Whatever the weather, nature’s calling. Rain or shine, there’s always something wild, wonderful, and worth exploring: Gardening, wildlife talks, guided walks, and eco adventures…
Discover the magic of staghorn ferns during “The Joy of Staghorns” at Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens, 5827 Riverside Drive, Punta Gorda, on Saturday, August 2 from 9:30 to 11:30am. Botanist Kate Preston, with 30 years of experience working with epiphytes, will guide participants through the care, mounting, and creative display of these striking ferns. Learn about the different varieties, propagation techniques, and how to incorporate other rare epiphytes to complement your plant displays. The session includes a live demonstration, informational handouts, and a chance to win a staghorn in a special raffle. Rare plants will be available for purchase. Registration includes garden admission. Meet at the Membership Booth. To register, visit peacerivergardens.org or call 941•621•8299.
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. Originally launched in 2020, the updated 2025 edition reflects new data, recent accomplishments, and ongoing environmental challenges. Developed for community members, homeowners’ associations, and policymakers, the Playbook offers clear strategies to address nutrient pollution and restore water quality through public policy, education, and science. The revised digital format enables real-time updates to keep pace with changing environmental conditions. Since its initial release, collaborative efforts by local governments, nonprofits, and businesses have led to upgrades in wastewater infrastructure, expanded stormwater solutions, and innovative public-private partnerships. Despite these successes, water quality threats persist. 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.
Sea Turtle Lighting Recognition Program
Charlotte County Natural Resources is excited to announce the launch of the Sea Turtle Lighting Recognition Program, a pilot program designed to honor the outstanding efforts of our coastal community in protecting nesting sea turtles and their hatchlings. Natural Resources staff have been working closely with beachfront condos, businesses, and residents to reduce lighting violations that can disorient sea turtles, helping ensure the highest number of hatchlings make it safely to the ocean. This year, one commercial property on Englewood Beach and one residential condo on Manasota Key that demonstrate compliance with sea turtle lighting requirements will be awarded a Sea Turtle Lighting Recognition Certificate. These properties must be located within Charlotte County’s designated lighting zone and may be nominated based on inspections and compliance records. Properties that have partnered with the Sea Turtle Conservancy to upgrade their lighting systems may also be eligible for sponsorship of their award, thanks to the Conservancy’s generous support of local conservation efforts. Award recipients will be announced in the fall and will be highlighted on Charlotte County’s official social media channels, recognizing their dedication to protecting our critical coastal habitat. Natural Resources hopes to expand the program to other barrier islands in the future. For information, contact Alexandria Grant at 941•613•3218 or email Alexandria.Grant@CharlotteCountyFL.gov.
Discover the secret life of snakes during Wild Sarasota: Snakes, an engaging adult program on Monday, August 4 from 11am to 12:15pm at Frances T. Bourne Jacaranda Library, 4143 Woodmere Park Boulevard, Venice. Learn how to identify common snake species, distinguish between venomous and non-venomous snakes, and explore their adaptations and ecological importance. This interactive lecture also covers invasive species and how you can help protect native snakes. Open to adults and seniors. To register, visit Eventbrite.com. For more information, call 941•861•1100 or visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket.com.
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.
Demonstration Garden Tour at Shamrock Park
Explore Florida-Friendly Landscaping in action during the Demonstration Garden Tour at Shamrock Park and Nature Center, 3900 Shamrock Drive, Venice, on Friday, August 1, from 9 to 11am. Held on the first Friday of each month, this free tour is led by Master Gardener volunteers and showcases sustainable landscaping techniques that blend beautifully into the natural Florida environment. While the tour is free, registration is requested at ufsarasotaext.eventbrite.com to receive updates or schedule changes. For more information or accommodation requests, contact 941•861•5000 or email sarasota@ifas.ufl.edu.
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 Saturdays, August 2 & 16 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.
