ST. LUCIE, Fla. — The Oxbow’s Junior Oxbow Explorers (J.O.E.) program will explore native Florida on Saturday, Dec. 9 from 10 a.m. to noon.
Participants can strap on their boots or lace up their sneakers and join the Oxbow staff to explore the habitats of the Spruce Bluff Preserve. Like the Oxbow, this property is one of many nature preserves managed by St. Lucie County’s Environmental Resources Department. Spruce Bluff Preserve is the perfect place to experience a variety of Florida habitats including Pine Flatwoods, Bay-Gall Swamp, Depression Marsh and the endangered Florida Scrub. Learn about the plants and animals that make these unique environments their home. You’ll even get a chance to investigate an ancient burial mound built by the Ais Indians.
The Oxbow’s J.O.E. program is designed to engage children ages 8-12. Reservations are required and the cost is $5 per participating child. Payment is due at registration. Participants will meet at the Spruce Bluff Preserve at 611 Dar Lane in Port St. Lucie.
The Junior Oxbow Explorer Program is a series that allows participants to learn about habitats, wildlife and the environment through hiking expeditions, hands-on activities, games and more. Future programs include:
- The Science and Art of Leaves – Saturday, Jan. 13
- Trails at Twilight – Friday, Feb. 9
- Environmental Action Day – Saturday, March 10
- Hunters of the Sky – Saturday, May 12
And new for this year – join the JOE Club. Become a J.O.E Club member by participating in any four J.O.E programs this season and filling out the appropriate page in your J.O.E Journal (provided). Membership benefits include: An official J.O.E Membership Card; J.O.E Club T-Shirt; 10 percent discount in the Oxbow gift store; 10 percent discount on summer camps and access to exclusive J.O.E. Club events.
The Oxbow Eco-Center is a St. Lucie County environmental learning center located at 5400 N.E. St. James Drive in Port St. Lucie. To learn more, call 772-785-5833 or visit www.oxboweco.com.
—St. Lucie County, Florida
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