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CC Resolution No. 1338 RESOLUTION NO. 1338 2561 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN, TEXAS, ADOPTING THE BAYTOWN NATURE CENTER MASTER PLAN AND PROVIDING FOR THE EFFECTIVE DATE THEREOF. +*x**+s***�s*ssrt•rrrr►*****•r**�**r*s*s****�:***�s*ssr*rr■a*******■rr�*:*�*�*+***:**►■r*. WHEREAS, in 1996, the Parks and Recreation Board (the "Board") appointed a subcommittee of interested citizens to assist in the development of an updated master plan for the Baytown Nature Center(the Subcommittee"); and WHEREAS, the Board, Subcommittee, and the City's staff have worked with the SWA Group, the City's consultant,to develop such updated plan; and WHEREAS, the citizens of Baytown were given an opportunity to voice their opinions, recommendations, and concerns regarding the master plan during the planning process; and WHEREAS, based upon all of the information obtained, the Board, Subcommittee, City's Staff and the SWA Group have developed the Baytown Nature Center Master Plan, which incorporates a prioritized twenty-year implementation schedule as well as specified project cost estimates; and WHEREAS,the plan also includes information concerning the site's history and existing physical state and presents goals and objectives for the site,property acquisition,planning zones, physical zones, and overall development of the nature center; and WHEREAS,both the Board and the Subcommittee recommend to the City Council that the Baytown Nature Center Master Plan be adopted;NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN, TEXAS: Section 1: That the City Council of the City of Baytown, Texas, has reviewed and hereby adopts the Baytown Nature Center Master Plan,which is marked Exhibit"A"and is attached hereto and incorporated herein for all intents and purposes. Section 2: This resolution shall take effect immediately from and after its passage by the City Council of the City of Baytown, Texas. INTRODUCED, READ and PASSED, by the affirmative vote of the City Council of the City of Baytown this the 16th day of December, 1997. PETE C. ALFAR , Mayor ATTEST: 9� Z_ . EILEEN P. HALL, City Clerk APPROVED AS TO FORM: JeKACIO RAMIREZ, SR., ttorney c:klh7O\Council\ResolutionslAdoptingBaytownN atureCenterMasterPlan.Resolution CITY OF BAYTOWN,TEXAS B AY T O W N NATURE_ CENTER MASTER PLAN (� :��'r}� \ s hyM 1 , ri '1S r -'�' t r1 I `•`) ' x .71.1,'144e :7 71 r-�•." .•,sr ,.77 I.' r - d� V a r'. t tx. 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Appendix 52-62 TABLEOF CONTENTS kfr .. },�+ t 535 S -th Y Ink/N n*✓vt..NN yy f y S✓ x'V' J i Y # l. s fir, xt�riA y r ty `f tgp , a's c �'a'- ktb..s . SWA Group and Couch Environmental Services, Inc.would like to Mayor Pete C. Alfaro acknowledge the support of the following individuals in the Master Plan process for the Baytown Nature Center: Council Members Victor Almendarez, District 1 Scott Sheley, District 2 Manuel Escontrias, District 3 E. Frank Hinds,Jr., District 4 David Byford, District 5 Stephen DonCarlos, District 6 City of Baytown Wayne Gray, Chairman Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Henry Armstrong Tony Fama Bennie Kadjar Doug Shipley Carmen Torres Ralph Ugalde Baytown Nature Center David Dauphin Planning Subcommittee Howard Hunt Merle Hunt Bob Nailon Bruce Riggs Janet Simon W.C. Smith Agency Liaison and Technical Advisor Brian Cain, Ph.D.-U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service City Manager Bobby Rountree Assistant City Managers Herb Thomas Eileen Hall Monte Mercer City of Baytown David Ondrias, Director Parks and Recreation Department Scott Johnson, Superintendent of Parks Dean Bigham, Superintendent of Recreation i .l Y 1 �k l � � 1. F 4 � v t j ,• 5 �[ 9 „ i ali 5 t 4 p nR Y} T \� ..AW+ �k., Y � .4 �� t t a a 1n��! �' S 5 t wn� +. j. � � 5 `,?,+' xai � 1 � �'<pf r �, v e �47r Yank x ) f r 'T x f � r r.� r P }'SS lyKa T ��w i'7�•.. t �u d ��� i r I�A �f �w i, ���'� x zt4Y 5r ��"aSy�;T�.r,� 4U' v. 4 `i T t .a e4 � t art �+cx�;ig���{.���xH �i� �,,.yM�t��, ,n.,.z f���4` i i. 1 � � c .�� '•+ of . F Baytown Location Map The city of "11k11p " ense� �' �t-e, ,ynn v� { located 201 Baytown, east of Houstonjex$as along ZL I ell v"°° 5env�l�e ��Tmny —��- 111 the eastern edge of the Galveston Bay teems tar e 1 �1 tl o n DPs� Estuary and the Houston Ship Channel in ,90 as vY \ S`S ))} t Harris County. ��'IVfan ten¢ I°°� / Nunl in Iv A Y, �¢ In. 1( � me, WCollege Station — �K bgvrI 1 Snook' na k /^� ._�B-�✓ ly cotes y AA \ J(IV` vv1vv %/ S e. In � 41 IRoave Inyl / �/ \ Shepherd IL9. • a N II,s / N to Men Iy y 1 5 P 111 1 / - ,) K ( e Ee'ee`I 190 Lon D¢ uewe9vnle SDI¢nJurO IJ 9 item elaJ s JJJ �_.. v,nml �,ne _290 Hp \ N DI S to %A (t sp V e R JVOP Os1 e0U 90. V, 1 „Nail\ DeY`vn c ynu 9 6Pon�o e f\` G c Beu n 7/ 3 Devers cn k� fJBJge city $� b Pe yetlev,ne A 2`IJ n J lend J ,' / ro' 1 e L.E. Wont I uJ or[Art�ua� se EPUDp < lr _ me 0 IBBS tOn I Myn1e s ¢eeuac �(( Neimei C.I..b. Seely Nest Unl e+91 y Plee St 'well, -�Oeyt - -�S¢n I nufy �N 111 // 90 � L b ^3✓ y— \ ' /5 o SV ee I OVIn yet. E ylp lek RO n g R n d P 1 J xee eRarrpe �E1f¢ J e i[6 g city CeI- .Ran U 'ne lE tB¢r I- d ./R 1 Dklns e S eon L b cn � r� c 1- I� Wnerlen 20e Nnncock Cle%35'Clty /I a 1aly, J k /Galvest �Tvl Memo c eau ��55 Q tek¢J.�i kS�n/ � IEdn\a I Be y.Cit9 �. 4 uteaC nalknem E e e. 1� 5 I510 Benth 59 Le Nele r 55ri pey 0Nn onl lVrlUlr(e Reluge Id P !✓/ \ Rl nnminnlnn -�'" fly-..�/f ���d/ INTRODUCTION Site Location Map The Baytown Nature Center is approximately 400 acres of uplands and submerged land of the former Brownwood subdivision. Located on a peninsula, it is surrounded by Scott Bay to the south, Burnett Bay to the north, and Crystal Bay with the Houston Still) Channel i to the west. Access to the center is presently ,a.. n AlW r -r i I off Bayway Drive via Shreck Avenue. n lil i t3 � —� �� eCr 1 —11,G,�� Baytown Nature Center Planning 6qn�� y. t. 9 Subcommittee I By .D, stile _ In 1996, the City Parks and Recreation Advisory Board established a new / f,°r � �` �f subcommittee to assist the board and city � ��— - staff in bringing special focus to the ongoing ;jam I planning and development of the Baytown Nature Center. Its charge is to guide and ,46 direct the development of the Master Plan. ! '� 9eyto"n 9 iraa Iaa i VVV J` 4 l` z4i� J146I U G "142 L Pr ,p Vo nl Be \ J _ 2 � E...... nPoln AG I - � Ibnb lfleM INTRODUCTION i Overall Site Photo This photo is an aerial view of the Baytown Nature Center from the southwest. Wooster Point is at the bottom of the photograph, Scott Bay to the lower right, Crystal Bay to the left, and Burnett Bay at the top. The French Limited Wetland Restoration Project is in the center of the image. Tw-• , 3 r � f Birdseye view i Detail The view taken in this photograph (left) is the completed French Limited Wetland --r Project showing the creation of a newwetland area,a major amenity of the Baytown Nature Center. This area is located at the southwestern-most part of the Nature Center _a and provides an area for hiking,nature study, and outdoor educational activities. Wetland Area Detail The photo at the lower left shows San Jacinto Point,located at the northwestern part of the Nature Center. This site provides an excellent place for fishing,picnicking,walking,jogging, and bird watching. San Jacinto Point INTRODUCTION , , � � T r-, ��� . : , -� �f-., , � i Consultant Selection and Contract Planning Schedule Award The schedule outlined a five month program SWA Group and its consultant, Crouch for development of the Master Plan. Work Environmental Services, Inc.,were selected began in late March, 1997,with a program in February, 1997, by the City of Baytown. of work sessions and master planning tasks The scope of work included the creation of a leading to completion of the Master Plan in Master Plan with a Long Range Development November,1997. Plan for the Baytown Nature Center. SWA was authorized to proceed March 19, 1997. First Workshop and Site Tour A workshop meeting and site tour was held on Sunday, May 4,1997. The purpose of the meeting was to brainstorm opportunities and goals for the Nature Center through discussion of the topics: Stewardship & Conservation, Access & Use,and Policy and Regulation. The design team reviewed the physical characteristics of the Nature Center property,discussed the master plan schedule and reviewed the planning time frames for the Center; see pages 38-40 for the implementation phasing strategies. Nature Center planning session set Thursday night Second workshop The Design Team presented its planning studies at the second workshop meeting on By CHRISM MESSA Center's Tejas Room, 2407 Market The nature center was added to May 29, 1997, at the Baytown Community 7be[krlioicn,Sun St. the Great Texas Birding Trail in Center. The purpose of this meeting was to "fhe Parks and Recreation Advi- April, introduce a preliminary plan for the Nature Baytown residents are invited to sory Board and the Baytown Na- Consuhants will discuss the cen- Center and to receive input and response offer their suggestions about the ture Center Planning Subcommittee ter's habitat in terns of its possible from Baytown citizens,members of the Parks continued development of the Bay- are holding a joint work session to uses and limitations and offer their and Recreation Advisory Board and the town Nature Center during a city hear the public's ideas for the420- ovwt ideas for the