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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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March 2024 Calendar of Events 

Download a printable version of the March Calendar of Events

Wednesday, Mar 6th, 8:00 AM – 10:00 AMManatee Audubon Society Birding Tour: Emerson Point – Search the skies for Florida’s fabulous fliers! Our 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. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected] or call (941) 592-7622. Emerson Point Preserve – Ranger's Station

Wednesday, Mar 6th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PMClay Day – Come play in the clay! Slip into an afternoon of clay creations using the coil pot, pinch, and slab technique to create bowls. Explore different pottery styles, the history of ceramics, and create your very own, one-of-a-kind functional art. Participants must be 10 years and older. Program suitable for ages 10 and up. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://parks.mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/iteminfo.html?Module=AR&FMID=72736475. For more information please contact [email protected]. $20 Materials Fee Payable Online. Robinson Preserve – Canopy Zone Pavilion

Thursday, Mar 7th, 9:30 AM – 10:30 AMNative American Heritage Tour – Join us for a guided walk through Neal Preserve as we explore the history of the Native American tribes in the area. We'll take a closer look at the reconstructed burial mounds and climb the observation tower for a scenic view of this coastal preserve. Program suitable for teens and adults. Reservations are required. To register please visit http://manateenrd.ticketleap.com/indigenousheritagetour/. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. Neal Preserve – Pavilion

Thursday, Mar 7th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMHomeschool Creature Feature: Woodpecker – Zoom 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, peck your way through Conservatory Park in search of the wild and wonderful woodpecker. Program suitable for 5-year-old and up. Reservations are required. To register please visit http://manateenrd.ticketleap.com/homeschool-creature-feature-woodpeckers/. For more information please contact [email protected]. Conservatory Park – Playground Pavilion

Friday, Mar 8th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMTrail Trimming with the Tram – All aboard! Come jump on our new electric tram and lend us a hand trimming the trails and viewsheds at Robinson Preserve. Program suitable for ages 16 and older. Please wear closed toe shoes. Long lightweight clothing is recommended. Water, gloves, loppers, pruners, and all other materials will be provided. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742- ext. 6035. Robinson Preserve – Valentine House parking lot

Friday, Mar 8th, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AMCuban Ranchos Heritage Tour – In the late 1600s, Florida's shores hosted thriving communities of Cuban fishermen known as Ranchos. Join us as we tour the coastal habitat of Perico Preserve and discuss the history, obstacles and namesake Rancho owner Perico Pompon. Program suitable for teens and adults. Reservations are required. To register please visit http://manateenrd.ticketleap.com/ranchosheritagetour. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. Perico Preserve

Friday, Mar 8th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMTall Tail Tribe: Fluttering Friends – Fly into Emerson Point Preserve searching- for wild, marvelous moths and butterflies. Learn to identify them and what makes these fliers so interesting through games, hands-on activities, and crafts.  Your preschooler will be charmed by the beauty of our jewel-winged beauties! Program suitable for preschool age children. Reservations are required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve – Classroom Pavilion

Saturday, Mar 9th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMSaturday Mornings at the NEST – Join 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, Mar 9th, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AMHike with a Librarian – Discuss a nature-themed nonfiction book with a Manatee County Librarian while enjoying Florida's scenery. After our book discussion, a Manatee County Natural Resources guide will talk about the local fauna and flora as we walk around the park at a leisurely pace. Hike with a Librarian programs involve easier walks through local park. Read one of the following books for the discussion: Trees, Leaves, Flowers & Seeds: A Visual Encyclopedia of the Plant Kingdom or The Secret World of Plants: Tales of More than 100 Remarkable Flowers, Trees, and Seeds. Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/11978810. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 748-5555 ext. 6334. Conservatory Park – Pavilion

