Join Scenic Jacksonville
Scenic Jacksonville aims to preserve, protect and enhance the scenic character and beauty of Jacksonville. If you support that mission and
would
accept Scenic America's Seven Principles of Scenic Conservation, consider becoming a member of Scenic Jacksonville. There is no fee to join; it's free! Info: www.scenicjax.org/get-involved/membership.
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Ponte Vedra Program- Monday, May 1st 6:00 p.m.
Protecting Our Trees
The Northeast Florida Group of the Sierra Club is working to highlight the importance of trees to a healthy, vibrant community. This presentation will help to build awareness of the benefits of the urban tree canopy and to form comprehensive plans to preserve this vital resource. Topics will include environmental, economic and psychological values of trees and green infrastructure. Proper trimming, the benefits of the use of certified arborists and a discussion of tree protections through the Jacksonville City Charter Amendment and the Tree Ordinance are included. This presentation speaks for the trees and our planet.
All are welcome! For further information contact Brian Paradise at (904) 710-0479. The program will be held in the Friends of the Library meeting room on Library Road at A1A (blinking light south of the intersection of A1A and Solana Road, on A1A about two miles south of Butler Boulevard).
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Jacksonville Program-
Monday May 8th, 6:45p.m.
Interpreting the State of the River Report for our St Johns River
Please join us for our May Sierra Club meeting to be held May 8, 2017 in Lakewood Presbyterian Church, 2001 University Blvd W, rear of the education building. Social time is from 6:30-7:00 with the program starting at 7:00pm. All are welcome. Free.
Our speaker, Dr. Anthony Quellette, a professor of Biology at JU, will give us an overview of the State of the River Report for the Lower St Johns River. Published annually by a team of university researchers, the report analyzes four main areas of river health: water quality, fisheries, aquatic life and contaminants. He will explain some of the data as well as how the data inform us about the health of the river.
Andy loves science and especially sharing it. He and his students use molecular, analytical and microbiological techniques to understand aquatic bacteria, particularly Vibrio, which thrive in local estuaries and Microcystic, which cause algal blooms in portions of the St Johns River. He also leads a new video project "The Science of .... " which highlights science and nature with northeast Florida connections.
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| John Muir Birthday Hike in Guana |
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Please consider making a donation to our organization for a new laptop. We need to replace our outdated technology in order to continue to produce our newsletter. Donations can be made via PayPal at
this link. We do appreciate any contribution large or small.
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Britain finds that Climate Change Action Pays Off
Prior to the Rio Earth Summit
25 years ago, John Major, then British Prime Minister, predicted that reducing Britain's carbon emissions in accordance with the recommendations of climate scientists would not harm Britain's economy. At the time Major said, "Our initial measures will bring a worthwhile economic payoff to the country, to business and to ordinary people".
A quarter of a century later, the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit has found that Britons grow richer faster of any other G7 nation while, at the same time, the carbon footprints of Britons have fallen faster than that any other G7 nation.
Michael Howard, who was the Environment Secretary in the Major administration argues that the following principal factors were responsible for this situation:
- Britain started early
- British companies in low-carbon goods and services turn over large trade revenues
- The British government rationalized that climate change presented unacceptable risks for the future
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There Goes the Neighborhood~
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It seems like our wild places are under attack-- if not our preserved land itself, the areas surrounding them. These articles are about the public vs property rights Sierra is helping to address.
CUMBERLAND ISLAND NATIONAL SEASHORE
Have you hiked Cumberland Island off the coast of St. Marys Georgia? Those of us who have experienced this rare United Nations Biosphere Reserve know that the Island is a jewel of nature and its own quiet paradise.
Last fall, Cumberland was threatened by a "hardship variance" (granted by the County despite the applicants' failure to meet a single one of the five criteria) that would allow a 10-unit "family compound" on 88 acres adjacent to the Sea Camp campgrounds. But that was just the camel's nose under the tent because now, at other private owners' urging, the Camden County Board of Commissioners want to re-zone 1,000 acres of remaining inholdings to allow for development - up to 800 houses depending upon the density the County chooses. Rezoning for development would signal the beginning of the end for this fragile and extraordinary international treasure.
How can you help?
1. Participate in public meetings. (The Clay County Commissioners
meet at 6:00 p.m. on the First and third Tuesday of each month in the Commission's Chambers in Woodbine, Ga.) We are organizing NE Florida members/supporters to go on 5/16 and organizing carpools. See our
meetup page
or contact
janestan@bellsouth.net
to let us know you want to carpool.
3. Share your opinion with the Superintendent of the Cumberland Island National Seashore: Gary Ingram. (Contact info)
Here are descriptions of the island paradise as it is now and what is proposed.
GUANA
Guana is a favorite meetup and hiking location for Sierrans and friends. It's a battle over one of the few remaining natural parcels in Ponte Vedra Beach. A group called Save Guana Now is fighting plans to build a 77 home housing development on a piece of land called The Outpost. The 99.3 acres of undeveloped land is currently zoned conservation. The Outpost is adjacent to the reserve. Save Guana Now says the Outpost is an important ecological preserve too.
