1. Agricultural and Horticultural Enterprises

3. Natural Resources and Environmental Quality

What has happened: There have been new developments with the Xeniid soft coral invasion in the Caribbean. The inspiration for my February 2023 original blog post was the confirmation of Unomia stolonifera in northern Cuba, which is quite close in proximity to Florida. Prior to being found in Cuba, Unomia had been confined to Venezuela, [&#8230;]

What has happened:
There have been new developments with the Xeniid soft coral invasion in the Caribbean. The inspiration for my February 2023 <a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/miamidadeco/2023/02/28/be-on-the-lookout-a-potential-new-invasive-species-xenia-soft-corals/">original blog post</a> was the confirmation of Unomia stolonifera in northern Cuba, which is quite close in proximity to Florida. Prior to being found in Cuba, Unomia had been confined to Venezuela, so the sighting in Cuba is cause for concern. A small colony of Unomia was first detected in the Bacuranao Cove, Cuba where it was eradicated, however, a larger patch has now been confirmed nearby in Boca de Calderas. Since soft corals in the Xeniid family can reproduce both sexually and asexually (by budding or fragmentation), scientists have concerns that this organism will biofoul, or attach onto ships and be transported to other areas.
<figure id="attachment_7553" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-7553" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/miamidadeco/files/2024/04/Screenshot-2024-04-15-150840.png"><img decoding="async" fetchpriority="high" class="size-medium wp-image-7553 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="300" height="204" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/miamidadeco/files/2024/04/Screenshot-2024-04-15-150840-300x204.png"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-7553" class="wp-caption-text">Unomia stolonifera. Photo: U.S. Navy</figcaption></figure>
The first report of a Xeniid soft coral in the United States came from Pearl Harbor in Hawaii in 2020. It was confirmed as Unomia stolonifera in early 2023. In October of 2023, another Xeniid species was found off of La Parguera, Puerto Rico, a suspected intentional aquarium release.
What is being done?
In February 2024, the Atlantic &amp; Gulf Rapid Reef Assessment (AGGRA) brought together researchers, resource managers, and non-profit organizations to deliver the <a href="https://www.agrra.org/the-unomia-learning-exchange/">Unomia Learning Exchange</a>, an informational webinar sharing best practices and updates from around the Caribbean and United States. While Florida is still unaffected, it is critical that we continue to be vigilant and prepare for the possibility that one of the Xeniid species may find its way to local waters.
What can you do? 
The Florida’s Coral Reef Resilience Program Communications Team is asking divers and snorkelers to continue looking underwater and reporting suspected sightings of Xeniid soft corals. The species in the Pulse coral family are distinguishable by:
<figure id="attachment_7555" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-7555" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignright"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/miamidadeco/files/2024/04/Screenshot-2024-04-15-151048.png"><img decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-7555 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="300" height="101" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/miamidadeco/files/2024/04/Screenshot-2024-04-15-151048-300x101.png"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-7555" class="wp-caption-text">Closeup of Unomia stolonifera polyps. The eight tentacles are easily visible. Photo: reefbuilders.com</figcaption></figure>
<ul>
<li>Their polyps have eight tentacles around an oral opening</li>
<li>Polyps are on a stalk, large numbers of polyps on the stalks</li>
<li>Stalks are connected by stolons, or horizontal plant stem</li>
<li>Their polyps are unable to retract but open and close, giving that “pulsing” look to them</li>
</ul>
Please report sightings (namely, photos) with GPS coordinates on the <a href="https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/79a851117b13458bb5b8fc7192468e60?portalUrl=https://OREF.maps.arcgis.com">AGGRA reporting platform</a>.
If you spot a suspected Xenid soft coral, please DO NOT attempt to remove it. In addition to requiring specific permits and verification of species, proper removal is logistically challenging to perform without inadvertently breaking off pieces, potentially contributing to their spread. It is best to leave the colony intact, take photos and report.

