Septembert

Summer Programs

Return to News Release Top  Guided Hikes Return to News Release Top Guided Canoe Tours
Return to News Release Top  Park Walks Return to News Release Top  Brooker Creek Preserve Walks
  Return to News Release Top  Weedon Island Preserve Walks

 Guided Hikes & Nature Walks  

 Parks Department

Pinellas County Parks & Recreation LogoPlease check the Parks calendar for current dates here
10 to 11 a.m.
Ft. De Soto Park Nature Walk - website
Ft. De Soto Park, 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde

Come out and enjoy the beauty of Ft. De Soto Park with a free one-hour nature walk great for the entire family. Nature walks wander through one of the park’s six different natural communities including the Arrowhead Trail, Mangrove Tour, Campground Tour, Beach Tour, Soldier’s Hole or Bird Watch. Call the park for tour information and meeting locations.
Registration required by calling (727) 582-2267.


Please check the Parks calendar for current dates here
9 to 10:30 a.m.
Guided Nature Walk at John Chesnut, Sr. Park - website
John Chestnut, Sr. Park, 2200 East Lake Road, Palm Harbor

Explore the outdoors and discover plants that grow naturally in wetlands and pine flatwoods at John Chesnut Park, at Peggy Park Trail. Learn how these plants have been used over the years. Visit points of interest along Brooker Creek and overlook Lake Tarpon. Free.
Registration required by calling (727) 669-1951.


Please check the Parks calendar for current dates here
9 to 10:30 a.m.
Guided Nature Walk at Philippe Park - website
Philippe Park, 2525 Philippe Parkway, 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 by calling (727) 669-1947.


Florida Botanical Gardens LogoMonday through Friday
8 a.m. through 5 p.m.
Garden Explorer Discovery Backpack Tour
Florida Botanical Gardens,
12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo

Take a free, self-guided Garden Explorer Discovery Backpack Tour at beautiful Florida Botanical Gardens. To make your self-guided tour even more fun, a Discovery Backpack is available for checkout from the Welcome Center. The backpack is loaded with I-spy sheets featuring art, flowers, insects and birds that may be found throughout the Gardens. A pair of binoculars and a map with interesting facts about plants are included. With more than 30 acres of cultivated gardens to explore, plan about two hours for this fun adventure. Free. For more information, call (727) 582-2581.

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 Brooker Creek Preserve

Brooker Creek Preserve LogoSaturdays - call for dates
Wildlands Hiking Trails Map
9 to 11 a.m.
Take a Guided Hike at Brooker Creek Preserve
Brooker Creek Preserve
3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs

Take a walk through time Saturday morning on a 0.75-mile walk with an expert from the Preserve to guide you. See how the land changed over time and discuss the ecological footprints left by those changes. All ages welcome, but children younger than 6 may find it challenging. Free. Registration required by calling (727) 453-6800.


Sundays - call for dates - Wildlands Hiking Trails Map
7:30 to 9 a.m. - Early Morning Nature Walk                       
9 to 11 a.m. - Sunday Morning Bird Walk
9 to 11 a.m. - Young Naturalist Walk
Brooker Creek Preserve
3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs

Enjoy an early morning bird walk along the Preserve’s trails. Learn to identify common birds of the Preserve by sight, behavior and sound. Bring your own binoculars or borrow a pair. Best for ages 10 and up. Free.
Registration required by calling (727) 453-6800.


Wednesdays - call for dates - Wildlands Hiking Trails Map
7 to 8:30 p.m.
Family Night Hike at Brooker Creek Preserve
Brooker Creek Preserve
3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs

Experience Brooker Creek Preserve after dark as we look and listen for creatures of the night. Discover the unique adaptations of nocturnal animals while exploring the Education Center Trail. Best for families with children age 10 and up. Free. Pre-registration is required by calling (727) 453-6800.


