Native Plant Sale
2022-04-02 10:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | 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

Wild Wings Bird Hike
2022-04-09 08:00 - 09:30, 2022-05-14 08:00 - 09:30 | Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, United States
Wild Wings –
Birds of Brooker Hike
Have you wondered what bird is singing in your backyard? Do you see and hear birds but don’t know who they are? If so, join us for a Beginning Bird Hike to learn how to identify the county’s common birds as we meander along a one-mile trail.
All ages are welcome. Children under the ages of 16 must be accompanied by an adult and those younger than 6 may find this hike challenging.
Guided Hike Information
Volunteer Hike Guides will meet participants outside the Exhibit Hall 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. We strongly suggest all hikers visit the restroom (located in the Classroom Building) before we begin as there are no facilities along the trail.

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 and a snack.
A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended.
Pets are not permitted.
No smoking is allowed.
Trained volunteers will guide the hike.

Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wild-wings-birds-of-brooker-hike-tickets-53439990450?mc_cid=a4dbfdde6b&mc_eid=1cbba2e07b

Photography Hike
2022-04-09 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

Intro to Beekeeping
2022-04-09 10:00 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Introduction to Beekeeping:
A Hobby with Sweet Rewards ~ Part 3

Keeping Your Hives Healthy
In this 3rd session of our series on the Introduction to Beekeeping we will cover what it takes to keep your hives healthy throughout the beekeeping seasons. We will review how to maintain healthy honeybee colonies, discuss how to recognize pests and diseases, and have an in- depth discussion on what you can do to support your bees, with a focus on organic beekeeping practices.
Agenda:

Managing diseases and pests
Traditional and organic beekeeping practices.
Best practices for healthy hives

Instructor: Robert Burkard, President of the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve’s Beekeepers Club
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, and there is a 2-5 minute walk from the parking lot to the auditorium. Follow signs to the auditorium. An equal opportunity institution.
UF/IFAS Extension provides practical education you can trust, to help people, businesses and communities solve problems, develop skills and build a better future.
REGISTER HERE

HUKYU BONSAI SOCIETY MEETING
2022-04-09 10:00 - 12:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Learn the art and techniques of Bonsai.

www.facebook.com/hukyubonsaisociety.
Call Kay Waldron at 727-376-0178 for details.

CLAM BAYOU PRESERVE ESTUARY WALK
2022-04-10 10:00 - 12:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Join us for a guided tour of Clam Bayou Preserve. Learn about this local estuary and the plants and wildlife found in this unique environment. We will meet at the Nature Center and drive over to Clam Bayou as a group.
We recommend that you wear closed-toe shoes and bring a carrier or stroller for young children.

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
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Sponsored by City of Tampa Water Department in Partnership with UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County.

MIGRATING BIRDS JOURNEY HOME
2022-04-14 19:00 - 20:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
NATURAL HISTORY SPEAKER SERIES
MIGRATING BIRDS JOURNEY HOME
Join Sensing Nature Wildlife Biologist Jeanne Murphy as she shares about some of her fleeting winter visitors, who designate Florida as their preferred winter retreat, and spring migrants, who take advantage of our state’s hospitality as a much-needed respite on their way from Central and South America to northern regions.
Calling all migrating birds – only those with feathers need to fly.

Tot Time
2022-04-15 10:30 - 11:30, 2022-05-06 10:30 - 11:30, 2022-05-20 10:30 - 11:30 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Families with little ones can enjoy nature-oriented stories and crafts at the Weedon Island Preserve.

Every first and third Friday of each month, families of pre-school aged children are invited to explore the wonders of the natural world at the Weedon Island Preserve. Led by volunteer docents, families will be treated to rhymes, stories, and crafts that connect them to our environment.
This program will take place outdoors so please prepare accordingly. Youth must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program.
Proceeds will support the Friends of Weedon Island, a non-profit organization that work to promotes education and conservation of the Weedon Island Preserve.
REGISTER HERE

Gardening with Mushrooms
2022-04-15 11:00 - 12:30 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Join UF/IFAS Extension Manatee County for a conversation about using mushrooms to enhance your gardens!

