Compost Basics
2023-01-14 09:30 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | Online Event
Mulch and compost can play an important role in the health of your soil and landscape. Join Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Educator, Melissa West, to find out the benefits of compost by recycling your leaves, pine needles, grass clippings and kitchen scraps. You will learn the step-by-step process from finding the right location, choosing a container or creating a compost pile to produce “black gold” for a thriving garden.
This is a free event, registration required.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

HUKYU BONSAI SOCIETY MEETING
2023-01-14 10:00 - 12:00, 2023-02-11 10:00 - 12:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Learn the art and techniques of Bonsai.
www.facebook.com/hukyubonsaisociety.

Defend Yourself! How Bugs and Bloomers Survive
2023-01-14 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Insects and plants have evolved often astonishing and sometimes bizarre ways to survive when everything is out to eat them. For more than a decade, John Lampkin has been photo-documenting thorns and thistles and chemical cocktails, as bugs and bloomers battle it out. The result is a visually delightful, fun, and educational exploration of a 450-million-year-old “arms race.”
Presented by John Lampkin: John Lampkin’s photographs grace the pages of field guides, websites and magazines and he won the “American Butterflies” magazine 2020 photo contest. As a neo-classical composer, he won international prizes for his “Piano Concerto” and woodwind quintets. He has constructed many crossword puzzles, often with Nature themes, for the NY Times, LA Times and Wall Street Journal. At heart, he is just a guy with a camera who enjoys thinking and sharing what he discovers.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Youth Program: Trees!
2023-01-20 10:00 - 11:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Celebrate Florida Arbor Day!
Explore the inside and outside of trees with hands-on activities and more as we celebrate Florida Arbor Day!
Registration is required. Presented by Lara Milligan, Pinellas County Natural Resources Agent for UF/IFAS Extension. Targeted for upper elementary and middle school aged youth.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Easy Plant Identification: The Big 4
2023-01-22 13:00 - 14:00, 2023-02-18 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Explore the major plant groups!

If you can remember four plant groups (that you’ve already heard of) you have made a big step in plant ID! Let’s explore the Big Four and what makes a plant belong to one particular group. Hopefully you will be shocked and amazed at how much you already know!
Recommended for adults and youth over 12.
Presented by James Stevenson, Education and Outreach Supervisor
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Basic Irrigation Operations and Maintenance
2023-01-24 10:00 - 12:00 | Online Event
Want to learn more about irrigation, how it operates, and the basics of maintaining it?
Presented by Brian J Rigney, Irrigation Program Assistant. Learn about the basic operations and maintenance of your in-ground irrigation system.
Contact: Mr. Rigney (941) 722-4524 X 1828 or BrianRigney@ufl.edu for further class information. Minimum class size required or class will be cancelled. Registered attendees will be notified.
This class will satisfy the irrigation educational class requirement for the Manatee County Outdoor Water Rebate Program.
For further information on the Outdoor Water Rebate Program, contact: Manatee County Utility Department – Tina at (941) 792-8811 X 5327 or tina.moutoux@mymanatee.org
Book your FREE irrigation and landscape evaluation with the Mobile Irrigation Lab (MIL). Call Maggie Gaughan (941) 722-4524 X 1827 to sign up today.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<
The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. For disability accommodations such as alternate formats of written material, please contact Brian Rigney BrianRigney@ufl.edu or (941) 722-4524 at least 1 week in advance.