site. Baytown Nature Center Planning brainstorm session at 5 p.m.Thurs- acre nature center, located off Bay- The consultants will also wel- Subcommittee. day in the Baytown Community way Drive on Schreck Road. come advice from residents. Following this presentation,the design team refined the master plan and developed enlarged plans for the entry and San Jacinto Point areas of the Center. These refinements were presented to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and the Baytown Nature _ Center Planning Subcommittee at a joint Mapping and Concepts meeting on June 30, 1997. ( �JQiTptOtUlT a�llll SWA developed planning studies that 71WWNIownNature center imtwnsgrcrner) included Physical Zone Diagram, Planning Presentation of Plans and Draft -- Zone Diagram, Property ownership Diagram, Report and Preliminary Program Diagram in SWA Group and its consultant, Crouch response to the feedback from the Baytown Environmental Services, Inc., presented the Nature Center Planning Subcommittee on the plans and draft report to the Parks and +` May 4 workshop. Recreation Advisory Board and the Baytown Nature Center Planning Subcommittee at a Media Coverage Dint meeting on August 12, 1997. The master planning process received notice E1 . IServce a MAa¢ax Mk ,A�IYn Wai *1 Muo F'.a.b.9d in the Baytown newspaper, The Baytown Sun, b� with announcements for the public planning session on May 29, 1997. PROCESSIII. PLANNING ua'k" rxlt Tt .nor; e�i n pa v 'J r ax ra r�CtF� xs a¢ a"V 'A B.: Y°i 'k 1 }1} r v b i3 +YG a pid f�• ..�r' 'z.. 3p ' � k'y $bt 41t? Y`Fy e� - ' •. �" era � i� k.��� �^' :.Y, # wT 3 A Brief History of the Brownwood By the early 1970s there were over 400 Peninsula homes in the Brownwood subdivision,and it The coastal margin of southeast Texas, was considered a prime and desirable place including the Brownwood area,has seen great to live. Withdrawal of underground water and ' changes over its history. Dining the Ice Ages, subsequent land subsidence caused the area the Brownwood area was well inland of the to sink 10 to 15 feet. In 1961, Hurricane coast. After the Pleistocene period, around Carla caused serious flooding and many t 3,500 years ago, the sea level rose until it residents lost their homes. Pumps and levees reached approximately its current level. were installed to protect the neighborhood, Evidence of human habitation along the Texas but proved to be inadequate. After Hwricane coast dates from 11,000 to 12,000 years ago. Alicia in 1983, many residents sold their In the Pre-Columbian period,the Galveston properties and others were required to leave. Bay estuary system provided a rich Utility services were cut off, most of houses environment for hunting and gathering for the were demolished and most of the land area �t indigenous Indian tribes of Akokisa, became the properly of the City of Baytown. The river bars and peninsulas that defined <arankawa,and others. Deer,wildfowl, fish, 1993 Context Photo and shellfish were available in abundance,as Burnett,Crystal,and Scott Bays disappeared were nuts, berries,and edible roots. during the years of subsidence, exposing the shoreline to serious wave erosion.The changes Tentatively explored by Europeans in the 17th caused by groundwater withdrawal and and 18th centuries, the area finally was subsidence meant the loss of the fresh water settled by ranchers and cotton farmers in the springs that were historically found in Crystal early to mid-19th century. In 1824 the Bay' Mexican Republic granted Nathaniel Lynch a league of land (which roughly comprised the Brownwood land mass) for farming and stock raising. By 1892 the land had passed into the hands of O.A.Wooster and W.D.Crow, who then passed it to E.R. Brown. In 1912 Brown sold the western properties to the United States for the construction of the Houston Ship Channel. In the late 1930s he subdivided the remaining property into the Brownwood Subdivision. IV. HISTOR-Ylo 6 h� After Hurricane Alicia, the area was left t fallow for more than a decade. Nearby residents used the abandoned streets and i� ;, " home slabs for bird watching, fishing and � `� picnicking. Some of the roads were gated with steel pipe in an attempt to control illegal " - dumping. Salt water intrusion into the neighborhood created shallowtidal wetlands 1 4— in the lower lying areas, and the abandoned storm drains provided a conduit for tidal water. r- .� � In 1995 the southwestern portion of the subdivision was selected as a wetlands mitigation site for the French Limited Superfund cleanup project. Sixty acres of the subdivision were plowed and transformed ' into a mix of tidal wetlands, fresh and Subsidence and flooding brackish water pools, and upland forest .. habitats. v In 1997 the Baytown Nature Center was designated both as a site on the Great Texas a I Coastal Birding Trail by Texas Parks and Wildlife and a United States Important Bird Area by the American Bird Conservancy. er. These designations are recognitions the variety and quantity of local and migratory tory birds that find refuge and forage on the site. Transformation back to nature ClioCultural History In planning for the management of any •• T"W- habitat at Baytown Nature Center, special ARTESIAN KART wr0p preconsirvatiion must be nandinerpret do of he F n°P preservation and interpretation of the cultural values existing within the area. However;the location and extent of each of the cultural areas is not known with certainty. In addition to historic cultural components of the Baytown Nature Center, there are prehistoric sites. The area was an obvious destination for native Americans because of important resources, including fresh water, fish and shellfish, and bigger game. q ��4,4 Prehistoric shell midden sites have been f4i, _ documented in the area. While much Is known s" about the nature and distribution of shell I •^. �, midden sites along the area's waterways,little is known about the use of prairie and forest resources. While exploitation of forest resources obviously occurred, few coastal : sites in forest settings have been identified and studied. w � IV. HISTORY12 rr P 9 xa t _ e Mr sir 'V i 3• 1 "w.*Ps�� e � s � � qr� t i°°0�r a �' t. yYz•�rw�'d�'A � i �1mMFf Sr, 04 � �. 5` � � + „c W C r(". a- > sg r � 3z�hx^,• 'wt`� � r w y ,. , 4 Topography .� The topographic elevations of the Baytown _ Nature Center range from a high of 15-20 �•�t :,; - feet above sea level to just a few feet above sea level. (The normal waters of the San Jacinto River and the Burnett, Crystal, and Scott Bays are 3-4 feet above true mean sea level.)The land is at its highest along the east �/lfM property line and the Bayway Drive frontage. Sloping gently to the west for several hundred feet,the land makes a sharp drop to just above sea level. Most of the western land lies 2-4 r •J-- -- feet above water level,with a third of that at or below normal water level,creating pockets A . _ _ - I' of internal wetlands. Hydrology �v The slope of the upland area is flat enough . ,- y 9 ; —• i - to create numerous small pockets of saturated ". soils during the wet part of the year. Runoff --- - �'- �: from the east, including Bayway Drive, is '..,G 5'C9TT ;g- intercepted by the Steinman Ditch, which j r drains to the north along the east property JRht f line. The central part of the site receives runoff from the upper property by sheet flow and by the abandoned roadside ditches. in <r the western part of the site there are cry a numerous small pockets of trapped fresh water which become brackish from —. "' infiltrating salt water during dry spells. It is possible that there are some minor fresh water artesian flows from shallow aquifers that aid in replenishing some of the fresh water pockets. l r f I Vegetation Natural History Historically, the peninsula was divided into It is difficult to establish with certainty the several well-delineated habitats including vegetation series of habitats which have been intermediate and brackish marshes, upland so influenced by the occupation of the site, coastal prairies,oak mottes,and bottomland but remaining elements suggest certain hardwood forest. The boundaries between affiliations. The lowest portion of the forest these habitats were maintained by seasonal includes mature specimens of water oak, and and perennial hydrology and by fire. native pecan.The presence of willow oak,live Bottomland hardwood forest occupied a oak, sugarberry and cedar elm suggest that relatively narrow band along drainage-ways the vegetation be ascribed to the water oak- where available soil moisture permitted the coastal live oak series. Stratification of quick establishment of canopy-forming components by elevation also suggests that a deciduous hardwood trees.Once established, water oak-willow oak designation for these trees were resistant to the natural fires bottomland habitat,grading to a sugarberry- which occasionally swept through adjacent eim series community on slightly higher prairies. terraces,might be more appropriate. Mottes of live oak were the result of prairie dynamics Since the arrival of European Americans in and may not have been related tothe presence the region, the mosaic of habitats has been of bottomland hardwoods nearby. altered by agricultural practices, selective harvest of trees, changes in hydrology, Much of the need for enhancement and introduction of exotic flora and fauna, and management of this area results from alteration of natural process