Extension is a partnership between state, federal, and county governments to provide scientific knowledge and expertise to the public. The University of Florida (UF), together with Florida A&M University (FAMU), administers the Florida Cooperative Extension Service. At the University of Florida, Extension is located in the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS), along with the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) and the Florida Agricultural Experiment Station, and is called UF/IFAS Extension.

As a cooperative efforts between multiple agencies, the Florida First Detector program aims to provide information and skills to detect invasive pests and plant diseases to interested members of the public. Workshops provide an opportunity for members of the public to get hands-on educational experiences provided by specialists and students with the Florida First Detector team.

The Florida First Detector team has hosted workshops across the state of Florida both in-person and online. During these workshops, we provide information on target invasive species in your county, and we provide resources for you to be able to identify, sample, and report potential invasive threats. By including local growers and enthusiasts, frequent records can be made across the state to keep track of invasive threats to the ecosystem. Additionally, tracking potential threats helps local growers in managing them in their own gardens. Overall, the Florida First Detector program is a bridge between specialists and Florida residents with shared goals of managing invasive species.

If you are interested in hosting or joining a workshop, explore your options below. Extension agents and teachers may find interest in Planning A Workshop. If you are curious about events in your area, check our Upcoming Events.