The calendar is compiled far in advance so we strongly suggest that you contact the sponsoring organization prior to the event. Some events may have fees for participation.



Ongoing events

Every day, Explore Florida Botanical Gardens at The Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo.  With more than 30 acres of cultivated gardens to explore, plan about two hours for this fun adventure. Before heading to the Gardens, visit www.flbg.org to see what’s in bloom. This site helps identify what is happening in the Gardens and provides links to University of Florida fact sheets to provide more information on how to use and care for these plants. The Gardens are open every day of the year. Admission and parking are free. For more information, call 727-582-2581 or visit www.flbg.org

Tuesday through Saturday, 10am-4pm, Sunday, 1pm-4pm, Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo.  Visit Heritage Village, Pinellas County’s 21-acre living history museum, and enjoy more than 25 historic structures, museum galleries and a native plant trail. Currently on exhibit: Pinellas Passport:  Your Ticket through Time; Christopher Still Prints: Clues to Florida’s History and Natural Beauty and Quick and Easy: Gadgets for the Home. The Quick and Easy: Gadgets for the Home exhibit presents a fun look at the labor saving devices used by “modern housewives” to tackle pesky domestic chores. It also features a hands-on area for kids in the Ralph Reed gallery. For more information, visit www.pinellascounty.org/heritage or call 727-582-2123.

Wednesday through Sunday, 10am-4pm, Connecting People and Place Exhibit Gallery at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg.  Explore the exciting, and sometimes unbelievable, history of Weedon Island Preserve and the Tampa Bay estuary at the recently opened Connecting People and Place Exhibit Gallery. Staged among six galleries, the Exhibit Gallery is an art-inspired, hands-on educational showcase of the area’s history, ecology and people. For the past 2,000 years, there has never been a dull moment in this corner of Pinellas County. This Exhibit Gallery is a great experience for the entire family. For information, call 727-453-6500 or visit its redesigned website at www.weedonislandpreserve.org

Fridays, 9am-10am, Camp Bayou Walkabout at Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center in Ruskin.   Enjoy the outdoors with a healthy walk.  Call 813-363-5438 or visit www.campbayou.org or e-mail events@campbayou.org

Saturdays, 10am, Highlight Cart Tours at Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center in Ruskin.  20 minute tours on our 7-passenger cart.  Call ahead 641-8545.

Monthly, first Saturday, 9am, Family Naturalist Hour, at Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center in Ruskin.  Free, age 5 & up, with adult.  Call 813-363-5438 or visit www.campbayou.org or e-mail events@campbayou.org

Monthly, fourth Saturday, 9:30am, Friends of Ucita, at Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center.  Tour native camp; archaeological dig for small fee. Contact fred@ruskinhistory.org

Monthly, fourth Saturday, 11am, Camp Bayou Committee meets each month at Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center.  Public welcome; campbayou@yahoo.com

May 1 through June 28, Wednesday, 9am-8:30pm, Thursday through Sunday, 9am-4pm, Kevin Grass Landscapes at Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs.  Explore the unique works of Artist Kevin Grass as he paints local landscapes and much more. He is currently an assistant professor of art at St. Petersburg College. Admission is free. The exhibit is best for adults and suitable for children ages 12 and older. To learn more, call 727-453-6800.

May 2 through June 28, Wednesday through Sunday, 10am-4pm, Exhibition Opening, The Mangrove Project: Some Many Often Times Exhibition at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg.  Enjoy a grand opening of a new fascinating exhibit by talented Artist Jack Viskil at Weedon Island Preserve. Using a variety of painting techniques, he explores on canvas the beauty of the mangroves and local landscapes both representational and abstract, controlled, yet free. For more information, call 727-453-6500.

May 3 through Aug. 31, Wednesday through Sunday, 10am-4pm, Exhibition Opening & Celebration, Woven Threads Through Time: Maya Women, Weavers and Their Stories, at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg.  Celebrate the opening of an extraordinary exhibit, Woven Threads Through Time: Maya Women, Weavers and Their Stories, that highlights Maya weaving from the classic goddesses of the ancient past to the contemporary Maya women of today. Attend this grand opening and enjoy a 2 p.m. demonstration of exquisite Maya weaving, a 1 p.m. lecture by Exhibit Curator, Gabrielle Vail, and an afternoon of Maya children’s activities. This event is free and great for all ages.  To learn more, call 727-453-6500.

