County plans Explore Volusia programs
Posted On: October 21, 2021
Learn about Volusia County’s conservation lands and land management practices during free Explore Volusia programs in November. Environmental specialists will lead a variety of outdoor adventures.
Registration is required; call 386-736-5927.
Upcoming events include:
Learn about recycling: 9 to 10:30 a.m. Nov. 1 and 15. Learn about solid waste and recycling in this two-part program at the West Volusia Transfer Station, 3151 E. New York Ave., DeLand. Participants will meet on Nov. 1 to see the tipping station in action and learn about an activity to spread awareness about recycling. An environmental specialist will share tips for explaining the importance of recycling with friends, neighbors and coworkers and encouraging others to commit to recycle through a recycling pledge. On Nov. 15, members will share their experiences. There will be special recognition for those who bring three or more signed pledges.
Storm drain marking: 9 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 9. Where does the water go? Volunteers will visit neighborhoods in northeast Volusia County where stormwater drains directly into canals. They will mark the storm drains with “no dumping” curb markers and learn how fertilizers and other neighborhood contaminants harm water bodies. Afterward, they can help raise awareness about nonpoint source pollution and impacts on water bodies. Meet at Tom Renick Park, 1565 Ocean Shore Blvd., Ormond Beach.
Wiregrass hike: 9 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 2. Take a walk through the 1,400-acre Wiregrass Prairie Preserve, which is situated almost entirely in the St. Johns River Valley. Explore upland and wetland natural communities that include wet flatwoods, cypress domes and wet prairies. Learn about land management practices while walking through the diverse ecotones of the land. Meet at 1751 Lopez Road, Osteen,
Callalisa Creek paddle: 9 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 3. Enjoy a backwater paddle through a maze of mangroves. Participants will navigate oyster beds, learn about mosquito canals and see a variety of birds. Bring a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard, along with a life preserver and whistle. Meet at 598 S. Peninsula Ave., New Smyrna Beach.
Lake George eco-buggy ride: 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 11. Explore pine flatwoods, cypress swamps and marsh from Volusia County’s eco-buggy. Lake George has the second highest population of bald eagles in the lower 48 states, so participants may see a few. Meet at 998 Ninemile Point Road, Seville.
Mark trails at Longleaf: 9 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 17. Ride the eco-buggy through Longleaf Pine Preserve and mark trails to help hikers with navigation. Participants will learn about the mesic flatwoods and cypress communities along the way. Meet at the preserve’s west entrance, 3637 E. New York Ave, DeLand.
Wiregrass eco-buggy tour: 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 18. Learn about land management practices while riding through the diverse ecotones of Wiregrass Prairie Preserve. Participants will explore upland and wetland natural communities that include wet flatwoods, cypress domes and wet prairies. Meet at 1751 Lopez Road, Osteen.
Deep Creek bike-about: 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 20. Learn about Deep Creek Preserve’s forestry, agricultural history and plant communities. Bring a bicycle and helmet. Because the trail is an unpaved road, larger tired bikes are recommended. Meet at 964 S. State Road 415, Samsula.
Lake Monroe paddle: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 23. Enjoy a paddle around a portion of Lake Monroe into Gemini Springs. Parks, Recreation and Culture staff will describe the area’s rich history. Meet at 966 Lakeshore Drive, Deltona.
Participants should bring water and insect repellent. They should wear comfortable clothes and hiking or walking shoes.
