SILVER SPRINGS, FL (352today.com) – State parks support nonprofit Florida State Parks Foundation donated 25 new e-bikes to be distributed to state parks around the state at an event at Silver Springs State Park on Thursday, August 28, 2026.

The donation of 25 Velotric Nomad 2 Fat Tire e-bikes is part of the organization’s Greener initiative, “a multitiered campaign that will plan, develop, fund and install projects that increase environmental sustainability, reduce waste and lower utility costs within Florida’s award-winning state parks,” according to FSPF’s website. The gift is also in response to the overwhelmingly positive feedback FSPF received from rangers regarding previous e-bike distributions, and brings the total number of e-bikes it’s spread throughout some of Florida’s most beautiful and endangered natural lands to 75 in two years.

Ocala’s own Carousel E-Bikes handled the purchase, assembly and delivery of the e-bikes to Thursday’s event.

“These e-bikes reduce our state parks’ environmental footprint and encourage sustainability while also helping our amazing park rangers manage natural resources and deliver outstanding visitor services and experiences,” said Julia Gill Woodward, CEO of the Florida State Parks Foundation, in a statement. “We are thrilled to add 25 more e-bikes to the fleet and can’t wait to see them put to use all over the state.”

The e-bikes are quiet, so they don’t disturb wildlife; they also feature those fat tires to handle rugged terrain and can go 65 miles on a charge.

“No matter the park or task, our rangers are finding new and creative uses for these e-bikes all the time,” Florida State Parks Director Chuck Hatcher said. “They are a huge help, our rangers love using them and they make a real difference in so many aspects of park management and operations. Thank you to the Florida State Parks Foundation and everyone involved in providing them.”

The e-bikes, like all of the Florida State Parks Foundation’s Greener Initiative endeavors, were paid for through a combination of tax-deductible donations and proceeds from Florida’s “Explore Our State Parks” specialty license plates.