FNPS Mangrove Chapter February Field Trip
The Mangrove Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society invites the public to join in a nature walk February 25, 2017 at Caloosahatchee Regional Park in Alva, Florida 33920. Walkers will meet in Parking Lot 2 at 19130 N. River Road (Rt. 78) at 9 a.m.
Caloosahatchee Regional Park features 768 acres of pine flatwoods, scrub oak, cypress swamps and oak hammocks. It boasts more than 20 miles of hiking, mountain biking and equestrian trails.
Located along the Caloosahatchee River, the park is an area rich in natural history. Calusa Indians are believed to be the first settlers here, followed by the Seminole and early settlers of what is now known as Alva. Early research found two archaeological sites within the park. The efforts of several community members from the Caloosa Saddle Club in 1985, were instrumental in convincing Lee County Commissioners to develop the park. Along with other groups such as the Florida Mud Cutters Mountain Bike Club, volunteers helped develop the trail system on the park’s 400 acre North side. Caloosahatchee Regional Park opened on March 6, 1999 and Lee County volunteers continue to support trail maintenance and campground management.
Join us on a leisurely exploration of this beautiful area.
For more information you may contact Al Squires at 941-769-3633 or email him at ahsquires@embarqmail.com.
DIRECTIONS: From I-75 exit 143, drive 3.3 miles East on SR 78 (Bayshore Rd). The road ends at T. Turn left onto SR 31 and continue 1.2 miles. You will pass Northside Trails entrance (for equestrians and bicyclists). Keep alert for the main entrance on the right at 7.2 miles. The trails start near the restrooms.
The Florida Native Plant Society promotes the preservation, conservation, and restoration of the native plants and native plant communities of Florida. More information about the Mangrove Chapter of FNPS can be located on their website: fnps.org.chapters.
Meetings, field trips and special events are free and open to the public.