The calendar is compiled far in advance so we strongly suggest that you contact the sponsoring organization prior to the event. Some events may have fees for participation.

From beginners to experts, Winter is the best time to bird Tampa Bay. Audubon Societies across the region have dozens of trips scheduled through April, including several that focus on beginning birders. Visit our online calendar at www.baysoundings.com for a complete schedule. About 15% of the state’s roseate spoonbills nest in Tampa Bay during winter months. Audubon is banding the birds to track their populations – red bands for birds born in Tampa Bay, black for the Everglades. Report sightings to the Florida Coastal Islands Sanctuaries office at (813) 623-6826 or use the online report form at http://www.audubonofflorida.org.

Ongoing events

Everyday, explore Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. With more than 30 acres of cultivated gardens to explore, plan about two hours for this fun adventure. Before heading to the Gardens, visit www.flbg.org to see what’s in bloom. This site helps identify what is happening in the Gardens and provides links to the University of Florida fact sheets to provide more information on how to use and care for these plants. The Gardens are open every day of the year from 7am. Admission and parking are free. For more information, call 727-582-2581 or visit www.flbg.org.

Monday through Friday, 11:30am or 1 pm, Half-Day, Self-guided Kayak Tours at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Sweetwater Kayaks offers half-day (4-hour long) self-guided tours Monday through Friday. Reservations for the 11:30 am or 1:00 pm launch times are recommended. Please arrive at Sweetwater Kayaks 30 minutes before your reservation. Once payment and paperwork is complete, follow our staff to the Preserve and park your car in the main parking lot. Call Sweetwater Kayaks at 727-570-4844 to reserve your kayak. Single Half-day Fee: $40 or Double Half-day Fee: $56.

Saturday and Sunday, 9am or 12:30pm, Half-Day, Self-guided Kayak Tours at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. On weekends, Sweetwater Kayaks' self-guided, half-day tours are 3.5-hours long and launch at 11:30 am or 1:00 pm. Reservations are recommended. Meet us at Weedon Island Preserve at least 15 minutes before your reservation. Please park in the main parking lot. Call Sweetwater Kayaks at 727-570-4844 to reserve your kayak. Single Half-day Fee: $40 or Double Half-day Fee: $56.

Daily, 9am or 3pm, Hourly, Self-guided Kayak Tours at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Are you dealing with a busy schedule and only have time for a short paddle around Riviera Bay? Perhaps our hourly rentals are the best fit. Every weekend, kayaks and canoes are onsite at the Preserve for rental by the hour. To arrange a drop off during the week, call Sweetwater Kayaks at 727-570-4844. Single Hourly Fee: $17 or Double Hourly Fee: $25.

Wednesday through Saturday, 10am-4pm, and Sunday 1pm-4pm, discover Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo. Pinellas County’s 21-acre living history museum, and enjoy more than 25 historic structures, museum galleries, and a native plant trail. Currently on exhibit, Pinellas Passport:  Your Ticket through Time, Christopher Still’s Prints: Clues to Florida’s History & Natural Beauty and Quick & Easy: Gadgets for the Home. The Quick & Easy: Gadgets for the Home exhibit presents a fun look at the labor saving devices used by “modern housewives” to tackle pesky domestic chores. It also features a hands-on area for kids in the Ralph Reed gallery. For information, visit or call 727-582-2123.

Wednesday through Saturday, Guided Walking Tours at Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo. Wednesday-Saturday, 10am-3pm and Sunday 1pm-3pm. Heritage Village offers 55-minute guided walking tours that provide a brief history and overview of Heritage Village and its structures. The tours provide access to houses that might otherwise be closed to the public, and provide a personal experience through dialogue and conversation. The cost is $2 per person. Groups of 20 or more must call 727-582-2125 to reserve. Heritage Village is closed Mondays, Tuesdays and on all county holidays. To learn more, visit www.pinellascounty.org/heritage.

Wednesday through Sunday, 10am-4pm, “Connecting People and Place” Exhibit Gallery at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Explore the exciting, and sometimes unbelievable history of Weedon Island Preserve and the Tampa Bay estuary at the recently opened “Connecting People and Place” Exhibit Gallery. Staged among six galleries, the Exhibit Gallery is an art-inspired, hands-on educational showcase of the area’s history, ecology, and people. For the past 2,000 years, there has never been a dull moment in this corner of Pinellas County. This Exhibit Gallery is a great experience for the entire family. For information, call 727-453-6500 or visit its redesigned website at www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Jan. 2 through Apr. 3, the first Saturday of the month from noon-2pm. The Pier Aquarium is celebrating The Year of the Ocean (our own designation to highlight the importance of this habitat) and have plenty of fish to share, especially during "FISH-ful Saturday" special family programs. They are scheduled at The Pier Aquarium or the Roy G. Harrell, Jr. Education Station. "FISH-ful Saturday" is free to children six and under and free with a paid adult, student or senior admission. "FISH-ful Saturday" is funded in part by the Pinellas County Commission through a grant from the Pinellas County Cultural Affairs Department Cultural Development Grant Program and Visit St. Petersburg/Clearwater. Other sponsors include the Southwest Florida Water Management District, Progress Energy and the St. Petersburg Times. Hands-on planned activities include: guest speakers, arts and crafts, storytelling, science projects or aquarium tours. Questions contact Emily Stehle, APR, Public Relations/Marketing Director, Ph: 727-895-7437 x 207 or visit http://www.pieraquarium.org/

Feb. 12 through Mar. 5, Freshwater Wetlands Module a UF Florida Master Naturalists Program in Pinellas County. Discover Florida’s freshwater ecosystems with the Florida Master Naturalist Program. Learn Florida’s freshwater ecosystems including marshes, swamps, lakes, rivers and springs, and their related plants and wildlife inhabitants. The class includes indoor learning and regional field trips with an opportunity to experience freshwater habitats. Interpretative speaking techniques, conservation issues and human ethics are also woven into course material. This program is for any adult, novice to knowledgeable, who enjoys learning and experiencing nature. Daytime Classes are Mondays and Fridays. Limited Space Available, for information and registration visit www.MasterNaturalist.org, 40 contact hours with classroom and field trip, Cost $225. For additional information including future courses, contact FMNP Instructor Jeanne Murphy at 727-397-2306 or jmurphy@sensingnature.com.

