How Water Shapes Our Naturehood
Water connects us. It shapes Florida’s unique biodiversity, climate and even our economy.
Central Florida may not have a coastline, but there’s no shortage of water here.The aquatic patchwork of wetlands, lakes and rivers in our region is the freshwater lifeblood that flows through the state.
We’re taking a closer look at how water brings our naturehood to life as a resource, a place to escape and a thread that ties it all together.
Our Water
Protecting the network of waterways comes up a lot around here, because it’s such a big part of the promise Sunbridge was built on. It’s why we plant Florida native landscaping and keep a close eye on how our water systems are working. It goes beyond conservation. It’s being a good steward to the land we call home.
But how can water in one region connect to another?
Think of it like this: every drop of rainfall that falls on Sunbridge doesn’t just disappear. It travels through our backyards, trails and open spaces, eventually making its way into nearby lakes and wetlands. From there, it flows into the Upper Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, Lake Okeechobee and eventually the Everglades.
This journey is a powerful reminder that what happens in our own backyards has ripple effects far downstream.
Trails with a View
Most of us living here know we don’t have to go far to wander off the beaten path. And water is a big part of that experience. Whether you’re taking a 15-minute break between conference calls, training for a 5K or breaking in your new fat-tire bike, here are a few of our favorite spots to enjoy the water along our trail network:
- Egret Trail – A nearly mile-long loop and one of Sunbridge’s original trails. This route winds through a mix of shaded woods and open views, skimming the edges of ponds and lakes. Great for walking, biking or jogging.
- Tortoise Trail – Featuring not one but two bridges over a canal that connects to the lake just north. This route offers a little over half a mile of gentle curves before linking up with the inner loop of Hare Trail.
Why Our Wetlands Matter
Sunbridge sits at the nexus of several freshwater ecosystems, all linked by wetlands. Much like grass prairies of the central plains, Florida’s wetlands have often been misunderstood, sometimes seen as obstacles to development rather than essential to growth.
But wetlands are indispensable. They act as a buffer during storms and play a key role in the health of our regional watershed.
Want to gain a deeper understanding? This blog post from our friends at the Florida Headwaters Foundation is a great place to start.
What’s Ahead
Giving our naturehood more ways to access and enjoy the water is part of the big picture in Sunbridge. We’re working on plans to bring more ways to kayak, canoe and paddleboard into future neighborhood and trail expansions, as well as upcoming community activities.
- Big things are coming together in Weslyn Park. Keep an eye out for progress on our new amenities center, complete with a kayak dock and launch and waterfront trailhead for Crosswater Trail.
- Eco Tours with the Florida Headwaters Foundation are launching in August! Grab your binoculars for wildlife spotting and learn about plant and tree identification, wetlands and animal behavior.
- With Roux Trail set to open later this year, you’ll have more ways to experience the beauty of our wetlands and lakeside landscapes.
We’re also excited about more ways to learn and get involved through our partnership with the Florida Headwaters Foundation. Check their website for more details on upcoming guided hikes, lecture series and volunteer opportunities.
And don’t forget to swing by Basecamp for more updates before you explore the trails — we’ll see you soon.
- Mon – Fri: 9AM – 5PM
- Sat – Sun: 10AM – 5PM
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