Pocono Trail Preserve

189 Pocono Trail E., Nokomis

Also features: waterfront preserve on Shakett Creek, observation platform, shady trails.

ACTIVITIES

MANGROVES, ESTUARIES AND UPLANDS

Sept. 7, Nov. 3 / Ages: 12 and up / Fee: Free / Meet at east entrance picnic table / Tuesday, Wednesday, 1-2:30 p.m. Join Sarasota County Environmental Specialist Robert Pasquali to learn how to identify our native mangroves and the important role they play in the estuarine food web and in providing nesting area rookeries for a wide variety of wading bird species. For details, call 941-861-5000 or email parksonline@scgov.net.

DONA BAY PADDLE TO POCONO PRESERVE

Oct. 13 / Ages: 4-12 / Fee: Free / Meet at Loreto Park boat ramp at 800 Loreto Court, Nokomis / Wednesday, 9-11:30 a.m. Take a short paddle trip into Dona Bay and along the mangrove and coastal hammock communities of Pocono Preserve learning about the estuary system and importance of coastal creeks in Sarasota County. Attendees must bring their own kayak and required safety equipment (PFD, whistle).

PLANT AND ANIMAL IDENTIFICATION WALK

Nov. 10, Nov. 24 / Ages: 12 and up / Fee: Free / Meet at east entrance picnic table / Wednesday, 8-10 a.m. Explore the preserves natural habitats with Sarasota County Environmental Specialist Robert Pasquali, who will identify both native and non-native plants and resident wildlife found on-site. Don’t forget your binoculars! For details, call 941-861-5000 or email parksonline@scgov.net.

FROM EARLY INHABITANTS TO POLLYANNA: THE HISTORY OF POCONO TRAIL PRESERVE

Dec. 9 / Ages: 12 and up / Fee: Free / Meet at Nokomis Community Center, 234 Nippino Tr. E., Nokomis / Thursday, 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Join Sarasota County staff for a walk in the preserve to take in the history of the site and area. Discover the interesting history of the preserve and the surrounding towns of Venice and Nokomis. Learn about the people of the Manasota culture and the interesting stories of local pioneers. Along the way, enjoy the beautiful live oak and cabbage palm hammocks and occasional glimpses of Shakett Creek as you learn about the history of this interesting area. For details, call 941-861-5000 or email parksonline@scgov.net.