Water Safety Day
2024-05-18 09:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Long Center, 1501 N Belcher Road, Clearwater, FL, 33765, United States
Learn about life-saving techniques and the importance of water safety education at the Long Center, 1501 N. Belcher Road.
Participants can take part in swim evaluations by certified instructors, diving demos, swim team information, swim lessons and more. This is a free event.

Hurricane Preparedness Expo
2024-06-15 09:00 - 12:00 | Joe DiMaggio Sports Complex, 2450 Drew Street, Clearwater, FL, 33765, United States
Now is the time to prepare. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

FREE prefilled sandbags will be available and provided on-site (Limit 10 per vehicle)
FREE Hurricane Kits
FREE lunch provided by Salvation Army
Get flood barrier tips
Evacuation zone lookup
Flood zone lookup
Alert Pinellas Registration

Gear up and get prepared to conquer the storm and Touch-a-Truck!
Exhibitors include:

Civil Air Patrol
Salvation Army
Red Cross
Humane Society of Pinellas
Suncoast Animal League

Silent Sentinels
2024-06-20 10:30 - 12:00 | Online Event
Learn about long-lived trees!
Join UF/IFAS Extension to learn about long lived trees, their history, cultural significance and how we can manage for their care in urban environments.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<
Special Accommodations:
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.

Flying Through the Eye of the Storm: NOAA Aircraft Operations & Hurricanes
2024-06-29 13:00 - 14:30 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Learn about hurricane research and reconnaissance with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) pilots, planes, and researchers fly into the world’s worst weather. Data collected by the agency’s high-flying meteorological stations help forecasters make accurate predictions during a hurricane and help hurricane researchers achieve a better understanding of storm processes, improving their forecast models. Join us for a talk with Alan Goldstein, the NOAA Aircraft Acquisition Program Manager, to learn about hurricane research and reconnaissance using specialized aircrafts.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Alan Goldstein is the NOAA Aircraft Acquisition Program Manager, responsible for all new aircraft acquisitions. Previously, he was a design engineer and head of the Science and Engineering Branch at NOAA’s Aircraft Operations Center. Alan has over 46 years of experience with NOAA aircraft, including 350 hurricane penetrations and has participated in research projects from the Indian Ocean to the Arctic.

Water Bath Canning 101: Pickling
2024-07-22 13:00 - 15:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
This class will include information and resources on safely canning at home, the science behind pickling, and a food tasting.

Learn about water bath canning, the equipment needed, and how to pickle vegetables.
This class will include information and resources on safely canning at home, the science behind pickling, and a food tasting.
PLEASE NOTE: There is a non-refundable $10.00 registration fee per individual for this workshop.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
This class will take place at the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County office at: 5339 County Road 579, in Seffner.
If you have any questions, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at:
(813) 744-5519
**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 Joshua Payne at: joshuapayne@ufl.edu or 813 744-5519 x 54136, at least 1 week in advance.
The University of Florida is an equal opportunity institution.

Fishing Workshop
2024-08-04 10:00 - 12:00, 2024-09-07 10:00 - 12:00, 2024-10-05 10:00 - 12:00, 2024-11-23 10:00 - 12:00, 2024-12-21 10:00 - 12:00, 2025-04-19 10:00 - 12:00, 2025-06-21 10:00 - 12:00, 2025-07-19 10:00 - 12:00 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
Learn to Fish!
Recommended for ages 10 and up • 2 Hours • Gear Included • Up to 15 People

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Curious about fishing in Tampa Bay but not sure where to start? During this boat-based course, we will cover essential topics like bait selection, appropriate gear usage, regulations, and local fish identification and handling–ensuring participants are equipped with the knowledge to fish responsibly and respectfully.
Each participant will have access to a fishing rod and all essential gear for a hands-on experience during the workshop, with expert guidance readily available as needed. Attendees also have the opportunity to win prizes to help them kickstart their responsible fishing journey.
All proceeds support Tampa Bay Watch’s mission to foster a healthy Tampa Bay watershed through community-driven restoration projects, education programs, and outreach initiatives.