january

Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30, 9am-1pm, Pinellas County Market in the Park at Heritage Village, Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo. Visit Pinellas County Market in the Park at its new location at Heritage Village. Free admission, on-site restrooms and plenty of room to roam make this Market convenient and accessible. Parking is available in the Pinellas County Extension parking lot next to Heritage Village. This is the third year for the popular Market that features farm-fresh produce, natural products, gardening items and more. Visit www.pinellascounty.org/heritage or call 727-582-2123.

Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30, 9am-11am, Saturday Guided Hike at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Join us to learn about the coastal environment and the early residents of Weedon Island Preserve. Guided hikes through coastal mangrove and upland ecosystems of the Preserve are held each Saturday of the month. Be sure to bring water and a snack. A hat and closed-toe shoes are also recommended. Recommended for ages 6 and up. Free. Please register by 2 p.m. on Friday by calling 727-453-6500.

Jan. 8 and 22, 9am-11am, Changing Seasons Guided Hikes, Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Join us for a guided walk as we look for evidence of the changing seasons along the trail. Sturdy closed-toe shoes are a must, and water and a hat are recommended. Pre-registration is required. Free. All ages welcome. Children younger than 6 may find this hike challenging. Pre-registration is required by calling 727-453-6800.

Jan. 8, 15, 22, and 29, 1pm-3pm, Music by the Snow Birds at Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo. Join these musicians, who come from all points north, every Friday afternoon through April 9, for some real country jamming! Bring your own lawn chair and musical instrument to play along or sing-along with this talented group which has been playing country tunes in the area for sixteen years! Parking is available on 125th Street.

Jan. 15, through Jan. 17, Clearwater Audubon Weekend birdwatching trip at STA-5, Lake Okeechobee & Corkscrew Swamp. Call Paul Trunk 727-447-4785.

Jan. 15, 16 and 17, Fri. and Sat. 10am-6pm, Sun. Noon-6pm, 34th Annual Gem, Jewelry and Mineral Show and Sale at the Largo Cultural Center Parkside Room, 105 Central Park Drive, Largo. The members of the Pinellas Geological Society and other Gem and Mineral Clubs will be showing their cut gems, silver and gold jewelry, wire wrap, beading, cabochons, ornamental mineral eggs and collections of rocks and mineral for your viewing pleasure and purchase. This show is for the public of all ages who are fascinated by and enjoy seeing and learning more about nature’s beauty in gems, rocks, and minerals. For more information about the Show or joining the Club, call Hugh at 727-894-2440.

Jan. 16, 9am-10:30am, Guided Nature Walk at Chesnut Park, 2200 East Lake Road, Palm Harbor. Explore the outdoors and discover plants naturally found in wetlands and pine flatwoods. Learn how these plants have been used over the years. Visit points along Brooker Creek and enjoy the view of Lake Tarpon. Free. Registration required call 727-669-1951.

Jan. 16, 2pm-3:30, Scatology: The Study of Scat (Animal Poop), at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Have you ever seen scat on the Preserve’s trail and wondered which species left it behind? This family oriented, mini-workshop and educational display will allow participants to see a variety of preserved specimens and learn about the value of scat to wildlife biologists and naturalists. Workshop participants will also dissect gopher tortoise scat to learn what these reptiles eat. Recommended ages: 6 and up. Free. Registration is required call 727-453-6500.

Jan. 16, 9am-11am, It’s the Photographer, not the Camera! Workshop at Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Do you think that the only way to take good nature photographs is to have expensive, specialized camera equipment? It is the photographer that makes the photograph, not the camera! Bring your point-and-shoot camera and join local nature photographers Karl and Kathleen Nichter for this two-hour workshop. Learn how to apply basic digital photography techniques and photocomposition to create pleasing nature pictures with your own camera. This workshop will include both classroom instruction and practice in the field. Free. Best for adults and children 12 and up. Space is limited. Pre-registration required by calling 727-453-6800.

Jan. 16 and 17, Noon-6pm, Tampa Bay Black Heritage Celebration, 10th Annual Street Festival at Al Lopez Park, Tampa. This festival celebrates the culture and heritage of the African American community in Tampa. Exhibits, food vendors and the best in R&B and jazz music make up the weekend's festivities. The District's Water Conservation Restroom Trailer will be at the event again this year, educating participants on the importance of water conservation and Florida-friendly landscaping. For more information, contact Tampa Bay Black Heritage at 813-223-1111, ext. 143.

Jan. 16, 9:30am-11:00am, It Starts With Soil Event at Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Rd., Largo. Vegetable gardening can be fun and rewarding. Join Cindy Peacock, Extension Horticulture Specialist as you learn that without proper site selection, soil preparation and management, and plant nutrition it can be frustrating and non productive. Attending this class will remind experienced gardeners of direction they need to be going and start novice gardeners on the right track. This is class one of a four part series. On 1/16/2010 is 'It Starts with Soil,' 1/23/2010 is 'Planting, Setting and Growing,' 1/30/2010 is 'Pests and Harvesting' and 2/06/2010 is 'Reaping the Rewards.' The cost is $15.00 per person per class. Register now. Visit www.pinellascountyextension.org.

Jan. 19, 6pm-7:30pm, SciCafe2010, a free science conversation, Nanotechnology, from Port Securiey to Sunscreen at SciCafe2010, 128 Third Street, St. Pete. RSVP for seating. Contact Emily Stehle, Ph: 727-895-7437 x 207 or register online.