Venice Arboretum Tour
Discover the native beauty and thoughtful design of the Monty Andrews Arboretum during ex•plore: Venice Arboretum on Monday, August 4, from 8:30 to 10am at 401 Pensacola Road, Venice. Join UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County’s Florida-Friendly Landscaping Community Educator Forest Hecker for an engaging morning walk through West Blalock Park to learn about the diverse trees and shrubs that thrive in this Florida-friendly landscape. This free program is open to adults 18 and up, but advance registration is required at ufsarasotaext.eventbrite.com. Participants should dress for the weather and wear suitable walking shoes. If you wish to bring a child, please contact the organizer at fhecker@scgov.net to coordinate.
Foodscaping for the Suncoast
On Tuesday, August 5, from 10:30 to 11:30am, discover how to grow your own tropical edibles with “Florida-Friendly Landscaping: Foodscaping for the Suncoast” at Elsie Quirk Library, 100 W. Dearborn Street. Learn what grows best in our unique climate and how to make your landscape both beautiful and bountiful. Presented by UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County. Seating is limited and registration is required. Visit Eventbrite to register. For more information, call 941•861•1110.
Cedar Point Trail Guide Training
Join CHEC on Wednesday, August 6 or Saturday, August 9, 8 to 11am, for a free Trail Guide Training. The training will include all the fundamentals of what you need to know to prepare and lead guided nature walks in Charlotte County. Training will be led by CHEC naturalists and volunteers starting with a guided tour of the 115-acre beautiful Cedar Point Environmental Park and followed by a presentation indoors. Advance registration is required. Meet at the Cedar Point Visitor Center. To learn more or to register visit checflorida.org or call 941•475•0769.
Florida-Friendly Landscaping: Planting for the Bees
Join UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County for a class on Wednesday, August 6 from 4 to 5pm at the North Port Library, 13800 Tamiami Trail, North Port, and discover how to turn your landscape into a haven for native bees. Led by Florida-Friendly Landscaping Specialist Forest Hecker, this class will teach you how to identify some of the most common and fascinating bee species on the Suncoast and introduce the plants that support their survival. Learn the importance of pollinator-friendly gardening and how simple landscape choices can help these essential creatures thrive. Registration is required and must be completed at ufsarasotaext.eventbrite.com. For more information 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, August 7 & 14 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.
Butterfly Gardening 101
Learn how to attract beautiful pollinators to your yard during Butterfly Gardening 101 on Thursday, August 7 from 2 to 3pm at the Englewood Charlotte Library, 3450 North Access Road. This beginner-friendly class, part of the Grow With Us series by UF/IFAS Extension Charlotte County, covers plant selection, species identification, and tips for creating a low-maintenance, Florida-Friendly landscape. To register, visit Eventbrite.com. For more information, visit charlottecountyfl.gov/libraries or call 941•681•3736.
Ecowalk: Magnificent Mangroves
Explore the vital role of Florida’s mangroves during “Ecowalk: Magnificent Mangroves” on Monday, August 11 at 8am at Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center, 570 Bay Park Boulevard. Join UF/IFAS Extension Florida Sea Grant agent Armando J. Ubeda for a guided walk and learn about native mangrove species and their importance to coastal protection and marine life. Open to ages 11 and up. Participants should wear closed-toe shoes, a hat, and bring drinking water. This program is free, but registration is required due to limited space. For more information or to register, call 941•861•9900 or email sarasota@ifas.ufl.edu.
Guided Walk at Amberjack Environmental Park
Join CHEC on Wednesday, August 13, 8am, for a guided walk through the scrub and pine flatwoods of 225-acre Amberjack Environmental Park, 6450 Gasparilla Pines Blvd. On these casual walks with CHEC volunteers, you will search for and learn about plants, animals, fungi, and more that live in Charlotte County preserves. Prepare for each walk with plenty of water, insect repellent, sunscreen, and clothing that will protect you from insects and plants. Meet at the end of Gasparilla Pines Blvd. Advance registration is required. To learn more or to register visit CHECflorida.org or call 941•475•0769.
