Inspiring discovery, appreciation and conservation of wildlife, plants and natural resources through innovative experiences in a caring environment

This is the Vision of the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.  To help fulfill this vision the Education Department has partnered with JEA, the Duval County Extension Service Master Gardeners and the St. Johns Riverkeepers to bring how-to-be-green workshops to the Zoo.

This Green Old House 
October 3, 2009 10:00 a.m.
Fee: FREE
Presented by JEA
Registration Form
Flyer

Own a historic property and want to maintain its unique architectural features while making it more energy and water efficient? Join us as we        explore the challenges and opportunities associated with remodeling green. We will also discuss window replacement, HVAC and lighting. Because the concept of sustainability is mutually supported by historical preservationists and the green movement, anyone owning or restoring a historical home will benefit from this discussion.

Plan Your Planting 
January 23, 2010 10:00 a.m.                     
Fee: FREE
Presented by JEA
Registration Form
Flyer

New to Northeast Florida?  Need a refresher on Florida-friendly planting practices or turf choices? Join us as we investigate waterwise principles that help establish and maintain a healthy landscape.  By matching the right plants with existing site conditions you will minimize your use of additional resources, such as water, fertilizer, pesticides and labor. Waterwise principles also reduce the amount of pollutants reaching water bodies such as our St. Johns River. The principles discussed in detail are: 1) Planning and Designing, 2) Obtaining a Soil Analysis, 3) Choosing Proper Plants, 4) Using Turf Wisely, 5) Irrigating Efficiently, 6) Using Mulches, and 7) Performing Proper Maintenance.

Make and Take Rain Barrel   
January 30, 2010 9:00 a.m.              
Fee: $30/$40
Presented by Duval County Extension Service
Registration Form
Flyer

Looking for an alternative to watering the conventional way?  If you have gutters on your house, you may be able to collect 55 gallons of water during a 1/2-inch rain by connecting a downspout to a rain barrel or cistern.  Rain barrels collect and reuse rainwater and help reduce runoff.  They collect and store water for times when most needed and save most homeowners 1300 gallons of water during peak summer months.  During this workshop you will make and take a rain barrel utilizing recycled barrels.  The fee for the program covers the cost of the rain barrel and all its required materials to build ($30 for a closed top rain barrel; $40 for an open top rain barrel).  Pre-registration is required and full payment must accompany each registration to guarantee a space.

Irrigation Basics
February 27, 2010 10:00 a.m.                    
Fee: FREE
Presented by JEA
Registration Form
Flyer

Considering an irrigation system? New to Northeast Florida and unsure about your turf choices?  Join us as we cover the major components associated with your irrigation system (controller, sprayers, rotors, etc.), the most efficient way to operate your system within the watering recommendations set forth by the St. John’s River Water Management District, and investigate the best turf choices for our climate.

Trout & St. Johns River Tour
September 2010 Time TBA                           
Fee: TBA
Presented by the St. Johns Riverkeepers

Keep checking the Web site for more information on this tour of our most precious resource.

Spaces are limited and pre-registration is required.