NWFWMD Celebrates Opening of Burnt Sock Landing

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 25, 2014
CONTACT: NWFWMD Public Information Office (850) 539-2663 or
Lauren.Engel@yopmail.com

NWFWMD Celebrates Opening of Burnt Sock Landing

VERNON — The Northwest Florida Water Management District held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of Burnt Sock Landing, a new public access and recreation site along Holmes Creek in Washington County.

The District recently completed public access and recreational improvements to the site, including road improvements and a parking area. Additional improvements included stabilizing the dirt boat ramp, which will improve water quality by reducing sediments flowing into the spring-fed creek and allow users to hand launch canoes, kayaks and small boats.

“The District owns and manages more than 60,000 acres along Holmes Creek and the downstream Choctawhatchee River to improve the health of these waterways and the natural resources that surround them,” said Executive Director Jon Steverson. “This includes enhancing areas like Burnt Sock Landing, which will improve water quality along the creek and the 57 crystal clear springs that feed its flow.”

Burnt Sock Landing is an exclusive canoe, kayak and small boat launch, which will enrich public access to the District’s northern-most ownership along Holmes Creek—a popular state-designated canoe trail. The landing will allow paddlers to enjoy the unique natural sights along this undisturbed stretch of the waterway.

“The District is proud to celebrate the completion of this project, which is helping us protect Holmes Creek and also expand public access to this beautiful waterbody,” said District Governing Board member Gary Clark. “Projects like these are win-win for our communities, as they protect our waterways and make it easier for our citizens to get out and enjoy them.”

The District will partner with Washington County to implement additional restoration and protection projects further downstream on Holmes Creek. The District will invest more than $250,000 for improvements designed to improve water quality and increase public access at Hightower, Spurling and Like Oak Landings.

The District’s Division of Land Management works to protect, restore and offer public access to many of the important springs, streams and rivers of the Panhandle through its ownership of more than 211,000 acres across Northwest Florida.

For more information, please visit: http://nwfwp.sgssys.info/lands/recreation/area/choctawhatchee-river-holmes-creek/burnt-sock-landing/