Wildlife Ecology Camp
2023-07-27 08:00 - 17:00, 2023-07-28 08:00 - 17:00, 2023-07-29 08:00 - 17:00, 2023-07-30 08:00 - 17:00, 2023-07-31 08:00 - 17:00, 2023-08-01 08:00 - 17:00, 2023-08-02 08:00 - 17:00, 2023-08-03 08:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) and 1 more date | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
George Heinrich leads campers as they explore the ecology and conservation of Florida’s wildlife and wild lands. A blend of classroom and field sessions will include hands-on activities, guest presentations, and exploration of the preserve’s diverse habitats where campers will practice their nature detective skills.
Ages 7 yrs – 11 yrs
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Salt Tolerant Plants & Irrigating with Reclaimed Water
2023-07-27 10:00 - 12:00 | Online Event
Learn which plants are salt tolerant and what to know when irrigating with reclaimed water.
Valrie Massey Program Assistant will host the webinar. Learn how to choose Salt Tolerant Plants appropriate for your landscape location and irrigation source.
Contact: Valrie (941) 722-4524 ext:1829 or vmassey@ufl.edu for further class information.
Minimum class size is required or class will be postponed. All those that register will be notified if postponed.
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
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Film Screening with the Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation
2023-08-12 16:00 - 18:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Enjoy screenings of “Saving the Florida Wildlife Corridor” and “The Last Green Thread” and a Q&A with Florida Wildlife Corridor staff.
Join the Friends of Weedon Island for a special screening of two expedition films: Saving the Florida Wildlife Corridor and The Last Green Thread. Produced in concert with the Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation (FWCF), the films seek to uncover the most important connections that can mean the difference between preservation or loss of the global treasure that is the Florida Wildlife Corridor. The film screenings will be followed by a talk and Q+A session with FWCF’s Jason Lauritsen. Reception with light food and beverages will follow.
This program will take place inside the auditorium of the Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center. This program is recommended for adults and youth ages 7 and up.
Jason Lauritsen is the Chief Conservation Officer for the Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation where he oversees the organization’s land and water protection, science, stewardship, and community relationships. He sits on the Office of Greenways and Trails Council, the Florida Transportation Plan Environmental Partners Working Group, and is a part of the Statewide Bear Technical Assistance Group. Prior to joining FWCF, Lauritsen was the Director of Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. He has also has worked in restoration, education, research, policy and ecotourism. Lauritsen holds a Master’s in Science Education from the University of Iowa and a Bachelor’s in Animal Ecology from Iowa State University.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Rainwater Harvesting Workshop on Zoom
2023-09-02 11:00 - 12:00 | ZOOM, 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.)
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<
NOTE: To pick-up workshop items/giveaways you will need to make an appointment with our receptionist at 813-744-5519 on/after September 5, to come in and pick up your items. All items must be picked up within 30 days of the date of the workshop. No exceptions.

Reducing Plastic Pollution
2023-09-14 19:00 - 20:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Single-use plastic is a key component of marine pollution. We can take simple steps to change our habits.
All ages welcome with a registered adult. Please select the correct number of participants or seats needed at the time of enrollment.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Remnants of a Forest: Conservation of Gopher Tortoises
2023-09-23 10:00 - 11:30 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Herpetologist George Heinrich will discuss gopher tortoises in Florida and their conservation concerns on public lands.
The gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) is an imperiled chelonian that occurs in upland habitats within the Coastal Plain of the southeastern United States. This keystone species is listed as Threatened by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Gopher tortoises are ecosystem engineers that create extensive burrow systems and disperse seeds, significantly contributing to upland biodiversity. The burrow systems provide important refugia from extreme temperatures, fire, and predators for the tortoises, as well as 364 other documented species rangewide. This presentation by George L. Heinrich will examine habitat restoration and management efforts (e.g., prescribed fire, thinning of trees, and control of invasive non-native plant species), and discuss the challenges of managing a natural area bordered by urban interface.
This program will take place inside the auditorium of the Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center. This program is recommended for adults and youth ages 10+. Youth should be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
George L. Heinrich is a field biologist and environmental educator specializing in Florida reptiles. His company, Heinrich Ecological Services is based in St. Petersburg, Florida, and conducts wildlife surveys and research, natural history programming, and nature-based tours. George is currently the Executive Director of the Florida Turtle Conservation Trust.

