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Sunset Tai Chi at the NEST Second Mondays 6:30 PM

Vamos a Pescar

EcoEvents: Outdoor Education Programs & Events Calendar

All of our public events are open to individuals and their family members. For large groups, we ask that each family register individually. If you have a school, camp, club, or other group that would like to participate in a program, please contact [email protected] to set up a private program.

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February 2023 CALENDAR OF EVENTS 

Download a printable version of the February Calendar of Events

Thursday, Feb 23rd, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMGreen Explorers: Searching for SymmetryA butterfly, a starfish, and a palm frond can all have a symmetrical shape. Let's explore Neal Preserve to learn the difference between symmetry and asymmetry in our natural world. Using hands-on discovery and the participant's creativity, homeschoolers will have a chance to play in nature. Green Explorers is a low-structure, highly social, and experienced-based activity. Program suitable for all ages, recommended for 6 to 12-year-olds. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6034. Neal Preserve

Thursday, Feb 23rd, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PMHomeschool Science Club: Nature SensesBats have super hearing and bears have a powerful sense of smell! In this program we'll explore our five senses and use them to discover new information about nature. We'll find out how animals use their senses to survive in their habitat and practice using our hearing to find friends, our sense of smell to track a mysterious animal, and our sense of touch to explore all the textures we find on a nature hike! Program recommended for students ages 7-13 Homeschool Science Club explores scientific and natural concepts through games, crafts, and activities encouraging students to be active outdoors. Guardians are responsible for identifying the learning maturity of their child. Please note the location of this session. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/518055105767. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. Rye Preserve – Pavilion

Thursday, Feb 23rd, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PMSunset Shutter StrollEmerson Point Preserve features some of the most glorious sunsets on the Gulf Coast. This installment of our photography tour series offers a perfect opportunity to capture images of Emerson Point during the "golden hour" and try your hand at long-exposure photography. Unwind after work as you meet new friends, share tips and tricks, and get some great shots! Program suitable for adults. Those wishing to experiment with long exposures must bring their own tripods. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/519794739057. Emerson Point Preserve

Friday, Feb 24th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMExplore Nature! Tower TalksVisit the top of the tower at Robinson Preserve to take in the beautiful views of Tampa Bay! Stop by to chat with a naturalist and learn about the plants, animals, and history of the preserve. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations required. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6036. Robinson Preserve – Observation Tower

Friday, Feb 24th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMNature Tales: Changing ShapeDoes your kiddo enjoy stories and nature? Join us at Conservatory Park for our newest program: Nature Tales. Each month we will meet for an interactive story time, activities, and a walk in the great outdoors. This month we will discover how different animals change their body shape as they grow. Program suitable for children 8 years old and younger. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6034. Conservatory Park – Playground Pavilion

Friday, Feb 24th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PMHomeschool Science Club: Nature SensesBats have super hearing and bears have a powerful sense of smell! In this program we'll explore our five senses and use them to discover new information about nature. We'll find out how animals use their senses to survive in their habitat and practice using our hearing to find friends, our sense of smell to track a mysterious animal, and our sense of touch to explore all the textures we find on a nature hike! Program recommended for students ages 7-13 Homeschool Science Club explores scientific and natural concepts through games, crafts, and activities encouraging students to be active outdoors. Guardians are responsible for identifying the learning maturity of their child. Please note the location of this session. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/518055938257. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. Emerson Point Preserve – Classroom Pavilion #1

Saturday, Feb 25th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMMaster Gardener Tour: Perico PreserveExplore one of Manatee County's coastal preserves with a Master Gardener Guide and learn about Florida's native plants, how they benefit wildlife, and how they can be used in the home landscape. Learn about the wide variety of ecosystems on display and how the preserve was transformed into what you see today. Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by Manatee County UF IFAS Extension in partnership with Manatee County Natural Resources. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/446155371727. For more information please contact [email protected]. Perico Preserve – Pavilion

