EARLY BIRD TRAIL RUN
2019-05-18 07:00 - 08:00, 2019-05-25 07:00 - 08:00 (America/New_York) | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Suited for individuals that run roads and/or trails with a prompt 7 am start on a 4 – 5 mile course.
Cost: Admission or trail pass

Youth Beekeeping Class
2019-05-19 13:00 - 14:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Hey Kids! Curious about beekeeping and how it works? Join Bob Burkard, president of the Brooker Beekeeping Club and learn about this fun hobby with sweet rewards. Check out an observation hive and even try on a bee suit!
Family Friendly! Recommended for youth ages 5-11.
Registration:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/youth-beekeeping-class-tickets-60544173252

FLORIDA HERB SOCIETY MEETING
2019-05-21 17:00 - 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.

Wee-Time at Weedon
2019-05-23 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. 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

BOYD HILL BURN
2019-05-23 17:00 - 18:00, 2019-05-30 17:00 - 18:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Cardio-based boot camp with basic strength training exercises built for a beginning-intermediate level.

Evening with the Author: Steph Post
2019-05-23 18:30 - 20:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Join us at Weedon Island Preserve for Evening with the Author, a literary series that introduces readers to the masterminds and histories behind their favorite Florida stories.
This Evening’s guest will be Steph Post, author of the novels Walk in the Fire, Lightwood, A Tree Born Crooked and Miraculum. Her crime-fiction novels set in the sunshine state can be described as Florida noir as Post crafts her characters and plot to explore the darker side of Florida that is quite different from the often depicted postcard paradise.
Post graduated from Davidson College as a recipient of the Patricia Cornwell Scholarship for creative writing and a winner of the Vereen Bell writing award for fiction. She holds a Master’s degree in Graduate Liberal Studies from the University of North Carolina Wilmington. Her work has most recently appeared in Garden & Gun, Nonbinary Review, CrimeReads and the anthology Stephen King’s Contemporary Classics. She has been nominated for a Pushcart Prize, a Rhysling Award and was a semi-finalist for The Big Moose Prize.
Attendees are welcome to bring copies of Post’s novels to be signed; in addition to copies being available for purchase at the event. The talk will begin at 7:00pm with complimentary refreshments available starting at 6:30pm.
Questions or concerns? Please contact the WIP Cultural and Natural History Center at (727) 453-6500 or weedonisland@pinellascounty.org.
Registration:
https://www.eventbrite.com/o/weedon-island-preserve-cultural-and-natural-history-center-1250121017

Youth Safety in the Outdoors
2019-05-25 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Jeanene Fisher, owner of Not a Clue Adventures will be providing useful tips and tricks to stay safe outdoors, whether you are in the park or hiking a trail. Many simple tips for all ages! Great opportunity for the entire family!
Registration:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/youth-safety-in-the-outdoors-tickets-59835445428#tickets

A Conversation on Conservation
2019-05-29 17:30 - 19:00 | FL
Wednesday, May 29 at 5:30 PM at TradeWinds Island Resort

The Florida Wildlife Federation cordially invites you to A Conversation on Conservation, an intimate gathering focused on protecting natural Florida with speakers Alex Sink (the former CFO of Florida), Congressman Charlie Crist, and Representatives Jennifer Webb, and Ben Diamond. The event takes place at the TradeWinds Island Resort on Wednesday, May 29 at 5:30 PM. Come learn how you can help protect Florida’s fragile environment. Refreshments provided.

Please RSVP today by clicking here.

National Trails Day Fun Run 5K
2019-06-01 | Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center, 4202 24th St SE, Ruskin, FL, 33570, United States
June 1 is National Trails Day. There will be cart tours, scavenger hunts and other activities. New this year is our guided Fern Walk, starting at 9:00am. Explore the wild west side of Camp Bayou, for a trail that is less traveled. No registration necessary. An 8am Fun Run will hit the trails for an easy 5K. Registration requested online
<https://forms.gle/eT6iBDu6F7AwBph89> (https://forms.gle/bVvX2HR3vqdvEMzY7)
Those who complete the run will be treated to ice cold watermelon slices as a reward.

