Message from Our Director

Chuck Hatcher

Welcome to February! 

This month brings many opportunities to enjoy Florida State Parks.  

Hello, and welcome to February! This month is full of events that showcase what ...the Real Florida has to offer. And the milder temperatures make it a little easier to get out there!  

The Fort Mose Jazz and Blues Series, featuring incredible performances from internationally renowned musicians, runs Feb. 6-16 and is a great way to enjoy live music while supporting efforts to construct a replica of the 1738 fort at Fort Mose Historic State Park. This important landmark tells the story of the first legally sanctioned free Black settlement in what would later become the United States. When the reconstruction opens this spring, it will be the culmination of years of hard work by many dedicated people. The park and museum are open now, so you don’t have to wait for the new fort to immerse yourself in the history of this significant time in our state and country.  

Also in February is Invasive Species Awareness Week, Feb. 24 – 28. Invasive plants have no natural predators and crowd out native plants. Native plants create a better habitat for pollinators and wildlife. You can participate by replacing invasive plants in your home, garden or community with native species, or see if a park near you is hosting an invasive plant removal event.  

If you missed First Day Hikes or participated and want more, February is a great time. Not only is the weather still cool, but it’s Florida Hiking Trails Month! You can find trails in Florida’s state parks or on a statewide list from DEP's Office of Greenways and Trails Online Trail Guide.

 

See you in the parks, 
Chuck Hatcher, Director
Florida State Parks