FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 21, 2004
CONTACT: Linda Long, (850) 245-2112

Florida Expands Historic Tomoka State Park

-- Florida Forever land purchase adds more than 340 acres--

ORMOND BEACH -- Florida today acquired 340 acres of historical and natural land as an addition to historic Tomoka State Park in Volusia County. Located near the convergence of the Tomoka and Halifax rivers, Tomoka State Park encompasses more than 1,900 acres where early Native Americans once lived off the fish-filled lagoons.

“Expanding Tomoka State Park provides additional recreational opportunities in one of Florida’s most beautiful natural areas,” said Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Colleen M. Castille. “Adding hundreds of acres further protects natural resources, conserves more environmentally sensitive land and preserves Florida’s heritage.”

Renowned for fishing, scenic hiking and canoe trails, Tomoka State Park attracted more than 94,000 visitors last year. The park protects the site of the ancient Indian village of Nocoroco, which was once a thriving community along the banks of the Tomoka River.

Along with bottle-nosed dolphins and manatees that inhabit offshore waters, Tomoka State Park is home to more than 280 plant species and 175 bird species. The State acquired two land parcels for 92 percent of appraised value, adding to a natural land corridor in Northeast Florida. Archeologists have unearthed plantation ruins on one tract, uncovering the historical remnants of a residence and kitchen.

Florida's state park system is one of the largest in the country with 158 parks covering more than 700,000 acres. Last year, Florida’s state parks celebrated record attendance with more than 19.2 million visitors.