Nature

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Knowledge is key when living around black bears

Stash your garbage securely Florida black bears turn into eating machines in late summer and early fall, stuffing their stomachs in preparation for winter. For gluttonous bears, raiding a garbage can may be more appealing than foraging in the woods. To reduce human-bear conflicts during the surge of bear activity in late summer and fall, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) urges people to keep food sources around their homes and businesses secure from bears. “Due to the...

Dine for the Pines to benefit E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center September 8

Fundraiser to be held at Bud & Alley’s The E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center is hosting a fundraiser for area student programs and the preservation of  longleaf pine trees at Bud & Alley’s from 5 to 9 pm on Sunday, September 8. The public is encouraged to attend to learn more about the E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center. Developed by conservationist, M.C. Davis, the E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center sits on is a 53,000-acre land and wildlife conservation reserve named Nokuse Plantation located...

Santa Rosa Beach artist Joe Elmore brings natural elements to life

Imagine seeing a face, body, or animal in a piece of wood every time you take a good look at it. It is a common occurrence in the artful world of Santa Rosa Beach artist Joe Elmore. Sizing up the wood, cranking up the chainsaw and producing a work of art in minutes is just one of Elmore’s many creative talents. Growing up in the oil and farming town of Taft, California Elmore knew from a young age he wanted...

Choctawhatchee River expected to crest at 18.4 ft. on Monday

Major flooding on the Choctawhatchee River has occurred due to recent heavy amounts of rainfall. The river is expected to crest at 18.4 ft. on Monday, July 8, 2013. The river is expected to remain at a major flood stage through July 12. Recent heavy rains closed many roads along the river and several other low lying areas in Walton over the last week. Click here to view river reading....

Help imperiled bird species survive along our beaches

Be mindful and respect wildlife this coming holiday weekend and every day By Jeff Talbert, Park Services Specialist Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Each year on our beaches, imperiled animals come to nest. Many visitors and residents are aware of our nesting sea turtles and even our endangered beach mice. However, most aren’t aware of our nesting shorebirds. Each year Okaloosa, Walton, and Bay County beaches play host to a variety of nesting shorebirds including snowy plovers and least terns....