Science Rocks!
2023-11-02 10:30 - 11:30, 2023-12-07 10:30 - 11:30, 2024-01-04 10:30 - 11:30 (America/New_York) | 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

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 <<<

Nature Journaling Class Series
2023-11-03 10:00 - 12:00 | Emerson Point Preserve, 5801 17th St W, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Take a fun, interactive workshop on nature journaling!
Nature journaling is an immersive experience where you can document your experiences in the outdoors. Whether you plan to use your nature journal to track the progress of your gardening endeavors, sketch and write during nature hikes, or document seasonal bird sightings all will grow your skills in observation and mindfulness. Join UF/IFAS Extension agent Alyssa Vinson, for a weekly class series devoted to growing your Nature Journaling skills. This series is aimed at beginners however some modules will include plant identification skills that would be beneficial to the experienced journalist. Classes will take place at Emerson Point Preserve in the Nature Classroom.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
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.

Backyard Wildlife: Online Workshop
2023-11-03 15:00 - 17:00 | Online Event
Join us for an exciting online workshop dedicated to exploring the wonders of backyard wildlife! Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or just curious about the creatures that inhabit your own backyard, this workshop is perfect for you.
On Fri Nov 03 2023 starting at 3 to 5pm, our knowledgeable experts from FWC will present first on Common Backyard Wildlife, to gain better understanding of the species you may find in your backyard and community, followed by UF IFAS presenting on Landscaping for Backyard Wildlife, with insights on how best to support and protect them.
Discover the diverse range of wildlife species that call your backyard home. Learn about their habits, and how to create a welcoming environment for them. From birds and butterflies to squirrels and larger creatures, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of nature.
Through engaging presentations and interactive Q&A sessions at the end, you’ll get a chance to ask questions, expand your knowledge, connect with fellow nature lovers, and become a backyard wildlife expert!
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore the wonders of backyard wildlife from the comfort of your own home. Register now and get ready for an enriching and educational experience like no other!
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Managing Our Underwater World in Tampa Bay
2023-11-04 10:00 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Meet the Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserves program and learn about the coastal resources they protect in Tampa Bay.
The Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserves (TBAP), managed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Office of Resilience and Coastal Protection, highlight the best of what our state has to offer: open water, inlet bays, tidally influenced creeks and rivers, oyster reefs, seagrass beds, salt marshes and mangrove forests. These habitats are vital to Florida’s iconic wildlife such as manatees, dolphins, fishes, oysters, and an abundance of wading, nesting and migratory birds. Although not widely known, TBAP even has a variety of corals in its hard-bottom areas. Join the TBAP program at Weedon Island to learn how they are working to restore & protect the coastal resources in our own backyard.
This program will feature Dr. Randy Runnels of the Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserves Program. Dr. Runnels earned his PhD in Oceanography from Texas A&M University. His 30+ year career has taken him from the temperate Northern Gulf of Mexico to the Florida Keys. In recent years he has been invited to China and Vietnam as a coastal management adviser on a number of issues. He has managed Tampa Bay’s aquatic preserves for over two decades, and continues to teach college courses in Biology, Marine Science and Environmental Science.
This program is recommended for adults and youth ages 12+. Youth should be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Where Did the Snakes Go?
2023-11-04 13:00 - 14:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Where Did the Snakes Go?
The Parasite Behind Pygmy Rattlesnake Declines
Learn about new research from the University of Central Florida’s Biology Department!
Precipitous declines of Sistrurus miliarius are spatially and temporally consistent with the initial invasion of the lung parasite, Raillietiella orientalis (RO). RO is suspected to have been introduced by the established Burmese pythons in South Florida and causes disease in snakes native to the southeastern United States. Eighteen species of native snakes are documented as definitive hosts in Florida but pathology and risk of disease development between species is understudied. During this program, Jenna will introduce the invasive lung parasite, uncover what species are at risk of infections in the southeastern US, and why pygmy rattlesnakes are an exceptionally vulnerable host.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
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
This program is sponsored by the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve.
Speaker Bio: Jenna is a second-year PhD student at the University of Central Florida in Dr. Anna Savage’s lab. Though the focal species of her dissertation is Sistrurus miliarius, she works to assess all species of snakes in North America that are at risk of infection by Raillietiella orientalis as the disease caused by the pathogen (pentastomiasis) can be severe and often lethal. She is the founder of a collaborative network called SLAM (Snake Lungworm Alliance and Monitoring) that consists of many researchers and managers across the southeastern United States. Jenna is also the co-chair of the national Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (PARC) Disease Task Team which facilitates and guides communication and collaboration on herpetofaunal diseases among PARC regions, federal and state agencies, and partners.

