The Trailblazer

  On Earth Day this year we’re launching a new program— Nature Journaling ! Don’t worry, we promise you can be great even if you don’t consider yourself an artist or a writer. Before you grab your spot, learn more about ­­celebrating Earth Day in a new way. Nature Journaling has been used in classrooms, homeschools, summer camps, and by hikers and outdoorsmen alike as a tool for all ages to connect deeper with nature. It is a way to document your experiences outside and in turn gain insights into the natural world, become more creative, allow your curiosity to grow, and so much more. People who nature journal have reported that the time spent outside observing and experiencing what’s around them has brought them a deeper calm and improved   mental health. What do you need to start? A journal, of course , and writing tools are the basics. It’s a good practice to bring these with you whenever you go outside so if you feel prompted or notice something interesting you can journa...

Living in Florida, it’s hard not to notice gopher tortoises. They range nearly the entire state and hang out in all the neighborhoods, parks, and preserves that we do. They amble along foraging on grasses and low growing plants, seeming to not worry too much about trying to make it anywhere anytime fast. They’re protected, and as a threatened species messing with them can garner some hefty fines. But why? What makes them so special? Gopher Tortoises often bask in their burrow entrance. The gopher tortoise ( Gopherus polyphemus)  is a “Keystone Species,” or an animal that other animals, plants, and life around it needs to survive because of its impact on the environment. When a beaver dams a river, it provides more opportunities for food and habitat for other animals in the same ecosystem, and removing beavers from that ecosystem will have a severe negative impact on all species. Similarly, the gopher tortoise and the numerous large burrows they dig provide permanent homes, temp...

You did it! You've hiked eight trails (or more!) as a part of the 2022-2023 Hillsborough County Hiking Spree . You've basked in the glory of a goal accomplished and ask yourself... now what? Use this handy guide to wrap up your Spree and trade steps for swag. 1. Double check to make sure you're registered . We forgive you if you were so excited to hit the trails that you forgot. 2. Fill out the Online Hiking Completion Form . You'll need the confirmation email to collect your swag.  3. Step outside and collect your prize! Bring your confirmation to the front desk at these parks or recreation centers: • Bell Creek Nature Preserve • Carrollwood Village Park • Conservation Parks Admin Office • Edward Medard Conservation Park • Gardenville Recreation Center • Jackson Springs Community Center • Lettuce Lake Conservation Park • Lithia Springs Conservation Park • Miller Park & Life Center • Ruskin Recreation Center 4. Show off your new swag on social...