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National Estuaries Days 2006
. . . an annual celebration of the majestic places where rivers meet the sea.
The Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program is pleased to announce National Estuaries Days – a time to highlight the importance of estuaries. The official National Estuary Day is Saturday, September 30, but CHNEP is pleased that again too many recreational and educational activities opportunities will be offered locally to fit in one day!
The special events, wading trips, guided walks, boat and paddling tours, wading trips and clean-ups are opportunities to learn about estuaries by experiencing them first hand. The events are coordinated, and sometimes sponsored, by CHNEP but are offered because of the generosity of the program’s partners.
Be sure to check out this website www.CHNEP.org for additional events or changes to those listed here.
Join us to learn more about estuaries the fun way.
Celebrate National Estuaries Days 2006
with Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program
If any additional programs are offered or changes are made to the programs listed in the printed edition of Harbor Happenings, they will be described on this page of the website www.CHNEP.org.
This information is available in Spanish ~ en Español
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. A one-page flier is also available.
Program Update by Lisa B. Beever, Director
CHNEP Working to Help You Protect the Environment by Maran Hilgendorf, Communications Manager
• September 29: Estuaries Live
• September 30: Mote’s Mobile Exhibit at Fisherman’s Village
• October 5: Keeping the Peace: Translating Management Plans into Action
• October 7: Charlotte Harbor Regional Nature Festival
This festival is the signature event for the Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program. This is a one-stop-shop for all things environmental.
• October 8: “Ding” Darling Days begin
• October 14: Family Fun Day—Wild about Wetlands
• October 14: “Ding” Darling Days Eco-Festival - Family Fun Day
• October 21: Estuaries Day Every Day at Bunch Beach
• November 4: Esperanza Woodring Memorial Castnet Rodeo
• September 23: Literary Passage - Charlotte Harbor to Cabbage Key
• September 30: Charlotte Harbor Nature Cruise
• October 6: Oxbow Tour on the Caloosahatchee River
• October 11: Lemon Bay and Barrier Island Nature Cruise
• September 30: Estero Bay Guided Paddle
• September 30: Buck Key Kayaking Adventure
• October 1: Paddle along the Orange River
• October 14: Paddle the Peace in Arcadia
• October 15: Coral Creek - Cape Haze Estuary Day Paddle
• October 21: Myakka Wild and Scenic River Canoe Paddle
• November 12: Matlacha Pass Estuary Day Paddle
• October 6: Harvest Moon Walk
• October 8: Birding on Little Pine Island
• October 21: Take a Wet Walk on the Wild Side
• September 30: Estuary Exploration Adventure
• October 21: Mucking About in Pine Island Sound
• October 25: Seagrass and Sealife of Lemon Bay: A Wading Adventure
• September 16: Florida Coastal Clean-Up
• September 30: National Public Lands Day in Sarasota County
• October 29: Monofilament Madness
Since its inception in 1988, National Estuaries Day has strengthened the partnership between National Estuary Program (NEP) and National Estuarine Research Reserve System (NERR). The two programs protect more than 50 estuarine habitats that have been federally designated as living resources.
The National Estuary Program (NEP) was established by the Environmental Protection Agency in 1987 to identify, restore and protect nationally significant estuaries of the United States. Unlike traditional regulatory approaches to environmental protection, the NEP targets a broad range of issues and encourages communities to develop common solutions. In 1995, Charlotte Harbor was recognized as an “estuary of national significance” and became a National Estuary Program.
The National Estuarine Research Reserve System (NERRS) was established by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in 1972 as a network of federal, state and local partnerships that link programs of stewardship, education and research to enhance informed management and scientific understanding of the nation’s estuarine and coastal habitats. Rookery Bay NERR is located in southwest Florida.
National Estuaries Day is an annual celebration that takes place during CoastWeeks, an annual celebration that since 1981 provides people the chance to recognize and honor the beauty of our coasts to foster awareness, understanding and improved management of the coast.
Program Update by Lisa B. Beever, Program Update
National Estuaries Days 2006 is going to be bigger and better than ever!
National Estuaries Days represents the wide partnership of people and organizations that has made the Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program so successful. It captures the flavor of the variety of our special places, special people, and the special challenges we face in protecting our watersheds and estuaries. I know I have trouble picking and choosing between the fabulous events, boat tours, paddling trips, guided walks, wading trips and clean-ups.
