As we head into fall, and our paddling season, we are super excited to get back on the water. Fall always reminds us of getting outside and breathing deep, the crispness in the air, and the smiles as we reunite with friends. Nothing is better than being on a river, sleeping in a tent, and enjoying that morning cup of coffee. We are starting our 2025-2026 season with the Santa Fe Springs Celebration trip! We will have days filled with paddling, warm meals, evening presentations and campfires with friends.

Set off on an unforgettable St. Augustine adventure from April 20–26, 2026, with our new "History Base-Camp" trip. You'll paddle through the pristine Matanzas River estuary, exploring its salt marshes and rich ecosystem. Glide into the sheltered waters of Salt Run within Anastasia State Park, a haven for marine life and birds. Along the way, we'll stop to explore historic landmarks like the iconic St. Augustine Lighthouse and the formidable Fort Matanzas. The trip also features unique opportunities to learn about conservation from local experts and Florida State Parks staff, providing a deeper connection to the natural world around you. With choices for all experience levels, from easygoing paddles to more vigorous exploration, this is an experience you won't want to miss. Secure your spot today for this unique blend of history, nature, and adventure! CLICK TO REGISTER.

In this issue you will learn about our NEW St Augustine trip, the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve, and Florida’s Role in Right Whale Conservation.

We look forward to our 2025-2026 Season, our 94th to 99th trips, paddling with you!

The GTMNERR stretches from Ponte Vedra to Palm Coast. The GTMNERR is known for its diverse ecological and cultural resources. It contains many unique features, such as a climatic transition zone, globally rare maritime hammock and coastal strand vegetation communities, and one of the few remaining natural inlets in northeast Florida.

The reserve boundary includes twelve distinct management units and is home to two Aquatic Preserves: Guana River Marsh Aquatic Preserve (GRMAP), and Pellicer Creek Aquatic Preserve (PCAP).

GTMNERR is one of 30 National Estuarine Research Reserves (NERR) protected areas established under the U.S. Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 as a natural field laboratory. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) provides funding and guidance for the 30 reserves that make up the NERR System, while a state partner manages each reserve daily and works with local partners. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is the managing state partner for the three Florida NERRs. GTMNERR specifically is a bar-built estuarine ecosystem featuring a variety of habitats. […Read More…]

The North Atlantic right whale, one of the most critically endangered whale species in the world, finds sanctuary in the waters off Florida each winter. From November to April, expectant mothers migrate to this region to give birth, making Florida’s coastline a vital calving ground for the survival of this species. With approximately 370 individuals remaining, every new calf born here offers a glimmer of hope in the fight against extinction.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) plays a crucial role in monitoring and protecting these majestic marine mammals. Researchers from FWC track whale sightings, study their behavior, and work to mitigate the numerous threats these animals face. But despite these efforts, the challenges to their survival are significant. […Read More…]

How To: Volunteer with Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (GTMNERR)

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