Jun. 8 through Aug. 27, MOSI 2009 Summer Science Camps, Tampa.  MOSI Summer Science Camp is the place to be where you’ll find enriching science and technology experiences that engage your mind and keep you active.  Ages 2 through adult.  Class prices and sizes vary.  Visit www.campfun.org for more information and to register. 

July 13 through July 17, 9am-4pm, Wildlife Ecology Summer Camp at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E. in St. Petersburg.  George Heinrich a field biologist and environmental educator, leads the way as campers explore the ecology and conservation of Florida’s wildlife and wildlands.  Camps are for students between 7 and 11 years old.  The fee is $125 per camper for the week.  Space is limited so be sure to sign up in April.  Registration starts April 1 call 727-453-6500.

July 20 through July 24, 9am-4pm, Herpetology Summer Camp at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E. in St. Petersburg.  Campers will explore the fascinating world of amphibians and reptiles side by side with George Heinrich, a professional herpetologist.  Camps are for students between 7 and 11 years old.  The fee is $125 per camper for the week.  Space is limited so be sure to sign up in April.  Registration starts April 1 call 727-453-6500.

July 27 through July 31, 9am-4pm, Wildlife Ecology Camp at Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road in Tarpon Springs.  Children with a passion for nature will enjoy a unique chance to explore the ecology and conservation of Florida’s wildlife and wildlands with field biologist and environmental educator George Heinrich. Camps are for students between 7 and 11 years old.  The fee is $125 per camper for the week.  Space is limited so be sure to sign up in April.  Registration starts April 13 call 727-453-6800.

Aug. 3 through Aug. 7, 9am-4pm, Herpetology Camp at Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road in Tarpon Springs.  Get face-to-face with a variety of animals from gopher tortoises and frogs to lizards and snakes as part of the exploration of amphibian and reptile ecology with George Heinrich, a professional herpetologist.  Camps are for students between 7 and 11 years old.  The fee is $125 per camper for the week.  Space is limited so be sure to sign up in April.  Registration starts April 13 call 727-453-6800.

May

May 2, 8:30am-3:30pm, Invasive Species Teacher Workshop at Brooker Creek Preserve
Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs.  Join Florida Aquarium and Brooker Creek Preserve educators for an exciting and informative overview of the aquatic invasive species issue in Florida. Learn how to identify Florida’s most notorious invasive and how to get aquatic species activities into your classroom. Educators receive content information, lesson plans and a $50 stipend. Sponsored by a grant from the Tampa Bay Estuary Program. Best for middle and high school teachers. Registration required at www.flaquarium.org/Education

May 2, 10am-5pm, volunteer with St. Petersburg Audubon at the Living Green Expo at Harborview Center, Clearwater.  Contact Wanda Dean 727-321-3995.

May 2, 8am, Yearly Brunch with the Birds, at Moccasin Lake Nature Park, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater.  It is part of the city of Clearwater’s Fun –N-Sun celebration!  Join Clearwater Audubon Society in this wonderful Clearwater Park to look for an incredible variety of songbirds, water birds, and raptors in this unique oak hammock.  This is an easy ¾ mile trail and ideal for beginning and advanced birders alike.  There are two large ponds, a stream, and a nature center which houses turtles and injured birds.  After our walk we will have a lovely brunch.  This is a great way to spend a spring morning.  Visit www.clearwater-fl.com/gov/depts/parksrec/
facilities/mlnp.asp 3-12 years: $1.85, 13 years and up: $2.79, plus 7% tax.  Bring your binoculars if you have them!  Contacts Madeleine Bohrer 727-518-6241 or Mike MacDonald 727-409-0459.

May 2-3, 10am-4pm, Watershed tent, Ruskin Tomato Festival, www.ruskintomatofestival.org

May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 9am-11am, Saturday Guided Hike at Brooker Creek Preserve, Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Take a walk through time on a guided hike along the Brooker Creek Preserve Education Trail. Join in this walk, see how the land has changed over time and discuss the ecological footprints left by those changes. All ages welcome, but children younger than 6 may find the hike challenging. Free. Pre-registration is required by noon on Friday by calling 727-453-6800.