regimes, invasion of exotic species,principally Chinese including the elimination of fire. The Baytown tallow and Japanese privet. These species and Nature Center bottomland hardwood forests the lack of fire to maintain prairie/forest are believed to have occupied the tributaries edges have resulted in the disappearance of of the San Jacinto River. a native mid-story. Aside from yaupon and elderberry, the historic composition of this The present document will address the mid-story is unknown.Species consistent with restoration and management of the habitat other forested sites in the vicinity suggest that which occupied tributaries of San Jacinto arrow wood, viburnum, deciduous yaupon, River,freshwater marsh and salt water marsh rough-leaf dogwood, and several of the in the Baytown Nature Center. hawthorns would all be appropriate. • o The understory and ground cover are dense saturated soils should be considered. The under the existing forested upland canopy,but habitat of the bottomland hardwood forest sparse understory vegetation may represent is one component of a habitat mosaic which the historic condition under the closed canopy includes tallgrass prairie, emergent marsh, of the mature forest.It might also be expected marsh meadow, and open water. Maximum that in the mature forest, a mosaic of diversity of native wildlife will require understory and prairie species would exist management of each of these habitats,with near edges and small natural clearings.The special attention to year-round availability of death of old trees and disturbances from food,water and cover. windstorms and fires would have provided the opportunity for establishment of shade Freshwater is a particular concern. Prior to tolerant grasses and woodland fortis. subsidence and erosion,the natural drainage- Although narrow, the bands of forest which ways and ponds are believed to have been lined the secondary and tertiary drainages fresh enough to have provided year-round of the lower San Jacinto River may have drinking water for terrestrial wildlife. The exhibited clearly demarcated zones, from existing marsh has become considerably prairie to thickly overgrown edges of shrubs saltier, and availability of fresh water could and vines to closed canopy forest. This become a limiting factor for a number of suggests that careful placement of edge wildlife species because of subsidence, species during enhancement and introduction channelization in the river,and erosion of the of fire may be Important to successful marsh permitting intrusion of river water. In management. addition, permanent fresh water supports fresh water plant communities and habitats Another important consideration in the for a variety of fresh water aquatic organisms, management of the site is the existing further increasing diversity and providing topography and hydrology.The mature water additional values for terrestrial and oaks and native pecans which now grace the semiaquatic wildlife. site germinated and grew to maturity at a time when the elevation of the forest floor All recommendations for the enhancement was ten or eleven feet higher than its present and management of the Baytown Nature elevation.Trees which were once seventeen Center bottomland hardwood forest and fresh feet above sea level are now only two to seven and saline marshes will be made with a feet above sea level.Although subsidence due sensitivity to adjacent habitats and the roles to ground water pumping has been these habitats play together in supporting a terminated, negative impacts to trees from diverse and healthy ecosystem. salt water inundation and drowning in 'iV. EXISTING ' 1 Wildlife Although little effort has been made to formally inventory the fauna of the bottomland hardwood forest, observations indicate that many of the native vertebrate species expected to occur historically in this habitat are still present. An appropriate diversity of amphibians and reptiles has been observed,and although little is known of the small mammals present,rabbits,cats and fox squirrels,bobcats,coyotes and whitetail deer are known to forage between the forest and the marshes,pipeline and high line easements. Enhancement of the forest should take into account the habitat needs of these species. Some signs of beaver activity have been seen near the Myra C. Brown Bird Sanctuary. While much of the land passed into the f L ownership of the City of Baytown, significant number of parcels remain in ya`il private hands, in either fee-simple or in a partial undivided interest with the City of Z Baytown. Some of these lands are isolated subdivision lots,some are groups of lots,and som ® �+A,1a� ��. I•r}1,5.y� at, t.• r '1 M - large ots is uncertain with I o����� �Q�®_ 910��� n',�6j1'4•. ao /7'17 0��' property.the rI properties claimants I in undividedare owned by one party, including some of the larger aoa aaa±r, n ° �n'7as�' unplatted tracts in the northeast part of the r; q" REa• aCnl±�• `CSr:�, •fir \ �h A;, I Mw `:CAA'l .FB�'a;t7a !"�n:z '�'�+ �'�' a '�• �G7��>- `� , L;u rdE�rAA:�R: �M'1S°�;* y,Vn+ a<, '�v� F.a Z•'Ia �A *�+.^c 9AAE7Ci9! .`ltlSF" 'A9A"r ��4�r���•, , � ,� {`` ��.' str ■r�q or= PROPERTY NOT OWNED BY THE CITY f. 2 PROPERTY 2/3OWNED BY THE CITY V. EXISTING ENVIRONMENTI Existing Structures and Infrastructure Much of the original infrastructure of the Brownwood subdivision remains abandoned on the property. Most oft lie roads,al though in a state of disrepair and sometimes under „-; water, are still in place. The underground utilities such as the water and storm drain sY lines, sewer Tines and gas lines,though long since cut off,are also still in place and must be dealt with when excavating or modifying the terrain.Almost al I of the overhead power lines and poles have disappeared,except for the high-tension power transmission line that runs from San Jacinto Point in the west and between the old Harvey Drive and MacArthur Avenue to the east. Numerous house slabs and a few houses remain, and tr traces of many shell driveways are still visible. V. EXISTING .O c3 aY 1 r }kngs� NA�i���t,:' Sy skk ;�r.,i'nq 5�€�"g�' r .,, ..tw t i �t�,t tiSt�'� a- +v`£°�'�rF "'{,tr '� � t�'m -'` �"�+kaa Sj, t x a x w s'}. e�. �j1�nw •3 - i r I I i I fI I f k Goals and Objectives Nature Center Activities The Baytown Nature Center Planning Activities that would further the goals of Subcommittee was formed by the Baytown conservation, education and passive Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and recreation form the framework for developing made up of Baytown citizens interested in a program for the Baytown Nature Center protecting and enhancing a large piece of bay Master Plan. side property for the purposes of conservation, education and passive recreation. First and central to the program are the many elements of conservation: protection of valuable existing habitat, enhancement of marginal or degraded habitat, and construction of new habitat niches to create a sound bay-side ecosystem. 4•� � i{_, 'mil k•` In addition to natural systems stewardship, I ' creating opportunities for education forms the t second priority of the program.The Baytown Nature Center provides a laboratory for the study of man's interactions with nature over time. The program includes a nature center interpretive facility with classrooms, an auditorium, a museum,and parking. It also includes a network of trails that allows groups t and individuals to explore,discover and learn about the various wildlife communities that �,�"'• exist on the property. ,; t� • Thirdly, for the many who want to visit the bay to enjoy a sunset walk, to jog, to fish, and to picnic, the Nature Center provides adequate recreational opportunities without introducing conflicts with the needs of conservation or education. Hy,w yx; �!" vl : vit^�Y t� MyV'i t �r 'Not, {[ CS /�,,,fffrYj✓""u 1 ;/. t i( t r'.rrTd✓G�IX�'�' yFa: v, da�bwd �.(,^�, SyY �vyyyyk.. L'" � SS y�y C.� Fv >f �b $. d ,v,l v �bp v`fi C, ei.;��, ✓d$ 'dF•� i sY F„ �'[%'5 ��x� .G.' H£kA� '�Trt�b i 'rt Y P.. )'a '.t _'�'i1��I� �C� Property Acquisition Because , II I• I . parcels . . III. r- wholly owned by the City of Baytown, I a�*y y kYalparamount importance / resolve of property ownership. While some improvements can be made to the Nature Center without first clarifying property ownership, much of the Y work of providing �;,/'Jo� /f�;,���ti a ■ ,��A\�1�i. }�M `l�jkj.� i T� PTti:. S ��. good access • • - 1 ibuilding : and creatingimproved .Iitat areas,cannot occur without clear title to the property. CCC �67'"; 1b - ✓�,a]il i - diagrammatic property m.1 shows �#CC A7•n�: 14 L� r: + �� i��. - \' ri * >•"tiextent� of the ■ properties that shI 1 be acquired I implement the master plan. a... 57 ma t-. •�, .. 1 ���gyy. ,,�1}��ICA((t�A9r e n 661rpf, qp� I6 t�yt f -J'a e4� '_ram � •+� !�!• 3i:1Y.•3711r ,�;�Y �Y I����}S}i��M{qdq{�� L0d1�s�R�4i IL�L�.(j "y 11,+ ® ���n UA I� , ,� NNppCC � ' Y.IIT \� AI1'il \L � � •. q Pooh ee00��0�w®`�� PROPERTY I : ACQUIRED - 3 NEEDED TO BE ACQUIRED BY TH ITY 1/2 NEEDED TO BE ACQUIRED BY THE CITY PROJECT BOUNDARY/PROPERTY LINE I 1500 3000 - NORTH VII. THE PLAN2� The Planning Zones This plan shows the general zones of existing conditions for the entire site. This information ' was used to designate major use zones and protected areas. From this plan,the site takes on some of its themes such as the Post Oak i• Savannah,Inner Salt Water Marsh,and San SAN JACINTOY,OINT -a� ' r` Jacinto and Wooster Points. BURNETT BAY SHb iv A % ENTR J QTTS BAY ri' fl fu :r .d,•. INLET `R 1 .