In support of Florida’s vibrant outdoor community, since 2014 the co-op has been able to contribute over $100,000 to stewarding the Florida Trail and other natural spaces around the state.
Come by and see us at your local REI before heading out to enjoy the fresh air, or visit online at REI.com.
Empowering the Future: The Next Generation Coalition and Our New Volunteer Program by Emily Padden
Veterans and Healing in Focus by Brandie Dziegiel
Building the Robinson Branch Bridge Along the Suwannee River by Jane Pollack and Jeff Glenn
The newly constructed bridge over Robinson Branch.
The Florida Trail Association develops, maintains, protects and promotes the Florida National Scenic Trail, better known simply as the Florida Trail. With the Forest Service as our primary partner and administrator, we provide opportunities for the public to hike, engage in outdoor recreation, participate in environmental education and contribute to meaningful volunteer work.
The Footprint Magazine welcomes your comments. The editors are committed to providing balanced and objective perspectives. Not all letters received may be published. Letters may be edited for clarity or length. communications@floridatrail.org
Footprint Editor
Florida Trail Association
1022 NW 2nd St
Gainesville, FL 32601 COVER IMAGES
Shifting Perspectives, Shifting Landscapes: Embracing Change in Florida's Wild Spaces by Brandie Dziegiel
Insights and Inspiration from the PNTS Workshop by Jane Pollack
Keeping the Florida Trail Up-to-Date: A Deep Dive into Our Mapmaking Process by Abe Christian
Mapping the Trail: How GIS Supports the Preservation of the FNST by Christina Mallica
Sandra Friend: A Legacy of Florida Trail Guidebooks by Jane Pollack
FLORIDA TRAIL ASSOCIATION
1022 NW 2nd Street
Gainesville, FL 32601
Toll-Free: 877-HIKE-FLA
Tel: 352-378-8823
Email: fta@floridatrail.org
Website: FloridaTrail.org
Facebook.com/FloridaTrailAssociation
Digital Magazine: Issuu.com/FlaTrail BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Chair: Michelle Duncan, PhD
Vice Chair: James Powell
Treasurer: Elwood McElhaney
Secretary: Leslie Wheeler
Directors: Tiffany Bright • Karl Byars
Tom Daniel • Eric Emery • Rick Robbins
Charles Scott • Chelsey Stevens • Chris Stevens
Bill Turman • Ryan Worthington
FLORIDA TRAIL STAFF
Acting Executive Director: Abe Christian
Administrative Director: Janet Akerson
Trail Program Director: Adam Fryska
Communications and Outreach Manager: Jane Pollack
Membership and Marketing Manager: Britt Moore
Panhandle Trail Program Manager: Brandie Dziegiel
Senior Trail Program and Field Project Manager: Jeff Glenn
Central/South Trail Program Manager: Vacant
Operations Manager: Abe Christian
GIS Program Coordinator: Christina Mallica
Gateway Community Coordinator: Austin Burton
Next Generation Coalition Coordinator: Emily Padden
Office Assistant: Hailey Dansby
Seasonal Technical Advisors: Philip Daly and Rowan Nygard
Contributors retain copyright to their work but give the Florida Trail Association permission to use to promote FTA and the Florida Trail. Articles are subject to editing for clarity and space. Materials will be returned if accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. Opinions, observations, and endorsements made within the Florida Trail Footprint do not necessarily reflect those of the board or staff of the Florida Trail Association.
National Scenic Trail System
About Us
The Magazine of the Florida Trail Association
OUR MAGAZINE
The Footprint is published by the Florida Trail Association, a volunteer-based nonprofit organization focused on Florida hiking and trail building. Since 1966, the primary mission of our organization has been the care and protection of the Florida Trail, a 1,500-mile footpath across the Sunshine State - Florida’s own National Scenic Trail.
OUR GOAL
To provide outreach to our readers through informative articles that express appreciation for and conservation of the natural beauty of Florida; to inform our readers of Florida Trail Association efforts; and to provide information on Florida hiking and outdoor recreation opportunities.
The Footprint (ISSN 1064-0681) is published quarterly by the Florida Trail Association 1022 NW 2nd Street
Bulk rate postage paid at Pontiac, IL.
Postmaster:
Send change-of-address form 3597 to: Footprint, 1022 NW 2nd Street, Gainesville, FL 32601
CONTRIBUTORS
Please contact the editor at communications@ floridatrail.org to discuss ideas for feature stories prior to submission.
MEMBERSHIP
As a Florida Trail member, you receive a subscription to The Footprint magazine, membership in a local chapter, a local newsletter with local activities, opportunities for outdoor skills training, participation in regional and annual conferences and more. To become a member, you can visit our website, mail in the form on the last page of this magazine, or call 352-378-8823.
ADVERTISING
Reach a highly targeted demographic of Florida outdoor enthusiasts by advertising with us or becoming a regular sponsor. Your advertising dollars directly support production and publication of this magazine and assist the Florida Trail Association in fulfilling its mission. Call 877-HIKE-FLA or email communications@floridatrail.org for more details.
The Footprint is printed with soy-based inks on paper with post-consumer content
Board Chair's Corner
by Michelle Duncan, Board Chair
Dear Florida Trail Association, At the April 2024 Board meeting the following Board members were elected to hold leadership positions: Michelle Duncan (Chair), James Powell (Vice Chair/Governance Committee Chair), Leslie Wheeler (Secretary), Tiffany Bright (Advancement Committee Chair), Chelsey Stevens (Nominations Committee Chair), Karl Byars (Chapter Council Chair) Tom Daniel (Trails Development and Planning Committee Chair) and Elwood McElhaney (Treasurer/ Finance Committee Chair).
Since April, I have had the pleasure of chairing the Board of Directors and working with 14 amazing Board members. We have accomplished our immediate goal of improving transparency, by opening Board meetings to all FTA members and publishing the minutes on the FTA website. Additionally on the website you will find more information on how the Board of Directors plays a pivotal role in guiding the FTA towards achieving its mission and ensuring long-term sustainability. The elected individuals provide strategic direction and accountability through five committees: Advancement, Finance, Chapter Council, Trails Development and Planning Governance, and Nominations.
The Advancement Committee, chaired by Tiffany Bright, works with FTA staff to develop and recommend policies and programs for fundraising, membership advancement, brand discipline, sponsorships and marketing. This year, the committee focused on raising funds for the FTA through partnerships with local retail stores and breweries using “Round Up For The Florida Trail” and "Brews For Views" campaigns. The committee plans to create new fundraising campaigns in 2025 with the help of Jim Kern, the founder of the Florida Trail Association, to focus on increasing corporate sponsorships to increase our finances.
The FTA’s finances and reporting have greatly improved through the assistance of the Finance Committee, chaired by Elwood McElhaney. In addition to providing financial reports to the Board, the committee reviews and approves the annual budget, evaluates programs for funding, and interacts with FTA Chapter Treasurers. The committee established the Chapter Treasurers’ Forum, to improve communications between the central
office and all chapter treasurers and provide a platform to identify and resolve problems.
The Finance Committee Chair has worked for over a year to obtain signature authority on all chapter’s checking accounts, to comply with the chapter operating procedures and assist with tax reporting. Financial documents are available for review by visiting floridatrail.org/ documents/
In addition to providing a platform for treasurers to communicate, the Chapter Council Committee, chaired by Karl Byars, provides the opportunity to discuss mutual issues, exchange ideas, facilitate training, and develop solutions. Each chapter selects a
representative with voting privileges, who may or may not be the chair, to report chapter updates to the Chapter Council three times each year either in person or virtually. At a recent meeting, held at the Cuscowilla Nature Retreat on the weekend of November 1st, chapter members were able to express ideas to improve the activity leader approval process, pitch ideas for new store merchandise, and offer suggestions on improving hiker engagement among various demographics.
