Upcoming Events
UF/IFAS Extension Hernando County
Want to stay informed about upcoming classes? Sign up for our mail list.
Many of our classes are free to the public, but some may include a small registration fee to cover costs.
Bugs That Bite, Sting or Taste You
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Lilly, Browning, Dr. Bill Lester, and Karen Mojica from Mosquito Control will present the insects in our area that require caution to be around. Learn about the steps you can take to reduce your chances of being bitten, stung or tasted!
Join Zoom Meeting
hernandoclerk.zoom.us/j/97791154275?pwd=MEdQREhQLy9QaVBRbGloQStjVWZIQT09
Meeting ID: 977 9115 4275
Passcode: 656875
Horseshoe Crab Citizen Science Training
Volunteers must register through this link to participate: 2021crabs.eventbrite.ca
Linked with Limulus! Did you know that horseshoe crabs are important ecologically and economically? Their blood is used to ensure sterility of medical equipment and their eggs serve as an important food source for migrating birds.
Since 2015, The University of Florida has partnered with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to better understand horseshoe crab populations in Florida. This effort has expanded throughout many locations along Florida's coast and we need your help!
Want to help us located tagged horseshoe crabs in the Big Bend Region? We are looking for volunteers to help us scout during their spawning times in March, April, and May.
All volunteers must complete the online training and the in-person equipment training session.
Online training must be completed before the in-person session. The online portion can be completed at a time that is convenient to you and from your personal computer. In-person equipment training session is scheduled to occur on February 24, 2021. Volunteers will be provided with time slots to register for what works best for them.
More information will be provided to volunteers that register for the program. If you have any questions, please contact Brittany Scharf (bhallscharf@ufl.edu).
This is a free event.
The University of Florida is an equal opportunity Institution.
Photo Credit: Alice Mary Herden
So You Have 5 Acres- Essentials For Starting Your Own Farm
Are you interested in starting your own small agricultural operation on your property but not sure where to start? Join Matt Smith with UF/IFAS Extension as he goes over all the basics you need to know. Free class on Zoom, but registration is required: ufl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJIrcOirpjgoGNHPps-PZeUeh2Npj0gAZAcE Plenty of time for all your questions so register today!
The Virtual Plant Clinic With Dr. Bill
Tune in to our weekly plant clinic, ask questions live online and get research-based answers and advice- now weekly on Facebook Live and YouTube Live! Joining us this week will be Lilly Browning with the Florida-Friendly Landscape Program in Hernando County. You can find us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/HernandoExt/posts/4037613039624216 or on YouTube Live at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=PP1ykGQ_XV0
Watch past broadcasts on our new Podcast platform at: anchor.fm/william-j-lester
So You Have 5 Acres- Pasture Management For Livestock And Horses
Are you interested in starting your own small agricultural operation on your property but not sure where to start? Join Laura Bennett with UF/IFAS Extension as she goes over all the basics you need to know for pasture management. Free class on Zoom, but registration is required:
ufl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJwpcOusrjMqEtaCa_x4WveHJ-ve_qV7_Rxs Plenty of time for all your questions so register today!
Seminario sobre el pez león, un pez nativo de la región Indio-Pacifico Tropical que se ha convertido en una amenaza para los ecosistemas marinos de Florida. En este seminario se enfocará en la biología del pez león y como usted puede ayudar a controlar su expansión.
Armando J. Ubeda es una agente de extensión de Florida Sea Grant UF/IFAS en el condado de Sarasota. Armando es un biólogo marino con especialidades en ecología marina, pesquería, y manejo y conservación de recursos marinos. Su programa de extensión se enfoca en pesca sostenible, conservación de recursos marino-costeros, prevención de desechos marinos, arrecifes artificiales, costas vivas, y en el programa de maestros naturalistas de Florida.
On Line
Last year, when the pandemic began, we took a walk on the wild side with a local newspaper to become familiar with spring wildflowers that grow in our area. In this program, we will rediscover those feisty little bloomers and talk about their benefits to pollinators and our natural resources.
Join Zoom Meeting
hernandoclerk.zoom.us/j/94235278327?pwd=dEVuZUlGa2hKWFVITTd4aTA3QUZzUT09
Meeting ID: 942 3527 8327
Passcode: 056177
Bite-sized Science: What Causes Fish Kills in Coastal Waters
Virtual
When: Thursday, March 4
Time: 4:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Registration required through this site: ufl.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_ypeXZw_8QtejlpmogNTFTA
Fish kills in coastal waters can be a disturbing site. Learn what causes these occurrences to happen and what you should do if you see a fish kill.
Holly is the UF/IFAS Extension Sea Grant Agent in Brevard County. Her Extension program addresses timely and relevant coastal issues. Her program areas include adult and youth environmental education, boating and waterways, seafood sustainability and management, water quality protection and ecotourism education.