Botany Walk
2023-11-17 09:30 - 11:00, 2023-12-08 08:00 - 09:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
We will identify wildflowers, ferns, epiphytes, trees and more. The ecology of various plant communities will also be examined. Best suited for adult participants. Registration is required.
This is a free hike, however space is limited. Please be courteous and do not register unless you plan to attend and cancel your reservation if you can no longer attend.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Guided Hike Information

Guided hikes are under a mile in length, much of which is on unimproved, uneven sandy trails.
Hikes take about two (2) hours to complete.
Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, sneakers or boots.
Insect repellent (bug spray) is strongly recommended in summer months.
Bring plenty of drinking water.
A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended.
Pets are not permitted.
No smoking is allowed.
An Equal Opportunity Institution.

UF/IFAS Extension provides practical edu

Bugs & Butterflies for Beginners
2023-11-18 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
This class is an introduction wonderful world of insects!

What is that bug? Does it bite? Is it REALLY a bug? This class will introduce participants to the wonderful world of insects, including butterflies, found throughout Pinellas County. Learn how to identify major groups of insects and their ecological importance. Recommended for adults and families.
Presented by James Stevenson, Education and Outreach Supervisor
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Drought Tolerant Plants 101
2023-12-07 10:00 - 12:00 | Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Office, 1303 17th St W, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Keep your landscape looking beautiful with the right plants.
Learn how to choose beautiful drought tolerant plants for your landscape and know what to put back on the shelf! Valrie Massey, Horticulture Program Assistant, will show samples of Florida friendly plants suitable for Manatee County residents and discuss the difference between the good and the bad plant!
Minimum class size is required or class will be postponed. All those that register will be notified if postponed.
Contact: Valrie (941) 722-4524 Ext 1829 or vmassey@ufl.edu for further class information.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
This class satisfies the landscape educational class requirement for the Manatee County Outdoor Water Conservation Rebate Program. For further information on the program, please contact: Tina 941-792-8811, Ext 5327 or tina.moutoux@mymanatee.org

Let's Chat About Bats
2023-12-14 19:00 - 20:00 | Boyd Hill – 31st Street S, 3130 31st Street S, St. Petersburg, FL, United States

Wading Bird Walk
2023-12-28 09:00 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Meet the wading birds of the Weedon Island Preserve on a guided walk of the trails.

Learn the identifying marks and key behaviors of our most common wading birds at the Weedon Island Preserve during a guided hike of the trails.
A brief classroom session before the hike will give visitors an overview of the birds found on the Preserve, including tips on when and where these species are most likely to be seen. This guided tour may be up to 2 miles in total length and will traverse uneven, natural paths or boardwalks so please prepare accordingly. This tour is recommended for adults. Attendees will meet inside the Cultural and Natural History Center.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
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!

Talons, Beaks & Feathers Camp
2024-01-02 08:00 - 17:00, 2024-01-03 08:00 - 17:00, 2024-01-04 08:00 - 17:00, 2024-01-05 08:00 - 17:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Camps will join Natalie Lloyd to learn how to identify bones, tracks, and scat through daily hikes in the preserve.
Ages 7 yrs – 11 yrs
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Reptile Wednesdays with Dennis!
2024-01-03 10:00 - 11:00, 2024-01-10 10:00 - 11:00, 2024-01-17 10:00 - 11:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
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!
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Butterfly and Bird-Attracting Native Plants & Trees
2024-01-04 10:00 - 11:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Learn how to attract birds & butterflies with natives!
Bird and butterfly populations are in decline worldwide and their fates are intertwined. Join us for an informative class about what we each can do in our own backyards and neighborhoods by adding appropriate plants and changing practices to support these beautiful creatures and bring life back into our communities.
>>> 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.

Insect Investigation Hike
2024-01-07 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join a ranger on a guided hike that will take you on a journey through a diverse ecosystem, where you will have the opportunity to learn about a variety of insects that call Boyd Hill Nature Preserve home. Please select the correct number of participants or seats needed at the time of enrollment.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Snail Kites in Florida
2024-01-11 19:00 - 20:00 | Hammock Hall, 3010 31st Street South, St. Petersburg, FL, 33712, United States
The Everglades Snail Kite is a bird of prey, similar to a hawk, that eats only snails. After draining the Everglades, their population plummeted. Our speaker will explain the relationship between the Everglades Snail Kite and an introduced, non-native snail species which may have saved the snail kite from extinction.

