Rye Preserve Tour
2023-02-18 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | 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 <<<

Weedon Walkabout
2023-02-18 09:00 - 23:00, 2023-02-25 09:00 - 23:00 | 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.

Explore the mangrove and upland ecosystems of the Weedon Island Preserve on a guided walk of the Tower Boardwalk. This tour will include 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 Weedon Island. Total walk length will be just under 1 mile.
Attendees will meet inside the Cultural and Natural History Center for a short introduction before departing for the trails. This tour is recommended for adults and youth ages 7 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 <<<

Easy Plant Identification: The Big 4
2023-02-18 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Explore the major plant groups!

If you can remember four plant groups (that you’ve already heard of) you have made a big step in plant ID! Let’s explore the Big Four and what makes a plant belong to one particular group. Hopefully you will be shocked and amazed at how much you already know!
Recommended for adults and youth over 12.
Presented by James Stevenson, Education and Outreach Supervisor
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

OPOSSUMS AND ARMADILLOS!
2023-02-18 14:00 - 16:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
UNLOVED ANIMALS SERIES:
OPOSSUMS AND ARMADILLOS!
Nocturnal mammals abound! Come learn all about these secretive critters with activities and presentations.
All ages welcome.

Night Hike in the Preserve
2023-02-18 18:30 - 20:30 | Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, United States
Join the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve for a one-mile hiking experience along the Ed Center Trail…at night! These special hikes are open to the public and limited to 20 people per hike. A $3 per person donation is requested. Hikes are led by Preserve volunteers who are knowledgeable about nocturnal wildlife. The hike is about one-mile in length and will take about 1.5 hours.
Space is limited, registration is required. Please be courteous and do not register unless you plan to attend and cancel your reservation if you can no longer attend.
These hikes are for adults and families only. Children must be accompanied by parents. Please leave your pets at home. Pets are not permitted in County Preserves.
Meet at the main parking lot at Brooker Creek Preserve. You must pre-register for the night hikes!
Questions: info@FriendsOfBrookerCreekPreserve.org or 727-934-2680.

>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Rad Reptiles
2023-02-19 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Come learn about incredible reptiles from around the world! Each class includes hands on activities, a guided hike on the trails, and live animal encounters. Participants will enjoy a safe learning environment that promotes knowledge of the local environment and a love of nature
Ages 6 & up
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Music in the Woods
2023-02-19 15:00 - 17:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Enjoy the harmonic contemporary/folk music of the band “2PM”!

The trio “2PM” will be playing at our outdoor music pavilion on Sunday, February 19 from 3:00 to 5:00PM. Bring a lawn chair and a picnic and enjoy their wonderful harmonies and contemporary folk music in the woods! Sorry, no alcohol or pets allowed.
Donations are gladly accepted!
This concert immediately follows the Opening Art Reception of Florida Reflections: Art by Bill and Linda Renc
>>> GET TICKETS <<<
Questions? 727-924-2680 or info@friendsofbrookercreekpreserve.org
Sponsored by the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve, the Music in the Woods Series offers visitors the opportunity to witness the visual beauty of Brooker Creek Preserve while also enjoying the natural sounds of the outdoor environment.

Taking The Mystery Out of Micro-irrigation
2023-02-21 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Learn how to select, install, and operate your own water saving irrigation system.
Join Brian J Rigney, Program Assistant, to discuss an introduction to micro-irrigation. This includes learning to select, install, and operate your own water-saving irrigation system. The discussion will include information regarding the components, and how to assemble, and maintain. Come hear the benefits and why it is important to water plants, shrubs and other landscape plants separate from your turfgrass.
This class satisfies the irrigation educational requirement for the Manatee County Outdoor Water Conservation Rebate Program.
Contact: Mr. Rigney (941) 722-4524 X 1828 or BrianRigney@ufl.edu for further class information. Class size required or class will be cancelled and registered attendees will be notified.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
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
Book your FREE irrigation and landscape evaluation with the Mobile Irrigation Lab (MIL). Call Maggie Gaughan (941) 722-4524 X 1827 sign up today.

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 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.