May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 9am-11am, Saturday Guided Hike at Weedon Island Preserve, Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Take a two-hour hike with the experts through Weedon Island Preserve’s coastal mangrove and upland ecosystems. Learn about the coastal environment and the Preserve’s early residents. Please reserve your space by 2 p.m. on Friday. Free. To register, call 727-453-6500.

May 2-3, Saturday, 9am-5pm, Sunday, 10am-4pm, Pinellas Living Green Expo
Harborview Center, 300 Cleveland St., Clearwater.  Pinellas County Extension Educators present solution-based programs to help visitors live better, healthier lives with less impact on the environment. This Expo connects people who are interested in making a positive difference in both their lives and their communities. To learn more, visit www.pinellaslivinggreenexpo.org

May 3, 9am-1pm, Kayak Trip at the Robinson Preserve in Manatee County with the American Littoral Society.  This kayak trip will explore the newest nature preserve in our area, which is located in Manatee County.  Get out and get in touch with nature on an open-seated kayak.  All kayaks and related equipment are included in the cost.  Bring drinking water and sunscreen.  A short training session will be offered for those who want it. Call John Sarkozy at 941-966-7308 to make a reservation.  ALS members $30, non-members $35.

May 4, 7pm, Clearwater Audubon Monthly Meeting at Moccasin Lake Nature Park, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater.  Clearwater Audubon is pleased to host Terry Fortner whose talk is entitled, “Yesteryear I lived in Paradise.”  Terry is the granddaughter of Myrtle Scharrer Betz who lived on Caladesi in the early part of the last century.  She will share stories about her grandmother’s experiences growing up there.  You will surely leave this presentation with an appreciation of Myrtle’s qualities of strength, humor, and individuality as well as with insights into a way of life which is now gone forever.  Call 727-462-6024. 

May 5, 7pm, Perennials for All Seasons, Master Gardeners Lucy Hoyt and Pat Harris, Austin Davis Library, 17808 Wayne Road, Odessa, 33556, 813-264-3901.

May 6, 10am-11:30am, Preschool Village Ramblers, Under the Big Top!  Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo.  Children and their parents or grandparents join in the fun with Florida history during Preschool Village Ramblers. During Under the Big Top!, the fun begins with carnival games and more as part of the Heritage Village circus. Start the fun with circle time that offers stories, songs or finger plays. Fee per session date is $3 per child for Pinellas County Historical Society members and $5 per child for non-members. Pre-paid registration required. Two adults admitted free per child. To register, go to www.pinellascounty.org/heritage and click “Online Reservations,” call 727-582-2426 or email heritagevillage@pinellascounty.org.

May 6, 27, 7pm-8:30pm, Wednesday Evening Walk at Brooker Creek Preserve, Brooker Creek Island Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs.  Join in a pleasant evening stroll while discussing the ways many living things are adapted to make the best use of twilight. This guided walk is free and best for families with children ages 10 and older. To register, call 727-453-6800.

May 6, 10am-11am, Green Office Solutions Online at Your Computer with Pinellas County Extension Experts.  In 60 minutes, learn some simple and practical ways to make a green office. Go green and save resources, save money and reduce impacts on the environment. Learn the basics of green purchasing. Free.  To register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org and click on the “Online Class Registration” button or call (727) 582-2100.

May 6, 7pm, Salvias, Master Gardener Carolyn Wildes, Southshore Regional Library, 15816 Beth Shields Way, Ruskin 33573, 813-273-3652.

May 6, 7pm, Daylilies, Master Gardener Harriet Gord-Noghani, Bloomingdale Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico, 33594, 813-273-3652.

May 6, 6:30pm, join St. Petersburg Audubon at Coffeepot Bayou Bird Island Boat Trip. Get a close look at an island rookery at the height of nesting season. Meet 6:30pm at St. Petersburg Pier by the bait house. $20. Contact Monique Abrams, 492-8990.

May 9, 10am-1pm, Mini-Camp for Grown-ups at Heritage Village, Interpret This! at Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo.  What exactly is living history? Try on costumes and experience some wonderful living history activities. Become a Pinellas pioneer as you interpret for the group and present your story of Pinellas. Sessions are open to all adults and young people ages 12-17. Fee per session date is $20 for Pinellas County Historical Society members and $24 for non-Members.  Pre-paid registration is required. To register, go to www.pinellascounty.org/heritage and click “Online Reservations,” call 727-582-2426 or e-mail heritagevillage@pinellascounty.org.