Landscape Tips for Water Conservation
2023-01-26 10:00 - 12:00 | Online Event
Valrie Massey, Horticulture Program Assistant, will focus on Florida-Friendly Landscape tips such as right plant vs. right place, watering efficiently, and mulch benefits. We will have a brief discussion on your in-ground sprinkler system and the benefits of installing smart irrigation devices.
This class satisfies the landscape educational requirement for the Manatee County Outdoor Water Conservation Rebate Program.
Contact: Valrie (941) 722-4524 ext 1829 or vmassey@ufl.edu for further class information. Minimum class size required or class will be cancelled. Registered attendees will be notified.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<
For information and eligibility on the Manatee County Outdoor Rebate Program, please call: Manatee County Utility Department – Water Conservation; Tina (941) 792-8811, ext 5327 or tina.moutoux@mymanatee.org
The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact Valrie Massey (vmassey@ufl.edu / 941-722-4524) at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Aquaculture's Role in the Global Food Security Agenda
2023-01-30 18:00 - 19:30 | Mote Marine Laboratory, 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy., Sarasota, FL, 34236, United States
Farming the Future:
Aquaculture’s Role in the Global Food Security Agenda
Dr. Nicole Rhody will lead the last lecture of the series on Jan. 30. With over 20 years of experience in the field of aquaculture and based at the 200-acre Mote Aquaculture Research Park, she aids in leading a team of scientists focused on conservation and cultivation of marine finfish, bivalves, crustaceans and aquatic plants.
On Monday, Jan. 30, attendees can discover the new and innovative ways Mote’s aquaculture research scientists are working to ensure global access to healthy and sustainable protein options. The lecture focuses on aquaculture, currently the fastest-growing food production sector globally and a sustainable option for attaining food security. Guests will learn how sustainable aquaculture methods can protect our oceans and help meet the increasing demand for seafood. By expanding our ability to cultivate aquatic animals and plants we can ensure sustainable human food production in the future.
Mote Members also receive discounted admission to the event.
Tickets are on sale now at mote.org/lecture.

Composting Workshop
2023-02-04 08:30 - 09:30 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Learn how to put your everyday food waste and organic materials to work for you! Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees will receive a compost bin, compost bucket and thermometer after attending the workshop. (Limit 1 per household and the representative of the household must be an adult.) Please arrive 15 minutes before the program starts.
>>> IN PERSON REGISTRATION <<<
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<
NOTE: Pick-up of workshop items/giveaways for on-site attendees will be on the date of the workshop or by rescheduling with the workshop presenter. All items must be picked up within 30 days of the date of the workshop. No exceptions.
***PLEASE NOTE: There is a non-refundable $5.00 registration fee per household for this workshop. Please be advised, if our records indicate that you or another member of your household attended this workshop in the past, you will not be eligible to attend and your registration fee will not be refunded, is non- transferrable, and may not be credited toward a future workshop.***
Attending a workshop on behalf of another person is not permitted.

Microirrigation Workshop
2023-02-04 09:30 - 11:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Learn how to save water watering your garden.
Learn how you can have healthy and attractive landscape beds while conserving water. This irrigation method not only conserves water, but is not limited by current water restrictions as is traditional in-ground irrigation. Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees will receive a microirrigation kit after attending the workshop. (Limit 1 kit per household and the representative of the household must be an adult.)
>>> IN PERSON REGISTRATION <<<
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<
NOTE: Pick-up of workshop items/giveaways for on-site attendees will be on the date of the workshop or by rescheduling with the workshop presenter. All items must be picked up within 30 days of the date of the workshop. No exceptions.
PLEASE NOTE: There is a non-refundable $5.00 registration fee per household for this workshop. Please be advised, if you or someone in your household has already attended this workshop or if you reside outside of Hillsborough County, you are not eligible to attend and your registration fee will not be refunded, nor is it transferrable to another party or workshop.
Attending a workshop on behalf of another person is not permitted.

Rainwater Harvesting Workshop
2023-02-04 11:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Learn how to collect rainwater for ornamental plant irrigation while reducing erosion and stormwater runoff, and the use of non-potable water for irrigation. Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees will receive one 45-55 gallon plastic food-grade barrel after attending the workshop. (1 per household and the representative of the household must be an adult.).
>>> IN PERSON REGISTRATION <<<
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<
NOTE: Pick-up of workshop items/giveaways for on-site attendees will be on the date of the workshop or by rescheduling with the workshop presenter. All items must be picked up within 30 days of the date of the workshop. No exceptions.
PLEASE NOTE: There is a non-refundable $5.00 registration fee per household for this workshop. Please be advised, if you or someone in your household or at your address has already attended this workshop or if you reside outside of Hillsborough County, you are not eligible to attend and your registration fee will not be refunded, nor is it transferrable to another party or workshop.
Attending a workshop on behalf of another person is not permitted.