Join UF/IFAS Extension Manatee County for a conversation about using mushrooms to enhance your gardens. Not always nefarious, fungi in the garden can be used to help build soil, process compost and support plant health. Participants have the option to take home a block of ready to grow mushrooms.
Notes – Please select only one of the available ticket options. The fee for each ticket type is included in the ticket type description. Be prepared to be outdoors working in the garden. Class will be in the Barbara Davis Educational Gardens located just south of the main office, we will have signs directing you.
Please submit special accommodation requests to katiebg@ufl.edu at least 10 days prior to event.
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Return the Preserve Work Day
2022-04-16 08:00 - 11:30 | Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, United States
The Return The Preserve Work Days focus on areas of the preserve where exotic invasive vegetation and unnatural overgrowth exists. It is our goal to help return the preserve to its natural beauty.
Working with FOBCP leadership and Preserve staff, volunteers provide the much needed hands-on support necessary to remove nuisance plants providing a more healthy environment for native wildlife.
Registration is required. This event is capped at 25 volunteers. In addition, the Volunteer Form must be completed and brought with you the day of the event.
This Work Day will be focusing on the Friends Trail located at the end of Lora Lane. Lora Lane is located a 1/2 mile west of the main Brooker Entrance off of Keystone. You travel one mile on Lora Lane until the road ends, and park. Registered participants will meet at 7:45, start at 8:00, and work until 11:00.
Important notes: There are no facilities or restrooms at this site.
Please bring clippers, loppers, hand saws, gloves, hat, and sunscreen. Long sleeve shirts and long pants are recommended; closed shoes are required.
For more information or questions, please contact the project leader: Evan Earle at eearlejr@gmail.com

Rye Preserve Tour
2022-04-16 09:00 - 11:00 | Rye Preserve, 905 Rye Wilderness Trail, Parrish, FL, 34219, United States
Join the Manatee County Extension Master Gardener Volunteers on an educational stroll.

Take a hike through upland habitats along the beautiful Rye Branch and learn about Florida’s native plants, natural history, and early settlement of the area.
Suitable for all ages.
Please email special accommodation requests to katiebg@ufl.edu at least 10 days prior to the event.
Register HERE!

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

Orchid Repotting
2022-04-16 10:00 - 23:30 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Learn the proper way to care for and propagate several varieties of orchids!

Do you have an orchid bursting from its pot and wonder what to do now? Learn the proper way to care for and propagate several varieties of orchids. Bring your overgrown orchid and pruners for a hands-on exercise of dividing the orchid. We will provide you with an orchid pot, potting media, and other materials. Registration and advance payment of $15 for materials is due by April 8 and guarantees your spot in class.
Please contact Katie Granberg at katiebg@ufl.edu with special accommodation requests at least 10 days prior to event.
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The Magic of Mushrooms
2022-04-16 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Mushroom Biology and Ecology

Mention mushrooms and most people think of three things: eating them, DYING from eating them and/or their use in recreational drug use. Let’s put those topics aside and explore fun facts about these fascinating and ecologically important organisms! Recommended for adults and youth over 12. Note: this class will NOT address edible wild mushrooms, BUT participants can purchase their own mini mushroom farm to watch the magic happen at home, thanks to the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve!
REGISTER HERE

RAIN GARDEN TOUR
2022-04-16 13:00 - 14:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Learn how to create a rain garden in your yard!
We will discuss rainwater capture techniques, plant selection, and much more!

Gardening 101
2022-04-22 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
The Scoop on Dirt – Friday, April 22
Join UF/IFAS Extension Manatee County for the inside scoop on dirt! New to gardening in Florida? We have the info you need to be successful. This course will cover basics of Florida soils and how to build a healthy foundation for your plants.
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Which End is Up? – Friday, April 29
Join UF/IFAS Extension Manatee County to learn about planting your garden. New to gardening in Florida? We have the info you need to be successful. This class will cover planting methods for a variety of different plants, from herbs to trees and everything in between.
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Please submit special accommodation requests to katiebg@ufl.edu at least 10 days prior to event.