May 9, 10am-2pm, A Tisket, A Tasket, Weave Yourself a Basket at Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo.  Join second and third generation basket weavers and learn basic and intermediate skills. Pre-paid registration required. Fee per session date, including materials, is $35 for Pinellas County Historical Society members and $40 for non-members.  To register, go to www.pinellascounty.org/heritage and click “Online Reservations,” call (727) 582-2426 or e-mail heritagevillage@pinellascounty.org.

May 9, 10:30am-11:30am, How a Butterfly Works: A Photo Essay at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg.  Enjoy an evocative photographic essay about the butterfly at Weedon Island Preserve. This program presents a collection of images that work together to tell an amazing story about what makes a butterfly, a butterfly. Through various uses of photography, the features of a butterfly will be examined with extraordinary detail and wonder. This event is free and best for ages 12 and up. To register, call 727-453-6500.

May 9, 1pm-2pm, Birds in Culture at Brooker Creek Preserve, Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs.  Celebrate Migratory Bird Day by looking at the fascinating influence of birds in the diverse cultures of North America. From ancient pictographs to modern stories, birds have played an important role in the everyday lives of humans. This program is free and great for families with children 8 years and older. Registration required, call 727-453-6800.

May 9, 8am, Clearwater Audubon Bird Walk to Philippe County Park and Tour of the Safety Harbor Museum.  Meet in the first parking lot at the park.  This lovely Old Tampa Bay park is full of old oaks and rolling hills.  It attracts a nice variety of raptors, shorebirds, and resident songbirds.  Everywhere you walk, there is a great view.  Beginning as well as advanced birders enjoy this unique landscape.  After the walk, we will visit the museum where you can learn about Pinellas County history.  We will have lunch at the Whistle Stop.  Visit http://www.pinellascounty.org/park/11_Philippe.htm or call Ken Rowe, 727-781-0745.  Bring your binoculars if you have them! 

May 9, North American Migratory Count with St. Petersburg Audubon Count occurs throughout Pinellas County.  Contact Mauri Peterson, 727-398-4124, to volunteer.  All levels of experienced birders needed to count species and individual birds.

May 10, 24, 11am-3pm, Open Classroom, Discovering Nature with Your Child at Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs.  Stop by the open classroom at Brooker Creek Preserve and explore nature with your family. You are welcome to stop by anytime between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. to participate in a variety of self-guided nature games and activities to answer questions. This open classroom is free and great for families with children of all ages. To learn more, call 727-453-6800.

May 10, 8am-10am, Photography Hike at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg.  Discover great opportunities for photographers of all levels. Hike the Preserve in search of that perfect snapshot. Preserve staff members highlight seasonal features as well as specific wildlife behaviors that help you capture the natural beauty of Weedon Island Preserve. Free and open to the public. This hike is best for adults. To register, call 727-453-6500.

May 10, 6:30pm-8pm, Coffee Pot Bayou Bird Island Boat Trip with St. Petersburg Audubon.  Get a bird’s eye view of the island rookery.  Contact Alice Tenney, at 727-894-2062 for reservations and information.

May 11, 7pm, Secrets and Shortcuts of Master Gardeners, Master Gardener Pat O’Shea, Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon Street, Plant City, 33566, 813-757-9215.

May 11, 7pm, Perennials for All Seasons, Master Gardeners Lucy Hoyt and Pat Harris, Lutz Library, 101 Lutz Lake Fern Road, Lutz, 33548, 813-264-3827.

May 12, 4pm-5pm, Youth Advisory Committee Meeting for Pinellas County Government at The Pinellas County Courthouse, 315 Court St., 4th Floor Clerk's Room, Clearwater.  If you are a student in grades 9 though 12 and want to have a voice in local government, learn about the Youth Advisory Committee. This is a great opportunity for youth to express their needs, suggest services and to become participants in government. If you would like to find out more, an online membership application can be found at www.pinellascounty.org/yac/ or call 727-582-2450.

