A.R.M. Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge
10216 Lee Road, Boynton Beach, FL 34273
561/734-8303 Fax: 561/369-7190 www.fws.gov/refuge/arm_loxahatchee/
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Veronica Kelly 561/735-6020
February 12, 2020 Veronica_Kelly@fws.gov
Horseback Riding Trails Open at A.R.M. Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge
Boynton Beach, FL. Beginning February 12, 2020, approximately 36 miles of trails will be open for horseback riders to see and enjoy the wildlife and unique landscape of the Florida Everglades at the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge). Horseback riding will be allowed on the open portions of the Refuge’s perimeter levees (the L-39 and L-40 only), terminating south of the S-6 and S-362 water control structures. Visitors may park and access horseback riding trails from the Lee Road boat ramp at the Headquarters entrance in Boynton Beach or from the Loxahatchee Road boat ramp at the Hillsboro entrance in Boca Raton. Some modifications are still needed for gates. The refuge is currently working with partners to eliminate barriers to access. A visit to the refuge is recommended before you bring your horse. We suggest that visitors use extreme caution when navigating gates until the gates are modified for horse use.
Horseback riders will be sharing multi-use trails with hikers, bicyclists, pet walkers, vehicles, and other horseback riders. Horseback riders must yield to vehicular traffic. Perimeter levee trails are flat with crushed gravel and shell-rock levees. Manure containment bags are required for all horses and groups of five or more horses will need to obtain a Special Use Permit from the administrative office.
The Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge was established under a License Agreement with the South Florida Water Management District in 1951 as an inviolate sanctuary for migratory birds. The vision of the refuge is to serve as an outstanding showcase for ecosystem management that restores, protects, and enhances a portion of the unique north Everglades biological community. This public asset provides for the enjoyment and enhanced quality of life for present and future generations. To learn more about the refuge visit: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/arm_loxahatchee/
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The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals, and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.