Alachua County’s nature preserves have reopened following cleanup related to Hurricane Irma. Although the public is still advised to be aware of wet conditions and other potential hazards, the following properties are now open for public use: Barr Hammock Preserve, Lake Alto Preserve, Mill Creek Preserve, Phifer Flatwoods Preserve, and Sweetwater Preserve.
Chestnut Park/Butler Nature Preserve, Rotary Park at Jonesville, Squirrel Ridge Park, and Veteran's Park at Kanapaha have also returned to full operation. Cleanup activities will continue but should not impact most uses at these parks.
Some parks and boat ramps affected by high water levels remain closed. Poe Springs on the Santa Fe River; Earl P. Powers and Owens-Illinois parks on Newnans Lake; Santa Fe Lake Park; and Holden Pond all experienced significant flooding. County staff will monitor conditions and reopen these parks when water levels have dropped, and any needed repairs are complete.
For more information, contact Alachua County Parks and Conservation Lands Director Charlie Houder at 352-264-6804 or chouder@alachuacounty.us.