Jan. 19, 6pm-8:30pm, Florida Style Gardening Class number 1 Florida-Friendly Landscaping Design & Maintenance Class at Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Want to uncover the secrets to gardening the Florida-Friendly way? This class will provide an overview of the nine principles of Florida-Friendly Landscape Design and Maintenance to set the stage for the four classes that follow, each Tuesday through Feb. 23 (not held on Feb. 9). Designing a landscape that attracts birds and butterflies will also be discussed during this class. The cost is $15 per person. Registration and payment required by Monday, Jan. 18. To learn more and to register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org, click on the “Online Class Registration” button and then the “Lawn & Garden” tab. You may also call 727582-2100 to register.

Jan. 20, 12:15pm-12:45pm, Solutions in 30 – Green Jobs, Online at Your Computer with Pinellas County Extension Experts. Join in a 30 minute introductory look at the newly emerging 'green jobs' industry. Vestina Crayton, Extension Urban Sustainability Specialist will describe what a green job is, what training is required, where to apply and what the experts are saying about the employment forecast for this industry. Please register by Tuesday, Nov. 24. Free. To register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org, click on the “Online Class Registration” button and then click on the “Solutions in 30” tab or call 727-582-2100.

Jan. 21, 3:30pm-4:30pm, Project Archaeology: Investigating Shelter Workshop at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Learn to think and research like an archaeologist, as you investigate historic shelters through the archaeological process in this afterschool program. Families are encouraged to participate in this curriculum developed by the federal Bureau of Land Management that teaches investigative skills of mapping, classifying, and identifying an archaeological site. Free. Recommended for families with children ages 8 and up. Spaces are limited, so call 727-453-6500 to register early.

Jan. 21, 7pm-8pm, Using Prehistoric Archaeology to Study Modern Biodiversity at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Come hear Dr. David W. Steadman, of the Florida Museum of Natural History, speak about how he uses prehistoric archaeology collections to study extinction, comparative osteology, and species-level systematics of land birds, as well as their diversity and habitat relationships on tropical islands. Free. Recommended for adults. Pre-registration is requested. Call 727-453-6500 to register.

Jan. 21, 8am-5pm, Best Management Practices Program at Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. This program is designed to provide training in Best Management Practices for anyone working in the lawn, landscape, pest control, or municipal ground areas. It is focused on reducing non-point source pollution resulting from fertilization or pesticide application. BMP certification will be awarded to those passing the exam. The cost is $15 per person. There is no charge for County employees with ID. Registration and payment required by Friday, Jan. 15. To learn more and to register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org, click on the “Online Class Registration” button and then the “Commercial” tab. You may also call 727-582-2100 to register.

Jan. 21, 10am-2pm, Kayak Trip with the American Littoral Society, Southeast Region. Explore Tampa Bay, by Kayak, near Apollo Beach area. Guided by naturalist John Sarkozy, enjoy bird and marine life of the near shore bay waters. Kayaks and all equipment provided and included in the cost of the trip. Bring sunscreen and plenty of drinking water. ALS members $30.00; non members $35.00. Call John Sarkozy for reservations 941-966-7308.

Jan. 23, 10am, Clearwater Audubon Beginners birdwatching lessons, Big Birds for Beginners, at Honeymoon Island Nature Center. Short shore & water bird identification lecture then survey HMI shoreline & Dunedin Cause-way; 3miles sand trails & driving. Contact Lynn Sumerson 727-596-8822.

Jan. 23, 9am-11am, Master Gardener Plant Identification Nature Walk at Emerson Point Preserve. Take a relaxing stroll through Emerson Point Preserve with a Master Gardener to see what’s in bloom. Suitable for all ages. Register in advance online via our website at http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu or call 941-742-5986.

Jan. 23, 1pm-2pm, Saving Energy in the New Year, Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Start the New Year off green by saving energy at home. Join a representative from Progress Energy to learn about techniques and incentives that may help you reduce your household energy use and save you money. Free. Recommended for adults. Pre-registration required call 727-453-6800.

Jan. 23, 11am-12:30pm, Pathways Adventure Series, Vegetable Gardening Fun Workshop at Heritage Village, Pinellas Room, 11909 125th St. N., Largo. Discover the best way to tackle vegetable gardening in Pinellas County and how it can save money and get families involved in this Vegetable Gardening Fun workshop. Visit the historic Moore House and learn how to prepare the ground for a spring garden. Best for individuals or families with school-aged children five years and older. Free. Pre-registration required by Friday, Jan. 22. To register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org, click on the “Online Class Registration” and then click on the “Pathways Adventure Series” tab. Citizens may also call 727-582-2100.

Jan. 23, 9am-10:30am, Guided Nature Walk at Philippe Park, 2525 Philippe Parkway, Safety Harbor. Learn park history while exploring nature at one of Pinellas County’s oldest historic parks, Philippe Park. Closed toed shoes, water, sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellant are recommended. Free. Registration required call 727-669-1947.

Jan. 23, 2pm-3pm, “All About Manatees” at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Learn all about manatees and the latest research on these fascinating mammals at this informative talk by Elissa Riley from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Recommended ages: 6 and up. Free. Pre-registration required call 727-453-6500.

Jan. 23, 9:30am-11am, Planting, Setting and Growing Event at Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Rd., Largo. This class will assist you in getting the maximum production out of your Florida vegetable garden. Cindy Peacock, Extension Horticulture Specialist will help you to select the right plants for our climate and plan the layout of your plot for best use. This class will also explore different ways to water your garden plot including micro irrigation and rain harvesting methods. This is class two of a four part series. On 1/16/2010 is 'It Starts with Soil,' 1/23/2010 is 'Planting, Setting and Growing,' 1/30/2010 is 'Pests and Harvesting' and 2/06/2010 is 'Reaping the Rewards.' The cost is $15.00 per person. Register now. Visit www.pinellascountyextension.org.

