Through geocaching, outdoor adventures and “treasure” can be found on District lands
This new coin may be found at geocaches on 14 district properties.
PALATKA, Fla., Aug. 17, 2018 — If nature is your thing, geocaching is a great way to explore some of the scenic and unspoiled public lands owned by the St. Johns River Water Management District, enjoy the outdoors and celebrate International Geocache Day on Saturday, Aug. 18.
Geocaching is most often described as a “game of high-tech hide and seek,” sharing many aspects with orienteering and treasure hunting. The district hosts geocaches on 14 of its public lands and offers a page on its website where modern day treasure hunters can search for geocache sites by county, conservation area or address.
Geocaching is an outdoor activity in which participants use a global positioning system (GPS) receiver or other navigational techniques to hide and seek containers called “geocaches” or “caches.” A cache is typically a small waterproof container that includes a logbook and possibly some small trinkets. While the difficulty of finding a cache can vary, the biggest reward is the thrill of the hunt and discovery of a place that is new to you.
Nearly all district properties are open to the public. Many of these public lands offer a variety of recreational activities, such as wildlife viewing, hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, canoeing, seasonal hunting and more. Be prepared when visiting these remote, scenic and wild lands. Make sure you have insect repellent, drinking water, sunscreen and wear proper clothing.
With funds from the state’s Florida Forever program and through partnerships with state and local governments and nonprofit groups, the district purchases and manages tracts of land that are important in protecting our water resources, keeping the land in its natural state. The land helps to filter out pollutants from runoff, prevent erosion and provide flood protection, and it serves as protected plant and animal habitat.
Geocaching on district lands does not involve digging or compromising sensitive natural and cultural resources. For information on geocache sites on district lands, visit the district’s website, www.sjrwmd.com.