Oyster shell project to restore 2D Island
2023-03-31 09:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Williams Park Boat Ramp
The project meeting location is Williams Park boat ramp, 9425 U.S. 41, Riverview, FL 33578, which is next to the U.S. 41 bridge over the Alafia River. We will be installing an oyster shell bar which involves shoveling fossilized shell into mesh bags and transporting the bags via boat to lay on the shoreline of 2D Island. The goal of our efforts is to restore lost habitat by promoting new oyster growth, ultimately improving water quality and providing food sources and habitat for many species.
Click here to register for this project.

Book Time at Brooker
2023-03-30 10:30 - 11:00, 2023-03-23 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.
Additional Notes: 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 building. We will start promptly at 10:30am. Follow signs to the Exhibit Hall.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Ground Covers - Plants That Work
2023-03-30 10:00 - 12:00 | Online Event
Join Valrie Massey, Horticulture Program Assistant, as she presents how landscaping with low-growing ground cover plants has become a popular trend in landscape practices because once they are established, these plants will need little or no water. Learn noteworthy plants, site considerations, and management of these plants.
This class satisfies the landscape educational requirement for the Manatee County Outdoor Water Conservation Rebate Program.
If you have a plant with a problem, you are welcome to show a branch sample with leaf or flower to class.
Contact: Valrie (941) 722-4524, extension 1829 or vmassey@ufl.edu for further class information. Minimum class size required or class will be cancelled. Notification will be sent to those registered.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<
For information and eligibility on the Manatee County Outdoor Rebate Program, please call: Manatee County Utility Department – Water Conservation; Tina (941) 792-8811, ext 5327 or tina.moutoux@mymanatee.org
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 Valrie Massey (vmassey@ufl.edu / 941-722-4524) at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Oyster Reef Ball Construction
2023-03-30 09:00 - 12:00, 2023-03-28 09:00 - 12:00, 2023-03-24 09:00 - 12:00, 2023-03-22 09:00 - 12:00 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway S., 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 taking apart the molds that were previously made and pouring marine-friendly concrete into a fiberglass mold to create oyster reef balls. 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 for this project date.

Natural Scene Investigators
2023-03-30 08:00 - 10:00 | Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast, 400 Palmetto Avenue, Osprey, FL, 34229-0902, United States
Join us at the beautiful and conserved Upper Myakka Preserve! Develop your detective skills while exploring this exceptional protected land. Together with nature interpreter, Jenna Biggs, participants will investigate natural scenes and learn to spot evidence of wildlife all around. Discover how critical thinking skills can help you better understand animal behavior as well as how your findings and observations can help advance science.
Open to those aged 5 and up. Participating children must have an adult guardian present for the duration of the event. Attendees should wear clothing suitable for outdoor exploration and shoes they are comfortable getting wet. Bug spray and sunscreen are recommended.
Space is limited and registration for this free event is required. Reserve your space below.
If the event is marked as ‘sold out’ and you would like to be added to the wait list, please let us know by emailing jenna@conservationfoundation.com.
LEARN MORE AND RSVP

Reptile Wednesdays with Dennis!
2023-03-29 10:00 - 16:00, 2023-03-22 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 <<<

The Journey of Stormwater
2023-03-28 12:00 - 13:30 | Online Event
In this webinar we will follow the flow of rainwater to see where it goes and what happens to it. We will explore how we play a critical role in the big picture of stormwater and the impacts of this water to our local ecosystems. We will start big and end with what you can do to help improve water quality right in your own yard or neighborhood!
Presented by Lara Milligan, Natural Resources Agent for UF/IFAS Extension Pinellas County
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

Irrigation With Water Conservation In Mind
2023-03-28 10:00 - 12:00 | Online Event
Learn how to conserve water in your irrigation system while still maintaining a healthy looking landscape and turf area.
Brian J Rigney, Program Assistant, will focus on how to adjust your in-ground sprinkler system to conserve water, how you can repair parts, and the benefits of installing water-saving irrigation devices. We will have a brief discussion on Florida-Friendly Landscape (TM) tips.

