Watershed Walk
2025-10-24 09:30 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Venture out along our tails with Natural Resources Agent, Lara Milligan!
Water is an important feature at Brooker Creek Preserve and on this hike you will learn the different ways we interact with water, the importance of wetlands and how you can make a difference in issues surrounding our water quality and quantity.
Come and enjoy this family friendly walk through the woods with Lara Milligan, Natural Resources Agent for UF/IFAS Extension Pinellas County!
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Native Plant Garden Maintenance
2025-10-28 08:00 - 10:00 | Lettuce Lake Conservation Park, 6920 East Fletcher Avenue, Tampa, FL, 33637, United States
This program is led by the Suncoast Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society’s Joel Jackson and Tina Patterson and supported by Tampa Audubon.

Garden work includes planting, weeding and trimming, as needed.
There is a $2 admission to the park which Suncoast can cover if you request ahead of time. Park in the lot by the Visitor Center and the garden is behind the building.
Bring water, gloves and personal tools.
Garden Wish List: donations accepted:
swamp milkweed, tropical sage, goldenrod, wild petunia, silkgrass or other small(er) flowering plants.
Contact Tina Patterson for more information and to let her know that you will be coming. mablepatterson@hotmail.com or call or text 305-298-6381 and leave a name and message.

Reptile Wednesdays with Dennis!
2025-10-29 10:00 - 15:30, 2025-11-05 10:00 - 15:30, 2025-11-12 10:00 - 15:30, 2025-11-19 10:00 - 15:30 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Explore reptiles with a friendly expert, get your questions answered, and level up your knowledge in a relaxed, beginner-friendly session.

Dennis is the president of the Suncoast Herpetological Society, Inc. and spends his Wednesdays at Moccasin Lake Nature Park educating guests about reptiles.

Come with your questions!

Lets Walk Florida
2025-10-30 09:00 - 11:00 | Crews Lake Wilderness Park, 16739 Crews Lake Drive, Shady Hills, FL, 34610, United States
Join us for an educational guided walking tour through Crews Lake Wilderness Park and help support Let’s Walk Florida.
Join us to walk and learn!
An educational guided nature walk will be led by Dr. Megan Moore, the UF/IFAS Extension Florida Sea Grant Agent for Pasco County at Crews Lake Wilderness Park. You will learn about plant species, Florida geology, stormwater, and the ecosystem benefits these systems provide. We are teaming up with the UF/IFAS Extension Family and Consumer Sciences agent to support the Let’s Walk Floirda Program! You are welcome to join us just for a fun educational day or to join the Lets Walk Floirda Group!
Let’s Walk, Florida! Is a six-week walking program designed to encourage a physically active lifestyle. Walk anywhere on your own time, but also join the optional structured group walks to not just earn activity minutes, but to learn about our ecosystems. Join the group here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lets-walk-florida-pasco-tickets-1595865609999?aff=oddtdtcreator
We will provide a headset listening device so you can hear the tour easily during the walk! This walk will include boardwalks, dirt paths, and an observation tower with around 1.5 miles of total walking. The path has soft sugar sand and roots! Bring hats, water, and walking shoes.
Meet us near Pavilion 1.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Dune Savers Work Day
2025-10-31 07:30 - 08:30, 2025-11-07 07:30 - 08:30, 2025-11-14 07:30 - 08:30 | To Be Determined, FL, United States
Contact Deb Rothenberger for location: d2bv4@aol.com
Thank you all and can’t wait to see you Friday morning!

Microirrigation Workshop
2025-11-01 09:30 - 11:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
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.) Please arrive 15 minutes before the program starts.
>>> REGISTRATION <<<

Rainwater Harvesting Workshop
2025-11-01 11:00 - 12:00 | Hillsborough County Extension, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Harvest some of that rain to help in your garden!
This workshop is for Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees only.
This workshop will be held in the Conference Center at our office, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL 33584.
RAINWATER HARVESTING: 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. (Limit 1 per household and the representative of the household must be an adult.) Please arrive15 minutes before the program starts.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Introduction to iNaturalist app
2025-11-01 11:00 - 12:00 | J. B. Starkey Wilderness Park Education Center, 10500 Wilderness Road, New Port Richey, FL, 34655, United States
Don Fraser will give a practical introduction to the iNaturalist app.
If you’re not already making use of this simple and exciting app, you probably should be. Whether your primary interest is birds, butterflies, or anything flora and/or fauna, this is the app for you.
Don will help us all make the most of the features this app offers, so this will be a great opportunity to learn something really useful.

