​The land within this preserve was formerly used as part of the Buckingham Army Air Field, a U.S. military training base between 1943 and 1945 during World War II. Four trap shooting bunkers remain onsite, along with two jeep tracks that were used for target practice. Additionally, an elevated berm that once served as part of the former military supply railroad is still evident. To learn more, download the Buckingham Army Air Field brochure or watch this short video about the history of the air field.

Restoration efforts at this preserve have included controlling the spread of several invasive exotic plant species, including removing dense stands of melaleuca, Brazilian pepper, and Australian pine. In the southwest corner of the preserve, a small cypress head that was previously clogged with melaleuca is now more open and natural. Additionally, along the southern and eastern boundaries, habitat is now improved to support gopher tortoises, a state-listed protected species.