Thursdays - call for dates - Wildlands Hiking Trails Map
8 to 9:30 a.m.
Fall Migration Bird Hike
Brooker Creek Preserve
3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs

Search for migratory birds as these feathered marathon flyers travel towards the tropics through Brooker Creek Preserve. Bring your own binoculars or borrow a pair. Best for ages 10 and up. Free.
Pre-registration is required by calling (727) 453-6800.

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 Weedon Island Preserve

Weedon Island LogoOn-Going Opportunities to Discover Paradise

Wednesday through Sunday
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Connecting People and Place Exhibit Gallery
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.


Saturdays - call for dates - Visitor Guide   
9 to 11 a.m.
Take a Guided Hike at Weedon Island Preserve
Weedon Island Preserve
1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg

Take a hike with nature experts through the Preserve’s coastal mangrove and upland ecosystems. Learn about the coastal environment and the early residents of Weedon Island Preserve. Children younger than 6 may find this hike challenging. Free. Call (727) 453-6500 to register or for more information.


Sundays - call for dates - Visitor Guide
8:30 to 9:30 a.m.
Sunday Stroll at Weedon Island Preserve
Weedon Island Preserve
1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg

Take an early morning nature walk at Weedon Island Preserve while looking for birds and other wildlife. This short outing is a great way to explore some of Florida’s natural areas while taking advantage of learning opportunities along the trails. All ages welcome, but children younger than 6 may find this hike challenging. Free. Registration required by calling (727) 453-6500.


Sundays - Visitor Guide
8 to 9:30 a.m.
Photography Hike at Weedon Island Preserve
Weedon Island Preserve
1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg

Search for the perfect snapshot while hiking Weedon Island Preserve during this photography hike. A guide will highlight seasonal features and wildlife behaviors to help you capture the Preserve’s natural beauty. This hike is best for adults. Free. To register, call (727) 453-6500.


 Guided Canoe Trip 

Fridays & Saturdays - call for dates - Visitor Guide  
9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Guided Canoe Trip
Weedon Island Preserve
1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg

North Paddling Trail
South Paddling Trail
Canoe & Kayak Rentals & Lessons

Explore the south canoe trail of Weedon Island Preserve. Get a rare look at some of the aquatic ecosystems that make west-central Florida so special. Trained canoe 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 $10 per person or $20 per canoe with a maximum of three people in each canoe. Children should be over 6 years old and accompanied by an adult. For more information or to register, call (727) 453-6500.

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September

Week of Monday, Sept. 1 through Sunday, Sept. 7

Heritage Village LogoWednesday, Sept. 3
10 to 11:30 a.m.
Preschool Village Ramblers – Lemonade Social
Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo

Children and their parents or grandparents join in the fun with Florida history during Preschool Village Ramblers. Have fun dancing at the bandstand, playing old-fashioned games at the gazebo and making lemonade. Other programs planned for the first Wednesday in Oct., Nov. and Dec. Fee charged; pre-paid registration required. Pay by the program or save on the series. Special discount for Pinellas County Historical Society members. Two adults admitted free per child. For more information about costs and to register, call (727) 582-2426 or email heritagevillage@pinellascounty.org.

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Weedon Island LogoSaturday, Sept. 6
9 a.m. to noon
Guided Canoe Trip at Weedon Island Preserve
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 $10 per person or $20 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.

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Brooker Creek Preserve LogoSaturday, Sept. 6
9 to 11 a.m.
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.

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Weedon Island LogoSaturday, Sept. 6
9 to 11 a.m.
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.

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Pinellas County ParksSaturday, Sept. 6
10 to 11 a.m.
Ft. De Soto Park Nature Walk
Ft. De Soto Park, 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde

Come and enjoy the beauty of Ft. De Soto Park with a free one-hour nature walk great for the entire family. A Beach Nature Walk is planned. Call the park for tour information and meeting locations. Registration required by calling (727) 582-2267.