While the Chapter Council committee is dedicated to improving chapter operations, the Trails Development and Planning (TD&P) Committee is dedicated to planning, devel-
opment, and evaluating FTA’s policies and programs to improve the Florida National Scenic Trail (FNST) and Florida Trails System (FTS). The Trails Development and Planning Committee, chaired by Tom Daniel, works with FTA staff and the United States Forest Service (USFS) FNST Administrator. Over the past year, the committee took on the monumental task of updating the Trail Manual to provide a comprehensive guide to Florida Trail Association (FTA) volunteers and staff on topics related to trail development, construction, and maintenance-related activities for the Florida Trail (FT) and the Florida Trail System (FTS). Additionally, the committee established a forum for Chapter Trail Coordinators to discuss issues, share infrastructure and trail condition updates, and improve communications between volunteers who dedicate their time, energy, and expertise to ensure that the trail remains safe, accessible, and beautiful.
The Governance Committee, chaired by James Powell, advises the Board to make relevant amendments to the organization’s bylaws, policies, and strategic plan of the Florida Trail Association. The Governance Committee is also responsible for developing an annual work plan and assessing the performance of the Executive Director. Recently the Governance Committee, at the
request of FTA volunteers, revised the bylaws to remove wording that was too restrictive of chapter conference operations. Currently, the committee is providing revisions to the FTA employee handbook, to comply with current Florida labor laws and policies, and making recommendations to the Board on qualifications that are deemed appropriate for election as Board Directors.
The Nominations Committee, chaired by Chelsey Stevens, reviews submitted applications and organizes interviews with all candidates to assess compatibility with the needs of the Board. Directors are elected by FTA Members to the Board for a three year term, staggered so that no more than six members will expire in any given year and can be reelected for an additional full threeyear term. In December, the committee announces an open call for candidates for vacant director positions. We are particularly interested in applicants with experience in areas like land acquisition, government relations, community outreach, networking, event planning, legal expertise, and historical or cultural knowledge. If you are interested in submitting an application please visit floridatrail.org/nomination-board. To view current Board member profiles and Board documents please visit floridatrail.org/boardof-directors/. All governing and financial
documents are available by visiting floridatrail.org/documents/
Looking forward, I know there is still much work to be done. Our mission to protect, maintain, and expand the Florida Trail is an ongoing journey, and we are incredibly fortunate to have volunteers like you by our side. With your continued support, we can tackle new challenges, expand our programs, and create even more opportunities for people to experience the outdoors in a safe, sustainable way. Thank you for your unwavering dedication, for every hour you’ve spent, and for every task you’ve taken on—no matter how big or small. Your passion for the FTA and your commitment to preserving it for future generations is truly inspiring. I look forward to continuing this journey with you, building more trails, more memories, and a stronger community every step of the way on the trail.
Warmest Regards,
Michelle Duncan, Board Chair
Introducing the first ever Florida Trail Fest!
We are so overjoyed to be planning, preparing, and promoting for the inaugural Florida Trail Fest February 7-9! This festival is made possible by our partners at FT Thru Hike, a non profit dedicated to educating and supporting long distance hikers on the Florida Trail, and our generous sponsors ZPacks, Florida Hikes, and Cover Y’r Assets. Our aspiration is to have a community event not unlike the Appalachian Trail’s famous Trail Days in Trail Town USA, Damascus, Virginia.
The Florida Trail Fest will serve as a reunion of thru-hikers past and present, outdoor enthusiasts and trail community members. Offerings include vendors, non-profit information booths, live music, outdoor activities like hikes, yoga, and
paddling, a hiker parade, and so much more! We hope to grow this event each year, bringing thousands of visitors to the charming town of White Springs, a Florida Trail Gateway Community right on the Suwannee River. Proudly the first ever Florida Trail Gateway
Community designated back in 2006, the town White Springs is full of culture, natural scenery, and is a town that truly appreciates the great outdoors. Florida Trail Fest is open to the public and free to attend. Plan to be there for the main event on Saturday February 8th and consider camping in or around scenic Stephen Foster Folk Culture State Park. The Florida Trail is truly a labor of love and we are filled with gratitude for the close-knit community that rallies around this amazing natural resource to protect, maintain and simply enjoy the Trail. We hope you will join us in celebrating the Florida Trail. Please head to our event page at floridatrail.org/ftf for more information and ways to plan your visit, and get involved!
TRAIL FEST FLORIDA
Stephen Foster Folk Culture State Park
White Springs, FL
February 8, 2025 9 AM - 7 PM vendors - live music - prizes - hike - bike - paddle
Sponsored by:
Hurricane Recovery and Volunteer Achievements on the Florida Trail
by Jane Pollack, Communications and Outreach Manager
THE FLORIDA TRAIL: A VITAL LINK IN OUR LANDSCAPE AND COMMUNITIES
The Florida Trail (FT) is more than just a path through our state's diverse terrain; it is a lifeline that connects people, nature, and the essence of what makes Florida unique. Stretching over 1,500 miles, it serves as a natural corridor for flora and fauna, a recreational outlet for people of all backgrounds, and a place of solace in an increasingly chaotic world. Over its length, the FT showcases the incredible biodiversity, history, and rich culture of Florida. From the oak hammocks of the south, to the Central Florida scrub, and on into the rolling, forested hills of the north, the Florida Trail touches everything that makes Florida unique.
RESILIENCE IN THE FACE OF CHALLENGES
The FT and the communities surrounding it have faced their share of challenges this year. Hurricanes Helene and Milton delivered back-to-back blows to the Suwannee section, which had just recovered from Hurricane Idalia. Wildfires in the Ocala National Forest and flooding near the Green Swamp and Withlacoochee River have tested the trail's endurance.
Despite these natural disasters, recovery efforts are ongoing and fruitful. Volunteers and staff have worked tirelessly to clear damaged sections, repair infrastructure, and restore access to affected areas. These efforts showcase not just the resilience of the trail but also the resilience of the communities who support it.
VOLUNTEER EFFORTS: THE HEARTBEAT OF THE TRAIL
The Florida Trail would not exist in its current form without the tireless efforts of volunteers. Volunteers ensure that this public resource remains open and accessible for everyone. From clearing fallen trees to repairing infrastructure, their dedication is unparalleled.
This season, volunteers and staff have already made significant strides. Volunteers have contributed an estimated 5,500 hours of storm recovery work. This number reflects staff-led Volunteer Work Parties that were specifically organized to address hurricane damage as well as other volunteer work that occurred in storm-impacted areas.
In addition to our amazing volunteers, a special thank-you goes to seasonal trail
FISCAL YEAR 2024 ACCOMPLISHMENTS FTA volunteer crew at Nokuse Plantation.
assistants Philip Daly and Rowan Nygard for their invaluable contributions. Their hard work has bolstered our efforts to ensure the FT remains open and accessible for all to enjoy.
A SHARED RESOURCE FOR ALL
The Florida Trail’s role as a climate corridor cannot be overstated. By preserving this natural pathway, we create essential habitats for species affected by shifting ecosystems. At the same time, the trail provides people with access to wild spaces, fostering a connection to nature that is crucial for building awareness and action on climate resilience.
