Are you ready to learn more about native Florida and how a tree farming operation functions? Here’s some information on what to expect when you come out for a tour.
We Like to schedule tours for the morning and in the early spring and late fall. This gives us a better chance of avoiding the majority of the biting insects and the weather is generally more enjoyable then as well. We also love to show off the beautiful spring and fall wildflower blooms!
Booking
Tours can be tailored to fit your group. We have taken out homeschool groups, birding groups and naturalist classes for adults and kids.
What to expect
We can tailor tours somewhat to fit the group but generally you can expect 2/3 hours of time in the field. We will start out at the cabin which is also our home that we live in. There is a guest bathroom and changing area available. We also have a large covered patio space that is a good spot to enjoy a packed lunch or snacks. You are also welcome to leave a cooler in the shade there if you plan to eat lunch while visiting.
The tour will depart form the cabin and you can leave your car there. We will all hop on open air buggies. The roads are all well maintained but they are dirt and bumpy so be aware of that. At this point we will have previously discussed via email what the main focus points of your tour will be and already established 3/4 stopping points. Some of them might require a short hike and possibly the chance to do some photography or wildlife viewing.
Things to Bring
- reusable water bottle or camel back
- Snacks
- Bug repellent
- Whistle 1 per person (in case you wander off the trail)
- Bug bite ointment (just in case the bug repellent fails you!)
- Sunscreen / lip balm
- A first aid kit (we will have one too)
- Camera
- Binoculars
- A small collection jar in case you find anything interesting that is okay in taking home!
- Any medical items you may need while out such as an EpiPen or diabetic supplies
What to wear
Long sleeved T-shirt. Long sleeved is imports because it gives you extra protection against biting insects and an extra barrier to protect you in case you inadvertently bump up against some poisin ivy or other irritating plant.
- Long pants – blue jeans or hiking pants
- Tall socks that you can tuck your pants into (for tick protection)
- Hat
- Sun glasses
- If you have hiking boots bring them if not closed toed shoes will work fine
- I usually recommend a change of clothes for the ride home but it’s not really necessary
If you are coming on a tour of Wetland preserve LLC please review the Florida Statues pertaining to Florida agritourism operations, including the original 2013 definition (F.S. 570.96) and clarifications passed in 2016 (F.S. 570.85-89).
You may find this link helpful as well.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/wc285
Our schedule mostly revolves around what needs doing on the farm, taking people out to see the operation and explore the woods is something we can only do when we have free time. Please understand we may not be able to accommodate every group that applies to come visit because this is a working farm. Weeks we have open tend to fill quickly and book up months in advance. Please email aw22188@gmail.com to ask about booking.
We do not take payment for these tours. We do however ask that you make a donation in Wetland Preserves name to The North Florida Land Trust. The suggested donation is $100 for groups larger than 5 individuals.
