In early June, the USDA Forest Service, National Forests in Florida released the 2012 Florida National Scenic Trail Strategic Plan. This planning document is the first guidance document for the future of the Florida Trail since the trail’s original inception as a National Scenic Trail in 1986.
Conservation articles
Articles on land and wildlife conservation efforts, as well as the management of Florida's waters, including springs, rivers, and lakes.
A Peaceful Donation
A donation of the 4,171 acre Peaceful Horse Ranch on the Peace River was turned down by DEP two years ago. It was just accepted as a future Florida State Forest
A Sandhill Crane Success Story
At the Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge in Gautier, MS, conservation of fragile pine savannas and an aggressive re-introduction program have brought a sandhill crane subspecies back from the brink of extinction.
Alligators Everywhere
In spring, alligators become more active as the days warm up. It’s also mating season, so alligators are on the move. Expect to see them anywhere and everywhere along Florida’s trails.
Among the Wolves
When getting to know wolves means sitting among them, it’s a bit intimidating. But being among the wolf packs of Seacrest Wolf Preserve near Chipley will open your eyes as to why wolves are well worth protecting.
Celebrate National Public Lands Day
Saturday, September 22 is the 25th annual National Public Lands Day, celebrated on federal lands across America with fee-free entry and volunteer activities.
Chasing Rainbows: Florida Springs Protection
April is Florida Springs Protection Month, according to our state agencies. A walk through Rainbow Springs State Park confirms that as beautiful as they look, the springs are not in good health.
Closing the Florida Trail Big Bend Gap
How do we close the gap in the Florida Trail between the Suwannee and Aucilla Rivers? Learn the history of how the trail was developed and routed through that region, the discussions going on now, and a potential solution for future protection of the trail corridor.
Do Not Feed the Bears
Bear bagging is the art of hanging your food properly out of reach of bears. If you’re a Florida backpacker and haven’t learned how, here’s a short course. Securing your food from bears is required in the Ocala, Osceola, and Apalachicola National Forests.
Fly’n R Ranch
Raise a Slush Puppie to toast one of Florida’s newest public lands, 3,100 acre Fly’n R Ranch along the Ocklawaha River, thanks to conservationist Will Radcliff