Sams House at Pine Island (Two Part Field Trip – History & Community Science)

Travel back in time while exploring nature at Sams House and the Pine Island Conservation Area. From Ice Age animals to Native Americans to early pioneers, Pine Island Conservation Area has a rich history.

This field activity is comprised of two parts:

**Part 1: Sams House (0830-0945)**
The Naturalists will share a bit of history as we explore the nature trails and interactive exhibits highlighting Pine Island’s current and past inhabitants. The property is part of the Environmentally Endangered Lands (EEL) Program. We’ll be looking for birds, butterflies, insects and observe the native plant gardens.

Sams House has bathroom facilities, a nature store in the pioneer house and fully accessible paved paths. The nature trails have some benches for guests who prefer to sit and take nature in.

From Sams House we will consolidate vehicles and travel 3.6 miles to Pine Island Conservation Area. The parking space near the hiking trail can only accommodate 4-5 vehicles. (0945-1000)

**Part 2: Pine Island Conservation Area (1000-1120)**
This 880-acre conservation area provides access to the trailhead 0.5 mile from main entrance leading to over 7 miles of trails. The property includes pine flatwoods, Saltmarsh habitats, cabbage palm hammocks, mangrove forests and marshes fringing the Indian River Lagoon.
Our trip leader will guide us on a hike to enjoy the habitat and observe wildlife. The hike will be on dirt and brush paths with uneven surfaces.
During this part of the trip we will focus on community science, striving to add observations to eBird and iNaturalist.

Travel Back to Sams House (1120-1130)
Everyone is welcome to join our group picnic lunch after the field trips.

Please bring: water, binoculars, bug repellent, and shoes that can get muddy or wet. If the weather is cooler, a jacket may be useful. If you plan to join for lunch, bring your lunch and a drink. Let us know if you need to borrow a pair of binoculars.