Parks and Natural Resources

Polk County has a remarkable natural beauty that can't be found anywhere else in the state.

From its vivid wildlife in places like the Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, to its delicate ecosystems on the Lake Wales Ridge, and the wealth of athletic fields that can be found throughout the county, Polk's resources are an attraction to many who love the outdoors.

But that beauty needs upkeep. This division develops and implements management programs that protect, enhance, and manage Polk's environment and public parks systems.

The division's programs include:

• Invasive plant management
• Environmental lands
• Mosquito control
• Water resources
• Parks and recreation

Aquatic Weed Control

The Invasive Plant Management Section prevents the spread of exotic aquatic and upland plants on public lakes, waterways, primary drainage canals and environmental lands. Chemical spraying of ditches, lakes and other sites are carefully scheduled.

Lakes and Streams

Polk County's lake and stream monitoring collects water quality samples from lakes with public access, analyzes them in our in-house state certified laboratory, and reports the data to several outlets, including EPA, Florida Dept. of Environmental Protection and the Water Atlas.