The FT is accessible to day hikers, thruhikers, solo travelers, families, and groups. It offers something for everyone—a place for solitude and self-discovery, or for connection and community. It’s a refuge where humans and wildlife coexist, an increasingly vital necessity amid rapid development and the looming effects of climate change.
The Florida Trail is more than just a path. It is a testament to human dedication, environmental stewardship, and the unyielding beauty and resilience of Florida’s landscape.
Chef Phil in the kitchen, feeding the crew.
Choctawhatchee chapter members on the trail.
FTA volunteers at the newly installed water pump.
Trail crew hard hat.
Volunteers enjoy a campfire after a long day on the trail.
Painting orange blazes on the trail.
Preparing trail maintenance tools.
Volunteers with chainsaw certification removed hundreds of downed trees.
Volunteers enjoying some down time along the trail near the
Suwannee river.
by Emily Padden, Next Generation Coalition Coordinator
THE NEXT GENERATION COALITION AND OUR NEW VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
Hello, Florida Trail Community! My name is Emily, and I’m so excited to introduce myself as the new coordinator for FTA’s Next Generation Coalition. It’s an honor to join a community that’s so dedicated to protecting, promoting, and enjoying one of Florida’s greatest natural resources. As someone who grew up exploring the woods and swamps of central Florida, I’ve always had a deep appreciation for the natural world around us. I'm thrilled to take on this role to empower young leaders, foster environmental stewardship, and help build stronger connections between people, the outdoors, and their communities.
The Next Generation Coalition has long been a cornerstone to FTA’s commitment to youth engagement and environmental stewardship, and this season marks a period of exciting growth. We’re thrilled to be welcom-
ing our 2024-2025 cohort, with each member bringing their own unique perspectives, skills, and passions. From students and young professionals to outdoor enthusiasts with a love for conservation, this group represents a bright future for the Florida Trail and its community.
However, stepping into this role earlier this year with fresh eyes made it clear that the program faced some challenges. One of our biggest hurdles has been ensuring adequate statewide engagement. With our coalition members spread across Florida, it can be difficult for students and full-time professionals to attend all their local chapter events, let alone travel to chapters that need more assistance and make a statewide impact. Given the length of the trail - and the size of Florida itself - it’s a big task for 18 people to tackle alone.
Volunteers at the annual Next Generation Coalition Volunteer Work Party in Ocala National Forest.
To address these challenges I have been working on developing a new youth program that will piggyback off of our current initiatives. The Next Generation Volunteer program is designed to expand youth engagement opportunities for those looking to connect with the trail in meaningful ways. Open to anyone eager to get involved, and looking for less of a leadership role than offered by the Next Generation’s formal coalition, this program offers options ranging from environmental education workshops, to community hikes and assistance connecting with local chapters. By helping to form connections
between our Next Gen volunteers and their chapters, we’re not only building community but also fostering stewardship initiatives and meeting our goal of providing support to chapters across the state.
In addition to the Next Generation Volunteer program, we are excited to announce a new series of environmental education and professional development events. Our Next Gen Webinar Series will be held on Monday evenings from 6 pm to 7 pm Eastern, offering a wide range of topics designed to inspire action and foster deeper connections with the outdoors. From career tips to conservation insights, these webinars are an excellent opportunity to engage with experts and expand your knowledge. Whether you’re looking to develop your career in environmental fields or deepen your understanding of conservation, we’ve got something for you. Join us and make a difference!
Visit Floridatrail.galaxydigital.com/ calendar for event descriptions and Zoom links. We hope to see you there!
For many young people, the Florida Trail is a place of adventure, connection, and discovery. Through both the Next Gen Coalition and Volunteer programs, we aim to make it even more accessible and inviting, empowering youth to become active participants in its care and preservation. This initiative is more than a volunteer program, it's about creating spaces where people can come together, collaborate and make a lasting impact.
In addition to this new initiative, our Next Generation Coalition program will shift to primarily focus on professional development and leadership training for its members. This season we’re working to offer certifications, training sessions, and instructional seminars to equip our members with the skills to become ambassadors for the FTA. These ambassadors will lead volunteers in trail maintenance parties, support local chapters through outreach initiatives, aid FTA staff in our marketing and education requirements to connect with younger audiences, and represent Florida youth through advocacy efforts on local and national scales.
Of course, the heart of this program is its people. Here’s what some of our cohort members had to say:
“I’ve always wanted to pursue a career towards working on trails and this experience gave me real world experience of how to organize and execute projects while also forming good team building skills.”
“I have been able to meet some awesome people through this program… This community has helped strengthen my connection to and love for these lands while furthering a
commitment to responsible stewardship and education.”
“I think it's super important to engage people of all ages and abilities to protect our natural areas for future generations to enjoy… I think a lot of people are unaware of the beauty and exciting challenges the Florida Trail has to offer.”
Looking ahead, I’m excited about the opportunities this season holds—not just for our members but the entire FTA community. The work we do together goes beyond maintaining a trail. It's about building partnerships, sharing knowledge, and inspiring stewardship. Programs like the Next Gen Volunteers are just the beginning to what I hope will be a season of growth, learning and impact.
If you’re interested in learning more, or
getting involved, there are plenty of ways to do so! Whether you join in on a local Next Gen event, attend one of our upcoming webinars, or reach out to Next Gen Coalition members for support for your FTA chapter. Your participation and feedback helps us to guide our efforts where they’re most needed. And, if you know any young people eager to connect with the Florida Trail. I encourage you to share the Next Gen Volunteers program with them!
Stay tuned for more updates as the season upfolds, and be sure to follow along as we highlight the incredible work of our new cohort. I can’t wait to see all that we’ll accomplish together. Here’s to an exciting season for the Next Generation program and the Florida Trail community as a whole.
Next Gen Coalition member Matt enjoying the trail.
Volunteers at the annual Next Generation Coalition Volunteer Work Party in Ocala National Forest.
Veterans and Healing in Focus
by Brandie Dziegiel, Panhandle Regional Trail Program Manager
On Saturday, November 9th, the Choctawhatchee Chapter hosted their first Veterans Day hike. This special event provided an impactful opportunity for like-minded outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the outdoors and celebrate the military service of our country's veterans. The hike was a great success, attracting 30 participants, including veterans, active-duty service members, retired service members, and family members. Tom Daniel, Chapter Trail Coordinator, and Chris Nolan, a trail section leader, worked together to plan the hike, which followed seven miles of the Florida Trail through Nokuse Plantation near Ebro, Florida. The Choctawhatchee Chapter prepared extensively for the event by conducting trail maintenance such as mowing, lopping, and trimming overgrown vegetation to bring the trail up to standard. Most of this trail work was completed during the successful staff-led Volunteer Work Party in October, where the chapter cleared 26 miles of trail in a three day period.
The Veterans Day hike kicked off with Chris Nolan sharing his inspiring story of living with PTSD and how being outside–
especially working on the trail–has allowed him a space to heal. Chris is dedicated to helping other veterans who may be struggling to find a sense of community and a path to healing. Like most veterans, Chris felt the call to serve his country. He served in the United States Air Force in a variety of combat and survival specialist roles for 23 years. After retiring as a Master Sergeant and returning home, he was met with a myriad of internal conflicts and had a challenging time re-entering into the civilian sector. In Chris’s words: “Not all veterans are broken, but all who have served in war have been changed.” This experience is all too common for most veterans returning home from service. For some veterans, depending on their service experience, transitioning back into the civilian sector feels like an alien planet that one no longer recognizes. Whether they long for the camaraderie unique to the shared experiences of deployment, have endured traumatic events that leave a lasting impact, or struggle with transitioning from the intensely structured environment of military life which often conditions them to "press on," veterans frequently find themselves feeling deeply alone
and isolated as they attempt to reintegrate into their communities.
