New OHV trails approved for Blackwater State Forest

The Florida Acquisition and Restoration Council has approved an amendment to the Blackwater River State Forest management plan to allow for the development of a new off-highway vehicle (OHV) trail riding area.

The projected time to have the OHV trail riding area in north Santa Rosa County open for business is fall of 2011.

The approval is for planned trails that are to be developed on the recently acquired Clear Creek/Whiting Field tract. Governor Charlie Crist and the Florida Cabinet approved the purchase of the property for the purpose of providing Florida residents a place to legally ride off-highway vehicles in northwest Florida.

The development of this site for trail use only is extremely important for OHV enthusiasts in Florida as it will establish a model riding system that can be used in other areas of Florida.

It is also an exciting time for DOF as it will be the first time the Division will have the opportunity to plan, design and develop an OHV site on a new piece of property. DOF has recently submitted for a $300,000 Recreation Trail Program (RTP) grant to help in the development of a parking lot, restrooms and trailheads on the site.

An engineer and trail consultant are currently being contracted to help lay out the area to insure protection to the resources while giving OHV riders the best riding experience.

Please visit www.floridaohv.org for details.