The University of Florida/IFAS Extension has developed a new blog that will provide information through our on-line newsletters. In the next week, we will be launching the new site which will provide the same selection of topics for your use, plus the Extension Timely Topics. Extension Agents in Pinellas County strive to bring you the most up-to-date science on topics important to you.
Pinellas County Extension offers several newsletters in a blog format: Timely Topics, Thinking Green, Planting Pinellas, 4-H Youth Development Blog and Commercial Connection. You can sign up for blogs on the new site and access all the previous articles. If you have been receiving Extension newsletters, there should be no interruption and you will receive a notification through e-mail. Extension is the doorway to the University of Florida and provides practical education you can trust, to help people, businesses and communities solve problems, develop skills and build a better future.
September 11, 2013
September 4, 2013
September Programs & Events
Presented by
Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. (727) 582-2108
Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800
Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500
September 5
Book Time at Brooker: Children ages 3 to 5 connect to the wonders of the natural world through a story and a craft, game or other hands-on activity. 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.org/
September 5
Managing Your Money: Join the Florida Master Money Mentors for a workshop that will cover evaluating wants and needs, setting financial goals, steps to building a spending and savings plan, and using a money management calendar as a tracking and planning tool. Participants in the class can request a Florida Master Money Mentor, a personal money coach, to help with money questions. 1 to 3 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Palm Harbor Library, 2330 Nebraska Ave. Palm Harbor. (727) 582-2104; http://www.eventbrite.com/event/7431976241/eorg
September 7, 21, 28
Brooker Creek Guided Hike: See how the land has changed over time and the ecological footprints left by those changes on this 0.75-mile walk. Closed-toe shoes, water and hat recommended. Best for ages 6 and older. 9 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.org/
September 7, 14, 21, 28
Weedon Island Guided Hike: Learn about the ecosystems and the early residents of Weedon Island Preserve while hiking the coastal uplands and the boardwalks through mangrove forests. Best for ages 6 and older. 9 to 11 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.org/
September 7
Citizen Scientist Workshop: Free training to engage volunteers in the collection of local ecological information and an introduction to Nature’s Notebook, a project of the USA National Phenology Network. Class will include both indoor and outdoor components so come prepared to make some observations outside. Free; advance registration required. 9 a.m. to noon. Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center. http://brookercreekpreserve.org/
September 7
Archaeology Works: Learn to identify different prehistoric pottery types from around Florida and the ways archaeologists use them to learn about people in the past. 10 a.m. to noon. Free; advance registration required.. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.org/
September 12
Roundup License Training: LCLM Training & LLO Review: This class provides training and testing necessary to obtain a limited commercial landscape maintenance (LCLM) license or as a review and testing for the limited lawn and ornamental (LLO) license. This class is NOT for renewal CEUs. $60. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pinellas County Extension. Register at http://pce-commercialhort.eventbrite.com
September 11
Sustainable FloridiansSM: Learn how citizens can make a difference in the community by attending this 8-week discussion to action training program. Participants will meet each Wednesday through Oct. 30, to explore a range of topics including energy, food systems, and water. 6 to 8:30 p.m. Free, seating is limited. Pinellas County Extension. Advance registration required at http://pcsf2013oct.eventbrite.com
September 12
Fertilizer/Pesticide BMPs: Training to obtain limited certification for urban landscape commercial fertilizer (LCULCF). BMP certification awarded upon passing the exam. Four FDACS pesticide CEUs provided. 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost is $15; free to employees of Pinellas County and the Pinellas County School Board and Pinellas County Master Gardener volunteers (must present ID on day of class). Advance registration required. Pinellas County Extension. Register at http://pce-commercialhort.eventbrite.com
September 12, 26
Wee-Time at Weedon: Every second and fourth Thursday of each month, children are treated to a variety of stories and hands-on activities that connect them to their environment. This activity is recommended for ages 3 to 5. 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Free; advance registration requested. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.org/
September 12
Micro-Irrigation Basics: Participants will learn about the design, installation and maintenance of the systems and how to retrofit from a traditional irrigation zone to micro. Incorporating micro-irrigation in your landscape can contribute to water conservation and reduced stormwater runoff. Two opportunities to attend this presentation, 2 to 3:30 p.m. and 6:15 to 7:45 p.m. Palm Harbor Library, 2330 Nebraska Ave., Palm Harbor. Advance registration required. (727) 582-2630; www.eventbrite.com/event/7706942673/eorg
September 13
Great Weedon Bird Quest: Learn the identifying marks and behaviors of our feathered year-round residents and seasonal visitors while assisting in compiling an annual checklist of the preserve’s birds. This hike is designed to take advantage of all levels of birding experience. Binoculars and bird guides are available. 8 to 10 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.org
