The Florida Waters Stewardship Program
2022-02-23 16:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Do you care about Florida’s water? Join us to become a Water Steward! Learn about our water resources and how to protect them.

Join us each week to learn about varying water topics concerning Florida and Manatee County!
Wednesdays (Feb 23 to Mar 30) at 4pm-6pm, field trips TBA
This is a six-week program that includes engaging presentations, field trips, and a stewardship project.
The Florida Waters Stewards Program will cover topics like:

Changing waterscapes
Regulations and policies
Future water supply
Emerging water issues
And much more!

Full refund available until Feb 22, 2022.
REGISTER HERE

Youth Water Program
2022-03-11 10:00 - 11:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Let’s take a closer look at the water cycle!

Water is essential for life, but our water supply and water quality are constantly being impacted by human activities. Learn about the urban water cycle and watch a hands-on demonstration of water quality testing of Brooker Creek. Targeted for upper elementary and middle school aged youth.
Presented by Lara Milligan, Pinellas County Natural Resources Agent for UF/IFAS Extension.
Registration is required. Space is limited and this program will cap at 20 participants. Please register just your child (children).
Additional Notes: This program will be held outdoors. Check your confirmation email for specific details. It takes about 10 minutes to drive from the preserve entrance (Keystone Rd.) to the parking lot. We will start promptly at 10am.
REGISTER HERE

Tips for Hiring a Landscape & Pond Professional
2022-03-17 09:00 - 15:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Hiring a landscape or pond professional can be a challenge especially for homeowner association (HOA) board members who very often only evaluate the bids on price. These folks soon realize you get what you pay for and the lowest priced contract may end up costing you more in the long run.
This workshop is offered to landscape committees, pond committees, HOA board members, and community managers. An overview of some of the best management practices will be given as well as model language for maintenance contracts and other tips to look for in professional interviews.
General Admission – $5
Agenda

9:00 – Noon – Focusing on Landscape Professionals
12:00 – 12:30pm – Lunch
12:30 – 3:00 – Focusing on Pond Professionals

Register HERE.

Archaeology Day at Weedon Island
2022-03-26 10:00 - 14:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Celebrate Florida Archaeology Month at the Weedon Island Preserve!

Examine ancient artifacts and discover the rich history of Tampa Bay at our celebration of Florida Archaeology Month at the Weedon Island Preserve!
The Alliance for Weedon Island Archaeological Research and Education (AWIARE) and the Central Florida Gulf Coast Archaeological Society (CGCAS) will be on-site with a diverse showcase of pre-Columbian artifacts from the Tampa Bay region and archaeological experts will be on-hand to illustrate the use of these tools and their importance to native populations.
There will also be a special guided hike to an active archaeological dig-site on the Preserve. Spots on this hike are limited so advance registration is required. Register for the Archaeology Day Hike & Site Visit today!
Local fossil collectors are encouraged to bring in artifacts such as arrow heads, lithics, and pottery sherds for identification during Archaeology Day. No dollar value will be assigned or discussed, but educational information will be generously shared.
Explore the artifacts and talk with the archaeologists at your leisure anytime between 10am to 2pm. Also, check out the 1,100 year old dugout canoe on display in the Center and visit our free museum exhibit “Connecting People and Place” that tells the story of Weedon Island and its earliest inhabitants.
This event is suitable for all ages. The Center and its museum exhibits are open from 9am to 4pm.
REGISTER HERE

Mobile Plant Clinic - Robinson Preserve
2022-03-27 09:00 - 12:00 | ROBINSON PRESERVE, 1704 99th Street Northwest, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
Master Gardener Volunteer Mobile Plant Clinic
at Robinson Preserve
Visit our mobile plant clinic located at Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St NW, Bradenton. Hours are 9AM – 12PM.
Please meet at the South Entrance near the picnic pavilions. Master Gardener Volunteers are available to share their horticulture knowledge and assist with plant questions. We’ve Got a Good Thing Growing!

Native Plant Sale
2022-04-02 10:00 - 14:00 | Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O' Lakes Blvd (US 41), Land O' Lakes, FL, 34639, United States
The Nature Coast Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society is having a Native Plant Sale on Saturday, April 2, 2022, from 10 AM to 2 PM, at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd (US 41), Land O’ Lakes, FL 34639.
There will be:

A large selection of quality nursery grown plants

Free literature for pick up and books for sale

Members on site to answer questions

A plant profile for each plant purchased

Carts available for plant transportation

Websites & Contact Info:
Nature Coast Chapter: PascoNativePlants.org
Facebook.com/PascoNativePlants/naturecoastfnps@gmail.com
Florida Association of Native Nurseries: fann.org

Efficient Irrigation Strategies for City of Tampa Residents
2022-04-14 10:30 - 11:30 | Online Event
Learn effective irrigation strategies from experts.

