Friends of The GTM

New Volunteer Orientation
2024-04-05 10:00 - 11:30, 2024-03-01 10:00 - 11:30, 2024-02-02 10:00 - 11:30 (America/New_York) | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
A new volunteer at GTM Research Reserve? Haven’t attended a New Volunteer Orientation? Then join us for a New Volunteer Orientation! Expect to learn:
-GTM NERR program overview
-Volunteer Rules and Responsibilities
-Next steps to volunteering at GTM
Please be sure to complete a volunteer application before attending. You can contact Volunteer Coordinator Abigail Kuhn at Abigail.Kuhn@FloridaDEP.gov to assure that your application was received.

Matanzas Inlet Hike CANCELLED!
2024-04-01 09:30 - 11:30 (America/New_York) | Matanzas Inlet West Parking Lot, 8655 A1A S, St. Augustine, FL, 32080, United States
Join GTM Research Reserve and the National Park Service for a guided interpretive hike around the Matanzas Inlet. Explore the ever-changing shoreline, tidal flats, beaches, dunes, vegetation, birds, and wildlife. The event is free but online registration is required.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.
Do I need a reservation to attend the hike?
Yes, register online by following the links provided above.
If I can’t make it, how do I cancel my reservation?
When you register, you receive an email confirmation with information about canceling.
What should I wear?
Appropriate clothing for the outdoors is recommended. Dress in layers and prepare for any type of weather. Closed-toe shoes are encouraged but not required. Hats protect your skin from the sun, along with sunscreen. Bug spray is also suggested.
What should I bring?
A reusable water bottle (that can be filled up onsite), insect repellent (strongly recommended), sunscreen, and binoculars/cameras are suggested.
Can I bring my dog?
Family pets/dogs cannot join the educational hikes, as they may distract participants and disrupt native wildlife.

Beach Exploration
2024-03-16 09:00 - 11:00, 2024-02-17 09:00 - 11:00, 2024-01-20 09:00 - 11:00 UTC | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Join GTM Research Reserve docents for a beach walk. Learn about the animals that call the beach their home, plus discover seashells and other interesting facts. This is a “Beaches 101” experience the entire family will enjoy. The hike begins at the Visitor Center where you learn about the different habitats on GTM’s beautiful seashore. Afterward, the group heads to the beach for a salty adventure. Parking is in front of the Visitor Center; there is no parking fee.
The Visitor Center Address: 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082.
Please CLICK HERE to reserve a spot online for the Beach Exploration.
Do I need a reservation to attend?

Yes, register online by following the links provided above.

If I can’t make it, how do I cancel my reservation?

When you register, you receive an email confirmation with information about canceling.

What should I wear?

Appropriate clothing for the outdoors is recommended. Dress in layers and prepare for any type of weather. Closed-toe shoes are encouraged but not required. Hats protect your skin from the sun, along with sunscreen. Bug spray is also suggested.

What should I bring?

A reusable water bottle (that can be filled up onsite), insect repellent (strongly recommended), sunscreen, and binoculars/cameras are suggested.

Where should I meet my guide?

CLICK HERE for a Google Map. Your guide will be waiting at the GTM Visitor Center, 15 minutes prior to the scheduled hike.

How long is the walk?

The walk is about half a mile, round trip. The hike leaders guide everyone ~0.25 miles, one way. You can continue or turn around if necessary. At any point during the hike, visitors can take swim breaks in the beautiful ocean.

What will I learn?

The GTM Research Reserve interpretive guide discusses where the restless sand comes from, where it’s going and its refusal to stay put. Ask why the sand is fine or coarse and how it got its color. Learn about coquina rocks, dune flowers, sea birds, shells, and the humble gopher tortoise that digs deep burrows and comes out to dine on prickly pears along the dunes.

How old does my child need to be to attend? Can I push a stroller?

There are no age restrictions for this hike, but the Florida heat can be uncomfortable for small children. You can push a stroller; however, we strongly recommend strollers with large beach-capable wheels.

I have a bad back. Can I still participate in this hike?

The hike is moderately paced with soft sand terrain. Join the hike if you feel comfortable walking through beach sand for about half of a mile.

Can I bring my dog?

Family pets/dogs cannot join the educational hikes, as they may distract participants and disrupt native wildlife.

Is there anything else to see afterward?
If you like, stay at the beach longer and collect shells, swim in the ocean, or lie in the sun. You can purchase a $3 parking pass to enjoy the Dam area, where visitors fish, and rent kayaks or paddle-boards. Hike one of the beautiful trails, head to one of the three beach lots, or hang out in the Visitor Center to learn more about the reserve’s natural surroundings.

