Event Calendar https://outreach.myfwc.com/events/event_list.asp Fri, 29 Mar 2024 11:07:39 GMT Tue, 11 Jun 2024 12:00:00 GMT Copyright © 2024 FWC Outreach Sandhill Habitat Improvement, Mountain Lake @ Bok Tower Gardens, Monday April 8th https://outreach.myfwc.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1796643 https://outreach.myfwc.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1796643  We will be working in sandhill habitat, roughly ¼ mi in from dirt parking area.  Area is adjacent to a golf course in an exclusive community – noise will need to be kept at a minimum.

Workday Goals: Populate target areas of the restoration site with native species, and visibly reduce coverage of natal grass with minimal ground disturbance.

Suggested items to bring and to wearPlease bring plenty of water and snacks, some snacks will be provided. Long pants, closed toe shoes, hat and sunscreen are highly recommended. Also bring working gloves and your favorite work tool if desired. Insects are usually not a problem but bring bug spray if desired.

 

No restroom on site. Transport by car or truck to a bathroom at the Gardens (~5 minutes ride) can be accommodated if needed.

Meeting Location

Meet at Bok Tower Gardens – parking will be in front of the Center for Education and Conservation building.  Go through Gardens’ gate along Burns Ave: gate attendant will have been given your name and wave you in.  Proceed into main parking lot and go left to the exit road from the parking lot.  There will be two dirt/gravel roads on that exit road – take the second.  The CEC is on the immediate right with a red roof.  We will carpool the short distance to the site.

 

Bok Tower Gardens: Serene National Historic Landmark

Bok Tower Gardens is located on Iron Mountain, one of the highest points on the Lake Wales Ridge. The Pine Ridge Nature Preserve at Bok Tower Gardens gives visitors a chance to walk a 3/4-mile walking trail through this endangered longleaf pine and sandhill ecosystem and view many endangered plants and animals found nowhere else in the world. Affiliated with the national Center for Plant Conservation in St. Louis, MO, Bok Tower Gardens' Endangered Plant Program was started 15 years ago and has partnered to conserve Florida's rarest plant species.                                                                                                                        

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Mon, 8 Apr 2024 13:00:00 GMT
Tiger Creek Preserve Invasive Species Workday Tuesday April 9th https://outreach.myfwc.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1796681 https://outreach.myfwc.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1796681 Hand pulling invasive plants at The Nature Conservancy’s Tiger Creek Preserve:

This is a great opportunity to learn about invasive plant species while assisting with their control. Some of the plants you will be removing will be natal grass, rattlebox, mother of thousands and Madagascar periwinkle. The removal will take place around the office, bathrooms, air conditioning and water refill will be easily accessible.

   

Meeting/Specific Driving Directions:

From the North on State Highway 27:

Go approximately four miles south of the intersection with Highway 60 in Lake Wales. Turn left onto County Road 640 (at the stoplight, look for a sign for Babson Park and Webber College; Fat boy’s BBQ is on the corner.) Go 2 miles to SR 17 (Scenic Highway) and turn right. Go through Babson Park. At the top of the hill, turn left at N. Lake Moody Road. At the stop sign, turn left onto Murray Road. Go 2 miles and take a left onto Pfundstein Road. At the office, take the gravel drive past the “Hiker Parking” sign. Go through the open gate to a “Visitor Parking” sign. Keep left for parking.

 

From the South on State Highway 27:

Travel four miles north of Avon Park to State Road 17 (Scenic Highway). Turn right at the stoplight and take S.R. 17 through the little town of Frostproof, around Lake Moody and up the hill. At the top of the hill, turn right at Murray Road. Go 2 miles and take a left onto Pfundstein Road. At the office, take the gravel drive past the “Hiker Parking” sign. Go through the open gate to a “Visitor Parking” sign. Keep left for parking.

 

 

What to bring/wear:

Gloves will be available if needed but bring your own pair if preferred. It is recommended that volunteers wear long pants, closed toe shoes, hat, and sunscreen. Bringing water and snacks is also suggested.

