Download the October Calendar
Mondays September 17th – November 5th, 10:15 AM – 11:30 AM – TINKERGARTEN
AT RYE PRESERVE – Every Monday this Fall, families meet outdoors to
connect and learn through play. In a 5-part class each week,
Tinkergarten Leader, Kristin Trezza, will facilitate an expert-designed
play scenario, allowing children of various ages and needs to explore,
problem solve, communicate, collaborate, and create together. Parents
and caregivers learn, too, as we’ll share insight into your child’s
development. The program progresses to meet each child’s needs season
after season. This fall, the curriculum for 18 months-8 years will
support the development of a range of cognitive, social/emotional and
physical skills. Our focus skill area for the season will be focus and
self-control. Program sponsored by Tinkergarten in partnership with Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department. Reservations are required. To reserve your space, please visit https://tinkergarten.com/classes/56323 Rye Preserve
Saturday 6th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM –
INTERNATIONAL COASTAL CLEANUP – It’s time for the annual cleanup of
Manatee County! Take part in an international event to improve the
world’s waterways, roads, and shores. We’ll meet at Emerson Point and
work together to remove trash throughout the preserve. Your hard work
will not only clean up the environment, but will also help protect local
wildlife from the dangers of trash. Suitable for all ages. Sponsored by Keep Manatee Beautiful. Please contact Keep Manatee Beautiful for more information. Please call 941-795-8272. Various locations in Manatee County
Saturday 6th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM – RYE
PRESERVE NATURE CENTER OPEN – We are opening the doors of the newest
addition to Rye Preserve. Come view a variety of exhibits that highlight
the history of Rye and its uplands habitat. Department staff will take
visitors on guided tours of the Center, and lead special hands-on
activities related to each exhibit. Suitable for all ages. No reservations required, please visit any time during open house hours. For more information please call 941-748-4501 ext. 6039. Rye Preserve
Sunday 7th, 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM – YOGA
AT PALMA SOLA PARK – Join yoga instructor Brandy Gray for a free and fun
intermediate level yoga class Sunday mornings at Palma Sola Park. This
class is open to public and community to connect, unwind and engage in
shared mindful movement with intentions of supporting our individual and
collective (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual) health and
well-being. This program takes place in the shaded area of courtyard
with tree cover for entirety of the class. Please bring your own
mat, water, towel and sunscreen. Program sponsored by Sacred Landings
Crystal Creations: A Crystal & Yoga Wellness Studio. For more information please visit https://www.facebook.com/events/2187078391580244/ Palma Sola Park
Monday 8th, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM – DARK
OF THE MOON COLLAGE CLASS – Join us for a fun new moon evening that’s
all about setting intentions and goals. Nesting up in the new nature
center, you’ll be treated to a beautiful sunset as you get artistic and
make collages that represent your aspirations for the upcoming fall
season. Using the playful and intuitive nature of collage you will
discover how to create visual representations of your dreams and
desires. Learn how to clear the mind and focus your intentions to
promote future growth. A variety of collage materials will be available
including print material, textural papers, paint, and other drawing
media. Afterwards, take a short walk outside with your naturalist host
to connect with nature and take advantage of the absence of the moon to
see the beautiful starry sky and hear a few tales of the fall season
constellations. Program suitable for ages 16 and up. $5 materials
fee covers all necessary items including backing board, collage
materials, glue, and paint; no need to bring anything but yourself! Reservations are required. Please let us know if you would like to attend by emailing melissa.nell@mymanatee.org $5 Materials Fee payable by cash only. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Tuesday 9th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM –
TORTOISE TALKS – Join us for this informal program on the Valentine
House lawn as we take our new education tortoise out to graze! In the
wild, foraging is an integral part of a gopher tortoise’s lifestyle, so
we encourage it as much as possible. Help us celebrate fall with
autumn-themed enrichment for the tortoise. Stop by and say hello, get a
chance to meet him up close, and ask any questions you may have. Learn
all about what tortoises need to survive, how we care for our tortoise,
why we have him, and what efforts we can take to protect these important
members of our Florida ecosystems. Program suitable for all ages. To register or for more information, please email coral.bass@mymanatee.org Robinson Preserve
Tuesday 9th, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM – SUNSET
TAI CHI – Join us for this new monthly class, now on the lawn of the
newly-opened Mosaic NEST! At sunset on the second Tuesday of the month,
Dr. Brian Nell, a fifth degree blackbelt in kung fu and 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. Program sponsored by Cypress Pillar Healing Arts. Suitable for ages 13 and up. Please call 941-742-5923 for ext. 6039 to register. $5 Participant Fee payable by cash only. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Tuesday 9th, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM – SUNSET,
STARLIGHT PADDLE – What a great way to spend a late summer evening,
sunset and starlight paddle with our kayak guide, WayneAdventures.
