Nature Operations Division is a part of The City of Gainesville Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs.

The Nature Operations Division develops and conducts environmental education programs for the Alachua County school system, community education classes, nature preschool programs, and weekend and summer programs. Its staff is responsible for the development and operation of the City's Greenways and Greenspace Design including the Hogtown Creek Greenway, nature preserves development, and habitat management.

Come volunteer with
Nature Operation Division
Would you like to find out more about volunteer opportunities with Nature Operations? You can make a difference in your local conservation lands right here in Gainesville!

City of Gainesville Offers Family Fun Naturally!
Providing opportunities for family fun comes naturally for the City of Gainesville’s Department of Parks Recreation and Cultural Affairs Nature Operations Division. Mark your calendar for the many activities and events

Discover Florida as it was!
Gainesville’s Natural Treasures can be found throughout the city. You can stroll along a trail deep in the woods, walk a boardwalk edging a blackwater stream, take a class to become familiar with the fascinating wildlife, or step back in time over 130 years on a ten-acre Living History Farm. Visit the spring where Gainesville began or ride your bicycle or horse on the Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail. Enjoy some of the best bird watching in North Florida, observe butterflies busy at wildflowers, and hear frogs calling for mates.
Nature parks are an integral part of the reason Gainesville is one of the best places in the U.S. to live... there is a sanctuary within minutes of wherever you are in the city. See these treasures for yourself... get to know your nature parks.

CALL FOR ENTRIES — FIDDLERS WANTED!
The Longleaf Pine Youth Fiddle and Open String Band Contest at the Cane Boil on Saturday, November 28. Three contest divisions are available: Seedling (through 12 years old), Sapling (13–18 years old) and Open String Band (no age limit, not restricted to fiddle). Please read complete rules, and more information about judging.
CASH PRIZES! No Entry Fees for Parents/Accompanists.
Enjoy Cane Boil, Food & Fun!
Make this event part of your Thanksgiving weekend tradition!