Environmental Learning Center’s 20th Annual EcoFest Set

Now is the time to put the Environmental Learning Center’s 20th annual EcoFest on your calendar.  Announced this week by co-chairs Linda Clerch and Maureen Kane, the Treasure Coast Chapter of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America will be the Premier EcoFest Sponsor. The theme is “Unplug, Explore, Discover.”  The ELC will be the perfect place to do just that between the hours of 11 am and 4 pm on Sunday, March 6.

“We are excited to be joined this year by A Florida Outdoor Center (AFLOC) who will provide two new and unique activities,” says Education Director Heather Stapleton. “If weather allows, stand up paddle boards will be offered in the lagoon off the ELC’s teaching platform, and fat tire bikes sampled on the ELC grounds.”

There is no admission charge and free parking will be available using shuttle service provided from satellite locations nearby. Music will once again be provided by The River Rats.
The line-up of customary favorites such as pond dip-netting and Quick Canoe Trips will be joined this year by kite flying and adult workshops. In addition to a wide variety of craft booths for all ages, this event will include plein air painting by local artists. Story Time on the stage in the Imagination Station will feature The Raft by Jim LaMarche.  Food will be available for purchase. As usual, the Vero Beach Power Squadron will donate all hamburger, hot dog and veggie burger proceeds to the ELC.

The Environmental Learning Center is located north of Vero Beach off County Road 510 at the western end of the Wabasso Bridge. Its 64-acre campus includes exhibit areas, native plant gardens, picnic facilities, gift shop, and visitor center. ELC membership benefits, a list of its many field excursions, EcoVentures, including nature walks, canoe excursions, and boating adventures can be found at www.DiscoverELC.org.