From Sarasota County for Nov. 2011:

(Registration info below the notices)

‘Lunch and Learn’ at Phillippi Estate Park

 

Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalist, Jennifer Rogers, for a “lunch and learn” nature topic talk at Phillippi Estate Park on Tuesday, November 1, 2011, from 12:15 – 1 p.m.  The lunch time nature topic talk will be about Florida’s butterflies and associated plants, so participants are encouraged to bring their lunch to enjoy at the gazebo. 

 

Phillippi Estate Park is a scenic, 60-acre natural area park located south of downtown Sarasota on the shores of Phillippi Creek. The park features environmental and historic attractions including the historic Edson Keith Mansion and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

 

To reach Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 South Tamiami Trail, from I-75, take Exit 205 (Clark Road). Travel west on Clark Road for approximately 5 miles to the intersection with US 41. Turn/Merge Right onto northbound Tamiami Trail (US 41) for 0.8 miles.  Turn left into the park entrance at the traffic signal for Constitution Blvd.  After entering the park, keep right towards the Edson Keith Mansion parking lot.  Meet at the gazebo. 

 

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).

 

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View the Carolina Aster at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North

 

Explore Sleeping Turtles Preserve North’s meandering canopied river trails with Sarasota County volunteers and Florida Native Plant Society members Al Squires and Denny Girard on Wednesday, November 2, 2011 from 9 – 11 AM. Along the way, view the Carolina Aster blooming. Al and Denny will 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.

 

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.

 

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.

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Lemon Bay Park Sunrise Bird Walks

 

Join Sarasota County Parks and Recreation staff and volunteers for a leisurely, guided bird walk on Wednesday November 2^nd from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.  This walk is geared to novice birdwatchers.  Binoculars and bird identification book are recommended, but not required. This event, which is held at the Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center, runs the first Wednesday of each month.

 

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.

 

No registration needed – Please meet at the amphitheater just north of the main building at 8 am.

 

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Phillippi Farmhouse Market re-opens November 2 for its third season.

The market occurs on Wednesdays from November 2 through April (the Southwest Florida growing season). Rain or Shine.  Market hours at 9 am until 2 pm.  There are over 50 vendors, featuring local grown fruits and vegetables, herbs and organic and hydroponic produce, as well as fresh cut flowers. The market also features locally prepared foods to eat picnic-style at the market while enjoying live music or to take home for an easy and delicious meal.  There are delicious locally baked goods as well as local handicrafts and specialty and sustainable goods.

Phillippi Farmhouse Market has ample parking, handicap accessibility and public restrooms.  For more information, please call 941-861-5000 or visit the Phillippi Farmhouse Market website at www.farmhousemarket.org.

To reach Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, 34231, from I-75, take Exit 205 (Clark Road). Travel west on Clark Road for approximately 5 miles to the intersection with US 41. Turn/Merge Right onto northbound Tamiami Trail (US 41) for 0.8 miles.  Turn left into the park entrance at the traffic signal for Constitution Blvd. 

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Strenuous Bike Hikes with Larry Robbins at the Carlton Reserve

 

Seeking experienced adult off-road bicyclists that are physically fit and ready for a challenge! Not for the faint of heart! Sarasota County and Carlton Reserve volunteer Larry Robbins will lead you on a strenuous bike adventure through the beautiful but rugged T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Memorial Reserve (Carlton Reserve) on Sunday, November 6, 2011 from 8:00 am for approximately 3 to 5 hours. Expect to see lots of wildlife!

 

The Carlton Reserve, located at 1800 Mabry Carlton Parkway in Venice, was purchased in the 1980's for public water supply source and for conservation/ recreation purposes.

Participants should bring their own (Off road/mountain trail type) bicycle with wide tires, spare tube, bike helmet (required for all participants), sun glasses, sun screen, insect repellent, snack, and plenty of drinking water. All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

 

To reach the Carlton Reserve, take I-75 to Exit 193 (Jacaranda Boulevard) or from US 41, Tamiami Trail, drive north on Jacaranda Boulevard. Drive north from the exit and then right at the next intersection (Border Road). Drive 2 ½ miles to the stop sign at South Moon Drive, turn left at the stop sign onto the Mabry Carlton Parkway, then turn right at the sign into the Carlton Reserve’s parking entrance. Follow signs to the parking lot which is on the right.

 

You MUST be an experienced ADULT off-road bicyclist and physically fit! NOT FOR THE FAINT OF HEART! Rain or shine, mud or sand, Larry is ready to go! Space for this ride is limited to 6 participants. Reservations are required and should be secured by calling Larry Robbins at 941-544-0555. He will also provide you the area to meet.

