PADDLE CLAM BAYOU
2019-03-09 09:00 - 11:30 (America/New_York) | Clam Bayou Nature Preserve, 34th Avenue S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Guided paddle takes visitors into undiscovered parts of St. Pete’s newest preserve, Clam Bayou. Parking is located at the west end of 34th Ave. S.
Ages 8 and up
Registration: http://www.stpeteparksrec.org/boyd-hill.html

Trail Ride
2019-03-08 08:30 - 10:30 | Long Center, 1501 N Belcher Road, Clearwater, FL, 33765, United States
Meet at Long Center (west side of practice field), Clearwater, FL
Focus on enjoying yourself during this ride led by a cycling expert. Riders of all skill levels welcome.
Registration:
https://www.meetup.com/Moccasin-Lake-Environmental-Education-Center/

Meditation for Beginners
2019-03-07 18:30 - 19:30 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Free and open to all
In this one-hour session, you will learn Isha Kriya, a simple 12-18-minute practice, to help you to become meditative effortlessly. Attain health, clarity, and joy Isha Kriya does not require any previous experience with meditation and can be done sitting in a chair. Designed by Sadhguru, a realized yogi and a foremost authority in the field of yoga, sessions will be conducted by a trained instructor of the Isha foundation. For ages 12 & up.
Registration:
https://www.meetup.com/Moccasin-Lake-Environmental-Education-Center/

Lake Okeechobee & Coastal Water Quality
2019-03-07 18:00 - 19:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Salty Topics: Lake Okeechobee and Coastal Water Quality
Salty Topics is a marine research speaker series provided by UF/IFAS Extension Pinellas County Florida Sea Grant. This spring 2019 series will focus on coastal and marine water quality, an issue of utmost concern for the residents of Pinellas County and the greater Tampa Bay region. This talk will be on the blue-green algae blooms that have recently impacted South Florida’s coastal estuaries. The speakers will provide clarity on the issues, speaking to the history of drainage in south Florida and Lake Okeechobee management, coastal discharges and the most recent bloom events, and current and future restoration opportunities. Free.
Register at https://saltytopicslakeokeechobee.eventbrite.com or call Weedon Island Preserve at (727)453-6500 for assistance.

VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION
2019-03-07 16:30 - 18:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Looking for a simple way to give back to our community? Choose from a variety of volunteer opportunities at the preserve!
Call the preserve to reserve your spot (727-893-7326.)

Robinson Preserve: Mangrove Migration
2019-02-08 09:30 - 11:00 | ROBINSON PRESERVE, 1704 99th Street Northwest, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
Part of Around the Bend Nature Tours Coastal Climate Walk 2019 series
Discover how mangroves are adapting to a moving coastline.
Mangrove physiology, salterns, fiddler crabs, coastal restoration.
All walks are short with lots of time interpreting the natural and cultural history. Wear walking shoes and dress for the weather.
To register for all 7 walks (and get one FREE!) CLICK HERE
For a 20% discount on 4 walks CLICK HERE

Gardening in Central Florida
2019-02-02 13:00 - 14:30 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Are you new to gardening in Central Florida? Newcomers often have trouble getting plants to survive, much less thrive. This informative workshop can help you make the transition to successful gardens in conditions unique to Central Florida. $5 fee for materials.
To register click here: http://gardening_in_central_florida.eventbrite.com or all the Extension Master Gardeners at (941) 722-4524.

Raptor Fest
2019-02-02 10:00 - 16:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States

GRAND REOPENING OF MOCCASIN LAKE NATURE PARK
2019-02-02 10:00 - 15:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
We are ready to reopen to the public and invite you to join us in a small celebration of this nearly $1 million-dollar renovation of the park which includes a new interpretive center, outdoor amphitheater, playground and landscaping. Visit with the various clubs that meet here, chat with our program instructors and take a walk along our trails! There will be food, kid’s crafts and presentations. Admission and parking is free!

Herb Gardening
2019-02-02 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Start this season with your own herbal garden! Let us introduce you to some of the herbs that thrive in our Florida climate. Explore how to grow them and use in your kitchen. Information will be given on their medicinal values and how they may affect or enhance your health. $5 administrative fee.
To register click here: http://herb_gardening.eventbrite.com or call the Extension Master Gardeners at (941) 722-4524.

NINJA CAMP
2019-02-01 18:00 - 21:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Children ages 6-17 will learn the ninja philosophies of respect,
discipline and self-defense.