On October 5, members of the Peace River Environmental Education Network (PREEN) is hosting a conference entitled Keeping the Peace: Translating Management Plans into Action. This is one event that displays what partnership is all about. This one-day conference is sponsored by Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program and the Southwest Florida Water Management District, in cooperation with the Lakes Education/Action Drive, Polk County, Cities of Winter Haven and Lakeland, and the Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center. Agencies and citizens will have the opportunity to discuss actions that will improve the health of the Peace River watershed. I will be there to talk about the CHNEP.
Under the category of “everything works out for the best,” our annual Nature Festival will be part of National Estuaries Days this year. It was originally scheduled for February 4, 2006. However, the day had weather severe enough that we were forced to cancel it. Who could have guessed that our “dry season” event would be rained out? Like the phoenix, the 2006 Nature Festival will rise from the soggy mess (rather than the more expected dry ashes) of February and be yet another jewel in our crown of fabulous events. See you at Charlotte County Sports Park October 7!
If you like to paddle, there will be paddling opportunities throughout National Estuaries Days and throughout our area. The locations include the beautiful Myakka Wild and Scenic River, Estero Bay, Buck Key, Coral Creek-Cape Haze Estuary, Matlacha Pass and the Caloosahatchee. The names alone evoke images of old Florida!
Although I have never had the opportunity to join in, I have made room on my calendar to participate in the 5th Annual Literary Passage. What a wonderful idea to combine the experience of being on beautiful Charlotte Harbor and writing about it!
Whatever you choose to do in celebration, let me be the first to wish you “Happy National Estuaries Days!”
Meet the residents of our local estuaries at these many hands-on opportunities. Above Program Director Lisa Beever enjoys a wading trip offered by one of the program’s many partners.
Seventh Annual Regional Charlotte Harbor Nature Festival
Saturday, October 7, 2006 from 10 :00 to 3:00
Free Admission
Charlotte County Sports Park
– SR 776 in Port Charlotte, 2.5 miles west of US 41 –
Additional festival details are posted elsewhere.
“Connecting with nature” is the message that will come to life at the Charlotte Harbor Nature Festival. The Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program is pleased to sponsor the seventh annual festival – a day to explore, learn and enjoy the natural environment of Southwest Florida.
What’s not to like about this action-packed day in the area’s beautiful natural environment? Visitors can participate in activities geared toward all ages, including nature exhibits, local artists, live native animals, musicians, wagon rides and guided walks to the Tippecanoe Regional Park (if conditions permit). Children won’t want to leave the Discovery Zone, which is packed with games and activities. Guest speakers will cover Florida friendly landscaping, healthy landscaping for your pond or canal, sea turtles and more. Food and beverages can be purchased at the event.
Festival organizers have again chosen to make this event free so that as many people as possible can enjoy it.
The festival is funded through event sponsorship and a raffle which will be held at the festival. The event planning committee invites your business, organization or association to be promoted as an event sponsor, joining many others. Your business name can be included in event publicity if you sign up now. To sign up as a sponsor, go to our website www.CHNEP.org.
The Festival is organized and planned by a dedicated group of volunteers representing a diverse number of organizations and associations. The upcoming festival will be planned with the help of an event coordinator. If you have questions or comments about the festival, contact Lori Cook North at 239/287-0780 or lori@eventfulinc.com.
A very special thanks to all of the generous sponsors to date (August 25):
Eagle ($2,500): Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program
Florida Panther ($1,000): Charlotte Sun * Mosaic * Serbin Printing * Southwest Florida Water Management District * WGCU Public Media
Osprey ($500): Charlotte County Utilities g W. Dexter Bender and Associates g South Florida Water Management District
Sea Turtle ($250): Charlotte County Environmental & Extension Services
Dolphin ($100): Charlotte County Visitor’s Bureau * Friends of the Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserves, Inc. * Friends of Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve
September 29 from 11:00 to 3:30
Check out the interactive field trips in four reserves in New York, New Jersey, Oregon and Washington. Go to www.estuaries.gov for details. Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program was featured during both the 2002 and 2003 Estuary Live programs. These hour-long programs cover many topics and are still great learning tools. In 2002, several experts covered topics as diverse as the weather’s influence on our local estuaries (Jim Clarke, NBC-2) and how the Caloosa Indians used our “aisles” (Corbett Torrence, Mound House). In 2003, three groups of experts interacted with local children to explain estuaries, mangroves and how animals use the local waters. The videos (and curriculum for the 2003 program) are available from Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program.
, complete the order form found on the website www.CHNEP.org.