 

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"Discovering Insects and Their Ways" – A guided insect identification walk at Manasota Scrub Preserve

 

Sarasota County is offering a guided insect identification nature walk at Manasota Scrub Preserve in Englewood from 9:30 – 11:30 AM on Tuesday, November 8, 2011. Sarasota County Extension Entomologist Dr. Fred Santana will lead participants through pine flatwoods, oak scrub and other habitats found on site.

 

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' 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.

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Walk the Mesic and Scrubby Flatwoods to the Tidal Marsh at Curry Creek Preserve

 

Sarasota County is offering a guided walk at Curry Creek Preserve in Venice from 9 - 11 AM on Wednesday, November 9, 2011. Sarasota County Environmental Specialist, Jeff Weber, will introduce participants to a wide variety of plants, animals and habitats as they take a leisurely stroll along 1.5 miles of trails that wind through the preserve.

 

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 diverse assortment of bird species.

 

Participants should wear long pants, comfortable walking shoes, and bring a light jacket, a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, drinking water, binoculars, camera and hand lens (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, 1500 Pinebrook Rd., Venice, 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.

 

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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, November 12 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.

 

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.

 

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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, November 13, 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 1970 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 Rd., 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).

 

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Plants! Animals! A Nature Walk at Pocono Trail Preserve

 

Join Sarasota County Environmental Specialist Jeff Weber on Monday, November 14, 2011 from 9 - 11 AM as he leads participants on a nature hike from upland habitats to the shores of Shakett Creek at Pocono Trail Preserve in Nokomis. Along the way, participants will see a variety of plant and animal species including live oaks, eastern red cedars, cabbage palms, bracken ferns, osprey, wading birds and other wildlife common to the area.

 

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

 

Participants can reach Pocono Trail Preserve, 189 Pocono Trail, Nokomis by taking I-75 south to exit 200 (S.R. 681) toward Venice/Osprey. Merge onto U.S. 41 (south) and travel 2.2 miles to Colonia Lane. Turn left (east) onto Colonia Lane for 0.2 miles to Pocono Trail. Turn left (west) onto Pocono Trail and proceed past Bittner Boulevard and parallel park anywhere along the road shoulder alongside the wood mortise fence.

 

From the southern portion of Sarasota County, take I-75 north to exit 195 (Laurel Road) and travel west toward U.S. 41. Turn left onto U.S. 41 and drive 1.5 miles south toward Venice. Turn left (east) onto Colonia Lane for 0.2 miles to Pocono Trail. Turn left (west) onto Pocono Trail and proceed past Bittner Boulevard and parallel park anywhere along the road shoulder alongside the wood mortise fence.

 

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.

 

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“What is a Preserve?” – Come See and Learn at South Venice Lemon Bay Preserve

 

“What is a preserve?” Join Sarasota County Natural Resources Environmental Specialist Nancy Edmondson on Tuesday, November 15, 2011, 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at South Venice Lemon Bay Preserve to answer that query and more.

 

The preserve is one of many lands that are available through Sarasota County’s Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program. The preserve is home to numerous subtropical plants, as well as gopher tortoise, alligator and river otter.

 

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

 

Participants can reach South Venice Lemon Bay Preserve, 6200 Osprey Road, Venice by taking I -75 to Exit 193 (Jacaranda Blvd.). 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. Continue about a mile until the road curves left.  At the curve turn right onto Belvidere Road. Next turn right onto Pheasant Road, then left (west) onto Macon Road and take a left (south) on Osprey Road. Please park in the parking lot.

 

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 15.

 

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Know Your Niche Nature Walk at Phillippi Estate Park

 

Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalist, Jennifer Rogers, for a nature walk along the trails at the Phillippi Estate Park on Tuesday, November 15, 2011, from 8:00 - 9:30 a.m.  We will stroll along the shoreline then venture into the coastal hammock to learn about mangroves, epiphytes and the effects of exotic plants on native ecosystems. 

 

Phillippi Estate Park is a scenic, 60-acre natural area park located south of downtown Sarasota on the shores of Phillippi Creek. The park features environmental and historic attractions including the historic Edson Keith Mansion and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

 

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 Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, from I-75, take Exit 205 (Clark Road). Travel west on Clark Road for approximately 5 miles to the intersection with US 41. Turn/Merge Right onto northbound Tamiami Trail (US 41) for 0.8 miles.  Turn left into the park entrance at the traffic signal for Constitution Blvd.  After entering the park, keep right towards the Edson Keith Mansion parking lot.  Meet at the trailhead in the northeast corner of the paved parking lot. 