� . . �+ FRENCH LIMIIWD :. ' " t WETLANDS' 0 1500 3000 NORTH VII. THE PLAN 21 i The Physical Zones � Y Shown are the specific physical conditions i1 2t present on the site. The diversity of the site q ��y ��.� �- becomes apparent as opportunities and constraints are more clearly defined. From this plan, the detailed site plans are 51~ � •, •, , . � 3 �, c'' L developed. A COASTAL PROTECTION ZONE g1W P+a B SHORELINE EDGE c EXISTING OPEN TIDAL WATERS D SALTWATER MARSH E SALTWATER/FRESHWATER , :. TRANSITION ZONE F FRESHWATER POND .i G COASTAL GRASSLAND H BOTTOMLAND HARDWOODS o `'1 UPLAND MIXED FOREST K COASTAL FOREST 1 G F % B={{ N 0 1500 3000 NORTH Overall Program Diagram ENTRY GATE INTERPRETIVE CENTER S Y � 'f ��,�, C PARKING LOT K " D ENTRY POND S E TRAIL F DIVERSION G FRESHWATER POND H ONE—WAY ROAD 2 OBSERVATION PIER R \ TWO—WAY ROAD ':; K ONE—WAY LOOP ' _ Jv L STREAM M BREAKWATER/SURGE BARRIER J �! „ ' N ENHANCED TIDAL MARSH M D /.�, 0 BUTTERFLY GARDEN A II P PARKING POCKET NATURE DISCOVERY PLAYGROUND R RESTROOMS FISHING AND CRABBING PIER TRAIL/SERVICE DRIVE BOARDWALK }} W EDUCATIONAL PAVILION Vol, X OBSERVATION BLIND � � ��� ! " 'J�•,�1,�'� S'/// Y PICNICKING � i 11 i �~ } A �¢ d y��(i Z FUTURE SALTWATER TIDAL MARSH i FRENFH llµ NG IrEAlvCY NOS ' i lJ 0 1500 3000 NORTH I The Entry A proposed new entry for the property leads from Bayway Drive between Foster Street +K and Harvey Drive. The treeless land on either side of the entry drive will be shaped to create a small retention pond on one side and screening berms on the other.Native trees and vegetation will be planted around the pond and along the property edges. A simple pipe gate set into low stone or colored concrete pilasters will control traffic, and low profile fix. ,•}; signs will identify the Nature Center. Signs E, will use positive language to describe the appropriate and permissible activities within " t the center. r,A. 0 300 600 NORTH The Entry Drive The entry drive will introduce visitors to the Nature Center by slowing them down and giving them a sense of separation from the busy world behind them. It will provide the opportunity to establish a control center to monitor the entry. The drive will be sinuous and narrow,with minimal clearing on either side. The lanes will be separated by a varying width median of trees so that, even in a vehicle, you will feel as if you are on a trail, x, not a boulevard. The drive passes the Interpretive Center, crosses a small stream and winds downward to the bay near the current intersection of Shreck Avenue and Bayshore Drive. The road will be constructed of asphalt on a high quality base to minimize damage to the adjacent vegetation during construction and to give the drive a softer look and feel.Shreck Drive will be closed at the west entry below Westwood Park giving the Baytown Nature Center one point of entry and control off Bayway. Vehicular traffic will be allowed only on the designated road to San Jacinto Point and the Post Oak Savannah parking areas, h f. AA BERMING AND FOREST CREATION GG DIPPING DOCK BB DITCH HH LOOP PONDTRAIL CC BUS/VAN PARKING JJ FRESHWATERTRAIL DD DROP OFF KK SALTWATERTRAIL EE SCREENED PORCHES o soo 000 FF OBSERVATION PIER NORTH V11. THE ' I i { The Interpretive Center The Interpretive Center is the rallying point for the natural sciences and history educational programs on the property. It will provide barrier-free access to all facilities, including classrooms, an auditorium, rest rooms,storage,and administrative space. It will be constructed of masonry, wood, and glass, with generous sheltered decks overlooking a freshwater dipping pond. It should exemplify efficient energy use, good use of natural lighting and ventilation,as well as appropriate use of materials. The parking area will provide parking for school buses, spaces for 110 cars, and the capacity to add 40 additional spaces. A space will be available for a seasonal manager should one be needed. The Trail System Trails will lead in all directions from the Interpretive Center.Trails,where possible,will be gravel, decomposed granite or mulch. There will be some small foot bridges and a number of boardwalks to cross or enter low areas. Trails will permit discovery of the uplands, lead to the Myra C. Brown Bird Sanctuary, SEE PAGE 25 FOR LEGEND and take the visitor past the freshwater ponds to the saltwater marshes and Wooster Point. 0 300 600 NORTH The Uplands and Freshwater Ponds seedling form,removal of invasive species such property. A four acre pond east of the Much of the uplands forest is second growth as tallow and ligUSt um, and other saltwater marsh will provide an excellent vegetation reclaiming old farmland. The management techniques will be necessary to habitat for migratory wildfowl. Master Plan calls for a long-term program realize the full potential of the upland area. of vegetation stewardship to encourage a The ponds will be carefully shaped to create greater diversity of trees and understory,and The Master Plan calls for the water from the openings in the wooded upland area. The to provide better shelter and forage for Steinman ditch into the park to feed a string openings will create a greater variety in wildlife. Selective clearing of the dense of retention ponds which will cross the uplands habitat along their edges. Such edge understory, planting hardwood species in area,flow under the entry drive,and descend conditions are called ecotones;they provide to the freshwater ponds in the heart of the special environments for plants, soil organisms, aquatic life, insects, birds and mammals. Gentle swales will carry the water from one pond to the next, with sufficient sinuosity to provide for slow movement of the water and to create additional ecological niches. While it is possible that there may be some small amount of artesian well water when the four acre pond is excavated, the ponds may not always hold water,especially during a dry period. It will be wise to plan for a small well to feed the system, from the uplands near the Interpretive Center, during a drought. There are some areas of saltwater pending that easily could be converted into fresh or brackish water by restricting the tidal flow of salt water into the pond and encouraging the flow of fresh water runoff into the pond. One example is just off Harvey Drive near Bayshore Drive where there is a significant watershed collected by the old street ditches that easily can be diverted into an area alread y pending from tidal influence. The Saltwater Marsh The Master Plan suggests completing the Significant areas of the Nature Center are at work begun by the French Limited Project or below sea level and are subject to high and opening up deeper waterways from the tides,high river flows,and storm surges.These south side to the north side of the land mass. already inundated areas can be considerably Although the water channels should extend enhanced in their biological productivity by fingers into all the intertidal areas, the improving and increasing the tidal flow of channels need not be as wide as they are in nutrient-laden water. the French Limited site. Care needs to be taken when making the north-south connection,to control the amount of water that tides push through the site to avoid excessive velocities and erosion. Some of the existing roads can be used in part for trail access, and some of them will - --— -----7 e excavate The excavated material can j be used to create small upland areas for the protection of trees and for use as natural observation areas within the saltwater marsh area. Trails often should be hidden from the open marsh areas by vegetation or small berms to prevent visitors from disturbing natural wildlife and to screen visitors from one another. A shelter, proposed at the far southwestern corner of Wooster Point, will provide shade and rain protection for visitors. It will also be utilized for outdoor classroom teaching purposes. San Jacinto Point and Peninsula access. added later. San Jacinto Peninsula juts into the bay to A short multiuse pier will extend from the Barriers will be created to prohibit vehicles the west from the main land mass. This west end of the point for fishing, watching from driving off designated routes. These natural isolation makes it the ideal place to the sun set, and observing the San Jacinto barriers will aid in protecting the sensitive locate fishing,jogging,walking and picnicking Monument. environments in the Nature Center. activities, thus minimizing the potential conflicts with wildlife conservation and The road will split into a one-way loop at In the center of the driveway loop there is a observation. the end of the peninsula to minimize the width place for a nature discovery playground. The of the pavement and to simplify traffic playground should have distinctive play Fishing is a popular activity along the Nature movement. Small pockets of head-in parking, environments that teach children about the Center shoreline,and a number of fishing piers three to four spaces each, will occur along natural world around them. It might include in the shape of perpendicular groins are the drive, with a larger area of parking at a treasure hunt of imprints of animal tracks, proposed along the north side of the peninsula the west pier. Overall there will be 60 spaces, a climbing structure in the form of a buffalo into Burnett Bay. Some of the groins will be with the option of additional parking pockets skeleton, or a swing hanging from a topped with concrete walks to facilitate reproduction of a hollow tree snag with all its attendant habitats. Picnic tables need to be convenient to the parking pockets, sheltered with new tree t plantings and located away from the old, mature live oaks to avoid damaging them by soil compaction. A portable restroom set into a permanent support will be located near the central nature o soo 1000 NORTH `"1'i�: � AY nit ��LL4rY N Tien i The Post Oak Savannah �. '• ��"'- , ti.. The large group of mature trees,mostly post oaks, near Bayshore Drive and Ridgeway Avenue provide an important v. 