Mosses 101: Exploring the Amazing World of Bryophytes
2023-02-08 14:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | Online Event
Let’s take an introductory look into the fascinating world of Bryophytes, specifically the Mosses. We will explore the anatomy, physiology, and ecology of the mosses and their adaptations for survival. We will also learn about the importance of mosses in the environment, and how they interact with other plants and animals in their environment. By the end of the class, you will have the knowledge and confidence to begin recognizing and exploring mosses in your own backyard!
Presented by James Stevenson, Education and Outreach Supervisor. Recommended for adults and youth over 12.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

Book Time at Brooker
2023-02-09 10:30 - 11:00, 2023-02-16 10:30 - 11:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Bring your pre-schooler to Book Time at Brooker.
Bring your Preschooler to this program designed to connect them to the wonders of the natural world. In addition to hearing a great story, your child will participate in a craft related to the story that is read. This activity is recommended for ages 3 to 5.
Registration is not required for Book Time, just show up with your kiddo! This program is led by Brooker Creek Volunteers.
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 building. We will start promptly at 10:30am. Follow signs to the Exhibit Hall.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Talk Plants with Me
2023-02-09 11:30 - 12:30 | Online Event
Ask a Horticulture Agent Webinar!
Submit your questions to our Horticulture Agent for live Q&A. We will talk about hot topics in the plant world and may have a few guests join us along the way.
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.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

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

Botany Walk
2023-02-10 09:30 - 11:00 | 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 and a snack.
A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended.
Pets are not permitted.
No smoking is allowed.
An Equal Opportunity Institution.

Wild Wings Bird Hike
2023-02-11 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

Science Sprouts
2023-02-11 09:00 - 10:00, 2023-02-18 09:00 - 10:00 | Bishop Museum of Science ﻿and Nature, 201 10th St. West, Bradenton, FL, 34205, United States
Budding scientists ages 2-5 can bring their favorite grown-up to explore and discover a variety of science and nature topics in the Mosaic Backyard Universe. The program sparks kids’ natural curiosity using imaginative play, crafts, stories, songs and more! Please note: This program does not include Museum admission.

On Saturday, June 4, explore “In the Deep Ocean”
On Saturday, June 11, explore “Swirly Whirly Snails”
On Saturday, June 18, explore “Manatee Mischief”
On Saturday, June 25, explore “Busy Buzzin’ Bees”
When/Where: 9-10am every Saturday in the Mosaic Backyard Universe
Cost: $12 per child for members of the Discovery Society; $15 per child for all others. (Includes one adult per child.)
Advance reservations required. Attendance limited to 12 children.

Register now
The Bishop follows the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels guidelines. Please visit www.CDC.gov to see the current Manatee County Community Level before visiting. Masks must be worn indoors when Community Levels are high.

DeSoto/Riverview Pointe Preserve Tour
2023-02-11 09:00 - 11:00 | Riverview Pointe Preserve, Bradenton, FL, United States
Join the Manatee County Extension Master Gardener Volunteers on an educational stroll.

Casually stroll through the beautiful Riverview Pointe Preserve and learn about Florida’s native plants and inhabitants of a coastal environment.
Suitable for all ages.
Tour begins in the parking area of DeSoto National Memorial Park and enters into Riverview Pointe Preserve.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Please email special accommodation requests to katiebg@ufl.edu at least 10 days prior to the event.

Beginning Bird Walk
2023-02-11 09:00 - 12:00 | Lettuce Lake Conservation Park, 6920 East Fletcher Avenue, Tampa, FL, 33637, United States
Important! Pre-registration is required and participation is limited to the first 10 people who sign up. If you have not yet been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, we respectfully request that you do not join us for this outing. Tampa Audubon reserves the right to cancel outings as necessary to respond to COVID-19.
Entrance fee for park $2. Meet in the parking lot by the Visitor’s Center in Lettuce Lake Park at 9 am. We’ll walk the boardwalk or trails, depending on where the best birds are. We have binoculars to loan, and someone will have a spotting scope so you can get up really close and personal! Bring water and a snack.
RSVP to trip leader Megan Campbell at megan.campbell@tampaaudubon.org.

If you have not yet been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, we respectfully request that you do not join us for this outing. Tampa Audubon reserves the right to cancel outings as necessary to respond to COVID-19. All participants must fill out the TAS Wellness Self-Certification: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GEGETVjrxTjthmKHpuDaMGIq_WdHLYKb/view?usp=sharing

Weedon Walkabout
2023-02-11 09:00 - 23:00, 2023-02-18 09:00 - 23:00 | 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.

