CONCLUSION

The Brevard Coastal Scrub Ecosystem Initiative CARL Project is a local conservation initiative that protects one of the most unique and endangered upland communities in North America.

The foundation of the conservation project design is based on scientifically defensible data complied in support of the Brevard County SCDP. The EEL Program expanded the SCDP project area at the directive of the EEL SMC to include surrounding mesic matrix habitat types that are essential for protection of the focal scrub habitats and habitat linkages. The primary goal of this project is to protect the remaining best fragments of the scrub ecosystem to enhance the survival potential of the Florida Scrub-Jay and associated rare flora and fauna in the rapidly growing Brevard County.

With its partners, the EEL Program has been successful in acquiring more than 10,000 acres of scrub and surrounding matrix habitat identified in the CARL project area. There remains an additional 16,000 acres to complete the project.

The EEL Program is committed to both acquisition and management of scrub properties comprising this project due to the global significance of this acquisition project to the long-term survival of the Florida Scrub-Jay. The Brevard County Coastal Scrub Ecosystem Initiative CARL Project complements State and Federal land conservation efforts that, with aggressive and immediate management to improve habitat quality, have the potential to recover and maintain the fourth largest Scrub-Jay population in the State of Florida.[8]

The accomplishments of this program would not be possible without the scientific foundation, dedicated partnerships and most important, the continued support of Brevard County’s citizens.