Come out and enjoy the salt marshes of Robinson Preserve. We will take
advantage of low tide to watch the sunset from the sandbars of the
Manatee River. We will be escorted back by the stars. Bring your camera
for great shots of egrets, herons and roseate spoonbills. This is an
easy paddle which can be enjoyed by beginning kayakers. Program suitable for all ages who can meet the County's minimum eligibility requirements.
Participants must have their own canoe or kayak and safety gear. All
participants must wear a life jacket. Children age 16 and under must be
accompanied by an adult in the same boat. Reservations are required. Please call 941-742-5757 ext. 7. Robinson Preserve
Wednesday 10th, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM – WILDLIFE
SPOTLIGHT: BATS – Bats are one of the most unique creatures of the
animal kingdom and a traditional mascot of Halloween. These nocturnal
echolocators are important pollinators and play a vital role in the
ecosystem. Join us for a spooky twilight walk through Emerson Point
Preserve to look for bats and learn about their amazing abilities! Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required. Let us know if you would like to attend by emailing elena.burke@mymanatee.org or by calling 941-742-5923 ext. 6036. Emerson Point Preserve
Thursday 11th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
– BUTTERFLY GARDEN REVITALIZATION – Grab your trowels and gardening
gloves! By removing the exotic plants that crowd out native plants, and
replacing them with native varieties, we will be beautifying the garden
around the Valentine House for insects, animals, and visitors alike. Program suitable for ages ten and up with parental supervision. Please let us know if you would like to attend by emailing michelle.leahy@mymanatee.org or calling 941-742-5923 ext. 6035. Robinson Preserve – Valentine House
Friday 12th, 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM – FLORIDA BIRDING & NATURE FESTIVAL: DUETTE WAGON TOUR – October 11th to October 14th,
the Florida Birding & Nature Festival is coming to the Hillsborough
Community College Brandon Campus. This festival celebrates the wonders
of the birds, wildlife, and natural lands that we enjoy in West Central
Florida. Join staff from Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources on a
guided wagon tour of Duette Preserve. We will roll through the preserve
at the height of wildflower season to explore a variety of habitats
including bottom land forest, flatwoods, and scrub. We often see scrub
jays, swallow tailed kites, kestrels, meadowlarks, deer, gopher
tortoises, and Bachman’s sparrows Registration is required. Ticket and festival information is available at www.floridabirdingandnaturefestival.org Duette Preserve
Friday 12th, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM – FAMILIES FLOCK TOGETHER: PUMPKINS IN THE PRESERVE –
This program is all about pumpkins! Join us at Emerson Point Preserve
for a family-friendly program celebrating this gourd-geous symbol of
Halloween. Come discover the fascinating history and biology of pumpkins
and jack-o-lanterns through hands-on activities and games. Each
participant will receive their own mini pumpkin to decorate and bring
home some Halloween spirit! Program suitable for ages 6 and up. Reservations are required. Please call 941-742-5923 ext. 6036 or e-mail elena.burke@mymanatee.org $5 Materials Fee per child, payable by cash only. Emerson Point Preserve
Saturday 13th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM –
EMERSON ENHANCERS VOLUNTEER WORKDAY – Come and be part of a dedicated
group of individuals who are passionate about Emerson Point Preserve! We
do whatever is needed, from cleaning up the Point for marine debris,
removing exotic invasive plants from the Temple Mound and classroom
area, to making enhancements to the butterfly garden. Program suitable for all ages. Please let us know if you would like to attend by emailing michelle.leahy@mymanatee.org or calling 941-742-5923 ext. 6035. Emerson Point Preserve
Saturday 13th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM –
NEST NATURE DAYS – The brand-new Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration,
Science and Technology will open its doors for a day of exploration.