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Brooker Creek Preserve LogoSaturday, Sept. 6
1 to 1:45 p.m.
Ugly Duckling’s Journey to Away at Brooker Creek Preserve
Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs

Join the Ugly Duckling as he embarks on a thrilling journey while learning to reduce, reuse and recycle garbage. Witness Ugly’s transformation as he realizes that when throwing out the trash, there is no such place as “away.” Join in the world premier of this engaging family performance. This program is great for families with children of all ages. Free, but registration is required by calling (727) 453-6800.

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Brooker Creek Preserve LogoSaturday, Sept. 6
2 to 4 p.m.
Teachers’ Open House at Brooker Creek Preserve
Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs

Discover the educational opportunities that await you and your students at Brooker Creek Preserve. Meet an educator and learn about the Preserve that is a perfect place to connect classroom concepts to the natural world. Refreshments provided. Free and recommended for all teachers. Registration is appreciated by calling (727) 453-6800.

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Weedon Island LogoSunday, Sept. 7
8 to 10 a.m.
Photography Hike at Weedon Island Preserve
Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg

Join in the search for that perfect shot as Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center experts highlight seasonal features as well as specific wildlife behaviors. Great for photographers of all levels. This workshop is free but best for adults. To register, call (727) 453-6500.

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Pinellas County ParksSunday, Sept. 7
10 to 11 a.m.
Ft. De Soto Park Nature Walk
Ft. De Soto Park, 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde

Come and enjoy the beauty of Ft. De Soto Park with a free one-hour nature walk great for the entire family. A Campground Nature Walk is planned. Call the park for tour information and meeting locations. Registration required by calling (727) 582-2267.

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Brooker Creek Preserve LogoSunday, Sept. 7
1 to 4 p.m.
Meet the Artist, Jason Hahn – Visions of Florida
Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs

Meet Jason Hahn, a talented photographer, as he discusses his work. Hahn hikes into the muddiest, buggiest, hottest and most unforgiving places Florida has to offer to capture that perfect shot because even those places hold beauty. Registration is not required for this reception. For more information, call (727) 453-6800.

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Week of Monday, Sept. 8 through Sunday, Sept. 14

Pinellas County Extension / IFASTuesday, Sept. 9
6:30 to 9 p.m.
Florida-Friendly Landscaping Series – Landscape Design Clinic
Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo

Join a gardening course that will teach Florida-Friendly landscape design and maintenance principles. This class is a follow-up to the Concepts of Landscape Design class held in August or for those who may have designed landscape plans and would like to attend just this class. Horticulturists will be on hand to review plans as well as assess plant selections. Tuition is $15 for this class. Call (727) 582-2673 to register.

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Brooker Creek Preserve LogoWednesday, Sept. 10
7 to 8 p.m.
Cypress Swamp Café – Cleaning Your House Green
Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs

Do you worry about the safety of household cleaning products? Many commercially available products do contain strong chemicals that can be harmful to you and the environment. Join the staff at Brooker Creek Preserve and learn how to clean your house green. This is one in a series of presentations and discussions to explore ways to live a more sustainable lifestyle. Organic refreshments and shade-grown coffee will be included. Free but call (727) 453-6800 to register.

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Weedon Island LogoThursday, Sept. 11
10:30 to 11:15 a.m.
Wee-time at Weedon: Danny & Daisy:
A Tale of a Dolphin Duo

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 Danny & Daisy: A Tale of a Dolphin Duo by Suzanne Tate. This book introduces children to the world of this interesting marine mammal, including the biology and ecology as well as research and rehabilitation. A hands-on craft or other activity is included. Free. Registration required by calling (727) 453-6500.

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Brooker Creek Preserve LogoThursday, Sept. 11
10:30 to 11:15 a.m.
Book Time at Brooker Creek – Hungry Hoppers: Grasshoppers 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 Hungry Hoppers: Grasshoppers in Your Backyard by Nancy Loewen. This tale is about athletic arthropods, or grasshoppers, and what they can do through this fun and lighthearted book. 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 is required by calling (727) 453-6800.