Florida Society for Ethical Ecotourism Educational Webinars Return
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 of 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, August 13 at 7pm. Learn about Florida’s resident and migratory seabirds, their habitats, and threats these birds face. How seabirds serve as sentinels of the ocean and its resources, and how studying these populations can help us understand our marine environments, will also be discussed. Information on upcoming webinar topics, schedules, and registration can be found at FloridaSee.org/education.
Twenty teens from Sarasota and Manatee counties participated in the first Bay Explorers Summer Experience, a free, all-inclusive environmental program hosted by Big Waters Land Trust and funded by the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program. Over five days, students explored the Sarasota Bay watershed, visiting coastal and freshwater habitats to learn about water quality, conservation, and local history. Activities included kayaking, birdwatching, snorkeling, and career sessions with professionals from regional organizations. Participants visited locations such as Robinson Preserve, FISH Preserve, the Cortez Cultural Center, Leffis Key Preserve, and the Celery Fields. They engaged with experts in stormwater management, land conservation, historical preservation, wildlife rescue, and prescribed fire practices. Each experience was designed to foster environmental awareness and introduce potential career paths in science and public service. The program eliminated barriers by offering transportation, meals, activity supplies, water shoes, and a $100 completion gift card. Community partners including the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex, Boys & Girls Clubs, Sarasota Housing Authority, and others supported outreach and participation. Big Waters Land Trust plans to expand the initiative in future years, continuing to connect youth with nature and environmental leadership opportunities. Pictured are participants in the Bay Explorers Summer Experience.
Lights Out for Sea Turtles Art Contest
Charlotte County Parks & Natural Resources are accepting artwork for “Lights Out for Sea Turtles”, a campaign designed to raise awareness around sea turtle education and conservation. The chosen artwork will be featured on educational materials for the 2026 sea turtle nesting season. There is a contest for children ages 5-15 and one for adults, ages 16 and up. Submissions can be dropped off at or mailed to Centennial Park Recreation Center, 1120 Centennial Blvd., Port Charlotte, FL 33953 with Attention to Alexandria Grant, Parks and Natural Resources. Be sure to include your name, age, address, email and phone number with your submission. Only paper submissions will be accepted. Artwork will be scanned and resized for final use, so precise dimensions are not required. Entrants must be current residents of Charlotte County. Submissions must be hand-drawn original artwork with no text or written messages. No AI-generated, digital or computer-altered artwork, coloring pages or traced designs will be accepted. All submissions must be received by Friday, August 15. There will be one winner in each age category and prizes will be awarded. Winners in the children category will receive four passes to CMON Golisano Children’s Museum in Naples and the winning adult will win a $50 gift card to Bisque It studio in Port Charlotte. For information, contact 941•235•5008.
“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 Monday, August 18, 2 to 3pm, Leiza Fitzgerald will talk about marine habitat conservation. 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.
Guided Walk at Ann & Chuck Dever Park
Join CHEC on Wednesday, August 20, 8am, for a guided walk through the old-growth pine flatwoods and mangrove fringe of 137-acre Ann & Chuck Dever Regional Park, 6791 San Casa Drive. On these casual walks with CHEC volunteers, you will search for and learn about plants, animals, fungi, and more that live in Charlotte County preserves. Prepare for each walk with plenty of water, insect repellent, sunscreen, and clothing that will protect you from insects and plants. Meet at the San Casa entrance. Advance registration is required. To learn more or register visit CHECflorida.org or call 941•475•0769.
Nature Knowledge: The Venice Urban Forest Journey
On Wednesday, August 27 at 12:30pm, discover how a former railroad corridor became a thriving reforested haven for local wildlife. Greg Vine, Chair of the Venice Urban Forest Committee of Venice Area Beautification, Inc., will share the inspiring story of the forest’s evolution, from concept to community-supported success. Part of the Nature Knowledge series sponsored by the Environmental Conservancy of North Port and Surrounding Areas, this talk takes place in the Juliano Room at North Port Library, 13800 Tamiami Trail. No registration required and all are welcome. For more information, email npconservancy@gmail.com.
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. And visit our interactive calendar where you are invited to add your event.
