Third Saturdays at Pinewood Cultural Park
2024-07-20 07:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL, 33778, United States
Three for one fun at the Florida Botanical Gardens, Creative Pinellas and Heritage Village!
Celebrate at Pinewood (Florida Botanical Gardens, Creative Pinellas, Heritage Village) every Third Saturday of the month.
At the Florida Botanical Gardens (Open 7 AM-5 PM):
Visit the new Majeed Discovery Garden, a 2+ acre addition, connecting children to nature. Our Children’s Garden Educator is hosting a variety of preschool and family programs in the Majeed Discovery Garden on topics like sustainability, sensory exploration, and more. Visit the Event Calendar on our website at www.flbgfoundation.org/events to view all of the programs offered in our Majeed Discovery Garden. For more information, visit www.flbgfoundation.org/childrensgarden.
At Creative Pinellas (Open 10 AM-5 PM):
Visit the Gallery at Creative Pinellas for two must-see exhibitions! Catch the 2024 Emerging Artist Exhibition before it ends on July 21st. Also on display is Threads of Nature: Art Inspired by the Florida Botanical Gardens, featuring works by the Tampa Bay Surface Design Guild that capture nature’s beauty. Feeling inspired? Stop by our drawing room to unleash your inner artist. Free admission and fun for the whole family! For more information: www.creativepinellas.org.
At Heritage Village (Open 10 AM – 4 PM):
Explore the past at Pinellas County’s 21-acre living history museum! Step back in time and take a docent tour of select historic buildings, visit Pinellas County’s oldest structure, and peruse locally-made artisan gifts and souvenirs at the gift shop. Interested in learning more? The Heritage Village app features self-guided walking tours and archival photographs and information about your favorite Heritage Village buildings, historic figures, and artifacts! Download the app for free in your preferred mobile app store by searching “Heritage Village”. Heritage Village is free to visit, pet-friendly, and perfect for all ages! For more information: www.heritagevillagefl.org/

Colony Watch Training TBP
2025-03-15 10:00 - 11:30
Jeff Liechty, Audubon Florida’s Coastal Islands Sanctuaries staff, and William Laurie, Project Colony Watch Coordinator, will conduct Colony Watch Training March 15, 10 am in Brandon.

During the training, you’ll learn how to identify nesting birds and survey your local bird nesting colony. Reports help inform local and state managers and protect wading bird populations.

For more information and the location, contact William.laurie@tampaaudubon.org

Advanced Plant Identification - 4-Part Series
2025-03-08 10:00 - 14:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
This four-part plant identification series will introduce participants to the steps required to positively identify plants.
Plant identification is based on close observation of morphological characteristics, contextual clues and lots of practice. This four–part advanced plant identification series will introduce participants to these concepts and the associated vocabulary of the plant scientist.
The class follows the contents of Harrington’s “How to Identify Plants” (1957); a copy of which is provided to each registrant. This concise text contains a comprehensive vocabulary of terms and illustrations to help clarify concepts.
A packet of supplemental educational materials will also be provided to each registrant.
About this Event
During each 4-hour classroom event, participants will engage in a participatory lecture, and have plenty of time for Q & A. The final session will be a hands-on workshop that will include graduates from previous courses. Each session will build on the previous; attending the entire series is recommended.
Classes are four consecutive Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Bio-breaks are factored into the schedule for each day! Bring a bag-lunch (refrigeration and a microwave are available).
>>> RESERVE A SPOT

Afternoon Adventures Weather or Not
2025-03-15 15:30 - 16:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join our Rangers in exploring what weather is, how it is different from climate, and how does it form. We will look at everything from the tilt of the Earth, solar radiation, the Coriolis effect, air pressure/temperature, to how large bodies of water and different landforms (forest, desert, mountains, plains) affect our weather and climates.
Ages 8 yrs – 12 yrs
>>> REGISTER HERE

