Nature Photography with any Camera
2023-07-22 10:30 - 11:30 (America/New_York) | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Join photographers Karl and Kathleen Nichter for an introduction to nature photography!
Any camera can take great nature photographs! Knowing the basics of composing a photograph, and what your particular camera can do, makes your photos even better. Join nature photographers Karl and Kathleen Nichter for a program on these topics, plus nature photography do’s and don’ts and tips for nature walks with photography in mind.
Although we won’t be taking any photographs during this session, if you have any camera questions bring your camera along and we will do our best to answer them.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Scientific Literacy: 4-Part Series
2023-07-26 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
If you are curious about the world, and want to be better equipped at getting at the truth, join us for a new webinar series in scientific literacy! Starting with an overview of statistics and the core of what science is, we will work our way through several popular and peer-reviewed articles, discussing how to read and think critically. Topics we will cover include different forms of bias, probability theory, regression to the mean, and the ever-infamous p-value. We will also talk about the implications of summarizing and “popularizing” results into ever-shorter soundbites, designed for easy digestion by the general public, but often at the expense of what the data actually tell us.
The target audience for this series is high school and older.
The first session in this four-part series will be an introduction to scientific literacy. The following three sessions will be a classroom style discussion looking at a specific science article and/or paper. Links to assigned papers for classroom discussions will be sent in a follow-up email.
Series Overview:
Session 1: Introduction of Scientific Literacy Presented by Brian Magnier
Session 2: We’ll look at our 1st specific article or paper. Come ready to discuss!
Session 3: We’ll look at our 2nd specific article or paper. Come ready to discuss!
Session 4: We’ll look at our 3rd specific article or paper. Come ready to discuss, plus final wrap up and overview of entire series.
This series is led by Brian Magnier alongside Brooker Creek Preserve Staff. Brian Magnier is a naturalist and wildlife photographer. He studied ecology and evolutionary biology at Cornell University, where his passion for the natural world flourished.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Great Horned Owl Day!
2023-08-04 13:00 - 16:00 | Seaside Seabird Sanctuary, 18328 Gulf Blvd, Indian Shores, FL, 33785, United States
It’s Great Horned Owl Day! Be sure to stop by Seaside and show our Great Horned Owls, Miss Kitty and Grace, a little bit of love on their special day!

Falcon Fascination
2023-08-12 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
This program is a journey through time representing man’s long term relationship with peregrine falcons. The importance of coastal areas, climate, water, bird friendly communities and migratory stop overs is discussed. Peregrine falcons are extreme predators that ended up on the endangered species list. Several organizations, as well as falconers, were instrumental in bringing the peregrine falcons back to their nesting grounds and into the 21st century. Peregrines have adapted well in urban environments and counts at Hawk Watches have been very high. The program features live falcons! Moccasin Lake Nature Park in Clearwater serves as a sanctuary to these educational ambassadors.
Join Barbara Walker of the Tampa Bay Raptor Rescue for this enlightening program and meet a live falcon!
Sponsored by the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Pinellas County complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this class you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Prior to ten (10) working days before the class, please submit your request to accommodations@pinellascounty.org and cc brookercreek@pinellas.gov.

Community Tree Care for HOAs
2023-08-22 09:00 - 12:00 | Palma Sola Botanical Park, 9800 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
Join UF/IFAS Extension and Professional Arborists for a presentation and panel discussion on tree care and maintenance in HOA communities. We will focus on how to set up a tree care plan and contracts for care that are based on sound arboricultural practices.
Agenda:
9:00 Welcome and Introductions
9:15-10:15 Community Tree Care: Why, What, How?
10:15-10:30 Break
10:30-11:30 Setting up your Community for Success: Presentation and Panel discussion
11:30-12:00 Q and A and Resource Sharing
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
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 Katie Granberg, katiebg@ufl.edu, (941) 722-4524 x 1815 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Pollinator Walk at the Preserve
2023-08-25 09:00 - 10:30 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Learn about the weird world of pollination, then go for a guided walk at Weedon Island to see some pollinators in action!

