“Today’s decision is a major victory for Florida in protecting water flows to the Apalachicola River and the ecosystem; and it clearly supports Florida’s position that United States Army Corps of Engineers and Georgia cannot agree to reallocate storage in the Lake Lanier reservoir, to provide more water for Atlanta for instance, without Congressional approval.

“The court’s opinion reaffirms that if the Corps reallocates storage in the lake, it would have significant adverse impacts to the Florida’s environment.”

BACKGROUND

In January 2003, the Corps, Georgia and other parties unveiled a settlement agreement in which the Corps committed to provide Georgia at least twenty years of “interim” water supply storage contracts and to reallocate Lake Lanier’s storage to municipal and industrial uses. Florida intervened in the case and objected to the settlement agreement. The court ultimately approved the settlement agreement despite those objections. Florida appealed that judgment. Today, the court’s decision invalidates the 2003 agreement between the United States Army Corps of Engineers, the State of Georgia, Southeastern Federal Power Customers, Inc. and a group of Georgia water supply providers.

TALLAHASSEE – Secretary Michael W. Sole announced that last week the Department joined the lawsuit filed earlier this month by California seeking to overturn the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) waiver denial. EPA recently denied California’s request for a waiver from federal rules in order to enforce state regulations to limit greenhouse gas emissions from cars.

“Florida is making great strides in our efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, taking a leadership role in the growing worldwide movement to reduce the impacts of climate change,” said Secretary Sole. “We have recognized that automobiles are one of the major sources of greenhouse gas emissions in Florida, an issue that must be addressed to meet the emission reductions identified by Governor Crist.”

Under the federal Clean Air Act, California has the right to establish vehicle emission standards that are stricter than federal regulations, upon approval of a waiver from EPA. Other states may adopt the California standards if the waiver is granted. On December 21, 2005, California requested a waiver to enact and enforce emissions standards to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from automobiles. On December 19, 2007, EPA denied California’s waiver request. On January 2, 2008, California filed a lawsuit appealing the waiver denial in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. With Florida’s filing, more than 17 states have intervened in support of California’s lawsuit, including: New York, Maryland, Minnesota, Iowa, Massachusetts, Arizona, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.

In Florida, the transportation sector represents about 46 percent of the state’s total carbon dioxide emissions according to DEP’s data. Passenger vehicles alone generate 64 percent of carbon dioxide emissions in the transportation sector or 81 million metric tons. Based on current projections, by DEP, Florida’s total carbon dioxide equivalent will top 420 million metric tons by 2020 – approximately double the amount from 1990.

More than 16 states, including Florida, have adopted, or are in the process of adopting, California’s automobile emissions standards. At his event, “Serve to Preserve: A Florida Summit on Global Climate Change” held last July in Miami, Governor Crist directed DEP to initiate rule-making to adopt the California motor vehicle emission standards. Since that time, DEP has held two rule-making workshops and accepted public comment to help draft rule language. While the waiver issue is currently in litigation, the rule- making process will continue to move forward, with the third workshop planned for March 2008.

The Florida DEP can and will continue its rule-making process for the items mandated by Governor’s Executive Order 127, including capping utility emissions and diesel engine idle reduction standards, which do not require the EPA waiver and implementation. However, Florida would be unable to adopt a greenhouse gas standard for tailpipe emissions if the denial is upheld.

On July 13, 2007, Governor Charlie Crist signed a set of executive orders to reduce Florida’s greenhouse gases emissions, increase energy efficiency, and remove market barriers for renewable energy technologies such as solar and wind energy. In the months since the executive orders were signed, Florida has stepped onto the world stage as a major marketplace for advanced energy technologies.

On January 31, 2008, Governor Crist announced his $200 million energy and economic development budget recommendation that builds on the policy framework of the Governor’s executive orders, focusing on increasing energy efficiency, stimulating development of renewable sources of energy, and using markets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

TALLAHASSEE – The Governor’s Action Team on Energy and Climate Change convened today to begin developing Phase Two of the action plan. The Action Team is charged with creating and evaluating comprehensive actions to achieve reduction targets for greenhouse gas reductions specified in Executive Order 07-127. The Phase Two report, due October 1, will focus on mitigating impacts to society, public health, the economy and the environment created by greenhouse gas emissions from new growth.