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 panorama views, and make an exciting exit from the building
via slide. Learn about upcoming programs and exciting new additions to
Robinson Preserve. Suitable for all ages. No reservations required, please visit any time during open house hours. For more information please call 941-742-5923 ext. 6039. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Saturday 13th, 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM –
STROLLER STROLLS: ROBINSON – Round up your baby buggies, and your little
ones for a rolling naturalist led walk through the counties wild
spaces. Open your child’s eyes to the sights, smells, and feel of
Florida’s great outdoors while safely wheeled around. Meet other nature explorer families with similar aged kids. Program suitable for 0 to 4 years. Reservations are required - Please let us know if you would like to attend by emailing coral.bass@mymanatee.org or calling 941-742-5757 ext.4. Robinson Preserve
Saturday 13th, 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM –
SHORELINE SHINDIG – Celebrate the importance of our shorelines and our
coastal waters at this FREE community party! Enjoy the great outdoors
with music from Passerine, delicious food, and local partners committed
to the environment. Stop by the Parks and Natural Resources booth to
explore our new Pop-up Playground sponsored by the Sarasota Bay Estuary
Program! This playground allows children to build their own play
“environment” while learning about local ecosystems. Have fun learning
what YOU can do to interact with the marine environment in a positive,
sustainable way. Event suitable for all ages. Local food and
beverages will be available for purchase. Event hosted by START, Realize
Bradenton and the Gulf Coast Oyster Recycling & Renewal Program,
and sponsored by the South Florida Museum. Bradenton Riverwalk
Saturday 13th, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM – SIDEWALK
ASTRONOMY AT ROBINSON PRESERVE – Join 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 and view the skies through high-powered
telescopes. Learn how to identify these heavenly bodies, and how you can
star gaze at home too. Program in partnership with The Local Group of Deep Sky Observers. Suitable for all ages. No reservations required. For more information please call 941-748-4501 ext. 6039. Robinson Preserve – Expansion Parking Area
Sunday 14th, 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM – YOGA
AT PALMA SOLA PARK – Join yoga instructor Brandy Gray for a free and fun
intermediate level yoga class Sunday mornings at Palma Sola Park. This
class is open to public and community to connect, unwind and engage in
shared mindful movement with intentions of supporting our individual and
collective (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual) health and
well-being. This program takes place in the shaded area of courtyard
with tree cover for entirety of the class. Please bring your own
mat, water, towel and sunscreen. Program sponsored by Sacred Landings
Crystal Creations: A Crystal & Yoga Wellness Studio. For more information please visit https://www.facebook.com/events/2187078391580244/ Palma Sola Park
Tuesday 16th, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM –
SPINE-CHILLING SKELETONS – No bones about it, skeletons hold us
together! Join us for an informative chat about the skeletal systems of
Florida’s wildlife. Explore bones of extant and extinct species, learn
about the biology and make-up of animal bones, and discover the skeletal
adaptations that help animals survive in their natural environment. Program geared towards ages 10 and up, but all ages are welcome. Reservations are required. Let us know if you would like to attend by emailing elena.burke@mymanatee.org or by calling 941-742-5923 ext. 6036. Emerson Point Preserve
Thursday 18th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – PADDLE PINE ISLAND PRESERVE AND LOWER BRADEN RIVER – Join our nature guide from WayneAdventures
as we explore the Lower Braden River and weave our way around extensive
oyster beds and mangrove islands. We will stop at Pine Island, a 66
acre preserve. Along the way, learn about the importance of these tidal
estuary areas. Beginning paddlers who can paddle 4-6 miles are welcome. Program suitable for adults who can meet the County's minimum eligibility requirements. Participants must have their own canoe or kayak and safety gear. All participants must wear a life jacket. Reservations are required. Please call 941-742-5757 ext. 7. SR 64 Boat Launch, 517 29th St E, Bradenton
Friday 19th, 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM – VOLUNTEER
FOR THE GOBLIN GATHERING – We need YOUR HELP! We need volunteers to
help tear tickets, assist with parking, make sure folks stay safe on
inflatables, paint faces, and don costumes to bring the fun! All you
need is a positive attitude and willingness to learn! This is a great
way to get scholarship volunteer credit for high school or youth
organizations, while creating a fun event for the whole family to enjoy.
