July 2025 Dine to Donate at Village Inn
2025-07-29 16:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Village Inn Titusville, 2925 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States

Florida Geology, Sandhills Restoration, and Gillespie Museum Tour
2025-08-15 09:00 - 11:30 | Gillespie Museum, 234 E. Michigan Ave, Deland, FL, 32724, United States
Beat the heat and join us for a three-in-one unique program about Florida geology, native sandhills habitat, and a bit of space related science.
Founded in 1958, the Gillespie Museum has been a center for earth and environmental science education on Stetson University campus for six decades. The museum houses a historic mineral collection, with nearly a thousand of its 15,000 specimens on display in changing exhibits. Small galleries are also devoted to collecting natural history, Florida ecosystems, fluorescent minerals, volcanism, and the rock cycle.
The grounds of the Gillespie Museum and of the adjacent Rinker Environmental Learning Center are home to the Volusia Sandhill Ecosystem Teaching Landscape, as well as an established Native Florida Plant Landscape. This landscape is a project to recover the longleaf sandhill ecosystem that once existed as part of the dry, sandy slope of the DeLand Ridge The restoration site includes a pollination garden, several wiregrass areas, and plantings of Greeneyes, Coreopsis, Pawpaw, Silk grass, Gopher apples, and other native sandhill species.
Itinerary:

Florida Formations Presentation
Tour of Volusia Sandhill + time to explore native plant garden
Community Science Contributions (iNaturalist and eBird observations)
Brief tour of museum followed by self-guided visit

Special Exhibit: Minerals in Space – it’s all about how minerals are used in building spacecraft and how those minerals are obtained.
The program is being offered for free. We encourage you to consider leaving a small donation in the museum’s collection box.

August 2025 Dine to Donate at Village Inn
2025-08-19 16:00 - 21:00 | Village Inn Titusville, 2925 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States

Appreciating Butterflies - Program and Garden Walk
2025-09-03 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Bevard Extension Office, 3695 Lake Drive, Cocoa, FL, 32926, United States
Hosted by Merritt Island Wildlife Association and Brevard Discovery Garden
Enjoy learning about pollinator habitat and local butterfly species in the comfort of the air conditioned auditorium. Following the presentations the group will visit the Brevard Discovery Garden for a guided walk to look for butterflies, caterpillars, and chrysalis.

Introduction to Butterfly Identification by Ed Perry, Retired State Park Ranger
Creating a Pollinator Habitat, Sally Scalara, UF/IFAS Urban Horticultural Agent

Garden Walk & Butterfly Observation
Guided walk through the pollinator gardens to identify butterfly species and observe pollinators on the host and nectar plants in the garden!

From Aquaculture to Habitat: A Florida Clam Restoration Field Day (St. Augustine)
2025-09-20 10:00 - 15:00 | Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience, 9505 N Ocean Shore Blvd, St. Augustine, Florida, 32080, United States
Join us for this two-part program as we explore the clam restoration strategy contributing to filtering the future of the Indian River Lagoon. The first part of the program will be conducted at Whitney Laboratory in St. Augustine.
Whitney Laboratory along with its partners are working to restore clam populations in the Indian River Lagoon (IRL). Our behind-the-scenes field trip will include an in-depth examination of how clams contribute to water quality and support the restoration of seagrasses in the vital IRL estuary.
Dr. Todd Osborne will lead us on a tour of the lab and highlight the work being performed with project partner Premium Seafood (Mike Sullivan) to produce the 15 million clams needed for restoration. Dr. Osborne will share details about the processes of population enhancement and ecosystem services provided by growing clam populations.
Following the Laboratory program we will travel to the clam aquaculture farming location. Please note the second location is a working clam farm and is not traditionally open to the public. Most of the production areas are not accessible with mobility devices. The field trip will include participation in a service project to support IRL health. Service project logistics and details will be sent to registrants one week prior to the field trip.

