Jerry and Marta's propery, Gentian Creek Preserve, encompasses 255 acres of diverse habitats, including old pastures, hardwood forests, mixed hardwood/pine forests, planted pines, wetlands, creeks, beaver ponds, and a 17-acre pond.

In 2016, they placed the property under a conservation easement with Tall Timbers for the purpose of protecting Gentian Creek Preserve from development in perpetuity. As part of the agreement, they committed to use the property to help people of all ages better appreciate the importance of native flora and fauna, the habitats that support them, and the ecological benefits they provide.

Coppola is a research ecologist with a Master’s Degree in Biology from The University of West Florida. For her role at Gentian Creek Preserve, she will coordinate with environmental consultants, direct restoration projects, conduct ongoing research, refine programming, and develop a limited exploratory outdoor education program for adults.
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