At last Friday’s meeting, Action Team Chairman Michael W. Sole, Secretary of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, introduced the Center for Climate Strategies as facilitators for the Phase Two process. The Center is a nonprofit organization that works with public officials and stakeholders to identify, design and implement policies that address climate mitigation, clean energy and economic development opportunities. Currently, the Center is working in 16 states to build consensus and develop comprehensive action plans.

“Meeting Florida’s growing energy needs while reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases is one of the most important issues we face today,” said Action Team Chairman Sole. “By having the Center for Climate Strategies facilitating this important stakeholder dialogue on climate change, we can ensure that the people of Florida will continue to enjoy the natural landscape and the quality of life we all enjoy.”

The Action Team, with the Center for Climate Strategies, is creating a facilitated stakeholder process to form Technical Work Groups operating alongside the Action Team during Phase Two. Building on and completing the Phase One report and framework of recommendations that was delivered to Governor Crist on November 1, 2007, the Action Team and Technical Work Groups will explore carbon capture and storage technologies and coordinate a long-term public policy focused on reducing greenhouse gases in areas of economic development, university- based research and development (R&D), energy, environmental protection, growth management and transportation. The six groups will report back in future months to address cap and trade design; electric supply and demand issues; transportation and land use; agriculture, forestry and waste management; government policy coordination; and adaptation.

“By creating the Technical Work Groups, the Action Team will receive full and thorough input and guidance from wide range of stakeholders,” said Chairman Sole. “Partnering experts from various industries with the members of the Action Team, we can shape Florida’s climate change strategies with consensus-based policy solutions.”

The Action Team received public comment at the meeting about proceedings to date and the facilitated process. Further public comment can be provided electronically to actionteam@dep.state.fl.us. To sign up for free email alerts about Florida’s current climate change activities, see the presentations from the meetings, or for more information, visit www.dep.state.fl.us/climatechange.

The Governor’s Action Team is one component of a series of initiatives outlined in three Executive Orders Governor Crist signed at the Serve to Preserve Summit on Global Climate Change in July 2007. Other activities include developing a carbon scorecard for all state agencies and making state buildings and vehicles more energy efficient.

Background on Energy Action Team

Governor Crist established the Action Team on Energy and Climate Change by signing Executive Order 07-128, “Florida Governor’s Action Team on Energy and Climate Change,” on July 13, 2007. The team consists of 21 diverse members, each appointed to a term beginning August 13, 2007, and ending at the pleasure of the Governor. The team will develop an Action Plan to achieve targets for statewide greenhouse gas reductions, including policy recommendations and changes to existing law. The Florida Energy and Climate Change Action Plan will be completed in two phases:

Phase One – Completion Date: November 1, 2007
On November 1, 2007, Governor Charlie Crist received the Phase One report of the Action Team on Energy and Climate Change. The report includes recommendations regarding Florida’s energy policy and incorporating greenhouse gas emission reduction strategies into Florida’s energy future.

Phase Two – Completion Date: October 1, 2008
Phase Two will focus on mitigating impacts to society, public health, the economy and the environment created by greenhouse gas emissions from new growth. The action team will explore carbon capture and store technologies and will coordinate a long-term public policy focused on reducing greenhouse gases in areas of economic development, university-based research and technology development, energy, environmental protection, natural resource and growth management and transportation. The Action Team will also explore adaptation strategies to prepare Florida for adverse impacts as a result of climate change.

DEP Secretary Michael W. Sole serves as chairman of the Action Team on Energy and Climate Change, and DEP staff provides administrative support. The Department of Community Affairs, Department of Transportation, Public Service Commission and the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission will also provide assistance at the request of the chairman.

TALLAHASSEE – Recognizing February as Florida Hiking Trails Month, the Department is joining the Florida Trail Association to encourage Floridians to take advantage of Florida’s extensive trail system and celebrate the 40th anniversary of the National Trails System Act.

“February is a great time for Floridians to promote environmental stewardship and adopt a healthy lifestyle by exploring the more than 4,000 miles of trails Florida has to offer,” said DEP’s Office of Greenways & Trails Director Jena B. Brooks. “We are proud to celebrate Florida’s Hiking Trails Month and the 40th anniversary of an important milestone in the preservation of natural lands and resources.”

