CALL TO ACTION: WAKULLA COUNTY AIRPORT, FLORIDA

On Monday September 19, 2022 Wakulla County Commissioners are expected to effectively  close the Wakulla County airport by terminating the Airport license.

This will result in the loss of Wakulla’s only public use airport. Once it’s closed it’s lost forever, a loss to Florida and all pilots who enjoy flying to this Florida airfield near Panacea, FL with nearby Gulf fishing, boating, hiking, biking, bird watching, and a live “Gator cam” that reveals fascinating underwater life.

What we need you to do:

Express your support: Attend the upcoming Commissioner meeting, and email each Commissioner.

Here are talking points to use in your message , stated in your own words:

  • Wakulla Airport has been open since 1966;
  • The turf 2,590-feet airfield is only suitable for light aircraft. Heavy aircraft will not abuse this airfield;
  • Local airports are a significant economic driver in tourist and recreational areas –Recreational small aircraft aviation is a growing segment of General Aviation;
  • Recently the Commission invested over $2,500 for brush removal and the installation of a fire hydrant;
  • The Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) engages positively and cooperatively with authorities, communities, pilots and non-pilots, and other stakeholders in helping airfields thrive;
  • The RAF grants funds for local volunteers to make approved improvements;
  • Commission is encouraged to renew license and transfer liability and management of facility to Tarpine HOA, an established Domestic Profit Corporation, in good standing with the State of Florida;
  • Tarpine HOA has the leadership to assume responsibility.

Commission meeting:

5 pm, Monday, September 19, 2022
202 Ochlockonee St
Crawfordville, FL 32327

Flying in to 2J0? Ground transportation to and from the meeting will be provided upon request.

EVERYONE is urged to take a moment to send an email of support to each Wakulla Commissioner:

Quincee Messersmith:  qmessersmith@mywakulla.com

Mike Kemp:   mkemp@mywakulla.com

Chuck Hess:  chess@mywakulla.com

Randy Merritt:  rmerritt@mywakulla.com

Ralph Thomas: rthomas@mywakulla.com

David Edwards, Administrator:  dedwards@mywakulla.com


Posted in News

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September 11, 2026
“We had a busy day at Garrison Dam Recreational Airpark, as we continue to work on the underwing camping area,” RAF North Dakota Liaison Brian Rau reported. Rau was awarded an RAF grant in spring of 2026 to convert an adjacent day-use park into an airport camping area, and had organized volunteers who began the project in May. The airport, 37N, is closed while the runway and taxiway are being upgraded by a contractor for the ND Aeronautics Commission.
By Stef Goza September 9, 2026
You know the feeling. You set the airplane down somewhere spectacular, shut off the engine, and enjoy the pristine landscape in front of you. This is why you fly. Keeping airstrips pristine is everyone's responsibility. But one item that doesn’t always make it into the airplane is a good trash bag. Not for the trash you planned to make. For the trash you didn’t. Cans left in a fire ring, fishing line along the river, or food wrappers working their way through the brush. None of it came in your airplane, but you have the ability to get it out. That’s reason enough to tuck a couple of heavy-duty contractor bags in with your tie-down gear. They earn their space in other ways, too. A contractor bag can keep wet or muddy gear out of the baggage compartment, cover equipment in a downpour, collect rainwater, or become an emergency poncho or windbreak. It weighs almost nothing and takes up very little room. Throw a few in the airplane and leave them there. You may not need one for your own trash, but there is a good chance you’ll find another use for it—or find something worth carrying out. Submitted September 9, 2026 By Stef Goza, Etiquette Chair, Safety, Education, and Etiquette Committee
September 8, 2026
RAF Colorado Liaison Ken Long, Ambassador Mike Langersmith, and other RAF volunteers participated in an August work event at Marble, Colorado, a mountain airfield about 20 nm up the Crystal River drainage south of Carbondale. Airfield Manager Susan Blue put together the task list and oversaw the event that brought 21 volunteers in ten aircraft and four dogs. 
September 5, 2026
FEATURING: SMARTWOOL SOCKS Whether you’re flying into the backcountry, hitting the trail, or simply going about your day, a comfortable pair of socks can make all the difference. Smartwool Socks are designed for outdoor adventures and everyday wear, offering the comfort, support, and durability you need wherever the day takes you. Made by Smartwool and finished with the RAF logo, they’re a practical way to bring a little backcountry spirit along for the journey. Get your feet backcountry-ready and show your support for the RAF from the ground up!
September 3, 2026
The tradition continues — RAF 2026 Photo Contest! We’re excited to announce the upcoming RAF 2026 Photo Contest! It’s time to look through your photos and find your favorites. Once again, we’ll include the “RAF Mission” category, recognizing photos that best capture people enjoying recreational aviation, no matter the region. Each winning photographer will receive a package of high-quality greeting cards featuring their photo on the front and photo credit on the back — just in time for the holidays! New this year: We’re especially excited to see your photos from our Expanding The Map airstrips! Submit a photo taken at one of these airstrips, and we’ll send you a small gift from the RAF Outfitter as a thank-you for sharing it with us. Stay tuned for our next announcement, which will include everything you need to know to enter this year’s contest. Eligibility: The contest is open to all RAF supporters, amateur and professional photographers alike, including those aged 18 and under. Our judges are the RAF’s volunteer VPs of Appreciation, who also handwrite the RAF’s thank-you cards each week. They especially enjoy photos featuring airplanes, beautiful scenery, and people experiencing the fun and adventure of recreational aviation. The contest opens October 1, and winners will be announced November 15. Start looking through those camera rolls — we can’t wait to see where recreational aviation has taken you! Submitted September 3, 2026