Birding on the Bay
2024-12-07 16:30 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
The Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center Presents:
Birding on the Bay with the MFA

Join us for an unforgettable birdwatching experience on the waters of Tampa Bay! This 75-minute guided boat tour offers a front-row seat to the fascinating bird species that call this vibrant ecosystem home. During the tour, we’ll visit a nearby bird sanctuary island, strategically timed to provide the best viewing opportunities for observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
As we navigate the waters, your expert guide will share insightful details about the diverse bird species you’ll encounter, from elegant waders to soaring seabirds. With our prime location and optimal timing, you’re sure to enjoy exceptional views of these feathered residents as they go about their daily routines.
This tour is perfect for bird enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking to explore the rich wildlife of Tampa Bay in a relaxed and educational setting.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT

Camp Bayou Spring Fest
2025-03-22 09:00 - 12:00 | Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center, 4202 24th St SE, Ruskin, FL, 33570, United States
Join Camp Bayou as it welcomes Spring with some fun activities on Saturday, March 22 from 9am-noon. Some of the activities you can expect include nature activity tables, trail walks, tomato seedling giveaway, and cart tours.
Schedule of Events:
9am open
9:30 Cart tours begin
10:00 Trail walk
10:30 Butterfly Habitat Q&A
11:00 Native Camp Tour
11:30 Fishing Cabin Talk
Noon Final raffle- event ends
Joining the Camp Bayou Nature Center for a morning of fun is the Paleo Preserve Fossil Museum, Manatee Viewing Center, Suncoast Youth Conservation Center, Hillsborough County Parks, Rec and Conservation, Little Manatee River State Park, Alafia River State Park and Florida Forestry Service.
Some of the crafting activities planned:
– pine cone bird feeder
– vine wreaths
– nature journals
– seed bead jewelry
– ‘Camp Bayou’ t-shirts
All supplies provided.
No registration required and it’s free! Come out and experience all that Camp Bayou has to offer.

Naturalist Guided Tour
2025-03-01 09:30 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Enjoy a guided tour to explore the coastal and upland ecosystems of the Weedon Island Preserve!
Participants will learn about the environment, native wildlife, and early history of Weedon Island during a guided walk of the Tower Boardwalk.
The total walk length is 1 mile and it will traverse cement path and boardwalk, along with an optional climb to the top of the Observation Tower.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Froggin' Around
2025-03-22 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Let’s have a little frog fun to celebrate World Water Day!
Ages 4 yrs – 8 yrs
Come dressed like your favorite frog and enjoy a frog’s point of view. Join Connie Nye to learn about adaptations and the life cycle of frogs.
A reading of “Can He Keep It?” and a book signing included.
Books are not included, but will be available for a $20 purchase.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT

Ethnobotany and Archaeology Open House
2025-03-22 10:00 - 13:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
See ancient artifacts and learn how people have used native plants for everything from food and medicine to making ropes and even paint!

Join us for a celebration of Florida Archaeology Month!
Learn how indigenous Floridians used native plants as an everyday resource in the “Florida Native Plants Through Time” exhibit and demonstration. Exhibit designer and plant expert, Ben Metcantade, will be on-hand to answer questions and demonstrate how the plants were used. Observe a hands-on demonstration on fiber-thread making from the native yucca plant. In addition, find out which native plants were popular in the 19th century through present day. The exhibit also features native plants, books, and resources on sustainable design and the importance of pollinators.
Also meet Weedon Island’s archaeologists and see their displays of artifacts, tools, and other items. Bring your own fossils and artifacts to be identified and their uses determined by on-site archaeology experts. Partner organizations will be on-site with their own displays and information, such as the Alliance for Weedon Archaeological Research and Education (AWIARE), the west central region of the Florida Public Archaeology Network (FPAN), the Central Gulf Coast Archaeological Society (CGCAS), and more.

This event is free and open to all ages! Join us anytime between 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to enjoy the displays, talk to an archaeologist, and learn more about the indigenous history of Tampa Bay!

