Friends of Rothenbach Park

Air Potato Pick-Up Jan. 24th!

2012-01-01T12:18:00.001-05:00

Bee Ridge Improvement Meeting Dec. 8th

2011-12-02T16:10:00.001-05:00

Come out December 8th to learn what's in store as the Bee Ridge Widening goes forward:

Hardwood Hammock Hike at Rothenbach Park

2011-11-24T11:54:00.001-05:00

Hardwood Hammock Hike at Rothenbach Park

Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalist, Jennifer Rogers, for a nature hike through the hardwood hammock habitats of Rothenbach Park on Sunday, December 11, 2011, from 8:30 – 10:00 a.m.

Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the majestic oaks in the natural area of this multi-use park, and a chance at seeing the often present white-tailed deer! Rothenbach Park is unique among all Sarasota County Parks in that it is the site of the (closed) capped Bee Ridge Landfill – a mountain of trash turned into a community treasure.

The Bee Ridge Landfill was open at this site from 1972 until its closure and final capping in 2000. The site remains under Florida Department of Environmental Protection oversight as a capped landfill. Participants should wear appropriate shoes for walking on both paved and sandy trails.

Recommended items to bring are camera/binoculars, bird and/or Florida field guide, water, insect repellent, and sun protection. All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

To reach Rothenbach Park, 8650 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, take I-75 to Exit 207 (Bee Ridge Road). Travel east on Bee Ridge Road for approximately 3 miles to the end. The park entrance will be on your right. Meet at the Turkey Trail trailhead at Rothenbach Park. The parking lot for this trailhead is located on the opposite side of the landfill mound from the park entrance and accessible by a gravel access drive. After passing through the park gate and passing the park sign on the left, take a left onto the access drive (paved to start).

For more information or to register over the phone, contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask for Jennifer Rogers (jrogers@scgov.net).

You'll find more events here.

What's up in Parks?

2011-11-24T06:53:00.001-05:00

Get out and see - all upcoming Nature Events in Sarasota County are here (Nov.) and here (Dec.) on the

Friends of Sarasota County Parks Site

Lake Sarasota Yard Sale Nov. 12th

2011-10-28T15:39:00.002-04:00

The next Lake Sarasota Yard Sale is November 12th - that's a Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. You can of course choose to say open longer or shorter, but those hours will be posted on our ads in the paper and Craigslist.

This season's sale won't include any tables for food or information, and no maps, so be sure to put some balloons or other eyecatchers on your mailbox.

If between now and then you see any landscaping or other issues that should be addressed, please let us know - thanks.

Roundabouts

2011-10-28T15:38:00.000-04:00

Plans for the expansion of Bee Ridge Road are likely to call for creating roundabouts at several points along Bee Ridge east of I-75.

Traffic experts say installing roundabouts results in remarkable reductions in accidents:

Don't forget to come to the public meeting set for Thursday, Dec. 8th where you'll have a chance to get a view of the project, and to speak with planners from the county. And don't forget the Lake Sarasota Community Group meeting the same evening at 7 pm.

Click to see the entire short video about roundabouts:

Pics from Paddle Palooza

2011-10-13T21:13:00.003-04:00

For a few photos from last week's Dragon Boat races at Paddle Palooza in North Port, click here.

It's Creaky Bones!

2011-09-27T11:04:00.004-04:00

Big News!: All registration and entry fees for this event have been waived! Also, they're still seeking volunteers - contact John Krotec. (ops@environeers.com)-

Come out on Oct. 22nd to Benderson Park and join in the fun of Creaky Bones!

It's a 5K Dragon Boat Festival with Kids' Monster Dashes and a one-mile walk.

It's all happening at Nathan Benderson Park on Saturday, Oct. 22nd.

Dragon Boats 9 a.m to 3 p.m.

Kids Races 4 p.m.

Pet Friendly Walk 4:30 p.m. + 5k Run 5 p.m.

More info: 941 708-3901.

Click here for more info and to download the registration!

It's Almost October!

2011-09-26T22:21:00.002-04:00

Nature Walks in September

2011-08-25T20:43:00.001-04:00

We are pleased to offer nature events for the month of September.

I am detecting a very slight cooling in the am hours, although very brief. Sadly, sweltering heat is still here plus a lot of rain, but happy to note that the events are starting to pick up and get into full swing for the approaching fall season.

Please be sure to review each press release for specific dates, times, locations, directions and registration information.

Thank you to our volunteer and staff guides!

FOR ON-LINE REGISTRATION - Go to www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'. Scan the calendar for the event and date of your choice and click. Towards the bottom of each nature event news release is a bolded area for you to click for registration. Please supply information with an asterisks (*), which is your name, email and phone number. (Please note: Your registration information will not be shared and will be used only for contact purposes for the event of inclement weather or walk cancelation.)

Please, remember to respect our fellow participants, animals, lands and air space. To further enhance the experience at Sarasota County's environmentally sensitive lands, please help us by picking up and properly disposing of litter, respecting others experience with no cell phone usage, no pets, and please, no smoking. Thank you!

If you received this email in error or do not wish to receive this email, please contact me atdzeilman@scgov.net or call 941-650-0696 to be removed. Thanks!

scgovEVENTS

Sarasota County Communications scgov.net | 941-861-5000 | Comcast 19/Verizon 32

From Scrub to Swamp at Manasota Scrub Preserve

Explore the scrub and maple swamp (if we have enough time!) of Manasota Scrub Preserve on Saturday, September 10, 2011 from 8 – 10:30 AM. Walk the less traveled paths with Nancy Edmondson, Environmental Specialist with Sarasota County Natural Resources.Guests will enjoy a limited opportunity to visit the rosemary scrub on the west side of Bridge Street along with gazing at lavender blazing stars, scrub spurges, creamy jointweeds and golden Indian grasses, just to name a few of the many plants and fall wildflowers one may see.

The preserve is one of many public lands that are available through Sarasota County’s Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program. In addition to numerous subtropical plants, visitors may hear the great-horned owl or northern quail, or view coasting eagles and red-tailed hawks overhead.

Participants should wear long pants, comfortable walking shoes, and bring a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, drinking water, binoculars (optional), camera and a hand lens or magnifying glass (optional). All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

Directions to Manasota Scrub Preserve, 2695 Bridge Street, Englewood: Take I -75 to Exit 193 (Jacaranda Boulevard). At the end of the exit ramp, turn south onto Jacaranda Boulevard and drive approximately 5.2 miles. At the “T” intersection of Jacaranda Blvd. and Englewood Road (State Road 776), turn left (south). Drive approximately 1.5 miles and turn west on to Manasota Beach Road, then south (left) on Bridge Street. The parking lot will be on your left.

Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks', click ‘Go’ and choose your event. Follow the directions for registration. Space for this walk is limited to 20.

If you are having problems with on-line registration, contact the Sarasota County Call Center at941-861-5000 and ask for Natural Resources. Learn more about Sarasota County Natural Lands at http://www.discovernaturalsarasota.org.

To help us provide quality programming, we would appreciate your feedback on this program. A post-event survey will be emailed to all program participants.

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Join the Lemon Bay F.I.S.H. Project!

Calling all F.I.S.H. – Folks Interested in Submerged Habitats! Get a little wet, have a little fun and learn a lot! Join American Littoral Society Biologist Chuck Idelberger on Saturday, September 10 from 9:30 – 11:00 AM on a search for marine life in Lemon Bay. Using hand and seine nets, you will search shallow waters and sea grass beds, observing, collecting, and discussing the natural history of some of the many interesting fishes and other animals that inhabit Lemon Bay. This event which is held at the Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center runs the second Saturday of each month.

Participants should meet at the park amphitheater, north of the main building near the canoe launch. Wear wading type shoes, a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, and bring a towel and drinking water. Prepare to get wet and muddy! All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

You may reach Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center, 570 Bay Park Blvd., Englewood by taking I -75 to Exit 193 (Jacaranda Boulevard), turn toward CR 765/Englewood/Venice, and traveling south 5.3 miles to Englewood Road (SR 776). Turn left on Englewood Road (SR 776) (4.1 miles), turning right onto Old Englewood Road (1 mile), turning a slight right onto Kilbourne Avenue to the first right onto Morrison Avenue then the first left onto Curtis Boulevard, then the first right onto Brengle Avenue and the park entrance will be straight ahead.

If you are having problems with on-line registration, please contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask for Natural Resources. Learn more about Sarasota County Natural Lands at http://www.discovernaturalsarasota.org.

To help us provide quality programming, we would appreciate your feedback on this program. A post-event survey will be emailed to all program participants.

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Celebrate National Public Lands Day with volunteers at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North

Volunteers needed!

Sarasota County has more than 106,000 acres of natural land that is home to hundreds of protected and endangered species of animals and plants. Natural lands in Sarasota County offer residents and visitors the opportunity to interact with nature, witness wildlife in its natural habitat, and enjoy outdoor recreation.

Sarasota County staff invites residents and visitors to help celebrate the 18^th Annual National Public Lands Day 9 a.m. - noon, Saturday, Sept. 24 by volunteering to help improve Sleeping Turtles Preserve North, 3462 Border Road, Venice. Planned activities include planting native plants, removing invasive plants, trimming trees and installing signs. Scott Moranda, an Environmental Specialist with Sarasota County and the Land Manager for Sleeping Turtles Preserve North, is excited to have volunteers contribute to the preserve’s majestic beauty by giving it some TLC and sweat equity. He states that “this event is an excellent opportunity to give the Preserve a facelift by enhancing existing and installing new public use features.”

National Public Lands Day is the nation’s largest hands-on volunteer effort to improve and enhance America’s public lands. During last year’s National Public Lands Day, nearly 170,000 volunteers nationwide built trails and bridges, planted trees and plants, and removed trash and invasive plants. This effort contributed an estimated $15 million to improve public lands across the country.

Volunteers should register in advance of the event. Participants should bring water, bug spray, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses. If participants have loppers, clippers and shears, they should bring them. Volunteers should wear closed-toe, closed-heel shoes such as hiking boots or old sneakers and comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor work.

Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Select the Calendar of Events tab on the left. Select ‘September’ from the drop down list and click ‘go.’ Then choose ‘National Public Lands Day’ on September 24. Follow the directions for registration. Space for this volunteer event is limited to 25.

For more information, please contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask for Natural Resources.

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Little Naturalist Program for Toddlers at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North

“Looking for an alternative to the typical playgroup?” Then bring your toddler to connect with nature in fun, creative ways at the Little Naturalist Program.

The Little Naturalist, for children ages 18 – 35 months, is from 9:30 – 10:30 AM on Saturday, September 24, 2011 at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North. This program includes a short guided nature walk, a variety of hands-on nature themed activities, a snack and story. All participating children must be registered and accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.

