WHAT IS A CARBON FOOTPRINT? CARBON FOOTPRINT ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS
2023-01-21 11:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Have you ever thought about reducing your carbon footprint but didn’t know where to begin? Join us for free activities demonstrating easy ways you and your family can adjust your carbon footprints.
All ages welcome!
No registration required.

Red Tide Demise: Mitigation Initiative Update
2023-01-23 18:00 - 19:30 | Mote Marine Laboratory, 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy., Sarasota, FL, 34236, United States
Mote Associate Vice President for Research, Dr. Richard Pierce, also serving as the Program Manager for Ecotoxicology Research, joined Mote in 1981 as a Senior Scientist, developing a research program focusing on the source, fate and effects of toxic chemicals in the marine environment. With more than 75 published manuscripts and lectures nationally and internationally on his research, Pierce and Dr. Cynthia Heil, a Senior Scientist and Director of Mote’s Red Tide Institute will lead a lecture on Jan. 23. Heil, who has more than 25 years of experience with the science and management of marine and freshwater harmful algae bloom species, focuses on monitoring and mitigating Florida red tide along with the ecology and management of marine and freshwater HABs, nutrients and water quality.
Their lecture on Florida red tide will explain its severe negative impacts on the environment, economies and human health along Florida’s west coast, along with the Florida Red Tide Mitigation & Technology Development Initiative put in place to combat it. The Initiative, a result of the severe 2017-2019 red tide, provides funding for Mote scientists to partner with other institutions and companies to conduct extensive laboratory and field research on the efficacy of a variety of potential products and technologies to mitigate the adverse effects of red tide.
Mote Members also receive discounted admission to the event.
Tickets are on sale now at mote.org/lecture.

Reptile Wednesdays with Dennis!
2022-08-03 10:00 - 16:00 | 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

Aquaculture's Role in the Global Food Security Agenda
2023-01-30 18:00 - 19:30 | Mote Marine Laboratory, 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy., Sarasota, FL, 34236, United States
Farming the Future:
Aquaculture’s Role in the Global Food Security Agenda
Dr. Nicole Rhody will lead the last lecture of the series on Jan. 30. With over 20 years of experience in the field of aquaculture and based at the 200-acre Mote Aquaculture Research Park, she aids in leading a team of scientists focused on conservation and cultivation of marine finfish, bivalves, crustaceans and aquatic plants.
On Monday, Jan. 30, attendees can discover the new and innovative ways Mote’s aquaculture research scientists are working to ensure global access to healthy and sustainable protein options. The lecture focuses on aquaculture, currently the fastest-growing food production sector globally and a sustainable option for attaining food security. Guests will learn how sustainable aquaculture methods can protect our oceans and help meet the increasing demand for seafood. By expanding our ability to cultivate aquatic animals and plants we can ensure sustainable human food production in the future.
Mote Members also receive discounted admission to the event.
Tickets are on sale now at mote.org/lecture.

State of the Bay
2023-02-02 18:00 - 21:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Tampa Audubon is presenting the program State of the Bay, Thursday, Feb 2. The speaker is Joe Whalen, Science Communication Designer and Creator with the Tampa Bay Estuary Program (TBEP). The meeting is at the UF/IFAS County Extension Office, 5339 County Line Road 579, Seffner, 33584.
The evening starts with a bird/wildlife photo presentation at 6 pm, followed by a potluck at 7 pm. The presentation starts at 7:30 pm. Everyone is invited to attend, and reservations are not required. You can also participate on Zoom. To join the meeting, click https://us06web.zoom.us/j/5090969712.
If you would like to show photos in the photo presentation, learn how to participate here: https://www.tampaaudubon.org/program. If you’d like to join the potluck, please bring a dish to share.
Whalen’s talk will provide the audience with a comprehensive overview of restoration and community engagement in Tampa Bay. He will also answer questions regarding the successes of the estuary program and the challenges it faces.
TBEP works to measure and communicate the result of its work to the Tampa Bay community. The recently released 2022 “State of the Bay Progress Report” showcases the program’s progression towards its goals across three priorities: clean waters & sediments, thriving habitats & abundant wildlife, and informed, engaged, & responsible community.
Whalen is a science communication designer and creator with the TBEP. With a background in visual arts, communications planning, marketing, and environmental education, Joe uses his skills to amplify the science being done by TBEP and its partners, primarily through digital media platforms like social media and the tbep.org website. Outside of work, he enjoys underwater photography, birdwatching, and playing music in a local rock band.
Tampa Audubon sponsors monthly meetings and field trips, and participates in multiple conservation efforts in the Tampa Bay area. For more information, visit our website at www.tampaaudubon.org or contact Ann Paul, president, at Ann.paul@tampaaudubon.org.

