[LOG-001] 27.860095, -82.13949

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Geological Data

Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park is located along the **Alafia River**, situated in **Lithia, Florida**. The park features an array of **geological formations**, primarily shaped by the **Alafia River** over millions of years. The terrain is characterized by a mix of **upland areas** and **wetlands**, which are influenced by the **river’s flow** and **seasonal flooding**.

The **Alafia River** is classified as a **lowland river**, which has created the region’s rich floodplain ecosystem. The area’s **soils** are predominantly **hydric soils** (waterlogged soils that are poorly drained), ideal for **wetland plant species**. The park also includes **riverine deposits** and **terraces** along the riverbanks.

Key geological features:

• Riverine Terraces: Deposits from past flooding events along the **Alafia River**, resulting in distinct elevation changes.
• Floodplain Wetlands: Periodically inundated areas that support a diverse range of plant and animal life.
• Cypress Swamps: Characterized by **peaty soils** and seasonal flooding, these ecosystems provide unique geological and hydrological features.

Climate Data

The climate at Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park is classified as **humid subtropical** (Köppen classification: Cfa), characterized by **hot, humid summers** and **mild winters**. The area experiences distinct **wet and dry seasons**, with rainfall being more concentrated during the summer months due to **thunderstorm activity** and **tropical systems**.

Key climate data:

• Average Temperature (Summer): 90°F (32°C) during the day, 72°F (22°C) at night
• Average Temperature (Winter): 65°F (18°C) during the day, 50°F (10°C) at night
• Average Annual Rainfall: 50–55 inches (127–140 cm)
• Humidity: The humidity can often exceed 80% during summer months, especially in the mornings and after rainfall.
• Frost Dates: Average first frost: December, Average last frost: February

Flora Data

Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park is home to a diverse range of plant species, with several significant ecological communities that play key roles in maintaining the health of the park’s ecosystem. The park includes a mix of **wetland vegetation**, **upland forests**, and **riparian zones** along the Alafia River.

Dominant Plant Species

• Longleaf Pine (Pinus palustris): Common in the upland habitats, longleaf pines are an essential part of the **fire-dependent ecosystem** in the region.
• Cypress Trees (Taxodium distichum): Found in the wetlands and floodplain areas, cypress trees are crucial in stabilizing the riverbanks and preventing erosion.
• Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens): An important understory species, saw palmetto thrives in the **drier, sandy soils** of the park’s upland areas.
• Oak Trees (Quercus spp.): A mix of **live oaks** and **water oaks** provide shelter and habitat for wildlife, particularly in the **hardwood forests**.

Wetland Vegetation

• Pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata): Found in the shallow areas of the river and wetlands, pickerelweed provides habitat for insects and aquatic organisms.
• Cattails (Typha latifolia): A key species in wetland habitats, cattails help with water filtration and provide food for wildlife.
• Water Lilies (Nymphaea spp.): Common in the shallow, slow-moving waters of the Alafia River, water lilies help oxygenate the water and provide food for fish and aquatic organisms.

Fauna Data

Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park supports a variety of wildlife species, thanks to its diverse habitats, ranging from **wetlands** to **upland forests**. The park is home to both **migratory** and **resident** species, and provides important breeding and feeding grounds for several species.

Mammals

• White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus): These herbivores are commonly found throughout the park, primarily in the **wooded and meadow areas**.
• Eastern Cottontail Rabbit (Sylvilagus floridanus): A small mammal, the cottontail rabbit is common in the park’s shrubland and grassland habitats.
• Florida Black Bear (Ursus americanus floridanus): While rare, the Florida black bear has been spotted in the more remote areas of the park, typically in the dense forested zones.

Birds

• Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus): A prominent species in Alderman’s Ford, Bald Eagles are often seen near the river, hunting for fish. They are critical for controlling fish populations in the park.
• Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias): A wading bird that frequents the river’s edge, the Great Blue Heron preys on fish and amphibians found in the park’s wetlands.
• Red-shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus): Found in forested areas, this raptor feeds on small mammals and reptiles in the park.

Reptiles & Amphibians

• American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis): Common in the park’s riverine habitats, American Alligators are apex predators that help regulate fish populations.
• Eastern Indigo Snake (Drymarchon couperi): A non-venomous species that inhabits the park’s forests, the Indigo Snake plays a key role in controlling populations of small mammals and amphibians.
• Southern Toad (Anaxyrus terrestris): This amphibian is prevalent in the park’s **wetlands**, where it feeds on insects and provides food for larger predators like birds and snakes.

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