UF/IFAS Extension Hernando County -

Too Cold to Swim: What Florida’s Winter Weather Means for Sea Turtles

by Brittany Hall-Scharf
January 29, 2026

Florida is famous for its warm beaches, swaying palms, and marine life. But when winter cold fronts sweep through, even our Sunshine State can get chilly enough to place sea turtles in danger. What is Cold-Stunning? Sea turtles are ectothermic ... READ MORE

Category: Coasts & Marine, Natural Resources, Recreation, SFYL Hot Topic, UF/IFAS, UF/IFAS Extension, Water, Wildlife, WORK & LIFE
Tags: Boating, Cold Events, Florida Sea Grant, Marine Life, Sea Turtles, Wildlife Rehabilitation

Upcoming Cold Temperatures Signals Manatee Season is Near!

by Brittany Hall-Scharf
October 29, 2025

As cooler weather begins to move into Florida this weekend, we’re once again reminded that the time when the Florida manatee (also known as the West Indian manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris) seeks warm-water refuge is upon us. These ... READ MORE

Category: Coasts & Marine, Conservation, Natural Resources, Recreation, SFYL Hot Topic, UF/IFAS Extension, UF/IFAS Extension, Water, Wildlife
Tags: Chassahowitzka, Cold Events, Florida Sea Grant, Manatees, Weeki Wachee

Marshes in Motion

by Brittany Hall-Scharf
September 15, 2025

Ever wandered through the salt marshes of Hernando County and noticed the ground moving? Look closer, and you might catch sight of an entire troop of fiddler crabs scurrying across the mud. Meet the Fiddler Crab The most obvious fiddler ... READ MORE

Category: Coasts & Marine, Natural Resources, SFYL Hot Topic, UF/IFAS Extension, UF/IFAS Extension, Water, Wildlife
Tags: Fiddler Crabs, Florida Sea Grant, Healthy Ecosystems, Marine Life, Salt Marsh

Wildlife & Invasive Species Education™ (WISE) Free Webinars

by Jim Davis
July 23, 2025

Protect Native Wildlife & Fight Invasive Species with W.I.S.E. Webinars – Free in 2025! Join the 2025 Wildlife & Invasive Species Education™ (W.I.S.E.) webinar series to explore the fascinating world of native wildlife and learn ... READ MORE

Category: Conservation, Invasive Species, Natural Resources, UF/IFAS, UF/IFAS Extension, Wildlife
Tags: Backyard Wildlife, Florida-Friendly Landscaping, Invasive Species, Master Naturalist, Wildlife

The Basics of Growing Citrus in Central Florida – And Where to Get a Citrus Greening Resistant Sugar Belle Tree!

by William Lester
February 14, 2025

Citrus trees are a staple of Florida landscapes, offering not only beauty but also delicious, homegrown fruit. Oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits all thrive in Central Florida, but successful citrus growing requires proper care and planning. ... READ MORE

Category: Florida-Friendly Landscaping

Good Bulls, Good Culling, and Good Pasture for Economic Success

by laurahbennett
January 13, 2025

With cattle prices at very high levels, what are some things you can do to maximize use of this added income? It is always best to make proper investments and not hasty purchases because the cycle is just that – a cycle. The high cattle price ... READ MORE

Category: Agriculture, Livestock
Tags: SFBF

Growing Groceries: Fabulous Figs Made Easy

by William Lester
December 20, 2024

Figs (Ficus carica) are a delightful addition to any Central Florida garden. These hardy trees are not only beautiful but also produce delicious fruits. Among the varieties suited to our region, the Celeste fig stands out for its adaptability, ... READ MORE

Category: Fruits & Vegetables, HOME LANDSCAPES

It is Testing Season! Soil and Forage Testing for Livestock Producers

by laurahbennett
November 21, 2024

With the holidays quickly approaching, taking a test is the last thing on your mind. However, soil testing and forage testing are two very inexpensive but very valuable tools. Both tests help to improve your ability to provide for your livestock. If ... READ MORE

Category: Agriculture, Livestock

Technical and Financial Assistance Available for Producers to Implement Agriculture Best Management Practices (BMPs) in Central Florida

by Yilin
August 7, 2024

Producers have implemented Best Management Practices (BMPs) that maintain or improve water quality, quantity, and soil conditions on their farms for many years. For the purposes of the Florida Department of Agricultural and Consumer Services ... READ MORE

Category: Agribusiness, Agriculture, Crops, Farm Management, Livestock, Water
Tags: Ag BMP, Agriculture, Best Management Practices, Cost Share, Water, Water Quality, Water Quantity

Thriving in the Sunshine State: Growing Barbados Cherries in West Central Florida

by William Lester
August 7, 2024

West Central Florida's warm and sunny climate provides an ideal environment for cultivating a variety of edible plants. One underused tropical shrub that not only flourishes in this region but also adds a burst of flavor to your landscape is ... READ MORE

Category: Florida-Friendly Landscaping
Tags: Fruit, Harvesting, Planting, Pruning

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