Join ACT for a cleanup event at Saarinen Preserve. We will be removing invasive species and trail maintenance.

This work day is open to the general public. Please RSVP to reserve your spot.

WHAT TO WEAR & BRING

Be sure to wear closed-toe shoes and long pants. Bring water, snacks, bug spray, sunscreen, and hat. Gloves will be provided, but feel free to bring your own!

WHEN

Saturday, February 7th, 2026
9:00 AM to 12:00 PM

WHERE

Address: 3208 NW 186th Street, Newberry, FL 32609

ABOUT THE PRESERVE

The Saarinen Preserve was donated to ACT in the late 1990's by Arthur and Phyllis Saarinen for perpetual preservation.

The property has a mix of forest types. There are scattered natural stands of longleaf pine and live oak within about 40 acres of mesic hammock - an upland forest type mostly consisting of hardwoods - and there are a total of about 38 acres of planted slash pine. The planted pines are approximately 17-years-old, and some of the live oaks and longleaf pines may be more than a century old.

ACT has undertaken restoration activities that include thinning of the planted pine and replacing it with native longleaf pine. Other efforts will include creating conditions that encourage desirable species to seed in naturally, such as maintaining openings to encourage a more diverse herbaceous and wildflower layer. The ultimate goal is a forest that mimics the natural forest of North Central Florida – a mosaic of pines with a wide range of hardwoods and shrubs suitable for the site.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO RSVP

Contact Alachua Conservation Trust by info@alachuaconservationtrust.org to RSVP or for more information.

Banner image by Alison Blakeslee.