Book Time at Brooker
2025-11-27 10:30 - 11:00, 2025-12-04 10:30 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | 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 <<<

Dune Savers Work Day
2025-11-28 07:30 - 08:30, 2025-12-05 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!

Walking With Wildlife
2025-11-29 09:00 - 10:30 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
Guided Nature Walking Tour Along the St Pete Pier
The new St Pete Pier offers a variety of amenities for locals and tourists alike. However, humans are not the only ones who can be found soaking up the Florida sun! Join us for a guided walking tour to get a closer look at the wildlife and habitats found nestled into the St Pete Pier.
During this 90 minute walking tour, participants will learn how to become citizen scientists by discovering how to properly identify species and how to import their sightings into a global data collection platform. There will be multiple stopping points along the way as we examine the interactions between humans and nature while conducting citizen science.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Advanced Plant Identification - 4-Part Series
2025-11-29 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.

Adult Night Hike
2025-11-29 19:00 - 20:30 | 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 <<<

Reptile Wednesdays with Dennis!
2025-12-03 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!

Science Rocks!
2025-12-04 10:00 - 11:30 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Science Rocks is FREE and hosted by the Clearwater Community Woman’s Club.
This class is designed for children ages 4-6 years old, and all must be accompanied by a guardian. The class will cover many different science topics through literature, hands-on activities, discussion, art activities, and invited speakers.
There is a maximum of 12 students for each class.
Registration is required for the children only. Please make plans now before classes fill up!
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
The date/topic for the Science Rocks classes is as follows and is always 10:15am to 11:30am:
September 4: The Scientific Method
October 2: Sea Life
November 6: Gobble, Gobble…Turkeys
January 8: Germs, what are they?
February 5: Teeth First, Food Second
March 5: Rabbits
April 2: The Secret Life of Plants
May 7: Cats…Meow, Meow
Communication with teachers: [sciencerocksmoccasin@gmail.com](mailto:sciencerocksmoccasin@gmail.com)
Classes held at Moccasin Lake Nature Park, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL 33759. 727-562-4315, then press 1.

Bay Babies
2025-12-05 11:00 - 12:00, 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.

Teen Homeschooler Hike
2025-12-05 11:00 - 12:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Teens are invited to explore the woods of “Our Wildest Place”!
Join us on an educational guided hike geared toward teens! We’ll explore the native plants and animals that call Brooker Creek home with Volunteer hike guide and naturalist, Sara Ratza.
Participants are welcome to bring a lunch to enjoy after the hike together.
Registration is required. Space is limited and this hike will cap at 20 participants. Please register just your teen, ages 13+.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
This hike is for our teens to connect with fellow teens, parents are welcome to join, but parents with younger siblings can wait in the Exhibit Hall. This is not a drop-off program. Meet in the Exhibit Hall.

Pollinator Gardening
2025-12-05 12:00 - 13:00 | Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa, FL, 33618, United States
Learn how to grow plants to attract pollinators to your yard.
Join UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County to learn strategies to attract pollinators to your yard. In this in-person class, you will learn how to select and plant flowers in your home for a more pollinator-friendly landscape. This program is in support of the Carrollwood Pollinator Corridor in collaboration with Carrollwood Village Park, Carrollwood Cultural Center and VISTA Gardens and supported by the Florida Wildflower Foundation’s Viva Florida Landscape Demonstration Garden program.
Attendees will receive free plants and seeds to start their own pollinator gardens at home. Thanks to Greenacre Properties https://www.greenacre.com, lunch will be included (choice of half club sandwich, chicken salad on croissant, or vegetarian wrap) catered by the New York Bagel Cafe in Carrollwood Village.
If you have any questions, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at (813) 744-5519.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Marine Biology Homeschool Classes
2025-12-05 13:00 - 14:00, 2025-12-05 14:30 - 15:30 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
Dive into Marine Biology with Tampa Bay Watch!
Tampa Bay Watch is thrilled to introduce a brand-new marine biology unit designed specifically for local homeschoolers. Join us at the beginning of each month for an exciting, hands-on learning experience!
These student-only sessions are perfect for curious minds ages 6 and up, offering opportunities to explore marine ecosystems and engage with real-world science. Whether you drop in for a single class or register for the full series, each session promises discovery, adventure, and fun.
Spaces are limited—reserve your spot today!
$20 per participant
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

October 3rd 1:00 – 2:00 PM
Invertebrate Investigation

Get up-close and personal with some fascinating residents of our estuary as we dive into the world of invertebrates. What makes an invertebrate an invertebrate? Students will explore this question through interactive encounters with animals like sea stars and horseshoe crabs. We’ll sharpen our observation skills and practice scientific classification in a fun, engaging environment.

November 7th 2:30 – 3:30 PM
Squid Dissection

What do snails, clams, and octopuses have in common? In this hands-on program, students will discover what makes a mollusc a mollusc! A guided squid dissection will help us uncover the special traits that unite this diverse group of animals and learn about the many molluscs that call our region home. From shells to squishy bodies, the lesson will be full of surprises and science.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
December 5th 1:00 – 2:00 PM
Iguana Intel

How did iguanas even end up in Florida, and why are they thriving? Students will scope out the story behind these scaly invaders, explore what makes them so successful in our environment, and learn how their presence impacts native wildlife and habitats. A combination of wildlife observation and conservation science, this program empowers students to take action and become stewards of Florida’s natural ecosystems.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
December 5th 2:30 – 3:30 PM
Iguana Dissection

Ages 12+
In this hands-on dissection experience, students will explore the anatomy and adaptations of these reptiles in more detail to better understand their impact on local ecosystems. We’ll also discuss practical ways to protect Florida’s native species and habitats from this persistent invasive species.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Morning Nature Walk Starkey Park
2025-12-06 07:30 - 11:30 | J. B. Starkey Wilderness Park Education Center, 10500 Wilderness Road, New Port Richey, FL, 34655, United States
Pasco Audubon
Meet 7:30 AM
Starkey Education Center
1 to 4 mile walk
Anyone interested in birding or nature in general is welcome to join us on field trips.
Almost all are free. Registration may be required, check the schedule for details.
Dress for the weather and prepare to be outdoors for about 4 hours.
For more info email Christine Rowland

Bird Walk
2025-12-06 08:00 - 09:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join the St. Petersburg Audubon Society for a birdwatching hike at Boyd Hill, where you’ll spot a variety of native species while learning about their habits and habitats.
Perfect for bird enthusiasts of all levels! Binoculars are available for loan.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

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 <<<

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.

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.

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.

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.

Weedon Island Naturalist Guided Tour
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!

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 <<<

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 <<<

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

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.

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 <<<

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 <<<
