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

Everyday, explore 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 the 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 from 7am. Admission and parking are free. For more information, call 727-582-2581 or visit www.flbg.org.

Tuesday through Saturday, 10am-4pm, and Sunday 1pm-4pm, discover Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo. 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’s Prints: Clues to Florida’s History & Natural Beauty and Quick & Easy: Gadgets for the Home. The Quick & 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 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.

Continuing through Aug. 31, Art Exhibit, “Woven Threads Through Time, Maya Women, Weavers and Their Stories” at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. This extraordinary exhibit, “Woven Threads Through Time: Maya Women, Weavers and Their Stories”, highlights Maya weaving from the classic goddesses of the ancient past to the contemporary Maya women of today. It explores Maya weaving from a number of different perspectives, the use of the backstrap loom and other techniques favored by Maya women and examples of weavings from both ancient and contemporary Maya culture. Also shown are the stories behind the weavings and those who created them. For information call 727-453-6500.

Continuing Through Nov. 1, “Facets of Florida 2007-2009 Exhibition – Misty Beauchamp, Oils & Mixed Media”, Florida Wildbirds and Habitats Exhibition – Maxis Gamez, Wildlife Photography at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Enjoy two extraordinary exhibits by Florida artists, Misty Beauchamp and Maxis Gamez. Beauchamp’s paintings focus on conservation and depict scenes of Florida that are rapidly vanishing. Gamez’s style of wildlife photography expresses creativity and interesting techniques as it captures nature and wildlife. Both exhibits will be on display through Sunday, Nov. 1, during normal center hours. A reception is planned for Sunday, Sept. 6, from 1 to 3 p.m. Exhibit and reception are free. To learn more, call 727-453-6500.

August

Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29, 9am-11am, Guided Hike at 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.

Aug. 5, 6pm-8:30pm, Florida Style Gardening Series, Landscape Design Clinic at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, 1101 Country Club Way S., St. Petersburg. Want to uncover the secrets to gardening the Florida-Friendly way in our area with experts from Pinellas County Extension? Join in a gardening series that will put success right at your fingertips. The useful information will help gardeners dig right into improving landscape design and maintenance. This class is a follow-up to last month’s Concepts of Landscape Design Class but others who have already created a landscape design or want to learn more are welcome to attend too. One other class is in the series to be held Wednesday, Aug. 12. The cost is $10 per class. To register for this class, call 727-893-7326.

Aug. 5, 7pm-8pm, Free, Movie Night, “In the Company of Wild Butterflies” at Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Witness the lives of several species of butterflies, as they’ve never been filmed before at this fun movie night. This amazing film, “In the Company of Wild Butterflies”, reveals details such as butterflies emerging from cocoons, caterpillars hatching from eggs and butterflies “smelling” with their feet. After the film, visit Brooker Creek Preserve’s butterfly garden and get handy tips for setting up your own butterfly garden. Free and best for citizens ages 12 and older. Registration required call 727-453-6800.

Aug. 5, Topic, “The Beginning of Life, Understanding a Marine Estuary”. Barbara Hoffman, MS, former Pinellas FNPS President, will be presenting a program about the many plants, and marine grasses found in a marine ecosystem, and the many creatures that are dependent upon it. Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, call for information 727-544-7341.

Aug. 7, 9am-12pm, Guided Canoe Trip at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., 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 for more information and pre-register today.

Aug. 8, 15, 22, and 29, 9am-11am, Saturday Guided Hike at 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.

Aug. 8, 1pm-2pm, “Wild Wetlands with Florida Aquarium” at Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Come face-to-face with some of Florida’s wild and beautiful creatures at a free Wild Wetlands, Florida Aquarium Water Wheels Program. Learn about wetlands ecology with the help of interesting creatures through this interactive, educational and fun program. Great for families with children ages 6 and older. To register, call 727-453-6800.
 
Aug. 8, 2pm-3:30pm, Weedon Saturday Matinee, “Water’s Journey: The Hidden Rivers of Florida” at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Watch an award-winning extraordinary documentary that follows a team of daring divers as they explore the connecting paths of the Florida aquifer. Bring your own popcorn for this fascinating journey to discover Florida’s hidden rivers. Get your own handy tip sheet of practical ways to protect our water supply. Best for adults and children 10 years old and up. Free. To register, call 727-453-6500.