Participants should wear comfortable weather-appropriate clothes, a jacket, walking shoes that can get wet (no flip-flops!), and bring a hat, sun screen, drinking water and camera (optional). All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

Directions to Sleeping Turtles Preserve North at 3462 Border Road, Venice: Take I-75, exit 193 (Jacaranda Blvd.) Turn north onto Jacaranda Blvd. Proceed north for 0.5 miles to the stop sign and turn right onto Border Road. Proceed approximately 3 miles east on Border Road to the bridge over the Myakka River. As you approach the bridge, the Sleeping Turtles Preserve North parking lot will be on the left (north side), immediately before the bridge. Park in the designated fenced in parking area.

Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'. On the bottom of each nature walk is an area that states 'Register for Little Naturalist Program for Preschoolers at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North.' Please register the participating child’s first and last name. Please also include the child’s age in the NOTES section of the registration form! Space for this program is limited to a maximum of 15 children.

For more information and details about the Little Naturalist Program, please contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask to speak with the Little Naturalist Program staff. To view the entire Little Naturalist Program’s calendar, go to www.scgov.net.

Select ‘County A to Z’ on the left. Click the letter ‘N’ in the alphabet header and then select “Nature’s Classroom.’

To help us provide quality programming, we would appreciate your feedback on this program. A post-event survey will be emailed to all program participants.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Little Naturalist Program for Preschoolers at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North

“Looking for an alternative to the typical playgroup?” Then bring your preschooler to connect with nature in fun, creative ways at the Little Naturalist Program.

The Little Naturalist, for children ages 3 – 4, is from 11 AM - noon on Saturday, September 24, 2011 at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North. This program includes a short guided nature walk, a variety of hands-on nature themed activities, a snack and story. All participating children must be registered and accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.

Select ‘County A to Z’ on the left. Click the letter ‘N’ in the alphabet header and then select “Nature’s Classroom.’

To help us provide quality programming, we would appreciate your feedback on this program. A post-event survey will be emailed to all program participants.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Little Naturalist Program for School Age Youth at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North

“Looking for an alternative to the typical playground?” Then bring your school age child to connect with nature in fun, creative ways at the Little Naturalist Program.

The Little Naturalist, for children ages 5 - 10, is from 1:30 – 2:30 PM on Saturday, September 24, 2011 at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North. This program includes a short guided nature walk, a variety of hands-on nature themed activities, a snack and story. All participating children must be registered and accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.

Select ‘County A to Z’ on the left. Click the letter ‘N’ in the alphabet header and then select “Nature’s Classroom.’

To help us provide quality programming, we would appreciate your feedback on this program. A post-event survey will be emailed to all program participants.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Enjoy the Last of the Summer Season's Flowers at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North

Explore Sleeping Turtles Preserve North with Sarasota County Volunteers Al Squires and Denny Girard on Wednesday, September 28, 2011 from 9 – 11 a.m. Enjoy the preserve’s meandering trails canopied by old live oaks and pines. Along the way, discover what’s remaining in bloom from the summer season while Al and Denny share their boundless knowledge of botany, not just identification, but lore of the plants as well. Take in the scenery and information about the natural lands and the plants they support.

This preserve is one of many that are available to the public through the Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program. In addition to the numerous subtropical plants, visitors may observe eagles or osprey hunting over the river corridor.

Participants can reach the Sleeping Turtles Preserve North, 3462 Border Road, Venice from northbound I-75, by taking exit 193 and then turning right on to Jacaranda Boulevard. From southbound I-75, take exit 193 and turn left on to Jacaranda Boulevard. Proceed north approximately 0.7 miles on Jacaranda Blvd. to the stop sign and turn right onto Border Road. Proceed approximately 2 miles east on Border Road to the bridge over the Myakka River. As you approach the bridge, the Sleeping Turtles Preserve North parking lot will be on the left (north side), immediately before the bridge.

If you are having problems with on-line registration, contact the Sarasota County Call Center at941-861-5000 and ask for Natural Resources.

To help us provide quality programming, we would appreciate your feedback on this program. A post-event survey will be emailed to all program participants.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

More events!

** Know Your Niche Nature Walk – Phillippi Estate Park **

Date: 9/20/2011;

Time: 8 – 9:30 a.m. (third Tuesday of each month year-round)

Location: Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

Description: Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalist for a nature walk along the trails at Phillippi Estate Park. Stroll along the shoreline then venture into the coastal hammock to learn about mangroves, epiphytes and the effects of exotic plants on native ecosystems.

Meet at the Fishing Pier trailhead on the northeast side of the front parking lot at Phillippi Estate Park.

We recommend participants wear appropriate shoes for walking paved and uneven shell trails.

Additional recommended items to bring are camera, binoculars, bird and/or Florida field guide, water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

Contact Jennifer Rogers (jrogers@scgov.net, 941-861-5000) to register.

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** Discovery Kayak – Lemon Bay Park **

Date: 9/23/2011;

Time: 8:30 a.m. – noon

Location: Lemon Bay Park, 570 Bay Park Blvd., Englewood

Description: Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalists as they lead a casual kayak journey along the shallow waters of beautiful Lemon Bay. Learn about the coastal mangroves, seagrasses, and oyster beds in the area. Spy wading birds, explore meandering mangrove tunnels, and perhaps catch a glimpse of a manatee or dolphin in the bay waters!

The program is an "intermediate" paddle of approximately 3.5 hours in length, 2.5 miles round-trip on bay waters and mangrove tunnels, and includes an interpretative landing on the Lemon Bay Park Addition.

Pre-registration is required. Space is limited and other requirements apply.

Participants must bring their own kayak, paddle, and safety gear as required by the U.S. Coast Guard. Participants must be able to portage kayak to the kayak/canoe launch (a distance of approximately 320 feet) and down a stepped slope to the water's edge.

We recommend paddlers wear a hat, clothes and shoes that can get wet and muddy; and bring camera, binoculars, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, snacks and plenty of drinking water.

Contact Kenya Leonard (kleonard@scgov.net, 941-861-5000) to register.

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** Photo Safari – Urfer Family Park **

Date: 9/2/2011;

Time: 9 – 11 a.m. (first Friday of each month year-round)

Location: Urfer Family Park, 4000 Honore Ave. (Corner of Bee Ridge and Honore), Sarasota

Description: Join Parks Naturalists on a leisurely two hour nature walk through Urfer Family Park. Learn tips about nature photography, and how to spot photo opportunities in a natural setting. Visit pine flatwoods, two distinctly different wetlands, and a cattle pasture with a working windmill right in the middle of town! The trail is approximately 1 1/2 miles and is relatively flat. Wear walking shoes and sun protection and bring your camera or binoculars. Don't forget to bring water!

Contact Lynda Eppinger (leppinge@scgov.net, 941-861-5000) to register.

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September’s Education Calendar

From the UF/IFAS Sarasota County Extension Office

http://sarasota.ifas.ufl.edu/

Growing Citrus in Your Home Landscape

Event Type: Environmental & Gardening Programs
Age Group(s): Adults

Date: 9/7/2011

Start Time: 10:00 AM

End Time: 11:00 AM

Description:

Learn how to grow citrus in Sarasota County. This program will discuss pest and problem identification as well as the nutritional requirements for growing citrus in the urban landscape.

Location: Twin Lakes Park - 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota
Contact: Patricia Porchey pporchey@scgov.net

Contact Number: 861-9801

Presenter: Patricia Porchey

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Chickens 101

Event Type: Environmental & Gardening Programs

Age Group(s): All Ages

Date: 9/10/2011

Start Time: 8:30 AM

End Time: 12:00 PM

Description:

Chickens 101 is an introductory, hands-on workshop on the fundamentals of raising chickens such as: local laws and resources, benefits of chickens, the basics (breeds, housing, feeding, health, chicken development), biosecurity, and getting started. $15.00 fee for this class. Register on line and pay by credit card at the link below.

http://chickens1010911.eventbrite.com/

Children under 16 are admitted free but must be accompanied by an adult.

Location: Lauterbach Farm - 8315 Palmer Blvd, Sarasota

Contact: Dr. Robert Kluson rkluson@scgov.net

Contact Number: 861-9900

Presenter: Dr. Robert Kluson

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Healthy Eating for a Healthy Planet

Event Type: Health and Human Services

Age Group(s): Adults

Date: 9/14/2011

Start Time: 2:00 PM

End Time: 3:30 PM

Description:

Learn how your food choices not only affect your household budget, but how it also affects our environment. Learn ways to save money, eat healthier and be friendlier to the world we share.

Location: Twin Lakes Park - 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota

Contact: Dr. Maria Portelos-Rometo mrometo@scgov.net

Contact Number: 861-9900

Presenter: Maria Portelos-Rometo

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Invasive Insects

Event Type: Environmental & Gardening Programs
Age Group(s): Adults

Date: 9/15/2011

Start Time: 1:00 PM

End Time: 2:30 PM

Description:

Learn about invading insect pests, plus a few other animals that pose a significant problem to Florida. Its attractive climate and proximity to the Caribbean make it a Mecca for pests. More than 90% of all the live propagated plants and animals enter the continental U.S. through the port of Miami. On average one new pest species per month becomes established in Florida. Over 1100 non-native insect species have become established in Florida. Dr. Fred Santana, Sarasota County Entomologist, will discuss a number of the more recent invasive insects and efforts being made to control them.

Location: Shamrock Park - 3900 Shamrock Drive, Venice

Contact: Dr. Fred Santana fsantana@scgov.net

Contact Number: 861-9900

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Rain Barrel Workshop

Event Type: Environmental & Gardening Programs
Age Group(s): Adults

Date: 9/17/2011

Start Time: 10:00 AM

End Time: 11:00 AM

Description:

Learn how the use of rain barrels can conserve water, save money by reducing the use of potable water in landscapes (lower utility bills), and reduce stormwater runoff by storing and diverting runoff from impervious surfaces (roofs). Practical tips on the construction and installation of rain barrels will be provided.

Note: After the class Sarasota County Government will sell rain barrels for $37 each, including tax and spigot assembly. Payment must be made by cash (exact change only) or check. Check payable to: Sarasota County Board of County Commissioners.