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Heritage Village LogoThursday, Sept. 11
1 to 3 p.m.
Home School History Adventures – Ringing the Bell
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 Ringing the Bell – A Lesson in Fun at the One Room School. This two-hour themed program includes living history activities, a targeted tour, story time and a craft. A take-home activity is given to families too. Other programs planned for the second Thursday in Oct., Nov. and Dec. Fee charged; pre-paid registration required. Pay by the program or save on the series. Special discount for Pinellas County Historical Society members. For more information about costs and to register, call (727) 582-2426 or email heritagevillage@pinellascounty.org.

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Weedon Island LogoSaturday, Sept. 13
9 to 11 a.m.
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 a spot by 2 p.m. on Friday. Free. To register, call (727) 453-6500.

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Brooker Creek Preserve LogoSaturday, Sept. 13
9 to 11 a.m.
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.

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Pinellas County ParksSaturday, Sept. 13
10 to 11 a.m.
Ft. De Soto Park Nature Walk
Ft. De Soto Park, 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde

Come and enjoy the beauty of Ft. De Soto Park with a free one-hour nature walk great for the entire family. A Nature Walk is planned. Call the park for tour information and meeting locations. Registration required by calling (727) 582-2267.

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Heritage Village LogoSaturday, Sept. 13
1 to 3 p.m.
Doodlebugs: Ringing the Bell – A Lesson in Fun at the One Room School
Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo

This monthly club for children ages 5 to 11 offers a fun getaway to the past with a Ringing the Bell – A Lesson in Fun at the One Room School. This two-hour themed program includes living history activities, a targeted tour, story time and a craft. A take-home activity is given to families too. Other programs planned for the second Saturday in Oct., Nov. and Dec. Fee charged; pre-paid registration required. Pay by the program or save on the series. Special discount for Pinellas County Historical Society members. For information about costs and to register, call (727) 582-2426 or email heritagevillage@pinellascounty.org.

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Heritage Village LogoSaturday, Sept. 13
10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Mini-Camp for Grown-ups
Elbow Grease and Homey Pastimes

Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo

Visit with Elizabeth McMullen and learn what it took to be a housewife in the 1860s at an Elbow Grease and Homey Pastimes program. Pitch in to spiff up the cabin, polish the good silver, wash clothes the old fashioned way and sew a quilted “hot pad” for your kitchen. Other programs planned for one Saturday in Oct., Nov. and Dec. Pre-paid registration required. Pay by the program or save on the series. Special discount for Pinellas County Historical Society members. For more information about costs and to register, call (727) 582-2426 or email heritagevillage@pinellascounty.org.

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Brooker Creek Preserve LogoSaturday, Sept. 13
1 to 3 p.m.
Family Creek Adventure at Brooker Creek Preserve
Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs

Come get your feet wet while exploring the creek in search of its residents, both large and small. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must for this wet and muddy activity. Great for families with children age 7 and up. Free but space is limited so call (727) 453-6800 today.

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Weedon Island LogoSaturday, Sept. 13
1 to 2:30 p.m.
Wildlife Ecology: Florida Box Turtle, Our Landscape Architect
Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg

Get introduced to our own native landscape architect, the Florida box turtle. Through their habits, traits and lifestyles, these reptiles revitalize and maintain native vegetation throughout Pinellas County in some very unusual ways. Florida box turtles will be attending and participating in this program. Free and great for ages 10 and up. Call (727) 453-6500 to register.

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Pinellas County ParksSunday, Sept. 14
10 to 11 a.m.
Ft. De Soto Park Nature Walk
Ft. De Soto Park, 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde

Come and enjoy the beauty of Ft. De Soto Park with a free one-hour nature walk great for the entire family. An Arrowhead Nature Walk is planned. Call the park for tour information and meeting locations. Registration required by calling (727) 582-2267.

