Introduction to iNaturalist app
2025-11-01 11:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | 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.

Exploration Hike
2025-11-01 13:00 - 14:30, 2026-01-03 13:00 - 14:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join us for a guided daytime hike through the Preserve, perfect for nature lovers of all ages.
Learn about the history of Boyd Hill, its diverse ecosystems, and enjoy the beautiful trails as our knowledgeable rangers share insights into the preserve’s natural wonders.
All ages welcome with a registered adult.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

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 <<<

Lets Walk Florida: Mangrove, Coastal Plants, & Marine Tour
2025-11-06 09:00 - 11:00 | Key Vista Nature Park, 2700 Baillies Bluff Road, Holiday, FL, 34691, United States
Join us for an educational guided walking tour through Werner Boyce Salt Springs 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. You will learn about mangrove identification, coastal plants, oysters, 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 Florida Program! You are welcome to join us just for a fun educational day or to join the Lets Walk Florida 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 and dirt paths with around 1.5 miles of total walking. The first half of the tour is on the boardwalk and is much shorter if you want to join and only attend part of the tour! Bring hats, water, and walking shoes.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Marine Biology Homeschool Classes
2025-11-07 14:30 - 15:30, 2025-12-05 13:00 - 14:00, 2025-12-05 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 <<<

Weedon Island Naturalist Guided Tour
2025-11-08 09:30 - 11:00, 2025-12-06 09:30 - 11:00, 2025-12-13 09:30 - 11:00, 2026-01-03 09:30 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Take a walk through some of Weedon Island’s coastal habitats on a guided tour of the Tower Boardwalk. Led by a knowledgeable Center naturalist, this tour offers a chance to explore the Preserve’s diverse ecosystems, native wildlife, and rich cultural history.
Designed for adults and youth ages 10 and up (youth must be accompanied by an adult), this tour is a great way to learn about Florida’s environment and how people have interacted with it for thousands of years. Climb the stairs to the top of the Observation Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding area!
The walk will cover approximately 1 mile along paved paths and boardwalks. Some transitional areas may be uneven, so please wear sturdy shoes and prepare for outdoor conditions.

Saturdays, December 6 & 13 at 9:30 a.m. — Register today
Saturdays, January 3 & 10 at 9:30 a.m. — Register today

Space is limited — register today to secure your spot on this engaging and educational walk through the Preserve!

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 <<<

Volunteer Archaeology Lab
2025-11-14 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-12-12 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-01-09 08:00 - 17:00 | 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.

Tiny Wildlife Experience
2025-11-15 09:30 - 11:00, 2025-12-20 09:30 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Wildlife abounds at the Weedon Island Preserve, especially the tiny kind, like butterflies, bees, crabs and other invertebrates. Join Center naturalist Liz Childress to learn how to see Weedon’s little creatures and discover the hidden beauty of the Preserve. The Experience starts with a short program, followed by a leisurely stroll weather permitting. Don’t forget to bring your camera!
The total walk length will be variable, but no more than a mile or so. We will traverse uneven, natural paths and boardwalks so please prepare accordingly. Close-toed shoes are highly recommended.
This tour is for adults and youth ages 10+. Youth must be supervised by an adult.

Saturday, December 20 at 9:30 a.m. — Register today
Saturday, January 17 at 9:30 a.m. — Register today

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

Selecting and Planting Trees
2025-11-18 17:30 - 18:30 | New Port Richey Library, 5939 Main Street, New Port Richey, FL, 34652, United States
Selecting and Planting Trees:
Right Plant, Right Place
Come join us as we learn the details of how to select, plant and care for trees in our home landscape.
Did you know that in addition to the Right Place, there is also a Right Time to plant a tree?
Join us as we learn the details of how to select, plant and care for trees in our home landscape. Including what time of year is best for planting and why.
Our speaker, Joe Gross, an ISA certified arborist, will speak on tree varieties, how to select the right one for your landscape and proper planting techniques to give your tree a healthy start. Tree selection, planting and maintenance are all important aspects of tree health and longevity. Learn all about it in this information packed seminar.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Create Clearwater Green Mixer
2025-11-18 18:00 - 19:00, 2025-12-16 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!

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.

Florida Forests Hike
2025-11-21 09:30 - 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 <<<

Field Trip- Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive
2025-11-22 08:00 - 10:00 | Lake Apopka, 2850 Lust Road, Apopka, FL, United States
Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive (Orange County).
Always a great opportunity to get a close-up look at many species we usually only see at a distance.
This 12-mile drive through the area will give us lots of opportunities to see a very wide range of birds. Hopefully it will already be hosting thousands of ducks and shorebirds.
It is also a reliable place to see Fulvous Whistling-ducks – a species we don’t see in this part of the state.
Contact president@pascoaudubon.com

Little Manatee River State Park Hike
2025-11-25 08:30 - 11:30 | Little Manatee River State Park, 215 Lightfoot Road, Wimauma, FL, 33598, United States
Join us for a 4-mile hike exploring open prairies, scrub and flatwoods. We will learn about the habitats and pause for quotes to help us connect with the natural world.
Usual hiking gear/apparel e.g. water, hat, sun protection, mosquito protection, closed toe shoes, long pants recommended.
Optional hiking sticks, sunglasses.
Level: Moderate (About four miles)
Cost: State Park entrance fee, $5.00
Signup Instructions: Register on website and sign waiver
Bring: water, sun protection
Signup Restrictions: limited to 4 to 6 folks
Additional Directions: meet at trailhead/canoe launch parking inside main park, NOT North of the river
Cancellation Policy: Heavy rain cancels
Register here:
https://act.sierraclub.org/events/details?formcampaignid=701Po00001HogrNIAR

Pollinator Gardening
2025-12-05 12:00 - 13:00 | Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa, FL, 33618, United States
Learn how to grow plants to attract pollinators to your yard.
Join UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County to learn strategies to attract pollinators to your yard. In this in-person class, you will learn how to select and plant flowers in your home for a more pollinator-friendly landscape. This program is in support of the Carrollwood Pollinator Corridor in collaboration with Carrollwood Village Park, Carrollwood Cultural Center and VISTA Gardens and supported by the Florida Wildflower Foundation’s Viva Florida Landscape Demonstration Garden program.
Attendees will receive free plants and seeds to start their own pollinator gardens at home. Thanks to Greenacre Properties https://www.greenacre.com, lunch will be included (choice of half club sandwich, chicken salad on croissant, or vegetarian wrap) catered by the New York Bagel Cafe in Carrollwood Village.
If you have any questions, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at (813) 744-5519.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Emerson Point Preserve Tour
2025-12-06 09:00 - 11:00, 2026-01-03 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 <<<
Meet at the first parking area on the RIGHT at the Observation Tower (not at the classroom).
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.

Watershed Walk
2025-12-19 09:30 - 11:00 | 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 <<<