What has happened:
There have been new developments with the Xeniid soft coral invasion in the Caribbean. The inspiration for my February 2023 original blog post was the confirmation of Unomia stolonifera in northern Cuba, which is quite close in proximity to Florida. Prior to being found in Cuba, Unomia had been confined to Venezuela, so the sighting in Cuba is cause for concern. A small colony of Unomia was first detected in the Bacuranao Cove, Cuba where it was eradicated, however, a larger patch has now been confirmed nearby in Boca de Calderas. Since soft corals in the Xeniid family can reproduce both sexually and asexually (by budding or fragmentation), scientists have concerns that this organism will biofoul, or attach onto ships and be transported to other areas.
Unomia stolonifera. Photo: U.S. Navy
The first report of a Xeniid soft coral in the United States came from Pearl Harbor in Hawaii in 2020. It was confirmed as Unomia stolonifera in early 2023. In October of 2023, another Xeniid species was found off of La Parguera, Puerto Rico, a suspected intentional aquarium release.
What is being done?
In February 2024, the Atlantic & Gulf Rapid Reef Assessment (AGGRA) brought together researchers, resource managers, and non-profit organizations to deliver the Unomia Learning Exchange, an informational webinar sharing best practices and updates from around the Caribbean and United States. While Florida is still unaffected, it is critical that we continue to be vigilant and prepare for the possibility that one of the Xeniid species may find its way to local waters.
What can you do? 
The Florida’s Coral Reef Resilience Program Communications Team is asking divers and snorkelers to continue looking underwater and reporting suspected sightings of Xeniid soft corals. The species in the Pulse coral family are distinguishable by:
Closeup of Unomia stolonifera polyps. The eight tentacles are easily visible. Photo: reefbuilders.com

Their polyps have eight tentacles around an oral opening
Polyps are on a stalk, large numbers of polyps on the stalks
Stalks are connected by stolons, or horizontal plant stem
Their polyps are unable to retract but open and close, giving that “pulsing” look to them
Please report sightings (namely, photos) with GPS coordinates on the AGGRA reporting platform.
If you spot a suspected Xenid soft coral, please DO NOT attempt to remove it. In addition to requiring specific permits and verification of species, proper removal is logistically challenging to perform without inadvertently breaking off pieces, potentially contributing to their spread. It is best to leave the colony intact, take photos and report.

What has happened: There have been new developments with the Xeniid soft coral invasion in the Caribbean. The inspiration for my February 2023 original blog post was the confirmation of Unomia stolonifera in northern Cuba, which is quite close in proximity to Florida. Prior to being found in Cuba, Unomia had been confined to Venezuela, […]

Xeniid soft corals: the latest news

April 21-27 is National Volunteer Week. It&#8217;s a great opportunity to celebrate the people who lend their time, effort and talents to make a difference in their community! In UF/IFAS Extension, we would be lost without our volunteers. They act as the facilitators and ambassadors of our mission to bring science-based education to the people [&#8230;]

