Open Preserves

In keeping with the Water Authority's legislative mission for "controlling and conserving freshwater resources in Lake County," and "preserving, protecting, and improving the fish and aquatic wildlife of the county," the Citizens Advisory Committee on Conservation recommended in 1987 that LCWA acquire sites within Lake County needing protection.

	Bourlay Historic Nature Park
	Crooked River Preserve
	Flat Island Preserve
	Hidden Waters Preserve
	Lake Norris Conservation Area
	Sabal Bluff Preserve
	Sawgrass Island Preserve

Objectives of the Water Authority :

	Conservation of our unique and irreplaceable natural resources by protecting the lands containing such biodiversity.
	Utilization of these conservation lands for compatible public recreational activity.

Since 1989, the Water Authority has acquired over 6,300 acres for protection, either through purchase or donation. Of the 6,300 acres, approximately 71% is considered wetlands and the remaining 29% uplands support recreational opportunities.

Geocaching on the Preserves