Planetarium Day
2023-02-04 11:00 - 15:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
The East Lake Community Library and the Brooker Creek Preserve are teaming up to bring MOSI’s Star Lab to the Preserve!
The Museum of Science and Industry’s portable planetarium will re-create the night sky complete with stars, galaxies and constellations! Attendees will learn how to interpret the night sky and listen to stories about the stars with MOSI staff. For ages 5 and up.
We are offering one show each hour from 11:00AM to 3:00PM in the auditorium. Each show will last about 45 minutes in length. Space is limited, and registration is required. Choose your time slot from the ticket options. Shows will begin promptly at their start times. Please arrive on time as we cannot accommodate attendees if they are late. If you reserve a ticket and can no longer attend please cancel your ticket ASAP so that others may have a chance to enjoy the show.
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 our auditorium. Portions of our boardwalk are closed for reconstruction. Please follow any signage highlighting closed portions of the boardwalk and follow detours.
>>> REGISTER HERE

The Incredible Horsehoe Crab
2023-02-09 19:00 - 20:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States

'eARTh from Space’ with Nicole Stott, Astronaut & Artist
2023-02-25 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, United States
Join us for a special presentation and book signing with artist and astronaut, Nicole Scott!
Astronaut and artist Nicole Stott will give a special presentation for Brooker Creek Preserve on the impact of experiencing Earth as our home planet from space.
Nicole is an astronaut, aquanaut, artist, mom, and now author of her first book Back to Earth ~ What Life In Space Taught Me About Our Home Planet – And Our Mission To Protect It. When Nicole first saw Earth from space, she realized how interconnected we are and knew she had to help protect our planetary home. She knows we can overcome differences to address global issues, because she saw this every day on the International Space Station. Stott shares stories from her spaceflight and insights from scientists, activists, and changemakers working to solve our greatest environmental challenges. She is a veteran NASA Astronaut with two spaceflights and 104 days on both the International Space Station (ISS) and the Space Shuttle. She grew up in Clearwater and has personally witnessed the many changes of this area.
Nicole Stott will hold a book signing and autograph session at the event!
To reserve a book, please contact the Friends by phone or email. Give your name and number of books. Pay at the event, $23.00 (includes tax). Email info@friendsofbrookercreekpreserve.org or call 727-934-2680.
Sponsored by the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve
>>> REGISTER HERE

History of the Florida Keys
2023-03-02 19:00 - 20:00 | Hammock Hall, 3010 31st Street South, St. Petersburg, FL, 33712, United States
The Florida History Speaker Series is presented by the Pinellas Pioneer Settlement Committee. This program offers fascinating presentations on the cultural history of Florida by individuals who are authorities in their fields. It is cosponsored by the City of St. Petersburg Parks and Recreation Department.
History of the Florida Keys presentation by Brian Lane, Business Co-Owner, Sensing Nature
Although one of the most visited places, many people don’t know much about this region that tails from the southern tip of Florida. Join us as we travel back in time to learn about the human and environmental history of the Keys. What could the Keys mean in the future for residents, tourists, and wildlife?
Speaker Bio: As an ecologist, environmental educator, and business co-owner, Brian Lane shares his appreciation and understanding of the natural world through Sensing Nature’s interactive workshops, ethical ecotours, and educational nature products. He earned his B.S. from the University of Central Florida.
All ages welcome. Free admission.