Reptile Wednesdays with Dennis!
2023-02-22 10:00 - 16:00, 2023-03-01 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 <<<

Introduction to Plant Identification
2023-02-22 10:30 - 11:30 | Online Event
Join James Stevenson and examine the basics of plant identification, from using simple keys to identifying critical characteristics that will help any would-be botanist in the field. An emphasis will be placed on flowering plants.
Recommended for adults and youth over 12.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

Drought Tolerant Plants 101
2023-02-23 10:00 - 12:00 | Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Office, 1303 17th St W, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Keep your landscape looking beautiful with the right plants.
Learn how to choose beautiful drought tolerant plants for your landscape and know what to put back on the shelf! Valrie Massey, Horticulture Program Assistant, will show samples of Florida friendly plants suitable for Manatee County residents and discuss the difference between the good and the bad plant!
Minimum class size is required or class will be postponed. All those that register will be notified if postponed.
Contact: Valrie (941) 722-4524 Ext 1829 or vmassey@ufl.edu for further class information.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
This class satisfies the landscape educational class requirement for the Manatee County Outdoor Water Conservation Rebate Program. For further information on the program, please contact: 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.

Book Time at Brooker
2023-02-23 10:30 - 11:00, 2023-03-02 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.
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 <<<

Youth Program: Trees
2023-02-24 10:00 - 11:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Celebrate Trees!
Explore the inside and outside of trees with hands-on activities and more as we celebrate the importance of trees!
This youth program is geared toward ages 6 to 12. Registration is required. Space is limited and this program will cap at 30 participants. Please register just your child (children). This is not a drop-off program.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Science Sprouts
2023-02-25 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.

Our Wildest Place Guided Hike
2023-02-25 09:00 - 10:30 | Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, United States
Spend part of your Saturday morning with a Naturalist who will lead you on a family-friendly nature hike in the Preserve.
Why is Brooker Creek Preserve “Our Wildest Place”? Nearly 9000 acres of undeveloped land in our crowded county is a real treasure. Come and enjoy the beauty on this one-mile hike. Registration is required.
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 lobby of the Education Center 10 minutes before the scheduled start time.

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.
An Equal Opportunity Institution.

Perico Preserve Tour
2023-02-25 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.

Trying Out Tillandsias: A “Make and Take” Workshop
2023-02-25 10:00 - 11:30 | Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Office, 1303 17th St W, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Learn about these amazing epiphytes that only require air and water to live!
Learn about these lovely epiphytes that only require air and water to live. This is a “make and take” workshop where you will create a palm boot planter using Tillandsia airplants. Bring wire cutters and pliers. $35 advance payment for materials due by February 7. Limited to 20 participants.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
An Equal Opportunity Institution. 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.

WILD WETLANDS HIKE
2023-02-25 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Come explore Florida’s natural wetland ecosystem and learn about the unique plants and animals that call this habitat home.
REGISTER HERE

'eARTh from Space’ with Nicole Stott, Astronaut & Artist
2023-02-25 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, United States
Join us for a special presentation and book signing with artist and astronaut, Nicole Scott!
Astronaut and artist Nicole Stott will give a special presentation for Brooker Creek Preserve on the impact of experiencing Earth as our home planet from space.
Nicole is an astronaut, aquanaut, artist, mom, and now author of her first book Back to Earth ~ What Life In Space Taught Me About Our Home Planet – And Our Mission To Protect It. When Nicole first saw Earth from space, she realized how interconnected we are and knew she had to help protect our planetary home. She knows we can overcome differences to address global issues, because she saw this every day on the International Space Station. Stott shares stories from her spaceflight and insights from scientists, activists, and changemakers working to solve our greatest environmental challenges. She is a veteran NASA Astronaut with two spaceflights and 104 days on both the International Space Station (ISS) and the Space Shuttle. She grew up in Clearwater and has personally witnessed the many changes of this area.
Nicole Stott will hold a book signing and autograph session at the event!
To reserve a book, please contact the Friends by phone or email. Give your name and number of books. Pay at the event, $23.00 (includes tax). Email info@friendsofbrookercreekpreserve.org or call 727-934-2680.
Sponsored by the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Re-sodding Your Florida Lawn
2023-03-01 09:00 - 10:30 | Online Event
Learn how to prepare your yard to re-sod, how to lay the sod and take care of it for success.