 

About Tiger Creek Preserve:

Tiger Creek Preserve is a place of mystery and contrasts. It sits on the eastern edge of the Lake Wales Ridge, one of Florida’s ancient islands. Separated from the mainland long ago by a shallow sea, the Ridge is peninsular Florida’s oldest and highest landmass. Tiger Creek Preserve is one of four campus preserves under TNC Florida's Center for Conservation Initiatives, advancing conservation through education and training, outreach and volunteerism, science and research, and land stewardship. The preserve offers an ever-changing array of wildflower blooms, wildlife viewing possibilities and opportunities to enjoy the solace of nature.

To learn more about Tiger Creek Preserve and The Nature Conservatory click the link: 

Center for Conservation Initiatives | The Nature Conservancy

 

 Longleaf pine trees stretch to the sky at Tiger Creek Preserve.

 

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Tue, 9 Apr 2024 13:00:00 GMT
Highlands Hammock State Park Sand Pine or Sweet Gum Removal Workday - Wednesday, April 10, 2024 https://outreach.myfwc.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1819010 https://outreach.myfwc.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1819010 We will be doing invasive removal to prevent spread to other natural areas.

This event is a partnership between Highlands Hammock State Park and Ridge Rangers volunteers. It has become a continuous project because of the successful efforts of previous Ridge Rangers. Much appreciation to all who have contributed to its success! 

 

 


 

We will work in the flat wooded area near the bathroom and water facilities. 

Goal: to remove as many invasives as possible.


 

Recommended attire: long pants, closed toe shoes, hat, and sunscreen. Recommended gear: work gloves and water bottle. Optional bring-along: snacks. Cold water and restrooms are located near the work site. Bags will be provided for collecting plants and plant parts. 

We will meet at the overflow parking lot past the ranger station just before the campground. (Upon entry at the main gate, take the first road on the right headed toward the campground. The overflow lot is located on the left right just after crossing the bridge.) 


 

Here's a photo of one of the many uniquely beautiful Florida sights along the boardwalk within the park.

You're welcome to stay after the event to enjoy Highlands Hammock.


Driving Directions:

Take US 27 towards Sebring and the southwest corner of Lake Jackson. At the corner of US 27 and Hammock Road, turn west on Hammock Road. (Hammock Road is between the Gates service station on the north and Inn on the Lakes to the south.) Follow Hammock Road 3.9 miles into the state park.

 

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Wed, 10 Apr 2024 13:00:00 GMT
Highlands Hammock State Park Coral Ardisia Workday - Wednesday, April 24, 2024 https://outreach.myfwc.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1819011 https://outreach.myfwc.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1819011

We will remove Coral Ardisia berries to prevent the tree's spread to other natural areas. It is crucial to remove fruits before the arrival of the rainy season since seeds can be easily distributed along the watershed to new locations where they are not currently established. 

This event is a partnership between Highlands Hammock State Park and Ridge Rangers volunteers. It has become a continuous project because of the successful efforts of previous Ridge Rangers. Much appreciation to all who have contributed to its success! 

 

 


 

We will work in the flat wooded area near the bathroom and water facilities. Berries will be removed and bagged by hand. 

Goal: to remove and bag as many fruits as possible to prevent the tree's spread during the rainy season.


 

Recommended attire: long pants, closed toe shoes, hat, and sunscreen. Recommended gear: work gloves and water bottle. Optional bring-along: snacks. Cold water and restrooms are located near the work site. Bags will be provided for collecting plants and plant parts. 

We will meet at the overflow parking lot past the ranger station just before the campground. (Upon entry at the main gate, take the first road on the right headed toward the campground. The overflow lot is located on the left right just after crossing the bridge.) 


 

Here's a photo of one of the many uniquely beautiful Florida sights along the boardwalk within the park.

You're welcome to stay after the event to enjoy Highlands Hammock.


Driving Directions:

Take US 27 towards Sebring and the southwest corner of Lake Jackson. At the corner of US 27 and Hammock Road, turn west on Hammock Road. (Hammock Road is between the Gates service station on the north and Inn on the Lakes to the south.) Follow Hammock Road 3.9 miles into the state park.

 

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Wed, 24 Apr 2024 13:00:00 GMT
Tiger Creek Preserve Invasive Species Workday Tuesday May 7th https://outreach.myfwc.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1796675 https://outreach.myfwc.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1796675 Hand pulling invasive plants at The Nature Conservancy’s Tiger Creek Preserve:

This is a great opportunity to learn about invasive plant species while assisting with their control. Some of the plants you will be removing will be natal grass, rattlebox, mother of thousands and Madagascar periwinkle. The removal will take place around the office, bathrooms, air conditioning and water refill will be easily accessible.

