Turpentine Mitigation Bank
The Turpentine Wetland Mitigation Bank is 478.2 acres and located in Hernando County. Aerial photographs from 1952 to present indicate the site’s hydrological regime has had major fluctuations. There are 12 known sinkholes on the property that range from a few feet to 100 feet across. The sinkholes periodically open and drain the surrounding wetlands, eventually becoming plugged by debris, resulting in flooding of the site. During periods of high groundwater levels, the sinkholes become flooded indicating a direct connection to the aquifer which is a known drinking water source. The site has been altered by pine plantations, fire suppression, and development of the Eckerd Youth Camp (1968-2012), which adversely impacted the vegetative communities and ecologic and hydrologic connectivity.
The goal of the TWMB is to enhance, restore, and preserve wetland and upland ecosystems to improve fish and wildlife habitat and connectivity and the integrity of the ecological communities within the watershed. The proposed work plan includes hydrologic enhancements, restoration of native plant communities, removal of structures and infrastructure, and control of exotic and non-native species. A conservation easement will be granted to the Alachua Conservation Trust to be managed in perpetuity.
