Book Time at Brooker
2025-09-18 10:30 - 11:00, 2025-09-25 10:30 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | 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 <<<

Basics Of Butterfly Gardening
2025-09-18 11:00 - 12:00 | Palma Sola Botanical Garden, 9800 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
Learn how to create a beautiful butterfly garden with easy tips and tricks at our Basics Of Butterfly Gardening event!
Come join us for a fun and informative event all about creating your very own butterfly garden! Learn tips and tricks on how to attract these beautiful creatures to your yard. Our experts will cover everything from selecting the right plants to creating a welcoming habitat.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this event is perfect for anyone interested in butterflies and gardening. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with nature and beautify your outdoor space! See you at Palma Sola Botanical Park!
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Farming at Boyd Hill Garden
2025-09-18 15:30 - 17:00, 2025-09-25 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 <<<

Tampa Audubon Society Photo Club
2025-09-18 19:00 - 20:00 | Online Event
In the August photo session, share photos that showcase birds/wildlife and color.
The meetings are virtual and the Zoom link changes monthly – check your newsletter every month for the correct link. https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87304467169
To participate:
• Upload your photos to SmugMug here. Send them at least 24 hours before the meeting.
• Limit your photos to about eight, or what can be shown in five minutes.
• Photos must be JPGs. Do not include them in Word, PowerPoint or any other file format.
• Label the beginning of each photo file with your name, such as Smith_Spoonbill, Smith_Warbler
• Be ready to tell us about your photo during the meeting.
If you have any questions, please contact Jonathan Hoiles, Photo Club Leader, at jonathan.hoiles@tampaaudubon.org

Dune Savers Work Day
2025-09-19 07:30 - 08:30, 2025-09-26 07:30 - 08:30 | To Be Determined, FL, United States
Contact Deb Rothenberger for location: d2bv4@aol.com
Thank you all and can’t wait to see you Friday morning!

John Chesnut Sr. Park Field Trip
2025-09-20 | John Chesnut Sr. Park, 2200 East Lake Road, Palm Harbor, FL, 34685, United States
Our September newsletter will give you specifics on the meeting location and time, but this park is well known for its fall migrants – both warblers and flycatchers.
Contact president@pascoaudubon.com

Third Saturdays at Pinewood Cultural Park
2025-09-20 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/

Birding at Davis Park
2025-09-20 07:30 - 11:00 | Davis Park, 612 N Parsons Avenue, Brandon, FL, 33510, United States
Davis Park is an underappreciated hotspot in Brandon just north of Highway 60 off of Parsons. The park has one named lake, Mead Lake, and two unnamed lakes. All three lakes are home to breeding Wood Ducks, Sandhill Cranes and other waterfowl. Black-bellied Ducks, Wood Ducks, Black-crown Night Herons, cranes and other bird species roost for the night in the park. American Kestrels, Red-shouldered Hawks, Eastern Bluebirds, Northern Flickers and many other species breed here.
Meet at 7:30 a.m. at the small parking areas on the right side of the park open field [27.947294, -82.290945] shortly after you drive through the wooded area.
Details of the Davis Pak eBird reports are here: https://ebird.org/hotspot/L8712193
To register, click here: https://mobilize.us/s/y8T3k2 or RSVP field trip leader Mic McCarty mic.mccarty@tampaaudubon.org
Important! Pre-registration is required, and participation is limited. Please do not attend this or any Tampa Audubon Society events if you have flu, cold, or covid symptoms. Tampa Audubon is committed to reducing the spread of illnesses. The health and safety of our members is of the highest priority.

Hidden Wonders Nature Walk
2025-09-20 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.”
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.

Canoe Paddle Tour
2025-09-20 09:00 - 10:30 | Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center, 4202 24th St SE, Ruskin, FL, 33570, United States
Enjoy an hour and half of easy paddling on the Little Manatee River loop with your guide.
Three seater canoe rentals or 1 person kayaks can be rented for $25.
Or bring your own canoe or kayak and join us with a $5 donation.
Reserve your canoe or kayak by calling the office at 813-641-8545. Limited availability.

Rye Preserve Tour
2025-09-20 09:00 - 11:00 | Rye Preserve, 905 Rye Wilderness Trail, Parrish, FL, 34219, United States
Guided tour through Rye Preserve with a Master Gardener Volunteer!

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 <<<
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.

Micro-Irrigation Hands On Workshop
2025-09-20 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

Dragonfly Discovery Walk
2025-09-20 10:00 - 11:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Join local dragonfly expert Paul Trunk as we explore the Preserve looking for dragonflies.
Join local dragonfly expert Paul Trunk as we explore some of the habitats at Brooker Creek looking for dragonflies. Brooker Creek Preserve is an excellent area that is home to approximately 20+ species of odonates.
We will learn about the natural history of dragonflies and their importance to a healthy ecosystem.
Bring your binoculars and also a camera if you enjoy taking pictures. Registration is required.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Micro-Irrigation Hands On Workshop!
2025-09-20 10:00 - 11:30 | Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL, 33778, United States
Are you interested in watering your landscape while watering efficiently? This free hands-on microirrigation (a.k.a. drip irrigation) workshop is for you.
Florida-Friendly LandscapingTM educators will discuss and demonstrate different types of microirrigation and their versatile uses.
Participants have the opportunity to apply what they learn by practicing a simple drip system connection and assembling microirrigation parts. This workshop can help you save money and promote a waterwise landscape.
Here’s the link to sign up:
https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/microirrigation-hands-on-workshops-4095803

Fishing Workshop
2025-09-20 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 <<<

Advanced Plant Identification - 4-Part Series
2025-09-20 10:00 - 14:00, 2025-09-27 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.

