Jan-March Pinellas co discover

Discover Paradise in Pinellas County:

January to March

EXHIBITS

Connecting People and Place is art-inspired, permanent hands-on educational exhibit of the area’s history, ecology and people at the Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday; closed Sunday through Wednesday and holidays. (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Windows to Our Wildest Place: These hands-on educational permanent exhibits help visitors understand how natural Florida has changed over time and the ecological footprints left by those changes. Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday; closed Sunday through Wednesday and holidays. (727) 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

ONGOING

Pinellas by the Decades: A Centennial Celebration - A History Lecture Series: Pinellas County begins celebrating 100 years of independence from Hillsborough County on Jan. 1, 2012. As part of the centennial activities the Pinellas County Historical Society plans an engaging series of multidisciplinary lectures, titled “Pinellas by the Decades,” to be held one Sunday a month at 2 p.m. See the website for special dates and themes. Call (727) 582-2233 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/heritage.

Nature Walks along the trails at Fort De Soto: Free one-hour guided nature walks are offered along six different trails each Saturday and Sunday, except holidays, from 10 to 11 a.m. Visitors at the park will be absorbed in the abundance of history, natural beauty and the complexity of the ecology not immediately apparent to the occasional beachgoer. Fort De Soto Park, 3500 Pinellas Bayway, S., Tierra Verde. 10 to 11 a.m. For more information, call (727) 552-1862; www.pinellascounty.org/park.

FEBRUARY

Feb. 16

Book Time at Brooker: Children ages 3 to 5 connect to the wonders of the natural world through a story and a craft, game or other hands-on activity. 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Feb. 16

Archaeology Lecture Series – The Other Face of the Conquest: Bartolome de las Casas, Protector of the American Indians is the topic of this month’s lecture by Lawrence Clayton, Ph.D. The “face” of the conquest in our part of the world is one of greed and unsavory characters such as Conquistadors Narvaez, de Soto, and Ponce de Leon. One man, a Dominican friar stood up for justice and became the universal protector of the Indians during the early 1500s. 7 to 8 p.m. Free, advance registration requested. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Feb. 18

Weedon Island Photography Hike: The perfect opportunity for adult photographers to hone their skills. After a brief classroom session highlighting specific wildlife behaviors, guides will assist participants in capturing the natural beauty in photos. 8 to 10 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org

Feb. 18

Brooker Creek Historical Hike: Visitors on this hike will learn about the unique and exciting history of the preserve and surrounding area. Closed-toe shoes, water and hat are recommended. Best for ages 6 and older. 9 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Feb. 18

Weedon Island Guided Hike: Learn about the ecosystems and the early residents of Weedon Island Preserve while hiking the coastal uplands and the boardwalks through mangrove forests. Best for ages 6 and older. 9 to 11 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Feb. 18

Welcome to Florida- the first in the Wild Florida series: Florida can be challenging to newcomers and “natives” alike in learning about the tropical plants and the strange, sometimes menacing- looking critters. Weather and conservation issues also become special concerns. A Sensing Nature biologist will answer questions from nature fact to folklore (...do alligators really live in sewers?). After the indoor presentation, participants will experience Florida’s natural wonders on a nature walk. This is the initial presentation of a three-part Brooker Creek Preserve Wild Florida series. Attend any or all of these three programs. Adults and families welcome; space is limited. No dogs. Closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing strongly recommended. 10 a.m. to noon. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Feb. 18

Beyond Birding^©: Why is their bill curved; how does their color help them catch their prey or help them avoid becoming prey; why are they found in some habitats and not others? A Sensing Nature biologist presents an interactive birding lecture focusing on bird adaptations, habitats and their ecologic role at Weedon Island. After the indoor presentation, participants will experience Florida’s natural wonders on a nature walk. This is the initial presentation of a three-part Birds of Weedon Island series. Adults and families welcome; space is limited. No dogs. Closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing highly recommended. 2 to 4 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Feb. 23

Wee-Time at Weedon: Children ages 3 to 5 will hear “Those Terrific Turtles” by Sarah Cussen. Children will participate in a craft, game of other hands-on activity. 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Feb. 23

Feb. 24

Paddling the Calusa Blueways: Hear an exciting talk about an adventurous eleven-day, 190-mile paddle of the Calusa Blueways Trail in Lee County, Florida. Discover how the normal things packed, as well as misjudgments and drama, made time on the water unique. 6:30 to 7:30 pm. Free; advanced registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,1800 Weedon Drive, N.E., St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Feb. 25

