Return the Preserve Work Day
2022-10-15 08:00 - 11:30 (America/New_York) | The Friends Trail, 3620 Fletch Haven Drive, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
The Preserve Work Days are hosted by the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve!

The Return The Preserve Work Days focus on areas of the preserve where exotic invasive vegetation and unnatural overgrowth exists. It is our goal to help return the preserve to its natural beauty.
Working with FOBCP leadership and Preserve staff, volunteers provide the much needed hands-on support necessary to remove nuisance plants providing a more healthy environment for native wildlife.
Registration is required. This event is capped at 25 volunteers. In addition, the Volunteer Form must be completed and brought with you the day of the event.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
This Work Day will be focusing on the Friends Trail located at the end of Lora Lane. Lora Lane is located a 1/2 mile west of the main Brooker Entrance off of Keystone. You travel one mile on Lora Lane until the road ends, and park. Registered participants will meet at 7:45, start at 8:00, and work until 11:00.
Important notes: There are no facilities or restrooms at this site.
Please bring clippers, loppers, hand saws, gloves, hat, and sunscreen. Long sleeve shirts and long pants are recommended; closed shoes are required.
For more information or questions, please contact the project leader: Evan Earle at eearlejr@gmail.com

Science Sprouts
2022-10-15 09:00 - 10:00, 2022-10-22 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.

Rye Preserve Tour
2022-10-15 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!

Weedon Walkabout
2022-10-15 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 <<<

Archaeology Day at Weedon Island
2022-10-15 10:00 - 14:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Celebrate International Archaeology Day at the Weedon Island Preserve!

Examine ancient artifacts and discover the rich history of Tampa Bay at our celebration of International Archaeology Day at the Weedon Island Preserve!
The Alliance for Weedon Island Archaeological Research and Education (AWIARE) and the Central Florida Gulf Coast Archaeological Society (CGCAS) will be on-site with a diverse showcase of pre-Columbian artifacts from the Tampa Bay region and archaeological experts will be on-hand to illustrate the use of these tools and their importance to native populations.
Local fossil collectors are encouraged to bring in artifacts such as arrow heads, lithics, and pottery sherds for identification during Archaeology Day. No dollar value will be assigned or discussed, but educational information will be generously shared.
Explore the artifacts and talk with the archaeologists at your leisure anytime between 10am to 2pm. Also, check out the 1,100 year old dugout canoe on display in the Center and visit our free museum exhibit “Connecting People and Place” that tells the story of Weedon Island and its earliest inhabitants.
This event is suitable for all ages. The Center and its museum exhibits are open from 9am to 4pm.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Chalktober Art Festival 2022
2022-10-15 10:00 - 16:00 | Pier 60 Clearwater Beach
Get outside and see local and visiting chalk artists turn Clearwater sidewalks into works of art. This family-friendly art festival also includes a kid’s zone, arts and crafts vendors, live music and a one-of-a-kind open-air art gallery.
There will be: Live Chalking, Live Music, Craft Vendors, Craft Beer, Wine & Seltzers, Kids Chalkzone, Food Trucks, and more!

The Magic of Mushrooms
2022-10-15 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Mushroom Biology and Ecology, mushroom growing kits available for purchase

Mention mushrooms and most people think of three things: eating them, DYING from eating them and/or their use in recreational drug use. Let’s put those topics aside and explore fun facts about these fascinating and ecologically important organisms! Recommended for adults and youth over 12. Note: this class will NOT address edible wild mushrooms, BUT participants can purchase their own mini mushroom farm to watch the magic happen at home, thanks to the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve!
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

29th Annual Fishing Line Island Cleanup
2022-10-16 07:00 - 19:00, 2022-10-17 07:00 - 19:00, 2022-10-18 07:00 - 19:00, 2022-10-19 07:00 - 19:00, 2022-10-20 07:00 - 19:00, 2022-10-21 07:00 - 19:00, 2022-10-22 07:00 - 19:00, 2022-10-23 07:00 - 19:00 | FL
Join Tampa Bay Watch and Audubon Florida for the 29th Annual Fishing Line Island Cleanup.
The goal is to remove hazardous monofilament line from mangrove shorelines. Monofilament or “mono,” is a fancy word for the commonly used plastic fishing line. It has great fishing utility, but can take over 600 years to break down and poses serious threats to birds and other wildlife. Improperly discarded mono and fishing gear leads to wildlife entanglement, accidental hooks, and ingestion.
This will be a self-led event, where participants will travel out to their designated location by personal boat/other watercraft any day between October 15-23 to target shorelines where cast line has been caught in the tree line. Volunteers will compile the recovered monofilament, to be collected, cleaned, and recycled.
There are a variety of sites in which to participate—all critical bird nesting habitat—throughout Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Manatee.

Click here to register to volunteer for this event.

Oyster Reef Ball Construction
2022-10-18 09:00 - 12:00, 2022-10-20 09:00 - 12:00, 2022-10-24 09:00 - 12:00 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
Join us at the Tampa Bay Watch Marine Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South in Tierra Verde to help build oyster reef balls!
This task involves pouring marine-friendly concrete into a fiberglass mold to create oyster reef balls, then taking apart the molds when dry. The reef balls will be installed at a future date to stabilize shorelines and prevent erosion while creating habitat similar to natural oyster communities found along shoreline areas throughout Tampa Bay.
Click here to visit our webpage to learn more about reef balls.
Click here to register to volunteer!

