Nature news… guided walks, hands-on workshops, family-friendly programs and major regional conferences…Learn, volunteer, or simply enjoy the outdoors.

Join us on Saturday, September 13, from 10 to 11am at the Gasparilla Island Lighthouse, 880 Belcher Road, Gasparilla Island State Park, Boca Grande, for a fun, family-friendly program all about Florida’s native gopher tortoises, nature’s architects and community builders! Discover how these fascinating creatures play a vital role in our ecosystem during an informative talk followed by a guided walk. For more information call 941•964•0600 or visit BIPS.org.

Spotted: Skunk Ape at Cedar Point Environmental Park! CHEC staff went on a hike around Cedar Point and found a Skunk Ape disguised as a Floridian human sipping a pineapple drink and swimming in Lemon Bay. Later that week we caught another glimpse of it in the brand new Eagle playground! Unbelievable, how amazing is Wild Florida?! Pictured is an award-winning photo by CHEC for the 2025 Skunk Ape Photo Contest hosted by Charlotte County.

20th Annual Sustainable Communities Workshop
Sarasota County will host the 20th Annual Sustainable Communities Workshop on Thursday, November 6, at the Harvest House Learning Enrichment Campus in Sarasota. Themed “Then, Now, Next: 20 Years of Sustainable Communities,” the day-long event will feature sessions on resilient architecture, climate communication, sustainable business, and local history. Both in-person and online options are available, with early-bird registration ($45) open through Friday, September 26. Seating is limited to 250. Learn more and register at scgov.net/sustainablecommunities.

Gulf Coast Foundation Releases Updated 2025 Water Quality Playbook
The Gulf Coast Community Foundation has released a refreshed version of its Water Quality Playbook, an evidence-based guide aimed at improving the health of regional waterways. The playbook offers clear strategies to address nutrient pollution and restore water quality through public policy, education, and science. Elevated nutrient levels, seagrass loss, and climate impacts continue to challenge Sarasota County’s ecosystem health. The 2025 playbook serves as a flexible, community-driven resource to guide action and sustain progress. For full details and access, visit waterqualityplaybook.org.

Master Gardener Volunteers Office Hours
Do you have gardening questions? Master Gardener volunteers have an office at Centennial Park Recreation Center, 1120 Centennial Blvd., Port Charlotte, where they help the public with their gardening problems. Volunteers are available to answer questions on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday afternoons from 1 to 4pm. The office is staffed with University of Florida, IFAS-trained Master Gardener volunteers. You can visit them in person, reach them by phone, or email. Call 941•764•4340 or email Master.Gardener@charlottecountyfl.gov. 

Sarasota County Extension Virtual Tour
Explore landscaping tips, solar options, and conservation practices anytime with the new virtual tour from UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County. Featuring nineteen educational stops around the Extension complex, the self-guided tour allows visitors to scan QR codes at each station to access short, informative videos or explore from home using a locator map at tiny.cc/ufsaraext_virtualtourpage. Organized by themes such as Florida-Friendly Landscaping, gardening, sustainability, and water resources, the tour extends education beyond business hours and into the community. For more information, call 941•861•5000 or email sarasota@ifas.ufl.edu.

Seagrass Adventure Wading Trips
Dive into discovery with the Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center’s immersive Seagrass Adventure Wading Trips, a hands-on experience designed to spark curiosity and environmental awareness. After a brief indoor orientation at the Cedar Point Environmental Park Visitors Center, 2300 Placida Road, participants will walk a short half-mile trail to Lemon Bay. With dip nets in hand, teams of two will wade into the estuary to catch and observe aquatic life including seahorses, juvenile fish, and crabs. Buckets will be used to gently hold the creatures, which are brought ashore for identification and discussion. The activity typically takes place in ankle to hip-deep water, and participants should come prepared to get wet. This program offers a unique, educational outing for families, school groups, and community organizations looking to engage with the local environment. This program is available by reservation (submit forms and payment at least 10 days in advance) at ChecFlorida.org or call 941•475•0769.

Clothing Swap to Save the Drops!
Join UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County for a fun, sustainable fashion event on Friday, August 29 from 6 to 7pm at Twin Lakes Park, 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota. Bring clean, gently used clothing items to swap with others and help conserve water while refreshing your wardrobe. Learn how fast fashion affects our water resources—did you know it takes over 2,000 gallons of water to make a single pair of jeans? Enjoy sustainable fashion tips, connect with the community, and reduce textile waste—all while promoting a greener lifestyle. All ages are welcome. For questions or special accommodations, call 941•861•5000 or email sarasota@ifas.ufl.edu.

