Gladys E. Douglas Preserve Development

History & Phase 1

The Gladys E. Douglas Preserve is the newest protected green space in the City of Dunedin, offering a rare glimpse into Florida's natural beauty. Once the homestead of philanthropist Gladys Elaine Douglas, the property sits adjacent to 80 acres of wetlands including Jerry Lake. This untouched, undeveloped parcel of land was nearly lost to a private developer. The City of Dunedin and the community wanted to keep it as a preserve and green space for citizens to be able to enjoy it in its natural state - forever.

In 2021, the City of Dunedin, Pinellas County, and citizens from the community rallied together, raising $10 million for the property and to forever preserve the land as open green space. The most amazing part, is that $4.5 million of that came from more than 1,100 private donors through the Pinellas Community Foundation. The community and local government came together to save some of the last remaining green spaces in Pinellas County that future generations can experience and enjoy.

In May 2022, the City also acquired the Jerry Lake property, bringing the total size of the preserve to nearly 125 acres.

The first phase of the Gladys E. Douglas Presreve officially opened on February 25, 2023, marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony and celebrated with City and County officials, local donors, and hundreds of enthusiastic community members.

Today, visitors can explore a half-mile of scenic walking and nature trails that wind through the conservation area. Along the paths, you'll find trail markers, maps, and interpretive signs which include a description of the unique area and some of the plant life and wildlife that may be found there. A field fence was installed along some of the walking paths to help safeguard sensitive habitats and important native plants, including the last-known remaining Rosemary Bald in Pinellas County and the rare Pale Reindeer Moss that grows among it. A temporary parking area is available for visitors.

Project Overview - Phase 2

Phase 2 of the Gladys E. Douglas Preserve focuses on the residential area and access to Jerry Lake. These areas are currently closed to the public while it is being developed. Phase 2 will include public access to Jerry Lake, a canoe/kayak launch, pier, restrooms, a picnic pavilion, a wildlife observation platform, and a nature museum. These amenities are designed to invite more visitors to connect with nature, while still preserving the ecological integrity of the preserve.

The property is home to an impresive 143 native plant species, 11 of which are classified as endangered, threatened, or exploited. To protect this biodiversity, a comprehensive management plan for the preserve was developed as a requirement of the Florida Communities Trust Grant through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. This management plan outlines the future activities and amenities to be located in the preserve. The plan also includes the strategies for habitat management including removal of exotic invasive plants and restoration of native vegetation. Pinellas County Parks and Conservation Resources completed some of that work in summer 2025, with the removal of Brazilian peppertree, one of the most aggressive and widespread invasive plants in Florida. Carrotwood was also removed, as it's a prohibited plant on the state’s list of noxious weeds. Phase 2 is a vital step in balancing public enjoyment with ecological responsibility, ensuring the preserve remains a sanctuary for both people and wildlife for years to come.

What is a Preserve?

While parks and preserves may appear similar and often share common features, their primary purposes set them apart. The purpose of a preserve is to protect a natural area or feature, conserve a vital watershed, and safeguard habitats for endangered or threatened species. To learn more about the Gladys E. Douglas Preserve, including park hours, directions, and permitted activities, please visit our website.

Project Elements

• Nature Trails
• Interpretive Signage
• Exotic Invasive Plant Removal
• Native Vegetation Restoration
• Canoe/Kayak Launch
• Pier
• Wildlife Observation Platform
• Picnic Pavilion
• Nature Museum
• Restroom facilities
• Parking

Project Budget

• Total Project Costs: $2.5 Million for Design and Development
• $200,000 was for Phase 1 which is complete