Saturday, Feb 25th9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Tom Bennett Park Volunteer Planting Day – Volunteers are needed to plant thousands of native grasses and ground covers along shoreline areas of a brackish pond. You will get wet and muddy at this rewarding workday! Free snacks and lunch will be provided by the Sarasota Bay and Tampa Bay Estuary Programs for all registered volunteers. Volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Program sponsored by the Sarasota and Tampa Bay Estuary Programs in partnership with Manatee County’s Natural Resources and Sports and Leisure Services Departments. Please follow signs for event parking. Tools, gloves, plants, and water coolers will be provided. Please be prepared to get wet and muddy. Wear long clothing and closed-toe shoes that are comfortable for working outdoors. Please wear sun protection (sunscreen, shade hat, sunglasses) and bring a water bottle. Participants may bring their own gloves if desired. The nearest restrooms are a short drive from the planting site at the Tom Bennett Park pavilion and playground. We recommend that you use the bathroom before arrival if possible. Students may earn three community service hours for volunteering. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/515156415707. For more information please contact [email protected]Tom Bennett Park

Saturday, Feb 25th, 6:30 PM – 9:30 PMStarry Night AstronomyJoin us for an astronomical extravaganza! Dozens of local astronomers will be set up in the Robinson Preserve Expansion with telescopes at the ready. Be sure to bring a sense of wonder and exploration as we view the skies through high-powered telescopes. Learn how to identify heavenly bodies, and how you can stargaze at home too. Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by Suncoast Stargazers in partnership with Manatee County Natural Resources. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://robinsonastronomy.eventbrite.com. Robinson Preserve – Expansion Parking Lot

Recurring Events

Saturday, Feb 4th, 11th, 25th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMSaturday Mornings at the NESTJoin us at the Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology for a morning of discovery. Walk the grounds of the historic Reasoner Tract and observe botanical giants collected from around the world. Explore the canopy boardwalk among the banyans, climb to the top of the crow’s nest, take in breathtaking panoramic views, and make an exciting exit from the building via slide. Learn about upcoming programs and exciting new additions to Robinson Preserve. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

ONGOING/AS NEEDED: RIP SQUAD VOLUNTEER WORKDAY - Join this group that works directly with County natural areas land managers on various wildlife habitat improvement projects. Email announcements are sent out a few days in advance of each event that detail the purpose, goals, and meeting information for each upcoming event. Program suitable for volunteers ages 16 and older. To receive email announcements about the RIP squad volunteer events, please email [email protected]. Location and time TBA - chosen based on need.

March 2023 Calendar of Events 

Download a printable version of the March Calendar of Events

Wednesday, Mar 1st, 8:00 AM – 10:00 AMManatee Audubon Society Birding Tour: Emerson PointSearch the skies for Florida’s fabulous fliers! An Audubon guide will lead participants on a tour through Emerson Point’s coastal hammock and mangrove habitats. Check out the “locals” as well as the migratory birds that are wintering here. Program suitable for adults. Program sponsored by Manatee County Audubon Society in partnership with Manatee County Natural Resources. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected] or call (941) 592-7622. Emerson Point Preserve – Ranger's Station

Wednesday, Mar 1st, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PMSoar in 4 Family NightSoar in 4 occurs the first Wednesday of each month in downtown Bradenton. Families visit demonstration tables facilitated by Manatee County teachers, non-profit organizations, and volunteers to learn how to use various materials to support the ‘spotlight book,’ as well as incorporate take-home items to continue to play, create, learn, and explore at home together. These monthly events provide families with the resources and information to become their child’s best ‘first teacher’ at home. All activities are aligned to classroom learning. Program suitable for children and their families. Program sponsored by Soar in 4 in partnership with Manatee County Natural Resources. No reservations required. For more information please visit https://soarin4.org/. The Bishop Museum

Thursday, Mar 2nd, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMTrail Team ThursdayCome help us trim back the trails, pick up litter, and attend to any other minor trail maintenance issues we stumble upon while soaking up the gorgeous views of Sarasota Bay! Volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Please bring a water bottle and wear comfortable closed-toe shoes. Long lightweight clothing is recommended. Water and all other materials, including gloves, will be provided. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected]. For more information please call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6035. Neal Preserve – Parking Lot

Thursday, Mar 2nd, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMHomeschool Creature Feature: Gulf FritillaryZoom in on the natural world and focus on one wonderous animal species! Discover the identifiable movements and characteristics of our featured species as well as their favorite habitats. Then venture into one of Manatee County's' preserves with your homeschooler to track the featured creature in the wild. This month we will embark on an epic search for the graceful gulf fritillary butterfly. Program suitable for children ages 5 years and up. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6034. Robinson Preserve – North Entrance