Call 941-742-5923 ex 6035 or email michelle.leahy@mymanatee.org to take part. G.T. Bray Park
Friday 19th, 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM – THE 16th ANNUAL GOBLIN GATHERING – Join us for Manatee County Parks & Natural Resources Department’s 16th
annual Goblin Gathering! This Halloween-themed event provides a fun
family atmosphere for all ages that features hayrides, face painting,
bounce houses, inflatable slides, and a costume contest with great
prizes. During the event, children will be able to “trick-or-treat” and
receive free candy. In addition, exhibitors and local businesses provide
entertaining Halloween activities for participants. This year will
feature a Trunk-or-Treat Alley sponsored by Manatee County Public Safety
Department. Admission and trick-or-treating is free, $5 wristband
is sold for children to participate in activities. Food vendors will be
on site with food for sale at an additional cost. Parental participation is free. Bring the whole family out and join in the fun! For more information, please call 941-742-5923. $5 Wristband for activities. G.T. Bray Park
Saturday 20th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM – RYE
PRESERVE NATURE CENTER OPEN – We are opening the doors of the newest
addition to Rye Preserve. Come view a variety of exhibits that highlight
the history of Rye and its uplands habitat. Department staff will take
visitors on guided tours of the Center, and lead special hands-on
activities related to each exhibit. Suitable for all ages. No reservations required, please visit any time during open house hours. For more information please call 941-748-4501 ext. 6039. Rye Preserve
Sunday 21st, 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM – YOGA
AT PALMA SOLA PARK – Join yoga instructor Brandy Gray for a free and fun
intermediate level yoga class Sunday mornings at Palma Sola Park. This
class is open to public and community to connect, unwind and engage in
shared mindful movement with intentions of supporting our individual and
collective (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual) health and
well-being. This program takes place in the shaded area of courtyard
with tree cover for entirety of the class. Please bring your own
mat, water, towel and sunscreen. Program sponsored by Sacred Landings
Crystal Creations: A Crystal & Yoga Wellness Studio. For more information please visit https://www.facebook.com/events/2187078391580244/ Palma Sola Park
Tuesday 23rd, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM –
SPOOKTACULAR SHUTTER STROLL – As the sun goes down the spooks come out!
Our popular once-a-year photography tour is back for 2018! Join costumed
characters to take historically inspired photos using ultra low light
and long exposure tricks. Photographer Aedan will teach how to take
unique ghostly images and once the lights go out you’ll have a chance to
photograph light painting too. We’ll hike to the historic Rye Family
Cemetery and learn the history of your on-location shoot. Program suitable for ages 16 and up. Reservations are required for this FREE program. Please let us know if you would like to attend by emailing melissa.nell@mymanatee.org Rye Preserve
Wednesday 24th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM –
EDIBLE PLANTS WALK WITH GREEN DEANE – Join Green Deane of “Eat the
Weeds” on a nature walk through Emerson Point Preserve to learn about
foraging! Deane has been giving "wild food" presentations for about 20
years and has created an “itemizing” system to help beginners identify
plants and learn how to prepare them. A Manatee County naturalist will
be on-hand to explain the history and habitats of the preserve. Program
suitable for adults. Program sponsored by Manatee County Parks and
Natural Resources in partnership with Transition Sarasota’s Eat Local
Week. Spaces are limited and pre-registration is required. Please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/foraging-with-green-deane-tickets-49913603933 $20 per person. Available by pre-registration only. Emerson Point Preserve
Thursday 25th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – GREEN EXPLORERS: SPOOKY SPIDERS – Eight legs, sticky web, or a face full of eyes, what makes spiders so spooky to you? Using
hands on discovery, and the participants own creativity attendees 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 age 6-12 year olds, but all ages welcome. Reservations are required - Please let us know if you would like to attend by emailing coral.bass@mymanatee.org or calling 941-742-5757 ext.4. Rye Preserve
Thursday 25th, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM –
HOMESCHOOL SCIENCE CLUB: SPOOKY SCIENCE – Whoooo’s ready for Halloween?
