Due to recent COVID-19 guidance from the County of Volusia the Lyonia Environmental Center has suspended all in-person programs until further notice. All exhibits remain open to the public. Visitors are welcome to explore the Center through self-guided tours. All virtual options remain available.

The Lyonia Environmental Center (LEC) offers insights into Volusia County’s fragile ecosystems through hands-on displays and educational programs. It’s part of the Deltona regional Library complex at 2150 Eustace Ave., Deltona.

The center’s environmental specialists and volunteers promote an understanding of the county’s natural environment, the heritage it sustains, and the challenges it faces. 

Admission is always free!

NEW Hours of Operation (Starting Saturday, May 8, 2021):

• Monday through Saturday  9:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Closed Sundays

More information
Please contact Sandy Falcon at sfalcon@volusia.org or 386-789-7207, ext. #21025.

Sep 4 @ 10 AM – Fabulous Feathers

Feathers are for much more than flying. They give birds their beautiful colors, provide warmth and can even help attract a mate. Learn about the intricate design of feather structure and function and follow along with staff to make feathers from paper. 

This program will be presented virtually. A link will be provided upon registration

To register, call Lyonia Environmental Center at 386-789-7207, ext. #21028.

Sep 4 @ 2 PM – Scratching the surface

Have you experienced the irritating itch of a chigger bite? Learn about these small creatures that pack a punch. LEC staff will discuss chigger anatomy, their role in nature, and bite prevention and relief.

This program will be offered virtually. A link will be provided upon registration. Call 386-789-7207, ext. 21028.

Sep 5 @ 10 AM – Hiking for your health

Spending time in nature may boost your mental and physical health. Join LEC staff for a hike along Lyonia Preserve’s trails. Wear closed-toe shoes, bring water, and be prepared to walk on unpaved sugar sand trails.

Reservations are required; call 376-789-7207, ext. #21028.

Meet at Lyonia Environmental Center, 2150 Eustace Ave., Deltona. Wear closed toe shoes, bring water and be prepared to hike on unpaved sugar sand trails.

Sep 5 @ 1:30 PM – Learn how to track animals

Animal droppings are a great clue to determining which animals live in an area. Listen to a story about how to track animals by their scat, tracks and more. Get an up close look at some of our scat and track replicas, and learn some fun and interesting facts. This program is designed for children ages 7-12.  

Lyonia Environmental Center staff will present this program virtually. Reservations are requested; call 386-789-7207, ext. 21028. An online link will be provided upon registration

Sep 11 @ 10 AM – Lionfish

Lionfish are native to the Indo-Pacific, but are now established in the Atlantic, Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. Learn how divers are combating this invasive species and ways the rest of us can help without even getting in the water. 

Lyonia Environmental Center will offer this program virtually. Registration is required; call 386-789-7207, ext. #21028. Walk-ins will not be permitted.

Sep 11 @ 1:30 PM – Bobcats and panthers

Lauren Barth of Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission share fun facts about these native members of the feline family. She will explain where the big cats are found, their biology, their role in the environment, and how to tell them apart. She will also discuss potential problems, including livestock, pet loss, and provide details on how to prevent conflicts so that we may coexist with these remarkable animals. 

Sep 12 @ 10 AM – Add a wildlife habitat

Learn how to create a wildlife haven in your backyard or on your balcony, no matter how big or small your space is. LEC staff will explain how to attract birds to your space with the right plants, food and shelter. They will also share tips on identifying your visitors. 

Lyonia Environmental Center staff will present this program virtually. Registration is required; call 386-789-7207, ext. #21028. An online link will be provided.

Sep 18 @ 10:30 AM -Scrub jay hike

Florida scrub jays are busy birds this time of year. They can cache thousands of acorns a year, burying them in the sand just below the surface. Take a guided hike through Lyonia Preserve to learn more about this unique species and try to observe them preparing for cooler weather. 

Wear closed toe shoes, bring water and be prepared to hike on unpaved sugar sand trails.

Meet at Lyonia Environmental Center, 2150 Eustace Ave., Deltona. Registration is required; call 386-789-7207, ext. #21028. Walk-ins will not be permitted.

Sep 18 @ 2 PM – Mollusk mania

The empty shells we see on the beach were once the home of living creatures. LEC staff will explain the differences among aquatic gastropods, bivalves and cephalopods. Participants can share photos of their own shells as the group learns how to identify some of the common species found on Florida beaches.  Lyonia Environmental Center staff will present this program virtually. Registration is required; call 386-789-7207, ext. #21028. An online link will be provided.

Sep 19 @ 10 AM – A great start in the scrub

Bring your breakfast and learn some interesting facts about scrub habitat and the unique plants and animals that inhabit this area. After breakfast, the group will take a short hike into Lyonia Preserve. Participants should wear closed toe shoes and bring water for the hike.

Wear closed-toe shoes, bring water, and be prepared to hike on sugar-sand trails.To register, call 386-789-7207, ext. #21028. Meet at Lyonia Environmental Center, 2150 Eustace Ave., Deltona.

Sep 19 @ 2 PM – Photosynthesis

Learn why leaves change colors in the fall and follow along as staff demonstrates how to make a leaf rubbing. 

Lyonia Environmental Center staff will present this program virtually. Registration is required; call 386-789-7207, ext. #21028. An online link will be provided.

Sep 22 @ 3 PM – Owl pellet discovery lab

Children ages 7 and up can learn about the unique adaptations that help owls capture their prey and survive the night life. While dissecting an owl pellet, staff will discuss the birds’ silent hunting methods and what they eat. 

Lyonia Environmental Center staff will present this program virtually. Registration is required; call 386-789-7207, ext. #21028. An online link will be provided.

Sep 25 @ 1 PM – Wetlands and wildlife hike

LEC staff will lead a hike to Lyonia Preserve’s ephemeral wetland, which is a haven for many insects, reptiles, amphibians and birds. Wear closed toe shoes, bring water and be prepared to hike on unpaved sugar sand trails.

Advance registration is required; call 386-789-7207, ext. #21028. 

Meet at Lyonia Environmental Center, 2150 Eustace Ave., Deltona.

Sep 26 @ 10 AM – Right place, right plant

Learn about Florida friendly gardening, which conserves water and lessens our impact on the environment. After the program, one participant will win a 30-gallon rain barrel. 

Lyonia Environmental Center staff will present this program virtually. Registration is required; call 386-789-7207, ext. #21028. An online link will be provided.

Sep 26 @ 1:30 PM -Sandhill cranes

These amazing birds can stand 4 feet tall and have a wing span up to 6 feet wide. Their unique call can be heard almost a mile away. Learn where they live and how we can share the environment with these beautiful birds.

Lyonia Environmental Center staff will present this program virtually. Registration is required; call 386-789-7207, ext. #21028. An online link will be provided