The Little Big Econ State Forest is one of the natural gems of
Florida. It is an area that is rich in ecosystems and provides
something for just about every outdoor enthusiast. Hikers have
miles and miles of trails to explore. Equestrians are included in
many areas of the forest and have their own trailhead. Off road
bicyclists enjoy trails that range from novice to daring. Those who
prefer the slower pace of a kayak or canoe are rewarded with a
completely different vantage point of Mother Nature's handiwork.
And for the avid geocacher, there are caches to satisfy the casual
hiker or the "Go fer Baroque" bushwacker!
Sunday, March 5th, geocachers are invited to a Cache In Trash
Out Event that will commence in the morning (watch this page for
constant updates) and will culminate in a casual barbeque/potluck
get together in the afternoon.
You can choose how you want to participate: (1) Saddle up Scout
and clean up the equestrian trails (2) Don your protective body
armor and scour the bike trails (3) Lace up your Rockports and
police the hiking trails
or
(4) Join the intrepid navigators who will brave the rapids of
the Econ and kayak or canoe the 8.3 miles of river and help
transform the banks of the river into a pristine landscape. If you
choose to kayak or canoe, and DON'T have your own vessel, we will
be getting in touch with Hidden River Canoe/Kayak rentals who will
deliver the boats to the launch point on State Road 419 and pick
them up at the "finish line" on Snow Hill Road. The trip will take
abbut 4-5 hours if you are picking up trash along the banks as you
go along (as well as enjoying the view and resting a bit along the
way).
The Little Big Econ State Forest has provided hundreds of hours
of entertainment for geocachers over the years, and is home to more
than 2 dozen caches, with some dating back to 2002. This would be a
great way to pay back Mother Nature (and help ingratiate ourselves
with the LBESF folks).
We will be using the picnic pavilion at the equestrian trailhead
on Snow Hill Road for the afternoon get together. There is a
$1/person user fee for access to the LBESF. Hamburger/hotdogs will
be provided and folks should bring their own drinks and a covered
dish to share.
Mark your calendars and place this event on your WATCHLIST to
keep updated, and please post your intentions of joining the fun.
The page will have information added as it becomes available, and
if you have any questions or want would like to help out please
contact overrover@earthlink.net.
Forester Paul Hartsfield is grateful for the help with
maintaining the natural beauty of this wonderful state forest.
STATE FOREST RULES
1. All trails are marked for each
specific use: hiking, cycling, horseback riding - use the
designated trail for your activity.
2. Users are asked to park at their
designated trailhead.
3. No firearms.
4. Alcoholic beverages are
PROHIBITED.
5. All pets must be on a leash, and
you MUST clean up after your pets.
6. Remove all garbage and trash.
(duh!)
7. All plants and animals are
protected by law.