WABASSO ISLAND — Geocaching and Beach Walks are among a variety of activities conducted by the Environmental Learning Center (ELC) during January.
Geocaching is intended for families with children who are at least 9 years old. It is a scavenger hunt for nature’s treasures with the aid of a GPS receiver.
The Beach Walks are ideal for those of any age who wish to explore one of the area beaches with an ELC Naturalist.
Geocaching is lead by ELC Naturalist Sarah Rhodes-Ondi, who will show participants how to navigate the ELC campus to find hidden treasures to take home using these lifesaving, handheld GPS devices. Once participants have mastered the basic techniques, they can be used at Geocaching sites all over the globe.
During the Beach Walk, Rosemary Badger, ELC Naturalist, will help participants find and identify the many natural treasures on our beaches. For example, they may find lady slippers, jingle shells, turkey wings, hamburger beans, and sea hearts. Ms. Badger will explain the origin of each item and how they relate to the ocean’s food web.
Geocaching is scheduled for Jan. 17 from 2-3:30 p.m. The cost is $12/family ($10 for ELC members.)
Beach Walks are scheduled for Jan. 18 from 10:30-11:30 a.m. The cost is $10/family ($8/family for ELC members.)
Reservations are required and can be made by calling (772) 589-5050.
The Environmental Learning Center is located north of Vero Beach off CR 510 at the western end of the Wabasso Bridge. Its campus includes exhibit areas, native plant gardens, picnic facilities, gift shop, and visitor center.
ELC membership benefits, a list of its many field excursions, EcoVentures, including nature walks, canoe excursions, and boating adventures can be found at www.DiscoverELC.org.
Admission is $5 per person, children 12 and under free, and ELC members receive free admission year-round.
The first Saturday of every month is free to all.