LEC plans nature hikes and programs

Posted On: May 15, 2024

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

Reservations are required; call 386-789-7207, ext. #21028.           

Here’s June’s lineup:

A very reptilian retirement party: 2 to 3 p.m. Tuesday, June 4. Help staff and volunteers wish red rat snake Blaze a peaceful retirement from public programs and welcome an albino red rat snake as the newest animal ambassador. The Friends of Lyonia Environmental Center will serve light refreshments. This program is recommended for all ages.

Lyonia Photography Club: 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, June 8. Lyonia Preserve has unlimited opportunities for photographing birds, reptiles, and plants. Volunteers from West Volusia Audubon Society lead this monthly program series, which includes in-class instruction and field opportunities to hone your skills. All skill levels are welcome.

Popcorn and a movie: 1 to 2 p.m. Sunday, June 9. Watch “The Florida Wildlife Corridor Expedition” and learn how the 18-million-acre conservation corridor came to be. Afterward, check out the Florida Wildlife Corridor photography exhibit inside the LEC. All ages are welcome.

Preserve hike with Lyonia Photography Club: 9 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 15. Club members and friends will bring their cameras to search for plants and animals in Lyonia Preserve.

Sandhill cranes: 2 to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, June 15. Learn about these fabulous, long-legged birds that are common sights along Florida’s rural roadways. The Friends of Lyonia Environmental Center will provide snacks. This program is appropriate for ages 12 and up.

Florida’s sea turtles: 2 to 3 p.m. Sunday, June 16. Celebrate World Sea Turtle Day and Father’s Day by learning about these magnificent reptiles. Joan Ferrell of Ferrell Outdoors will explain which turtles visit Volusia County, what they eat, and why they return to where they were born. All ages are welcome.

Composting 101: 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, June 22. LEC garden keepers will discuss the importance of composting in Florida gardens. The class will cover what composting is, the benefits of composting, types of materials that can be composted, and the various methods commonly used for composting. A drawing for a free rain barrel will be held. All ages are welcome.

Slushie Science Sunday: 2 to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, June 30. Cool off with chemistry at the LEC. Join staff for fun experiments you can consume. This program is appropriate for participants ages 7 and up.

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.