The Lake County Parks & Trails Division is inviting residents to explore Lake County’s outdoor amenities at three upcoming events.
· Explore Your Reserve Hike
Thursday, Jan. 17, from 8 to 10 a.m.
The Pasture Reserve, located on Lake Erie Road, Groveland
Park Rangers will lead participants on a casual hike through a variety of habitats to view plants, mammals, birds and more.
· Quarterly Bird & Butterfly Survey
Friday, Jan. 18, from 7 to 11 a.m.
Ferndale Preserve, located at 19220 County Road 455, Ferndale
The hike will consist of traversing roughly 2-miles through the preserve in search of migratory birds and butterflies that are currently found within the area. Experienced bird- and butterfly-watching volunteers are invited to help conduct surveys of the population, and should be able to identify common bird and butterfly species by sight or sound.
· Paddling Adventure
Saturday, Jan. 19, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Herlong Park, located at 700 E. North Blvd, Leesburg
Lake County Park Rangers, in partnership with the Lake County Water Authority staff, will lead participants by kayak or canoe down the Lake Griffin Run, part of the County’s blueway trail system, for a chance to see wading birds and amphibious wildlife that live on Lake Griffin.
All events are free, and pre-registration is recommended for the hikes, and required for the paddling trip due to space limitations. To maximize the nature experience, would-be participants are encouraged to bring binoculars, field guides, water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat and hiking shoes.
For more information about upcoming events, or to make reservations to attend, call the Lake County Parks & Trails Division at 352-253-4950, email [email protected] or visit www.lakecountyfl.gov/parks. Reservations for the Paddling Adventure event can be made by calling the Lake County Water Authority at 352-343-3777, ext. 0. To view the latest information about the County’s Parks & Trails Program, follow them on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/LakeCountyFLParks.