Saturday, Mar 4th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMMaster Gardener Tour: Emerson PointCasually stroll through the beautiful Emerson Point Preserve with a Master Gardener Guide and learn about Florida's native plants and inhabitants of a coastal environment. Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by UF IFAS Extension Master Gardener Program in partnership with Manatee County Natural Resources. Please meet at the first parking area on the RIGHT at the Observation Tower (not at the Ranger Station) at 9 AM. Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes for walking on uneven terrain. Bring a water bottle, sun and insect protection. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/468427307687. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve – Tower Parking Lot

Saturday, Mar 4th, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AMHike with a LibrarianHike with a Manatee County Librarian along the trails of Robinson Preserve and discuss a non-fiction book while enjoying Florida's scenery. After the discussion, a Manatee County Natural Resources guide will talk about the local fauna and flora and the history of the area. If there is still time after the talk, we will walk around the preserve at a leisurely pace. This month's book is Forest Walking: Discovering the Trees and Woodlands of North America by Peter Wohlleben and Jane Billinghurst. Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/10132037. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 748-5555 ext. 6334. Robinson Preserve

Saturday, Mar 4th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PMNative Little One Art Club: SpringCelebrate spring by learning about plants and their many uses! Students will paint a terra cotta planter and plant a herb seedling to care for, grow, and use for home remedies and cooking. Then we'll make edible watercolors to experiment with abstract art making and create a kid-friendly elderberry drink with honey, cinnamon, clove, and orange peel. Program suitable for ages 4 to 8 years old. Program sponsored by Native Little One in partnership with Manatee County Natural Resources. Registration and payment are required prior to attendance Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected]. $40 Program Fee. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Saturday, Mar 11th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMMaster Gardener Tour: Riverview PointeCasually stroll through to enjoy the beautiful Riverview Pointe Preserve with a Master Gardener Guide and learn about Florida's native plants and inhabitants of a coastal environment. Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by UF IFAS Extension Master Gardener Program in partnership with Manatee County Natural Resources. Tour begins in the parking area of DeSoto National Memorial Park and enters into Riverview Pointe Preserve. Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes for walking on uneven terrain. Bring a water bottle, sun and insect protection. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/441206910747. For more information please contact [email protected]. Riverview Pointe Preserve – Parking at DeSoto National Memorial

Monday, Mar 13thFriday Mar 17th, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PMTaller de Pesca FamiliarEn este taller gratuito familias participantes aprenderán todo lo necesario para pescar practicando captura y suelta de peces. Disfruta un día, 9 am a 2 pm, de naturaleza y pesca junto a tus niños mientras reman en su kayak. Cada niño o participante juvenil se llevará una caña de pescar, equipo de pesca y otros recursos para la continuación de la pesca recreativa. El almuerzo será proveído para cada participante.

In this free, bilingual, Spanish-language workshop, participating families will learn everything they need to practice catch and release recreational fishing. Enjoy a day full of fishing and nature, from 9 am to 2 pm, as you paddle down the river with your kids! Each child or youth participant will take a fishing rod, fishing equipment, and other resources home to continue the fishing experience. Lunch will be provided for each participant. Programa apropriado para familias. Program suitable for families. Program sponsored by George H.W Bush Vamos a Pescar Education Fund and Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network in partnership with Manatee County Natural Resources. Todos los participantes juveniles deben ser acompañados por un padre o tutor legal. Parientes pueden ser acompañados por el mismo padre o tutor legal. Participantes juveniles deben ser menores bajo la edad de 17. Al inscribirse en este evento accede a participar en múltiples encuestas evaluando sus actitudes al tema de la pesca. Por favor solo inscríbase en una sesión. All youth participants must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Relatives may be accompanied by the same parent or legal guardian. Youth participants must be 17 or under. Reservaciones requeridas. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/530538905147. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. Emerson Point Preserve – Classroom Pavilion

Monday, Mar 13th, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PMSunset Tai Chi at the NESTJoin us for this monthly class at the NEST! At sunset on the second Monday of the month, Dr. Brian Nell, a certified Tai Chi instructor, will lead the group through the gentle movements of Tai Chi. This is a great way to shake off the stressful work week. Improve your balance, loosen your joints, and improve flexibility as you relax and breathe. This class is perfect for beginners and will include an exploration of several different styles of Tai Chi and Qigong. This class is held rain or shine. Program Suitable for adults. Program sponsored by Cypress Pillar Healing Arts in partnership with Manatee County Natural Resources. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://parks.mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search.html?primarycode=100004. For more information please contact [email protected].  Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Wednesday, Mar 15th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMExplore Nature! Temple MoundVisit the top of the Portevant Temple Mound and explore the unique beauty of Emerson Point Preserve! Stop by to chat with a naturalist and learn about the preserve's plants, animals, and history. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations required. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6036. Emerson Point Preserve – Portevant Temple Mound