'fte. source of shelter for migratory songbirds rl and other wildlife. This area must be restricted from vehicular traffic and even heavy levels of pedestrian use if the post Moaks are to survive. The Master Plan calls for containment of the fresh water runoff to maximize its Ropportunity to soak into the ground and keep the saltwater intrusion to a �• ;„• minimum. Another loop drive is proposed around ` the east side of the grove of trees to provide parking pockets for visitors to u w r r fit' . the saltwater marsh area and the French Limited site. The loop will accommodate forty-five parking spaces, a tee intersection, a butterfly garden, and an � ,. occasional school bus area with a pull- off bay for loading and unloading. 0 500 1000 NORTH off bay for loading and unloading. Myra C. Brown Bird Sanctuary and . � Westwood Park Foot trails lead from the Interpretive Center Nil to the Bird Sanctuary as well as from the xr � entry drive near the bay. The sanctuary has ' � z a freshwater pond which was created as a borrow pit in the sixties and early seventies. This secluded pond has a natural outfall into the saltwater marsh at the east end of the �✓ pond and has beaver activity at the outfall. Because of the narrowness of the land at that y. point, it should be closely monitored to be sure that erosion does not allow the saltwater to contaminate the freshwater pond. Shreck Avenue will be closed with a {i > W turnaround at the west parking lot entry to Westwood Park. The road needs to be ? " removed for a short distance and planted with 0 500 1000 NORTH 77M trees to screen the old road corridor. The Shoreline Perimeter The U.S.Army Corps of Engineers has a long- Due to subsidence and the resulting loss of range plan to use dredge spoils from ship 06, A the protective river sand banks, the current channel maintenance and enlargement {jq shoreline of the Baytown Nature Center is dredging to create newwetlandsshallowsand 4t now fully exposed to wave erosion from wind channel islands in selected areas of Galveston r, and storm as well as from ship wakes from Bay. The plan, called the Beneficial Uses �« the busy Ship Channel. The long term survival Plan, includes the reconstruction of islands of the land mass will rely on some system of off the west shore of the Nature Center that shoreline protection. In addition to causing historically defined and protected Burnett erosion, wave action discourages marsh Bay,Crystal Bay and Scott Bay. grasses from taking hold, which further compounds the erosion problems. This large-scale dredging project is beginning at the south end of the Galveston Bay and The Master Plan calls for breakwaters or will be many years before it reaches Baytown. surge barriers to protect the shoreline where However there is the possibility of capturing needed. clean dredge material from other smaller, nearby projects at an earlier date for local The breakwaters should be located far enough shoreline stabilization and breakwater from the shore to allow sediments to fill in behind them, so that saltwater marshes can begin to form in the protected waters, thus providing a rich source of habitat as well as a second level of shoreline protection. Depending on the depth and condition of the bottom,the distance from the shore will vary. Some of the breakwaters will provide excellent areas for fishing,crabbing,and bird watching; therefore, in various places, the Master Plan recommends topping the concrete rubble with a continuous path to facilitate access. Perimeter Security Depending on the configuration of the existing The Baytown Nature Center is a special street, there may be a turn-around resource for the local and regional constructed at the end of the new cul-de-sac. communities. Its success as a facility for Standard "Dead End" street signs will be conservation, education and passive located attheentrytothestreetsandparking recreation will depend on careful and on- management signs will be installed as needed. going management of the natural systems and Existing underground utilities will be capped human usage. at the property line if they have not already been so adjusted. Control of entry onto the property will consist of a perimeter fence,closure of a number of The perimeter fence may change from game existing streets that lead into the property, fencing to an alternative material where the and one entry location. neighborhood would like to have a more aesthetic view to open water.The west end of The perimeter fence,generally running along Crow Road is such a street. the eastern property line,will be constructed outofaheavy-dutysixto eight footfall game The following streets will be closed with a fence attached to heavy duty treated lumber berm and fence: or steel posts. The game fence will be less Harvey Drive visually obtrusive than a chain link fence both MacArthur Avenue in the Nature Center and in the adjacent Katherine Street neighborhood. It will be constructed to Cabarriss Street discourage entry of unauthorized vehicles, Stuart Street pedestrians and neighborhood dogs. Locked Midway Street gates will be constructed for utility company Linwood Drive access at the overhead power transmission Park Drive and pipeline corridors. East Park Drive Abandoned streets that run into the park will be closed at the park boundary. The pavement will be removed for fifty to one hundred feet and replaced with a sloping soil berm behind the property line and fence;the berm will be planted with trees and native shrubs. V11. THE . , At the main entry, the typical perimeter fencing will extend up to the Bayway Drive property corners on either side of the entry drive. A low, decorative steel fence will connect the property corners with the entry drive gate, which is a simple, lockable steel pipe gate. The intent of the Bayway frontage fence is to control vehicular entry without creating a visual barrier for the visitor's first exposure to the Baytown Nature Center. Vegetative Stewardship and Access to and appropriate interpretation of Wildlife Management the cultural and biological values of the Baytown Nature Center will be provided for Objectives: the public. 1. A holistic habitat and ecosystem based approach to management will Removal of Unwanted Vegetation drive the planning and management This is a critical phase of enhancement and process to ensure system integrity, must be conducted with sensitivity. stability, and integration with Mechanical removal of Japanese privet and adjacent habitats. Chinese tallow to 3 inches diameter breast 2. Enhancement activities will not be height will be followed by chemical control initiated which cannot be sustained of larger tallows. Preparation of the site for vegetation removal will include flagging of by an appropriate commitment to trees less than 8 inches diameter breast height subsequent management. which are to be removed. All tallow trees will be removed or chemically killed. Other 3. Deviation from hydrology and trees scheduled for removal will bechemlcally species composition now found on- killed where they are expected to have value site will be carefully considered and as snags for wildlife,and physically removed will be allowed only for the purpose from the site in areas which are to be of enhancing the values of the site maintained by burning or shredding. Trees for endemic wildlife. and brush which are not bearing seed may be 4. A vegetation structure closely piled and left for habitat. resembling the 1836 structure ofthe Unwanted vegetation which bears seed at the forest will be sought for support of time of clearing must be burned or removed historic and biological interpretation from the park. Removal of native vegetation of the resource. will be solely for the purpose of replicating 5. Inventories of flora and fauna will the structure of the native forest. This be completed structure has been altered by woodland, p prior to freshwater and saltwater marsh expansion commencement of enhancement due to secondary growth. activities and will be followed by appropriate monitoring. No areas will be cleared which cannot be Implementation of Undesired accessed and maintained by shredding with Revegetation Control Measures existing Parks Department equipment. Final Upon removal of unwanted vegetation in decisions regarding the removal of unwanted the forested areas, increased sunlight and vegetation under the canopy of the forest will bare soil conditions are expected to result be made and/or approved by the parks in a flush of unwanted vegetation from director. existing seed stocks. Species expected to dominate this regrowth include Chinese At the center and southern ends of the project tallow, persimmon, macartney rose, area and along the shoreline of