Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

The weather is as close to perfect as we can get, so be sure to get outside and enjoy!  We are pleased to offer you many outdoor options for the month of December, hopefully enticing you to go outside and enjoy our beautiful county.

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

 

Sarasota County is offering a guided insect identification nature walk at Pinelands Reserve in Nokomis from 9:30 – 11:30 AM on Friday, December 2, 2011. Sarasota County Extension Entomologist Dr. Fred Santana will lead participants through diverse vegetation communities, including pine flatwoods, upland mixed forests and other habitats found on site.

 

This 6,151-acre reserve was purchased in 1985 to provide adequate buffers for surrounding lands, to allow for the construction of the Central County Solid Waste Disposal Complex, to provide suitable areas for mitigation, and to protect native habitats. Visitors can also observe gopher tortoises, bald eagles, roseate spoonbills, and an assortment of song and wading birds.

 

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 Pinelands Reserve, 4000 Knights Trail Road, Nokomis: Take I -75 to Exit 195 (Laurel Road). At the end of the exit ramp, turn east onto Laurel Road and drive approximately 0.3 to 0.6 miles depending on which of the northbound or southbound ramps was used. At the traffic light at Knights Trail Road, turn left onto Knights Trail Road.  Drive approximately 4.6 miles, entering through the gates of the Pineland Reserve and Central County Solid Waste Complex. Park in the lot in front of the peach Administrative Building.

 

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.

 

Learn more about Sarasota County Natural Lands and Parks at http://www.discovernaturalsarasota.org.

 

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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, December 3, 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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Bike Hike Escapades with Larry and Jeff at the Carlton Reserve

 

Seeking experienced adults that are ready for a challenging off-road adventure through the beautiful but rugged T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Memorial Reserve (Carlton Reserve). On Sunday, December 4, 2011from 8:00 am for approximately 3 to 5 hours join Sarasota County and Carlton Reserve volunteers Larry Robbins and Jeff King who will lead you on a ‘not for the faint of heart’ escapade with rewards - viewing lots of wildlife, enjoying the wild rugged trails and breathing in fresh air!

 

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 Exit 193 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! Expect a challenge. 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. Larry will also provide you the area to meet.

 

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Lunch and Learn at Phillippi Estate Park

 

Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalist, Jennifer Rogers, for a “Lunch and Learn” nature topic talk about ferns at Phillippi Estate Park on Tuesday, December 6, 2011, from 12:15 – 1 p.m.  After the talk we will take a short walk into the coastal hammock to look at the various species of ferns.

 

Participants are encouraged to bring their lunch to enjoy during the program. 

 

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, 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, turn left towards the parking lot next to the gazebo.  Meet in 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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Take a Walk from Field to Forest at South Venice Lemon Bay Preserve

 

Explore South Venice Lemon Bay Preserve with Sarasota County volunteers and Florida Native Plant Society members Al Squires and Denny Girard on Wednesday, December 7, 2011 from 9 – 11 AM. While guiding participants through scrub, flatwoods, and coastal woodlands bordering Lemon Bay, Denny and Al will also share information about native vegetation.

 

South Venice Lemon Bay Preserve 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, the preserve supports nesting bald eagles, Florida scrub jays and gopher tortoises, all protected animal species.

 

Participants may bring binoculars, sun screen, insect repellent, drinking water and camera (optional), and wear a hat and comfortable walking shoes for wet and sandy soil conditions.

 

You may reach South Venice Lemon Bay Preserve 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 onto Macon Road, and right on Osprey Road. Turn left onto Ocelot Road and park near the end of the street.  Meet at the intersection of Ocelot and Phorus Roads.

 

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, December 7th from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.  This walk is geared to novice birdwatchers.  Please meet at the amphitheater just north of the main building.  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 – meet at the Amphitheatre at 8 am.

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Early Bird Nature Walk at Shamrock Park

 

Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalist, Jennifer Rogers, for an early bird nature walk through upland scrub at Shamrock Park on Friday, December 9, 2011, from 8 – 9:30 a.m.  Guests will learn about scrub habitat and have a chance at seeing the resident Florida scrub jays.

 

Shamrock Park 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.

 

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, sunglasses or hat, and sunscreen. 

 

To reach Shamrock Park, 3900 Shamrock Drive, Venice, from the North, take I-75 South to Exit 200, SR 681 South toward Venice traveling approximately 3 miles to South Tamiami Trail/US 41. When SR 681 splits, head left to merge southbound on Tamiami Trail for approximately 2.7 miles to the Venice 41-Bypass.  At the 41-Bypass split, keep left onto the 41-Bypass continuing approximately 3.2 miles to Shamrock Drive. Turn right on Shamrock Drive traveling 1.6 miles to the park entrance on your right. Once in the park, continue past the basketball and tennis courts to the Nature Center.  Meet on the deck of the Nature Center.

 

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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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, December 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.

 

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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Estuarine Ecology of the Tidal Myakka River at Myakka Islands Point

 

Explore this preserve with retired Penn State biology professor and Sarasota County volunteer, Dr. Bill Dunson from 9 – 11 AM Saturday, December 10, 2011. During this two-hour walk, Dr. Dunson will engage participants in lively discussions of the ecological interactions in this unique combination of uplands and wetlands while hiking to the Myakka River.  Hikers will pass through pine flatwoods, scrubby flatwoods, coastal hammock and tidal salt marsh bordering the river, the terminus of the journey.

 

This 100-acre preserve was acquired by Sarasota County’s Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program in October 2006.  It is an important component in the protection of the Myakka River watershed. The region has historic associations with fishing, navigable waterways and Native American culture.