Explore the mangrove and upland ecosystems of the Weedon Island Preserve on a guided walk of the Tower Boardwalk. This tour will include 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 Weedon Island. Total walk length will be just under 1 mile.
Attendees will meet inside the Cultural and Natural History Center for a short introduction before departing for the trails. This tour is recommended for adults and youth ages 7 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 <<<

Rainwater Harvesting
2023-02-11 09:30 - 11:00 | Chester Ochs 4-H Educational Center, 14644 113th Ave N, Largo, FL, 33774, United States
Water Wise Workshop:
Rainwater Harvesting
Did you know Tampa Bay and the surrounding counties average 50- 60 inches of rain annually? Florida- Friendly Landscaping™ Educator Melissa West will explore practical, low-cost approaches to harness our most precious resources rainwater and at the same time reduce stormwater runoff and pollution. Tune in to learn more about rainwater harvesting, rain gardens and how to make use of your rainwater.
Barrels available for purchase by class participants. for $45.
Register Here

HUKYU BONSAI SOCIETY MEETING
2023-02-11 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.

Rain Barrel Decorating Workshop
2023-02-11 11:30 - 13:00 | Chester Ochs 4-H Educational Center, 14644 113th Ave N, Largo, FL, 33774, United States
Let the fun begin. Join us for this creative hands-on workshop where you will learn how to make your rain barrel look fabulous and also help protect it from Florida’s intense sun. Instructors will teach and demonstrate barrel preparation and multiple creative painting techniques. This workshop will include materials and provide inspiring decorating ideas.
You have the option to either bring your own rain barrel to decorate, or use one of our test barrels (these stay with us)
Register Here

Reptile Wednesdays with Dennis!
2023-02-15 10:00 - 16:00, 2023-02-22 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 <<<

Spring Vegetable Gardening
2023-02-16 10:00 - 11:30 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Learn about what to plant when to get your spring vegetable garden started.
Learn about what to plant when to get your spring vegetable garden started.
If you would like to grow your own vegetables, this class is for you! Learn to grow “warm season” vegetables including soil preparation, garden bed types, and seed starting techniques. Gardens may be grown year-round in Florida, but spring is the preferred season by most homeowners. Participants will receive some seeds, vegetable transplants and a copy of the Florida Vegetable Gardening Guide after attending the workshop. (Limit 1 kit per household and the representative of the household must be an adult.)
>>> IN PERSON REGISTRATION <<<
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<
PLEASE NOTE: There is a non-refundable $5.00 registration fee per household for this workshop.
If you have any questions, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at (813) 744-5519.
***The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact: Tina Allen, allenti@hillsboroughcounty.org, 813-744-5519 Ext. 54112, at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Avon Park
2023-02-18 - 2023-02-19 | FL
On Saturday, we’ll visit Avon Park Air Force Range. On Sunday, we’ll visit other birding hotspots in the area.

The range is a 106,000-acre military training facility in Polk and Highlands County. It is also home to several key species of birds that can be tough to find. We’ll be led by Patrick Blake, the Avon Park ranger and an expert birder.

The range has a large population of Florida Scrub Jays and Red-cockaded Woodpeckers. We can expect to see Carolina, House & Marsh Wrens, and possibly, a Sedge Wren. We should also expect Palm, Pine, Black-and-white, Yellow-rumped (Myrtle), Yellow-throated, and Prairie Warblers, as well as Common Yellowthroat. The range has all the standard wading birds (Great Blue Heron, Great Egret, Roseate Spoonbill, etc.) It is not unheard of to find Painted Buntings, Hermit Thrush or King Rail with some careful looking. We will also attempt to locate Burrowing Owls and White-tailed Kites.
Avon Park is near Sebring, Florida, which is home to multiple hotels, grocery stores and restaurants. We ask that you make your own lodging and dining arrangements and pack lunches and beverages for both days.

Be willing to carpool. We will be escorted at Avon Park to ensure no one gets lost or ends up in restricted areas.

The cost is free, and registration is required, and the trip is limited to 10 participants. IMPORTANT: This trip could be cancelled because of a last-minute scheduling conflict at the base.

The deadline to register for the Avon Park Field Trip is Feb. 6

For more information and to register, fill out the form at: https://forms.gle/VPAaQxK2SdkrbZbp6. If you have questions, contact trip leader sandy.townsend@tampaaudubon.org. Mic McCarty is also leading the trip.

If you have not yet been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, we respectfully request that you do not join us for this outing. Tampa Audubon reserves the right to cancel outings as necessary to respond to COVID-19. All participants must fill out the TAS Wellness Self-Certification: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GEGETVjrxTjthmKHpuDaMGIq_WdHLYKb/view?usp=sharing

Hidden Wonders Nature Walk
2023-02-18 09:00 - 10:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
This family-friendly nature hike will take you on an exploration of the wet and dry habitats of “Our Wildest Place.” We will investigate some interesting plants and animals that call Brooker Creek Preserve home. Shorter days and cooler weather reveal new natural wonders to enjoy, join us! Registration is required.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Rye Preserve Tour
2023-02-18 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!