September 14
Pinellas Home Energy Symposium: From irrigation to photovoltaic panels, here’s the opportunity to get information from expert panelists to help in making water and energy improvements both inside and outside homes. This three-hour symposium features a keynote address by Dr. Jennifer Languell. 9 a.m. to noon. Free; Pinellas County Extension, advance registration required at http://pcsymposium13.eventbrite.com
September 14
Birds of Brooker Hike: Join this hike to identify common birds of Brooker Creek Preserve. Meander along the one-mile trail to gather information on the birds seen and heard. Binoculars will be helpful. Bring water. 8 to 10:30 a.m. Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.org
September 14
Wetland 101: Learn how to interpret the characteristics that define wetlands. This class is helpful for those wanting to extend their knowledge of wetland systems and for those who want to learn how to identify some common wetland plants. 1 to 2 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.org
September 19
Vegetable, Herb and Tropical Fruit Garden Tour: Explore the vegetable garden and compost demonstration areas at Pinellas County Extension/Florida Botanical Gardens to learn more about growing your own food. 9 to 11 a.m. Free; tours limited to group of 4 to 16 people; advance registration required. Pinellas County Extension, www.eventbrite.com/event/6241882639/eorg
September 19
Archaeology Lecture Series: “You Have Guns and So Have We”, an Ethnohistoric Perspective on Seminole Combat Behaviors: Warfare is a topic that has received a high level of attention in the anthropological literature since the inception of the discipline. Much of the literature, however, has focused on the origins and causes of warfare rather than the behaviors associated with it. By tracing the combat behaviors of the Seminoles back through time to those of their ancestors, we are able to see the evolution of the combat behaviors used by the warriors during the apex of their militancy – the infamous Second Seminole War. 7 to 8 p.m. Free; advance registration required.. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.org
September 21
Weedon Photography Hike: Hike the preserve in search of that perfect photo. This program provides great opportunities for photographers of all levels to hone their skills. After a brief classroom session, preserve volunteers highlight seasonal features of the preserve, as well as specific wildlife behaviors that help participants capture the natural beauty of Weedon Island Preserve. 8 to 10 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.org
September 21
Birds of Prey: Several live birds of prey will be used to illustrate aspects of predator-prey relationships, adaptations that ensure success as predators, and their role in maintaining healthy, balanced ecosystems. The basic natural history of each species is also discussed along with the impact of humans on their habitats and populations. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Free. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org
September 25
Creatures of the Night: Pinellas County’s Natural Resource Extension Agent, Lara Miller, will discuss the creatures of the night. All of our nocturnal critters form a vital part of our natural environment but are largely ignored. Come learn more about these fascinating creatures. Recommended for adults. 2 to 3 p.m. Garden Club of St. Petersburg, 500 Sunset Dr., S, St. Petersburg. (727) 582-2630; www.eventbrite.com/event/5260325776/eorg
September 27
Wildlife Hike: Join an experienced naturalist as you hike along boardwalks and natural trails at Brooker Creek Preserve. This will be a learning experience for everyone! Come prepared with your binoculars, cameras, and questions! Any questions your hike guide cannot answer will be researched in the resource room upon return to the Education Center. 9 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.eventbrite.com/
September 28
Guided Photography Hike: In a brief classroom session, local photographers and master naturalists Karl and Kathleen Nichter highlight the seasonal features that help participants capture the natural beauty of the Brooker Creek Preserve, then hike the boardwalk and trails looking for those shots that reflect the season. Recommended for adults and children 12 and older. 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.org
September 28
Paddling Coastal Clean Up: Be a part of the nation’s largest single-day volunteer event for public lands. Public lands and estuaries provide benefits that are critical to ecosystem health, and the health and well-being of people who recreate on them and live in close proximity to them. Please volunteer to give back to Tampa Bay and the lands of Weedon Island Preserve. Volunteers will use canoes and kayaks to help clean up the difficult-toreach shorelines of Weedon Island Preserve. The cleanup will help to protect wildlife from
entanglement and increase the aesthetic value of our natural surroundings. 9 a.m. to noon. Free; advance registration requested. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.org
September 28
Wildflower Garden Club: Join the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve to get gardening hands dirty in the preserve’s wildflower garden. Bring garden gloves and hat. Morning snacks are usually provided. Free; advance registration required. 8 to 10 a.m. Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center. http://brookercreekpreserve.org
Coming in October: Energy Action Month: "Energy Vampires in Your Home"–8% of the average home's electricity bill is wasted through devices like TVs and chargers which are using power even when they are switched off. Learn easy ways to lower your energy bill. October 2, 12, 15, 19 and 22. Free; advance registration requested. Call (727) 582-2097 for information.
