FIRST SATURDAY OF EACH MONTH
Ardisia pull at San Felasco Hammock, 9 a.m. Contact Coordinator Emily Basile at Emily.Basile@dep.state.
fl.us. Sometimes the war against invasive exotics seems overwhelming but this is a coordinated effort. Persistence stems the tide, and it’s a fun social event.
Saturday, Jan. 17 9:30am Silver River Paddling Outing
Meet at Ray’s Wayside Park...5 miles E of Silver Springs Water Park on S.R. 40 in Ocala. Car admission $5. We will get on the water before 10AM to avoid the noise, smell and nature scaring power boats. There is a county rest area about ¾ up the five mile paddle to Silver Springs for lunch, stretch and/or pee breaks. While we can not get out onto land at Silver Springs, there are spring boils, clear sandy bottoms, lots of wildlife and the atmosphere around the park . . . including piped in monkey calls. It’s about an easy two hour paddle up and less floating back with the current, but we will take all the time to enjoy this unique environmental wonder ( that Jeb’s 100 wants to pipe it’s water down south to feed unsustainable growth) Anyone whose skill level knows which pointed end of the boat goes forward should be fine. All participants should bring the usual gear (including a PFD) for 4 hours on the water, lunch, brave ones . . . swim suits. Kayak rentals will be available. Reservations are required. Contact Knox Bagwell knoxberries@msn.com 352-468-1790.
University of Florida CPR and Safety and Training Department
SOLO Wilderness First Responder
March 6 - 15
This course is designed for outdoor trip leaders or frequent outdoorsmen. It is a comprehensive, hands-on course that lasts approximately 72-80 hours over 7-10 days. It teaches how to diagnose and treat outdoor emergencies. There are skills tests throughout the course and a written exam at the end. For more course information go to soloschools.com and check out the UF website for course schedules.
SOLO Wilderness First Aid
February 14 - 15
This is SOLO's most popular course. It focuses on treating various injuuries, survival skills and outdoor medical emergencies. This class is 16 hours over the course of 2 days. Certification in this course lasts 2 years.
Check the SOLO site for course outline and call to register.
352 392-1161 ext. 4283
Please send your comments and additional outings suggestions to Robert Fisher at rcblast1@yahoo.com or call 352-514-7674.
We have a multitude of interesting places to visit locally.Suwannee/St. John’s outings are planned to inform members on environmental issues and we love kids to participate.