Advanced Plant Identification - 4-Part Series
2025-03-08 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

Perico Preserve Tour
2025-01-26 09:00 - 11:00 | Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
Guided tour through Perico Preserve with a Master Gardener Volunteer.

Fourth Sunday of the month (January – April), at 9:00am
Explore one of Manatee County’s newest preserves and learn about Florida’s native plants, how they benefit wildlife, and how they can be used in the home landscape. Learn about the wide variety of ecosystems on display and how the preserve was transformed into what it is today.
Suitable for all ages.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Kayak Tampa Bay
2025-03-23 09:00 - 12:00 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
Ages 12+ • 3 Hours • 3000 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde, FL 33715

Back by popular demand, Tampa Bay Watch is launching guided kayak tours of the Bay. Embark with us on an unforgettable journey through the serene waters of our stunning estuary! This tour offers an immersive experience in nature, combining the joy of paddling with a unique opportunity to observe and learn about local species.
As you glide through calm waters, your expert naturalist will share fascinating insights into the diverse ecosystems and residents of the estuary. You’ll have the chance to encounter a variety of wildlife while exploring the mangrove forests and seagrass beds of Tampa Bay. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a beginner, the experience is designed to be both relaxing and informative, offering a rare chance to connect with nature while honing your kayaking skills!
Kayak, paddles, and life jackets will be provided. Guests are encouraged to bring snacks, water, and skin protection.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT

Introduction to Beekeeping
2025-03-09 11:00 - 13:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Introduction to Beekeeping:
A Hobby with Sweet Rewards
~ 3 Sessions ~
This program will introduce you to the basics of honey bees, their behavior, biology and the guiding principles of beekeeping.
Instructor: Robert Burkard, President of the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve’s Beekeepers Club
Why honey bees? In addition to the personal satisfaction of harvesting your own pure natural honey, many of our food staples would disappear without honey bees for pollination. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, these under-appreciated workers pollinate 80 percent of our flowering crops, which constitute one-third of everything we eat. Hobbyist beekeepers play a vital role in keeping our honey bee population healthy.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Equinox: A Guide to Spring Skies 2025
2025-03-26 06:30 - 20:00 | Bishop Museum of Science ﻿and Nature, 201 10th St. West, Bradenton, FL, 34205, United States
Join us in The Planetarium at The Bishop to celebrate the Vernal Equinox! Explore the rising Spring constellations and get to know your night sky. Learn some tips and tricks to finding your favorite objects and take a closer look at images from the James Webb Space Telescope! Keep an eye out for comets, meteor showers, and some incredible eclipses as we spring forward into the exciting astronomical events of the season.
Doors open at 6:30pm. Presentation begins at 7pm inside The Planetarium.
Preregistration required.

Elemental Seasons Homeschool - BHNP Spring 2025
2025-03-05 09:30 - 12:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join Ruth Glass as we study the seasons and traditional celebrations from around the world.
Children will go on hikes, participate in celebrations of nature, and create nature art to take home.
Please bring water and a snack.
Ages 5 yrs – 12 yrs
>>> ENROLL HERE

Reptile Wednesdays with Dennis!
2025-03-19 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!

Book Time at Brooker
2025-01-02 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

Design Your Landscape to Your Site Conditions
2025-03-27 13:30 - 15:30 | Palmetto Library, 923 6th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Learn about the many facets to consider for designing your landscape & plant selection.
Co-presented by:
Valrie Massey, Horticulture Program Assistant with the Manatee County Mobile Irrigation Lab and the University of Florida, Manatee County Ag Extension.
Susan Griffith, Florida Friendly Landscape Coordinator, working with the University of Florida, Manatee County Ag Extension.
Manatee County’s Mobile Irrigation Lab program is supported by the Manatee County Utilities department, celebrated 20 years in 2023. The focus of the program is to educate homeowners on how to use the least amount of water and still have a healthy landscape.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT

Farming at Boyd Hill Garden
2024-09-05 15:30 - 17:00 | Pinellas Pioneer Settlement, 3130 31st Street South, St. Petersburg, FL, 33712, United States
Fun, hands-on education on organic gardening, raising chickens, and fun activities from 4-H curricula.
Ages 7 yrs – 11 yrs
>>> REGISTER HERE

