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Sunset Tai Chi at the NEST Second Mondays 6:30 PM

EcoEvents: Outdoor Education Programs & Events Calendar

All of our public events are open to individuals and their family members. For large groups, we ask that each family register individually. If you have a school, camp, club, or other group that would like to participate in a program, please contact [email protected] to set up a private program.

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November 2023 Calendar of Events 

Download a printable version of the November Calendar of Events

Tuesday, Nov 21st, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PMBoard Game Night – Thanksgiving is all about family time and what is more family than Board Game Night! Drop into the building for an evening of table-top gaming fun! Borrow a nature-themed game from our game library or bring your favorite game from home. Meet new people and try something new. Role-playing games such as Dungeons and Dragons are welcome too. We only ask that all content and conversations remain family-friendly. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Friday, Nov 24th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMNative American Heritage Day TourJoin us for a guided tour around the largest temple mound of the Tampa Bay area and discover for yourself what life was like for Native Americans on Snead Island. Learn about tools of the past and the early history of Emerson Point Preserve. Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/741738859897/. Emerson Point Preserve

Wednesday, Nov 29th, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AMBird Songs of The NEST – Have you heard the chaotic song of a mockingbird? Or the shrill call of an eagle? Join us for a new program series to listen for birds and learn the basics of bird song identification. This month, we will stroll the grounds around the NEST to discover a new appreciation for the sounds of our feathered friends! Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/739397837837. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6036. Robinson Preserve – The NEST Grounds

Wednesday, Nov 29th, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PMFlorida's First People - Family Program – Embark on an educational tour through time as we delve into the rich history of Florida's first people: the Indigenous, European, and American settlers who shaped this remarkable region. We will discover their techniques for survival in a time before electricity, the Internet, and cars. Through hands-on activities and discussion, we will explore their legacy and impact on the land. Program suitable for children and their families. Program sponsored by Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast in partnership with Manatee County. Participants should bring a water bottle and wear clothing appropriate for the weather. We recommend sun protection, bug spray, and closed-toe shoes, no flip-flops. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/731296667017. Neal Preserve

Thursday, Nov 30th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMGreen Explorers: Feathered Friends – Bird is the word this month. Come to Neal Preserve to discover the feathered friends who call this coastal gem home. Learn about their diet and songs, and search the habitats for these wild, winged wonders. Green Explorers is a low-structured, highly social, and experienced-based activity. Program suitable for 6- 12-year-olds, but all ages welcome. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected]. Neal Preserve

December 2023 CALENDAR OF EVENTS 

Download a printable version of the December Calendar of Events 

Saturday, Dec 2nd, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMMaster Gardener Tour: Emerson PointCasually stroll through the beautiful Emerson Point Preserve with a Master Gardener Guide and learn about Florida's native plants and inhabitants of a coastal environment. Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by UF IFAS Extension Master Gardener Program in partnership with Manatee County. Please meet at the first parking area on the RIGHT at the Observation Tower (not at the Ranger Station) at 9 AM. Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes for walking on uneven terrain. Bring a water bottle, sun and insect protection. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/706753417497. For more information please contact [email protected]. Emerson Point Preserve – Tower Parking Lot

Saturday, Dec 2nd, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM & 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMYouth Archery– Set your sights on the exciting outdoor activity of archery! This program will provide participants with basic archery instruction, familiarization with archery equipment, and instruction in shooting techniques that create successful archers. All equipment will be provided for use. Program is suitable for children ages 6 to 16. Program sponsored by the Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in partnership with Manatee County. Two identical sessions are offered.  Please register for only one session each month. Reservations are required.
Session 1:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/754777799717.
Session 2:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/754777107647.
For more information please
contact [email protected]. Rye Preserve – Pavilion