Rye Preserve Tour
2023-02-18 09:00 - 11:00 | Rye Preserve, 905 Rye Wilderness Trail, Parrish, FL, 34219, United States
Tour Rye Preserve with a Master Gardener!
Take a hike through upland habitats along the beautiful Rye Preserve and learn about Florida’s native plants, natural history, and early settlement of the area.
Suitable for all ages.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Easy Plant Identification: The Big 4
2023-02-18 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Explore the major plant groups!

If you can remember four plant groups (that you’ve already heard of) you have made a big step in plant ID! Let’s explore the Big Four and what makes a plant belong to one particular group. Hopefully you will be shocked and amazed at how much you already know!
Recommended for adults and youth over 12.
Presented by James Stevenson, Education and Outreach Supervisor
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

OPOSSUMS AND ARMADILLOS!
2023-02-18 14:00 - 16:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
UNLOVED ANIMALS SERIES:
OPOSSUMS AND ARMADILLOS!
Nocturnal mammals abound! Come learn all about these secretive critters with activities and presentations.
All ages welcome.

Night Hike in the Preserve
2023-02-18 18:30 - 20:30 | Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, United States
Join the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve for a one-mile hiking experience along the Ed Center Trail…at night! These special hikes are open to the public and limited to 20 people per hike. A $3 per person donation is requested. Hikes are led by Preserve volunteers who are knowledgeable about nocturnal wildlife. The hike is about one-mile in length and will take about 1.5 hours.
Space is limited, registration is required. Please be courteous and do not register unless you plan to attend and cancel your reservation if you can no longer attend.
These hikes are for adults and families only. Children must be accompanied by parents. Please leave your pets at home. Pets are not permitted in County Preserves.
Meet at the main parking lot at Brooker Creek Preserve. You must pre-register for the night hikes!
Questions: info@FriendsOfBrookerCreekPreserve.org or 727-934-2680.

>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Rad Reptiles
2023-02-19 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Come learn about incredible reptiles from around the world! Each class includes hands on activities, a guided hike on the trails, and live animal encounters. Participants will enjoy a safe learning environment that promotes knowledge of the local environment and a love of nature
Ages 6 & up
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Music in the Woods
2023-02-19 15:00 - 17:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Enjoy the harmonic contemporary/folk music of the band “2PM”!

The trio “2PM” will be playing at our outdoor music pavilion on Sunday, February 19 from 3:00 to 5:00PM. Bring a lawn chair and a picnic and enjoy their wonderful harmonies and contemporary folk music in the woods! Sorry, no alcohol or pets allowed.
Donations are gladly accepted!
This concert immediately follows the Opening Art Reception of Florida Reflections: Art by Bill and Linda Renc
>>> GET TICKETS <<<
Questions? 727-924-2680 or info@friendsofbrookercreekpreserve.org
Sponsored by the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve, the Music in the Woods Series offers visitors the opportunity to witness the visual beauty of Brooker Creek Preserve while also enjoying the natural sounds of the outdoor environment.

Taking The Mystery Out of Micro-irrigation
2023-02-21 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Learn how to select, install, and operate your own water saving irrigation system.
Join Brian J Rigney, Program Assistant, to discuss an introduction to micro-irrigation. This includes learning to select, install, and operate your own water-saving irrigation system. The discussion will include information regarding the components, and how to assemble, and maintain. Come hear the benefits and why it is important to water plants, shrubs and other landscape plants separate from your turfgrass.
This class satisfies the irrigation educational requirement for the Manatee County Outdoor Water Conservation Rebate Program.
Contact: Mr. Rigney (941) 722-4524 X 1828 or BrianRigney@ufl.edu for further class information. Class size required or class will be cancelled and registered attendees will be notified.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
For information and eligibility on the Manatee County Outdoor Rebate Program, please call: Manatee County Utility Department – Water Conservation; Tina (941) 792-8811, ext 5327 or tina.moutoux@mymanatee.org
Book your FREE irrigation and landscape evaluation with the Mobile Irrigation Lab (MIL). Call Maggie Gaughan (941) 722-4524 X 1827 sign up today.

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 Brian Rigney at BrianRigney@ufl.edu or (941)722-4524 at least one week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Introduction to Plant Identification
2023-02-22 10:30 - 11:30 | Online Event
Join James Stevenson and examine the basics of plant identification, from using simple keys to identifying critical characteristics that will help any would-be botanist in the field. An emphasis will be placed on flowering plants.
Recommended for adults and youth over 12.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<