Bats in our Central Florida Neighborhoods
2025-11-01 11:00 - 12:00 | Canterbury Farms Nursery & Garden Center, 14220 Thornwood Trail, Hudson, FL, 34669, United States
Most of what people think they know about bats is wrong. Come learn all about them at this informative seminar.
Bats are not blind, they are not flying mice, and they wont get tangled in your hair. Yet, we have let our ignorance jeopardize one of Earth’s assets. Bats play a crucial role in ecosystems around the world & their loss would threaten countless plants and animals, diminish human environments and economies. One of the best things we can do to protect these vital but embattled animals is to learn more about them and share that knowledge with others.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Afternoon Adventures: Birding For Beginners
2025-11-01 15:30 - 16:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join our rangers as they teach all about birding, no matter your experience!
Learn what you will to become an avid birder. Explore why birds are important, what dangers they face, and how you can help our flighted friends.
Binoculars will be available for loan.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Hammock Park Field Trip
2025-11-02 08:00 - 10:00 | Hammock Park, 1900 San Mateo Drive, Dunedin, FL, 34698, United States
Led by Eve Waterman
1900 San Mateo Dr. Dunedin, FL 34698
Meet at the parking lot.
What to Bring:

Hat

Binoculars

Water

Insect repellent

Sunscreen

Plant This, Not That!
2025-11-04 18:30 - 19:30 | Centennial Park Library, 5740 Moog Road, Holiday, FL, 34690, United States
Plant This, Not That!
Alternatives to Common Invasive Plants
Invasive plants are non-native plants that have been introduced to the state (either intentionally or unintentionally) and have the potential to cause harm to the environment, economy, or human health. These plants often outcompete native species, disrupting natural ecosystems and causing various problems.
Many common landscape plants in central Florida are actually invasive species that are shared between unknowing home gardeners and sold commercially (because they may not be a problem elsewhere), adding to their spread.
Come and learn about these common invasive plant species to avoid, and which species should be used in your home landscape instead!

>> GET TICKETS <<<

What you do in your landscape matters. From the fertilizers you apply to the water you use, your gardening choices can have an impact on land, water, wildlife, and the overall well-being of Florida’s residents.
The Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ (FFL) Program is here to help you learn how to have healthy and beautiful landscapes that protect Florida’s natural resources by following nine science-based principles:

Right Plant, Right Place
Water Efficiently
Fertilize Appropriately
Mulch
Attract Wildlife
Manage Yard Pests Responsibly
Recycle Yard Waste
Reduce Stormwater Runoff
Protect the Waterfront

A Florida-Friendly landscape can be designed to look the way you want, fit the aesthetics of your community, and suit your lifestyle, while being environmentally sustainable. Join us to learn how!
This lecture is presented by Kate Kaste, UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County, FFL Program Manager.
>>> GET TICKETS <<<

Biology of Barn Owls and How Boxes Help Them
2025-11-06 18:30 - 20:30 | ZOOM, United States
Presented by Scott Rashid, Colorado Avian Research and Rehabilitation Center
Tampa Garden Club. We’ll meet and eat in person, but speaker will deliver his presentation on Zoom.
In person and Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84959398693

Connect to Nature Guided Walk
2025-11-07 09:00 - 10:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Enjoy a family friendly nature hike!
An escape to rejuvenate and connect with Mother Nature ( a cradle for wilderness). Take an extra step with Anu ( our new volunteer) to learn about habitat restoration and our resident species at BCP.
Share some of your stories as a nature lover.
This is a family friendly hike. We cover a loop of 0.75 mile trail observing the unique habitats of Brooker Creek.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Additional Notes: Volunteer hike guides will meet participants in the lobby of the Education Center 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. Please note that it takes about 10 minutes to drive from the preserve entrance (Keystone Rd.) to the parking lot, and there is a 2-5 minute walk from the parking lot to the Education Center. We strongly suggest all hikers visit the restroom before you begin as there are no facilities along the trail.

Marine Biology Homeschool Classes
2025-11-07 14:30 - 15:30 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
Dive into Marine Biology with Tampa Bay Watch!
Tampa Bay Watch is thrilled to introduce a brand-new marine biology unit designed specifically for local homeschoolers. Join us at the beginning of each month for an exciting, hands-on learning experience!
These student-only sessions are perfect for curious minds ages 6 and up, offering opportunities to explore marine ecosystems and engage with real-world science. Whether you drop in for a single class or register for the full series, each session promises discovery, adventure, and fun.
Spaces are limited—reserve your spot today!
$20 per participant
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

October 3rd 1:00 – 2:00 PM
Invertebrate Investigation

Get up-close and personal with some fascinating residents of our estuary as we dive into the world of invertebrates. What makes an invertebrate an invertebrate? Students will explore this question through interactive encounters with animals like sea stars and horseshoe crabs. We’ll sharpen our observation skills and practice scientific classification in a fun, engaging environment.

