Date/time: Friday, March 31, 9-11 a.m.
The Florida Forest Service is proud to announce an exciting new educational program at Point Washington State Forest, “Meet the Forester.” The program will consist of a series of educational events each month where participants will “Meet the Forester” and enjoy all the wonders of the forests.
The first “Meet the Forester” educational series will include a Tree Identification Nature Hike on Friday, March 31 from 9 – 11 a.m. at Point Washington State Forest. On the Nature Hike, State-lands Forester, Michael Klassen will take participants on a 1.5-mile hike through the forest providing a close encounter of different plant and animal species, a guide to tree identification, fire ecology and other opportunities for forest recreation.
“Hiking is the ultimate way to enjoy the outdoors and this event will be no different. While being immersed in the forest and unplugged from the world, hikers will engage in hands-on activities while learning about the collaborative effort taken to keep Florida’s forests healthy, renewable and sustainable for future generations,” said Michael Klassen, State-lands Forester, Point Washington State Forest.
Hikers will meet at the Eastern Lake Trailhead located on County Road 395, south of US Highway 98 on Friday, March 31st at 9:00 a.m. It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing, closed toe shoes, and to bring water. If raining, bring a poncho or weather permitted clothing; the event will be canceled due to lightning only. Questions can be directed to Michael.Klassen@FreshFromFlorida.com or by calling the Point Washington State Forest phone at (850) 267-8325.
The Florida Forest Service, a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, manages more than 1 million acres of state forests and provides forest management assistance on more than 17 million acres of private and community forests. The Florida Forest Service is also responsible for protecting homes, forestland and natural resources from the devastating effects of wildfire on more than 26 million acres. Learn more at FloridaForestService.com.