When a local thinks of Florida mining probably the first thing that comes to their mind would be phosphate mining. Florida phosphate accounts for one-quarter of world’s needs and three-quarters of US domestic needs. Almost all of the phosphate that is mined in Florida is used to manufacture fertilizer which is then used for agricultural purposes. In 2000 28.6 million metric tons was mined in Florida which in turn allowed $1.13 billion dollars worth of fertilizer to be exported from Florida. This makes phosphate one of Florida’s leading export commodities.
Saddle Creek flows into Lake Hancock and is considered to be one of the headwater streams of Peace River. Saddle Creek flows through Saddle Creek Park which is made up of many “phosphate pits.” This area was mined for phosphate until the mid-1970s along with the surrounding Tenoroc Pits. When the phosphate companies were done mining they were required to transform the areas into “reclaimed” land. Many of these areas are now parks and reclaimed lakes donated to the county or state. The lakes were stocked with fish and are very popular with fishermen from all over the world.
To receive credit for this EarthCache you must post two pictures in your found log and email your answers to question #1 to the email address located in my profile page. DO NOT post your answer in your log. Failure to complete all three questions completely will result in your log entry being deleted..
1. Throughout the park are signs describing some of the features of the local area. Based on this information or physical observations email me how the local phosphate mining has affected the surrounding areas..
2. Pick one of the “pits” and take a picture of you and your GPSr with the “pits” behind you. Post with your log along with the elevation from your GPSr at the spot you took the picture. Who says Florida doesn’t have “mountains”.
3. While you are exploring the “pits” and wildlife take a picture of your favorite wildlife now taking advantage of the former mining area and post with your log.
While you are in the area make sure you visit the other great caches in the area for additional up close views of the local “pits” and wildlife. Some of the local wildlife are some of my favorite creatures on earth but you might not want to try to get too friendly with them or you might be their dinner. So do be watchful of your surroundings!
This cache was placed by a member of the
Florida Geocaching Association