Jan. 26, 6pm-8:30pm, Florida Style Gardening Class number 2, “Water-Wise” at Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Learn the basics of traditional irrigation sprinkler systems and whether alternatives like micro-irrigation will work for you. Water harvesting using rain barrels and cisterns will be discussed as a method of supplementing water available for landscape use. If you would like one rain barrel for your household you may purchase it at a cost of $30.00 plus tax at the class with cash or check. The series continues, each Tuesday through Feb. 23 (not held on Feb. 9). The cost is $15 per person. Registration and payment required by Monday, Jan. 25. To learn more and to register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org, click on the “Online Class Registration” button and then the “Lawn & Garden” tab or call 727-582-2100.

Jan. 27, 6pm-8:30pm, Smart Landscape, Planning and Care at Manatee County Extension Office, 1303 17th Street West Palmetto, Florida in Kendrick Auditorium. This class satisfies the landscape portion of the Manatee County Water Conservation Rebate Program. Even in Florida, the key to smart landscaping is to develop a Florida-friendly landscape to save time, energy, water, and money. Learn practical design tips, landscape pitfalls, garden chores, hardscape choices, texture combinations, and remedies for difficult areas. Presented by Elissa Mirabelli, Horticulture Program Assistant. Register in advance online via our website at http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu or call 941-742-5986.

Jan. 27, 2pm-3:30pm, Florida Friendly Gardening Practices, at West Branch of the St. Petersburg Library, 6605 Fifth Ave. N., St. Petersburg. Learn from Wilma Holley of Pinellas County Extension. Free. Pre-registration required. To register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org, click on the “Online Class Registration” button and then the “Lawn & Garden” tab or call 727-582-2100.

Jan. 28, 10:30am-11:15am, Book Time at Brooker Creek: “Forest Bright, Forest Night”, Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Introduce pre-school children to the wonders of the natural world with this week’s book by Jennifer Ward. Some forest animals are awake during the day and sleep at night, while others are awake at night and sleep the day away. This beautifully illustrated story introduces us to the activities of both the day and the night shift of the forest. The program also includes a craft, game or other hands-on activity related to the story. Recommended for ages 3 to 5. Spaces are limited, so register early by calling 727-453-6800.

Jan. 28, 10:30am-11:15am, Wee-time at Weedon: “Mary Manatee: A Tale of Sea Cows”, Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Introduce pre-school children to the wonders of the natural world. This book by Suzanne Tate tells about a mother sea cow named Mary who has an adventurous calf named Mikey. Mary works hard to teach her son a lesson about staying away from boats. Children will learn how boats can be a danger to manatees. Free. Recommended for ages 3 to 5. Spaces are limited, so call 727-453-6500 to register early!

Jan. 28, 3pm–5pm, Tampa Bay Estuary Program, Community Advisory Comm. meeting, Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council, Pinellas Park. Contact nanette@tbep.org or call 727-570-5151 for directions.

Jan. 29, 1pm-5pm, I.D. Cardholder is required for all applying pesticides and working under a certified operator's pest control license. The class will be held at Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Jane Morse, Extension Agent and Bob Albanese, Extension Specialist will present the four hours of training needed to obtain the initial card and two hours of training for renewal. The cost is $40 per person. Registration and payment required by Friday, Jan. 28. To learn more and to register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org, click on the “Online Class Registration” button and then the “Commercial” tab or call 727-582-2100.

Jan. 30, 10am-4pm, Pinellas Folk Festival at Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo. Listen to dozens of the Tampa Bay area's premier folk musicians performing traditional folk, gospel, country, and bluegrass music on stages throughout the Village! Free Festival parking and shuttle located off 119th Street between Ulmerton and Walsingham Roads. Admission is free but donations support this event. Sponsored by the Pinellas County Historical Society. Visit www.pinellascounty.org/heritage or call 727-582-2123.

Jan. 30, 1pm-3pm, Discover Our Classroom, Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Who lives in that skin? What is the difference between a carnivore and an herbivore? Who made those tracks? Participate in a variety of self-guided activities and hands-on materials that answer these questions and more. Registration not required for this open activity. Recommended for families with children of all ages. For information call 727-453-6500.

Jan. 30, 8:30am-3:30pm, Teacher Training Workshop at Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Discover the perfect place to connect classroom concepts to the natural world. This workshop provides teachers with the training and materials necessary to design and lead learning experiences tailored to their classroom curriculum goals. Workshops are intended for teachers willing to lead their own field trips and are required of those teachers interested in using the Center’s equipment and facilities other than public trails and the exhibit hall. Free. Great for teachers of all grade levels. Pre-registration required call 727-453-6800.

Jan. 30, 9:30am-11:00am, Pests and Harvesting Event at Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Rd., Largo. Now that your garden is producing results, you will want to protect your young vegetable plants from pests and disease. Cindy Peacock, Extension Horticulture Specialist will show you how to identify, prevent and control diseases, insects and weeds. We will also review how and when to harvest your vegetables for their best taste. This is class three of a four part series. On 1/16/2010 is 'It Starts with Soil,' 1/23/2010 is 'Planting, Setting and Growing,' 1/30/2010 is 'Pests and Harvesting' and 2/06/2010 is 'Reaping the Rewards.' The cost is $15.00 per person. Register now. Visit www.pinellascountyextension.org.

