The District is looking for a partner to enter into a long-term lease agreement for the development, operation and maintenance of its Flying Eagle Nature Center property.
The 150-acre Flying Eagle Nature Center is located within the heart of the Flying Eagle Preserve in Citrus County. Built in the 1970s as a Boy Scout campground and formerly known as the McGregor Smith Scout Reservation, the nature center is nestled among heavily wooded oak hammocks. The center’s rustic facilities include a multipurpose building, lodge, two residences, six cabins, 10 semi-primitive group camping areas, commercial kitchen, large pavilion area, swimming pool and other support structures. The center also can accommodate a variety of recreational uses and features both archery and target shooting ranges.
The Gulf Ridge Council of the Boy Scouts of America ended its lease with the District because it was no longer capable of maintaining the center’s infrastructure. The Governing Board directed staff to make every effort to find a public or private partner to enter into a long-term lease agreement for the development, operation and maintenance of the center before resorting to demolishing the facilities.
Staff developed a comprehensive marketing plan to expand reach to a variety of public and private entities. The plan includes marketing materials, paid advertisements and social media.
Cheryl Hill, District land program coordinator, said the District is broadening its search for a suitable partner.
“We have not predetermined any particular use of the property. We’re hoping to receive innovative ideas that are beneficial to the land, environment and general public,” she said.
The deadline to submit an offer is Dec. 11, 2014. For more information, visit WaterMatters.org/FlyingEagle.