Aug. 8, 9am, Field Trip, Snorkeling the sea grasses at a north county beach. The Leader will be Barbara Hoffman. The location will be announced. Barb is previewing sites to pick the best one. The exact site will be posted on the FNPS.org/Pinellas web site by mid July, or you can call Alexa Wilcox-Huegel 727-422-4792 after mid-July for more information. This will be a wading/snorkeling trip led by Barbara Hoffman to see some of the natural sea grasses she will be teaching us about at the August meeting. We did a similar type trip a number of years ago, and it was so enjoyable we have asked Barb to repeat it. It is a great opportunity to see and experience an aquatic plant community. Plan to bring snorkel gear, (we will have a few extras for those who do not have a mask or snorkel) sunscreen, bug spray, towels, chair, beach gear of your choice, and drinking water. We will have a short meeting before entering the water. Bring clothes to change; we will plan to go to a casual restaurant for lunch afterwards.

Aug. 9, 11am-3pm, Free, Open Classroom, Discovering Nature with Your Child at Brooker Creek Preserve, Tarpon Springs. Stop by our classroom anytime between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm to participate in a variety of self-guided nature games and activities that will answer these questions.  Pre-registration is not required for this open activity. Recommended for families with children of all ages. For information, call 727-453-6800. 

Aug. 12, 2pm-6:15pm, Growing Fruit on Florida’s Suncoast with Pinellas County Master Gardeners at Palm Harbor Library, 2330 Nebraska Ave., Palm Harbor. Discover the best fruits to grow in the Tampa Bay area. Pinellas County Master Gardener Sandy Huff shares tips on choosing varieties, planting, maintenance and more. This is an overview presentation of how to pick the rights plants for your yard. You may attend either session. To register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org and click the “Online Class Registration” button or call 727-582-2100.

Aug. 12, 6pm-8:30pm, Florida Style Gardening Series, Landscape Maintenance Class at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, 1101 Country Club Way S., St. Petersburg. Want to uncover the secrets to gardening the Florida-Friendly way in our area with experts from Pinellas County Extension? Join in a gardening series that will put success right at your fingertips. The useful information will help gardeners dig right into improving landscape design and maintenance. This class offers a lot of information about pruning, using fertilizers and pesticides, mulch and the impact of drought. The cost is $10. To register for this class, call 727-893-7326.
 
Aug. 12, 7pm-8pm, Cypress Swamp Cafe: Calculating Your Carbon Footprint at 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. Learn how to calculate your personal or household carbon footprint. You will receive handy tips for reducing and offsetting their own carbon footprints. Free and best for adults. To learn more or to register, call 727-453-6800.
 
Aug. 13, 10:30am-11:15am, Book Time, “Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf”, at Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Introduce your preschooler to the wonders of the natural world. This Book Time features “Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf” by Lois Ehlert. This book follows the life of a sugar maple from seed to beautiful tree in collage-style art. 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.

Aug. 13, 10:30am-11:30am, Wee-time at Weedon: “Those Terrific Turtles”, held 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 Those Terrific Turtles by Sarah Cussen. Learn all about turtles, big and small, where they live and what they eat. Registration required by calling 727-453-6500.
 
Aug. 14, 2pm-4pm, Rain Barrel Class, at HLC Building on the Fairgrounds at the Manatee County Extension Office. Come discover innovative ways to capture your storm water runoff. Let us provide you with great water conservation tips and trivia. Attend the Rain Barrel Class and learn how to install, paint, and maintain a functional rain barrel. Class fee of $40 includes a fully assembled rain barrel; so bring your truck or car with a large trunk and leave with many new conservation ideas and your own rain barrel. Start conserving today! Register online http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu or call Linda at 941-742-5986 ext 265.

Aug. 15, 11:30am-12:45pm, Fall Vegetable Garden Workshop in HLC Building on the Fairgrounds at the Manatee County Extension Office. It is time to start your warm weather vegetable garden. Learn soil basics, diseases, pests, and care for starting your fall garden. Register online http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu or call the Master Gardener Diagnostic Plant Clinic at 941-742-5986 on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Friday from 9:00am–4:00pm.

Aug. 15, 1pm-2pm, “Incredible Edible Insects” at Brooker Creek Preserve in Tarpon Springs. Mmmmm, Mmmmm, Good! Join in this fun and interactive program to learn more about benefits of eating insects. Then challenge your palate as culinary sampling of some of these tasty insect treats. This workshop is free and great for families with children 5 and older. Registration required call 727-453-6800.

