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Washington County:
Choctawhatchee River & Holmes Creek
(choc-ta-hatch-ee)
Size: 51,189 acres
Location: The Choctawhatchee River and Holmes Creek Water Management Area extends for some 41 miles along the Choctawhatchee River in Bay, Holmes, Walton, and Washington counties, and includes approximately nine miles on Holmes Creek, south of Vernon. The water management area begins at the eastern end of Choctawhatchee Bay and runs north to State Road 2 near the Alabama state border.
Purpose of Acquisition: The 51,189 acres of river floodplain that make up the Choctawhatchee River and Holmes Creek Water Management Area were purchased to protect and preserve the water quality of the Choctawhatchee River and Bya and its ecosystems. The Choctawhatchee River provides habitats for numerous native species of plants and animals and contains several unique relic dun formations that have evolved into xeric dry hammock habitats.
Recreational opportunities: Seasonal hunting, bank and river fishing, canoeing, primitive camping, hiking, bird watching and ecological study areas are available on the tract. Holmes Creek is a state designated canoe trail. Canoe liveries are available in the area.
Unique Geological Features: large alluvial floodplain, relic dune formations, isolated upland "islands," springs, rolling uplands
Plants You Might See: pyramid magnolia, needle palm, yellow (flame) wild azalea
Wildlife You Might See: white ibis, Mississippi kite, green sturgeon
Excerpted from: "Exploring District Lands." Published by the Northwest Florida Water Management District, 2000.
Their Disclaimer: "The users of this recreational guide should keep in mind that lands owned by the District are undergoing changes and refinements to improve recreational opportunities. Please contact the District's Land Division if you have questions or would like more information regarding specific recreational activities or facilities available for a particular area."
Contact:
Northwest Florida Water Management District
Division of Land Management and Acquisition
81 Water Management Drive
Havana, Florida 32333.
Phone: (850)-539-59999