Location: Twin Lakes Park - 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota

Contact: Email jdwillia@scgov.net

Contact Number: 861-9900

Presenter: Extension Staff and Volunteers

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Meet the Pollinators

Event Type: Environmental & Gardening Programs
Age Group(s): Adults

Date: 9/21/2011

Start Time: 2:00 PM

End Time: 3:30 PM

Description:

This presentation will help you to identify and understand some of the more abundant and important pollinators in the Sarasota County area. Learn about some of nature’s most important and hardest working creatures. We all know about pollinators and pollination, but other than the honey bee, don’t really know the many bees, wasps, flies, butterflies, moths and beetles that routinely carry out this important function for plants. Dr. Santana will show images of pollinators, mainly focusing on native bees, wasps, and flies, and why you should care about their conservation.

Location: Twin Lakes Park - 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota

Contact: Dr. Fred Santana fsantana@scgov.net

Contact Number: 861-9900

Presenter: Dr. Fred Santana

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Green Cleaning at Home

Event Type: Health and Human Services

Age Group(s): Adults

Date: 9/28/2011

Start Time: 2:00 PM

End Time: 3:30 PM

Description:

Learn about how you can make your home more sustainable by making your own cleaning supplies. Discover easy tips that you can do to save money and be kind to our environment.

Location: Twin Lakes Park - 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota

Contact: Dr. Maria Portelos-Rometo mrometo@scgov.net

Contact Number: 861-9900

Presenter: Dr. Maria Portelos-Rometo

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Composting

Event Type: Educational Programs

Age Group(s): Adults

Date: 9/29/2011

Start Time: 2:00 PM

End Time: 3:00 PM

Description:

Learn how to eliminate vegetation pickup by the waste management company and instead use your clippings to create your own soil amendments. Your soil will retain nutrients and moisture and your plants will thrive.

Location: Elsie Quirk Library - 100 W. Dearborn St, Englewood

Contact: For more information email jdwillia@scgov.net

Contact Number: 861-9900

Presenter: Extension Staff and Volunteers

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Coming soon in October – Look for the:

**Nature Explorers Club- Urfer Family Park**

Date: 10/28/2011; Time: 9:30-10:30 a.m. (4^th Saturday of each month from October through May, except December)

Location: Urfer Family Park, 4000 Honore Avenue, Sarasota

Description: Join a Parks Naturalist at Urfer Family Park for a chance to see and learn about nature. This program is geared for children ages 6-12. Enjoy a different activity each month. Activities may include nature walks, swamp walks, nature photography, nature journaling, learning to identify birds or frogs by the sounds they make, and even getting the chance to see live animals up close and personal! During this short one-hour program, parents or guardians are required to remain in the park, but do not have to join us for activities. Participants should wear closed-toed shoes and sun protection and should bring water to drink. Registration is limited to 15 each month, so contact Lynda Eppinger (leppinge@scgov.net ; 941-861-5000) to register.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Deborah Zeilman

Program Specialist

Sarasota County Government

Environmental Resource Management

Natural Resources

1001 Sarasota Center Boulevard

Sarasota International Trade Center area

(Off of Fruitville Road, East of I-75)
Sarasota, FL 34240
Phone 941-650-0696 Fax 941-861-6267
dzeilman@scgov.net
·`·. . `·..·`·.}><(((*> .·`·..}><(((*>`·..·`·.}><(((*>
"In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks."

- John Muir

Learn more at http://www.discovernaturalsarasota.org

Other Sarasota Parks and Events

2011-08-12T13:26:00.003-04:00

A few stories about parks, upcoming events, and the Friends of Sarasota County Parks (FOSCP):

Volunteers Key in Tough Budget Times, by Eric Ernst

Hidden Sarasota: Edwards Island Park, by Tom Becnel

Parks: This Land Really is Your Land, by Tom Matrullo

Little Naturalist Program Expanding

2011-08-09T10:44:00.002-04:00

Looking for an alternative to the typical kids’ activity or an exciting outdoor field trip? Then bring your child or students to connect with nature in fun, creative ways at Sarasota County Government’s exciting NEW nature program, The Little Naturalist.

The Little Naturalist Program has expanded and now offers programming for schools, summer camps, scout troops and youth civic groups! Below is the 2011 Summer Schedule and the 2011-2012 School Year Schedule. Online registration is required for all program dates.

2011-2012 Youth Group Schedule

8-3-2011	Little Naturalist Group Program – Coastal	Pocono Trail Preserve	9:30-10:30 a.m.
8-3-2011	Little Naturalist Group Program – Coastal	Pocono Trail Preserve	11 a.m.- noon
8-3-2011	Little Naturalist Group Program – Coastal	Pocono Trail Preserve	1:30-2:30 p.m.
10-12-2011	Little Naturalist Group Program – Plants	Rothenbach Park	9:30-10:30 a.m.
10-12-2011	Little Naturalist Group Program – Plants	Rothenbach Park	11 a.m.-noon
10-12-2011	Little Naturalist Group Program – Plants	Rothenbach Park	1:30-2:30 p.m.
2-8-2012	Little Naturalist Group Program – Birds	Celery Fields	9:30-10:30 a.m.
2-8-2012	Little Naturalist Group Program – Birds	Celery Fields	11 a.m.-noon.
2-8-2012	Little Naturalist Group Program – Birds	Celery Fields	1:30-2:30 p.m.
5-9-2012	Little Naturalist Group Program	Curry Creek Preserve	9:30-10:30 a.m.
5-9-2012	Little Naturalist Group Program	Curry Creek Preserve	11 a.m.-noon.
5-9-2012	Little Naturalist Group Program	Curry Creek Preserve	1:30-2:30 p.m.

Sarasota Nature Events for August 2011

2011-07-27T22:16:00.002-04:00

We are pleased to offer nature events for the month of August. Still sweltering heat and the number is greatly reduced because of rain, but the quality and choices are still there!

Be sure to read the press release for specific dates, times, locations, directions and registration information.

Please, remember to respect our fellow participants, animals, lands and air space. To further enhance the experience at Sarasota County's environmentally sensitive lands, please help us with picking up and properly disposing of litter, respecting others experience with no cell phone usage, no pets, and please, no smoking. Thank you!

If you do not wish to receive this email, please contact me at dzeilman@scgov.net or call 941-650-0696 to be removed. Thanks!

scgovEVENTS

Sarasota County Communications scgov.net | 941-861-5000 | Comcast 19/Verizon 32

Little Naturalist Field Trips for Youth Groups

“Looking for an outdoor education field trip for your summer camp, scout troop or civic club?” Then bring your youth to connect with nature in fun, creative ways at the Little Naturalist Program.

The Little Naturalist field trips are available from 9:30 – 10:30 AM, 11 AM – Noon or 1:30 – 2:30 PM on Wednesday, August 3, 2011 at Pocono Trail Preserve. Coastal habitats is the theme for these field trips. The field trips are available for toddlers through elementary-age groups. This program includes a variety of hands-on nature themed activities, a snack and story. All groups must be registered and accompanied by camp counselors, chaperones, parents and/or adult guardians.

Directions to Pocono Trail Preserve, 189 Pocono Trail, Nokomis: From I-75 exit 195 (Laurel Road) travel west on Laurel Road. Turn left onto U.S. 41 and drive south toward Venice. Turn left onto Colonia Lane and left again onto Nash Ave. Drive one block to Pocono Trail. The Preserve will be directly ahead and parking is available along the north road shoulder.

To register for one of the available Little Naturalist Program group field trips, please register on-line at www.scgov.net. Choose Calendar of Events on the left. Choose 'All Events' from the drop down menu, then choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'. On the bottom of each Little Naturalist field trip description is an area that states ‘Register for Little Naturalist Field Trips for Youth Groups.’ Please register the name of the youth group. In the NOTES section of the registration form, please provide the age range and number of children and the number of supervising adults accompanying the group. The available time slots are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Space for this program is limited to a maximum of 15 children.

For more information and details about the Little Naturalist Program summer field trips, please contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask to speak with the Little Naturalist Program staff. To view the entire Little Naturalist Program’s summer calendar, go to www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'.

To help us provide quality programming, we would appreciate your feedback on this program. A post-event survey will be emailed to you.

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Photo Safari – Urfer Family Park

Date: 8/5/2011; Time: 9 – 11a.m. (first Friday of each month year-round)

Location: Urfer Family Park, 4000 Honore Ave. (Corner of Bee Ridge and Honore), Sarasota

Join Parks Naturalists on a leisurely two hour nature walk through Urfer Family Park. Learn tips about nature photography, and how to spot photo opportunities in a natural setting. Visit pine flatwoods, two distinctly different wetlands, and a cattle pasture with a working windmill right in the middle of town! The trail is approximately 1 1/2 miles and is relatively flat. Wear walking shoes and sun protection and bring your camera or binoculars. Don't forget to bring water!

Please contact Lynda Eppinger at 941-861-5000 or email at leppinge@scgov.net to register.

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Calling All Early Risers! View the Perseid Meteor Shower at Red Bug Slough Preserve in the Early Morning of Saturday, August 13^th

Join Environmental Specialist Jeff Weber for a very early morning viewing of the Perseid Meteor Shower at Sarasota’s Red Bug Slough Preserve from 4:30 – 6 AM on Saturday, August 13, 2011. Grab a cup of coffee and bring an old blanket or a folding chair to enjoy one of nature’s night sky spectaculars. Viewing will be at its peak on this date during this time period, when participants can expect to see up to 30 shooting stars per hour!

Red Bug Slough Preserve is one of many natural areas available through the county’s environmental lands program. Come join us for a rare pre-dawn excursion as we look to the heavens and enjoy nature’s chorus of frogs and crickets and possibly even a barred owl or two.

Participants should wear long pants and comfortable walking shoes that can get wet. Be sure to bring a flashlight, an old blanket or folding lawn/lounge chair, insect repellent, and light snacks or refreshments if you’d like.

To get to Red Bug Slough Preserve at 5200 Beneva Road, Sarasota, take I -75 to Exit 205 (S.R. 72 or Clark Road). Go west on Clark Road to Beneva Road and turn right onto Beneva. Continue north on Beneva Road until you reach the preserve parking lot, located west of Beneva Road. Turn left and park in designated spaces. NOTE: Construction is currently taking place at Red Bug Slough Preserve’s entrance. Please use caution when entering, parking and exiting the Preserve.

Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Choose Calendar of Events on the left. Choose the 'All Events' drop down list, then click on 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'. On the bottom of each nature walk is an area that states 'Click here for registration.' When registering, please be sure to provide a telephone number where you can be reached between 10 PM– midnight during the evening of August 12^th. Staff will need to reach you if it becomes necessary to cancel the event due to cloud cover or inclement weather. Space for this outing is limited to 30.

If you are having problems with on-line registration, contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask for Natural Resources.

To help us provide quality programming, we would appreciate your feedback on this program. A post-event survey will be emailed to you.