Learn about the weird world of pollination from a Center naturalist, then go on a walk to see the pollinators doing their thing at the Weedon Island Preserve! Bring your camera of choice to capture these interesting observations.
This walk is recommended for adults and youth ages 10 and up. All youth must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Science Rocks!
2023-09-07 10:30 - 11:30, 2023-10-05 10:30 - 11:30, 2023-11-02 10:30 - 11:30 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
This free event at Moccasin Lake Nature Park is hosted by the Clearwater Community Women’s Club, and it covers a range of science topics through hands-on activities, discussion and crafts. Registration is required by emailing ScienceRocksMoccasin@gmail.com.
Sept. 7: 5 Senses
Oct.5: Water
Nov. 2. Bees
Jan. 4: Push/Pull
Feb. 1: Flight
Mar. 7: Frogs and Toads
April 4: The Sun
May 2: 3 States of Matter

The Archaeology of Weedon Island
2023-09-08 10:00 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Travel with professional archaeologists into the ancient past of Weedon Island.
Weedon Island has been a place for community for thousands of years, with spaces for special events, daily activities, and other parts of community life that we still see in our lives today. Join us for a presentation from professional archaeologist Rachael Kangas who will discuss the basics of archaeology at Weedon Island and why the site is so important to understanding people and communities.
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 14 and up.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Rachael Kangas is the Regional Director for the West Central region of the Florida Public Archaeology Network, and she conducts public archaeology and outreach. 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 is also an American Academy for Underwater Sciences (AAUS) diver, allowing her to assist with underwater research around the state.

Living with Coyotes
2023-09-09 10:30 - 11:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Join the FWC to learn about coyotes in Florida!
Join Jessica from the FWC for a talk about coyotes in Florida. She’ll review their history, biology, presence in communities, and best management practices for protecting people, pets, & property. Please join us for this informative program about coyotes!
Presented by Jessica Moore, Wildlife Assistance Biologist with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Important Additional Notes: It takes about 10 minutes to drive from the preserve entrance (Keystone Rd.) to the parking lot, and there is a 3-5 minute walk from the parking lot to the Education Center buildings. This event will be held in the auditorium.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Mosquito Mania
2023-09-14 10:00 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Learn about Florida’s well-known insect, the mosquito!

Families with youth aged 6-11 years old are invited to discover the fascinating world of Florida’s insects! Learn about what makes insects different from other animals, where they live, and their role in the food web. We’ll use Florida’s most well-known insect, the mosquito, as a study subject.
Mosquito Mania was designed to meet K-5 Next Generation Sunshine State Science Standards. The program is broken into three parts, an interactive digital presentation, an “insect zoo lab” with live specimens for hands-on observation, and a build-a-mosquito craft to learn about the different body parts. Attendees will observe the mosquito lifecycle (eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults) and the different aquatic predators of mosquito larvae.
This program will take place inside of the Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center. Youth must be accompanied by an adult for the full duration of the program.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Pinellas County complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this class you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Prior to ten (10) working days before the class, please submit your request to accommodations@pinellascounty.org and cc weedonisland@pinellas.gov. In your request, please be sure to include the date and title of the program you need accommodations for, indicate that the Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center is the program host, and include what specific accommodations you will need.

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 <<<

Native Bee Walk
2023-09-16 10:00 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Talk a guided walk to observe the native bee species at Weedon Island!

Weedon Island Preserve is a home for many species of Pinellas County’s native bees. The native bees on Weedon Island are found in a variety of sizes from tiny ones that are the size of a grain of rice all the way to huge bumble bees and carpenter bees. Join a staff naturalist for a walk around the grounds to look for these fascinating insects that contribute to our ecosystem in many important ways.
This walk is recommended for adults and youth ages 8 and up. All youth must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

10 Camping Essentials
2023-09-16 10:00 - 23:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join us in learning practical skills and strategies that every outdoor traveler should know. We will cover the 10 essentials and their practical applications for successful outdoor adventures.
Please select the correct number of participants or seats needed for your family at the time of enrollment.
Ages 18 yrs +
>>> 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.

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 <<<

Why Snakes are Cool
2023-09-30 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Learn why snakes are cool and the important ecological roles they play!
There are 46 native species of snakes in Florida and most occur in the central peninsula. Despite playing important ecological roles as both predators and prey, snakes remain highly misunderstood vertebrates. Only four venomous species occur in central Florida and these snakes present little danger when left alone. Local herpetologist and environmental educator George L. Heinrich (Heinrich Ecological Services) will present on why snakes are cool, emphasizing Florida snake diversity, natural history, conservation, and snake safety. A selection of LIVE snakes will be available for viewing and handling if participants choose to do so (we hope that you will). *This program is recommended for adults and children 7+
Additional Notes: 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 buildings. This program meets in the Auditorium
*Please note this will be an hour long educational PowerPoint presentation with an opportunity to handle snakes at the very end. If your child cannot sit through the entire presentation, please bring them out of the room to avoid disruption of the program. We appreciate your cooperation, and thank you in advance.
This program is sponsored by the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Speaker Bio: George L. Heinrich is a field biologist and environmental educator specializing in Florida reptiles. His company, Heinrich Ecological Services (www.heinrichecologicalservices.com), 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 (www.ftct.org).