Friday, Mar 17th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMExplore Nature! Tower TalkVisit the top of the tower at Robinson Preserve to take in the beautiful views of Tampa Bay! Stop by to chat with a naturalist and learn about the preserve's plants, animals, and history. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations required. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6036. Robinson Preserve – Tower

Saturday, Mar 18th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMMaster Gardener Tour: Rye PreserveTake a hike through upland habitats along the beautiful Rye Branch and learn about Florida's native plants, natural history, and early settlement of the area with a Master Gardener Guide. Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by Manatee County UF IFAS Extension in partnership with Manatee County Natural Resources. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/446062233147. For more information please contact [email protected]. Rye Preserve

Saturday, Mar 18th, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM OR 10:00 AM - 11:00 AMYouth Archery (2 Sessions)Set your sights on the exciting outdoor activity of archery! This program will provide participants with basic archery instruction, familiarization with archery equipment, and instruction in shooting techniques that create successful archers. All equipment will be provided for use. Program is suitable for children ages 6 to 16. Program sponsored by the Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in partnership with Manatee County Natural Resources. Two identical sessions are offered.  Please register for only one session each month. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://MarchArchery.eventbrite.com. For more information please contact [email protected]. Rye Preserve

Saturday, Mar 18th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM, 1:00 – 2:00 PM, OR 2:30 – 3:30 PMEscape Room: Sinking ShipBecome one of Florida’s first commercial fishermen and solve interactive puzzles to escape an arduous journey at sea. Find hidden clues and collect the items you will need to break free from the ship’s hold. Will you escape or remain trapped under the captain’s hand? Program suitable for all ages. Four identical sessions are offered, please register for one session. Sessions are limited to 7 participants. Parents or guardians are allowed to accompany their children throughout the experience. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://parks.mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search.html?primarycode=110008. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. $10 -Payable Online. Emerson Point Preserve – Classroom Pavilion

Wednesday, Mar 22nd, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMConservatory Park Trail Clearing WorkdayHelp us clear brush alongside the trail and future dock area at Conservatory Park to create room to safely launch small watercraft. Volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Please bring a water bottle and wear comfortable closed-toe shoes. Long lightweight clothing is recommended. Water and all other materials, including gloves, will be provided. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected]. For more information please call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6035. Conservatory Park – Dock

Thursday, Mar 23rd, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMTreeTots: Nature NumbersDo you know how many eyes a spider can have? Learn and explore the wonderful world of nature through numbers! Using songs, exploration, and activities your tiny family members will discover the amazing natural wonders, big and small, found in your very own backyard. Program suitable for newborns- 2-year-olds. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/536204200197. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6034. Robinson Preserve – NEST

Thursday, Mar 23rd, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PMHomeschool Science Club: Defying GravityIt keeps our feet on the ground and our heads in the clouds, we're talking gravity! Come explore the physics of gravity as we challenge students to design and build a contraption that can defy gravity. Test the rate at which an object falls and make observations as we explore the outdoors. Program recommended for students ages 7-13. Homeschool Science Club explores scientific and natural concepts through games, crafts, and activities encouraging students to be active outdoors. Guardians are responsible for identifying the learning maturity of their child. Please note the location of this session. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/532085150007. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. Rye Preserve – Pavilion

Friday, Mar 24th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PMRye Pioneer History TourGet a taste of the wilderness at Rye Preserve. Learn about the historic Town of Rye, a booming pioneer settlement turned ghost town along the banks of the Manatee River. Visit the Rye family cemetery and explore the Rye Nature Center on this historical tour. Program recommended for adults. Terrain is sandy and uneven, not suitable for strollers or mobility devices, closed-toe shoes are recommended. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/533754402787. For more information please contact [email protected]. Rye Preserve – Pavilion

Friday, Mar 24th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMTall Tails Tribe: Living or NonlivingTake a deep breath, you are alive! Trees, mushrooms, and a bird are all living things, but not everything you see is alive. Rocks, clouds, and sand are all nonliving objects that are an important part of our local ecosystem. Through games, songs, and a nature walk we will discover what parts of our ecosystem are living and nonliving. Program suitable for preschool-age children. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6034. Emerson Point Preserve – Classroom Pavilion