This program is perfect for:

Families and parents looking to foster responsible fishing practices
Individuals interested in fishing responsibly and connecting with like-minded people.
Anglers who have recently relocated to the Tampa Bay area and want a better understanding of the local waters, responsible fishing practices, and common fish species in the area.

What to Bring

While gear is provided for use during the workshop, you are welcome to bring your own bait and tackle.
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 and water are highly recommended.

Notes

All participants under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Community Tree Care for HOA's
2024-08-21 09:00 - 12:00, 2024-10-09 09:00 - 12:00 | FL
Beneath the Canopy:
Community Tree Care for HOA’s
Join UF/IFAS Extension Urban Forestry experts, local professional arborists and county staff to learn the ins and outs of managing the trees in your community. Walk away from this workshop with workable templates, examples and a knowledge of tree care best management practices.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Special Accommodations:
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.
Schedule:
Wednesday, February 7 at Braden River Library
Tuesday, April 2 at Palma Sola Botanical Garden
Wednesday, August 21 at TBD (Lakewood Ranch)
Wednesday, October 9 at Palma Sola Botanical Garden

Termite Basics
2024-08-28 10:00 - 12:00 | Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Office, 1303 17th St W, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
A beginner’s guide to termite biology, diversity, and identification.
Join us for an introductory workshop into the world of termites. We will cover termite biology, diversity, and identification tips for the average citizen. For more information, please contact Mack Lessig at (941) 722-4524 ext. 1821 or mlessig@ufl.edu.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Accessibility:
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 Mack Lessig, mlessig@ufl.edu, (941) 722-4524 x 1821 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Water Bath Canning 101: Tomatoes
2024-11-22 11:00 - 14:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Learn about water bath canning, the equipment needed, and how to can tomatoes.
This class will include information and resources on safely canning at home, the science behind canning, and a food tasting.
Feel free to bring your own lunch; full 3 hours of the class is dependent on amount of participant questions and canning recipe.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
PLEASE NOTE: There is a non-refundable $10.00 registration fee per individual for this workshop.
This class will take place at the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County office at: 5339 County Road 579, in Seffner.
If you have any questions, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at:
(813) 744-5519
**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 Joshua Payne at: joshuapayne@ufl.edu or 813 744-5519 x 54136, at least 1 week in advance.

Ssssssnakes of Boyd Hill
2025-05-03 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Ages 6 yrs – 13 yrs

Join our Ranger Intern to explore eight common native snakes that are found in the Boyd Hill Nature Preserve. You will learn the difference between nonvenomous and venomous snakes.

There will be practice of snake identification so that you can be safe and smart in snake habitat. Activities will be interactive and engaging through crafts, games, and animal encounters.
Register here

Water Safety Day
2025-05-03 10:00 - 13:00 | Walter Fuller Pool, 7883 26th Ave N., St. Petersburg, FL, 33710, United States
Don’t miss Water Safety Day . This free family-friendly event provides water safety education and resources to parents/caregivers. Attendees will receive free water safety resources and giveaways while supplies last, including:
Free lifejackets for children | Free door alarms | Free swim lesson vouchers | Free CPR vouchers | CPR demonstrations | Free swim evaluations | and more!

Saturday, May 3
10 AM – 1 PM
Walter Fuller Pool, 7863 26th Ave. N.

FREE | No registration required
The pool will be open for attendees to swim!
This event is organized in collaboration with the Juvenile Welfare Board (JWB), Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital (JHACH), and St. Petersburg Fire Rescue.

It’s a Wasp’s World
2025-06-07 11:00 - 12:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Want to know the buzz about wasps? Join us for this event!

It’s a wasp’s world; we just live in it. Wasps have evolved for world domination, but maybe not in the ways that you’d expect. Join us for a deep dive into their fascinating and sometimes brutal strategies for survival. We’ll discover what they do, how they do it, and why they’re so important in our everyday life. You may not overcome your fear of wasps, but you just might start to appreciate them.
This program will include a presentation followed by a craft! Information and activities are suitable for adults and youth ages 8+
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Green Industries Best Management Practices (GIBMP) Certification
2025-06-24 08:00 - 16:30 | Plant City Recreation & Parks, 1904 South Park Road, Plant City, FL, 33563, United States
GIBMP Certification is required to obtain the FDACS Limited Urban Fertilizer license. The class provides CEUs to renew landscape licenses.

