Coastal Habitat Plant Tours

The shoreline around Cedar Key is pieced like a tapestry of different coastal habitats that host an unusual array of both tropical and temperate plants. Barrier islands, aquatic beds, salt marsh, dunes, shell mounds, mudflats, beaches and hammock are all characteristics of this region that will be explored on different trips. These tours offer the opportunity to learn the names and significant characteristics of the plant species that make up these communities and to discuss the adaptations and techniques for plant survival in the harsh coastal environment.

Guide: Colette Jacono, Botanist

Note: Closed shoes, water and a snack are recommended for all trips.

Friday, October 26, 2007

Atsena Otie Island
Topography, wind, salt spray and salt water flooding govern the architecture of the habitats that make up the young and dynamic plant communities of this barrier island. Learn to identify the natural zonation of plant communities that extend from off-shore to the top of the hill.

10:30 am to 1:00 pm. Fri. 26 October - A boating and walking tour of Atsena Otie Island. Pontoon boat will leave from Cedar Key City Park.

Saturday, October 27, 2007

Dennis Creek
A walking tour of the hammocks and tidal marsh of Dennis Creek will open your eyes to the diversity of both fresh and saltwater plants that make up this uniquely beautiful coastal habitat. Boardwalks allow easy island hopping across the upper tidal creek, bridging the trail through hydric woods and brackish tidal marsh during a time of peak flowering.

8:30 am to 10:30 am Sat. 27 October – Be ready for a long walk.
Meet at the small, shady parking lot on the left side of CR 347 located near the end of the road, just before Shell Mound.

Sunday, October 28, 2007

Shell Mound and Fishing Pier
The calcareous substrate of Shell Mound offers unique northern haven to many unusual tropical plants. Learn to identify plant species as you climb the mound and pick up a little ethnobotany along the way. This tour ends with a close up look at the plants growing along the beach and the mudflats that are traversed by the boardwalk to the fishing pier.

9:00 am to 10:30 am Sun. 28 October – Meet at the boat launch parking lot at the end of CR 347.