulf of Mexico 1 Secondary Portal Sign State Park HG372 Mashes Sands 1 Secondary Portal Kiosk Tate's Hell State Forest Ochlockonee BayCounty Park

7 Apalachee Bay 1 Interpretive Exhibits HG67 ./319 F R A N K L I N Bald Point State Park 1 Tertiary Identi er Sign Crooked River ./98

Carrabelle River

Page 51 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Figure 19 - Forest Trail West

Map Location Category A Themes Category B Themes Category C Themes # Portal Portal Exhibit Primary Secondary Interpretive Hwy. 65 in Franklin Co. south of 1 X Primary theme Primary theme Primary theme Liberty Co. line South of Sumatra, junction of FR A.2.b (longleaf pine & 2 X Primary theme Primary theme 101, west side wiregrass); A.5.b (GFBT) A.3.b (prehistoric and 3 Wright Lake, CR 65 X historic role of fire) Ft. Gadsen, near entrance at CR 4 65 or at the pavilion (will need X C.1.a (Forbes Purchase) additional site planning) Savannah Site, CR 65 South of Ft. 5 X A.1.c (carnivorous plants) Primary theme Primary theme Gadsden, east side of road, ANF Sand Beach Road Tower, AWEA, 6 X A.5.d (MS flyway) FWC Forest, FDoF A.3.a-d (prescribed fire, Fire Tower, SR 65, Tates Hell State 7 X species evolution, fire Forest, FDoF benefits, reduced fuels) A.1.a (dwarf cypress)-use Dwarf Cypress Boardwalk (on 8 X inexpensive material on existing bulletin board) existing structure

Tertiary Sign Locations for Forest Trail West (5 signs) Location Sign Agency/Entity No. . Tate’s Hell State Forest, Cash Creek FSF . THSF, Dwarf Cypress Boardwalk FSF SR 65 . AWEA, Sand Beach Rd. FFWCC 5 . Ft. Gadsden Historic Site ANF . Wright Lake ANF

Page 52 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Forest Trail West - Proposed Waynding and Interpretive Structures

HG22 ST65 L I B E R T Y 1 Legend Forest Trail Central 2 1 Primary Portal Sign

Apalachicola 1 Primary Portal Kiosk National Forest Robinson Bay 1 Secondary Portal Sign 1 Secondary Portal Kiosk 5 3 4 4 1 Interpretive Exhibits 1 Tertiary Identier Sign 5 FF RR AA NN KK LL II NN

G U L F 7

6 3 Tate's Hell State Forest HG379A Tate's Hell Wildlife Management Area HG379 Carrabelle 65 ST G376 Apalachicola River H Wildlife and Environmental Area

2 8

Lake Wimico

Blounts Bay

Apalachicola National 1 Estuarine Research Reserve ./98 East Bay ./319 St George Sound Box-R Wildlife Dr. Julian G. Bruce Management Area HG65 St. George Island Eastpoint State Park

Page 53 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Watchable Wildlife Viewing Areas

The Photo Club at St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge has identified numerous locations that are excellent photography spots, most with a focus on wildlife. Many are within the refuge, although some are along the Big Bend Scenic Byway outside of the refuge. The Corridor Management Entity has supplemented the Photo Club list with additional sites along the byway.

It is recommended that these sites be incorporated into the national “Watchable Wildlife Program” and marked with the binoculars icon, for consistency with other Watchable Wildlife locations across the nation. Watchable Wildlife, Inc. has an Memoranding of Understanding with the Forest Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and the State of Florida to use these signs in appropriate areas. For more information, visit: www.watchablewildlife.org.

Table 2 - Potential Photo Club Sites for “Watchable Wildlife” Location Road/Hwy Point of Interest St. Marks Lighthouse Observation Platform SR 59 Waterfowl, butterflies Headquarters Pond Observation Platform SR 59 Shorebirds, wintering ducks, nesting cormorants East River SR 59 Wildlife viewing Stoney Bayou SR 59 Shorebirds, wintering ducks, Otter Lake Picnic Area Otter Lake Road Nesting ospreys, wintering ducks, coots Wakulla Springs CR 267 - Bloxham Cutoff Wildlife viewing Ochlockonee State Park US-39 - Sopchoppy Hwy Wildlife viewing Crooked River Lighthouse Hwy 98/319 Steel Tower Lighthouse, Keeper’s House Museum, playground, covered pavilion St. George Island State Park Gulf Beach Dr. Shorebirds, wintering ducks Levee Trail CR 59 Wildlife viewing, butterflies, East Bay Boat Ramp CR 65 Shorebirds, wintering ducks Three Rivers Bridge CR 375/FR13 Floodplain forest, tupelo and bald cypress, Ochlockonee River wildlife River Bluff Picnic Site SR 20 Lake Talquin Bottoms Road US 98/Bottoms Road Wildlife, Dickerson Bay, night sky Cash Creek Picnic Aera SR 65 Blackwater rivers and forest wildlife Sand Beach Recreation Area SR 65 Apalachicola River and hardwood hammock wildlife

Page 54 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

FDOT DIRECTIONAL SIGNAGE PLAN of the Big Bend Scenic Byway (BBSB) is revisiting options for directional signage at intersections along the corridor. The A Signage Plan has been prepared by Applied Sustainability BBSB wants and needs to have travelers enjoy their byway Enterprises (ASE) on behalf of the Big Bend Scenic Byway Corridor experience. However, remarks made by travelers currently Management Entity, and in coordination with FDOT District 3, indicate great confusion in finding and staying on the route. and Kimley-Horn and Associates. The following is the Executive Having clearer directions will decrease potential safety Summary of the Plan. See Appendix E (reserved) for the final hazards posed by unsure motorists while increasing travelers’ Signage Plan and Map. ease of navigating the corridor.

Background The final Signage Plan is based on an ASE report (January 2010) that compares the original draft signage plan to In 2007 Kimley-Horn and existing sign placement, analyzes each major intersection, and Associates, together with Applied suggests options for directional signage. Sustainability Enterprises and the byway’s Corridor Management Considerations Entity, drafted a Signage Plan for the Big Bend Scenic Byway. The plan A number of factors were considered in developing the ultimately proposed that 69 FDOT Signage Plan. Given current budget constraints, it may be Florida Scenic Highway Signs be difficult for FDOT and/or the CME to secure funding to place erected along the byway. Of that Florida Scenic Highway signs (FSH) on each corner of every number, 51 signs were to be placed major intersection on the byway. In some instances, it may be at intersections and 42 of those possible simply to attach a directional arrow to an existing signs were to contain supplemental FSH sign. In others, confidence markers could be moved to directional arrow panels. intersection locations and have directional arrows attached. It is also possible to co-locate smaller FHS signs with State Following Florida State Scenic Highway designation, 32 FDOT Route Signs (SR 267, SR 20, etc.), thereby saving the expense of Florida Scenic Highway signs were erected along the byway adding new poles and directional arrow panels. as Confidence Markers, of which 16 signs were placed near intersections. However, none of the latter contained directional Though less desirable, it is also possible to co-locate BBSB arrow panels. Tertiary Identifier Signs onto resource agency signs with directional arrows, such as St. Marks National Wildlife The original plan called for all 69 signs to have the Big Bend Refuge, Great Florida Birding Trail, Wakulla Springs State Scenic Byway Supplemental Panel. Of FSH signs currently Park, Tate’s Hell State Forest, Apalachicola National Forest, etc., on the byway, only 14 contain the Big Bend Scenic Byway thereby reducing the number of larger FSH signs, poles, and supplemental panel. supplemental panels.