The National Trails System Act was first signed into law by President Lyndon Johnson in 1968 to promote preservation of the Nation’s open-air, outdoor and historic resources for public enjoyment. The idea was to create scenic, historic and recreation trails that would share the experiences of the Nation’s native people and pioneers and prevent history from being paved over. Today, the National Trail System boasts more than 40,000 miles of trails, including the Florida National Scenic Trail, one of eight congressionally-designated scenic trails in the United States.

“This legislation created the pathway for the national trails program which now consists of eight National Scenic Trails, 13 National Historic Trails and approximately one-thousand National Recreational Trails,” explained Florida Trail Association Executive Director Deborah Stewart-Kent. “This year we also celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Florida Trail’s designation as a National Scenic Trail.”

The Florida National Scenic Trail is the largest in the state and will ultimately extend 1,400 miles from the Gulf Islands National Seashore in the Panhandle to the Florida Keys. This national treasure includes loop and linear trails on public lands throughout Florida. The sections are built and maintained by volunteers from the Florida Trail Association, in cooperation with the U.S. Forest Service, and include state greenways and trails such as the Cross Florida Greenway and the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail.

Initiated by the Florida Trail Association, Florida Hiking Trails Month emphasizes fun and fitness along scenic and diverse trails, including paved rail-trails, urban trails through cityscapes and wilderness trails through Florida’s award-winning state parks. Florida’s trails are a match for any fitness plan and are perfect for walking, biking, hiking or riding.

The Office of Greenways & Trails (OGT) manages eight state trails, including the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, Florida’s longest green corridor stretching 110 miles from the St. Johns River near Palatka to the Gulf of Mexico. DEP, through OGT, also maintains five rail-trails, which are railroad tracks restored and converted to recreational trails for hiking, biking and skating. Through Florida Forever, the state’s premier land acquisition program, $4.5 million dollars is spent annually to purchase land for future trail areas and build and maintain Florida’s greenways and trails.

The DEP Office of Greenways & Trails supports Florida Hiking Trails Month with the following events:

February 14 — Students from Sabal Palm Elementary School will hike on the Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic State Railroad Trail

February 16 — Blackwater Heritage Trail Citizen Support Organization will host Children’s Mardi Gras Walk on the Blackwater Heritage State Trail in Milton. The event will feature a family walk and costume contest.

February 23 — The Florida Greenways and Trails foundation, Inc. will host Ride-Roll-Run relay on the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway. Teams consisting of an equestrian, a biker and a hiker will compete in a relay competition along the Greenway.

For more information about Florida trails and events, visit www.floridagreenwaysandtrails.com or call 1-877-822-5208. For information about the Florida National Scenic Trail and the Florida Trail Association, visit www.florida-trail.org.

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is joining the Florida Department of Health (DOH) to participate in Step Up, Florida – On Our Way to Healthy Living!, a statewide campaign promoting physical activity and healthy lifestyles for all Floridians. This month, DEP’s state parks and greenways are hosting activities across the state to encourage visitors to Step Up, Florida! and live a healthier life with physical activities such as walking, hiking, yoga or bicycling.

“Florida’s state parks, greenways and trails offer safe and resourceful ways to improve health while enjoying natural surroundings,” said DEP Deputy Secretary Bob Ballard. “Outdoor recreational activity is an invigorating alternative to indoor fitness routines and a great way to stay active and motivated in the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle."

Developed by DOH, Step Up, Florida! is a month-long celebration of healthy living that encourages Florida’s citizens to partake in physical activity and a nutritional diet. This year marks the 5th annual celebration of Step Up, Florida!

Events at state parks and greenways for Step Up, Florida! include:

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – GUIDED NATURE WALK
Jonathan Dickinson State Park, Hobe Sound
Date: Sundays throughout February, 9:00 a.m.
Visitors can enjoy a ranger-guided walk through pine forests and across Wilson Creek or a climb along the Hobe Mountain Tower Trail. Trails may be wet due to local flooding, so appropriate shoes are recommended along with insect repellent.
Fees: Free with park admission.
Contact: (772) 546-2771

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – NATURE and HISTORY QUEST
Bahia Honda State Park, the Florida Keys
Date: Daily throughout February, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Visitors can take a self-guided half-mile walk through six learning stations at the west end of the park.
Fees: Free with park admission.
Contact: (305) 872-9807

