Gristmill Recreation Area

Area “G” Director's report

Some time ago I applied for grant money, $130,000 to do an upgrade to Olalla water mains etc., to install an emergency reception so we can install a generator in case of power failure and also a spillway at the creek to the reservoir, again in case of no power, or if there is a fire so we always will have water to fight fires with. Approximate $100,000, will be used to replace badly needed water mains, so you will soon see workers digging up streets in Olalla. This grant also gave me the opportunity to apply to the board to have the Olalla water toll reduced  by $10 per hook-up, this should be in effect by next year, The current water tax requisition will be the same again next year. This year I was able to get all a reduction in property tax and I estimate another one next year, if re elected, as I am applying for another $1,000,000 to upgrade all the water systems in Olalla. I am confident I will be getting some amount toward this from my meetings with the different ministries at the upcoming UBCM meeting, as we have shown that working together is a benefit for all. Finally I was able to convince the board to see it my way, but by that time it was too late I was told and was advised April 5 that BFI Canada is not in a position to alter our request for proposal as submitted to the RDOS as they have equipment ordered and being delivered for Area “G”. However, now it is flagged, posted and if the contract with BFI is to be changed or opened by them there is a chance we can get out and find a cheaper way. A larger number of people have welcomed this bylaw and think it is the best thing that could be done. I hear from the bylaw enforcement people that it is hard for them when they get a complaint to order a clean up when across the street or next street down is the same mess or verse, but no complaint so it seems they take it easy, I am wondering what a bylaw like this will do to a neighbourhood, is it worth it? Well time will tell.

Gulf Coast Hiking Spots | Outdoor Gulf Coast of Northwest Florida

The western most section of northwest Florida is considered the gateway to Florida. Here at Outdoor Gulf Coast we consider it the gateway to all Florida adventures. Beginning in this area of Pensacola there are many hiking adventures awaiting you.

It’s in northwest Florida we have the beginning of the Florida trail system. In addition to the trail system there are many areas to hike and explore. We hope you will discover new places to hike as we continue to expand our list, with Pensacola being the starting point to your hiking adventures. If you would like to contribute more places to the hiking areas we have listed, please let us know.

Pensacola Jones Swamp Wetland Preserve and Nature Trail

Jones Swamp Wetland Preserve and Nature Trail is part of the Bayou Chico restoration project. The preserve includes 1,300 acres within the Jones Creek Watershed. It was created to provide protection for Pensacola Bay.

Baker, Holt, Munson (30 – 47 miles from Pensacola) Wiregrass Trail – Blackwater River State Forest

The Wiregrass Trail is located in Blackwater River State Forest and is part of the Florida National Scenic Trail. On this trail hikers will enjoy some of the largest remaining longleaf pine/wiregrass found anywhere. The trail is 12.7 miles in length. Access this trail North of Hurricane Lake Recreation Area. For details directions visit here .

Karick Lake Campground

It’s time to go camping . . . or fishing or hiking! You can do all this and more at Karick Lake. Located in the Blackwater River State Forest , just 7.5 miles north of Baker tucked away in our little neck of the woods is this spectacular 65-acre spot.  The park includes a 3.8 mile hiking trail around the lake.