FIELD TRIP: Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area

Date: Sunday, 2 March 2025

Location: Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area

Leader Name: George Glenn

Trip/area Description, with any special characteristics: The Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area is made up of 20,862-acres comprising wetlands and upland communities that mark the southernmost reach of the St. Johns River’s headwaters. The dry prairie, pine flatwoods, hardwood swamp and freshwater marsh habitats support a variety of wildlife and attract many bird species, especially during the winter. Hiking trails through the various habitats include a boardwalk through a mixed cypress/hardwood swamp.

Duration of trip in hours: 4 hours

Walking distance: 2 miles

Degree of difficulty, and any special instructions: Easy walking on roadbeds but there may be some wet spots on the trail depending on the weather. Contact the field trip leader at 850-294-4586 if you need further directions, especially on the morning of the field trip.

Where you’d like participants to meet: To get to the entrance to Fort Drum, go west on Rt. 60 as if you are heading to Yeehaw Junction. You do NOT go all the way to Yeehaw Junction. The entrance is on the South side of the road, roughly 15 miles west of the I-95 interchange and right before you get to the "bend" in the Rt. 60 road. Meet at the parking area near the first gate at Fort Drum. It is important that everyone arrive on time because we will enter through a gate that must be locked after driving through. Everyone will be provided the combination to the gate lock so that if you decide you want to quit the hike early, you will be able to leave when you want.

Time of meeting: 7:00 a.m.

Number of participants: 20 people

Host or Publisher Pelican Island Audubon Society