Neighborhood and Environmental Services Department

~Overview of our progress for Jones Swamp Preserve~

August 15, 2007

Jones Swamp Trails: NESD is completing our redevelopment of the nature trail and boardwalks off Patton Drive to Decatur (approximately 1 mile). Both received substantial damage from Hurricane Ivan, as well as the ecosystems. The hurricane destroyed much of the tree canopy which has changed the light patterns on the forest floor. This altered many of the ecosystems we have previously mapped. The boardwalks were damaged also. So the trail has been repaired and many of the boardwalk/trail sections are reopened.

Trailheads: NESD is currently in the midst of constructing two trailhead parking areas for visitors in the Patton Drive and PJC vicinity. These parking areas will have a gravel surface with parking, a split rail type fence and interpretive kiosk describing the trails attributes.

Jones Creek Restoration: NESD has just last week completed restoration of a one (1) mile section of wetland in the same vicinity as the trail (Patton Drive). This week, NESD kicked off wetland restoration of three (3) parcels on Fairfield Drive, just north of Gulf Beach Highway where Jones Creek flows beneath Fairfield.

Glenn Key Stormwater/Wetland Pond: NESD has completed, except for wetland planting, the construction of a new wetland/stormwater pond and boardwalk trail between Old Corry Field Road and Navy Boulevard. This section will eventually link the Lexington Terrace Park to the Jones Swamp Preserve.

Southwest Greenway: The Lexington Terrace, Glenn Key and Jones Swamp trail sections are the easternmost trail sections of the eventual 25 mile Southwest Greenway trails. This system will link Lexington Terrace, Jones Swamp Wetland Preserve, Tarkiln Bayou State Preserve, Big Lagoon State Park, Perdido Pitcher Plant Prairie Preserve and the new County Sports Complex off Bauer Road. We have met with the Florida Division of Parks and Recreation and coordinated this plan with their Master Plan for the three State parks.

Jones Swamp ATV/4X4 Enforcement: NESD has enlisted the support of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to help enforce the restriction of off-road vehicle activity in the Preserve. NESD has also entered into an access agreement with a large property owner on the north side of the swamp on Highway 98 to include their property in our enforcement. Approximately 140 "no trespassing" signs have been posted and significant entry points blocked or taped. While we are sure illicit activity is still occurring, reports of activity to this office have diminished. Input on this subject is very welcome from the public.

We will be providing updates as our project continues.

                        

                    

 

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