National Estuaries Days 2005

. . . an annual celebration of the majestic places where rivers meet the sea.

Join us to learn more about estuaries the fun way.

The Program's National Estuaries Days celebrations are now over. Stay tuned for the 2006 celebration.

The Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program is pleased to announce National Estuaries Days 2005 – a time to highlight the importance of estuaries through recreational and educational activities. The festivals, wading trips, guided walks and paddling events described below are opportunities to learn about estuaries by experiencing them first hand. The events are coordinated by CHNEP but offered because of the generosity of its partners. Many of the events are also sponsored by CHNEP.

The official National Estuary Day is celebrated Saturday, September 24, 2005 but since 2000 locally there have been too many events to fit in one day! Details of each event are provided below.

Many of the cities and counties that participate in the CHNEP will again issue proclamations of support for National Estuaries Days.

For activities offered around the country, visit www.estuaries.gov.

–––––– Celebrate National Estuaries Days 2005 ––––

with Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program

(An easy-to-print list is available but does not include changes of dates. If you are a subscriber to Harbor Happenings, you'll also receive this information in the mail.)

Special Events

Boat Tours

Paddling

Guided Walks

Wading Trips

–––– Special Events –––

Mote’s Mobile Exhibit at Fishermen’s Village

Saturday, September 24 from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm

Come see some of the local estuary residents in Mote’s 850-gallon mobile tropical fish tank, including damselfishes, emperor snappers, squirrelfish, butter hamlets and tanks. You’ll also see marine invertebrates, shells and other touchables in the sensory awareness area. The self-contained mobile exhibit is a 14-wheeler trailer truck weighing 18 tons with its own generator, sink, food preparation area, chillers, filtration and water storage tank.

Registration: No registration is necessary for this free event.

Directions: Fishermen’s Village is in Punta Gorda, Charlotte County. Take Exit 164 (was Exit 29) from I-75, travel three miles west and watch for Fishermen’s Village on the right side.

Estuaries Day Every Day: A Free Day at the Bay

Saturday, October 1 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm

Lee County Parks & Recreation

Enjoy a day of fun-filled information about estuaries while walking along a beach on the bay, a paddle to the bay, and a walk and talk about the bird life that inhabit the estuary.

Registration: No registration is necessary for this free event.

Directions: San Carlos Bay - Bunche Beach Preserve is located at the west end of John Morris Rd off Summerlin Rd on the way to Sanibel in Lee County. 239/707-3015

Youth and Family Environmental Day at Lake Hollingsworth

Saturday, October 1 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm

Lakes Education / Action Drive and Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program

Learn from the experts how to help protect and preserve healthy lakes through hands-on activities, exhibits and a guided walk of a wetland constructed to treat 60 acres of stormwater runoff, improving the lake’s water quality. The wetland was recently constructed by the City of Lakeland and Florida Southern College.

Registration: No registration is necessary for this free event.

Directions: Traveling north on SR37 in Polk County turn left onto Edgewood Dr (in Lakeland) then left on Cleveland Heights Blvd then right onto Hollingsworth Dr. The First Presbyterian Church is approximately one mile from this intersection. Call 863/221-5323 for additional details.

There are 172 lakes in Polk County within the Peace River watershed! Water from these lakes flows to the Peace River then Charlotte Harbor then the Gulf of Mexico.

Ecofest 2005 - A Peace River Celebration

Saturday, October 15 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Peace River Environmental Education Network (PREEN), Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program and others

Learn more about the Peace River and its contributions to local estuaries at this fun-filled festival for all ages, including zip lines across Whidden Creek, music, environmental exhibits, fossil dig, live entertainment and face painting.

Registration: No registration is required for this free event.

Directions: Camp Wilderness is located on SR 17, four miles south of Fort Meade in Polk County. This 80-acre campground is owned by the Royal Rangers. 863/533-8423.

Coastal Cleanups will occur throughout region. See Harbor Happenings for details on these events.

16th Annual “Ding” Darling Days Eco-Festival: Family Fun Day

Saturday, October 15 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

US Fish & Wildlife Service “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge and “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society

Enjoy nature activities for the whole family from hands-on children’s activities, butterfly house, bird carving demonstrations, environmental displays and informational booths to free, thanks to Tarpon Bay Explorers, naturalist-narrated tram tours through the Refuge. Talks will be given throughout the day on owls (10 and 3), Federal Duck Stamps (11), Children’s Conversation Cartoon Contest (noon), Hurricane Charley and the refuge (1), bald eagles (2). There will be free hot dogs and soda, thanks to Jerry’s Foods.

