Property Management Evaluation Report


Location: 889 Kelly Bay Road, Colleton County, South Carolina

Burn Dates: January 27 and March 21, 2007

Objective:  To enhance the appearance of the property by reducing the herbaceous layer and increase the dynamics of the trees and native shrubs.

Property Evaluation

Forestry: The tract is approximately 52 acres in size.  Pine and hardwood species dominate the tract. Herbaceous stratum is dense comprising of Redbay and Southern Bayberry.  Majority of the timber is merchantable and ranges from 6-20 inches DBH. Canopy cover is estimated at 72%.

Recommendations: Mechanical thinning in conjunction with subsequent prescribed burning should be considered for this property to reduce the canopy cover and remove competing species.  Non-selective herbicide such as glyophosphate is recommended for control of the herbaceous layer. Fertilization of the hardwoods is recommended using a 10-10-10 mixture to increase mass production and crown development.

Hydrographic: Located on the west boundary encompassing approximately 12 acres are palustrine-forested wetlands. This wetland is deemed jurisdictional, which limits any potential activities other than silvicultural practices. Hydrographic make up is consistent with wetlands commonly referred to as Carolina Bays. This wetland area provides an excellent ecotone transitioning the uplands.

Soils:  Four series of soils in the Ultisol order are found on the property. The property consist of 40.2% Paxville, 23.8% Rains, 19.4% Lynchburg and 16.5% Bonneau. These soils are fine sandy loam types and pose no management issues other than potential drain waste systems.

Burn Evaluation

See Attachment A and B

Wildlife

Assessment: The property adjoins traditional agricultural land and industrial forestlands. The whitetail deer population is healthy but young averaging 1.5-2.5 years old.  Sex ratio is skewed towards doe deer. Ratio based on population count is estimated to be 4 does for each buck. The whitetail population is transitional with several core areas located north and east of the property boundaries.  Turkey population is consistent with adjoining properties, however it was noted that this property does maintain several trees suitable for roosting.

Recommendations: Because of the existence of agricultural lands, forage plots less than 1 acre are not recommended.  Baiting is a common practice in this game zone and would be recommended for this property. Fertilization of existing hardwood trees would produce more mast and attract a variety of game species. Hunting techniques should emphasize the harvesting of does. Antlered deer ranging in age from 1.5-2.5 should not be harvested at the discretion of the hunter. Antler deer displaying single tines (ex. spikes and cowhorn) should be considered in the harvest plan.
                             
Submitted by
Jack Kornahrens
CPFM, CNRC