Saturday, Dec 2nd, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMSaturday Mornings at the NEST – Join us at the Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology for a morning of discovery. Walk the grounds of the historic Reasoner Tract and observe botanical giants collected from around the world. Explore the canopy boardwalk among the banyans, climb to the top of the crow’s nest, take in breathtaking panoramic views, and make an exciting exit from the building via slide. Learn about upcoming programs and exciting new additions to Robinson Preserve. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Saturday, Dec 2nd, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PMJiggs Landing Holiday Boat Parade – Jiggs Landing Outpost will host an Old Florida holiday boat parade on the Evers Reservoir and Braden River Boat decoration starts at noon with a backdrop of live music from 11 am to 7 pm. The parade starts at sunset. Spectators can bring a lawn chair and set up waterside or rent a screened tent. Event suitable for all ages. Reservations not required. For more information, please visit www.jiggslanding.com or call (941) 727-4181. Jiggs Landing

Wednesday, Dec 6th, 8:00 AM – 10:00 AMManatee Audubon Society Birding Tour: Emerson PointSearch the skies for Florida’s fabulous fliers! Our Audubon guide will lead participants on a tour through Emerson Point’s coastal hammock and mangrove habitats. Check out the “locals” as well as the migratory birds that are wintering here. Program suitable for adults. Program sponsored by Manatee County Audubon Society in partnership with Manatee County. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected] or call (941) 592-7622. Emerson Point Preserve – Ranger's Station

Thursday, Dec 7th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMCreature Feature: Orb Weaver Spider – Zoom into the natural world and focus on one wonderous animal species. Discover the identifiable movements and features of the wildlife and their favorite habitats to haunt. Then venture into one of Manatee Counties' preserves with your homeschooler to track the featured creature in the wild. This month, creep through Neal Preserve in hunt of the fierce hunter- orb weever spiders. Program suitable for 5-year-old and up. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected]. Neal Preserve

Saturday, Dec 9th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMMaster Gardener Tour: Riverview PointeCasually stroll through to enjoy the beautiful Riverview Pointe Preserve with a Master Gardener Guide and learn about Florida's native plants and inhabitants of a coastal environment. Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by UF IFAS Extension Master Gardener Program in partnership with Manatee County. Tour begins in the parking area of DeSoto National Memorial Park and enters into Riverview Pointe Preserve. Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes for walking on uneven terrain. Bring a water bottle, sun and insect protection. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/715490971757. For more information please contact [email protected]. Riverview Pointe Preserve – Parking at DeSoto National Memorial

Saturday, Dec 9th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMSaturday Mornings at the NEST – Join us at the Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology for a morning of discovery. Walk the grounds of the historic Reasoner Tract and observe botanical giants collected from around the world. Explore the canopy boardwalk among the banyans, climb to the top of the crow’s nest, take in breathtaking panoramic views, and make an exciting exit from the building via slide. Learn about upcoming programs and exciting new additions to Robinson Preserve. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Saturday, Dec 9th, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PMChristmas in Cortez – Have a merry time at the Maritime! Visit the Manatee County Natural Resources outreach booth at this FREE family festival. Enjoy games, holiday-themed crafts, and more, plus a special visit with Santa! Program suitable for all ages. Parking is available at the FISH Preserve, directly east of the Florida Maritime Museum on Cortez Road. No reservations required. Florida Maritime Museum

Monday, Dec 11th, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PMSunset Tai Chi at the NEST – Join us for this monthly class at the NEST! At sunset on the second Monday of the month, Dr. Brian Nell, a certified Tai Chi instructor, will lead the group through the gentle movements of Tai Chi. This is a great way to shake off the stressful work week. Improve your balance, loosen your joints, and improve flexibility as you relax and breathe. This class is perfect for beginners and will include an exploration of several different styles of Tai Chi and Qigong. This class is held rain or shine. Program suitable for adults. Program sponsored by Cypress Pillar Healing Arts in partnership with Manatee County. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://parks.mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search.html?
primarycode=100004
. For more information please contact [email protected]. $10 Registration Fee Payable Online. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Tuesday, Dec 12th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMWildlife Spotlight: Pelicans – Join us at the Robinson Preserve Expansion to observe our migratory and resident pelicans. Discover fascinating facts about pelican behavior and their vital role in the ecosystem. Learn about conservation efforts aimed at these beautiful birds and learn how you can make a positive impact on their future. Program suitable for adults. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/
753927335957
. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6036. Robinson Preserve – Expansion

