Secrets of the Wacissa

February 26, 2023 @ 8:30AM — 5:00PM Eastern Time (US & Canada)

Wacissa River: 23605 Aucilla Landing Rd Boat ramp and parking is in front of this residence and down the street. Lamont, FL 32336 Get Directions

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Paddle the Wild Slave Canal

Join CPI President Ryan Means exploring the wild Wacissa River. This will be an unforgettable trip from Goose Pasture all the way to Nutall Rise, down the legendarily wild Slave Canal. Ryan has extensive scientific knowledge of and experience with the Wacissa River, and he is eager to share his natural history knowledge of the area with you. Many people have gotten lost down there in the past but---you most certainly will not get lost down there while traveling with Ryan! This experience will be equally rewarding for those who have done it before, or have always wanted to do it, but haven’t yet had the opportunity.

The unfortunately as such named—Slave Canal—isn’t really a canal. We’ll learn why and about the history. The Wacissa River is one of the world’s most pristine first magnitude spring ecosystems, and is a world-class aquatic natural realm. Experience towering forests of ancient cypress, mixed hardwood forests once browsed by mastodons, and myriad aquatic plants. If temperatures are warm, we WILL experience the following things close-up: alligators of all size ranges, terrific turtles, and wiggling water snakes! We also will see huge gar, schools of mullet, and brilliant birds, such as herons, egrets, osprey, and anhinga. Hopefully, we’ll lay eyes on a limpkin.

You will experience lovely braided channels that few people have ever seen. The whole time, we’ll be embedded within one of our region’s remotest locations. Snorkeling is optional and encouraged. Bring your mask, snorkel, and any wet suit, if you have one. We can make a game-time decision on getting in the water based on the day’s water and air temperatures. If we snorkel, we will observe fossil remains of ancient animals and discuss their natural history in the region.

Trip is limited to 8 people. Price includes guide, shuttle service, canoe/kayak and safety gear, snacks, extra water, and good BEER! Proceeds go towards our efforts to preserve the biodiversity of the southeastern Coastal Plain through research and education. We will meet at 8:30 am at the boat ramp at Aucilla Landing Road. Pile into our van. Masks may be either considered or required, depending on how this dang pandemic is trending. We will shuttle you to our launching point at Goose Pasture and your car will be waiting for you at the end point.

Due to our close proximity during our shuttle, we request everyone be fully vaccinated. Please do not attend if you are feeling poorly or have any possible COVID symptoms. Trip may be cancelled if minimum number is not reached.
Please contact us with any questions:ryan@coastalplains.org

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