Itinerary – Saturday, Sept 20 (times are estimated and may be adjusted)
10:00am Meet at Whitney Lab for tour and hands-on service project
12:00pm Travel to Commander’s Fish Camp for up close look at clam farming
12:30pm Lunch at Commander’s fish camp
(participants will pay for their own lunch)
1:30pm Tour of the clam farm production areas and viewing of lagoon restoration work
Location #1
The Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience
9505 N Ocean Shore Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080
Location #2
The Commander’s Shellfish Camp (Mike Sullivan – Owner)
7579 A1A S, St. Augustine, FL 32080
REGISTER HERE

Crafting with Nature’s Palette: Plant Dye Workshop
2025-09-26 18:00 - 20:00 | Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge Classroom, 4490 Grand Ave, DeLeon Springs, FL, 32130, United States
Colors of the Wild: Crafting with Nature’s Palette
Presented by: Amy from Tiny Worlds Farm
Find the beauty in nature for your creative side with native and common Florida plants for vibrant pigments. We’ll examine plants and their sources, learn basic pigment processing for making botanical inks and watercolors, and experiment with plant pigments to create unique paintings. No experience needed—just a curiosity for nature and a love of earthy color.
Date: Friday, Sept 26
Time: 6:00 to 8:00pm
Cost: $15 per person (includes supplies)
Refreshments will be provided. Participants are also welcome to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks.
Refund Policy – Refunds are only available for cancellations prior to Sept 18 due to having to order supplies in advance of the workshop.
Workshop Instruction:

Plant pigment basics & materials
Plant pigment methods
Hands-on Painting
Pigment checks and processing

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

Insects and IPAs
2025-10-23 16:00 - 18:00 | Playalinda Brewing Company, 5220 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Join Merritt Island Wildlife Association and Playalinda Brewery for an incredible insect themed night to benefit the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge complex. Cheers to conservation! Celebrate the debut of ‘Insects and IPA’ craft brew adorned with a custom label featuring native Florida insects.
UCF Bug Closet Assistant Curator, Collection of Arthropods, Robin Marquez, will have microscopes and specimens to observe. Ethan Wright, a PhD student in the social insect behavior lab at UCF, will have live beetles to study and share interesting research about insect parasites of ant nests.
Enjoy the brewery patio area and be sure to check out their new menu items. From the first pour to the final can, Playalinda is donating $1 for every 4-pack and $1 for every pour of “Insects and IPA” for the entire brew’s cycle.

iNaturalist Workshop: Explore, Identify, Contribute
2025-10-31 10:00 - 12:00 | Merritt Island NWR Visitor Center, 1987 Scrub Jay Way, Titusville, FL, 32782, United States
Please note: If the Government Shutdown has not ended by Oct 31, this event will move to Dixie Crossroads restaurant in Titusville, FL.
Discover Nature with iNaturalist, a community science app, connecting people with nature and contributing valuable wildlife data.
Workshop Highlights
Learn the iNaturalist App

Purpose, features, and community science benefits
Key differences between iNaturalist and iNaturalist Classic versions

Tips for Community Science Contribution

Best practices for documenting plants, insects, birds, and more
How to capture clear photos and useful observations
Ensuring your observations contribute to community science with confidence

Hands-On Practice

Guided use of iNaturalist along the Merritt Island NWR Boardwalk Trail
Real-time observation, photo documentation, and uploads
Group Q&A and support from instructors

What to Bring

Smartphone or tablet with the iNaturalist app installed (and account created in advance, if possible)
Comfortable walking shoes for boardwalk trail (some areas may be wet)
Refillable water bottle and sun protection
Curiosity and enthusiasm for exploring nature!

Who Should Attend

Nature lovers, photographers, hikers, and birders
Students, educators, and families interested in science
Anyone curious about connecting technology with conservation
Content is suited to ages 16 and older

Join us on Halloween morning for a hands-on introduction to iNaturalist. By the end of this workshop, you’ll be ready to explore, record, and share the biodiversity of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge—all while making your observations count for science!
REGISTER HERE

Fall into Conservation Fundraiser
2025-11-01 16:00 - 18:00 | Brevard Veterans Memorial Center, 400 S Sykes Creek Pkwy, Merritt Island, FL, 32952, United States
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Please join us as we welcome keynote speaker Professor Gordon Patterson who will bring to life the fascinating stories and history captured in his book Mosquito Wars. Professor Patterson will explore the intriguing conservation connection between mosquitoes and preservation of natural spaces. The event will feature a silent auction and raffles, with proceeds directly supporting environmental education programs, community outreach, and conservation actions. Hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be served as guests enjoy an early evening by the river—an ideal setting to relax, connect, and share conversation with fellow nature enthusiasts.
About Merritt Island Wildlife Association
The Merritt Island Wildlife Association inspires community stewardship by advocating for wildlife, advancing conservation education, and expanding outreach that supports the Merritt Island and Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuges.
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Keynote Speaker: Professor Gordon Patterson
Gordon M. Patterson is a Professor of History at Florida Tech, where he has taught since 1981. In addition to his work at Florida Tech, he has served as a Vector Historian with the Rutgers University Center for Vector Biology. Before coming to Florida, he lectured at the University of Maryland. Dr. Patterson holds graduate degrees from UCLA and a Bachelor of Science from Northwestern University.
His teaching and research have taken him around the world, including work in Europe and China, visiting professorships in Korea and Japan, and field research in Malaysia and Indonesia.
Professor Patterson is the author of The Mosquito Wars: A History of Mosquito Control in Florida and The Mosquito Crusades: A History of the American Anti-Mosquito Movement from the Reed Commission to the First Earth Day.
Itinerary
4:00 – 4:30pm Enjoy hors d’oeuvres with the river view and silent auction browsing
4:30 – 5:15pm Keynote Presentation followed by book signing
5:15 – 5:45pm Dessert, raffle drawings, social time, silent auction close out
5:45 – 6:00pm Merritt Island Wildlife Association highlights and sponsor recognition

