Let's Celebrate the Estuary!

Migratory birds visiting the estuary.

For most of my life I have lived in an “asphalt jungle” – a place where pigeons were about the only birds you ever saw. When I moved to Florida, I was amazed at how beautiful birds like egrets, blue herons or even cardinals were everyday occurrences in your backyard! But that’s nothing compared to the variety of habitat all around on a daily basis at the estuary.

National Estuaries Week, a salute to the estuaries, is celebrated across the country from Sept. 16-23 with special events like workshops, beach cleanups, canoe and kayak trips, and festivals to recognize the role these special places play in our everyday lives. These events are a great opportunity to learn more about estuaries and a perfect excuse to spend time at one in your area!

Yikes, a baby alligator!

In fact, if you live in the Jacksonville or St. Augustine areas in Florida, you’re in luck. The GTM Research Reserve or its very long name, Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve will be hosting Estuary Fest on Saturday, Sept. 23 from 10 am-2 pm at the Environmental Education Center in Ponte Vedra Beach.

Free face painting at Estuary Fest!

The best part is that this family-friendly event loaded with lots of activities is free! Well, you might bring along some cash for the food truck, but the parking, face painting, scavenger hunt, games, live music, dance parties, and lots of booths sharing information about estuaries are free! There will also be booths with arts and crafts and the Reserve’s ambassador, Terry-the-terrapin will be on hand. I warn you, she will win your heart!

Terry-the-terrapin, estuary ambassador

If you venture out, please say, “Hello.” I’ll be there helping out!

Let's celebrate our love of estuaries.