PORT ST. LUCIE - The Oxbow Eco-Center, St. Lucie County's environmental learning center, has several Halloween-themed, environmental events scheduled for October.

· "Swamp Tales" continues Tuesday, Oct. 6 and Tuesday, Oct. 20 from 3:45 - 4:15 p.m. This free storytime is appropriate for ages 2 - 6.

· The Oxbow's "Nature for Families" presents "Not So Spooky Spiders" on Saturday, Oct. 10 from 12:30 -2:30 p.m. Learn some cool spider facts and see that there is no need to be afraid of these eight-legged friends as you hike around the Oxbow's forest to find some of their secret hiding places. Guests will hear some old spider tales and learn the important roles these creatures play in the environment. Following the hike, everyone can create a spider that really moves! Appropriate for all ages. The cost is $3 per person. Admission is non-refundable and seats are limited.Please RSVP.

· Learn interesting facts about some of the Oxbow's environmental ambassadors at "Critter Chat" on Tuesday, Oct. 13 and Tuesday, Oct. 27 from 3:45 - 4:15 p.m. This event is free and appropriate for all ages.

· The Oxbow staff offers a scenic guided kayak tour along the North Fork of the St. Lucie River on Saturday, Oct. 17 from 9 a.m. - noon. Paddlers will launch from White City Park and cruise down the river to the Oxbow property, possibly passing turtles, wading birds and even alligators. The cost is $15 per person. Pre-registration is required.

· The Oxbow will offer a Little Tyke Halloween Hike on Saturday, Oct. 31 from 9 - 10 a.m. Can't wait until the sun sets to try on your Halloween costume? Then put it on and come out in the morning to take a little hike through some spooky wetlands. Bring a bag for treats and lots of water to drink.

In addition to the various scheduled events, the Oxbow's trails are open every day from dawn until dusk, while the education center is open Tuesday through Friday from noon - 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Situated on a 225-acre preserve on the North Fork of the St. Lucie River, the Oxbow offers a rare glimpse of "the real Florida" with nature trails, boardwalks, observation towers and an interactive environmental learning center.

The Oxbow is located at 5400 N.E. St. James Drive, Port St. Lucie (across from the Publix Shopping Center). For more information call the staff at (772) 785-5833 or visit www.stlucieco.gov/erd/oxbow.

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