This shared veteran experience was echoed during the “Pathways to Healing: Engaging Veterans Through Public Lands and Trail Stewardship” workshop I had the opportunity to participate in at the Partnership for National Scenic Trails Conference in Tucson, AZ in mid- November. “Nature is the perfect prescription,” said speaker Michael “Chappy” Chappel. A Navy Veteran, Chappy is the Program Director for the Veteran Engagement & Trail Stewardship (VETS) Program of the Arizona Trail Association. The VETS program was specifically developed to engage the veterans community and bring them to the trail. He describes this community as being made up of mission-focused individuals who are hard working and want to contribute in meaningful ways to their communities. They want to see results and they want to belong to something bigger than themselves. He is 100% correct. Chappy and fellow veterans speakers of the workshop shared their personal experiences and what brought them to the trail. They echoed the sense of urgency for programs centered around veterans, especially as the
post 9/11 veterans population continues to grow. The common thread through the session was a desire for a sense of belonging that ultimately led to healing. Healing happens when we feel safe–a core element to this successful program.
As a Coast Guard veteran, military brat, and military spouse, I have often struggled to find shared spaces that feel both safe and inclusive of those with similar experiences. Because of this, I’ve found it difficult to embrace my vulnerabilities. Until very recently, I hesitated to discuss the challenges tied to my own service with anyone outside my immediate circle of friends and family. So much of my own veteran experience was rooted in the perception of strength, especially as a woman, so leaning into feelings that were anything less than infallible brought me to unhealthy questioning of my own aptitude for resilience. The truth is, veterans face many stigmas everyday, so I was hesitant to reinforce further messaging that all veterans are broken–we are not. However, I’ve recognized that my own path to healing not only includes self-reflection and seeking solitude outdoors, but also requires engaging with the community.
For myself and many other veterans on their own quests to healing, true healing started from meaningful dialogue and engagement with other veterans. I found this to be especially true during the Veterans Day hike, where I had the opportunity to share space and reflection of service with fellow veterans and volunteers. The common thread though just about every conversation during the hike was the importance of nature and how it impacts our lives in a meaningful way. While every veteran's experience is unique, and we may not encounter many other veterans who share similar stories as our own, I have come to learn of one commonality shared amongst us. We all share a deep sense of purpose. We are collectively on a lifelong journey to tapping into whatever that purpose is, especially as it evolves over time. For me, I have found purpose in my creativity and working outdoors. With every opportunity I get to work on the trail alongside volunteers, I feel more and more empowered. I feel fortunate to have found a space along the trail where healing can continue, especially for veterans like Chris, Chappy, and many others, who can continue to share their stories and leave a lasting legacy.
Photos
Page 16: Members of Choctawhatchee Chapter and veterans pictured together ahead of embarking on the hike.
Page 17 top : Choctawhatchee chapter members enjoying Lunch along the high water route.
Page 17 bot : Participants hiking through Nokuse Plantation.
Page 18 top : An iridescent view of Lafayette Creek.
Page 18 bot : The tannic and healing waters of Magnolia Creek
Page 19 top : Participants taking the plunge!
Page 19 bot : Chris Nolan enjoying a refreshing dip in the creek during lunch.
Building the Robinson Branch Bridge Along the Suwannee River
by Jane Pollack and Jeff Glenn
During peak trail season, Jeff Glenn is a busy man. When I got the chance to catch up with him at the office, he had just returned from teaching a chainsaw certification class and was preparing to head out the next morning to work on the Robinson Branch Bridge project. Spanning Robinson Branch, a tributary of the Suwannee River, this bridge has been in the works for nearly three years and represents a significant milestone for the Florida Trail. I looked over Jeff’s shoulder as he scrolled
through dozens of permitting documents. When I asked why the permitting process was so rigorous, he shared that the Suwannee River and its tributaries fall under Waters of the United States (WOTUS). Because of this designation, engineers had to ensure that there wouldn’t be any potential obstruction to water flow. Construction required advanced hydrological surveys, stringent permitting, and careful planning to ensure minimal environmental impact.
The bridge was designed by U.S. Forest
Service (USFS) contractor Art Johnson.
A Lake City engineering firm provided a zero-rise certification, ensuring the bridge would not increase water levels in the surrounding floodplain. Additional permits were obtained from the Suwannee River Water Management District, the Division of Historical Resources, and Columbia County. Now nearing completion, the bridge will vastly improve access and safety for hikers traversing the Florida Trail.
BACKGROUND
Robinson Branch has long been a challenging crossing for hikers. The creek is prone to severe flooding, making it impassable during high water levels. “Adventurous hikers might be willing to swim or wade through chest-deep water,” Jeff laughed, “but the general public needs safe, reliable access.” The absence of a bridge previously required a high-water route, a nearly three-mile road walk, bypassing a prime section of trail.
Day hikers, particularly those parking at Bell Springs Trailhead to visit Big Shoals, often found their plans thwarted by the creek’s high waters. “On an almost yearly basis, we have to close sections of the trail near Robinson Branch due to flooding,” Jeff explained. As a backwater channel, Robinson Branch mirrors the Suwannee River’s fluctuations, posing safety concerns. The new bridge will not only improve access but also help prevent potential accidents, enhancing the overall trail experience.
Plan Your Visit
Robinson Branch Bridge is located near the Bell Springs Trailhead, offering easy access to Big Shoals State Park. Explore this revitalized section of the Florida Trail and witness the fruits of a dedicated community effort.
Partners Involved The Robinson Branch
Bridge project is a shining example of collaboration. Key partners include:
Florida Trail Association (FTA): Spearheading the project and coordinating efforts.
U.S. Forest Service (USFS): Providing funding and technical expertise.
Suwannee River Water Management District: Issuing critical permits.
Department of Environmental Protection (DEP): Supporting the project on stateowned land.
North Florida Trailblazers Chapter: Advocating for the bridge and rallying volunteer support.
VOLUNTEER EFFORTS
Volunteers played an instrumental role, with the North Florida Trailblazers championing the project since its inception. FTA staff and skilled volunteers worked tirelessly to bring the bridge to life, demonstrating the power of community spirit and teamwork.
While four FTA staff members supported the project and ushered it to completion, the majority of the labor was carried out by dedicated volunteers. Their efforts ranged from pouring concrete foundations to learning complex rigging techniques under the guidance of Ian Barlow, a retired USFS consultant who was brought on board for the project. Barlow’s involvement not only ensured the bridge’s structural integrity but also provided valuable training for volunteers.
BRIDGE SPECIFICATIONS
The Robinson Branch Bridge is a 82-footlong structure designed to withstand the fluctuating water levels of Robinson Branch. Its foundation consists of poured concrete on both banks, which was transported using UTVs across a temporary bridge. The bridge’s stringers are three glue-laminated beams, each 56 feet long, positioned using advanced rigging techniques. Elevated at the top of the creek bank, the bridge provides clearance
ranging from 15 feet above the water during normal conditions to direct contact during floods. This robust construction ensures durability while minimizing environmental disruption to the surrounding ecosystem.
LOOKING AHEAD
The Robinson Branch Bridge is poised to transform the Florida Trail experience, providing year-round access to one of its most scenic sections. Plans are already underway for additional infrastructure projects across the state, including:
Creekside High School Boardwalk Project: Set to begin in Osceola National Forest in January.