This workshop is for City of Tampa residents/employees only.
Learn efficient irrigation strategies from a Florida Friendly Landscaping Certified Professional and Environmental Specialist in Water Conservation. Learn about seasonal irrigation schedules, setting an irrigation budget, checking for leaks and predicting monthly water use.
We will conduct this Efficient Irrigation Strategies workshop on line via ZOOM. You do not need additional software or more than basic computer skills to attend. The link to join us for the workshop will be sent to you the afternoon before the class.
The Zoom workshop is FREE to attend. Registration is required.
For more information, contact: Julia Palaschak, 813-274-5912, julia.palaschak@tampagov.net
BUY TICKETS
Sponsored by City of Tampa Water Department in Partnership with UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County.

Archaeology Hike
2022-04-16 10:00 - 12:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Take a walk through the early history of Weedon Island to learn about the indigenous cultures that lived here long ago.

Led by professional archaeologists with the Florida Public Archaeology Network, hike to an active archaeological dig-site on Weeden Island. Attendees will learn about the early peoples that inhabited Weedon Island thousands of years ago, and the ongoing work being done by researchers to better understand these ancient cultures and how they interacted with their environment.
This hike is recommended for adults and youth ages 12+. Participants should be prepared for a 2 mile hike on uneven terrain.
Proceeds will support the West Central chapter of the Florida Public Archaeology Network (FPAN), an organization that promotes and facilitates the stewardship, public appreciation, and value of Florida’s archaeological heritage through regional centers, partnerships, and community engagement. Learn about FPAN at https://flpublicarchaeology.org/regions/west-central/.
REGISTER HERE

Helping Local Cavity Nesters in Pinellas
2022-05-17 12:00 - 13:30 | Online Event
Some birds use nest boxes (aka bird houses) while others build nests on branches or in the grass. Before installing a birdhouse, you should learn about which species might be looking for some new real estate. In this program, you will learn about “cavity-nesters,” the category of bird most likely to move into a birdhouse. You will also learn about their real estate preferences and how to choose a good spot for a birdhouse.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION

Nest Box Building Workshop
2022-05-21 10:30 - 12:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Join us for an in-person workshop to “make and take” a nest box for your yard!

Want to help our local cavity nesters?
Learn how to build your very own nest box for an Eastern Bluebird!
In this workshop you will learn about proper nest box placement and mounting, additional information specific to the nesting habits of Eastern Bluebirds, and other fun facts about this species!
We will be building a nest box for an Eastern Bluebird, which is a year-round resident in Pinellas County.
Registration is required. Presented by Lara Milligan, Pinellas County Natural Resources Agent for UF/IFAS Extension.
The workshop costs $25
>>> REGISTER HERE

International Migratory Bird Day Celebration
2022-05-28 09:00 - 18:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join us as we highlight the steps that individuals and communities can take to reduce the impact of light pollution on birds through various fun activities!
Schedule of Events:

10:30 a.m. – Storytime for Kids
1:30 p.m. – Owl Presentation and owl pellet dissection
4:30 p.m. – Animals of the Night Scavenger Hunt

Be Prepared: Trees & Tropical Weather
2022-06-01 09:00 - 11:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Learn about how best to plan, maintain and prepare your trees for tropical weather!
As we start off this year’s hurricane season, join UF/IFAS Extension to learn about how best to plan, maintain and prepare your trees for the tropical weather. Hybrid virtual and in person (1303 17th St W, Palmetto – Kendrick Auditorium)
Register HERE.

Cross Bayou - Joe's Creek Clean Up
2022-06-04 | FL
GET TICKETS

Photography Hike
2022-06-11 08:30 - 10:30 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Walk the boardwalks and natural paths of Weedon Island, capturing photographs of native flora and fauna along the way.

Grab your camera of choice and enjoy a guided tour of the trails at the Weedon Island Preserve! This program will begin with a brief classroom session to highlight the seasonal features of the Preserve, as well as specific wildlife behaviors, that will help participants capture the natural beauty of the area. Photographers of all skill levels are welcome.
This hike is roughly 2 miles in total length on a combination of boardwalks and unimproved, natural paths. This program is is best suited for adults.
Proceeds will support the Friends of Weedon Island, a non-profit organization that works to promote education and conservation of the Weedon Island Preserve. Learn about our Friends!
>>> REGISTER HERE

Rain Barrels for the Rainy Days of Summer
2022-06-16 10:30 - 12:30 | Online Event
Learn the proper way to use rain barrels!

Learn the safe and proper ways to use rain barrels to collect water from your roof gutters to help mitigate stormwater runoff and reduce potable water usage in your landscape by watering your plants with it!
After the Zoom webinar you will have an opportunity to make an appointment to purchase your own rain barrel and bag of some of the parts you’ll need to install it for $30 plus tax.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION

Celebrate July 4th with us!
2022-07-04 10:00 - 17:00 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
Weather permitting, our enthusiastic educators will be out on the pier, July 4th, with their teaching table at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm. To celebrate the day, we are adding extra events throughout the day in addition to the teaching tabling times!
The Discovery Center will also be open for regular 10am – 5pm hours. Stop by the St. Pete Pier to enjoy learning about some of our favorite Tampa Bay estuary topics! From peering through our microscope to observe plankton pulled from under the Pier, touch artifacts collected from the ocean, or creating a craft; there’s a multitude of fun to celebrate the holiday, with fireworks to end the day sponsored by the City of St. Petersburg.