Master Gardener Plant Clinic
Got questions about your garden? The Master Gardener Plant Clinic is here to help! Visit the Frances T. Bourne Jacaranda Library, 4143 Woodmere Park Blvd., Venice, on Thursdays, September 4 & 11 from 1:30 to 3:30pm in the Conference Room for expert guidance from Sarasota County Extension Services Master Gardeners. Whether you’re looking to identify plants, flowers, or pests, or need tips on landscaping and plant care, Master Gardeners are ready to assist with your green living goals. For more information call 941•861•1110.

“What a Catch” Summer Lecture Series
Sarasota County Libraries has launched “What a Catch”, a free summer lecture series at the Osprey Library, 337 N. Tamiami Trail, Osprey, that explores local fishing history and conservation efforts. On Thursday, September 4, 2 to 3pm, Hayden Wennerdahl will discuss modern fisheries management. And on Thursday, September 25, 2 to 3pm, Josh Goodman will lecture on tarpon fishing’s place in Sarasota’s past. Registration opens three weeks prior to each event at SarasotaCountyLibraries.org or call 941•861•1110.

Free Guided Nature Walk at Amberjack Environmental Park
Join CHEC for a free guided nature walk on Wednesday, September 10 at 8am at the 225-acre Amberjack Environmental Park, 6450 Gasparilla Pines Blvd. Led by CHEC volunteers, this casual walk through scrub and pine flatwoods offers the chance to discover plants, animals, fungi, and more that thrive in Charlotte County preserves. Participants should meet at the end of Gasparilla Pines Boulevard at the parking lot and come prepared with water, insect repellent, sunscreen, and protective clothing. Advance registration is required. For more information, email tome@checflorida.org, call 941•475•0769, or visit www.CHECflorida.org.

Let’s Build a Worm Bin
Get wormy with us at Shamrock Park and Nature Center, 3900 Shamrock Drive, Venice, on Wednesday, September 10 at 2pm. The UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County faculty will guide you through building your own worm composting bin in this free, hands-on workshop that’s fun for all ages. Learn how to turn kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich compost while discovering the science behind worm composting. Registration is required at ufsarasotaext.eventbrite.com. For more information, call 941•861•9900.

Florida Society for Ethical Ecotourism Educational Webinars
The UF/IFAS Extension Charlotte County Florida Sea Grant office is pleased to announce the continuation of the Florida Society for Ethical Ecotourism Educational Webinar Series, which is scheduled from 7 to 8pm on the second of Wednesday every month now through November. Designed for ecotourism professionals, enthusiasts, students, and anyone interested in responsible travel and conservation, these online sessions provide convenient access to expert knowledge on a range of relevant topics. This webinar series will feature experts presenting on diverse subjects. Topics will cover best practices, emerging issues, innovative approaches, and critical conservation efforts impacting Florida’s unique natural environments. The upcoming webinar is on Wednesday, September 10 at 7pm. Learn how Florida Master Naturalist Program certification can elevate your business and deepen your connection to Florida’s diverse ecosystems. The Florida Master Naturalist Program provides science-based training that enhances credibility of ecotour operators, attracts eco-conscious travelers, and supports sustainable tourism. Information on upcoming webinar topics, schedules, and registration can be found at FloridaSee.org/education.

Plant Clinic at Shamrock Park
Curious why your hibiscus is struggling or unsure what grows best in your Florida yard? Stop by the Plant Clinic at Shamrock Park Nature Center, 3900 Shamrock Drive, Venice, on Saturday, September 13 from 10am to noon for expert advice from UF/IFAS Master Naturalists. Whether you’re a new resident or seasoned gardener, volunteers will be on hand to answer your questions and offer helpful tips on plant care, Florida-friendly landscaping, and more. No registration needed. To learn more call 941•861•9807.

Ecowalk: Magnificent Mangroves
Discover the vital role of Florida’s mangroves during “Ecowalk: Magnificent Mangroves” on Monday, September 15 at 8am at Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center, 570 Bay Park Boulevard, Englewood. Join UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County’s Florida Sea Grant agent Armando J. Ubeda for a guided walk highlighting the importance of native mangrove species in protecting coastlines and supporting local ecosystems. This free program is open to ages 11 and up. Participants are encouraged to wear closed-toe shoes, hats, and bring water. Space is limited and registration is required. For details, email sarasota@ifas.ufl.edu or call 941•861•9900.

Cedar Point Volunteer Open House & Park Cleanup
Join CHEC on Monday, September 15, for a Volunteer Open House and Park Cleanup at Cedar Point Environmental Park, 2300 Placida Road. The event runs from 8:30 to 11:30am and begins with free snacks, coffee, and a presentation about the park, its programs, and volunteer opportunities. To conclude, participants will take part in Keep Charlotte Florida Beautiful’s “International Coastal Cleanup” Campaign with a hands-on cleanup effort. Advance registration is required, and the first 20 registrants will receive a free T-shirt. For more information or to register, call 941•475•0769 or email chec@checflorida.org. To complete a volunteer application, visit www.checflorida.org/volunteer.