   

Meeting/Specific Driving Directions:

From the North on State Highway 27:

Go approximately four miles south of the intersection with Highway 60 in Lake Wales. Turn left onto County Road 640 (at the stoplight, look for a sign for Babson Park and Webber College; Fat boy’s BBQ is on the corner.) Go 2 miles to SR 17 (Scenic Highway) and turn right. Go through Babson Park. At the top of the hill, turn left at N. Lake Moody Road. At the stop sign, turn left onto Murray Road. Go 2 miles and take a left onto Pfundstein Road. At the office, take the gravel drive past the “Hiker Parking” sign. Go through the open gate to a “Visitor Parking” sign. Keep left for parking.

 

From the South on State Highway 27:

Travel four miles north of Avon Park to State Road 17 (Scenic Highway). Turn right at the stoplight and take S.R. 17 through the little town of Frostproof, around Lake Moody and up the hill. At the top of the hill, turn right at Murray Road. Go 2 miles and take a left onto Pfundstein Road. At the office, take the gravel drive past the “Hiker Parking” sign. Go through the open gate to a “Visitor Parking” sign. Keep left for parking.

 

 

What to bring/wear:

Gloves will be available if needed but bring your own pair if preferred. It is recommended that volunteers wear long pants, closed toe shoes, hat, and sunscreen. Bringing water and snacks is also suggested.

 

About Tiger Creek Preserve:

Tiger Creek Preserve is a place of mystery and contrasts. It sits on the eastern edge of the Lake Wales Ridge, one of Florida’s ancient islands. Separated from the mainland long ago by a shallow sea, the Ridge is peninsular Florida’s oldest and highest landmass. Tiger Creek Preserve is one of four campus preserves under TNC Florida's Center for Conservation Initiatives, advancing conservation through education and training, outreach and volunteerism, science and research, and land stewardship. The preserve offers an ever-changing array of wildflower blooms, wildlife viewing possibilities and opportunities to enjoy the solace of nature.

To learn more about Tiger Creek Preserve and The Nature Conservatory click the link: 

Center for Conservation Initiatives | The Nature Conservancy

 

 Longleaf pine trees stretch to the sky at Tiger Creek Preserve.

 

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Tue, 7 May 2024 13:00:00 GMT
Highlands Hammock State Park Coral Ardisia Workday - Wednesday, May 15, 2024 https://outreach.myfwc.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1819012 https://outreach.myfwc.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1819012

We will remove Coral Ardisia berries to prevent the tree's spread to other natural areas. It is crucial to remove fruits before the arrival of the rainy season since seeds can be easily distributed along the watershed to new locations where they are not currently established. 

This event is a partnership between Highlands Hammock State Park and Ridge Rangers volunteers. It has become a continuous project because of the successful efforts of previous Ridge Rangers. Much appreciation to all who have contributed to its success! 

 

 


 

We will work in the flat wooded area near the bathroom and water facilities. Berries will be removed and bagged by hand. 

Goal: to remove and bag as many fruits as possible to prevent the tree's spread during the rainy season.


 

Recommended attire: long pants, closed toe shoes, hat, and sunscreen. Recommended gear: work gloves and water bottle. Optional bring-along: snacks. Cold water and restrooms are located near the work site. Bags will be provided for collecting plants and plant parts. 

We will meet at the overflow parking lot past the ranger station just before the campground. (Upon entry at the main gate, take the first road on the right headed toward the campground. The overflow lot is located on the left right just after crossing the bridge.) 


 

Here's a photo of one of the many uniquely beautiful Florida sights along the boardwalk within the park.

You're welcome to stay after the event to enjoy Highlands Hammock.


Driving Directions:

Take US 27 towards Sebring and the southwest corner of Lake Jackson. At the corner of US 27 and Hammock Road, turn west on Hammock Road. (Hammock Road is between the Gates service station on the north and Inn on the Lakes to the south.) Follow Hammock Road 3.9 miles into the state park.

 

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Wed, 15 May 2024 13:00:00 GMT
Highlands Hammock State Park Coral Ardisia Workday - Wednesday, May 29, 2024 https://outreach.myfwc.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1819014 https://outreach.myfwc.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1819014

We will remove Coral Ardisia berries to prevent the tree's spread to other natural areas. It is crucial to remove fruits before the arrival of the rainy season since seeds can be easily distributed along the watershed to new locations where they are not currently established. 

