Global warming remains one of the hottest environmental topics facing the world today. The community is invited to discuss this issue, as well as restoration of the Everglades and more at one of the many naturally centered programs offered in March at Brooker Creek Preserve. Also coming up in March is a remarkable photography exhibit focusing on nature's best offerings.

For those wanting to learn more about Brooker Creek, two training opportunities are scheduled. For more information or to register, call the Environmental Education Center at (727) 453-6800.

Photography exhibit focuses on natural Florida …

• A free extraordinary photography exhibit, Natural Florida: Perspectives & Perceptions, starts March 1 and runs through April 30. See the real Florida through the lenses of artists Donna Bollenbach and Kathleen Finnerty. They share their two decades of curiosity about the natural beauty of Florida captured with passion and creativity. The exhibit is open during normal Center hours Wednesday from 9 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. and Thursday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• At a free Meet the Artist Event, Sunday, March 4, from 1 to 4 p.m., artists Donna Bollenbach and Kathleen Finnerty will share their insights and discuss their current photography exhibit, Natural Florida: Perspectives & Perceptions. Finnerty's love for the natural beauty of Florida fuels her passion to preserve it for future generations. Bollenbach's curiosity about nature is evident in her artistic and educational perspectives. Both are members of the North American Nature Photographer's Association. The exhibit continues through April 30.

Special programs on global warming, restoring the Everglades and more …

• What is global warming and what does it mean to you? A Cypress Swamp Café Global Warming: Changing the CO2urse Presentation and Discussion starts Wednesday, March 7, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. when adults will discuss the history and science of global climate change, one of today's most complex environmental issues. Developed by the Northwest Earth Institute, this self-directed discussion course explores ways that personal values, habits and choices relate to climate change. Discussion groups will form and agree on future dates and times to meet. Admission is free, but materials cost $20. Register by calling (727) 453-6800.
• Is restoration the hope of the Everglades, rather than conservation? A free Voice of The Everglades - Marjory Stoneman Douglas Program, Saturday, March 10, from 1 to 2 p.m. by Betty Jean Steinshouer, Independent Scholar and Chautauqua Performer, will be presented as part of the Florida Humanities Council Road Scholars Program. Follow the matriarch of Miami, Marjory Stoneman Douglas, as portrayed by Betty Jean Steinshouer, as she begins her crusade to restore the Everglades. Since the 1947 publication of her book, The Everglades: River of Grass, she has realized that her focus must be on restoration, not conservation - "Conservation is a dead word. You can't conserve what you haven't got." Register by calling (727) 453-6800.

Get in on natural education opportunities …

• Brooker Creek Preserve is a perfect place to connect concepts to the natural world. A free two-day Teacher Training Workshop on Wednesday, March 14, from 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturday, March 17, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. will give educators the training and materials necessary to design and lead learning experiences that are tailored to their classroom curriculum goals. For information, call and ask for the educator in charge of this workshop or register by calling (727) 453-6800.
• At a free Brooker Basics - Watersheds Workshop and Excursion, adults and children over 12 years old can learn about the Greater Tampa Bay and the Preserve's watersheds during a two-part program. The first segment is scheduled for Wednesday, March 21, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. when adults can receive an overview presentation. On Saturday, March 24, from 1 to 3 p.m. participants will take a field excursion to the Brooker Creek watershed. Using a variety of techniques, participants will examine a diversity of life and the factors influencing the health of that watershed. Registration required by calling (727) 453-6800.

The 8,300-acre Brooker Creek Preserve is located at 3940 Keystone Road in Tarpon Springs in northeast Pinellas County. To register for events or learn about other programs, call the Preserve's Environmental Education Center at (727) 453-6800. Details about Pinellas County's wildest place can be found at www.pinellascounty.org/environment.

Return to Home Page

Return to Current Edition

Contact us