Reptile Wednesdays with Dennis!
2022-10-19 10:00 - 16:00, 2022-10-26 10:00 - 16:00 | 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 <<<

Friends of Moccasin Lake Meeting
2022-10-19 18:30 - 19:30 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
The Friends of Moccasin Lake believe that it is imperative that one of the last truly natural green spaces in the most developed county in Florida must be protected and maintained for current and future generations to visit, learn and celebrate what “Old Florida” used to look like.
We ask that you visit our magnificent Nature Park and enjoy some birding, hiking, or just sit and enjoy the sounds of nature that few places can offer in today’s ever changing and complicated world.
The Friends of Moccasin Lake is a 501C3 nonprofit organization.

Join Us
The Friends of Moccasin Lake need your help! We are advocates of Moccasin Lake Nature Park and would like to expand our membership to include you and your special skills, talents, and support.

Organic Gardening Series: Propagation
2022-10-21 09:00 - 11:00 | Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Office, 1303 17th St W, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Learn where to source organic seeds, how to grow and plant them, and tips for propagation by cuttings!

Organically grown transplants for the garden can be difficult to find. You can grow your own and experiment with different varieties along the way. Learn where to source organic seeds, how to grow and plant them, and tips for propagation by cuttings.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Please send special accommodation requests to katiebg@ufl.edu at least 10 days prior to the event. Refund requests must be submitted at least 24 hours before event.

HISTORIC HOME TOURS & DEMONSTRATIONS
2022-10-22 | Boyd Hill – 31st Street S, 3130 31st Street S, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
The Pinellas Pioneer Settlement, located at 3010 31st Street South, features several historic and replica buildings that showcase life in West Central Florida circa 1880 -1920.
All Ages Welcome
Cost: $5 for adults, $3 for children

Historic Homes Tour – Every Saturday at 10 a.m.
Demonstrations – Every Saturday between 1 & 3 p.m.

Demonstration Schedule:

September 3: Rope making
September 10: Candle making
September 17: Print making
September 24: Laundry Day

FOR KIDS ONLY -Our Native, Solitary Bees
2022-10-22 10:00 - 11:30 | Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Office, 1303 17th St W, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
For kids only! Learn about Florida’s native bees!

If you asked a child to show you a picture of a bee, most would automatically show you a honey bee. But do you know there are over 300 species of native bees in Florida? In this program, children will learn about the many kinds of native bees that are beneficial in the garden along with anatomy and interesting facts about native bees. They will gain a better understanding of pollination and learn about native bee habitats. The children will create their own bee hotel to hang outside their home. Sign up early for our brand new children’s program.
Class is limited to 15 children, ages 6-12. Fee $5 per child.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Please submit special accommodation requests to katiebg@ufl.edu at least 10 days prior to the event. Refund requests must be submitted at least 24 hours before event.

Orchid Mounting - Make & Take Workshop
2022-10-22 10:00 - 12:00 | Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Office, 1303 17th St W, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
A workshop demonstrating how to mount an orchid on wood or other found objects!

A workshop demonstrating how to mount an orchid on wood or other found objects – and you will make your own to take home! Learn about these beautiful epiphytes and how they can enhance your home and landscape. Registration and advance payment of $25 for materials.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Please email special accommodation requests to katiebg@ufl.edu at least 10 days prior to event. Refund requests must be submitted at least 24 hours before event.

Pumpkin Fest
2022-10-22 12:00 - 16:00, 2022-10-23 12:00 - 16:00 | Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL, 33778, United States
Join us for our 7th Annual Pumpkin Fest!

Purchase pumpkins on site, $10 each. Florida Botanical Gardens Foundation Members receive their first pumpkin free!

Join us for a pumpkin patch, pumpkin carving, and spooky activities from our returning sponsors Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscaping Association and County Farm Bureau.
Additional vendors will be on site with information and activities, and our Botanical Bounty Gift Shop will have seasonal items for sale.

Youth Citizen Science Training
2022-10-23 13:00 - 16:00 | Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL, 33778, United States
A science learning experience at the Florida Botanical Gardens!

Registration is required.

Event Activities & Information

Activities are open to the public, all ages are welcome. Boy & Girl Scouts will be able to take advantage of this opportunity to earn a Scouts merit badge.
We will meet at the Florida Botanical Gardens on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month to explore the different parts of nature and their interactions.
This event has an open window, from 1-4 PM, come for an hour or stay the full time! Activities will be instructor-led, by an accredited Merit Badge Counselor.
Sessions:Sunday, August 14th & August 28th
Sunday, September 11th & September 25th
Sunday, October 9th & October 23rd (Pumpkin Fest)
Contact our Educator for more information: flbgeducation@gmail.com.

Pasture & Grazing Management Seminar
2022-10-25 18:00 - 20:00 | Hillsborough County Cattlemen’s Association, 6404 S County Road 39, Plant City, FL, 33567, United States
Join us to learn management strategies that can help you utilize your pastures more efficiently.
Grazing is the most economical way to feed livestock.
Throughout this seminar, you will learn how to address soil fertility, weed management, and grazing management for your pastures! Whether you raise cattle, horses, goats, or other animals – pasture management is a key component to healthy animals and forage.
*Learn about the importance of soil fertility for your forages, as well as how to take soil samples.
*Do you have pasture weeds competing with more desirable forages for soil nutrients? We will cover strategies for managing pasture weeds.
*Is your stocking rate appropriate? Learn how this can affect the forage availability, forage utilization and animal performance.
This workshop will be held in person at the Hillsborough County Cattlemen’s Association, 6404 S County Road 39, Plant City, FL 33567.
Registration will start at 5:30pm with the program starting at 6:00pm.
The $10 registration fee covers educational materials and supper. Registration is required.
Persons requiring special accommodations, per the Americans with Disabilities Act, must contact Allie Williams at least 10 days prior to the event.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
For questions contact: Allie Williams at: 813-744-5519 Ext. 54119, allisonwilliams@ufl.edu
The University of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Institution.