Culver's Custard for Conservation
2025-11-11 17:00 - 20:00 | Culver’s Restaurant, Titusville, FL, 2855 Cheney Highway, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Get out of the kitchen and join Merritt Island National Wildlife Association for a delicious meal and dessert, while supporting your Refuge. Culver’s will donate a percentage of all sales back to MIWA, so the more you eat, the more we earn. Invite your friends and family to dine at Culver’s on Veteran’s Day. Thank you to all who have served our country!

Bear Aware: Living with Florida’s Wild Neighbor (note date change)
2025-11-22 09:00 - 11:30 | Rinker Environmental Learning Center at Stetson University, 230 E Michigan Ave, Deland, FL, 32724, United States
Join us for our Florida Black Bear program offering an engaging, hands-on learning experience where participants can explore artifacts such as pelts and skulls while discovering the vital role these animals play in Florida’s ecosystems. Attendees will gain practical knowledge on how to coexist safely with bears, including strategies to prevent conflicts in neighborhoods, campsites, and recreational areas. Through education and awareness, the program fosters respect for wildlife and encourages stewardship of Florida’s natural heritage.
Key Takeaways:

Learn about Florida black bears’ biology, habitat, and conservation challenges.
See and touch real bear artifacts, including pelts and skulls.
Discover practical tips to reduce bear encounters, such as securing trash and storing food properly.
Family friendly event to learn fun facts from FWC Bear Biologists and representatives from the Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway.

REGISTER HERE

FLORIDA’S SNAKES: CORALS & COACHWHIPS, INDIGOS & SCARLETS, PIT VIPERS & PYTHONS
2025-11-23 10:00 - 12:00 | Rinker Environmental Learning Center at Stetson University, 230 E Michigan Ave, Deland, FL, 32724, United States
FLORIDA’S SNAKES: CORALS & COACHWHIPS, INDIGOS & SCARLETS, PIT VIPERS & PYTHONS
Florida is famous for its diversity of reptiles, and since the 1980s John Serrao has been photographing and documenting them, from the panhandle’s ravines to the central scrub and highland ridge to the Everglades.
This presentation features more than 35 of Florida’s snakes, including all 6 venomous species. It includes amazing photos of the largest indigo snake documented in Volusia country in at least 40 years (found by John in 2013) as well as snakes ranging from 6 to 7 feet, coachwhips and eastern diamondback rattlesnakes, to 8-inch crowned snakes. John not only shows how to identify these beautiful animals but also their important roles as predators in Florida’s ecosystems.
The program will encourage participants to see snakes in a new light—valuing their role in nature and recognizing the need to preserve the expansive habitats vital to their future.
About the Presenter:
John Serrao received his M.S. degree with an emphasis on entomology from Cornell University and has been a professional Naturalist, writer, photographer, and tour leader since the 1970s. He has written 7 books about wildlife and natural history, and created dozens of Self-Guided Nature Trails Booklets.
REGISTER HERE

Thankful for Village Inn
2025-11-25 16:00 - 21:00 | Village Inn Titusville, 2925 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
The Merritt Island Wildlife Association is very thankful for our amazing partnership with Village Inn and their generous Dine to Donate fundraisers. Step away from your Thanksgiving prep and join us for a delicious meal on Tuesday November 25. And be sure to pick-up a few tasty pies to impress your holiday guests. All purchases from 4-9pm will benefit MIWA.

