Construction of a Swamp Ecosystem at Native Paths

The November 2011 Grand Opening of Native Paths Heritage Museum and Environmental Education Center culminates a year-long process managed by Escambia County officials to construct a swamp ecosystem on the grounds.

Introduction

Design and construction of a wetland habitat educational facility: The property was acquired through a Florida Communities Trust program, and the Northwest Florida Water Management District is funding the restoration under the Florida Forever program.  These efforts are a component of the Jones Swamp Preserve Management Plan which has been instrumental in accomplishing considerable restoration and public access opportunities within the ecosystem.  The plan focuses on restoring and enhancing a variety of wetland habitats within the site and providing an educational component which will allow access, viewing, and interpretation opportunities to the general public.

Reconstructed pond planted with appropriate vegetation

Educational Benefits

When the entire WETLAND HABITAT is completed, a walking trail, complete with interpretive markers, winding through the site will allow visitors to observe the growth progress of a CYPRESS DOME, SHALLOW PONDS, and a 300 linear foot stream system, including such structures as rock veins, root wads, and log weirs to provide visual flow diversity as a focal point for understanding the functions of a LIVING STREAM and its representative life forms. Already the site has become a paradise for birds, deer, raccoons, frogs and many other species of wildlife.

                         Osprey Platform                                               Observation Deck 

                                    Pond                                                                    Flowing Stream

                                                                                    Cypress Pond

 Native Paths Cultural Heritage Museum & Environmental Education Center
3300 Beloved Path (formerly 1611 Albany Avenue)
Pensacola, FL  32507
850.453.7382
Open Tuesday - Saturday, 9am - 5pm