GENEROUS DONATIONS TO FLORIDA’S NATURE COAST CONSERVANCY

April 26, 2021    by Jim Wortham

What’s happening on Gulf Boulevard?  Alert observers have noticed that new signs have appeared between Paroda Avenue and the boardwalk.   The news is that generous donations by Dr. Mandy and Frank Offerle have added to the greenspaces maintained by the Florida’s Nature Coast Conservancy in and around Cedar Key.   

Three parcels of land were donated to preserve waterfront greenspace adjacent to Gulf Boulevard boardwalk which delivers visitors to the Cemetery Boardwalk and trails.   The Earl Starnes Overlook, at the east end of Cemetery Park, itself allows a great view of even more area preserved by the FNCC between the Cemetery and Hwy 24.

Florida’s Nature Coast Conservancy is a 501(c)3 non-profit designated land trust that works to preserve local lands for conservation.   The Offerle’s are the latest folks who have seen the value of donating or estate gifting vacant land to the community to ensure that it will remain pristine and add to the natural beauty that is Cedar Key.   

Not only do these lands create small spaces for nesting birds, wildlife, and native plants, but by being protected from development, they also help to reduce flood insurance costs for everyone on the island by improving our FEMA scoring designation.   The Offerle’s donation is an investment in Cedar Key and in all of their neighbors living here.