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Brooker Creek Preserve LogoSunday, Sept. 14
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Open Classroom – Discovering Nature With Your Child at Brooker Creek Preserve
Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs

Who lives in that skin? What is the difference between a carnivore and an herbivore? Whose tracks are those? Stop by the Brooker Creek Center’s classroom anytime between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. to participate in a variety of self-guided nature games and activities that will answer these questions and many more. Free. Recommended for families with children of all ages. For information, call (727) 453-6800.

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Week of Monday, Sept. 15 through Sunday, Sept. 21

Weedon Island LogoThursday, Sept. 18
7 to 8 p.m.
The Archaeological Investigation of Tampa’s Maritime Past
Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg

Explore two years of historical, cartographic and archaeological investigation into the maritime history of Tampa Bay with John William Morris, III, marine archaeologist. This free program is co-sponsored by the Central Gulf Coast Archaeological Society and is best for adults. To register, call (727) 453-6500.

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Brooker Creek Preserve LogoSaturday, Sept. 20
9 to 11 a.m.
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.

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Weedon Island LogoSaturday, Sept. 20
9 to 11 a.m.
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. Free. Please register by 2 p.m. on Friday. To register, call (727) 453-6500.

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Pinellas County ParksSaturday, Sept. 20
9 to 10:30 a.m.
Guided Nature Walk at Chesnut Park
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 is required by calling (727) 669-1951.

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Pinellas County Extension / IFASSaturday, Sept. 20
9 to 10:30 a.m.
Rain Barrel Workshop - (Sorry, this class is full)
Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo

Learn about how to set up a recycled plastic barrel to collect rain water from the roof. Use the water for your landscape plants, potted plants and more. Rain barrels are available for purchase. The workshop is free. For more information or to register, call (727) 582-2673.

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Pinellas County ParksSaturday, Sept. 20
10 to 11 a.m.
Ft. De Soto Park Nature Walk
Ft. De Soto Park, 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde

Come and enjoy the beauty of Ft. De Soto Park with a free one-hour nature walk great for the entire family. A Nature Walk is planned. Call the park for tour information and meeting locations. Registration required by calling (727) 582-2267.

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Heritage Village LogoSaturday, Sept. 20
10 a.m. to 12 noon
Volunteer Open House at Heritage Village
Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo

Learn about volunteering and become a part of the excitement at Heritage Village at this open house. Help bring the Village to life for visitors, young and old. Volunteer positions are available for docents/tour guides, living history presenters, archival assistants, receptionists and gift shop volunteers. For more information or to register, call (727) 582-2426 or email heritagevillage@pinellascounty.org.

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Weedon Island LogoSaturday, Sept. 20
12:30 to 3 p.m.
Weedon Naturalist – Coastal Aquatic Workshop
Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg

Join in this Weedon Naturalist Program for adults who wish to become familiar with the ecosystems that comprise the Tampa Bay Watershed. This Coastal Aquatic Session has a classroom discussion, collection of organisms in shallow water areas of the Tampa Bay Estuary and a lab discussion. This program is best for adults. Call (727) 453-6500 to register and for more information.

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Brooker Creek Preserve LogoSaturday, Sept. 20
1 to 2 p.m.
The Wild Side of Your Neighborhood – Backyard Buffet
Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs

Explore how native plants can turn your landscape into a backyard buffet. You don’t have to visit a wilderness area to observe wildlife because sometimes your own yard is a great food source. Free. Registration required by (727) 453-6800.

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Brooker Creek Preserve LogoSunday, Sept. 21
10 a.m. to 12 noon
Wild Signs Hike at Brooker Creek Preserve
Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs

Come along for a walk to decipher signs that many creatures leave in Brooker Creek Preserve. This program is great for families with children ages 10 and up. Free but call (727) 453-6800 to register.

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Pinellas County ParksSunday, Sept. 21
10 to 11 a.m.
Ft. De Soto Park Nature Walk
Ft. De Soto Park, 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde

Come and enjoy the beauty of Ft. De Soto Park with a free one-hour nature walk great for the entire family. A Soldiers’ Hole Nature Walk is planned. Call the park for tour information and meeting locations. Registration required by calling (727) 582-2267.

