Learn more about how Manatee County's Environmental Protection Division is working with Public Works to provide flood protection and water quality benefits to Tampa Bay through a new continuous monitoring and adaptive water levels program . . .

In this episode of Chambers Changes & Conversations, we dive into the fascinating history of oysters in Manatee County, how they've shaped our ecosystem for centuries, and the incredible restoration efforts helping bring them back. Learn why oysters are nature's water filters, and how community-driven conservation is making a difference one reef at a time.

Big news for paradise lovers! Anna Maria Island has been recognized by Southern Living as one of the South's top beach towns, and it's easy to see why. From sugar-white sand beaches and turquoise waters to charming shops, local restaurants and unforgettable sunsets, Anna Maria Island offers the perfect blend of Old Florida charm and coastal beauty. Whether you're spending the day searching for shells, enjoying fresh seafood, biking through town or simply relaxing by the water, there's something special about life on the island. Have you visited Anna Maria Island lately? Tell us your favorite beach, restaurant or island tradition in the comments!

Looking for ideas about how to spend a meaningful day with dad next Sunday, June 21? Try one of Manatee County's great fishing spots, such as Bennett Park; rent a kayak at Jigg's Landing; or play some catch at any of our parks or beaches. You can ask Cortez on the mymanatee.org website to get more ideas!

Looking for a unique venue for your next celebration? From weddings and baby showers to birthdays, reunions and special events, Mixon Farms offers a beautiful setting filled with Old Florida charm, open green spaces and memorable backdrops. Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a larger celebration, Mixon Farms provides a one-of-a-kind space to bring people together. Ready to start planning? Learn more about rental opportunities and available spaces here: mymanatee.org/mixon-farms#re… 📍 Mixon Farms 2525 27th Street East, Bradenton

🚧 Road Work Notice 🚧 During the overnight hours of 10 PM on June 14 through 5 AM on June 15, there will be alternating lane closures on Natures Way, between Lakewood Ranch Blvd and Town Center Pkwy to perform a roadway repair. ✅ Please use caution, watch for crews, equipment, and allow extra time when traveling through the area. Thank you for your patience!

🚧 Road Work Notice 🚧 Starting Sunday, June 14, 2026, through Friday, June 26, 2026, temporary lane closures will be in place along southbound 75th Street West between 19th Avenue West and Manatee Avenue West. These traffic impacts are necessary to allow the contractor to install a reclaimed water line as part of the 75th Street West Improvements project. Construction activities will occur nightly from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m., with minimal expected impact on traffic and the traveling public. ✅ Please use caution, watch for crews, equipment, and allow extra time when traveling through the area. ✅ For more information on this project, please visit: 75th-street-project-manateeg… Thank you for your patience!

🚨 Emergency Road Closure Notice 🚨 There is a gas leak at the intersection of Upper Manatee River Rd and Ft Hamer Rd (South of Bridge Crossing). *For northbound traffic, use 3rd Ave NE to Gates Creek Rd, or SR 64 to Rye Rd. *Expected to be opened to traffic by 8 PM this evening, updates will be forthcoming. ✅ Please use the detour route shown on the map graphic, watch for crews, equipment, and allow extra time when traveling through the area. ✅ For more information about road closures in Manatee County, please visit: mymanatee.org/services-and-a… Thank you for your patience!

Have you heard? Manatee County has added a NEW location to drop off recycling for free, located at Premier Sports Complex in Lakewood Ranch. Whether you live in a home without a recycling service or have more than your bin will hold, these spots are a great way to dispose of your paper, cardboard, metal, plastic, or glass! Don't forget: Your recyclables should be loosely prepared (no plastic bags), and make sure not to include any garbage or yard waste. See our full list of locations and learn more at mymanatee.org/recycling today.

Manatee County is seeking qualified residents to serve on a new Health & Human Services Investment Review Committee, an advisory body that will review and score funding applications for programs serving residents. The committee will evaluate adult health and human services funding applications in an advisory capacity to the Board of County Commissioners. Using standardized scoring criteria, members will provide independent, objective reviews intended to align funding recommendations with board-approved priorities and identified community needs. Residents interested in serving can learn more and apply at mymanatee.org/applyforboard. For questions or more information, contact Dr. Remy at renese.remy@mymanatee.org.

🚧 Player’s Drive at Lorraine Road Traffic Signal 🚧 Major construction operations have been substantially completed, and the permanent traffic signal is operational. Restoration efforts are ongoing throughout the project area in preparation for final inspections. ✅ For more information on this project, please visit: players-drive-and-lorraine-r… Thank you for your patience!