Military Agriculture Tour (MAT X)
2025-03-28 08:00 - 16:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
To introduce active duty and transitioning personnel, veterans, and their spouses to the diversity of agriculture within Hillsborough County and the diversity of career opportunities in a modern agricultural operation.
The tour will start and end at UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County, 5339 CR 579, Seffner, FL 33584
The bus will leave HC Extension at 0830, prior to that coffee and donuts will be available. Lunch will be provided and we will return to HC Extension by 1600.
Highlights of the tour will include a visit to a tropical aquaculture farm, Astin Farms, a tour of the UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, and other Hillsborough County farms.
Cost is $5 which includes lunch. Seating is limited.
Please be sure to wear appropriate clothing and closed-toed shoes.
Please be advised NO REFUNDS
>>> RESERVE A SPOT

Parents Night Out- Wild Wetlands
2025-03-28 18:00 - 22:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Parents enjoy a night out while the kids experience a night of Edventure Exploration! Come learn about our themed nights through games, activities, crafts, and a night hike. A pizza dinner is included.
Participants will learn about the plants and animals that thrive in these unique environments, and how wetlands help our planet. Through games, nature walks, and interactive activities, children will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of wetlands in preserving biodiversity and supporting clean water.
Ages 6 yrs – 12 yrs
>>> RESERVE A SPOT

Special Butterfly Walk!
2025-03-29 09:00 - 11:00 | Folly Farms Nature Preserve, 1538 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Street North, Safety Harbor, FL, 34695, United States
Field Trip Leader: Ron Smith
Location: Folly Farms Nature Preserve
1538 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Street North, Safety Harbor, Florida 34695
Meet at the parking lot. This walk and butterfly introduction day should feature several species of hairstreaks and other early season butterflies. Spectacular native plants display.
What to Bring:
Hat, Binoculars, Water, Insect repellent, Sunscreen

Micro-Irrigation Hands On Workshop
2025-03-29 10:00 - 11:00 | Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL, 33778, United States
Here’s the link to sign up:
https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/microirrigation-hands-on-workshops-4095803

Cherokee Blowgun Workshop
2025-03-29 11:00 - 15:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
>>> RESERVE A SPOT

Wildflower Walk
2025-01-18 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of native Florida flowers on this ranger-led hike.
Join us monthly to discover which flowers are in bloom and learn about their unique beauty and ecological importance in our area.
All ages welcome with a registered adult.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Little Manatee River night paddle
2025-03-29 19:00 - 21:00 | Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center, 4202 24th St SE, Ruskin, FL, 33570, United States
While you are marking your calendar, save the date- Saturday, March 29- for a night paddle to explore the Little Manatee River after dark- without flashlights!
Canoes and kayaks are available for $25 per boat; $5 if you have your own vessel.
Plan to arrive by 7pm to be out on the water by 7:30pm.
Registration required, email campbayou@gmail.com or call the office 813-641-8545.
Camp Bayou continues to offer day paddle trips on the first and third Saturdays each month at 9am, reservations required.

What Should You Be Planting Right Now?
2025-03-30 13:00 - 14:00 | ZOOM, United States
Spring is here—are you planting the right things at the right time?
On March 30th, I’m hosting a free webinar where we’ll go over the best crops to plant this time of year, key timing strategies, and simple ways to get a stronger, healthier garden.
Whether you’re just starting or have been gardening for years, this will help you plant with confidence.
>>> REGISTER HERE

No Foolin'! Myths & Misconceptions about Tree Care
2025-04-01 12:00 - 13:00 | ZOOM, United States
Join UF/IFAS Extension Urban Forestry Agents, Alyssa and Jaime while we discuss common misconceptions about tree care. We will cover everything from normal abnormalities, to pruning cuts, mushrooms and more!
We will conduct this Webinar online, via Zoom. No additional software or extra computer skills are necessary – just click to join!
>>> REGISTER HERE

Science Rocks
2025-04-03 10:30 - 11:30 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Science Rocks for kids 4 – 6 years of age. New topic every month! Free program!
Reservations are required!
