October 2022
EcoEvents Calendar
Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources
|
|
|
Saturday, Oct 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Robinson Runners
|
|
Join us weekly to breathe in the fresh air, challenge yourself, and create a community. Savor the trip along the 1.6 and 3.2-mile routes through Robinson Preserve and notice as life becomes a little more vibrant. The group leader will offer a warm-up, then participants may run, walk, or stroll at their own pace followed by a cool-down stretch offered at the finish. Participants will be rewarded for their efforts by our partners Fit 2 Run and Bayshore Nutrition. Program suitable for adults. Program sponsored by Fit 2 Run and Bayshore Nutrition in partnership with Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://raceroster.com/events/2022/57766/robinson-runners. For more information please contact ecoevents@mymanatee.org. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
|
|
Saturday, Oct 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Saturday 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 ecoevents@mymanatee.org. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
|
|
ONGOING/AS NEEDED: RIP Squad Volunteer Workdays |
|
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, please email shaun.swartz@mymanatee.org Location and time TBA – chosen based on need
|
|
Saturday, Oct 1st, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM OR 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Youth 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 Parks and Natural Resources. Two identical sessions are offered. Please register for only one session each month. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://OctoberArchery.eventbrite.com. For more information please contact ecoevents@mymanatee.org. Rye Preserve
|
|
Saturday, Oct 1st, 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Starry 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 and 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 Parks and Natural Resources. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://robinsonastronomy.eventbrite.com. Robinson Preserve – Expansion Parking Lot
|
|
Wednesday, Oct 5th, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Soar in 4 Family Night
|
|
Soar 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 Parks and Natural Resources. No reservations required. For more information please visit https://soarin4.org/. The Bishop Museum
|
|
Friday, Oct 7th, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Library Learning: Cuban Ranchos
|
|
Come learn about Florida's first commercial fishermen. Manatee County's coastline was the perfect fish-rich environment Cuban fishermen needed to settle and create villages, or ranchos. These ranchos were a hub of local commerce, trade, and culture where Cuban fishermen and natives intermingled freely leaving a rich inheritance of mixed culture and race. Program suitable for adults. No reservations required. For more information please contact sara.alvarezcollazo@mymanatee.org or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. Island Library
|
|
Saturday, Oct 8th, 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Cortez Nautical Flea Market
|
|
Do 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! Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by Florida Maritime Museum in partnership with Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources. No reservations required. For more information please visit https://www.floridamaritimemuseum.org/nautical-flea-market or contact fmminfo@manateeclerk.com. Florida Maritime Museum – Parking at F.I.S.H. Preserve
|
|
Monday, Oct 10th, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Sunset Tai Chi at the NEST
|
|
Join us for this monthly class on the lawn of 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 - in case of weather, we will move into the NEST. Program Suitable for adults. Program sponsored by Cypress Pillar Healing Arts in partnership with Manatee County Parks and 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 aedan.stockdale@mymanatee.org. $10 Registration Fee. Payable Online.. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST Lawn
|
|
Friday, Oct 14th, 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Goblin Gathering
|
|
Celebrate the 20th Annual Goblin Gathering at G.T. Bray Park. This spooktacular outdoor event is family-friendly and fun for all ages. Local businesses will be passing out “treats & sweets” to participants, providing a safe alternative for children to trick-or-treat and food trucks will be on-site to provide a BITE. Event entry, participation in the costume contest, and trick-or-treating are free. $5 WRISTBANDS are sold to wander through the hay maze, bounce, slide and crawl over the inflatables, and be festively face painted! Program suitable for all ages. BEAT THE LINES! Wristbands are on sale at the GT Bray Park front desk beginning October 7 (no refunds or replacements will be issued. Cash only at the event entrance on event day, October 14). Costume contest sign-up will begin at the stage between 5:30 to 6:30 PM. No reservations required. For more information please visit https://www.mymanatee.org/things_to_do/signature_events/goblin_gathering or contact crystal.scherer@mymanatee.org. $5 Activity Wristband, CASH ONLY at Event. G.T. Bray Park – Parking near Recreation Center
|
|
Saturday, Oct 15th, 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Duette Wagon Tour: Fall Wildflowers
|
|
Discover 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 Parks and Natural Resources. 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/. For more information please call (941) 792-8314. Duette Preserve – Ranger Station
|
|
Saturday, Oct 15th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Master Gardener Tour: Rye Preserve
|
|
Take 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. Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by Manatee County UF IFAS Extension in partnership with Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/423312859157. For more information please contact katiebg@ufl.edu. Rye Preserve
|
|
Saturday, Oct 15th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Love it Like a Local Beach Cleanup
|
|
