Eco Academy - Interior Wetlands

Today we went slogging through the Everglades.  It's wet season so there was water. 

Panama got in the water first. The kids were a bit aprehensive.

Excited and nervous all at the same time.

Frequently the teacher, would stop and explain about the ecosystem and wildlife as well as the plants, what they were used for, all about their features and purposes, the stories of the seminole indians, and the dangers to be aware of while out there. 

The kids were excited when the water started getting deeper.  It was pretty mucky being behind so many people - you would walk along, sinking in mud 6 inches deep, then suddenly fall in a hole or trip over a tree trunk under the water.  It was outrageously fun hiking blindly!

Some plants attache themselves to the trees - they grow without water or soil - just in the air.

Sometimes it was up to Scout's shoulders.  She would climb on my back and we would slog until it got back down to her waist - then she was on her own again.  She is one of the youngest in the class.  You have to be at least 9 yrs old.  She just made it this year.

We walked past a large gator hole where I'm sure a very large alligator lives. Luckily we didn't see it.

I can't wait to come back with the family and do this again!