The reversal came after UF received heavy public criticism from students, staff and community members. McCarty Woods was initially declared a future development site in December when the 2020-30 Campus Master Plan was approved by the university s board of trustees.
It had been designated conservation land since at least 2000 and public recreation space for over 40 years at that point.
The Sun first reported the change Jan. 2 as part of a breakdown on the master plan. Further coverage through February and March examined pushback from scientists, faculty, students and local residents as they voiced concerns and disappointment and protested to save the woods.
Home/Education/UF Removes McCarty Woods From Development Plans, But Activists Push On
Students protested the possible development of McCarty Woods at the corner of University Avenue and 13th Street on March 2. This was one of the many events organized by the Save McCarty Woods Campaign in the span of a month. (Alexa Sauvagere/WUFT News)
UF Removes McCarty Woods From Development Plans, But Activists Push On
By Alexa Sauvagere
March 17, 2021
The past three months consisted of heated discussion on whether a patch of woods on the east side of the University of Florida campus should serve as land for possible development.
Paynes Prairie Preserve, the state s first preserve, is a National Natural Landmark.
Paynes Prairie s history dates to the Timucua and Seminole tribes
The prairie had settlements dating back at least 15,000 years ago, with American Indian tribes choosing it because of the sinkhole-fed water resources and the game that was attracted to it.
The Timucua Indians, prevalent in Florida in the 1500s, made Paynes Prairie a major settlement.
“They were very powerful,” Andersen said. “They controlled the prairie. There were a lot of rocks they could make tools or weapons out of, so it s just a very important spot. There are a lot of battles fought over this different factions of the Timucua.
UF s McCarty Woods tour shows trees that could be lost to development gainesville.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from gainesville.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.