Birds of Brooker Hike
2022-04-23 08:00 - 10:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Have you wondered what bird is singing in your backyard?

Do you see and hear birds but don’t know who they are? If so, join us for a Beginning Bird Hike to learn how to identify the county’s common birds as we meander along a one-mile trail. 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.
Guided Hike Information
Volunteer Hike Guides will meet participants outside the Exhibit Hall 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. We strongly suggest all hikers visit the restroom (located in the Classroom Building) before we begin as there are no facilities along the trail.

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 and a snack.

A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended.

Pets are not permitted.

No smoking is allowed.

Trained volunteers will guide the hike.

REGISTER HERE

Spring Migration: Birds and Butterflies Hike
2022-04-30 09:00 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Search for migratory birds and butterflies at the Weedon Island Preserve on a guided hike!

During the spring, many species of birds and butterflies begin their migrations from overwintering areas in South or Central America to their breeding grounds in more northerly latitudes. Florida is an ideal stopover point on these migration routes for species to rest and refuel before continuing their long journeys. In Pinellas County, this time of year affords us the opportunity to see many species that aren’t found here year-round or very often at all. Join us for a guided hike led by Ron Smith, an expert on Pinellas County’s bird and butterfly species, to observe some of these migrants at the Weedon Island Preserve.
This hike is recommended for adults.
Proceeds from this hike 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!
REGISTER HERE

Frogs!
2022-04-30 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Do you know why frogs are so important to our world, and how by saving them, we save the environment?

Explore challenges frogs are facing, as well as some ways that ordinary people of all ages can help. Learn about our very own Florida frogs, and maybe even croak in a human frog chorus! Program suitable for all ages.
Join Avalon Theisen, the young founder of Conserve It Forward, Inc. for Florida Frogs!
About Avalon:
A passionate changemaker with over a decade of service to people and planet, Avalon Jade Theisen is dedicated to empowering others to Conserve It Forward for a sustainable future and inspiring the next generation of peacemakers. At age 7, she first realized she could make positive, effective change. Her efforts resulted in the creation of a non-profit organization. Encouraging the use of kindness and compassion to confront global issues, she has traveled the world to share her message and work alongside others.
A graduate of the University of South Florida, Avalon Jade was a member of the Judy Genshaft Honors College and Provost Scholars Program, where she studied Religious Studies, especially its cultural relationship to nature and food. These topics have been the focus of her academic research, including multiple presentations and being published.
Currently a Ph.D. student at Arizona State University, her research continues to focus on religious studies, ecology, anthropology, and volunteering efforts. With a goal of helping other people understand new concepts that can improve quality of life and planet health, a common theme she uses is “Small Acts, BIG Change” to demonstrate how our collective, positive actions add up to have great impact. No one is alone, we are all in this together!
She believes that when we better understand each other’s foundational beliefs, we improve our connections and can more effectively collaborate to solve local and global challenges. Her academic experience reflects the journey of service and academics she has been on since childhood.
Teaching elementary, middle, and high school students about cultural empathy, peacemaking, sustainability and world religions through curriculum she created, Avalon Jade has been a educator at Athena’s Advanced Academy since 2017. She loves helping her students understand others and the world we live in.
To maintain balance and focus, Avalon practices mindfulness, meditation, and yoga. She is the 2018 USA Yoga National Youth Champion and in December 2018, won a gold medal and the title of World Champion of Yoga Sports when she competed in Beijing, China.
“My goal is that everyone should feel interconnected with other living things and the world so that we are inspired to become positive changemakers.”
For more about Conserve It Forward, Inc., please visit www.ConserveItForward.org or
www.facebook.com/ConserveItForwardWithAvalon.
REGISTER HERE

