SOUTHWEST NATURE PARK
Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU) and its partners, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), Suwannee River Water Management (SRWMD) and Alachua County, are creating a Nature Park. The home of the 75 acre future park is located on the west side of Parker Road immediately north the Diamond Sports Park.
Project News
You may notice increased activity at the project site as the wetland team begins a study to gather important site-specific information. This data will help guide the park’s conceptual layout and the design of the wetland ponds.
Artistic rendering of the future Southwest Nature Park
The project will help replenish, or recharge, the Floridan aquifer, which will benefit the Santa Fe River, the springs, and our community.
Shallow areas planted with wetland plants
The park will have a series of shallow areas planted with wetland plants that are hydrated with high-quality reclaimed water. Natural processes in the constructed wetlands will filter the water and reduce nutrients to low levels before percolating the water into the soil and replenishing the groundwater below. The groundwater recharge will boost aquifer levels and help support flows at the Santa Fe River and surrounding springs.
Surrounded by paths that can be used for recreation
The shallow wetlands will be surrounded by paths that can be used for recreation like walking, jogging, wildlife viewing, photography, environmental education and more. The FDEP and SRWMD are funding partners for the design and construction of the wetland system. Alachua County plans to partner with GRU to manage public access.
Project Interviews
Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU) – Using water resources and enhancing the community.