18. Uses of natural area: 



Essentially all of the natural area has been logged over in 

 several cycles to obtain the successively most valuable remaining 

 or regenerated timber. Most of the timber was removed by a com- 

 bination of barge and a system of tram roads. Recently, Atlantic 

 white cedar stands have been clearcut, particularly in the Swan 

 Creek drainage area. Other species which have been selectively 

 logged are baldcypress, loblolly pine, and swamp blackgum. 



Hunting is a low- intensity use throughout the area; deer and 

 black bear are the principal game species. Bee yards are placed 

 seasonally at scattered locations along the roads. 



The inland margins of the natural area are steadily being 

 cleared and drained for agricultural development. Portions along 

 the southern margin have been ditched and a road system constructed 

 although clearing of the vegetation has not yet begun. Peat mining 

 for energy production is possible on these soils in the long term. 

 Pamlico Properties, Inc. has recently applied for a permit to begin 

 experimental peat mining within the natural area. 



19, Uses of surrounding land: 



a. Wildland 50 % 



b. Agricultural land 50 



c. high-intensity forestry 



d. developed % 



20. Preservation Status: 



Cat 



* 9- 

 o 



*Description of preservation status 



6 



100 



private land, not protected as a natural area by owner 









21c Regulatory protections in force: 



The Army Corps of Engineers "404" permit regulations apply to this area. 

 The Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973 protects the American Alligator 

 and its habitat. These two sources of regulation are limited in scope and 

 ultimate effect. 



33 