Florida-Friendly Landscapes Good Enough to Eat - Incorporating Edibles into Your Landscape
on line
You can incorporate vegetables, fruits and herbs into any size or shape landscape. Learn how to have a beautiful, environmentally friendly, practical and delicious landscape!
Join Zoom Meeting
hernandoclerk.zoom.us/j/93139826770?pwd=cittTFFOQy9NbVU1N1pLMWg5Ti83QT09
Meeting ID: 931 3982 6770
Passcode: 973958
Virtual
When: March 15 - 17, 2021
Time: 9:00am - 12:30pm
Where: Microsoft Teams platform (live classroom)
Cost: $100
Registration required through this site: virtualdronemarch.eventbrite.ca
Did you know you need a certificate (license) through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) when a drone is operated professionally?
This virtual course is designed to help prepare those who want to incorporate drones into their professional career and need to pass the FAA Part 107 knowledge test.
Course will cover regulations, airspace, sectionals, weather and performance, restricted areas, airport operations, and communication. Practice tests will be provided.
Books and class activity kit will be mailed directly to the address of the individual registered for the course prior to the start of the course. Cost of these items are covered in the course registration fee. Registration will close March 8, 2020, at 10:00 a.m. to give time for course materials to arrive via postal service.
This course is taught by Brittany Scharf, Stacy Strickland, Kalan Taylor, and Matt Smith. For questions regarding the course, contact Brittany at bhallscharf@ufl.edu
Note: This course does not teach participants how to fly a drone and does not cover the cost of the FAA Part 107 knowledge test.
The Foundation for the Gator Nation. An Equal Opportunity Institution.
Spring Cleaning Your Landscape
It is finally safe to clean out all of the frozen winter plant material and allow the blooms of spring and summer to brighten our yards. This class will discuss pruning, recycling plant material, replanting, mulch, mowing, and more.
Join Zoom Meeting
hernandoclerk.zoom.us/j/96288743960?pwd=Y0YrQXdWeldpTTE3TGNEVkNvNXdkQT09
Meeting ID: 962 8874 3960
Passcode: 523745
On LIne
Bees, butterflies and so much more! Learn how to build a pollinator oasis that will welcome all of our pollinating friends.
Join Zoom Meeting
hernandoclerk.zoom.us/j/92715085277?pwd=Z3pMcU1zV2hQbG1LMzY3V0xtLzM3QT09
Meeting ID: 927 1508 5277
Passcode: 681889
Five Common Gardening Mistakes - Don't Throw in the Trowel
On LIne
Dr. Bill Lester and Lilly Browning will discuss the 5 most common mistakes that frustrate Central Florida gardeners, how to overcome them and begin to enjoy their Florida-Friendly retreat.
Join Zoom Meeting
hernandoclerk.zoom.us/j/92865716715?pwd=Q3ZTbTRpQnFXTG5OS1BQcTFvQzlzQT09
Meeting ID: 928 6571 6715
Passcode: 228671
Bite-sized Science: Barotrauma Mitigation Techniques
Virtual
When: Thursday, April 1
Time: 4:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Registration is required through this site: ufl.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2I5THpX1Tr20nvKCsGEjWg
This presentation will explain what barotrauma is and ways it can be prevented. It will cover where/why the different barotrauma prevention devices/techniques were created, their benefits/why are they important, and the pros/cons of using one over the other (venting, inverted hook, clamp and crate).
Mike is the UF IFAS Extension Sea Grant Agent for Collier County. His programs focus on delivering educational materials regarding sustainable fisheries, fisheries enhancement, water quality and environmental literacy. He is a native Southwest Floridian and enjoys fishing, spearfishing, diving, kayaking and more. Michael is also an avid aquarist and keeps both fresh and saltwater aquariums.
Bocados de ciencia-Criaturas de las profundidades del mar
Seminario sobre criaturas de la zona abisal de los océanos, sobre su biología, adaptaciones, amenazas, entre otros.
Armando J. Ubeda es una agente de extensión de Florida Sea Grant UF/IFAS en el condado de Sarasota. Armando es un biólogo marino con especialidades en ecología marina, pesquería, y manejo y conservación de recursos marinos. Su programa de extensión se enfoca en pesca sostenible, conservación de recursos marino-costeros, prevención de desechos marinos, arrecifes artificiales, costas vivas, y en el programa de maestros naturalistas de Florida.
virtual
When: Thursday, April 8
Time: 4:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Registration is required through this site: ufl.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_QPDAt4W8SiSC7-XGRXY2fA
You will learn about the life history and habits of seahorses, as well as the international trade of this group of fishes.
Shelly is the Florida Sea Grant agent for the UF/IFAS Extension, Monroe County in the Florida Keys. Shelly is a marine biologist and loves teaching people about Florida's coastal environments.
Bocados de ciencia-Los Faros del sureste de la Florida
Historía sobre la necesidad de installar faros por el océano Atlantico.