Registration: No registration is required for this free event. The Sanibel Causeway toll is $6/car.

Directions: The refuge is located on Sanibel in Lee County. Once on Sanibel Island turn right on Periwinkle Blvd, right on Tarpon Bay Rd, left on Sanibel Captiva Rd. The refuge is on the right approximately two miles from this last intersection.

“Ding” Darling Days is a week-long celebration of the namesake of J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. For details on the other events that will be held, visit www.dingdarlingdays.com.

National Estuary Program: Charlotte Harbor – A Citizens Update -- CANCELLED DUE TO HURRICANE WILMA

Wednesday, October 26 from 8:30 am to 11:45 am

Peace River Audubon Society, Sponsored by Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program

Estuaries are important for birds and wildlife, as well as, for humans. This special half-day program will offer an overview by PRAS and NEP on the harbor estuary system. Hear about the “State of the Harbor” and its importance for wildlife habitats, migratory birding, and our drinking water; learn about local efforts regarding area environmental issues including updates on Horse Creek/Phosphate mining and Babcock Ranch preservation; and, view the “Charlotte County Way of Life” presentation.

Registration: No pre-registration is required for this free event.

Directions: Event to be held at the Cultural Center of Charlotte County at 2280 Aaron St in Port Charlotte. Follow signs for the Cultural Center located east of US 41/Tamiami Trail. Travel east on Olean and turn north on Aaron.

–––– Boat Tours ––––

Cruise Pine Island Sound Estuary

Sunday, September 18 through Saturday, September 24 from 4:00 to 5:30 pm

Captiva Cruises and Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation

Daily wildlife boat tours in Pine Island Sound with an onboard naturalist from SCCF providing information, facts and natural history about the unique and diverse estuary ecosystem. Wild Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat are often observed.

Registration: There is a $20/person charge for the cruise. Call 239/472-5300 for reservations and information, including directions.

Directions: The cruises leave from McCarthy’s Marina at 11401 Andy Rosse Lane on Captiva Island in Lee County.

Cruise Pine Island Sound to Cayo Costa State Park

Tuesday, September 22 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

and

Thursday, September 24 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

Captiva Cruises and Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation

Enjoy this day-long cruise – offered in celebration of National Estuaries Days – to Charlotte Harbor and Cayo Costa State Park, the pristine barrier island at the mouth of the estuary watershed. Passengers will cruise Pine Island Sound and enjoy beach and trail walks at the park. Informative narration about the vast and diverse wildlife in the Charlotte Harbor ecosystem will be provided.

Registration: There is a $30/person charge for the cruise and a $2 park entrance fee. Call 239/472-5300 for reservations and information, including directions.

Directions: The cruises leave from McCarthy’s Marina at 11401 Andy Rosse Lane on Captiva Island in Lee County.

Tarpon Bay Estuary Boat Trip

Friday, September 23 from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm

Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation and Tarpon Bay Explorers

Explore Tarpon Bay in the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge to see first-hand the importance of this estuary, learn about Back Bay ecology and SCCF Marine Lab’s studies on the health of this estuary.

Registration: There is a $25/person charge. Call 239/472-2329 to register. Space is limited so reservations are required.

Directions: Additional information will be provided when reservation is made.

4th Annual Literary Passage: Charlotte Harbor to Cabbage Key

Saturday, September 24 from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm

Peace River Center for Writers and Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program

Take a day-long trip in Charlotte Harbor with a lunch stop at historic Cabbage Key Inn, built in 1938 as the winter home of mystery writer Mary Roberts Rinehart. A naturalist will comment on the wonders of the harbor and writers will share readings of nature poetry and prose inspired by the harbor environment. The cruise will be on a King Fisher Fleet vessel docked at Fisherman’s Village in Punta Gorda.

Registration: There is a $20 charge; lunch is not included. Advance registration is required. Call 941/575-1976 for registration process.

Directions to King Fisher Fleet /Fishermen’s Village: Take Exit 164 (was Exit 29) from I-75 in Charlotte County, travel three miles west and watch for Fishermen’s Village on the right side.

