Emerson Point Preserve anticipated to be expanded by 97 acres

MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Emerson Point Preserve, known not only as a community favorite but also for its historical significance dating back to Native Americans, is set to expand by 97 acres following a vote by Manatee County commissioners at Tuesday’s meeting. The commissioners agreed to the purchase of the land for $15.5 million but still have a long road ahead before anything is finalized.

“We’ve gotten pretty aggressive at going after parcels, that once they are gone, they are gone. So the Board of County Commissioners is doing everything we can to acquire more land for our natural resources,” said Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge.

Many families find themselves coming to Emerson Point Preserve to enjoy nature. It’s that kind of interaction that brings cyclist Jon Dybik coming back for more.

Dybik has been coming to Emerson Point Preserve for years and bikes every single day, hoping to stumble upon the next creature he might see.

“Nature is my jam. I love biking on trails in nature and one of my favorite things is to stop and see the wildlife,” Dybik said.

He says biking is a form of therapy for him.

“Gives me balance and harmony in life,” Dybik said.

Trails are one of the additions he says he hopes will be included with the 97-acre expansion to Emersion Point Preserve.

“I’ve probably explored every inch in here possibly, and to see it grow conservation in nature, I’m a big fan of that,” Dybik noted.

Many families make their way out there to enjoy not just nature, but the history these trails bring, dating back to when Native Americans lived there.

“There’s a mound up there which is a great site to look at, all the trails, sometimes, you’ll see archeological stuff, and seeing it, knowing it was there for hundreds of years is absolutely awesome,” Dybik remarked.

He says Emerson Point Preserve is a vital part of the community — a place where people can learn from.

“I’ve seen people come up and down here, especially for conservation. This is their habitat — I think it’s fantastic. It’s the simple things in life. I put it on my reminders to enjoy the simple life,” Dybik reflected.

It’s an investment for current and future generations to experience the simple things in life.

It’s not all set in stone yet. There will need to be future meetings and negotiations with the seller before this is complete, which commissioners say could be months from now.