Blue Springs State Park -

Six paddlers gathered for a fun and relaxed paddle. The temp started out at 40 degrees--so we saw many manatee and the unique gar. Additional super finds were: wild turkey, great blue herons, herrons, ibis, anahinga, many jumping fish. We walked the spring/manatee run afterwards and enjoyed the different pairings of manatee. We finished with shared brownies.

Host: Bill Maish

Blue Springs Leisure Paddle -

It was an unseasonably warm End of the Year day when sixteen of us set out on a paddle at Blue Springs State Park.  The main attraction this time of year is manatee; despite the 80 degree weather, we saw over a dozen (many young manatee with moms).  There were cormorants, herons, limpkins, turkey vultures and more birds.  Many jumping gar and other fish were amusing.  Alligators and turtles were lounging.  The paddle was a comfortable length and peaceful--even more so when we got off the St. John's River. Many enjoyed a walking up the boardwalk along the run and a picnic before returning home.  There was no swimming this time of year--the park keeps it free for the manatee.

Host: Bill Maish