Join us for a variety of classes this summer and fall!
Connecting Florida-Friendly Landscaping(TM) Principles to Urban Forestry
Date: 7/21/26
Time: 8:30am-5pm
Location: UF/IFAS Sumter County Extension. 7620 State Rte 471 #2, Bushnell, FL 33513
Cost: $60, includes lunch and handouts
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1991725381231?aff=oddtdtcreator
Summary: Join us at the Sumter County Extension office in Expo 5 for this interactive day. Seven Extension agents and regional experts come together to offer lectures and hands-on activities as we go over how the 9 Florida-Friendly Landscaping(TM) Principles directly link to Urban Forestry Practices.
Registration includes lunch, snacks, and handouts.
ISA CEU Request pending.
Green Industries Best Management Practices
Date: 7/22/26
Time: 8:30am-5pm
Location: UF/IFAS Sumter County Extension. 7620 State Rte 471 #2, Bushnell, FL 33513
Cost: $30, includes lunch and handouts
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1983480734270?aff=oddtdtcreator
Summary:
Green Industries Best Management Practices (GI-BMPs) Explained
GI-BMPs are strategic guidelines created to encourage practices within the landscaping industry that are safe for the environment, particularly focusing on the preservation of Florida’s ground and surface water resources. These practices are underpinned by scientific principles and knowledge from green industry professionals and are provided through a collaborative effort by the UF/IFAS Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ program and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. They are aimed specifically at professionals within the Green Industry.
Mandatory GI-BMP Training
Since January 1, 2014, Florida law mandates that all commercial fertilizer applicators must be certified with the Limited Urban Fertilizer License by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) (refer to statute s. 482.1562, F.S.). To achieve this certification, it’s required to successfully complete the GI-BMP training and receive a certificate of completion issued by both UF/IFAS and FDEP. Be aware that certain local laws may impose additional obligations, highlighting the importance of obtaining this certification promptly.
Afternoon Arborist: Urban Tree Stressors and Managing Them
Date: 8/19/26
Time: 12pm-1pm
Location: Online, must register to get link.
Cost: Free!
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1991781624456?aff=oddtdtcreator
Summary: This class introduces participants to the most common stressors affecting trees in urban and suburban landscapes. Participants learn how to recognize signs of stress, understand how multiple stressors interact, and apply best management practices to improve tree health and resilience. The session emphasizes practical strategies for prevention, early detection, and management to support long-term canopy sustainability.
Afternoon Arborist: Managing Trees Near Electrical Lines
Date: 9/22/26
Time: 12pm-1pm
Location: Online, must register to get link.
Cost: Free!
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1991796448796?aff=oddtdtcreator
Summary: This class focuses on best practices for selecting, planting, and maintaining trees around overhead utility infrastructure. Participants learn right tree–right place principles, including appropriate species selection based on mature size, growth rate, and form to reduce conflicts with power lines. The class also covers proper pruning techniques, safety considerations, and minimum approach distances. Emphasis is placed on proactive planning and management strategies that balance tree health, public safety, and reliable utility service.
Urban Forestry Training
Date: 9/29/26
Time: 9am-3pm
Location: UF/IFAS Sumter County Extension. 7620 State Rte 471 #2, Bushnell, FL 33513
Cost: $40, includes lunch and handouts.
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1991931493719?aff=oddtdtcreator
Summary: This workshop offers both lectures and interactive components to help participants gain knowledge and experience in the provided topics.
Turf School – Save the date, more information to come!
Date: 10/7/26
Location: UF/IFAS Sumter County Extension. 7620 State Rte 471 #2, Bushnell, FL 33513
Summary: This class will be unique in that we will have one room for landscape professionals and one room for residents. State experts will provide information relevant to each audience. Cost will vary based on room as the professional room will have CEUs available.
Tree School for Planners – Save the date, more information to come!
Date: 10/19/26
Location: 36702 County Road 52, Dade City, FL 33525-5198
Summary: Join agents from Pasco, Hernando and Sumter Counties along site numerous state specialists to learn municipal tree management. This class is designed for county and community decision makers.
Afternoon Arborist: Urban Forestry Sustainability
Date: 10/19/26
Time: 12pm-1pm
Location: Online, must register to get link.
Cost: Free!
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1991796944278?aff=oddtdtcreator
Summary: This class explores the principles and practices that support long-term sustainability in urban forests. Participants learn how to balance environmental, social, and economic factors in tree planning and management, including species diversity, canopy equity, climate resilience, and ecosystem services. The course highlights strategies for building and maintaining healthy, diverse tree populations while addressing challenges such as development pressure, extreme weather, and resource limitations. Emphasis is placed on practical, Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ approaches that promote resilient urban tree canopies for future generations.
Green Industries Best Management Practices
Date:11/13/26
Time: 8:30am-5pm
Location: UF/IFAS Sumter County Extension. 7620 State Rte 471 #2, Bushnell, FL 33513
Cost: $30, includes lunch and handouts
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1983480858642?aff=oddtdtcreator
Summary:
Green Industries Best Management Practices (GI-BMPs) Explained
GI-BMPs are strategic guidelines created to encourage practices within the landscaping industry that are safe for the environment, particularly focusing on the preservation of Florida’s ground and surface water resources. These practices are underpinned by scientific principles and knowledge from green industry professionals and are provided through a collaborative effort by the UF/IFAS Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ program and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. They are aimed specifically at professionals within the Green Industry.
Mandatory GI-BMP Training
Since January 1, 2014, Florida law mandates that all commercial fertilizer applicators must be certified with the Limited Urban Fertilizer License by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) (refer to statute s. 482.1562, F.S.). To achieve this certification, it’s required to successfully complete the GI-BMP training and receive a certificate of completion issued by both UF/IFAS and FDEP. Be aware that certain local laws may impose additional obligations, highlighting the importance of obtaining this certification promptly.
Afternoon Arborist: HOA Tree Consideration
Date: 11/16/26
Time: 12pm-1pm
Location: Online, must register to get link.
Cost: Free!
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1991797241166?aff=oddtdtcreator
Summary: This class covers key considerations for managing trees within homeowners’ associations (HOAs), including policy development, species selection, maintenance standards, and risk management. Participants learn how to balance aesthetic goals, resident expectations, and long-term tree health while addressing common challenges such as storm preparedness, liability concerns, and infrastructure conflicts. The course also highlights communication strategies and Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ practices that help HOAs make informed, sustainable decisions for their community landscapes.
Afternoon Arborist: Urban Tree Pests/Diseases and Management
Date: 12/14/26
Time: 12pm-1pm
Location: Online, must register to get link.
Cost: Free!
Register:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1991930695331?aff=oddtdtcreator
Summary: This class introduces common pests and diseases affecting urban trees in Florida and how these issues impact overall tree health. Participants learn to recognize key signs and symptoms, distinguish between abiotic and biotic problems, and understand integrated pest management (IPM) principles. The course emphasizes practical, science-based strategies for prevention, monitoring, and treatment, along with Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ practices that promote resilient, healthy trees in urban environments.
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