Mote’s Mobile Exhibit at Fishermen’s Village
Saturday, September 30 from 10:00 to 3:00
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. Join King Fisher Fleet for their afternoon Charlotte Harbor Nature Cruise. (See boat tours)
Directions: Fishermen’s Village is in Punta Gorda, Charlotte County. Take Exit 164 from I-75, travel three miles west and watch for Fishermen’s Village on the right side.
Keeping the Peace: Translating Management Plans into Action
Frida
y, October 5 from 8:00 to 5:00
Management agencies will present information about protection and management of the Peace River, plans to protect it and actions required for the future health of the river. The conference will provide an exchange of information between the agencies and citizens most concerned with the management of the river.
This conference is sponsored by Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program and the Southwest Florida Water Management District, in cooperation with the Lakes Education/Action Drive, Polk County, Cities of Winter Haven and Lakeland and the Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center. This conference is a cooperative effort organized by members of the Peace River Environmental Education Network (PREEN). Contact Johnna Martinez at Lakes Education/Action Drive (LE/AD) with questions: 863/221-5323, lakeseducation@hotmail.com.
Registration: Register to attend by September 22 by completing the online form found at www.CHNEP.org. Registration is free but space is limited so registration is required. Lunch will be provided to registered participants.
Directions: Bob Crawford Building (605 East Main Street) in Bartow, Polk County.
Additional conference details are posted elsewhere.
October 8 to 14 with Eco-Festival: Family Fun Day is on Saturday, October 14 from 9:00 to 4:00
Enjoy nature activities for the whole family from hands-on children’s activities, butterfly house, bird carving demonstrations, environmental displays and informational booths. Talks will be given throughout the day. Family Fun Day is a free event but the Sanibel Causeway toll is $6/car. For more details, visit www.dingdarlingdays.com or call 239/472-1100 x 221.
This 17th annual week-long celebration is offered by U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society, the Lee County Tourist and Development Council, the Fort Myers News-Press and Tarpon Bay Explorers.
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 celebrates National Wildlife Refuge Week and the birthday of Jay “Ding” Darling, the refuge’s namesake and father of the Duck Stamp program. It is a week-long celebration that includes free birding tours, kids fishing day, ivory-bill spotter photo workshop and presentation, children’s nature author, live animals, and more.
Family Fun Day – Wild about Wetlands
Saturday, October 14 from 10:00 to 3:00
Join the Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium as we explore the role and significance of Southwest Florida’s wetland ecosystems. Learn about wetlands – from estuaries to freshwater swamps – through hands-on activities, wet walks along our trails, animal presentations highlighting local wetland wildlife, and some wacky wet games for children
Directions: From north or south of Fort Myers, take I-75 to exit 136. Turn west on Colonial Blvd. Turn right onto Ortiz Ave. at the first traffic light.
Registration: No registration required. This event is included in regular admission to the Center ($8 for adults, $5 for children ages 3-12) and free for children under three. Nature Center members are free.
Estuaries Day Every Day at Bunche Beach
Saturday, October 21 from 9:00 to 1:00
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. This event is offered by Lee County Parks & Recreation.
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
Esperanza Woodring Memorial Castnet Rodeo
Saturday, November 4 from 8:00 to 1:00
Free castnet lessons and demonstrations are provided early in the day followed youth and castnet competitions at this 13th annual rodeo. Educational information will be provided and tackle representatives will give seminars. For additional information, call 239/472-1618 or visit www.thebaitbox.com.
Registration is required to participate in the castnet competition. Prizes will be awarded. All proceeds from this event will be donated to Solutions To Avoid Red Tide (START).
Directions: The Bait Box (1041 Periwinkle Way) on Sanibel, Lee County.
Literary Passage: Charlotte Harbor to Cabbage Key
Saturday, September 23 from 9:00 to 4:30
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. This fifth annual cruise is offered by the Peace River Center for Writers and Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program. It will be on a King Fisher Fleet vessel docked at Fisherman’s Village in Punta Gorda.
Registration: There is a $25 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 from I-75 in Charlotte County, travel three miles west and watch for Fishermen’s Village on the right side.
Charlotte Harbor Nature Cruise
Saturday, September 30 from 2:00 to 3:30
Sit back and enjoy the afternoon on glorious Charlotte Harbor. The one-and-a-half hour narrated tour is a great introduction to beautiful Charlotte Harbor with King Fisher Fleet.
Registration: No registration is necessary. In support of Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program, ticket price has been reduced to $10, $5 for kids 3-11 and free for kids under age 3. Call 941/639-0969 for additional information.