Matanzas Inlet Hike
2024-03-15 09:30 - 11:30 (America/New_York), 2024-02-16 09:30 - 11:30 UTC, 2024-02-02 09:30 - 11:30 UTC, 2024-01-18 09:30 - 11:30 UTC, 2024-01-04 09:30 - 11:30 UTC | Matanzas Inlet West Parking Lot, 8655 A1A S, St. Augustine, FL, 32080, United States

Family Seining
2024-03-09 09:00 - 11:00 UTC | Guana Dam, 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Join GTM Research Reserve on the second Saturday of each month for a guided family seining activity. Pull a seine net through Guana Lake, collecting species of fish, crabs, and other habitats. Learn about the animals and their roles. All necessary gear, including waders and boots will be provided.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.
Do I need a reservation to attend?

Yes, register online by following the links provided above.

If I can’t make it, how do I cancel my reservation?

When you register, you receive an email confirmation with information about canceling.

How old does my child need to be to attend?

There is no age limit, but your child must be at least three feet tall to hold the seine net.

What should I wear?

Appropriate clothing for the outdoors is recommended. Dress in layers and prepare for any type of weather. Closed-toe shoes are encouraged and wearing flip-flops is discouraged. We provide booties and waders, but you can bring your own gear.

What should I bring?

A reusable water bottle (that can be filled up onsite), insect repellent (strongly recommended), sunscreen, and binoculars/cameras are suggested.

Can I bring my dog?

Family pets/dogs cannot attend the family seining, as they may distract participants and disrupt native wildlife.

Where should I meet my guide?

CLICK HERE for a Google Map. Your guide will be waiting at Guana Dam, 15 minutes prior to the scheduled program. The event begins at 9 am.

What will I catch?

The seine nets catch various types of fish, crab, shrimp, shells, and plant life.

Are there any fees?

Only a $3/vehicle fee for parking (paid on arrival). Only cash is accepted.

Is there anything else to see afterward?

Have lunch at the Trailhead Pavilion and explore one of the many trails. You will also have access to the beaches at the South, Middle, and North access lots (for which your parking tag will apply for same-day use, might as well get your $3 worth). Tour the Visitor Center free of admission. It is open Tuesday- Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Matanzas Inlet Hike
2024-03-04 09:30 - 11:30 UTC | Matanzas Inlet West Parking Lot, 8655 A1A S, St. Augustine, FL, 32080, United States
Join GTM Research Reserve and the National Park Service for a guided interpretive hike around the Matanzas Inlet. Explore the ever-changing shoreline, tidal flats, beaches, dunes, vegetation, birds, and wildlife. The event is free but online registration is required.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.
Do I need a reservation to attend the hike?
Yes, register online by following the links provided above.
If I can’t make it, how do I cancel my reservation?
When you register, you receive an email confirmation with information about canceling.
What should I wear?
Appropriate clothing for the outdoors is recommended. Dress in layers and prepare for any type of weather. Closed-toe shoes are encouraged but not required. Hats protect your skin from the sun, along with sunscreen. Bug spray is also suggested.
What should I bring?
A reusable water bottle (that can be filled up onsite), insect repellent (strongly recommended), sunscreen, and binoculars/cameras are suggested.
Can I bring my dog?
Family pets/dogs cannot join the educational hikes, as they may distract participants and disrupt native wildlife

Introduction to Nature Journaling
2024-02-22 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
GTM Research Reserve and nature journaling instructor, Elaine Bergstrom, invite you to join us in reconnecting with nature through sketching and recording observations in the environment. This FREE introductory workshop will help you learn the techniques of nature journaling with simple steps and art techniques. Bring a sketchbook and a twin-tip black Sharpie. This is both an indoor and outdoor event. We will provide portable chairs, but feel free to bring your own. Please wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes. Lunch will be provided. REGISTER HERE.

Marineland River to Sea Preserve Trail Walk CANCELLED!
2024-02-14 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | River to Sea Preserve, 9805 Ocean Shr Blvd., St. Augustine, FL, 32080, United States
The GTM Research Reserve offers you an opportunity to follow the wooded trail to the Matanzas River at the River-to-Sea Preserve. An interpretive guide will tell you about old Florida’s moss-laden trees, seasonal flowering shrubs, and Native American lore, including how they used various plants for food, beverage, and medicine. The event is free, but online registration is required.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.
Is there a parking fee?
No.
Are there public restrooms?
Yes.
What should I wear?
Wear appropriate clothing for the outdoors. Dressing in layers and preparing for any type of weather is recommended. Closed-toe shoes, not flip-flops, are encouraged.
What should I bring?
A reusable water bottle (that can be filled up onsite), insect repellent (strongly recommended), sunscreen, and binoculars/cameras are suggested.
Are trails accessible for strollers?
The trails are not paved and have loose sand. Only strollers with big rugged, all-terrain wheels are recommended.
Can I bring my dog?
Family pets/dogs cannot join the educational hikes, as they may distract participants and disrupt native wildlife.
Is there anything else to see afterward?
Visit the beautiful beach across the street. Heading further south, you’ll find Washington Oaks Gardens State Park. (CLICK HERE to learn more.)