April 21-27 is National Volunteer Week. It&#8217;s a great opportunity to celebrate the people who lend their time, effort and talents to make a difference in their community! In UF/IFAS Extension, we would be lost without our volunteers. They act as the facilitators and ambassadors of our mission to bring science-based education to the people of Florida. In 2022, Extension programming in 67 Florida counties was supported by help from 18,551 volunteers who gave a total of 719,231 hours of service. That amounts to almost $23 million in labor&#8211;but in truth the value of our volunteers goes far beyond that.
<blockquote>In 2022, UF/IFAS Extension was supported by 18,551 volunteers, who gave a total of 719,231 hours of service to the people of Florida.</blockquote>
Volunteering with Extension is more than lending a hand. Each volunteer works closely with Extension agents to gain training—often very extensive training—that supports their volunteer role. It makes them true partners with our faculty and staff.
<img decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3145 " src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/andrajohnson/files/2023/04/Copy-of-Extension-Volunteer-Appreciation-Week-Social-Tile-Template-300x300.png" alt="" width="426" height="426" />
Extension volunteers are a unique breed—lifelong learners, eager to invest their time and share their knowledge and expertise with others for the betterment of their communities.
I would like to take this opportunity to recognize a few of the volunteer programs that support Extension programming:
<h3><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignnone wp-image-3151 " src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/andrajohnson/files/2023/04/Copy-of-Extension-Volunteer-Appreciation-Week-Money-Mentors-Social-Tile-Template-300x300.png" alt="" width="423" height="423" /></h3>
<h3>Florida Master Money Mentors</h3>
<a href="https://fycs.ifas.ufl.edu/Extension2/FinancialManagement/FMMM/FMMM_brochure.pdf">Florida Master Money Mentors</a> volunteer their time and skills to help residents develop good money management habits, achieving their financial goals while reducing debt and managing spending. Mentors work one-on-one with clients, or conduct small group classes or staff tables at community events.
Thanks to funding from Bank of America, over the past decade Extension has trained more than 600 volunteers, each of whom give 50+ hours of service annually, an estimated $2,044,080 in human capital.
Master Money Mentors are active in 40 Florida counties and the program continues to expand to areas where it’s needed the most, including rural areas and city centers hit hardest by high unemployment and home foreclosures.
<h3><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignnone wp-image-3149 " src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/andrajohnson/files/2023/04/Copy-of-Extension-Volunteer-Appreciation-Week-4-H-Social-Tile-Template-300x300.png" alt="" width="425" height="425" /></h3>
<h3>Florida 4-H Volunteers</h3>
Every day, <a href="https://florida4h.ifas.ufl.edu/get-involved/">Florida 4-H volunteers</a> are making a positive difference in the lives of children. By creating a safe and caring environment for learning in 4-H clubs, camps and school programs, they help youth develop marketable skills, gain confidence and independence, encourage generosity towards others and foster a sense of belonging. Florida 4-H volunteers serve as club leaders, camp counselors, project leaders, mentors and judges at events. It is very hard work, but it’s rewarded in knowing that you’ve helped set a child on a path of self-confidence and success.
In 2022, Florida 4-H was grateful for the help of 7,000 youth and adult volunteers, who created caring learning environments for over 151,000 4-H youth.
<h3><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignnone wp-image-3147 " src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/andrajohnson/files/2023/04/Copy-of-Extension-Volunteer-Appreciation-Week-Master-Gardener-Social-Tile-Template-300x300.png" alt="" width="427" height="427" /></h3>
<h3>Master Gardener Volunteers </h3>
<a href="https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/mastergardener/">Florida Master Gardener Volunteers</a> serve as horticulture experts within their communities. They teach gardening classes, answer questions over the phone or in person, participate in community and school garden projects, perform soil sample and plant diagnostic testing, certify Florida-friendly landscapes and many other essential tasks.
In 2023, 3,359 Florida MGVs gave 339,600 hours of service to the people of Florida.
Master Gardener Volunteers are rightfully proud of the work they do in their communities. You can hear many MGVs share their stories here: <a href="https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/mastergardener/features/">https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/mastergardener/features/</a>
There are many other volunteers we wish to thank. In fact, most UF/IFAS Extension programs are supported to various degrees by help from volunteers. They come from all walks of life and bring their unique experiences and knowledge to the table. They can be everything from high school students to retired teachers to business owners to <a href="https://www.flseagrant.org/citizenscience/">snorkelers and scuba divers</a>. They all share one thing in common: the desire to serve their community.
<blockquote class="wp-embedded-content" data-secret="3AevJW9z3W"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/news/2023/09/05/while-volunteers-keep-an-eye-on-seagrass-florida-sea-grant-launches-new-website-for-the-citizen-science-program/">While volunteers keep an ‘Eye on Seagrass,’ Florida Sea Grant launches new website for the citizen science program</a></blockquote>
<iframe class="wp-embedded-content" sandbox="allow-scripts" security="restricted" title="&#8220;While volunteers keep an ‘Eye on Seagrass,’ Florida Sea Grant launches new website for the citizen science program&#8221; &#8212; News" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/news/2023/09/05/while-volunteers-keep-an-eye-on-seagrass-florida-sea-grant-launches-new-website-for-the-citizen-science-program/embed/#?secret=cRuyuAliCK#?secret=3AevJW9z3W" data-secret="3AevJW9z3W" width="500" height="282" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no"></iframe>
On Volunteer Week and all other weeks of the year, I applaud your commitment to knowledge, and I thank you for your service!
To learn more about UF/IFAS Extension volunteer programs—or just to thank a volunteer—contact your local Extension office: <a href="https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/find-your-local-office/">https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/find-your-local-office/</a>
<blockquote>Volunteers do not necessarily have the time—they just have the heart. – Elizabeth Andrew</blockquote>
&nbsp;

