This event has been canceled due to weather conditions
RSVP encouraged but not required.
WHAT TO BRING
Be sure to wear closed-toe shoes and long pants. Bring water, snacks, bug spray, sunscreen, and hat.
WHEN
Friday, April 28th, 2023
3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
WHERE
3208 NW 186th ST
Newberry, FL 32609
ABOUT THE PRESERVE
The Saarinen Preserve was donated to ACT in the late 1990's by Arthur and Phyllis Saarinen for perpetual preservation.
The property has a mix of forest types. There are scattered natural stands of longleaf pine and live oak within about 40 acres of mesic hammock - an upland forest type mostly consisting of hardwoods - and there are a total of about 38 acres of planted slash pine. The planted pines are approximately 17-years-old, and some of the live oaks and longleaf pines may be more than a century old.
ACT has undertaken restoration activities that include thinning of the planted pine and replacing it with native longleaf pine. Other efforts will include creating conditions that encourage desirable species to seed in naturally, such as maintaining openings to encourage a more diverse herbaceous and wildflower layer. The ultimate goal is a forest that mimics the natural forest of North Central Florida – a mosaic of pines with a wide range of hardwoods and shrubs suitable for the site.
ACCESS INFO
Public trails (approx. 2.6 miles) and picnic facilities are available.
Parking is available at trailhead.
The preserve closes at dark.
REGISTRATION
Contact Alachua Conservation Trust by email at info@alachuaconservationtrust.org to RSVP or for more information. RSVP encouraged but not required.
