Native Plant Hike
2024-02-10 10:00 - 11:30 (America/New_York) | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Immerse yourself in the world of native Florida plant species on this ranger-led hike.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Reptile Wednesdays with Dennis!
2024-02-14 10:00 - 11:00, 2024-02-21 10:00 - 11:00, 2024-02-28 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 <<<

CEUs2U
2024-02-15 08:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
This webinar is packed with valuable insights and information that will help you stay current in landscape and pest management.

There is a lot to learn about horticulture! This webinar is packed with valuable insights and information that will help you stay at the top of your game in landscape maintenance.
8 am – 10 am Core Topics TBA
1 0 am – 12 noon Dr. Phil Harmon discussing Sugarcane Mosaic Virus/Lethal Viral Necrosis in turf. SCMV leads to Lethal Viral Necrosis (LVN), resulting in the demise of Floratam lawns typically within three years of being infected. The virus is now confirmed in counties in North, Central, and South Florida. Recent lab reports confirm the disease is present in Hillsborough and Sarasota Counties. Learn how to recognize and manage this disease – there is no cure.
CEUs (4 total):
Core – 2 in Chapter 487 or 482
Landscape/Fertilizer Track – 2 in LUF, L&O, LLO, LCLM, CLO, O&T or ROW
Webinar Information:
You will receive a Zoom link from Eventbrite to your email given in registration to attend the event the day before the event starts. If you have any questions, contact Susan Haddock at szcrmchz@ufl.edu or (813)744-5519 Ext. 54103. CEUs will be provided within 3 days following the event via email.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

Book Time at Brooker
2024-02-15 10:30 - 11:30, 2024-02-22 10:30 - 11:30, 2024-02-29 10:30 - 11:30 | 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

Tot Time
2024-02-16 10:30 - 11:30, 2024-03-01 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-themed stories and crafts at the Weedon Island Preserve.

Families of pre-school aged children are invited to explore the wonders of the natural world at the Weedon Island Preserve. Families will be treated to rhymes, stories, songs, crafts, and other activities that connect them to our environment. Activities are intended for youth aged 3-5.
Parents or guardians only need to register the youth(s) attending, but must accompany them for the duration of the program. This program will take place inside the Cultural and Natural History Center unless otherwise specified.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
Proceeds will support the Friends of Weedon Island, a non-profit organization that work to promotes education and conservation of the Weedon Island Preserve.

Adult Night Hike
2024-02-17 08:00 - 17:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Adults enjoy a night hike out into the preserve after hours and in the dark!
Experience the tranquil sounds of nature on our monthly adult-only night hike, where the rustling of leaves and calls of nocturnal animals set the perfect backdrop. As you walk, you might even catch a glimpse of a wild creature in its natural habitat, see the St. Pete skyline, and make a few memories!
Ages 18 yrs +
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Rye Preserve Tour
2024-02-17 09:00 - 11:00 | Rye Preserve, 905 Rye Wilderness Trail, Parrish, FL, 34219, United States
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 <<<
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.

Naturalist Guided Tour
2024-02-17 09:00 - 11:00, 2024-02-24 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!

Intro to Plant Identification
2024-02-17 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Explore the major plant groups!
Join a local Extension specialist 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.
This class will provide a basic introduction to plant identification. This class is recommended as a precursor for anyone interested in taking our Advanced Plant Identification series in March.
Recommended for adults and youth over 12.
Presented by James Stevenson, Education and Outreach Supervisor
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Branching Out: Your Voice, Our Trees
2024-02-17 13:00 - 15:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
A community conversation on urban trees in public spaces.
Talk About Trees
Join us for a world cafe where we will talk about trees and their role in our communities!
Pinellas County is embarking on the development of their first-ever Urban Forestry Master Plan for unincorporated and they are seeking YOUR input to help guide this plan. Urban trees play a critical role in our daily lives and the County wants to ensure they are managed in a resilient and sustainable manner. It’s very important to the County to get your input about trees in our public spaces so they can better understand the benefits and challenges about urban trees.
What is a world cafe?
We will create a comfortable environment where you will feel encouraged to talk to fellow participants at roundtables about trees! Different tables will have different questions. You will get a chance to hear from your community members on their thoughts while also expressing your own. You will rotate around to different tables with different questions where your thoughts will be documented. Following the forum, all of the input provided will be summarized and provided to the County to identify common themes that will help guide their Urban Forestry Master Plan.
Who can participate?
Anyone that lives in unincorporated areas of Pinellas County. Unsure? Check out this map.
This is a unique opportunity for you to share your feedback!
Refreshments will be provided. We want to hear from you. Don’t delay and register today!