April 21-27 is National Volunteer Week. It’s a great opportunity to celebrate the people who lend their time, effort and talents to make a difference in their community! In UF/IFAS Extension, we would be lost without our volunteers. They act as the facilitators and ambassadors of our mission to bring science-based education to the people of Florida. In 2022, Extension programming in 67 Florida counties was supported by help from 18,551 volunteers who gave a total of 719,231 hours of service. That amounts to almost $23 million in labor–but in truth the value of our volunteers goes far beyond that.
In 2022, UF/IFAS Extension was supported by 18,551 volunteers, who gave a total of 719,231 hours of service to the people of Florida.

Volunteering with Extension is more than lending a hand. Each volunteer works closely with Extension agents to gain training—often very extensive training—that supports their volunteer role. It makes them true partners with our faculty and staff.

Extension volunteers are a unique breed—lifelong learners, eager to invest their time and share their knowledge and expertise with others for the betterment of their communities.
I would like to take this opportunity to recognize a few of the volunteer programs that support Extension programming:

Florida Master Money Mentors
Florida Master Money Mentors volunteer their time and skills to help residents develop good money management habits, achieving their financial goals while reducing debt and managing spending. Mentors work one-on-one with clients, or conduct small group classes or staff tables at community events.
Thanks to funding from Bank of America, over the past decade Extension has trained more than 600 volunteers, each of whom give 50+ hours of service annually, an estimated $2,044,080 in human capital.
Master Money Mentors are active in 40 Florida counties and the program continues to expand to areas where it’s needed the most, including rural areas and city centers hit hardest by high unemployment and home foreclosures.

Florida 4-H Volunteers
Every day, Florida 4-H volunteers are making a positive difference in the lives of children. By creating a safe and caring environment for learning in 4-H clubs, camps and school programs, they help youth develop marketable skills, gain confidence and independence, encourage generosity towards others and foster a sense of belonging. Florida 4-H volunteers serve as club leaders, camp counselors, project leaders, mentors and judges at events. It is very hard work, but it’s rewarded in knowing that you’ve helped set a child on a path of self-confidence and success.
In 2022, Florida 4-H was grateful for the help of 7,000 youth and adult volunteers, who created caring learning environments for over 151,000 4-H youth.

Master Gardener Volunteers 
Florida Master Gardener Volunteers serve as horticulture experts within their communities. They teach gardening classes, answer questions over the phone or in person, participate in community and school garden projects, perform soil sample and plant diagnostic testing, certify Florida-friendly landscapes and many other essential tasks.
In 2023, 3,359 Florida MGVs gave 339,600 hours of service to the people of Florida.
Master Gardener Volunteers are rightfully proud of the work they do in their communities. You can hear many MGVs share their stories here: https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/mastergardener/features/
There are many other volunteers we wish to thank. In fact, most UF/IFAS Extension programs are supported to various degrees by help from volunteers. They come from all walks of life and bring their unique experiences and knowledge to the table. They can be everything from high school students to retired teachers to business owners to snorkelers and scuba divers. They all share one thing in common: the desire to serve their community.
While volunteers keep an ‘Eye on Seagrass,’ Florida Sea Grant launches new website for the citizen science program


On Volunteer Week and all other weeks of the year, I applaud your commitment to knowledge, and I thank you for your service!
To learn more about UF/IFAS Extension volunteer programs—or just to thank a volunteer—contact your local Extension office: https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/find-your-local-office/
Volunteers do not necessarily have the time—they just have the heart. – Elizabeth Andrew

April 21-27 is National Volunteer Week. It’s a great opportunity to celebrate the people who lend their time, effort and talents to make a difference in their community! In UF/IFAS Extension, we would be lost without our volunteers. They act as the facilitators and ambassadors of our mission to bring science-based education to the people […]