Habitats and Communities- Guided Hike
2019-06-01 09:00 - 10:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Discover the shady hammocks, pine flatwoods and forested wetlands of Brooker Creek Preserve, where you will learn how the natural communities of the Preserve are connected in much the same way as human communities. We will explore our connections to the natural areas near us, and learn the possible impacts we have on one another.
All ages are welcome. Children under the ages of 16 must be accompanied by an adult and those younger than 6 may find this hike challenging.
Guided Hike Information
Volunteer Hike Guides will meet participants in the lobby of the Education Center 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.

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.

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

"Mr. Mosquito Put on His Tuxedo" Storytime
2019-06-01 10:30 - 11:30 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Join us for a special Saturday program for kids aged 3-5 as we read “Mr. Mosquito Put on His Tuxedo” (B.O. Morrow) the story of dapper Mr. Mosquito who dons his tuxedo and heads to the insect-only royal ball where surprises ensue! After the story we will make a mosquito craft while teaching about the parts of a mosquito, how/where they grow up, and how we can be mosquito safe while enjoying the outdoors. Then kids will get a take home sheet of how to be a “mosquito hunter” that they can return later for a prize.
Space is limited. Pre-registration is required for children, but accompanying adults do not need to register themselves.
Registration:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mr-mosquito-put-on-his-tuxedo-storytime-tickets-61253223039

Archery
2019-06-01 11:30 - 12:30 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Children 6 years and older along with adults can learn the basics of archery. Cost is $7 with a City of Clearwater Rec Card or $8 without the card.
Registration:
https://www.meetup.com/Moccasin-Lake-Environmental-Education-Center/

FLORIDA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY MEETING
2019-06-05 18:30 - 20:30 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
This group welcomes all that want to learn about native plants and explore natural areas. Pinellas.fnspchapters.org
Registration:
https://www.meetup.com/Moccasin-Lake-Environmental-Education-Center/

Waste Reduction Forum
2019-06-06 18:00 - 20:00 | Clearwater MLK Jr. Neighborhood Center Coalition, 1201 Douglas Avenue, Clearwater, FL, 33755, United States
WHO: UF/IFAS Extension Pinellas County is partnering with the City of Clearwater to host a community discussion on waste reduction.
WHAT: At this forum, we will discuss waste reduction and how it relates to recycling and conservation behaviors.
WHY: We want to get your view points and ideas about local waste reduction issues, ideas and solutions, as well as trade-offs to share with your elected officials. This is part of UF/IFAS Extension’s new Community Voices, Informed Choices (CIVIC) program that aims to promote informed community decision making.
Refreshments will be provided. All attendees are eligible for door prizes that will include FREE admission to Clearwater Marine Aquarium!
For more information please contact sustainability@pinellascounty.org
Note: We will need a minimum of 10 participants to conduct the forum. You will be notified within 24 hours of the event should it be canceled.
Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/clearwater-community-forum-waste-reduction-mlk-center-tickets-60808708484?aff=ebdshpsearchautocomplete

Mr. Mosquito Put on His Tuxedo
2019-06-07 10:30 - 11:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Join us for a special story time for 3 to 5 year olds with a Pinellas County Environmental Specialist! We will read Mr. Mosquito Put on His Tuxedo and then make a mosquito craft all while learning about the parts of a mosquito, where they grow up, and how to stay safe from them. Children will also learn how to become a mosquito hunter with a take home sheet that they can later return for a prize! Space is limited. Registration is required for children, however accompanying adults do not need to register themselves.
Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/brooker-creek-preserve-environmental-education-center-1249569181

What is Wildlife Rehabilitation
2019-06-08 10:30 - 12:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Join us for a special presentation from Owl’s Nest Sanctuary for Wildlife, a Tampa Bay area wildlife rescue and rehabilitation organization. Learn about what wildlife rehabilitators do and discover who the permitted rehabbers are in the local areas of Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Pasco counties. Hear about some of Owl’s Nest Sanctuary’s most memorable rescue and rehabilitation cases, and learn the best practices for how you too can help your local wildlife.
Owl’s Nest Sanctuary will also be bringing along a special resident animal ambassador for visitors to meet!
Recommended for ages 6+
Registration:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/what-is-wildlife-rehabilitation-tickets-61248662398