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – YOGA on the BEACH
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, Key West
Date: Daily throughout February, 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
While gazing out at the clear blue waters of Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, participants will awaken their inner spirits as Don and Nancy Curran instruct a 1.5 hour yoga session on the beach. Participants may also swim or snorkel off the southernmost beach in the continental U.S. or enjoy two short nature trails and a bicycle trail that loops around the historic fort.
Fees: Class is $15.00, which includes park admission.
Contact: (305) 292-6850 or (305) 296-7352 352

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – GUIDED NATURE WALK
John D. MacArthur Beach State Park, North Palm Beach
Date: Daily throughout February, 10:00 a.m.
Join one of the staff naturalists for a one-mile Nature Walk through John D. MacArthur Beach State Park’s four distinct natural communities and learn about the park’s ecosystems and history.
Fees: Free with park admission.
Contact: (561) 624-6952

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – GUIDED PADDLING TRIP and NATURE WALK
Savannas Preserve State Park, Port St. Lucie
Date: Wednesdays and Saturdays throughout February
Two-hour canoe/kayak tours of the Savannas' beautiful freshwater marsh are offered each Saturday at 8:00 a.m. and Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. Guided walks with a ranger will also be available. Both activities should be scheduled by calling two days in advance.
Fees: $10.00 suggested donation for paddle. Proceeds benefit Friends of Savannas Preserve State Park, Inc.
Contact: (772) 398-2779

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – GUIDED NATURE WALK
Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, the Florida Keys
Date: Thursdays and Sundays throughout February, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Visitors can enjoy a leisurely one-hour, ranger-guided nature walk. Participants should meet at the park entrance; drinking water and comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended.
Fees:Free with park admission.
Contact: (305) 451-1202

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – YOGA on the BEACH
John D. MacArthur Beach State Park, North Palm Beach
Date: Thursday, February 7 and 21, 8:30 a.m.
Yoga instructor Anne Marie Phelan will awaken the inner spirit of participants, while gazing out at the clear blue waters of John D. MacArthur Beach State Park during the hour-long yoga beach session. Participants should bring a beach towel and a water bottle.
Fees: Free with park admission of $4.00 per carload.
Contact: (561) 624-6952 for reservations

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – WILDLIFE WALK
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, south of Gainesville
Date: Saturday, February 9; call the park for the starting time.
Join a Preserve ranger for a leisurely excursion onto the prairie basin to observe the unusual plants and magnificent animals that inhabit the vast 21,000-acre preserve. The three-mile walk will last 3-4 hours and leads to an observation deck overlooking Alachua Lake. There is a 25 person limit; reservations must be made in advance.
Fees: The entrance fee is waived for this event.
Contact: (352) 466-4100

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – GUIDED PADDLING PROGRAM
Manatee Springs State Park, west of Chiefland
Date: Saturday, February 9, 8:30 a.m.
A guided paddling trip will take participants through the natural serenity of the cypress-lined crystal clear, spring run stream in search of manatees and other wildlife. Participation will be limited to the first ten boats. Those who need to rent equipment should contact Visitor Services Provider, Suwannee River Tours, at (352) 949-4878 by 3:00 p.m. the day before the event.
Fees: The entrance fee is waived for this event.
Contact: (352) 493-6072

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – RANGER WALK
Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park, northwest of Gainesville
Date: Saturday, February 9, 10:00 a.m.
Participants get their heart pumping by traversing a sinkhole stairway 120 feet deep into the ground.
Fees: The entrance fee is waived for this event.
Contact: (386) 462-7905

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – LIGHTHOUSE CLIMB
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, Key Biscayne
Date: Saturday, February 9, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Guests will receive a cardiovascular workout ascending and descending the 109-stepped spiral staircase of the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. The lighthouse will be open from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. with park rangers and volunteers present to answer questions and provide assistance.
Fees: Free admission to event participants who mention STEP UP, FLORIDA!
Contact: (305) 361-5811