Spring Creek Bridge: Surveying and engineering completed.
Yellow River Bridge: $200,000 committed from FTA, with $1M funding from Okaloosa County. Surveying underway.
Mills Creek Puncheon Work and bridge: Planned improvements on Forest Service property.
Green Swamp East and Bull Creek: Infrastructure enhancements.
These initiatives reflect the ongoing commitment of the FTA and its partners to improving trail infrastructure and public access to the Florida Trail.
Closing The Robinson Branch Bridge stands as a symbol of perseverance and collaboration. Gratitude goes to all who contributed, from volunteers and to government agencies and local organizations. We invite readers to visit Robinson Branch and experience this iconic section of the Florida Trail firsthand. While you’re there, don’t miss the stunning views at Big Shoals State Park. Check out the suggested hike on the sidebar!
Timeline The Robinson Branch Bridge project followed a multi-year timeline:
Initial Planning: Began three years ago with hydrological surveys and preliminary designs.
Permitting Process: Took 2-3 years to secure all necessary approvals.
Construction Milestones: Included pouring concrete foundations and transporting in 56-foot glue-laminated beams using specialized rigging techniques.
Completion: Set for December 2024, ensuring the bridge is ready for use in peak hiking season.
To support future projects like this, consider joining, donating, or volunteering with the Florida Trail Association.
Images
Page 23: The newly constructed bridge over Robinson Branch.
Page 24: Volunteers and staff gather to plan the day’s work.
Page 25 & 26: all photos Volunteers and staff putting their skills to good use on the bridge construction project.
Page 27: Unloading and transporting the massive beams from the road to the work site on the trail.
Good Neighbors
FTA’s staff, equipped with our small excavator, looked at the tall tractor-trailer carrying the bridge stringers with apprehension. The truck’s bed and triple stacked beams were just too tall and too heavy for our equipment alone. Enter Tonya and Clint Halvorsrod. Without hesitation or delay, these neighbors to Big Shoals State Park, and relative strangers to the Florida Trail, saw our predicament, literally while they were up at the road taking their trash out, and immediately offered the use of their brand new Kubota tractor. We used it to unload the beams in record time and also to haul the 2,300 lb, 56 foot beams the 1 mile back to the woods from the road. In addition to helping the crew for an entire day with their machine, Tonya and Clint became daily visitors to our project site and also close friends. Their support, generosity, and kindness became something the entire crew looked forward to. They took excellent care of us by delivering fresh pastries, ordering pizzas, and documenting our progress with great photos and videos. This is how the community grows and thrives, with these chance encounters. I know for sure that Tonya and Clint will be advocates and stewards of the trail.
-Jeff Glenn
Shifting Perspectives, Shifting Landscapes Embracing Change in Florida's Wild Spaces
by Brandie Dziegiel, Panhandle Regional Trail Program Manager
In November 2024, two months after starting in my new role as the Panhandle Regional Trail Program Manager, I was hiking the powerline easement near Pine Log State Forest. I had not hiked this section of the trail before and given its close proximity to the road and utilities I wasn't sure what to expect. While walking along an eroding clay creek bed and scrub, I observed the many goldenrod, Black-eyed Susans in bloom, and an abundance of pollinators that included Gulf fritillary, native bees, flies, and wasps. I took a moment to reflect on the importance of access to public spaces. For me, these spaces provide a rare opportunity for pause and reflection–an experience only possible when I am fully present in the moment. These spaces don’t demand anything of us to engage with them; rather, they offer a chance to simply exist. These spaces also serve as a point of reference, a grounding origin that deepens our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
We have a pretty clear mythos of what Florida is. “The Sunshine State” as we perceive it today thrives in our imaginations
and largely remains untamed. Humans have lived on this land for more than 5,000 years, but since “first contact” nearly 500 years ago, newcomers have continually sought Florida as a place of conquest, healing, or escape. Over time, we’ve imprinted our own expectations and ideas onto the state, often creating realities that conflict with the natural world. Images of sandy beaches lined with palm trees, alligator “infested” swamps, and a ubiquitous mouse are perhaps some of the more immediate popular vignettes that come to mind for most when they think of Florida. While these snapshots are undeniably part of its identity, Florida is far more complicated and nuanced than the mainstream visuals that dominate our popular media. For those of us who have lived here for an extended time, we’ve witnessed firsthand the rapid evolution of its landscapes. This ongoing transformation challenges us to reconcile Florida's enduring myths with the realities of a state that is constantly growing and changing.
Surveying the powerline easement gave me an opportunity to reflect on how Florida’s landscape, as we see it, is in a state
of constant flux. When we take the time to pause and truly observe, we can sense the impermanence of it all–shaped by human development and the increasingly intense weather events that leave their mark on the land.
This reality became especially clear to me during my time as a park ranger on a barrier island state park a few years ago. Barrier islands, by their very nature, protect a coastline from eroding. These islands continually grow, shrink, and shift in size, their contours dictated by storm surges and tides from powerful weather systems. Initially, I viewed these shifts through a lens that saw the island as a portal to the past and safe haven from the chaos of everyday life. I wanted to romanticize the barrier island as this permanent thing, immune from the path of human development known as “progress” that has squandered so much of wild Florida. While the island is safe from development, it wasn't exempt from the powerful storms that find strength in our warm Gulf waters. So naturally, it was heart wrenching to see a storm erode the pristine beach and take
Econfina Bluffs.
Magnolia Creek.
out some of the few remaining palm trees that lined the edge of the high water line. However, as time went on, I recognized that this is just a fact of life along a barrier island. While it was indeed a safe haven for so many shore birds and wildlife, it was also this massive body of sand that is ever evolving and adapting to the powerful forces of nature that are beyond our control. The barrier island, along with its wildlife, have adapted long before I arrived, and will continue to do so. Suffice to say, we have a point of reference for what our home towns and wild spaces looked like, going back as far back as 50+ years ago. We’ve watched dirt roads become paved, palmetto and pine forests turn into subdivisions, and roadside farm stands turn into gas stations. Some of us can recall how the air used to be fragrant with the scent of orange blossoms, when the citrus industry was still thriving.
In just my short time with the Florida Trail Association, I’ve already heard a variety of stories from volunteers about how their sections of the trail have evolved over the years. One volunteer recounted the creation of a new trail through a 50,000-acre parcel of conserved private land nearly 15 years ago, describing the immense planning, reconnaissance, and collaboration with stakeholders required to bring it to life. Others have shared what their section looked like after a Category 5 hurricane left 18 miles of blowdowns and impassable debris. Recovery took years—and continues even now. That section of trail will never look the same as it did before the storm, and that’s okay.
Hearing these stories while working alongside the very volunteers who lived through these transitions has been a privilege. These are tales I wouldn’t have encountered hiking alone. As I listen, my imagination fills
in the past and present of the trail, leaving me with a deep appreciation for where I stand in its living history.
I think it’s important to remember, especially when working and playing in our public lands, to continuously revisit these points of reference, and share these stories with each other, because it's what will sustain us and keep us motivated to continue to work towards the mission that requires protection and enhancement of these natural spaces in perpetuity.
The Florida Trail has not been spared from the recent fury of storms. Though I haven’t been in this role for long, I’ve come to realize that much of what we do as an organization revolves around adapting our goals, resources, and priorities to the trail’s ever-changing state. Personally, this constant evolution is what I find fascinating about living and working within the landscape. Its
With Al and Capt along the bluffs.
Scott the trail head local.
Powerline easement.
