"Friday funday. They finally repaved this part of the trail! No more roots!" 
- Jeannie Ruth
Military Heritage Trail Enhancements Complete
Recent resurfacing and 57 newly planted trees provide enjoyment for all
The planting of 57 native trees, along with recent resurfacing repairs, have made the popular Military Heritage Trail safer and more enjoyable for the bicyclists, walkers, joggers and skaters who visit it each day. The 1.5 mile paved path connects the eight-mile Blackwater Heritage State Trail with NAS Whiting Field. The combined trails offer an enjoyable trip from historic Milton through the northwest Florida countryside, where wooden bridges cross several creeks and native pitcher plants can be spotted among the wildflowers. 

"The tree planting effort along the Military Heritage Trail completed by Santa Rosa County will make a tremendous difference in the enjoyment and use of the trail in the future, both by residents and visitors alike. The four species selected - sand live oak, southern magnolia, slash pine, and longleaf pine - are all excellent choices. Over time, they will provide a canopy which will offer a much cooler and shaded environment during the summer months and encourage increased use of the trail," said Vernon Compton, project director for The Longleaf Alliance. 

The total cost of the tree planting and trail repair project was $46,739 however labor and equipment was provided by Santa Rosa County Public Works resulting in savings of nearly $30,000 to the citizens of Santa Rosa County. The project was funded with tree mitigation funds and District III recreation funds committed by Commissioner Don Salter, a longtime champion of protecting and enhancing military installations, especially NAS Whiting Field. 

"The Military Heritage Trail has been used by a multitude of cyclists since its opening. One of the more enjoyable points of the trail was the short segment through the tree-lined canopy. The recent repair provides safety for cyclists to enjoy this section once again," said David Murphy, cycling advocate.

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