UF IFAS Extension Launches Florida Waters Stewardship Program in Manatee and Sarasota Counties

Residents interested in protecting and understanding Florida’s water resources will have a new opportunity this winter, as UF IFAS Extension, in partnership with Manatee and Sarasota Counties, offers the Florida Waters Stewardship Program, a six-session educational series combining expert instruction with hands-on field experiences.

The program is designed to help participants better understand how water moves through Florida’s natural and built environments, from household water use to ponds, streams, bays, and underground aquifers shared across the region. Through guided field trips and interactive discussions, participants gain insight into water law, policy, pollution sources, water supply planning, and the role of citizen science in protecting local waterways.

The series begins January 14 and runs through February 18, with sessions held on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Field locations across Manatee and Sarasota counties include the Powell Crosley Estate, The Celery Fields, Manatee Mineral Springs Park, Bee Ridge Water Reclamation Facility, New College of Florida, and Mote SEA.

Topics covered throughout the program include the history of Florida’s water systems, surface water and nonpoint source pollution, groundwater and aquifers, future water supply challenges, and modern water issues facing Florida communities.

Special registration pricing is available for government employees, educators, Master Gardener Volunteers, and Florida Waters Stewardship Program alumni. Space is limited, and advance registration is required.

Those interested in participating or learning more about the full agenda can register online at bit.ly/FWSP26.