Sea Life Excursion and Watchable Wildlife Boat Tour

Saturday, September 24 from 8:45 to 11:00 am

Barrier Islands Parks Society, Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program and Rotary Club of Placida

Early morning wildlife who call home the waters and mangrove islands of Gasparilla Sound and Charlotte Harbor, the Cape Haze Aquatic Preserves, can be sighted during this two-hour tour. Sightings of dolphins, rays and other marine life on the water cormorants, pelicans and shorebirds in flight or at rest on sandbars, and Florida’s magnificent wading birds ply the shallows of mangrove islands. Wade with dip nets in the quire inshore waters to discover the wondrous sea life that live and grow in our estuaries, the coastal waters “where rivers meet the sea.” Wear wading shows and water-worthy clothes. Bring a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and binoculars.

Registration: Call 941/964-0060 to register for this free event and for additional directions. Seating is limited to 50 people (25 people/boat). Preference is given to children in need.

Directions: In Charlotte County travel south on Gasparilla Rd/CR 771 approximately eight miles to the junction of CR 771 and CR 775. Turn left, pass the Fishery Restaurant and continue to the docks. Parking is provided nearby.

––––Paddling ––––

Myakka Wild and Scenic River Canoe Paddle -- MAY BE RESCHEDULED

Saturday, September 24 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm

Myakka River State Park

Join River Biologist Amy Emmert on an ecological tour of the Myakka Wild and Scenic River – one of only three scenic rivers in Florida. Paddlers will travel through Big Flats and into Lower Myakka Lake, exploring Deep Hole and learning about the river’s wildlife and plants, hydrology, environmental sensitivities and the Parks’ commitment to resource management in this unique ecosystem. Bring your own canoe or kayak, hat, sunscreen, ample water, lunch, insect repellent, binoculars and whistle. Participants should have an intermediate level of paddling experience and stamina. Life jackets are required. Be prepared to get wet and muddy.

Registration: Space is limited so reservations are required by September 14. Call 941/486-2052 or email amy.emmert@dep.state.fl.us to register for this free program and receive directions. The park entrance fee is $5 per car.

Estero Bay Paddle

Saturday, September 24 from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm

Estero Bay Buddies and Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program

Join the buddies on a canoe/kayak paddle on one of three guided trips on the Estero River upstream and downstream from the Koreshan State Historic Site boat launch. Beginner paddlers should arrive by 8:00 for instructions and will canoe/kayak upstream for an hour leaving at 9:30. Intermediate paddlers should arrive by 8:30 and will also canoe/kayak upstream for an hour leaving at 9:00. Advanced paddlers should also arrive at 8:00 and will travel downstream to Estero Bay for a four-hour trip leaving at 8:30. Each participant will be asked to sign a waiver before the trip begins.

Registration: There is a $5 charge. Call 239/992-0311 by September 8 to register those who will be in your party, kayak or canoe preference and which trip is preferred. Space is limited. Directions: Koreshan State Historic Site is located at the intersection of Corkscrew Rd. and US 41 in Estero, Lee County.

Estuary Tour in Estero Bay

Sunday, September 25 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

GAEA Guides

Explore Estero Bay, the state’s first aquatic preserve (established in 1966), near Lover’s Key State Park. During the two-hour paddle you’ll see some of the more than 300 species of birds, dolphins and manatees that use the estuary, you’ll get to know some of the critters that live on the bottom and hear some history of our native Calusa.

Registration: There is a $20 charge (normally $40). Call 239/694-5513 for a reservation and directions to launch location.

Buck Key Kayaking Adventure

Saturday, September 24 from 9:30 to 11:30 am

Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation and Captiva Kayak Company

Celebrate our local estuaries and the preservation of Buck Key by kayaking in and around this unique island within the Pine Island Sound Aquatic Preserve with a SCCF naturalist. Buck Key’s mangrove shoreline, upland vegetation, cultural history and the wildlife of the area will be discussed along the way. Stable kayaks will be used and kayaking instruction will be provided. No experience necessary, just a sense of adventure and a willing spirit.

Registration: There is a $35/person charge. Call 239/472-2329 to register. Space is limited so reservations are required.