May 12, 7pm, Container Gardening, Master Gardener Dawn Dickens, Jimmie B. Keel Library, 2902 W. Bearss Avenue, Carrollwood, 33618, 813-273-3652 x2.

May 12, 7pm, The Lazy Gardener, Master Gardener Lynn Barber, Riverview Library, 10509 Riverview Drive, Riverview, 33578, 813-273-3652.

May 13, 7pm-8pm, Cypress Swamp Cafe: Water for Wildlife, Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs.  Join the pros at Brooker Creek Preserve as they discuss ways to live a more sustainable lifestyle. Explore the wild side of your neighborhood by providing birdbaths, garden ponds and other sources of water for wildlife in your backyard. This program is best for adults. To learn more or to register, call 727-453-6800.

May 14, 1pm-3pm, Home School History Adventures, Facts and Artifacts! at Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo.  This monthly club for home schooled children ages 5 to 11 offers a fun getaway to the past with a Facts and Artifacts! program. This program is filled with answers to questions about long ago. Little pioneers record the experience with artful rubbings in their Artifact Journal. Fee per session date is $10 per child for Pinellas County Historical Society members with $12 per child for non-Members. Pre-paid registration is required. To register, go to www.pinellascounty.org/heritage or call 727-582-2426 or email heritagevillage@pinellascounty.org.

May 14, 10:30am-11:15am, Book Time at Brooker Creek, Tiny Workers: Ants in Your Backyard, Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs.  Introduce your preschooler to the wonders of the natural world. This Book Time features Tiny Workers: Ants in Your Backyard by Nancy Loewen. This beautifully illustrated tale takes children underground to explore an anthill and learn about these busy insects. The program also includes a craft, game or other hands-on activity related to the story. Best for children ages 3 to 5. Free. Registration required call 727-453-6800.

May 14, 10:30am-11:30am, Wee-time at Weedon: The Caterpillar and the Polliwog at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg.  Introduce your preschooler to the wonders of the natural world at this free Wee-time at Weedon program. This week’s program is The Caterpillar and the Polliwog by Jack Kent. This story tells of two friends and the amazing changes that take place in their lifecycle as they change to a butterfly and a frog. Free. Registration required call 727-453-6500.

May 14, 7pm-8pm, Spring Butterfly Identification Seminar at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg.  It’s time for the Weedon Island Preserve butterfly count, and you can learn how to get in on the action. This special seminar teaches skills needed to identify species of butterfly that visit the Preserve. Best for adults and children ages 12 and up. Registration required call 727-453-6500.

May 14, 10:30am, Garden Therapy, Master Gardeners Lesley Fleming and Jeanne Willis, New Tampa Library, 1001 Cross Creek Blvd., Tampa, 33647, 813-903-2280.

May 14, 10:30am, Good Bugs, Bad Bugs, Master Gardener Marina D’Abreau, Jan Platt Library, 3910 S. Manhattan Avenue, Tampa, Florida 33611, 813-273-3652.

May 14, 7pm, Propagation, Master Gardener Eileen Hart, Town N Country Library, 7606 Paula Dr, Tampa, 33615, 813-273-3652.

May 14, International Migratory Bird Count.  St. Petersburg Audubon needs volunteers; contact Dave Kandz, 471-0699, or Mauri Peterson, 389-4124.

May 15, 6:30pm, Tampa Audubon Society presents, Bonding with Bats! at Lake Park, Tampa.  Learn about the variety of bats one might get to enjoy in Florida.  Get a unique chance to hear them and see them up close.  Meet at 6:30pm for a presentation by some of the best bat experts in the state then go for a walk to see the benefits of when bats fly and how they do it.  Learn about how to build your own bat house and see what you can do to help with TAS bat house.  Call trip leader, Jo Anne Hartzler at 813-310-7676 or e-mail usarealty@msn.com for more details and to reserve a spot as space is limited.  Free. 

May 16, 7:30am-3:30pm, SS American Victory ‘ReLives History’ on Tampa Bay.  The ‘ReLive History’ cruise includes vintage aircraft flyovers, touching memorial services, historical personage presentations, ship tours, entertainment and more.  Cruise tickets are $99 per person and include breakfast and box lunch. Tickets are available by calling (813) 228-8766 or can be ordered online at www.americanvictory.org  ‘Walk-Up’ tickets can be purchased until 8:30am on sailing day, Saturday, May 16.  Boarding begins at 7:30am, departure is at 9:00am and return is at 3:30pm. The ship departs from behind the Florida Aquarium. Parking is available in the Florida Aquarium Parking Lot or the Port Authority Parking Garage.

