2 State Forests Luring Pokemon This Weekend

BROOKSVILLE, FL – The State of Florida is hoping area residents will help “catch” some digital animals in two of its 37 forests this weekend.

To encourage exploration of more than 1.1 million acres of state forest land, two special Pokemon Go! lure drop events will take place in Withlacoochee and Seminole state forests on Saturday, Sept. 17 at 2 p.m. The day-use fees at these lure-drop sites will be waived all day Saturday.

“We are excited to share our state forests with this new wave of Florida outdoor explorers,” said Florida State Forester Jim Karels.

Florida is known for having one of the finest and most diverse forest systems in the United States. The state’s forests offer a wide variety of natural, recreational and cultural opportunities for visitors – including opportunities to catch virtual Pokemon.

“While we encourage all citizens and visitors to come out and enjoy our state forests, we ask that they do so safely, while respecting their fellow visitors and forest resources,” Karels said.

The Florida Forest Service is offering the following tips for Pokemon Go! players and other visitors as they explore Florida’s state forests:

• Travel in groups or pairs and always remain alert of your surroundings
• Observe all posted state forest rules and fees
• Stay hydrated and bring water when hiking or exploring outdoors for long periods
• Be cautious around wildlife, bodies of water and other potentially hazardous situations
• Be considerate of other state forest users, such as campers
• Minimize forest impacts by using existing trails, treading lightly and properly disposing of all trash
• Do not attempt to enter any restricted or residential areas on or near state forests

The event at Withlacoochee State Forest will take place at its Silver Lake Recreation area on Croom Rital Road in Brooksville. For Pokemon adventurers looking to travel a bit further, the Seminole State Forest event will take place at the Bear Pond Recreation Area on State Road 46 in Sorrento.

For more information, visit the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services event calendar.

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