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Weedon Island LogoSunday, Sept. 21
2 to 3:30 p.m.
Florida’s Fascinating Snakes
Weedon Island Preserve
1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg

Discover more about Florida’s fascinating snakes with area expert George L. Heinrich, Heinrich Ecological Services. Find out the facts about their diversity, ecology and conservation. This is a live reptile presentation where participants will have a chance to learn everything they ever wanted to know about snakes. This program is free and great for all ages. Call (727) 453-6500 to register.

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Week of Monday, Sept. 22 through Sunday, Sept. 28

Pinellas County Extension / IFASMonday, Sept. 22
6:30 to 8 p.m.
Family Cooking Series
Johnnie Ruth Clarke Health Center,
1344 22nd St. S., St. Petersburg

Families learn how to bring meal time back home with help from Pinellas County Extension experts. This free five-class series will help families learn interesting facts about foods and how to make healthy food choices. For a special touch, families get to cook together in this fun, upbeat class. The series starts Monday, Sept. 22 and continues on the Mondays of Sept. 29, Oct. 6, Oct. 13 and Oct. 20. Space is limited so call Pinellas County Extension at (727) 582-2122 to register.

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Pinellas County Extension / IFASTuesday, Sept. 23
6:30 to 9 p.m.
Florida-Friendly Landscaping Series – Landscape Maintenance
Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo

Join a gardening course that will teach Florida-Friendly landscape design and maintenance principles. Proper pruning of trees and shrubs as well as using fertilizers and pesticides efficiently and effectively will be presented. Information about which mulch is best and how much to use will be reviewed. A garden tour will take place. Tuition is $15 for this class. Call (727) 582-2673 to register.

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Brooker Creek Preserve LogoWednesday, Sept. 24
7 to 8:30 p.m.
Wednesday Evening Walk at Brooker Creek Preserve
Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs

Join in a pleasant evening stroll as experts discuss the ways many living things are adapted to make the best use of the twilight hours. Many animals are most active at dawn and dusk that is the time when nature’s day shift has ended but the night shift has yet to begin. Free and best for families with children age 10 and up. Register by calling (727) 543-6800.

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Weedon Island LogoThursday, Sept. 25
10:30 to 11:15 a.m.
Wee-time at Weedon: Great Sharky Shark: A Tale of a Big Hunter
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 Great Sharky Shark: A Tale of a Big Hunter by Suzanne Tale. This book explores the world of one of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures, the shark. Youngsters will learn about the interesting characteristics that make these animals such an important part of the marine ecosystem. Free. Registration required by calling (727) 453-6500.

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Brooker Creek Preserve LogoThursday, Sept. 25
10:30 to 11:15 a.m.
Book Time at Brooker Creek – The Snail’s Spell
Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs

Introduce your preschooler to the wonders of the natural world with the book The Snail’s Spell by Joanne Ryder. This enchanting tale encourages children to imagine being a snail. Through this story, children will enjoy how snails move, see and feel their way through a beautifully illustrated garden. 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 is required by calling (727) 453-6800.

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Weedon Island LogoThursday, Sept. 25
7 to 8 p.m.
Fall Butterfly Identification Seminar
Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg

Learn skills Thursday, Sept. 25, to help with the Fall Butterfly Count planned for Saturday, Sept. 27 at Weedon Island Preserve. This Butterfly Identification Seminar teaches how to identify species of butterfly that frequent the Preserve. This seminar is best for adults and suitable for children ages 12 and older. To register for the seminar, please call (727) 453-6500.

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Weedon Island LogoFriday, Sept. 26
9 a.m. to noon
Guided Canoe Trip at Weedon Island Preserve
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 $10 per person or $20 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.

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Brooker Creek Preserve LogoSaturday, Sept. 27
9 to 11 a.m.
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.

