Nacogdoches Naturally to host September adventure for families

The Nacogdoches Naturally Family Outdoor Adventure program will visit the Stephen F. Austin Experimental Forest on Saturday, Sept. 17. The expedition will meet at 9 a.m. at the SFA Pineywoods Native Plant Center and return to the plant center around noon. Cost per family is $5, which includes water and snacks

NACOGDOCHES - The Nacogdoches Naturally Family Outdoor Adventure program will take a field trip to the Stephen F. Austin Experimental Forest on Saturday, Sept. 17. The expedition will meet at 9 a.m. at Stephen F. Austin State University's Pineywoods Native Plant Center, 2900 Raguet St., and caravan to the site. The group will return to the plant center around noon.

This event will be an opportunity for families to enjoy the natural beauty of East Texas forest environments.
"The group will take a leisurely hike along the trails looking at the unique plants and animals of this area," said Kerry Lemon, Nacogdoches Naturally project coordinator. "Time will be allowed for relaxing and snacking in the shaded picnic area as well."

The SFA Experimental Forest is located 8 miles southwest of Nacogdoches and is bordered on its southern and eastern boundaries by the Angelina River and the Alazan Wildlife Management Area. The forest's interpretive trail system features two separate loops that take visitors into some of the most dynamic scenic areas of the experimental forest. The 0.8 mile-long Jack Creek Loop is barrier-free and constructed for universal accessibility. Following the spring-fed perennial stream, visitors will view a mature mixed forest of 100- year-old pines and hardwoods.

The two-mile Management Loop winds through five different units that provide visitors a chance to experience a variety of forest management practices at various stages of implementation. This living outdoor classroom provides an experiential learning adventure geared toward fostering respect for forest systems.

Cost for the day is $5 per family. Water and snacks will be provided. Limited SFA van transportation is available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

For more information and to register, please call Kerry Lemon at (936) 468-5586 or e-mail lemonkb@sfasu.edu.