Brooker Creek Preserve: Have you heard of it?

May 23, 1:35 PMTarpon Springs ExaminerJanel Fontaine

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Brooker Creek Preserve sits just outside of Tarpon Springs, on the Pinellas border with Hillsborough County. In spite of the large amounts of Penny for Pinellas tax money that were poured into building the facilities, the Education Center there remains relatively unheard of. Many denizens of Pinellas County pop into the center for a look around, having noticed the signs while driving past. They cautiously approach the information desk with looks of awe and amazement spread across their faces. Their first words are, “I had no idea this was here!”

The Center itself features hands-on exhibits geared towards both kids and adults on ecology, history, and the preservation of wildlife. Throughout the week the staff also hosts lectures, workshops, hikes, and toddler book times. Some of these programs require a small fee to cover the cost of supplies, but the center itself and the trails there are always free. For those more interested in the outdoors, the Preserve boasts four miles of trails through unique Florida ecosystems including oak hammocks, pine flatwoods, and cypress swamps. Don’t expect to traverse these paths year-round, however; one must remember Florida weather – the trails are commonly flooded during the summer and early autumn months. In September, World Rivers Day is commemorated with a veritable fair of booths featuring artists, musicians, crafts, and activities, all geared towards the nature and wildlife of the area.

Brooker Creek Preserve is not “just another park.” Interaction with the ecology is limited, but because of this the landscape is more serene and untouched than in any public park. In the morning, deer graze near the entrance. In the spring, nesting hawks can be seen through the trees. Wild orchids grow along the boardwalks, and a mother alligator and her babies are commonly seen on the creek. Brooker Creek Preserve is a natural jewel, unknown to the general public but magnificent in its seclusion.

Hours, Trail Status, and Phone Numbers are at this website.