May 16, 10am-4pm, Civil War Days featuring the 26th Annual Heritage Village Skirmish at Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo.  See what life in Florida was like in the 1860s for pioneers and soldiers during this fun annual event. For information, call 727-582-2123.

May 16, 10am-12:30pm, Weedon Island Preserve Butterfly Count in St. Petersburg.  Help Weedon Island Preserve find out which butterflies flit through its beautiful habitats. First time volunteers should take the Thursday, May 14, Spring Butterfly Identification Seminar. This count is best for adults and suitable for children ages 12 and up. Registration required, call 727-453-6500.

May 16, Saturday, 9am-12pm and May 23, Saturday, 9am-12pm, Woven Threads Through Time: Maya Weaving Workshops at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg.  Learn the basic techniques of weaving with the traditional back strap loom used by Maya women for over a millennium in two workshop sessions. You will work on creating a table runner under the guidance of Maya weaver Concepción Poou Coy Tharin from the Coban region of Guatemala. Cost for the two workshop sessions is $70, plus $30 for loom and other materials. Best for ages 16 and up. To register, call 727-453-6500.

May 16, 1pm-2:30pm, Dynamic Dragonflies at Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs.  Take an entertaining and engaging look at the lives of dynamic dragonflies of the air. Discover how dragonflies travel, eat and make more dragonflies. Live dragonflies may attend and participate in this program. This free program is great for children ages 6 and older. Registration required, call 727-453-6800.

May 16, 9am-10:30am, Guided Nature Walk at Chesnut Park, 2200 East Lake Road, Palm Harbor.  Explore the outdoors and discover plants naturally found in wetlands and pine flatwoods. Learn how these plants have been used over the years. Visit points along Brooker Creek and enjoy the view of Lake Tarpon. Free. Registration required, call 727-669-1951.

May 16, 8:30am, Compost Happens Workshops, pre-registration required, call 813-744-5519 x144 or online at: http://hillsborough_fyn.ifas.ufl.edu/workshop_registration.htm

May 16, 9:30am, Water-Wise Workshops, pre-registration required, call 813-744-5519 x144 or online at: http://hillsborough_fyn.ifas.ufl.edu/workshop_registration.htm

May 16, 10:30am, Rain Barrel Workshops, pre-registration required, call 813-744-5519 x144 or online at: http://hillsborough_fyn.ifas.ufl.edu/workshop_registration.htm

May 17, 1pm-2:30pm, Photography Hike at Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs.  Discover ways to set up good photographs while walking the trails in search of that perfect shot. Explore seasonal features of the Preserve as well as specific wildlife behaviors that will help participants capture the natural beauty of Brooker Creek.  To register, call 727-453-6800.

May 17, Second Beach Nesting Bird Survey.  To volunteer, contact Dave Kandz at conservation@stpeteaudubon.org or call 727-642-8567.

May 19, 2 pm-3pm, Green Purchasing for Home and Work Solutions, Online at Your Computer with Pinellas County Extension Experts.  In just 60 minutes, you can be on your way to making better purchasing decisions that will benefit you, your family and your community for generations. Learn simple and easy ways to identify a true green produce and where they can be found. To register for this free program, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org or call 727-582-2100.

May 19, 7pm, Secrets and Shortcuts of Master Gardeners, Master Gardener Virginia Overstreet, Temple Terrace Library, 202 Bullard Parkway, Temple Terrace, 33617, 813-989-7160.

May 19, 10:30am, Daylilies, Master Gardener Harriet Gord-Noghani, Charles Fendig Library, 3909 W. Neptune St., Tampa, 33629, 813-273-3652.

May 20, 7pm-8pm, Spring Butterfly Identification Seminar at Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs.  It’s time for the Brooker Creek Preserve butterfly count, and you can learn how to get in on the action. This special seminar teaches skills needed to identify species of butterfly that visit the Preserve. Best for adults and children ages 12 and up. Registration required, call 727-453-6800.