Volunteers are the Heart of Extension

Scientists need help from residents, and that is what Citizen Science Month is all about. This national observance, held nationally in April, highlights the importance of how consumers engage in science by partnering with scientists on a variety of projects that help monitor, count, identify and even make new discoveries. At the University of Florida [&#8230;]

<figure id="attachment_43867" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-43867" style="width: 320px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-43867 " src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/news/files/2024/04/bioblitz-kids-240x300.jpg" alt="" width="320" height="400" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-43867" class="wp-caption-text">Youth take part in a bioblitz as citizen scientists. Photo courtesy UF/IFAS photography.</figcaption></figure>
Scientists need help from residents, and that is what Citizen Science Month is all about.
This national observance, held nationally in April, highlights the importance of how consumers engage in science by partnering with scientists on a variety of projects that help monitor, count, identify and even make new discoveries.
At the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), faculty scientists, Extension agents and students have plenty of projects on their hands that need help from residents and businesses throughout the year. Citizen science projects can take many forms that include participating in community surveys, identifying wildflowers and wildlife through mobile apps, fishing out invasives from local waterways and much more. There are plenty of opportunities for youth and adults to select.
&#8220;We value the work of citizen scientists to help us develop better policies and recommendations that make your world and home a better place,” said <a href="https://flrec.ifas.ufl.edu/faculty/moore-kimberly-dr/">Kimberly Moore</a>, professor of sustainable horticulture and associate director the <a href="https://flrec.ifas.ufl.edu/">UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center (FLREC)</a>. &#8220;We encourage citizens to engage and share their experiences with us through citizen science activities to develop better recommendations that improve the lives of residents.&#8221;
Not sure where to look for activities? Start with the local <a href="https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/find-your-local-office/">UF/IFAS Extension office</a> in your county. Check out their website, call or drop in to see what’s on their calendar of events. Here is a short list of citizen science options.
Calling Florida homeowners and land managers statewide 
A team at UF/IFAS FLREC seeks input from homeowners and land managers to help reduce water pollution and promote water conservation. Take the <a href="https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0cVjFFzuZIJidh4">Landscape Water Use Survey</a> to help scientists understand how the average citizen views water and water conservation in the landscape by reporting your irrigation habits in the landscape and how you learn about water conservation. Scientists will use this information to develop online training videos to continue to make improvements in water conservation messaging.
Need your eyes Charlotte County.
Volunteers with <a href="https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/charlotte/sea-grant/eyes-on-seagrass/">Eyes on Seagrass</a> in Charlotte County are eager to collect data, and the information they gather is invaluable. A bonus? The data are valid. Their collection methods were developed in close collaboration with UF/IFAS scientists to ensure the data can be utilized in assessments by natural resource managers. Seagrasses provide many benefits. As examples, they act as a food source and a habitat for many commercially and recreationally important fish species. They also enhance water quality, stabilize shorelines and sequester carbon and nitrogen. Click <a href="https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/charlotte/sea-grant/eyes-on-seagrass/">here to learn more about Eyes on Seagrass</a>. To register for the Southwest Florida Eyes on Seagrass program, contact Kate Rose at <a href="mailto:kate.rose0210@ufl.edu">kate.rose0210@ufl.edu</a>. For the Panhandle program, contact Rick O’Connor at <a href="mailto:roc1@ufl.edu">roc1@ufl.edu</a>.
<figure id="attachment_43871" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-43871" style="width: 453px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class=" wp-image-43871" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/news/files/2024/04/AdobeStock_wildflowers-on-lawn-300x200.jpeg" alt="" width="453" height="302" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-43871" class="wp-caption-text">If you love wildflowers, then this is the citizen science project for you. Learn all about them and how they benefit our environment. Photo courtesy Adobe stock.</figcaption></figure>
Wild about wildflowers in St. Lucie County? 
&nbsp;
Calling all interested Master Gardener Volunteers, Master Naturalists and interested members of the public in St. Lucie County. Your agents at UF/IFAS Extension St. Lucie County need your help. Wildflowers are beneficial in many ways. Learn about these beauties at the “<a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ufifas-extension-st-lucie-county-wildflower-bioblitz-2024-tickets-733387841777">UF Extension Wildflower Bioblitz</a>” on April 26 from 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. This event is hosted by Ken Gioeli, a UF/IFAS natural resources Extension agent in St. Lucie County.
