Farming at Boyd Hill Garden
2024-11-14 15:30 - 17:00, 2024-11-21 15:30 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Pinellas Pioneer Settlement, 3130 31st Street South, St. Petersburg, FL, 33712, United States
Fun, hands-on education on organic gardening, raising chickens, and fun activities from 4-H curricula.
Ages 7 yrs – 11 yrs
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

What's Happening to Florida's Birds?
2024-11-14 19:00 - 20:00 | Hammock Hall, 3010 31st Street South, St. Petersburg, FL, 33712, United States
NATURAL HISTORY SPEAKER SERIES
What’s Happening to Florida’s Birds?
Bird populations can surge or plummet depending on a variety of factors—everything from the quality of their habitats to the impact of pesticides, the encroachment of urban sprawl, prowling cats, and the sweeping effects of climate change. Soar into the dynamic world of Florida’s feathered residents and discover how they’re navigating these challenges and learn about the conservation efforts aimed at ensuring their ability to thrive. Join us to unravel the story of how Florida’s birds are facing these exciting challenges head-on!

Open to the public. | FREE ADMISSION

Click here for questions about the Natural History Speaker Series, or call Boyd Hill Nature Preserve at 727-893-7326.
Learn more

Florida Forests Hike
2024-11-15 09:30 - 11:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Venture out along the Flatwoods Trail loop with Natural Resources Agent, Lara Milligan to learn all about her most favorite thing…TREES!
Get ready to look up and explore the world of trees. Lara tends to throw in some surprises on her hikes, so be ready when she asks for volunteers!
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Tot Time
2024-11-15 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.

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, songs, crafts, and other activities that connect them to our environment. Activities are intended for youth aged 3-5.
Parents or guardians only need to register the youth(s) attending, but must accompany them for the duration of the program. This program will take place inside the Cultural and Natural History Center unless otherwise specified.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
Proceeds will support the Friends of Weedon Island, a non-profit organization that work to promotes education and conservation of the Weedon Island Preserve.

Third Saturdays at Pinewood Cultural Park
2024-11-16 07:00 - 17:00 | Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL, 33778, United States
Three for one fun at the Florida Botanical Gardens, Creative Pinellas and Heritage Village!
Celebrate at Pinewood (Florida Botanical Gardens, Creative Pinellas, Heritage Village) every Third Saturday of the month.
At the Florida Botanical Gardens (Open 7 AM-5 PM):
Visit the new Majeed Discovery Garden, a 2+ acre addition, connecting children to nature. Our Children’s Garden Educator is hosting a variety of preschool and family programs in the Majeed Discovery Garden on topics like sustainability, sensory exploration, and more. Visit the Event Calendar on our website at www.flbgfoundation.org/events to view all of the programs offered in our Majeed Discovery Garden. For more information, visit www.flbgfoundation.org/childrensgarden.
At Creative Pinellas (Open 10 AM-5 PM):
Visit the Gallery at Creative Pinellas for two must-see exhibitions! Catch the 2024 Emerging Artist Exhibition before it ends on July 21st. Also on display is Threads of Nature: Art Inspired by the Florida Botanical Gardens, featuring works by the Tampa Bay Surface Design Guild that capture nature’s beauty. Feeling inspired? Stop by our drawing room to unleash your inner artist. Free admission and fun for the whole family! For more information: www.creativepinellas.org.
At Heritage Village (Open 10 AM – 4 PM):
Explore the past at Pinellas County’s 21-acre living history museum! Step back in time and take a docent tour of select historic buildings, visit Pinellas County’s oldest structure, and peruse locally-made artisan gifts and souvenirs at the gift shop. Interested in learning more? The Heritage Village app features self-guided walking tours and archival photographs and information about your favorite Heritage Village buildings, historic figures, and artifacts! Download the app for free in your preferred mobile app store by searching “Heritage Village”. Heritage Village is free to visit, pet-friendly, and perfect for all ages! For more information: www.heritagevillagefl.org/

ASTRONOMY NIGHT
2024-11-16 07:30 - 09:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Explore the night sky with volunteers from the St. Petersburg Astronomy Club. During this month’s program, participants will be able to see the rings of Saturn through the scopes!
Ages 18 yrs +
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Hidden Wonders Nature Walk
2024-11-16 09:00 - 10:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
This family-friendly nature hike will take you on an exploration of the wet and dry habitats of “Our Wildest Place.”
We will investigate some interesting plants and animals that call Brooker Creek Preserve home. Everyday reveals new natural wonders to enjoy, join us!
Registration is required.
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.

Gratitude Hike
2024-11-16 09:30 - 11:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
A walk designed to relax and rejuvenate by focusing on gratitude. Bathe the senses in the healing qualities of nature and share experiences through conversation.
Ages 12 and up welcome with a registered adult. Please select the correct number of participants or seats needed at the time of enrollment.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Pinellas Florida Waters Stewardship Program - 2024
2024-11-16 09:30 - 12:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
An intensive program to learn all about Florida’s waters. Each class takes place at a new location with guest speakers, tours and more!