Whether you’re hiking the Florida Trail, camping under a canopy of stars, or exploring the wild beauty of nature, one thing is clear: You need gear that works as hard as you do. That’s why Cover Y’r Assets proudly introduces the Stealth Skort—the ultimate blend of comfort, functionality, and dignity for women on the move.
Featuring an innovative "unsnapable pantie," it ensures comfort and discreet functionality—perfect for those moments when nature calls and restrooms are out of reach.
Picture this: You’re trekking through Florida’s lush ecosystems, from the towering pine forests to the breathtaking marshlands. With Cover Y’r Assets, you’re equipped to enjoy every step of the journey—free from worry, free from compromise.
At Cover Y’r Assets, we’re not just designing products; we’re redefining freedom for women everywhere. The Stealth Skort is more than outdoor gear—it’s a symbol of resilience, empowerment, and your right to adventure on your own terms. Step into freedom. Explore the Florida Trail. Discover the Stealth Skort.
and much more!
The Chair of Econfina.
perpetual transformation challenges me to reevaluate and shift my own perspective, embracing the dynamic relationship between the trail and the forces that shape it. I have already experienced this while working in the Suwannee region for multiple Volunteer Work Parties organized by fellow staff member Jeff Glenn. Not only did we need to work to recover from recent hurricanes Helene and Milton, but from the previous year's storm Idalia as well. At face value, the initial assessment of storm damage appeared insurmountable, and a huge feat to overcome. That was until I witnessed the awesome powers and skill of over 50 volunteers and staff members coming together, venturing into the debris-filled thicket. It was like watching a modern-day conquistador mission unfold, each volunteer armed with their tool of choice and equipped with PPE, fearlessly charging into what was once an unrecognizable trail. I learned that nothing is impossible and it’s worth every ounce of the blood, sweat, and tears we shed to re-open these trails.
While it’s important to remember Florida for what it was, and what it looked like–before the development, before the storms–it’s just as crucial to acknowledge that Florida will continue to change. We can all agree that it's disheartening to see our favorite places, once shaded by tree canopies where we sought solitude, now fractured and turned inside out with broken trees and flooding. Witnessing this destruction in our wild spaces and communities can weigh heavily on our mental health. However, we have the ability to shift our perspective.
We can remain hopeful and approach these hurdles as an opportunity to further engage more deeply with the landscape, to help heal it. Together, we have the power to protect the last remaining wild spaces that make Florida so enchanting and worth fighting for. We are stewards of an incredible landscape, one that holds thousands of years of both human and natural history. The public lands we have access to offer us countless ways to connect with this land, and the Florida National Scenic Trail (FNST) is a prime example of this.
From beaches and longleaf forests to roadways, powerlines, mangrove estuaries, and small towns, all these pieces come together to make Florida special—and they can all be experienced along the trail. I am incredibly proud to work for an organization made up of volunteers and staff dedicated to ensuring the recovery and resilience of these lands, so that future generations can experience their beauty for years to come.
Insights and Inspiration from the PNTS Workshop
by Jane Pollack, Communications and Outreach Manager
The Florida Trail Association team was fortunate to attend the Partnership for the National Trails System Workshop in Tucson, AZ, where we spent five days of learning, collaboration, and networking with trail professionals and emerging leaders within the trails community.
Beloved natural and cultural landscapes across America face immense pressures from climate change, sprawling development, and increased user demand. National Trails are not immune to these challenges, but they offer a unique opportunity to explore and implement
solutions. The National Trails community is committed to coming together to advocate for our trails, learn best practices from each other, advance technology and knowledge in the field, and work collectively to protect, improve, and promote these invaluable resources.
Highlights included roundtable discussions with representatives from the Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, and the US Forest Service, a focus on engaging diverse groups such as veterans, indigenous people, and young people, as well as field
trips to significant cultural sites.
Our staff shares some memorable moments and insights from the workshop.
“I loved the chance to build more bridges between other members of the trail community. Our time in Arizona furthered our connection with the greater shared mission as well as bringing the team at FTA closer together!”
-Austin Burton, Gateway Community Coordinator
“The PNTS conference was a wonderful opportunity to engage with other trail networks on their youth engagement initiatives. It was inspiring to learn about expanding and developing these types of programs in the outdoors. I’m excited to incorporate these elements into my own work!”
-Emily Padden, Next Generation Coalition Coordinator
“My favorite moment from the conference was witnessing the Pascua Yaqui Tribe perform Deer Songs and Dance. It was an incredible experience that not many people get to experience so I feel very privileged to have shared space with the trail community as we watched the ceremony together, totally immersed, without the distraction of cell phones.”
-Brandie Dziegiel, Panhandle Regional Trail Program Manager
“I enjoyed the field trip to two significant cultural sites: Picture Rocks and Petroglyphs and Los Morteros, a historic farming site of the Hohokam people who lived in the Sonoran Desert of Arizona. At Los Morteros, we explored an area where mortars were drilled into rocks 2,000 to 4,000 years ago. The mortars were used to grind mesquite beans, a primary food source, while also serving as a social gathering space. Nearby, we observed and handled pottery shards found in the middens. All items had to be replaced in situ to respect their original placement. This trip provided valuable insights into how we might interpret archaeological sites along the Florida Trail, such as Byrd Hammock.”
-Jane Pollack, Communications and Outreach Manager
Keeping the Florida Trail Up-to-Date
A Deep Dive into Our Mapmaking Process
by Abe Christian, Acting Executive Director
The Florida Trail Association (FTA) is dedicated to maintaining and promoting the 1,500-mile Florida Trail (FT), a remarkable journey through the diverse landscapes of the Sunshine State. A crucial part of this mission is ensuring that our maps and resources are accurate and up-to-date for hikers and trail maintainers. This article provides a deeper dive into the meticulous process of creating and updating our trail maps and databook, a testament to the commitment of our team and the dedication of our volunteers.
A DYNAMIC TRAIL, A CONSTANT EVOLUTION
The FT is a dynamic entity, constantly evolving.
Lobby of our FTA Office in Gainesville showcasing the 23 double sided maps.
Land management changes, trail reroutes necessitated by erosion or landowner agreements, the creation of new trail segments, and the ongoing efforts to close "gaps" (road walks) – all these factors require continuous updates to our trail information. Our trail work season, traditionally from October to March, coincides with the typical thru-hiking season, providing valuable opportunities for real-time observations and feedback from hikers on trail conditions and potential issues.
THE HEART OF THE PROCESS: GATHERING AND PROCESSING UPDATES
The cornerstone of our mapmaking process lies in the diligent gathering of updates.
Throughout the year, our Regional Managers and Trail Team staff, spread across the state, act as the eyes and ears of the trail. They meticulously document proposed map and databook edits, submitting them to a central "Update Spreadsheet." This spreadsheet serves as a crucial repository, capturing essential details such as:
Location of the Change: Precise coordinates or descriptions of the affected trail section.
Type of Change: Trail reroute, new trail segment, water source removal, camping restrictions, etc.
Affected Map Section: Identifying the specific map sheet(s) requiring updates.
Responsible Party: The Regional Manager, Trail Coordinator or Section Leader responsible for the change.
Date of the Change: Ensuring accurate timestamps for all updates.
Estimated Difficulty of Update: A subjective assessment to help prioritize and allocate resources.
FROM FIELD OBSERVATIONS TO DIGITAL MAPS
The Operations Manager meticulously reviews each submitted edit, verifying information and gathering supporting documentation. This may include GPS tracks, photographs, and correspondence with the leaders that submitted the change. This rigorous review ensures the accuracy and reliability of the information before it moves to the next stage.