Aug. 15, 9am-12:30pm, Ocean Conservancy will be conducting a clean up at the South Skyway in an effort to remove debris from Tampa Bay! We will be meeting on the West Gulf side of the South Skyway exit (follow the signs). Please R.S.V.P. for further information and directions to jkoelsch@oceanconservancy.org.

Aug 15, 11:30am-12:45pm or Aug. 26, 9am-11am, Bucket Brigade Classes in HLC Building on the Fairgrounds at the Manatee County Extension Office. Learn about container gardening and actually assemble a bucket to use for your gardening. Bring two 5-gallon buckets with you. Due to safety concerns, we cannot extend our class size, so please register online http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu or call Linda at 941-742-5986 ext. 265.

Aug. 16, 9:30am-11:30am, Sunday Stroll at Brooker Creek Preserve in Tarpon Springs. From the dew hanging on webs and grasses to the first birds waking and singing, nature comes alive in the morning. Join in a relaxing stroll to enjoy morning in the Preserve at a Sunday Stroll. Free. All ages are welcome but children younger than 6 may find the hike challenging. Registration required call 727-453-6800.

Aug. 16, 1pm-3pm, Palm Boot Mask Workshop at Weedon Island Preserve in St. Petersburg. Discover the fascinating world of masks that have been created and worn by almost every culture. In this workshop, use the base of the palm frond, the palm boot, as a foundation to create unique wall hangings. No art experience necessary. You will receive a palm boot and decorate it with paint and natural materials. The program fee is $10 for materials. Great for everyone ages 10 and up. Registration required call 727-453-6500.

Aug. 18, 6pm-9pm, Taking the Mystery Out of Micro Irrigation Workshop in HLC Building on the Fairgrounds at the Manatee County Extension Office. Learn the terms, pros & cons, how to cut water use and how to select, install and operate your own system. Bring a sack supper if you would like. Register online http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu or call Cheryl at 941-742-5986 ext. 262.

Aug. 18, 2pm-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 and click on the “Online Class Registration” button or call 727-582-2100.

Aug.19, 9:30am-10:30am, “Compost Happens” Workshop at the Hillsborough County Extension Office, Conference Center, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL  33584. Learn how to reuse and recycle garden trimmings and kitchen scraps to create a rich and organic soil that can be added to your garden. Hillsborough County residents will receive a free compost bin and thermometer for attending the “Compost Happens” workshop.  $20 cost for non-Hillsborough county residents. Preregistration is required and seating is limited. Please call 813-744-5519 ext 146 or email WatsonB@hillsboroughcounty.org to register. 

Aug.19, 10:30am-11:30am, “Water Wise” Workshop at the Hillsborough County Extension Office, Conference Center, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL  33584. Learn how efficient water use results in a healthier more beautiful landscape. Also learn more about micro-irrigation technology and techniques. Hillsborough County residents will receive a free micro-irrigation kit for attending the Water-Wise workshop.  $20 cost for non-Hillsborough county residents. Pre-registration required. Seating limited. Please call 813-744-5519 ext 146 or email WatsonB@hillsboroughcounty.org to register.

Aug. 20, 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. To register for this free program, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org and click on the “Online Class Registration” button or call 727-582-2100.

Aug. 21, 2pm-4pm, Home Composting Workshop in HLC Building on the Fairgrounds at the Manatee County Extension Office. Learn how to turn your kitchen scraps and yard waste into useful soil amendments. Participants will learn fun and creative ways to recycle in the landscape and details about how to set up a home compost bin. Leave with a compost bin to start creating your own compost. Register online http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu or call Linda at 941-742-5986 ext. 265. Workshop fee: $10.00.

Aug. 21, 9am-12pm, Tampa Bay Estuary Program’s Management and Policy Board meeting and 1pm-4pm Policy Board both at Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council, 4000 Gateway Centre Blvd., Suite 100, Pinellas Park.

Aug. 22, 1pm-2pm, Binocular Basics: In Search of the Best and Brightest at Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Learn how to get the best view from your binoculars and how to choose a new pair. You will get a chance to try out several different types of binoculars out “in the field.” Admission is free and great for ages 12 and older. Registration required call 727-453-6800.
 