During this bioblitz event, participants will use iNaturalist to catalog the wildflowers on site. Plan to venture out on unmarked, sometimes rough, trails and learn about native wildflowers on the UF/IFAS Extension St. Lucie County campus. Participants must install the iNaturalist app on personal mobile phones prior to meeting , to join the project “UF Extension Wildflower Bioblitz 2024.” UF/IFAS Extension St. Lucie County is at 8400 Picos Road, Fort Pierce. Registration is required at a cost of $5. For additional information, email <a href="mailto:ktgioeli@ufl.edu">ktgioeli@ufl.edu</a> .
Are you a boater? 
You can help UF/IFAS keep Florida’s coastal waters clean with your input.
Florida Sea Grant wants to hear from boaters to gauge their understanding of boating activities and practices. More specifically, they want to know what and where additional sewage disposal resources are needed from boaters while traveling the waterways of the Sunshine State through <a href="https://www.flseagrant.org/boaters-take-survey-to-inform-additional-sewage-disposal-needs-in-florida/">an online survey</a>. This survey, also available in <a href="https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_88OXbk0rju5ptnU">Spanish</a>, is for anyone who boats in Florida for recreation only, regardless of whether they own or rent a watercraft. The survey is part of a larger needs assessment that aims to determine the recreational boating community’s current level of knowledge, attitudes and behaviors regarding sewage waste management. <a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/news/2023/08/17/uf-ifas-florida-sea-grant-survey-seeks-boater-input-on-existing-and-needed-resources/">Click here to learn more about this citizen science project</a>. You can also contact Florida Sea Grant at (352) 562-1134 or by e-mail Victoria Gambale at <a href="mailto:v.gambale@ufl.edu">v.gambale@ufl.edu</a>.
Like fishing? Help round up invasive fish. 
Florida’s southwest waterways are home to <a href="https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/nonnatives/freshwater-fish/">numerous invasive freshwater fish species</a>. They are growing in abundance. Scientists believe they may be causing detrimental changes to the native fish communities. Help reduce these nonnative invasive fish numbers at the 2024 Southwest Florida Invasive Fish Roundup, April 25-28, hosted by the Southwest Florida Cooperative Invasive Species Management Areas (CISMAs). This event is held to raise public awareness about the potential negative impacts of releasing invasive fish into Florida waters, and to encourage anglers to target these invasive species. The roundup will also gather data about invasive fish distribution and abundance that can assist with future management. Prizes will be awarded. <a href="https://www.floridainvasives.org/southwest/invasive-fish-roundup/">For more information and to register, click on this link.</a>
Help keep shorelines healthy and restoring those in need.
Shoreline monitoring and habitat restoration need the eyes and attention of citizen scientists. <a href="https://www.flseagrant.org/fsg-directory/dr-vincent-encomio/">Vincent Encomio</a>, Florida Sea Grant Extension agent for Martin and St. Lucie counties, leads a shoreline monitoring and habitat restoration project in southeast Florida. He is working with University of Central Florida on a Florida Sea Grant-funded project to collect shoreline data. The data is being used to develop computer models for planning living shoreline restoration projects.
The program has volunteer workdays for adults and youth. He typically works with youth through 4-H, summer camps, and schools. He also works on community-based shoreline restoration projects with adults and youth volunteers, ranging from oyster to shoreline vegetation plantings. Shoreline monitoring and restoration activities are occasional and typically project dependent. For more information, email  <a href="mailto:vencomio@ufl.edu">vencomio@ufl.edu</a>.
South Florida, join the City Nature Challenge.
The race is on to support biodiversity in a big way. Cities in ​Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade and Monroe counties have partnered as the <a href="https://www.cncsoflo.com/">South Florida</a> team in the <a href="https://www.cncsoflo.com/">City Nature Challenge</a> (CNC). Don&#8217;t live in South Florida? Other municipalities have set up their own teams like Alachua and Polk Counties. Kicking off April 26 at 12:01 a.m. CNC runs through May 1 at 11:59 p.m. Now in its ninth year, the <a href="http://citynaturechallenge.org/">City Nature Challenge</a> is a global event that calls on current and aspiring nature and science fans, people of all ages and education backgrounds, and community scientists to observe and submit pictures of wild plants, animals and fungi using the free mobile app <a href="http://www.inaturalist.org">iNaturalist</a>. Looking to see if your county or city has set up a team? Contact your local <a href="https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/find-your-local-office/">UF/IFAS Extension office</a> to find out. Participation is easy.
&nbsp;
###
By Lourdes Mederos, <a href="mailto:rodriguezl@ufl.edu">rodriguezl@ufl.edu</a>
&nbsp;
ABOUT UF/IFAS 
The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents. 
<a href="http://www.ifas.ufl.edu">ifas.ufl.edu</a>  |  <a href="https://twitter.com/UF_IFAS">@UF_IFAS</a>