The Operations Manager then translates these edits into a "GIS Punchdown Document," a set of detailed instructions for our GIS Specialist. This document serves as a roadmap, guiding the GIS Specialist through the intricate process of updating the digital trail maps. Using this document and the provided GPS data, the GIS Specialist meticulously updates the trail lines, adds new features, and removes obsolete information.
THE DATABOOK: A COMPREHENSIVE TRAIL COMPANION
Concurrently with the map updates, the Operations Manager compiles the databook information. This invaluable resource provides hikers with crucial details, including:
Waypoint Distances: Accurate mileages between waypoints, enabling hikers to plan their journeys effectively.
Trail Descriptions: Detailed descriptions of trail features, landmarks, and points of interest.
Water Sources and Camping Areas: Information on reliable water sources and designated campsites along the trail.
Hunting Regulations: Vital information for hikers to be aware of hunting seasons and restrictions.
Trail Closure Information: Timely updates on any temporary trail closures or restrictions.
QUALITY CONTROL AND DISTRIBUTION
Once the GIS Specialist has completed the map updates, the Operations Manager conducts a thorough review, ensuring accuracy and clarity. The updated maps are then
prepared for printing in-house on high-quality, waterproof and tear resistant paper. The databook is sent to a professional printer, ensuring a high-quality and durable product for hikers.
THE IMPORTANCE OF ACCURACY: ENHANCING THE HIKING EXPERIENCE
Accurate maps and a comprehensive databook are paramount for a safe and enjoyable hiking experience. They empower hikers with the knowledge they need to plan their trips effectively, navigate the trail confidently, and minimize risks. By providing detailed information on trail conditions, water sources, and potential hazards, these resources enhance the overall hiking experience and contribute to the safety of all trail users.
A CONTINUOUS CYCLE OF IMPROVEMENT
The mapmaking process is an ongoing cycle, reflecting the dynamic nature of the Florida Trail itself. As soon as the current year's maps and databook are finalized, the team begins collecting updates for the following year. This proactive approach ensures that our resources remain current, reflecting the latest changes to the trail and providing hikers with the most up-to-date information available.
A COLLABORATIVE EFFORT
The success of this intricate process relies on the collaborative efforts of our entire team, from Regional Managers, Trail Coordinators and Section Leaders in the field to the GIS Specialist and Operations Manager in
the office. The dedication and expertise of each individual contribute to the creation of high-quality resources that serve the needs of our hikers and support the long-term sustainability of the Florida Trail.
It is through your support and love of
the FTA by making donations of your time and money that we are able to ensure a trail is there for us all to enjoy. A special thanks to Don Mock and David Cortez for their many years of volunteer service doing the map and databook edits.
giving is an easy and flexible way to meet your philanthropic goals while protecting the Trail you love. Whatever stage in life, your financial circumstances and your charitable goals, let us show you how to make a gift that benefits you and your loved ones as well as the Florida Trail.
Mapping the Trail
How GIS Supports the Preservation of the FNST
by Christina Mallica, GIS Program Coordinator
In today’s world, environmental NGOs are increasingly turning to technology to help them protect the planet – and one powerful tool they’re using is Geographic Information Systems, otherwise known simply as GIS. But what exactly is GIS? In a nutshell, it is a computer system that allows users to analyze and visualize information that is tied to a specific location (think the GPS in your car when you’re on vacation or kiosk maps located at the beginning of your daily hike). GIS provides a digital map that illustrates not only where things are located, but also provides valuable insights into how the environment is changing over time, where conservation is needed most, and where wildlife habitat is at risk. For conservation efforts, GIS is a game-changer, helping us to make informed decisions, prioritize actions or areas, and communicate our mission to the
world with data-driven precision.
The Florida Trail Association, along with the U.S. Forest Service, has increasingly used GIS for protecting and maintaining the Florida Trail in recent years. Since the trail spans across the entire state, the trail team itself is a coalition of a diverse group of land managers, including those at the federal, state, and local level, or even through easements on privately owned land. It’s because of this that GIS is pivotal in analyzing and visualizing how the trail spans across and interacts with a complex web of communities and protected lands.
The USFS hosts a variety of ‘vector’ data layers, which is simply a way of representing real-world features on a map using points, lines, and polygons. This data includes the trail routing itself, managed conservation land boundaries, locations of trail infrastructure, habitat types the trail crosses, and areas with
Sample Detail Layers on ArchGIS
gaps or extended roadwalks. This GIS data is also easily shareable with land managers to collaborate in efforts to preserve the viewshed of the trail, including potential for gap closures, petition for grants to support land acquisition and new projects, and create maps to help simplify preparations for thru hikers. In addition, ArcGIS Online is a cloudbased platform developed by ESRI that allows users to create, share, and analyze spatial data through interactive maps and apps, all accessible through your web browser at home or on your smartphone. ArcGIS Online includes a variety of applications designed for different user needs, such as Web AppBuilder for interactive maps, Field Maps for field data collection, Survey123 for surveys, Story Maps for education and public outreach, and Dashboards for tracking performance metrics in real-time.
ArchGIS Field Maps Application
For FTA, these apps offer invaluable resources for tasks like trail maintenance, assessments, and monitoring activities. The Infrastructure Data Collection and Related Assessment Field Map surveys allow us to conduct assessments on the condition of the trail and trail infrastructure to delegate money and efforts towards keeping the trail in good condition and safe for users. We keep tabs on daily prescribed burn activity throughout the state with the Prescribed Burning Live Web Map. After Hurricanes Helene and Milton impacted Florida this year, the Storm Damage Assessment Field Maps survey allowed staff and volunteers to conduct surveys and photograph the damage from the field with their own cell phones. Interactive and scroll-able Story Maps introduce hikers to the natural ecosystems and local Gateway Communities you’ll encounter on the trail. These are just a few examples of the way ArcGIS Online’s web platforms have allowed us to streamline maintenance efforts along the trail. The USFS and FTA also provides every FTA employee and volunteer chapter with an ArcGIS Online account to gain access to trail data and these surveys. This fact, along with the platform’s collaborative features, enables the full Florida Trail community to share their work with stakeholders and the broader community, enhancing transparency and outreach for our program.
Overall, GIS has proven to be an invaluable tool for FTA, modernizing the way we protect and manage the trail itself and the natural landscapes it lives on. By leveraging the power of GIS, from detailed mapping to real-time data collection, preservation efforts have become more collaborative and efficient. The integration of platforms like ArcGIS Online allows for seamless communication among stakeholders, enabling our team to make decisions that benefit the trail and the communities that rely on it. As we move forward, the role of GIS in supporting conservation efforts will only grow, ensuring that the land, wildlife, and habitats we work so hard to protect are preserved for generations to come.
Sandra Friend
A Legacy of Florida Trail Guidebooks
by Jane Pollack, Communications and Outreach Manager
For over twenty-five years, Sandra Friend has played a pivotal role in documenting the changes and challenges of the Florida National Scenic Trail through her comprehensive guidebooks. Since 1999, Sandra has been deeply connected to the Florida Trail, a discovery that came when she returned to Florida after more than a decade away. She was surprised to learn that the Florida Trail was just a short distance from where her family had settled in Ocala in the 1970s.
Growing up in the Northeast, Sandra had already cultivated a deep love for hiking and the outdoors. She had been actively involved with the Keystone Trails Association in Pennsylvania and the Appalachian Long Distance Hikers Association (ALDHA). Over the years, Sandra wrote magazine and newspaper articles about hiking in Pennsylvania and on the Appalachian Trail, even helping to update the ALDHA Companion Guide to the Appalachian Trail.
