The New Kid on the Block

Lara Miller

I just started my dream job at the Brooker Creek Preserve and I am honored to be joining the Pinellas County Extension team as the new Natural Resource Agent! Pinellas County already feels like home and I could not be more grateful to work at the Preserve where I am constantly surrounded by its beauty.

Growing up in the small coastal town of Jupiter, FL I became fascinated by the environment that surrounded me. As my high school days approached, I was thrilled to discover I was accepted into the Jupiter Environmental Research and Field Studies Academy where my curiosity developed into a passion. After graduating from this four-year program, I attended the University of Florida where I continued my education about the natural world. Through a combined degree program I obtained a Bachelors degree in Natural Resource Conservation and a Masters degree in Forest Resources and Conservation with a focus on environmental education. Aside from academics, my hobbies revolve around sports and the outdoors; I make my fitness a priority and enjoy weekend camping adventures.

Brooker Creek Preserve is the largest natural area in the county, standing at an astounding 8,700 acres. The slightest elevation changes transform the land from dry pine flatwoods to flooded lands of cypress domes and swamps. Each ecosystem supports different types of wildlife from deer to otters and turkeys to water moccasins. The best part is there are trails that lead visitors through each of these ecosystems for an outdoor adventure this is as diverse as it is surprising. Furthermore, with the amazing support of our volunteers and the Friends of Brooker Creek, the Education Center and its state-of-the-art exhibits draws in thousands of visitors every year.

I like to think the best part about living is growing, and I know through my work with the volunteers, the county and the University of Florida, I will be able to go above and beyond in my role as a natural resource extension agent. I am eager to see how my skills and background can contribute to the Preserve and the educational programs which it offers.

Thank you and I look forward to meeting all of you when you come to visit Brooker Creek Preserve!

Spring Break: Ideas for Family Fun

By Patti Neary,
Pinellas County Families & Consumers Program, Educational Instructor

The kids are on Spring break and the weather is gorgeous! NO, it’s not time for spring cleaning; it’s time for some family, friendly fun! Saving money and gas is on everyone’s mind these days, so why not give your child the pleasure of your company and choose activities you can do together that won’t hurt the pocket book!!! We are surrounded by many beautiful parks and beaches so get out and explore. Your mini-vacation awaits you..!

You can refer to the Pinellas County Parks location guide: http://www.pinellascounty.org/park/locations.htm.

Remember, the best reward your child can receive and the best gift you can give your child is spending time together having fun. So pack your backpack, and head out for a day of fun!! Here are some ideas to get you started.

• Walking: Use pedometers and count steps, allow child to participate in planning. Don’t forget the healthy snacks and water!!!!
  
• Hiking in the woods: Bring along insect identification book and a picnic basket lunch!


• Outdoor camping: Pitch a tent in the backyard, cook dinner or breakfast on the grill, make s’mores, and watch the stars.


• Old fashion picnic in the park: Pack up the blanket and picnic basket, play old fashioned games like horse shoes, badminton or croquet.


• Litter patrol: Inexpensive plastic gloves are fun to wear for kids, large plastic bags; visit parks, beaches or roads and pick up litter.


• Visit area farms: Pick your own fruit or vegetables, or whatever is in season. Take them home and cook what you picked for dinner.


• Plant a garden: Dig, shovel, plant flowers or vegetables or a butterfly garden.


• Get out and be active: Toss a football, throw a Frisbee, play catch, have a hula hoop contest or fly a kite.


• Go bowling: Ask about bumper bowling for young ones.


• Cooking with your child: Plan a special dinner for someone and let your child participate in the planning and preparation. Learning to cook helps children in so many ways. They learn about health and nutrition, they are more apt to eat what they make and it helps boost their self esteem. If you are interested in our family cooking classes check out the flyer at this link on our website: http://pinellas.ifas.ufl.edu/fcs/fcs_food_safety.shtml.


• Nature Scavenger Hunt: Make a list of nature things to find at a park or beach.


• Bike riding as a family: Wear helmets and appropriate clothing, and ride the Pinellas County Trail: http://www.pinellascounty.org/trailgd/.


• Bird Watching: Buy an inexpensive camera, bring along binoculars, visit a park and take pictures of birds, or each other. Create memories of the special day!


• Play Board Games: Buy a board game, go to a park, find a picnic table, play and enjoy time together!!!