Taking The Mystery Out of Micro-irrigation
2023-09-26 10:00 - 12:00 | Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Office, 1303 17th St W, 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.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
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.
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

Surprising Native Bees in Pinellas County
2023-09-29 10:00 - 11:30 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Learn about the lifestyles of the native bees in your own Pinellas County backyard.
Find out about Pinellas County’s surprising and diverse native bees! Learn about their lifestyles (hint, no hives), how to identify them and what you can do to help them.
This program will take place inside the auditorium of the Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, but may also go outside briefly to look for bees. This program is recommended for adults and youth ages 8 and up.
This program will be led by Liz Childress, supervisor of the Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center. Liz is a life-long student of Florida’s natural environment, with special interests in insects, fish, and birds. A second-generation Pinellas native, Liz changed careers from technology to environmental education. She graduated from University of Florida and Georgia Institute of Technology with degrees in journalism and business, and has completed coursework in entomology. Liz enjoys providing programming to spark enthusiasm for Florida’s natural and cultural resources.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Creepy Crawlies: Worm Composting
2023-09-29 10:00 - 11:30 | Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Office, 1303 17th St W, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Now you can compost even if you live in an apartment, condo or mobile home! Worm bins are easily maintained indoors with no mess or smell.
Workshop is $5 but after the class you’ll have an opportunity to purchase a worm composter for the special discount rate of $69.00 plus tax. (Cash or check only.)
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Rainwater Harvesting Workshop
2023-10-07 08:30 - 21:30 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Harvest some of that rain to help in your garden!
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 <<<

Microirrigation Workshop
2023-10-07 09:30 - 11:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Learn how to save water when 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 <<<

Composting Workshop
2023-10-07 10:00 - 11:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Composting – learn how to turn trash into treasure!
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 <<<

Diamondback Terrapins: Conservation of an Imperiled Coastal Turtle
2023-10-07 10:00 - 11:30 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Herpetologist George Heinrich will discuss Diamondback Terrapins in Florida.
Learn about the natural history and conservation of an imperiled estuarine turtle, the diamondback terrapin. Although terrapins occur in 16 states along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, the coastline of Florida represents approximately 20% of their entire range. Five of the seven recognized subspecies occur in the state’s extensive salt marsh and mangrove habitats, including three endemics.
This program will take place inside the auditorium of the Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center. This program is recommended for adults and youth ages 10+. Youth should be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program.
This program will feature George L. Heinrich, a field biologist and environmental educator specializing in Florida reptiles. His company, Heinrich Ecological Services is based in St. Petersburg, Florida, and conducts wildlife surveys and research, natural history programming, and nature-based tours. George is currently the Executive Director of the Florida Turtle Conservation Trust.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Vermicomposting Workshop
2023-10-07 13:00 - 14:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Vermicomposting: Where the worms do the work and we reap the benefits!
This workshop is for Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees only.
Attend a Vermicomposting workshop with us and learn how to compost with worms. If you don’t have the space for traditional composting, try vermicomposting. In this class you will learn how to make a worm bin out a plastic tote (which you will receive), about other types of worm bins and how composting worms breathe. You will receive Composting Red Wiggler worms and learn about what they can consume, what they need from you and what you can do with vermicomposting castings (by-product) Please arrive 15 minutes before the program starts.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Climate Change and Cultural Sites in Florida
2023-10-12 19:00 - 20:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Learn how historical and archaeological sites threatened by climate change are protected in Florida.
How do we protect cemeteries, historic buildings, and archaeological sites that are threatened by climate change in Florida? How is it decided which sites get attention and which do not? Join the Alliance for Weedon Island Archaeological Research and Education in collaboration with the Central Gulf Coast Archaeological Society for a special presentation of how archaeologists are currently answering these questions, what significant threats are observed in Florida, and how the public can help!
This program will take place inside the auditorium of the Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center. This program is recommended for adults.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
This presentation will feature guest speaker Rachael Kangas. Rachael is the Director for the West Central and Central Regions of the Florida Public Archaeology Network, and she conducts public archaeology and outreach in the regions. She earned her M.A. from the University of Central Florida (UCF) in 2015 and is certified as a member of the Register of Professional Archaeologists (RPA). She has participated in fieldwork in the Americas and conducted lab work and teaching during her time at UCF. She is also an American Academy for Underwater Sciences (AAUS) diver, allowing her to assist with underwater research around the state.

