December 2021 Explore Volusia Programs
The following programs are offered through the Explore Volusia program. They are free unless otherwise noted.
EcoBuggy - Longleaf Pine Preserve December 8, 2021 9:00 - 11:00 am Wednesday
Take a ride through the uplands of Longleaf Pine Preserve. Participants will learn about the importance of the
Florida scrub habitat, and a keystone species, the gopher tortoise. During this trip participants will travel from
scrub to wet flatwoods and compare the biodiversity during the transition. Meet near 4201 Pioneer Trail, New
Smyrna Beach (some units might say Daytona Beach, but it should be the same address) 32124. The address
will take you about a 1/4 mile east of the meeting location, I will place yellow signs to show everyone exactly
where to turn into.
Frisbee Golf and Learn - Doris Leeper Preserve December 9, 2021 9:00 - 11:30 am Thursday
Bring your Frisbees and hiking shoes for this fun way to get to know one of Volusia County’s most popular
preserves. Participants will learn about the local flora and fauna while enjoying an introduction to Frisbee golf.
Please bring your own Frisbees and meet at 2317 Creek Shore Trail, New Smyrna Beach, FL.
Eco Buggy Tour – Lyonia Preserve December 11, 2021 9:00 – 10:30 am Saturday
Learn about the importance of scrub habitat as LEC staff, in partnership with Explore Volusia, guide you on an
Ecobuggy ride through this unique area. Participants should dress appropriately for the weather, bring water,
and keep an eye out for scrub jays, gopher tortoises and other wildlife. Please call LEC at 386-789-7207 Ext.
#21028. Meet at the Lyonia Environmental Center, 2150 Eustace Ave. Deltona, 32725
Volunteer and Learn – Stetson Aquatic Center December 13, 2021 9:00 – 11:00 am Monday
December 5th is World Soil Day. Take a walk through the grounds of the Stetson Aquatic Center to learn about
gardening practices that highlight native Florida plants. For our volunteer activity, we’ll be weeding, planting
and mulching the gardens. Meet at 2636 Alhambra Ave, Deland.
Volunteer and Learn: Storm Drain Marking December 15, 2021 9:00 – 11:00 am Wednesday
Where does the water go? During this Storm Drain Marking program, volunteers will visit neighborhoods in
Northeast Volusia County to learn the impacts of storm water. Volunteers will mark the storm drains with “no
dumping” curb markers and learn about how fertilizers and other contaminants from neighborhoods harm the
lagoon. Help us to raise awareness about non-point source pollution and impacts on our water bodies.
Participants will meet at Michael Crotty Bicentennial Park at 1800 N. Ocean Shore Blvd., Ormond Beach.
Volusia County Environmental Management • 123 West Indiana Ave. Room 202
DeLand, FL 32720 • (386-) 736-5927
www.volusia.org/explorevolusia
Volusia County, Explore Volusia Programs REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED // CALL 386-736-5927
Guided Hike – Palm Bluff Conservation Area December 16, 2021 1:00 – 2:30 pm Thursday
Take a hike through St. Johns River Water Management District’s Palm Bluff Conservation Area and explore distinct
natural plant communities. With the wide variety of habitats, this is a great place to go birding. Visitors may see a
variety of species from bluebirds and brown-headed nuthatch, to turkeys, wading birds and raptors. Meet in
Samsula at parking area east of CR 415, approximately 9.5 miles south of SR 44, and 1.9 miles north of Howland
Blvd.
Bike for whales - Esther Park December 17, 2021 9:00 – 11:00 am Friday
Take a leisurely ride from Ester Park to Ponce De Leon Inlet and back (approximately five-mile total trip).
During the ride participants will be encouraged to search the nearshore area for the endangered right
whale. While we may not see one of these wonderful creatures due to their limited population, participants
will learn about the majestic animals feeding, migrations, and general biology. We’ll also learn about other
marine mammals. Participants are required to wear a helmet and bring their own bicycle (large tired bike
recommended). Meet at 551 Esther St. New Smyrna Beach, 32169.
Bike-About – Longleaf Pine Preserve December 18, 2021 9:00 - 10:30 am Saturday
Take a leisurely early morning ride through Longleaf Pine Preserve’s flatwoods, cypress domes and
swamps. Participants will learn about the plants and animals of the wetlands. Bike and helmet required
Meet at the east entrance, 4551 Pioneer Trail, New Smyrna Beach.
Volunteer and Learn – Beach Clean up December 20, 2021 2:00 – 4:00 pm Monday
Participants will learn about the gifts we get from the ocean and some simple things we can do to give
back to the ocean. The gifts from the ocean are even more valuable than the gifts Santa will bring! We will
clean up the beach as a first step to giving back to the ocean. Participants will meet at 2705 S Atlantic
Ave, Daytona Beach.
Waterbody Paddle – Dunlawton Bridge December 21, 2021 9:00 – 11:00 am Tuesday
Bring a canoe, kayak, or SUP for a leisurely paddling trip to view local wildlife and beautiful scenery. Leaving
from the north side of the Dunlawton bridge participants may encounter marine mammals while exploring
the waters of the Halifax River. Must have Kayak/Canoe/SUP, life preserver and whistle. Meet at 93
Dunlawton Ave, Port Orange, FL 32127
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