 

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

 

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‘Lunch and Learn’ at Shamrock Park

 

Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalists, Ed Wolfenbarger and Jennifer Rogers, for a “lunch and learn” nature topic talk at Shamrock Park on Thursday, November 17, 2011, from 12:15 – 1 p.m.  The lunch time nature topic talk will be about Gopher Tortoises. Participants are encouraged to bring their lunch and enjoy while listening. 

 

Shamrock Park and Nature Center contains some of the last remaining scrub habitat in the coastal area of Sarasota County and supports populations of Florida scrub jay and gopher tortoise.

 

To reach Shamrock Park, 3900 Shamrock Drive, Venice, take I-75 to Exit 200 SR 681 South toward Venice traveling approximately 3 miles to North Tamiami Trail/US 41. Turn left onto North Tamiami Trail for approximately 2.7 miles to the Venice Bypass continuing approximately 3.2 miles to Shamrock Drive. Turn right on Shamrock Drive traveling 1.7 miles to the park entrance on your right. Parking areas are a short walk to the Nature Center. Meet at the pavilion.

 

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).

 

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Lemon Bay Park Nature Walk Adventures

 

Join Sarasota County Parks and Recreation staff and volunteers on November 17^th from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. for a leisurely, guided nature walk through Lemon Bay Park’s many interesting habitats.  A variety of topics will be covered while strolling the trails of Lemon Bay Park. This event, which is held at the Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center, runs the third Thursday of each month.

 

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.

 

No registration needed – Please meet at the amphitheater just north of the main building at 9 am.

 

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"Discovering Insects and Their Ways" – A guided insect identification walk Red Bug Slough Preserve

 

Sarasota County is offering a guided insect identification nature walk at Red Bug Slough Preserve from 9:30 – 11:30 AM on Friday, November 18, 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.

 

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

 

To get to Red Bug Slough Preserve, 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 and exiting the Preserve and 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 'Click here for registration.' Space for this walk is limited to 20.

 

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Discover Native Plants and Wildflowers at Manasota Scrub Preserve

 

Sarasota County is offering a guided native plants and wildflower walk at Manasota Scrub Preserve in Englewood from 9 - 11 AM on Saturday, November 19, 2011. Sarasota County Volunteer guide and Florida Native Plant Society member, Jack Lyons, will lead participants through the Preserve’s pine flatwoods and all the flowers and fruits found within. Along the way, Jack will identify plant species, share his knowledge of botany, and tell the lore of the plants as well.

 

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 red-tailed hawks overhead.

 

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

 

Participants can reach Manasota Scrub Preserve, 2695 Bridge Street, Englewood by taking I -75 to Exit 193 (Jacaranda Boulevard), then traveling south 5.3 miles to Englewood Road (SR 776). Take Englewood Road (SR 776) south to Manasota Beach Road and turn west (right), then south (left) on Bridge Street.

 

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.

 

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Family Bike Adventures at the Beautiful Carlton Reserve

 

Got bikes? Grab the whole family to join Sarasota County and Carlton Reserve volunteer David Reynolds and his family for an off road wilderness bicycle ride through the beautiful T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Memorial Reserve (Carlton Reserve) on Sunday, November 20, 2011 from 10:00 a.m. for approximately 1 to 2 hours. Expect to see lots of wildlife!

 

The Carlton Reserve, located at 1800 Mabry Carlton Parkway in Venice, was purchased in the 1980's for public water supply source and for conservation/ recreation purposes.

 

Participants should bring their own bicycle suitable for off road riding - wide tires (Mountain bikes preferred, but not required), wear clothing applicable to riding bicycle on bumpy trails through the woods, closed-toed shoes, plenty of drinking water, sunscreen, insect repellant, sun glasses, helmet (required for all participants), padded bike gloves and binoculars (optional), and snacks/lunch (optional, but encouraged). All Sarasota County nature events prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

 

To reach the Carlton Reserve, take I-75 to Exit 193 (Jacaranda Boulevard) or from US 41, Tamiami Trail, drive north on Jacaranda Boulevard. Drive north from the exit and then right at the next intersection (Border Road). Drive 2 ½ miles to the stop sign at South Moon Drive, turn left at the stop sign onto the Mabry Carlton Parkway, then turn right at the sign into the Carlton Reserve’s parking entrance. Follow signs to the parking lot which is on the right.