Event photos courtesy of the Florida Public Archaeology Network.

Backyard Composting on Zoom
2023-10-17 12:00 - 13:00 | ZOOM, United States
Composting – learn how to turn trash into treasure!
This workshop is for Hillsborough County residents/employees only.
BACKYARD COMPOSTING: Learn to turn trash into treasure! Hillsborough County residents/employees will receive a compost bin, compost bucket and thermometer after attending the workshop. (1 per household and the representative of the household must be an adult.)
Since you are attending this workshop on Zoom, you will need to make an appointment with our receptionist at 813-744-5519 to come in and pick up your items. All items must be picked up within 30 days of the date of the workshop. No exceptions.

>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Irrigation With Water Conservation in Mind
2023-10-24 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
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.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
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 Brian J Rigney (941) 722-4524 X 1828 to sign up.
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 BrianRigney@ufl.edu or (941) 722-4524 at least one week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Ground Covers - Plants That Work
2023-10-26 10:00 - 12:00 | ZOOM, United States
Join Valrie Massey, Horticulture Program Assistant, as she presents how landscaping with low-growing ground cover plants has become a popular trend in landscape practices because once they are established, these plants will need little or no water. Learn noteworthy plants, site considerations, and management of these plants.
This class satisfies the landscape educational requirement for the Manatee County Outdoor Water Conservation Rebate Program.
If you have a plant with a problem, you are welcome to show a branch sample with leaf or flower to class.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Contact: Valrie (941) 722-4524, extension 1829 or vmassey@ufl.edu for further class information. Minimum class size required or class will be cancelled. Notification will be sent to those registered.
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

Microirrigation Workshop
2023-11-04 09:30 - 11:00 | Hillsborough County Extension, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Learn how to save water when watering your garden.
This workshop is for Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees only.
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.

Managing Our Underwater World in Tampa Bay
2023-11-04 10:00 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Meet the Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserves program and learn about the coastal resources they protect in Tampa Bay.
The Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserves (TBAP), managed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Office of Resilience and Coastal Protection, highlight the best of what our state has to offer: open water, inlet bays, tidally influenced creeks and rivers, oyster reefs, seagrass beds, salt marshes and mangrove forests. These habitats are vital to Florida’s iconic wildlife such as manatees, dolphins, fishes, oysters, and an abundance of wading, nesting and migratory birds. Although not widely known, TBAP even has a variety of corals in its hard-bottom areas. Join the TBAP program at Weedon Island to learn how they are working to restore & protect the coastal resources in our own backyard.
This program will feature Dr. Randy Runnels of the Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserves Program. Dr. Runnels earned his PhD in Oceanography from Texas A&M University. His 30+ year career has taken him from the temperate Northern Gulf of Mexico to the Florida Keys. In recent years he has been invited to China and Vietnam as a coastal management adviser on a number of issues. He has managed Tampa Bay’s aquatic preserves for over two decades, and continues to teach college courses in Biology, Marine Science and Environmental Science.
This program is recommended for adults and youth ages 12+. Youth should be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Rainwater Harvesting Workshop
2023-11-04 11:00 - 12:00 | Hillsborough County Extension, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
This workshop is for Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees only.
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.

Sea Turtle Nest Tracking
2023-11-09 19:00 - 20:00 | Boyd Hill – 31st Street S, 3130 31st Street S, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