Friday, Mar 24th, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PMRobinson Preserve Twilight 5K/10K RaceJoin us for the 15th Annual Robinson Preserve Twilight 5K & 10K! Festivities kick off with age-bracketed Kids Dashes at 5:45 pm, then runners and walkers hit the trails at 6:15 pm for a 5K or 10K race with stunning sunset views. Relax after the race and enjoy the awards ceremony with food and beverages under the stars at the beautiful Robinson Preserve. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://raceroster.com/events/2023/60664/2023-robinson-preserve-twilight-5k-and-10k-run. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve

Saturday, Mar 25th, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AMReasoner Tract Plant WalkJoin us for a leisurely stroll around the grounds of the Reasoner Tract to discover the fascinating history of the Reasoner Brothers Nursery and the tropical plants surrounding the NEST. Once used as a botanical test plot, this site is flourishing with unique plants from around the world. Learn about the significance of these flora and uncover a piece of Manatee County's pioneer history. Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/519938358627. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6036. Robinson Preserve – NEST Grounds

Saturday, Mar 25th, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PMRobinson Preserve Litter CleanupCome help us pick up litter at the beautiful Robinson Preserve! This effort is in conjunction with the Palmetto High School Cadets. We will be starting at the Expansion Parking Lot (just north of the NEST) and working our way to the NEST and Canopy Zone. Volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Please bring a water bottle and wear comfortable closed-toe shoes. Water and all other materials, including gloves, will be provided. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected]. For more information please call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6035. Robinson Preserve – Expansion Parking Lot

Saturday, Mar 25th, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PMStarry Night AstronomyJoin us for an astronomical extravaganza! Dozens of local astronomers will be set up in the Robinson Preserve Expansion with telescopes at the ready. Be sure to bring a sense of wonder and exploration as we view the skies through high-powered telescopes. Learn how to identify heavenly bodies, and how you can stargaze at home too. Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by Suncoast Stargazers in partnership with Manatee County Natural Resources. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://robinsonastronomy.eventbrite.com. Robinson Preserve – Expansion Parking Lot

Wednesday, Mar 29th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMWildlife Spotlight: EpiphytesJoin us for a relaxing stroll through Rye Preserve to look for epiphytes. This unique group of plants grows on the surface of other plants and gains nutrients from the air, rain, and water around them. Learn how to identify some of Florida's most common epiphytes while discovering the important role they play in our ecosystem. Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/537842931687. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6036. Rye Preserve – Pavilion

Thursday, Mar 30th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMArchaeo PaddleJourney through the mangrove forests of Robinson Preserve with Archeologist Rachael Kangas and discover the historical uses of the land, ecological restoration and how to spot the evidence or remains of indigenous people’s past. Program suitable for ages 16 and older who can meet the County's minimum eligibility requirements. Program sponsored by Florida Public Archaeologist Network in partnership with Manatee County Natural Resources. Single and tandem kayaks, paddles, and life jackets are available to borrow free of charge on a first come-first served basis. All participants must wear a life jacket and bring a whistle. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/531991931187. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. Robinson Preserve North Entrance – Kayak Launch

Thursday, Mar 30th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMGreen Explorers: Crafting CordageLong before grocery stores, many of our supplies came from nature and personal ingenuity. Join us to discover the who, what, where, and why of cordage! Using hands-on discovery and the participant's creativity, homeschoolers will have a chance to play in nature. Green Explorers is a low-structured, highly social, and experienced-based activity. Program suitable for ages 6-12 year-olds but all ages welcome. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6034. Emerson Point Preserve – Classroom Pavilion

Friday, Mar 31st, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AMSeashell Shore WalkCalling all beachcombers and seashell enthusiasts! Join us for a relaxing walk on the beach to search for seashells and learn to identify them. This program will explore what makes mollusks unique and the amazing adaptations that help them to survive in the wild. Learn about ethical seashell-collecting methods while discovering a new appreciation for our beautiful shorelines. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/537858879387. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6036. Coquina Beach South – Longboat Key Bridge