Aug. 22, 2pm-3:30pm, Tampa Bay Creature Feature at Weedon Island Preserve. Explore some of the amazing creatures that are found in the Tampa Bay Estuary. Discover some familiar and some very unfamiliar organisms. Some of these small critters play a huge role in maintaining and benefiting the Tampa Bay ecosystem. Some guest participants will include oysters, snails, worms, crabs and fish. Free. Great for participants ages 8 and older. Registration required by calling 727-453-6500.
 
Aug. 23, 9am-11am, History Mound Hike at Weedon Island Preserve in St. Petersburg. Take a guided hike of the new History Mound Trail. Listen as volunteers interpret the early prehistory of a shell mound and discuss the colorful, recent history of the Preserve. Free and best for adults and children ages 8 and older. Registration required call 727-453-6500.

Aug. 23, 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.

Aug. 25, 10am-11am, “Green Home”, Online at Your Computer with Pinellas County Extension Experts. In just 60 minutes, you can learn easy ways to green up your life through energy conservation, green purchasing and sustainable living. To register for this free program, visit HYPERLINK "http://www.pinellascountyextension.org/" www.pinellascountyextension.org and click on the “Online Class Registration” button or call 727-582-2100.

Aug. 26, 2pm-3pm, Plant Propagation Workshop with Pinellas County Master Gardeners, West St. Petersburg Community Library, 6605 5th Ave. N., St. Petersburg. Explore the many ways to propagate plants that can help gardeners increase the plants they love while decreasing landscaping costs. Air layering will be highlighted. It is way whereby a part of a woody plant is made to develop roots by wounding the plant’s stem and enclosing it in moist moss. Learn tips and techniques to help your new gardening adventure be successful. This is a free workshop. For more information and to register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org or call 727 582-2100.

Aug. 26, 7pm-8pm, Free Movie Night, The Ecological Footprint: Accounting for a Small Planet at Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Enjoy a 30-minute film that explores the current global situation and demonstrates ways that governments, communities and businesses are working to live more sustainability. Get involved in a discussion and take home tips about reducing your personal footprint on Earth’s natural resources. Free and best for adults. To register, call 727-453-6800.

Aug. 27, 6pm-8pm, Dazzling Designs Class. This class is step one in the 5-step How to Develop Your Florida Friendly Landscape Series we will be offering. As a participant you will learn how to save time and money all while creating your Fabulous Florida-Friendly Landscape. An interactive, hands-on class that will demonstrate how to implement the nine principles of a Florida-Friendly Landscape. We will highlight dazzling landscape designs in Manatee County created by homeowners who possess Fabulous Florida-Friendly Landscapes. Register online http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu or call Linda at 941-742-5986 ext. 265.

Aug. 27, 10:30am-11:15am, Book Time, The Lady and the Spider, Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Introduce your preschooler to the wonders of the natural world. This Book Time features The Lady and the Spider by Faith McNulty. Follow her daily routine until an unsuspecting gardener harvests the spider’s home in a head of lettuce. 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.

Aug. 27, 10:30am-11:30am, Wee-time at Weedon: Into the A, B, and Sea: An Ocean Alphabet, 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 Into the A, B, and Sea: An Ocean Alphabet by Deborah Lee Rose. This story reveals the underwater world where a wonderful array of creatures thrives. Free. Registration required call 727-453-6500.

Aug. 29, 10am-1pm, Family Maya Day at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Join archaeologists for an exploration of ancient Maya culture. Learn how experts decipher Maya hieroglyphic writing, calculate your birthday in the Maya calendar and decode the meaning of images carved in stone and painted on ceramic. Great free event for the entire family. To learn more, call 727-453-6500.

Aug. 29, 1pm-2pm, What’s in a Frog’s Song? at Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Enjoy an entertaining multi-sensory presentation to discover common frogs and what they can tell us about the environment. Fun activities will help you learn tricks for recognizing and remembering their voices. Free and best for families with children ages 8 and older. Registration required call 727-453-6800.

Aug. 30, 8am-10am, 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.

September

Sept. 1, 10am-11am, “Green Office”, Online at Your Computer with Pinellas County Extension Experts. In just 60 minutes, you can be on your way to making a green office. Learn the basic principles of green purchasing to make better decisions about what you buy. Free. To register for this program, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org, click on the “Online Class Registration” button and then click on the “Sustainable Living” tab. Citizens may also call 727-582-2100.

