Equine, Pets & Wildlife   

A thoroughbred’s life is different from other horse breeds in that it’s controlled and monitored starting at birth and leading up to the race track.  This course covers the naming and registering of a foal, the breaking and early training, the rest period, extended intense training, the starting gate training, and then the race debut.

We live in "The horse capital of the world." Join Thomas Sweeney owner of Port Royal Racing, who is also working press for Tampa Bay Downs and a multi-state licensed professional horseman.

Part 1 of this 2 part course will cover the basics from breeding to the starting gate! In Part 2 we will attend a Thoroughbred auction at the world famous Ocala Breeders Sales where many of these equine athletes will fetch upwards of $1,000,000! Tom will "escort" you "backstage" at the sales! This is a great primer on "The Sport of Kings...and Queens!

What do horses do after they retire from racing? Come learn about the boundless career opportunities for horses, how they make a difference in people's lives, and where past Kentucky Derby champions reside.

Enjoy a morning at Silver Springs State Park learning about the natural and cultural/historical resources of the area. Group will meet at the archway (main entrance off Rt 40) by no later than 9 a.m. Participants will spend the morning with a Park Ranger to learn about the importance of the Silver River, starting near the head spring.
After a Glass Bottom Boat tour, they will walk along the Ross Allen Boardwalk and Blue Trail to take a tram ride (uncushioned) through the Sandhill Natural Community, with the last stop at the Silver River Museum. After the museum, they will tram back to the main entrance. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and must be able to walk at least one mile, some on uneven ground.

Cost includes: park ranger tour, glass bottom boat ride, and tram ride. Students will drive to the location and meet at the Entry Arch to Silver Springs State Park by no later than 9 a.m. using the following address: 5656 East Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs FL 34488. 

Do you love to go to garage sales, flea markets, and antique malls? This class highlights the most collectible, and priceless, racing and equine memorabilia to watch for. From Derby glass to Budweiser Clydesdale steins or Breyer models, this class covers the history, collectability and good places to sell these items. Bring your own items for conversation.

Explore the Withlacoochee and Rainbow Rivers near Dunnellon for a unique glimpse of "Old Florida" and its more modern landscapes. This two-part course begins with a classroom session focused on identifying the birds commonly found in this region of Florida. By the end, you'll be confident in recognizing many of them, from wading birds to raptors and many songbirds.
The second session features a guided three-hour boat ride with an experienced riverboat captain. We'll travel about one mile along the Rainbow River and explore as much of the Withlacoochee as time allows. Expect up-close views of magnificent birds and excellent photo opportunities. Make sure to bring your camera or binoculars!
After the trip, those interested can join for an optional lunch at a nearby riverside café to share observations and compile a bird list from the morning's adventure.
Second class date field trip directions:
Meeting at 20750 River Dr, Dunnellon, FL 34431
- Drive east down 484 to Dunnellon
- Drive 12 miles, then turn left at the light on 41
- Park in the Municipal lot in front of City Hall
- The boat sails from the Public Boat Ramp

 

Enjoy a morning at Silver Springs State Park learning about the natural and cultural/historical resources of the area. Group will meet at the archway (main entrance off Rt 40) by no later than 9 a.m. Participants will spend the morning with a Park Ranger to learn about the importance of the Silver River, starting near the head spring.
After a Glass Bottom Boat tour, they will walk along the Ross Allen Boardwalk and Blue Trail to take a tram ride (uncushioned) through the Sandhill Natural Community, with the last stop at the Silver River Museum. After the museum, they will tram back to the main entrance. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and must be able to walk at least one mile, some on uneven ground.

Cost includes: park ranger tour, glass bottom boat ride, and tram ride. Students will drive to the location and meet at the Entry Arch to Silver Springs State Park by no later than 9 a.m. using the following address: 5656 East Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs FL 34488. 

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission helps Floridians understand and live with this mid-sized member of the canine family. Learn about the coyote's role in the environment and get updates on recent research. Also addressed are potential problems with coyotes, including livestock and pet loss. Learn about applicable regulations, and why eradication is not achievable for this species. Details will be provided to learn how to be safe around coyotes and how to coexist with this new predator on Florida's landscape.