Mosses 101: Exploring the Amazing World of Bryophytes
2023-02-08 14:00 - 15:00 | Online Event
Let’s take an introductory look into the fascinating world of Bryophytes, specifically the Mosses. We will explore the anatomy, physiology, and ecology of the mosses and their adaptations for survival. We will also learn about the importance of mosses in the environment, and how they interact with other plants and animals in their environment. By the end of the class, you will have the knowledge and confidence to begin recognizing and exploring mosses in your own backyard!
Presented by James Stevenson, Education and Outreach Supervisor. Recommended for adults and youth over 12.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

Talk Plants with Me
2023-02-09 11:30 - 12:30, 2023-03-09 11:30 - 12:30 | Online Event
Ask a Horticulture Agent Webinar!
Submit your questions to our Horticulture Agent for live Q&A. We will talk about hot topics in the plant world and may have a few guests join us along the way.
The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact Katie Granberg, katiebg@ufl.edu, (941) 722-4524 x 1815 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

Botany Walk
2023-02-10 09:30 - 11:00, 2023-03-10 09:30 - 11:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
We will identify wildflowers, ferns, epiphytes, trees and more. The ecology of various plant communities will also be examined. Best suited for adult participants. Registration is required.
This is a free hike, however space is limited. Please be courteous and do not register unless you plan to attend and cancel your reservation if you can no longer attend.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Guided Hike Information

Guided hikes are under a mile in length, much of which is on unimproved, uneven sandy trails.
Hikes take about two (2) hours to complete.
Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, sneakers or boots.
Insect repellent (bug spray) is strongly recommended in summer months.
Bring plenty of drinking water and a snack.
A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended.
Pets are not permitted.
No smoking is allowed.
An Equal Opportunity Institution.

Rainwater Harvesting
2023-02-11 09:30 - 11:00 | Chester Ochs 4-H Educational Center, 14644 113th Ave N, Largo, FL, 33774, United States
Water Wise Workshop:
Rainwater Harvesting
Did you know Tampa Bay and the surrounding counties average 50- 60 inches of rain annually? Florida- Friendly Landscaping™ Educator Melissa West will explore practical, low-cost approaches to harness our most precious resources rainwater and at the same time reduce stormwater runoff and pollution. Tune in to learn more about rainwater harvesting, rain gardens and how to make use of your rainwater.
Barrels available for purchase by class participants. for $45.
Register Here

Spring Vegetable Gardening
2023-02-16 10:00 - 11:30 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Learn about what to plant when to get your spring vegetable garden started.
Learn about what to plant when to get your spring vegetable garden started.
If you would like to grow your own vegetables, this class is for you! Learn to grow “warm season” vegetables including soil preparation, garden bed types, and seed starting techniques. Gardens may be grown year-round in Florida, but spring is the preferred season by most homeowners. Participants will receive some seeds, vegetable transplants and a copy of the Florida Vegetable Gardening Guide after attending the workshop. (Limit 1 kit per household and the representative of the household must be an adult.)
>>> IN PERSON REGISTRATION <<<
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<
PLEASE NOTE: There is a non-refundable $5.00 registration fee per household for this workshop.
If you have any questions, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at (813) 744-5519.
***The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact: Tina Allen, allenti@hillsboroughcounty.org, 813-744-5519 Ext. 54112, at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Taking The Mystery Out of Micro-irrigation
2023-02-21 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Learn how to select, install, and operate your own water saving irrigation system.
Join Brian J Rigney, Program Assistant, to discuss an introduction to micro-irrigation. This includes learning to select, install, and operate your own water-saving irrigation system. The discussion will include information regarding the components, and how to assemble, and maintain. Come hear the benefits and why it is important to water plants, shrubs and other landscape plants separate from your turfgrass.
This class satisfies the irrigation educational requirement for the Manatee County Outdoor Water Conservation Rebate Program.
Contact: Mr. Rigney (941) 722-4524 X 1828 or BrianRigney@ufl.edu for further class information. Class size required or class will be cancelled and registered attendees will be notified.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
For information and eligibility on the Manatee County Outdoor Rebate Program, please call: Manatee County Utility Department – Water Conservation; Tina (941) 792-8811, ext 5327 or tina.moutoux@mymanatee.org
Book your FREE irrigation and landscape evaluation with the Mobile Irrigation Lab (MIL). Call Maggie Gaughan (941) 722-4524 X 1827 sign up today.

