Aucilla Sink ~~ by Mike DeWitt

On February 8, 2007, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) presented a draft recreation master plan for the Aucilla River Wildlife Management Area (ARWMA). The area managed by the FWC includes the Aucilla Sinks segment of the Florida National Scenic Trail. Therefore, as a stakeholder and interested party, the Apalachee Chapter of the FTA was invited to attend. Terry Tenold, AC Trails Coordinator, was pleased to attend the presentation and hear the goals for future management and improvement of recreation opportunities in the ARWMA. Comments and recommendations were solicited from about a half-dozen interested parties, including the Apalachee Canoe and Kayak Club, and the Audubon Society.

The FWC presented the main goals for the ARWMA as being wildlife habitat management and restoration, natural ecosystem restoration, and optimizing public access while protecting natural resources. The draft plan includes development of a comprehensive nature-based recreation management plan, and an interpretive plan that includes brochures, kiosks, interpretive trails, and wildlife viewing facilities. The Apalachee Chapter went on record as recommending a trailhead and parking facilities, with a kiosk incorporating interpretive facilities, to be located where the FNST crosses Goose Pasture Road and continues south into the Aucilla Sinks area.

At the conclusion of the presentation, all participants agreed that the draft recreation master plan proposed many good ideas for expanding and optimizing recreation opportunities, including additional hiking and interpretive trails, in the Aucilla River Wildlife Management Area.

–Terry Tenold