Directions to King Fisher Fleet /Fishermen’s Village: Take Exit 164 from I-75 in Charlotte County, travel three miles west and watch for Fishermen’s Village on the right side.
Lemon Bay and Barrier Island Nature Cruise
Wednesday, October 11 from 8:30 to 10:30 A.M. and 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M.
Enjoy these guided cruises that will travel to natural creeks within Lemon Bay then out to the Gulf of Mexico through Stump Pass. Bring your own drinks, hat, sunscreen and binoculars. These free guided cruises are offered by Charlotte County Natural Resources Division.
Registration: Call 941/764-4392 to register for this free event. Seating is limited to 18 people on each cruise.
Directions: The boat will leave from Leverock’s Restaurant (7092 Placida Rd.) in Placida, Charlotte County. From the south, take SR 776 north, left onto Gasparilla Rd (SR 771) to Leverock’s Restaurant on the left. From the north, take SR 776 south, right on Placida Rd (SR 775) to Leverock’s Restaurant on the right.
Saturday, September 30 from 8:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M.
Join Estero Bay Buddies and Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program on the Buddies third annual canoe/kayak paddle on one of three guided trips on the Estero River upstream and downstream from the Estero River Outfitters. Beginner paddlers should arrive by 10:00 for instructions and will canoe/kayak upstream for an hour leaving at 10:30. Intermediate paddlers should arrive by 9:00 and will also canoe/kayak upstream for an hour leaving at 9:30. 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 $10 charge. Call 239/992-4050 by September 29 to register those who will be in your party, kayak or canoe preference and which trip is preferred. Space is limited.
Directions: Estero River Outfitters (20991 South Tamiami Trail) is located 1/4 mile north of Corkscrew Road on U.S. 41 in Estero, Lee County.
Saturday, September 30 from 10:00 to noon
Celebrate our local estuaries and the preservation of Buck Key with Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation in cooperation with Captiva Kayak Company. Kayak in and around this unique island within the Pine Island Sound Aquatic Preserve with a SCCF naturalist. You’ll learn about the estuary system, human history of the area and the work of the Conservation Foundation’s Marine Laboratory. 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. Detailed directions to Captiva Kayak and necessary items to bring will be explained when reservations are made.
Directions: Meet at Captiva Kayak Company in McCarthy’s Marina off Andy Rosse Lane on Captiva in Lee County.
October 1 from 9:00 to 11:00 A.M.
Explore the Orange River near Manatee Park with Lee County Parks and Recreation. This guided paddle will allow you to experience various flora and fauna along the beautiful Orange River. Participants should arrive no later than 8:30 to be outfitted with equipment. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Beginners are welcome. Bring drinking water and sunscreen.
Registration: There is a $20.00 charge. Register online at www.leeparks.org or by calling 941/461-7440. CORRECTION: The phone number to call is 239/707-1307. Registration code # 2007R28012. For more information contact Nancy Kilmartin at 941/707-1307. CORRECTION: The phone number to call is 239/707-1307.
Directions: Manatee Park is located at 10901 Palm Beach Blvd. (SR 80) in Lee County. Take I-75 exit 141 east 1.3 miles. The Park is located directly across the road from the FPL Power plant.
Friday, October 6 from 9:00 to 11:30 A.M.
Come on a relaxing guided paddle of the oxbow islands on the Caloosahatchee with Lee County Parks & Recreation staff. The paddle starts at the Caloosahatchee Regional Park with a short introduction to kayaking. The group will paddle the original path of the river, stopping at an oxbow island to explore and learn the history of the river. Minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Bring drinking water and sunscreen.
Registration: Register either online at www.leeparks.org or by calling Mark Hammond at 239/461-7440. Participants are asked to make a $10 donation to RiverWatch.
Directions: The park is located at 18500 North River Road in Lee County.
Saturday, October 14 from 8:00 to 11:00 A.M.
Enjoy this free guided paddle with DeSoto County Parks and Recreation Ranger Lorna Ransom. You’ll see a more natural stretch of the river on this paddle, spotting wading birds, barred owls and alligators along the way. Bring your own supplies (water, sunscreen, etc.) and you can bring your own canoe or kayak. CHNEP is pleased to sponsor this free canoe trip.
Registration: Call 863/491-5333 to participate. The number of participants is limited by canoe availability and expertise. You’ll be asked to sign a waiver.
