County offers Explore Volusia programs

Posted On: December 26, 2023

Learn about Volusia County’s conservation lands and land management practices during free Explore Volusia programs in January. Environmental specialists will lead a variety of outdoor adventures.

Paddling adventure: 9 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 3. Learn about marine mammals that are native to Volusia County’s waterways. Bring a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard along with a life preserver and whistle. This trip is for paddlers ages 12 and up. Meet at Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve, 3251 N. Dixie Freeway, New Smyrna Beach. This program is full, but there is a waiting list.

Ethnobotany walk: 9 to 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 5. Learn how humans have used native plants for food, medicine, shelter and transportation during this 1.5-mile, guided walk in Deep Creek Preserve, 964 State Road 415, New Smyrna Beach. Wear closed-toe shoes. All ages are welcome. This program is full, but there is a waiting list.

Animal signs hike: 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 17. Search for animal tracks and other signs of wildlife during this 4.4-mile hike through Deep Creek Preserve, 964 S. State Road 415, New Smyrna Beach. This hike is designed for the adventurous and is not appropriate for beginners or children. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks.

Tiger Bay eco-buggy tour: 9:30 a.m. to noon Thursday, Jan. 25. Forest rangers from the Florida Forest Service will discuss and demonstrate the use and benefits of prescribed fire in land management and wildland fuels reduction. The burning demonstration is weather dependent. All ages are welcome. Meet at Tiger Bay State Forest, 2201 Rima Ridge Road, Ormond Beach.

Spruce Creek birding walk: 9 to 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 26. Grab your binoculars for this guided nature walk. Search for native Florida birds and learn about the adaptations they need to survive in an estuarine habitat. The trails may be wet and muddy, so wear appropriate footwear. All ages are welcome. Meet at Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Park, 6250 S. Ridgewood Ave., Port Orange.

Deep Creek eco-buggy tour: 9 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 31. Learn about the importance of fire to flatwoods and scrub habitats in Florida. Environmental specialists will explain how plants and animals have adapted to survive fires in their habitat. Wear closed-toe shoes. All ages are welcome. Deep Creek Preserve, 964 S. State Road 415, New Smyrna Beach.

Reservations are required; search for Green Volusia activities on Eventbrite.com or contact Tommy Nordmann at tnordmann@volusia.org or 386-736-5927, ext. 12072.