Explore a whole new world of creepy creatures and eerie experiments in
this Halloween special! From slime to spider webs, discover some of
nature’s very own thrills and chills while engaging in hands on
activities that the whole family can enjoy. Join us if you dare!
Costumes are encouraged! Program recommended for 6-10 year olds, but children of all ages are welcome. Reservations are required. Please let us know if you would like to attend by emailing aedan.stockdale@mymanatee.org Emerson Point Preserve
Thursday 25th, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
– SCIENCE AND SERVICE BOOK CLUB – Looking for a volunteer opportunity
in the cool of the evening at beautiful Robinson Preserve? Come
out to the newest part of Robinson for our book club with a service
twist. Every month we will read different book from science and history
about Florida, and discuss, and follow it with a restoration project in
the preserve. This month will be Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston. Program is suitable for bookworms 14 and up. Please let us know if you would like to attend by emailing michelle.leahy@mymanatee.org or calling 941-742-5923 ext. 6035 to register. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Friday 26th, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM – TALL TAILS TRIBE: ENCHANTED OWLS – Who
gives a hoot about owls?! We do! Grab your toddler and explore the
wonderful world of our nocturnal feathered friends. Through games,
stretches, and puppet play your little one will discover the amazing
owls hiding in their backyard. Reservations are required - Please let us know if you would like to attend by emailing coral.bass@mymanatee.org or calling 941-742-5757 ext. 3. Emerson Point Preserve
Friday 26th, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
– FAMILIES FLOCK TOGETHER: BUMP IN THE NIGHT HIKE – As the sun sets,
the daytime world is going to sleep, but a whole other world is just
opening its eyes. Come and learn about the secretive world of nocturnal
creatures. Listen to the calls of some of the local nightlife, and see
what it takes to survive after dark. Search the skies for our resident
bats and owls as we take a wild flashlight hike to the Rye Family
Cemetery and finish the night by roasting smores around the campfire. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are required - Please let us know if you would like to attend by calling 941-742-5757 ext.4. Rye Preserve
Saturday 27th, 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM – HALLOWEEN ADULT ARCHERY – Join us for this special Halloween themed archery program! Come out dressed as your favorite archer, hero or villain. (Please be sure costumes do not have loose items that can interfere with the equipment.)
This program will provide participants with basic archery instruction,
familiarization with archery equipment, and instruction in shooting
techniques, along with some Halloween themed activities. All
necessary equipment will be provided thanks to a grant from the Easton
Sports Development Foundation. Program is suitable participants 16 years
and older. Reservations are required. Please email aedan.stockdale@mymanatee.org Rye Preserve
Saturday 27th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM –
NEST NATURE DAYS – The brand-new Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration,
Science and Technology will open its doors for a day of exploration.
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 panorama views, and make an exciting exit from the building
via slide. Learn about upcoming programs and exciting new additions to
Robinson Preserve. Suitable for all ages. No reservations required, please visit any time during open house hours. For more information please call 941-742-5923 ext. 6039. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Saturday 27th, 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM – HALLOWEEN YOUTH ARCHERY –
Set your sights on the exciting outdoor activity of archery! This month
archery will be Halloween themed, and costumes will be encouraged! (Please be sure costumes do not have loose items that can interfere with the equipment.) 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 ages 6 to 16 years old.
