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"In 1986, the Largo Narrows, a 34-acre nature setting on the Intracoastal Waterway, was purchased with the assistance of Pinellas County, the State of Florida, and the City of Largo for 1.8 million dollars. A Florida Recreation Development Assistance Grant was received in 1987, which assisted in the development. The park opened in May, 1988.
The City of Largo received an additional $350,000 from the State of Florida to build a nature center, which opened in February, 1990. The School Board authorized partial payment for a teaching element to be initiated for fourth grade students. The Park Supervisor began providing Pinellas County Schools with instructional programs in January, 1991. In 1997, the Largo Narrows was renamed the George C. McGough Nature Park in honor of former Mayor McGough." - via The City of Largo |
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Our origin story begins with looming city-wide budget cuts in 2008.
Eager to save the little slice of paradise from potential closure and repurposing in an otherwise fast-paced bustling city, a group of citizens passionate about the preservation and education of the natural world came together. They knew the park and its programs would require additional financial backing through means beyond what the city was able to provide. After all, sometime we all need a friend to help us out. |
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The group, deeply invested in their efforts, realized they truly were in it for the long haul and not going anywhere anytime soon. To cement their presence in the community and the natural world they strove to protect, it was time to find their name and register with the State of Florida to be recognized as a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
In 2012, they became known as The Friends of Largo Nature Parks. |
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Our resume is detailed and varied. Throughout the years, The Friends have brainstormed and provided a myriad of events. Nature in the Classroom brought an up-close, hands-on experience to schools all across Pinellas County. The, now retired, annual Turtle Trot 5k welcomed the community together for a low-pressure morning trot (or run, if you're into that) through nature while raising funds for the parks. A family-oriented camp out hosted at Bonner Park gave many a chance to break away from routine and spend a night under the stars.
We are constantly evolving and thinking up new ways we can engage you, dear friend, with the wonders of the natural world around us. We are dedicated to supporting the volunteers of McGough C. Nature Park to bring you those breathtaking close-up moments with birds of prey, making the creepy-crawlies a little less scary, and inviting you to find a moment of peace in the park we've worked hard to support. |
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