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – COASTAL DUNE LAKE HIKE
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, Santa Rosa Beach
Date: Saturday, February 9, 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Informative, ranger-led 2.5 mile hike will take participants around the Coastal Dune Lake to view the rare coastal dune and learn how the lake was formed, the animals it supports, and its importance to Walton County. Meet at Morris Lake Nature Trail off Highway 98.
Fees: Entrance fees waived for this event.
Contact: (850) 267-0299

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – CANOE OR KAYAK RAINBOW RIVER
Rainbow Springs State Park, Dunnellon
Date: Wednesday, February 13, 10:00 a.m.
The park will host a 2.5 hour, one-mile round trip adventure. A $25 deposit with driver's license is required for boat rental; rentals are $10/hour. Participants must register in advance.
Fees: The entrance fee is waived for his event.
Contact: (352) 465-8555

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – BEACH WALK
Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area, Flagler Beach
Date: Friday, February 15, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Park to host a ranger-led hike along the beach educating participants about the importance of beach vegetation and the wrack line, and view wildlife that calls the beach home.
Fees: Fees waived for participants.
Contact: (386) 517-2086

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – TACKLE THE RAINBOW TERRAIN
Rainbow Springs State Park, Dunnellon
Date: Saturday, February 16, 11:00 a.m.
Participants can get their hearts pumping while walking through the manmade hills of the park’s shady gardens laced with azaleas, oaks and magnolias. Guests will meet on the veranda to learn about the interesting park history, its flora and fauna. The walk is on uneven brick walkways and lasts 30-45 minutes.
Fees: The entrance fee is waived for this event.
Contact: (352) 465-8555

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – RIM RAMBLE
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, south of Gainesville
Date: Saturday, February 16; call for starting time.
Experience the Real Florida by following in the footsteps of noted naturalist and artist William Bartram. The rim ramble is a ranger-led half-day, 3.5 mile hike. The heavily shaded trail rambles around an array of fragile sinkholes with a panoramic view of the freshwater wetland seen from Persimmon Point. There is a 20 person limit.
Fees: The entrance fee will be waived for this event.
Contact: (352) 466-4100

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – HISTORIC RIVER WALK
O’Leno State Park, north of High Springs
Date: Saturday, February 16; call for starting time.
Learn about the history of o State Park, the town of Leno and the Civilian Conservation Corps while enjoying a healthy 1.44 mile walk through the River Trail and down to the river sink. Throughout the one hour walk, participants will hear a discussion about the flora, fauna, the sink holes, the underground river and the natural bridge.
Fees: The entrance fee is waived for this event.
Contact: (386) 454-1853

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – FULL MOON HIKE
Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park, between Keystone Heights
Date: Saturday, February 16, 6:00 p.m.
Park is hosting a moderately paced, guided three-mile hike on the Ridge Trail and a portion of the Florida Trail. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and bring insect repellant and water. Camping and cabins are available through Reserve America for those interested in staying overnight.
Fees: The entrance fee is waived for this event.
Contact: (352) 373–4701

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – “HIKE/PADDLE FOR GOOD HEALTH!”
Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park, Port Richey
Date: Saturday, February 16, 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Staff and volunteers of Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park will lead groups on leisurely two-mile hikes in the park out from the west end of State Road 52. There will also be one-hour and two-hour paddle tours leaving out from 9120 Old Post Road, Port Richey starting at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. Some boats will be available for rent, but participants should bring their own kayak/canoe if possible.
Fees: Event is free to the public.
Contact: (727) 816-1890

STEP UP, FLORIDA! –NATURE HIKE
Torreya State Park, Bristol
Date: Saturday, February 16, 1:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)
A ranger-led nature hike along the terrain of the high bluffs overlooking the beautiful Apalachicola River will challenge participants. Although less than one-mile, the 150 feet change in elevation is quite strenuous. It is suggested that hikers bring sunscreen, insect repellant, hiking stick, hat and water.
Fees: Entrance fees waived to participants.
Contact: (850) 643-2674

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – NATURE HIKE
Grayton Beach State Park, the Florida Panhandle
Date: Saturday, February 16, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Participants will be able to observe the flora and fauna that call Grayton Beach home on the 4.5 mile, 3-hour nature hike through the forest. Participants should wear appropriate shoes/clothing and bring water and insect repellant.
Fees: The entrance fee is waived for participants.
Contact: (850) 231-4210

