Gardening 101: Good Bug, Bad Bug?
2022-05-06 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | 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 <<<

Tot Time
2022-05-06 10:30 - 11:30, 2022-05-20 10:30 - 11:30, 2022-06-17 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

Weedon Walkabout
2022-05-07 09:00 - 11:00, 2022-05-21 09:00 - 11:00, 2022-06-18 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 <<<

Wild Wings Bird Hike
2022-05-14 08:00 - 09:30, 2022-06-11 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

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 <<<

Rye Preserve Tour
2022-05-21 09:00 - 11:00, 2022-06-18 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!

Nest Box Building Workshop
2022-05-21 10:30 - 12:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Join us for an in-person workshop to “make and take” a nest box for your yard!

Want to help our local cavity nesters?
Learn how to build your very own nest box for an Eastern Bluebird!
In this workshop you will learn about proper nest box placement and mounting, additional information specific to the nesting habits of Eastern Bluebirds, and other fun facts about this species!
We will be building a nest box for an Eastern Bluebird, which is a year-round resident in Pinellas County.
Registration is required. Presented by Lara Milligan, Pinellas County Natural Resources Agent for UF/IFAS Extension.
The workshop costs $25
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
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.
Refunds will not be granted if you cannot install the nest box in your desired location.
If you are attending with friends or family and would like to team up and build one nest box between the group, please only purchase ONE ticket.
Interested in learning about how you can help our local cavity nesters before the workshop? Check out this webinar: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_GI2XMfv5TE-OlwLAOIWD7w

Soil School for Pasture
2022-05-24 18:00 - 19:30 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Learn about the important considerations for the forage foundation of your pasture.

This workshop is for Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees only.
Description: Learn about soil testing, soil types, pH, calculating fertilizer rates, and more; all important to the forage foundation for your pasture!
Program Topics:
*soil & tissue testing
*pH and interaction with forage plants
*types of soil
*N-P-K
*Determining fertilizer rates
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.
This is a FREE workshop.
*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

International Migratory Bird Day Celebration
2022-05-28 09:00 - 18:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join us as we highlight the steps that individuals and communities can take to reduce the impact of light pollution on birds through various fun activities!
Schedule of Events:

10:30 a.m. – Storytime for Kids
1:30 p.m. – Owl Presentation and owl pellet dissection
4:30 p.m. – Animals of the Night Scavenger Hunt

Be Prepared: Trees & Tropical Weather
2022-06-01 09:00 - 11:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Learn about how best to plan, maintain and prepare your trees for tropical weather!
As we start off this year’s hurricane season, join UF/IFAS Extension to learn about how best to plan, maintain and prepare your trees for the tropical weather. Hybrid virtual and in person (1303 17th St W, Palmetto – Kendrick Auditorium)
Register HERE.

Cross Bayou - Joe's Creek Clean Up
2022-06-04 | FL
GET TICKETS

Science Sprouts
2022-06-04 09:00 - 10:00, 2022-06-11 09:00 - 10:00, 2022-06-18 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.

Archaeology Hike
2022-06-04 09:00 - 11:00 | 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.

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 Friends of Weedon Island, a non-profit organization that work to promotes education and conservation of the Weedon Island Preserve.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Songbird Sunrise
2022-06-11 05:00 - 07:30 | Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, United States
Bring your coffee and favorite folding chair to join a quiet sunrise listening experience!

Bring your coffee and favorite folding chair to join a quiet sunrise listening experience!
The event begins in total darkness to allow participants to hear the nighttime calls of nocturnal birds. As the sky lightens with the sun’s ascent, daytime birds begin their vocal greeting. Birds will be identified by their songs and calls by knowledgeable Preserve volunteer staff. This event encourages silence for optimal enjoyment of the natural environment.
Please arrive no later than what is listed below:
5:30 am start (arrive by 5:15, gate closes at 5:30)
The entrance gate will be closed after this time until the normal opening time of 7:00 am. Free. Open to the public.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Birds of Brooker Hike
2022-06-11 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 <<<

Photography Hike
2022-06-11 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 <<<

Amazing Air Plants: Tillandsia Workshop
2022-06-11 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Learn about these amazing epiphytes that only require air and water to live. This is a “make and take” workshop where you will create a palm boot planter using Tillandsia airplants. Bring wire cutters and pliers. $35 advance payment for materials due by Thursday, June 9. (limited to 20 participants)

Register here

Rain Barrels for the Rainy Days of Summer
2022-06-16 10:30 - 12:30 | Online Event
Learn the proper way to use rain barrels!

Learn the safe and proper ways to use rain barrels to collect water from your roof gutters to help mitigate stormwater runoff and reduce potable water usage in your landscape by watering your plants with it!
After the Zoom webinar you will have an opportunity to make an appointment to purchase your own rain barrel and bag of some of the parts you’ll need to install it for $30 plus tax.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<
Please submit special accommodation requests to katiebg@ufl.edu at least 10 day prior to event.
