Introduction to Beekeeping
2025-03-30 11:00 - 13:00, 2025-03-23 11:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Introduction to Beekeeping:
A Hobby with Sweet Rewards
~ 3 Sessions ~
This program will introduce you to the basics of honey bees, their behavior, biology and the guiding principles of beekeeping.
Instructor: Robert Burkard, President of the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve’s Beekeepers Club
Why honey bees? In addition to the personal satisfaction of harvesting your own pure natural honey, many of our food staples would disappear without honey bees for pollination. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, these under-appreciated workers pollinate 80 percent of our flowering crops, which constitute one-third of everything we eat. Hobbyist beekeepers play a vital role in keeping our honey bee population healthy.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Additional Notes: This program will be held in our auditorium. 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 auditorium. Follow signs to the auditorium.
Want to take the entire series?
Register for Part 2 on Sunday March 23 here!
Register for Part 3 on Sunday March 30 here!

Little Manatee River night paddle
2025-03-29 19:00 - 21:00 | Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center, 4202 24th St SE, Ruskin, FL, 33570, United States
While you are marking your calendar, save the date- Saturday, March 29- for a night paddle to explore the Little Manatee River after dark- without flashlights!
Canoes and kayaks are available for $25 per boat; $5 if you have your own vessel.
Plan to arrive by 7pm to be out on the water by 7:30pm.
Registration required, email campbayou@gmail.com or call the office 813-641-8545.
Camp Bayou continues to offer day paddle trips on the first and third Saturdays each month at 9am, reservations required.

Wildflower Walk
2025-03-29 13:00 - 14:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of native Florida flowers on this ranger-led hike.
Join us monthly to discover which flowers are in bloom and learn about their unique beauty and ecological importance in our area.
All ages welcome with a registered adult.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Cherokee Blowgun Workshop
2025-03-29 11:00 - 15:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Advanced Plant Identification - 4-Part Series
2025-03-29 10:00 - 14:00, 2025-03-22 10:00 - 14:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
This four-part plant identification series will introduce participants to the steps required to positively identify plants.
Plant identification is based on close observation of morphological characteristics, contextual clues and lots of practice. This four–part advanced plant identification series will introduce participants to these concepts and the associated vocabulary of the plant scientist.
The class follows the contents of Harrington’s “How to Identify Plants” (1957); a copy of which is provided to each registrant. This concise text contains a comprehensive vocabulary of terms and illustrations to help clarify concepts.
A packet of supplemental educational materials will also be provided to each registrant.
About this Event
During each 4-hour classroom event, participants will engage in a participatory lecture, and have plenty of time for Q & A. The final session will be a hands-on workshop that will include graduates from previous courses. Each session will build on the previous; attending the entire series is recommended.
Classes are four consecutive Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Bio-breaks are factored into the schedule for each day! Bring a bag-lunch (refrigeration and a microwave are available).
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
Class dates and syllabus:
Week 1, March 8
Plant Classification

Parts of a Flower
Inflorescence Types
Non-Flowering Plant Identification
Read Harrington Chapter I – V

Week 2, March 15

Roots-n-Shoots
Leaves
Surfaces
Fabaceae, Lamiaceae, Asteraceae
Read Harrington Chapters VI – XI

Week 3, March 22

General Terms
Fruits and Seeds
Using a Dichotomous Key

Week 4, March 29

Review, general questions
Hands-on Workshop with former graduates
Graduation!

Upon completion of the entire course, participants will receive a Certificate of Completion from the University of Florida.

Micro-Irrigation Hands On Workshop
2025-03-29 10:00 - 11:00 | Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL, 33778, United States
Here’s the link to sign up:
https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/microirrigation-hands-on-workshops-4095803

Special Butterfly Walk!
2025-03-29 09:00 - 11:00 | Folly Farms Nature Preserve, 1538 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Street North, Safety Harbor, FL, 34695, United States
Field Trip Leader: Ron Smith
Location: Folly Farms Nature Preserve
1538 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Street North, Safety Harbor, Florida 34695
Meet at the parking lot. This walk and butterfly introduction day should feature several species of hairstreaks and other early season butterflies. Spectacular native plants display.
What to Bring:
Hat, Binoculars, Water, Insect repellent, Sunscreen

Parents Night Out- Wild Wetlands
2025-03-28 18:00 - 22:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Parents enjoy a night out while the kids experience a night of Edventure Exploration! Come learn about our themed nights through games, activities, crafts, and a night hike. A pizza dinner is included.
Participants will learn about the plants and animals that thrive in these unique environments, and how wetlands help our planet. Through games, nature walks, and interactive activities, children will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of wetlands in preserving biodiversity and supporting clean water.
Ages 6 yrs – 12 yrs
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Military Agriculture Tour (MAT X)
2025-03-28 08:00 - 16:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
To introduce active duty and transitioning personnel, veterans, and their spouses to the diversity of agriculture within Hillsborough County and the diversity of career opportunities in a modern agricultural operation.
The tour will start and end at UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County, 5339 CR 579, Seffner, FL 33584
The bus will leave HC Extension at 0830, prior to that coffee and donuts will be available. Lunch will be provided and we will return to HC Extension by 1600.
Highlights of the tour will include a visit to a tropical aquaculture farm, Astin Farms, a tour of the UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, and other Hillsborough County farms.
Cost is $5 which includes lunch. Seating is limited.
Please be sure to wear appropriate clothing and closed-toed shoes.
Please be advised NO REFUNDS
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
For more information contact: Simon Bollin, Hillsborough County Agribusiness Development Manager, 813-853-1086 or bollins@HCFLGov.net.