Navigating Nature: Brilliant Bird Adaptations
2023-10-07 08:30 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Did you know that some birds have combs on their toes? Join St. Petersburg Audubon Society for a free half-day program exploring wild and brilliant bird adaptations that allow birds to survive!
Preregistration required.
Ages 8 yrs – 12 yrs
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

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 <<<

The Butterflies of Pinellas County
2023-10-12 19:00 - 20:00 | Boyd Hill – 31st Street S, 3130 31st Street S, St. Petersburg, FL, United States

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.

Creepy Crawlies: SSssnakes
2023-10-13 10:00 - 11:30 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Learn about these interesting, mysterious, and often maligned reptiles, especially how to distinguish between venomous and non-venomous snakes.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
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 Katie Granberg, katiebg@ufl.edu, (941) 722-4524 x 1815 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Advanced Plant Identification - 3-Part Series
2023-10-13 10:00 - 14:00, 2023-10-20 10:00 - 14:00, 2023-10-27 10:00 - 14:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
This three-part plant identification series will introduce participants to the steps required to positively identify plants.

Plant identification is based on close observation of morphological characteristics, contextual clues and lots of practice. This three-part advanced plant identification series will introduce participants to these concepts and the associated vocabulary of the plant scientist.
The class follows the contents of Harrington’s “How to Identify Plants” (1957); a copy of which is provided to each registrant. This concise text contains a comprehensive vocabulary of terms and illustrations to help clarify concepts.
A packet of supplemental educational materials will also be provided to each registrant.
Registration will CLOSE on October 6.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
About this Event
During each 4-hour classroom event, participants will engage in a participatory lecture, and have plenty of time for Q & A. Each session will build on the previous; attending the entire series is recommended.
Classes are three consecutive Fridays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Bio-breaks are factored into the schedule for each day! Bring a bag-lunch (refrigeration is available).
Class dates and syllabus:
Week 1, October 13
Plant Classification

B) Parts of a Flower
C) Inflorescence Types
D) Non-Flowering Plant Identification
E) Read Harrington Chapter I – V

Week 2, October 20

A) Roots-n-Shoots
B) Leaves
C) Surfaces
D) Fabaceae, Lamiaceae, Asteraceae
E) Read Harrington Chapters VI – XI

Week 3, October 27

A) General Terms
B) Fruits and Seeds
C) Using a Dichotomous Key
D) Graduate!

Upon completion of the entire course, participants will receive a Certificate of Completion from the University of Florida.
Graduates will have access to several hands-on workshops and additional information throughout the year to help stay engaged with the practice of plant identification.
Class fee includes all materials and textbook. Registration will CLOSE on October 6.
Refund Policy : Refunds up to 7 days before event.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
UF/IFAS Extension provides practical education you can trust, to help people, businesses and communities solve problems, develop skills and build a better future.
An Equal Opportunity Institution. Ethnic background and racial information are collected to comply with Federal reporting requirements.
Pinellas County complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this class you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Prior to two working days before the class, please contact the Office of Human Rights, 400 S. Fort Harrison Ave., Suite 500, Clearwater, FL 33756, (727) 464-4062 (Voice/TDD).

Map and Compass Navigation
2023-10-21 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
This camping skills course will teach you how to read a map and compass to help you better develop a sense of direction and travel for any outdoor expedition.
Please select the correct number of participants or seats needed for your family at the time of enrollment.
Ages 18 yrs +
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Why Turtles are Cool
2023-10-21 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
This program will introduce the fascinating world of turtles. Did you know that the sex of some species is determined at a pivotal point during egg incubation, or that turtles are among the most endangered group of animals on earth? How about the fact that turtles can ‘talk’ and are more social than we realized? Learn about their diversity and conservation, as well as the latest research findings.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Sponsored by the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve
Presented by George L. Heinrich (Heinrich Ecological Services; Florida Turtle Conservation Trust)
George L. Heinrich is a field biologist and environmental educator specializing in Florida reptiles. His company, Heinrich Ecological Services (www.heinrichecologicalservices.com), 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 (www.ftct.org).

Shelter Building
2023-10-28 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
This shelter building exercise will help you to choose the best shelter building options, as well as different coverage material options for any wilderness adventure.
Please select the correct number of participants or seats needed for your family at the time of enrollment.
Ages 18 yrs +
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Florida Forests Hike
2023-11-03 09:00 - 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 <<<
