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TROUT POND RECREATION AREA FOR THE HANDICAPPED

APALACHICOLA National Forest FLORIDA

TROUT POND RECREATION AREA FOR THE HANDICAPPED

Trout Pond Recreation Area for the handicapped is located on the scenic Apalachicola National Forest. The United States Forest Service has developed this area to meet the needs of the handicapped and their guests. Trout Pond is designed exclusively for the handicapped to provide outdoor recreation and enjoyment to this group. The area is located twelve miles south of Tallahassee, Florida on State Road 373 and is open from 9:00 a.m. till dark. There is no charge for the use of this area. For more information call or write: District Ranger P.O. Box 68 Crawfordville, Florida 32327 Phone---Crawfordville: 926-3561

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Forest Service - Southern Region

TROUT POND RECREATION AREA FOR THE HANDICAPPED

Historically, the needs of the handicapped have not been considered in the construction of recreation areas and public facilities, thus preventing or highly limiting the use of many structures. An effort to overcome these barriers has been made at Trout Pond.

For those who wish to swim, there is a pool accessible by ramp or stairs and a water-play area with jet sprays providing enjoyment.

A fishing pier, accessible by all, is located in a setting of cypress and titi. Excellent fishing can be enjoyed in comfort and safety. Special features include safety rails, built-in benches, arm rests and managed fishing.

An effort to help the handicapped more fully enjoy his outing has been made by eliminating curbs, soft sands, steep trails, and modifying toilet stalls, drinking fountains and picnic tables. Numerous benches and grassy areas provide rest stops along the trail.

The pleasant environment of the lake featuring comfortable benches and a shady lawn provides a good vantage point for listening to and observing nature, or enjoying the beautiful vista of wildflowers, spanish moss, cypress, still water and blue sky.

Many species of wildlife abound in the general vicinity of the recreation area. Those likely to be seen include grey squirrel, fox squirrel, American egret, bobwhite quail, red-shouldered hawk, heron, wood duck. For the visually handicapped, nature has provided a full spectrum of sound from the boom of the bull gator to the song of the bobwhite.

In developing this recreation area, the main objective of the Forest Service is to create a facility that will be responsive to the handicapped visitor. After you visit Trout Pond, we will welcome any comments or suggestions you may have as to additional facilities needed or modifications of existing ones.