Thursday, Dec 14th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMTreeTots Fuzzy & Smooth – Leaves can be fuzzy; leaves can be smooth. There are so many different textures that nature can have. Through hands-on activities, teach your wee one to discover the different textures found outside. Program suitable for newborns to 2-year-old. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/754799093407. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Thursday, Dec 14th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PMHomeschool Science Club: Holiday in the Sun – Snowy winters? Not in Florida! Join us to learn about some of the migratory wildlife who enjoy the sandy Florida winters as we explore, play games, and make a holiday craft. Program recommended for students ages 7-13 Homeschool Science Club explores scientific and natural concepts through games, crafts, and activities encouraging students to be active outdoors. Guardians are responsible for identifying the learning maturity of their child. Please note the location of this session. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://hsscrye.eventbrite.com. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. Rye Preserve – Pavilion

Thursday, Dec 14th, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PMWeeds and Seeds of the Past – Cattle, citrus, and many other common foods today were brought to Florida by the Spanish, so what were people eating before then? Join an FPAN archaeologist to learn more about native plants and animals that people were eating before the Spanish arrived in Florida which you can still find today! Program suitable for teens and adults. This is a lecture-style program that may not be suitable for small children. Program sponsored by Florida Public Archaeology Network in partnership with Manatee County. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/751200008447. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Friday, Dec 15th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PMHomeschool Science Club: Holiday in the Sun – Snowy winters? Not in Florida! Join us to learn about some of the migratory wildlife who enjoy the sandy Florida winters as we explore, play games, and make a holiday craft. Program recommended for students ages 7-13 Homeschool Science Club explores scientific and natural concepts through games, crafts, and activities encouraging students to be active outdoors. Guardians are responsible for identifying the learning maturity of their child. Please note the location of this session. Reservations required. To register please visit https://hsscemerson.eventbrite.com. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6044. Emerson Point Preserve – Pavilion

Saturday, Dec 16th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMRobinson Preserve Expansion Paddle – Join us for a relaxing guided paddle tour of the Robinson Preserve Expansion. Participants will get an up-close look at the newly created estuary habitats and learn about the incredible story of this important natural refuge for wildlife and people! Resident and migratory wading birds are frequently seen foraging and resting in the area, so don't forget to bring a camera. Program suitable for ages 16 and older. Children under 16 may attend with a parent or guardian in a tandem kayak. If you would like to borrow a kayak, please choose the "borrow a kayak" ticket type. Otherwise, participants must provide their own canoe, kayak, or SUP and safety gear, including a life jacket and whistle. All participants must wear a life jacket while on the water. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/749554276017. Robinson Preserve – North Entrance Kayak Launch

Saturday, Dec 16th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMSaturday Mornings at the NEST – Join us at the Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology for a morning of discovery. Walk the grounds of the historic Reasoner Tract and observe botanical giants collected from around the world. Explore the canopy boardwalk among the banyans, climb to the top of the crow’s nest, take in breathtaking panoramic views, and make an exciting exit from the building via slide. Learn about upcoming programs and exciting new additions to Robinson Preserve. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Saturday, Dec 16th, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PMStarry Night Astronomy – Join us for an astronomical extravaganza! Dozens of local astronomers will be set up in the Robinson Preserve Expansion with telescopes at the ready. Be sure to bring a sense of wonder and exploration as we view the skies through high-powered telescopes. Learn how to identify heavenly bodies, and how you can stargaze at home too. Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by Suncoast Stargazers in partnership with Manatee County. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://robinsonastronomy.eventbrite.com. Robinson Preserve – Expansion Parking Lot