Jan. 31, Full day Kayak Trip with the American Littoral Society, Southeast Region. Explore the wild and scenic Myakka River on a full day kayak trip. This trip, which is for intermediate paddlers, begins inside Myakka River State Park. All kayak equipment is included in the cost of the trip. The cost is $50.00 plus entrance fee into the state park. For exact times and reservations call John Sarkozy 941-966-7308.

february

Feb. 1, 7:30pm, Clearwater Audubon Monthly Meeting with Ken Meyer at Moccasin Lake Nature Park, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater. Ken Meyer has directed research on birds in Florida and beyond for 21 years. He obtained his B.S. in Zoology from the University of Maine, Orono, in 1978 and his Ph.D. in Zoology from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, in 1987. After serving as a post-doctoral and then research associate in the University of Florida’s Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation and as a research biologist with the National Park Service in Big Cypress National Preserve, Ken founded the nonprofit Avian Research and Conservation Institute (ARCI) to study rare (and particularly unlisted) species of birds to support management and conservation planning. This research, in the southeastern US and Latin America, has addressed questions about population ecology and demography, breeding biology, migration, over-wintering biology, and year-round habitat requirements.  His study subjects have included Swallow-tailed Kites, Short-tailed Hawks, White-crowned Pigeons, Snail Kites, Wood Storks, Sharp-shinned Hawks, Jabiru Storks, Great White Herons, Red-cockaded Woodpeckers, Yellow-headed Parrots, and King Vultures. These projects also have provided opportunities for training students, land managers, and other biologists here and abroad. Since 1998, Ken has served as an adjunct Associate Professor in the University of Florida’s Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, where his activities include supervising his own graduate students, who have used some of ARCI’s projects as the focus for M.S. and Ph.D. research; training and serving on the committees of other graduate students; and collaborating with colleagues on ecological studies of birds. Contact 727-462-6024. Sponsored by the Clearwater Audubon Society http://clearwateraudubon.org/index.php.

Feb. 2, 6pm-8:30pm, Florida Style Gardening Class number 3, “Concepts of Landscape Design” at Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Learn from experienced landscape designers how to get started designing a landscape that is friendly to Florida’s environment as well as aesthetically pleasing. Receive materials and instructions you need to get started with designing your special garden. Participants may bring their plans to the next class, Landscape Design Clinic on February 16, to have them reviewed by instructors and get your questions answered. The cost is $15 per person. Registration and payment required by Monday, Feb. 1. To learn more and to register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org, click on the “Online Class Registration” button and then the “Lawn & Garden” tab or call 727-582-2100.

Feb. 6, 8am, Clearwater Audubon Birdwatching trip at Moccasin Lake Nature Park. Meet in parking lot; songbirds & raptors in oak & xeric hammock, water birds in lake. ¾ mile shell & board trail. Contact Madeleine Bohrer 727-518-6241.

Feb. 6, 7am, Clearwater Audubon Birdwatching trip at Bartow Borrow Pits. Meet at Tri-City Mall in front of Party City, resident & migratory water birds in restored phosphate mines, plus raptors & songbirds! Contact Dana Kerstein 727-441-1609.

Feb. 6, noon-2pm, "FISH-ful Saturday" The Caribbean, Find the Booty!, The Great Treasure Hunt, family program at The Pier Aquarium. Learn about famous sunken treasures and search for your own at The Pier Aquarium’s treasure hunt! Free to children six and under and free with a paid adult, student or senior admission. Contact Emily Stehle, Ph: 727-895-7437 x 207 or visit http://www.pieraquarium.org/.

Feb. 6, 13, and 20, 9am-10:30am, Guided Hike at Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Take a walk through time on a guided hike along the Brooker Creek Preserve Education Trail. Join in this walk, see how the land has changed over time and discuss the ecological footprints left by those changes. All ages welcome, but children younger than 6 may find the hike challenging. Free. Pre-registration is required by noon on Friday by calling 727-453-6800.

Feb. 6, 9am-1pm, Pinellas County Market in the Park at Heritage Village, Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo. Visit Pinellas County Market in the Park at its new location at Heritage Village. Free admission, on-site restrooms and plenty of room to roam make this Market convenient and accessible. Parking is available in the Pinellas County Extension parking lot next to Heritage Village. This is the third year for the popular Market that features farm-fresh produce, natural products, gardening items and more. Visit www.pinellascounty.org/heritage or call 727-582-2123.

Feb. 6, 11am, Pathways Adventure Series at Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo. “Experience Herbal Essence”- Explore how herbs can spice up meals and tips for starting a home herb garden. Put ideas into action by helping redesign an herb garden at one of the historic homes. Free. Registration is required by Friday, Feb. 5. To learn more and to register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org, click on the “Online Class Registration” button and then the “Pathways Adventure Series” tab or call 727-582-2100.

Feb. 6, 9:30am-11:00am, Reaping The Rewards Event at Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Rd., Largo. Join us for this workshop and learn from Nan Jensen, Extension Agent, how to make the most of your garden harvest by properly storing, cooking and preserving those freshly picked vegetables. Nan will also demonstrate representative recipes. This is class four of a four part series. On 1/16/2010 is 'It Starts with Soil,' 1/23/2010 is 'Planting, Setting and Growing,' 1/30/2010 is 'Pests and Harvesting' and 2/06/2010 is 'Reaping the Rewards.' The cost is $15.00 per person. Register now. Visit www.pinellascountyextension.org.

Feb. 6, 10am-2pm, Kayak Trip at “Shell Key Preserve” with the American Littoral Society, Southeast Region. Enjoy a quiet morning kayaking at Shell Key Preserve in Pinellas County, led by naturalist John Sarkozy. See marine creatures and wonderful bird life. All Kayak equipment is included in the cost of the trip and if you’ve never kayaked before, a short training session will be provided. Bring sunscreen, water insect repellent and lunch. ALS members $30.00; non members $35.00. Call John Sarkozy for information and reservations 941-966-7308.

Feb. 10, 2pm-3:30pm, and repeated 6:15pm-7:45pm, Rain Harvesting Workshop at Palm Harbor Library, 2330 Nebraska Avenue, Palm Harbor. Learn how save rain water in a recycled plastic barrel for later use. The collected water is safe for use on your potted plants, vegetable and herb gardens, and special plant collections. All attendees will receive set-up instructions and a reference booklet with free registration. Registration required by Tuesday, Feb. 9. To register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org, click on the “Online Class Registration” button and then the “Lawn & Garden” tab or call 727-582-2100.

