Amenities

¼ mile nature trail, canoe/kayak launch, Honoré T. Wamsler wildlife observation platform, bocce ball court, checkerboard tables, historic buildings, Center for the Environment, performance pavilion.

Experiences

Visit this preserve for one of the most breathtaking bay views in the area. Walk the interpretive nature trail and learn about the flora and fauna found along the way, then stop at the observation platform to see the resident wildlife. Invasive plants have been replaced with native species to enhance habitat for wildlife. Bay Preserve at Osprey is a 4 acre campus for the environment, arts, education and recreation. It includes six historic structures: the main house which serves as the Center for the Environment, a carriage house, three cracker style cottages and a boat house with dock. The preserve is located on the waterfront of Little Sarasota Bay, north of Oak St. and west of Palmetto Ave., just south of Historic Spanish Point.

History

The Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast acquired the property in 2006 with a Florida Forever grant from Florida Communities Trust. The Foundation is a nonprofit land trust that works with generous landowners, businesses and government to protect the beauty and natural integrity of the Gulf Coast’s bays, beaches and barrier islands for future generations. The Foundation purchases natural areas, holds land preservation agreements, and educates about responsible stewardship. The Foundation partners with Sarasota County to preserve Florida’s natural heritage, and serves as the land acquisition agent for Sarasota County’s acclaimed Environmentally Sensitive Lands Program and their neighborhood parks program.

Habitats

Maritime hammock

Acreage

4 acres

Watershed

Little Sarasota Bay

Who Owns and Maintains

Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast

Website

www.conservationfoundation.com

SCAT Bus stop and route

Route 17