Last updated: November 9 @ 11:00am
THIS IS #4 TEST
Where: TGO Nature Center
When: November 17, 2025 @ 2:00pm
Join Dr. Robert “Bob” Taylor—fondly known as the “Mayor of Tortoiseville”—for an exclusive small-group session exploring the fascinating world of the Gopher Tortoise. In this lively and informative discussion, you’ll get an insider’s look at NatureScape’s “Tortoiseville” and learn more about these remarkable creatures.
Attendance is limited to the first 30 members, so don’t wait! Reserve your spot by emailing Sally Fisher at [email protected]. Not yet a member of the TGO Nature Center? No problem—contact Sally to learn how you can join and be part of this special event!
Florida Gopher Tortoise Day
Where: TGO ’s Tortoiseville (near the intersection of Baytree and Plantation)
When: April 10, 2026 - 4:00pm - 6:00pm
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has officially designated April 10, 2026, as Gopher Tortoise Day in Florida. Here at The Great Outdoors, we’re fortunate to have a thriving population of gopher tortoises, many of which reside in the Protected Gopher Tortoise Habitat located along the paved Golf Cart Trail just north of Baytree Drive, as well as along the Nature Trail extending north from the Library. TGO NatureScape, with support from the Nature Center, Firewise, and other dedicated community volunteers, has been actively working to enhance and maintain the quality of this important habitat. We invite you to join us for a special Public Educational Event to celebrate Gopher Tortoise Day and learn more about these remarkable creatures and the ongoing conservation efforts in our community.
“Protecting Our Lakes” with Tim Graham (TGON board member)
Where: TGO Plantation Manor
When: March XX, 2026 @ 7:00pm
Join Tim Graham, President of TGO NatureScape, for an informative talk on the health of the lakes throughout The Great Outdoors. He’ll discuss how our lakes are doing, how residents can enjoy them safely, and unveil an exciting new proposal from TGO NatureScape aimed at enhancing these beautiful natural features. Don’t miss this chance to get the facts, learn more about our local environment, and have your questions answered directly.
Spring Festival at the Great Outdoors Nature Center
Where: TGO Nature Center
When: March XX, 2026 - 10:00am - 2:00pm
TGO NatureScape representatives will once again be on hand at the annual Spring Festival to share updates on our current projects and answer your questions. The festival will also feature a variety of exhibitors offering fascinating information about our local plants, wildlife, and the many ways to enjoy nature in and around The Great Outdoors. Exhibits and activities will include the Orlando Wetlands, St. Johns River Water Management District, City of Titusville, The Enchanted Forest, and the Historical Society with information about the Windover People. TGO Firewise will also be participating, and anthropologist Elaine Williams will be available to examine and identify rocks and artifacts. Bill's Bees will have honey for sale, and the TGO Clowns will provide fun and entertainment for all ages. Come out and explore, learn, and celebrate our unique natural surroundings!
“Wrestle a Gator”
Where: TGO Nature Trail Bridge
When: Every Friday night at sunset from November to March (weather permitting)
Think you're tough? Prove it—Florida style! Join us for the event no insurance company wants you to attend: Friday night Gator Wrestling at the Nature Trail Bridge! That’s right—YOU can take on a full-grown, 10-foot alligator (or at least get close enough to reconsider all your life choices). Too much gator for your gladiator ambitions? No worries! We’ve got a selection of smaller, sassier reptiles on standby—perfect for those recovering from knee surgery, nursing a bad back, or already missing a limb. Good wholesome fun for the whole family! All participants get a souvenir t-shirt whether you beat the gator or not! See you there.
What to Bring: Long pants, gloves, insect repellent (because the mosquitoes are also out for blood), a fully stocked first aid kit, and your neighbor—so you can prove you're tougher than they are.
TGO NatureScape is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing education, funding methods and concept plans for central Florida communities on best use practices of native plants and invasive species mitigation.
