April 25, 2015

Archive

South Walton pioneer C.H. McGee known as Mr. Seagrove

By Carol McCrite Note: This story was originally published in the historical book The Way We Were – Recollections of South Walton Pioneers by South Walton Three Arts Alliance. Republished with permission. “Seagrove Beach – Where Nature Did Its Best.” C.H. McGee, Sr. (known to friends as McGee) coined the phrase to describe his personal feelings about the magnificent piece of gulf front land he purchased from J.R. Moody in 1949. The 18-month campaign to acquire 160 acres of pristine...

Health advisory issued for Morrison Springs

High Bacteria Count at Morrison Springs Walton County – A health advisory is issued April 22, 2015, for Morrison Springs.  The Advisory is issued based on the criteria for fecal indicator bacteria. This should be considered a potential health risk to the bathing public and swimming is not recommended.  Samples taken are above the public health threshold for fecal indicator bacteria. Water quality exceedances are based upon the US Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) recommended standard of no more than 61...

Host a country-themed wedding in Walton or Washington counties

Many couples opt for a unique location to exchange their wedding vows when it comes time for the big day. Northwest Florida’s beaches are always a favorite, however, an increasingly popular choice is to celebrate with a bit of country flair. Fortunately for us, there are great options available in the Walton and Washington counties. Whether you decide to select a green pasture, or spend your time with a few equestrian friends, the country setting will surely offer a great...

Choctawhatchee Audubon Society programs and events for May 2015

2 May 2015: Bird Walk: Veteran’s Park on Okaloosa Island. See this magnificent rookery and migrant stopover with veteran birder, Malcolm Swan. Swan will offer interpretation that is sure to increase your appreciation of this important environmental asset. Meet at 7:30 AM at the park entrance at the southeast corner of the Emerald Coast Convention Center parking lot. From Hwy 98, turn into the main Convention Center entrance and bear around to the right as you enter the parking area....

Learn the basics of surf fishing at Grayton Beach State Park April 22

Date/time: April 22, 10 – 11:30 a.m. The Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance (CBA), in partnership with Northwest Florida State College, announces the spring season of its popular eco-tourism initiative, Eco Adventures of Walton County. A Grayton Beach park ranger will demonstrate and instruct the basic skills needed for enjoying surf fishing. Learn how to catch bait, the proper technique when baiting your hook, and the different kinds of equipment and techniques used in surf fishing. Participants will also learn the dos...

Youth Fishing Rodeo at Eglin April 25-26

Jackson Guard, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife will be hosting a fishing rodeo at Anderson Pond in Niceville. The event will be held April 25-26, 2015 on selected times: 10 a.m. – Noon 3 – 6 p.m. 4:30 – 7:30 p.m. 50 participants per period. RSVP with Jackson Guard during period of 17-24 April. Call (850) 882-4165 or (850) 882-4166....

FWC moves forward with comprehensive draft bear management rules

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) continues to build on its long-standing, proactive approach to bear management. At its April 15 meeting in Tallahassee, FWC Commissioners approved several proposed bear-related rules that will be presented for final action in June. The draft rules address a wide variety of tools to manage bear populations and help reduce human-bear conflicts. Staff were directed to refine changes to the feeding rule by making a new sub-section specifically for bear feeding and...