Now, with increasing exposure through local, state, and In its 220-mile route, the byway intersects over 75 streets, national marketing, the Corridor Management Entity (CME) changes direction 22 times, and features 68 resource stops.

Page 55 Big Bend Scenic Byway

To safely and confidently navigate the byway, ASE has Recommendations identified 31 major intersections for directional signage and, of those, 24 are identified as “Priority” needing immediate Direct- attention. 24x36 16x24 BBSB Spur NSB New ional FSH FSH SP SP SP Poles Arrow SP In addition, travelers can access the byway on 4 major routes: Signs Signs US 319, US 98, SR 20, and SR 263. It would be beneficial to place FSH signs with BBSB supplemental panels and directional arrows at these major intersections. TOTAL 42 21 36 6 20 50 62

As documented in the ASE Report, other nationally designated State Scenic Highways, including some in Florida, have placed These totals can be reduced by: signage with supplemental panels and directional arrows at intersections along their routes. Therefore, it is the goal of • Moving existing FSH Confidence Markers to intersections. the CME to facilitate this same action for the Big Bend Scenic • Co-locating existing FSH signs with federal and state road Byway, and move from “No Showing” to “Wayshowing.” markers, thereby reducing the number of supplemental panels and poles. • Co-locating BBSB tertiary signs with state and federal agency signs, thereby reducing the number of FSH signs, supplemental panels, and poles.

In addition, 6 FSH 16x24 signs, 3 FSH 24x36 signs, and 3 Big Bend Scenic Byway Supplemental Panels that were fabricated and delivered for installation were never installed. If these signs can be located (Wakulla County 6, Leon County 2, FDOT 1) then that will lower the number of new signs, poles, and panels to be purchased.

Examples of Scenic Byway wayshowing signs

Page 56 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

NON-STRUCTURAL INTERPRETIVE MEDIA Calendar RECOMMENDATIONS There are 14 themes identified to tell the Big Bend Scenic Byway story. These could each be highlighted on a page of the In addition to interpretive exhibits and wayshowing structures, proposed calendar (one per month) with the additional two there are a number of other interpretive media outlets themes being used for the inside front cover and back cover. with which to tell the story of the Big Bend Scenic Byway. Several are already proposed and or planned. The following Programs recommendations relate to the design and implementation of those media so that they have a “Family of Publications” look Festivals and feel (using the established Design Guidelines in this Plan). Currently, there is a plethora of festivals and celebrations year- round along the Big Bend Scenic Byway. (For a listing of Big Publications Bend Maritime Heritage Festivals and Wildlife Celebrations, visit: http://www.floridaforesight.org/tourism_festivals.htm.) Guide to the Big Bend Scenic Byway These programs should include a tie to the Big Bend Scenic The existing Guide to the Big Bend Scenic Byway is intended Byway, both in their advertising and marketing, as well in the for a new print run. Due to the cost of redesigning, it is program delivery. recommended that changes be minimized. However, the cover of the Guide could be redesigned to include the new branding Tourism Providers elements (logo, color palette, and fonts) to promote the Conduct show-me trips to area tourist businesses and service corporate identity of all Big Bend Scenic Byway publications. providers to increase their familiarity with the byway story In addition, the primary theme and subthemes should be and resources. Sponsor interpretive training for nature- incorporated into the Guide wherever possible. based outfitters and guides (possibly organized through local chambers of commerce). Big Bend Scenic Byway Tear-off Map In addition to the Guide, a smaller and less expensive Electronic Media publication is needed to provide casual visitors with a quick navigational aid that also introduces the byway themes Big Bend Scenic Byway Website and storylines. It is recommended that a “tear-off” map be As a primary method of information, orientation, and developed that has a map with popular byway stops on the marketing, the Big Bend Scenic Byway website should be front, along with key themes. The back of the map would have a top priority for maintenance and updates. It is also an expanded interpretive stories on the back (keyed to the map excellent means on introducing visitors to the primary theme, on the front) and visitor service information. storylines, and branding elements of the byway. Check the search engine vocabulary (metada) to ensure it includes Rack Card search words that reflect the byway’s themes and storylines The 4.5”x9” rack card (currently proposed) should include (e.g., karst topography; RCW; tupelo honey). Link to and from the same branding elements and primary theme as the other partner agencies and organizations (e.g. St. Marks NWR, publications. Apalachicola NF; Chambers of Commerce) and festival/event websites (e.g. Worm Gruntin’ Festival, Seineyard Days).

Page 57 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Audio and Video Podcasts Social Networking Media Audio and video podcasts can be downloaded from the Big Social networking is a two-way communication and another Bend Scenic Byway website or partner agency websites, or avenue to tell your byway story in a personal way. A primary from iTunes (generally for free). Each should be 5 minutes goal is to direct or link the user back to your website for or less in length, and focus on 1 storyline per cast. See more information. the Interpretive Theme Matrix (Table 2) for suggestions on appropriate themes for this media. Make the downloads Social media applications take commitment of time, personnel, available to travelers at visitor center computer terminals and and funding over the long run. This type of media needs to from agency websites. be constantly updated and monitored several times a week to be effective. Audio and Video Tours Electronic tours can be implemented via two primary Sites such as MySpace, FaceBook, and chat rooms through methods: via audio CDs that can be purchased or given away; Yahoo and MSN are types of social networks. Blogs, or as downloadable GPS-correlated programs that are then microblogs (i.e., Twitter), and social news sites (e.g., Digg, Mixx, played on a GPS or MP3 device. Reddit) are other venues.

CDs are useable by a larger audience and can serve as great Blogs established for visitors to share their experience along marketing “freebies” at festivals and other events. Their your byway with each other, as a type of electronic diary. contents can also be downloaded from the byway’s website, or This platform can take weekly maintenance to answer from iTunes (for free or for fee). However, they are not keyed questions from other users. to specific sites; the listener may be driving along the Coastal Trail while listening about the dwarf cypress. For an example Mini-blogs could be used to send “tweets” to many followers of how this media can be used, visit the Roadside Heritage on road conditions, festivals taking place, butterfly migrations, program for California’s Hwy. 395 at www.roadsideheritage. and other time-sensitive items. Messages are limited to 140 org/ characters and can be set up to be updated from text-capable cell phones or internet connections. GPS tours contain audio and video that are are keyed to specific sites via GPS coordinates. The content can be Mobile Tagging customized by the users depending on their interests. Tours Mobile tagging is a new technology where print or sign media can be downloaded from the byway’s website, or partner can include a bar code that can be read by visitors taking a agency websites. The development and maintenance of the picture of it with their cell phone. Photos, music, promotions, tour data is done by a commercial production company, event information, or interpretive storylines can be although once developed, the content can be shared via downloaded on site to give users more information. You must YouTube, Facebook, and other social networks. The major have cell phone coverage at the sites where you want to use limitation is that users must have a GPS device. this technology. For more information, visit www.microsoft. com/tag/content/what/.

Page 58 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Table 3 - Interpretive Theme Matrix The following table displays how each of the themes and storylines in this plan are incorporated into interpretive media for the Big Bend Scenic Byway. The matrix includes a listing of those sites or other media that also tell the Big Bend story.