Thursday, Dec 21st, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PMHoliday Crafting: Cookie Decorating – Get into the holiday spirit and join us at The NEST for Christmas Cookie decorating! With an array of ready-to-decorate cookies and a selection of icing, sprinkles, and edible embellishments, you'll have everything you need to create edible works of art. Each participant will take home six cookies to share with Santa or enjoy as a special sweet treat. Program suitable for all ages. Please add each child to your household prior to purchasing tickets. Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate allergy and dietary restrictions for this program. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://parks.mymanatee.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/iteminfo.html?Module=AR&FMID=70844363. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6036. $10 Materials Fee Payable Online. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Saturday, Dec 23rd, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMMaster Gardener Tour: Perico PreserveExplore one of Manatee County's coastal preserves with a Master Gardener Guide and learn about Florida's native plants, how they benefit wildlife, and how they can be used in the home landscape. Learn about the wide variety of ecosystems on display and how the preserve was transformed into what you see today. Program suitable for all ages. Program sponsored by Manatee County UF IFAS Extension in partnership with Manatee County. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/706692043927. For more information please contact [email protected]. Perico Preserve – Pavilion

Saturday, Dec 23rd, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMSaturday Mornings at the NEST – Join us at the Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology for a morning of discovery. Walk the grounds of the historic Reasoner Tract and observe botanical giants collected from around the world. Explore the canopy boardwalk among the banyans, climb to the top of the crow’s nest, take in breathtaking panoramic views, and make an exciting exit from the building via slide. Learn about upcoming programs and exciting new additions to Robinson Preserve. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Thursday, Dec 28th, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AMSeashell Shore Walk – Calling all beachcombers and seashell enthusiasts! Join us for a relaxing walk on the beach to search for seashells and learn to identify them. This program will explore what makes mollusks unique and the amazing adaptations that help them to survive in the wild. Learn about ethical seashell-collecting methods while discovering a new appreciation for our beautiful shorelines. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/753946051937. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6036. Coquina Beach South – Longboat Key Bridge

Thursday, Dec 28th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMLitter Cleanup at the NEST – Spend a few hours over the holidays giving back to nature by helping clean up around the NEST, under the Canopy Zone, and along the shorelines, where you can often catch a glimpse of rosette spoonbills, ospreys, eagles, and more. This is a great way for students to earn two service hours over the holiday break. Program suitable for all ages. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Please wear closed-toed shoes, bring a water bottle, and dress for the weather. All other materials will be provided. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6035. Robinson Preserve South – The NEST Grounds

Friday, Dec 29th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMEmerson Point Shoreline Cleanup – Give back this holiday season by helping to reduce our human impact on the oceans and the environment! Prepare to get muddy at this low-tide opportunity to clean the mangrove shoreline of this beautiful Preserve! This is a great way for students to earn two service hours over the holiday break. Program suitable for all ages. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Please wear closed-toed shoes, bring a water bottle, and dress for the weather. All other materials will be provided. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6035. Emerson Point Preserve – Pavilion #3

Friday, Dec 29th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AMNature Tales: Scutes, Scales, and Reptilian Tails – Does your kiddo enjoy stories and nature? Join us at Conservatory Park in Nature Tales. Meet monthly at Conservatory Park for an interactive story time, activities, and a walk in the great outdoors. This month, we will discover all the fierce and exciting reptiles in your Florida backyard. Program suitable for 8 year old and younger. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected]. Conservatory Park

Friday, Dec 29th, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMExplore Nature: Tower Talk – Visit the top of the tower at Robinson Preserve to take in the beautiful views of Tampa Bay! Stop by to chat with a naturalist and learn about the plants, animals, and history of the preserve. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations required. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6036. Robinson Preserve – Tower

Saturday, Dec 30th, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM & 10:30 AM – 11:30 AMRobinson Preserve Tram Tour – Immerse yourself in Robinson Preserve on our new electric tram tour. Join our knowledgeable guides to discover the history, wildlife, and ecosystems of this unique coastal gem. Gain a deeper understanding of this site's transformation from an empty farmland to a thriving nature preserve. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/753968689647. For more information please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6036. Robinson Preserve – North Entrance near Valentine House