Directions: Meet at Canoe Safari located in Arcadia (DeSoto County) on CR 661. Canoe Safari is off SR 70 west of SR 72 where it joins with SR 70.
Coral Creek-Cape Haze Estuary Day Paddle
Sunday, October 15 from 8:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M.
Join the Friends of the Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserves on their third 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. Along with the Friends, this paddle is offered by Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserves and Preserve State Park, Grande Tours and Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program
Registration: There is a $15 charge for FCHAP members ($5 for members who bring their own kayak) and $20 for nonmembers. Reservations made after October 9 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 October 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.
Myakka Wild and Scenic River Canoe Paddle
Saturday, October 21 from 9:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M.
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. This paddle is offered by Myakka River State Park.
Registration: Space is limited so reservations are required by October 13. 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.
Matlacha Pass Estuary Day Paddle
Sunday, November 12 from 8:00 to noon
Join the Friends of the Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserves on their seventh 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. Along with the Friends, this paddle is offered by Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserves and Preserve State Park, Matlacha Community Park, City of Cape Coral, Gulf Coast Kayak, Island Kayak and Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program.
Registration: There is a $15 charge for FCHAP members ($5 for members who bring their own kayak) and $20 for nonmembers. Reservations made after November 6 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 November 19.
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.
Friday October 6 at 6:30 P.M.
Enjoy a nature hike at Crowley Museum & Nature Center. Hike the boardwalk to the observation tower and watch the incredible sight of the Harvest Moon rising over the Tatum Sawgrass Marsh. The walk begins at 6:30, but visitors are welcome to come early and explore the pioneer history area and nature trails. Picnic tables are available.
Registration: The walk is free with regular admission of $5 per adult and $3 per child (ages 5-12), children under 5 are free. Space is limited, so reservations are required. Call 941/322-1000 for reservations and more information.
Directions: From I-75 exit 210 at Fruitville Road/SR 780 in Sarasota, travel east 11 miles to the stop sign. Turn right onto Myakka Road and proceed 2.5 miles to the Crowley Museum and Nature Center at 16405 Myakka Road. The entrance is on the left. (Note: Myakka Road doglegs several times, stay with the main, paved road until you see our sign.)
Sunday, October 8 from 8:30 to approximately 10:30 A.M.
Pack up your binoculars and field guides and set out across Little Pine Island with staff from Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park and the Friends of the Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserves. 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.
Take a Wet Walk on the Wild Side
Saturday, October 21 from 9:00 to noon
This is a three-mile, three-hour long hike at CREW Land & Water Trust along the edge of the 5,000-acre sawgrass 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.
CHNEP sponsors approximately 40 wading trips each year. Details are posted elsewhere on the website www.CHNEP.org.
Charlotte Harbor Estuary Exploration Adventure
Saturday, September 30 from 9:30 to noon
Search for aquatic critters that reside in the shallow water at Charlotte Harbor from Ponce de Leon Park in Punta Gorda with Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center (CHEC) staff. 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. This wading trip is sponsored by Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program.
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 park signs on your left.
Mucking About in Pine Island Sound
Saturday, October 21 from 9:15 to approximately 11:30 A.M.
Wade into the shallow waters of Pine Island Sound Aquatic Preserve to explore the ecology of a southwest Florida estuary during the morning’s low tide with Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserves staff. You can search for crabs, whelks, conchs, snails and scallops hidden throughout patches of seagrass and sandy bottoms. Observe pulsating tube feet of a sea star. Seining and cast netting will be demonstrated. 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. This wading trip is organized by the Friends of the Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserves and sponsored by Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program.
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.
Seagrass and Sealife of Lemon Bay
Wednesday, October 25 from 9:00 to noon
Search for aquatic critters that reside in the shallow water at Lemon Bay in Englewood with Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center (CHEC) staff. 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. This wading trip is sponsored by Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program.
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 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.
Saturday, September 16 at many sites throughout Charlotte (8:00 a.m. to noon) and Lee counties (9:00 am to noon)
Volunteers of all ages are needed to help in this international grassroots effort to rid our coastlines of litter, pollution and debris. Lee County has not yet identified locations but Charlotte County will focus on Port Charlotte Beach Complex, Cedar Point, Engelwood and Gasparilla Park.
The annual clean-ups, which are coordinated locally by Keep Lee County Beautiful, Inc. and Keep Charlotte Beautiful, are organized internationally by the Ocean Conservancy. The goals of the project are to remove and record unsightly and environmentally harmful debris from Florida’s coastline and waterways, and raise public awareness about this preventable litter problem.