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Know Your ‘Niche’ Nature Walk – Phillippi Estate Park

Date: 8/16/2011; Time: 8 – 9:30 a.m. (third Tuesday of each month year-round)

Location: Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalist for a nature walk along the trails at Phillippi Estate Park. Stroll along the shoreline then venture into the coastal hammock to learn about mangroves, epiphytes and the effects of exotic plants on native ecosystems.

Meet at the Fishing Pier trailhead on the northeast side of the front parking lot at Phillippi Estate Park.

We recommend participants wear appropriate shoes for walking paved and uneven shell trails.

Additional recommended items to bring are camera, binoculars, bird and/or Florida field guide, water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

For more information: Contact Jennifer Rogers or call the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 to register.

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Discovery Kayak – Lemon Bay Park

Date: 8/26/2011; Time: Friday, 8:30 a.m. – noon

Location: Lemon Bay Park, 570 Bay Park Blvd., Englewood

Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalists as they lead a casual kayak journey along the shallow waters of beautiful Lemon Bay. Learn about the coastal mangroves, seagrasses, and oyster beds in the area. Spy wading birds, explore meandering mangrove tunnels, and perhaps catch a glimpse of a manatee or dolphin in the bay waters!

Pre-registration is required. Space is limited and other requirements apply.

We recommend paddlers wear a hat, clothes and shoes that can get wet and muddy; and bring camera, binoculars, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, snacks and plenty of drinking water.

Please contact Kenya Leonard at 941-861-5000 or email at kleonard@scgov.net for registration.

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From the UF/IFAS Sarasota County Extension Office

Free Rain Barrel workshops

All workshops will be from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

2011 Dates Location

August 20 Woodmere Community Park & Recreation Center

September 17 Twin Lakes Park

October 15 Englewood Sports Complex

November 19 Twin Lakes Park

December 17 North Sarasota Library

Locations

Englewood Sports Complex, 1300 South River Road, Englewood, FL 34223

North Sarasota Library, 2801 Newtown Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34234

Woodmere Community Park & Recreation Center, 3951 Woodmere Park Blvd., Venice, FL 34293

Twin Lakes Park, 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota, FL 34241

Sarasota County Environmental Services will sell rain barrels after the class for $37

each, including tax. Payment may be made by check or cash (exact change only).

Online registration required. Please register at sarasota.ifas.ufl.edu.

For questions regarding registration, please call the UF/IFAS Sarasota County Extension Office at 941.861.9900.

An Equal Opportunity Institution. Extension Service, University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Millie Ferrer-Chancy, Interim Director.

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August Extension Education Class Schedule

Date	Time	Subject	Location











August 4	2 pm	Native Shrubs for the Landscape	Shamrock Park
August 10	10 am	Incentives for Home Energy Improvements	Twin Lakes Park
August 10	1 pm	Rodent and Mole Management	Twin Lakes Park
August 17	10 am	Green Cleaning at Home	Twin Lakes Park
August 17	1 pm	Life on a Popcorn Senna: Its Insect World	Twin Lakes Park
August 18	2 pm	Partnering with Pollinators	Shamrock Park
August 20	10 am	Vegetable Gardening 101	Twin Lakes Park
August 20	10 am	Rain Barrel Workshop	Woodmere Park
August 24	1 pm	Introduction to Insects and Mites	Twin Lakes Park
August 24	4 pm	Irrigation 101	Twin Lakes Park
August 31	1 pm	Red Imported Fire Ants	Twin Lakes Park

Registration is required. For class description and online registration: http://sarasota.ifas.ufl.edu. Click on Events Calendar or call 941.861.5000 for assistance.

North Port Library: 13800 S. Tamiami Trail, North Port

North Sarasota Library: 2801 Newtown Blvd., Sarasota

Twin Lakes Park: 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota

Shamrock Park: 3900 W. Shamrock Drive, Venice

Warm Mineral Springs: 12200 San Servando Avenue, North Port

Extension programs are open to all persons without regard to race, color, sex, age, disability, religion or national origin. All Extension Service events comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Individuals with disabilities requiring special accommodations, please inform the contact person for each event at least 72 hours prior to the event date.

*SAVE THE DATE: PLAN TO ATTEND OUR EXTENSION OPEN HOUSE NOVEMBER 10*

Thank you to our volunteer and staff guides!

Nature Events for July

2011-06-30T12:38:00.001-04:00

We are pleased to offer our nature events for the month of July. Although the choice is greatly reduced because of rainy season, the quality is still there!

Please, remember to respect our fellow participants, animals, lands and air space. To further enhance the experience at Sarasota County's environmentally sensitive lands, please help us with picking up and properly disposing of litter, respecting others experience with no cell phone usage, no pets, and please, no smoking. Thank you!

Explore Life in Lemon Bay With Us!

Get a little wet, have a little fun and learn a lot! Join American Littoral Society Biologist Chuck Idelberger on Saturday, July 9 from 9 - 11 AM on a search for marine life in Lemon Bay. Using hand and seine nets, you will search shallow waters and sea grass beds, observing, collecting, and discussing the natural history of some of the many interesting fishes and other animals that inhabit Lemon Bay. This event which is held at the Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center, runs the second Saturday of each month this summer.

Participants should wear wading type shoes, a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, and bring a towel and drinking water. Prepare to get wet and muddy! All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

You may reach Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center, 570 Bay Park Blvd., Englewood by taking I -75 to Exit 193 (Jacaranda Boulevard), turn toward CR 765/Englewood/Venice, and traveling south 5.3 miles to Englewood Road (SR 776). Turn left on Englewood Road (SR 776) (4.1 miles), turning right onto Old Englewood Road (1 mile), turning a slight right onto Kilbourne Avenue to the first right onto Morrison Avenue then the first left onto Curtis Boulevard, then the first right onto Brengle Avenue and the park entrance will be straight ahead.

Register on-line at www.scgov.net<http://www.scgov.net>. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'. On the bottom of each nature walk is an area that states 'Click here for registration.' Space for this walk is limited to 10.

If you are having problems with on-line registration, please contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask for Natural Resources. Learn more about Sarasota County Natural Lands athttp://www.discovernaturalsarasota.org<http://www.discovernaturalsarasota.org/>.

Your feedback on our performance is an important and valued part of our improvement process and would greatly appreciate your participation in a brief post event survey regarding the nature program you attended. The survey will be emailed to you on the following week.
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From the UF/IFAS Sarasota County Extension Office
Free Rain Barrel workshops
All workshops will be from 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.

2011 Dates Location
July 16 Twin Lakes Park
August 20 Woodmere Community Park & Recreation Center
September 17 Twin Lakes Park
October 15 Englewood Sports Complex
November 19 Twin Lakes Park
December 17 North Sarasota Library

Locations
Englewood Sports Complex, 1300 South River Road, Englewood, FL 34223
North Sarasota Library, 2801 Newtown Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34234
Woodmere Community Park & Recreation Center, 3951 Woodmere Park Blvd., Venice, FL 34293
Twin Lakes Park, 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota, FL 34241

Sarasota County Environmental Services will sell rain barrels after the class for $37
each, including tax. Payment may be made by check or cash (exact change only).

Online registration required. Please register at sarasota.ifas.ufl.edu.

For questions regarding registration, please call the UF/IFAS Sarasota County Extension Office at 941.861.9900.
An Equal Opportunity Institution. Extension Service, University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Millie Ferrer-Chancy, Interim Director.

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July and August Extension Education Class Schedule

Date

Time

Subject

Location

July 5

9 am

Organic Vegetable Gardening: Fruit Crops

Warm Mineral Springs

July 5

1 pm

Irrigation 101

Twin Lakes Park

July 6

10 am

Incentives for Home Energy Improvements

Twin Lakes Park

July 6

1 pm

Good Bugs in the Garden

Twin Lakes Park

July 7

2 pm

Creating Wildlife Habitat/Urban Ponds

Shamrock Park

July 13

4 pm

Natural Insecticides

Twin Lakes Park

July 14

6 pm

Plant Propagation: Tips and Techniques

Twin Lakes Park

July 16

10 am

Rain Barrel Workshop

Twin Lakes Park

July 20

10 am

Landscaping with Color

Twin Lakes Park

July 20

1 pm

Ants, Ants, Ants

Twin Lakes Park

July 21

2 pm

What to do About Ants

Shamrock Park

July 27

1 pm

Insect Pests of Woody Plants

Twin Lakes Park

August 4

2 pm

Native Shrubs for the Landscape

Shamrock Park

August 10

10 am

Incentives for Home Energy Improvements

Twin Lakes Park

August 10

1 pm

Rodent and Mole Management

Twin Lakes Park

August 17

10 am

Green Cleaning at Home

Twin Lakes Park

August 17

1 pm

Life on a Popcorn Senna: Its Insect World

Twin Lakes Park

August 18

2 pm

Partnering with Pollinators

Shamrock Park

August 20

10 am

Vegetable Gardening 101

Twin Lakes Park

August 20

10 am

Rain Barrel Workshop

Woodmere Park

August 24

1 pm

Introduction to Insects and Mites

Twin Lakes Park

August 24

4 pm

Irrigation 101

Twin Lakes Park

August 31

1 pm

Red Imported Fire Ants

Twin Lakes Park

Registration is required. For class description and online registration:http://sarasota.ifas.ufl.edu<http://sarasota.ifas.ufl.edu/>. Click on Events Calendar or call 941.861.5000 for assistance.
North Port Library: 13800 S. Tamiami Trail, North Port
North Sarasota Library: 2801 Newtown Blvd., Sarasota
Twin Lakes Park: 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota
Shamrock Park: 3900 W. Shamrock Drive, Venice
Warm Mineral Springs: 12200 San Servando Avenue, North Port
Extension programs are open to all persons without regard to race, color, sex, age, disability, religion or national origin. All Extension Service events comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Individuals with disabilities requiring special accommodations, please inform the contact person for each event at least 72 hours prior to the event date.
*SAVE THE DATE: PLAN TO ATTEND OUR EXTENSION OPEN HOUSE NOVEMBER 10*

Deborah Zeilman
Program Specialist
Sarasota County Government
Environmental Resource Management
Natural Resources
1001 Sarasota Center Boulevard
Sarasota International Trade Center area
"In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks."
- John Muir
Learn more at http://www.discovernaturalsarasota.org<http://www.discovernaturalsarasota.org/>

Care to Tube?

2011-06-06T21:17:00.001-04:00

Find out how to tube on the Rainbow River, here.

The latest FOSCP Newsletter

2011-06-06T19:52:00.003-04:00

The latest newsletter from FOSCP -- the Friends of Sarasota County Parks -- is out. Click here to view, and here to sign up for it.

