You might not imagine finding an ancient forest right in the middle of the state of Florida, but if you look closely enough, you’ll find Highland Hammock State Park. Home to more native and unique flora and fauna species than any other Florida State Park, visiting Highland Hammock is truly a step back in time. And it’s with great joy that we introduce it as OGFN’s newest Network Forest!

The dedication of the Ancient Hammock Trail in Highland Hammock State Park took place during an intimate but joyful ceremony on January 15th, 2022. It was the perfect way to celebrate the New Year and the first forest to be dedicated in 2022. Coming in at forest #148, the Ancient Hammock Trail winds through stands of mature oaks that tower overhead and lush ferns abound. As the name suggests, Highland Hammock State Park is home to a hydric hammock, which is a type of short-period wetland. Hydric hammocks don’t typically flood as often as other swamps and wetlands, which provides the perfect habitat for species who rely on wet-dry cycles for reproduction, such as the spotted turtle.

Highland Hammock is one of four original Florida State Parks and has the greatest amount of endemic biodiversity out of any Florida State Park. Originally set aside as a state park in 1931, the preservation and protection of this space are largely due to concerned citizens who successfully stopped the area from being developed into farmland. Pine plantation and farmland development continue to be an environmental pressure not only to Highland Hammock, but also many other vulnerable wetlands, swamps, and hammocks across the state. It is vital that these forests and ecosystems continue to be protected against the threat of logging.

Do you have a forest you’d like to see protected, just like the Ancient Hammock Trail? Fill out this simple form to nominate your forest today!