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Weedon Island LogoSaturday, Sept. 27
9 to 11 a.m.
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 register by 2 p.m. on Friday. Free. To register, call (727) 453-6500.

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Pinellas County ParksSaturday, Sept. 27
9 to 10:30 a.m.
Guided Nature Walk at Philippe Park
Philippe Park, 2525 Philippe Parkway, 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 by calling (727) 669-1947.

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Weedon Island LogoSaturday, Sept. 27
9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Fall Butterfly Count at Weedon Island Preserve
Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg

Contribute to the butterfly count at the Weedon Island Preserve with Pinellas County’s Ecological Services staff. This is an important part of the long-term monitoring program through the North American Butterfly Association. Volunteers should have attended the Fall Butterfly Identification Seminar Thursday, Sept. 25, to learn identification skills. This butterfly count activity is best for adults and suitable for children ages 12 and older. To register for the seminar, please call (727) 453-6500.

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Pinellas County ParksSaturday, Sept. 27
10 to 11 a.m.
Ft. De Soto Park Nature Walk
Ft. De Soto Park, 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde

Come and enjoy the beauty of Ft. De Soto Park with a free one-hour nature walk great for the entire family. A Campground Nature Walk is planned. Call the park for tour information and meeting locations. Registration required by calling (727) 582-2267.

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Weedon Island LogoSaturday, Sept. 27
10:30 a.m. to 12 noon
Wicked Weed Workshop at Weedon Island Preserve
Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg

Discover how to rid your yard of invasive, exotic plants at this Wicked Weed Workshop. Bring in unknown plants for identification and advice on control methods. Learn about native replacement. Free and best for adults. Call (727) 453-6500 for more information and to register.

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Pinellas County Extension / IFASSaturday, Sept. 27
10 to 11 a.m.
Composting Class with Pinellas County Master Gardener
Crystal Beach Community Hall, 517 Crystal Beach Ave., Crystal Beach

Discover how easy it is to compost to use in the garden or landscape with Pinellas County Master Gardener John Kingsbury. Free. To register, call Pinellas County Extension at (727) 582-2673.

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Brooker Creek Preserve LogoSaturday, Sept. 27
1 to 2 p.m.
Exploring Epiphytes at Brooker Creek Preserve
Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs

Discover the fascinating world of epiphytes, or air plants, during hands-on exploration. Epiphytes grow in treetops from Brooker Creek Preserve to your own backyard. Best for adults and children ages 12 and up. Free. Pre-registration is required by calling (727) 453-6800.

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Weedon Island LogoSunday, Sept. 28
8 to 9:30 a.m.
The Great Weedon Bird Quest
Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg

Join in a quest to find Weedon Island Preserve birds. Learn identifying marks and behaviors of feathered year-round residents and seasonal visitors while helping to compile an annual bird checklist. Experienced birders lead the way. Free. To register, call (727) 453-6500.

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Pinellas County ParksSunday, Sept. 28
10 to 11 a.m.
Ft. De Soto Park Nature Walk
Ft. De Soto Park, 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde

Come and enjoy the beauty of Ft. De Soto Park with a free one-hour nature walk great for the entire family. A Bird Nature Walk is planned. Call the park for tour information and meeting locations. Registration required by calling (727) 582-2267.

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Brooker Creek Preserve LogoSunday, Sept. 28
10 a.m. to 12 noon
Fall Migration Bird Walk at Brooker Creek Preserve
Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs

Take a pleasant stroll along the Brooker Creek Preserve trails to search for migratory birds. Bring your own binoculars or borrow a pair at the Preserve. Watch feathered marathon flyers as they begin to appear in Florida as they travel towards the tropics. This program is best for adults and children over 12. Free. Pre-registration is required by calling (727) 453-6800.

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Communications Department
333 Chestnut Street
Clearwater, FL 33756
(727) 464-4600  FAX (727) 464-4432

 

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