 

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

 

Participants can reach Myakka Islands Point, 1289 Campbell Street, North Port, by taking I -75 to Exit 191 (River Road). At the end of the exit ramp, turn south onto North River Road and drive approximately 5.5 miles to S. Tamiami Trail (US 41). Turn left (east) on to US 41 and travel 3.3 miles to S. Biscayne Drive. Turn right (south) onto S. Biscayne Drive and drive 0.9 miles to North Port Boulevard. Turn right (south) on to North Port Boulevard and at the “T”, turn right (west) onto Chancellor Boulevard. Drive 1 mile west on Chancellor Boulevard and turn left on to Campbell 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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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).

 

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Fire In the Natural Landscape:

What’s Good, What’s not so Good

 

On Tuesday, December 13 from 9 – 11 AM, come explore the less traveled paths of Manasota Scrub Preserve with Nancy Edmondson, Environmental Specialist with Sarasota County Natural Resources. Participants will learn about the function and ecological importance of fire in nature while identifying an assortment of grasses and wildflowers.

                  

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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Lunch and Learn at Shamrock Park

 

Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalist, Jennifer Rogers, for a “lunch and learn” nature topic talk at Shamrock Park on Thursday, December 15, 2011, from 12:15 – 1 p.m.  The nature topic talk will be about butterflies and their associated plants.  After the talk we will take a short walk through the demonstration gardens to search for butterflies.

 

Participants are encouraged to bring their lunch to enjoy during the program. 

 

Shamrock Park 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, from the North, take I-75 South to Exit 200, SR 681 South toward Venice traveling approximately 3 miles to South Tamiami Trail/US 41. When SR 681 splits, head left to merge southbound on Tamiami Trail for approximately 2.7 miles to the Venice 41-Bypass.  At the 41-Bypass split, keep left onto the 41-Bypass continuing approximately 3.2 miles to Shamrock Drive. Turn right on Shamrock Drive traveling 1.6 miles to the park entrance on your right. Once in the park, continue past the basketball and tennis courts to the Nature Center.  Meet on the deck of the Nature Center.

 

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 Thursday, December 15^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. Please meet at the amphitheater just north of the main building.  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 – meet at the Amphitheatre at 9 am.

 

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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, Saturday, December 17, 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, 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 required and 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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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, December 18, 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 Exit 193 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, December 18, 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! 

 

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.

 

The bicycle ride is approx. 3.5 miles in length.  Participants must bring their own bicycle and helmet. 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 send an email to jrogers@scgov.net.

 

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. 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. 

 

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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Know Your Niche Nature Walk at Phillippi Estate Park

 

Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalist, Jennifer Rogers, for a nature walk along the trails at Phillippi Estate Park on Tuesday, December 20, 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, contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask for Jennifer Rogers (jrogers@scgov.net).

 

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Become a “Little Naturalist” at the Carlton Reserve in a NEW Nature Program for Young Children

 

“Looking for an alternative to the typical playgroup?” Then bring your toddler or 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 2 – 4, is from 9:30 – 10:30 AM on Tuesday, December 27, 2011 at the T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Memorial Reserve. 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.

 

The T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Memorial 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 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.

To reach the reserve located at 1800 Mabry Carlton Parkway in Venice, drive south from Sarasota along I-75 to Exit 193 (Jacaranda Boulevard). Turn left (North) at the exit and then right at the next intersection (Border Road). Drive ~2 miles, drive across the bridge over the river and turn left at the stop sign at South Moon Drive. Turn left into the Carlton Reserve’s entrance. Follow signs to 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' 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 of the registration form! Space for this walk is limited to no more than 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.’

 

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Become a “Little Naturalist” at the Carlton Reserve 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 – 10, is from 11:00 a.m. to noon on Tuesday, December 27, 2011 at the T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Memorial Reserve. 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.

 

The T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Memorial 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 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.

 

To reach the reserve located at 1800 Mabry Carlton Parkway in Venice, drive south from Sarasota along I-75 to Exit 193 (Jacaranda Boulevard). Turn left (North) at the exit and then right at the next intersection (Border Road). Drive ~2 miles, drive across the bridge over the river and turn left at the stop sign at South Moon Drive. Turn left into the Carlton Reserve’s entrance. Follow signs to 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' 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 of the registration form! Space for this walk is limited to no more than 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.’

 

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Are There Any Winter Flowers Blooming at Manasota Scrub Preserve?

 

Plants, animals? Rosemary scrub!  Learn why it’s named Manasota Scrub Preserve. Enjoy a leisurely walk on the east side of the preserve looking for new flowers blooming. It’s a nature walk at Manasota Scrub Preserve, in Englewood, Wednesday, December 28, 2011 from 9-11 a.m., with amateur botanists and Florida Native Plant Society members Denny Girard & Al Squires.

 

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.

 

 

Sarasota County Extension Education December Schedule
Date	Time	Subject	Place

 

12/1	10:30AM			Nine Landscape Principles	Venice Library
12/1	2PM			Florida’s Buggy Critters: the Bad, Good, and Harmless	Shamrock Park
12/6	6:30PM			Creating Your Florida Yard	North Port Library
12/7	10AM			Edible Flowers from Your Garden	Twin Lakes Park
12/14	1PM			Termites	Twin Lakes Park
12/17	10:00AM			Rain Barrel Workshop	North Sarasota Library

 

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.

Englewood Sports Complex: 1300 S. River Road, Englewood

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

Venice Library: 300 Nokomis Avenue, S., 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.

 

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Phillippi Farmhouse Market Opens 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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