Speaker Bio: Robert J. Fletcher Jr. is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation at the University of Florida. He is the principal investigator for the snail kite monitoring program. He is a big fan of laughter, critical thinking, and integrating diverse perspectives into ecology, conservation, and management.

The Friends of Boyd Hill Nature Preserve and the St. Petersburg Parks and Recreation Department present the annual Natural History Speaker Series (NHSS), a program that offers fascinating presentations on the natural and cultural history of Florida by individuals who are authorities in their fields. NHSS programs are offered the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at Hammock Hall, Boyd Hill Nature Preserve.

Naturalist Guided Tour
2024-01-13 09:00 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Explore the coastal and upland ecosystems of Weedon Island on this guided tour of the Preserve.

Participants will learn about the environment, native wildlife, and early history of Weedon Island on this guided hike.
This tour is for adults and youth ages 10+. Youth must be supervised by an adult. Attendees will meet inside the Cultural and Natural History Center for a short introduction before departing for the trails. The total hike length may be up to two miles. This tour may traverse uneven, natural paths or boardwalks so please prepare accordingly.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
Proceeds from this program go to the Friends of Weedon Island. The Friends support the Weedon Island Preserve through education, preservation and protection of its habitats, ecology, and cultural history. Become a Friend today!

Wildlife & Plant Identification
2024-01-13 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
This program invites adults and children to develop various camping skills together. Some of the topics covered include: wildlife and plant identification, foil wrapped foods, backpacking basics, and much more! All ages welcome with a registered adult. Please select the correct number of participants or seats needed at the time of enrollment.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Florida-Friendly: Landscape Maintenance 101
2024-01-13 12:00 - 13:30 | Online Event
Join us to learn how to maintain your landscape.
Good landscape design should be followed by appropriate maintenance practices. Join us to learn about Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ practices and how they, when applied, can protect our precious water resources. Topics of discussion are proper plant selection, planting and plant establishment, sprinkler system efficiency and watering schedule. We will also touch on microirrigation and keeping your landscape healthy with proper pruning techniques.
Register Here

Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Nine Principles
2024-01-16 10:00 - 11:00 | ZOOM, United States
Join us for a presentation on the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Nine Principles! Let’s create sustainable landscapes together!
This presentation is for Hillsborough County residents/employees only.
Join us for a presentation on the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Nine Principles! Explore the essential benchmarks for recognition and acquire valuable insights into crafting an attractive, environmentally conscious landscape that aligns with the program’s guidelines. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just beginning, this event is customized for you. Our presentation will walk you through the steps to meet the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ criteria for recognition, providing valuable knowledge about the Nine Principles that support environmentally mindful landscaping in Florida. Be part of a community of like-minded individuals committed to developing resilient and aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces.
This workshop will be offered online via ZOOM. No additional software is required and only basic computer skills are necessary.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<
**Registrants will receive an emailed Zoom link to access the Webinar the day before the program. *If you do not receive the Zoom link, please check your spam folder for an email from Angie Maki (makia@hillsboroughcounty.org). If no link is received, please contact Angie at 813-744-5519 Ext. 54127 for assistance.
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@hillsboroughcounty.org or 813-744-5519 ext. 54105 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.
For questions contact: Michael Masucci at: 813-744-5519 ext. 54146 or MasucciM@ufl.edu.
The University of Florida is an equal opportunity institution.

The Gift of Trees
2024-01-18 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Join us for a crash course in trees. We will cover the value of trees in our communities, tree selection and planting, maintenance, pruning and long term care considerations.

Youth Florida Forest Hike
2024-01-19 09:00 - 10:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Venture out on the trails with Natural Resources Agent, Lara Milligan to learn all about her most favorite thing…TREES!
In honor of Florida Arbor Day, we are celebrating TREES! Join Lara on a hike to learn about all of the amazing things these giant plants can do! Targeted for elementary and middle school aged youth.
Meet in the Education Center. Registration is required. Presented by Lara Milligan, Pinellas County Natural Resources Agent for UF/IFAS Extension.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
In case you missed it, we have a whole line-up of activities for Florida Arbor Day:
9am – THIS Youth Florida Forest Hike
11am – Youth Papermaking Class!
All Day – Hands-on Exploration Stations in the Education Center