WEDNESDAY, March 1, 2023- 9 am – 10:15 am – Hiring a contractor to re-sod your lawn is expensive and doing it yourself can be expensive and time consuming. Learn how yards should be prepared prior to re-sodding and how to properly lay the sod. Learn what amendments are recommended, how to irrigate new sod, when to fertilize new sod, and other tips for success. We will also introduce you to new water conservation irrigation technology.
Attending a workshop on behalf of another person is not permitted.
We will conduct this workshop online, via Zoom. No additional software or extra computer skills are necessary – just click to join! ***Registrants will receive an emailed Zoom link to access the Webinar the day before the program. *If you do not receive the ZOOM link, please check your SPAM folder for an email from us. If no link is received, please contact Paula Staples at 813-744-5519 Ext 54142 for assistance.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<
If you have any questions, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at (813) 744-5519.
Closed captioned for the hearing impaired.
The University of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Institution.

Wading Bird Walk
2023-03-02 09:00 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Meet the wading birds of the Weedon Island Preserve on a guided walk of the trails.

Learn the identifying marks and behaviors of the most common wading birds at Weedon Island Preserve during a guided walk of the trails. This walk will take place during a low tide so participants will have the best chance for viewing wildlife that forage on the exposed tidal flats!
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 two miles. This hike may traverse uneven, natural paths or boardwalks so please prepare accordingly. Afterwards, attendees will return to the Center to complete an evaluation of the hike and explore the museum exhibits.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
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!

History of the Florida Keys
2023-03-02 19:00 - 20:00 | Hammock Hall, 3010 31st Street South, St. Petersburg, FL, 33712, United States
The Florida History Speaker Series is presented by the Pinellas Pioneer Settlement Committee. This program offers fascinating presentations on the cultural history of Florida by individuals who are authorities in their fields. It is cosponsored by the City of St. Petersburg Parks and Recreation Department.
History of the Florida Keys presentation by Brian Lane, Business Co-Owner, Sensing Nature
Although one of the most visited places, many people don’t know much about this region that tails from the southern tip of Florida. Join us as we travel back in time to learn about the human and environmental history of the Keys. What could the Keys mean in the future for residents, tourists, and wildlife?
Speaker Bio: As an ecologist, environmental educator, and business co-owner, Brian Lane shares his appreciation and understanding of the natural world through Sensing Nature’s interactive workshops, ethical ecotours, and educational nature products. He earned his B.S. from the University of Central Florida.
All ages welcome. Free admission.

Lower Green Swamp Invasive Plant Removal
2023-03-03 08:00 - 22:00 | Lower Green Swamp Nature Preserve, 3540 East Knights Griffin Road, Plant City, FL, 33567, United States
We are hosting a volunteer event to pull invasive plant species in honor of National Invasive Species Awareness Week (Feb. 28-March 4).
When: March 3rd, 8 AM – 10 PM
Where: Lower Green Swamp Nature Preserve
3540 E Knights Griffin Rd, Plant City, FL 33565
Volunteers should plan on light maintenance to pull and cut invasive species from around the park. Dress to get messy and stay comfortable in the weather.
Park staff will be available on site to provide supplies and direction on how to detect and remove the invasive plants!
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Jo's Extended Hike
2023-03-03 09:00 - 11:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Enjoy the beauty of the preserve on an Extended Hike for the more serious hiker. Jo will lead you on a 2-3 mile walk, exploring a variety of habitats, and the plants and animals we find there. We might have to pick our way around mudholes but the hike should not be strenuous, just wear shoes you don’t mind getting muddy. Join us for this opportunity to hike longer in the beautiful weather!
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.
Guided Hike Information
Volunteer hike guides will meet participants in the lobby of the Education Center 10 minutes before the scheduled start time.

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.
An Equal Opportunity Institution.

>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Tot Time
2023-03-03 10:30 - 11:30 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Families with little ones can enjoy nature-themed stories and crafts at the Weedon Island Preserve.

Every first and third Friday of each month, families of pre-school aged children are invited to explore the wonders of the natural world at the Weedon Island Preserve. Families will be treated to rhymes, stories, and crafts that connect them to our environment. Activities are intended for youth aged 3-5.
This program will take place inside the Cultural and Natural History Center unless otherwise specified. Youth must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program.
Proceeds will support the Friends of Weedon Island, a non-profit organization that work to promotes education and conservation of the Weedon Island Preserve.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Scribbling Women in Florida
2023-03-03 19:00 - 20:00 | Boyd Hill – 31st Street S, 3130 31st Street S, St. Petersburg, FL, United States

Clearwater Audubon Society Bird Walk
2023-03-04 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 nature trail while seeking birds by sight and sound. Bring binoculars and field guides if you have them. Meet in Moccasin Lake Parking Lot.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
