A gopher tortoise.

The trailhead of Telegraph Creek Preserve located on North River Road in Alva will be closed to visitors for a few weeks starting Wednesday, March 10, for gopher tortoise habitat improvement.

The improvements will be funded through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s, Gopher Tortoise Habitat Management Assistance program. The project is designed to clear heavy undergrowth on 43 acres, which allows the tortoises to better forage and burrow. Deer, turkey, quail and a variety of plants will also benefit from this work. 

The main entrance of Telegraph Creek Preserve, located on Argo Drive, will remain open for equestrian and hiking access to this preserve and onto Bob Janes Preserve unless closed for upcoming prescribed burning. Visitors looking for nearby comparable alternative hiking trails can visit Daniels Preserve at Spanish Creek, located on Persimmon Ridge Road. 

For updates on re-opening, visit www.leeparks/preserves.org or the Conservation 20/20 Facebook page.

Telegraph Creek Preserve was acquired through the Conservation 20/20 program in January of 2009 and comprises 1,727 acres of land, including 506 acres of dry prairie. Public use includes 10 miles of marked trail, along with the Great Calusa Blueway paddling trail which crosses through the southeastern portion of the preserve.

For more information about Lee County Parks & Recreation locations, amenities and other special events, visit www.leeparks.org, call 239-533-7275 or email leeparks@leegov.com.