MAY & JUNE ECO-TOUR GUIDES
JUSTIN GRONQUIST - Sunday, may 18th
Justin Gronquist is an outdoor/ water enthusiast living in the rapidly developing City of Austin. He has been able to live a life true to his values by spending his days as a Life Guard at the Jewel of Austin, Barton Springs Pool, and is now closing in on two decades of employment in Aquatics. However, his immersion in the local water scene runs deeper than that, being the son of Environmental Lawyer and Barton Creek/ Springs Conservationist Wayne Gronquist, having two older brothers that also Life Guarded and managed the pool, and now, a nephew who has entered the same line of work. Justin has had the good fortune of being dipped in natural icy water before the age of 1, and has swam in Central Texas waterways ever since. He has a strong desire to help see that the Edwards Aquifer which has flowed clear and cool for thousands of years continues to do so for thousands of years more into the future, and that spring water can continue to be enjoyed by the wildlife, plant life, and human beings that have thrived in it's presence. brandi clark burton - Sunday june 15th
Serial social entrepreneur, public speaker, writer, and soon-to-be podcaster, EcoBrandi is dedicated to connecting people to information and resources to advance sustainability. She has won numerous service, leadership and eco awards and has been voted best environmentalist in Austin Chronicle readers poll. Brandi was a senior policy advisor (for all things sustainability related) under Mayor Adler, and Founder and chief Inspiration Officer of EcoNetworking and The Austin Common. More recently she keeps getting asked to help produce events and fundraisers, and she always has ideas for new projects. She loves being outdoors (especially with her also green-minded family), eating delicious vegetarian food, and dancing. TYson McKinney - Saturday June 21st
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Barton Creek Ecotours
(Guided Hiking & Snorkeling) Join SOS field guides and special guest guides for guided hikes and optional swim/snorkel of the stunning waterfalls of Upper Barton Creek. Enjoy an immersive experience in the ecology and rich history of Barton Creek, its enchanting waters and its famous Greenbelt. Gain a better understanding of the role Barton Creek plays in recharging the Edwards aquifer, witness an array of plant, wildlife and geologic features with the help of special guest experts along the way. Learn more about what you can do to help keep the waters of Barton Creek and Barton Springs clean and flowing for future generations of Austinites. SOS field guides are CPR and water rescue certified. Perfect for confident adult swimmers and competent youth swimmers 7+ years or older. Snorkel and masks provided! MORE DETAILS
WHEN & WHERE: 8am-11:30am: Interested in free carpool? Meet SOS HQ at 8am for SalaVander Shuttle at 3201 Menchaca Austin, TX 78704. We will take you to the trailhead and back. Self-drive guests, meet at the Hill of LIfe trailhead (1710 Camp Craft road Austin Tx 78746) at 8:30 am. SalaVander will be heading back to SOS HQ from trailhead at 11:30am. Hike lasts approx 2.5 hrs. Please note that parking is scarce, so we encourage taking advantage of carpooling with us! WHAT TO BRING: Dress for a moderate hike with stretches of uneven terrain and 15 minutes of uphill, layers are great for comfort and sun protection. A swimsuit underneath is a good idea and a towel. Bring water and any snacks you like. |
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Barton Springs Snorkel Tours
Join SOS field guides for a guided walking and snorkel tour of Barton Springs pool on weekend mornings and select weekdays this summer! Enjoy an immersive experience in the cultural geography and rich history of Barton Springs pool and its four springs. Gain a better understanding of the fragile Edwards aquifer, witness an array of plant, wildlife and underwater hydro-geologic features and learn more about what we can all do to help keep the springs clean and flowing for future generations of Austinites. SOS field guides are CPR and water rescue certified. Perfect for confident adult swimmers and competent youth swimmers 7+ years or older. Bring a suit, towel and water bottle. Entry fee is covered in the cost of the tour and snorkels will be provided! More Details
WHEN: 8 AM sharp to meet your guides and your fellow snorkel buddies. Tour lasts approx. 90 minutes WHERE: 906 Azie Morton Rd, Meet outside the South entrance to Barton Springs Pool near the blue globe art. WHAT TO BRING: WEAR YOUR SWIMSUIT, We will not be near the changing rooms, so please be ready to jump in! Water bottle, towel, and good vibes. Snorkel and mask provided. |