Other Location/ CTE CTC CTW FTE FTC FTW Other Media Existing Media

A. WOODS & BBSB Calendar WILDLIFE

A.1 DistinCtiVe ecological BBSB Calendar conditions

Dwarf cypress (on Podcasts and a. Dwarf cypress bulletin board) electronic tours

b. Red cockaded Banded Pine/RCW woodpecker Site, CR 375

Savannah Site, c. Carnivorous CR 65 South of Ft. plants Gadsden, ANF

ANERR; Edward Ball d. Endemic species Wakulla Springs SP

Podcasts and e. Gopher tortoise electronic tours

Edward Ball Wakulla Podcasts and f. Alligators Springs SP electronic tours

Lake Bradford g. Sandhills BBSB Guide Tract

A.2 St. Marks NWR; Trout DIVERSITY OF BBSB Calendar Pond (ANF) ECOSYSTEMS

Frog Pond, 30-A, a. Wetlands St. Marks NWR City of Carrabelle

Longleaf Pine & b. Long-leaf pine & Wakulla SF, SR Banded Pine/RCW St. Marks NWR; Trout Wiregrass Site, wiregrass 267 at trailhead Site, CR 375 Pond (ANF) south of Sumatra

Page 59 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Other Location/ CTE CTC CTW FTE FTC FTW Other Media Existing Media

Florida NST, south c. Florida National of US 98/west of Scenic Trail Wakulla River

Junction of SR d. Cabbage palms 365/367, south of US 98

“Fire Forests of Big A.3 FIRE Bend” DVD; St. Marks BBSB Calendar NWR

“Fire Forests of Big FSU Marine Lab. Fire Tower, SR 65, Podcasts and a. Prescribed fire Bend” DVD; St. Marks Fire Plots Tate’s Hell SF electronic tours NWR

1) Wright Lake; FSU Marine Lab. “Fire Forests of Big Podcasts and b. Species evolution 2) Fire Tower, SR Fire Plots Bend” DVD electronic tours 65, Tate’s Hell SF

c. Prescribed fire FSU Marine Lab. Fire Tower, SR 65, “Fire Forests of Big Podcasts and benefits Fire Plots Tate’s Hell SF Bend” DVD electronic tours

FSU Marine Lab. Fire Tower, SR 65, “Fire Forests of Big Podcasts and d. Reduced fuels Fire Plots Tate’s Hell SF Bend” DVD electronic tours

A.4 BLACK Fire Tower, US 319, St. Marks NWR BBSB Calendar BEAR DOF

Podcasts and a. Range Fire Tower St. Marks NWR electronic tours

Podcasts and b. Population Fire Tower St. Marks NWR electronic tours

Podcasts and c. Human interaction Fire Tower St. Marks NWR electronic tours

Podcasts and d. Seaside habitats Fire Tower electronic tours

A.5 BIRDS BBSB Calendar

Otter Lake Rec. a. Migration routes Area, SMNWR

Page 60 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Other Location/ CTE CTC CTW FTE FTC FTW Other Media Existing Media b. Great Florida Otter Lake Rec. Birding Trail Area

Podcasts and c. Whooping crane SMNWR electronic tours

Sand Beach Road d. Mississippi flyway Tower, AWEA

Otter Lake Rec. e. Birds of prey Area

A.6 BUTTERFLIES & BBSB Calendar WILDFLOWERS

Banded Pine/RCW Podcasts and a. Butterfly species Site, CR 375 electronic tours b. Monarch Banded Pine/RCW Podcasts and migration Site electronic tours

Banded Pine/RCW Podcasts and c. Wildflowers Site electronic tours

B. WATER AND ANERR BBSB Calendar WATERWAYS

B.1 APALACHICOLA ANERR BBSB Calendar RIVER BASIN a. Floodplain & fresh ANERR water b. Oysters and ANERR shrimp c. Unique habitats & ANERR geography

B.2 AQUATIC St. Marks NWR; BBSB Calendar HABITATS Wakulla Spgs. SP

Page 61 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Other Location/ CTE CTC CTW FTE FTC FTW Other Media Existing Media

a. Salt marshes and Bottoms Road St. Marks NWR estuaries Landing

Leonard’s Landing, b. Sea grass St. Marks NWR St. Teresa

c. Tidal flats Millender Park St. Marks NWR

d. Black water Mack Landing

f. Conservation & Bottoms Road St. Marks NWR; stewardship Landing Wakulla Spgs. SP

g. Manatees St. Marks River Park St. Marks NWR

B.3 COASTAL BBSB Calendar PARADOXES

Carrabelle Beach, a.. Coastal strand City of Carrabelle

b. Small and mighty Carrabelle Beach

c. Scrub habitat Carrabelle Beach

d. Florida Paddling Big Bend Maritime Trail Center

BBSB Calendar; B.4 KARST Wakulla SF, SR Wakulla Springs SP Podcasts and 267 at trailhead TOPOGRAPHY electronic tours

a. Leon Sinks & Apalachicola NF and Podcasts and

Wakulla Springs Wakulla Springs SP electronic tours

1) Junction of SR b. Springs 365/367, south of Podcasts and and freshwater US 98; electronic tours connection to ocean 2) Big Bend Maritime Center

Page 62 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Other Location/ CTE CTC CTW FTE FTC FTW Other Media Existing Media

C. WAY OF LIFE BBSB Calendar

C.1 RESOURCE San Marcos de Apalache SP; Fort BBSB Calendar DEPENDENCE Gadsen HS

Riverwalk, City Ft. Gadsen of Carrabelle San Marcos de entrance, SR 65 a. Early population & Waterfronts Apalache SP (Forbes Purchase) Partnership

San Marcos de Apalache SP; Camp b. Coastal access St. Marks River Park St. Marks River Park Gordon Johnston Museum

Riverwalk, City of c. Timber industry Carrabelle

Crooked River Crooked River d. Lighthouses Lighthouse; St. Lighthouse George Lighthouse

1) Skipper Bay e. Turpentine and Turpentine Stand; sawdust pile 2) sawdust pile near FNST/US 98 f. Salt works & Civil Big Bend Maritime San Marcos de War Center Apalache SP

Waterfront Park g. Steamboats Apalachicola

C.2 COLORFUL BBSB Calendar TRADITIONS a. Tupelo and other Mack Landing, CR honey 375, ANF b. Worm Gruntin’ Sopchoppy Depot Festival

Page 63 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Other Location/ CTE CTC CTW FTE FTC FTW Other Media Existing Media

C.3 VIBRANT HISTORY AND Dr. Julian Bruce State BBSB Calendar CHARMING Park ARCHITECTURE

a. Old Florida Waterfront Park

b. St. Marks St. Marks River Park

Sopchoppy Depot c. Historic structures Waterfront Park Waterfront Park

Waterfront Park John Gorrie SP d. Dr. Gorrie

Visitor Info Area, e. Cracker Cowboys Highway 375

f. Living with Bottoms Road hurricanes Landing

Langston House, g. Langston House Hwy. 375 ANF

C.4 SEAFOOD BBSB Calendar INDUSTRIES

Big Bend Maritime a. Seineyards Center

b. Oyster industry Leonards Landing

c. Caviar Millender Park Sopchoppy Depot

Wakulla Welcome d. Variety of seafood Center, Panacea

C.5 TOURISM BBSB Calendar

Wakulla Welcome a. Mineral Springs Center

b. GF&A Sopchoppy Depot

Wakulla Welcome c. Nature tourism Center

Page 64 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

FUNDING AND IMPLEMENTATION

Cost Estimates

The following costs are general estimates only, and will need to be refined as contracts for implementation are developed.