Sarasota County Natural Resources Nature Events for June

2011-05-26T11:12:00.001-04:00

We are pleased to offer our nature events for the month of June. We have a wonderful assortment of events for you below.

Each press release has specific dates, times, locations, directions and registration information, therefore please read each one carefully for instructions.

AND Thank you to our volunteer guides and staff!

ON-LINE REGISTRATION - Go to www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'. Scan the calendar for the event and date of your choice and click. Towards the bottom of each nature event news release is a bolded area for you to click for registration. Please supply information with an asterisks (*), which is your name, email and phone number. (Please note: Your registration information will not be shared and will be used only for contact purposes for the event of inclement weather or walk cancelation.)

If you do not wish to receive this email, please contact me at dzeilman@... or call 941-650-0696 to be removed. Thanks!

Enjoy the experience!

scgovEVENTS

Sarasota County Communications scgov.net | 941-861-5000 | Comcast 19/Verizon 32

Media Contact: Deborah Zeilman 941-650-0696

Traverse Trails and Wild Land along the Myakka River at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North

Explore the Sleeping Turtles Preserve North with Sarasota County volunteers and Florida Native Plant Society members Al Squires and Denny Girard on Wednesday, June 1, 2011 from 9 â€“ 11 AM. Enjoy the preserveâ€™s meandering river trails canopied by old live oaks and pines. Along the way, Al and Denny share their boundless knowledge of botany, not just identification, but lore of the plants as well. Take in the scenery and information about the natural lands and the plants they support.

Participants should bring binoculars, sun screen, insect repellent, drinking water and camera (optional), wear comfortable walking shoes and a hat. All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

Directions to reach Sleeping Turtles Preserve North, 3462 Border Road, Venice from northbound I-75, by taking exit 193 and then turning right on to Jacaranda Boulevard. From southbound I-75, take exit 193 and turn left on to Jacaranda Boulevard. Proceed north approximately 0.7 miles on Jacaranda Blvd. to the stop sign and turn right onto Border Road. Proceed approximately 2 miles east on Border Road to the bridge over the Myakka River. As you approach the bridge, the Sleeping Turtles Preserve North parking lot will be on the left (north side), immediately before the bridge.

Your feedback on our performance is an important and valued part of our improvement process and would greatly appreciate your participation in a brief post event survey regarding the nature program you attended. The survey will be emailed to you on the following week.

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DRAGONFLIES! at Woodmere Park in Venice

Would you believe there are over 40 species of dragonflies and 12 species of damselflies that call Sarasota County home? Their vibrant colors and aerial antics canâ€™t help but inspire our fascination. On Saturday, June 4, 2011, from 10 AM to noon, join Kathy and Don Hess,amateur odonatists, at Woodmere Park on a journey to learn more about dragonfly and damselfly evolution, mating habits, life cycles and behavior, the specific local varieties and the magic that has enthralled human cultures for ages.

Woodmere Park, located at 3951 Woodmere Park Blvd., Venice sits on 36 acres just off Jacaranda Boulevard in southeastern Venice.

Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes fit for a possible muddy trail; a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, drinking water, binoculars (Short focal length recommended), and camera with a zoom lens (optional). All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

To reach Woodmere Park, take I-75 to Exit 193 (Jacaranda Blvd.). Turn south at the exit taking Jacaranda Blvd. approximately 4 miles to the Woodmere Park Blvd. intersection . Turn right onto Woodmere Park Blvd. Turn right at the next driveway into the park entrance. Participants should meet at the parking lot at 9:30 am for an adventure in nature!

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Little Naturalist Field Trips for Youth Groups

â€œLooking for an outdoor education field trip for your summer camp, scout troop or civic club?â€ Then bring your youth to connect with nature in fun, creative ways at Sarasota County Governmentâ€™s exciting NEW nature program, The Little Naturalist.

The Little Naturalist field trips are available from 9:30 â€“ 10:30 AM, 11 AM â€“ Noon or 1:30 â€“ 2:30 PM on Wednesday, June 8, 2011 at Red Bug Slough Preserve. The field trips are available for preschool-age and elementary-age groups. This program includes a short guided nature walk and strolling scavenger hunt followed by hands-on activities at four nature-themed Exploration Stations. The hour-long program will close with a theme snack and story. All groups must be registered and accompanied by camp counselors, chaperones, parents and/or adult guardians.

Red Bug Slough Preserve is one of many natural areas available through the countyâ€™s environmental lands program. In addition to a wide variety of native plant species, the preserve also provides habitat for river otters, bobcats and various species of wading birds.

Participants should wear comfortable weather-appropriate clothes, walking shoes that can get wet (no flip-flops!), a hat, sun screen, drinking water and camera (optional). All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

To view the Little Naturalist Programâ€™s summer calendar, go to www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'.

To register for one of the available Little Naturalist Program summer field trips, please register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click 'All Events' from the drop down menu, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'. On the bottom of each Little Naturalist field trip description is an area that states 'Click here for registration.' Please register the name of the youth group. In the NOTES section at the bottom of the registration form, please also provide the age range of the participating children and include the names of the supervising adults accompanying the group. The available time slots are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Space for this program is limited to no more than 15 children.

For more information and details about the Little Naturalist Program summer field trips, please contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask for Natural Resources. To view the entire Little Naturalist Programâ€™s summer calendar, go to www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'.

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â€œDiscovering Insects and Their Waysâ€ â€“ A guided insect identification walk at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North

Sarasota County is offering a guided insect identification nature walk at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North in Venice from 9:00 â€“ 11:00 AM on Friday, June 10, 2011. Sarasota County Extension Entomologist Dr. Fred Santana will lead participants through pine flatwoods, oak scrub and other habitats found on site.

Participants should wear long pants, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, drinking water, binoculars (optional), camera and a hand lens or magnifying glass (optional). All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

You can reach Sleeping Turtles Preserve North from northbound I-75, take exit 193 and turn right. From southbound I-75 take exit 193 and turn left. Proceed north 1/2 mile on Jacaranda Blvd. to the stop sign and turn right onto Border Road. Proceed approximately 3 miles east on Border Road to the bridge over the Myakka River. As you approach the bridge, the Sleeping Turtles Preserve North parking lot will be on the left (north side), immediately before the bridge.

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Explore Life in Lemon Bay With Us!

Get a little wet, have a little fun and learn a lot! Join American Littoral Society Biologist Chuck Idelberger on Saturday, June 11 from 9 - 11 AM on a search for marine life in Lemon Bay. Using hand and seine nets, you will search shallow waters and sea grass beds, observing, collecting, and discussing the natural history of some of the many interesting fishes and other animals that inhabit Lemon Bay. This event runs the second Saturday of each month this summer.

Participants should wear wading type shoes, a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, and bring a towel and drinking water. Prepare to get wet and muddy! All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

You may reach Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center, 570 Bay Park Blvd., Englewood by taking I -75 to Exit 193 (Jacaranda Boulevard), turn toward CR 765/Englewood/Venice, and traveling south 5.3 miles to Englewood Road (SR 776). Turn left on Englewood Road (SR 776) (4.1 miles), turning right onto Old Englewood Road (1 mile), turning a slight right onto Kilbourne Avenue to the first right onto Morrison Avenue then the first left onto Curtis Boulevard, then the first right onto Brengle Avenue and the park entrance will be straight ahead.

Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'. On the bottom of each nature walk is an area that states 'Click here for registration.' Space for this walk is limited to 10.

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"Discovering Insects and Their Ways" â€“ A guided insect identification walk at Curry Creek Preserve

Sarasota County is offering a guided insect identification nature walk at Curry Creek Preserve in Venice from 9 - 11 AM on Friday, June 24, 2011. Sarasota County Extension Entomologist, Dr. Fred Santana, will lead participants through pine flatwoods and oak hammocks describing the little known insect denizens of the Preserve and introducing them to the insect diversity of nature and the role insects play in our environment.

Curry Creek Preserve is one of many natural areas available through the countyâ€™s environmental lands program. In addition to a wide variety of native plant species, the preserve also provides habitat for gopher tortoises, bobcats and a wide variety of bird species.

Participants can get to the Pinebrook RoadÂ EAST entrance to Curry Creek Preserve by taking I -75 to Exit 195 (Laurel Road). Go west on Laurel Road for approximately 0.3 miles and turn left at the traffic light onto Pinebrook Road heading south. Go 1.5 miles passing the traffic light at Edmondson Road and look for the preserve sign on the right. Slightly before you get to the preserve sign, turn right into the driveway directly across from Water Street and then bear left onto preserve property. Park on the grass to the south of the preserve sign and entrance. Participants will gather for the walk at the cable gate entrance.

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DRAGONFLIES! at Deer Prairie Creek Preserve

Would you believe there are over 40 species of dragonflies and 12 species of damselflies that call Sarasota County home? Their vibrant colors and aerial antics canâ€™t help but inspire our fascination. On Saturday, June 25, 2011, from 10 AM to noon, join Kathy and Don Hess, amateur odonatists, at Deer Prairie Creek Preserve (south entrance) in Venice on a journey to learn more about dragonfly and damselfly evolution, mating habits, life cycles and behavior, the specific local varieties and the magic that has enthralled human cultures for ages.

Deer Prairie Creek Preserve, a 6,439-acre preserve along the wild and scenic Myakka River, was purchased through a partnership between Sarasota Countyâ€™s Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program and the Southwest Florida Water Management District. The preserve is one of many public preserves that have been made available to the public through the Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program.

To reach the preserve located at 10201 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice, drive south from Sarasota along I-75 to Exit 191 toward US-41 / State College of Florida-Venice / North Port / Englewood / Gulf Beaches. Merge onto North River Road. Drive 5 Â½ miles to Tamiami Trail South / US-41 S / FL-45 S, turn left on US-41. Drive 1.2 miles to turn around road. Make a u-turn here. You will see the sign and gate on your right at 10201 Tamiami Trail S, Venice. You may drive through this gate approximately 1 mile to the large parking lot near the lake.

Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks', and choose your event. Follow the instructions for registration. Space for this walk is limited to 15.

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Become a â€œLittle Naturalistâ€ at Pocono Trail Preserve in a NEW Nature Program for Toddlers

â€œLooking for an alternative to the typical playgroup?â€ Then bring your toddler to connect with nature in fun, creative ways at Sarasota County Governmentâ€™s exciting NEW nature program, The Little Naturalist.

The Little Naturalist, for children ages 18 â€“ 36 months, is from 9:30 â€“ 10:30 AM on Tuesday, June 28, 2011 at Pocono Trail Preserve. This program includes a short guided nature walk and strolling scavenger hunt followed by hands-on activities at three nature-themed Exploration Stations. The hour-long program will close with a theme snack and story. All participating children must be registered and accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.