JEA CUTTING TREES
Sometimes JEA makes a mistake and inappropriately cuts trees.
Did you know if you have a concern about JEA or its contractors cutting trees inappropriately, you can ask the workers to stop while a JEA staff member checks on the rationale for the tree cutting? Also, it is good to take pictures of the tree and its proximity to utility wires. JEA's utility forester, Joe Anderson, can provide the rational for cutting specific trees. Anderson's phone number is 904 738 2391 or
Andejs@jea.com
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Lawsuit seeks Environmental Study for Wall
The Center for Biological Diversity, and Representative Raul Grijelva, ranking Democrat on the House Committee on Natural Resources, have alleged in the lawsuit that the Trump administration has failed to study the wall's environmental impact before gearing up for the construction of the wall. The lawsuit seeks to stop any work until the government agrees to analyze the impact of noise, light, and other changes to the landscape on rivers, plants and endangered species.
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Climate Change Petitions Gathered in St. Augustine
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Climate change petitions gathered in St. AugustineAt the St Augustine Tax Rally on August 15, Sierra Club members Susan Creek and Elizabeth Balashak gathered hundreds of names on petitions which read:
"We urge Northeast Florida leaders to create Climate Commissions that will develop Climate Change Action Plans to inform our residents of the risks posed by climate change and to reduce our local greenhouse gas emissions to achieve America's 2015 pledge to be 26% below our 2005 levels by 2025."
These petitions have been sent to legislative representatives Cyndi Stevenson, Bill Nelson, John Rutherford, Marco Rubio, Travis Hutson, Ron DeSantis, and to the Physicians for Social Responsibility in support of their campaign.
Thanks to Susan and Elizabeth for their hard work.
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Land and Water Legacy Amendment Update
By Andrea Conover, Conservation Advocate, North Florida Land Trust
The Florida legislative session started March 7 and runs through May 5. Legislators are considering various bills for land acquisition and water protection, including proposals for Lake Okeechobee, the Indian River Lagoon and the St. Johns River.
As you remember, 75% of voters voted for the Florida Land and Water Legacy Amendment in 2014 which dedicates 1/3 of the document stamp tax for acquisition and management of conservation lands. But in the past two budgets legislators did not follow voters' intent. Last year they allocated almost $300 million of the land acquisition trust fund for general agency operating budgets.
We know we must keep fighting for conservation lands in our fast-growing state. These funds should be used to acquire properties that protect wildlife, biodiversity, timber resources and recreation. Preserving high priority lands will also protect water quality, the aquifer and springs.
A Call to Action - Visit your state senator and representative to let them know:
Why do you care about Florida's natural areas?
How have the parks and recreation lands affected you personally?
Are you worried about your children/grandchildren's future access to natural lands?
A visit with the legislator (or aide) is preferred over a phone call. A visit has greater impact since a phone call only records whether the caller is for or against an issue. Use icebreakers to make personal connections about your local area. Be friendly, not combative. Ask what s/he cares about in terms of the outdoors: Boating? Hiking or paddling? Birdwatching? Fishing? Hunting? Watching the sunsets?
Find your state senator and representative here.
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Upcoming Outings
Sunday, May 7, 9:30 a.m.: Hike in Dunns Creek State Park Near Palatka
We'll hike 3-3.5 miles along trails to the Blue Pond through four distinct natural communities; including sandhills, mesic flatwoods, baygall and seepage slope. After the hike, we can eat lunch at the nearby Mexican restaurant, Chico's.
Native Americans used this site extensively as evidenced by the fairly widespread shell mound. During the 1920s, a steamboat stop provided wood and water to citrus loaded ships. The area was also used as a post office for the towns of Pomona and Cisco and experienced turpentining, logging, cattle ranching and farming within the last century.
Located south of a sharp bend in the St. Johns River, the 6,300 acre property was added to the state park system in October 2001. Dunns Creek forms the northern and eastern boundaries of the park. The natural communities include sand pine scrub and sand hills covered with longleaf pines and wiregrass which help protect the gopher tortoise and several other endangered and native wildlife species.
Here's a link for more info.
Directions: It will take about 1-1/4 hours from Jacksonville to get to the trailhead. From Jacksonville take 95 south then west on SR 207 for 19 miles through Hastings and into East Palatka. Turn south (left) on U.S. 17. Follow for about 15 miles. Cross the bridge over Dunns Creek and drive through San Mateo and Satsuma. About four miles south of Satsuma, you'll see a sign on the left, "Dunns Creek State Park Blue Pond Walk In Site." This address is close to the trailhead: 1569 US-17, Pomona Park.
Note: Do not go to the day use area of the park at 320 Sisco Road, Pomona Park!
Pls arrive by 9:15 am so we'll be ready to start hiking at 9:30 am. There is a restroom at the trailhead. Fees - $5 per vehicle (2-8 occupants) or $4 (single occupancy vehicle).
Bring water, bug spray, sunscreen, and snack. No pets, please. RSVP on Meetup or to Outing Leader andrea_conover@live.com.