Table 3 - Cost Estimates

Item Cost Estimate Notes Primary Portal Sign $7,000 Includes the structure, sign, and installation. Includes panel fabrication and concrete plaza; does not include the design and Primary Portal Kiosk $15,400 layout of kiosk panel content. Secondary Portal Sign $4,300 Includes the structure, sign, and installation. Includes panel fabrication and concrete plaza; does not include the design and Secondary Portal Kiosk $11,200 layout of kiosk panel content. Site Approach Markers $2,700 Includes the structure, sign, and installation. Includes panel fabrication and a 2-panel structure; does not include the design and Wayside Exhibit $6,900 layout of panels. No concrete plaza. Construction drawings for all Assumes a cost of $120/hour for 60 hours; cost could be lower if a “design and $7,200 structures build” contract is awarded rather than 2 separate contracts. Tertiary identification signs $75 each plus $200 set-up fee Assumes a bulk order. Kiosk panel text and design $3,000 per unique panel Includes the development of maps. Wayside panel text and design $2,500 per unique panel Includes site- or topic-specific artwork. Based on 1 primary story at 1 location. Includes all audio and video production, Video Podcast (5 minutes) $5,000 editing, and encoding, resulting in both a DVD and data DVD. Does not include any travel costs of the production company. $900 if script is already provided Includes professional recording, editing, and encoding, resulting in both an audio Audio Podcast (5 minutes) (e.g., from video podcast) and data CD. $20,000 for 6,000 CDs; future Estimate based on Roadside Heritage program for California’s Hwy. 395. Includes Auto CD Tour reproduction of CDs will be professional script writing, editing, recording, and production of CDs (although approximately $1.90 each interviews of local residents were done by local residents, including school kids). Costs vary dramatically based on the number of locations, the data storage GPS Tour $1,000 - $2,250 per year capacity needed, and the amount of updating and maintenance required of the production company.

Page 65 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Priorities Tertiary Tasks Install primary and secondary portals and orientation/ Projects were prioritized by the Big Bend Scenic Byway interpretive kiosks at major entry points and in target Marketing Subcommittee, using the following criteria: communities along the byway. 1. Primary criterion: Need 2. Secondary criterion: Ease of completion with minimal Strategy: Determine funding possibilities on federal and cost state lands (national forests, state forests, and national wildlife refuge) for matching grant support to install portals/kiosks. Primary Tasks Determine level of cooperation and support in communities The most urgent need is to install directional signage at with grant potential for state funds, such as Florida Recreation intersections throughout the byway to enable visitors to Development Assistance Program (FRDAP) grants to install navigate both the Coastal and Forest Trails with ease and portals/kiosks within their jurisdiction. safety. Signs will be installed according to the FDOT Signage Plan in Appendix E. Subsequent Tasks These tasks will be completed based on funding potential and Secondary Tasks confirmed collaboration: Complete the “Primary Marketing Objectives” of the Marketing Subcommittee by converting selected interpretive 1. Design, fabricate, and install wayside exhibits. media into a PDF or other appropriate digital format for posting to the Big Bend Scenic Byway website. 2. Install site approach markers and tertiary Identifier signs for key photography sites. Primary Marketing Objectives: For the Big Bend Scenic Byway website: 3. Print Media 1. Revise and convert “The Guide to the Big Bend Scenic • Reprint “The Guide to the Big Bend Scenic Byway”, rack Byway” as a PDF file cards, and tear-off maps 2. Broadcast use of the new byway logo • Print the Big Bend Scenic Byway calendar 3. Develop a Press Room 4. Post rack cards, tear-off maps, and calendar as PDF files; 4. Electronic Media distribute materials and train Visitor Center staff once • Develop audio and video products materials are posted • Develop CDs and GPS tours 5. Post training information and fact sheets • Implement “Mobile Tagging” 6. Develop and post virtual tours 7. Identify GPS locations on website byway maps 5. Other 8. Promote byway festivals • Conduct FAM Tours • Organize byway events such as car rallies and county In addition to the byway’s website, the Big Bend Scenic celebrations Byway should be spotlighted on other social media • Conduct training programs for frontline businesses, networks. such as an Ambassador Program

Page 66 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Potential Funding Sources Because there are a number of trailheads along the Big Bend Scenic Byway, this funding source may be useful for trailhead The most obvious funding source for implementation of the improvements such as kiosks or interpretive wayside exhibits. Big Bend Scenic Byway Wayshowing and Interpretive Plan Categories of eligible projects include: will continue to be the National Scenic Byways Program, administered by the Federal Highways Administration. 1. Maintain and restore existing trails (and bridges) The “discretionary grants” provide for merit-based funding 2. Develop and rehabilitate trailside and trailhead for byway-related projects on an annual cycle. For more facilities information: http://www.bywaysonline.org/grants/ 3. Purchase and lease trail construction and maintenance equipment Other Federal Highway Administration Programs 4. Construct new trails (limits on federal lands) The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) provides 5. Acquire easements or property for trails (willing seller expertise, resources, and information to improve the nation’s only; condemnation is prohibited) highway system and its intermodal connections. In addition to 6. Trail assessments for accessibility and maintenance the National Scenic Byways Program, the FHWA has two other 7. Trail safety and environmental protection education programs that may provide assistance to the Big Bend Scenic 8. State administrative costs Byway. 1. Transportation Enhancements (TE) For more information: 2. Recreation Trails Program (RTP) • FHWA Transportation Enhancements: www.fhwa.dot.gov/ environment/te Transportation Enhancement Activities fall into 12 categories: • National Transportation Enhancements Clearinghouse: www. 1. Pedestrian and bicycle facilities enhancements.org 2. Pedestrian and bicycle safety and education • FHWA Recreational Trails Program: www.fhwa.dot.gov/ 3. Scenic or historic easements and sites environment/rectrails 4. Scenic or historic highway programs 5. Landscaping and scenic beautification 6. Historic preservation 7. Historic transportation buildings, structures, or facilities 8. Rail-trail conversions 9. Inventory, control, and removal of outdoor advertising 10. Archaeological planning and research 11. Mitigation of highway water pollution and wildlife mortality 12. Transportation museums

The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) provides funding through states to develop and maintain recreational trails.