As Sandra’s appreciation for trails and forests grew, she found herself returning to nature on annual family trips to Florida before her parents decided to settle there. After hearing a talk about the Florida Trail at an ALDHA gathering, Sandra learned that the areas where she had hiked along the Suwannee River and the Ocala National Forest as a child were part of the Florida Trail.
Upon returning to Ocala, Sandra joined the Florida Trail Association (FTA) and
quickly became involved in various activities, including volunteering on work crews and helping to maintain sections of the trail on the Cross Florida Greenway. With her expertise in publications and websites, Sandra contributed to the FTA’s chapter website and advised on the Footprint, upgrading it from a newsletter to a magazine.
Reflecting on her early involvement with the FTA, Sandra said, “Being self-employed as a writer, I was able to join in weekday work crews building the Florida Trail on the Cross Florida Greenway.”
Her involvement deepened as she joined the FTA Long Distance Hikers Committee and later began creating a local hiking guide as a fundraising project for the Central Florida Chapter. This was the first time Sandra had documented hikes along the Florida Trail. Her writing caught the attention of an editor at GORP.com and Backpacker magazine, which eventually led to a connection with Countryman Press, where she began her 50 Hikes in… Florida series.
Sandra’s collaborations expanded with the release of Along the Florida Trail, her first coffee table book, followed by an offer to write The Florida Trail: The Official Hiking Guide. Through these endeavors, Sandra played an instrumental role in promoting the Florida Trail.
As Sandra reflected on the collaborative nature of her guidebook work, she noted, “Although my name was on the cover, it was a collaborative effort that benefited FTA as well.” She expressed gratitude for the help she received from Joan Hobson, who passed on all her field notes, and Deb Blick, who contributed the maps. Sandra also worked closely with trail section leaders to ensure the accuracy of trail information.
Sandra’s love for the Florida Trail grew as she completed her own section hike, covering every mile of the trail, including the roadwalks. Her work on the Guthook Guide (now FarOut Guides) led to the creation of a digital
Sandra as a young girl on the West Lake Trail at Everglades National Park in 1968.
Sandra on a trail crew on the Cross Florida Greenway before the Land Bridge existed.
Photo courtesy of Sandra Friend
Photo courtesy of Sandra Friend
version of the guidebook, allowing hikers to access essential trail information on their phones.
After twenty-five years of documenting the Florida Trail’s evolution, Sandra’s final edition of The Florida Trail Guide has been published. She acknowledges the contributions of her husband, John, who co-authored with her for the past decade, and Chris Stevens, who took over the responsibility of collecting trail updates and keeping the FarOut App up to date.
As Sandra passes on the torch, Chris will continue to lead the guidebook’s development, ensuring that the Florida Trail remains accessible. Sandra’s contributions will forever be a part of the Florida Trail’s legacy, and she will continue to be seen on the trail, embracing the future while celebrating the past.
In Sandra’s words, “I’m now the age that Joan Hobson was when she passed on her research to me, and I couldn’t have gotten to this point with this many guidebooks without the help of everyone mentioned above and my husband John, my co-author for the past decade.” She concluded, “When it’s time for the next edition, Chris will be taking both the guidebook and the app forward. Here’s to the future!”
GRAB A GUIDE!
The fifth edition of The Florida Trail Guide is sold exclusively online by the Florida Trail Association at floridatrail.org/shop
Copies of The Florida Trail Guide are available at most Florida REI stores as well as Andy Thornal, Bill Jacksons, and Clyde Butcher’s Big Cypress Gallery.
Now published by University Press of Florida, the third edition of Florida Trail Hikes includes the best day hikes and section hikes along the Florida Trail statewide. Order at UPF.com
Signed copies of the guidebooks are available at Black Cat Coffee in Titusville.
The dozen Florida Trail guidebooks Sandra Friend has written.
Sandra, Chris, and his son celebrating their success.
Photo courtesy of Sandra Friend
Photo courtesy of Sandra Friend
ALLIGATOR AMBLERS CHAPTER
Charlotte, Collier, and Lee
Carl Kepford 239-253-4255
APALACHEE CHAPTER
Franklin, Gadsden, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty, and Wakulla
Shellie Johnson 239-898-0125
BIG CYPRESS CHAPTER
Miami-Dade and Monroe
Susan Bennett-Manns 305-213-1500
BLACK BEAR CHAPTER
Flagler, Putnam, and Volusia
Ed Riskosky 315-374-6500
CENTRAL FLORIDA CHAPTER
Orange, Seminole, and Osceola
Bill Turman 407-413-2950
CHOCTAWHATCHEE CHAPTER
Walton and Okaloosa
James Wilson 281-543-4802
FISHEATING CREEK CHAPTER
Hendry and Glades
Margaret England 863-517-0202
HAPPY HOOFERS CHAPTER
Broward
Lynn Thompson 954-372-7480
HEARTLAND CHAPTER
DeSoto, Hardee, Highlands, and Polk
David Waldrop 863-605-3587
HIGHLANDERS CHAPTER
Lake and Sumter
Gene Bouley 352-360-3722
INDIAN RIVER CHAPTER
Brevard and Indian River
Bill Alexander 321-693-7369
LOXAHATCHEE CHAPTER
Palm Beach
Janet Miller 561-385-8676
NORTH FL TRAILBLAZERS CHAPTER
Baker, Bradford, Clay, Duval, Nassau, St. Johns, and Union
Ron Fish 904-504-4359
PANHANDLE CHAPTER
Bay, Calhoun, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, and Washington
Ken Doucette 772-485-1923
FTA Chapters
List of Florida Trail Association Chapters
When you join the state-wide Florida Trail Association you automatically become a member of your local chapter based upon your zip code. However, members may attend the activities of any chapter and may transfer to any chapter they wish simply by informing the FTA Office.
Florida Trail activities are organized by our local chapters and are led by authorized volunteer activity leaders. Many of our activities are open to the general public so you can get to know us before you join. Activities can be found online at floridatrail.org. Click on "Get Involved" then click on "Find Your Local Chapter." From there, check out the map to determine your local chapter. Activities are usually posted on the chapter websites, Facebook pages, and Meetups.
Participants in activities must sign an Assumption of Risk form and agree to accept personal responsibility for their safety and the safety of accompanying minors. Always contact the activity leader in advance for more information, to let them know you are attending, to find out any special requirements or equipment for the activity, and to check for any last minute changes.
SANDHILL CHAPTER
Alachua, Levy, Gilcrist, and Marion
352-378-8823
Rick Robbins 352-445-0201
SUNCOAST CHAPTER
Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas and Sarasota
Sue Bunge 727-504-8574
SUWANNEE CHAPTER
Columbia, Dixie, Hamilton, Lafayette, Madison, Suwannee, and Taylor Vacant
TROPICAL TREKKERS CHAPTER
Martin, Okeechobee, and St. Lucie Tom Clements 772-486-2816
WESTERN GATE CHAPTER
Escambia and Santa Rosa Christine Hale 850-723-5112
Membership Benefits
By becoming a member of the Florida Trail Association, you are not only supporting the trail but also becoming an integral part of a community that values nature, adventure, and conservation
Receive FTA’s quarterly publication: Footprint
Stay up to day with the weekly newsletter
Free FTA member window decal
Chapter and section leader contacts
Exclusive access to members-only events and discounts on FTA store merchandise
Scan to join now or visit floridatrail.org
Sandhill chapter rmembers maintain tools along the trail.
