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

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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September 2023 Calendar of Events 

Download a printable version of the September Calendar of Events

Wednesday, Sep 27th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMExplore 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 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

Thursday, Sep 28th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMGreen Explorers: Creek RetreatDoes your child like to explore? Do they enjoy playing in water? Spending unstructured time in nature inspires confidence, encourages problem solving skills, and provides social outlets for children of all ages.  Physically playing on uneven surfaces even helps children develop stronger coordination and balance skills. Come out for a fun, low structure, high social experience where children get back to playing with nature. This month we will be focused on exploring the stream. Program suitable for children of all ages. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected]. Rye Preserve – Pavilion

Friday, Sep 29th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 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/seashell-shore-walk-september-2023-registration-705565313847. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6036. Coquina Beach South – Longboat Key Bridge

Friday, Sep 29th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMEcoFlora BioblitzJoin us on a quest to document as many plant species as possible for the Sarasota-Manatee EcoFlora Project! We will use the user-friendly iNaturalist. The observations and data we record will help to better inform decisions about the management and conservation of our natural resources. Program suitable for ages 5 and up. Program sponsored by Selby Botanical Gardens in partnership with Manatee County. Students can earn up to 3 volunteer service hours. Dress for a day in the sun and be prepared to walk up to two miles on uneven terrain, including areas that are off-trail. Bring plenty of drinking water and a cell phone or camera. Please use the restroom prior to attending, there are no restrooms at this site. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://7082.blackbaudhosting.com/7082/Duette-Headwaters-Bioblitz. For more information please contact [email protected]. Duette Headwaters

Friday, Sep 29th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMNature Tales: Fab FeathersDoes your kiddo enjoy stories and nature? Join us at Conservatory Park in Nature Tales. Meet monthly at Conservatory Park for an interactive story time, activities, and a walk in the great outdoors. This month we will discover the importance of feathers. Program suitable for 8 year olds and younger but all ages welcome. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected]. Conservatory Park – Pavilion

Saturday, Sep 30th, 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

Saturday, Sep 30th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMStorytime: Gopher TortoiseJoin us at Rocky Bluff Library for an exploration of all things gopher tortoise! Through hands-on activities and a storytime, we will learn about this keystone species whose burrow provides shelter for over 350 other species. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations recommended. To register please visit https://manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/11124359. For more information please contact [email protected]. Rocky Bluff Library

October 2023 CALENDAR OF EVENTS 

Download a printable version of the October Calendar of Events 

Wednesday, Oct 4th, 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. No reservations required. For more information please visit https://soarin4.org/. The Bishop Museum

Thursday, Oct 5th, 8:00 AM – 11:00 AMTrail Team ThursdayGet outside, get moving, and meet new people! We could use your help trimming overgrown trails and removing debris leftover from hurricane Idalia at the hidden gem of Leffis Key Preserve. This is a great opportunity for students to earn up to 3 service hours. Volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Please wear closed toe shoes. Long lightweight clothing is recommended. Water, gloves, and all other materials will be provided. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6035. Leffis Key Preserve

Saturday, Oct 7th, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PMCortez Nautical Flea MarketDo you love boats? Have salt water flowing through your veins? Are you dreaming about deals on fishing gear, marine equipment, or other maritime flotsam and jetsam? Then this FREE family-friendly event is for YOU! There will also be a Nautical Arts & Crafts sale at the Cortez Cultural Center located to the east of the museum. Event suitable for all ages. Free parking is available at the F.I.S.H. Preserve located on Cortez Road next to the Cortez Cultural Center. No reservations required. For more information please visit https://www.floridamaritimemuseum.org/nautical-flea-market. Florida Maritime Museum

Saturday, Oct 7th, 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

Saturday, Oct 7th, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AMYouth Archery Session 1This 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. Please register for only one session each month. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/726046473547. For more information please contact [email protected]. Rye Preserve – Pavilion

Saturday, Oct 7th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMYouth Archery Session 2This 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. Please register for only one session each month. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/726048991077. For more information please contact [email protected]. Rye Preserve – Pavilion

Monday, Oct 9th, 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. 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]. $10 Registration Fee Payable Online. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Tuesday, Oct 10th, 8:00 AM – 11:00 AMRye Nature Center Spruce-Up: Part 1Join us for this Part 1 spruce-up of the Rye Nature Center and help the rangers clear out brush and dead vegetation and prep the grounds for a pollinator planting. This is a great opportunity for students to earn up to 3 service hours. Volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Please wear closed toe shoes. Long lightweight clothing is recommended. Water, gloves, and all other materials will be provided. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6035. Rye Preserve – Nature Center

Wednesday, Oct 11th, 10:15 AM – 11:00 AMLibrary Learning: Batty TalesFly into the Braden River Library for a bat-tastic program. Learn about our unique flying mammals and their importance in the food web. Using games, movements, and stories- your little one will learn to appreciate this tiny but mighty wildlife. Program suitable for Preschool age children. No reservations required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Braden River Library

