Friends of The GTM

GTM Monthly Beach Cleanup
2024-12-28 09:00 - 11:00, 2024-11-23 09:00 - 11:00, 2024-10-26 09:00 - 11:00, 2024-09-28 09:00 - 11:00, 2024-08-24 09:00 - 11:00, 2024-07-27 09:00 - 11:00, 2024-06-22 09:00 - 11:00, 2024-05-25 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Meet at the Visitor Center for a brief orientation and instructions at 9:00 AM sharp. We provide bags and gloves, but you can reduce the trash we generate by bringing your own gloves and container. No signup is required.

New Volunteer Orientation
2024-12-06 10:00 - 11:30, 2024-11-01 10:00 - 11:30, 2024-10-04 10:00 - 11:30, 2024-09-06 10:00 - 11:30, 2024-08-02 10:00 - 11:30, 2024-07-12 10:00 - 11:30, 2024-06-27 10:00 - 11:30, 2024-06-07 10:00 - 11:30 (America/New_York) and 1 more date | 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.

Lifelong Learners: Adult Coastal Camp
2024-07-16 09:00 - 2024-07-18 15:00 (America/New_York) | FL
From the coastal wetlands to the beaches, this three-day camp for lifelong learners will take the classroom into the field throughout Flagler County.
This camp is SOLD OUT, but we are accepting a “wait list.” REGISTER HERE.
Lifelong learners will:

explore marshes, estuaries, rocky intertidal zone, and dunes on foot and by kayak,
learn about monitoring efforts researchers use to understand our coastal environment, and
share stewardship opportunities that everyone can participate in.

This program is hosted by Friends of the GTM Reserve and led by Florida Sea Grant Extension.
Please contact Kaitlyn.Dietz@FloridaDEP.gov with any questions.

Lifelong Learners: Adult Coastal Camp
2024-07-09 09:00 - 2024-07-11 15:00 (America/New_York) | FL
From the coastal wetlands to the beaches, this three-day camp for lifelong learners will take the classroom into the field throughout Flagler County.
REGISTER HERE.
Lifelong learners will:

explore marshes, estuaries, rocky intertidal zone, and dunes on foot and by kayak,
learn about monitoring efforts researchers use to understand our coastal environment, and
share stewardship opportunities that everyone can participate in.

This program is hosted by Friends of the GTM Reserve and led by Florida Sea Grant Extension.
Please contact Kaitlyn.Dietz@FloridaDEP.gov with any questions.

Adventures in the Estuary Summer Camp: Session IV, 6-8-year-old
2024-06-24 08:00 - 2024-06-28 16:00 (America/New_York) | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Discover the wonders of the natural world at Adventures in the Estuary, an exciting and educational summer camp at Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (GTM Research Reserve). Designed for young explorers, this immersive camp offers a unique opportunity to delve into the diverse ecosystems of our coastal reserve. Through engaging activities, hands-on experiences, and expert-led adventures, campers will forge a deeper connection with the estuarine environment.
Monday through Thursday, campers should arrive at 8 a.m., and be picked up at 4 p.m. (no later than 5 p.m.) Camp will end early on Fridays, so campers should be picked up at 3 p.m. (no later than 4 p.m.)
REGISTER HERE.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
How do I register my child for camp?
When registration opens, the corresponding buttons will allow you to register your camper. Friends of the GTM Reserve members will receive exclusive updates on when registration will open and can register before the general public (click here for more information on how to become a Friends Member).
What if a session is full?
If the session you wanted is full, please fill in the Waitlist form and an education team member will reach out to you once an open spot becomes available.
What is your refund policy?
No refunds will be issued for cancellations. If you need to cancel registration, please reach out to us about credit for a future summer camp session.
What should my child bring to camp?

Lunches – parents/guardians must provide a lunch for their children. We encourage campers to bring a litter-less, eco-friendly lunch (reusable items).
Campers must also bring: A water bottle, insect repellent, sunscreen, a change of clothes and shoes, closed-toe shoes, sunglasses, a towel, and a hat.

Please label your child’s supplies since we cannot allow campers to share certain items without parent/guardian permission (e.g. sunscreen and insect repellent). Items such as sunscreen, bug spray, water bottles, and hats can be stored at camp for the week.

We will provide water and snacks. We strive to provide healthy snacks, however, if your child has dietary restrictions we recommend packing a snack from home.

What if my child carpools or the pick-up adult changes?
Your child(ren) will only be allowed to go home with people you have indicated on the permission list (provided at the beginning of camp).
My children are siblings, friends, etc., want to be together, but are now in different age groups. Can they be together?
6-8-year-old and the 9-12-year-old campers will be in separate classrooms with different age-appropriate activities. Please contact us with questions.
*Please note there are three age groups: 6-8-year-old (blue button), 9-12-year-old (orange button), and 12-14-year-old (green button).

