Sunset at Huguenot Memorial Park on the St. Johns River
On Saturday, Day 12, the weather didn't want to cooperate for the first time on the Tour, and we had to cancel the flotilla from Sadler Point Marina on the Ortega to Jacksonville University (JU). However, the rain and lightning soon subsided, and we were able to make it just in time for the Science Roundtable at JU's Marine Science Research Institute and the location of the St. Johns Riverkeeper offices.
JU scientists shared information about the latest findings from their work and research on the St. Johns River and took questions from those in attendance. The scientists and presentations included: Dr. Nisse Goldberg, "Wetlands and Invasive Plants"; Dr. Andy Ouellette, "Harmful Algae in the St. Johns River"; Dr. Lucy Sonnenberg, "Investigations in the Chemistry of the Lower St. Johns River"; Dr. Quint White, "Manatees and Dolphins"; and Dr. Jeremy Stalker, "Sea Level Rise."
After these informative presentations, the Tour team braved the windy, choppy conditions and headed to the mouth of the St. Johns at the Atlantic Ocean. While this was the point where the river ends, Tour wasn't over just yet! We went back to Mayport, crossed the river on the St. Johns River Ferry, proceeded on to Huguenot Memorial Park, where we camped for the evening along the St. Johns. A beautiful sunset, family and friends, and a campfire and s'mores was the perfect way to end the Day 12 of this incredible journey.