Polk’s Nature Discovery Center at Circle B Bar Reserve offers a variety of nature based activities for all ages. The month of May is all about how to explore the outdoors. You do not want to miss out on any of the fun family friendly activities that we have planned for you. Sign up for a tram tour, a workshop, community day, or just get outdoors and enjoy Polk’s Water, Wildlife, and Wilderness.
All Tour sign-ups begin on the first working day of each month, to sign up please stop by the reception desk or call 863-668-4673 x205.
NATURE TOUR (TRAM TOUR)
Take a personalized tour of the Banana Creek Marsh with a volunteer guide who will point out plants, birds and history of the property. *Nature Tour sign ups begin on the first working day of each month, to sign up please stop by the reception desk or call 863-668-4673 x205
- Friday, May 2 from 9:00 a.m. –10:00 a.m.
- Saturday, May 3 from 9:00 a.m. –11:00 a.m.
- Tuesday, May 6 from 10:00 a.m. –11:00 a.m.
- Sunday, May 11 from 1:00 p.m. –3:00 p.m.
- Tuesday, May 20 from 10:00 a.m. –11:00 a.m.
- Wednesday, May 21 from 10:00 a.m. –11:00 a.m.
- Friday, May 23 from 10:00 a.m. –11:00 a.m.
- Sunday, May 25 from 1:00 p.m. –3:00 p.m.
- Tuesday, May 27 from 9:30 a.m. –10:30 a.m.
- Wednesday, May 28 from 10:00 a.m. –11:00 a.m.
- Friday, May 30 from 09:00 a.m. –101:00 a.m.
Frog Listening Network Program (Hosted by the Sierra Club)
- Thursday, May 8 from 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Presentation by: Garrett Christ
Amphibian populations are in world-wide decline. The Frog Listening Network is a citizen science program made up of volunteers who are trained to gather data about the frog and toad populations in our area; the training enables a volunteer to identify frogs by sight and sound. The data gathered is invaluable to the professionals studying the decline and how it relates to ecosystem health.
This program is a fun and easy way to get involved in your community, to make a difference and give back to nature.
* Program starts at 7:00 – covered dish dinner at 6:30 (if you wish to participate, bring a dish to share, and bring your own drink and utensils.)
Granny’s Corner – Nature Reading
- Wednesday, May 14 from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Middle of the morning and you want to get your little ones out of the house? Join Ms. Charlene as she reads a book about BUGS!! The readings will be followed by a hands-on activity. After the reading spend some time in the Nature Center and walking the trails. All children should be accompanied by an adult. * To register for this activity please call 863-668-4673 ext. 209
Sierra Club/ Volunteer Workday
- Saturday, May 17 from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
ALL are welcome to join us for our VOLUNTEER workday. We will be planting native plants, and weeding out the exotic invaders. For more information e-mail Keeli Carlton-Carmichael at keelicarlton@polk-county.net .
Community Day – Bugs!
- Sunday, May 18 from 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
It is not every day that BUGS get the appreciation they truly deserve! Please join us as we celebrate the insect world for May’s community day! Bring the family out to explore insects through arts and crafts, photography, hands on activities and a guest speaker. You will not want to miss out on this family fun day with BUGS BUGS BUGS.
Contact Keeli Carlton-Carmichael for more information about this event at keelicarlton@polk-county.net
Guided Hike (Provided by Florida Trail Association – Heartland Chapter)
- Sunday, May 25 from 8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
This is moderately paced walk with lots of opportunity to observe wildlife and we will see the new exhibit on the Florida Citrus industry along the Lost Bridge Trail. It will be a two-part walk: the first half will be 2.5 miles (approximately) and then those wishing to leave may do so; the second half will be another 2.0 miles (approximately). Meet at 8:30 am in Nature Center parking area. Please be prompt. (Note: No pets are allowed in the Reserve.) Jan Wells email: bkpknboots@aol.com
Visit polknature.com for information about the Environmental Lands Program and Polk County’s other natural areas.