Manatee County gains another nature park, the Joseph Ungarelli Sr. Preserve

Manatee County adds another nature preserve to its already impressive portfolio with today's dedication of the Joseph Ungarelli Sr. Preserve. The 35-acre park, at 4000 Palma Sola Blvd. just off Cortez Road, underwent extensive restoration, including the development of freshwater wetlands and the removal of exotic plants to make way for native ones.

Future projects include a pavilion and trail.

The preserve serves as a memorial to Dorothy Ungarelli's late husband, a well known and popular businessman. "I figured that (the preserve) was a better legacy to give my children than just to give them money. The memorial will always be there," she told the Herald this week.

Indeed.

Today's ceremony -- with a ribbon cutting, guest speakers and nature tours -- begins at 11 a.m.

This story was originally published March 5, 2016 at 12:00 AM with the headline "Manatee County gains another nature park, the Joseph Ungarelli Sr. Preserve ."