FOR
IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 27, 2002
Governor Proclaims October as Florida Greenways and Trails Month
TALLAHASSEE
– On
August 8, 2002
, Governor Jeb Bush
declared October as Florida Greenways and Trails Month.
Greenways and trails preserve and protect
Florida’s natural resources,
historical and cultural sites, showcase working
landscapes, connect communities, provide recreational
opportunities and fuel the economy.
To
celebrate, the Florida Department of Environmental
Protection’s Office of Greenways & Trails is
promoting activities throughout the month.
This year’s goal is for every county to hold at
least one event.
“We
hope to involve more students in this year’s
celebration,” says Jena Brooks, Office of Greenways
& Trails director.
“Greenways and rural trails provide ideal
settings to learn about
Florida’s ecosystems,
wildlife, and working landscapes.
Urban trails provide opportunities to discover how
trails can provide non-motorized transportation routes and
linear recreation facilities.”
Last
October, government agencies, as well as public and
private organizations, hosted 130 events in 49 counties to
draw people outside and on the trails.
Florida
has thousands of miles
of trails winding through both urban and rural areas. Greenways and Trails Month provides an opportunity
to educate the public of the many benefits of using
trails, encourages partnerships to help extend and enhance
the trail system statewide, and assists residents to
establish local greenways and create trails.
For
more information about county events, or to register an
event, visit http://www.floridagreenwaysandtrails.com.
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Press Office
