“Chicks ‘n’ Hiking Sticks” Attend BioBlitz Nature Excursion at KC Trails in Newfield

We recently had the pleasure of hosting “Chicks ‘n’ Hiking Sticks” – a lively group of middle- to senior-aged women with a zest for fostering connections through activities. The “chicks” attended a “BioBlitz” guided nature excursion at our KC Trails in Newfield on April 17, bonding over their shared interests while exploring the lush greenery and vibrant wildlife that live within our vast network of trails and the 450-acre Kiplinger Conservancy.

The BioBlitz guided nature excursion was conducted utilizing iNaturalist, an American 501(c) nonprofit social network comprised of naturalists, citizen scientists and biologists. The program – which was built on the concept of mapping and sharing observations of biodiversity across the globe – encourages users to engage in a BioBlitz as a fun way to try to find as many species of plants, animals, microbes, fungi and other organisms as possible.

Together – and with the help of the iNaturalist app – Chicks ‘n’ Hiking Sticks learned about the diverse flora and fauna within KC Trails and the Kiplinger Conservancy, which will be home to Martin County’s first-ever gopher tortoise preserve.

“The Chicks had a peaceful morning hiking in nature during the BioBlitz,” said Leslie Kingsley, a member of Chicks ‘n’ Hiking Sticks. “Thank you to Mattamy Homes for a morning of adventure! We loved hiking the fabulous KC Trails.”

Chicks ‘n’ Hiking Sticks was created for the purpose of meeting and connecting with other like-minded women through a variety of outdoor-driven activities which members say, “always include adventure and laughter.” The group embarks on leader-led hikes through various parks and locations throughout the region, as well as abroad. We had a wonderful time hosting them at Newfield as part of our commitment to fostering connections and educating the community on our native environment.

Newfield represents a groundbreaking approach to community development that prioritizes sustainability and environmental conservation. KC Trails is located 0.3 miles south of Becker Road on SW Citrus Boulevard in Palm City. If you are interested in checking out KC Trails, join us for Saturday Strolls every Saturday.

We’re excited to unveil new elements of Newfield, including Newfield Barn, to the public later this year.