LIVE OAK, FLA., Feb. 10, 2020 – During the month of February, area residents and visitors are encouraged to hike the District’s scenic trails in observance of Florida Hiking Trails Month. The Suwannee River Water Management District (District) provides public access to over 70 miles of trails dedicated to hiking.
“Major rivers, first magnitude springs, disappearing rivers and waterfalls can all be found on District lands,” said Hugh Thomas, executive director of the District. “The District provides visitors and residents with the opportunity to see these natural wonders first-hand while preserving these resources for future generations.”
The District acquires lands for flood control, water quality protection, and natural resource conservation. These lands provide opportunities to the public for hiking, biking, horseback riding and more.
A little over 50 miles of District trails are a part of the Florida National Scenic Trail, a 1,300-mile trail starting in Big Cypress National Preserve in South Florida and ending in Gulf Islands National Seashore in northwest Florida. The Florida National Scenic Trail travels through Big Shoals State Park, Swift Creek Conservation Area, Holton Creek Conservation Area and many more areas along the Suwannee River.
February is an ideal time to hike in North Florida because of the cool temperatures and few mosquitoes. It is also a good time of year to watch wildlife, specifically birds. Visitors can hike a trail on District lands and find several species of birds that migrate south to Florida from the north for the winter.
District lands are open during daylight hours from one and a half hours before sunrise to one and a half hours after sunset. For a list of trails and additional recreational opportunities on District lands, visit www.MySuwanneeRiver.com or call the District at 386.362.1001.
The mission of the Suwannee River Water Management District is to protect and manage water resources using science-based solutions to support natural systems and the needs of the public. The District holds true to the belief of water for nature, water for people. Headquartered in Live Oak, Florida, the District serves 15 surrounding north-central Florida counties.
For more information about the District, visit www.MySuwanneeRiver.com or follow us on Facebook and Twitter, search @SRWMD.
###