Farming at Boyd Hill Garden
2025-03-27 15:30 - 17:00, 2025-03-20 15:30 - 17:00 | 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 <<<

Design Your Landscape to Your Site Conditions
2025-03-27 13:30 - 15:30 | Palmetto Library, 923 6th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Learn about the many facets to consider for designing your landscape & plant selection.
Co-presented by:
Valrie Massey, Horticulture Program Assistant with the Manatee County Mobile Irrigation Lab and the University of Florida, Manatee County Ag Extension.
Susan Griffith, Florida Friendly Landscape Coordinator, working with the University of Florida, Manatee County Ag Extension.
Manatee County’s Mobile Irrigation Lab program is supported by the Manatee County Utilities department, celebrated 20 years in 2023. The focus of the program is to educate homeowners on how to use the least amount of water and still have a healthy landscape.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Book Time at Brooker
2025-03-27 10:30 - 11:00, 2025-03-20 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.
>>> MORE INFO <<<

Reptile Wednesdays with Dennis!
2025-03-26 10:00 - 15:30, 2025-03-19 10:00 - 15:30 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Explore reptiles with a friendly expert, get your questions answered, and level up your knowledge in a relaxed, beginner-friendly session.

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!

Elemental Seasons Homeschool - BHNP Spring 2025
2025-03-26 09:30 - 12:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join Ruth Glass as we study the seasons and traditional celebrations from around the world.
Children will go on hikes, participate in celebrations of nature, and create nature art to take home.
Please bring water and a snack.
Ages 5 yrs – 12 yrs
>>> ENROLL HERE <<<

Equinox: A Guide to Spring Skies 2025
2025-03-26 06:30 - 20:00 | Bishop Museum of Science ﻿and Nature, 201 10th St. West, Bradenton, FL, 34205, United States
Join us in The Planetarium at The Bishop to celebrate the Vernal Equinox! Explore the rising Spring constellations and get to know your night sky. Learn some tips and tricks to finding your favorite objects and take a closer look at images from the James Webb Space Telescope! Keep an eye out for comets, meteor showers, and some incredible eclipses as we spring forward into the exciting astronomical events of the season.
Doors open at 6:30pm. Presentation begins at 7pm inside The Planetarium.
Preregistration required.

Kayak Tampa Bay
2025-03-23 09:00 - 12:00 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
Ages 12+ • 3 Hours • 3000 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde, FL 33715

Back by popular demand, Tampa Bay Watch is launching guided kayak tours of the Bay. Embark with us on an unforgettable journey through the serene waters of our stunning estuary! This tour offers an immersive experience in nature, combining the joy of paddling with a unique opportunity to observe and learn about local species.
As you glide through calm waters, your expert naturalist will share fascinating insights into the diverse ecosystems and residents of the estuary. You’ll have the chance to encounter a variety of wildlife while exploring the mangrove forests and seagrass beds of Tampa Bay. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a beginner, the experience is designed to be both relaxing and informative, offering a rare chance to connect with nature while honing your kayaking skills!
Kayak, paddles, and life jackets will be provided. Guests are encouraged to bring snacks, water, and skin protection.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Perico Preserve Tour
2025-03-23 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.

Fourth Sunday of the month (January – April), at 9:00am
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.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Please meet at the pavilion right next to the parking lot.
Special Accommodations:
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.

Ethnobotany and Archaeology Open House
2025-03-22 10:00 - 13:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
See ancient artifacts and learn how people have used native plants for everything from food and medicine to making ropes and even paint!

Join us for a celebration of Florida Archaeology Month!
Learn how indigenous Floridians used native plants as an everyday resource in the “Florida Native Plants Through Time” exhibit and demonstration. Exhibit designer and plant expert, Ben Metcantade, will be on-hand to answer questions and demonstrate how the plants were used. Observe a hands-on demonstration on fiber-thread making from the native yucca plant. In addition, find out which native plants were popular in the 19th century through present day. The exhibit also features native plants, books, and resources on sustainable design and the importance of pollinators.
Also meet Weedon Island’s archaeologists and see their displays of artifacts, tools, and other items. Bring your own fossils and artifacts to be identified and their uses determined by on-site archaeology experts. Partner organizations will be on-site with their own displays and information, such as the Alliance for Weedon Archaeological Research and Education (AWIARE), the west central region of the Florida Public Archaeology Network (FPAN), the Central Gulf Coast Archaeological Society (CGCAS), and more.

