This 145-acre preserve was purchased between 2000 and 2002 through the county’s Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program. Florida Communities Trust, a state program, awarded 40 percent of the acquisition costs of a 110-acre tract within the site. The preserve is named after one of the earlier landowners, the Manasota Land and Timber Company and the scrub vegetation that exists primarily on the west side of Bridge Street.

Although this is a small pocket of vegetation in a suburban community, one can observe a variety of upland and wetland communities along a system of trails. Visitors may also spot resident wildlife such as gopher tortoises, northern quail, swallowtail butterflies and great-horned owls. An assortment of wildflowers such as grassleaf, goldenaster and blazing star may be visible from the trails. Enjoy a break by relaxing on benches placed along the marked trails.

The marked trail is approximately one mile long. The hiking trails are unpaved but accessible for most visitors. Be prepared for Florida’s often extreme outdoor conditions, by bringing water, sun block, insect repellant, a rain jacket and sturdy shoes. Some trails may flood after heavy rainfall.

• The preserve has limited parking and is accessible by crossing a 330 foot boardwalk bordering a wetland.

Preserve hours are:

7:30 a.m. – 8 p.m., April through October
7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m., November through March

Manasota Scrub Preserve Brochure

For more information about the Manasota Scrub Preserve, call 941-861-5000 and ask for Natural Resources.