McFadden Nature Center seeks Community input for Major Trail Improvement Grant
The McFadden Nature Center, in partnership with the Development Authority of Seminole County and Donalsonville, is taking an important step toward securing funding for a transformative trail improvement project that would expand outdoor recreation, accessibility, and environmental education opportunities throughout the region.
As part of the grant application process, community members are being asked to complete a public survey that will help McFadden Nature Center understand more of the community needs for safe and accessible outdoor trails as well as space for community members to share their thoughts on the project. The survey will only be available for two weeks through Wednesday, May 13, making timely public participation essential. The survey results will be anonymous and sent to the granting body as part of the second round in the application.
The proposed project includes the refurbishment of 10 miles of existing trails, improving safety and accessibility through widened paths, smoother surfaces, obstacle removal, and improved signage. Plans also include the addition of an ADA-accessible restroom near the main trailhead and the construction of two new educational trails designed specifically for young children and school groups.
One new trail will serve preschool and kindergarten students with a short, ADA-compliant path through pollinator and edible gardens, while the second will provide elementary-aged students with immersive learning experiences focused on ecosystems, biodiversity, and plant life cycles.
According to project leaders, the survey is a critical component of the grant process because it provides measurable evidence that local residents, families, schools, and visitors value these improvements and would actively benefit from expanded trail access.
Community feedback is one of the most important factors in demonstrating that this project meets real public needs. Strong survey participation can directly strengthen our grant application and improve our chances of securing funding that would benefit generations to come.
The survey will gather public input on trial usage, accessibility, safety, educational opportunities, and community priorities.
Residents are strongly encouraged to participate as soon as possible, as the limited survey window means every response matters.
This project will significantly expand inclusive outdoor recreation, support local tourism, improve educational programming, and further establish McFadden Nature Center as a leading destination for conservation and nature-based learning in Southwest Georgia.
Why your
participation matters:
• Helps secure critical grant funding
• Demonstrates community support
• Expands family-friendly and ADA-accessible recreation
• Supports local schools and environmental education
• Strengthens tourism and regional economic growth
Community members can access the survey through McFadden Nature Center’s website or the QR code pictured on the front page.
McFadden Nature Center and Development Authority of Seminole County urge all residents, educators, parents, and outdoor enthusiasts to take a few moments to share their feedback before the survey closes.
The deadline for survey response submission is Wednesday, by May 13.