Feb. 11, 1:30pm, Tampa Bay Estuary Program, Management Board Meeting, Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council, Pinellas Park. Contact nanette@tbep.org or call 727-570-5151.

Feb. 12, 10:00am, Tampa Bay Estuary Program, Policy Board Meeting, Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council, Pinellas Park. Contact nanette@tbep.org or call 727-570-5151.

Feb. 12, through Feb. 15, Clearwater Audubon Multi-day birdwatching trip at Northern Minnesota Birding Festival, Northern owls, Crossbills, Bohemian Waxwings, & arctic species that winter only in northern states. Contact Paul Trunk 727-447-4785.

Feb. 13, 9am-noon, The Greening of Childcare, What Every Professional Should Know. Experts will offer a three-hour seminar on greening preschools at Pinellas County Extension, 12525 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Teachers and directors will learn about green products and greenwashing, energy efficiencies, nutrition and green practices for preschools. Bring a recycle bag to swap. Eco-friendly door prizes and raffles will be available. Workshop registration is limited and costs $15 per participant. For information or to register for this event, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org and select the Online Class Registration button.

Feb. 13, 20, & 27, 8am, Solid Waste Operations Area Birding Tour with St. Petersburg Audubon, 3095 114th Ave. N., St. Pete. Rare chance to view wintering gulls, shorebirds and migrants at a unique location. Limited to 10 participants each trip. For registration, email Judi Hopkins at focus997@verizon.net for preferred date.

Feb. 13, 7am, Clearwater Audubon Long Day Birdwatching Trip at Robinson Preserve & Palma Sola Gardens. Meet at Tri-City Mall in front of Party City; raptors, song, water & shore birds, coastal & tidal mangrove habitats; 3 plus miles boardwalks, sand & grass trails. Contact Mike MacDonald at 727-409-0459 or call Lynn Sumerson at 727-596-8822.

Feb. 15, 9am-11am, Beach and Lagoon Walk at Blind Pass with the American Littoral Society, Southeast Region. This is an easy walk from a Gulf beach through dunes and mangrove forest to a lagoon off Lemon Bay. Trip will be led by Bruce Dayton, PhD. We will discuss how water, sand and living things interact to create our dynamic beautiful barrier islands or keys, as we call them. There will be boardwalk for much of the trail but be prepared to walk on sand and pavement. Reservations are required. The event is free and limited to 15 participants. For information and reservations call 941-650-2487.

Feb. 16, 7pm, Conservation of Sparrows in Florida's Grasslands with Marianne Korosy, PhD candidate in with St. Petersburg Audubon at the Science Center.

Feb. 16, 6pm-8:30pm, Florida Style Gardening Class number 4, “Landscape Design Clinic” at Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. This class is a follow-up to the Feb. 2 “Concepts of Landscape Design” class or to those who may have designed landscape plans on their own and would like to attend just this class. Landscape designers will be on hand to review your plans and ideas as well as assess plant selections based upon the design principle of “Right Plant/Right Place”. Plant selection, installation, and establishment procedures will also be discussed. The series concludes on Feb. 23. The cost is $15 per person. Registration and payment required by Monday, Feb. 15. To learn more and to register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org, click on the “Online Class Registration” button and then the “Lawn & Garden” tab or call 727-582-2100.

Feb. 20, 7:30am, Clearwater Audubon Birdwatching trip at Cockroach Bay. Meet at Tri-City Mall in front of Party City; water & shorebirds, raptors, songbirds in ponds & one Tampa Bay productive estuaries. Contact Lynn Sumerson at 727-596-8822 or call Mike MacDonald at 727-409-0459.

Feb. 20, 9am-10:30am, Guided Nature Walk at Chesnut Park, 2200 East Lake Road, Palm Harbor. Explore the outdoors and discover plants naturally found in wetlands and pine flatwoods. Learn how these plants have been used over the years. Visit points along Brooker Creek and enjoy the view of Lake Tarpon. Free. Registration required call 727-669-1951.

Feb. 20, Give A Day For The Bay, Hillsborough County, (Site to Be Determined). Your help is needed to clean up the mess. To learn more, contact HYPERLINK "mailto:nanette@tbep.org" nanette@tbep.org or visit www.tbep.org/help/giveaday.html.

Feb. 23, 6pm-8:30pm, Florida Style Gardening Class number 5, “Landscape Maintenance” at Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Learn the concepts of Landscape Maintenance for Florida-Friendly Yards, including proper pruning of trees and shrubs, using fertilizers and pesticides efficiently and effectively, which mulch is the best and how much to use, and how to condition your landscape to be more drought tolerant. This final class in the series costs $15 per person. Registration and payment required by Monday, Feb. 22. To learn more and to register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org, click on the “Online Class Registration” button and then the “Lawn & Garden” tab or call 727-582-2100.

Feb. 24, 10am-2pm, Kayak Trip at “The Kitchen Preserve” with the American Littoral Society, Southeast Region. Explore Tampa Bay, by Kayak, near Apollo Beach area. Guided by naturalist John Sarkozy, enjoy bird and marine life of the near shore bay waters. Kayaks and all equipment provided and included in the cost of the trip. Bring sunscreen and plenty of drinking water. ALS members $30.00; non members $35.00. Call John Sarkozy for reservations 941-966-7308.

Feb. 27, 7am, Clearwater Audubon Birdwatching trip at Sarasota Celery Fields. Meet at Tri-City Mall in front of Party City; raptors, water & prairie birds in abandoned agricultural fields. Contact Mike MacDonald 727-409-0459.

