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...

In honor of World Wildlife Day on March 3rd, let’s take a look at some of the wildlife that call Hillsborough County home. You won't have to search hard to find them; these spectacular creatures can be viewed throughout Hillsborough County at your nearest conservation park or nature preserve. In 1987, Hillsborough County leadership thought it prudent to conserve land, waterways, and wildlife, ensuring the preservation of these resources for future generations to enjoy. Because of the wisdom of our community leadership, wildlife thrives in our backyards. Here is a sampling of 10 mammals, reptiles, birds, and fish you may encounter in the untamed, undeveloped lands of our County Parks and Preserves. Black Crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax Despite being named because they are most active at night, these birds can be seen in many of our conservation parks during the day. These short, stocky birds live in Florida year-round and primarily eat fish. They’re a communal bird a...

  You may have met the Diamondback Terrapin before, they’re a cute and charismatic turtle that’s beloved up and down the United States East Coast and call Tampa Bay home, too. Mascot of schools big and small – Maryland and Tampa Prep – this creature was nearly wiped out in the early 1900’s and is still facing pressure to survive today. A diamondback terrapin buried in the sand. These adorable spotted turtles with multicolored shells live in brackish waters – a mix of salty and fresh water – on our shores. They like mangrove estuaries, tidal creeks, burrowing in the sand, and are active during the daytime. They eat snails, crabs, clams, worms, fish, and plants. Beginning March 1 st we are giving them a better chance as FWC makes it mandatory to install excluder or “bycatch reduction devices” devices on crab traps in Florida, or to ensure the trap itself has a rigid funnel opening no larger than 2” x 6”. What’s a bycatch reduction device? It’s a plastic piece to attach to the op...

  Valentine’s Day is coming up – and if you’ve got a Valentine, Galentine, or just looking to Treat Yourself on February 14 th – we have some ideas! Bring Them to the Bouquet Eureka Springs Conservation Park  continues to be a favorite “hidden gem” of the county. They rotate much of the greenery you can see seasonally so your trip will be different every season. Take a stroll through the unique park and see stunning orchids, lilies, and more. It’s the perfect place for a sweet escape! In our Nature Preserves be on the watch for wildflowers starting to bloom like Lyreleaf Sage ( Salvia lyrate ),  Walter's Viburnum ( Viburnum obovatum ), and Coral Bean ( Erythrina herbacea ). They’ll put on a beautiful early show before the spring and summer wildflower season fully begins – but remember – look but don’t pick! Get Away for the Night Forget Netflix and chocolates– it’s time for campfires and s’mores. Cooking over a fire, cuddling up on chilly nights, stargazing – ...

  We know you love your Hillsborough County Conservation Parks and Nature Preserves - so we thought we'd make some Valentines for you to share with those you love the most! They feature some beloved species you can find in our preserves and parks, and we hope you enjoy them.