By Jennifer Raymond
Considering its proximity to the Florida Trail, Sopchoppy was designated as a Florida Gateway Community last Thursday, May 13, by the Florida Trail Association.
The part of the Florida Trail that is closest to Sopchoppy lies in the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge and the Apalachicola National Forest.
The idea behind the designation is to promote the Florida Trail Association as well as Sopchoppy. The city was given two gateway community signs that will be placed at the entrances into the city.
"There's a lot of opportunity to promote the trail and let people see the special place you have," said Kent Wimmer, Florida National Scenic Trail Liasion for the Florida Trail Association.
As well as recognizing that the community is a gateway into the outdoors.
The Florida Trail is 1,200 miles and extends from Pensacola to Big Cypress in between Naples and Miami.
The trail extends for about 67 miles in the Apalachicola National Forest and about 40 miles in St. Marks Wildlife Refuge.
When designated as a gateway community, the city must then promote the trail and the Florida Trail Association will in turn promote the city on it's Web site.
"We can get people out there and get 'em hooked," Wimmer said.
Sopchoppy City Commissioner Richard Harden was instrumental in gaining the designation.
Harden said the city was approached by FTA, but then the city had to apply to be considered a gateway community. The county commission voted to proceed and request designation and the process began in the fall of last year.
"We're a natural destination for those that love the outdoors," Harden said.
He added that the city has woods, water and wildlife.
The idea is making people aware of this.
Harden hopes this will help.
"I think it will be great for the city of Sopchoppy," Harden said.
County commissioner Howard Kessler was also in attendance.
"We need to take advantage of these resources," said Kessler. "They are a calling card."
Harden said St. Marks and Wakulla County will be designated gateway communities in June by the association.
