Emeralda Marsh Conservation Area facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Emeralda Marsh Conservation Area |
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IUCN Category Ib (Wilderness Area)
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![]() Looking west from Emeralda Island Road
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Location | Lake / Marion counties, Florida, USA |
Nearest city | Lisbon, Florida |
Area | 7,089 acres (2,869 ha) |
Established | 1974 |
Governing body | Florida Department of Environmental Protection |
Designated: | December 1974 |
The Emeralda Marsh Conservation Area (EMCA) is a very special natural place in Florida, USA. It covers about 7,089-acre (28.69 km2) of land. That's a huge area, almost like 5,300 football fields! This amazing marsh is protected to keep its wildlife and natural beauty safe.
It is managed by the St. Johns River Water Management District. This group helps make sure the water and land are healthy. The EMCA is a great spot for nature lovers.
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What is the Emeralda Marsh Conservation Area?
The Emeralda Marsh Conservation Area, or EMCA, is a large protected natural space. It is found in Florida, USA. It's a type of wetland, which means it has lots of water and special plants. These areas are super important for nature.
This conservation area was officially created in 1974. In December of that same year, it got a special title. It was named a National Natural Landmark. This means it's a nationally important natural site.
Where is Emeralda Marsh Located?
The Emeralda Marsh Conservation Area is in central Florida. It stretches across two different counties. These are Lake County and Marion County.
You can find it just east of the Lake Griffin State Park. The nearest town is Lisbon, Florida. Its location makes it a key part of Florida's natural landscape.
Why is Emeralda Marsh Important?
The EMCA is a vital place for many reasons. It helps keep the water clean in the area. Marshes act like natural filters for water. This is good for both people and wildlife.
It also provides a home for many different animals. Birds, fish, and other creatures live here. Protecting places like Emeralda Marsh helps keep these animals safe.
A Haven for Birds
The Emeralda Marsh Conservation Area is a fantastic place for birds. It is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail. This trail is a network of places where you can see many kinds of birds.
Birdwatchers love to visit EMCA. They can spot many different species flying around. It's a busy place for birds, especially during migration seasons.