The Oxbow Eco-Center is scheduled to reopen its doors to the general public and visitors on Tuesday, December 1, 2020, once again providing the ability to enjoy the learning opportunities inside this award-winning nature center. While just one of nearly two dozen nature preserves managed by St. Lucie County’s Environmental Resources Department, the Oxbow Eco-Center is the only county preserve with a staffed environmental learning center, an amphitheater and pollinator garden for visitors to explore.
Inside the newly renovated Eco-Center, visitors are immersed in the wonders of the St. Lucie River through an amazing diorama which follows the river from its headwaters to the estuary. They can also explore the river’s surprising connections to watersheds around the world. Creative upcycled art and plastic awareness displays call attention to the issues of plastic pollution and microplastics. The new exhibit highlighting the county’s Environmentally Sensitive Lands program is sure to inspire the hiker in us all.
Of course, the Oxbow is still home to its popular Animal Ambassadors. The Florida Native collection introduces visitors to a few of the many wildlife species that call St. Lucie County home. Exotic creatures are also on display, encouraging responsible pet ownership and reminding visitors to avoid release of these species into Florida’s natural systems. Come in and make a new wild friend.
With the re-opening of the facility comes some new procedures to help keep visitors and staff safe. First and foremost, reservations are required for entry into the education center. The education center is open Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 4:00 PM. Reservations may be made at www.oxboweco.com. Additionally, visitors and staff will follow CDC and St. Lucie County guidelines regarding COVID-19, including those pertaining to temperature checks, masks and social distancing. Staff will assist in reducing the spread of the virus by sanitizing high-touch surfaces regularly. As always, entrance to the Oxbow Eco-Center is free.
The Oxbow Eco-Center is a St. Lucie County Environmental Learning Center situated on 225 acres along the St. Lucie River at 5400 NE St. James Drive in Port St. Lucie. To learn more about the Oxbow Eco-Center, St. Lucie County’s Environmental Resources Department, public programming, and volunteer opportunities, please visit oxboweco.com.
