By-Line: Julie Murphy, Flagler County Government
Flagler County Land Management is preparing to bring another group of nature enthusiasts on its “Walk in the Park” – this time exploring the Haw Creek Preserve on the west side of Flagler County on March 28.
This tour begins at 9 a.m. sharp on March 28 at Haw Creek Preserve, 2007 County Road 2007, Bunnell. 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.
“The 1052-plus acres of the Haw Creek Preserve contains some of the best-preserved floodplain hardwood forest, hydric hardwood hammock, and wet flatwoods in north-east Florida,” Risch said. “Our Walk will focus on experiencing the broad variety of plants and animals found in this fascinating habitat. Songbirds migrating north from their wintering grounds will be of prominence, so bring a pair of binoculars.”
Risch will point out interesting plants along the way, including the water locust tree (Gleditsia aquatica), crow poison false garlic (Nothoscordum bivalve), and the greenfly orchid (Epidendrum conopseum).
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. Registration is open through March 27.
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
DIRECTIONS
- Go west along State Road 100 from the light in Bunnell roughly 7.2 miles to its intersection with County Road 305 and turn south
- Continue south on County Road 305 for 4.0 miles to its intersection with County Road 2006 and turn west
- Continue west along County Road 2006 for 1.0 miles to its intersection with County Road 2007 and turn south
- Continue south along County Road 2007 for 2.2 miles, turning east and then south again, until you reach the boat launch at Haw Creek – park there
