Teacher and School Field Trip Planning Information

Southwest District Natural Areas

954-370-3755

More than 400 acres in southwest Broward County has been designated as Natural Area sites, selected for their unique ecosystems and history, to preserve part of Broward County's natural and cultural heritage. Broward County's Environmentally Sensitive Lands Bond Program of March 1989 is the primary funding source for the acquisition and enhancement of these sites.

A. PINE ISLAND RIDGE NATURAL AREA

3900 S.W. 100th Ave., Davie

One hundred one acres with beautiful old oak hammocks, interspersed with slash pines and a rich understory, which provides a wildlife refuge in an urban area. The ridge also contains a number of recorded archaeological sites and was once inhabited by Tequesta and Seminole Indians. It has the highest natural elevation (29 feet) in Broward County with paved walking trails and an interpretive shelter. The site is adjacent to Tree Tops Park in Davie, where restroom and water facilities are available.

B. LONG KEY NATURAL AREA 3501 S.W. 130th Ave., Davie

One hundred fifty-five acres in Davie, Long Key Natural Area is the western extension of the Pine Island Ridge complex. Mature live oaks are decorated with bromeliads and ferns. The ridges were once home to Tequesta and Seminole Indians. Adjacent abandoned farm fields and orange groves serve additional wildlife needs and embody the agricultural history of the area. The site has hiking trails but no facilities are currently available at this site.

Program Descriptions

Field trips are offered at Pine Island Ridge Natural Area.

TURTLE TALK (PreK-Second Grades)

A Native American story about how turtles shells crack will inspire students to learn more about turtles and tortoises. Activities include a craft project, and a reptile hunt to spot turtles, tortoises, and other reptiles. This program can also be conducted at Markham and C.B. Smith parks.

• Two hours.
• Maximum 60 students.

MOLLY THE MONARCH (PreK-Second Grades)

Molly the Monarch leads students through the lifecycle of butterflies. This interactive puppet show will allow students to watch Molly as she hatches from her egg as a caterpillar, demonstrates a finicky appetite, molts her skin, then forms a chrysalis and emerges as a beautiful butterfly. The story ends with Molly searching for a new milkweed on which to lay her eggs and start the cycle again. Includes a take-home craft activity. This program can also be conducted at Markham or C.B. Smith parks.

• Two hours.
• Maximum 60 students.

CREEPY CRAWLY CRITTERS (First-Sixth Grades)

Learn how to predict weather watching crickets. Find out why earthworms go for a walk after it rains. Discover how spider silk can stop a speeding bullet. This program includes hands-on activities, an Insect Inspection walk, and a craft project. Also offered at Markham Park.

• Two hours.
• Maximum 60 students.

WALK THROUGH TIME (Third-Sixth Grades)

From saber-toothed cats to the Battle of Pine Island, students will learn about the exciting history of Pine Island Ridge. On a walk up to the ridge, students will learn about the former inhabitants including the Tequesta and Seminole Indians, and the pioneers who drained the area for farming. Visit the highest natural elevation in Broward County to discuss the geologic processes that formed this “island in the Everglades.” The program ends with a discussion of fossils, a “fossil” craft project, and a fossil hunt.

• Two hours.
• Maximum 60 students.

NATURE INVESTIGATORS (Third-Sixth Grades)

Get out your notebooks and your magnifying glasses. Students use their nature knowledge to uncover clues and solve an environmental mystery. The mystery leads students to various spots on Pine Island Ridge where they must use reasoning skills to eliminate possibilities until they crack the case.

• Two hours.
• Maximum 60 students.

NATURE SENSATION (First-12th Grades)

Artists throughout the ages have been inspired by nature. Students will use their senses to experience nature and be inspired. The program begins with a nature study to explore the oak hammock of Pine Island Ridge. Examples of great art, poetry, and music inspired by natural wonders will be presented. Students will then be encouraged to express their experiences through age-appropriate activities that may include poetry, sketching, haiku, leaf rubbings, and song. This program can also be held at Markham Park.

• Two hours.
• Maximum 60 students.

EARTH PROTECTORS (Middle-High School)

What can be done to protect our dwindling natural resources? This program shows how proper management practices and preservation can benefit the environment. A trail walk will introduce students to these concepts, then they will put their knowledge into practice by working on conservation projects such as exotic plant removal and habitat restoration. Students should wear old work clothes and closed-toe shoes. Bring work gloves.

• Two hours.
• Free with the completion of a 1.5-hour work project.
• Maximum 60 students.

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