May 21, 8am-5pm, Pesticide License Training & Testing at Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo.  Calling all landscaping professionals: This class provides the training and testing necessary to obtain a Limited Commercial Landscape Maintenance or Limited Lawn and Ornamental license. The cost is $60. For more information and to register for this class, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org and click on the “Online Class Registration” button and Commercial Horticulture tab or call 727-582-2100.

May 21, 2pm-3pm, Lighting Your Way to Energy Efficiency, Online at Your Computer with Pinellas County Extension Experts.  In 60 minutes, you can look at different energy efficient lighting options. From identification to maintenance and disposal, learn how to evaluate and determine the best product to meet your needs. Free.  To register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org or call 727-582-2100.

May 23, 10am-12:30pm, Brooker Creek Preserve Butterfly Count.  Help Brooker Creek Preserve find out which butterflies flit through its beautiful habitats. First time volunteers should take the Wednesday, May 20, Spring Butterfly Identification Seminar. This count is best for adults and suitable for children ages 12 and up. Registration required call 727-453-6500.

May 23, 9am-10:30am, Guided Nature Walk at Philippe Park in Safety Harbor.  Learn park history while exploring nature at one of Pinellas County’s oldest historic parks, Philippe Park. Closed toed shoes, water, sunscreen, a hat and insect repellant are recommended. Free. Registration required, call 727-669-1947.

May 23, 9am-noon, Kayak Trip at Bird Key, South Lido Park with the American Littoral Society.  Enjoy a quiet water kayak trip in the bay around South Lido Park.  All kayak equipment is provided and the trip will be led by naturalist John Sarkozy.  Explore the area and see the bird and marine life.  Get an up close experience with nature and have a ton of fun in the mangrove tunnels!  If you have never kayaked before, don’t worry; a short course will be given.  Call John Sarkozy at 941-966-7308 to make a reservation.  ALS members $20, non-members $25.

May 24, 9am-11am, History Mound Hike at Weedon Island Preserve in St. Petersburg.  Enjoy a guided hike of the new History Mound Trail at Weedon Island Preserve. Discover the prehistory of a shell mound as well as discuss the colorful, recent history of Weedon Island Preserve. This new half-mile hiking trail provides excellent educational opportunities as it combines the beauty of several seldom seen natural communities with the Preserve’s rich cultural heritage. The hike is free and open to the public. It is best for adults and ages 8 and up. Registration required, call 727-453-6500.

May 24, 8:30am-11:30am, Kayak Little Sarasota Bay to Palmer Point Beach with the American Littoral Society.  Join John Sarkozy, as he shows you the natural beauty of Little Sarasota Bay by kayak.  All equipment is provided and a short training session will be provided.  Take a break on the “crown jewel” of our local beaches and take a swim, a walk, or do some birding, before paddling back to the mainland.  ALS members $20, non-members $25.  Contact John Sarkozy 941-966-7308.
 
May 28, 10:30am-11:30am, Wee-time at Weedon: Diego’s Sea Turtle Adventure at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg.  Introduce your preschooler to the wonders of the natural world at this free Wee-time at Weedon program. This week’s program is Diego’s Sea Turtle Adventure by Christine Ricci. This story is about an animal rescue center that saves a hawksbill sea turtle from a busy harbor in a great animal adventure story. Free. Registration required call 727-453-6500.

May 28, 10:30am-11:15am, Book Time at Brooker Creek, Small Green Snake.  Introduce your preschooler to the wonders of the natural world. This Book Time features Small Green Snake by Libba Moore Gray. The world is a big exciting place for a young garter snake. This small green snake wanders away from home and into adventure. This program also includes a craft, game or other hands-on activity related to the story. Best for children ages 3 to 5. Free. Registration required call 727-453-6800.

May 29, 9am-noon, Guided Canoe Trip at Weedon Island Preserve, St. Petersburg.  Explore the south canoe trail of Weedon Island Preserve and get a rare look at the aquatic ecosystems that make west-central Florida special. Trained guides lead through mangrove stands and over seagrass and oyster beds while pointing out various flora and fauna. The cost, including tax, for this unique experience is $15 per person or $30 per canoe with a maximum of three people in each canoe. Children should be over 6 years old and accompanied by an adult. Spaces fill quickly so call 727- 453-6500 to pre-register today.