The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact Brian Rigney at BrianRigney@ufl.edu or (941)722-4524 at least one week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Introduction to Plant Identification
2023-02-22 10:30 - 11:30 | Online Event
Join James Stevenson and examine the basics of plant identification, from using simple keys to identifying critical characteristics that will help any would-be botanist in the field. An emphasis will be placed on flowering plants.
Recommended for adults and youth over 12.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

Drought Tolerant Plants 101
2023-02-23 10:00 - 12:00 | Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Office, 1303 17th St W, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Keep your landscape looking beautiful with the right plants.
Learn how to choose beautiful drought tolerant plants for your landscape and know what to put back on the shelf! Valrie Massey, Horticulture Program Assistant, will show samples of Florida friendly plants suitable for Manatee County residents and discuss the difference between the good and the bad plant!
Minimum class size is required or class will be postponed. All those that register will be notified if postponed.
Contact: Valrie (941) 722-4524 Ext 1829 or vmassey@ufl.edu for further class information.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
This class satisfies the landscape educational class requirement for the Manatee County Outdoor Water Conservation Rebate Program. For further information on the program, please contact: Tina 941-792-8811, Ext 5327 or tina.moutoux@mymanatee.org
The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact Valrie Massey (vmassey@ufl.edu / 941-722-4524) at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Youth Program: Trees
2023-02-24 10:00 - 11:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Celebrate Trees!
Explore the inside and outside of trees with hands-on activities and more as we celebrate the importance of trees!
This youth program is geared toward ages 6 to 12. Registration is required. Space is limited and this program will cap at 30 participants. Please register just your child (children). This is not a drop-off program.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Gardening with Mushrooms
2023-03-07 10:30 - 11:30, 2023-03-16 10:00 - 11:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Join UF/IFAS Extension Manatee County for a conversation about using mushrooms to enhance your gardens!
Not always nefarious, fungi in the garden can be used to help build soil, process compost and support plant health.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact Katie Granberg, katiebg@ufl.edu, (941) 722-4524 x 1815 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

The Seed
2023-03-08 14:00 - 15:00 | Online Event
One of plants most innovative reproductive strategies was the development of the seed. Not all plants produce seeds; this belongs only to the conifers and flowering plants. We will examine the history of the seed and its myriad of forms.
Presented by James Stevenson, Education and Outreach Supervisor
Recommended for adults and youth over 12
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

Plant ID for Beginners
2023-03-11 10:00 - 12:00 | Palma Sola Botanical Garden, 9800 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
If you’ve ever wondered how to figure out what plant is which, join this beginner plant ID class!
Not sure what that plant is in your backyard? New to Florida and unfamiliar with the new species? If you’ve ever wondered how to figure out what plant is which, join this beginner plant ID class!
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
An Equal Opportunity Institution. The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact our office at (941) 722-4524 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Precious Pollinators
2023-03-16 18:30 - 20:00 | Palma Sola Botanical Garden, 9800 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
Learn about pollinators, their favorite plants, and make your own bee box!
This program is offered in partnership between UF/IFAS Extension Manatee County, Palma Sola Botanical Park and the Manatee County Agricultural Museum Inc. This event is family friendly and open to all.
AGENDA:
6:30PM Garden Walk and Talk: Focus on pollinator friendly plants and how to incorporate pollinator friendly practices in your home garden. Led by Master Gardener Volunteers.
7:00PM Break
7:10PM State of Pollinators Presentation: Learn about our native pollinators from Residential Horticulture Agent, Alyssa Vinson.
7:40PM Make and Take Bee Boxes: Build and take home your very own bee box to provide safe habitat to our native bees.
8:00PM Adjourn
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact Katie Granberg, katiebg@ufl.edu, (941) 722-4524 x 1815 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Irrigation With Water Conservation In Mind
2023-03-28 10:00 - 12:00 | Online Event
Learn how to conserve water in your irrigation system while still maintaining a healthy looking landscape and turf area.
Brian J Rigney, Program Assistant, will focus on how to adjust your in-ground sprinkler system to conserve water, how you can repair parts, and the benefits of installing water-saving irrigation devices. We will have a brief discussion on Florida-Friendly Landscape (TM) tips.

Contact Mr. Rigney (941) 722-4524 X 1828 or BrianRigney@ufl.edu for further class information. Minimum class size required or class will be cancelled. Registered attendees will be notified.
This class satisfies the irrigation educational requirement for the Manatee County Outdoor Water Conservation Rebate Program.
For information and eligibility on the Manatee County Outdoor Rebate Program, please call: Manatee County Utility Department – Water Conservation; Tina (941) 792-8811 X 5327 or tina.moutoux@mymanatee.org
Book your FREE irrigation and landscape evaluation today. Call Maggie Gaughan (941) 722-4524 X 1827 to sign up.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<
The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact Brian Rigney at BrianRigney@ufl.edu or (941) 722-4524 at least one week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.