Feb. 27, 9:30am-2pm, “Get Outside!” event at the Green Swamp Wilderness Preserve, Hampton Tract, 18490 Rock Ridge Rd, Lakeland, FL 33809. Main vehicle access on south side of Green Swamp on Rock Ridge Road, approximately 7 miles northeast of US 98. Pasco and Polk County residents are invited to attend the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s “Get Outside!” event at the Hampton Tract. The free event includes family-friendly activities such as guided nature hikes, “I Spy” scavenger hunts, a native plant raffle and more. The District is inviting the community to “Get Outside!” and get to know the property so they can come back with their friends and family. For more information about this event and other recreational opportunities offered on District lands, visit the District’s web site at http://www.WaterMatters.org/recreation"www.WaterMatters.org/recreation. Contact Melissa Roe 352-796-7211, ext 4776.

Feb. 27, 9am-10:30am, Guided Nature Walk at Philippe Park, 2525 Philippe Parkway, Safety Harbor. Learn park history while exploring nature at one of Pinellas County’s oldest historic parks, Philippe Park. Closed toed shoes, water, sunscreen, a hat and insect repellant are recommended. Free. Registration required call 727-669-1947.

march

Mar. 1, 7:30pm, Clearwater Audubon Monthly Meeting with Jack Rogers at Moccasin Lake Nature Park, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater. Jack Rogers is actually a paleontologist, and teach earth science, oceanography and geology courses at Valencia Community College in Orlando. He really considers himself a naturalist and is an Audubon Society member. Jack is also a lifelong nature photographer and teacher nature photography at Valencia too. Although Jack does not make a living at photography, He is regularly published in Florida Wildlife Magazine and has had images on the covers of the Florida Naturalist and the Florida Wildlife Federation Calendar, among others. Jack has received many awards for my photography and most recently received the Judge’s Choice award in the Atlanta Audubon Society 2009 photo contest. Jack loves to share his hobby and occasionally lead photo workshops and spend lots of time in the field. Jack enjoys photographing nature, primarily birds. His work can be seen online at: www.pbase.com/paleojack. Contact 727-462-6024. Sponsored by the Clearwater Audubon Society http://clearwateraudubon.org/index.php.

Mar. 6, 8am, Clearwater Audubon Birdwatching trip at Moccasin Lake Nature Park. Meet in parking lot; songbirds & raptors in oak & xeric hammock, water birds in lake. ¾ mile shell & board trail. Contact John Hood 727-461-4762.

Mar. 6, 10am-4pm, "FISH-ful Saturday" The Gulf of Mexico, Annual Spa Beach Splash & Kite Festival, a free Marine Discovery Day at Spa Beach. Featuring the creatures of the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay and other outdoor fun, environmental activities and kite festival brought to Spa Beach by our sponsors the Southwest Florida Water Management District and the St. Petersburg Times and many aquarium partners. Contact Emily Stehle, Ph: 727-895-7437 x 207 or visit http://www.pieraquarium.org/.

Mar. 6, 9am-10:30am, Rain Harvesting Workshop at Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Learn how save rain water in a recycled plastic barrel for later use. The collected water is safe for use on your potted plants, vegetable and herb gardens, and special plant collections. All attendees will receive set-up instructions and a reference booklet with free registration. You can purchase a rain barrel at the program for $30.00 plus tax. Registration required by Friday, March 5. To learn more and to register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org, click on the “Online Class Registration” button and then the “Lawn & Garden” tab or call 727-582-2100.

Mar. 9, 2pm–4pm, Tampa Bay Estuary Program, Manatee Awareness Coalition meeting, Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, St. Petersburg. Contact nanette@tbep.org or call 813-428-3182 for directions the day of the meeting.

Mar. 13, 6am, Florida Specialties Bus Trip. Join St. Petersburg Audubon for a daylong bus trip to look for 8-10 target birds rarely found anywhere else and learn about Florida history. Forever Florida will be our stop for lunch again this year, included in price of $75 per person. Call Mauri Dietrich for reservations & information at 727-398-4124.

Mar. 13, 8am, Clearwater Audubon Birdwatching trip at Honeymoon Island State Park. Meet behind McDonalds at corner of ALT US19 & Curlew Road; wading, water & shore birds plus migratory songbirds & raptors. 2- 3 mile walk on sand trails. Contact John Hood 727-461-4762.

Mar. 13, 9am-10:30am, Guided Nature Walk at Chesnut Park, 2200 East Lake Road, Palm Harbor. Explore the outdoors and discover plants naturally found in wetlands and pine flatwoods. Learn how these plants have been used over the years. Visit points along Brooker Creek and enjoy the view of Lake Tarpon. Free. Registration required call 727-669-1951.

Mar. 20, 7:30am, Clearwater Audubon Birdwatching trip at Morris Bridge & Lettuce Lake. Meet at Tri-City Mall in front of Party City; migratory songbirds, raptors & water birds; boardwalks & sand trails, ¾ mile at Morris Bridge, 1-2 miles at Lettuce Lake. Contact Merle Hubbard 727-939-1549.

Mar. 20, 9am-10:30am, Guided Nature Walk at Philippe Park, 2525 Philippe Parkway, Safety Harbor. Learn park history while exploring nature at one of Pinellas County’s oldest historic parks, Philippe Park. Closed toed shoes, water, sunscreen, a hat and insect repellant are recommended. Free. Registration required call 727-669-1947.

Mar. 20, 10am-4pm, National Quilting Day Celebration at Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo. Join in hands-on activities for adults and children along with demonstrations, lectures and exhibits from area guilds will engage visitors in many new aspects of this historic American craft. Admission is free but donations support this event. Sponsored by the Pinellas County Historical Society. Visit www.pinellascounty.org/heritage or call 727-582-2123.

Mar. 20, Give A Day For The Bay, Walsingham Park, Seminole. Your help is needed to clean up the mess. To learn more, contact nanette@tbep.org or visit www.tbep.org/help/giveaday.html.

Mar. 27, 8am, Birding at J. B. Starkey Wilderness Park with St. Petersburg Audubon in New Port Richey. Meet at information kiosk, on right-hand side going into park. For information, email Judi Hopkins at focus997@verizon.net.