Trash Bash
2025-12-13 08:00 - 12:00 | West Gator Creek Kiosk, W Gator Creek Trail, Titusville, FL, 32796
The Fish and Wildlife Service holds a Trash Bash clean-up for the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge every second Saturday, October through April. Please join MINWR staff and volunteers for the December Trash Bash. Check-in will begin at West Gator Creek Kiosk located at the entrance of the Refuge when crossing over Max Brewer Memorial Bridge. Check-in is rolling so please feel free to come and go as is convenient during that time window. Cleanup locations will be assigned at check-in. Trash pickup supplies will be provided on a first come, first serve basis. Closed toe shoes, long pants, and a reusable water bottle are recommended.

Mysteries of Mycology: Mushroom Walk and Talk
2025-12-13 09:00 - 11:30 | Chuluota Wilderness Area, 3895 Curryville Road, Chululota, FL, 32766, United States
Mysteries of Mycology Walk
Join us for a guided exploration into the fascinating world of wild mushrooms! This field-based program invites participants to discover the diversity of fungi found in natural habitats and learn how to identify them through their unique features, forms, and ecological roles.
Led by the founder of the Florida Mycological Society, this interpretive walk will highlight key characteristics used in mushroom identification—such as cap shape, gill structure, and growth patterns—while emphasizing observation and respect for these remarkable organisms in their natural settings.
Following the walk, participants will have the opportunity to examine collected specimens and practice using field guides and identification resources to deepen their understanding of Florida’s fungi.
This educational program is recommended for ages 16 and older due to its detailed scientific focus and field-based format. The session emphasizes identification and ecological learning.
REGISTER HERE

Nature Journaling Workshop
2025-12-14 14:45 - 16:45 | Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge Classroom, 4490 Grand Ave, DeLeon Springs, FL, 32130, United States
’Tis the Season! Nature Journaling for Adults
As we prepare for the upcoming arrival of winter, we invite you to join us for a program where we will practice nature journaling skills that can help us explore “phenology”—the changing of the seasons. In this beginner-friendly lesson, participants will learn some fun facts about Florida phenology, and get hands-on experience with a few artistic and creative writing methods that can be used to record the natural world.
Although much of the journaling portion will take place in our indoor classroom, there will be a component of outdoor exploration, so come prepared for a 30 minute adventure into our pollinator garden, where we will explore what the plants, insects, and other animals are doing at this time of year!
All supplies will be provided (you’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer). Refreshments and seasonal snacks will be available. If you have dietary needs or restrictions, you are welcome to bring your own snacks or meals to ensure your preferences are accommodated.
REGISTER HERE

Final 2025 Dine to Donate at Village Inn
2025-12-16 16:00 - 21:00 | Village Inn Titusville, 2925 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Thanks to all who have supported MIWA through visits, meals and takeaway at Village Inn. Village Inn gives 10% back to MIWA for all purchases made from 4-9pm on December 16, our final night for 2025. If you can’t make it in for a meal, order takeaway and enjoy at home; every little bit helps!

Holiday Art with Heart
2025-12-18 16:00 - 18:30 | Merritt Island NWR Visitor Center, 1987 Scrub Jay Way, Titusville, FL, 32782, United States
Join us for Holiday Art with Heart for a hands-on painting session where participants will apply color and creativity to hand-carved bird and butterfly balsa-wood ornaments. Each guest will paint beautifully handcrafted ornaments designed by a Women of the Cloud Forest fair-trade artisan. Painting kits are just $10 each and available in limited quantities. During the session, we’ll hear from the artisan, gaining insight into the cultural inspiration, carving process, and meaning behind each piece. It’s a warm, artful holiday experience that blends creativity, connection, and conservation—resulting in a keepsake that truly has heart.
Register and purchase painting supplies here
Kit includes 2 balsa wood carved ornaments (1 bird, 1 butterfly) and paints.

Naturally Festive: Gift Shop Jingle & Mingle
2025-12-18 16:00 - 18:30 | Merritt Island NWR Visitor Center, 1987 Scrub Jay Way, Titusville, FL, 32782, United States
Join us for a festive evening of after-hours holiday shopping at our Nature’s Treasures Gift Shop on December 18, 2025, from 4:00–6:30 PM. We’re keeping the doors open late so you can browse our nature-inspired gifts, puzzles, books, and wildlife-themed treasures at your leisure—perfect for finding something special while supporting conservation. The night will feature exclusive discounts, cheerful refreshments, holiday treats, and exciting door prizes throughout the event. It’s a warm, community-focused way to wrap up your shopping, enjoy a little seasonal sparkle, and give back to the Lake Woodruff and Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuges with every purchase.