Youth take part in a bioblitz as citizen scientists. Photo courtesy UF/IFAS photography.
Scientists need help from residents, and that is what Citizen Science Month is all about.
This national observance, held nationally in April, highlights the importance of how consumers engage in science by partnering with scientists on a variety of projects that help monitor, count, identify and even make new discoveries.
At the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), faculty scientists, Extension agents and students have plenty of projects on their hands that need help from residents and businesses throughout the year. Citizen science projects can take many forms that include participating in community surveys, identifying wildflowers and wildlife through mobile apps, fishing out invasives from local waterways and much more. There are plenty of opportunities for youth and adults to select.
“We value the work of citizen scientists to help us develop better policies and recommendations that make your world and home a better place,” said Kimberly Moore, professor of sustainable horticulture and associate director the UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center (FLREC). “We encourage citizens to engage and share their experiences with us through citizen science activities to develop better recommendations that improve the lives of residents.”
Not sure where to look for activities? Start with the local UF/IFAS Extension office in your county. Check out their website, call or drop in to see what’s on their calendar of events. Here is a short list of citizen science options.
Calling Florida homeowners and land managers statewide 
A team at UF/IFAS FLREC seeks input from homeowners and land managers to help reduce water pollution and promote water conservation. Take the Landscape Water Use Survey to help scientists understand how the average citizen views water and water conservation in the landscape by reporting your irrigation habits in the landscape and how you learn about water conservation. Scientists will use this information to develop online training videos to continue to make improvements in water conservation messaging.
Need your eyes Charlotte County.
Volunteers with Eyes on Seagrass in Charlotte County are eager to collect data, and the information they gather is invaluable. A bonus? The data are valid. Their collection methods were developed in close collaboration with UF/IFAS scientists to ensure the data can be utilized in assessments by natural resource managers. Seagrasses provide many benefits. As examples, they act as a food source and a habitat for many commercially and recreationally important fish species. They also enhance water quality, stabilize shorelines and sequester carbon and nitrogen. Click here to learn more about Eyes on Seagrass. To register for the Southwest Florida Eyes on Seagrass program, contact Kate Rose at kate.rose0210@ufl.edu. For the Panhandle program, contact Rick O’Connor at roc1@ufl.edu.
If you love wildflowers, then this is the citizen science project for you. Learn all about them and how they benefit our environment. Photo courtesy Adobe stock.
Wild about wildflowers in St. Lucie County? 
 