May 30, 1pm-3pm, Open Classroom, Discovering Nature and Culture with Your Child, at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg.  Discover nature and culture with your child during an open classroom session with archaeological activities. Explore materials from a real dig in a “sifting though the past” activity. Hands-on aboriginal tools teach techniques of the ancient people of this region. You are welcome to stop by anytime between 1 and 3 p.m. to participate in a variety of self-guided nature games and activities. No registration necessary. This open classroom is free and great for families with children of all ages. Call 727-453-6800.

May 30, 9am-10:30am, Rain Barrel Workshop at Pinellas County Extension Parking Lot, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo.  Get the scoop on making a rain barrel with Pinellas County Extension Educators. Learn how to set up a recycled plastic barrel to collect rainwater from your roof. Use the water for your landscape plants, potted plants, vegetable and herb gardens and more. Workshop provides set-up instructions and a reference booklet. Rain barrels will be available for purchase. Workshop is free. To register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org and click on the “Online Class Registration” button or call 727-582-2100.

May 30, 1pm-2pm, Home Invaders Class at Brooker Creek Preserve, Creatures That Live in Your House.  Spiders, roaches and mice, oh my! Learn to appreciate the common home invaders and discover more environmentally friendly ways to discourage them.  Free and best for adults yet suitable for those ages 12 and older. Registration required call 727-453-6800.

May 31, 8am-9:30am, The Great Weedon Bird Quest at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg.  Come and join in on a quest to find Weedon Island Preserve birds. Learn the identifying marks and behaviors of our feathered year-round friends and seasonal visitors while helping compile an annual checklist of birds. Enjoy a relaxing morning outing led by experienced birders. This free quest is best for adults. To register, call 727-453-6500.

June

Jun. 6, 8am, Clearwater Audubon Birdwalk at Moccasin Lake Nature Park 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater. Join Clearwater Audubon Society in this wonderful Clearwater Park to look for an incredible variety of songbirds, water birds, and raptors in this unique oak hammock.  This is an easy ¾ mile trail and ideal for beginning and advanced birders.  There are two large ponds, a stream, and a nature center which houses turtles and injured birds.  Visit www.clearwater-fl.com/gov/depts/parksrec/facilities/mlnp.asp  3-12 years: $1.85, 13 years and up: $2.79, plus 7% tax.  Bring your binoculars if you have them!  Contact Madeleine Bohrer 727-518-6241.

Jun. 11-12, join the Tampa Bay Estuary at the Tampa Bay, Living Legacy Teacher Workshop Brooker Creek Preserve, Tarpon Springs.  Contact nanette@tbep.org or call 727-893-2765.

Jun. 13, 8am, Clearwater Audubon trip to Clearwater Marine Aquarium.  Meet Clearwater Audubon Society at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium to explore the marine environment of St. Joseph sound with CMA biologists.  We will have lunch on the mainland.  Visit http://www.cmaquarium.org/cms/ or call Mike MacDonald, 727-409-0459.

Jun. 13, 7pm-11pm, Summer SudsFest ‘09, International Beer and Food Tasting at The Florida Aquarium, 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa, Florida 33602.  There's never been a better excuse to drink like a fish! The Florida Aquarium's SudsFest '09, features more than 50 worldly varieties of beer by Anheuser-Busch and delicious food from more than a dozen area restaurants. Get out of the summer heat and get into the cool! 250,000 square feet of air-conditioned exhibit space with dozens of craft brew style beer and tasty international food pairings. If you plan on getting tanked, please make sure you have a designated driver. Drink responsibly.  $45 per ticket or $60 at the door, for information, call 813-367-4036 or visit www.flaquarium.org

July

Jul. 29, Wednesday, 6am to Thursday, Aug. 6, 6pm, Clearwater Audubon multi-day birding trip to Southeastern Arizona.  Clearwater Audubon will host this unforgettable trip to southeastern Arizona to look for the unique hummingbirds, songbirds, and raptors that are indigenous to the Chiracahua and Huachuca Mountains.  What a wonderful way to spend a week!  Contact Paul Trunk, 727-447-4785 for cost, space availability and reservations.