Sarasota, Florida-Sarasota County officials ask residents to skip lawn mainetnance this summer by not using fertilizer products containing nitrogen and phospherous. Stormwater washes excess fertilizer into storm drains and out into the bay. Environmentalists say the excess nitrogent and phosphorous can fuel the growth of algae and stop the growth of vegetation altering some plant communities.

Beginning June 1-September 30 no fertilizer using phosphorous or nitrogen can be used on lawns or plants in Sarasota County.

Sarasota, Florida -  Students at the Ringling College of Art and Design were challenged to use their artistic skills to help educate the public about ocean acidification, and they came through in a big way. 

Student projects entered in Mote's "The Art of Marine Science" contest included a board game, comic books, and an experiment kit and video for budding scientists.

Those projects were part of a course taught by a Mote scientist and they earned top honors at a recent awards ceremony.

Sarasota, Florida -- Learn how to plant and care for trees during Sarasota County and UF/IFAS Extension Arbor Day 2013 celebration. 

Two educational events will be held.  "Pruning for Tree Health" will be held for homeowners from 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Saturday, April 27, and a "Tree School," focusing on best practices and proper tree care for commercial audiences, will be held from 8 a.m.-noon Tuesday, April 30.

Both classes will be at UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County at Twin Lakes Park, 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota.