Acquired in 2005, the Daniels Preserve at Spanish Creek is a 243-acre preserve that contains 21 plant communities and also includes the headwaters of Spanish Creek. The most common plant communities that one may find are pine flatwoods, oak hammocks and improved pasture. The acquisition of this preserve from the Daniels family, who were the owners of the land since the 1940s, served as the catalyst for the starting of the County’s new heritage program. The idea for the heritage program came largely because of this Preserve and the Daniels family. During the draft stages of the Land Stewardship Plan, the plan was referred to as the Spanish Creek Preserve. The Daniels family suggested an alternate name for the property; Daniels Preserve at Spanish Creek. The CLASAC voted unanimously to rename the Preserve to honor the long-term Lee County residents who actively protected the wildlife and natural areas in Lee County. Since 2007, the Daniels Preserve at Spanish Creek has undergone several exotic plant control projects including a gopher tortoise habitat enhancement project in the spring of 2010. Perimeter fire breaks have also been installed within areas containing fire dependant habitats. During the summer of 2011, the entire Preserve underwent exotic plant control treatment and older portions of the perimeter fence were replaced. In 2014, another sweep of exotic plant work occurred to keep invasive exotic plants under control. Controlling invasive exotic plants will be an on-going management activity at this preserve. Currently there is no designated parking and there is an active cattle lease on the property. Recreation Opportunities:
Bird Watching, Fishing, Hiking (Marked Trails), Hiking (Unmarked or Fire Lines), Nature Study/Photography
In early 2014, an Eagle Scout project cleared a section of trail and installed a kiosk at the pedestrian entrance. The DPSC Legacy & hiking trail signs are now featured here. Hikers can now refer to the trail map before heading out. Additional Information:
This preserve has an active cattle lease, but is open to the public if you don't mind stepping over "cow patties." Please close the gate behind you.