Join Keep Manatee Beautiful and the Bradenton Area Tourism Bureau for the Love It Like a Local beach cleanup! We'll spend the morning making Manatee County's beaches even more beautiful and then celebrate with a beach picnic at noon. Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by Keep Manatee Beautiful, the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau in partnership with Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources. The first 200 people to register will receive a Love It Like a Local Beach Cleanup rash guard. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/409870071417. For more information please contact keep@manateebeautiful.com. Coquina Beach – Southern End
|
|
Saturday, Oct 15th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Families Flock Together: Creatures of the Night
|
|
What are those eyes in the middle of the night? Come explore what creatures wake up at night otherwise known as nocturnal creatures, play games and make crafts with the whole family! ¿De quienes son esos ojos por la noche? ¡Ven a explorar qué criaturas se despiertan por la noche, también conocidas como criaturas nocturnas, juega en la naturaleza y haz manualidades con toda la familia! Program suitable for children and their families. Families may dress up as animals for a special treat. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/416181789937. For more information please contact sara.alvarezcollazo@mymanatee.org or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. Conservatory Park – Small Pavilion
|
|
Tuesday, Oct 18th, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Exotic Plant Round Up
|
|
Volunteers Wanted! Come help us remove invasive species from this charming neighborhood park, including air potato and Caesar weed, that pose a threat to native wildlife. This is a great opportunity to get a light workout and enjoy the fresh air while earning community service hours! Program suitable for all ages. Students can earn up to 2 community service hours. Please bring a water bottle and wear closed-toe shoes. All materials will be provided. Reservations are required. To register please contact matthew.tschirgi@mymanatee.org. Conservatory Park – Large Pavilion
|
|
Wednesday, Oct 19th, 10:15 AM – 11:00 AM
Library Learning: Bodacious Bats
|
|
Who silently flies through the night and devours thousands of mosquitos? Our bodacious Florida bats! These magnificent flying mammals are quiet and secretive but vital species that can be found in your backyard. Bring your littles for a bat-themed storytime, activities, and games. Program suitable for preschool-age children. No reservations required. For more information please contact coral.bass@mymanatee.org. Braden River Library
|
|
Thursday, Oct 20th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
EcoFlora Bioblitz
|
|
Join 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 app to document plant species on this survey of Duette Preserve. For September and October, we will search for species on the Florida Invasive Species Council list. This list tracks the introduction of new invasive species as well as the severity of existing species. 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 Parks and Natural Resources. 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. Restrooms are available Reservations are required. To register please visit https://7082.blackbaudhosting.com/7082/Duette-Preserve-Bioblitz-20Oct2022. For more information please contact ecoflora@selby.org. Duette Preserve – Ranger Station
|
|
Thursday, Oct 20th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Tree Tots: Night Noises
|
|
Do you know the sounds of a frog or the howl of a wolf? Discover the marvelous night noises and learn to make some of your own night sounds. Through songs, exploration, and activities, your tiny family members will discover the natural wonders, big and small, found in your very own backyard. Program suitable for newborns to 2-year-olds. Reservations are required. To register please contact coral.bass@mymanatee.org. Robinson Preserve – NEST
|
|
Thursday, Oct 20th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Homeschool Science Club: Spooky Science
|
|
Channel 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 Guardians are responsible for identifying the learning maturity of their child. Please note the NEW location of this session! Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/416235831577. For more information please contact sara.alvarezcollazo@mymanatee.org or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. Rye Preserve – Pavilion
|
|
Friday, Oct 21st, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Tall Tails Tribe: Outstanding Owls
|
|
Hoot, hoot, let us have a hoot discovering the incredible lives of owls! Learn about the different owls found in the area, the foods they eat, and some of the amazing adaptations that make owls unique. Through games, activities, crafts, and movement, your little one will be hooting throughout this program. Program suitable for Preschool age children. Reservations are required. To register please contact coral.bass@mymanatee.org. Emerson Point Preserve – Pavilion
|
|
Friday, Oct 21st, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Homeschool Science Club: Spooky Science
|
|
Channel 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 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/416243855577. For more information please contact sara.alvarezcollazo@mymanatee.org or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. Emerson Point Preserve – Large Pavilion
|
|
Friday, Oct 21st, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Families Flock Together: 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 (and models) of extant and extinct species, learn about the biology and make-up of animal bones, and discover skeletal adaptations that help animals survive in their natural environment. We will also take a lantern-lit walk through Emerson Point Preserve to see the trails after dark and look (and listen) for nocturnal animals. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/415966526077. For more information please contact elena.burke@mymanatee.org or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6036. Emerson Point Preserve – Classroom
|
|
Saturday, Oct 22nd, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Master Gardener Tour: Perico Preserve
|
|
Explore one of Manatee County's coastal preserves 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 it is today. Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by Manatee County UF IFAS Extension in partnership with Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/423309348657. For more information please contact katiebg@ufl.edu. Perico Preserve – Pavilion