Contact Mr. Rigney (941) 722-4524 X 1828 or BrianRigney@ufl.edu for further class information. Minimum class size required or class will be cancelled. Registered attendees will be notified.
This class satisfies the irrigation educational requirement for the Manatee County Outdoor Water Conservation Rebate Program.
For information and eligibility on the Manatee County Outdoor Rebate Program, please call: Manatee County Utility Department – Water Conservation; Tina (941) 792-8811 X 5327 or tina.moutoux@mymanatee.org
Book your FREE irrigation and landscape evaluation today. Call Maggie Gaughan (941) 722-4524 X 1827 to sign up.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<
The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact Brian Rigney at BrianRigney@ufl.edu or (941) 722-4524 at least one week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

"DEAR TAMPA BAY" FILM SCREENING
2023-03-25 11:00 - 12:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
The National Wildlife Federation (NWF) dedicates a significant portion of their efforts towards protecting natural resources and building upon our conservation heritage for the sake of wildlife, ourselves, our neighbors, and future generations. A great way to spread information regarding conservation is through social media productions. The NWF has begun screening a short film titled “Dear Tampa Bay” at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve. The twenty-minute film dives into the risk of climate change and the solutions needed for Tampa Bay to get ahead of these critical environmental issues. Through personal storytelling from community leaders located across the Gulf, Dear Tampa Bay explains the vulnerability the region possesses in regard to climate related catastrophes. Tampa Bay is referred to as an area of high risk and low readiness. The region has large, growing populations, including communities with high social vulnerability and extensive development in flood-prone areas. The film addresses everything from sea level rise, water quality and quantity, to climate solutions and resilience strategies. Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is proud to be a partner to the National Wildlife Federation. Please join us for the upcoming screening of the short film “Dear Tampa Bay” on March 25th at 11 am in the Nature Center.

Raptors Indigenous to Central Florida
2023-03-25 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Learn about local raptors!
Join the Friends of Largo Nature Parks for an educational presentation on raptors. We will examine the similarities and differences between the five primary types of Birds of Prey, with the help of a few non-releasable raptors from McGough Nature Park!
Family Friendly! Presented by the Friends of Largo Nature Parks. Sponsored by the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve.

FARM DAY
2023-03-25 10:00 - 14:00 | Pinellas Pioneer Settlement, 3130 31st Street South, St. Petersburg, FL, 33712, United States
Join us for a petting zoo, hayride, blacksmith demonstration, and tons of fun activities! Participants will have the chance to churn their own butter, make tons of cool crafts, eat homemade pancakes, drink freshly made lemonade, and visit our plant sale.

Cost: Free* | All ages welcome
*Cash required to purchase tickets for some activities.

FAM Archaeology Day & Presentation
2023-03-25 09:00 - 15:30 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Celebrate Florida Archaeology Month at the Weedon Island Preserve!

Join us for a celebration of Florida Archaeology Month! Examine ancient artifacts and discover the rich history of Tampa Bay at the Weedon Island Preserve.
From 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.:
The Alliance for Weedon Island Archaeological Research and Education (AWIARE), the Central Florida Gulf Coast Archaeological Society (CGCAS), the Florida Public Archaeology Network, and the Tampa Bay History Center will be on-site with a diverse showcase of pre-Columbian artifacts from the Tampa Bay region. Archaeological experts will also 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.
At 2:00 p.m.:
The final event of our Florida Archaeology Month celebration will be a special presentation by Dr. J. Michael Francis as he shares stories and research from St. Augustine’s Parish archive that date from 1594 to 1821. This program is arranged in partnership with the Tampa Bay History Center as part of their “Florida Conversations” series.

To attend this talk in-person, please register here.
To watch online, please register here.

Presentation Synopsis:
St. Augustine, Florida houses the oldest surviving parish records in the United States. In this talk, Dr. J. Michael Francis will introduce this rich collection and to the open-access digital archive he helped to create to bring these records to a global audience. Francis will highlight the early history of colonial Florida, focusing on the rich corpus of baptism, confirmation, marriage, and death records housed in St. Augustine’s Diocesan Archive. He will share some of the remarkable stories that emerge from the badly damaged pages, and he will introduce a new digital archive that provides unparalleled public access to this unique collection.

Perico Preserve Tour
2023-03-25 09:00 - 11:00 | Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
Tour Perico Preserve with a Master Gardener!

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.
Please meet at the pavilion right next to the parking lot at 9AM.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
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 Katie Granberg, katiebg@ufl.edu, (941) 722-4524 x 1815 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Science Sprouts
2023-03-25 09:00 - 10:00, 2023-03-18 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.

Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ for Newcomers
2023-03-24 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Join us for an introduction to Florida-Friendly Landscaping™!
New to Florida? Or just baffled by the plants and conditions here? This class aims to help you get to know us better. We’ll introduce you to the 9 Principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping™, why it is so important and how to get the right plant in the right place for future gardening success. There will be plenty of opportunity to ask questions and we’ll take a tour of our demonstration gardens at the end. In-person class.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
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 Katie Granberg, katiebg@ufl.edu, (941) 722-4524 x 1815 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Photography Hike
2023-03-24 00:00 | FL
Hike the boardwalks and natural paths of Weedon Island, capturing photographs of native flora and fauna along the way.
Hike the Preserve in search of that perfect shot! After a brief classroom session, enjoy a docent-guided hike of Weedon Island that highlights the seasonal features of the Preserve, as well as specific wildlife behaviors that will help participants capture the natural beauty of the area. This program provides great opportunities for photographers of all levels to hone their skills.
This hike is ~2 miles in total length on a combination of boardwalks and unimproved, natural paths. This hike is is best suited for adults.
REGISTER HERE

Exploring the World of Microplastics
2023-03-21 12:00 - 13:30 | Online Event
Lara Milligan, Natural Resources Agent for UF/IFAS Extension Pinellas County, will provide an introduction to microplastics. This presentation will explain sources and threats of microplastics, and highlight steps individuals can take to lessen their contribution to microplastic pollution.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

Sunday Bird Hike
2023-03-19 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 with Alexa 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.

Star Party
2023-03-18 18:30 - 22:30 | Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, United States
Enjoy a star party at the Preserve!

Join The Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve and St. Pete Astronomy Club for a Star Party! Observe the stars through telescopes and enjoy an evening at Brooker Creek Preserve after dark. Night hikes will be conducted as well along the .75 mile Ed Center Trail through the woods. Please bring a chair, water, insect repellent, and your own telescope if you have one.
As always, no pets, no smoking, & no alcohol. Meet at the main parking lot & please arrive between 6:30 and 7:00pm; as the gates will only be open during this time. A suggested donation of $3.00 per person is appreciated.
Questions: info@FriendsOfBrookerCreekPreserve.org or 727-934-2680
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

FAM Walking History Tour
2023-03-18 10:00 - 12:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Join us for a guided walking tour of the Weedon Island Preserve to learn about its aviation history.

St. Petersburg has a long and rich history of aviation, including the well-known first commercial flight in 1914. But in addition to this accomplishment, the Grand Central Airport that functioned on Weedon Island during the early 20th century also led to momentous firsts for flight in St. Pete. Join archaeologists with the Florida Public Archaeology Network for a guided tour of the Preserve to learn about the Island’s history with flight and visit historic sites.
This tour is for adults and youth ages 10 and up. Youth must be supervised by an adult for the full duration of the program.
Attendees will meet inside the Cultural and Natural History Center for a short introduction before departing for the trails. The total hike length may be up to ~2 miles. This hike will traverse uneven, natural paths or boardwalks so participants must be able to manage these conditions. Afterwards, attendees will return to the Center to complete an evaluation of the hike and explore the museum’s exhibits.
Proceeds from this program go to support FPAN in their archaeological mission.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Great American Cleanup
2023-03-18 09:00 - 12:00 | FL
Tampa Bay Watch is recruiting volunteers to participate in the Great American Cleanup at three cleanup sites (Grandview Park, Coquina Key Park, and Maximo Park) in partnership with Keep Pinellas Beautiful on Saturday, March 18 from 9 AM – 12 PM. The Keep America Beautiful Great American Cleanup is the nation’s largest community improvement program which takes place annually during spring in an estimated 15,000 communities nationwide.
Register for Grandview Park
Register for Coquina Key Park
Register for Maximo Park

Rye Preserve Tour
2023-03-18 09:00 - 11:00 | Rye Preserve, 905 Rye Wilderness Trail, Parrish, FL, 34219, United States
Tour Rye Preserve with a Master Gardener!
Take a hike through upland habitats along the beautiful Rye Preserve and learn about Florida’s native plants, natural history, and early settlement of the area.
Suitable for all ages.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Rye Preserve Tour
2023-03-18 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!

Precious Pollinators
2023-03-16 18:30 - 20:00 | Palma Sola Botanical Garden, 9800 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
Learn about pollinators, their favorite plants, and make your own bee box!
This program is offered in partnership between UF/IFAS Extension Manatee County, Palma Sola Botanical Park and the Manatee County Agricultural Museum Inc. This event is family friendly and open to all.
AGENDA:
6:30PM Garden Walk and Talk: Focus on pollinator friendly plants and how to incorporate pollinator friendly practices in your home garden. Led by Master Gardener Volunteers.
7:00PM Break
7:10PM State of Pollinators Presentation: Learn about our native pollinators from Residential Horticulture Agent, Alyssa Vinson.
7:40PM Make and Take Bee Boxes: Build and take home your very own bee box to provide safe habitat to our native bees.
8:00PM Adjourn
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
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 Katie Granberg, katiebg@ufl.edu, (941) 722-4524 x 1815 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.