Coastal Climate Walk: Early Restoration Efforts
2019-02-01 09:30 - 11:00 | Leffis Key, 2350 Gulf Drive S, Bradenton Beach, FL, 34217, United States
Part of Around the Bend Nature Tours Coastal Climate Walk 2019 series
Discover the first mangrove coastal restoration project on Sarasota Bay.
How to plant mangroves, mangrove forest boardwalk, inlet dynamics, bird migration stopover.
All walks are short with lots of time interpreting the natural and cultural history. Wear walking shoes and dress for the weather.
To register for all 7 walks (and get one FREE!) CLICK HERE
For a 20% discount on 4 walks CLICK HERE

Transforming your Landscape to an Attractive Native Plant Oasis
2019-01-31 14:00 - 15:30 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Learn how to transform from a traditional yard to an attractive native plant oasis that will provide a variety of environmental benefits.
Steve Turnipseed, President of the Villages Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society will provide the insight and inspiration you need to successfully implement residential native landscape projects. During this presentation, Steve will teach you about how residents in a gated, deed restricted community have developed successful native landscape designs, obtained approval, and installed and maintained yards with native plants and little to no turfgrass.
Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/weedon-island-preserve-cultural-and-natural-history-center-1250121017

CORE - APPLYING PESTICIDES CORRECTLY (MANATEE)
2019-01-29 08:30 - 11:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
CORE – Applying Pesticides Correctly
Exam Prep 9:00am – 11:00am
Exam Session 11:00am – 1:00pm
Review of General Standards Topics Including:

Pesticide Law
Principles of Pest Control
Pesticide Labels
Environmental Hazards
Harmful Effects and PPE
Mixing, Loading and Application
Transportation, Disposal and Spill Cleanup
Pesticide Application Procedures

In order to take the test you must obtain a voucher at https://pesticideexam.ifas.ufl.edu/ click on “apply for exam”. This will take you to the FreshfromFlorida website where you will complete your information.
Registration – Registration is required. Registration and/or payment on the day of the event will be charged an additional $10.00 fee.
To register, click here.
Should you have questions, please contact Lisa Hickey at 941-722-4524, Ext. 1817.

SUNCOAST HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY MEETING
2019-01-26 18:00 - 20:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Guest speakers share their expertise on certain reptile and amphibian breeds on a monthly basis; some bring live animals. Learn fascinating facts on husbandry and diet to threats of extinction and how to protect these animals. The group offers presentations with live reptiles and amphibians to schools, clubs, etc., teaching responsible pet ownership, conservation and preservation through education.
Registration: https://www.meetup.com/Moccasin-Lake-Environmental-Education-Center/

The Four Mile Hike
2019-01-26 09:00 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, United States
Join us for a 2.8 to 4 mile walk as we look at how the land has changed over time and discuss the ecological footprints left by those changes. Hike trails will be determined by trail condition. Sturdy closed-toe shoes are a must, and water and a hat are recommended.
All ages are welcome. Children under the ages of 16 must be accompanied by an adult and those younger than 10 may find this hike challenging.
Guided Hike Information
Volunteer Hike Guides will meet participants in the lobby of the Exhibit Hall 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. We strongly suggest all hikers visit the restroom before we begin as there are no facilities along the trail.

Pre-registration is required by 12:00 noon on the Friday before the hike.
Guided hikes vary in length, much of which is on unimproved, uneven sandy trails.
Hike takes about 3 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.

Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/brooker-creek-preserve-environmental-education-center-pinellas-county-extension-1249569181

English - Landscape BMP (COMMERCIAL)
2019-01-24 12:30 - 17:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
English Landscape BMP Certification Class – This class is required by Manatee County to provide training in Landscape Best Management Practices for anyone working in the landscape maintenance industry who DOES NOT apply fertilizer.
On-line registration fee: $10.00
At-the-Door registration fee: $15.00
For further information, please contact Angie Gigliotti 941-722-4524 ext. 1823 or click here to register.

