Nature

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Guided plant walk at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park May 15

You’re invited to a plant identification walk at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park on the third Monday of the month. The walk starts at 9:00 am at tram stop #2, and is led by Bill Kuenstler, Master Gardener and Master Naturalist. Learn about the many native plants at the park. Driving Directions Located in Santa Rosa Beach, the park is located 1/4 south of U.S. Hwy 98 on western end of Scenic Hwy. 30A.  ::MAP:...

Fun facts about the northern mockingbird

There’s more to this flying copycat than meets the eye . . . or ear. The Northern Mockingbird is one of North America’s most beloved mimics. The skilled singer has also become inextricable from American popular culture, providing inspiration for the fictional “Mockingjay” of the Hunger Games franchise to being a central theme in the iconic novel To Kill a Mockingbird. John James Audubon was a fan of the mocker as well. Here are some facts you might not have known about this American classic. There...

Guided plant walk at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park April 17

You’re invited to a plant identification walk at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park on the third Monday of the month. The walk starts at 9:00 am at tram stop #2, and is led by Bill Kuenstler, Master Gardener and Master Naturalist. Learn about the many native plants at the park. Driving Directions Located in Santa Rosa Beach, the park is located 1/4 south of U.S. Hwy 98 on western end of Scenic Hwy. 30A.  ::MAP:  ...

Tips to safely co-exist with alligators 

Signs of spring – balmy weather, blooming flowers and nesting birds – are occurring throughout Florida. Warmer temperatures also mean alligators are more active and visible. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) recommends taking precautions when in and around the water. FWC also provides its safety materials to include a video and infographic in Spanish. While serious injuries caused by alligators are rare in Florida, the FWC offers the following tips about how to safely co-exist with them:...

New fishing dock and boardwalk now open at Camp Helen State Park

Fishing equipment rentals will begin on April 1 New construction of a 142 ft. dock and switchback ADA boardwalk is completed and open at Camp Helen State Park. The new dock supports six boat slips and an ADA fishing platform. The boardwalk is located near the lodge area, and is connected to the dock. Fishing equipment rentals will begin on April 1, 2023 as an addition to their Kayak and SUP rentals which are NOW OPEN 7 days a week...

Ranger led nature hike at Camp Helen State Park April 6

Enjoy a ranger-led nature hike at Camp Helen State Park on Thursday, April 6, 2023 from 10 – 11 a.m. Join in for a ranger-guided nature hike. Camp Helen boasts nine distinct natural communities throughout the park with varied flora and fauna. Learn about our rare coastal dune lake, Lake Powell, as well as the park wildlife. Hike is suitable for all ages. Dress for the weather; water and bug spray are recommended. The Friends of Camp Helen are excited to be open...

Enjoy birding with Audubon at Eden Gardens State Park March 18

Enjoy a combined birding walk with Bay County and Choctawhatchee Audubon. Eden Gardens is a 163-acre park featuring acres of very large, moss-covered oaks, camellias, azaleas and lots of other beautiful plants. Native plants are also featured. There is a nature trail we will walk. The centerpiece of the park is the Wesley Mansion, a two-story house with columns built in 1897. It is open to limited tours. Park entry fee $4. Meet at 8:15-8:30 in the main parking lot....