the bay,open Japanese privet, and groundsel tree. This water supports a peripheral marsh of emergent smooth cordgrass grading into initial regrowth must be suppressed until more desirable native plants and plantings wiregrass meadow. This marsh and meadow habitat is an important component of the can become established. Suppression will require mechanical or chemical Intervention park ecosystem and is quite productive. This and may require a full growing season or community is healthiest where the sixty acre longer before subsequent plantings are French Limited Task Group, Inc., has been advisable. established and in small pockets along the edge of the bay. Enhancement of the site In areas accessible to tractors, seasonal will include removal of all woody vegetation shredding may be sufficient to stress and from potential marsh/meadow habitat as eventually kill undesired regrowth of the feasible, and seasonal shredding as needed species listed above with the exception of to discourage invasion of woody vegetation. macartney rose. Treatment with herbicides Every effort will be made to establish and also might prove necessary.Spot treatment maintain this marsh/meadow along the edges or application with a suspended herbicide of Baytown Nature Center and in the areas roller will be preferred over broadcast that will eventually be channelized and re- treatment. In areas which are not contoured for salt marsh vegetation/habitat. accessible by tractor, manual treatment or removal may be necessary. Suppression of undesired regrowth will proceed until conditions favor the establishment of new plantings, at the discretion of the parks director. { Site Preparation, Including Water Replanting According to Management Measures Revegetation Schedule Intrusion of saltwater into the freshwater Once the site is prepared, and unwanted drainage supporting the forested areas and vegetation is under control,the project areas availability of fresh water for wildlife are two will be planted with the numbers and species issues of concern in the management of this of plants expected to support the natural habitat.Once removal of unwanted vegetation functions of the forest,ponds,drainages and is completed,(permitting a better view of the marshes. This plant material will enhance topography, elevations, drainage, and wildlife values(food and cover)and replicate distribution of mature trees) an assessment the structure of a mature bottomland of the feasibility of berms) or clam(s) for hardwood forest,freshwater pond,freshwater the prevention of salt water intrusion and wetland, and saltwater marsh. Replant retention of fresh water will be evaluated.The species will be limited to those believed to be berm(s) should contain a simple board weir endemic to the site. An exception may be to prevent saltwater from being trapped made for plants which are native to the area during and after tropical storm surges and and which will add to or compliment existing should otherwise be inconspicuous and wildlife values but may not have occurred at allowed to vegetate consistent with the rest this location. of the drainage.The elevation of the berms) will be such as to increase retention time for fresh water runoff without increasing the risk of killing any existing mature trees due to drowning in saturated soils. P b 5 � U 4 4 a a f f ^; ��g� � rk u�' F�.� �•�k Jy� ��:�"Xrr 2�� a"� 5_� ���� P�dje.t � -0 yrk�'°�'4C ', ;�� t ,#L �:8� ziwrc `x YY:e per• icx }_«a ' ,-t t r •'-'"S x. a SR�ix� �Li yftY� 9Y � �Y� y Y � � yy�t Ta r4 >r ♦_ r eta a� +:. v;J��.. r...2*,: f�Y .;.•r�'�.r.�y tip e�N. Area _ F _ 2 year..;.,:,, 2-5 yearkP s 2o:yearglAltiyiate Phasing Strategies -- a - = Property acquisition Acquisition of funds for implementation of Harvey / Bender Interests the master plan will direct the selection and White Tract prioritization of the phases for development Remaining parcels of the Baytown Nature Center. : Overall Site - Shoreline Protection Boundary Protection Fencing San Jacinto Point West pier and breakwater Loop drive and parking pockets Traffic control edging Trail development Burnett Bay piers Butterfly - -garden at intersection I Forest plantings- Nature Discovery Playground Picnic areas -- - -I Toilet facility i Burnett Bay Edge Traffic control edging -- - - - Saltwater marsh enhancement I Freshwater marsh enhancement Highest Priority f Area 2 year 2-5 year 5-20 year Ultimate Phasing Strategies Post Oak Savannah Conversion of wye to "tee" intersection Loop drive and parking pockets Traffic control edging Trail development 2nd generation tree planting Toilet facility French Limited Wetlands Wooster Point class shelter Wooster Point toilet facility I I, Phase II habitat development I Scott Bay Inlet Open cut at Crow Road Cul de sac at three streets f Trail development !� it Inner Salt Water Wetlands Channel and tidal marsh creation _ f Wetlands planting Boardwalk development itFresh Water Marsh Diversion stream development Pond and island creation f - Highest Priority 1 Area 2 year 2-5 year 5-20 year Ultimate Phasing Stategies Upland Forest Zone Vegetation management j Diversion stream development Pond creation Cul de sac at Crow, Cabaniss, and Harvey Roads Entry drive creation Trail development Nature Center Pavilion and parking 1 Myra C Brown Sanctuary Trail development Pond outlet securing Westwood Park (Closure of Schreck Avenue Bayway Entry Entry drive creation Pond and berming Planting j Gate and signage Highest Priority 40 Baytown Nature Center Cost Estimate Preliminary Cost Estimate/Full Site City of Baytown The SWA Group, Landscape Architects and Planners Date: 12 August 1997 BTN730 Item Quantity Unit Cost Unit Total Remarks Land Acquisition Harvey / Bender Interests 37 ac $6,750.00 $249,750.00 Approx 37 acres White Tract 1 Is $20,000.00 $20,000.00 At Entry Remaining Parcels 25 ea $2,750.00 $68,750.00 To be Determined, Approx 25 parcels Clearing and Demolition Entry Road 2.7 ac $3,000.00 $8,100.00 20' Wide for 14' road, 35' for 24' road San Jacinto Point Loop Road 1.25 ac $3,000.00 $3,750.00 Post Oak Savannah Loop Road 0.42 ac $3,000.00 $1,260.00 Trails 7.85 ac $1,500.00 $11,775.00 to' Wide Ponds & Rivulets 10.5 ac $1,500.00 $15,750.00 Pavement Removal 2,500 cy $250.00 $625,000.00 Ponds Excavation/Grading 41,000 cy $6.00 $246,000.00 Clay Liner 250,000 sf $0.50 $125,000.00 As needed, 12" thick Water Well 1 ea $35,000.00 $35,000.00 Pond Aeration 2 ea $25,000.00 $50,000.00 Entry and Interpretive Center ponds Drainage Work Rivulets 2700 cy $600.00 $1,620,000.00 Between freshwater ponds Diversions 1 Is $25,000.00 $25,000.00 Miscellaneous hydraulics Roads & Paving Cost Estimate 24' Entry Drive 14,040 sf $3.75 $52,650.00 Asphalt on flexible base 11' Entry Drive 67,200 sf $1.75 $117,600.00 Asphalt on flexible base Entry Curb and Gutter 11,200 If $7.50 $84,000.00 Continuous concrete San Jacinto Point Loop Road 38,010 sf $1.75 $66,517.50 Asphalt on flexible base Post Oak Savannah Loop Road 17,340 sf $1.75 $30,345.00 Asphalt on flexible base Rivulet Culverts 2 ea $3,500.00 $7,000.00 At entry drive Parking Pockets 18 ea $2,975.00 $53,550.00 San Jacinto Point Parking 1 sf $3.75 $3.75 Interpretive Center Parking 1 sf $4.50 $4.50 Trails Decomposed Granite 225,000 sf $3.75 $843,750.00 6' width Culverts 4 ea $2,000.00 $8,000.00 Under trails Boardwalks 1,550 If $25.00 $38,750.00 6' width, wooden structures Observation Blinds 12 ea $2,500.00 $30,000.00 Screen and bench Fencing Perimeter Fence 7,550 If $15.00 $113,250.00 Main Gate & Entry 1 Is $35,000.00 $35,000.00 At Bayway Drive Roadway 3,500 If $10.00 $35,000.00 Timber post and rail Vehicle Gate 1 ea $1,750.00 $1,750.00 At French Limited Structures Group Meeting 1 ea $20,000.00 $20,000.00 At Wooster Point Toilets 3 ea $15,000.00 $45,000.00 Picnic Tables 5 ea $250.00 $1,250.00 Wood on galvanized frame Educational Playground 1 Is $75,000.00 $75,000.00 At San Jacinto Point Interpretive Center 15,000 sf $120.00 $1,800,000.00 1 Shoreline Protection Cost Estimate Shoreline Protection Placement 21,120 If $52.50 $1,108,800.00 3.5 cubic yards/linear foot Fishing Groins 900 If $80.00 $72,000.00 Concrete walk surface Breakwater Placement 3500 If $52.50 $183,750.00 3.5 cubic yards/linear foot Signs Entry 2 ea $3,000.00 $6,000.00 Includes footings/wall core/slgnage Directional/Information 50 ea $1,500.00 $75,000.00 Planting Roadside Turf 140,000 sf $0.30 $42,000.00 Grasses 10 ac $3,000.00 $30,000.00 Topsoil 500 cy $20.00 $10,000.00 Pond Planting 36,200 sf $2.00 $72,400.00 Trees, machine moved 160 ea $350.00 $56,000.00 Butterfly Garden 1 Is $25,000.00 $25,000.00 5,500 square feet at $4.50 per sf SubTotal $8,009,105.75 Consultants $1,601,821.15 20%, Design, Engineering & Surveys Contingency $1,201,365.86 15% of Subtotal Grand Total $10,812,292.76 Funding and Implementation Opportunities Early phases scheduled for development are the San Jacinto Point and the new entry off Bayway Drive. Currently the City of Baytown has received a grant from the Texas Coastal Management Program to develop the San Jacinto Point Marsh Area. This project will provide shoreline access, stabilize shoreline for recreation and habitat protection, and create wetland habitat of 1+ acres. Funding opportunities are being explored for the entry and other areas of the Nature Center. ' � 1 ��,� mr �'"r F +ry .+��ra`q r.S .5'r °( +d F{ [ fit• a ^ tT'+ '4 Y�31 Ya" _ r .. � ` z s✓ r -�l`�"r�r .