Dr. Bill Dunson will lead a nature walk on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, from 10-11 am at Middle Beach/Blind Pass Beach Park on Manasota Key; (6725 Manasota Key Rd, Englewood, FL 34223). Come make a great start to the New Year, burn off a few calories, and learn and share some nature lore. The entire walk is less than a mile, on narrow trails and the beach.
We will meet at 10 am in the parking area near where the old Duisberg Trail starts (https://floridahikes.com/lemon-bay-conservancy-duisberg-nature-trail). Turn east into the main parking area and take the first left. Note that Middle Beach is currently only accessible from the southern end of Manasota Key as the road to the north of that point has not been repaired since Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
The park was heavily damaged by the storm, but we will explore remaining areas of mangroves, upland subtropical hammocks, dune habitat, and the mangrove boardwalk. The main bayside area of the park was dredge spoil from the construction of the ICW in the late 1960’s.
You are required to sign a liability waiver. No dogs or smoking/vaping allowed. No reservations are required for the walk.
Following the walk, there will be a cook-out and pot-luck at Bill’s home. There is a limit of 40 people for lunch and reservations are required. Send your name and number of attendees to Bill at wdunson@comcast.net. Bill will provide additional details to confirmed participants.
For further information contact Bill Dunson (wdunson@comcast.net)