November 7th 2:30 – 3:30 PM
Squid Dissection

What do snails, clams, and octopuses have in common? In this hands-on program, students will discover what makes a mollusc a mollusc! A guided squid dissection will help us uncover the special traits that unite this diverse group of animals and learn about the many molluscs that call our region home. From shells to squishy bodies, the lesson will be full of surprises and science.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
December 5th 1:00 – 2:00 PM
Iguana Intel

How did iguanas even end up in Florida, and why are they thriving? Students will scope out the story behind these scaly invaders, explore what makes them so successful in our environment, and learn how their presence impacts native wildlife and habitats. A combination of wildlife observation and conservation science, this program empowers students to take action and become stewards of Florida’s natural ecosystems.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
December 5th 2:30 – 3:30 PM
Iguana Dissection

Ages 12+
In this hands-on dissection experience, students will explore the anatomy and adaptations of these reptiles in more detail to better understand their impact on local ecosystems. We’ll also discuss practical ways to protect Florida’s native species and habitats from this persistent invasive species.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

FFL Basic Landscape Design
2025-11-08 10:00 - 11:00 | Pasco County Extension Office, 36702 County Road 52, Dade City, FL, 33525, United States
Concepts & Considerations-central FL
Florida-Friendly Landscaping (FFL) provides a wealth of information useful to design, install and maintain landscapes that are sustainable!

Florida-Friendly landscape designs have the potential to significantly conserve and improve the quality of Florida’s water resources by focusing on more resource-efficient landscapes, correct installation, and best management choices.
The Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program has resources available to help residents and professionals create vibrant landscapes that protect the environment with sustainable landscape and green infrastructure design techniques. While Extension staff cannot “do” design work, this presentation’s information guides you through making best design choices yourself!
What you do in your landscape matters. From the fertilizers you apply to the water you use, your gardening choices can have an impact on land, water, wildlife, and the overall well-being of Florida’s residents.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
The Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ (FFL) Program is here to help you learn how to have healthy and beautiful landscapes that protect Florida’s natural resources by following nine science-based principles:

Right Plant, Right Place
Water Efficiently
Fertilize Appropriately
Mulch
Attract Wildlife
Manage Yard Pests Responsibly
Recycle Yard Waste
Reduce Stormwater Runoff
Protect the Waterfront

A Florida-Friendly landscape can be designed to look the way you want, fit the aesthetics of your community, and suit your lifestyle, while being environmentally sustainable. Join us to learn how!
This lecture is presented by Kate Kaste, UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County, FFL Program Manager
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Hillsborough County Water Use Restrictions Workshop on Zoom
2025-11-12 09:30 - 10:00 | ZOOM, United States
Join us for the Hillsborough County Water Use Restrictions Workshop, designed to help residents understand current water use guidelines.

This workshop is for Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents.
During this workshop, we will cover best practices for outdoor water use, including guidance on using and reprogramming irrigationn controllers to conserve water effectively. You will learn how to protect our precious water resources while maintaining a healthy landscape.
NOTE: An email containing the Zoom link will be sent to you the day before the webinar. If you do not receive the link, please check your SPAM folder. If you still need assistance, please contact Angie Maki at 813-744-5519 x 54127 or at makia@HCFL.gov.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
This workshop is FREE
If you have any questions, please contact Heather Crowley at (813) 744-5519 x54137.
Closed captioned for the hearing impaired.
The University of Florida is an equal opportunity institution.

Field Trip: John Chestnut Sr. Park
2025-11-15 08:00 - 10:00 | John Chestnut, Sr. County Park, 2200 East Lake Rd., Palm Harbor, FL, United States
led by Cuneyt Yilmaz
2200 East Lake Road
Palm Harbor, FL 34685
https://pinellas.gov/john-chesnut-sr-park-map
Meet at the parking lot.
What to Bring:

Hat

Binoculars

Water

Insect repellent

Sunscreen

Birding on the Bay
2025-11-15 08:30 - 10:00 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
The Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center Presents:
Birding on the Bay with the MFA

Join us for an unforgettable birdwatching experience on the waters of Tampa Bay! This 75-minute guided boat tour offers a front-row seat to the fascinating bird species that call this vibrant ecosystem home. During the tour, we’ll visit a nearby bird sanctuary island, strategically timed to provide the best viewing opportunities for observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
As we navigate the waters, your expert guide will share insightful details about the diverse bird species you’ll encounter, from elegant waders to soaring seabirds. With our prime location and optimal timing, you’re sure to enjoy exceptional views of these feathered residents as they go about their daily routines.
This tour is perfect for bird enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking to explore the rich wildlife of Tampa Bay in a relaxed and educational setting.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
More Information

75 Minutes
$45 ($5 member discount offered)
Tour includes admission to the MFA and TBWDC.
Children under 3 free
November 2024 to February 2025

What to Bring
-You are welcome to bring your own snacks and/ or beverages.
-We do not allow alcohol on the eco-vessel.
-Please dress with consideration to the Florida climate and weather.
-Sun protection is highly recommended.

