Managing Rising Sea Levels & Erosion in Volusia County

Coastal Volusia County residents can expect an annual nor’easter usually arriving in the month of November. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), a nor’easter is not a hurricane, but can cause billions of dollars in damage, severe economic, transportation and human disruption, and, in some cases, disastrous coastal flooding. Each year, locals observe the high tides and significant erosion that occurs on the beach. … Continue reading Managing Rising Sea Levels & Erosion in Volusia County

Sea Turtle Nesting Season Begins

Turtle nesting season officially starts May 1, which means hundreds of sea turtles will be emerging from the surf to lay eggs on the beach in the next few months. Sea Turtle Nesting Season: May 1 – October 31 Although leatherback and loggerhead sea turtle nesting has already begun on other beaches in southern and central Florida, Volusia County managed beaches have yet to receive … Continue reading Sea Turtle Nesting Season Begins

Hurricane Preparedness for Volusia

As Volusia residents enter the month of September, the most active month for hurricane season, now is the time to consider any last minute preparations to secure property. Remember, any severe storm can be deadly or destructive. According to Volusia.org, more than 4,800 homes, businesses and facilities were impacted by Hurricane Irma (September 2017). Many of those were still recovering from impacts of Hurricane Matthew … Continue reading Hurricane Preparedness for Volusia

Protected Mangroves: A Quick Guide to Dos and Don’ts

Photos by Kelsey Walters A few weeks ago, the social media alarm bells went off in regards to a property owner in the Wilbur- by-the-Sea area who had hacked some mangrove trees almost to the waterline, probably to improve their view. This action stoked ire in the community, especially for those who are aware of the vital role the mangroves play in preserving our vulnerable … Continue reading Protected Mangroves: A Quick Guide to Dos and Don’ts

Boaters Urged to Watch for Manatees

Boaters are asked to be on the lookout for manatees as they travel in the St. Johns River and Halifax/Indian River. These slow-moving marine mammals are frequently struck by boats, which can lead to deep wounds, internal damage and even death. Last year, 119 manatees died from boat strikes in Florida. Because manatees are often difficult to see, Debbie Wingfield, Volusia County’s manatee protection program … Continue reading Boaters Urged to Watch for Manatees

Turnbull Creek at sunset. (City of New Smyrna Beach/Phillip Veski)

NSB to Hold Meetings for Preservation of Turnbull Creek

Commissioners will meet with citizen committee, then review first round of appraisals ahead of purchase vote on June 25. Last November, over 75 percent of voters in New Smyrna Beach approved the Turnbull Creek Water Quality, Wildlife Habitat, and Natural Areas Protection Bonds municipal referendum.  This granted the City Commission authority to issue up to $15 million in general obligation bonds to purchase land along … Continue reading NSB to Hold Meetings for Preservation of Turnbull Creek

Sea Turtle Nesting Season Begins May 1

Sea Turtle Nesting Season is May 1 – October 31 Turtle nesting season started May 1, and that means hundreds of sea turtles will be emerging from the surf to lay eggs on the beach in the next few months. After incubating in the sand for about two months, the tiny hatchlings will break free and make an often treacherous crawl to the ocean – … Continue reading Sea Turtle Nesting Season Begins May 1

County Plans Save Our Springs and Rivers Academy

What Can We do to Protect Our Waterways? Would you like to become a Blue Spring advocate and help environmentalists spread the word about solutions to water pollution? If so, plan on attending the Save Our Springs and Rivers Academy. The academy will include classroom and field trip experiences, guest speakers and hands-on, feet-wet learning to provide an in-depth citizen engagement experience. Those participating in … Continue reading County Plans Save Our Springs and Rivers Academy