Many people have limitations that make getting out in nature difficult and, in some cases, impossible. Injuries, progressive diseases, aging, COPD, bad hips or knees, birth defects and more limit some people’s ability to go out into Florida’s natural areas. One of the Trout Lake Nature Center’s (TLNC) core beliefs is that everyone should have access to and be able to enjoy nature.

Years ago, TLNC purchased a golf cart to help people travel their trails. Unfortunately, this cart could not go down their boardwalk to Trout Lake and was dependent on staff or volunteers to drive the cart. They began to look for a better way to make their property more accessible to more people.

Along came the EcoRover Chair. This battery powered, all-terrain track chair is a good solution for their accessibility problem. Through funds provided by the Larry L. and Michele M. Murphy Charitable Trust, TLNC purchased an EcoRover Chair.

These chairs make it fun and easy to enjoy recreation in natural environments. Outdoors it can easily travel through sand, gravel, dirt, mud, mulch, and grass. It will safely climb a hill up to 20 degrees and operate in fresh water up to 8 inches deep.

In addition, these special chairs are ecologically friendly and use no fossil fuels. The aluminum frame and Comfort Tech Tracks provide a smooth ride while creating less ground disruption protecting the habitat. EcoRover makes the impossible possible!

On June 4th, TLNC took delivery of this chair and are excited that physical limitations will no longer restrict anyone from being able to enjoy the outdoors and nature. They are proud to be one of the first nature center’s in Florida to offer the use of this chair. First time use requires a reservation for a short training in how to use the chair. Then, use is on a first come, first serve basis or by reservation made by calling (352) 357-7536. This chair is available at other outdoor locations in the area which are listed on the floridaoffroadadventures.org website.

Group photo with chair from left to right:  Shannon Lusk, Walt Leesch, Thomas Griffin, Dee Bender, Joan Bryant and Stan Napier

About The Trout Lake Nature Center

The Trout Lake Nature Center is a 230-acre non-profit located in Eustis. Its mission is to conserve and protect the natural environment and educate the public about its importance. Further information on TLNC can be found at www.troutlakenaturecenter.com.

Photo Credit: Trout Lake Nature Center

Date Posted: June 4, 2024