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – 2008 EVENTS
Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park, Niceville
Date: Saturday, February 16, 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Events will include a photo scavenger hunt starting at 11:30 a.m., trail walks from 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., and educational tables and games at the Check-In pavilion. Check-in for all events at the day area pavilion at 11:00 a.m.
Fees: Fees are waived for this event.
Contact: (850) 259-6444

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – NATURE TRAIL HIKE
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, Santa Rosa Beach
Date: Saturday, February 16, 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Visitors can enjoy a 2.5 mile, ranger-led nature trail hike through a paved tram path and on the beach, and an animal tracking walk through the park’s nature preserve. Participants should meet at the Day-Use Area off of Highway 30A.
Fees: Entrance fees are waived for this event.
Contact: (850) 267-0299

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – HEALTH AND FITNESS FAIR
Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park, near Tallahassee
Date: Saturday, February 16, 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.
The Health and Fitness Fair will feature informational booths promoting healthy lifestyles and outdoor fitness opportunities along with guided nature walks scheduled throughout the event.
Fees: Fees are waived for this event.
Contact: (850) 922-6007

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – BEACH CLEANUP & NATURE WALK
Bahia Honda State Park, the Florida Keys
Date: Monday, February 18, 9:00 a.m.
Participants should meet at the East entrance to the Wings and Waves Butterfly Garden for an informative ranger-led walk and beach cleanup on Loggerhead Beach. Guests will learn about the park’s wrack line, birds, butterflies and unique plants. Gloves and old shoes are recommended for the wet and sandy experience.
Fees: Free park admission for beach cleanup participants.
Contact: (305) 872-9807

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – GUIDED NATURE WALK
Fort Pierce Inlet State Park, Fort Pierce
Date: Wednesday, February 20, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Participants will join a Fort Pierce Inlet State Park Ranger at 9:00 a.m. for a beach dune walk; a guided tour down the Coastal Hammock Trail will begin at 10:30 a.m. Each walk will last 30 minutes taking guests through many distinct coastal ecosystems. The park offers numerous recreational opportunities for those who would like to bring a bike or surf board. Reservations should be made at the ranger station.
Fees: Free park admission for 'STEP UP, FLORIDA!' participants from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Contact: (772) 468-3985

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – WALK ON THE WILD SIDE
Fort Cooper State Park, Inverness
Date: Wednesday, February 20
Participants will join a ranger for a moderately- paced walk along the park’s scenic nature trails. It is recommended that participants wear comfortable clothing and shoes and bring insect repellant and water. Pre-registration for the walk is required.
Fees: The entrance fee is waived for this event.
Contact: (352) 726-0315

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – GUIDED NATURE WALK
Long Key State Park in the Florida Keys
Date: Thursday, February 21, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Participants join a park ranger for a two-hour walk along the 1.3 mile Golden Orb Trail while viewing several different plant communities including coastal scrub and tropical hardwood hammock.
Fees: Free with park admission.
Contact: (305) 664-4815

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – GENTLE WALK AND TALK
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, south of Gainesville
Date: Thursday, February 21, 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
The park is hosting a slow-paced walk to the edge of the prairie basin, Alachua Sink and other areas of the Preserve only accessible with a guide. The walk is suitable for anyone looking for an enjoyable outdoors experience. Guests will learn Paynes Prairie’s significant history and will participate in a tour of the old Camp Ranch bunkhouse, now the North Rim Interpretive Center. There is a ten person limit; reservations must be made in advance.
Fees: The entrance fee is waived for this event.
Contact: For more information, call (352) 466-4100.

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – SEBASTIAN INLET STATE PARK
Sebastian Inlet State Park, Melbourne Beach
Date: Saturday, February 23, 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Park to host a two-mile, ranger-led walk along the inlet, on top of the dike, through the mangroves and past hidden lakes. Rangers will interpret different ecosystems, history and wildlife. Participants should meet at the first picnic pavilion on Coconut Point at the south side of Sebastian Inlet.
Fees: Fees are waived for participants in this event.
Contact: (321) 984-4852

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – 5K AND 1K WALK to PROMOTE HEALTY LIVING
Highlands Hammock State Park, in Sebring
Date: Saturday, February 23, 8:00 a.m.
Highlands Hammock State Park will host a free 5K walk/run and 1K walk to promote healthy living. For more information call Derek Carlton at Highlands County Health Department.
Fees: Free admission.
Contact: (863) 382-7221