Saturday, Dec 30th, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMSaturday Mornings at the NEST – Join us at the Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology for a morning of discovery. Walk the grounds of the historic Reasoner Tract and observe botanical giants collected from around the world. Explore the canopy boardwalk among the banyans, climb to the top of the crow’s nest, take in breathtaking panoramic views, and make an exciting exit from the building via slide. Learn about upcoming programs and exciting new additions to Robinson Preserve. Program suitable for all ages. No reservations required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Tuesday, Jan 2nd, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMCoquina Beach Cleanup – Give back this holiday season by helping to reduce our human impact on the oceans and the environment at this world-famous beach! Help staff cleanup remnants of New Year's fireworks before they end up polluting the Gulf. This is a great way for students to earn two service hours over the holiday break. Program suitable for all ages. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Please wear closed-toed shoes, bring a water bottle, and dress for the weather. All other materials will be provided. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6035. Coquina Beach South – South Entrance Coquina Large Pavilion

Thursday, Jan 4th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMAnna Maria Bayfront Park Beach Cleanup – Want to help reduce our human impact on the oceans and the environment and to make the world a better place? Join us for a couple of hours picking up litter at Anna Maria Bayfront Park! This is a great way for students to earn two service hours over the holiday break. Program suitable for all ages. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Please wear closed-toed shoes, bring a water bottle, and dress for the weather. All other materials will be provided. Reservations are required. To register please contact [email protected] or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6035. Anna Maria Bayfront Park – Large Pavilion

Thursday, Jan 4th, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PMGame Night at the NEST – The Holiday season is family time! What is more family than Board Game Night? Drop into the building for an evening of tabletop gaming fun! Borrow a nature-themed game from our game library or bring your favorite game from home. Meet new people and try something new. Role-playing games such as Dungeons and Dragons are welcome too. We only ask that all content and conversations remain family-friendly. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations not required. For more information please contact [email protected]. Robinson Preserve – Mosaic NEST

Kayaking with Manatee County

PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS FOR MANATEE COUNTY KAYAKS

In order to utilize one of Manatee County’s sit on top kayaks for a volunteer, Kayaking for Beginners, Kayaking for First Timers, or Beginner Level Kayak Trip, or to participate in any paddling program, participants:

  • Must be 16 years of age or older
  • Must not exceed the manufacturer’s weight limit for the vessel
  • Must have the ability to follow verbal and/or visual instructions independently while in the kayak
  • Must have the ability to respond to instructions and/or call out in the event of an emergency
  • Must have the ability to wear a properly fitted personal flotation device
  • Must have the ability to enter and exit the kayak independently or with the assistance of a companion
  • Must be able to move the kayak through the water independently in a stable manner and return it to the launching area
  • Must have the ability to breathe independently
  • Must have the ability to tolerate 60-80 degree Fahrenheit water and bright sunlight for 2 hours
  • Must have the ability to remain seated, maneuver, and balance independently while on the water

In order to utilize one of Manatee County’s sit on top kayaks for a summer camp program, participants:

  • Must be 9 years of age or older (note: age limit is lower as this program is specifically designed as a direct instructional for this age group; guide to paddler ratio is much lower)
  • Must not exceed the manufacturer’s weight limit for the vessel
  • Must have the ability to follow verbal and/or visual instructions independently while in the kayak
  • Must have the ability to respond to instructions and/or call out in the event of an emergency
  • Must have the ability to wear a properly fitted personal flotation device
  • Must have the ability to enter and exit the kayak independently or with the assistance of a companion
  • Must have the ability to breathe independently
  • Must be able to move the kayak through the water independently in a stable manner and return it to the launching area
  • Must have the ability to tolerate 60-80 degree Fahrenheit water and bright sunlight for 2 hours
  • Must have the ability to remain seated, maneuver, and balance independently while on the water

In the event of capsize for any program, one:

  • Must have the ability to get out from under the watercraft independently
  • Must have the ability to right oneself and remain face up in the water with the aid of a personal flotation device