January 30, 2024 – Flagler County Land Management is hosting the eighth in its limited guided tour series (limited in the number of participants and frequency) called a “A Walk in the Park in the Woods.”
This tour begins at 9 a.m. sharp on February 14 at the Betty Steflik Memorial Preserve and is limited to eight (8) registrants, though 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, well-maintained trails.
Participants who register (an account must be created) – and sign the two waivers: liability and photo/video release – will meet at the park that is located at 815 Moody Lane, Flagler Beach. Registration is open February 1 through 13.
“We will experience the character of Florida’s intercoastal waterway, mangrove forest, salt marsh, island scrub/coastal scrub habitats during this hike, all associated with the spoil islands created during the dredging of the intercostal during the 1930s and 40s. Expect to see and hear many wintering migratory birds,” said Forestry Supervisor Ralph Risch. “Seeing wading birds is a sure thing, and perhaps some shorebirds, too. Cool plants of the barrier and spoil islands will be identified. The high gopher tortoise concentration here means we’ve got a good chance of seeing some if the weather is warm enough.”
Those with questions or concerns should contact Risch at rrisch@flaglercounty.gov, or 386-313-4269.
Those who are participating should:
- Expect a two-hour hike that may have some areas of uneven ground
- Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes
- Bring water, sunscreen, and insect repellent (mosquitoes are reportedly “bad”)
- Bring binoculars
- Dress for weather – wear a hat and raincoat if necessary
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