The Robinson Family Says 'Thank You' for Expansion of Robinson Preserve

The Robinson family of Manatee County, the original donors of the land that has now become Robinson Preserve, would like to thank everyone involved in facilitating the approval, sale and closing of the last 150 acres of the park, which will mean an expansion of the popular preserve in Manatee County.

“Words cannot express how truly grateful my family and I are to the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast and the people at the county who worked so hard to get this done,” said Bill Robinson, President of Robinson Farms. “It is because of the foundation and the county’s commitment to the environment that the residents of Manatee County will have a community gem to enjoy and enrich our lives for years and years to come. 

"Thank you to Christine Johnson and her staff, Charlie Hunsicker and all of the County Commissioners, and to my son Will, who all worked so hard to achieve this significant milestone – expanding the preserve and adding in much needed amenities to the beautiful natural environment,” said Robinson.

The family acknowledges that a coordinated effort was made by all parties involved to ensure that residents and visitors to the Preserve will now be able to enjoy additional environmental restoration, construction of an environmental research and education center, more trails, boardwalks, pedestrian bridges, a parking lot, restrooms, age specific thematic playgrounds, kayak and paddle trails, kayak storage facilities andsignage.

While the Preserve has already become an amazing resource and park for families all across the state, the expansion will provide some much needed additional benefits and amenities that visitors have been asking for, like a bigger and better playground geared toward children in all different age groups.

The research center will be a huge amenity for schoolchildren to learn about the history of our state and for visitors to learn about one of the oldest farms in Florida. It will be a great opportunity for people to see some of the original trees brought to our state many years ago that were the original seed sources that propagated many of the trees now seen throughout Sarasota and Manatee counties.

“We are excited to see children enjoying the education center learning about the environment, the history of Manatee County, and the way it used to be. The hands on experience given at this state of the art center will be paramount to preserving the history of old Florida and carrying on a legacy of environmental protection for future generations,” said Robinson.

The new expanded Robinson Preserve will now become even more of a destination for families to enjoy the rest of their lives, making the park more complete and accessible to more people.

 “We could not have achieved such a significant accomplishment without the support of everyone involved. We are truly humbled and thankful for the Conservation Foundation’s efforts, and for the great team that Manatee County has at its helm. Our residents should be very proud,” said Robinson.