Southwest Florida Resiliency Summit
The Coastal & Heartland National Estuary Partnership will host the Southwest Florida Resiliency Summit on Tuesday, September 16, from 8:30am to 4:30pm, and Wednesday, September 17, from 8:30 to 11:30am at Sunseeker Resort, 5500 Sunseeker Way, Charlotte Harbor. This two-day public event will bring together local scientists, land managers, policymakers, and community members to share the latest science, hurricane recovery updates, and strategies to address regional challenges. Attendees will hear from experts including Dr. Carolina Maran of the South Florida Water Management District, Dr. Peter Sheng of the University of Florida, and Dr. Charles Jacoby of the University of South Florida. Networking opportunities will be available, and Continuing Education Hours may be offered for Professional Engineers and Geologists. The summit coincides with the statewide Florida Resiliency Conference, offering participants the chance to attend both events. Registration is required. For details, call 941•833•6580, email chnep@chnep.org, or visit chnep.org/swfl-resiliency-summit.

Free Guided Nature Walk at Oyster Creek Environmental Park
Join CHEC for a free guided nature walk on Wednesday, September 17, at 8am at the 135-acre Oyster Creek Environmental Park, 2333 Placida Road. This casual walk will take participants through old-growth pine flatwoods, scrub habitat, and mangrove fringe while exploring plants, animals, fungi, and more that live in Charlotte County preserves. Meet in the parking lot by Lemon Bay High School and come prepared with water, insect repellent, sunscreen, and protective clothing. Advance registration is required. For more information, email tome@checflorida.org, call 941•475•0769, or visit www.CHECflorida.org.

2025 International Coastal Cleanup
Join the movement to protect our oceans and coastlines during the 2025 International Coastal Cleanup on Saturday, September 20, from 8 to 10am at cleanup sites across Sarasota County. This annual global event unites millions of volunteers worldwide in preserving coastlines and waterways for future generations. Registration is required in advance. To participate, register via Eventbrite by selecting your cleanup location, and submit the required release form. Registration closes at noon on Wednesday, September 17. Volunteers under 18 must have a parent or guardian complete the form, and service hours will not be awarded without a release. Those interested in leading efforts can sign up as Site Captains during registration. Site Captains (ages 16+) receive training, gain leadership experience, and can earn up to five volunteer hours. Cleanup supplies will be available for pickup September 15 to 19 from 8am to 3:30pm at 8750 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota. T-shirts will be distributed on a first come, first served basis while supplies last. For details and to register, visit the event page on Eventbrite or scgov.net.

International Coastal Cleanup on Gasparilla Island
The Barrier Island Parks Society (BIPS), in partnership with Keep Lee County Beautiful, invites the community to join the 2025 International Coastal Cleanup on Saturday, September 20, from 8 to 10am at two Boca Grande locations: the Gasparilla Island Lighthouse, 220 Gulf Boulevard, and the 5th Street Beach Access downtown. Part of a global initiative now in its 38th year, this effort unites millions of volunteers to remove harmful litter and debris from waterways and coastlines. Locally, volunteers of all ages are encouraged to participate in preserving the beauty of Boca Grande’s shoreline while helping protect marine life and improve water quality. Participants should bring gloves, sunscreen, hats, and reusable water bottles. Registration is available at BIPS.org, and more details can be obtained by calling 941•964•0060.

Free Guided Nature Walk at Bill Coy Preserve
Join CHEC for a free guided walk on Wednesday, September 24 at 8am through the 80-acre Bill Coy Preserve, 5350 Placida Road. This preserve features scrubby flatwoods and a mangrove swamp that borders Buck Creek, which flows into Lemon Bay. Participants will meet in the parking lot and explore the area while learning about the plants, animals, fungi, and more that thrive in Charlotte County preserves. Be sure to bring water, insect repellent, sunscreen, and protective clothing. Advance registration is required. For more information, email tome@checflorida.org, call 941•475•0769, or visit www.CHECflorida.org.

Bug-Off: Bioblitz at Woodmere Park
Bring the family and explore the hidden world of insects at Bug-Off: Bioblitz on Saturday, September 27 at 10am at Woodmere Park Addition, located west of Woodmere Park along both sides of Alligator Creek near US41 in Venice. Join an environmental specialist to catch, identify, and document a variety of insects and other arthropods that call the park home. This free event is open to all ages and offers a hands-on way to learn more about local biodiversity. Registration is required. For details, email jlebouitz@ufl.edu or call 941•315•5066.

Note: Event listings are published as accurately as possible. We recommend contacting the numbers provided to confirm details or request further information. To submit an event for consideration in “Nature Calls,” please send details and/or a photo to The Englewood REVIEW, 370 W Dearborn St, Suite B, Englewood, FL 34223, or email us at info@englewoodreview.com.