Gardening 101: Good Bug, Bad Bug?
2022-05-06 10:00 - 12:00 | Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Office, 1303 17th St W, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Join UF/IFAS Extension Manatee County to meet the bugs you need to know for success in your landscape. New to gardening in Florida? We have the info you need to be successful. This class will cover common beneficial insects and pests of Florida gardens. Be prepared to get up close and personal with live insects.
Please submit special accommodation requests to katiebg@ufl.edu at least 10 days prior to event.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Weedon Walkabout
2022-05-07 09:00 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Join us for a guided tour of the trails and boardwalks of the Weedon Island Preserve.

This docent-led walk will visit the mangrove and upland ecosystems of the Weedon Island Preserve, including a visit to the Preserve’s 45 ft. tall Observation Tower for a 360 degree view of the area. Learn about the coastal environment, native wildlife, and early history of the Preserve. This tour is recommended for adults and youth ages 6 and up.
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!
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Florida Native Plant Society Meeting
2022-05-10 19:00 - 20:30 | Land O’ Lakes Community Center, 5401 Land O' Lakes Blvd., Land O' Lakes, FL, United States
The Nature Coast Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society meets the second Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM at The Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park Community Center, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd/US 41, Land O’ Lakes, 34639, between SR 52 and SR 54. The subject of the May 10, 2022 meeting is “The Good, The Bad and the Exceedingly Ugly: An Overview of the 2022 Florida Legislative Session” presented by Gene Kelly. The overview of the legislative session will be followed with a brief exploration of the Withlacoochee River in preparation for the May Field Trip.
Gene Kelly is a conservation biologist with more than 30 years of experience in Florida, including work with the Southwest Florida Water Management District, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and The Nature Conservancy. Gene currently serves as Chair of the Florida Native Plant Society’s Policy and Legislation Committee, and as Vice-Chair of the Good Neighbor Trail Advisory Committee. He was also a member of the Hernando County Environmentally Sensitive Lands Committee.
Meetings of the Chapter are free, and all interested parties are invited to attend and bring questions about their yard. There will not be any refreshments or drinks available, so everyone needs to bring their own. Telephone inquiries are taken by Molly at (813) 469-9597.
Nature Coast Chapter: naturecoastfnps@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/PascoNativePlants

Raising Laying Hens Workshop
2022-05-11 18:00 - 19:30 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Learn how to maintain a flock and sell eggs

This workshop is for Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees only.
Description: Learn how to maintain a healthy, egg-laying flock, and how to comply with regulations to sell eggs!
Agenda:
1. Troubleshooting Egg Production
2. Flock Health & Biosecurity
3. Requirements to Sell Eggs
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.
There is a $5 fee for this workshop which includes a meal and educational materials.
*Space is limited to the first 40 paid participants.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Persons requiring special accommodations, per the Americans with Disabilities Act, must contact Allie Williams at least 10 days prior to the event.
For questions contact: Allie Williams at: 813-744-5519 Ext. 54119, allisonwilliams@ufl.edu

Gardening 101: 5 Easy Herbs
2022-05-13 10:00 - 12:00 | Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Office, 1303 17th St W, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Florida’s climate and soils can be challenging, but these herbs will set you up for gardening and culinary success.

Join UF/IFAS Extension Manatee County to learn about five easy herbs for beginners to propagate and grow. Florida’s climate and soils can be challenging, but these herbs will set you up for gardening and culinary success. Class fee $5.
In person at the Demonstration Garden at the Extension office (1303 17th St W, Palmetto, FL 34221)
Please email special accommodation requests to katiebg@ufl.edu at least 10 days prior to event.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Wading Bird Walk
2022-05-14 08:30 - 10:30 | 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!

Learn the identifying marks and behaviors of the most common wading birds at Weedon Island Preserve during a one to two mile guided walk of the trails. A brief classroom session before the walk will give visitors an overview of the birds found at Weedon Island, including tips on when and where different species are most likely to be seen.
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!
>>> 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 <<<