Sept. 2 through Oct. 31, “Florida Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow” Exhibit at Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. This exhibition captures the essence of Brooker Creek Preserve as a result of art cloth, which is a layering process on fabric. The Art Cloth Alliance, a group of 13 Tampa Bay fiber artists, uses their creativity to depict Florida’s unique environment and natural history on cloth. Art cloth is created by hand-dyeing fabric with ancient dye techniques, stenciling, screen printing and stamping. The exhibit is open during regular Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center hours. It will be on display through Saturday, Oct. 31. A reception will be held Sunday, Sept. 6 from 1-4pm at the Center. Exhibition and reception are free. For information call 727-453-6800.

Sept. 2, 7pm, Native Plant Landscape Tour, Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Preview Speakers: Landscape committee and homeowners. For information call 727-544-7341.

Sept. 5, 12, 19, and 26, 9am-11am, Guided Hike at 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.

Sept. 5, 12, 19, and 26, 9am-11am, Saturday Guided Hike at 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.

Sept. 5, 10am-11am, “Learn the Basics of Dog Training Seminar”, at Pinellas County Animal Services, 12450 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Calling citizens who adopted dogs from Pinellas County Animal Services: Get off to the right start with the pet you adopted from Animal Services by attending a Learn the Basics of Dog Training Seminar. Learn about housetraining, loose-leash walking and dealing with other behaviors such as chewing and jumping. Seminar is conducted by a Certified Pet Dog Trainer and member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers. This new, fun and informative seminar is for anyone who has adopted a dog from Pinellas County Animal Services. Free. To learn more or to register, visit www.pinellascounty.org/animalservices or call 727-582-2600.

Sept. 5, 10am-3pm, “Printing with Everyday Objects Workshop”, at Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Learn numerous techniques used by surface design artists to print fabric while they create beautiful one of a kind greeting cards, a tote bag, t-shirt and several swatches of art cloth. No previous art skill or training necessary. Anyone who works with children, the elderly or people with special skills will find many skills learned at this workshop useful and easily adapted to educational or therapeutic settings. Space is limited. Best for adults. Cost is $70, which includes $50 course fee and $20 materials fee. Registration required call 727-453-6800.

Sept. 8, 2pm-4pm, Manatee Awareness Coalition meeting at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg 727-453-6500.

Sept. 9, 9am-4pm, “Best Management Practices for Landscape Professionals” at Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Calling all landscape professionals: This program is designed to provide training in best management practices for anyone working in the lawn, landscape, pest control or municipal ground areas. Training focuses on reducing non-point source pollution resulting from fertilization or pesticide application. CEUs can be earned. The cost for this program is $15 per person. To register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org and click on the “Online Class Registration” button.  Citizens may also call 727-582-2100.

Sept. 9, 2pm-6:15pm, “Exploring the World of Bromeliads with Pinellas County Master Gardeners” at Palm Harbor Library, 2330 Nebraska Ave., Palm Harbor. Explore the fascinating world of bromeliads. Learn about the best types to grow in Florida and how best to care and maintain them. You may attend either session. Free. To register, log onto www.pinellascountyextension.org, click the “Online Class Registration” button and then click on the “Lawn & Garden” tab. Citizens may also call 727-582-2100.

Sept. 9, 6:30pm-8pm, ‘Landscaping for Wildlife”’ held at Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Explore how to invite birds and butterflies to the yard with experts from Pinellas County Extension. Learn which plants attract wildlife, where to plant them and how to best take care of them. The fee for the program is $15 per person. To register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org, click on the “Online Class Registration” button and then click on the “Lawn & Garden” tab. Citizens may also call 727-582-2100.

Sept. 9, 7pm-8pm, Movie Night at Brooker Creek Preserve: “A Sense of Wonder”, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Watch an intriguing film about Rachel Carson, the writer and environmentalist, who published Silent Spring in 1962. Carson is depicted in her final year of life, as she recounts her struggles with the chemical companies, government and the media to get her message to the people and Congress. Discussion will follow the film. Best for adults. Free. Registration required call 727-453-6800.

Sept. 10, 10:30am-11:15am, Book Time at Brooker Creek Preserve: “In a Nutshell”, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Introduce your preschooler to the wonders of the natural world. This Book Time features In a Nutshell by Joseph Anthony. This beautifully illustrated tale introduces children to a nut in the woods and follows the life cycle of the tree to a warm ending in a suburban yard. 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.

