Intro to Plant Identification
2025-12-13 10:30 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Explore the major plant groups!

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.
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 January.
Recommended for adults and youth over 12.
Presented by James Stevenson, Education and Outreach Supervisor
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Advanced Plant Identification - 4-Part Series
2025-12-13 10:00 - 14:00, 2025-12-06 10:00 - 14:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
This four-part plant identification series will introduce participants to the steps required to positively identify plants.
Plant identification is based on close observation of morphological characteristics, contextual clues and lots of practice. This four–part advanced plant identification series will introduce participants to these concepts and the associated vocabulary of the plant scientist.
The class follows the contents of Harrington’s “How to Identify Plants” (1957); a copy of which is provided to each registrant. This concise text contains a comprehensive vocabulary of terms and illustrations to help clarify concepts.
A packet of supplemental educational materials will also be provided to each registrant.
About this Event
During each 4-hour classroom event, participants will engage in a participatory lecture, and have plenty of time for Q & A. The final session will be a hands-on workshop that will include graduates from previous courses. Each session will build on the previous; attending the entire series is recommended.
Classes are four consecutive Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Bio-breaks are factored into the schedule for each day! Bring a bag-lunch (refrigeration and a microwave are available).
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
Class dates and syllabus:
Week 1, March 8
Plant Classification

Parts of a Flower
Inflorescence Types
Non-Flowering Plant Identification
Read Harrington Chapter I – V

Week 2, March 15

Roots-n-Shoots
Leaves
Surfaces
Fabaceae, Lamiaceae, Asteraceae
Read Harrington Chapters VI – XI

Week 3, March 22

General Terms
Fruits and Seeds
Using a Dichotomous Key

Week 4, March 29

Review, general questions
Hands-on Workshop with former graduates
Graduation!

Upon completion of the entire course, participants will receive a Certificate of Completion from the University of Florida.

Weedon Island Naturalist Guided Tour
2025-12-13 09:30 - 11:00, 2025-12-06 09:30 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Take a walk through some of Weedon Island’s coastal habitats on a guided tour of the Tower Boardwalk. Led by a knowledgeable Center naturalist, this tour offers a chance to explore the Preserve’s diverse ecosystems, native wildlife, and rich cultural history.
Designed for adults and youth ages 10 and up (youth must be accompanied by an adult), this tour is a great way to learn about Florida’s environment and how people have interacted with it for thousands of years. Climb the stairs to the top of the Observation Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding area!
The walk will cover approximately 1 mile along paved paths and boardwalks. Some transitional areas may be uneven, so please wear sturdy shoes and prepare for outdoor conditions.

Saturdays, December 6 & 13 at 9:30 a.m. — Register today
Saturdays, January 3 & 10 at 9:30 a.m. — Register today

Space is limited — register today to secure your spot on this engaging and educational walk through the Preserve!

Beginning Bird Walk at LLP
2025-12-13 09:00 - 11:00 | 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.
Please do not attend this or any Tampa Audubon Society events if you have flu, cold, or covid symptoms. Tampa Audubon is committed to reducing the spread of illnesses. The health and safety of our members is of the highest priority.
Entrance fee for park $2. Meet in the parking lot by the Visitor’s Center in Lettuce Lake Park at 8:30 a.m. 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 field trip leader, Jim Hengelbrok at jimhengelbrok@gmail.com

DeSoto/Riverview Pointe Preserve Tour
2025-12-13 09:00 - 11:00 | Fort DeSoto Park, 8250 Desoto Memorial Highway, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
Guided tour through DeSoto/Riverview Pointe Preserve with a Master Gardener Volunteer!

Second Saturday of the month (November – May), at 9:00am
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.

>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Tour begins in the parking area of DeSoto National Memorial Park and enters into Riverview Pointe Preserve.
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.