Directions: Meet at Captiva Kayak Company in McCarthy’s Marina off Andy Rosse Lane on Captiva in Lee County. Detailed directions to Captiva Kayak and necessary items to bring will be explained when reservations are made.

Tarpon Bay Kayak Tour

Saturday, October 1 from 8:30 to 11:30 am

Tarpon Bay Explorers

Join a naturalist for a tour only offered as part of National Estuaries Days. This is a great introduction to Tarpon Bay and the coastal environment. You’ll kayak with a naturalist through the mangrove forest along the Commodore Creek water trail, learn about the rich back-bay ecosystem and the wildlife that lives there, cruise by bird rookeries and over seagrass beds and use dipping nets for an up-close look at some of the underwater animals that reside in this estuary. You’ll be surrounded by red mangroves, wading birds, and unsurpassed peace and quiet.

Registration: There is a $40/person charge. Call 239/472-8900 to register. Space is limited so reservations are required.

Directions: Sanibel Island can be accessed from I-75 at Exit 131 (Daniels Parkway) in Lee County. Head west on Daniels Parkway and follow the signs to Sanibel/Captiva. After crossing the Sanibel Causeway ($6 toll) turn RIGHT onto Periwinkle Way. Follow Periwinkle approximately 5 miles to Tarpon Bay Road. Turn RIGHT onto Tarpon Bay Road. Proceed to the four-way stop sign and continue STRAIGHT on Tarpon Bay Road. The road comes to a dead end at Tarpon Bay Explorers gift shop.

6th Annual Matlacha Pass Estuary Day Paddle

Sunday, October 2 from 8:00 to noon -- RESCHEDULED TO OCTOBER 30 (from October 23)

Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserves and Preserve State Park, Friends of the Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserves, Matlacha Community Park, City of Cape Coral, Gulf Coast Kayak, Island Kayak and Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program

Join the Friends on their annual canoe/kayak paddle through the meandering tidal creeks and mangrove forest of Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve. The shallow waters of the estuary support mangroves, seagrass beds, mudflats and oyster bars, which provide habitat and foraging areas for fish, crabs, shrimp, wading birds, sea turtles, marine mammals and other aquatic critters. Easy, intermediate and advanced paddling options are available. All paddlers must return to the launch site by noon.

Registration: There is a $15 charge for FCHAP members and $20 for nonmembers. (Reservations made after September 26 are $5 more.) Children under 16 are free but must be accompanied by an adult in a double kayak. This fee includes maps, refreshments and kayak instructions for novices. Advance registration is required. Call 941/575-5861 for registration forms and information. Alternate date in the event of bad weather is October 23.

Directions: Matlacha Community Park (4577 Pine Island Rd NW/SR 78) entrance is next to the Mulletville Restaurant on the south side of Pine Island Rd. Matlacha is located between Cape Coral and Little Pine Island in Lee County.

Great Calusa Blueway Tour

Sunday, October 2 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

GAEA Guides

Explore San Carlos Bay near Bowditch Point Park on the north end of Fort Myers Beach. During the two-hour paddle you’ll visit a bird rookery, see some of the more than 300 species of birds, dolphins and manatees that use the estuary, you’ll get to know some of the critters that live on the bottom and hear some history of our native Calusa.

Registration: There is a $20 charge (normally $40). Call 239/694-5513 for a reservation and directions to launch location.

Paddle Historic Telegraph Creek and Explore the Babcock Ranch Watershed

Saturday, October 8 from 7:00 to 11:00 am and 9:00 am to 1:00 pm -- RESCHEDULED TO DECEMBER 4, leaving at 8:00 and 9:00 am

Caloosahatchee River Citizens Association (CRCA) and CHNEP

Join us for an exploration of one of Lee Counties wildest waterways, Telegraph Creek, which runs from the Telegraph Swamp through Babcock Ranch into the Caloosahatchee estuary. The four-hour guided trips will explore the watershed of the Babcock Ranch. The waterway is home to a diversity of wading birds, otters, alligators, swallowtail kites, among others. The trips will depart from the WP Franklin Lock & Dam off SR 80 in east Fort Myers. Two launch times are offered – an early morning daybreak at 7 am departure and a midmorning 9 am departure. Each participant will be asked to sign a waiver before the trip begins.

Registration: Free for CRCA members, $5 for non-members. Registration is required as space is limited. A limited number of canoes will be provided so please indicate if you are bringing your own canoe or kayak. To reserve a space call 239/275-3033.