Mar. 27, 8am, Clearwater Audubon Birdwatching trip at Ft. DeSoto County Park. Meet at Ft DeSoto Ranger Station; migratory songbirds, raptors, water & shore birds; causeway & shoreline drive plus 1-2 mile trail walk on Tampa Bay’s north shore. Contact Lynn Sumerson 727-596-8822.

april

Apr. 3, 8am, Clearwater Audubon Birdwatching trip at Moccasin Lake Nature Park. Meet in parking lot, songbirds & raptors in oak & xeric hammock, water birds in lake. ¾ mile shell & board trail. Contact Madeleine Bohrer 727-518-6241.

Apr. 3, noon-2pm, "FISH-ful Saturday" The Indo-Pacific Ocean, Native Fish and their Cultural and Historical Roles, family program at The Pier Aquarium. Learn how the native island fish shapes peoples’ lives and livelihoods. Free to children six and under and free with a paid adult, student or senior admission. Contact Emily Stehle, Ph: 727-895-7437 x 207 or visit http://www.pieraquarium.org/.

Apr. 3, 10am-4pm, 23rd Annual Antique Car Show, at Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo. See more than 100 lovingly restored automobiles, entertainment, a food court, and more! Visit www.pinellascounty.org/heritage or call 727-582-2123.

Apr. 5, 7:30pm, Clearwater Audubon Monthly Meeting with Ron Mayberry at Moccasin Lake Nature Park, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater. Ron envisions photography as a means to record and share with others the many beauties and wonders of wildlife and nature. Ron is dedicated to the appreciation of wildlife and the environment. You will see that his photos are truly from both the eye and the heart of a photographer that loves wildlife. The pursuit of nature photography has taken him too many far-flung locations, such as Europe, Israel, Africa (Kenya), British Columbia, the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, Peru, Antarctica, Costa Rica and in the United States to New Mexico, Texas, Alaska, and all over Florida where he resides. He is a Photographic Society of America member as well as the Manatee , Sarasota County and National Audubon Society, American Birding Association, and the North America Nature Photography Association (NANPA). His images have been chosen to appear in the NANPA Showcase publication. He is a certified Florida Master Naturalist and participates as a Florida Audubon Eaglewatch Volunteer. He also holds a U.S.Coast Guard Captain’s license. Ron also presents educational programs and slide shows to many camera clubs and nature organizations. He leads Florida Bird & Boat Photo Workshops and Adventures In Imaging Photo Tours and Workshops. View images at www.ronmayberry.com. Contact 727-462-6024. Sponsored by the Clearwater Audubon Society http://clearwateraudubon.org/index.php.

Apr. 9, 7am, Clearwater Audubon Long Day Birdwatching trip at Cross Bar Ranch. Meet at Countryside Shopping Town in front of Sears by US19 frontage road, bring lunch & drinks; safari bus to observe resident & migratory songbirds, raptors & burrowing owls; learn about water resources. Contact Ken Rowe 727-781-0745.

Apr. 10, 8am, Spring Migration Birding with St. Petersburg Audubon at Ft. Desoto Park, Tierra Verde, meet at the flagpole at park headquarters. For information, email Judi Hopkins at focus997@verizon.net.

Apr. 10, 7:30am, Clearwater Audubon Long Day Birdwatching trip at Circle-B-Bar Ranch. Meet at Tri-City Mall in front of Party City; eagles & other raptor, songbirds, water birds [resident White Pelicans], alligators at former cattle ranch in oak habitat on Lake Hancock. 3½ mile sand trails. Contacts Lynn Sumerson 727-596-8822 or Mike MacDonald 727-409-0459.

Apr. 14, 7:30pm, Clearwater Audubon Birdwatching trip at Ft. DeSoto County Park. Meet at Tri-City Mall in front of Party City; migratory songbirds, raptors, water & shore birds; causeway & shoreline drive plus 1-2 mile trail walk on Tampa Bay’s north shore. Contacts are John Hood 727-461-4762 or Jacqui Williams 727-585-3587.

Apr. 17, Clearwater Audubon Long Day Birdwatching trip at J.B. Starkey Wilderness. Meet at Countryside Shopping Town in front of Sears near US19 frontage road; songbirds & raptors in large Pasco County preserve. Contact Marianne Korosy 727-772-7584. http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/recreation/areas/starkey-park.html.

Apr. 17, 9am-10:30am, Rain Harvesting Workshop at Pinellas County Extension, Largo. Learn how save rain water in a recycled plastic barrel for later use. The collected water is safe for use on your potted plants, vegetable and herb gardens, and special plant collections. All attendees will receive set-up instructions and a reference booklet with free registration. You can purchase a rain barrel at the program for $30.00 plus tax. Registration required by Friday, March 5. To learn more and to register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org, click on the “Online Class Registration” button and then the “Lawn & Garden” tab or call 727-582-2100.

Apr. 24, 8am, Clearwater Audubon Birdwatching trip at John Chesnut County Park. Meet at shelter #6: resident & migratory songbirds, raptors & more. There will be a boardwalk, shell & paved trails. Contact Ellen Pfau 727-786-3718.

Apr. 24, 8am, Round Robin Birding with St. Petersburg Audubon at Ft. Desoto Park, Tierra Verde, meet the flagpole at park headquarters. Maximize the birding potential of 4 different locations in the park. For information, email Judi Hopkins at focus997@verizon.net.

Apr. 28, 8am, Clearwater Audubon Birdwatching trip at Honeymoon Island State Park. Meet behind McDonalds at corner of ALT US19 & Curlew Road: wading, water & shore birds plus migratory songbirds & raptors. 2- 3 mile walk on sand trails. Contact is Merle Hubbard 727-939-1549.

may

May 8, North American Migratory Bird Count with St. Petersburg Audubon. All levels of birders needed to count species throughout Pinellas County. Contact Don Margeson, to volunteer, 727-527-0227.