Saturday, May 13, 9:00 a.m.: Kayak Moses Creek Conservation Area
Moses Creek is part of the Moses Creek Conservation Park and it is one of the few remaining undeveloped tidal creeks in the region. The conservation park does not have a proper kayak launch so we will launch from another area gem, Genungs Fish Camp. Genungs was saved from development by a group of Florida environmentalists and is home to the Matanzas Riverkeeper. Riverkeeper Neil Armingeon has a tiny office at the camp but one of the best views around; with any luck we will catch up with him when we return from our 2-3 hour kayak.
Also, you can rent kayak's at Genungs, just give them a call at (904) 471-4144 - and sooner rather than later!
Directions: Coming from Jax or St Augustine, Genungs is on A1A just south of 206 on the righthand side. Coming from the south, A1A North and it's on the left just before the 206 junction. The
address is 291 Cubbedge Rd, St Augustine, FL 32080. Come down Cubbedge and you will see the camp lot on the left.
Please arrive at 8:30 am or earlier to get ready for launch. You must have and wear a PFD and a whistle. Also, I strongly suggest bringing plenty of water and a snack especially if you are
glycemic. Bug spray, sunscreen and a hat are also highly recommended.
This paddle will be limited to 20 boats so if you change your mind about attending at some point, please make sure you change your RSVP on MeetUp to "no" or email me at rifterkayaker@mac.com so your slot is open to someone else. Thanks yakers!
RSVP on Meetup or to Outing Leader Carla Carpenter at drifterkayaker@mac.com.
Saturday, May 13, 9:00 am: Hike Jacksonville's Cedar Point Preserve
Join us for a 5 - 6 mile hike through live oaks and pines with some great views of the beautiful Timucuan Preserve salt marsh.
We'll meet in the parking lot of the preserve, located at 7116 Cedar Point Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218.
DIRECTIONS: Exit on to Heckscher Drive north from I-295 (9A/East Beltway), turn left (north) on New Berlin Road. Turn right (east) on Cedar Point Drive. Drive about 3.5 miles. It is on the right (south) before you reach Pumpkin Hill Rd. If you pass Pumpkin Hill Rd or you go to the end of Cedar Point Rd, you've gone too far. Look for the Sierra Club sign.
Bring bug spray, sun block, and water. No pets, please. Older children capable of long hikes welcome.
RSVP on Meetup or to Outing Leader Bill Armstrong, armsfam@yahoo.com.
Sunday, May 21, 9:00 a.m.: Hike Nocatee Preserve
We will have a repeat of our January outing. It is an easy 5-mile hike on Ponte Vedra's beautiful Nocatee Preserve.
Trailhead sign-in will begin at 8:45 and we will start hiking at 9:00. The trail is well-maintained, running from the northern trailhead just past Ponte Vedra High School to the Intracoastal. It is a multi-use trail. The scenery changes along the way and is both beautiful and interesting. We will walk approximately halfway to the end and then return to trailhead, avoiding most of the flood-prone area. Participation is limited to 30 people.
Directions to Nocatee Preserve:
We will meet at the trailhead parking lot located to the left and behind Ponte Vedra Beach High School. The address for the school is 460 Davis Park Rd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081. Coming from Jacksonville on US Hwy 1 South, take the Nocatee Parkway flyover ramp, follow it for 4.3 miles, and turn right onto Davis Park Road. After you turn, follow the signs to Nocatee Preserve. Go around the school to the LEFT and pass the football field and tennis courts to get to the trail parking lot.
From A1A: Turn onto Mickler Road. Proceed 1.5 miles to traffic circle and take second exit onto Palm Valley Road (210). Proceed 2.2 miles west on Palm Valley Road to Davis Park Road. Turn left onto Davis Park Road, proceed as above.
Carpooling is recommended. Children capable of a moderate 5-mile hike are welcome. No pets are permitted. Restrooms are available at the trailhead.
Bring sufficient water, sunscreen, and insect repellant. Dress for the season. Sturdy hiking boots are advised as the trail is subject to flooding near the eastern end.
RSVP on Meetup or to Outing Leader Mike DiAngelo at mfdiangelo@gmail.com.
Saturday, May 27, 10:00 a.m.: Kayak Thomas Creek
We'll paddle for a total of about six miles on the beautiful Thomas Creek on the northside. The creek winds northeast into the Four Creeks State Forest.
The Thomas Creek Preserve boat ramp is located at 17198 Ethel Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218. Take I-295 West beltway to Exit 32 (Lem Turner Rd/SR 115). Go north on SR 115 about 5 miles. Turn right at the light on Lannie Rd and go about 3 miles. Turn left on Ethel Rd (goes between the prison and the cemetery). Follow Ethel Rd to the boat ramp.
NOTE: Following your GPS often takes you to the prison, so use the directions above to get to the boat ramp.
No rentals available nearby. Bring your own kayak or canoe. PFD and whistle are required. You must WEAR your PFD. Bring bug repellent and water.
RSVP on Meetup or to Outing Leader Bill Armstrong, armsfam@yahoo.com. |
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