THIS CLASS IS FOR COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPERS
This class is required by Manatee County to provide training in Landscape Best Management Practices for anyone working in the landscape maintenance industry who DOES NOT apply fertilizer.
This class meets the requirements of the Manatee County fertilizer ordinance # 11-21. The ordinance requires that all employees of commercial companies, governments and in-house employees of private companies who perform landscape maintenance duties will obtain this certification.
This class provides the training and testing necessary to obtain this certification. It is focused on reducing non-point source pollution resulting from landscape maintenance activities. Following completion of this training, you will be given a post-test to determine knowledge learned. If the post-test is successfully completed, you will be mailed a certificate of completion.
CEUs:

2-O&T, 2-Private, 2-CLO, 2-LCLM, 2-LLO, 2-R-O-W

Registration – Registration is required. Registration on the day of the event will be charged an additional $5.00 fee.

Cancellations – If your class is canceled for any reason you will be notified no less than 24 hours prior to class start. We will provide a full refund for cancellations made by Manatee County Extension. Refunds may take up to 30 days to process.
Refunds – Refunds will be made in the event of a class cancellation or if the registrant requests a refund 24 hours prior to the class time.
If you have any questions pertaining to class information or CEUs, please contact Michelle at 941-722-4524 or email michelleatkinson@ufl.edu.

Wee-Time at Weedon
2019-01-24 10:30 - 11:30, 2019-01-10 10:30 - 11:30 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
This program is designed to introduce young ones to the wonders of the natural and cultural world. Every second and fourth Thursday of each month, children are treated to a variety of stories and hands-on activities that connect them to their environment. This activity is recommended for ages 3 to 5.
Space is limited. Pre-registration is required for children, but accompanying adults do not need to register themselves.
Questions or concerns? Please contact the WIP Cultural and Natural History Center at (727) 453-6500.
Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/weedon-island-preserve-cultural-and-natural-history-center-1250121017

Free Concert
2019-01-19 19:00 - 21:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Free Concert – Suzanne & Jim!
It seems like only yesterday — in fact it was yesterday…25 years ago — that what I originally took to be a casual remark by Suzanne, “Let’s play music”, started to become our life. On December 15, 1992 we packed what we owned, a guitar and a banjo (and two cats) into our green Ford pickup, strapped a tent to the top of the bed topper and set out.
We never looked back but, to tell the truth, weren’t looking forward much either. We had no plan other than to see what we could do to earn our living by performing. After 25 years and an estimated three quarter of a million miles on the road that is still pretty much the plan.
Along the way we have made so many wonderful friends, people who have become as a family to us. We have experienced the joy of receptive listeners on concert stages, in living rooms and street corners across the country and in Canada and Europe, as well. We have introduced audiences to the beauty of our traditional and historic music, not as antique curiosities but as a living part of our American culture, the memes that have informed our culture, the voices of our ancestors who have spoken of their joys and trials.
We have searched for the narrative that puts these songs and stories in a framework of universal human experience. In short, we have been Song-Chasers.
We have shared our love of this music with other like minded musicians and found that it transcends philosophical, religious and political beliefs, drawing otherwise disparate people together in a bond of melody and song.
We have learned that our strength lies in the complete trust and confidence we share in one another. We have learned that, deep down, all peoples are the same in their need for the truth and beauty of music. That in times of doubt the music will carry us on. We have indeed been blessed.
With luck we’ll keep singing … and Keep Smilin’ —— Jim Hale and Suzanne Jaroszynski
https://www.suzanneandjim.com/

BOOKS ‘N’ BIRDS
2019-01-19 10:30 - 11:30 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Enjoy nature book reading, see a live owl and have some refreshments
Registration: https://www.meetup.com/Moccasin-Lake-Environmental-Education-Center/

SAFETY HARBOR GARDENING CLUB
2019-01-16 10:00 - 12:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
There’s a lot to learn about gardening. This group presents educational
programs on a variety of gardening topics. For members, there are field
trips and other special programs.

FLORIDA HERB SOCIETY MEETING
2019-01-15 18:30 - 21:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Bring herb cuttings, seeds and plants to swap along with your favorite herbal delight to add to the tasting and herbal swap tables. Registration and herbal swap starts at 6:30 p.m.
Registration: https://www.meetup.com/Moccasin-Lake-Environmental-Education-Center/

