Feb. 8 — Visit a cemetery, learn from a biologist

Join Friends of the Wekiva River at 9:00 am Saturday, February  8th, for a hike through a section of the sand pine scrub and pine flatwoods in Rock Springs Run State Reserve to the scant remains of an old cemetery.

Paul Lammardo, environmental specialist/biologist for the Wekiva River Basin State Parks, will share his knowledge of the ecology, flora and fauna in the area. He will also provide background information on the settlers of Ethel. Old grave markers are the only remaining signs of Ethel, which started in the later 1800’s with sawmills and turpentine stills. Ethel had a church with a school and a railroad flag stop. Sanford’s newspaper covered family dinners, social events, school calendars and burials that took place in this small town west of Sanford.

* The round trip hike and talk should take less than two hours. There is no charge, except for the state’s $3-per-vehicle entrance fee.
* Bring water, insect repellent, sunscreen, hat and snacks if desired.
* Rock Springs Run State Reserve is near Sorrento.  From Orlando, take I-4 to Exit 101C and travel west on State Road 46 for about 10 miles to the park entrance on the left. Construction makes this a little challenging. Look for our signs. The park entrance, framed by a tall chain link fence, is about 3 miles west of the Wekiva River bridge on State Road 46. Once inside the park take the first left towards the horse stables. Drive 0.7 of a mile and park on the right at the kiosk that describes the Ethel settlement.

Call the park at 407-884-2008 for additional directions. For more information on the hike, contact Weegie at weegie1021@aol.com or 407-788-2619.