Pocono Trail Preserve is one of many natural areas available through the countyâ€™s environmental lands program. The site contains forested hammocks, pine flatwoods and shoreline along Shakett Creek that provide habitat for osprey, migrating songbirds and wading birds.

Participants should wear comfortable weather-appropriate clothes, walking shoes that can get wet (no flip-flops!), bring a hat, sun screen, drinking water and camera (optional). All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

Directions to Pocono Trail Preserve, 189 Pocono Trail, Nokomis: Take I-75 south to exit 200 (S.R. 681) toward Venice/Osprey. Merge onto U.S. 41 and travel 2.2 miles to Colonia Lane. Turn left on Colonia and left again onto Nash Avenue. Drive one block to Pocono Trail and park along the north road shoulder.

From the southern portion of the county, take I-75 north to exit 195 (Laurel Road) and travel west toward Laurel. Turn left onto U.S. 41 and drive south toward Venice. Turn left onto Colonia Lane and left again onto Nash Ave. Drive one block to Pocono Trail and park along the north road shoulder.

Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'. On the bottom of each nature walk is an area that states 'Click here for registration.' Please register the participating childâ€™s first and last name. Please also include the childâ€™s age in the NOTES section at the bottom of the registration form! Space for this walk is limited to no more than 15 children.

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Become a â€œLittle Naturalistâ€ at Pocono Trail Preserve in a NEW Nature Program for Preschoolers

Looking for an alternative to the typical playgroup? Then bring your preschooler to connect with nature in fun, creative ways at Sarasota County Governmentâ€™s exciting NEW nature program, The Little Naturalist.

The Little Naturalist, for children ages 3 - 4 years old, is from 11 AM â€“ Noon on Tuesday, June 28, 2011 at Pocono Trail Preserve. This program includes a short guided nature walk and strolling scavenger hunt followed by hands-on activities at four nature-themed Exploration Stations. The hour-long program will close with a theme snack and story. All participating children must be registered and accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.

Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'. On the bottom of each nature walk is an area that states 'Click here for registration.' Please register the participating childâ€™s first and last name. Please also include the childâ€™s age in the NOTES section at the bottom of the registration form! Space for this walk is limited to no more than 15 children.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Become a â€œLittle Naturalistâ€ at Pocono Trail Preserve in a NEW Nature Program for School Age Children

â€œLooking for an alternative to the typical playground?â€ Then bring your school age child to connect with nature in fun, creative ways atSarasota County Governmentâ€™s exciting NEW nature program, The Little Naturalist.

The Little Naturalist, for children ages 5 - 9, is from 1:30 â€“ 2:30 PM on Tuesday, June 28, 2011 at Pocono Trail Preserve. This program includes a short guided nature walk and strolling scavenger hunt followed by hands-on activities at three nature-themed Exploration Stations. The hour-long program will close with a theme snack and story. All participating children must be registered and accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.

Participants should wear comfortable weather-appropriate clothes, walking shoes that can get wet (no flip-flops!), a hat, sun screen, drinking water and camera (optional). All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'. On the bottom of each nature walk is an area that states 'Click here for registration.' Please register the participating childâ€™s first and last name. Please also include the childâ€™s age in the NOTES section at the bottom of the registration form! Space for this walk is limited to no more than 15 children.

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Join the Friends of The Legacy Trail for

National Trails Day at Shamrock Park

Saturday, June 4, 2011 9:00 am â€“12:00 pm

Â· Bicycle ride or walk on the trails of the park.

Â· Indoor nature walk starts at 9:00 where children learn about and make gopher tortoises, scrub jays, alligators and many other trail animals.

Â· The Friends of the Legacy Trail and other Friends of Sarasota County Parks will share information.

Â· Take a surrey ride.

Â· Everything is free including trail snacks!

Directions from Hwy 41 Tamiami Trail Venice Florida Go West on Shamrock Drive 1.5 miles Park entrance is on the right. For more info call 941-486-2706.

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From the UF/IFAS Sarasota County Extension Office

Free Rain Barrel workshops

All workshops will be from 10 a.m. â€“ 11 a.m.

2011 Dates Location

June 18 North Sarasota Library

July 16 Twin Lakes Park

August 20 Woodmere Community Park

& Recreation Center

September 17 Twin Lakes Park

October 15 Englewood Sports Complex

November 19 Twin Lakes Park

December 17 North Sarasota Library

Locations

Englewood Sports Complex, 1300 South River Road, Englewood, FL 34223

North Sarasota Library, 2801 Newtown Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34234

Woodmere Community Park & Recreation Center, 3951 Woodmere Park Blvd., Venice, FL 34293

Twin Lakes Park, 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota, FL 34241

Sarasota County Environmental Services will sell rain barrels after the class for $37 each, including tax. Payment may be made by check or cash (exact change only).

Online registration required. Please register at sarasota.ifas.ufl.edu.

For questions regarding registration, please call the UF/IFAS Sarasota County Extension Office at 941.861.9900.

An Equal Opportunity Institution. Extension Service, University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Millie Ferrer-Chancy, Interim Director.

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Living Smart

Starts at UF/IFAS Sarasota County Extension

â€¢ Fun and fascinating classes on Horticulture, Agriculture, Sustainability, Smart Growth, Family and Consumer Sciences, and Natural Resources

â€¢ Most classes are free!

â€¢ Offered at Twin Lakes Park, Phillippi Estate Park, and other locations throughout the county

For the latest class listing and to register, visit: sarasota.ifas.ufl.edu

Questions? Call 941.861.5000 and ask for Sarasota County Extension

Date Time Subject Place

June 2 2 PM Florida Snakes Shamrock Park

June 7 1 PM Florida Buggy Critters Twin Lakes Park

June 15 10 AM Alternatives to Turf Â Twin Lakes Park

June 15 1 PM Irrigation 101 Twin Lakes Park

June 15 4 PM Life on Scarlet Milkweed Â Â Twin Lakes Park

June 16 2 PM Butterfly Predators Â Shamrock Park

June 18 10 AM Rain Barrels North Â Sarasota Library

June 22 10 AM Hurricane Preparedness Â Twin Lakes Park

June 22 1 PM Storm Protection â€“ Hurricane Shutters Twin Lakes Park

June 22 4 PM Partnering with Pollinators Â Twin Lakes Park

June 29 10 AM Landscape Design Â Twin Lakes Park

June 29 1 PM Chinch Bugs and White Grubs Â Â Twin Lakes Park

Registration is required.

For class description and online registration: http://sarasota.ifas.ufl.edu.

Click on Education Calendar or call 941.861.9900 for assistance.

Englewood Sports Complex: 1300 S. River Road, Englewood

Lauderbach Farm: 8315 Palmer Blvd., Sarasota

North Port Library: 13800 S. Tamiami Trail, North Port

North Sarasota Library: 2801 Newtown Blvd., Sarasota

Phillippi Estate Park Mansion: 5500 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

Twin Lakes Park: 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota

Shamrock Park: 3900 W. Shamrock Drive, Venice

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Deborah Zeilman

Program Specialist

Sarasota County Government

Environmental Resource Management

Natural Resources

1001 Sarasota Center Boulevard

Sarasota International Trade Center area

(Off of Fruitville Road, East of I-75)
Sarasota, FL 34240
Phone 941-650-0696 Fax 941-861-6267
dzeilman@...
Â·`Â·. . `Â·..Â·`Â·.}><(((*> .Â·`Â·..}><(((*>`Â·..Â·`Â·.}><(((*>
"In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks."

Natural Resources Nature Events for June

2011-05-26T11:05:00.002-04:00

From Sarasota County:

We are pleased to offer our nature events for the month of June. We have a wonderful assortment of events for you below.

Each press release has specific dates, times, locations, directions and registration information, therefore please read each one carefully for instructions. AND Thank you to our volunteer guides and staff!

ON-LINE REGISTRATION - Go to www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'. Scan the calendar for the event and date of your choice and click. Towards the bottom of each nature event news release is a bolded area for you to click for registration. Please supply information with an asterisks (*), which is your name, email and phone number. (Please note: Your registration information will not be shared and will be used only for contact purposes for the event of inclement weather or walk cancelation.)

Please, remember to respect our fellow participants, animals, lands and air space. To further enhance the experience at Sarasota County's environmentally sensitive lands, please help us with picking up and properly disposing of litter, respecting others experience with no cell phone usage, no pets, and please, no smoking. Thank you!

If you do not wish to receive this email, please contact me at dzeilman@scgov.net or call 941-650-0696 to be removed. Thanks!
Enjoy the experience!
scgovEVENTS
Sarasota County Communications scgov.net • 941-861-5000 • Comcast 19/Verizon 32

Media Contact: Deborah Zeilman 941-650-0696

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Traverse Trails and Wild Land along the Myakka River at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North

Explore the Sleeping Turtles Preserve North with Sarasota County volunteers and Florida Native Plant Society members Al Squires and Denny Girard on Wednesday, June 1, 2011 from 9 – 11 AM. Enjoy the preserve’s meandering river trails canopied by old live oaks and pines. Along the way, Al and Denny share their boundless knowledge of botany, not just identification, but lore of the plants as well. Take in the scenery and information about the natural lands and the plants they support.
This preserve is one of many that are available to the public through the Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program. In addition to the numerous subtropical plants, visitors may observe eagles or osprey hunting over the river corridor.
Participants should bring binoculars, sun screen, insect repellent, drinking water and camera (optional), wear comfortable walking shoes and a hat. All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

Directions to reach Sleeping Turtles Preserve North, 3462 Border Road, Venice from northbound I-75, by taking exit 193 and then turning right on to Jacaranda Boulevard. From southbound I-75, take exit 193 and turn left on to Jacaranda Boulevard. Proceed north approximately 0.7 miles on Jacaranda Blvd. to the stop sign and turn right onto Border Road. Proceed approximately 2 miles east on Border Road to the bridge over the Myakka River. As you approach the bridge, the Sleeping Turtles Preserve North parking lot will be on the left (north side), immediately before the bridge.

Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'. On the bottom of each nature walk is an area that states 'Click here for registration.' Space for this walk is limited to 20.

Your feedback on our performance is an important and valued part of our improvement process and would greatly appreciate your participation in a brief post event survey regarding the nature program you attended. The survey will be emailed to you on the following week.

