FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 12, 2017
~Acquisition will provide additional outdoor
recreational opportunities while allowing for more cohesive land management~
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The Florida Department of Environmental
Protection has purchased approximately 120 acres within
the Charles H. Bronson State Forest for $370,000. This acquisition will
expand recreational opportunities in the state forest by providing additional
opportunities to route trails and place campsites.
"Acquiring this land will help protect and preserve Florida's natural resources," said DEP Secretary Noah Valenstein. "Strategic land purchases like this one serve the residents and visitors of Florida while also protecting our environment."
“Acquisition
of this inholding parcel will allow a more cohesive management regime for species
and recreation,” said Florida Forest Service Director Jim Karels.
The Charles H. Bronson
State Forest is approximately 11,000 acres and was used historically for
turpentine, agriculture and cattle grazing. Today, it is managed by the Florida Forest Service to maintain and protect native ecosystems, plants, animals, and archaeological and historical sites. The forest also supports outdoor recreation and protects the health of the St. Johns River and wetlands in the area.
The forest is open during daylight hours for visitors to enjoy picnicking, horseback riding, hiking, fishing and wildlife viewing with 19 miles of hiking trails and 20 miles of equestrian trails. For more information, visit the Charles H. Bronson State Forest webpage.
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