With acres upon acres of state and county parks throughout our area, St. Augustine and St. Johns County are the perfect places to get outside and learn. From yoga on the beach to wildlife education and fishing instruction, there’s plenty to do this month. So we’ve rounded up eleven talks, tours, classes, and lectures hosted by the state and county parks that are happening during the month of September. Start the fall season by exploring the world around you!
Beach Walk
GTM Research Reserve Marineland
September 4, 9-11am
Wander the beaches near Marineland alongside a GTM Research Reserve Guide. The guide will point out shorebirds, mollusks, and shells, as well as local geology and teach about sand and its composition, what causes it to be different colors, and the dynamics of the movement of the shore. They’ll also discuss the local flora and fauna and rock systems. The tour is free, but reservations are required.
www.gtmnerr.org/event/marineland-beach-walk-5
Fishing Clinic 101
Trout Creek Marina
September 4, 9:30-10:30am
Fishing 101 covers everything from fishing regulations, what bait to use, different nets, fish identification, fish cleaning, and how to tie a knot. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and a water bottle, as well as a fishing rod and reel with fishing line. The program is free. For more information or to register, contact Josh Bratovich at [email protected] or 904.209.0320.
www.sjcfl.us/CountyNaturalist
Beach Cleanup at Vilano Beach
Vilano Beach Access
September 5, 10-11:30am
Join Park Naturalist Kelly Ussia in being good stewards of our beaches and participate in a beach cleanup at Vilano Beach. All necessary supplies will be provided. Plan accordingly for water, weather, sun, and bugs. For more information, contact Kelly Ussia at 904.209.0335 or [email protected].
www.sjcfl.us/CountyNaturalist
First Friday Garden Walk
Washington Oaks State Park
September 7, 10am
Join park rangers in the garden for a special walk on the first Friday of each month. The walk will introduce guests to the history and variety of the gardens and ecosystems of one of the area’s most unique state parks. Washington Oaks sprawls 425 acres of coastal preserve. The garden walk is free with park admission.
www.floridastateparks.org/washingtonoaks
Nocatee Kayak Trip
Palm Valley Boat Ramp
September 8,9, and 11
Participants in these three tours will be able to explore the beauty of the Intracoastal Waterway and its wildlife and ecosystems alongside a park naturalist. The cost of the tour is $30 per person ($20 for St. Johns County residents) for people bringing their own kayaks and $50 per person ($40 for SJC residents) for those who will be using a county kayak. Email [email protected] or call (904) 209-0335 for reservations.
www.sjcfl.us/CountyNaturalist
Family Seining
GTM Research Reserve
September 8 and 22, 9am
On the second and fourth Saturdays of each month, the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (GTMNERR) hosts classes for the whole family to learn how to use seine nets to collect various fish and crab species. The free event is led by a naturalist and all necessary gear is provided.
www.gtmnerr.org/gtmevents/category/public-outreach/family-seining
International Coastal Cleanup Day
GTM Research Reserve
September 15, 8am-12pm
Join the ranks of volunteers in 91 countries for a global effort to keep our shorelines clean and beautiful. The local effort will take place on on the beaches from Marineland to Flagler Beach. The GTM Research Reserve Environmental Education Center will act as headquarters for volunteers to check in and pick up supplies. Volunteers should bring a water bottle and dress for the weather.
www.scenica1a.org
B.A.R.K. in the Park
Fort Matanzas National Park
September 15, 10am-12pm
Fort Matanzas is hosting an event where participants can take their dogs on a guided nature walk around the park. A veterinarian will be available to talk about dog health and safety in the outdoors, and an Audubon volunteer will take about how to mitigate the impact dogs can have on the environment and wildlife. Participants should bring a six-foot leash for their dogs, water, and a bag to pick up dog droppings. Register by calling (904) 471-0116 or emailing [email protected].
www.nps.gov/foma
Turtles of Florida
St. Johns County Library, Southeast Branch
September 18, 10:30-11:30am
Join Park Naturalist Kelly Ussia for a family-friendly presentation about the different turtles found throughout the State of Florida. Ever wonder about the turtles in the pond behind your house? Or the tortoise you saw walking around the park? Now is your chance to learn about these unique reptiles that live in many different habitats. The program is free. For more information, contact Kelly Ussia at 904.209.0335 or [email protected].
www.sjcfl.us/CountyNaturalist
Living with Snakes & Gators
St. Johns County Library, Main Branch
September 21, 1:30-2:30pm
Join Park Naturalist Kelly Ussia for a family-friendly presentation about the snakes and alligators found throughout the State of Florida (and maybe even in your backyard!). Learn about the various species of snakes in our areas as well as how to live with these amazing neighbors. The program is free. For more information, contact Kelly Ussia at 904.209.0335 or [email protected].
www.sjcfl.us/CountyNaturalist
Yoga for Kids at the Beach
St. Augustine Beach Pier
September 21, 4-4:45pm
Let your little ones learn to relax their mind and body with some simple, kid-friendly stretches, exercises, and activities. Loose clothing is suggested, and you will need to bring your own towel or mat. The program is free and open to kids 5-12 years old. For more information, contact Kelly Ussia at 904.209.0335 or [email protected].
www.sjcpls.org/events/kids-beach-yoga-pier-pavilion-sign-up-online
Find more events in St. Augustine by visiting our online calendar of events!
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