Land Clearing UnderwayThe Lake
Douglas Ranch is working on a large scale land clearing and clean up
project to prepare the area for the 2007 hurricane season. Several
large trees were damaged during the 2004 hurricanes and now
represent a danger for visitors and livestock.
In additional to the removal of trees and stumps, private
contractors are also working to improve the Ranch's storm water
drainage system and create areas of higher ground by adding dirt to
known low lying sections of pasture.
During all of this work, Ranch managers are paying particular
attention to protect wildlife habitats, including several gopher
tortoise nests and a fox den.
Phase 2 of this project will involve replacement siding of the
Ranch House which will harden the facility to better resist
hurricane force winds and other severe weather.
The Ranch is also concurrently working on an automation upgrade
which will involve the installation of new 802.11 Wireless G format
routers and repeaters to link all buildings, barns and holding
areas.