Interactive feature marks collaboration between staff of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources and UF/IFAS
Sarasota County’s Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources (PRNR) Department staff and the staff of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Extension and Sustainability are inviting county residents to “[d]iscover hidden history and turn Sarasota County parks into a classroom with the new Agents of Discovery app.”
The interactive feature is a product of a partnership between PRNR and UF/IFAS Extension and Sustainability, a news release explains. Anyone may explore nature-based missions on the app, which provides “an interactive way for families to turn screen time into opportunities to explore the outdoors while learning and having fun,” the release points out.
Persons may “visit select parks to complete site-specific challenges with Field Agent Forest Parker,” the release notes.
“Missions explore local history, habitats, wildlife and conservation efforts,” the release continues. Moreover, it says, a participant can earn a digital badge upon completion of missions.
Sarasota County staff will be providing free, in-person launch programs to help the public get started with the program, the release points out:
- July 3 — Pinecraft Park, which is located at 1420 Gilbert Ave. in Sarasota.
- July 21 — Red Bug Slough Preserve, which stands at 5200 Beneva Road in Sarasota.
The programs will run from 9 to 10:30 a.m., the release says; they “are best suited for ages 6 to 12.”
Registration is required at bit.ly/SRQAgents.
To download the app, go to linktr.ee/DownloadAgentsofDiscovery.
“Please note park operating hours when visiting Sarasota County parks,” the release advises the public, adding, “Some locations do not allow dogs or other pets.”
For more information about Agents of Discovery at Sarasota County’s Parks, visit SarasotaCountyParks.com/AOD.