2020 Florida National Scenic Trail Highlights

Florida Trail Association (FTA)

OUTREACH

Cultural — FTA hosted their 3rd Annual Wild and Scenic Film festival, featuring 14 partner organizations and 350 attendees. 

Visitor Engagement — FTA added two new Gateway Communities and five new passport stamp locations. 

Education — FTA partnered with the FL Department of State to develop educational resources, including virtual reality interaction with artifacts for the Byrd Hammock archaeological site in St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. 

PROTECTION

Restoration — 

FTA completed restoration of the Rice Creek suspension bridge, including new towers, stringers, and decking.

FTA reopened the trail in the Ecofina Creek Water Management Area, after it sustained significant damage from Hurricane Michael. 

CAPACITY

Staff — FTA has hired its first Executive Director in over a decade.

Relocation — FTA has moved into improved office space to better accommodate growth.

Certification — FTA started a chainsaw certification program with the certification of staff member, Jeff Glenn, as a C-lever sawer. 

Surveys — FTA expanded the USFS/University of Florida Visitor Assessment program to four new survey locations.