Saturday, Mar 9th, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PMPalmetto's Heritage Festival – This FREE event will have a park open house and activities for the whole family. The 1880 Heritage Station Post Office will be operational with a one-day-only cancellation designed by Kaylee Schauer, a local middle school student. Bring your stamped mail! Guided tours of the park buildings will take place at 10:30, 11:30, and 12:30. Word of Mouth BBQ will be on site with delicious food available for purchase. A special feature of this year’s Heritage Festival is The Original Florida Highwaymen Art Show & Sale. Program suitable for all ages. For more information please visit https://www.manateecountyagmuseum.com/event-details-4. Manatee County Agricultural Museum

Saturday, Mar 9th, 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM & 3:00 PM – 4:00 PMRobinson Preserve Tram Tour – Immerse yourself in Robinson Preserve on our new electric tram tour. Join our knowledgeable guides to discover the history, wildlife, and ecosystems of this unique coastal gem. Gain a deeper understanding of this site's transformation from an empty farmland to a thriving nature preserve. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are required. To register please visit http://manateenrd.ticketleap.com/tramtour/. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – North Entrance

Monday, Mar 11th, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PMSunset Tai Chi at the NEST – Join 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://manateenrd.ticketleap.com/taichi/. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Wednesday, Mar 13th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMRobinson Preserve Tram Tour – Immerse yourself in Robinson Preserve on our new electric tram tour. Join our knowledgeable guides to discover the history, wildlife, and ecosystems of this unique coastal gem. Gain a deeper understanding of this site's transformation from an empty farmland to a thriving nature preserve. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are required. To register please visit http://manateenrd.ticketleap.com/tramtour/. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – North Entrance

Thursday, Mar 14th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMWildlife Spotlight: Wading Birds – Explore the wonderful world of wading birds at this month’s Wildlife Spotlight. Learn to spot and identify Manatee County’s most common wading bird species, and take a nature walk to put your birding skills to the test. Discover their amazing adaptations, and the crucial role they play in the Florida ecosystem. Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required. To register please visit http://manateenrd.ticketleap.com/wildlife-spotlight-wading-birds/. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Expansion

Thursday, Mar 14th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMTreeTots: Leaves, Leaves, Leaves – Some leaves are big, some leaves are small. Some leaves are green and some leaves are not. Come explore the magic of leaves.  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 http://manateenrd.ticketleap.com/treetots-leaves-leaves-leaves/. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Thursday, Mar 14th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PMHomeschool Science Club: Marvelous Manatees – They weigh a ton and graze on the coasts of the sea - that's right, we're talking manatees! Join us to learn about manatee anatomy, biology, rescue and rehabilitation. Discover a manatee's internal organs and skeleton and rescue a baby manatee. 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. Please note the location of this session. Reservations are required. To register please visit http://manateenrd.ticketleap.com/hsscmanateesrye/. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. Rye Preserve – Pavilion

Thursday, Mar 14th, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PMGame Night – Are you ready to learn a new game, or are you interested in sharing a much-beloved board game with others? Drop into the building for an evening of tabletop gaming fun! Borrow a nature-themed game from our game library or bring your favorite game from home. Meet new people and try something new. Role-playing games such as Dungeons and Dragons are welcome too. We only ask that all content and conversations remain family-friendly. Snacks provided. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are not required but suggested. To register please visit http://manateenrd.ticketleap.com/nest-game-night/. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Friday, Mar 15th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMRye Cemetery Preservation and Maintenance – Join us at the Rye Cemetery to clean the gravestones, make minor repairs to the fence and gate and trim trees along the Rye Settlement Trail leading to the cemetery. Program suitable for volunteers 10 years and older.  Volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Water, gloves, and all other materials will be provided. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742- ext. 6035. Rye Preserve – Rye Settlement Trailhead

