by Mark Malkasian

The County Parks Department has given FLT the green light to work on a proposed plan to remodel the house at Osprey Junction Trailhead (OJT) into a Visitor Center. (map).  The first phase is developing a proposed plan to remodel the house at Osprey Junction Trailhead Park into a Visitor Center. The plan will then be presented to Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources for review and approval.  While the remodel planning wheels are turning for the first phase of the project, we have started an initial cleanup of the landscaping.

On a perfect Tuesday morning, January 19, a team of 18 volunteer members attacked the first round of landscaping improvements at OJT.  Lead ably by Ed Wolfenbarger, the vegetation around the main building that we hope will be home to a future Visitor Center was given a thorough, verging on radical, haircut.

We were surprised and pleased to have the former property owners, Mary Ann and Dennis Marlin, join us and enthusiastically contribute. Mary Ann helped in discovering original paths and walkways well hidden under years of detritus.  Dennis repaired and re-activated the long dormant water system in the house. We offer a hearty thank you to them both and surely to our Stalwart 18!

More exterior work needs our attention so another volunteer work morning has been scheduled for February 11 from 8:30 to noon.  Again, tools will be provided but feel free to bring your favorite landscaping implements.  Suggested personal items are sunscreen, work gloves and protective clothing.  Water, coffee and snacks will be provided. The house will be open for viewing.

Please contact Mark Malkasian here to confirm participation or if you have questions.