Our VolunTeens were hard at work at Emerson Point Preserve earlier this month, making a real difference for our local environment! These dedicated teens spent the day cleaning trash from the shoreline and removing invasive plant species from our native butterfly garden, helping protect the habitats that make our preserves so special. Their hard work, positive attitudes and commitment to conservation never fail to inspire us. It's always a fun day when our VolunTeens are out in the field, giving back to the community while earning service hours and making lasting impacts on our natural spaces. Interested in joining us for future volunteer opportunities and outdoor adventures? Check out upcoming events at mymanatee.org/ecoevents and get involved!

Men’s Health Matters. Knowledge is Power. Join us for a special Men’s Health Awareness Month presentation and learn about some of the most common health concerns men face as they age. Guest speaker Dr. Mark Weintraub will discuss prostate cancer, enlarged prostate (BPH) and low testosterone, along with proactive steps you can take to support long-term health and wellness. This interactive session includes time for questions and answers, giving you the opportunity to learn the facts and gain valuable insight into your health. 📅 Wednesday, June 17 ⏰ 11:00 a.m. 📍 G.T. Bray Recreation Center 5502 33rd Ave Dr W, Bradenton, FL 34209 Take charge of your health and join the conversation. We look forward to seeing you there!

Wastewater (used water) is never wasted in Manatee County. 💧 We provide more than 10 billion gallons of reclaimed water every year — treating it to the highest standards and putting it back to work through our purple pipe system for irrigation, groundwater recharge, and environmental protection. The result? Less pressure on our natural freshwater sources, greener communities, and a more resilient water future for everyone. Learn more: youtube.com/watch?v=kOJAZb-K…

🚧 Road Closure Notice 🚧 Starting June 16th through 18th, an overnight only road closure from 9 PM to 5 AM is required on Tallevast Rd, between Matoaka Rd to 28th St Ct E for a sanitary sewer tie-in and roadway restoration. Roadway will be restored to full traffic outside these hours, and local traffic will be permitted up to the closure zone on Tallevast Rd. ✅ Please use the detour route shown on the map graphic, watch for crews, equipment, and allow extra time when traveling through the area. ✅ For more information about road closures in Manatee County, please visit: mymanatee.org/services-and-a… Thank you for your patience!

⚽ Paradise takes on Union Omaha! Join Sarasota Paradise FC as they battle Union Omaha on Saturday, June 13, at 7:30 p.m. under the lights at Premier Sports Campus. Big-time matchup. Electric atmosphere. One unforgettable night of soccer in the Suncoast. Whether you’re a longtime fan or looking for the perfect weekend outing, this is a match you won’t want to miss.

What a fantastic World Ocean Day celebration at The NEST at Robinson Preserve this past Saturday! Families spent the morning exploring the wonders of our local waterways through hands-on activities and exciting discoveries. Participants cast a line with Jerry's Wildlife and learned about the fish species that call our waters home, explored the impacts of marine litter and how we can help protect our oceans and got up close with small marine fish and crabs. Guests also enjoyed ocean-themed story time with our library partners, practiced important microscope skills while examining tiny aquatic wonders and took part in a variety of educational activities designed to inspire curiosity about the natural world. A huge thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating and learning about the incredible ecosystems that make our coastal community so special. Together, we're helping create the next generation of ocean stewards! 🌎 To see more photos from this event please visit flic.kr/s/aHBqjCWb2a

🚧 Road Work Notice 🚧 Starting tomorrow, June 10th, Manatee County will be commencing the Harbor Hills Watermain Improvement Project along Harbor Road. This initial portion of the work consists of soft utility digs to verify locations and will require intermittent lane closures at two intersection locations, Hillcrest Dr and Park Ln. ✅ Please use caution, watch for crews, equipment, and allow extra time when traveling through the area. ✅ For more information on this project, please visit: harbor-hills-water-main-repl… Thank you for your patience!

📢 Fiber and Small Cell Expansions 📢 Manatee County is undergoing an increase in private utility communication provider improvements in various locations, especially north and west County. These projects will improve connectivity options for residents and businesses. All work is being performed within County right-of-way areas, and contractors are committed to restoring any disturbed areas as quickly as possible. ✅ We appreciate the community’s patience and understanding as these important underground infrastructure improvements are completed to support increased connectivity and expanded service options throughout the area. Stronger connections. Smarter infrastructure.

Florida’s rainy season is here, which means seasonal fertilizer restrictions are now in effect across much of the Tampa Bay region. These annual guidelines help reduce nutrient runoff and protect the bays, rivers and estuaries that make our community special. Thank you to Manatee County Director of Natural Resources Charlie Hunsicker and Environmental Program Manager Alyssa Powers for helping educate residents on the importance of responsible fertilizer use and water quality protection. We also appreciate WUSF for helping share this important information with our community. Read more in WUSF's coverage: wusf.org/environment/2026-06…