YOUTH: Discover Archery Day--Have a Go at the Bow!
2025-12-22 09:00 - 11:00 | Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge Classroom, 4490 Grand Ave, DeLeon Springs, FL, 32130, United States
Discover the thrill of archery in this open, beginner-friendly session—no experience required! Participants will learn the basics and take their first shots using equipment we provide. Whether you’ve never held a bow or are just curious to see what you can do, come give it a go and let your inner archer take aim at something new!
Youth class is for ages 10-18 years old.
REGISTER HERE

ADULTS: Discover Archery Day--Have a Go at the Bow!
2025-12-23 09:00 - 11:00 | Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge Classroom, 4490 Grand Ave, DeLeon Springs, FL, 32130, United States
Discover the thrill of archery in this open, beginner-friendly session—no experience required! Participants will learn the basics and take their first shots using equipment we provide. Whether you’ve never held a bow or are just curious to see what you can do, come give it a go and let your inner archer take aim at something new!
Adult class is for 18 years and older.
REGISTER HERE

Eco-Buggy Tour of D Ranch Preserve
2026-01-09 09:00 - 11:00 | D Ranch Preserve, 2655 Reed Ellis Road, Osteen, FL, 32764, United States
Please join us for a private eco-buggy tour of the breathtaking habitats including pine flatwoods, wetlands, and oak hammocks at D. Ranch Preserve. Thanks to a generous donation from an anonymous donor, Conservation Florida purchased this 476-acre preserve to permanently protect its diverse landscapes and native wildlife. D Ranch Preserve is now open with 3.5 miles of scenic trails perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography. The Preserve is a home for many of Florida’s most iconic wildlife, such as the Florida black bear, gopher tortoise, and bald eagle.
The program will include an overview of Conservation Florida, background about the Preserve, and short guided hikes at various stopping points around the Preserve. The eco-buggy has low step access with handrails for mobility assistance. The buggy is not wheelchair accessible. Joan Tague, experienced birder & naturalist, will complement the D Ranch trip leaders to assist with bird observations and identifications. Conservation Florida team members will share highlights about the plant life and wildlife regularly seen on the property.
Limited Seats: REGISTER HERE

Village Inn Dine to Donate
2026-01-29 16:00 - 20:00 | Village Inn Titusville, 2925 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Join us for the first Dine to Donate of 2026. Village Inn generously donates 10% of all proceeds (dine-in and carry-out) from 4pm – 8pm, to MIWA.

Culver's Cuisine for Conservation
2026-02-24 17:00 - 20:00 | Culver’s Restaurant, Titusville, FL, 2855 Cheney Highway, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Scoop up some fun at Culver’s Titusville! During this sweet fundraiser, MIWA Board Members and volunteers will join the Culver’s crew as greeters, food runners, and dining room helpers—while also sharing exciting conservation stories from the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge complex.
To sweeten the deal, Culver’s will contribute a progressive donation based on total sales—the higher the sales, the greater the gift to conservation. It’s the perfect chance to try out their menu items including fish, chicken, salads and desserts while making a difference for local wildlife!

Aim, Cast, Explore: Spring Break Camp(ish) Outdoors
2026-03-16 09:00 - 2026-03-20 14:30 | Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge Nature Center, 2045 Mud Lake Road, Deleon Springs, FL, 32130, United States
Aim, Cast, Explore: Spring Break Camp(ish) Outdoors is an interactive day camp experience where youth and their accompanying adult learn side by side. Each day includes hands-on instruction in fishing, archery, and wilderness exploration, building practical outdoor skills in a supportive setting. Families may choose individual days or participate in the entire week. Please note: this is not a drop-off camp, adults must remain onsite and engaged with their youth participant. All equipment and supplies will be provided. Open to youth ages 8 to 18.
Aim, Cast, Explore is made possible through the generous support of the Embraer Foundation, whose commitment to youth development helps bring hands-on outdoor skills to life.
· No drop-offs. Just discovery.
· Different adventures, every day.
· Skills, curiosity, and the wild outdoors.
· Where spring break meets the outdoors.
REGISTER HERE–Free

Manatee Education Day
2026-03-21 10:00 - 14:00 | Merritt Island NWR Visitor Center, 1987 Scrub Jay Way, Titusville, FL, 32782, United States
Manatee Education Day brings you up close to the biology and fun facts about the gentle residents of our coastal waters. Learn how manatees depend on healthy seagrass, clean waterways, and protected spaces including the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.
During this event, you’ll engage in hands-on learning, dive into manatee trivia and interactive challenges, and discover practical ways to steward local wildlife.

