Ordway-Swisher Biological Station is a 9,500-acre nature reserve and research facility located in Putnam County, Florida, about 30 miles southwest of Jacksonville. The station is owned and operated by the University of Florida and offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the natural beauty of the region. If you are interested in visiting Ordway-Swisher, here is some information to help you plan your trip.
Planning Your Visit
Before visiting Ordway-Swisher, it is essential to understand the rules and regulations of the station. The facility is open to the public, but visitors must make an appointment in advance to ensure that their visit does not conflict with ongoing research or educational activities. To schedule a visit, you can contact the station’s administrative office by phone or email. It is recommended to plan your visit during the cooler months of the year, from October to April, when the weather is more pleasant and the wildlife is more active.
Biological Tours
Ordway-Swisher offers guided biological tours for visitors, which provide a unique opportunity to explore the station’s diverse ecosystems and learn about its flora and fauna. The tours are led by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the station’s natural history and can answer questions about the plants and animals that inhabit the area. The tours typically last about 2-3 hours and cover a variety of topics, including the station’s history, geology, and wildlife. Some of the highlights of the tour include:
- Exploring the station's pine flatwoods, which are dominated by longleaf pine trees and feature a variety of wildflowers and grasses.
- Visiting the station's cypress swamps, which are home to a variety of aquatic plants and animals, including alligators, otters, and birds.
- Learning about the station's research programs, which focus on topics such as wildlife ecology, conservation biology, and environmental science.
The tours are suitable for visitors of all ages and backgrounds, but it is recommended to wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as well as to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat. It is also a good idea to bring binoculars and a camera to capture the beauty of the station's landscapes and wildlife.
| Tour Type | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Guided Biological Tour | 2-3 hours | $20 per person |
| Self-Guided Tour | Varying | Free |
Research and Education
Ordway-Swisher is not only a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, but it is also an important center for research and education. The station offers a variety of educational programs for students and teachers, including field trips, workshops, and internships. The station’s research programs focus on a range of topics, including wildlife ecology, conservation biology, and environmental science. Some of the current research projects include:
- A study on the ecology and conservation of the gopher tortoise, which is a threatened species in the region.
- A project on the restoration of degraded ecosystems, including the station's pine flatwoods and cypress swamps.
- A research program on the impacts of climate change on the station's wildlife and ecosystems.
The station's research and education programs are an essential part of its mission to promote the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources. By supporting the station's activities, visitors can help to contribute to the protection of the natural environment and the advancement of scientific knowledge.
Conservation Efforts
Ordway-Swisher is committed to conserving and protecting the natural environment, and the station has implemented a variety of measures to reduce its impact on the ecosystem. Some of the conservation efforts include:
- A program to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, including the use of solar power and energy-efficient lighting.
- A initiative to protect and restore the station's natural habitats, including the pine flatwoods and cypress swamps.
- A project to promote sustainable land use practices, including the use of native plants and the reduction of invasive species.
The station's conservation efforts are an essential part of its mission to promote the sustainable use of natural resources and to protect the natural environment for future generations.
What are the station’s hours of operation?
+The station is open from 8am to 5pm, Monday through Friday, and from 9am to 3pm on Saturdays. The station is closed on Sundays and holidays.
Do I need to make an appointment to visit the station?
+Yes, it is recommended to make an appointment in advance to ensure that your visit does not conflict with ongoing research or educational activities.
What should I wear and bring on my visit?
+It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as well as to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat. You may also want to bring binoculars and a camera to capture the beauty of the station’s landscapes and wildlife.