Extension programs are open to all persons without regard to race, color, sex, age, disability, religion or national origin.
Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. (727) 582-2108
Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800
Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500
September 5
Book Time at Brooker: Children ages 3 to 5 connect to the wonders of the natural world through a story and a craft, game or other hands-on activity. 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.org/
September 5
Managing Your Money: Join the Florida Master Money Mentors for a workshop that will cover evaluating wants and needs, setting financial goals, steps to building a spending and savings plan, and using a money management calendar as a tracking and planning tool. Participants in the class can request a Florida Master Money Mentor, a personal money coach, to help with money questions. 1 to 3 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Palm Harbor Library, 2330 Nebraska Ave. Palm Harbor. (727) 582-2104; http://www.eventbrite.com/event/7431976241/eorg
September 7, 21, 28
Brooker Creek Guided Hike: See how the land has changed over time and the ecological footprints left by those changes on this 0.75-mile walk. Closed-toe shoes, water and hat recommended. Best for ages 6 and older. 9 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.org/
September 7, 14, 21, 28
Weedon Island Guided Hike: Learn about the ecosystems and the early residents of Weedon Island Preserve while hiking the coastal uplands and the boardwalks through mangrove forests. Best for ages 6 and older. 9 to 11 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.org/
September 7
Citizen Scientist Workshop: Free training to engage volunteers in the collection of local ecological information and an introduction to Nature’s Notebook, a project of the USA National Phenology Network. Class will include both indoor and outdoor components so come prepared to make some observations outside. Free; advance registration required. 9 a.m. to noon. Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center. http://brookercreekpreserve.org/
September 7
Archaeology Works: Learn to identify different prehistoric pottery types from around Florida and the ways archaeologists use them to learn about people in the past. 10 a.m. to noon. Free; advance registration required.. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.org/
September 12
Roundup License Training: LCLM Training & LLO Review: This class provides training and testing necessary to obtain a limited commercial landscape maintenance (LCLM) license or as a review and testing for the limited lawn and ornamental (LLO) license. This class is NOT for renewal CEUs. $60. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pinellas County Extension. Register at http://pce-commercialhort.eventbrite.com
September 11
Sustainable FloridiansSM: Learn how citizens can make a difference in the community by attending this 8-week discussion to action training program. Participants will meet each Wednesday through Oct. 30, to explore a range of topics including energy, food systems, and water. 6 to 8:30 p.m. Free, seating is limited. Pinellas County Extension. Advance registration required at http://pcsf2013oct.eventbrite.com
September 12
Fertilizer/Pesticide BMPs: Training to obtain limited certification for urban landscape commercial fertilizer (LCULCF). BMP certification awarded upon passing the exam. Four FDACS pesticide CEUs provided. 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost is $15; free to employees of Pinellas County and the Pinellas County School Board and Pinellas County Master Gardener volunteers (must present ID on day of class). Advance registration required. Pinellas County Extension. Register at http://pce-commercialhort.eventbrite.com
September 12, 26
Wee-Time at Weedon: Every second and fourth Thursday of each month, children are treated to a variety of stories and hands-on activities that connect them to their environment. This activity is recommended for ages 3 to 5. 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Free; advance registration requested. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.org/
September 12
Micro-Irrigation Basics: Participants will learn about the design, installation and maintenance of the systems and how to retrofit from a traditional irrigation zone to micro. Incorporating micro-irrigation in your landscape can contribute to water conservation and reduced stormwater runoff. Two opportunities to attend this presentation, 2 to 3:30 p.m. and 6:15 to 7:45 p.m. Palm Harbor Library, 2330 Nebraska Ave., Palm Harbor. Advance registration required. (727) 582-2630; www.eventbrite.com/event/7706942673/eorg
September 13
Great Weedon Bird Quest: Learn the identifying marks and behaviors of our feathered year-round residents and seasonal visitors while assisting in compiling an annual checklist of the preserve’s birds. This hike is designed to take advantage of all levels of birding experience. Binoculars and bird guides are available. 8 to 10 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.org
September 14
Pinellas Home Energy Symposium: From irrigation to photovoltaic panels, here’s the opportunity to get information from expert panelists to help in making water and energy improvements both inside and outside homes. This three-hour symposium features a keynote address by Dr. Jennifer Languell. 9 a.m. to noon. Free; Pinellas County Extension, advance registration required at http://pcsymposium13.eventbrite.com
September 14