Micro-Irrigation Hands On Workshop
2025-11-15 10:00 - 11:00 | Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL, 33778, United States
Here’s the link to sign up:
https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/microirrigation-hands-on-workshops-4095803

FFL Basic Landscape Design Copy
2025-11-15 14:00 - 15:00 | Regency Park Library, 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey, FL, 34654, United States

Birding Made Easy
2025-11-16 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
How everyone from beginners to advanced birders can use Merlin and eBird to enhance their birding.
Speaker/leader: John Ficken
Join us for our November Meeting and Program. John will start with a short slide presentation to introduce you to the latest updates to these birding tools from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Afterward, we’ll head out into the field to try them in action
Location: Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom

Create Clearwater Green Mixer
2025-11-18 18:00 - 19:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
The purpose of this group is to offer a space for those who want to create all the things about city living that we would most love to live with. That would include access to fresh, healthy food, clean water, clean air, educational opportunities, lots of art, music, dance and theatre, parks and nature, community gathering places, community gardens, decent mass transit, and healthy neighborhoods. What is your vision of what Clearwater could be?
We currently have “Green Mixers” every third Tuesday at Moccasin Lake Nature Park at 6 PM. Every month, we meet more great people at these.
A few of us are working on some projects to revitalize the downtown area. We have some great ideas in the works, and are looking for more people to play with. What would you like to see happen downtown?
We are interested in getting community gardens going and there is some great news on that front too. We’ll keep you updated here.
We want to know what is important to you and what you would like to see happen in this city, so please, let us know!

Birding Myakka River State Park
2025-11-19 08:00 - 11:00 | Myakka River State Park, 13207 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL, 34241, United States
Note that this is a mid-week trip! We will meet at 8:00 am at the Myakka River State Park Ranger Station on Wednesday. Take the first right into the parking area after you pay the entrance fee ($4 for single occupant vehicle, $6 for up to 8 occupants). We will check the river there, then drive and walk to various locations in the park where incoming migrants seem to be congregating.

This park has 37 miles of hiking trails, but we will only cover a small portion of the park. We will mostly stay within the 7 miles of drivable trail. Walking is easy on the boardwalk but may be harder in other areas of the park. Additionally, there is a canopy walk that we can explore if it is open, but it would be based on the desire of the group.

Bring water, snacks, insect repellent and lunch if you want to picnic in the park. A hat is recommended since we will probably be in unshaded areas at least part of the time.

Contact trip leader Mary Keith at mary.keith@tampaaudubon.org to register and receive updates.

FFL HC Webinar Series: Protect the Waterfront
2025-11-20 10:00 - 11:00 | ZOOM, United States
Part of the Florida Friendly Landscaping ™ (FFL) HC Webinars collection
Join us for the final installment of our Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ webinar series, focusing on “Protect the Waterfront.” Learn how to maintain a beautiful landscape while safeguarding Florida’s precious water resources.
What You’ll Discover:

Best practices for waterfront property management
How to reduce pollution and erosion near water bodies
Plant choices that protect shorelines and aquatic habitats

Don’t miss this chance to learn how your landscaping choices can help preserve Florida’s waterways. Our UF/IFAS experts will share practical tips and answer your questions during the live Q&A session.
Register now and become a steward of Florida’s aquatic environments! Your actions can make a real difference in protecting our state’s water resources.
The mission is to educate Floridians about environmentally friendly landscaping practices and to encourage them to conserve and protect our water resources by applying Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Principles in their landscapes.We will conduct this Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ workshop online, via Zoom. No additional software or extra computer skills are necessary – just click to join!
>>> GET TICKETS <<<
NOTE: Registrants will receive an emailed Zoom link to access the Webinar the day before the program. *If you do not receive the Z00M link, please check your SPAM folder for an email with the link. If no link is received, please contact Michael Masucci, masuccim@ufl.edu or at 813-744-5519 Ext. 54142 for assistance.
If you have any questions, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at (813) 744-5519.
This webinar will be closed captioned for the hearing impaired.
***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: Lynn Barber, barberl@HCFL.gov, 813-744-5519 Ext. 54105, at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.
The University of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Institution.