Friday, Mar 31st, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMNature Tales: Flower PowerDoes your kiddo enjoy stories and nature? Join us for Nature Tales, a special storytime program that meets monthly at Conservatory Park.  After storytime, children will participate in hands-on activities and take a walk in the great outdoors. This month we will discover the amazing power of flowers and the significant role they play in the lifecycle of plants. Program suitable for children 8 years old and younger. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6034. Conservatory Park – Pavilion

Friday, Mar 31st, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMHomeschool Science Club: Defying GravityIt keeps our feet on the ground and our heads in the clouds, we're talking gravity! Come explore the physics of gravity as we challenge students to design and build a contraption that can defy gravity. Test the rate at which an object falls and make observations as we explore the outdoors. Program recommended for students ages 7-13. Homeschool Science Club explores scientific and natural concepts through games, crafts, and activities encouraging students to be active outdoors. Guardians are responsible for identifying the learning maturity of their child. Please note the location of this session. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/532121889897. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. Emerson Point Preserve – Classroom Pavilion

Friday, Mar 31st, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PMHomeschool Bio Lab: Seeing DoubleIf you are reading this, your eyes are likely hard at work! Eyes grant us the sense of sight. In this program, we will experiment with vision and depth perception as we create our own scope. Then we'll discuss the anatomy of the eye and dissect a cow's eye. Program suitable for students ages 10 - 15. Age limit is strictly enforced. Homeschool Bio Lab is an advanced course where we explore higher scientific concepts and the scientific method through dissections, chemistry, and biology experiments. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://parks.mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search.html?primarycode=110007. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. $10 – Payable Online. Emerson Point Preserve – Classroom Pavilion

Recurring Events

Saturday, Mar 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMSaturday Mornings at the NESTJoin us at the Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology for a morning of discovery. Walk the grounds of the historic Reasoner Tract and observe botanical giants collected from around the world. Explore the canopy boardwalk among the banyans, climb to the top of the crow’s nest, take in breathtaking panoramic views, and make an exciting exit from the building via slide. Learn about upcoming programs and exciting new additions to Robinson Preserve. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

ONGOING/AS NEEDED: RIP SQUAD VOLUNTEER WORKDAY - Join this group that works directly with County natural areas land managers on various wildlife habitat improvement projects. Email announcements are sent out a few days in advance of each event that detail the purpose, goals, and meeting information for each upcoming event. Program suitable for volunteers ages 16 and older. To receive email announcements about the RIP squad volunteer events, please email [email protected]. Location and time TBA - chosen based on need

Kayaking with Manatee County

PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS FOR MANATEE COUNTY KAYAKS

In order to utilize one of Manatee County’s sit on top kayaks for a volunteer, Kayaking for Beginners, Kayaking for First Timers, or Beginner Level Kayak Trip, or to participate in any paddling program, participants:

  • Must be 16 years of age or older
  • Must not exceed the manufacturer’s weight limit for the vessel
  • Must have the ability to follow verbal and/or visual instructions independently while in the kayak
  • Must have the ability to respond to instructions and/or call out in the event of an emergency
  • Must have the ability to wear a properly fitted personal flotation device
  • Must have the ability to enter and exit the kayak independently or with the assistance of a companion
  • Must be able to move the kayak through the water independently in a stable manner and return it to the launching area
  • Must have the ability to breathe independently
  • Must have the ability to tolerate 60-80 degree Fahrenheit water and bright sunlight for 2 hours
  • Must have the ability to remain seated, maneuver, and balance independently while on the water

In order to utilize one of Manatee County’s sit on top kayaks for a summer camp program, participants:

  • Must be 9 years of age or older (note: age limit is lower as this program is specifically designed as a direct instructional for this age group; guide to paddler ratio is much lower)
  • Must not exceed the manufacturer’s weight limit for the vessel
  • Must have the ability to follow verbal and/or visual instructions independently while in the kayak
  • Must have the ability to respond to instructions and/or call out in the event of an emergency
  • Must have the ability to wear a properly fitted personal flotation device
  • Must have the ability to enter and exit the kayak independently or with the assistance of a companion
  • Must have the ability to breathe independently
  • Must be able to move the kayak through the water independently in a stable manner and return it to the launching area
  • Must have the ability to tolerate 60-80 degree Fahrenheit water and bright sunlight for 2 hours
  • Must have the ability to remain seated, maneuver, and balance independently while on the water

In the event of capsize for any program, one:

  • Must have the ability to get out from under the watercraft independently
  • Must have the ability to right oneself and remain face up in the water with the aid of a personal flotation device