Directions: The trip departs from the US Army Corps of Engineers, WP Franklin Lock & Dam Park off State Road 80, Olga, approximately 6.5 miles east of I-75 in Lee County.

3rd Annual Coral Creek-Cape Haze Estuary Day Paddle

Sunday, November 13 from 8:00 am to 12:30 pm

Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserves and Preserve State Park, Friends of the Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserves, Grande Tours and Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program

Join the Friends on their annual canoe/kayak paddle at Cape Haze. Paddle along the shallow mangrove shorelines of Gasparilla Sound and Cape Haze Aquatic Preserves. Advanced and intermediate paddlers will launch at 8:00 for Catfish Creek. Advanced paddlers will continue to Mound Key for the complete four-hour round trip paddle. Beginners will launch at 9:00 to explore the East Branch of Coral Creek, which leads into the northern interior of the Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park. Highlights of all three paddles will include a close look at mangrove shoreline, seagrasses, oyster bar communities and the opportunity to view magnificent coastal birds. All paddlers must return to the launch site by 12:30.

Registration: There is a $15 charge for FCHAP members and $20 for nonmembers. (Reservations made after November 7 are $5 more.) Children under 16 are free but must be accompanied by an adult in a double kayak. This fee includes refreshments and kayak instructions for novices. Advance registration is required. Call 941/575-5861 for registration forms and information. Alternate date in the event of bad weather is November 20.

Directions to Grande Tours: In Charlotte County drive south on CR 771/Gasparilla Rd approximately 8 miles to Placida. Turn east (right) into the entrance of Grande Tours (12575 Placida Rd) just after CR 771 and 775 merge and before the stoplight near the Boca Grande Causeway.

–––– Guided Walks ––––

Take a Wet Walk on the Wild Side

Saturday, September 24 from 9:00 am to noon

CREW Land & Water Trust

This is a 3-mile, 3-hour long hike along the edge of the Corkscrew Marsh during the height of the rainy season. Come see the headwaters of the Corkscrew Watershed that feeds into the Estero Bay by way of Corkscrew Sanctuary and the Imperial River. The elusive pine lilies will be blooming, along with goldenrods and other fall wildflowers and the water will be cool and wet as we explore this wonderful wetland.

Directions to 4600 Collier County Road 850 (Gate 1): Travel 18 miles east of I-75 from exit 123, trailhead is on the right but not marked on the highway. Look for a recessed grassy parking area and the CREW Marsh Hiking Trails sign at the entrance.

Registration: Call 239/657-2253 to preregister. There is no fee, but donations are appreciated.

Birding on Little Pine Island

Sunday, October 16 from 8:30 am to approximately 10:30 am

Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park and the Friends of the Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserves

Pack up your binoculars and field guides and set out across Little Pine Island. Look for fall migrants, raptors, wading birds and shorebirds. Learn about the ecology of the high marsh – the interface between upland pine flatwoods and mangrove shoreline – and its importance to bird populations. Mariner Properties Development, Inc. has removed exotic plants and restored the hydrology of this now thriving wetland. Wear long pants and sturdy hiking shoes or boots as some areas are wet and muddy. Bring a cold drink and insect repellent.

Registration: Call 941/575-5861 to register for this free event. Advance registration is required.

Directions: Little Pine Island is located on Pine Island Rd/SR 78 between Matlacha and Pine Island in Lee County. The entrance is one mile west of the outskirts of Matlacha. A Mariner Properties Wetland Restoration sign is visible near the entrance. Park in front of the security fence.

Lemon Bay Park Estuary Day Bird Walk

Saturday, October 22 from 8:00 to 10:00 am

Lemon Bay Park

October is a great time to observe the fall migrant bird populations coming to Florida for the winter season. Take a leisurely stroll with Park Naturalist Kathi Rader-Gibson along the shores of Lemon Bay while observing many species of shorebirds that inhabit the area. The group will follow the Eagle Trail through pine flatwoods to observe the bald eagles and other birds of this endearing habitat. Come prepared wearing comfortable walking shoes and a hat. Don’t forget sunscreen, insect repellant and drinking water. The program will begin in the amphitheater just off the trail entrance.

Registration: No registration is necessary for this free event.

