Babcock Ranch Management, LLC, along with Lee County and an advisory board, will work together in 2006 and 2007 to craft a comprehensive management plan for the property. This plan will guide the management of the property and will address a phased program for increased and diversified public access.

In an effort to provide safe, immediate public access to the ranch for all residents and visitors, Babcock Ranch Management, LLC, along with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the Florida Division of Forestry, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Division of State Lands, has established the following initial access plan:

1. A large tract of land at the northwest corner of the ranch, known as Bermont Crossing, is currently being prepared for public hiking access. The trail plans, access rules and hiking guidelines are being prepared, and the site plan is being submitted to the applicable state and county agencies for approval. This trailhead should be open for hiking access in early 2007.
   

2. Additional hiking trails are being mapped out in the area of the ranch along the Babcock Wilderness Adventures route. This additional trailhead is anticipated to be available to the public by early 2007.
   

3. PLEASE NOTE: Hunting, fishing, camping, mountain biking and horseback riding are NOT available at this time.