OCALA, Fla. (Feb. 5, 2024) – The City of Ocala recently completed construction for the new open-air pavilion at the Ocala Wetland Recharge Park (OWRP) and will host a grand opening Friday, Feb. 23, 9 to 11 a.m. This event is free and open to the public.

The project broke ground in August 2023 and was completed in Jan. 2024. The open-air pavilion will provide an event and education space at the park and includes restrooms and drinking water fountains for guests utilizing the park.

During the event, the park's addition to the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail Site will be recognized. The OWRP was selected by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) for inclusion on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail sites in September 2023. Ocala was one of 14 new sites to receive this distinction.

Guests are encouraged to attend the ceremony underneath the pavilion from 9 to 10 a.m. to acknowledge the support of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) in the construction of the educational pavilion and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail designation. 

After the event, guests can join the Ocala Water Resources Department and the Marion Audubon Society for a guided walk to learn more about the water process within the park and the numerous species of birds that call the park home. Guests will have the opportunity to participate in an electronic scavenger hunt for a chance to win prizes.

Light refreshments and giveaway bags will be provided, while supplies last.

For more information, please call the City of Ocala Water Resources Department at 352-351-6772.