Friday, Mar 15th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PMHoliday Nature Crafting: "Egg"-cellent Egg Dying – Dying to color eggs? Nature's dyes occur in a rainbow of colors. Learn the secrets of natural, edible dyes from your grocery store and patterns found from items in your home. Let us clean up your mess and teach you the skills to do natural egg dying in your own home. Program suitable for ages 7 and up. Reservations are required. For more information please contact [email protected].  . Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Friday, Mar 15th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PMHomeschool Science Club: Marvelous Manatees – They weigh a ton and graze on the on the coasts of the sea - that's right, we're talking manatees! Join us to learn about manatee anatomy, biology, rescue and rehabilitation. Discover a manatee's internal organs and skeleton and rescue a baby manatee. 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. Please note the location of this session. Reservations are required. To register please visit http://manateenrd.ticketleap.com/hsscmanateesemerson/. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. Emerson Point Preserve – Large Pavilion #1

Saturday, Mar 16th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMSaturday Mornings at the NEST – Join 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, Mar 16th, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PMStarry Night Astronomy – 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 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://manateenrd.ticketleap.com/robinsonastronomy/. Robinson Preserve – Expansion Parking Lot

Wednesday, Mar 20th, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PMNature Art: Solar Art – Join us for a series of sun inspired creations. Watch the rays dance through the colors of your faux stained-glass frame. Explore nature to collect different shapes and textures to present in a sun print. Experiment with UV reactive beads to create a bracelet with an array of colors inspired by nature. Program recommended for ages 12 and over. No refunds can be provided. 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 Materials Fee Payable Online. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Thursday, Mar 21st, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AMSeashell Shore Walk – Calling 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 http://manateenrd.ticketleap.com/seashell-shore-walk---february-2024/. For more information please contact [email protected]. Coquina Beach South – Longboat Key Bridge

Thursday, Mar 21st, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMPlanting Edibles for our Gopher Tortoise - Genbu – Come lend us a hand planting edible, native plants for Genbu, our rehabilitated gopher tortoise ambassador for our education team. Program suitable for volunteers 10 years and older.  Volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Water, trowels, gloves, and all other materials will be provided. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742- ext. 6035. Robinson Preserve – Education & Volunteer Office

Thursday, Mar 21st, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMGreen Explorers: Tracking Scat – Scat is where it’s at! Come discover what different scats look like and who created them!  Using hands-on discovery, and the participant's creativity, attendees will have a chance to play in nature. Green Explorers is a structured, highly social, and experience-based activity. Program suitable for ages 6- 12year olds, but all ages welcome. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected]. Rye Preserve – Pavilion

Thursday, Mar 21st, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PMWild Florida 101: Bird Songs at Sunset – Have you heard the chaotic song of a mockingbird? Or the shrill call of an eagle? Join us for a sunset edition of our bird song series to listen for birds and learn the basics of bird song identification. This month, we will walk around Emerson Point Preserve at sunset to discover a new appreciation for the sounds of our crepuscular feathered friends! Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required. To register please visit http://manateenrd.ticketleap.com/wild-florida-101-sunset-bird-songs/. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve – Large Pavilion #1

Friday, Mar 22nd, 7:00 AM – 8:00 AMSunrise Mindfulness Walk – Join us for a tranquil sunrise mindfulness walk at Neal Preserve. Awaken your senses as you immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the natural world. Start your day with a peaceful journey, relax, and connect with nature as we gently explore the trails. This program is suitable for all ages. Participants under 16 must attend with a parent or guardian. Program sponsored by Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast in partnership with Manatee County. Participants should bring a water bottle and wear clothing appropriate for the weather. We recommend sun protection, bug spray, and closed-toe shoes, no flip-flops. Reservations are required. Neal Preserve

Friday, Mar 22nd, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMNature Tail: Diggin Dirt – Does your kiddo enjoy stories and nature? Join us at Conservatory Park in Nature Tales. Meet monthly at Conservatory Park for an interactive story and activities. This month, we will dig into our soils and discover what wildlife needs dirt. Program suitable for 8-year-old and younger. Reservations are required To register please contact [email protected]. Conservatory Park – Playground Pavilion

