For over 20 years, Karen Diebel has helped preserve and protect wetlands around Howell Creek, in the hope that someday residents could visit the area and see Florida as it was. Her dreams may soon come true, since Winter Park’s city commissioners recently agreed to buy 55 acres there. The city will start removing chinaberry, an invasive plant, and skunk vine, and replanting native flora in the area.
Diebel, who was once a city commissioner, said Winter Park now has the opportunity to create an authentic Florida environment, and she believes people will enjoy the natural surroundings. Randy Knight, the city manager, agrees, saying he can envision running trails winding through the trees, and a boat launch for kayaks and canoes on Howell Creek. The creek will also support a fish population so anglers can enjoy themselves in the park.
Knight said that the wetland is one of the last pieces of property in Winter Park that is still in its natural state. A park will allow residents to enjoy being outside in nature without having to leave the community. Steve Leary, Winter Park’s mayor, said he visited the area recently, and found the lush trees kept the temperature down, making the temperature perfect for runners.
There will be a wealth of plants, animals, birds, and other species in the new park, and officials might like to create Brochures for visitors to identify them.
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