Environment

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FWC seeking angler assistance in tarpon study

Tarpon genetics study ongoing    By Stan Kirkland, FWC This week I had the good fortune to attend a half-day workshop on tarpon biology and management at the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve in Eastpoint. There were several speakers but I particularly wanted to hear the comments of Dr. Kathryn Guindon, a research scientist  with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) Fish and Wildlife Research Institute in St. Petersburg. There were probably 30 people in attendance, including tarpon fishing...

Rehabilitated bald eagle released at Hammock Bay in Freeport

Raptor released close to where rescued A rehabilitated American bald eagle was released at Hammock Bay Mar. 2 by members of Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge. The eagle was discovered injured at a residence near Whitfield Road in Freeport Jan. 31. The raptor had suffered lacerations to the abdomen, head and beak with a portion of the maxillary rostrum (upper beak) damaged. The source of the injuries was never determined. Once rehabilitated, the Refuge worked with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service...

Learn about exotic invasive plants at Topsail Mar. 2

Learn how to protect your backyard from invasive plants Time: 3:30 p.m. Location: Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Come out and celebrate National Invasive Species Awareness Week at Topsail Hill.  Please join the park for a presentation  and learn all about the exotic invaders that displace native vegetation and disrupt wildlife that are dependent on natural communities.  Find out how you can protect your own backyard from these intruders.  Park at the Day-Use area and take a short hike to...

Master Naturalist Wetlands class starting in March

Module offered on Tuesdays Training includes ecosystem processes, identification of key plants and wildlife, and the role of humans in shaping Florida’s environment, interpretation skills, and environmental ethics.  The wetlands module will be taught March 20-May 15th, 2012 and courses will take place in Okaloosa and Walton Counties.  Registration closes March 13, 2012.  Cost is $225, which includes materials, instruction and three field trips.  Spots are limited so visit the course website to register www.masternaturalist.org click current course offerings, freshwater...

Camp Helen State Park history tour Mar. 3

Learn about the history of a beautiful local State Park Time: 10 – 10:45 a.m. The Department of Environmental Protection’s Camp Helen State Park invites you to their history walk at Camp Helen State Park. Come learn about the early history of the park and local area while wandering on a guided tour around Camp Helen’s restored historical buildings. The history walk takes place the first Saturday of each month. Participation Requirements: • Must have the ability to follow visual...

Learn about native snakes at Topsail Feb. 18

Learn fascinating facts about Florida’s snakes Time – 1:30 p.m. Come and join the park for a presentation of native snakes. Learn the differences between venomous and non-venomous snakes and how they help the environment. Park at the Day-Use area off Hwy 30A and take a short hike to the clubhouse. All programs require a $6.00 entry admission per vehicle into the park. Location: Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is located on the western end of Scenic Hwy. 30A. ::MAP::...

Learn about sharks at Topsail Feb. 3

Learn about these fascinating creatures of the Gulf Thurs. Sept. 15 at 1:30 p.m. The Department of Environmental Protection’s Topsail Hill Preserve State Park will be having a presentation on sharks. Sharks are fascinating creatures that can range in size from 6 in. small to an enormous 39 ft. long. Come out and join Topsail for a presentation to learn more about the sharks that roam the coastal waters of Florida. Meet at the Day-Use parking area on Hwy 30A...

Learn about alligators at Topsail Jan. 20

Learn all about these cold-blooded sunbathing creatures Time: 1:30 p.m. Location: Topsail Hill Preserve State Park El lagarato was the name coined by the Spanish explorers and early settlers of Florida who came upon the American alligator.  These giant “lizards” live in or near almost every water body in Florida and have fascinated people for many years.  Come out and join the park for a presentation and learn all about these cold-blooded sunbathing creatures.  Park at the Day-Use area and take...