Anyone who applies fertilizer commercially/for hire in Florida is required to have the FDACS Limited Fertilizer license/certification. There are 2 steps to obtain the FDACS Fertilizer license/certification:

Attend a GIBMP class and pass the exam with a minimum score of 75%. You will receive a certificate of training from UF/IFAS and DEP.
Complete the FDACS license/certification application on the FDACS website link HERE , chose “New Urban Landscape Commercial Fertilizer”, upload your GIBMP certificate of training, and pay the $25 fee for a 4 year license/certification. This renews every 4 years with 2 Core and 2 LUF CEUs.

This class provides the training and exam required to obtain a Limited Certification for Urban Landscape Commercial Fertilizer (LCULCF) also known as Fertilizer License, as required by FL Senate Bill 494.
This program teaches the Best Management Practices for anyone working, supervising or advising in the lawn, landscape, pest control, or municipal grounds areas. The training is focused on reducing non-point source pollution resulting from fertilization or pesticide application and includes:

Lunch
Training Materials
Overview of Water Quality and Laws
Lawn and Landscape Best Management Practices
Irrigation Best Management Practices
Fertilization Best Management Practices
Pesticide Best Management Practices
Overview of Local County/Municipality Ordinances
Applications for LCULCF and Vehicle Decals
Exam

For a sneak peek at the training manual go : GI-BMP Manual
The Hillsborough County Landscape Management and Fertilizer Use Rule and the City of Tampa Fertilizer Ordinance require all commercial, governmental and institutional fertilizer applicators to be GI-BMP certified and that work vehicles be identified with a vehicle decal.
This training may be taken to satisfy some FDACS and FNGLA CEU requirements.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
For more information contact: Susan Haddock at (813)-553-3560 or szcrmchz@ufl.edu
Sign up for newsletter: http://tinyurl.com/ProHort-Newsletter
An Equal Opportunity Institution. UF/IFAS Extension, University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Andra Johnson, dean for UF/IFAS Extension.

Communi-Trees: Community Tree Care for You
2025-06-24 10:00 - 12:00, 2025-07-23 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Part of the Urban Forestry Programs collection

Join UF/IFAS Extension Urban Forestry Agent, Alyssa Vinson for an interactive educational presentation where we discuss the best practices for tree care in your community. We will cover selection, planting, establishment, pruning and planning for tree longevity in the landscape.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
If you have any questions, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at (813) 744-5519.
***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: VinsonA@HCFL.gov, 813-744-5519 Ext. 54106, 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.

Trees and Storms: Preparation and Recovery
2025-06-30 11:00 - 12:00 | ZOOM, United States
Part of the Urban Forestry Programs collection

Join UF/IFAS Extension Urban Forestry Agent, Alyssa Vinson to learn practical tips to prepare your trees, and help them recover during hurricane season.
We will conduct this Trees and Storms webinar online, via Zoom. No additional software or extra computer skills are necessary – just click to join!

>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

NOTE: Registrants will receive an emailed Zoom link to access the Webinar the day prior. *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 Alyssa Vinson at 813-744-5519 for assistance.
If you have any questions, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at (813) 744-5519.
***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: VinsonA@HCFL.gov, 813-744-5519 Ext. 54106, 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.

Hurricanes and Trees
2025-07-02 18:00 - 19:00 | Land O’Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, Land O' Lakes, FL, 34639, United States
Come learn from a certified commercial arborist how to assess tree damage and how to best prepare in advance for future storms.
Hurricanes and tropical storms hit Florida almost every year, often causing extensive damage to trees in your yard/property. But you can make your landscape more hurricane-resistant, so that it’s less likely to suffer damage during a major storm.
The very active hurricane season of 2024 was particularly challenging for Tampa Bays’s urban forest. Learn from a certified commercial arborist how to assess tree damage from last summer and how to best prepare in advance for future storms.
>>> GET TICKETS <<<

