MILTON — Planting of 57 native trees, along with recent resurfacing repairs, have made the Military Heritage Trail safer and more enjoyable for visiting bicyclists, walkers, joggers and skaters.
The 1.5-mile paved path connects the 8-mile Blackwater Heritage State Trail with NAS Whiting Field. The combined trails offer a trip from historic Milton through the northwest Florida countryside, where wooden bridges cross several creeks and native pitcher plants are spotted among the wildflowers.
"The tree-planting effort along the Military Heritage Trail completed by Santa Rosa County will make a tremendous difference in the enjoyment and use of the trail in the future, both by residents and visitors alike,” said Vernon Compton, project director for The Longleaf Alliance. “The four species selected — sand live oak, southern magnolia, slash pine and longleaf pine — are all excellent choices. Over time, they will provide a canopy (that) will offer a much cooler and shaded environment during the summer months, and encourage increased use of the trail.”
The tree planting and trail repair project’s total cost was $46,739, however labor and equipment were provided by Santa Rosa County Public Works, resulting in savings of almost $30,000 to the citizens of Santa Rosa County.
The project was funded with tree mitigation funds and District III recreation funds committed by Commissioner Don Salter, a longtime champion of protecting and enhancing military installations, especially NAS Whiting Field.
"The Military Heritage Trail has been used by a multitude of cyclists since its opening. One of the more enjoyable points of the trail was the short segment through the tree-lined canopy. The recent repair provides safety for cyclists to enjoy this section once again," said David Murphy, cycling advocate.
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Military Heritage Trail enhancements complete