�e+,.:.a�N n'��" d`�}2,C"'�y u�' a<'.1 ,m.h"l�*� µz. '�+'v�` x The Design Team SWA Group John Cutler Kevin Shanty Barney Lighter Will Gough Crouch Environmental Services, Inc. Greg Crouch s � � r hut it 4 t 3 r � � � 'E• 3- ,/6 E �ty,�¢,�SLy�jr-xa�yci`�'ie�!„ I x{��� 1t•�Iy��� +�+ �i Overstory Vegetation Myra C. Brown Sanctuary, Upland Forest Zone, Post Oak Savannah, Freshwater Marsh edges, forested areas around the perimeter of the bay and San Jacinto Point Many areas of the Baytown Nature Center already support an appropriate coverage of trees,shrubs and emergent vegetation and none will be added. Other areas such as the Myra C. Brown Sanctuary, Upland Forest Zone, Post Oak Savannah,the edges of the Freshwater Marsh, and San Jacinto Point,which may have been disturbed in the past,and which do not have adequate coverage to close canopy, may be planted in trees.Trees which may be permitted, assuming soils and hydrology are appropriate, include those listed below: Live oak White oak Water oak American holly Willow oak Southern magnolia Nuttall oak Red maple Southern Red oak Beech Native pecan Hackberry Bald cypress Elm Green Ash M idstory Vegetation Myra C. Brown Sanctuary, Upland Forest Zone, Post Oak Savannah, edges of the Freshwater Marshes and forested areas around the perimeter of the bay. The introduction and establishment of mid story and woody edge vegetation is considered critical to enhancement of the resource. No plants will be added in areas where canopy closure is such that soils are shaded all day, but Yaupon should be introduced in areas of dappled shade or short periods of sunlight. Around clearings and along edges midstory and understory vegetation should be planted. Plants should be introduced in numbers which will ensure establishment and coverage sufficient to compete with and discourage domination by Japanese privet and Chinese tallow.A list of typical understory and midstory vegetation include: Deciduous yaupon American beautyberry Arrow Wood viburnum Redbud Rusty Blackhaw viburnum Sweetbay Green hawthorn Sugarberry Parsley hawthorn Sumac Rough-leaf dogwood Wax myrtle Red mulberry Flatwood plum Possumhaw Swamp privet Understory Vegetation Myra C. Brown Sanctuary, Upland Forest Zone, Post Oak Savannah, edges of the Freshwater Marshes, and forested areas around the perimeter of the bay. Understory and/or ground cover plantings are not considered necessary for enhancement,but introduction of native shade tolerant understory forest species would be welcome. A list of such understory vegetation is listed below: Drummond's wax mallow (Turk's cap) Coral berry American beautyberry In addition,a variety of wildflowers and native vines could be introduced in clearings,along edges by planting or by seed. Muscadine grape Trumpet vine Mustang grape Carolina jessamine Peppervine Trumpet honeysuckle Lespedeza Dry Meadow Vegetation Myra C. Brown Sanctuary, Upland Forest Zone,and utility and pipeline rights-of-way. Several small meadows should be created in or adjacent to forested areas to increase plant and wildlife diversity. These meadows should be from 112 to 2 acres in size and placed randomly throughout the site. Vegetation typical for dry meadows are listed below: Gulf Muhly Partridge Pea Inland seaoats Annual ryegrass Narrow leaf wood oats Bahia grass Little bluestem Wild millet Switch grass Vasey grass Indian grass Croton Dewberry-Blackberry Sunflower Vetch Wet Meadow Vegetation F Edges of the Freshwater Marsh and adjacent to forested areas along the perimeter of the bay. Wet meadows should be planted with plants such as those listed below: Gulf Muhly Eastern gammagrass Sugarcane plumegrass Bushy bluestem Switchgrass Freshwater Pond and Marsh Vegetation Myra C. Brown Sanctuary, Upland Forest Zone, French Ltd.ponds and in the freshwater ponds around the bay side of the nature center Freshwater ponds and marshes should be planted with wetland plant species endemic to the region. A typical list of such plants includes: Spider lily Florida crinum Pickerelweed Common rush Fragrant water lily Swamp rose mallow Arrowhead S ma rtweed Rushes Frog fruit Water hyssop Duckweed Coontail Cyperus species A' 1 Salt Marsh Vegetation French Limited Wetlands, Scotts Bay Inlet, Burnett Bay, Sari Jacinto Point, Inner Saltwater Marsh and in brackish wetlands located adjacent to the bay along the perimeter of the nature center Much of the Baytown Nature Center will be re-contoured and channelized for salt marsh habitat. Vegetation typically found in that habitat are: Smooth cordgrass Wiregrass Sedges Sea purselane Sea ox-eye daisy Saltgrass Virginia dropseed Saltmarsh bulrush Saltwort Glasswort P Implementation of management schedule At the time enhancement is initiated,commitments must be made for the continued management and monitoring of the site. As the forest system and wetlands mature,and introduced midstories and edges begin to close,the level of management required to ensure success of native vegetation and suppress exotic species should diminish. In the meantime, plans and/or agreements for the enhancement of the forest should include well-defined roles,responsibilities and schedules. Replantings should be randomly clumped to reflect natural distribution patterns,take advantage of local site conditions, and help ensure competitive success. Areas which will require ongoing unwanted revegetation control must be accessible to the staff and equipment which will be required for management. The feasibility of employing fire as a management tool on the forest and marshes should be investigated. Closed canopy forest is not expected to sustain fire under controlled burning conditions,but edges,clearings,marsh, Savannah-like areas,and peripheral grasses might profit from occasional fire. Ongoing management requires a commitment of resources over an extended period of time. All enhancement activity must be with the understanding that this constitutes a long-term commitment of staff time and money for labor,equipment,maintenance, herbicides and other supplies.Where obligation for enhancement and follow-up monitoring is assumed by a third party,as in a Natural Resource Damage Assessment (N RDA) or other regulatory agreement,that agreement must include a commitment from the third party for long-term investment in the site. Monitoring and follow-up actions Monitoring and management must be ongoing and complimentary processes. Management is based upon an awareness of how the habitat types are responding to manipulation. An assessment of the Baytown Nature Centers progress must be based on its objectives,stated above. In general, management actions should encourage the maturation of the forest system and marshes,with viable populations of native species becoming reproductive and self-sustaining. Diversity, stability and all functions of the habitat should be increased. The plant communities should provide sufficient food and cover year round to support a strong population of prey species,especially insects and rodents. An abundance of prey should be reflected in healthy populations of spiders,snakes,owls and raptors, and mammalian predators such as bobcats and coyotes. At a minimum, monitoring of the Baytown Nature Center should include a seasonal (four times each year) inspection resulting in recommendations for manage- ment actions, including the pickup of litter,suppression of chiuese tallow and japanese privet regrowth, and introduction or removal of additional species. 1 Wildlife Food Preferences Bird and mammal plant preferences may change with the seasons and plant availability,but the following are typical plants that are highly preferred by each of the wildlife species listed below. The utilization of these plants should be considered when attempting to improve wildlife habitat for specific wildlife species. WHITE-TAILED DEER: QUAIL: WATERFOWL: Annual ryegrass American beautyberry Annual ryegrass American ryegrass Clovers (leaves) Coontail American beautyberry Croton Duckweed Ash Dewberry/Blackberry Oaks Clovers Dogwood S martweed Dewberry/Blackberry Hackberry/Sugarberry Switchgrass Greenbriar Lespedeza Water milfoil Honeysuckle Muscadine grape Wild millets Jessamine Partridge pea Lespedeza Prickly ash Rattan/Alabama supplejack Ragweed Ragweed Sumac Sassafras Vetch Sunflower Yaupon DOVE: SQUIRREL: Croton Dewberry/Blackberry Beech Lespedeza Black cherry Millets Blackgum Partridge pea Dewberry/Blackberry Prickly ash Dogwood Ragweed E I m S martweed Hickory Sumac Huckieberry/Blueberry/ Sunflower Sparkle berry Vetch Magnolia Sunflower Mulberry Oak Red maple , , ' Planting Requirements for Regional Vegetation MAGNOLIATREE Overstory Where It Grows Woods Tolerance To Shade Tolerant Site Rich, Moist Soils Wildlife Importance Seed For Squirrels and Birds Fruiting Dates Late Summer — Early Fall Fruiting Cycle Annually Remarks Needs More Sunlight as it Ages HOLLYTREE Midstory Where It Grows Woods Tolerance To Shade Tolerant Site Well Drained, Rich Woods and Along Streams Wildlife Importance Berries for Birds, Small Mammals, Deer Fruiting Dates Fall — Early Winter Fruiting Cycle Annually Remarks Fruiting Occurs Only on Female Plants YAUPON Midstory, Understory Where It Grows Woods Tolerance To Shade Tolerant Site Widely Adapted Wildlife Importance Browse for Deer & Fruit for Deer & Birds Fruiting Dates Fall — Early Winter Fruiting Cycle 1 - 2 Years Remarks Fruit Production Increases with Increased Sunlight GREENASH Overstory Where It Grows Woods Tolerance To Shade Intermediate Site Bottomlands