Friends Members' Photography Exhibit: Closing Reception
2024-02-18 13:00 - 15:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Join the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve for their members’ photography exhibit and closing reception!
The Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve are pleased to present their member’s photography exhibit and closing reception!
Sunday, February 18th, 1pm to 3:00pm in the auditroium gallery, all are welcome.

The event is free and open to the public

Meet the artists

Light refreshments

Final day to purchase art

https://www.friendsofbrookercreekpreserve.org/

Silent Sentinels
2024-02-20 11:30 - 13:00 | Online Event
Learn about long-lived trees!
Join UF/IFAS Extension to learn about long lived trees, their history, cultural significance and how we can manage for their care in urban environments.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<
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.

Wading Bird Walk
2024-02-22 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.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
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!

Healthy Landscapes
2024-02-22 09:30 - 11:00 | Rocky Bluff Library, 6750 US Highway 301 North, Ellenton, FL, 34222, United States
Part of the Water Conservation collection will focus on Florida-Friendly Landscape tips such as Right Plant-Right Place, Watering efficiently and Mulch benefits.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Gardening From the Ground Up
2024-02-22 10:30 - 15:30 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Learn the secrets, Gardening From the Ground Up.
This workshop is for Hillsborough County residents/employees only.
Kick off the new year on a journey to transform your landscape by attending our upcoming event at Extension. Learn from five compelling presentations covering a range of Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ topics.
Topics include, Landscape Design tips, the efficiency of Patio Microirrigation, the significance of Healthy Soil for Urban Gardeners, insights about the weeds in your landscape, and the criteria for FFL Home Landscape Recognition.
These presentations offer a wealth of knowledge to enhance your gardening skills and contribute to a more sustainable and attractive community.
Join us for informative sessions and enjoy lunch as you connect with fellow residents passionate about creating environmentally friendly landscapes.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

BOAT AMERICA CLASSES
2024-02-24 09:00 - 14:00, 2024-02-25 09:00 - 14:00 | ZOOM, United States
CG AUXILIARY CLEARWATER FLOTILLA ANNOUNCES 2024 SCHEDULE FOR
VESSEL SAFETY CHECKS AND BOAT AMERICA CLASSES
The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Clearwater Flotilla is pleased to unveil its comprehensive
schedule for Vessel Safety Checks (VSC) and Boat America classes for 2024. Dedicated to promoting
boating safety and education within the community, the Clearwater Flotilla continues its commitment to
ensuring that local boaters are equipped with the knowledge and resources necessary for a safe and
enjoyable time on the water.
Vessel Safety Checks (VSC):
Vessel Safety Checks are a crucial component of the Clearwater Flotilla's mission to enhance boating
safety. Trained and certified examiners will be available throughout the year to conduct complimentary
VSCs for local boaters. These checks cover a variety of safety aspects, including life jackets, navigation
lights, fire extinguishers, and other essential equipment. By participating in a VSC, boaters can ensure
that their vessels meet all required safety standards, fostering a safer maritime environment for all.
Boat America Classes:
The Clearwater Flotilla is also pleased to announce the schedule for Boat America classes in 2024. These
classes provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of boating safety, navigation rules, and
emergency procedures. Whether you're a seasoned boater or a newcomer to maritime activities, these
classes offer valuable insights and practical knowledge that can contribute to a safer and more enjoyable
boating experience. Participation in Boat America Classes is open to boaters of all experience levels, and
successful completion may result in valuable discounts on boat insurance.
Schedule Highlights:
Vessel Safety Checks:
Second Saturday of each month at Seminole Boat Ramp
Boat America Classes are $50 per person, including all books and materials conducted over Zoom from
9:00 AM to 2:00 PM:
February 24 and 25
March 16 and 17
April 27 and 28
May 18 and 19
June 29 and 30
July 27 and 28
August 24 and 25
September 28 and 29
October 26 and 27
November 28 and 29
To participate in Vessel Safety Checks or enroll in Boat America classes, interested individuals can visit
www.uscgauxclearwater.com or call 727-469-8895 for more information and to register for upcoming
events. Spaces for both VSCs and classes are limited, so early registration is encouraged.
The Clearwater Flotilla looks forward to welcoming boaters from the community to these events and
remains committed to promoting boating safety through education and outreach. By working together, we
can ensure that our local waterways are safe and enjoyable for all.
The Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed volunteer component of the United States Coast Guard. The
Clearwater Flotilla is dedicated to promoting boating safety and providing assistance to the Coast Guard
in its mission to ensure the safety and security of our nation’s waterways.