This event is free and open to all ages! Join us anytime between 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to enjoy the displays, talk to an archaeologist, and learn more about the indigenous history of Tampa Bay!

Froggin' Around
2025-03-22 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Let’s have a little frog fun to celebrate World Water Day!
Ages 4 yrs – 8 yrs
Come dressed like your favorite frog and enjoy a frog’s point of view. Join Connie Nye to learn about adaptations and the life cycle of frogs.
A reading of “Can He Keep It?” and a book signing included.
Books are not included, but will be available for a $20 purchase.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Naturalist Guided Tour
2025-03-22 09:30 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Enjoy a guided tour to explore the coastal and upland ecosystems of the Weedon Island Preserve!
Participants will learn about the environment, native wildlife, and early history of Weedon Island during a guided walk of the Tower Boardwalk.
The total walk length is 1 mile and it will traverse cement path and boardwalk, along with an optional climb to the top of the Observation Tower.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Camp Bayou Spring Fest
2025-03-22 09:00 - 12:00 | Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center, 4202 24th St SE, Ruskin, FL, 33570, United States
Join Camp Bayou as it welcomes Spring with some fun activities on Saturday, March 22 from 9am-noon. Some of the activities you can expect include nature activity tables, trail walks, tomato seedling giveaway, and cart tours.
Schedule of Events:
9am open
9:30 Cart tours begin
10:00 Trail walk
10:30 Butterfly Habitat Q&A
11:00 Native Camp Tour
11:30 Fishing Cabin Talk
Noon Final raffle- event ends
Joining the Camp Bayou Nature Center for a morning of fun is the Paleo Preserve Fossil Museum, Manatee Viewing Center, Suncoast Youth Conservation Center, Hillsborough County Parks, Rec and Conservation, Little Manatee River State Park, Alafia River State Park and Florida Forestry Service.
Some of the crafting activities planned:
– pine cone bird feeder
– vine wreaths
– nature journals
– seed bead jewelry
– ‘Camp Bayou’ t-shirts
All supplies provided.
No registration required and it’s free! Come out and experience all that Camp Bayou has to offer.

Birding on the Bay
2025-03-22 09:00 - 10:30 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
The Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center Presents:
Birding on the Bay with the MFA

Join us for an unforgettable birdwatching experience on the waters of Tampa Bay! This 75-minute guided boat tour offers a front-row seat to the fascinating bird species that call this vibrant ecosystem home. During the tour, we’ll visit a nearby bird sanctuary island, strategically timed to provide the best viewing opportunities for observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
As we navigate the waters, your expert guide will share insightful details about the diverse bird species you’ll encounter, from elegant waders to soaring seabirds. With our prime location and optimal timing, you’re sure to enjoy exceptional views of these feathered residents as they go about their daily routines.
This tour is perfect for bird enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking to explore the rich wildlife of Tampa Bay in a relaxed and educational setting.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
More Information

75 Minutes
$45 ($5 member discount offered)
Tour includes admission to the MFA and TBWDC.
Children under 3 free
November 2024 to February 2025

What to Bring
-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 is highly recommended.

Youth Spring Break Pollinator Party
2025-03-21 13:00 - 14:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Learn about our native pollinators!
Take a pollinator walk, safely catch and study some insect friends, complete a scavenger hunt, then create seed-balls to take home so you can create a pollinator habitat of your own!
Recommended for youth ages 7 & up. Registration is required.
Space is limited and this program will cap at 20 participants. Please register just your child (children). This is not a drop-off program. Meet in front of the auditorium.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Groundbreaking Groundcovers!
2025-03-20 11:00 - 12:30 | Palma Sola Botanical Garden, 9800 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
Learn about the many different beautiful groundcover options for trouble spots in your yard where it is difficult to grow grass!

FFL HC Webinar Series: Right Plant, Right Place
2025-03-20 10:00 - 11:00 | ZOOM, United States
Discover the secret to a thriving, low-maintenance landscape that’s perfect for our Florida climate. Learn how to choose plants that not only survive but thrive in your specific yard conditions.
What You’ll Learn:

How to match plants to your yard’s unique environment
Tips for reducing water use and pest problems
Tricks to create a stunning, sustainable landscape

The mission is to educate Floridians about environmentally friendly landscaping practices and to encourage them to conserve and protect our water resources by applying Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Principles in their landscapes.
Register now and take the first step towards a smarter, greener landscape. Your plants (and water bill) will thank you!
We will conduct this Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ workshop online, via Zoom. No additional software or extra computer skills are necessary – just click to join!
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
NOTE: Registrants will receive an emailed Zoom link to access the Webinar the day before the program. *If you do not receive the Z00M link, please check your SPAM folder for an email with the link. If no link is received, please contact Michael Masucci, masuccim@ufl.edu or at 813-744-5519 Ext. 54142 for assistance.
If you have any questions, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at (813) 744-5519.
This webinar will be closed captioned for the hearing impaired.
***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: Lynn Barber, barberl@HCFL.gov, 813-744-5519 Ext. 54105, at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.
