To include events in the Outdoor News Bulletin Board, email scott.lawson@yoursun.com
Photo contest underwayPORT CHARLOTTE — Charlotte County officials are holding a contest called “The Waters of Charlotte County” and is in need of photos for an upcoming calendar.
“Submit photos that feature the beauty of our county’s waters,” it stated in a news release. “The contest is free and easy to enter.”
The photos must be taken in Charlotte County; should not have “business identifiers” in them, such as signs or logos; and must be horizontal at 8.5 inches by 11 inches to be considered in the contest.
The deadline for entries is Aug. 31. Photos should be submitted at www.CharlotteCountyFL.gov/contest
“We’ll select 14 photos to be featured in the 2027 Charlotte County calendar. Winners will be notified by phone or email,” it stated. “Calendars will be available to the public in late November.”
It noted that there is a release involved.
“By submitting a picture, all entrants grant an irrevocable, perpetual, worldwide, non-exclusive license to the Charlotte County Board of County Commissioners, to reproduce, distribute and display said works of the submission (along with a name credit) without monetary compensation,” it noted. “By submitting this form, you attest you have obtained permission from any person(s) features who are clearly recognizable for their image to be used. The Charlotte County Board of County Commissioners may at any time request a signed release.”
Parks for Pollinators BioBlitz set
PORT CHARLOTTE — Charlotte County Parks & Natural Resources hosts the Parks for Pollinators BioBlitz event from 9 -11 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 19, at Centennial Park Recreation Center, at 1120 Centennial Blvd., Port Charlotte.
“Bees, butterflies, birds and other pollinators do more than brighten our parks—they help sustain the natural world around us,” it stated in a news release. “This free, family-friendly event will celebrate the vital role pollinators play in healthy ecosystems while encouraging residents of all ages to explore nature, learn about local wildlife and discover simple ways to support conservation at home.”
There will be interactive educational exhibits on pollinators and native plants, wildlife conservation along with sustainability and environmental stewardship, it stated.
“Charlotte County Parks & Natural Resources is seeking nonprofit organizations, schools, environmental groups, and educational exhibitors to help bring the experience to life,” it stated. “Vendor participation is free. This event is intended for educational and community outreach purposes only.”
Interested organizations can email Robin.Schilb@CharlotteCountyFL.gov.
Centennial Fishing Pier reopens
PLACIDA — Centennial Fishing Pier, 14021 Gasparilla Road, Placida has reopened. It had been closed due to needed work, according to officials.
For more information, call John Persechino at 941-661-0151 or email John.Persechino@CharlottecountyFL.go
Kayak launch improvements underway
PORT CHARLOTTE — Officials announced improvements are underway to the natural kayak launch at Tippecanoe Environmental Park.
The completion date is set for Aug. 21. Originally, it was anticipated to be opened July 20.
“The kayak launch will be closed during this time,” it stated. “The remainder of the park will remain open.”
For more information, email Casey.Rodman@CharlotteCountyFL.gov.
FREE GUIDED NATURE WALK
CHARLOTTE HARBOR — The Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center and the Charlotte County Natural Resource Department will be conducting free guided nature walks.
All events begin at 8 a.m.
On these casual walks with CHEC volunteers, you will search for and learn about the things that live in Charlotte County’s wild places. Prepare for each walk with plenty of water, insect repellent, sunscreen, and clothing that will protect from insects and plants. Advance registration is required. To sign up, go to bit.ly/CedarWa or call 941-475-0769.
For a complete program calendar, visit CHECFlorida.org.
Cedar Point holds wading trip
ENGLEWOOD — Public wading trips are set through Cedar Point Environmental Park.
“On these guided programs with local experts, you’ll experience a short, guided hike through various ecosystems of the park, and then you will get to wade into the shallow waters of Lemon Bay and use dip nets to sample all the incredible wildlife that lives within the seagrass flats. Prepare for each trip with plenty of water, insect repellent, reef-safe sunscreen (no oxybenzone or avobenzone), and clothing comfortable both for hiking and being in the water.”
Currently, a dozen people are allowed per trip with waiting lists created.
For more information or to register, call at 941-475-0769 or email Michelle@checflorida.org.