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 The theme of the Legacy of Leesburg community was the preservation of Central Florida’s natural habitats, and about one-third of that community consists of areas that have been preserved for native animals and plants.
To emphasize the preserved areas in the community, Martin McGann, a resident of Legacy for more than 3 years, met with almost 20 residents and conducted a 2-hour walking tour of the community. Mr. McGann is a certified Florida Master Naturalist, having been trained at the University of Florida Extension Service. The group met at the River Park in Legacy on January 17th and Mr. McGann informed them that Legacy has a total of seven conservation easements that extend over 100 acres. These areas are well-marked, and there is a series of nature trails that lead adjacent to these easements. Most of the preserved areas are classified as wet prairies, but there are also examples of marshes, as well as a river wetland and neighboring uplands adjacent to the river.
 As the tour progressed, Mr. McGann pointed out that the Palatlakaha River runs from nearby Clermont to the south through the community and flows north into Lake Harris. There are many types of wildlife that have been sighted in these areas, including a variety of birds and other small reptiles. Gopher turtle holes can be spotted, and the lakes in the community provide an excellent habitat for both aquatic animals as well as plants that grow in or near these wet areas. Because Florida has been experiencing drought conditions recently, the natural lakes are lower than normal, but nature has made adjustments to insure that both plants and animals continue to thrive. St. John’s Water Management has strict rules about changing or destroying these natural areas, and Mr. McGann emphasized that these rules act as guidelines so that residents can enjoy the natural beauty of these areas without destroying them.
At the end of the two mile walk, the residents came away with tired feet but with a greater appreciation for the preservation of the natural areas that have been maintained in the Legacy of Leesburg community.
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