Family Seining
2024-01-13 09:00 - 11:00 UTC | Guana Dam, 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Join GTM Research Reserve on the second Saturday of each month for a guided family seining activity. Pull a seine net through Guana Lake, collecting species of fish, crabs, and other habitats. Learn about the animals and their roles. All necessary gear including waders and boots will be provided.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.
Do I need a reservation to attend?

Yes, register online by following the links provided above.

If I can’t make it, how do I cancel my reservation?

When you register, you receive an email confirmation with information about canceling.

How old does my child need to be to attend?

There is no age limit, but your child must be at least three feet tall to hold the seine net.

What should I wear?

Appropriate clothing for the outdoors is recommended. Dress in layers and prepare for any type of weather. Closed-toe shoes are encouraged and wearing flip-flops is discouraged. We provide booties and waders, but you can bring your own gear.

What should I bring?

A reusable water bottle (that can be filled up onsite), insect repellent (strongly recommended), sunscreen, and binoculars/cameras are suggested.

Can I bring my dog?

Family pets/dogs cannot attend the family seining, as they may distract participants and disrupt native wildlife.

Where should I meet my guide?

CLICK HERE for a Google Map. Your guide will be waiting at Guana Dam, 15 minutes prior to the scheduled program. The event begins at 9 am.

What will I catch?

The seine nets catch various types of fish, crab, shrimp, shells, and plant life.

Are there any fees?

Only a $3/vehicle fee for parking (paid on arrival). Only cash is accepted.

Is there anything else to see afterward?

Have lunch at the Trailhead Pavilion and explore one of the many trails. You will also have access to the beaches at the South, Middle, and North access lots (for which your parking tag will apply for same-day use, might as well get your $3 worth). Tour the Visitor Center free of admission. It is open Tuesday- Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Guided Exploration Hike
2024-01-06 09:00 - 11:00 UTC | Guana Trailhead, 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
On the first Saturday of every month, visitors learn about the Guana Peninsula’s natural biodiversity, extensive cultural history, vital estuarine resources, and current efforts to protect these resources. Meet at the GTM Research Reserve’s Trailhead Pavilion west of the Guana Dam. Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes. There is a $3 per vehicle parking fee.
PLEASE REGISTER HERE!
Do I need a reservation to attend the hike?

Yes, register online by following the links provided above.

If I can’t make it, how do I cancel my reservation?

When you register, you receive an email confirmation with information about canceling.

What should I wear?

Appropriate clothing for the outdoors is recommended. Dress in layers and prepare for any type of weather. Closed-toe shoes are encouraged but not required. Hats protect your skin from the sun, along with sunscreen. Bug spray is also suggested.

What should I bring?

A reusable water bottle (that can be filled up onsite), insect repellent (strongly recommended), sunscreen, and binoculars/cameras are suggested.

Where should I meet my guide?

CLICK HERE for a Google Map. Your guide will be waiting at the Trailhead Pavilion around 8:50 a.m. The hike begins at 9 a.m.

Are there any fees?

Only a $3/vehicle fee for parking (paid at arrival). Only cash is accepted.

How long is the hike?

The hike is less than 2.2 miles round trip and follows the Yellow Trail (CLICK HERE for a Trail Map). It takes less than 2.0 hours.

Are trails accessible for strollers?

The trails are not paved and have loose sand. Only strollers with big rugged wheels are recommended.

Can I bring my dog?

Family pets/dogs are not permitted to join the educational hikes, as they may distract participants and disrupt native wildlife.

Is there anything else to see afterward?

If you like, have lunch at the Trailhead Pavilion. Then, try out one of the other trails. Enjoy the Dam area, where visitors fish, and rent kayaks or paddle boards. Head to one of the three beach lots or hang out in the Visitor Center to learn more about the reserve’s natural surroundings.

Matanzas Inlet Hike
2023-12-20 09:30 - 11:30 UTC | Matanzas Inlet West Parking Lot, 8655 A1A S, St. Augustine, FL, 32080, United States
Join GTM Research Reserve and the National Park Service for a guided interpretive hike around the Matanzas Inlet. Explore the ever-changing shoreline, tidal flats, beaches, dunes, vegetation, birds, and wildlife. The event is free but online registration is required.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.
Do I need a reservation to attend the hike?
Yes, register online by following the links provided above.
If I can’t make it, how do I cancel my reservation?
When you register, you receive an email confirmation with information about canceling.
Can I bring my dog?
Family pets/dogs cannot join the educational hikes, as they may distract participants and disrupt native wildlife.
What should I wear?
Appropriate clothing for the outdoors is recommended. Dress in layers and prepare for any type of weather. Closed-toe shoes are encouraged but not required. Hats protect your skin from the sun, along with sunscreen. Bug spray is also suggested.
What should I bring?
A reusable water bottle (that can be filled up onsite), insect repellent (strongly recommended), sunscreen, and binoculars/cameras are suggested.