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DRAGONFLIES! at Woodmere Park in Venice

Would you believe there are over 40 species of dragonflies and 12 species of damselflies that call Sarasota County home? Their vibrant colors and aerial antics can’t help but inspire our fascination. On Saturday, June 4, 2011, from 10 AM to noon, join Kathy and Don Hess, amateur odonatists, at Woodmere Park on a journey to learn more about dragonfly and damselfly evolution, mating habits, life cycles and behavior, the specific local varieties and the magic that has enthralled human cultures for ages.
Woodmere Park, located at 3951 Woodmere Park Blvd., Venice sits on 36 acres just off Jacaranda Boulevard in southeastern Venice.
Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes fit for a possible muddy trail; a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, drinking water, binoculars (Short focal length recommended), and camera with a zoom lens (optional). All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.
To reach Woodmere Park, take I-75 to Exit 193 (Jacaranda Blvd.). Turn south at the exit taking Jacaranda Blvd. approximately 4 miles to the Woodmere Park Blvd. intersection . Turn right onto Woodmere Park Blvd. Turn right at the next driveway into the park entrance. Participants should meet at the parking lot at 9:30 am for an adventure in nature!
Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'. On the bottom of each nature walk is an area that states 'Click here for registration.' Space for this walk is limited to 15.

Your feedback on our performance is an important and valued part of our improvement process and would greatly appreciate your participation in a brief post event survey regarding the nature program you attended. The survey will be emailed to you on the following week.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Little Naturalist Field Trips for Youth Groups

“Looking for an outdoor education field trip for your summer camp, scout troop or civic club?” Then bring your youth to connect with nature in fun, creative ways at Sarasota County Government’s exciting NEW nature program, The Little Naturalist.
The Little Naturalist field trips are available from 9:30 – 10:30 AM, 11 AM – Noon or 1:30 – 2:30 PM on Wednesday, June 8, 2011 at Red Bug Slough Preserve. The field trips are available for preschool-age and elementary-age groups. This program includes a short guided nature walk and strolling scavenger hunt followed by hands-on activities at four nature-themed Exploration Stations. The hour-long program will close with a theme snack and story. All groups must be registered and accompanied by camp counselors, chaperones, parents and/or adult guardians.

Red Bug Slough Preserve is one of many natural areas available through the county’s environmental lands program. In addition to a wide variety of native plant species, the preserve also provides habitat for river otters, bobcats and various species of wading birds.

Participants should wear comfortable weather-appropriate clothes, walking shoes that can get wet (no flip-flops!), a hat, sun screen, drinking water and camera (optional). All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.
To get to Red Bug Slough Preserve at 5200 Beneva Road, Sarasota, take I -75 to Exit 205 (S.R. 72 or Clark Road). Go west on Clark Road to Beneva Road and turn right onto Beneva. Continue north on Beneva Road until you reach the preserve parking lot, located west of Beneva Road. Turn left and park in designated spaces.

To view the Little Naturalist Program’s summer calendar, go to www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'.
To register for one of the available Little Naturalist Program summer field trips, please register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click 'All Events' from the drop down menu, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'. On the bottom of each Little Naturalist field trip description is an area that states 'Click here for registration.' Please register the name of the youth group. In the NOTES section at the bottom of the registration form, please also provide the age range of the participating children and include the names of the supervising adults accompanying the group. The available time slots are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Space for this program is limited to no more than 15 children.

For more information and details about the Little Naturalist Program summer field trips, please contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask for Natural Resources. To view the entire Little Naturalist Program’s summer calendar, go to www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'.

Your feedback on our performance is an important and valued part of our improvement process and would greatly appreciate your participation in a brief post event survey regarding the nature program you attended. The survey will be emailed to you on the following week.

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“Discovering Insects and Their Ways” – A guided insect identification walk at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North

Sarasota County is offering a guided insect identification nature walk at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North in Venice from 9:00 – 11:00 AM on Friday, June 10, 2011. Sarasota County Extension Entomologist Dr. Fred Santana will lead participants through pine flatwoods, oak scrub and other habitats found on site.
This preserve is one of many that are available to the public through the Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program. In addition to the numerous subtropical plants, visitors may observe eagles or osprey hunting over the river corridor.

Participants should wear long pants, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, drinking water, binoculars (optional), camera and a hand lens or magnifying glass (optional). All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

You can reach Sleeping Turtles Preserve North from northbound I-75, take exit 193 and turn right. From southbound I-75 take exit 193 and turn left. Proceed north 1/2 mile on Jacaranda Blvd. to the stop sign and turn right onto Border Road. Proceed approximately 3 miles east on Border Road to the bridge over the Myakka River. As you approach the bridge, the Sleeping Turtles Preserve North parking lot will be on the left (north side), immediately before the bridge.
Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'. On the bottom of each nature walk is an area that states 'Click here for registration.' Space for this walk is limited to 20.

Your feedback on our performance is an important and valued part of our improvement process and would greatly appreciate your participation in a brief post event survey regarding the nature program you attended. The survey will be emailed to you on the following week.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Explore Life in Lemon Bay With Us!

Get a little wet, have a little fun and learn a lot! Join American Littoral Society Biologist Chuck Idelberger on Saturday, June 11 from 9 - 11 AM on a search for marine life in Lemon Bay. Using hand and seine nets, you will search shallow waters and sea grass beds, observing, collecting, and discussing the natural history of some of the many interesting fishes and other animals that inhabit Lemon Bay. This event runs the second Saturday of each month this summer.

Participants should wear wading type shoes, a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, and bring a towel and drinking water. Prepare to get wet and muddy! All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

You may reach Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center, 570 Bay Park Blvd., Englewood by taking I -75 to Exit 193 (Jacaranda Boulevard), turn toward CR 765/Englewood/Venice, and traveling south 5.3 miles to Englewood Road (SR 776). Turn left on Englewood Road (SR 776) (4.1 miles), turning right onto Old Englewood Road (1 mile), turning a slight right onto Kilbourne Avenue to the first right onto Morrison Avenue then the first left onto Curtis Boulevard, then the first right onto Brengle Avenue and the park entrance will be straight ahead.
Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'. On the bottom of each nature walk is an area that states 'Click here for registration.' Space for this walk is limited to 10.

Your feedback on our performance is an important and valued part of our improvement process and would greatly appreciate your participation in a brief post event survey regarding the nature program you attended. The survey will be emailed to you on the following week.

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"Discovering Insects and Their Ways" – A guided insect identification walk at Curry Creek Preserve

Sarasota County is offering a guided insect identification nature walk at Curry Creek Preserve in Venice from 9 - 11 AM on Friday, June 24, 2011. Sarasota County Extension Entomologist, Dr. Fred Santana, will lead participants through pine flatwoods and oak hammocks describing the little known insect denizens of the Preserve and introducing them to the insect diversity of nature and the role insects play in our environment.
Curry Creek Preserve is one of many natural areas available through the county’s environmental lands program. In addition to a wide variety of native plant species, the preserve also provides habitat for gopher tortoises, bobcats and a wide variety of bird species.

Participants should wear long pants, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, drinking water, binoculars (optional), camera and a hand lens or magnifying glass (optional). All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

Participants can get to the Pinebrook Road EAST entrance to Curry Creek Preserve by taking I -75 to Exit 195 (Laurel Road). Go west on Laurel Road for approximately 0.3 miles and turn left at the traffic light onto Pinebrook Road heading south. Go 1.5 miles passing the traffic light at Edmondson Road and look for the preserve sign on the right. Slightly before you get to the preserve sign, turn right into the driveway directly across from Water Street and then bear left onto preserve property. Park on the grass to the south of the preserve sign and entrance. Participants will gather for the walk at the cable gate entrance.
Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'. On the bottom of each nature walk is an area that states 'Click here for registration.' Space for this walk is limited to 20.

Your feedback on our performance is an important and valued part of our improvement process and would greatly appreciate your participation in a brief post event survey regarding the nature program you attended. The survey will be emailed to you on the following week.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
DRAGONFLIES! at Deer Prairie Creek Preserve

Would you believe there are over 40 species of dragonflies and 12 species of damselflies that call Sarasota County home? Their vibrant colors and aerial antics can’t help but inspire our fascination. On Saturday, June 25, 2011, from 10 AM to noon, join Kathy and Don Hess, amateur odonatists, at Deer Prairie Creek Preserve (south entrance) in Venice on a journey to learn more about dragonfly and damselfly evolution, mating habits, life cycles and behavior, the specific local varieties and the magic that has enthralled human cultures for ages.

Deer Prairie Creek Preserve, a 6,439-acre preserve along the wild and scenic Myakka River, was purchased through a partnership between Sarasota County’s Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program and the Southwest Florida Water Management District. The preserve is one of many public preserves that have been made available to the public through the Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program.
Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes fit for a possible muddy trail; a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, drinking water, binoculars (Short focal length recommended), and camera with a zoom lens (optional). All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.
To reach the preserve located at 10201 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice, drive south from Sarasota along I-75 to Exit 191 toward US-41 / State College of Florida-Venice / North Port / Englewood / Gulf Beaches. Merge onto North River Road. Drive 5 ½ miles to Tamiami Trail South / US-41 S / FL-45 S, turn left on US-41. Drive 1.2 miles to turn around road. Make a u-turn here. You will see the sign and gate on your right at 10201 Tamiami Trail S, Venice. You may drive through this gate approximately 1 mile to the large parking lot near the lake.

Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks', and choose your event. Follow the instructions for registration. Space for this walk is limited to 15.

Your feedback on our performance is an important and valued part of our improvement process and would greatly appreciate your participation in a brief post event survey regarding the nature program you attended. The survey will be emailed to you on the following week.

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Become a “Little Naturalist” at Pocono Trail Preserve in a NEW Nature Program for Toddlers

“Looking for an alternative to the typical playgroup?” Then bring your toddler to connect with nature in fun, creative ways at Sarasota County Government’s exciting NEW nature program, The Little Naturalist.

The Little Naturalist, for children ages 18 – 36 months, is from 9:30 – 10:30 AM on Tuesday, June 28, 2011 at Pocono Trail Preserve. This program includes a short guided nature walk and strolling scavenger hunt followed by hands-on activities at three nature-themed Exploration Stations. The hour-long program will close with a theme snack and story. All participating children must be registered and accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.

Pocono Trail Preserve is one of many natural areas available through the county’s environmental lands program. The site contains forested hammocks, pine flatwoods and shoreline along Shakett Creek that provide habitat for osprey, migrating songbirds and wading birds.

Participants should wear comfortable weather-appropriate clothes, walking shoes that can get wet (no flip-flops!), bring a hat, sun screen, drinking water and camera (optional). All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.
Directions to Pocono Trail Preserve, 189 Pocono Trail, Nokomis: Take I-75 south to exit 200 (S.R. 681) toward Venice/Osprey. Merge onto U.S. 41 and travel 2.2 miles to Colonia Lane. Turn left on Colonia and left again onto Nash Avenue. Drive one block to Pocono Trail and park along the north road shoulder.