Off the Beaten Path
2019-01-13 09:00 - 13:00 | Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, United States
A nature-based fundraising hike series!
Description: This series of four hikes will take place in beautiful areas tucked away within Brooker Creek Preserve in sites that are closed to the public. Our guide, Dr. Craig Huegel, a Wildlife Ecologist with St. Petersburg College, can identify everything, from the tiniest moss to the tallest tree including animal prints, bird calls, lichens, and more. He is full of stories and very patient in answering questions. The hikes will be not only educational, but a lot of fun as well! The hikes will begin at 9:00 a.m. and be about 3-4 hours long. Bring
water and lunch.
Cost: $80 donation for the series or $25 donation per hike. There is a 10% discount for members of Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve.
Sites Off the Beaten Path:
Jan. 13, 2019 – Cypress Swamp Stomp – Located in the central part of the preserve, this site features orchids, ferns, and epiphytes. Plan to get wet, or maybe not, as we plunge into the depths of the swamp!
March 24, 2019 – Sandhill Scramble – The only true sandhills of Brooker Creek Preserve. This site is in the northern end of the preserve and will feature an abundance of spring wildflowers.
June 23, 2019 – Interior Wildlands – We will be in parts of the Preserve so remote that cell phones won’t work, areas so pretty you won’t believe you are in Pinellas County!
Sept. 22, 2019 – In Search of the Catesby’s Lily – Located in the eastern part of the preserve, we will search for the threatened Catesby’s Lily. In so doing, we will see a profusion of beautiful fall wildflowers in full bloom.
Reservations Required: Sign up early! Only 20 spots are open for these fabulous hikes off the beaten path!
Questions or to reserve your spot: fobcp@tampabay.rr.com or 727-934-2680.

Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/brooker-creek-preserve-environmental-education-center-pinellas-county-extension-1249569181

TAMPA BAY TURTLE & TORTOISE SOCIETY
2019-01-12 19:00 - 21:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
The Tampa Bay Turtle & Tortoise Society assists in conservation of turtles
and tortoises. Each month, a speaker discusses topics that emphasize
education, conservation and proper captive husbandry. The group also
conducts at least one field trip, sometimes two, as a club. Call Ralph
Till at 515-7443.

Gopher Tortoises + Prescribed Fire = Increased Biodiversity
2019-01-12 10:00 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Brooker Creek Preserve is home to one of Pinellas County’s largest populations of gopher tortoises, a threatened, burrowing species which occurs in upland habitats. Learn about the significant ecological role played by this keystone species. Find out how habitat restoration, including the use of prescribed fire, can greatly benefit plant and animal communities. This program is recommended for all ages.
George L. Heinrich is a field biologist and environmental educator specializing in Florida reptiles. His company, Heinrich Ecological Services, is based in St. Petersburg, Florida, and conducts wildlife surveys and research, natural history programming, and nature-based tours.
This program is sponsored by the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve.
Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/brooker-creek-preserve-environmental-education-center-pinellas-county-extension-1249569181

Marvelous Manatees
2019-01-12 10:00 - 11:30 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Going Coastal:
Marvelous Manatees
Manatees are one of Florida’s gentle giants. This winter, manatees leave the cooler open waters of the Gulf of Mexico and flock to the warmer waters of Florida Springs and power plants. This gives you a great opportunity to get up and close viewing a wild manatee. Come join UF IFAS Extension Florida Sea Grant Agent Libby Carnahan to learn all about the Marvelous Manatees including the life history, why they are a Threatened Species, what you can do to help protect them, and where you can go to observe them in the wild or captivity. This family-friendly program is suitable for all ages.
For more information please contact Libby Carnahan at 453-6522 or lcarnahan@co.pinellas.fl.us.
Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/weedon-island-preserve-cultural-and-natural-history-center-1250121017

Nature Discovery on Two Wheels Trail Ride
2019-01-11 08:30 - 10:30 | Long Center, 1501 N Belcher Road, Clearwater, FL, 33765, United States
CHAINWHEEL DRIVE:
Nature Discovery on Two Wheels Trail Ride
Meet at Long Center (west side of practice field), Clearwater, FL
Focus on enjoying yourself during this ride led by a cycling expert.
Riders of all skill levels welcome.
chainwheeldrive.com, cycling@chainwheeldrive.com or call 441-2444 Free!

PINELLAS NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY MEETING
2019-01-09 19:00 - 21:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
This educational and recreational club is for those interested in native
plants. The program addresses native plant topics at meetings

CLEARWATER AUDUBON SOCIETY MEETING
2019-01-07 18:30 - 21:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
The local chapter of the National Audubon Society conducts field trips to Florida’s natural areas, supports local environmental education efforts and sponsors environmental educators to Audubon training centers. Everyone is welcome.
Registration: https://www.meetup.com/Moccasin-Lake-Environmental-Education-Center/