Thursday, Oct 12th, 8:00 AM – 11:00 AMRye Nature Center Spruce-Up: Part 2Join us for this Part 2 spruce-up of the Rye Nature Center and help the rangers plant native pollinator plants. Pollinator plants attract native nectar-seeking butterflies, moths, and bees, which are great for a healthy ecosystem. This is great opportunity for students to earn up to 3 service hours. Volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Please wear closed toe shoes. Long lightweight clothing is recommended. Water, gloves, and all other materials will be provided. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6035. Rye Preserve – Nature Center

Thursday, Oct 12th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMCreature Feature: Orb Weaver SpiderZoom into the natural world and focus on one wonderous animal species. Discover the identifiable movements and features of the wildlife and their favorite habitats to haunt. Then venture into one of Manatee Counties' preserves with your homeschooler to track the featured creature in the wild. This month, creep through Neal Preserve in hunt of the fierce hunter- orb weever spiders. Program suitable for 5-year-old and up. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected]. Neal Preserve – Pavilion

Saturday, Oct 14th, 8:30 AM – 12:30 PMDuette Wagon Tour:Fall WildflowersDiscover over 20,000 acres of Duette Preserve from a covered wagon. With a Master Naturalist guide and a Park Ranger, discover the story of restoration and wildlife. Witness Pine Flatwoods, River Floodplain, and Scrub ecosystems, and maybe even spot a Florida Scrub-jay! Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by Manatee Fish and Game Association in partnership with Manatee County. Please arrive early as the wagon will depart on time.  Bring a water bottle and a seat cushion or pad to sit on. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://manatee-fish-game.ticketleap.com/duette-wagon-tour---fall-wildflowers---oct-14th/. Duette Preserve – Ranger Station

Saturday, Oct 14th, 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

Saturday, Oct 14th, 11:30 AM – 3:00 PMSolar Eclipse Watch PartyJoin us for a rare event: a partial solar eclipse!  Take a look through a Hydrogen Alpha solar telescope and observe solar granulation, filaments, sunspots, and even solar flares. This is guaranteed to be a unique viewing experience. The first 100 attendees will receive a free pair of eclipse glasses to view the eclipse safely. Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by Suncoast Stargazers in partnership with Manatee County. The partial eclipse starts at 11:50 AM to a maximum at 1:25 PM before ending at 3:03 PM. Reservations are recommended. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/726075369977. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Tuesday, Oct 17th, 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/seashell-shore-walk-october-2023-registration-720341610147. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6036. Coquina Beach South – Longboat Key Bridge

Thursday, Oct 19th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMTreeTots: Night NatureThe croak of a frog and the chirp of a cricket, found all around, are night sounds. Come and discover the sounds, movements, and life of the animals who awake at sunset. TreeTots is an interactive program that uses song, action, and play to encourage the youngest family members to explore nature. Program suitable for newborns to 2 year olds. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/722930664077. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Thursday, Oct 19th, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PMLiving with AlligatorsLove them or hate them, alligators are found nearly everywhere in Florida. In this engaging lecture-style session for teens and adults, we will explore the fascinating life history of alligators and learn essential tips on what to do if you encounter them. We will unravel these creatures' vital role in maintaining a balanced ecosystem and learn how to live in harmony together. We hope you’ll join us to expand your knowledge and appreciation for alligators and that you will leave with a greater understanding of their importance to humans and the environment! T his program is recommended for teens and adults. This is a lecture-style program that may not be suitable for small children. Program sponsored by Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast in partnership with Manatee County. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/708754863877. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Friday, Oct 20th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMTall Tail Tribe: Bees, Butterflies, and Beetles - Oh My!Are you ready to bug out? Florida bugs can be found in the air, underground, and everywhere in between. Through games, crafts, and songs, your preschooler will discover some little and big bugs who creep through their backyards every day. Program suitable for Preschool age children. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/722909932067. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve – Pavilion #1

Friday, Oct 20th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PMHomeschool Science Club: Spooky ScienceChannel your inner mad scientist as we conduct a series of spooky experiments! Make a ghost take flight with the power of static electricity and use physics to make alarming sounds. Join us for this and more at our frightfully cool spooky science afternoon! 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 Reservations are required. To register please visit https://octoberhsscemerson.eventbrite.com. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. Emerson Point Preserve – Pavilion #1

Saturday, Oct 21st, 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

Saturday, Oct 21st, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PMFamilies Flock Together: Saltwater Fishing ClinicJoin us for a special saltwater fishing clinic! Tie an improved clinch knot, practice your fish identification skills, and learn the basics of catch and release fishing in Florida. Get a chance to use our fishing equipment and cast your line into the waters of Emerson Point Preserve to see what we can catch! Spots are limited, so please sign up early if you are interested. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/722238283147?aff=oddtdtcreator. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. Emerson Point Preserve – Pavilion #1

Saturday, Oct 21st, 7:00 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. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://robinsonastronomy.eventbrite.com. Robinson Preserve – Expansion Parking Lot

