The diversity of natural communities within a small
area is one of Guana River WMA's most striking features. For
example, from the observation tower along Capo Road you can see
salt marsh, maritime hammocks, and pine flatwoods.
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Betsy Purdum
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These communities are highly influenced by coastal
maritime conditions and are similar to the Sea Island Coastal
Region of southern Georgia.
Management
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Betsy Purdum - Six inch artesian well.
Betsy Purdum - Regrowth in pinelands
several days after prescribed burn.
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Biologists at Guana River are actively involved in
a number of management and restoration activities. Water levels on
Lake Ponte Vedra and the interior impoundments are controlled to
produce a mosaic of desirable, natural plant communities of benefit
to wildlife.
Scrub is being restored through roller chopping and
the use of prescribed fire. Pine flatwoods are being managed
through thinning and prescribed fire on a 3-5 year rotation.
Maritime forest hammocks and salt marshes are not fire dependent
and are thus managed passively.
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