OPRD release – Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is working on a Trail Investment Plan for Floras Lake State Natural Area near Bandon, and the public is invited to an informational meeting and to provide feedback 5:30 p.m. Nov. 1. This Open House was originally scheduled for Sept. 28 but was cancelled due to the Emergency Declaration for the Anvil fire. OPRD has acquired additional land next to the natural area in recent years and anticipates increasing visitation consistent with coastal parks statewide – leading the agency to develop a basic plan for Floras Lake. The plan will include proposals to improve the trail experience and provide better connections through federal land to a nearby Curry County park. “The investment strategy for Floras Lake will aim to improve the visitor experience, especially navigating through the sensitive site, while maintaining the primitive quality that existing users highly value,” said Justin Helberg, south coast district manager. “Resource protection is of particular concern at State Natural Areas, which are typically designated due to the unique plants and animals found in these locations,” he said. “Balancing the need for recreation facilities with natural resource protection is a primary goal of OPRD.” The public can learn about the project in these early stages and provide feedback 5:30 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, November 1st at the Langlois Public Library, 48234 Highway 101, Langlois, OR. Information and an online survey are also available at https://bit.ly/floraslaketrailplan.