Calling all interested Master Gardener Volunteers, Master Naturalists and interested members of the public in St. Lucie County. Your agents at UF/IFAS Extension St. Lucie County need your help. Wildflowers are beneficial in many ways. Learn about these beauties at the “UF Extension Wildflower Bioblitz” on April 26 from 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. This event is hosted by Ken Gioeli, a UF/IFAS natural resources Extension agent in St. Lucie County.
During this bioblitz event, participants will use iNaturalist to catalog the wildflowers on site. Plan to venture out on unmarked, sometimes rough, trails and learn about native wildflowers on the UF/IFAS Extension St. Lucie County campus. Participants must install the iNaturalist app on personal mobile phones prior to meeting , to join the project “UF Extension Wildflower Bioblitz 2024.” UF/IFAS Extension St. Lucie County is at 8400 Picos Road, Fort Pierce. Registration is required at a cost of $5. For additional information, email ktgioeli@ufl.edu .
Are you a boater? 
You can help UF/IFAS keep Florida’s coastal waters clean with your input.
Florida Sea Grant wants to hear from boaters to gauge their understanding of boating activities and practices. More specifically, they want to know what and where additional sewage disposal resources are needed from boaters while traveling the waterways of the Sunshine State through an online survey. This survey, also available in Spanish, is for anyone who boats in Florida for recreation only, regardless of whether they own or rent a watercraft. The survey is part of a larger needs assessment that aims to determine the recreational boating community’s current level of knowledge, attitudes and behaviors regarding sewage waste management. Click here to learn more about this citizen science project. You can also contact Florida Sea Grant at (352) 562-1134 or by e-mail Victoria Gambale at v.gambale@ufl.edu.
Like fishing? Help round up invasive fish. 
Florida’s southwest waterways are home to numerous invasive freshwater fish species. They are growing in abundance. Scientists believe they may be causing detrimental changes to the native fish communities. Help reduce these nonnative invasive fish numbers at the 2024 Southwest Florida Invasive Fish Roundup, April 25-28, hosted by the Southwest Florida Cooperative Invasive Species Management Areas (CISMAs). This event is held to raise public awareness about the potential negative impacts of releasing invasive fish into Florida waters, and to encourage anglers to target these invasive species. The roundup will also gather data about invasive fish distribution and abundance that can assist with future management. Prizes will be awarded. For more information and to register, click on this link.
Help keep shorelines healthy and restoring those in need.
Shoreline monitoring and habitat restoration need the eyes and attention of citizen scientists. Vincent Encomio, Florida Sea Grant Extension agent for Martin and St. Lucie counties, leads a shoreline monitoring and habitat restoration project in southeast Florida. He is working with University of Central Florida on a Florida Sea Grant-funded project to collect shoreline data. The data is being used to develop computer models for planning living shoreline restoration projects.
The program has volunteer workdays for adults and youth. He typically works with youth through 4-H, summer camps, and schools. He also works on community-based shoreline restoration projects with adults and youth volunteers, ranging from oyster to shoreline vegetation plantings. Shoreline monitoring and restoration activities are occasional and typically project dependent. For more information, email  vencomio@ufl.edu.
South Florida, join the City Nature Challenge.
The race is on to support biodiversity in a big way. Cities in ​Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade and Monroe counties have partnered as the South Florida team in the City Nature Challenge (CNC). Don’t live in South Florida? Other municipalities have set up their own teams like Alachua and Polk Counties. Kicking off April 26 at 12:01 a.m. CNC runs through May 1 at 11:59 p.m. Now in its ninth year, the City Nature Challenge is a global event that calls on current and aspiring nature and science fans, people of all ages and education backgrounds, and community scientists to observe and submit pictures of wild plants, animals and fungi using the free mobile app iNaturalist. Looking to see if your county or city has set up a team? Contact your local UF/IFAS Extension office to find out. Participation is easy.
 
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By Lourdes Mederos, rodriguezl@ufl.edu
 
ABOUT UF/IFAS
The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents. 
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Scientists need help from residents, and that is what Citizen Science Month is all about. This national observance, held nationally in April, highlights the importance of how consumers engage in science by partnering with scientists on a variety of projects that help monitor, count, identify and even make new discoveries. At the University of Florida […]

Here’s what’s on tap for Citizen Science Month at UF/IFAS

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Voluntary public participation in the scientific process, addressing real-world problems in ways that may include formulating research questions, conducting scientific experiments, collecting and analyzing data, interpreting results, making new discoveries, developing technologies and applications, for solving complex problems.

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Research is a process of systematic inquiry that entails collection of data; documentation of critical information; and analysis and interpretation of that data/information, in accordance with suitable methodologies set by specific professional fields and academic disciplines. (<a href="https://www.hampshire.edu/what-research">source</a>)

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