North Fort Myers, FL 33917
Powell Creek Preserve offers a diverse variety of natural communities for visitors to enjoy, including flatwoods, mesic hammock and Powell Creek. Old-growth pine, buttonbush and Carolina willow can be observed, as well as dwarf live oak, netted paw-paw and October flower.
The approximately 1-mile elevated berm trail at this 77-acre preserve is ideal for a stroll in the morning or late afternoon, as well as for a bicycle ride. The trail is ADA-accessible and includes a companion bench and paved parking area. Dog-walking is not permitted at this preserve due to water quality projects onsite and the presence of state-listed threatened animal species. An additional 0.75 primitive trail is now open for hiking in the southern part of the preserve.
Surrounded by residential communities on two sides, this preserve is home to a variety of bird and animal species, including warblers, pileated woodpeckers, rabbits and gopher tortoises.
Through a partnership with the Lee County Division of Natural Resources, a system of filter marshes has been constructed at this preserve to rehydrate the creek and improve water quality in downstream water bodies, including the Caloosahatchee River. Water from Powell Creek Canal is diverted and pumped into the filter marsh system. Excess nutrients and sediment in the water are then absorbed by the plants living in this artificial wetland. This cleaner water is then pumped into Powell Creek, south of the pump. This process replicates the natural function that marshes and wetlands serve in purifying and cleaning water sources.
For inquiries related to the filter marsh, please contact Anura Karuna-Muni at (239) 533-8131.