for Green Ash Wildlife Importance Browse for Deer and Seed for Birds Fruiting Dates Late Summer Fruiting Cycle 3 — 5 Years Remarks APPENDIX Planting Requirements for Regional Vegetation SUMAC Midstory Where It Grows Open Woods and Fields Tolerance To Shade Intolerant Site Moist,Well Drained Uplands Wildlife Importance Berries for Deer and Birds Fruiting Dates Summer but May Persist Through the Winter Fruiting Cycle Yearly Remarks ROUGH-LEAF DOGWOOD Midstory Where It Grows Woods Tolerance To Shade Tolerant Site Widely Adapted to Well Drained Soils Wildlife Importance Fruit for Birds, Deer, Squirrel & Other Mammals Fruiting Dates Late Spring to Early Summer Fruiting Cycle 1 — 2 Years Remarks RED MAPLE Overstory Where It Grows Woods and Clearings Tolerance To Shade Intermediate to Tolerant Site Widely Adapted Except for Dry Sites Wildlife Importance Weeds for Squirrel & Small Mammals, Deer Fruiting Dates Late Summer to Fall Fruiting Cycle Yearly Remarks AMER. BEAUTYBERRY Midstory Where It Grows Woods Tolerance To Shade Tolerant Site Most Sites, Except Wet Wildlife Importance Fruits for Birds, Squirrel, Deer, Mammals Fruiting Dates Late Summer Through Fall Fruiting Cycle 1 — 2 Years Remarks Planting Requirements for Regional Vegetation WHITE OAK Overstory Where It Grows Woods Tolerance To Shade Intermediate Site Widely Adapted Except for Very Dry or Wet Soils Wildlife Importance Acorns for Deer, Squirrel, Birds Fruiting Dates Fall Fruiting Cycle 4 10 Years Remarks Acorn Production Begins at 12" DBH WATER OAK Overstory Where It Grows Woods Tolerance To Shade Intolerant Site Moist Sites Wildlife Importance Acorns for Squirrel, Deer, Mammals Fruiting Dates Early Fall to Winter Fruiting Cycle 1 — 2 Years Remarks SOUTHERN RED OAK Overstory Where It Grows Woods Tolerance To Shade Intermediate Site Most Sites but Excessively Dry or Wet Wildlife Importance Acorns for Squirrel, Mammals, Deer Fruiting Dates Fall to Early Winter Fruiting Cycle 1 — 2 Years Remarks RED MULBERRY Overstory Where It Grows Woods Tolerance To Shade Tolerant Site Moist Sites Wildlife Importance Fruit for Birds, Squirrel, Mammals, Deer Fruiting Dates Spring to Early Summer Fruiting Cycle 2 — 3 Years Remarks i Planting Requirements for Regional Vegetation BEECH Overstory Where It Grows Woods Tolerance To Shade Tolerant Site Moist Soils and Along Streams Wildlife Importance Nuts for Birds, Squirrel, Mammals Fruiting Dates Fall Fruiting Cycle 2 — 3 Years Remarks HACKBERRY Overstory Where It Grows Woods Tolerance To Shade Intermediate to Tolerant Site Moist Uplands and Bottoms Wildlife Importance Fruit for Birds, Squirrel, Mammals, Deer Fruiting Dates Early Fall Fruiting Cycle Remarks ELM Overstory Where It Grows Woods Tolerance To Shade Intermediate Site Most Sites Wildlife Importance Buds for Squirrel, Seeds for Birds, Mammals, Deer Fruiting Dates Late Spring to Summer Fruiting Cycle Yearly Remarks RED BUD Midstory Where It Grows Woods Tolerance To Shade Tolerant Site Rich, Moist Soils Wildlife Importance Browse for Deer; Seed for Birds & Mammals Fruiting Dates Fall Fruiting Cycle 1 — 2 Years Remarks . • • T f Planting Requirements for Regional Vegetation SWEETBAY Midstory Where It Grows Woods Tolerance To Shade Tolerant Site Low,Wet Sites Wildlife Importance Seeds far Squirrel, Birds, Mammals, Deer Fruiting Dates Fruiting Cycle Remarks SUGARBERRY Midstory Where It Grows Woods Tolerance To Shade Intolerant to Intermediate Site Moist Upland Sites and Bottoms Wildlife Importance Fruit for Birds, Squirrel, Mammals, Deer Fruiting Dates Farly Fall Fruiting Cycle Late Summer to Winter Remarks WAX MYRTLE Midstory Where It Grows Woods and Openings Tolerance To Shade Intermediate Site Well Adapted to Most Soils Wildlife Importance Seed for Birds, Mammals, Deer Fruiting Dates Summer Fruiting Cycle Annually Remarks GREENBRIAR (Vine) Understory Where It Grows Woods and Fields Tolerance To Shade Tolerant Site Widely Adapted Wildlife Importance Fruit for Birds, Squirrel, Mammals, Deer Fruiting Dates Late Summer Through Fall Fruiting Cycle Yearly Remarks . • • Planting Requirements for Regional Vegetation MUSCADINE GRAPE Understory (Vine) Where It Grows Woods and Openings Tolerance To Shade Intolerant to Intermediate Site Most Well Drained Sites Wildlife Importance Fruit for Birds, Squirrel, Mammals, Deer Fruiting Dates Late Summer to Fall Fruiting Cycle 2 — 3 Years Remarks CAROLINA JESSAMINE Understory (Vine) Where It Grows Open Woods and Fields Tolerance To Shade Intolerant to Intermediate Site Sandy Moist Soils Wildlife Importance Seeds for Birds, Deer Fruiting Dates Summer Fruiting Cycle Remarks TRUMPET HONEYSUCKLE Understory (Vine) Where It Grows Woods and Fields Tolerance To Shade Intermediate Site Most Soils Wildlife Importance Berries for Birds, Mammals, Deer Fruiting Dates Fall Fruiting Cycle Remarks Favored by Prescribed Burning LESPEDEZA Understory Where It Grows Open Woods and Fields Tolerance To Shade Intolerant to Intermediate Site Sandy Sites Wildlife Importance Seed for Birds, Deer Fruiting Dates Fall Fruiting Cycle Perennial Remarks i Planting Requirements for Regional Vegetation i DEWBERRY - BLACKBERRY (Vine) Understory Where It Grows Woods and Fields Tolerance To Shade Intolerant Site Most Sites Wildlife Importance Berries for Birds, Squirrel, Mammals, Deer Fruiting Dates Spring to Early Summer Fruiting Cycle Yearly Remarks VETCH (Vine) Understory Where It Grows Pasture Tolerance To Shade Intolerant Site Widely Adapted Except for Poorly Drained Soils Wildlife Importance Seed for Birds, Deer Fruiting Dates Spring Fruiting Cycle Annual Remarks Requires Management PARTRIDGE PEA (Vine) Understory Where It Grows Pasture, Open Fields Tolerance To Shade Intolerant Site Well Drained But Not Dry Soils Wildlife Importance Seed for Birds, Deer Fruiting Dates Summer to Fall Fruiting Cycle Annual Remarks ANNUAL RYEGRASS Understory Where It Grows Pastures and Openings Tolerance To Shade Intermediate Site Widely Adapted Wildlife Importance Browse for Birds, Deer Fruiting Dates Fruiting Cycle Remarks iv. , . . Planting Requirements for Regional Vegetation BAHIA GRASS Understory Where It. Grows Pastures Tolerance To Shade Intolerant to Intermediate Site Widely Adapted Wildlife Importance Seed for Birds Fruiting Dates Summer Fruiting Cycle Remarks WILD MILLET Understory Where It Grows Wet Clearings,Wet Pastures, Mud Flats Tolerance To Shade Intolerant Site Wet Sites Wildlife Importance Seed for Birds,Waterfowl Fruiting Dates Summer Fruiting Cycle Remarks VASEYGRASS Understory Where It Grows Clearings and Pastures Tolerance To Shade Intolerant Site Moist Sites Wildlife Importance Seed for Birds Fruiting Dates Summer Fruiting Cycle Remarks SWITCHGRASS Understory Where It Grows Open Woods and Clearings Tolerance To Shade Intermediate to Tolerant Site Moist Soils Wildlife Importance Seed for Birds Fruiting Dates Summer Fruiting Cycle Remarks . • • Planting Requirements for Regional Vegetation CROTON Understory Where It Grows Openings and Pastures Tolerance To Shade Intolerant Site Sandy Sites Wildlife Importance Seed for Birds Fruiting Dates Summer to Fall Fruiting Cycle Remarks Responds to Disking SUNFLOWER Understory Where It Grows Openings Tolerance To Shade Intolerant Site Heavier Soils Wildlife Importance Seed for Birds, Deer Fruiting Dates Fall Fruiting Cycle Remarks SMARTWEED Understory Where It Grows Wet Openings, Ditches, Ponds Tolerance To Shade Intolerant Site Wet Sites Wildlife Importance Seed for Birds,Waterfowl Fruiting Dates Summer to Fall Fruiting Cycle Remarks COONTAIL Understory Where It Grows Ponds, Ditches, Lakes Tolerance To Shade Will Grow in 6"+Water Depth in Clear Water Site Widely Adapted Wildlife Importance Waterfowl Fruiting Dates Fruiting Cycle Remarks 1 .0 Planting Requirements for Regional Vegetation DUCKWEED Understory Where It Grows Sloughs, Ponds, Fresh Marshes Tolerance To Shade Intolerant Site Floating on Water Wildlife Importance Extremely Important for Waterfowl Fruiting Dates Entire Warm-season Fruiting Cycle Remarks SMOOTH CORDGRASS Understory Where It Grows Salt to Brackish Marshes Tolerance To Shade Intolerant Site Saturated Soils to Water Depth of 12 Wildlife Importance Cover, Food for Crustaceans, Birds Fruiting Dates Summer Fruiting Cycle Annually Remarks WIREGRASS Understory Where It Grows Fresh to Saline Marshes Tolerance To Shade Intolerant Site Moist but Not Flooded Soils Wildlife Importance Cover, Food for Birds, Mammals Fruiting Dates Summer Fruiting Cycle Annually Remarks ARROWHEAD Understory Where It Grows Fresh Water Ponds, Sloughs Tolerance To Shade Intolerant Site Standing Water to Very Moist Soils Wildlife Importance Food for Waterfowl Fruiting Dales Summer Fruiting Cycle Annually Remarks A • • Planting Requirements for Regional Vegetation CYPERUS SPECIES Understory Where It Grows Wet Sites, Fresh to Brackish Tolerance To Shade Intolerant Site Wet Soils Wildlife Importance Cover, Food for Birds Fruiting Dates Summer Fruiting Cycle Annually Remarks References: Communication with Mr.Ted Hollingsworth,Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, 1997. Letter from Mc Ted Hollingsworth,Texas Parks & Wildlife Department,July 31, 1997. Ted Hollingsworth, San Jacinto State Historical Park Bottomland Hardwood Forest Restoration and Management Plan,July, 1996." Natural Resource Conservation Service, Animal Guides for Texas, 1983." E.G.Wermund,et al,Wetland Plant Communities, Galveston Bay System, March, 1992. A• •