March 21st, 2025

Welcome to the Friday Waypoint where you'll find the latest updates about opportunities & activities with the Florida Trail Association.

The Florida Trail Association’s FTAccess program is blazing trails for a more inclusive outdoor experience! Whether you use a wheelchair, have mobility challenges, or simply want to learn more about accessible recreation, FTAccess is here to help everyone explore Florida’s wild places.

Click below to see how FTAccess is breaking barriers and making the Florida Trail more inclusive for all. Discover accessible trails, adaptive equipment, and community efforts that are opening the outdoors to everyone!

From left to right: Acting Executive Director Abe Christian, Panhandle Regional Trail Program Manager Brandie Dziegiel, Gateway Community Coordinator Austin Burton

The Florida State Park Foundation alongside Live Wildly hosted their 2nd annual Celebration of Florida's State Parks at the Florida Historic Capitol Museum. FTA staff joined alongside conservation leaders from across Florida to celebrate the 4-time National Gold Medal for Excellence winning Florida State Park system. This event also highlighted the State Park Preservation Act (Senate Bill 80) and other efforts and accomplishments in conservation, outdoor recreation, and overall economic impact of wild spaces in Florida.

"It was great to highlight the Florida Trail as a resource for all Floridians as well as share the successes of our volunteers and all the important work they do year round with other conservation leaders. It is vital we continue our efforts to further protect Florida's natural spaces for many generations to enjoy."

-Austin Burton, Gateway Community Coordinator

Join us for the latest installment of the Next Gen Coalition Webinar Series as we explore the fascinating world of the Florida Scrub-Jay—our state’s only endemic bird species!

Dr. Sahas Barve, Program Director of Avian Ecology at Archbold Biological Station, will take us on a journey through the life history of this highly social species. Learn how fire, habitat loss, and conservation efforts have shaped its future, and discover insights from over 50 years of research at Archbold.

This virtual event is free and open to all. Please register at the link below!

The Florida Trail Association (FTA) is seeking a dynamic and experienced Executive Director (ED) to lead the organization. The ED will oversee all FTA programs, staff, and partnerships, ensuring alignment with the organization's mission and strategic goals. This role involves close collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service, state and local agencies, and key stakeholders to secure resources for the Florida Trail.

Please click below for the full position description and instructions on how to apply. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and accepted until the position is filled.