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TALLAHASSEE – Governor Jeb Bush and the Florida Cabinet today approved the purchase of almost three acres as an addition to the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail. Located near the mouth of the Suwannee River, the Florida Forever purchase will not only serve as a principal access point to the Trail but also link the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail to the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail, a sea kayaking trail extending the entire length of Florida’s coastline.
“Florida welcomed more than 17,400 visitors to the 170-mile Suwannee River Wilderness Trail just last year, boosting the local economy of the communities along the historic river,” said Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Colleen M. Castille. “This purchase will provide a key access point for guests and link two of Florida’s largest recreational trails, connecting the freshwater Suwannee trail to the coastal saltwater paddling trail.”
The site currently contains a 40-slip marina, lodging facilities, recreational vehicle camping area and a small restaurant. In addition, the property, which will be managed by the Florida Park Service, enhances the management and protection of the Trail by providing a base of operations for the southern portion of the Trail in the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge.
Initiated by Governor Jeb Bush in 2002, The Suwannee River Wilderness Trail is a partnership program between the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the Suwannee River Water Management District, businesses and communities along the river. The Trail provides visitors with the opportunity to navigate the world-famous Suwannee River with convenient rest stops located at one-day intervals. From tents and cabins to hotels and inns, eight regional ‘hubs’ offer various resting and lodging choices along the trail.
The 10-year, $3 billion Florida Forever program established by Governor Jeb Bush and the Florida Legislature conserves environmentally sensitive land, restores waterways and preserves important cultural and historical resources. For more information, visit
www.FloridaForever.org. For information about the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail, visit
www.SuwanneeRiver.com.
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