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CHELCO offers tips to save energy

Well pump problems:  A hidden energy waster A leaky faucet or toilet can be more expensive in a house that gets water from a well instead of utility company. That’s because a leak can cause the well pump to run almost continuously, wasting energy with every drip. Repairing leaks isn’t the only way to keep your pump in top shape. Regular maintenance not only can help your pump operate more efficiently, it can help extend the life of the equipment....

American bittern spotted on Lake Powell

Is this an American Bittern or a Green Heron? This beauty, was spotted perched on a dock along Lake Powell Sept. 6. American Bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus) Sun-gazer, the American bittern is called, as well as Stake Driver, Thunder Pump and Mire Drum. The names refer to the bittern’s call, a deep resonant oonk-a-lunk, which has been likened to the bellowing of a bull or a hydraulic machine. It’s odd that a bird this secretive makes such a racket. Since the...

Nature specialist to join Morrison Springs outing Sept. 13

Walton Outdoors and 30A Radio welcomes naturalist Joe Wyatt Joe Wyatt, local ecologist, wildlife biologist and naturalist will be available to share his expertise and answer questions about local wildlife and ecosystems on Sept. 13. As a the naturalist at Hammock Bay, Joe has been running a successful bluebird breeding program to increase the numbers of these beautiful indigenous birds in the area. He is also an expert on local ecosystems and forestry management. Come and meet Joe as we...

Searching for Diamondback Terrapin turtles in the Florida Panhandle

Local educator studies terrapin population in Northwest Florida As the sun rises on a gulf coast salt marsh there is barely a breeze.  The placid water is slick as glass and resembles a sheet of gray ice.  The only movement is the occasional swirls of mullet and redfish that are awaken as our canoe slides over their evening resting spots.  Osprey whistle and dive searching for a morning breakfast to take back to their nest of chicks that sits on...

Ugh… the dog flies have arrived in the Florida Panhandle

Dog flies a nuisance to both humans and pets from August to November When fall comes to our area, those refreshing weather fronts will move through from the north bringing lower humidity, lower temperatures and the infamous dog fly. The stable fly, known as the dog fly in Northwest Florida, is a blood feeding fly that is a nuisance to man, pets, and livestock. From August through November the dog fly congregates on the Florida Panhandle beaches. This fly originates...