Volunteers will be asked to record the amounts and types of debris they collect, using provided data cards. The data is part of the vital research needed to ultimately prevent illegal and improper disposal of solid waste.
Registration: To register for Lee County clean-ups or for more information, contact 239/334-3488, klcb32@cs.com, www.klcb.org. To register for Charlotte County clean-ups or for more information, contact 941/764-4390, Glenda.Anderson@charlottefl.com, www.keepcharlottebeautiful.com. An informational meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m. Monday, September 11 at the Charlotte County Environmental Campus (25550 Harbor View Blvd) in Port Charlotte.
National Public Lands Day in Sarasota County
Saturday, September 30 from 8:00 to noon
This 13th annual event is the nation’s largest hands-on volunteer effort to improve and enhance the public lands Americans enjoy. Join Sarasota County at four of its public lands to help improve these properties. The first 25 volunteers at each site will receive a Discover Natural Sarasota County t-shirt. All volunteers will receive gardening gloves and water. Participants should wear field appropriate clothes and shoes and must provide their own hand tools, water, bug spray, sunscreen, etc.
• Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center to remove Brazilian pepper and air potato: 570 Bay Park Blvd, Englewood
• Phillippi Estate Park to remove Brazilian pepper and air potato: 5500 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
• Pocono Trails Preserve to remove air potato: 189 Pocono Trail, Nokomis (just southeast of US 41 bridge over Dona Bay)
• Rails To Trails Corridor (portion behind Nokomis Community Park) to remove Brazilian pepper and trash: 234 E. Nippono Trail, Nokomis
Registration: Preregistration is required to participate. Contact Sarasota County Call Center at 941/861-5000 and ask for Natural Resources. Directions will be provided when you preregister.
Sunday, October 29 from safelight to noon
The goals of the clean-up are to remove unsightly and environmentally harmful fishing line and marine debris from the waterways and mangroves. The volunteers will spend their morning cleaning up the mess carelessly left by others in order to raise public awareness about this preventable litter problem and the life threatening circumstances it poses for marine life. More than 200 boaters, kayakers and jet skiers are expected to launch their boats and physically remove the floating debris and monofilament fishing line.
Registration: To register, or for more information, please contact the KLCB office at 239/334-3488 or send us an email at klcb32@cs.com or visit our website at www.klcb.org.
CHNEP Working to Help You Protect the Environment by Maran Hilgendorf, CHNEP Communications Manager
Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program is producing a 2007 calendar to help remind everyone of the beauty of the local natural environment. If you aren’t receiving Harbor Happenings (this newsletter), please be sure to subscribe by October 20. (The easiest way to subscribe is by completing an online form found on the website www.CHNEP.org.) The calendar will be mailed free to each subscriber of Harbor Happenings and a limited supply will be given to select libraries, nature centers and others for distribution to their visitors.
This calendar is produced because of the generosity of those who have captured the beauty of the local environment in their artwork and by those who have helped select the images to be used in the calendar. If you have any questions, contact Maran Hilgendorf (mhilgendorf@swfrpc.org, 866/835-5785 x 240). PDF files of the 2006 and 2007 calendars are posted on the website www.CHNEP.org.
This year CHNEP is developing two new items to help residents and visitors alike know more about the natural environment. One item will describe the locations where people can go to learn more about the natural environment. A list of these centers and parks is posted on the website for your review. Follow the Harbor Happenings link to find this list. Guidance will be posted on how to suggest additional locations.
The second item will be a primer on the natural environment of southwest Florida – what makes us know that “we’re not in Kansas anymore!” This guide will cover from A to Z on what makes this environment what it is from the subtropical climate to our seasons of rain and drought to hurricanes and lightning to the animals that depend on this blend of conditions. Let me know what you would like to see included in this.
Will you please. . .
• Submit ideas for stories or articles themselves for Harbor Happenings.
• Consider if you would like to receive a supply of the 2007 calendar for distribution to others. (In this request, please explain how and when they would be distributed and where the supply should be mailed. We can’t guarantee that each request can be filled.)
• Review the draft list of parks and centers for the map of special places in the watershed that is posted on the website www.CHNEP.org.
• Submit ideas for topics to be covered in the primer on the natural environment of southwest Florida.
• Read Harbor Happenings to stay current on grants and programs offered!
Thank you for your efforts in protecting the natural environment.
Maran Hilgendorf
Communications Manager
Newsletter Editor
mhilgendorf@swfrpc.org
866/835-5785 x 240