Staff Spotlight, Tay Smith
Environmental Specialist Tay Smith has been working to protect Florida’s natural resources for almost a decade.
Volunteer Spotlight, Amanda Jones
For Amanda, there is something magical about the beach that is hard to put into words.
Volunteer Spotlight, Bruce Eales
A big thanks for hard work and dedication!
National Public Lands Day - Oscar Scherer State Park

Workday at Oscar Scherer State Park, to include hand pulling invasive plants, spreading mulch around playgrounds, litter pick up, & trail maintenance.

Staff Spotlight, Sean Lenick
Being outdoors in the natural world is what fuels Sean’s passions.
Staff Spotlight, Melissa Boyle
As a Unit Diving Safety Officer, Ranger Melissa Boyle assists with many underwater projects.
3rd Annual Winter Bioblitz

Naturalists from Citrus County Parks and Recreation & Crystal River State Park will be hosting an annual winter Bioblitz at the Crystal River State Park Preserve. We will be celebrating and documenting our diverse wildlife and ecosystem engineers as we hike along the scenic Seven Mile Trail.
The event is free and you do not need to be tech savvy or a an avid hiker. Our 7 mile trail is beginner friendly. Groups may be split among naturalists to optimize number of species seen. Participants can stay for as long as parks open.

Birding With Parks: Eco-walk Trail

Join Citrus County Parks and Recreation for an immersive Birding with Parks experience led by Florida Naturalist and Recreation Program Specialist, Alice Mary Herden.
You will have the opportunity to explore the unique and diverse habitats of various locations while taking guided nature walks to observe and learn about the fascinating array of bird species that inhabit these areas.
To ensure an enjoyable experience outdoors, we recommend bringing water, snacks, and any other essential items you may need. There are no facilities available at this location and please be aware that the trail consists of uneven terrain and above roots.
All Birding with Parks begins at 9am and may last for over an hour.
Please RSVP to let us know you will be joining us by calling 352-527-7540

Campfire Dutch Oven Cooking

Join us for a campfire Dutch oven cooking class where we learn Dutch oven techniques, make several cast-iron dishes and then sample them. Pre-register at 352-793-4781 or by emailing DadePrograms@FloridaDEP.gov.

Wild Fruit Jelly And Curd Or Wild Pickle Making Class

Wild foods abound in the park, waiting for educated visitors to sample with expert park staff and volunteers as their guides. We will cook up some wild jelly and make curd or pickles from harvested fruit as available. Please pre-register by calling 352-793-4781 or emailing DadePrograms@FloridaDEP.gov.