FLORIDA PARK SERVICE RECOGNIZES OCTOBER AS GREENWAYS AND TRAILS MONTH

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MEDIA ADVISORY: Oct. 5, 2012

CONTACT: DEP Press Office, 850.245.2112, DEPNews@dep.state.fl.us

FLORIDA PARK SERVICE RECOGNIZES OCTOBER AS GREENWAYS AND TRAILS MONTH

~From hiking to paddling, horseback riding to biking, Florida’s state trails provide excellent fall outdoor recreation opportunities~

hiking

Hikers enjoy the 110-mile Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway.


TALLAHASSEE  Governor Rick Scott proclaimed the month of October as Florida Greenways and Trails Month, celebrating the important recreational and economic benefits of Florida’s greenways and trails. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Florida Park Service, Office of Greenways & Trails welcomes this annual occasion to recognize the more than 600 miles of beautiful greenways and trails in Florida
“This October, I encourage all Floridians to spend quality time outdoors with your family and friends on one of Florida’s beautiful greenways and trails,” said Florida Park Service Director Donald Forgione. “Whether you like to hike, bike or paddle, our state trails offer beautiful places to enjoy Florida’s environment.”
Throughout the month of September, the Department held several public meetings to receive input on a new vision for the Florida Greenways and Trails System Plan. A new plan is being developed to establish priorities and define the role of the plan in advancing our economy, tourism, health, alternative transportation, recreation, conservation and quality of life.
“We are so fortunate to live in a state with such diverse natural resources,” said Deno Hicks, Chair of the Florida Greenways and Trails Council. “We hope the new vision and plan for Florida’s greenways and trails will help to further preserve and protect our natural resources while providing access for outstanding recreational opportunities.”
Visit a state trail during the month of October. To view more events, visit the Florida Park Service events page.

Cross Florida Greenway - Santos Bike Trails East Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day

9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Oct. 6

3080 SE 80th St.

Ocala

 Withlacoothee State Trail Rails to Trails Bike Ride

7– 9 a.m.

Oct. 7

315 North Apopka Ave.

Iverness

 Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail Paddle-Pedal

9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Oct. 27

3 La Croix Court

Key Largo