Get back to nature at the LEC

Discover Volusia County’s native plants and wildlife during free outdoor hikes and indoor programs at Lyonia Environmental Center (LEC), 2150 Eustace Ave., Deltona.

Registration is required; call 386-789-7207, ext. #21028. Walk-ins will not be permitted.

Staff will offer the following programs, which are limited to 10 persons each to allow for social distancing.

Virtual storytime: 10 to 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 3. Children ages 2 to 7 can enjoy a reading of “Bears” and then follow along as an LEC volunteer guides them virtually through an activity. An adult must register and be present throughout the program. An online link and list of activity supplies will be provided upon registration.

Eco-buggy tour: 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 5. Learn about the importance of scrub habitat during this riding tour of Lyonia Preserve. Keep an eye out for scrub jays, gopher tortoises and other wildlife as an environmental specialist discusses the unique habitat. There is a limit of eight participants for this program.

“Looking for lichens” hike: 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 12. Did you hear the story of a fungus meeting an algae? They took a “lichen” to each other! Lichens are nature’s true love story. Venture out into Lyonia Preserve to explore the various lichens of the scrub habitat.

Creature feature: 3 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17. During this classroom presentation, an environmental specialist will share fun facts about Florida’s rabbit species; show track and scat molds; and explain their natural habitats, behaviors and the important role they play in the local ecosystem.

“Winter sunset over Lyonia” hike: 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17. Enjoy a panoramic sunset over Lyonia Preserve during this guided hike. Bring a flashlight.

Virtual winter tree art: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19. Children ages 5 to 8 can pick up some fun facts about snowflakes and create their own winter tree art piece. An adult must register and be present throughout the program. An online link and list of activity supplies will be provided upon registration.

“Stop, breathe and listen” hike: 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 26. Take a relaxing stroll through Lyonia Preserve. Participants will stop and observe different sounds in the preserve while taking in all nature has to offer.

If you will be walking through Lyonia Preserve, wear closed-toe shoes, bring water, and be prepared to hike on sugar-sand trails. Learn about other upcoming events at lyoniapreserve.com.

LEC staff has established public program procedures based on current guidelines. These procedures are subject to change based on guidance at the local, state and federal levels. Programs may be modified at any time as needed.