Florida’s First Wildlife Management Area
Written and Photographed by Shanna Weber
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) are acknowledging the milestone of the Wildlife Management Area (WMA) system as it celebrates its 75th year. The first WMA established was Fred C. Babcock/ Cecil M. Webb WMA in 1941 located in Punta Gorda, Florida.
WMAs are lands that are set aside for management to ensure conservation as well as structured recreation. These environmental areas are often more natural in terrain and provide a reprieve for native animals and plants. With the onset of human development in Florida, many species have been threatened, endangered and some have gone extinct. WMAs are imperative to ensure that wildlife and lands can continue to revive and are enjoyed by future generations.
There are many activities to enjoy at WMAs and to honor the first WMA, in our own backyard, here is a guide to experience all Babcock/Webb has to offer.
History: Development of Charlotte County first began in 1881. In 1883, Colonel Isaac Trabue bought the land now known as Punta Gorda. The Punta Gorda area was once briefly considered the pineapple capital of the U.S.A. Soon cattle ranching and timbering became prevalent. In 1914, Edward Babcock purchased two townships eastward to obtain a cattle ranch and hunting preserve. In the 1930’s, Babcock allowed railroad grades to be constructed in the flatwoods. He also leased the timber rights and timber was sent as far as Africa. In 1941, the Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission acquired over 19,000 acres from Babcock. Comprised of over 80,000 acres, Babcock/Webb is one of the last remaining undeveloped acreage of hydric pine flatwoods in Southwest Florida.
Fishing: Fishing is permitted in Babcock/Webb and species caught here range from largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, speckled perch, black crappie, and channel catfish. Be sure to check on site for regulations regarding fish size and limits. Webb Lake, a 395-acre lake, offers impeccable fishing—just no gas-powered boats permitted. With 3 boat ramps, it is a great place for canoes and kayaks as well.
Fishing License FAQ: http://myfwc.com/license
Wildlife: Babcock/Webb is proud to be included in the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. Birds spotted here include migratory birds, red-cockaded woodpeckers, northern bobwhite, blue jays, wading birds, and cardinals. Other wildlife frequenting the area include eastern cotton tail rabbits, gray squirrels, raccoons, feral hogs, frogs, alligators, turtles, tortoises, and whitetail deer. Also, the very rare Florida Bonneted Bat has been seen in the WMA, especially since the installation of bat houses throughout the area.
Great Florida Birding Trail: http://floridabirdingtrail.com/
Hunting: Peak season for hunters being the first two weeks of November, Babcock/Webb is very hunter-friendly. Permits are required for dove hunts and Northern Bobwhite hunts. Also, there are designated area hog maintenance hunts on the 885-acre Punta Gorda Water Treatment Facility site. There is a shooting range open during day light hours for public use located within Babcock/Webb which includes a 10-pad shooting range, 200-yard rifle, 100-yard rifle, and 50-yard pistol ranges.
Hunting Regulations/Maps:http://myfwc.com/hunting/wma-brochures/sw/babcock-webb/
Shooting Range FAQ: http://myfwc.com/hunting/safety-education/shooting-ranges/
Walking/ Biking/ Horseback Riding/ Scenic Drive: In Babcock/Webb there are 37 miles of mostly unpaved roads for biking as well as two hiking trails that are available for use: Flag Pond Loop (1.13 miles) and Cowhunter Trail (1.41 miles). On these roads, it is easy to see various wildlife and plant species. Horseback Riding is permitted at Babcock/Webb year-round and stables can be reserved by calling 863.648.3200. Lastly, enjoy Babcock/Webb from the convenience of your car by the scenic drive. Great for the physically impaired or just to simply enjoy the natural state of the park.
Camping: Primitive camping sites are available at Babcock/Webb from Friday at 5 p.m. to Sunday at 9 p.m. Plan your visit by going to: http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/lead/fred-babcockwebb/planning-your-visit/
Location: 29200 Tuckers Grade, Punta Gorda, Florida, 33982 Exit 158
Information provided by: http://myfwc.com/