To celebrate October as Florida Native Plant Month, the Alachua County Environmental Protection Department invites residents to participate in a guided walk through the Phifer Flatwoods Preserve – Lochloosa Creek Tract. The walk is on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, from 9 to 11 a.m. Participants meet at the future trail head of Phifer’s Lochloosa Creek Tract (15015 CR 2082, Hawthorne).
The terrain of this three-mile hike is mostly flat. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and drinking water are recommended. This event is free, but is limited to 20 people. Participants should register by emailing cgillis@alachuacounty.us or calling 352-262-4749.
“As the summer heat dissipates, Florida’s plant communities burst into bloom in a dazzling ‘second spring,’” said Alachua County Environmental Specialist Milo Neelands. “Come meet some of our native wildflowers and pollinators and learn about the Alachua County Forever Program’s restoration efforts on this family-friendly hike.”
Learn more about Alachua County Forever.
For more information, contact Alachua County Senior Environmental Specialist Jesse Natwick at 352-264-6800 or jnatwick@alachuacounty.us.
