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May 29, 2009
Shelley Szafraniec, APR
Community Information Specialist

JUNE OUTINGS ON VOLUSIA COUNTY CONSERVATION LANDS

It’s time to breathe in the fresh summer air, don some sunglasses, lather on the high-SPF sunblock, and enjoy Volusia County’s conservation lands during free outdoor adventures sponsored by Volusia County’s Land Acquisition and Management Division. This June, county staff and biology experts will offer three activities that focus on surviving in the woods, mollusks and aquatic insects:

• 9 a.m. - noon Saturday, June 6: Survival in the woods - What do you need to know about surviving in the woods? What should you bring with you when you go hiking? Participants will learn survival basics with biologist and naturalist Gregg Thompson, who will lead an adventure to teach and explore the answers to these questions and more, through discussions, demonstrations and hands-on learning opportunities. Participants should meet at Hickory Bluff Preserve, 598 Guise Road, Osteen. Space is limited; pre-registration is required.

• 9 a.m. - noon Saturday, June 13: Aquatic critters - Learn about the fascinating aquatic insects and other small creatures that live in Longleaf Pin Preserve’s wet habitats. Participants will collect and learn about the insects and more through dip-netting and trapping, led by retired Department of Environmental Protection Biologist and Rollins College Professor Jim Hulbert. Participants should meet at the east entrance of Longleaf Pine Preserve off Pioneer Trail, Port Orange. Space is limited; pre-registration is required.

• noon - 3 p.m. Friday, June 19: “Mollusks and their beautiful shells” wading hike - Observe and learn about the fascinating and diverse world of mollusks and the beautiful shells they produce. Master naturalist and mollusk expert Joel Wooster will lead participants on a wading hike of Smyrna Dunes Park. And, participants can bring their shells for identification. Participants should meet at Smyrna Dunes Park, 2995 Peninsula Drive, New Smyrna Beach. Space is limited; pre-registration is required.

For the outdoor adventures, participants need to wear appropriate clothing and comfortable hiking or walking shoes and are encouraged to bring binoculars, a camera, insect spray and drinking water.

Pre-registrations is required as event locations may change due to weather or road conditions. For more information or to reserve a space, please contact Bonnie Cary at (386) 736-5276 or bcary@co.volusia.fl.us. For more information about Land Acquisition and Management’s Conservation Lands Outreach programs, click here.

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