LEC plans nature hikes and programs
Posted On: July 17, 2023
Discover Volusia County’s native plants and wildlife during outdoor hikes and indoor programs at Lyonia Environmental Center (LEC), 2150 Eustace Ave., Deltona.
The free programs will begin in the center’s classroom. Reservations are required; call 386-789-7207, ext. #21028.
Here’s August’s lineup:
Tiny trekkers: 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 5. Children ages 2 to 7 will listen to the book “Little Owl’s Night,” take a short hike and make a take-home craft.
Critter corner: 2:30 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 5. Meet the center’s resident animal ambassadors and learn fun facts about them. This program is designed for participants of all ages.
Boredom buster game day: Noon to 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 6. Bring the family to spend some quality time together in the LEC classroom. Play environmentally friendly board games like Bug Bingo, Bird Bingo and Earthopoly.
Lyonia Photography Club: 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 12. Lyonia Preserve has unlimited opportunities for photographing birds, reptiles and plants. Join volunteers from West Volusia Audubon Society for this monthly program series, which includes in-class instruction and field opportunities to hone your skills. All skill levels are welcome.
Saltwater tank feeding: 2:30 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12. Join staff at the saltwater aquarium as they feed the center’s marine animal ambassadors. Some of the menu items include krill, seaweed and shrimp. Discover which critters enjoy that menu, their unique eating methods, and the important role each plays in our ecosystem.
Bee-friendly landscaping: 2 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 13. Nicholas Jay, owner of Kairos Landscaping and a member of Beekeepers of Volusia County, will discuss design principles of landscaping and practices for using Florida-friendly plants. Additional topics include incorporating honeybee friendly practices into your garden landscape and planning considerations, such as maintenance and water needs, for installation.
Florida black bears: 2 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 19. Lori Lindsay, a bear response contractor for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, will share interesting facts about Florida black bears and offer tips on avoiding human/bear conflict.
Back to school brain break: 2 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 20. Kids ages 7 and up will make take-home fossils and edible soil with help from LEC staff and volunteers. This program is sponsored by the Friends of Lyonia Environmental Center.
L.I.F.E. (Learning Information on Fighting Extinction): 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 26. During this new monthly series, kids ages 5 and up will learn about endangered species around the globe and the conservation efforts being made to help them survive. Biologist Sarah Hall will kick off the series on National Dog Day by sharing fun facts about the painted dogs of Africa. Participants will make a take-home craft.
Rain barrel workshop: 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26. Discover the importance of using rain barrels to conserve water. Learn how to assemble and properly place your rain barrel for water collection. A limited number of rain barrels will be available to purchase as a fundraiser for the Friends of Lyonia Environmental Center.
Bubble science: 2 to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 27. Why do bubbles pop? Why they stick together? LEC staff will share fun facts about bubbles while participants make a take-home bubble wand. This program is designed for children 5 and older and their families.
If you will be walking through Lyonia Preserve, wear closed toe shoes, bring water and be prepared to hike on sugar sand trails.
Lyonia Environmental Center offers insights into Volusia County’s fragile ecosystems through hands-on displays and educational programs. It’s part of the Deltona Regional Library complex at 2150 Eustace Ave., Deltona. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free. Learn what’s happening at the LEC at www.lyoniapreserve.com.