Teacher Ecology Camp
2019-06-10 08:30 - 15:30, 2019-06-11 08:30 - 15:30, 2019-06-12 08:30 - 15:30, 2019-06-13 08:30 - 15:30, 2019-06-14 08:30 - 15:30 | FL
June 10-14, 2019
St. Petersburg Audubon Society’s
Dr. Harold Albers Teacher Ecology Camp
Workshops for Teachers and Other Educators
Register with St. Petersburg Audubon Society
8:30 AM – 3:30 PM Daily
3 Unique Workshops at Different Sites
Wkshp A: Lake Ecology – Mon & Tues
Wkshp B: Island Ecology – Wed
Wkshp C: Swamp Ecology – Th & Fri
Sign up for 1, 2, or all 3!
Teacher component points​ pre-approved in Pinellas County
New topics and discussions each workshop
Sensing Nature’s biologists Jeanne Murphy & Brian Lane facilitate and help instruct all 3 workshops​
Space limited
For More Information – Click Here

Skins and Skulls
2019-06-12 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Real animal skins and skulls (from animals that died in the wild or were accidentally killed on our roadways) are used to show how scientists study these “artifacts” to learn more about the living animal. Recommended for Families. Presented by James Stevenson, your local Extension Specialist .
Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/brooker-creek-preserve-environmental-education-center-1249569181

Air Potato Challenge - Leaf Beetles Available
2019-06-18 09:30 - 13:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Air Potato Challenge
– Leaf Beetles Available for the Public
Manatee County residents and public land managers are invited to come out to the Manatee County Agriculture and Extension office to learn more about the invasive air potato vine and a biological control, the potato leaf beetle. Receive a free supply of beetles for use on your property. The insects will only be available for pick-up during this event. For those who have registered, your beetles will be set aside for pick-up during the event. All others will be on a first-come-first served basis. Limited supply of beetles.
Air potato vine is one of Florida’s most problematic invasive plants. The air potato leaf beetle is a small but formidable enemy of this invasive plant.
Residents are encouraged to bring a cutting of air potato for confirmation.
Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/ufifas-extension-manatee-county-8304772301

Master Gardener Volunteer Training Meet & Greet
2019-06-20 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
What does it take to become a Manatee County Master Gardener? It takes special gardeners who wants to expand their Florida gardening knowledge and share it with the community. The Florida Master Gardener Program is a volunteer-driven program that benefits the University of Florida/IFAS Extension and the citizens of Florida.
The program relies on dedicated volunteers who have an interest in gardening and in giving back to their communities. At this meet and greet you will learn about the training expectations, meet the instructor Alyssa Vinson, Residential Horticulture Extension Agent, and have an opportunity to ask questions. A brief tour of the educational gardens and greenhouse to follow the brief presentation.
Open to Manatee County residents only. The next Master Gardener Volunteer Training class begins on August 7, 2019.
Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/ufifas-extension-manatee-county-8304772301

Star Lab: Tales of the Night Sky
2019-06-20 11:00 - 15:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States

Rain Barrels for Summer
2019-06-22 11:00 - 12:30 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Rain Barrels for the Rainy Days of Summer
Conserve water and prevent stormwater runoff using rain barrels to water your plants in between rains.
After the class, you will have an opportunity to purchase a rain barrel at $30 (cash or check only) for a non-drilled, DIY barrel with basic parts included.
$5 Administrative fee. $8 day of class.
Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/ufifas-extension-manatee-county-8304772301

Free Educational Workshop
2019-06-23 08:00 - 17:00 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
Formal and non-formal educators are invited to a workshop at the Tampa Bay
Watch Marine Education Center to learn new hands-on activities as well as
tactics to bring nature back to your classroom! This FREE educational
workshop will include example lesson plans as well as your own copy of
Project WILD and Aquatic WILD guide books. Reservations are required.
Space is limited.
Please e-mail amitchell@tampabaywatch.org[mailto:amitchell@tampabaywatch.org] to sign-up!

Off the Beaten Path
2019-06-23 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