OFF THE BEATEN PATH
2025-01-19 09:00 - 13:00 | Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, United States
Back by popular demand…
OFF THE BEATEN PATH
A nature-based fundraising hike series
This series of four hikes will take place in beautiful areas tucked away within Brooker Creek Preserve in sites that are closed to the public. Our guide, Dr. Craig Huegel, can identify everything, from the tiniest moss to the tallest tree including animal prints, bird calls, lichens, and more. He is full of stories and very patient in answering questions. The hikes will be not only educational, but a lot of fun as well!
The hikes will begin at 9:00 a.m. and be about 3-4 hours long. Bring water and lunch.
Cost: $80 donation for the series or $25 donation per hike with a 10% discount for members of Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve
Sites Off the Beaten Path:
Sep. 22, 2024 – Catesby’s Lilies…and More! – Located in the eastern part of the preserve, we will search for the threatened Catesby’s Lily. In so doing, we will see a profusion of beautiful fall wildflowers in full bloom.
Jan. 19, 2025 – Cypress Swamp – Located in the central part of the preserve, this site
features orchids, ferns, and epiphytes. Plan to get wet, or maybe not, as we plunge into the depths of the swamp!
March 16, 2025 – Sandhills – The only true sandhills of Brooker Creek Preserve. This site is in the northern end of the preserve and will feature an abundance of spring wildflowers.
June 22, 2025 – Interior Wildlands – We will be in parts of the Preserve so remote that
cell phones won’t work, areas so pretty you won’t believe you are in Pinellas County!
Reservations Required: info@friendsofbrookercreekpreserve.org
Sign up early! Only 20 spots are open for these fabulous hikes off the beaten path!
Questions? Email info@friendsofbrookercreekpreserve.org or call 727-934-2680.

Elemental Seasons Camp - BHNP Spring 2025
2025-03-17 08:00 - 2025-03-21 17:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Celebrate the winter season of Florida with an experiential look at the winter changes, celebrations, and cultures around the world throughout time.
Nature hikes, handcrafted items to take home, and interactive experiences occur each day.
Ages 6 yrs – 11 yrs
>>> ENROLL HERE

Naturalist Guided Tour
2025-03-01 09:30 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Enjoy a guided tour to explore the coastal and upland ecosystems of the Weedon Island Preserve!
Participants will learn about the environment, native wildlife, and early history of Weedon Island during a guided walk of the Tower Boardwalk.
The total walk length is 1 mile and it will traverse cement path and boardwalk, along with an optional climb to the top of the Observation Tower.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Parents Night Out- Wild Wetlands
2025-03-28 18:00 - 22:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Parents enjoy a night out while the kids experience a night of Edventure Exploration! Come learn about our themed nights through games, activities, crafts, and a night hike. A pizza dinner is included.
Participants will learn about the plants and animals that thrive in these unique environments, and how wetlands help our planet. Through games, nature walks, and interactive activities, children will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of wetlands in preserving biodiversity and supporting clean water.
Ages 6 yrs – 12 yrs
>>> RESERVE A SPOT

Little Manatee River night paddle
2025-03-29 19:00 - 21:00 | Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center, 4202 24th St SE, Ruskin, FL, 33570, United States
While you are marking your calendar, save the date- Saturday, March 29- for a night paddle to explore the Little Manatee River after dark- without flashlights!
Canoes and kayaks are available for $25 per boat; $5 if you have your own vessel.
Plan to arrive by 7pm to be out on the water by 7:30pm.
Registration required, email campbayou@gmail.com or call the office 813-641-8545.
Camp Bayou continues to offer day paddle trips on the first and third Saturdays each month at 9am, reservations required.

Florida Forests Hike
2024-03-01 09:00 - 11:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Venture out along the Flatwoods Trail loop with Natural Resources Agent, Lara Milligan to learn all about her most favorite thing…TREES!
Get ready to look up and explore the world of trees. Lara tends to throw in some surprises on her hikes, so be ready when she asks for volunteers!
>>> REGISTER HERE

Tween & Teen Homeschooler Hike
2025-01-03 11:00 - 12:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Explore the woods of “Our Wildest Place”!

Join us on an educational guided hike geared toward tweens and teens! We’ll explore the native plants and animals that call Brooker Creek home while meandering along a 1.5 mile trail. Participants are welcome to bring a lunch to enjoy after the hike together.
Registration is required. Space is limited and this hike will cap at 20 participants. Please register just your child (children). This is not a drop-off program. Meet in the Exhibit Hall.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Emerson Point Preserve Tour
2025-04-05 09:00 - 11:00 | Emerson Point Preserve, 5801 17th St W, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Guided tour of Emerson Point Preserve with a Master Gardener Volunteer!
First Saturday of the month (November – April), at 9:00am
Casually stroll through the beautiful Emerson Point Preserve and learn about Florida’s native plants and inhabitants of a coastal environment. Suitable for all ages.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT

Sea Turtle Awareness Day Lake Cleanup
2025-04-05 09:00 - 13:00 | Lake Belleview, 1426 S M.L.K. Jr Ave., Clearwater, FL, 33756, United States
Come join the city of Clearwater and Clearwater Marine Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Nesting Team for a lake cleanup! Get the chance to learn about sea turtle conservation and how you can help our local sea turtle population.
This event will include raffle prizes, the opportunity to personalize a sea turtle nesting stake, a photo opp and much more!