Page 67 Big Bend Scenic Byway

US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Visitor Facility historic preservation. Grants can cover planning, research and Enhancements development, and materials. Proposals must be identified in The USFWS has a grant program for vehicle pullouts, a local or county plan and have a 20% local match (may be interpretive trails, and kiosks. The objective is to encourage in-kind). partnerships with interested parties to enhance wildlife viewing opportunities for the public. Funds may be used For both RCA and RDA grants, availability is announced for approved projects on Service lands that enhance wildlife through local national forests, although funds are not viewing opportunities for the public while providing access in necessarily available every year. the form of interpretive pullouts, trails, and interpretive kiosks which provide a public benefit. Details for each funding Florida State Office of Environmental Education opportunity is posted on Grants.gov. This office maintains regional contact information, and a searchable database of grants and awards, state standards, programs and publications. For more information: http://www. dep.state.fl.us/secretary/education/default.htm

Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program (FRDAP) FRDAP is a competitive grant program that provides financial assistance to local governments for development or acquisition of land for public outdoor recreational purposes. All county governments and municipalities in Florida and other legally constituted local governmental entities with the legal responsibility for the provision of outdoor recreational sites and facilities for the use and benefit of the public are eligible. For more information: http://www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/ OIRS/default.htm

VISIT FLORIDA The official tourism marketing program for Florida offers USDA Forest Service Rural Community Assistance (RCA) several grant opportunities appropriate to the Big Bend Scenic and Rural Development Assistance (RDA) Byway: Rural community assistance (RCA) efforts focus on 1. Advertising Matching Grants Program - Grants program healthy communities, appropriately diverse economies, and to publicize the tourism advantages of the State of Florida. sustainable ecosystems. Grants help rural communities 2. Cultural Heritage and Nature Tourism Grant Program - build skills, networks, and strategies to address social, Reimbursement program designed to provide funding for environmental, and economic changes. Rural Development multi-county and multi-partner marketing projects for Assistance (RDA) grants support technical assistance to the promotion of Florida’s cultural heritage and nature forest-dependent communities for heritage tourism and tourism and education efforts.

Page 68 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

3. Minority Convention Grant Program - Offered to local governments and non-profit corporations/organizations to attract new national minority conferences and conventions.

For more information: http://www.visitflorida.org/am/template. cfm

Florida Humanities Council (FHC) Since its origin in 1971, the FHC Grants Program has awarded more than $8 million in support of public programs throughout the state. These programs help preserve Florida’s rich cultural heritage, promote civic engagement, and foster connections among humanities scholars, cultural organizations, and community groups. The grants program primarily responds to community interests and initiatives, and the grant makers supporting them to tools they can use and is intended to address the concerns of Floridians. and information they can trust. For more information: http:// Preference is given to projects that address important public foundationcenter.org/ issues, reach underserved audiences, create resources for communities or cultural institutions, and/or reach a broad Grants.gov public audience. For more information: http://www.flahum.org/ Grants.gov allows organizations to electronically find and index.cfm/do/About.Home apply for more than $400 billion in Federal grants. Grants. gov is THE single access point for over 1000 grant programs Places to Begin Other Grant Searches offered by all Federal grant-making agencies. Today, Grants. gov is a central storehouse for information on over 1,000 Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) grant programs and provides access to approximately $500 The catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) provides billion in annual awards. For more information: http://www. a full listing of all Federal programs available to State and grants.gov/ local agencies; federally-recognized Indian tribal governments; domestic public, quasi- public, and private profit and Toolbox for the Great Outdoors nonprofit organizations and institutions; specialized groups; This website provides tools for adding resources and partners and individuals. For more information: https://www.cfda.gov to your recreation and visitor services programs. It is sponsored by all of the federal land management agencies and The Foundation Center includes information of outdoor recreation related funding Established in 1956 and today supported by close to 550 sources. For more information: http://www.tools4outdoors.us/ foundations, the Foundation Center is a national nonprofit index.jsp service organization recognized as the nation’s leading authority on organized philanthropy, connecting nonprofits

Page 69 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Please refer to Figures 14-15 on pages 42-45 for corresponding map locations for the following Tertiary Identifier Signs.

Tertiary Sign Locations for Coastal Trail East and Coastal Trail Central (23 signs) Location Sign Agency/Entity No. (CTE) US 98/CR 59 Newport Wakulla County Park-Newport Wakulla County 1 . St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters SMNWR (CTE) CR 59/Lighthouse Rd. . St. Marks Lighthouse 3 FDEP/Office of Greenways and Trails . Florida National Scenic Trail . Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad Trail (CTE) City of St. Marks on Riverside Dr. FDEP/Office of Greenways and Trails 2 . Florida National Scenic Trail . San Marcos de Apalachee Historic State Park FSP (CTE) City of St. Marks on Old Ft. Drive 2 . Waterfront Park City of St. Marks (CTE) US 98 west of Wakulla River Florida National Scenic Trail FDEP/Office of Greenways and Trails 1 (CTE) Jct. SR 365/367 Florida National Scenic Trail FDEP/Office of Greenways and Trails 1 (CTE) Panacea, Bottoms Road Great Florida Birding Trail FWC 1 . Welcome Center Wakulla County (CTE) Panacea . Big Bend Maritime Center Wakulla County 3 . Otter Lake Recreation Area SMNWR (CTE) Ochlockonee Bay Mashes Sands Park Wakulla County 1 US 98 and Mashes Sands Road (CTE) US 98 – Franklin County Bald Point State Park FSP 1 CR 370 - Alligator Point (CTE) US 98 St. Teresa Leonard’s Landing and Alligator Harbor FDOT 1 (CTC) CR 30A/Gulf Avenue and Marine St. Carrabelle Historical Museum City of Carrabelle 1 . Camp Gordon Johnston City of Carrabelle . Carrabelle Beach Franklin County (CTC) US 98 west of Carrabelle 4 . Crooked River Lighthouse City of Carrabelle . Tate’s Hell SF/High Bluff Coastal Hiking Trail FSF (CTC) US 98 east of jct. SR 65 Tate’s Hell SF/back road to Dwarf Cypress Boardwalk FSF 1

Page 70 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan APPENDICES

Appendix A – Applicable CMP Goals, Objectives, and Strategies

Appendix B – Audience Analysis Data

Appendix C – Existing Landscape and Design Character

Appendix D – Structural Materials Recommendations

Appendix E – FDOT Signage Plan (reserved)

Page 71 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Notes

Page 72 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Appendix A - Applicable CMP Goals, Strategy 4.1.6: Provide interpretation of turpentining in- Objectives, and Strategies for Interpretation and dustry and remaining “cat-face” pines. Wayshowing Strategy 4.1.7: Provide interpretation of the history of By- way communities. INTERPRETATION Strategy 4.1.8: Provide handicap access to, and interpreta- From Chapter 5 of the Corridor Management Plan, goals, ob- tion of, “Cathedral of the Palms” and other key destinations jectives, and strategies describe the desired future conditions along the Florida Trail. for interpretation along the Big Bend Scenic Byway. Strategy 4.1.9: Encourage and assist St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge in providing public access to and interpre- Goal 4: Provision of Education and Telling the Corridor tation of Goose Creek Seineyard, possibly with observation Story tower, picnic facility, periodic reenactment of “Seineyard The Big Bend Scenic Byway shall offer residents and visitors Days,” and opportunity for concessionaire to serve smoked alike educational insights into the area’s rich history and mullet. unique intrinsic resources through interpretive displays, live demonstrations, festivals, museums, special events, and other Strategy 4.1.10: Explore possible uses of old Fire Towers media. on SR 65 and US 319 as interpretive sites. Strategy 4.1.11: Encourage establishment of new Black Objective 4.1: Expand Interpretive Displays and Improve bear displays along corridor. Informational Signage Strategy 4.1.12: Provide interpretation of old growth Strategy 4.1.1: Work with county and local authorities, area cypress stands in the Rocky Bluff area through improved stakeholders, and administrators of parks, forests, and ref- public facilities and establishment of observation points. uges to provide improved and expanded interpretive displays Strategy 4.1.13: Support the development of a gateway throughout the corridor. Welcome/Interpretive Center for intrinsic resources and the Strategy 4.1.2: Give more prominence to signage and in- Apalachicola National Forest at the Lake Bradford tract. terpretation for Dwarf Cypress Dome. Objective 4.2: Promote Byway through Annual Festivals Strategy 4.1.3: Provide interpretation of red-cockaded and Celebrations woodpecker tree banding. Strategy 4.2.1: Establish Scenic Byway sub-group to coor- Strategy 4.1.4: Improve interpretation of Cherokee Sink. dinate scheduling of annual festivals and events to avoid Strategy 4.1.5: Provide interpretation on smaller, less overlap and competition insofar as possible. known historic sites, like Bethel. Strategy 4.2.2: Expand Wakulla Birding and Wildlife Fes- tival to a full week.

