Outdoors

Gulf and Bay: News and notes

By RODNEY PAGE, Times Staff Writer
Published January 11, 2008

Manatees

Celebrating their arrival

The Citrus County Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring the Florida Manatee Festival on Saturday and Sunday in downtown Crystal River. The two-day event will feature arts and crafts, a manatee education program, and manatee tours from a boat or by helicopter. This is the time of year manatees seek the warm waters of the Intracoastal Waterway, especially in Hernando and Citrus counties. Adult admission is $2, and there is an additional cost for the rides. For information, call (352) 726-2801.

Decal art contest begins

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is holding its annual manatee decal art contest for middle and high school art students until Jan. 31. Students must work through their school's art teacher, and each school may submit up to five entries. Entries must be postmarked on or before Jan. 31, and they will be judged Feb. 14. To view specific details, go to www.myfwc.com. Sales from the manatee decals provide funds for the state's manatee protection program. Decals are available at county tax collectors' offices with a donation of $5 or more to the Save the Manatee Trust Fund.

VOLUNTEERS

Spread knowledge on preserve

Weedon Island Preserve in St. Petersburg is looking for volunteers for its educational, hike and docent programs. Programs and new exhibits focus on the ecological and cultural resources of Tampa Bay. Many positions are available. Call (727) 453-6501 for information.

Put shine on Mirror Lake

A reminder that the Mirror Lake cleanup project is from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. Volunteers are needed to help clean debris from around and on the lake, which is located in downtown St. Petersburg. The city will provide tools, garbage bags, boats and some helpers. Volunteers should wear closed-toed shoes and gloves. A lunch will be provided. Contact Shirley O'Sullivan at (727) 827-1432.

[Last modified January 10, 2008, 20:46:00]