Gopher Tortoises + Prescribed Fire = Increased Biodiversity
2025-09-20 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Learn about our gopher tortoises and the important ecological role they play!

Brooker Creek Preserve is home to one of Pinellas County’s largest populations of gopher tortoises, a threatened, burrowing species which occurs in upland habitats. Learn about the significant ecological role played by this keystone species. Find out how habitat restoration, including the use of prescribed fire, can greatly benefit plant and animal communities.
This PowerPoint program is recommended for adults and children 7+
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 buildings. This program meets in the Auditorium or “Butterfly Room”.
>>> GET TICKETS <<<
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This program is sponsored by the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve.
Speaker Bio: George L. Heinrich is a field biologist and environmental educator specializing in Florida reptiles. His company, Heinrich Ecological Services (www.heinrichecologicalservices.com), is based in St. Petersburg, Florida and conducts wildlife surveys and research, natural history programming, and nature-based tours. George is currently the Executive Director of the Florida Turtle Conservation Trust (www.ftct.org).

Sensory Sundays
2025-09-21 08:30 - 10:30 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
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!
For all ages! • 2 Hours
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult while in the classroom
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Native Plant Garden Maintenance
2025-09-23 08:00 - 10:00 | Lettuce Lake Conservation Park, 6920 East Fletcher Avenue, Tampa, FL, 33637, United States
This program is led by the Suncoast Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society’s Joel Jackson and Tina Patterson and supported by Tampa Audubon.

Garden work includes planting, weeding and trimming, as needed.
There is a $2 admission to the park which Suncoast can cover if you request ahead of time. Park in the lot by the Visitor Center and the garden is behind the building.
Bring water, gloves and personal tools.
Garden Wish List: donations accepted:
swamp milkweed, tropical sage, goldenrod, wild petunia, silkgrass or other small(er) flowering plants.
Contact Tina Patterson for more information and to let her know that you will be coming. mablepatterson@hotmail.com or call or text 305-298-6381 and leave a name and message.

Sawgrass Lake Park Field Trip
2025-09-23 08:00 - 10:00 | Sawgrass Lake Park, 7400 25th St, N., St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Sawgrass Lake Park
Led by Peter Plage
7400 25th Street North
St. Petersburg, Florida 33702
For more information, visit pinellas.gov/parks/sawgrass-lake-park/
Directions and What to Bring: Meet at the parking lot near the Nature Center
Bring: Binoculars, Water, Insect repellent, Sunscreen
Bathrooms available

Reptile Wednesdays with Dennis!
2025-09-24 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!

Salt Tolerant Plants - Master Gardener Speaker Series
2025-09-25 09:00 - 11:00 | Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL, 33778, United States
When it rains it pours in Florida’s rainy season! Excess rainwater can cause flooding, and become stormwater runoff carrying pollutants and nutrients into our waterways.
An easy way to conserve water and reduce runoff is to create a rain garden in your yard.
Join Master Gardener Liza Ryan to learn about rain gardens and how to create yours!
Workshop is free but you must register ahead of time to save a seat!
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

YourSELF in Bloom: Storytime
2025-09-25 10:30 - 11:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
A Social & Emotional Learning Storytime for Preschool-aged Children!
Enjoy an turtle-themed storytime that focuses on developing children’s social and emotional competencies through engaging stories, crafts, and activities. This interactive program is intended for children ages 3-6 with a caretaker.
This unique opportunity is presented by the Zero Suicide Partners of Pinellas, and hosted by the Brooker Creek Preserve.
>>> GET TICKETS <<<
Important Additional Notes: It takes about 10 minutes to drive from the preserve entrance (Keystone Rd.) to the parking lot, and there is a 3-5 minute walk from the parking lot to the Education Center buildings. This event will be held in the auditorium.

Lake Seminole Park Field Trip
2025-09-27 08:00 - 10:00 | Lake Seminole Park, 10015 Park Boulevard North, Seminole, FL, 33777, United States
led by Matt Yubas
10015 Park Blvd. North Seminole, Florida 33777
https://pinellas.gov/parks/lake-seminole-park/
Park at the entrance of Shelter 5 across from the flagpole.
What to Bring:
Hat
Binoculars
Water
Insect repellent
Sunscreen

Boat America Classes
2025-09-27 09:00 - 2025-09-28 14:00 | U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 11-1 Headquarters, 510 North Ft. Harrison Ave, Clearwater, FL, 33755, United States
Boat America Classes
Boat America is a boating certificate class that offers an in-depth and interesting boating safety course, and provides the knowledge needed to obtain a Florida Boating Safety ID Card.

For the convenience of our students, some classes are held online via Zoom. These virtual classes utilize the same instructors and materials you would enjoy during the in-person classes. The schedule below notes whether the class is in person or via Zoom.
To register click on the Registration Form link at the bottom of this page or send an email to the Flotilla 11-1 Public Education Officer at clwtr.auxboating@gmail.com

2025 Boat America Classes

June 28 and 29 – 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM – Zoom
July 26 and 27 – 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM – In-Person
August 23 and 24 – 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM – Zoom
September 27 and 28 – 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM – In-Person
October 25 and 26 – 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM – Zoom
November 22 and 23 – 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM – In-Person

Class cost includes book.

Register for Boat America class

IN YOUR BACKYARD: BUILD A BAT BOX!
2025-09-27 10:00 - 12:00 | BHPS Osprey’s Roost, 2900 31ST ST S Gate 2, St. Petersburg, FL, 33712, United States
Florida is home to 13 different species of bats. Join us to learn more about these beneficial insect eaters and create a space for them in your own backyard by building a bat box!
In this engaging workshop, participants will discover the unique characteristics of bats, and how bat boxes provide essential roosting habitats for these nighttime flyers.
Ages 7 and up
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