Page 73 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Strategy 4.2.3: Coordinate promotion of all Byway events on the ecological and economic values of the practice; and festivals and maintain a common calendar. Promote FireWise practices and wider understanding of personal responsibility for prevention of destructive wildfires; Strategy 4.2.4: Encourage establishment of new festivals, Educate property owners and visitors on the importance of such as a Seaside Bear Festival at Ochlockonee River and vegetation management to help minimize pollution runoffs to Bald Point State Parks or a Byway-wide rummage sale. surrounding natural areas, such as rivers and bays.

Chapter 14 of the Corridor Management Plan, the Action Plan Displays. Provide improved and expanded interpretive further describes how the Byway vision will be achieved. From displays; Provide interpretation of red-cockaded woodpecker Table 14.6-Interpretation/Signage: tree banding; Improve interpretation of Cherokee Sink; Provide interpretation of smaller, less known historic sites, Themed Signage. Establish Byway-themed signing plan for like Bethel; Provide interpretation of turpentining industry wildflower sites; Encourage posting of more widespread, and remaining “cat-faced” pines; Provide interpretation of the attractive, and imaginative signage about presence and value history of Byway communities; Encourage new Black Bear of wildlife in region; Establish standard Byway-themed signage, interpretive displays; Provide interpretation of old growth interpretation, and public information. cypress stands in the Rocky Bluff area.

Local Signage. Encourage incentives/opportunities for local Sites. Explore uses of old Forest Service Fire Towers as signage that meet business and directional needs while interpretive sites; Improve and/or establish observation points helping to maintain a distinctive “Old Florida” atmosphere and in key areas. rural character wherever possible. Gateways. Establish “gateways” and/or attractive welcome Wayfinding. Improve signage for, and public access to, signs at entry points; Establish information centers at key attractions, parking, and facilities; Improve directional signage points. for access to intrinsic resources. Improve scale and location of directional sign for St. George Island on US 98 in Eastpoint; WAYFINDING Give more prominence to signage and interpretation for Dwarf Cypress Dome. The Corridor Vision (CMP, page 117) states that “Florida Scenic highway and distinctive Big Bend Scenic Byway signs Non-Conforming. Encourage local governments to remove greet visitors as they enter the Leon, Wakulla, and Franklin non-conforming and non-permitted signs. county corridor of the Big Bend Scenic Byway. Offering two distinct drives, the Forest and Coastal Trails reveal unique Consistency. Facilitate planning of interpretive sites, cultural sites and spectacular natural settings in an “Old encouraging consistently-themed logos, designs, and styles for Florida” atmosphere. both the coastal and forest trails of the byway. From Chapter 5, goals, objectives, and strategies to achieve Conservation Education. Encourage periodic prescribed that vision include: burning, and improved interpretation and public information

Page 74 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Goal 1: Preservation and Enhancement of Intrinsic Resources

The Big Bend Scenic Byway shall maintain the character of the Big Bend region through preservation and enrichment of historic sites and natural areas; encouragement of prescribed burning and other responsible resource management practices; promotion of native vegetation for landscaping; use of appropriate setbacks and screening in commercial and residential development areas; protection of wildlife; and improvement of recreational facilities, interpretive sites, and access to scenic views.

Objective 1.6: Enhance Recreational Facilities and Scenic Sites

Strategy 1.6.1: Improve signage for, and public access to, area attractions, parking, and facilities.

Strategy 1.6.2: Encourage more widespread dissemination and use of The Guide to the Big Bend Scenic Byway.

Strategy 1.6.3: Work with authorities of area parks, forests, refuges, and recreation sites to establish standard Byway-themed signage, interpretation, and public information.

Page 75 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Notes

Page 76 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Appendix B – Audience Analysis Data Per the Leon County Tourist Development Council Visitor Profile (2005): From 2004-2005, the number of people Growth (CMP, page 56) attending museums/historical sites and participating in • Leon County has an approximate population of 250,000; it nature-based activities continues to increase. Shopping and is growing also, but not as fast as Wakulla County. sporting event attendance declined. • Leon County serves tourists within a 19 county region (5 in south Georgia) with a combined population of Apalachicola National Forest Visitation more than 750,000. This region attracts a growing tourist The most recent National Visitor Use Measurement survey audience of approximately 2.5 million visitors annually. was in fiscal year 2006. The results, published in July 2007, • Franklin County is not as fast-growing as Wakulla or Leon, estimated that the Apalachicola NF had around 436,200 but future new development will play a prominent part in national forest visits that year. Demographic information its eventual growth, especially around Eastpoint. pertinent to the Big Bend Scenic Byway project is shown • Wakulla County (approximately 22,863) will continue to below. be one of the fastest-growing counties in Florida over the next 30 years, with an estimated growth rate of 91% by Percent of National Forest Visits by Gender 2030 when it reaches 43,655. National Forest Number in Survey Gender Visits (%) Party Growth (National Forests in Florida, Interpretive/ Female 17.2 115 Conservation Education Plan, 2007) From April 2000 to July 2006, Florida’s population grew by Male 82.8 258 13.2% while the rest of the nation grew by 6.4%. Nearly 1,000 Total 100.0 373 new residents moved to Florida each day. Slower growth is expected during the first decade of the 21st century Percent of National Forest Visits by Age National Forest Number in Survey Age Group Visitation (CMP, page 58) Visits (%) Party • Per a 2003 Mid-Florida Marketing and Research, Inc. research report for Wakulla County, visitation can be Under 16 12.9 79 described as follows: 16-19 4.3 18 • First time, out-of-state visitors: 53% 20-29 16.4 62 • First time, in-state visitors: 28% 30-39 14.6 74 • Repeat visitors (more than 1 visit in the past 5 years): 96% • Went to the beach: 22% 40-49 18.0 53 • Fished: 59% 50-59 18.7 59 • Visited Wakulla Springs State Park: 52% 60-69 9.2 22 • Birded: 23% • Sightseeing water cruise: 28% 70 + 5.8 9 • General sightseeing: 17% Total 99.9 376 • Traveled by auto: 92%

Page 77 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Activity Participation

Main # Average Main # Average Total Activity Total Activity Activity Respondents Hours Doing Activity Respondents Hours Doing Activity Participation (% Activity Participation (% (% of NF As Main Main Activity (% of NF As Main Main Activity of NF visits) of NF visits) visits) Activity (Hours) visits) Activity (Hours)