From the southern portion of the county, take I-75 north to exit 195 (Laurel Road) and travel west toward Laurel. Turn left onto U.S. 41 and drive south toward Venice. Turn left onto Colonia Lane and left again onto Nash Ave. Drive one block to Pocono Trail and park along the north road shoulder.

Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'. On the bottom of each nature walk is an area that states 'Click here for registration.' Please register the participating child’s first and last name. Please also include the child’s age in the NOTES section at the bottom of the registration form! Space for this walk is limited to no more than 15 children.

Your feedback on our performance is an important and valued part of our improvement process and would greatly appreciate your participation in a brief post event survey regarding the nature program you attended. The survey will be emailed to you on the following week.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Become a “Little Naturalist” at Pocono Trail Preserve in a NEW Nature Program for Preschoolers

“Looking for an alternative to the typical playgroup?” Then bring your preschooler to connect with nature in fun, creative ways at Sarasota County Government’s exciting NEW nature program, The Little Naturalist.

The Little Naturalist, for children ages 3 - 4 years old, is from 11 AM – Noon on Tuesday, June 28, 2011 at Pocono Trail Preserve. This program includes a short guided nature walk and strolling scavenger hunt followed by hands-on activities at four nature-themed Exploration Stations. The hour-long program will close with a theme snack and story. All participating children must be registered and accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.
Pocono Trail Preserve is one of many natural areas available through the county’s environmental lands program. The site contains forested hammocks, pine flatwoods and shoreline along Shakett Creek that provide habitat for osprey, migrating songbirds and wading birds.

Participants should wear comfortable weather-appropriate clothes, walking shoes that can get wet (no flip-flops!), bring a hat, sun screen, drinking water and camera (optional). All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.
Directions to Pocono Trail Preserve, 189 Pocono Trail, Nokomis: Take I-75 south to exit 200 (S.R. 681) toward Venice/Osprey. Merge onto U.S. 41 and travel 2.2 miles to Colonia Lane. Turn left on Colonia and left again onto Nash Avenue. Drive one block to Pocono Trail and park along the north road shoulder.

From the southern portion of the county, take I-75 north to exit 195 (Laurel Road) and travel west toward Laurel. Turn left onto U.S. 41 and drive south toward Venice. Turn left onto Colonia Lane and left again onto Nash Ave. Drive one block to Pocono Trail and park along the north road shoulder.

Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'. On the bottom of each nature walk is an area that states 'Click here for registration.' Please register the participating child’s first and last name. Please also include the child’s age in the NOTES section at the bottom of the registration form! Space for this walk is limited to no more than 15 children.

Your feedback on our performance is an important and valued part of our improvement process and would greatly appreciate your participation in a brief post event survey regarding the nature program you attended. The survey will be emailed to you on the following week.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Become a “Little Naturalist” at Pocono Trail Preserve in a NEW Nature Program for School Age Children

“Looking for an alternative to the typical playground?” Then bring your school age child to connect with nature in fun, creative ways at Sarasota County Government’s exciting NEW nature program, The Little Naturalist.

The Little Naturalist, for children ages 5 - 9, is from 1:30 – 2:30 PM on Tuesday, June 28, 2011 at Pocono Trail Preserve. This program includes a short guided nature walk and strolling scavenger hunt followed by hands-on activities at three nature-themed Exploration Stations. The hour-long program will close with a theme snack and story. All participating children must be registered and accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.
Pocono Trail Preserve is one of many natural areas available through the county’s environmental lands program. The site contains forested hammocks, pine flatwoods and shoreline along Shakett Creek that provide habitat for osprey, migrating songbirds and wading birds.

Participants should wear comfortable weather-appropriate clothes, walking shoes that can get wet (no flip-flops!), a hat, sun screen, drinking water and camera (optional). All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.
Directions to Pocono Trail Preserve, 189 Pocono Trail, Nokomis: Take I-75 south to exit 200 (S.R. 681) toward Venice/Osprey. Merge onto U.S. 41 and travel 2.2 miles to Colonia Lane. Turn left on Colonia and left again onto Nash Avenue. Drive one block to Pocono Trail and park along the north road shoulder.

From the southern portion of the county, take I-75 north to exit 195 (Laurel Road) and travel west toward Laurel. Turn left onto U.S. 41 and drive south toward Venice. Turn left onto Colonia Lane and left again onto Nash Ave. Drive one block to Pocono Trail and park along the north road shoulder.

Register on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Click the 'All Events' drop down list, choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'. On the bottom of each nature walk is an area that states 'Click here for registration.' Please register the participating child’s first and last name. Please also include the child’s age in the NOTES section at the bottom of the registration form! Space for this walk is limited to no more than 15 children.

Your feedback on our performance is an important and valued part of our improvement process and would greatly appreciate your participation in a brief post event survey regarding the nature program you attended. The survey will be emailed to you on the following week.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Join the Friends of The Legacy Trail for

National Trails Day at Shamrock Park

· Bicycle ride or walk on the trails of the park.

· Indoor nature walk starts at 9:00 where children learn about and make gopher tortoises, scrub jays, alligators and many other trail animals.

· The Friends of the Legacy Trail and other Friends of Sarasota County Parks will share information.

· Take a surrey ride.

· Everything is free including trail snacks!

Directions from Hwy 41 Tamiami Trail Venice Florida Go West on Shamrock Drive 1.5 miles Park entrance is on the right. For more info call 941-486-2706.

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From the UF/IFAS Sarasota County Extension Office
Free Rain Barrel workshops
All workshops will be from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
2011 Dates Location
June 18 North Sarasota Library
July 16 Twin Lakes Park
August 20 Woodmere Community Park
& Recreation Center
September 17 Twin Lakes Park
October 15 Englewood Sports Complex
November 19 Twin Lakes Park
December 17 North Sarasota Library

Locations
Englewood Sports Complex, 1300 South River Road, Englewood, FL 34223

North Sarasota Library, 2801 Newtown Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34234

Woodmere Community Park & Recreation Center, 3951 Woodmere Park Blvd., Venice, FL 34293

Twin Lakes Park, 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota, FL 34241

Sarasota County Environmental Services will sell rain barrels after the class for $37
each, including tax. Payment may be made by check or cash (exact change only).

Online registration required. Please register at sarasota.ifas.ufl.edu.

For questions regarding registration, please call the UF/IFAS Sarasota County Extension Office at 941.861.9900.

An Equal Opportunity Institution. Extension Service, University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Millie Ferrer-Chancy, Interim Director.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Living Smart
Starts at UF/IFAS Sarasota County Extension
• Fun and fascinating classes on Horticulture, Agriculture, Sustainability, Smart Growth, Family and Consumer Sciences, and Natural Resources
• Most classes are free!
• Offered at Twin Lakes Park, Phillippi Estate Park, and other locations throughout the county

For the latest class listing and to register, visit: sarasota.ifas.ufl.edu
Questions? Call 941.861.5000 and ask for Sarasota County Extension

Date Time Subject Place
June 2 2 PM Florida Snakes Shamrock Park
June 7 1 PM Florida Buggy Critters Twin Lakes Park
June 15 10 AM Alternatives to Turf Twin Lakes Park
June 15 1 PM Irrigation 101 Twin Lakes Park
June 15 4 PM Life on Scarlet Milkweed Twin Lakes Park
June 16 2 PM Butterfly Predators Shamrock Park
June 18 10 AM Rain Barrels North Sarasota Library
June 22 10 AM Hurricane Preparedness Twin Lakes Park
June 22 1 PM Storm Protection – Hurricane Shutters Twin Lakes Park
June 22 4 PM Partnering with Pollinators Twin Lakes Park
June 29 10 AM Landscape Design Twin Lakes Park
June 29 1 PM Chinch Bugs and White Grubs Twin Lakes Park
Registration is required.

For class description and online registration: http://sarasota.ifas.ufl.edu.
Click on Education Calendar or call 941.861.9900 for assistance.

Englewood Sports Complex: 1300 S. River Road, Englewood
Lauderbach Farm: 8315 Palmer Blvd., Sarasota
North Port Library: 13800 S. Tamiami Trail, North Port
North Sarasota Library: 2801 Newtown Blvd., Sarasota
Phillippi Estate Park Mansion: 5500 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
Twin Lakes Park: 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota
Shamrock Park: 3900 W. Shamrock Drive, Venice
Extension programs are open to all persons without regard to race, color, sex, age, disability, religion or national origin. All Extension Service events comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Individuals with disabilities requiring special accommodations, please inform the contact person for each event at least 72 hours prior to the event date.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Deborah Zeilman
Program Specialist
Sarasota County Government
Environmental Resource Management
Natural Resources
1001 Sarasota Center Boulevard
Sarasota International Trade Center area
(Off of Fruitville Road, East of I-75)
Sarasota, FL 34240
Phone 941-650-0696 Fax 941-861-6267
dzeilman@scgov.net

New FOSCP Initiative for Parks

2011-05-17T13:42:00.000-04:00

Inaugural Dragon Boat Festival Sat. May 7th

2011-05-03T22:16:00.002-04:00

COME PARTICIPATE IN SARASOTA'S INAUGURAL DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL - SATURDAY - MAY 7TH, 2011~BENDERSON PARK~NO COST~JUST YOUR COMMITMENT TO HAVE FUN and CAMARADERIE with fellow Sarasotans!

Join in the fun at Sarasota's Inaugural Dragon Boat Festival being held on Saturday May 7th, 2011 in Nathan Benderson Park. Teams are forming and we are looking for YOU! Be a part of a sport with deep rooted history and the fastestgrowing water sport in the world.

No experience necessary
Fun for all ages
Great for corporate team building
Excellent Fundraising opportunity

All you need for a team is 20 paddlers and a drummer (musical abilities not required). To learn more on how you, your company, your friends, and even your neighborhood can participate and experience all the action, fun, and the team camaraderie for yourself, contact info@panamdragonboat.com.

More about dragon boat Racing:

How to Form a Dragonboat Team

2011 Team Registration

Sarasota Flier

Regatta needs volunteers

2011-04-25T10:21:00.000-04:00

A note from Terry Redman of Friends of Sarasota County Parks (FOSCP)

-- if you are looking for fun, excitement plus helping in this
community event -- please give me a call at 468-2222. We will need over
50 volunteers this weekend -- can you do a two hour shift? -- free
snacks for the volunteers -- Benderson Park on the corner of 75 and
Cattleman. Hope to see you there -- please send this on to others.
Thanks TR 468-2222