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – DELNOR-WIGGINS PASS STATE PARK
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, Naples
Date: Saturday, February 23, 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Park to host a 2.5 mile walk on Delnor beach.
Fees: Free admittance for walk participants.
Contact: (239) 597-6196 597-6196

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – GUIDED WALKS & CANOE TOURS
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, Fort Lauderdale
Date: Saturday and Sunday, February 23 and 24, 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
Park to host one-hour, ranger-guided walks and canoe tours of the park’s coastal hammock and coastal dune lake natural communities. The Guided Walks will be offered at 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. followed by Guided Canoe Tours at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Space is limited to 15 people; reservations must be made in advance.
Fees: Tours free with park admission. Donations accepted to benefit the Friends of Birch State Park, Inc.
Contact: (954) 564-4521

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – “DISCOVER LAKE MANATEE”
Lake Manatee State Park, east of Bradenton
Date: Saturday, February 23, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Park to host 4th Annual “Discover Lake Manatee” State Park event with guided nature walks, arts and crafts, junior fishing clinics, live bluegrass and folk music courtesy of Myakka Bluegrass, and wildlife exhibits. Admission to this family event is free.
Fees: Free to the public.
Contact: (941) 741-3028

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – ALAFIA RIVER STATE PARK MOUNTAIN BIKING
Alafia River State Park, Lithia
Date: February 17, 9:00 a.m.
The park will host a mountain bike excursion through the park’s off-road mountain bike trails led by experienced SWAMP club members. Participants must register in advance and helmets are required.
Contact: (813) 672-5320

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – CALADESI ISLAND STATE PARK
Caladesi Island State Park, Dunedin
Date: Saturdays throughout February, 1:00 p.m.
Park will offer a one-hour, ranger-led nature walk along with discussions on the natural and cultural history of the unspoiled barrier island. Participants should meet in front of the Ranger Station, next door to the park concession and should bring suitable shoes and drinking water. Caladesi Island is accessible only by private boat or via the Caladesi Connection ferry service; trips depart hourly beginning at 10:00 a.m. Ferry passengers are allotted a 4-hour stay on the island; guests should plan accordingly to participate in a guided walk.
Fees: Park admission waived for participants. Cost for ferry is $9/adults and $5.50/children
Contact: (727) 469-5918

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – DADE BATTLEFIELD HISTORIC STATE PARK
Dade Battlefield Historic State Park, Bushnell
Date: Saturday, February 9
Dade Battlefield staff will host a walk through history. Participants will travel down the Old Fort King Military Road where Major Dade and his command were ambushed by Seminoles on December 28, 1835. Guests should meet park staff at the Visitor’s Center at 10:00 a.m.
Fees: Free to the public.
Contact: (352) 793-4781

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – 8TH ANNUAL SCRUB JAY 5K
Oscar Scherer State Park, Osprey
Date: February 16, 7:30 a.m.
Run for the Scherer delight of it! Amenities, goodies and awards provided. 5K-run at 8:00 a.m. and one-mile run/walk starting at 8:05 a.m.
Contact: (941) 483-5956

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – WERNER – BOYCE SALT SPRINGS STATE PARK
Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park, Port Richey
Date: Saturday, February 16, 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.
Staff and volunteers of Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park will lead groups on leisurely two-mile hikes in the park out from the west end of State Road 52. There will also be one-hour and two-hour paddle tours leaving from 9120 Old Post Road, Port Richey starting at 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. Some boats will be available for rent, but participants should bring their own if possible.
Fees: Free to the public.
Contact: (727) 816-1890

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – MYAKKA RIVER STATE PARK FULL MOON BIKE
Myakka River State Park, Sarasota
Date: Monday, February 18, 6:30 p.m.
The park is hosting a full moon bike ride with speeds averaging 5 to 8 miles per hour for a 10-mile roundtrip. The ride will begin at the Ranger Station, proceed to the bird walk on the Upper Myakka Lake and return with a stop at the canopy walkway. Helmets are recommended and bike lights are required. Participants should meet at the Ranger Station at 6:30 p.m. and departure will be at 7:00 p.m.
Fees: $5.00 donation per person.
Contact: (941) 373-7839 or Biology@MyakkaRiver.org

Fees: $5.00 donation per person.