 

Space for this event is limited to 12 participants. Pre-registration is required. Reservations should be secured by calling David Reynolds at 941-412-5575 for registration and meeting location. If you don't have an off-road type bike, bike rental information may be obtained from David at the time of registration. Must be able to ride an off road bicycle. Children must be accompanied by parent(s). Routes will vary depending on trail conditions and group participants on the day of the ride. (Be prepared that some trails may have unexpected feral hog damage making trails quite rough.)

 

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Rothenbach Ride Nature-Cycle at Rothenbach Park

 

Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalist, Jennifer Rogers, for a casual bicycle ride along the paved trail around Rothenbach Park on Sunday, November 20, 2011, from 8:30 -10:30 a.m.  Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the majestic oaks in the natural area of this multi-use park, learn about the hardwood hammock, as well as the closed landfill, and have a chance at seeing the often present white-tailed deer! The bicycle ride is approx. 3.5 miles in length.  

 

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 1970 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 clothes and shoes for bicycling.  Recommended items to bring are camera/binoculars, bird and/or Florida field guide, water, snacks, insect repellent, sun protection, and have the ability to carry such items. Participants must bring their own bicycle and helmet. 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. After entering the park, keep right towards the pavilion parking.  Meet at the Pavilion at Rothenbach Park. 

 

Pre-registration is required.  Space is limited and other requirements apply.  Pre-register by contacting the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and asking for Jennifer Rogers or email Jennifer at jrogers@scgov.net.

 

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From:  Bobbi Rodgers, Environmental Resources Manager

Re:      Guided Wildlife and Wildflowers Hike at South Venice Lemon Bay Preserve

 

For Immediate and Continuous Release

 

The public is invited to participate in a guided hike at South Venice Lemon Bay Preserve, 5472 Kenisco Road, Venice on Tuesday, November 22, 2011 at 9 am. This hike will take visitors through a brackish water wetland, a higher salinity mangrove and saltern area, scrubby flatwoods, and coastal woodlands bordering Lemon Bay. Participants may observe wildlife and wildflowers while learning about the importance of protecting watershed and water resources to provide habitat for flora and fauna. The guide will also provide a brief history of land acquisition, an explanation of non-point pollution and how it can affect our waters, and what can be done to protect our natural systems.

 

The preserve is one of many lands that are available through Sarasota County’s Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program. The preserve is home to numerous subtropical plants, as well as gopher tortoise, Florida scrub-jay, alligator and river otter. Smoking and pets are not permitted at South Venice Lemon Bay Preserve.

 

This guided hike is organized and conducted by the Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center (CHEC), a non-profit organization serving the community with environmental education, recreation, research and preservation.  Funding for this hike is provided by the Manasota and Peace River Basin Boards of the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

 

Further information, directions and registration can be obtained by calling (941) 475-0769.

 

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Hay Ride Adventures at the T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Memorial Reserve

 

Sarasota County volunteers and members of the Friends of the Carlton Reserve, National Audubon, Audubon Society of Kalamazoo, Venice Area Audubon Society, and Sanibel-Captiva Audubon, Photographer Bill Heyd and Carolyn Kuester will take you on a hay ride adventure that you won’t forget at the beautiful T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Memorial Reserve at 7:30 am to noon, Sunday, November 27, 2011. Expect to see lots of wildlife around each corner!  To further enhance the experience, you are invited to stay following the hayride, for a brief slide presentation at the Visitor’s Center, of images of birds and their behavior selected from Bill Heyd’s personal collection.

The T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Memorial Reserve was purchased in the 1980's for public water supply source and for conservation/ recreation purposes.

Participants should wear a hat, clothes and shoes that can get dusty; (long pants suggested) and bring sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent and drinking water.

To reach the reserve located at 1800 Mabry Carlton Parkway in Venice, take I-75 to Exit 193 (Jacaranda Boulevard). Turn (North) at the exit and then right at the next intersection (Border Road). Drive 2 ½ miles, across the bridge, over the river and turning left at the stop sign (South Moon Drive) and entering the Mabry Carlton Parkway, then turn right into the Carlton Reserve’s parking entrance. Follow signs to parking lot and restroom, and then follow arrows to equestrian parking lot. Please be on time!