Working With Water, Working With People
To make a difference concerning the issues surrounding water quality and quantity in our communities, we must understand the various ways in which we interact with water. As Floridians, we are connected to our oceans and bays by our faucets and laundries, to our neighborhood ponds and lakes by our yards and streets, and to our regional and statewide neighbors by our surface and groundwater supplies.
This program will use expert presentations, online explorations, experiential learning, field experience in watershed science, and communication skills training to foster a greater understanding of these interactions and provide the tools necessary to become stewards of our water resources.
During this seven-session course, participants will travel to locations across Pinellas County to explore the natural beauty, learn about emerging water issues, and meet with local experts.
Participants will also plan and implement an individual (or group) stewardship project that makes a difference in the community, attend a relevant stakeholder meeting and explore online resources to learn more about water between class sessions.
Each class session will be three hours long and include Working with Water instructor-led presentations looking at water at the state-level as well as Working with People instructor-led presentations highlighting communication best-practices. Classes will also include time for discussions, guest speaker presentations highlighting local water resources, and a field tour.
This course has limited seating/availability. Register early to reserve your spot. Youth (under 18) are eligible to register as long as an accompanying adult is also registered for the program.
Schedule
Session 1 – Thursday, Sept. 5 (9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.)*:

Watershed Basics and Stewardship @ Brooker Creek Preserve in Tarpon Springs with guest speaker Robert Burnes, Project Manager, Pinellas County Public Works, Environmental Management

Session 2 – Thursday, Sept. 19 (9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.)*:

W ater Flow, Then and Now @ Clam Bayou Marine Education Center with guest speaker from Southwest Florida Water Management District, Surface Water Improvement & Management Program

Session 3 – Thursday, Oct. 3 (9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.)*:

Water Laws and Other Tools @ South Cross Bayou Advanced Water Reclamation Facility with guest speaker Lauren Twele, Education Coordinator, Pinellas County Utilities

Session 4 – Thursday, Oct. 17 (9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.)*:

Future Water Supply and Emerging Issues @ Reverse Osmosis Water Treatment Plant in Oldsmar with guest speaker Tirusew Asefa, Ph.D., P.E., D.WRE, Manager, Planning & System Decision Support, Tampa Bay Water

Session 5 – Thursday, Oct. 31 (9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.)*: Panel

Panel Discussion with local environmental non-profit groups and Stewardship Project Updates @ Safety Harbor Public Library

Session 6 – Thursday, Nov. 14 (9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.)*:

Speaking of and for Water @ Ozona Village Hall with guest speaker Sadie Hundemer, Ph.D, Assistant Professor, Agricultural Education and Communication, University of Florida

Session 7- Saturday Nov. 16 (9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.)*:

Graduation and Water Stewardship In Action @ Weedon Island Preserve in St. Petersburg with guided hike by Pinellas County volunteer or staff.

*Locations and speakers are subject to change.
Before You Register
Please review course requirements should you wish to receive a certificate of completion at the end of the program:

Attend at least five of the seven sessions, two of which MUST be the first and last ones (Session #1 and Session #7)
Attend and briefly describe a stakeholder gathering
Complete online mini-sessions
Participate in the online discussions
Submit a summary of your individual or group stewardship project

Cost: $125
If the cost of the program will prevent you from participating, please complete a scholarship application. Application deadline is Wednesday, August 27th.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
Questions?
For more information about this course, please contact your local UF/IFAS Extension Pinellas County Natural Resources Agent, Lara Milligan at lara317@ufl.edu or 727-453-6905.

Pioneer Nights
2024-11-16 18:00 - 22:00 | Pinellas Pioneer Settlement, 3130 31st Street South, St. Petersburg, FL, 33712, United States
Kids enjoy a night of friends, fun, campfire, and s’mores, pioneer style.
Ages 6 yrs – 13 yrs

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Sensory Sundays
2024-11-17 08:30 - 22:30 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
Sensory Sundays with the Discovery Center!
For all ages! • 2 Hours
Sensory programs at the Discovery Center are thoughtfully designed for individuals on the Autism Spectrum or with other sensory processing differences. During scheduled times, our exhibit hall will adopt lower lighting, decreased noise levels, and focus on learning with the senses. All who would benefit from a lower sensory experience and hands-on learning are welcome!
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult while in the classroom
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Hands-on squid dissection!
2024-11-17 13:00 - 14:00, 2024-11-24 15:00 - 16:00 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
What makes a mollusc a mollusc? During this hands-on squid dissection, you’ll find out! Participants will learn about the wide variety of molluscs found in our region and what sets them apart from other animals. This program is held in our indoor classroom and space is limited.
For all ages! • 1 Hour
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult while in the classroom. All dissection guests must purchase a ticket to enter the classroom.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Lionfish dissection in our classroom!
2024-11-17 15:00 - 16:00, 2024-11-23 15:00 - 16:00 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
Join us for an exciting lionfish dissection in our classroom. Learn how this beautiful invader threatens our ecosystem, and examine its stomach contents to find out which bay species it has been snacking on. All lionfish specimens are harvested as part of invasive species removal programs in Florida and donated to us.
For all ages! • 1 Hour
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult while in the classroom. All dissection guests must purchase a ticket to enter the classroom.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Meet your Forest: Tree and Fungi Walk and Talk
2024-11-19 10:00 - 12:00 | Trout Creek Wilderness Park, 12550 Morris Bridge Road, Thonotosassa, 33592, United States
Join UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County Urban Forestry Agent, Alyssa Vinson for a walk and talk about our local trees and fungi. She will cover tree identification techniques, including using iNaturalist to document your findings.
Be prepared to walk with closed toed shoes, water, hat etc.
A map will be emailed to you the day prior with the exact meeting location. Be aware that the park has a $2 entry fee.
If you have any questions, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at (813) 744-5519.
>>> GET TICKETS <<<
***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: VinsonA@HCFL.gov, 813-744-5519 Ext. 54106, at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.
The University of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Institution.

