Rocky Brushy Creek Watershed Mgmt. Plan (2007) -- Part 2

EXISTING NATURAL SYSTEMS CONDITIONSPriority restoration measures at these areas include:1. Diversion and treatment of untreated stormwater runoff,2. Exotic species removal.3. Reshaping channel banks to eliminate erosion and undercutting,4. Trash removal, and5. Re-establishing desirable native plant species consistent with the original habitat andcompatible with the needs of each transportation facility.Other candidate areas for restoration include:1. Lake shores where shoreline vegetation has been completely cleared – Assistance shouldbe provided to willing lakefront property owners to re-establish desirable emergent aquaticplants to promote lake fisheries, reduce erosion potential, and protect lake water qualityfrom fertilizers and pesticides.2. Roadway rights-of-way where exotic species have become established – Following theremoval of exotic species, desirable native species should be planted, and a maintenanceprogram should be implemented to ensure restoration success. Appropriate signage ateach restoration site should be erected for public education purposes.3. Enhancement of habitat on Channel A, where feasible, to promote fisheries and safe publicaccess for fishing and birding.4. Restoration of native habitats on public lands within the watershed – A detailed assessmentof public lands should be performed in which specific areas needing restoration should beidentified. Areas should be prioritized according to expected benefits to water resources inthe watershed, and projects should be undertaken that improve and protect water quality.8.7 Regulations Protecting Natural SystemsAs part of the development of the Rocky Creek - Brushy Creek watershed management plan,existing regulatory mechanisms that protect natural communities within the watershed andthroughout the County were researched and reviewed. Regulations are an important component inthe protection, maintenance, preservation, and conservation of natural lands.HCEPC Wetland RuleThe Hillsborough County Environmental Protection Commission’s (HCEPC) Chapter 1-11(Wetlands) Rule provides standards for the identification, protection, maintenance, and utilizationof wetlands in Hillsborough County.8-48Rocky/Brushy Creek Watershed Management Plan