Program sponsored by the Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network and
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Reservations are required. Please let us know if you would like to attend by emailing aedan.stockdale@mymanatee.org Rye Preserve
Saturday 27th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM –
SNORKELING 101: EMERSON POINT– Splash into Manatee County’s Snorkeling
101 Program. Explore the world hiding below the waves and get a glimpse
of local wildlife. Learn how to use snorkel equipment, water safety, and
laws pertaining to this fun recreational activity. We will explore
simple ways to conserve and protect the estuarial environment. All
participants must be able to competently swim. Snorkeling gear made possible by the Tampa Bay Estuary Program License Plate program. Program suitable for ages 12 and up. Each family must come with a participating adult. Reservations are required - Please let us know if you would like to attend by emailing coral.bass@mymanatee.org or calling 941-742-5757 ext.4. Emerson Point Preserve
Saturday 27th, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM –
PUMPKIN CARVING EXTRAVAGANZA – Join us for a festive evening of carving
and decorating pumpkins! Light your porch with a grinning
jack-o-lantern, or carve a spooky scene! We provide the pumpkin and
carving tools, you provide the creativity. Not sure what to carve?
Choose one of our pumpkin carving templates, or use your imagination and
create your own designs. Program suitable for all ages. $10
materials fee covers all necessary items including a pumpkin, carving
tools, and decorating materials; no need to bring anything but yourself!
Additional pumpkins are available for an additional materials fee. Spaces are limited. Registration is required. Please email aedan.stockdale@mymanatee.org $10 Materials Fee per family payable by cash only. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
Sunday 28th, 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM – YOGA
AT PALMA SOLA PARK – Join yoga instructor Brandy Gray for a free and fun
intermediate level yoga class Sunday mornings at Palma Sola Park. This
class is open to public and community to connect, unwind and engage in
shared mindful movement with intentions of supporting our individual and
collective (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual) health and
well-being. This program takes place in the shaded area of courtyard
with tree cover for entirety of the class. Please bring your own
mat, water, towel and sunscreen. Program sponsored by Sacred Landings
Crystal Creations: A Crystal & Yoga Wellness Studio. For more information please visit https://www.facebook.com/events/2187078391580244/ Palma Sola Park
Monday 29th 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM – WILD FL
101: INDIGENOUS TRIBES OF FLORIDA – Get an in-depth look at some of the
indigenous people of Florida; the Timicuan, Seminole, and Calusa. These
three tribes form a large part of the rich cultural history here in
Manatee County. As the earliest residents of this area, these people
have helped shape the land and left behind monuments that have withstood
the ages. Learn the origins of these tribes and the history of
migration through the Florida peninsula. Discover this ancient world and
see what these early people created from the natural materials around
them. Examine tools made from bone and shell, walk through our preserved
temple mounds, and explore how the modern world can benefit from
learning about the past. Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required - Please let us know if you would like to attend by calling 941-742-5757 ext. 5. Emerson Point Preserve
Wednesday 31st, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – *NEW* PUPPETS AND PLAY: BODACIOUS BATS –
On Halloween morning, let’s get a little batty! Flapping wings and
nocturnal things, spooky animals stalk the night forest, especially the
bodacious bat. Watch a batty folktale unfold in a *live* puppet show,
play games, and build a take home sensory bottle that will keep
youngsters engaged long after the program’s curtain falls. Puppets shows
and sensory bottles are known for stamping memories, and encouraging
imagination in a young learner’s mind. Reservations are required - Please let us know if you would like to attend by emailing coral.bass@mymanatee.org or calling 941-742-5757 ext.4. $10 fee per child, payable by cash only. 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. This group meets when
needed with locations and tasks determined based on need, opportunity,
and priority, at the time of each event. 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 age 16 and older. To receive email announcements about the RIP squad volunteer events, send an email to Erin at Erin.Struzzieri@mymanatee.org Location and time TBA - chosen based on need.