Adventures in the Estuary Summer Camp: Session II, 6-8-year-old
2024-06-10 08:00 - 2024-06-14 16:00 (America/New_York) | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Discover the wonders of the natural world at Adventures in the Estuary, an exciting and educational summer camp at Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (GTM Research Reserve). Designed for young explorers, this immersive camp offers a unique opportunity to delve into the diverse ecosystems of our coastal reserve. Through engaging activities, hands-on experiences, and expert-led adventures, campers will forge a deeper connection with the estuarine environment.
Monday through Thursday, campers should arrive at 8 a.m., and be picked up at 4 p.m. (no later than 5 p.m.) Camp will end early on Fridays, so campers should be picked up at 3 p.m. (no later than 4 p.m.)
REGISTER HERE.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
How do I register my child for camp?
When registration opens, the corresponding buttons will allow you to register your camper. Friends of the GTM Reserve members will receive exclusive updates on when registration will open and can register before the general public (click here for more information on how to become a Friends Member).
What if a session is full?
If the session you wanted is full, please fill in the Waitlist form and an education team member will reach out to you once an open spot becomes available.
What is your refund policy?
No refunds will be issued for cancellations. If you need to cancel registration, please reach out to us about credit for a future summer camp session.
What should my child bring to camp?

Lunches – parents/guardians must provide a lunch for their children. We try to encourage campers to bring a litter-less, eco-friendly lunch (reusable items).
Campers must also bring: A water bottle, insect repellent, sunscreen, a change of clothes and shoes, closed-toe shoes, sunglasses, a towel, and a hat.

Please label your child’s supplies since we cannot allow campers to share certain items without parent/guardian permission (e.g. sunscreen and insect repellent). Items such as sunscreen, bug spray, water bottles, and hats can be stored at camp for the week.

We will provide water and snacks. We strive to provide healthy snacks, however, if your child has dietary restrictions we recommend packing a snack from home.

What if my child carpools or the pick-up adult changes?
Your child(ren) will only be allowed to go home with people you have indicated on the permission list (provided at the beginning of camp).
My children are siblings, friends, etc., and want to be together but now in different age groups. Can they be together?
6-8-year-old and the 9-12-year-old campers will be in separate classrooms with different age-appropriate activities. Please contact us with questions.
*Please note there are three age groups: 6-8-year-old (blue button), 9-12-year-old (orange button), and 12-14-year-old (green button).

Adventures in the Estuary Summer Camp: Session II, 9-12-year-old
2024-06-10 08:00 - 2024-06-14 16:00 (America/New_York) | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States

Family Seining
2024-06-08 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | 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?

Yes, but keep in mind that all dogs must remain on a leash, and all waste must be promptly cleaned by the owner. To be part of the seining activity, two hands are needed. Please be mindful of other visitors when bringing a dog.

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.

Adventures in the Estuary Summer Camp: Session I, 6-8-year-old
2024-06-03 08:00 - 2024-06-07 16:00 (America/New_York) | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Discover the wonders of the natural world at Adventures in the Estuary, an exciting and educational summer camp at Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (GTM Research Reserve). Designed for young explorers, this immersive camp offers a unique opportunity to delve into the diverse ecosystems of our coastal reserve. Through engaging activities, hands-on experiences, and expert-led adventures, campers will forge a deeper connection with the estuarine environment.
Monday through Thursday, campers should arrive at 8 a.m., and be picked up at 4 p.m. (no later than 5 p.m.) Camp will end early on Fridays, so campers should be picked up at 3 p.m. (no later than 4 p.m.)
REGISTER HERE.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
How do I register my child for camp?
When registration opens, the corresponding buttons will allow you to register your camper. Friends of the GTM Reserve members will receive exclusive updates on when registration will open and will be able to register before the general public (click here for more information on how to become a Friends Member).
What if a session is full?
If the session you wanted is full, please fill in the Waitlist form and an education team member will reach out to you once an open spot becomes available.
What is your refund policy?
No refunds will be issued for cancellations. If you need to cancel registration, please reach out to us about credit for a future summer camp session.
What should my child bring to camp?

Lunches – parents/guardians must provide a lunch for their children. We try to encourage campers to bring a litter-less, eco-friendly lunch (reusable items).
Campers must also bring: A water bottle, insect repellent, sunscreen, a change of clothes and shoes, closed-toe shoes, sunglasses, a towel, and a hat.

Please be sure to label your child’s supplies since we cannot allow campers to share certain items without parent/guardian permission (e.g. sunscreen and insect repellent). Items such as sunscreen, bug spray, water bottles, and hats can be stored at camp for the week.

We will provide water and snacks. We strive to provide healthy snacks, however, if your child has dietary restrictions we recommend packing a snack from home.

What if my child carpools or the pick-up adult changes?
Your child(ren) will only be allowed to go home with people you have indicated on the permission list (provided at the beginning of camp).
My children are siblings, friends, etc., want to be together, but are now in different age groups. Can they be together?
6-8-year-old and the 9-12-year-old campers will be in separate classrooms with different age-appropriate activities. Please contact us with questions.
*Please note there are three age groups: 6-8-year-old (blue button), 9-12-year-old (orange button), and 12-14-year-old (green button).

Guided Exploration Hike
2024-06-01 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York), 2024-05-04 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York), 2024-04-06 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 cannot 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.

Evening for the Estuary
2024-04-20 18:00 - 22:00 (America/New_York) | Guana Dam, 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Join the Friends of GTM Reserve at the Guana Dam for its annual fundraiser, Evening for the Estuary: Under the Light of the Moon. Action News Jax Anchor John Bachman will serve as master of ceremonies for the event. Enjoy entertainment by Sidewalk 65 and celebrate with cocktail creations from renowned celebrity bartender Jonathan Mateer.

Beach Exploration
2024-04-20 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.

Family Seining
2024-04-13 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.
