GRAND OPENING:
The grand opening was held Thursday May 10, 2007.
CLASSROOM TRAINING &
MEETINGS ARE NOW BEING CONDUCTED AT THE CENTER
Nature Center Volunteer
training is currently being conducted in the classroom at the new nature
center. Call the center at 727-738-2903 to inquire about enrolling in future
volunteer training sessions. The Friends of the Island Parks are now holding
meetings at the center as well. Meetings are open to the public. The
general meetings feature interesting nature subjects each month. See the
home page of this website for meeting dates and times and nature topics.
NEW NATURE TRAIL NOW OPEN
A new self guided nature
trail featuring interpretive signs along the way is now open. This easy
1/4 mile loop is well marked. The trail is located near the nature center
building and provides quick access to visitors. This trail features views
of mangrove swamps and expansive sea grass beds of St. Joseph sound. Look
for the beautiful Southern redcedar trees, Sable palmettos, and various
native plants including prickly pear cactus which blooms in spring and
then produces fruit in mid summer, muhly grass which turns purple around
October, and common wildflowers such as spanish needles and lantana which
are regula bloomers year-round. Various butterflies and birds are commonly
encountered. A gopher tortoise burrow may be found here, and evidence of
raccoon (tracks/scat). Visitors are cautioned to stay on the well defined
trail at all times. Rainy weather may cause the trail to become flooded
in places. Poison ivy, biting insects and sand spurs may be encountered.
Rattlesnakes are present on the island. Closed toe shoes are recommended.
No fishing or kayak launching permitted from the seawall anywhere in this
area along the trail or at the nature center building site.
NATURE PROGRAMS NOW BEING
OFFERED UPON REQUEST
We offer guided walks and
nature programs on a variety of topics. These range from 30 and 45 minute
walks to wildlife obesrvation, to classroom based presentations and workshops
in our media room. Come and learn more about the beach, barrier island
ecology, and the plants and animals that inhabit the island. Please call
the center at 727-738-2903 for details.
Front entrance as viewed
from the Nature Center parking lot. October 7, 2006
Back side of Nature Center
as viewed from the service road.
Honeymoon Island State Park
Nature Center - Welcome Desk
Honeymoon Island State Park
Nature Center - Knotty Pine Interior and New Carpet Installed
The view from the deck overlooking
St. Joseph Sound..