Birding is the fastest growing new activity and January is peak birding time in central Florida so join Oklawaha Valley Audubon Society for a field trip and start 2018 off right.  On Friday, January 5, 2018, 8:00 am – 12:00 pm they will be doing Golf Cart Birding with the Villages Birding Club which is free.  On Sunday, January 14, 2018, 8:00 am – 2:00 pm they will be going to Circle B Reserve Birding and the cost is  $10 for members and $15 for non members.  Both trips will have expert guides and everyone is welcome no matter what your level of experience.  Attendees are encouraged to bring binoculars, cameras,  hats, water, snacks and wear comfortable hiking clothes and shoes.  Email rayesm105@aol.com or call/text 609-553-0757  for details to register in advance.

Oklawaha Valley Audubon Society (OVAS)  presented Lavon Silvernell of Astatula with the Conservationist of the Year award at their Holiday Luncheon on December 3^rd.   OVAS was founded in 1966 and has been a conservation advocate in Lake County for over 50 years. They presented their  first Conservationist of the Year Award in 2008 to recognize someone who had significant conservation achievements in Lake County.  Last year, Welton Cadwell, former Lake County Commissioner,  received the award, recognizing him for a “Lifetime of Conservation”.   Continue reading →