The UF/IFAS Extension Alachua County Office is pleased to announce the following Environmental Horticulture programs for Nov. 2026. These programs are being offered by Dr. Cynthia Nazario-Leary, Environmental Horticulture Agent, and Master Gardener Volunteers.
SEMBRAR Bilingual Family Workshops - Thursday, Nov.5, from 6 to 8 p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 7, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Alachua County Ag Auditorium (22716 W. Newberry Road, Newberry)
In partnership with Missouri State, UF/IFAS Extension Alachua County invites families to participate in SEMBRAR, a free bilingual family workshop designed to make science, horticulture, and environmental learning fun for all ages. Through hands-on activities, family discussions, and interactive experiences, participants will explore gardening and natural resource topics while learning together.
Free refreshments, educational materials, giveaways, and raffles will be provided, and a light lunch will be served during the Saturday session.
The workshops are free, but participants must register online.
Watering Practices in the Garden –– Nov. 10, 2026, from 2to 3:30 p.m., at the Alachua County Ag Auditorium (22716 W. Newberry Road, Newberry)
Join UF/IFAS Extension Alachua County for three programs designed to help residents conserve water, protect natural resources, and create sustainable landscapes.
- Watering Smarter, Not Harder: Micro-Irrigation for Vegetable and Ornamental Gardens
Learn how micro-irrigation systems can make watering easier while improving efficiency in landscapes and gardens. This presentation covers irrigation options for containers, ornamentals, raised beds, fruit trees, and more, including system assembly, regulation, maintenance, and repair. - The Floridan Aquifer and How We Can Protect It
Discover how the Floridan Aquifer was formed, what contributes to its recharge, and the challenges posed by overuse. Participants will also learn how everyday landscaping and gardening practices can affect groundwater resources and what steps homeowners can take to help protect this vital water supply. - Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ for the Waterfront
Living near water brings unique opportunities and responsibilities. Learn how Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ practices can help protect lakes, rivers, and springs while maintaining an attractive landscape. Topics include selecting appropriate plants, reducing runoff, conserving water, and creating shoreline-friendly landscapes that support water quality.
There is no registration fee, but participants must register online. It is limited to 100 participants.
For more information about these programs, contact Dr. Cynthia Nazario-Leary at cnazarioleary@ufl.edu. Visit the extension office website for additional programs offered.
An Equal Opportunity Institution. Extension Service, University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Dr. Andra Johnson, Dean for UF/IFAS Extension. Single copies of extension publications (excluding 4-H and youth publications) are available free to Florida residents from county extension offices.
