Explore with the chapter
Our field trips introduce participants to native plants and natural communities across Northwest Florida and nearby areas. Trips are normally held on the last Saturday of each month except December and January, but dates and destinations are subject to change.
Final trip announcements include the exact meeting point, start time, RSVP instructions, difficulty, expected duration, weather plan, what to wear and bring, and botanical highlights. Contact fnps.longleaf.pine@gmail.com before attending if you have not received the final announcement.
Upcoming meetings
October
Thursday, October 8: no regular meeting because Pensacola MESS Hall is unavailable.
Extraordinary Caterpillar
Thursday, November 12 · 5:45–7:30 p.m.
Pensacola MESS Hall and online
The November program will feature the film Extraordinary Caterpillar. Contact the chapter for final details and Zoom access.
Holiday pot-luck and slide show
Thursday, December 10
Final time, participation details, and online arrangements will be shared with the monthly announcement.
January program
Tentative: Thursday, January 14, 2027
Paton Glaze, FDEP State Parks plant biologist, is tentatively scheduled. Final program details are coming.
Outreach and volunteer opportunities
- October: Florida Native Plant Month. Volunteers are invited to help distribute educational flyers to local bulletin boards, libraries, and schools.
- October 10: planned Palafox Market outreach.
- November 7: Emerald Coast Fall Native Plant Fair at Paradise Plants & Palms in Valparaiso.
Email fnps.longleaf.pine@gmail.com to volunteer or request final event details.
Planned field trips
Patriot Park/Shoal River
Saturday, September 26 · Okaloosa County
Rob Fennick is listed with this trip. Contact the chapter for the final meeting point, start time, RSVP instructions, difficulty, and weather plan.
Escribano Point
Saturday, October 24
Contact the chapter for the final meeting point, start time, leader, RSVP instructions, difficulty, and weather plan.
Garcon Point Wildlife Management Area
Saturday, November 28
Contact the chapter for the final meeting point, start time, leader, RSVP instructions, difficulty, and weather plan.
December and January: no field trips are planned.
Trip preparation
- Bring plenty of water and snacks.
- Wear weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe walking or hiking shoes.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and insect protection.
- Expect some trips to include wet, uneven, or unpaved terrain.
- Check email for a weather cancellation or destination change before leaving.
