My South Florida: Exploring Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge

Boca Raton, FL – Do you know what shrub aspirin was derived from or why the first Model Ts were recalled?

Visit the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge in Boynton Beach to find answers to these questions and learn interesting facts about local flora and fauna first-hand. Bruce Rosenberg, a volunteer with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, leads an afternoon Cypress Swamp Tour at the refuge. He highlights historical uses of plants on the tour and advocates for the benefits of ecotherapy including stress reduction and improved well being. “People live longer by taking walks (in nature).”

Visitors to the refuge can engage in this educational experience while strolling on the boardwalk and exploring surrounding areas for an entry fee of just $5 per car. Loxahatchee is family-friendly and provides great opportunities to explore nature together. Bruce encourages families with children to come to the wildlife refuge. “Everything today is virtual. . . you have to bring kids to these places. They have no idea what’s out here.” Among other interesting facts, Bruce may discuss invasive species to the Everglades, show you where the resident bobcat leaves his mark, and help you identify both useful and poisonous native plants. For example, one beneficial plant, the Spanish aster flower, is currently  being used in experimental treatment for leukemia in cats and dogs.

Get outside this holiday season and visit the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge. Everglades Day is an upcoming special event at the refuge which will be held on February 9, 2019. For more information about the refuge and upcoming events, visit: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/arm_loxahatchee/ or call:  (561) 734-8303.

By Heidi Dakin