|
|
Saturday, Oct 22nd, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Science By the Sea: All About ROVs Middle School Workshop
|
|
Join us for a morning of marine science and learn all about Remote Operated Vehicles or ROVs used for marine research. The Science by the Sea programs are intended to provide accessible science experiences for kids from historically excluded groups in STEM including gender minorities, racial/ethnic minorities, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and people from low-income or underserved communities. Program suitable for middle school students. Program sponsored by Minorities in Shark Sciences and the Tampa Bay Estuary Program in partnership with Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://bit.ly/SciencebytheSea. Emerson Point Preserve – Classroom
|
|
Saturday, Oct 22nd, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Families Flock Together: Saltwater Fishing Clinic
|
|
Join 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/416249813397. For more information please contact sara.alvarezcollazo@mymanatee.org or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. Emerson Point Preserve – Large Pavilion
|
|
Thursday, Oct 27th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Green Explorers: Bugging Out
|
|
Don’t bug out, dig into the world of creepy crawly creatures! Using hands-on discovery and 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 ages 6 to 12 years old. Reservations are required. To register please contact coral.bass@mymanatee.org. Conservatory Park – Pavilion
|
|
Thursday, Oct 27th, 6:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Wildlife Spotlight: Bats
|
|
Join us for a twilight stroll 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/415975994397. For more information please contact elena.burke@mymanatee.org or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6036. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
|
|
Friday, Oct 28th, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Seashell 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 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/415982523927. For more information please contact elena.burke@mymanatee.org or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6036. Coquina Beach South – Longboat Key Bridge
|
|
Friday, Oct 28th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Oyster Shell Drilling for Vertical Oyster Gardens
|
|
Volunteers Wanted! Come help us drill holes into oyster shells that will be used to make Vertical Oyster Gardens, also known as VOGs. These VOGs 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. Program suitable for adults. All materials will be provided. Reservations are required. To register please contact matthew.tschirgi@mymanatee.org. Robinson Preserve – Valentine House
|
|
Friday, Oct 28th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Nature Tales: Batty Bats
|
|
Are you feeling a little batty? Join us at Conservatory Park in our newest program- Nature Tales. Each month we will meet for an interactive story time and activities in the great outdoors. October’s theme is bats. Let your littles enjoy a bat-themed story, pretend to be bats, and play bat games. Program suitable for children 8 years old and younger. Reservations are required. To register please contact coral.bass@mymanatee.org. Conservatory Park – Pavilion
|
|
Friday, Oct 28th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Homeschool Biology Lab: Bustling Bats
|
|
Learn all about nature's only flying mammal – bats! Complete a synthetic bat dissection and explore the science behind echolocation as we learn all the mysteries bats have to share! Program suitable for students ages 10 - 15. The 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 sara.alvarezcollazo@mymanatee.org or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. $10 Registration fee payable online. Emerson Point Preserve – Nature Classroom
|
|
Saturday, Oct 29th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Looking for Ithaca: An Odyssey
|
|
An epic Greek poem becomes an adventure of universal proportions in this 45-minute adaptation of Homer’s iconic tale, presented by Asolo Rep and produced by the FSU/Asolo Conservatory for Actor Training. Looking for Ithaca: An Odyssey is an imaginative retelling of the classic journey of a family that has been fractured by war and unseen forces. The story is told through the eyes of a family fighting their way back to one another: Odysseus, a father whose yearning for his wife and child drives him to traverse the dangers hidden in the sea; Penelope, a mother protecting what’s left of her home and her family; and Telemachus, a son embarking on an Odyssey of his own, looking to fill the shoes of an unknown father. They may return home, but that isn’t where their journey ends. Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by Asolo Rep and the FSU/Asolo Conservatory in partnership with Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources. Reservations are required. Register online at https://www.asolorep.org/events/detail/looking-for-ithaca-an-odyssey. For more information please contact sara_brunow@asolo.org. G.T. Bray Park – Amphitheater
|
|
Saturday, Oct 29th, 2:00 PM – 4:00 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 one pumpkin and all necessary items including carving tools and decorating materials; no need to bring anything but yourself. Plus, we’ll do all the cleanup! Additional pumpkins are available for $10 each. Spaces are limited. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://parks.mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search.html?primarycode=110008. For more information please contact aedan.stockdale@mymanatee.org. $10 Materials Fee Payable Online. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST
|
|
Saturday, Oct 29th, 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Duette Wagon Tour: Blooming Grasslands
|
|
Discover 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 Parks and Natural Resources. 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/. For more information please call (941) 792-8314. Duette Preserve – Ranger Station
|
|
We hope to see you out in the parks and preserves!
Sincerely,
Aedan Stockdale
Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