Bird Walk at Weedon: Many of Florida’s colonial waterbirds can be sighted at Weedon Island Preserve during the winter months. Trained volunteers will assist participants in documenting the variety of wading birds that frequent the coastal shores as well as the many birds of prey and other species. Binoculars available. 8 to 10 a.m. Free. Recommended for adults. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Feb. 25

Brooker Creek Guided Hike: See how the land has changed over time and the ecological footprints left by those changes. Closed-toe shoes, water and hat recommended. Best for ages 6 and older. 9 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Feb. 25

Florida Snakes – Native Necessities to Invasive Predators – the second in Wild Florida Series: Appreciating the native, beneficial snakes can be difficult for some, while removing the problematic non-native invasive snakes can be almost impossible. Join a Sensing Nature biologist and discover venomous and non-venomous snake identification tips, habitats and the snake’s role in Florida’s landscape. After the indoor presentation participants will enjoy a nature walk while discussing Florida’s natural wonders. This is the second of the 3-part Brooker Creek Preserve Wild Florida series. No dogs. Closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing highly recommended. 10 to 11:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Feb. 25

Owl Cast Cafe^©: Silent flight, fantastic vision, fast reflexes and piercing talons. All of these adaptations make our Florida owls noble nocturnal predators. Learn from a Sensing Nature biologist how these stealth hunters benefit both nature and us through their chosen diets. No dogs. Closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing highly recommended. 2 to 3:30 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

MARCH

March 1

March 3

Dog Training: Learn the basics of dog training in a seminar for all who have adopted dogs from Pinellas County Animal Services or other shelters in the county. Learn about housetraining, loose-leash walking and dealing with challenging dog behaviors. No dogs at the class please. 10 a.m. Free. Pinellas County Animal Services, 12450 Ulmerton Road, Largo. (727) 582-2600; www.pinellascounty.org/animalservices.

March 3

Prehistoric Florida- the third in the Wild Florida series: Journey back into Florida’s past when the saber cat, giant sloth, mammoth, giant tortoise and bison roamed the Sunshine State. A Sensing Nature biologist guides participants through this final of a three-part series when mega-fauna ruled the county’s coastal habitats. Adults and families welcome; space is limited. No dogs. Closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing highly recommended. 10 to 11:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

March 3

History Hike: Hike past remnants of the Grand Central Airport, learn of early native peoples of Weedon Island and the colorful past of the 1920s. History comes alive for adults and children age 6 and older. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

March 3

Celebrate Coastal Archaeology: Weedon Island Preserve is a significant archaeological heritage site on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Learn about current research in the Tampa Bay area with hands-on activities, professional talks and tours of an on-site excavation. See the new interactive, educational “Archaeo Cart” from Florida Public Archaeology Network and get on the road to discovery. Free. Advance registration for excavation tours at 11 a.m. or 2 p.m.; professional lecture at 1p.m. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Call (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

March 8

Wee-Time: Children ages 3 to 5 delight in the story of a ladybug with an attitude, The Grouchy Ladybug by Eric Carle. Children will participate in a craft, game, or other hands-on activity. 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

March 9

Great Weedon Bird Quest: Learn to identify marks and behaviors of birds by taking advantage of this guided hike. Binoculars available. 8 to 10 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

March 10

Guided Hike: Learn about the ecosystems and the early residents of Weedon Island Preserve while hiking the coastal uplands and the boardwalks through mangrove forests. Best for ages 6 and older. 9 to 11 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

March 10

Discovering Wildlife with Your Child: Who lives in that skin; what is the difference between a carnivore and an herbivore; whose tracks are those? Stop by our classroom anytime between noon and 3 p.m. to participate in a variety of self-guided nature games and activities. A Brooker Creek Education Center volunteer will be available to answer your questions. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

March 10

The Feathers of Florida – Past, Present and Future: From the plume trade to future trends, learn how Florida’s coastal birds have shaped Pinellas County’s conservation successes. On this second of a three-part Birds of Weedon Island series, a Sensing Nature biologist will explain how county residents make a difference that affects generations to come. After an indoor presentation, participants will experience Florida’s natural wonders on a nature walk. No dogs. Closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing highly recommended. 2 to 4 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

March 15

CEU Variety Pack

CEU classes for Aquatic, Right-of-Way, Natural Areas and possibly other categories. Subjects and times to be determined. Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road., Largo. (727) 582-2100; http://pce-commercialhort.eventbrite.com.