Saturday, Mar 23rd, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMSaturday Mornings at the NEST – Join 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, Mar 23rd, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AMMeet Your Preserves: Emerson Point – Are you new to Manatee County? Do you enjoy the outdoors? Come get acquainted with all the beautiful natural spaces Manatee County has to offer! Learn from a Natural Resources guide about the amenities, wildlife, and history of our preserves. This is the perfect opportunity to explore local areas and meet other new residents. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are required. To register please visit http://manateenrd.ticketleap.com/meet-your-preserves-emerson-point-preserve/. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve – Large Pavilion #1

Saturday, Mar 23rd, 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM & 3:00 PM – 4:00 PMRobinson Preserve Tram Tour – Immerse yourself in Robinson Preserve on our new electric tram tour. Join our knowledgeable guides to discover the history, wildlife, and ecosystems of this unique coastal gem. Gain a deeper understanding of this site's transformation from an empty farmland to a thriving nature preserve. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are required. To register please visit http://manateenrd.ticketleap.com/tramtour/. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – North Entrance Kayak Launch

Sunday, Mar 24th, 2:00 PM – 6:00 PMReasoner Hertiage Day – Learn about the almost 150 years of Reasoner’s horticultural contributions to Manatee County and internationally. Among many, they are credited with introducing the world’s first pink grapefruit and the iconic Royal Palm, as well as being the first inductees into the Florida Agricultural Hall of Fame. Come hear Andy Reasoner tell stories of his family’s pioneering nursery business, as well as connections to Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, and the notorious Sarasota Vigilante Committee, among others. There will also be old photos and antique items on display, a tour of the old Reasoner Tropical Nursery, located nearby at Robinson Preserve, as well as a variety of unique hibiscus plants and local history books for sale. Light refreshments will be provided. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are required. For more information please visit https://palmasolabp.org/ or contact [email protected] or call . Palma Sola Botanical Park

Tuesday, Mar 26th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMRobinson Preserve Tram Tour – Immerse yourself in Robinson Preserve on our new electric tram tour. Join our knowledgeable guides to discover the history, wildlife, and ecosystems of this unique coastal gem. Gain a deeper understanding of this site's transformation from an empty farmland to a thriving nature preserve. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are required. To register please visit http://manateenrd.ticketleap.com/tramtour/. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – North Entrance Kayak Launch

Wednesday, Mar 27th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMPine Island Paddle Cleanup – Join us for a paddle to the secluded Pine Island, where we will clean up the island of marine debris that floats in on the tide. Program suitable for ages 16 and older who can meet Manatee County's minimum eligibility requirements. This is an intermediate paddle suitable for strong paddlers. Single kayaks are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis, unless you prefer to bring your own. All participants must wear a life jacket and whistle. Reservations are required. To register please visit http://manateenrd.ticketleap.com/pine-island-paddle-cleanup/. For more information please call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6035. State Road 64 Boat Ramp

Thursday, Mar 28th, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AMMeet Your Preserves: Rye Preserve – Are you new to Manatee County? Do you enjoy the outdoors? Come get acquainted with all the beautiful natural spaces Manatee County has to offer! Learn from a Natural Resources guide about the amenities, wildlife, and history of our preserves. This is the perfect opportunity to explore local areas and meet other new residents. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are required. To register please visit http://manateenrd.ticketleap.com/meet-your-preserves-rye/. For more information please contact [email protected]. Rye Preserve – Pavilion

Saturday, Mar 30th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMPlants & People: Edible & Medicinal Plant Walk – Did you know that the plants growing right outside your door can become a meal or medicine? Our beautiful and wild home state of Florida provides an incredible array of plants that can help support our health and nourish us, something that the residents of the state have known since the most ancient of times. Join Melissa “Misha” Nell, Registered Herbalist (American Herbalists Guild), botanist, and Certified Interpretive Guide, and discover the lore of our winter season plants. Misha will take you on a moderate hike through Moody Branch, one of her favorite wild sites that whispers the stories of old pioneer Florida, where you will discover how to identify and become familiar with a variety of edible and medicinal plants. Program suitable for adults. Program sponsored by Cypress Pillar Healing Arts in partnership with Manatee County. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://manateenrd.ticketleap.com/plants-people-moody/. Moody Branch Preserve

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