Discover Volusia County’s native plants and wildlife during outdoor hikes and indoor programs at Lyonia Environmental Center (LEC), 2150 Eustace Ave., Deltona.
The free programs will begin in the center’s classroom. Reservations are required; call 386-789-7207, ext. #21028.
Here’s November’s lineup:
Tiny trekkers: 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 5. Children ages 2 to 7 can take a short hike, make a take-home craft and listen to the book “Over the River: A Turkey’s Tale.”
Hazardous materials: 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 5. Environmental Specialist Sondra McCulloch will share information about household hazardous items and the best way to remove them from your home. She will also explain how Volusia County is cleanup up debris from the St. Johns River and its tributaries.
North American right whales: 2 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5. With fewer than 350 remaining, North Atlantic right whales are some of the most endangered whales in the world. Right whales have typically been sighted off Florida coastlines between November and April. Learn why these whales come to our area, why they are endangered and what wildlife officials are doing to help protect this species. A drawing will be held for an artist’s original right whale sketch.
Pumpkin science: 2 to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 6. Inquisitive kids of all ages are invited to take part in some fun pumpkin science experiments.
Creature connection: 2 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 8. Visit the LEC for a meet and greet with one of the resident animal ambassadors. Learn what their life is like at the center and how that animal survives in its natural habitat.
Nature at night: 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 9. Learn about the importance of scrub habitat as LEC and Explore Volusia staff lead an eco-buggy ride under the stars in Lyonia Preserve. After the ride, the group will enjoy pizza and non-alcoholic beverages provided by the Friends of The Lyonia Environmental Center. There is a limit of 20 participants.
Lyonia Photography Club: 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 12. Lyonia Preserve has unlimited opportunities for photographing birds, reptiles and plants. Join volunteers from West Volusia Audubon Society for this monthly program series, which includes in-class instruction and field opportunities to hone your skills. All skill levels are welcome.
Woody plants of Lyonia Preserve: 2 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 12. LEC volunteers will teach you all about the Florida scrub ecosystem and common woody plants found in it. You’ll also learn about many of the animals that call scrub habitat their home. Attendees will receive a free native plant for attending.
Turkey trot hike: 10 to 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 13. Join LEC staff for a guided two-mile hike in Lyonia Preserve. Remember those less fortunate this holiday season by bringing a non-perishable food item that will be donated to a local food bank.
Upcycled fall tree collage: 2:30 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 13. Tons of packing materials are used in the United States every year and many of these items end up in landfills. Get creative and recycle these materials into a fall tree art piece. This program is recommended for ages 7 and older. Space is limited to 20 participants.
Water quality in Volusia County: 11 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Nov. 16. Water is one of our most important resources. How do the things we do impact our water quality? Environmental Specialist Kelly Young will explain how residents can be part of the solution to improving the quality of local waters.
Sunset over Lyonia: 5 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 17. LEC staff will lead this relaxing hike into Lyonia Preserve, where participants can enjoy a picturesque sunset.
Beginners guide to hiking: 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 19. Joan and Jack Ferrell will provide basic instruction on walking and hiking skills, as well as appropriate apparel needed. After their presentation, the group will take a 30-minute hike in Lyonia Preserve.
“Be good to yourself” hike: 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 26. Studies show that hiking releases endorphins and serotonin, which help fight off anxiety and improve your mood. Take an hour to appreciate nature’s beauty and refresh your mind during this guided hike along Lyonia Preserve’s blue trail.
T-shirt to tote bag: 2 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 26. Millions of plastic bags are used each year in the United States, and many end up in landfills or waterways. Using reusable bags is one small thing we can all do to be more earth friendly. Bring an old T-shirt to the LEC, and staff will show you how transform it into a fun, reusable tote bag.
Birds and bagels hike: 10 to 11 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 27. Join LEC staff in the Lyonia Preserve pavilion for bagels provided by the Friends of Lyonia Environmental Center. Staff will discuss some birdwatching basics and the Project FeederWatch bird monitoring program. FeederWatch is a November to April survey of birds that visit backyards, nature centers, community areas and other areas in North America. Participants venture out on Lyonia Preserve’s trails to observe some birds and submit findings.
Majestic manatees: 2 to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 27. Children 5 and older and their families can spend the afternoon creating a manatee craft together.
Environmental Earth Keepers: 2 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19. Children ages 6 to 12 can learn about whales. Activities will include a lesson, craft and outdoor experience.
Critter corner: 10 to 11 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 20. Explore the LEC and meet the center’s animal ambassadors. Staff will handle the animals and answer questions.
Saltwater tank feeding: 2 to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20. Join employees at the saltwater aquarium as they feed the center’s marine animal ambassadors. Menu items include krill, seaweed and shrimp. Discover which critters enjoy that menu, their unique eating methods and the important role each plays in the ecosystem.
Wildlife Wednesday walks: 9 to 10 a.m. every Wednesday in November. Volunteers will lead these exploratory hikes through Lyonia Preserve. Wear closed toe shoes, bring water and be prepared to hike on sugar sand.
If you will be walking through Lyonia Preserve, wear closed toe shoes, bring water and be prepared to hike on sugar sand trails.
Lyonia Environmental Center offers insights into Volusia County’s fragile ecosystems through hands-on displays and educational programs. It’s part of the Deltona Regional Library complex at 2150 Eustace Ave., Deltona. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free. Learn what’s happening at the LEC at www.lyoniapreserve.com.
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