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – MYAKKA RIVER STATE PARK FULL MOON KAYAK
Myakka River State Park, Sarasota
Date: Dates, trip price, reservations, kayak rentals and answers to questions can be obtained from Dick Pfaff at Economy Tackle/ Dolphin Dive.
A two-hour, park hosted full moon kayak trip on the Myakka River will be led by local guide and kayak instructor, Dick Pfaff. Previous kayak experience is required for this trip.
Fees: Park Entrance fee waived for this event.
Contact: (941) 922-9671 or kayak.today@verizon.net

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – PAYNES CREEK HISTORIC STATE PARK WALK
Paynes Creek Historic State Park, Bowling Green
Date: Saturday, February 9th - 9:00 a.m.
Participants will take a ranger-led, leisure walk along the park’s Historic Trail and visit each historic site. The walk will conclude at the Visitor Center and bottled water will be supplied to all participants.
Contact: (863) 375-4717

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – HONEYMOON ISLAND STATE PARK
Honeymoon Island State Park, Dunedin
Date: Saturday, February 9 or Sunday, February 10, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Volunteers will plant native dune plants such as sea oats, railroad vine and others which are critical to building a dune system that will help prevent erosion. Participants should bring gloves, sunscreen, closed toed shoes and water.
Contact: Karen Malo, (727) 469-5942

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – HONEYMOON ISLAND STATE PARK WALK
Honeymoon Island State Park, Dunedin
Date: Sunday, February 10 and 24, 11:00 a.m.
Park is hosting an informative walk along the Osprey Trail to observe Ospreys and Great Horned Owls. Following the quarter-mile guided walk visitors may return to the parking lot or continue on their own in a challenge to find all the nests on the trail. A map will be provided.
Contact: (727) 469-5942

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – HONEYMOON ISLAND STATE PARK HIKE
Honeymoon Island State Park, Dunedin
Date: Thursday, February 14, 9:00 a.m.
Park is hosting a 2.5-mile wildlife hike along the tall slash pines of the scenic Osprey Trail and Pelican Trail. Participants will experience the natural north end of Honeymoon Island.
Contact: (727) 738-2903

STEP UP, FLORIDA! – HONEYMOON ISLAND STATE PARK HIKE
Honeymoon Island State Park, Dunedin
Date: Monday, February 18, 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Participants will join Linda Taylor of It's Our Nature for an easy introduction to yoga while enjoying the breathtaking view of the Gulf of Mexico. Attendees must bring a yoga mat, beach towel or blanket and water. No experience necessary. Meet in the north parking lot in front of the shell display. Space is limited to 16 participants.
Contact: (727) 441-2599 or e-mail Linda@itsournature.com

STEP UP, FLORIDA! –TOUR DE TRILBY BIKE RALLY
Withlacoochee State Trail, Trilby
Date: February 9, 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m.
The Greater Trilby Community Association will host a ride/run beginning at the Trilby Community Center at Trilby Road (CR 575) and Trail crossing. Intermediate and advanced riders will begin at 7:00 a.m. and travel 47 miles each way on the trail (94 miles round trip from Trilby to Dunnellon.) Amateur riders and all runners will begin at 8:00 a.m. and travel 10 miles round trip. Participants are asked to pre-register.
Fees: Participants may choose to donate $29 as registration.
Contact: (352) 583- 3444 or tourdetrilby@yahoo.com

STEP UP, FLORIDA! –RIDE-ROLL-RUN RELAY
Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway
Date: February 23, 8:30 a.m.
The Florida Greenways and Trails foundation, a non-profit organization will host a team relay race on horse, bike and foot. Teams must have one of each contestant (horse, bike foot) and will compete against other teams for prizes. The race will consist of seven miles horseback, 10 miles on bike and a 3.5 mile run. For rules and registration, visit http://www.greenwayequestrians.org/horse/2008-RRR-Entry-Form.pdf
Fees: Registration fee is $45 for pre-registered teams, $60 if received after February 8.
Contact: vstalvey@hellokitty.com

For more information on Florida State Parks and Step Up, Florida! events, visit http://www.floridastateparks.org.

For information on Florida’s Greenways and Trails, visit www.dep.state.fl.us/gwt/