By-Line: Julie Murphy, Flagler County Government
Flagler County Land Management is in its third year hosting its limited guided tour series called “A Walk in the Park in the Woods.” The next walk will be held at River-to-Sea Preserve in Marineland.
This tour begins at 9 a.m. sharp on January 24 at River-to-Sea, 9741 N. Oceanshore Boulevard (State Road A1A), with parking on the west side of the roadway. It is limited to eight (8) registrants, and participants are asked to arrive a little early for the safety briefing, and additional details about the two-hour hike – which is described as “easy” – on flat, level terrain with wide and well-maintained trails.
Forestry Supervisor Ralph Risch will guide the walk.
“We will experience the character of Florida’s barrier island scrub-coastal scrub habitat during this hike, as well as the coastal hardwood hammock community found on the estuarine side of the barrier islands,” Risch said. “Expect to see and hear many wintering migratory birds, and resident ones, too. Cool plants of the barrier islands will be identified. If we’re lucky, we may get to see bottle-nosed dolphins in the Matanzas River.”
Participants who register (an account must be created) – and sign the two waivers: liability and photo/video release – will meet at 8:45 a.m. at the park’s equestrian parking area, roughly 1.25 miles from the entrance. Registration is open through January 22.
Those who are participating should:
- Expect a two-hour hike
- Bring a water bottle
- Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes
- Use sunscreen and insect repellent as preferred (note: mosquitoes are reportedly “bad” this year)
- Bring binoculars for enhanced bird-watching
- Dress for the weather – could be cold and rainy or warm and sunny
Remember to register and that parking is on the west side of State Road A1A. While the Town of Marineland is in Flagler County, its mailing address is in St. Augustine – for those using GPS systems for directions.