Hunting 57.0 50.6 37 9.8 Nature Study 3.8 0.0 0 . Fishing 21.3 12.2 27 3.6 Visiting Historic 2.8 0.0 0 . Viewing Natural Sites 17.0 6.9 7 1.8 Features Gathering Forest 2.6 0.0 0 . Other Non- Products 11.5 6.1 38 2.2 motorized Horseback 1.9 0.0 0 . OHV Use 8.4 4.2 3 3.5 Riding Nature Center Viewing Wildlife 41.0 4.0 4 4.5 1.3 0.0 0 . Activities Hiking / Walking 33.3 3.0 9 5.2 Resort Use 0.0 0.0 0 . Picnicking 10.6 1.9 11 3.3 Snowmobiling 0.0 0.0 0 . Motorized Trail 11.2 1.9 1 3.0 Activity Downhill Skiing 0.0 0.0 0 Cross-country Bicycling 4.1 1.7 15 1.4 0.0 0.0 0 Skiing Relaxing 28.4 1.0 7 5.2 Backpacking 0.0 0.0 0 . Primitive 2.1 0.0 0 . Some Other Camping 1.4 1.1 9 1.1 Activity Developed 5.4 0.9 9 21.8 Camping Driving for 42.6 0.2 2 2.3 Primary Purpose of Trip that Included a Visit to Apalachicola Pleasure National Forest Non-motorized Percent Of 4.8 0.2 2 9.5 Primary Trip Purpose Water NF Visits Other Motorized 2.5 0.1 1 12.0 Not Recreation Trip - NF Visit Was Side Trip 0.5 Activity Some Other Trip Purpose 0.1 Motorized Water 5.4 0.0 0 . Recreation Trip: This Forest Is Destination 95.0 Activities Recreation Trip: Destination Is Somewhere Else 4.4

Page 78 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Top Ten ZIP Codes of Apalachicola National Forest Survey St. George Island SP Wildwood Inn Respondents Visitation for FY2008 Room nights for 2008 Home # Of % Of State County Location Respondents Respondents July 28,054 Jan. 509 32327 FL Wakulla 19 10.3 Aug. 13,107 Feb. 641 32303 FL Leon 17 9.2 Sept. 11,958 March 656 32310 FL Leon 17 9.2 Oct. 10,902 April 701 32321 FL Liberty 14 7.6 Nov. 8,586 May 640 32301 FL Leon 12 6.5 Dec. 6,077 June 505 32304 FL Leon 8 4.3 Jan. 5,828 July 590 32305 FL Leon 6 3.2 Feb. 9,958 Aug. 531 32308 FL Leon 6 3.2 March 16,609 Sept. 430 32322 FL Franklin 6 3.2 April 18,748 Oct. 597 32312 FL Leon 5 2.7 May 23,832 Nov. 473 June 24,592 Dec. 373 Total 178,251

St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge Visitor’s Center: 67,453 in 2002; up 43% from 1999. Almost 200,000 tourists traveled CR 59 (Lighthouse Road) through the Refuge to its terminus at the St. Marks Lighthouse (up 2% from 1999) Per Robin Will: Visitation for FY08 was 260,000.

Page 79 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Office of Greenways and Trails - Managed Lands Visitor Count - 2007 and 2008 Tallahassee St. Tallahassee St. Marks Trail - Marks Trail - 2007 2008

JAN 13,918 10,093 FEB 8,762 10,908 MAR 14,974 13,468 APR 12,183 15,142 MAY 22,518 20,063 JUN 12,731 19,300 JUL 15,194 15,977 AUG 11,809 31,805 SEP 15,104 22,210 OCT 11,750 19,357 NOV 9,904 26,199 DEC 9,634 22,285

Trail 158,481 226,807 Totals

Data kept at fee areas has been used to make estimates for the number of vehicles coming to that site. Abbreviations for SITE in the table below stand for: Camel Lake Recreation Area (day use), Camel Lake Recreation Area (camping), Hickory Landing, Leon Sinks Geological Area, Mack Landing, Silver Lake Recreation Area, Whitehead Landing, Wright Lake Recreation Area (camping).

SITE OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUNE JULY AUG SEPT CL(D) 45 26 8 14 1 33 38 113 373 311 87 96 CL(C) 7 39 84 127 147 102 54 87 77 63 17 30 HL 75 58 132 51 37 73 78 77 213 56 35 31 LS 115 214 247 293 195 220 272 210 164 130 86 103 ML 14 56 62 45 27 74 41 54 61 20 9 12 SL 310 149 60 65 46 87 199 294 588 679 148 203 WHL 8 39 39 62 109 29 44 43 60 25 15 8 WL 21 37 101 42 34 55 112 68 79 34 7 19

Page 80 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Traffic Volume and User Types According to the CMP (pages 42-46), users of the Big Bend Scenic Byway include local commuter traffic, users with a destination within the corridor, and visitor traffic. According to FDOT Traffic Volume Reports, all segments of the Byway show increasing traffic volumes over time. The Forest Trail Central and Forest Trail East receive the largest amount of traffic, while the Forest Trail West receives the lowest.

“Average Annual Growth in Daily Traffic” figures were obtained from the Apalachee Regional Planning Council. The data shows “hot spots” of traffic growth rates, as shown on the maps below:

Page 81 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Page 82 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

A map was not available for Leon County. However, data Nature and Historically-themed Travel (from the shows the following segments as having the highest increase National Forests of Florida Interpretive/Conservation in use since 1997: Education Plan, 2007) • Kinhega Drive / Tallahassee Urbanized Area Boundary to One of the most important tourism destination trends is the 3 miles north of Kinhega Drive (15.24%) growth of the educational vacation in which people combine • SR 10/ US 90/ Mahan Drive to CR 146/ Miccosukee Road fun with learning. These include cultural and historical (8.2%) destinations. According to the Travel Industry Association, • CR 146/ Miccosukee Road to CR 151/ Centerville Drive visiting historical sites and museums is the third most (9.46%) popular trip activity in the country. • SR 20/ US 27/ Apalachee Parkway to Park Avenue (10.66%) • Park Avenue to SR 10/ US 90/ Tennessee Street/ Mahan Nature/adventure travel is one of the fastest growing segments Dr. (14.93%) of travel and tourism. Ecotourism is the most sought-after • SR 366 / Pensacola Street to SR 371 / Lake Bradford Road label. (The Ecotourism Society specifies ecotourism to be / Stadium Drive (42.52%) “responsible travel that conserves natural environments and • SR 371 / Lake Bradford Road / Stadium Drive to St. sustains the well-being of local people.”) Augustine Street (33.26%)

National and Regional Trends The Aging Population According to the US Census Bureau, the 65 and older age group is projected to continue to grow by 147% between Outdoor Recreation Trends for the Southern Region of 2000 and 2050. The National Survey on Recreation and the the Forest Service Environment (NSRE, 2004) showed that the most popular According to H. Ken Cordell and Christine Overdevest in outdoor activities for people 65 and older are walking, family their 2001 Recreation Realignment Analysis, there are several gatherings, driving for pleasure, picnicking, and viewing/ general observations about outdoor recreation in the Southern photographing nature. Older Americans will continue to be Region (which includes Florida): active outdoors, but require greater accessibility for many of their activities. • Viewing and photographing fish, wildlife, birds, wildflowers, and native trees are among the fastest growing outdoor recreation activities. • The National Forests of Florida market area (the area that all counties within a 75-mile radius fall into from the forest border) is expecting a much higher growth than is expected by the Southern Region as a whole. As such, increased pressure is anticipated from recreation on the Florida forests than on others in the region. • From 2000-2020, the increase in visitation among people 55-64 years old in expected to increase by 221%. For people over 65, the increase could be as much as 280%.