Sept. 10, 10:30am-11:30am, Wee-time at Weedon Island Preserve: “Harry Horseshoe Crab: A Tale of Crawly Creatures”, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Introduce your preschooler to the wonders of the natural world at this Wee-time at Weedon program. This week’s program is Harry Horseshoe Crab: A Tale of Crawly Creatures by Suzanne Tate. After this fantastic story, participants will meet a live horseshoe crab from the Tampa Bay Estuary. Learn all about where they live and what they eat. Free. Registration required call 727-453-6500.

Sept. 12, 8am, Armchair Birding, Big Birds for Beginners. Field Trip with Clearwater Audubon Society at McGough Nature Center in Bonner Park, Largo. Contact is Lynn Sumerson, 727-596-8822. For information visit http://clearwateraudubon.org/index.php.

Sept. 12, 10am-Noon, “Diamondback Terrapins: Living on the Edge” at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Island Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Get introduced to diamondback terrapins and the ecology and conservation needs of this little known, yet important coastal and estuary species. You will also learn how to sort terrapin bones and reassemble shells. Best for adults and suitable for children ages 10 and up. Free. Registration required call 727-453-6500.

Sept. 12, 10am-Noon, “Healthy Home, Healthy Family” at Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Discover how the indoor air quality of your home impacts everyone’s health at this research-based workshop sponsored by Pinellas County Extension. The Pinellas County Department of Health and Healthy Homes, St. Pete will be speakers. Learn where pollutants come from, how they affect your life and how to make your home a healthier place for you and your family. After all, the EPA says that most indoor air qualifies as being more polluted than the air outdoors in the world’s most industrialized cities. The cost of this program is $15 per person. To register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org and click on the “Online Class Registration” button.  Citizens may also call 727-582-2100.

Sept. 12, 11am-3pm, “Trash to Treasure Swap Meet” at Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Here is your opportunity to pick up new treasures for free. Get green and frugal at the same time by turning your trash into treasures at this swap meet. Drop off or take home the following items: books, videos, DVDs, music CDs, board games, artwork and kitchen housewares less than 24 inches by 24 inches. All items must be in very good or excellent condition and family-friendly. Each household should bring no more than 12 items. Free. Call 727-453-6800 for more details.

Sept. 13, 8am-10am, Photography Hike at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Island Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Take a hike at Weedon Island Preserve and search for the perfect photograph. Guides will highlight seasonal features of the Preserve as well as specific wildlife behaviors that will help you capture the natural beauty of the area. Best for adults. Free. To register, call 727-453-6500.
 
Sept. 13, 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 great for families with children of all ages. Free. To learn more, call 727-453-6800.

Sept. 15, 2pm-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 and click on the “Online Class Registration” button or call 727-582-2100.

Sept. 17, 2pm-3pm, “A Homeowner’s Guide to Lighting 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, click on the “Online Class Registration” button and then click on the “Sustainable Living” tab. Citizens may also call 727-582-2100.

Sept. 17, 7pm-8pm, Underwater Survey: “Paleo Sites in the Gulf of Mexico” at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Explore the findings in this extraordinary underwater survey in the Northeastern Gulf of Mexico. This continued offshore investigation has great significance in mapping marine protection areas and on the pre-Clovis debate of early humans in America while it generates important bathymetric data. This lecture, co-sponsored by the Central Gulf Coast Archaeological Society, is open to the public. Best for adults. Free. Registration required call 727-453-6500.

Sept. 18, 12:30pm-3:30pm, Guided Canoe Trip at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., 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 for more information and pre-register today.

Sept. 19, 9am-12:30pm, International Coastal Clean up, every September, from Bangor, Maine, to Bangladesh, hundreds of thousands of people in more than 75 countries remove millions of pounds of trash from waterways and beaches all over the world during Ocean Conservancy's International Coastal Cleanup (ICC). In Pinellas, you can join us at Fort Desoto for this event! We will be meeting in the pavilion area near the old fort. RSVP to sgodfrey@oceanconservancy.org for further information and directions. In Manatee County, you can join us at the Green Bridge Fishing Pier in Palmetto. RSVP to jkoelsch@oceanconservancy.org for this event!

