- July 12, 2025
Volusia County's Environmental Management Division invites residents and visitors to explore local ecosystems through a series of hands-on, educational programs throughout July.
Explore Volusia Presentation: Learn about the Explore Volusia program and Volusia County Conservation Lands at the Port Orange Regional Library, 1005 City Center Circle, Port Orange from 2 to 3 p.m. Tuesday, July 1. An environmental specialist will discuss what Volusia Forever and Explore Volusia are and how the County manages over 38,000 acres of conservation land. There will be a question-and-answer period, and participants will learn how to register for paddling, hiking, and eco-buggy tours with Explore Volusia. Registration is recommended but not required for this program.
Estuary Dip-netting Adventure: Explore the salt marsh habitats of Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve, 3283 Sleepy Hollow Road, New Smyrna Beach, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 2. Participants will wade among mangroves and oyster beds, using nets to examine local aquatic life. All ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Closed-toe shoes that can get wet are required.
Bioluminescence Paddle: Join environmental specialists for a night-time paddle through Mosquito Lagoon and explore the beauty of bioluminescence from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. Thursday, July 24, at River Breeze Park, 274 H.H. Burch Road, Oak Hill. Learn about the tiny organisms that create glowing waters during this magical experience. Paddlers may bring their own watercraft or use one of the County’s new sit-on-top kayaks free of charge. Participants must wear a personal floatation device and whistle, and have an electric white light (flashlight, lantern, or headlamp). Ages 10 and up are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Morning Mangrove Paddle: Paddle through the estuary waters of Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve during a two-hour guided morning paddle from 9 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 30. The launch site is at 90 Divito Drive, New Smyrna Beach. The trip will include a paddle among the mangroves and oyster beds and a discussion of their importance to humans and other organisms. The excursion will also feature a trip to Strickland Bay in search of dolphins and other wildlife that frequent these waters. Paddlers may bring their own watercraft or use one of the County’s new sit-on-top kayaks free of charge. Everyone must wear a personal flotation device and whistle. Ages 10 and up are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Closed-toe water shoes are recommended
