Media Release

11:50 a.m.

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL- Alachua County Forever  and Alachua Conservation Trust, Inc. are celebrating the acquisition and grand opening of Phifer Flatwoods Preserve on October 11, 2008 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.  The celebration will provide an introduction to the Preserve through a ceremonial vine cutting, a brief introductory talk, and guided nature walks. The opening will take place at Phifer Flatwoods Preserve, at the Marsh Trailhead (see map and directions below).  The public and the media are invited.

 

The protection of Phifer Flatwoods Preserve was made possible by the actions of the Alachua Conservation Trust, Inc. (ACT), a local non-profit land trust, and its many friends and supporters.  In 2005 the land was put up for auction and nearly acquired by a Louisiana developer. Aware of the critical timing of the pending sale, ACT quickly rallied the support of the local community, receiving loans from more than 50 individuals, foundations, and non-profit groups, and gifts from more than 250 households. This group effort raised nearly $3 million for the initial land purchase.  Alachua County purchased Phifer Flatwoods from ACT using Alachua County Forever Bond funds and a Florida Communities Trust Grant, thus protecting the land for future generations.

 

The preserve will be open from sunrise to sunset for hiking and biking on established paths.

 

For more information, contact Sandra Vardaman with the Alachua County Environmental Protection Department, at 264-6800 or email land@alachuacounty.us.

                  

Directions and map to Phifer Flatwoods Preserve:

Phifer Flatwoods Preserve is accessible via the Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail.  From State Road 20, travel south on CR-325 to the Phifer Flatwoods Preserve Parking Area, located at the intersection of CR-325 and CR-2082 (look for the kiosk).  Park your car in the grass parking area, and follow the Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail east approximately one-half mile to the Marsh Trailhead, or ride your bike to the event from any of several trailheads along the Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail. 

 

Click above to view larger map.