Beach University environmental classes return for 17th year

Beach University, an education program of Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources, returns for its 17th year to Siesta Beach in March. Beach University is held at the main pavilion at 948 Beach Road on Siesta Key beginning at 9:30 a.m. each Thursday of the month.

In partnership with the Siesta Beach Ambassador volunteer program, the free series offers information about coastal environments in one-hour sessions.

The schedule is:

• March 7: Human and Wildlife Conflict.
• March 14: Reef Ball and its Contribution to the Marine Environment.
• March 21: Manatee Rehabilitation at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature.
• March 28: The Trickle-down Effect: Stormwater to Bay Life.

Because seating is limited, attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs. No registration is required.

For more information, call the Sarasota County Contact Center at 311 or visit SarsotaCountyParks.com.