Jones Swamp Wetland Preserve and Nature Trail
In 1996, as a part of the Bayou Chico restoration
efforts, the Jones Swamp Wetland Preserve targeted
1,300 acres within the Jones Creek Watershed
for acquisition to provide wetland buffering and
protection for water quality improvement to the
Pensacola Bay area.
Management activities underway include:
• Performing prescribed burns to enhance native
vegetation and reduce fuel loads to assist in
preventing catastrophic wildfires.
• Installing beaver dam levelers to reduce flooding
in residential areas near the preserve.
• Reconstructing more than one mile of creek section to restore
natural stream processes. The rock vanes reduce erosion and
increase biodiversity in Jones Creek. The level spreader ponds
slow stormwater runoff and aide in restoring the significant
functions of the wetlands.
• Constructing the Glynn Key Stormwater Educational Project
and Boardwalk in partnership with Mr. Glynn Key and
South Gate Plaza. The county acquired an old, overgrown
stormwater pond and converted it into a wet pond to
provide better water treatment before entering Jones Creek.
Educational signage on the boardwalk identifies native plants
and animals that may be seen from the boardwalk. The Glynn
Key Boardwalk Trail links to the Lexington Terrace Park
which has a paved trail, playground, community center,
pavilions and a dog park.
Opportunities being pursed for the future include:
• A southwest greenway traversing the county from the
Lexington Terrace Park to the Tarkiln Bayou State
Recreational Preserve and Big Lagoon State Park. This area
will be a greenbelt through urbanized areas with a trail system
for approximately 15 miles through various ecosystems.
• Establishing the preserve as a site along the Florida Birding
Trail.
Operating hours: sunrise until sunset
Jones Swamp East - 198 Patton Drive
Jones Swamp West - 1131 Patton Drive
For more information call 850-595-3535
Funding provided by:
Jones Swamp Wetland Preserve and Nature Trail Brochure
