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Big Cypress National PreserveThe ghost orchid (Dendrophylax lindenii) is one of the rare epiphytic orchids found in Southwest Florida.
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Big Cypress National Preserve
Release of Final Commercial Services Plan Announced

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Date: September 24, 2009
Contact: Christine Clark, 239-695-1153

Superintendent Pedro Ramos announced the completion of the Commercial Services Plan and Environmental Assessment (CSP) for the Preserve.  The CSP was developed over 5 years, and incorporates the participation of numerous federal and state agencies, the two federally recognized Tribes, as well as the public.

The selected alternative allows for a reasonable and controlled number of commercial opportunities which will provide for a positive visitor experience while still allowing for maximum resource protection through monitoring and analyses required for each permit issued.  The  selected alternative provides these opportunities while allowing for the legislated right of first refusal of the federally recognized Tribes.

The CSP can be viewed and downloaded here. These pages also contain information on NPS commercial services as well as the requirements for applying for a Commercial Use Authorization to perform necessary and appropriate visitor services within the Preserve.

For further information on this plan and this press release contact the Preserve's Commercial Services Coordinator at 239-695-1153.
 

A great white heron scratches its neck. Notice the color of the legs.  

Did You Know?
The Great White Heron is very similar to the Great White Egret. However, look closely and you will see that the heron has yellow legs, while the egret has black legs. The Great White Heron is found only in South Florida in the United States. It can also be found on several Caribbean Islands.

Last Updated: September 24, 2009 at 14:52 EST