S'MORES WITH SANTA
2025-12-12 17:00 - 19:00 | Boyd Hill – Pioneer Settlement, 2900 31ST ST S Gate 2, St. Petersburg, FL, 33712, United States
Let’s have s’more fun with Santa, his elves, and our rangers! Join us around the campfire to make delicious s’mores and snap photos with Santa at the Pioneer Settlement photo set.
Join us on Friday or Saturday evening. Registration is required. However, Saturday also includes a limited walk-up option before TASCO’s Movie in the Park. After your sweet treat, stay for even s’more holiday fun and enjoy a showing of “The Santa Clause” at Boyd Hill with TASCO.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Volunteer Archaeology Lab
2025-12-12 13:00 - 15:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Learn how to sort, identify, and clean artifacts and other material from real archaeological sites!

Ages 12+

Join us in the Lab for a hands-on experience in archaeological discovery! Led by professional archaeologists from the Florida Public Archaeology Network (FPAN), this volunteer lab gives you the chance to sort, clean, and identify real artifacts uncovered at the Weedon Island Preserve. You’ll learn how archaeologists process materials for study and contribute to ongoing research about the people who once lived in this coastal region. No experience is necessary — just curiosity and a willingness to get your hands dirty!
Who Can Participate:
This lab is open to adults and youth ages 12 and up. Youth must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire session.
Space is limited — registration is required.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to be part of real archaeological work!

Friday, December 12 at 1:00 p.m. — Register today
Friday, January 9 at 1:00 p.m. — Register today

Request A Youth Lab:
If you’re part of a homeschool group and would like to schedule a youth-focused lab, please email westcentral@fpan.us to request a separate Lab session.

Gardening From Seeds for the Home Gardener
2025-12-12 11:30 - 12:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Master Gardener Speaker Series
Gardening From Seeds for the Home Gardener
Why not start your garden with seeds?
Learn different methods and what tools are needed to start seeds successfully and boost seedling survival.
We will also cover how to care for seedling and transplant with confidence, as well as seed sources and how to harvest and preserve seeds for future seasons.
All ages welcome with a registered adult.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Nest Box Building Workshop
2025-12-12 10:00 - 11:30 | 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 Chickadee nest box for your yard!
Want to help our local cavity nesters?
Learn how to build your very own nest box for a Carolina Chickadee!
In this workshop you will learn about proper nest box placement and mounting, additional information specific to the nesting habits of Carolina Chickadees, and other fun facts about this species!
We will be building a nest box for a Carolina Chickdee, which is a year-round resident North and Central Florida, including Pinellas County.
Registration is required. Presented by Lara Milligan, Pinellas County Natural Resources Agent for UF/IFAS Extension.
The workshop costs $15
>>> 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.

Botany Walk
2025-12-12 09:30 - 11:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Join James Stevenson to explore the fascinating plants found at Brooker Creek Preserve!
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. Led by James Stevenson, Education and Outreach Specialist.
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. Meet in the Exhibit Hall.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Dune Savers Work Day
2025-12-12 07:30 - 08:30 | To Be Determined, FL, United States
Contact Deb Rothenberger for location: d2bv4@aol.com
Thank you all and can’t wait to see you Friday morning!

Container Gardening For Every Space on Zoom
2025-12-11 11:00 - 12:00 | ZOOM, United States
Get your green thumb ready and join us online to learn how to create a beautiful garden in any space during our Container Gardening Workshop

>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

Meet a Master Gardener
2025-12-11 10:30 - 12:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Stop in to talk all things plant-related, like attracting butterflies and birds to your garden and growing vegetables and herbs.
Feel free to bring samples or photos for plant identification or problem solving.

Book Time at Brooker
2025-12-11 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.
>>> MORE INFO <<<

Reptile Wednesdays with Dennis!
2025-12-10 10:00 - 15:30 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Explore reptiles with a friendly expert, get your questions answered, and level up your knowledge in a relaxed, beginner-friendly session.

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!

Holiday Themed Container Gardening
2025-12-09 14:00 - 15:00 | New River Branch Library, 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel, FL, 33543, United States
Planting in containers on your Lanai, porch, or indoors offers you a chance to be creative. Come learn more at this informative seminar.