Pasco Scalloping 101 -Lunch and Learn
2025-07-09 11:00 - 12:00 | ZOOM, United States
Join Dr. Megan Moore for an online Lunch and Learn webinar that will cover everything you need to know about scalloping in Pasco County.
This online webinar hosted by Dr. Megan Moore, UF/IFAS Extension Florida Sea Grant Agent for Pasco County, will cover everything you need to know about scalloping in Pasco County for the 2025 season.
Come learn all about scallops, where to find them, how to go scalloping, boater safety and regulations, and how to clean and cook your scallops. We will cover scalloping best practices and offer tips to help you have a successful scallop harvest!
>>> GET TICKETS <<<
Florida Sea Grant also recommends the use of Scallop Sorters to help protect our future scallop populations by throwing back scallops less than 1.5 inches in size. Join the webinar to find out where to get the free scallop sorters in Pasco!
Join Zoom Meeting https://ufl.zoom.us/j/95841218876?pwd=[REDACTED]

Water Bath Canning 101: Tomatoes
2025-07-11 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Pasco County Extension – One Stop Shop, 15029 14th Street, Dade City, FL, 33523, United States
Water Bath Canning 101: Tomatoes
In-Person OR Livestream
This class will include information and resources on safely canning at home, the science behind canning, and a food tasting.

Learn about water bath canning, the equipment needed, and how to can tomatoes.
>>> GET TICKETS <<<
Can’t attend in person? Join us on Zoom! Register for the virtual class here: Meeting Registration – Zoom

Green Industries Best Management Practices
2025-07-22 08:30 - 16:30 | Pasco County Extension Office, 36702 County Road 52, Dade City, FL, 33525, United States
Green Industries Best Management Practices (GI-BMPs) is an educational program for people working in lawn-care and landscape maintenance.
Florida law states that all commercial fertilizer applicators must have a Limited Certification from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) (s. 482.1562, F.S.). To get this certification, each commercial applicator must be trained in the GI-BMPs and receive a certificate of completion from UF/IFAS Extension and FDEP. Local ordinances may require that non-commercial fertilizer applicators also be trained.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Who benefits from GI-BMP training?
•Supervisors and employees in the lawn care, pest control, or landscape industries
•Municipal parks and recreation facility supervisors and employees
•Irrigation industry workers
•Commercial property managers
•City and county planning department staff
•City and county environmental department or water quality staff
•City and county commission staff
•Builders and developers
•Landscape designers and architects
•Golf course employees
•Anyone working in the areas of water quality, urban development, or environmental issues.
>>> GET TICKETS <<<
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 Kate Kaste at kkaste@pascocountyfl.net or 352-518-0156 at least 1 week in advance to this presentation date. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Boat America Classes
2025-07-26 09:00 - 2025-07-27 14:00 | U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 11-1 Headquarters, 510 North Ft. Harrison Ave, Clearwater, FL, 33755, United States
Boat America Classes
Boat America is a boating certificate class that offers an in-depth and interesting boating safety course, and provides the knowledge needed to obtain a Florida Boating Safety ID Card.

For the convenience of our students, some classes are held online via Zoom. These virtual classes utilize the same instructors and materials you would enjoy during the in-person classes. The schedule below notes whether the class is in person or via Zoom.
To register click on the Registration Form link at the bottom of this page or send an email to the Flotilla 11-1 Public Education Officer at clwtr.auxboating@gmail.com

2025 Boat America Classes

June 28 and 29 – 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM – Zoom
July 26 and 27 – 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM – In-Person
August 23 and 24 – 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM – Zoom
September 27 and 28 – 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM – In-Person
October 25 and 26 – 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM – Zoom
November 22 and 23 – 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM – In-Person

Class cost includes book.

Register for Boat America class

World Ranger Day
2025-07-31 | FL
World Ranger Day is an annual event observed on July 31st to pay homage to the invaluable efforts and sacrifices made by rangers worldwide in safeguarding our natural heritage.
Hillsborough County, has two different roles to celebrate on World Ranger Day, Park Rangers and Environmental Technicians.
Find out what kind of work they do on our conservation lands, and why you should give them your gratitude next time you visit!