Birds of Brooker Hike: Join this hike to identify common birds of Brooker Creek Preserve. Meander along the one-mile trail to gather information on the birds seen and heard. Binoculars will be helpful. Bring water. 8 to 10:30 a.m. Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.org
September 14
Wetland 101: Learn how to interpret the characteristics that define wetlands. This class is helpful for those wanting to extend their knowledge of wetland systems and for those who want to learn how to identify some common wetland plants. 1 to 2 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.org
September 19
Vegetable, Herb and Tropical Fruit Garden Tour: Explore the vegetable garden and compost demonstration areas at Pinellas County Extension/Florida Botanical Gardens to learn more about growing your own food. 9 to 11 a.m. Free; tours limited to group of 4 to 16 people; advance registration required. Pinellas County Extension, www.eventbrite.com/event/6241882639/eorg
September 19
Archaeology Lecture Series: “You Have Guns and So Have We”, an Ethnohistoric Perspective on Seminole Combat Behaviors: Warfare is a topic that has received a high level of attention in the anthropological literature since the inception of the discipline. Much of the literature, however, has focused on the origins and causes of warfare rather than the behaviors associated with it. By tracing the combat behaviors of the Seminoles back through time to those of their ancestors, we are able to see the evolution of the combat behaviors used by the warriors during the apex of their militancy – the infamous Second Seminole War. 7 to 8 p.m. Free; advance registration required.. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.org
September 21
Weedon Photography Hike: Hike the preserve in search of that perfect photo. This program provides great opportunities for photographers of all levels to hone their skills. After a brief classroom session, preserve volunteers highlight seasonal features of the preserve, as well as specific wildlife behaviors that help participants capture the natural beauty of Weedon Island Preserve. 8 to 10 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.org
September 21
Birds of Prey: Several live birds of prey will be used to illustrate aspects of predator-prey relationships, adaptations that ensure success as predators, and their role in maintaining healthy, balanced ecosystems. The basic natural history of each species is also discussed along with the impact of humans on their habitats and populations. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Free. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org
September 25
Creatures of the Night: Pinellas County’s Natural Resource Extension Agent, Lara Miller, will discuss the creatures of the night. All of our nocturnal critters form a vital part of our natural environment but are largely ignored. Come learn more about these fascinating creatures. Recommended for adults. 2 to 3 p.m. Garden Club of St. Petersburg, 500 Sunset Dr., S, St. Petersburg. (727) 582-2630; www.eventbrite.com/event/5260325776/eorg
September 27
Wildlife Hike: Join an experienced naturalist as you hike along boardwalks and natural trails at Brooker Creek Preserve. This will be a learning experience for everyone! Come prepared with your binoculars, cameras, and questions! Any questions your hike guide cannot answer will be researched in the resource room upon return to the Education Center. 9 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.eventbrite.com/
September 28
Guided Photography Hike: In a brief classroom session, local photographers and master naturalists Karl and Kathleen Nichter highlight the seasonal features that help participants capture the natural beauty of the Brooker Creek Preserve, then hike the boardwalk and trails looking for those shots that reflect the season. Recommended for adults and children 12 and older. 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.org
September 28
Paddling Coastal Clean Up: Be a part of the nation’s largest single-day volunteer event for public lands. Public lands and estuaries provide benefits that are critical to ecosystem health, and the health and well-being of people who recreate on them and live in close proximity to them. Please volunteer to give back to Tampa Bay and the lands of Weedon Island Preserve. Volunteers will use canoes and kayaks to help clean up the difficult-toreach shorelines of Weedon Island Preserve. The cleanup will help to protect wildlife from
entanglement and increase the aesthetic value of our natural surroundings. 9 a.m. to noon. Free; advance registration requested. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.org
September 28
Wildflower Garden Club: Join the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve to get gardening hands dirty in the preserve’s wildflower garden. Bring garden gloves and hat. Morning snacks are usually provided. Free; advance registration required. 8 to 10 a.m. Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center. http://brookercreekpreserve.org
Coming in October: Energy Action Month: "Energy Vampires in Your Home"–8% of the average home's electricity bill is wasted through devices like TVs and chargers which are using power even when they are switched off. Learn easy ways to lower your energy bill. October 2, 12, 15, 19 and 22. Free; advance registration requested. Call (727) 582-2097 for information.
Extension programs are open to all persons without regard to race, color, sex, age, disability, religion or national origin.
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