Tuesday, Oct 24th, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PMWildlife Spotlight: BatsJoin us for a twilight walk at Robinson Preserve to look for bats! These nocturnal echolocators are important pollinators that play a vital role in the ecosystem. Learn about the unique adaptations of nature's only winged mammals, and how you can help protect them in the wild. Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wildlife-spotlight-bats-2023-registration-720352683267. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6036. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Wednesday, Oct 25th, 9:30 AM – 11:30 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 plants, animals, and history of the preserve. Program suitable for all ages. No reservation required. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6036. Robinson Preserve – Tower

Thursday, Oct 26th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMGreen Explorers: Creepy SensesHow do fish swim in synch, or alligators know they are approaching a salty environment? Learn about the quirky, weird senses that make wildlife unique and able to survive. Green Explorers is a low-structured, highly social, and experienced-based activity. Program suitable for ages 6-12-year-olds. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected]. Perico – Pavilion

Thursday, Oct 26th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PMHomeschool Bio Lab: Soil ScienceSoils have all the nutrients that plants need to grow, but is every soil the same? Explore how plants absorb nutrients in soil and water and test the soil from your own backyard! Program appropriate for students ages 10-15. Homeschool Bio Lab is an advance 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. Emerson Point Preserve – Nature Classroom

Friday, Oct 27th, 8:00 AM – 11:00 AMOyster Shell Drilling for Vertical Oyster GardensVolunteers wanted! Come help us drill holes into oyster shells that will be used to make Vertical Oyster Gardens, also known as VOGs. These VOGs will be installed at a later time under docks and other structures to provide a surface for live oysters to attach themselves. Oysters feed by filtering and cleaning water, a key to a healthy estuary and our marine ecosystems. Clean water allows the sunlight to penetrate the sea floor, allowing sea grasses to grow, which helps all creatures, including manatees! Volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Please wear closed toe shoes. Long lightweight clothing is recommended. Water, gloves, dust masks, and all other materials will be provided. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6035. Robinson Preserve – North Entrance near Valentine House

Friday, Oct 27th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMEcoFlora BioblitzJoin us on a quest to document as many plant species as possible for the Sarasota-Manatee EcoFlora Project! We will use the user-friendly iNaturalist Neal Preserve. The observations and data we record will help to better inform decisions about the management and conservation of our natural resources. Program suitable for ages 5 and up. Program sponsored by Selby Botanical Gardens in partnership with Manatee County. Students can earn up to 3 volunteer service hours. Dress for a day in the sun and be prepared to walk up to two miles on uneven terrain, including areas that are off trail. Bring plenty of drinking water and a cell phone or camera. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://7082.blackbaudhosting.com/7082/Robinson-Preserve-Bioblitz-27Oct2023. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – North Entrance near Valentine House

Friday, Oct 27th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMNature Tales: Nocturnal FliersDoes your kiddo enjoy stories and nature? Join us at Conservatory Park in Nature Tales. Meet monthly at Conservatory Park for an interactive story time, activities, and a walk in the great outdoors. This month, we will explore the different nighttime winged animals and their importance in our Florida habitats. Program suitable for 8 year old and younger but all ages welcome. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected]. Conservatory Park – Playground Pavilion

Friday, Oct 27th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMHomeschool Science Club: Spooky ScienceChannel your inner mad scientist as we conduct a series of spooky experiments! Make a ghost take flight with the power of static electricity and use physics to make alarming sounds. Join us for this and more at our frightfully cool spooky science afternoon! 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 Reservations are required. To register please visit https://octoberhsscrye.eventbrite.com. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. Rye Preserve – Pavilion

Saturday, Oct 28th, 6:30 AM – 8:30 AMSunrise Paddle Robinson PreserveJoin us for a special sunrise paddle at Robinson Preserve! As wading birds fly through cotton candy skies and mullet splash in calm morning water, we'll make our way to the mouth of the Manatee River for excellent views of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and Tampa Bay. Depending on the cloud cover, we may be able to observe the full moon setting over the Gulf as the sun rises in the east.

This program is suitable for individuals ages 16 and older. Children under 16 years old may attend with a parent or guardian in a tandem kayak. This is an easy paddle, but prior paddling experience is strongly recommended. All participants must wear a life jacket while on the water.

Single and tandem kayaks, paddles, and life jackets are available to borrow courtesy of the Manatee County Natural Resources Department. If you would like to borrow a kayak, please choose the "borrow a kayak" ticket type. Otherwise, participants must provide their own canoe, kayak, or SUP and safety gear, including a life jacket and whistle. Participants should bring a water bottle and wear clothing appropriate for the weather. Please wear shoes that strap or tie to your feet, no flip-flops. Your feet and lower legs will get wet and sandy. You may wish to bring a towel and dry clothes/shoes to change into after the paddle. Restrooms and a water fountain are available on site

Program sponsored by Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast in partnership with Manatee County. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/720765136927. Robinson Preserve – North Entrance Kayak Launch

Saturday, Oct 28th, 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

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