Ana Zangroniz es la Agente de Florida Sea Grant en el condado de Miami-Dade, administrada por la Universidad de Florida (UF/IFAS). Su trabajo es dar información científica sobre asuntos marinos a sus proprios clientes, para mejorar el ambiente natural y también promover oportunidades económicas en el condado. Ana tiene su maestría de la Universidad de Miami. En su tiempo libre, le encanta bailar salsa, bucear por los arrecifes corales en la Florida, y viajar a otros paises.
Bite-sized Science: It Don't Mean a Thing if You Ain't Got that Sting!
Virtual
When: Thursday, April 15
Time: 4:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Registration required through this site: ufl.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_TWGMYBMpRjyGJAxwzfCR4A
There are over 15 different species of stingray commonly observed in Florida’s waters. Although sting may sound ominous, these “flat sharks” are not aggressive. Stingrays are ecologically and economically important – not to mention incredibly fascinating! Join us to learn more about stingrays in Florida waters and beyond.
Angela is the regional UF/IFAS Extension Sea Grant agent based in Manatee County. Her extension programs focus on fisheries, sustainable fishing practices, and clam aquaculture.
Bocados de ciencia-Cangrejo de Herradura
Seminario sobre el cangrejo de herradura, un invertebrado fascinante que no solo es sumamente importante en los ecosistemas estuarinos, pero también por su aporte a la medicina. Este seminario se enfocará en la biología, amenazas, estado de conservación, y programas de monitoreos con voluntarios en los cuales usted puede participar.
Armando J. Ubeda es una agente de extensión de Florida Sea Grant UF/IFAS en el condado de Sarasota. Armando es un biólogo marino con especialidades en ecología marina, pesquería, y manejo y conservación de recursos marinos. Su programa de extensión se enfoca en pesca sostenible, conservación de recursos marino-costeros, prevención de desechos marinos, arrecifes artificiales, costas vivas, y en el programa de maestros naturalistas de Florida.
Bite-sized Science: Aquaponics in Florida
Virtual
When: Thursday, April 22
Time: 4:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Registration required through this site: ufl.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Jz-gBe96SzGd6bSzkR2y-w
Join us for an update on aquaponic initiatives, hobby-scale and commercial in Florida
Laura is the UF/IFAS Extension Sea Grant agent for Okaloosa and Walton Counties in the Florida panhandle. Her areas of expertise include aquaculture, water quality and marine resource conservation.
Bocados de ciencia-El increible mundo de los Equinodermos
Muchas veces subestimados, los equinodermos (erizos y estrellas de mar) juegan un papel muy importante en el equilibrio de los ecosistemas marino costeros. Aprenda sobre los diferentes tipos de equinodermos y sus increibles adaptaciones al medio marino.
Victor Blanco es el Agente de Extensión de Asuntos Marinos en el Condado de Taylor, para Florida Sea Grant y la unidad de Extensión de la Universidad de Florida (UF/IFAS). Victor es biólogo marino egresado de la Universidad de Oriente en Venezuela. Actualmente cursa el Master en Pesquerías y Ciencias Acuáticas de la Universidad de Florida.
Bite-sized Science: Ocean Renewable Energy
virtual
When: Thursday, April 29
Time: 4:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Registration is required at this site: ufl.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_V6LNV_VfQxCSU4aPvCeotQ
The forces of the seas and ocean have the capacity to generate all the energy demanded by the planet. Learn about some of the technologies that are being developed to "harvest" ocean energy and combat climate change.
Victor is the UF/IFAS Extension Sea Grant agent in Taylor County. His extension programs focus on promoting the sustainable use of natural resources in coastal areas.
Bocados de ciencia-Aspectos básicos de las energías renovables oceánicas
Las fuerzas de los mares y océanos tienen la capacidad de generar toda la energia demandada por el planeta. Conozca algunas tecnologías que se desarrolan para "cosechar" la energía oceánica y combatir el cambio climático.
Victor Blanco es el Agente de Extensión de Asuntos Marinos en el Condado de Taylor, para Florida Sea Grant y la unidad de Extensión de la Universidad de Florida (UF/IFAS). Victor es biólogo marino egresado de la Universidad de Oriente en Venezuela. Actualmente cursa el Master en Pesquerías y Ciencias Acuáticas de la Universidad de Florida.
Bite-sized Science: Sharks of Florida
virtual
When: Thursday, May 6
Time: 4:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Registration is required through this site: ufl.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_YzRodK8uQ3GRe1aqKORfEQ
In this webinar, you will learn about our most common Florida sharks, their ecology, conservation status, threats, and fishing regulations.
Armando is a UF/IFAS Extension Sea Grant agent in Pinellas County. His extension programs focus on artificial reefs, water quality/quantity, fisheries and marine resource conservation.
UF/IFAS Extension Hernando County is a partnership between the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, United States Department of Agriculture, and Hernando County Board of County Commissioners and our mission is to provide science based knowledge and expertise to the public.