![assorted microplastics shown resting on two fingertips, with a pile of microplastics in the background. [credit: uf/ifas, tyler jones]](https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/files/2025/02/2017_Waste_microplasticCloseupFingers01_ifasTylerJonesCROP1650x470TINY.png)
We have all heard the mantra: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. We know plastic isn't natural and doesn't decompose. After all, you can’t compost plastic, right? You’ve probably seen those heart-wrenching images of straws in sea turtles' noses ... READ MORE
Category: Coasts & Marine, Conservation, Water
The Hidden Cost: Industry & Manufacturing’s Water Footprint When we think of water conservation, we often picture shorter showers or turning off the tap while brushing our teeth. The heavy cost of industry and manufacturing, on the other ... READ MORE
Category: Agriculture, Natural Resources, UF/IFAS, Water
Blog co-authored by Mary Ellen Boelhower, Florida Master Naturalist Program (FMNP) graduate Florida Master Naturalist Program (FMNP) helps young professionals round out their skills Biologist Chelsea Dinon lives to go cave diving in Florida’s ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Natural Resources, Professional Development, Water, Wildlife, Work & Life![a tangle of fishing line, plastic beads and other plastic waste on a beach. [credit: unsplash.com, soren funk]](https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/files/2025/03/2025_Water_microplasticsBeach01_unsplashSorenFunk_CROP1650x470TINY.png)
We're hearing a lot about microplastics in the news, but what exactly are they and what can I do to reduce the impact of microplastics in our environment? Well, first, what are they? Microplastics are defined as plastic particles no larger ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Health & Nutrition, WaterThough the goal is to conserve water in the home, we can be conscious of the water used in the production of our favorite foods and beverages, even if the local footprint doesn't have a direct impact on the water resources in our region. When ... READ MORE
Category: Agriculture, Conservation, Florida-Friendly Landscaping, Fruits & Vegetables, Health & Nutrition, Natural Resources, WaterYou might have heard about "microplastics," a term that has been in the news in recent years. But, do you know what microplastics are? What damage they can cause? Or, how to help lessen the impacts? We've got you covered. Microplastics ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, WaterWater is essential to our daily lives. Yet, we often overlook just how much of it is used, not only in direct consumption like drinking and bathing but also in the production of the goods we use and the energy we consume. Whether it's the water ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, WaterUnderstanding Our Water Footprint: A Call to Action for Florida's Future Water is essential yet it’s something we often take for granted as we turn on the tap and expect clean, safe drinking water to flow freely. But did you know that only ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Natural Resources, UF/IFAS Extension, Water
The Florida Master Naturalist Program Advisory Board (FAB for short) is a fabulous group of individuals dedicated to the present and future success of the Florida Master Naturalist Program (FMNP). The FAB consists of individuals from across ... READ MORE
Category: Coasts & Marine, Conservation, Forests, Natural Resources, Professional Development, Water, Wildlife, Work & Life
Last month, UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County offered its first ever Dipnets and Donuts: Pond BioBlitz event. It was a great success, with several species spotted in our ponds at Twin Lakes Park. Participants worked in groups and used dipnets ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Events, Florida-Friendly Landscaping, Forests, Natural Resources, Recreation, UF/IFAS Extension, Water, Wildlife