Although native to Florida and part of the Florida scrub habitat, the presence of sand pine trees in scrub-jay habitat can keep jays away. This is because predatory birds use these trees as a perch to spot them. We'll be using chain saws, sawzalls and gas-powered cutters to remove these trees which will make the habitat more appealing for scrub-jays. There will be a qualified chainsaw operator supervisor present monitoring chain sawing activity. This person will have the authority to stop work if they determine work is not being conducted safely. 

* Volunteers are advised to only cut down trees they are qualified and comfortable with cutting down.

The work area is comprised primarily of Florida scrub with some low, flatwoods pockets. There are some areas with larger sand pines, volunteers are advised to only cut down trees they are qualified and comfortable with cutting down. Some areas are thick scrub, volunteer safety is paramount and as such these areas should only be tackled by qualified individuals.  

What to Bring: It is suggested to wear long pants, closed toe shoes, hat and sunscreen and bring working gloves.  Make sure to bring water, a water cooler will be provided for refills, and snacks if desired. Snake chaps can buffer cactus stabbing, bring if desired. 

Any Volunteer MUST have closed toed shoes, a long-sleeved shirt or coverup, long pants, safety glasses/goggles and Nitrile/rubber gloves. We will have safety goggles/glasses and Nitrile/rubber gloves at the site for anyone to use if needed.

Restrooms: Restrooms will not be available on site

Driving Direction's and Meeting Location: Ridge Rangers will be meeting at the main parking lot at Carter Creek (4603 Riverdale Rd, Avon Park, FL 33825)

 From the North: Take Highway 27 S and turn left onto County Rd 17A W (truck route). Follow this for about 3.5 miles and then turn left onto HWY 64. Stay right at the fork to continue on E Avon Pines Rd for another 3 miles. You can then turn left onto Arrowood Blvd, followed by a quick right onto Mulberry Ave. Follow Mulberry Ave for 1 mile and then turn left onto Riverdale Rd. Follow for .5 miles and then go right to stay on Riverdale Rd for another 2 miles until you reach the main parking lot. 

From the South: Take Highway 27 N and turn right onto S Highlands Ave/Sebring Parkway. Follow for about 2.5 miles and the turn right onto E Center Ave, followed by a quick left onto M.L.K Jr. Blvd. Follow this for about 3 miles and then turn right onto Arbuckle Creek Rd. Follow Arbuckle Creek Rd for about 3 miles and then turn left onto Riverdale Blvd. After .8 miles, go left to continue on Riverdale Blvd until you reach the main parking lot. 

Please Note: I encourage plenty of breaks as needed and do not to hesitate to leave early if need be or even ending the workday early.  Safety is the number one priority!