We are proud to present the 2025 Lecture Series: Conservation in Florida
Registration is required for each event. Click here to register. Lectures begin at 5:30 p.m. in the Library Multi-Purpose Room.
January 14
Sarah Shepard, Director of Communications, Conservation Florida
Sarah Shepard will present Protect Our Paradise, transporting you to the heart of Florida's wild landscapes, where ancient cypress trees tower over sweet, whispering swamps and sprawling canopies share stories of the wildlife that thrive in our magical wetlands - revealing how we can help preserve these serene, untamed places. Registration opens December 9
February 4
Gaye Sharpe, Parks and Natural Resources Director, Polk County Board of County Commissioners
Learn about the history of Polk County's Environmental Lands program, including past successes, future goals, and partners that assist in bringing these projects to fruition. Registration opens January 2
February 11
Dr. Steve Noll, Master Lecturer, University of Florida history department
Dr. Noll will present Florida Water Stories. Florida's long and difficult relationship with water, its attempts to turn land into water and water into land, and the contentious issues involving the Everglades, the Ocklawaha River, political battles with Alabama and Georgia, and the potential impact of sea-level rise. Registration opens January 9
February 25
Cheryl Millett, Tiger Creek Preserve Manager, The Nature Conservancy in Florida
Invasive species are a constant threat to Florida. Learn how these species, including Burmese pythons, threaten the amazing biodiversity they are working to protect. Registration opens January 21
March 4
Nicolle Masters, External Affairs Specialist, South Florida Water Management District
Learn about past and current projects including the South Florida Water Management District's Kissimmee River Restoration Project. The Kissimmee Basin encompasses more than two dozen lakes in the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes and the basin forms the headwaters of Lake Okeechobee and the Everglades. Together they comprise the Kissimmee-Okeechobee-Everglades system. Registration opens February 3
This series is made possible by the generous support of the Friends of the Winter Haven Public Library. To learn more or to make a donation supporting future programs, visit their site.