Beach Exploration
2023-12-16 09:00 - 11:00 UTC | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Join GTM Research Reserve docents for a beach walk. Learn about the animals that call the beach their home, plus discover seashells and other interesting facts. This is a “Beaches 101” experience the entire family will enjoy. The hike begins at the Visitor Center where you learn about the different habitats on GTM’s beautiful seashore. Afterward, the group heads to the beach for a salty adventure. Parking is in front of the Visitor Center; there is no parking fee.
The Visitor Center Address: 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082.
Please CLICK HERE to reserve a spot online for the Beach Exploration.
Do I need a reservation to attend?

Yes, register online by following the links provided above.

If I can’t make it, how do I cancel my reservation?

When you register, you receive an email confirmation with information about canceling.

What should I wear?

Appropriate clothing for the outdoors is recommended. Dress in layers and prepare for any type of weather. Closed-toe shoes are encouraged but not required. Hats protect your skin from the sun, along with sunscreen. Bug spray is also suggested.

What should I bring?

A reusable water bottle (that can be filled up onsite), insect repellent (strongly recommended), sunscreen, and binoculars/cameras are suggested.

Where should I meet my guide?

CLICK HERE for a Google Map. Your guide will be waiting at the GTM Visitor Center, 15 minutes prior to the scheduled hike.

How long is the walk?

The walk is about half a mile, round trip. The hike leaders guide everyone ~0.25 miles, one way. You can continue or turn around if necessary. At any point during the hike, visitors can take swim breaks in the beautiful ocean.

What will I learn?

The GTM Research Reserve interpretive guide discusses where the restless sand comes from, where it’s going and its refusal to stay put. Ask why the sand is fine or coarse and how it got its color. Learn about coquina rocks, dune flowers, sea birds, shells, and the humble gopher tortoise that digs deep burrows and comes out to dine on prickly pears along the dunes.

How old does my child need to be to attend? Can I push a stroller?

There are no age restrictions for this hike, but the Florida heat can be uncomfortable for small children. You can push a stroller; however, we strongly recommend strollers with large beach-capable wheels.

Can I bring my dog?

Family pets/dogs cannot join the educational hikes, as they may distract participants and disrupt native wildlife.

I have a bad back. Can I still participate in this hike?

The hike is moderately paced with soft sand terrain. Join the hike if you feel comfortable walking through beach sand for about half of a mile.

Is there anything else to see afterward?
If you like, stay at the beach longer and collect shells, swim in the ocean, or lie in the sun. You can purchase a $3 parking pass to enjoy the Dam area, where visitors fish, and rent kayaks or paddle-boards. Hike one of the beautiful trails, head to one of the three beach lots, or hang out in the Visitor Center to learn more about the reserve’s natural surroundings.

Management Advisory Group (MAG) Meeting
2023-12-13 18:00 - 20:00, 2023-09-20 18:00 - 20:00, 2023-06-21 18:00 - 20:00, 2022-12-21 18:00 - 20:00, 2022-09-21 18:00 - 20:00, 2022-06-15 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | GTM Research Reserve Marineland Field Office, 9741 Ocean Shore Blvd., St. Augustine, FL, 32080, United States
The GTM Research Reserve Management Advisory Group (MAG) holds regular meetings on the third Wednesday of the third month of each calendar quarter of the year. The purpose of the MAG is to:
-Assist the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) in an advisory capacity by providing recommendations to DEP on matters associated with the implementation of the GTM Research Reserve Management Plan regarding environmental education, scientific research, and resource management strategies
-Review and make recommendations to DEP on proposals for amendments to the GTM Research Reserve management plan
-Assist DEP in maintaining effective inter-agency coordination and communication among federal, state, and local governmental agencies and the public on issues regarding the management of the reserve
-Support the seeking of funding to provide for land acquisition, facilities development and maintenance, scientific research, environmental monitoring, environmental education, equipment purchases, general operations expenses, and any other purpose necessary for the effective functioning of the reserve
-Serve as an advisory group to the GTM Research Reserve Coastal Training Program to guide the program to address the needs of the stakeholder groups which the MAG represents
For more information or a copy of the next meeting’s agenda, email Kirstin.T.Thompson@FloridaDEP.gov.