Even if you have a small space, you can have a wonderful variety of plants to enjoy year-round. Planting in containers on your lanai, porch, or indoors offers you a chance to be creative. You will learn the basics of growing in pots from selection of plants and pots to grouping plants together with similar needs. Tips on repotting, soil mixture and growing the healthiest plants will be provided in this free UF/IFAS Pasco County Extension program with a holiday theme.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Building and Caring for Terrariums
2025-12-08 18:00 - 19:00 | Regency Park Library, 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey, FL, 34654, United States
At this seminar you will learn to plant and care for a terrarium, with examples of containers, plants and problem solving solutions.

A terrarium is a collection of small plants growing in a clear, usually enclosed container. You will learn to plant and care for a terrarium, with examples of containers, plants and problem solving solutions. A low maintenance way to incorporate plants into your home, office or classroom. Many containers can be adapted and they do not need drain holes. Properly done, a terrarium is a source of enjoyment for many years providing interesting ways to grow and display plants with very little care.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Wreath Making Workshop
2025-12-07 13:00 - 14:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Learn how to make a beautiful holiday wreath from native grapevines!

We will learn how to create the grapevine wreath base together. Our instructor will also share tips and tricks on how to decorate the base with extra foliage. Each participant will go home with a completed wreath “base” ready to decorate for the holidays!
Important Information:

This workshop caps at 20 participants, registration is required. We will only have enough materials for registered participants. Cancel your free ticket if you can no longer attend, so someone else can enjoy your spot.
Bring your own gloves and garden clippers.
If you wish to create a wreath as a team with your family or friends, please only select ONE ticket. Each ticket indicates one wreath.
Meet at the Outdoor Pavilion next to the Wildflower Garden. This workshop will be outdoors.

Additional Notes: It takes about 10 minutes to drive from the preserve entrance (Keystone Rd.) to the parking lot, and there is a 5 minute walk from the parking lot to the outdoor pavilion.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Sunday Bird Hike
2025-12-07 08:00 - 09:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Come out for this “early morning” walk in the woods.
Come out for this “early morning” walk in the woods with Alexa, our awesome volunteer, to seek out the resident and visiting birds of Brooker. Beginners and all levels of birders welcome. Meet in the parking lot at 8:00 a.m.
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
Volunteer Hike Guides will meet participants in the parking lot 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.

Additional Notes: It takes about 10 minutes to drive from the preserve entrance (Keystone Rd.) to the parking lot.

Holiday Nature Crafts & Music
2025-12-06 11:00 - 15:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Come visit Moccasin Lake Nature Park to make holiday crafts using natural and recycled materials and more.
Participants will be able to assist in decorating the park’s Holiday Tree with their crafts along with taking an ornament home for themselves.

Purchase yourself a treat from PattyeCakes!
There will be reptiles and raptors to see!
The Silver Strings Dulcimer Group will play Holiday Music at 11am!
The Leila Davis Chorus will perform on stage at 1:30pm!
Sponsored by the GFWC Clearwater Community Woman’s Club

Bay Babies
2025-12-06 11:00 - 12:00 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
Come join us with your young scientists!
Ages 3 – 6
This program is for the youngest ocean explorers. Bay Babies is offered for 3 to 6 year olds monthly. Each session may include story time, crafts, activities, and animal interactions to keep your little one(s) engaged and excited.
Program is held in our indoor classroom and space is limited.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Children must have an accompanying adult in the classroom. Due to space constraints, only one adult per child is allowed.

Women of Pinellas: Shaping Bird Protection in the Early 20th Century
2025-12-06 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Learn about the pioneer women of Pinellas and how they influenced legislation to protect birds during the early 20th century