March 17

Native Plants of Brooker Creek Hike: Learn about the diverse native plant life found in the preserve and the natural communities they inhabit on this guided hike. Closed-toe shoes, water and hat recommended. Best for ages 6 and older. 9 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

March 17

Beyond Birding©– first in Birds of Brooker Creek series: Why are their bills curved; how does their color help them catch their prey or help them avoid becoming prey; why are they found in some habitats and not others? A Sensing Nature guide provides an interactive birding presentation focusing on bird adaptations, habitats and their ecologic role at Brooker Creek. Leave your birding “checklists” at home! After the indoor presentation, participants will experience Florida’s natural wonders on a nature walk in this three-part Birds of Brooker Creek series. Attend one, two or all three programs. Participants attending all three programs will receive a “Florida Waterbirds” identification poster by wildlife artist Ernest C. Simmons. Adults and families welcome. 10 a.m. to noon. Free. Limited space so advance registration required. No dogs. Wear closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing. Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

March 17

National Quilting Day Celebration at Heritage Village. This year five guilds from Pinellas County will be displaying quilts. They will also demonstrate how to make pillows as an armrest for children to use while receiving an IV. Children attending will be able to help stuff the pillows and make one to take home. Another project will be making heart-shaped pillows for breast cancer survivors. There will be some small "lovey" fleece blankets that will be stitched then donated to firefighters and policemen who may then give to children they rescue from frightening situations. More surprises for children visiting the Village on National Quilting Day include shamrocks they can make and wear. Maybe there will be some who can figure out the puzzle quilt in the McMullen house. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Heritage Village, 11909 125^th St., N., Largo. For more information, call Heritage Village at (727) 582-2123 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/heritage.

March 17

Guiding Nature: Mitigation, Restoration and Enhancement: What are mitigation, restoration and enhancement, and how do they apply to thriving natural environments? Learn some of the important aspects about land management and improvement tools such as prescribed fire and how they are vital to our natural areas. This program includes a habitat hike of restoration in action! A Sensing Nature biologist is the guide for this series. No dogs. Closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing highly recommended. 2 to 4 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

March 22

Wee-Time: Children ages 3 to 5 learn there are many types of bees in the world in the story Busy Buzzers: Bees in Your Backyard by Nancy Lowen. Children will participate in a craft, game, or other hands-on activity. 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

March 22

March 24

Photography Hike: This hike is the perfect opportunity for adult photographers to hone their skills. After a brief classroom session highlighting specific wildlife behaviors, guides will assist participants in capturing the natural beauty in photos. 8 to 10 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

March 24

March 28

Fertilizer/Pesticide BMPs: Training to obtain limited certification for urban landscape commercial fertilizer (LCULCF). BMP certification awarded upon passing the exam. 4 FDACS pesticide CEUs provided. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost is $15, but free to employees of Pinellas County and the Pinellas County School Board and Pinellas County Master Gardener Volunteers (must present ID on day of class). Advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Dr. NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33702. (727) 582-2100; http://pce-commercialhort.eventbrite.com.

March 29

Roundup License Training or Limited Lawn & Ornamental Review: This class provides training and testing necessary to obtain a limited commercial landscape maintenance license or as a review and testing for the limited lawn and ornamental license. This class is NOT for renewal CEUs. $60. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Dr. NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33702. (727) 582-2562; http://pce-commercialhort.eventbrite.com.

March 31

Owl Cast Café: second in the Birds of Brooker Creek series: Silent flight, fantastic vision, fast reflexes and piercing talons. All of these adaptations make our Florida owls noble nocturnal predators. From small screech owls to large horned owls, a Sensing Nature biologist will explain how these stealth hunters benefit both nature and us through their chosen diets. Adults and families welcome. 10 to 11:30 a.m. Free. Limited space so advance registration required. No dogs. Wear closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing. Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

March 31

Wildlife Sentinels: A Sensing Nature biologist will share success stories about protecting important Florida wildlife including the bald eagle, Florida black bear, gopher tortoise and Florida panther. Learn of the current assistance given these species, improvements still needed for their protection and discover ways to take action. After the indoor presentation, participants will experience Florida’s natural wonders on a nature walk. This is the final in the three-part Weedon Island series. Participants attending all three programs will receive a Florida restoration information packet. No dogs. Closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing highly recommended. 2 to 4 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

For more information on Pinellas County services and programs, visit www.pinellascounty.org, now with LiveChat, or create a shortcut to www.pinellascounty.org/mobile on any smartphone. Pinellas County government is on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Pinellas County complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act.