Scribbling Women in Florida
2023-03-03 19:00 - 20:00 | Boyd Hill – 31st Street S, 3130 31st Street S, St. Petersburg, FL, United States

FAM Archaeology Hikes
2023-03-04 10:00 - 12:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Join us for a guided tour of an active archaeological site at the Weedon Island Preserve.

Professional archaeologists with the Florida Public Archaeology Network (FPAN) and the Alliance for Weedon Island Archaeological Research and Education (AWIARE) will lead a hike out to an active excavation area on the Weedon Island Preserve. Participants will learn about recent work at the site, research results, and local Indigenous history.
This tour is for adults and youth ages 10 and up. Youth must be supervised by an adult for the full duration of the program.
Attendees will meet inside the Cultural and Natural History Center for a short introduction before departing for the trails. The total hike length will be ~2 miles. This hike may traverse uneven, natural paths or boardwalks so participants must be able to manage these conditions. Afterwards, attendees will return to the Center to complete an evaluation of the hike and explore the museum’s exhibits.
Proceeds from this program go to support AWIARE and FPAN in their archaeological missions.
>>> MORNING REGISTRATION AFTERNOON REGISTRATION

Conserving Gopher Tortoises
2023-03-09 19:00 - 20:00 | Hammock Hall, 3010 31st Street South, St. Petersburg, FL, 33712, United States
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.

Conserving Gopher Tortoises at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve presentation by Jeffrey M. Goessling PhD, Professor, Eckerd College

Have you ever walked the trails at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve and seen a gopher tortoise in the sandy upland habitat? Do you wonder how they are able to survive there? Come and learn more about them as our speaker shares his knowledge along with his findings from ongoing research efforts.

Speaker Bio: Jeff Goessling grew up in the hills of Kentucky where he gained a fascination and appreciation for nature. He earned his B.S. at Thomas More College, his M.S. at Sam Houston State University, and his PhD in the biological sciences at Auburn University. In January 2018 he joined the faculty at Eckerd College. He currently studies and monitors the gopher tortoise population at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve.

Family Program: The Pursuit of Plastics
2023-03-10 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 plastic pollution and how we can help!

Lara Milligan, Natural Resources Agent with UF/IFAS Extension Pinellas County will conduct a class with a hands-on activity to teach participants about plastic pollution and the effects on the environment. Join us for some educational family fun!
Registration is required.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Sacred Waters
2023-03-10 19:00 - 20:00 | Boyd Hill – 31st Street S, 3130 31st Street S, St. Petersburg, FL, United States

FAM Walking History Tour
2023-03-18 10:00 - 12:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Join us for a guided walking tour of the Weedon Island Preserve to learn about its aviation history.

St. Petersburg has a long and rich history of aviation, including the well-known first commercial flight in 1914. But in addition to this accomplishment, the Grand Central Airport that functioned on Weedon Island during the early 20th century also led to momentous firsts for flight in St. Pete. Join archaeologists with the Florida Public Archaeology Network for a guided tour of the Preserve to learn about the Island’s history with flight and visit historic sites.
This tour is for adults and youth ages 10 and up. Youth must be supervised by an adult for the full duration of the program.
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 ~2 miles. This hike will traverse uneven, natural paths or boardwalks so participants must be able to manage these conditions. Afterwards, attendees will return to the Center to complete an evaluation of the hike and explore the museum’s exhibits.
Proceeds from this program go to support FPAN in their archaeological mission.
>>> REGISTER HERE

FAM Archaeology Day & Presentation
2023-03-25 09:00 - 15:30 | 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!

