These opportunities are curated through the UF TESI Environmental Leaders Network. Opportunities posted through the Network may not be affiliated with the Florida Museum or TESI, but are shared with UF undergraduate students who want to learn more about environmental research, education and outreach, and civic engagement. Please reach out directly to opportunity sponsors with any questions about their offerings.
10/31 to 3/27 – Manatee Sighting Volunteer at Manatee Springs State Park
Host Organization
Alachua County Environmental Protection Department
Description
Contribute to important manatee population data in our area! The Florida Springs Heartland Manatee Sighting Network is looking for volunteers to record manatee sightings at Manatee Springs State Park on Friday mornings from 8:15 to 9 am, October 31st, 2025 through March 27th, 2026.
Date and Time
Friday, October 31st, 2025
8:15 to 9:00 a.m.
Location
11650 NW 115th Street Chiefland, FL 32626
1/16 – Florida Arbor Day Planting with Springs Artist Margaret Tolbert at Santa Fe Springs Preserve
Host Organization
Alachua Conservation Trust
Description
oin ACT and springs artist, Margaret Tolbert, for a tree planting event at Santa Fe Springs Preserve!
During this event, we will talk about the importance of planting trees to help restore native landscapes and there will be a demonstration on how to properly plant baby longleaf pines before we begin the planting. This is also a great time to see the preserve before it opens to the public. A quick tour to the two springs on the property will take place at the start of the event.
Date and Time
Friday, January 16, 2026
9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Location
This event will take place at Santa Fe Springs Preserve – however this preserve is not yet open to the public. Driving directions will be provided to participants closer to the event. Email info@alachuaconservationtrust.org to RSVP
1/17 – Arbor Day Celebration: Learn about Trees, Plant Trees, Take a Tree Home!
Host Organization
Alachua County Environmental Protection Department
Description
Join the County’s Volunteer Tree Team and help Celebrate Arbor Day at EP Powers County Park. There will be guest speakers , tree planting demonstration. There will be free trees available to participates and of course we will plant trees!
Date and Time
Saturday, January 17, 2026
Location
5910 SE Hawthorne Rd, Gainesville, FL 32601
1/24 – McCarty Woods Restoration Cleanup
Host Organization
UF Biodiversity Institute
Description
Join your fellow Gators to plant native plants, remove invasive species, and more in the McCarty Woods on the UF campus! Enjoy some free donuts before working hard to restore this wooded area near the corner of Newell Drive and Museum Road. Register in advance by scanning the QR code in the link above.
Date and Time
Saturday January 24, 2026
8:30 AM to 10:30 AM
Location
The intersection of Newell Dr. and Museum Rd. on campus