Join Quinton Spiaggi, volunteer research associate at the Palm Harbor Museum, in this informative presentation about the pioneer women of Pinellas and how they influenced legislation to protect birds during the early 20th century. Women like Katherine B. Tippetts, Elizabeth Skinner Jackson, Dr. Grace Whitford, Myrtle Scharrer Betz, and Lucy Platt Hayes were instrumental in social change during this time period, and we even owe the concept of state birds, like Florida’s northern mockingbird, to their efforts. Considered leaders across Pinellas County and the state of Florida during their lifetime, much of their work has been forgotten until recently.
This program is free and is aimed at all ages, and will feature items from the Palm Harbor Museum’s collection.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Fishing Workshop
2025-12-06 10:00 - 12:00 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
Learn to Fish!
Recommended for ages 10 and up • 2 Hours • Gear Included • Up to 15 People

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Curious about fishing in Tampa Bay but not sure where to start? During this boat-based course, we will cover essential topics like bait selection, appropriate gear usage, regulations, and local fish identification and handling–ensuring participants are equipped with the knowledge to fish responsibly and respectfully.
Each participant will have access to a fishing rod and all essential gear for a hands-on experience during the workshop, with expert guidance readily available as needed. Attendees also have the opportunity to win prizes to help them kickstart their responsible fishing journey.
All proceeds support Tampa Bay Watch’s mission to foster a healthy Tampa Bay watershed through community-driven restoration projects, education programs, and outreach initiatives.

This program is perfect for:

Families and parents looking to foster responsible fishing practices
Individuals interested in fishing responsibly and connecting with like-minded people.
Anglers who have recently relocated to the Tampa Bay area and want a better understanding of the local waters, responsible fishing practices, and common fish species in the area.

What to Bring

While gear is provided for use during the workshop, you are welcome to bring your own bait and tackle.
You are welcome to bring your own snacks and/or beverages. We do not allow alcohol on the eco-vessel.
Please dress with consideration to the Florida climate and weather.
Sun protection and water are highly recommended.

Notes

All participants under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Canoe Paddle Tour
2025-12-06 09:00 - 11:00 | Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center, 4202 24th St SE, Ruskin, FL, 33570, United States
Enjoy an hour and half of easy paddling on the Little Manatee River loop with your guide.
Three seater canoe rentals or 1 person kayaks can be rented for $25.
Or bring your own canoe or kayak and join us with a $5 donation.
Reserve your canoe or kayak by calling the office at 813-641-8545. Limited availability.

Emerson Point Preserve Tour
2025-12-06 09:00 - 11:00 | Emerson Point Preserve, 5801 17th St W, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Guided tour of Emerson Point Preserve with a Master Gardener Volunteer!
First Saturday of the month (November – April), at 9:00am
Casually stroll through the beautiful Emerson Point Preserve and learn about Florida’s native plants and inhabitants of a coastal environment. Suitable for all ages.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
Meet at the first parking area on the RIGHT at the Observation Tower (not at the classroom).
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.

Connect to Nature Guided Walk
2025-12-06 09:00 - 10:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Enjoy a family friendly nature hike!
An escape to rejuvenate and connect with Mother Nature ( a cradle for wilderness). Take an extra step with Anu ( our new volunteer) to learn about habitat restoration and our resident species at BCP.
Share some of your stories as a nature lover.
This is a family friendly hike. We cover a loop of 0.75 mile trail observing the unique habitats of Brooker Creek.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Additional Notes: Volunteer hike guides will meet participants in the lobby of the Education Center 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. Please note that 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. We strongly suggest all hikers visit the restroom before you begin as there are no facilities along the trail.

Native Plant Walk LLP
2025-12-06 09:00 - 10:00 | Lettuce Lake Conservation Park, 6920 East Fletcher Avenue, Tampa, FL, 33637, United States
Meet behind the Joel E. Jackson Nature Center in the Native Plant Garden for a walk on the paved trail and boardwalk with a representative of the Suncoast Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society.
Learn what grows naturally in the hardwood swamp and how native plants benefit wildlife.
Walks are free but there is a $2 charge to enter the park. Dogs are not allowed on the boardwalk.

Audubon Guided Bird Walk
2025-12-06 08:00 - 10:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Take a guided hike on Moccasin Lake’s newly renovated nature trail while seeking birds by sight and sound.
Bring binoculars and field guides if you have them.
Meet in Moccasin Lake Parking Lot. Free event!

>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