Directions: Travel into Englewood on SR 776. Turn west onto Dearborn St. Turn right on Old Englewood Rd. At first bend, turn left onto Stewart St then follow the signs to Lemon Bay Park (570 Bay Park Blvd). 941/474-3065

Stump Pass Beach Fall Hawk Migration Walk

Saturday, October 29 from 8:30 to 11:00 am

Barrier Islands Parks Society and Florida Parks Service

Avid birder Dave Smith will lead this field trip as we scan the skies for hawks, falcons and other raptors that follow the thermals along coastal beaches in their semiannual migration south. Our leisurely walk will allow exploration of a variety of habitats including a Gulf Coast beach, a coastal hammock and mangroves on the estuary side of the island. Songbirds and shorebirds pass these shores in their southward trek over the heads of resident wading birds. Learn about the ecology of these natural communities and their importance to resident and winter migrant bird populations. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring your binoculars, field guide, insect repellent, sunscreen, sunglasses, a cold drink and hat.

Registration: Call 941/964-0060 to register for this free event. This walk is limited to 24 participants.

Directions: From I-75 at Exit 170/Kings Highway in Charlotte County, turn west onto Kings Highway then an immediate right onto Veterans Blvd/CR 776. Travel approximately 16 miles then turn left on Beach Rd. When the road splits, keep to your left. The park entrance fee is $2 for up to 8 people per car.

–––– Wading Trips ––––

CHNEP sponsors approximately 40 wading trips each year.

Seagrass and Sealife of Lemon Bay

Saturday, September 17 from 9:00 to noon -- RESCHEDULED TO MONDAY, OCTOBER 17 AT 9:00 A.M.

Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center (CHEC) and Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program

Search for aquatic critters that reside in the shallow water at Lemon Bay in Englewood. While you explore the grass beds in shallow water, you will learn about the characteristics of estuaries, the needs of these ecosystems and their relationship to the entire hydrologic cycle.

Registration: Everyone is welcome but an adult must accompany children under 18. Call 941/475-0769 to register for these free events.

Directions to Cedar Point Park in Englewood: From I-75 to Exit 191 (was Exit 34) travel south/west on River Rd, cross U.S. 41, continue on River Rd for several more miles. At traffic light, make a left onto Pine St, cross CR 776 at large intersection where Pine St becomes Placida Rd. Travel south on Placida Rd for approximately 1 mile. The Park is on the right.

Charlotte Harbor Estuary Exploration Adventure

Saturday, September 24 from 9:30 to noon

Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center (CHEC) and Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program

Search for aquatic critters that reside in the shallow water at Charlotte Harbor from Ponce de Leon Park in Punta Gorda. While you explore the grass beds in shallow water, you will learn about the characteristics of estuaries, the needs of these ecosystems and their relationship to the entire hydrologic cycle.

Registration: Everyone is welcome but an adult must accompany children under 18. Call 941/575-5435 to register for these free events.

Directions to Ponce de Leon Park in Punta Gorda: Traveling on U.S. 41, turn west on Marion Ave. (This is the first stoplight south of the Peace River.) Travel through Punta Gorda Isles. Continue almost to the end of Marion Ave and look for the park signs on your left.

Mucking About in Pine Island Sound Estuary Wading Trip

Saturday, November 19 from 9:30 am to approximately 11:30

Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserves, the Friends of the Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserves and Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program

Wade into the shallow waters of Pine Island Sound Aquatic Preserve for a closer look at the creatures buried beneath the sand, clustered within an oyster shell, swimming among the seagrass blades, or hidden in a tangle of mangrove prop roots. Explore the ecology of a southwest Florida estuary during the morning’s low tide. Pack up your dip net, hand lens, field guides, snorkeling gear, old tennis shoes or diving booties (no flip flops or sandals please), swimsuits or shorts. Be sure to bring a cold drink, sunscreen, sunglasses and a towel.

Registration: Everyone is welcome but an adult must accompany children under 18. Call 941/575-5861 to register for this free event.

Directions to Battey’s Landing at Pineland on Pine Island: From SR 78/Pine Island Rd drive west through the waterfront community of Matlacha to the four-way stop at Pine Island Center. Turn north (right) onto Stringfellow Rd toward Bokeelia. Turn west (left) onto Pineland Rd which winds around and merges with Waterfront Drive. Park along the road near Battey’s Landing.