Sept. 20, 2pm-3pm, Weedon Sunday Matinee, “A Sense of Wonder” held at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Watch an intriguing film about Rachel Carson, the writer and environmentalist, who published Silent Spring in 1962. Carson is depicted in her final year of life, as she recounts her struggles with the chemical companies, government and the media to get her message to the people and Congress. Discussion will follow the film. Best for adults. Free. To register, call 727-453-6500.

Sept. 23, 3pm-5pm, Community Advisory Committee meeting at Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council, 4000 Gateway Centre Blvd., Suite 100, Pinellas Park.

Sept. 23, 8am-5pm, “Pesticide License Training and Testing for Landscape Professionals” held at Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. This class provides training and testing necessary to obtain a limited Commercial Landscape Maintenance or Limited Lawn and Ornamental license. For information about the training, testing, application, registration and costs, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org and click on the “Online Class Registration” button.

Sept. 23, 2pm-3pm, “Gardening with Wildlife with Pinellas County Master Gardeners” at West St. Petersburg Community Library, 6605 5th Ave. N., St. Petersburg. Explore the many ways to invite wildlife into your garden. Learn about the various plants you can use to attract wildlife to your yard by providing food sources and nesting habitats. Don’t forget that they will also need some water. Free. For information and to register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org or call 727-582-2100.

Sept. 23, 7pm-8pm, Free, Movie Night, “Living Things We Love to Hate” held at Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. The slippery slug, the supple snake and the darting bat make many of us squirm, shudder and recoil in revulsion. These are some of the organisms addressed in Living Things We Love to Hate, a light-hearted film produced by Rainshadow Media. Get a fun, up-close yet scientific exploration of the roots of our cultural attitudes. Best for adults and children over 8 years old. Free. To register, call 727-453-6800.
 
Sept. 24, 10:30am-11:15am, Book Time at Brooker Creek, “The Very Busy Spider”, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Introduce your preschooler to the wonders of the natural world. This Book Time features The Very Busy Spider by Eric Carle. Enjoy this delightful tale of a busy little spider as she weaves her web. 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.

Sept. 24, 10:30am-11:30am, Wee-time at Weedon: “Carolina’s Story: Sea Turtles Get Sick Too!” 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 Carolina’s Story: Sea Turtles Get Sick Too! by Donna Rathmell. This story relates the journey of Carolina, the loggerhead sea turtle and her rehabilitation and return to the sea. Best for ages 3 to 5 years old. Free. Registration required call 727-453-6500.

Sept. 24, 6:30pm-8pm, “Drought Tolerant Plants with Pinellas County Extension” held at Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Discover how to increase drought tolerance in the many plants you put in the landscape from trees, shrubs, ground covers, perennials and wildflowers with the experts from Pinellas County Extension. Learn how to assess plants you already have and how to spot drought tolerance in new plants. Native and exotic plants will be discussed. Fee for this class is $15 per person. To register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org, click on the “Online Class Registration” button and then the “Lawn & Garden” tab. You may also call 727-582-2100 to register.

Sept. 26, 8am, Field Trip with Clearwater Audubon Society at Honeymoon Island, Dunedin Causeway. Contact is Lynn Sumerson, 727-596-8822. For information visit http://clearwateraudubon.org/index.php or http://www.floridastateparks.org/honeymoonisland/.

Sept. 26, 10am-Noon, Compost Happens! Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Do you think composting is complicated? Sign up for an informative workshop to show just how easy it can be at the free Compost Happens!  Just add kitchen scraps to your yard clippings and watch what happens. The program is free and best for adults. To register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org and click on the “Online Class Registration” button or call 727-582-2100.

Sept. 27, 11am-3pm, Open Classroom, “Discovering Nature with Your Child” at Brooker Creek Preserve, Tarpon Springs. Stop by our classroom anytime between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm to participate in a variety of self-guided nature games and activities that will answer these questions and many more.  Pre-registration is not required for this open activity.  Admission is free.  Recommended for families with children of all ages. For information, call 727-453-6800. 

Sept. 30, 6:30pm-8pm, “Managing Common Landscape Problems”, held at Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Learn about common insects, diseases, nutrient deficiencies and other problems that can appear in the landscape. Fee is $15 per person. To register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org, click on the “Online Class Registration” button and then the “Lawn & Garden” tab. You may also call 727-582-2100 to register.