Reptile Wednesdays with Dennis!
2024-11-20 10:00 - 11:00, 2024-11-27 10:00 - 11:00 | 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 <<<

Book Time at Brooker
2024-11-21 10:30 - 11:30 | 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

Wading Birds Photography Tour
2024-11-21 12:30 - 14:30 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
This tour is for photographers and bird enthusiasts of all skill levels. A brief classroom session before the tour will teach participants about the wading birds found at the Preserve, as well as nature photography techniques specific to the wildlife and seasonal variations of Weedon Island.
This tour is for adults and youth ages 10+. Youth must be supervised by an adult.
The total hike length will be between 1 to 2 miles on natural paths and boardwalks so please dress and prepare accordingly.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Kitchen Botany Webinar
2024-11-21 13:00 - 14:00 | ZOOM, United States
You may know more than you think about botany from everyday interactions with plants in the kitchen. We will explore where our fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices really come from and how many of them were domesticated from wild plants.
This webinar is recommended for adults and youth over 12.
Please note: This webinar will be recorded for quality assurance but will not be available for on-demand viewing after the program has ended.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Water Bath Canning 101: Tomatoes
2024-11-22 11:00 - 14:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Learn about water bath canning, the equipment needed, and how to can tomatoes.
This class will include information and resources on safely canning at home, the science behind canning, and a food tasting.
Feel free to bring your own lunch; full 3 hours of the class is dependent on amount of participant questions and canning recipe.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
PLEASE NOTE: There is a non-refundable $10.00 registration fee per individual for this workshop.
This class will take place at the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County office at: 5339 County Road 579, in Seffner.
If you have any questions, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at:
(813) 744-5519
**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 Joshua Payne at: joshuapayne@ufl.edu or 813 744-5519 x 54136, at least 1 week in advance.

Fishing Workshop
2024-11-23 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 <<<

Nature's Airpurifiers
2024-11-23 14:00 - 15:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
For only pennies a day, houseplants will help beautify, purify, and renew your studio, office or home by filtering out toxins, pollutants, and the carbon dioxide we exhale and replace them with fresh oxygen! Learn about NASA recommended air- purifying plants, how to responsibly care for them, and how to propagate them so you can share them with friends!
Participants will receive a couple of plants to keep or give as gifts for the upcoming holidays!
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Night Hike in the Preserve
2024-11-23 18:00 - 20:00 | Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, United States
At night, the world is full of sounds and smells very different from the daytime.
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.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Adult Night Hike
2024-11-23 19:30 - 21:00 | 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 <<<

Perico Preserve Tour
2024-11-24 09:00 - 11:00 | Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
Guided tour through Perico Preserve with a Master Gardener Volunteer.
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.
>>> 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 our office at (941) 722-4524 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Specialty Dissections
2024-11-24 11:00 - 12:00 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
Ages 12+ • 2 Hour
These events are limited to ages 12 and up due to its subject and the graphic nature of the dissection. Any child under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Spots are limited, so please register ahead of time. Check the calendar to see what dissection is coming up next!

Shark Dissection:
We welcome guests to explore the beauty and complexity of our ocean’s top predators during this 2 hour shark program and dissection. Through this educational event, we hope to foster respect and understanding of sharks and the important roles they play in our ecosystems. Classes are limited as we only use specimens that have been donated by marine research organizations.
Iguana Dissection:
Florida’s subtropical climate has allowed iguanas to survive and reproduce at a rapid rate. Through this hands-on dissection, you will learn more about the characteristics of this invasive species, as well as ways you can help protect Florida’s ecosystem from these creatures.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

FALL BREAK CAMPS
2024-11-25 - 2024-11-27 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
The adventure awaits! Campers will discover nature and wildlife, exercise creativity, all while learning to care for our environment. Camps take place when Pinellas County’s schools are on break. See information below for ways to create amazing memories for your child. Fee assistance and discount options may be available. Free lunches are available to campers during summer camp. Lunches are not provided during fall, winter, and spring camps. For more information, please contact (727) 893-7326.
Registration is first come, first served.
Learn more
