local

Nature Preserve

There is something magical that occurs as the heat of summer is replaced by the cool breezes of autumn. Migrating birds begin arriving again like old friends from faraway places, sweaters are unpacked, and the humidity is relatively comfortable for a change. These new sensations cause a longing to be outdoors, out of the artificial air, and beyond the four walls which generally surround.

A fantastic place to enjoy the outdoors is along the several trails that zigzag through the twenty-two acres of the Nature Preserve surrounding the Brevard Museum of History and Science. Located beside the Cocoa campus of Brevard Community College, the wheelchair accessible, paved paths carve through the woods, over marshes, and beside the lake. This self-guided tour is free and maps are available at the museum front desk.

Mile markers are posted along the path and a nearby point of interest is detailed in the brochure, such as Live Oak, grape vines, or poison ivy. From the bridge, a view of beautiful reeds jutting out several feet above the watery surface scattered with colorful butterflies and flying insects was framed by the sunlight as it reflected the scene in sparkling waves.

A more peculiar sight along the trail is a small cluster of orange mold clinging to an abandoned log like nail polish on a manicured hand, a beautiful shade which looked almost unnatural. A small variety of pine tree with needles as soft as paint brush bristles reminded those who passed that the Christmas season has arrived. My son, Lucas Engle explored the trees and plant varieties with his friend Michael Orth, excitedly approaching each mile marker and racing to find the new greenery. Nancy Garrison slowly wheeled baby brother Ezra in his stroller pointing out bright flowers, small berries, and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

With life so scheduled and loud, manufactured and technological, the Nature Preserve is a wonderful place to relax and just enjoy the beauty of the world that people can sometimes be too busy to notice and appreciate.

As the itch to be outdoors spreads with the glimmer of cold fronts rolling in at our fingertips, a day to walk along the nature trails and visit the butterfly garden is a great way to enjoy the weather and see a side of Brevard that you may have never seen before. For more information, contact the Brevard Museum of History and Science at (321) 632-1830 or www.brevardmuseum.org.