Join us for a celebration of Florida Archaeology Month! Examine ancient artifacts and discover the rich history of Tampa Bay at the Weedon Island Preserve.
From 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.:
The Alliance for Weedon Island Archaeological Research and Education (AWIARE), the Central Florida Gulf Coast Archaeological Society (CGCAS), the Florida Public Archaeology Network, and the Tampa Bay History Center will be on-site with a diverse showcase of pre-Columbian artifacts from the Tampa Bay region. Archaeological experts will also illustrate the use of these tools and their importance to native populations. Local fossil collectors are encouraged to bring in artifacts such as arrow heads, lithics, and pottery sherds for identification.
At 2:00 p.m.:
The final event of our Florida Archaeology Month celebration will be a special presentation by Dr. J. Michael Francis as he shares stories and research from St. Augustine’s Parish archive that date from 1594 to 1821. This program is arranged in partnership with the Tampa Bay History Center as part of their “Florida Conversations” series.

To attend this talk in-person, please register here.
To watch online, please register here.

Presentation Synopsis:
St. Augustine, Florida houses the oldest surviving parish records in the United States. In this talk, Dr. J. Michael Francis will introduce this rich collection and to the open-access digital archive he helped to create to bring these records to a global audience. Francis will highlight the early history of colonial Florida, focusing on the rich corpus of baptism, confirmation, marriage, and death records housed in St. Augustine’s Diocesan Archive. He will share some of the remarkable stories that emerge from the badly damaged pages, and he will introduce a new digital archive that provides unparalleled public access to this unique collection.

Raptors Indigenous to Central Florida
2023-03-25 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Learn about local raptors!
Join the Friends of Largo Nature Parks for an educational presentation on raptors. We will examine the similarities and differences between the five primary types of Birds of Prey, with the help of a few non-releasable raptors from McGough Nature Park!
Family Friendly! Presented by the Friends of Largo Nature Parks. Sponsored by the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve.

Natural Scene Investigators
2023-03-30 08:00 - 10:00 | Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast, 400 Palmetto Avenue, Osprey, FL, 34229-0902, United States
Join us at the beautiful and conserved Upper Myakka Preserve! Develop your detective skills while exploring this exceptional protected land. Together with nature interpreter, Jenna Biggs, participants will investigate natural scenes and learn to spot evidence of wildlife all around. Discover how critical thinking skills can help you better understand animal behavior as well as how your findings and observations can help advance science.
Open to those aged 5 and up. Participating children must have an adult guardian present for the duration of the event. Attendees should wear clothing suitable for outdoor exploration and shoes they are comfortable getting wet. Bug spray and sunscreen are recommended.
Space is limited and registration for this free event is required. Reserve your space below.
If the event is marked as ‘sold out’ and you would like to be added to the wait list, please let us know by emailing jenna@conservationfoundation.com.
LEARN MORE AND RSVP

Sea Turtle Awareness Day
2023-04-01 10:00 - 15:00 | Clearwater Marine Aquarium, 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL, 33767, United States
Celebrate Sea Turtle Awareness Day on April 1, 2023, at Clearwater Marine Aquarium from 10am through 3pm! The Sea Turtle Conservation Program at CMA will be preparing for sea turtle nesting season with nesting presentations, nest stake painting, custom Protect the Nest plaques, and so much more! We will also have many sea turtle conservation partners and CMA teams joining us with additional information to help protect sea turtles and their habitats. This event is included with your general admission at Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
Schedule of Activities:

11:40am – Performance by the “Semillas de mi Tierra” children’s Latin dance group.
12:15pm – Sea Turtle Nesting Presentation in the Atlantis Theater.
2:15pm – Sea Turtle Nesting Presentation in the Atlantis Theater.

>>> MORE INFO HERE

Dragonflies of West Central Florida
2023-04-01 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
The Natural History of
Dragonflies of West Central Florida

Learn about our local dragonfly population, biology, and why they are an important part of our ecosystem. Presented by Paul Trunk. Geared towards an adult audience.
Stick around after the program for an optional dragonfly walk, and bring your binoculars if you have them!
>>> REGISTER HERE
