FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Jan. 11, 2017

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

FLORIDA PARK SERVICE CELEBRATES
COMPLETION OF RESTORATION PROJECT AT
NORTH PENINSULA STATE PARK

~Ribbon-cutting ceremony highlights marsh restoration project~

FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Florida Park Service joined the St. Johns River Water Management District at a ribbon-cutting ceremony today to celebrate the completion of a long-term restoration project at North Peninsula State Park. The project restored 86 acres of salt marsh and estuary habitat at the park.

"Restoring natural habitat is very important to the Florida Park Service and I am proud to say that we have completed yet another incredible restoration project," said Florida Park Service Assistant Director Chuck Hatcher. "I commend our staff and partners on their hard work to make this project a reality."

The project began in 2010 and included reforming tidal connections with existing estuaries and salt marshes. Estuaries and salt marshes are home to the majority of Florida's fish species in the early stages of life, as well as a wide array of plants, crabs, shrimp, oysters and birds that thrive in this habitat. These restoration sites will provide increased recreational opportunities, while improving water quality and protecting the shoreline from storm surge and flooding. The creation of this habitat also removes harmful, non-native plants such as Brazilian pepper.

The St. Johns River Water Management District provided $4 million for the project as well as technical assistance.

“The St. Johns River Water Management District is proud to have been a partner in this important project to restore the saltmarsh and tidal creek habitat,” said St. Johns River Water Management District Executive Director Dr. Ann Shortelle. “We have had a great collaborative effort. The work we have completed recreates the healthy, productive saltmarsh and tidal creek habitat and restores and enhances the connection between the tidal creek and the estuary.”

In fiscal year 2015-16, North Peninsula State Park welcomed 265,657 visitors. The park provides opportunities for exploring the 2-mile beach, fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing. Visit the North Peninsula State Park webpage to learn more about the park.

About Florida State Parks, Greenways and Trails 

The Florida Park Service is the proud recipient of three National Gold Medals for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, making Florida America’s first three-time Gold Medal winner. The awards were received in 1999, 2005 and 2013 from the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration and the National Recreation and Park Association.

Florida’s 174 state parks, trails and historic sites inspire residents and visitors with recreation opportunities and scenic beauty that help strengthen families, educate children, expand local economies and foster community pride. With nearly 800,000 acres, 100 miles of beaches and more than 1,500 miles of multi-use trails, residents and visitors should plan to visit soon and often to enjoy Florida’s natural treasures. Download the Florida State Parks Pocket Ranger® mobile app, available on iTunes and Android Market, to plan your trip and enhance your experience. For more information, visit www.FloridaStateParks.org

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