Brooker Preserve Partially Reopens Following Wildfire

TARPON SPRINGS, FL -- Brooker Creek Preserve has partially reopened to the public after being closed for nearly a week due to a wildfire. However, visitors can only hike on the Ed Center Trail and Bird Path. Trails affected by the wildfire are not accessible and will remain blocked off until further notice.

The wildfire started early last week in a swampy area of the preserve, which is located at 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. It spread slowly, eventually impacting about 70 acres. Florida Forest Service crews contained the fire and, along with Pinellas County staff, continue to monitor the site for smoldering or flare-ups.

Brooker Creek Preserve is part of the Pinellas County Park System and is the largest natural area in the county at approximately 8,700 acres. It consists primarily of forested wetlands and pine flat woods and allows visitors the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of wild Florida. The preserve’s Environmental Education Center will resume its normal hours of operation, which are Thursday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.