History of Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park

December 31, 1992 - The State of Florida purchased the southern portion of the park land under the CARL/P2000 program for the protection and conservation of natural resources, and leased it to Pasco County.

September 30, 1994 - Pasco County obtained title to the adjacent "Werner-Boyce Preserve". The acquisition cost was funded by the Florida Communities Trust, and by a donation from Eugene V. Werner, owner of the parcel.

February 15, 2000 - Pasco County relinquished its lease on the portion held by the CARL.P2000 program, and the property was leased to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Recreation and Parks.

July 1, 2000 - Pasco County leased the Werner-Boyce Preserve portion of the land to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Recreation and Parks.

March 2001 - A portion of the park along Scenic Drive was opened to the public.

October 25, 2001 - The Florida Office of Environmental Services approves the Land Management Plan for Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park.

October 30, 2001 - Florida Governor Jeb Bush and the Cabinet approve a $2.6 million purchase of 50.5 acres from the City of Port Richey to be used as the main park entrance from U.S. Highway 19.

June 23, 2006 - Land Management Review prepared by the Division of State Lands staff shows progress toward land management goals.

February 2008 - Planning begins for the main entrance to the Park (on the west side of U.S. 19 just north of Ridge Road).

February 17, 2009 - Pasco County Development Director recommends approval of the site plan for entrance road to the Park.

March 2010 - Florida Division of State Lands publishes its "Workplan for Florida Forever Capital Improvement Projects for FY 10-11", showing a recommendation that Werner-Boyce receive funding of $1,133,750 for a day-use connector road, parking area and restrooms, and a canoe/kayak launch and boardwalk. The report shows $600,000 for the road, parking area and canoe launch and boardwalk to be currently funded.

August 2011 - All plans and permits approved for Phase 1 through Phase 3 of main Park entrance development. Phase 1, which includes the south parking lot, is fully funded, and construction begins. Phase 2 is the north parking lot and boardwalk to canoe launch. Phase 3 is the public restroom facilities. Phase 2 and Phase 3 will be completed when funding becomes available.

October 25, 2011 - Department of Envirmental Protection Land Management Review is approved (the review was submitted 9/16/2010).

November 2011 - Phase 1 - the south parking lot for the main Park entrance - is complete.