Summer Cleanup
2022-07-09 09:00 - 12:00 | FL
Join us for our mid-summer community cleanups on Saturday, July 9 from 9 am till Noon at Grandview Park, Bartlett Park, and Coquina Key Park in St. Petersburg.

This event is an effort to clean up after the Fourth of July celebrations. A big thank-you to SeaWorld Conservation Fund for supporting us in our marine debris efforts and our partners with the City of St. Petersburg!

Our cleanup efforts will focus along the shorelines, so please wear shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. Long sleeves and long pants are recommended. Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated. Wear a hat, sunscreen, bug spray, and bring garden gloves.

Register for your preferred site:
Grandview Park | Bartlett Park | Coquina Key Park

Cogon Grass Workshop
2022-07-12 13:00 - 16:00 | UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County Office, 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota, FL, 34241, United States
Join UF/IFAS Extension and Suncoast CISMA for an afternoon on Cogon Grass!
Hear from local land managers and UF/IFAS Faculty about Cogon Grass Identification, Current Status, Management Techniques and participate in a hands-on demonstration.
Contact Alyssa Vinson, alyvinson@ufl.edu with any questions or special accommodations.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Rays Up for Tampa Bay Watch!
2022-07-14 19:00 - 22:00 | Tropicana Field, 1 Tropicana Drive, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Go to a Rays game and support Tampa Bay Watch at the same time!

We’re partnering with the Rays for the Thursday, July 14, 7:10pm game vs. the Boston Red Sox.
Tickets are in the Lower Level (Located in sections 129-150) at $30 per ticket with a portion of the sales coming back to Tampa Bay Watch.

One person who buys tickets will win a 4-pack of tickets for an Eco-Tour at the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center!
>>> BUY TICKETS

Saving Water- Youth Program
2022-07-22 10:00 - 11:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Why and How Can I Make a Difference?

Living in Florida you are never too young to learn about water conservation!

Did you know that not only we are surrounded by water in Florida, but we live on top of it too? Join Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Educator, Melissa West as we explore the water cycle, how to reduce pollution, and what you can do to protect our most precious resource, WATER!
This youth program is geared toward ages 7 to 12. Registration is required. Space is limited and this program will cap at 20 participants. Please register just your child (children).
Additional Notes: This program will be held in our auditorium. It takes about 10 minutes to drive from the preserve entrance (Keystone Rd.) to the parking lot. We will start promptly at 10am.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Moccasin Lake is celebrating 40 years!
2022-07-30 10:00 - 13:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Join us for a few hours, 10am to 1pm, for fun, face-painting, live music, Cal’s Soul Food Express and crafts and animal presentations through the Clubs & Societies that meet at the park!
GFWC Clearwater Community Woman’s Club
Suncoast Herpetological Society
Friends of Moccasin Lake
Safety Harbor Garden Club
Florida Native Plant Society
Hukyu Bonsai Society
Friends in Focus Photography Club of Clearwater
The Florida Herb Society
Cal’s Soul Food Express
G.E. Sassani Band

Talk Plants with Me
2022-08-11 11:30 - 13:00 | 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.
Please submit special accommodation requests to katiebg@ufl.ued at least 10 days prior to event.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION

Forest Bathing Guided Walk
2022-08-20 09:30 - 11:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Forest bathing is a guided walk designed to relax and rejuvenate. We’ll bathe our senses in the healing qualities of nature and share our experiences through conversation. We’ll leave refreshed by this contemplative practice that we can carry into our everyday routines. Please wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothing and bring a water bottle.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Beekeeping Basics Workshop
2022-08-23 09:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Learn about honeybee biology, caring for your colonies, types of hives & more!

What’s all the buzz about?
UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County is hosting the Beekeeping Basics Workshop! This workshop is for aspiring and beginning beekeepers. Join us to learn about honeybee biology, caring for your colonies, types of hives, and more!
This workshop will be held in person in the Conference Center at our office, UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL 33584. Masks are recommended but not required.
The $15 registration fee includes morning refreshments and educational materials.
>>> REGISTER HERE

MINI RANGER PROGRAM
2022-09-06 15:30 - 17:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Every Tuesday
from 3:45 – 5 p.m.
Cost: $5/day | Ages 4-7
Has your child ever wounded what it’s like to be a ranger? Well, here is a chance to experience what it is like to be a ranger at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve. There will be a Mini ranger class each week with a different ranger theme or skills that your children will learn each week. Preregistration is required.
RESERVE A SPOT