Volunteer Archaeology Lab
2025-01-10 13:00 - 15:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Learn how to sort, identify, and clean artifacts and other material from real archaeological sites!

Ages 12+

Join us in the Lab for a hands-on experience in archaeological discovery! Led by professional archaeologists from the Florida Public Archaeology Network (FPAN), this volunteer lab gives you the chance to sort, clean, and identify real artifacts uncovered at the Weedon Island Preserve. You’ll learn how archaeologists process materials for study and contribute to ongoing research about the people who once lived in this coastal region. No experience is necessary — just curiosity and a willingness to get your hands dirty!
Who Can Participate:
This lab is open to adults and youth ages 12 and up. Youth must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire session.
Space is limited — registration is required.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to be part of real archaeological work!

Friday, December 12 at 1:00 p.m. — Register today
Friday, January 9 at 1:00 p.m. — Register today

Request A Youth Lab:
If you’re part of a homeschool group and would like to schedule a youth-focused lab, please email westcentral@fpan.us to request a separate Lab session.

DeSoto/Riverview Pointe Preserve Tour
2025-01-11 09:00 - 11:00 | Fort DeSoto Park, 8250 Desoto Memorial Highway, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
Guided tour through DeSoto/Riverview Pointe Preserve with a Master Gardener Volunteer!

Second Saturday of the month (November – May), at 9:00am
Casually stroll through the beautiful Riverview Pointe Preserve and learn about Florida’s native plants and inhabitants of a coastal environment.
Suitable for all ages.

>> REGISTER HERE

Phytoplankton and Their Friends
2025-04-13 13:00 - 14:30 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Join Dr. Margaret “Maggi” Brisbin and Pinellas County Sea Grant Agent Katie Mastenbrook for an opportunity to deep dive into the world of plankton. The presentation will cover plankton communities in the Tampa Bay region, highlighting research on the plant plankton communities know as phytoplankton.
Dr. Brisbin will cover Pyrodinium bahamense (the toxin and light producing species that blooms in Upper Tampa Bay), Karenia brevis (Red Tide), and other lesser-known species important to the region. Dr. Brisbin will share how they monitor and study phytoplankton communities at USF and explain exciting recent research developments. Pinellas County Sea Grant Agent will further showcase other common types of animal plankton known as zooplankton, highlighting the importance of all are plankton species.
Participants will have a chance to view and get a hands-on experience with live plankton samples using traditional microscopes and cutting-edge, automated microscopes.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT

Afternoon Adventures It's Classified
2025-04-19 15:30 - 16:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join our Rangers in exploring how various plant and animal life are classified and develop a dichotomous key for identifying living organisms. We will also discuss why diversity of life is so important for ALL living things to survive. Students are encouraged to bring a couple of like items (shells, leaves, rocks, etc.) to create and use a dichotomous key.
Ages 8 yrs – 12 yrs
>>> REGISTER HERE

Wildflower Walk: Earth Day Edition
2025-04-26 13:00 - 14:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Immerse yourself in the beauty of native Florida flowers on this ranger-led hike. In celebration of Earth Day, we’ll explore how the flowers, trees, and green spaces at Boyd Hill contribute to the health and vitality of the preserve.
Ages 12 yrs +
>>> REGISTER HERE

Family Fun: Watershed Explorations at Weedon Island
2025-05-01 10:30 - 11:30 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Celebrate Stormwater Stewardship Month!

In celebration of Stormwater Stewardship Month, join Pinellas County Environmental Management staff and UF/IFAS Extension for a Walk in the Watershed at Weedon Island Preserve!
This program will be a combined environmental educational program and guided hike. We will investigate our local watershed, explore the flow of water, collect water quality data from Weedon Island, take a short hike along the boardwalk to spot wildlife, and learn about ways we can all contribute to the cleanliness of our waterways. Everyone has a part to play when it comes to stormwater pollution prevention!
Intended for families with children ages 7 and up. Registration is required.
>>> REGISTER HERE