Page 83 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Notes

Page 84 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Appendix C – Existing Landscape and Design The influence of “Old Florida” Character is central to the design of Big Bend Scenic Byway Wayshowing structures. In terms of the Big Bend Region, “Old Florida” connotes memories of open fields and farms; roadside stands of fresh produce; salt marshes that go on for miles; fishing boats and old docks; the sight of oystermen on their small boats with their tongs in the air; In “Places of Memory, the Places of Imagination” Paul Goldberger rows of fish houses and crab shacks; boats unloading their wrote, “The topography, the climate, and the locally available catch of the day; tall pines with cat-faces; a strong sense of materials help define the architecture. The identity of a place community and family; southern cooking; and an abundance or a region often is determined by its historical buildings, of wildlife. and by the architectural language that has been used to build its structures. Sense of place is as deeply connected to “Old Florida” can also be defined tradition as is the concept of taking inspiration from the great in terms of architecture. It can architectural styles of the past.” represent the many fish houses and shacks lined up along the coastal Creating a design theme and character for the byway should communities. The “cracker” cottages make one feel that the place they are in is like no other, that of original settlers of Northwest Florida were products of the it has special qualities that separate it from other places. It environment. They were practical structures built just off the must contribute to the local identity, but have distinction ground to allow air to circulate beneath and rise up through that gives recognition of a national scenic highway. This the floorboards and out a roof vent. Porches provided can be achieved through common architectural language, a much needed shade and allowed light into the home and chosen color palette that represents sand, sea, and forest and encouraged a sense of community and warmth. They served materials that complement the surrounding environment. as a place where neighbors could gather and provided a welcoming entrance. Comfort, sustainability and clarity were Ideas for new design elements natural elements. are taken from the surrounding architectural character. The Attention to the existing landscape should also bring details original vernacular cottages have to the design of spaces and turned out to be a good model structures. It should be in the for reinterpretation, simplified form of colors, textures, tones, and abstracted to look more modern. Design details should materials and scale as well as the resemble the comfort of familiar forms and textures such graphic details in the smallest as wood-frame structures, a porch atmosphere, gabled metal element of signs and built roofs, and generous overhangs. structures.

Page 85 Big Bend Scenic Byway

The environment of the gulf coast, the wilderness of mounted and wood routed with rounded corners and painted woodlands and wetlands of the forests and refuges will help the colors designated in the park color theme. If weathering, determine and give an overall plan that will distinguish the vandalism, or other high maintenance factors warrant Big Bend Scenic Byway from any other in the state. Influences use of aluminum signs, recreation area brown signs with of climate, landscape and heritage can be seen in the reflectorized lettering may be authorized at the district level. formation of signs and structures such as the natural placement of limestone The US Fish and Wildlife Service provides a catalog of or using limestone as a design element standard signs in their Service Sign Manual. In general, as well as water and wood. signs are manufactured of 1 ½” cedar, redwood, or ¾”high density overlay (HDO) plywood, or other suitable substrate. A color palette resembling the sun, If dimensional lumber is used, the sign may be either routed sand, water, sky, clouds, marshlands, or sandblasted. If HDO plywood is used, the face of the sign forests as well as colors taken from local is covered with vinyl sheeting and die cut letters are used. architecture are influences for design Corners are rounded on a 3” radius. Colors are specified via elements. Coastal palates should have more the “Federal Specifications 595a” color system. watercolor hues of blue, cyan, creme, yellow, violet, orange, tan and gray. Forest USDA Forest Service sign standards are given in the “Sign and palates have more earth tone hues of gray, Poster Handbook (2005) which provides a “Family of Shapes” green, brown, gold, amber and blue. system of signs, with the shape and design dictated by the location and use of the sign. Substrates are not specified; The byway design elements are meant to however, colors must adhere to those specified via the “Federal create emotions and invoke memories of Specifications 595a” color system. Old Florida; a treasure for generations to come. Direction for the design of structures and facilities are in the The beauty of the place should give the Forest Service’s “Built Environment Image Guide” (BEIG). Big architectural elements life. Bend Scenic Byway falls into the “Southeast Coastal” theme of the BEIG and is described as follows: Existing Agency Design Standards “Broad overhangs and continuous porches with the concept of Design standards vary among the agencies maximum air circulation and ventilation are appropriate. Colors along the Big Bend Scenic Byway, both in in this region follow the light grays and tans of tree bark and their specific requirements and in the scope sands. Greens of palm and pine, with accents in the pastels, and of their guidance. Most agency direction focuses primarily corals fit this environment. If the geographic area incorporates on safety and directional signs and, in general, if signs parts of the Lower Piedmont, color mimicking the red clay comply with the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices can be used effectively as accents. Light colors help to reflect (MUTCD), they will be suitable for agency use. heat, consider in projects that require roofing materials. Use of synthetic materials will work if they resemble natural materials, Florida State Parks calls for non-regulatory signs to be post are durable, require less maintenance.”

Page 86 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Appendix D – Structural Material treated to the higher levels if at all possible. Recommendations Metal Roofing Specifications Tuff-Rib is an extremely durable metal roofing material Wood Specifications starting from the metal to the baked on paint finish. To fabricate: starts with quality high tensile steel, coat with a Rough sawn timbers are recommended to give a traditional tough Galvalume® zinc-aluminum coating, pre-treat it with look and style to the structures. Use where most visible (e.g., primer, coat it with a baked-on enamel (40-45 year warranty) posts and rails). siliconized polyester paint system, then roll-form it to specified lengths. Preservative treatments: Retention level refers to the amount of preservative that remains in the wood after the treatment Gauge: 26 ga standard or better is recommended. A 24 ga is process is complete. It is measured on a weight basis and is available at higher cost. typically expressed as pounds of preservative per cubic foot (pcf) of wood. There are a number of typical retention levels available. Generally, the harsher the condition the wood is Concrete Plazas exposed to, the higher the retention level must be. It is recommended that a colored, stamped concrete design be used in the construction of the plazas under the kiosks and For above-ground use/exposures (where the wood is not in pedestrian walkways. Colors should blend with the location contact with the soil), the following retentions are typical: and proposed structure. There are numerous patterns for 0.25 pcf for ACQ, CCA-C, MCQ concrete stamping in stock; alternately, a custom design can 0.20 pcf for CBA-A be developed specifically for the Big Bend Scenic Byway. 0.10 pcf for CA-B Coastal structures could have a stamping pattern like shells, fish, bird tracks or maritime themes. Forest structures could For ground-contact use/exposures (where wood is in contact have localized leaf imprints (palmetto, pine) or animal with soil), the following retentions are typical: tracks from forested animals. Patterns should support the 0.40 pcf for ACQ, CCA-C, MCQ interpretive theme and storyline(s) at the site. 0.41 pcf for CBA-A 0.21 pcf for CA-B

For wood with actual retention levels greater than 0.40 pcf for ACQ MCQ, 0.41 pcf for CBA-A, or 0.21 pcf for CA-B (ground contact), stainless steel connectors and fasteners are recommended. Verify the actual retention level with the wood treater.

Due to the environmental conditions in the locations of the structures (coastal and forested regions) for the Big Bend Scenic Byway, it is recommended that the wood be

Page 87 Big Bend Scenic Byway

Notes

Page 88 Interpretive & Wayshowing Plan

Appendix E – FDOT Signage Plan (reserved)

Page 89