October

Oct. 3, 8am, Field Trip with Clearwater Audubon Society at Moccasin Lake Nature Park, Clearwater. Contact: Madeleine Bohrer, 727-518-6241.
http://clearwateraudubon.org/index.php
http://www.cle arwater-fl.com/gov/depts/parksrec/facilities/mlnp.asp

Oct. 7, 7pm, "The Beauty of Florida’s Sandhill Community" Speaker: Craig Huegel, PhD, at Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. The trees, plants, wildflowers and wildlife of a Sandhill ecosystem; what makes a sandhill different from a scrub. For information call 727-544-7341.

Oct. 10, 8am, Field Trip with Clearwater Audubon Society at John Chesnut County Park, Palm Harbor, meet at Shelter #6. Contact: Ellen Pfau, 727-786-3718.
http://clearwateraudubon.org/index.php
http://www.pinellascounty.org/park/04_Chesnut.htm

Oct. 10, Field Trip/hike at Ocala National forest to a Sandhill ecosystem. The Riverside Island tract is one of the few remaining longleaf pine forests that has been managed for decades with prescribed fire so that the open park-like nature of this type of system is very evident. This location is a beautiful and classic sandhill, which was one of the most predominant ecosystems of central & north Florida in the “pre-developed Florida” era. The fall season shows this ecosystem at it’s most beautiful. We will see several species of Liatris (Blazing Stars) Carphephorus (Florida Paintbrush, Deertongue, Vanilla Plant), Golden Asters,  and wide variety of other fall blooming wildflowers. This is an easy hike; we will drive to an area, get out, explore a while, then get back in our cars and drive to another area, but please wear hiking appropriate clothing, and closed toe shoes.  This area has also been managed as a Red-cockaded woodpecker habitat so hopefully we will see some of these elusive birds as well. Dr. Craig Huegel will be our leader and plant/wildlife expert for this trip. For more information, and details of  carpooling  times and meeting places, please contact Alexa Wilcox-Huegel, e-mail alexa776@tampabay.rr.com or call 727-422-4792. Campsites are available at beautiful Juniper Springs State Recreation Area, which is a short distance from the hiking spot.  If you are interested in camping, book early through Reserve America, accessible from the Florida State Parks website.
http://www.reserveamerica.com/campgroundDetails.do?subTabInex=0&&contractCode=nrso&parkCode=jusp

Oct. 17, 8am, Field Trip with Clearwater Audubon Society at North Anclote Nature Park, Tarpon Springs, meet in parking lot. Contact: Merle Hubbard, 727-939-1549.
http://clearwateraudubon.org/index.php
http://international.visitflorida.com/uk/destinations/moreinfo.php/ID=92331/detail=park

Oct. 17, 9am-12:30pm, Ocean Conservancy will be conducting several clean ups at St. Petersburg Downtown Pier, Bunces Pass near Fort Desoto, North Skyway Blackthorn Park and Terre Verde. Please RSVP to sgodfrey@oceanconservancy.org for directions and further information.

Oct. 24, 7am, Field Trip with Clearwater Audubon Society at Circle B Bar Ranch, Lakeland, meet at Tri-City Mall (East Bay Drive by Route 19) in front of Party City. Contact: Lynn Sumerson, 727-596-8822.
http://clearwateraudubon.org/index.php
http://www.polk-county.net/subpage.aspx?menu_id=52&nav=res&id=6040

Oct. 31, 8am, Field Trip with Clearwater Audubon Society at Fort DeSoto County Park, Tierra Verde, meet at FDCP Ranger Station under the big flag. Contact: Lynn Sumerson, 727-596-8822.
http://clearwateraudubon.org/index.php
http://www.pinellascounty.org/park/05_Ft_Desoto.htm

November

Nov. 21, 9am-12:30pm, Ocean Conservancy will be conducting a cleanup in an effort to remove marine debris from Tampa Bay! These events will be held at Fort Desoto and the South Skyway relief area. Please RSVP to jkoelsch@oceanconservancy.org for directions and further information.

December

Dec. 19, 9am-12:30pm, Ocean Conservancy will be conducting a cleanup in an effort to remove marine debris from Tampa Bay! These events will be held at the North Skyway Blackthorn Park and the Green Bridge in Palmetto. Please RSVP to jkoelsch@oceanconservancy.org for directions and further information.