Gratitude Hike
2024-02-24 10:00 - 12:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
A walk designed to relax and rejuvenate by focusing on gratitude. Bathe the senses in the healing qualities of nature and share experiences through conversation.
Ages 12 and up welcome with a registered adult. Please select the correct number of participants or seats needed at the time of enrollment.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

The History of Bald Eagles in Florida
2024-02-24 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Join us for a journey through time highlighting the storied history of our local eagles!
This is a program rich in history, field accounts, photography, biology and behavior of bald eagles primarily in West Central Florida with state wide comparisons. Rare photos and data cover more than a half of a century of eagle field work. Program participants can expect to learn about eagles from a historical perspective covering eagle populations prior to DDT, through the listing and delisting periods, with a focus on our local Bald Eagles.
The program may feature a Bald Eagle. Moccasin Lake Nature Park in Clearwater serves as a sanctuary to these educational ambassadors.
Join Barbara Walker of the Tampa Bay Raptor Rescue for this enlightening program!
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Seaside Visits Clearwater Marine Aquarium
2024-02-24 11:00 - 16:00 | Clearwater Marine Aquarium, 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL, 33767, United States
Meet some of our wonderful Avian Ambassadors and learn their stories while enjoying a visit at Clearwater Marine Aquarium!

Story Time
2024-02-26 10:00 - 11:00 | Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL, 33778, United States
Listen to a couple of fun stories while playing with musical instruments and bubbles in our Majeed Discovery Garden.
Story Time is recommended for kids 5 and under.
Contact our Children’s Garden Educator, Jessie Wingar, at jessieflbgfoundation@gmail.com if you have any questions.

Florida Forests Hike
2024-03-01 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 <<<

Native Planting
2024-03-02 08:00 - 11:00 | Tom Bennett Park, 280 Kay Road, Bradenton, FL, 34208, United States
Tampa Bay Watch in partnership with Manatee County is recruiting volunteers for a community planting at Tom Bennett Park (280 Kay Rd, Bradenton, FL 34208). Volunteers are needed to transplant various native plants along the shoreline areas of a brackish pond to provide beneficial habitat, improve water quality, and stabilize the shoreline.
Click here to register to volunteer.

Rainwater Harvesting Workshop
2024-03-02 08:00 - 17:00 | Hillsborough County Extension, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Harvest some of that rain to help in your garden!
This workshop is for Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees only.
Learn how to collect rainwater for ornamental plant irrigation while reducing erosion and stormwater runoff, and the use of non-potable water for irrigation. Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees will receive one 45-55 gallon plastic food-grade barrel after attending the workshop. (1 per household and the representative of the household must be an adult.)
NOTE: Pick-up of workshop items/giveaways for on-site attendees will be on the date of the workshop or by rescheduling with the workshop presenter. All items must be picked up within 30 days of the date of the workshop. No exceptions.
>>> REGISTRATION <<<