                                                                                                        

You must be able to climb three steep steps to enter the hay wagon. Due to the nature of this activity – SMOKING is prohibited! (Please note:  All children, minimum age 5 years old, must be accompanied by a parent.) Reservations are requiredand should be secured by registering on-line at www.scgov.net. Click Calendar of Events on the left. Choose 'Nature Walks' and click 'go'. On the bottom of each nature event information is an area that states 'Click here for registration.' Space for this adventure is limited to 12 participants. Suggested $10 donation for the ride - all proceeds going to Friends of the Carlton Reserve.

 

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Sunday Stroll at Urfer Family Park

 

Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalist, Jennifer Rogers, for a Sunday Stroll nature walk at Urfer Family Park on Sunday, November 27, 2011, from 8 – 9:30 a.m.  Guests will have the opportunity to traverse a variety of habitats including herbaceous and forested wetlands, as well as pine flatwoods.  Feel miles away in this nearby park nestled in a residential area.

 

Urfer Family Park, located at 4000 Honore Ave., Sarasota is Sarasota County’s first Gold LEED certified park.

 

Participants should wear appropriate shoes for walking on both paved and uneven sandy trails.  Recommended items to bring are camera/binoculars, bird and/or Florida field guide, water, insect repellent, and sun protection.

 

To reach Urfer Family Park, take I-75 to Exit 207 Bee Ridge Road west to Honore Avenue, approximately .9 miles. Turn left on Honore Avenue. Park will be located on your immediate right with ample parking available after the entrance area. Participants should meet at the pavilion.

 

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).

 

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Plants! Animals! A Nature Walk at Red Bug Slough Preserve

 

Join Sarasota County Environmental Specialist Jeff Weber on Tuesday, November 29, 2011 from 9 - 11 AM as he leads participants on a nature hike through pine flatwoods and oak hammocks describing the plants and wildlife of Red Bug Slough Preserve.

 

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 is home to bobcats, an occasional river otter, and an assortment of bird species, including red-shouldered hawks, osprey, barred owls and wood ducks.

 

Participants should wear long pants, comfortable walking shoes, and bring a light jacket, a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, drinking water, binoculars, camera and hand lens (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. NOTE: Construction is currently taking place at Red Bug Slough Preserve’s entrance. Please use caution when entering and exiting the Preserve and 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 'Click here for registration.' Space for this walk is limited to 20.

 

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From:  Bobbi Rodgers, Environmental Resources Manager

Re:      Guided Hike to the Wild and Scenic Myakka River at Deer Prairie Creek Preserve

 

For Immediate and Continuous Release

 

The public is invited to participate in a guided hike at Deer Prairie Creek Preserve, 7001 Forbes Trail, in Venice on Wednesday, November 30 at 9 am. This 2 to 3 mile hike from the north entrance will take visitors through pine flatwoods, a small relic scrub, and mixed hardwood hammocks to the beautiful Myakka River.  Participants may observe wildlife and wildflowers while learning about the history and natural resources of the area.

 

This 6,400-acre preserve is a part of a joint acquisition between Southwest Florida Water Management District and Sarasota County. The depression marshes and wetlands provide essential habitat while improving water quality.

 

This guided hike is organized and conducted by the Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center (CHEC), a non-profit organization serving the community with environmental education, recreation, research and preservation.  Funding for this hike is provided by the Manasota and Peace River Basin Boards of the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

 

Further information, directions and registration can be obtained by calling (941) 475-0769.

 

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Take a Walk around the Lake at Sleeping Turtles Preserve South

 

Explore Sleeping Turtles Preserve South with Sarasota County volunteers and Florida Native Plant Society members Al Squires and Denny Girard on Wednesday, November 30, 2011 from 9 – 11 AM. Enjoy the preserve’s meandering lake 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 parcel is one of many public lands 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 or see evidence of bobcat and gopher tortoise.

 

Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a light jacket, a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, drinking water, binoculars (optional), camera and hand lens (optional).

 

Participants can reach Sleeping Turtles Preserve South, 2800 N. River Road, by taking I -75 to Exit 191 (North River Road exit), go south on North River Road approximately 1/4 mile and turn east (left). Park near the gate on the road shoulder. From Venice, take E. Venice Avenue to North River Road. Go north on North River Road. The preserve is on the east side of North River Road. Park and meet at the north gate.

 

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.

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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 'go'. Search the calendar for the event and date of your choice and click. Towards the bottom of each nature event calendar news release may have a bolded area for you to click for registration if applicable. 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 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 and Parks at http://www.discovernaturalsarasota.org.

 

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 at dzeilman@scgov.net or call 941-650-0696 to be removed. Thanks!

 

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