This event is a partnership between Highlands Hammock State Park and Ridge Rangers volunteers. It has become a continuous project because of the successful efforts of previous Ridge Rangers. Much appreciation to all who have contributed to its success! 

 

 


 

We will work in the flat wooded area near the bathroom and water facilities. Berries will be removed and bagged by hand. 

Goal: to remove and bag as many fruits as possible to prevent the tree's spread during the rainy season.


 

Recommended attire: long pants, closed toe shoes, hat, and sunscreen. Recommended gear: work gloves and water bottle. Optional bring-along: snacks. Cold water and restrooms are located near the work site. Bags will be provided for collecting plants and plant parts. 

We will meet at the overflow parking lot past the ranger station just before the campground. (Upon entry at the main gate, take the first road on the right headed toward the campground. The overflow lot is located on the left right just after crossing the bridge.) 


 

Here's a photo of one of the many uniquely beautiful Florida sights along the boardwalk within the park.

You're welcome to stay after the event to enjoy Highlands Hammock.


Driving Directions:

Take US 27 towards Sebring and the southwest corner of Lake Jackson. At the corner of US 27 and Hammock Road, turn west on Hammock Road. (Hammock Road is between the Gates service station on the north and Inn on the Lakes to the south.) Follow Hammock Road 3.9 miles into the state park.

 

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Wed, 29 May 2024 13:00:00 GMT
Tiger Creek Preserve Invasive Species Workday Tuesday June 11th https://outreach.myfwc.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1796683 https://outreach.myfwc.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1796683 Hand pulling invasive plants at The Nature Conservancy’s Tiger Creek Preserve:

This is a great opportunity to learn about invasive plant species while assisting with their control. Some of the plants you will be removing will be natal grass, rattlebox, mother of thousands and Madagascar periwinkle. The removal will take place around the office, bathrooms, air conditioning and water refill will be easily accessible.

   

Meeting/Specific Driving Directions:

From the North on State Highway 27:

Go approximately four miles south of the intersection with Highway 60 in Lake Wales. Turn left onto County Road 640 (at the stoplight, look for a sign for Babson Park and Webber College; Fat boy’s BBQ is on the corner.) Go 2 miles to SR 17 (Scenic Highway) and turn right. Go through Babson Park. At the top of the hill, turn left at N. Lake Moody Road. At the stop sign, turn left onto Murray Road. Go 2 miles and take a left onto Pfundstein Road. At the office, take the gravel drive past the “Hiker Parking” sign. Go through the open gate to a “Visitor Parking” sign. Keep left for parking.

 

From the South on State Highway 27:

Travel four miles north of Avon Park to State Road 17 (Scenic Highway). Turn right at the stoplight and take S.R. 17 through the little town of Frostproof, around Lake Moody and up the hill. At the top of the hill, turn right at Murray Road. Go 2 miles and take a left onto Pfundstein Road. At the office, take the gravel drive past the “Hiker Parking” sign. Go through the open gate to a “Visitor Parking” sign. Keep left for parking.

 

 

What to bring/wear:

Gloves will be available if needed but bring your own pair if preferred. It is recommended that volunteers wear long pants, closed toe shoes, hat, and sunscreen. Bringing water and snacks is also suggested.

 

About Tiger Creek Preserve:

Tiger Creek Preserve is a place of mystery and contrasts. It sits on the eastern edge of the Lake Wales Ridge, one of Florida’s ancient islands. Separated from the mainland long ago by a shallow sea, the Ridge is peninsular Florida’s oldest and highest landmass. Tiger Creek Preserve is one of four campus preserves under TNC Florida's Center for Conservation Initiatives, advancing conservation through education and training, outreach and volunteerism, science and research, and land stewardship. The preserve offers an ever-changing array of wildflower blooms, wildlife viewing possibilities and opportunities to enjoy the solace of nature.

To learn more about Tiger Creek Preserve and The Nature Conservatory click the link: 

Center for Conservation Initiatives | The Nature Conservancy

 

 Longleaf pine trees stretch to the sky at Tiger Creek Preserve.

 

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Tue, 11 Jun 2024 13:00:00 GMT