Meet the Manatee Up Close (Scientifically Speaking!)
Discover what makes manatees true marine mammals through bite-sized biology, surprising fun facts, and kid-friendly explanations that don’t shy away from real science.
Hands-On Science Artifacts
Examine a real manatee skull alongside detailed scientific illustration panels and life-size interpretive displays to explore anatomy, adaptations, and how structure supports a slow-moving, plant-powered lifestyle. A rare chance to experience the science that usually stays behind the scenes.
Wild Manatee Watch
Step onto our manatee observation deck for a chance to spot manatees in their natural habitat. Nature writes the schedule, so sightings aren’t guaranteed, but the experience is always is memorable.

Visit each education station to complete your learning journey and earn a special manatee-themed giveaway as a thank-you for diving in!
REGISTER HERE–Free

Opossums and Pours
2026-03-26 17:00 - 19:00 | Playalinda Brewing Company, 5220 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Enjoy social time with a side of science while learning about marsupial marvels at Opossums & Pours. Join us for an evening brewed for curious minds where biology meets a well-crafted beverage.
Meet Blossom the Opossum, ambassador from the Florida Wildlife Hospital. Explore the peculiar physiology of North America’s only marsupial, from their prehensile tails to the science behind their famously theatrical “playing possum” performance.

CANCELLED--Strike Up Support for Wildlife: Bowl-A-Thon Fundraiser
2026-03-29 13:00 - 15:00 | River Lanes Family Entertainment Center, 800 Cheney Highway, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
We apologize, but we have to cancel the planned bowl-a-thon fundraiser. We hope this hasn’t caused any inconvenience and we look forward to seeing you at other MIWA and MINWR events!
Join us for a bowl-a-thon that brings our conservation community together for a shared cause. Form a team of up to six bowlers and enjoy an afternoon of connection, laughter, and friendly competition, all while supporting wildlife and habitat protection. Every frame rolled helps fuel hands-on conservation efforts in our community, so gather your team and let’s roll for the wild.
Each registration includes 2 hours of bowling and shoe rental for up to 6 people. Don’t miss the 50/50 raffle and a chance to win a nature-themed raffle basket during the event.
REGISTER HERE

Diurnal to Nocturnal – Insects & Arachnids After Dark
2026-04-14 06:30 - 20:30 | Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge Nature Center, 2045 Mud Lake Road, Deleon Springs, FL, 32130, United States
Join us for Insects & Arachnids After Dark, an evening hands-on science field experience that starts with a guided walk along a nature trail at sunset in search of the small but remarkable creatures that come alive after dark. Using red-light flashlights and UV lights, we’ll look for movement, glowing clues, eye shine, web builders, hunters, and other nighttime behaviors while exploring how insects and arachnids are specially adapted for life in the dark. Along the way, participants will sharpen their observation skills and learn how to notice the field marks and characteristics that help distinguish one species from another.
This program also invites you to be part of community science. As we document what we find, participants will help observe, describe, and assist volunteers with recording species using iNaturalist, contributing valuable sightings that can support wildlife knowledge and biodiversity tracking.
After the trail walk, we’ll gather in the classroom to examine and compare the species observed, practice identification techniques, and discuss the clues that help naturalists tell one arthropod from another. This field activity is made possible through a Special Use Permit to access the Refuge after closing time.
Field Trip Leader: Professor Candido Diaz, Stetson University
Professor Diaz’s academic passion has always bounced between physics and biology. Ultimately, he obtained a degree in Physics and Astronomy from Vassar College. He was lucky enough to conduct acoustics research during his undergrad but then found the call of biology too strong. Professor Diaz an Ecomechanist who travels into the field to study the material properties of the glue produced by rare spiders to capture moths. At heart, Professor Diaz loves evolutionary specialist animals and the weird things they can do. These amazing spiders use a combination of strange web structures, pheromones, and a special silk glue to retain hard-to-catch prey.
REGISTER HERE

April Village Inn Dine to Donate
2026-04-21 17:00 - 20:00 | Village Inn Titusville, 2925 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Join us on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, for our next Dine to Donate event at Village Inn in Titusville, FL. Village Inn generously donates to MIWA based on all purchases (dine-in and carry-out) from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm.
