The SRMS property contains a lake, some swampy areas, large trees, and a flat, open space. It is a cross-section of the countryside found in the Florida panhandle and southern Alabama.  As such, it is an excellent place to expose our students to local plants and animals in their natural habitat, educate them on the natural resources, and help them understand what they can do to help us preserve our environment. 

We foresee different curriculum levels for elementary, middle, and high school students including elementary students identifying the various plants and animals native to this area, middle school students studying the life cycle of selected plants and animals, and high school students conducting water quality experiments in the lake.  It is our desire that this area be open to all schools in west Florida and south Alabama.

We will be constructing a series of paths and boardwalks throughout the 29 acres with signs identifying the various trees, plants, and animals seen there.  The habitat pathways will serve to provide a safe area for students to observe as well as a place for students, staff, and parents to walk for exercise or relaxation.  An open pavilion is planned near the lake.  With electricity and water outlets, this pavilion will serve as a staging area for tours, a place to conduct experiments and examine samples of the variety of plants found here, and as a rest area.  A dock with railings is also planned for the lake to provide a safe access to the water.  Our CHOICE Introduction to Construction class will be constructing and maintaining most of the signs, markers, and boardwalks as part of their curriculum. 

Developing, building, and maintaining a site as large as this will be a huge undertaking and local business partners are  a major part of our plan.  Our first local partner is the Crestview Area Chamber of Commerce, who is issuing a resolution supporting this endeavor.  If we are able to develop this area to its fullest potential, it will be a showcase for our community as well as our school system.  With your help, we can create a great environmental resource for our students and a source of pride for our community.