Simple Steps to Improve Local Water Quality
Clean water is vital for our health, the environment, and the sustainability of our communities. Pollution and contaminants can harm aquatic life, disrupt ecosystems, and upset the natural balance of our surroundings. By taking steps to maintain and enhance water...
The Great Scallop Search; Pensacola Bay 2023
Introduction Bay scallops (Argopecten irradians) have been an important part of the economy of many gulf coast communities within the Florida Big Bend for decades. It was once abundant in all gulf coast counties of the state but beginning in the 1960s...
Walton County’s Rare Coastal Dune Lakes
October is Dune Lake Awareness month and as part of the celebration, Walton and Okaloosa County UF/IFAS Extension Agents are joining together to host a Coastal Dune Lake Tour at Western Lake in Grayton Beach State Park. This free event will include a brief...
It’s October and That Means it’s Time for Halloweed
What is Halloweed? It’s a national program where volunteers gather at a public space to help remove invasive weeds. In many cases they target one specific species. This year in Escambia County we plan to target beach vitex on Pensacola Beach. If...
Native fruit trees- The Common Persimmon
Diospyros virginiana, the Common Persimmon, is a large deciduous tree in the Ebenaceae family. The common persimmon is a southern native small to medium fruit tree that is becoming more popular for homegrown fruit. The bark is grey or black and forms chunks or blocks...
Meet the New Invasive Species on the Barrier Islands; Cogongrass
Miami is ground zero for invasive species in this state. But the Florida panhandle is no stranger to them. Where they are dealing with Burmese pythons, melaleuca, and who knows how many different species of lizards – we deal with Chinese tallow, Japanese...
Dynamite Comes in Small Packages
Just about everyone has heard this old expression "dynamite comes in small packages." It is usually invoked in reference to someone of small stature who punches up in weight class. Well buddy, if you have ever unwittingly disturbed a yellow jacket nest, you know the...
Multi-County Private Well and Water Quality Workshop
Private well system. Image: C. Wofford, UF/IFAS Photography Tuesday, September 26, 2023, 9:00 am - 11:30 am, at the Washington County Agriculture Center, 1424 Jackson Avenue, Chipley and virtually via Zoom. As a private well owner, you are responsible for making...
A New Camera Trap Monitoring Program for Private Landowners
A deer darting across a path, a bobwhite calling at sunrise, or the tracks of a coyote in the mud are all fascinating examples of how we enjoy our natural areas. Have you ever wished you could watch wildlife all day to understand the intricate relationships they have...
Two Upcoming Forestry Educational Events in September
Walton County Extension will be hosting two forestry events in September. These events are available to all in the Panhandle interested in forestry and forestry-related topics. The events have been planned to cover requested information from landowners and extension...