Friends of Cuscowilla and the Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center are hosting an Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, April 22, 2023, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center (210 S.E. 134 Avenue, Micanopy). The morning event includes planting and nature-related activities for the entire family. All activities are free and open to the public.
Activities include birding walks, archery, arts and crafts, catch and release fishing, disc golf, music, tours, tabling by environmental groups, and a food truck. Archery, disc golf, and fishing equipment will be provided. This is the second Earth Day Celebration hosted at Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center.
Camp Manager Jamie Bass said, "This is a great way for people to come out and enjoy the park and see what all Cuscowilla has to offer."
"Last year, we established the butterfly garden and planted trees in the new parking lot islands," said Friends of Cuscowilla Vice President E. Jane Luzar. "This year, we will continue our tradition of planting trees, shrubs, and flowers. We have added child-focused activities to celebrate nature and showcase the many improvements made to Cuscowilla during its renovation. Our many partners have designed a variety of activities to create a fun learning environment at the celebration."
Friends of Cuscowilla is hosting a Teacher Training program that morning. K-12 teachers will explore pond and upland ecosystems using the 'Project Wild: Aquatic Wild' curriculum. Stipends and instructional materials will be provided to all pre-registered participants who complete the course.