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photo-illustration with cartoon alligator icon carrying a uf/ifas extension sarasota county tote bag packed with new resident items, passing a direction sign while walking onto a beach

How Do I... Use the Sarasota County Starter Kit

A Guide to Suncoast Living

Sarasota County’s continuing growth in popularity has made the area a destination for many, with the county adding an average of 35 new residents each day in recent years, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. But, moving to or settling into a new area, while it brings with it excitement, opportunity, hope and more, can be overwhelming.

cartoon alligator carrying a uf/ifas extension sarasota county tote bag packed with led light bulb, gardening tools, savings documents, and other starter kit itemsWe can help.

Our “Sarasota County Starter Kit” equips new (and existing) community members with essential information, from saving on utilities to living with local wildlife. Packed with free classes and other tools, the Starter Kit provides a guide to living on the Suncoast, provides valuable insights to new and longtime residents, ensuring that everyone has the tools and knowledge to make the most of their time in this vibrant community.

The Starter Kit covers a diverse range of topics crucial for successful living in the area, including:

  • Sustainability and resource conservation
  • Gardening in Florida
  • 4-H activities for youth and families
  • Understanding and interacting with local wildlife
  • Saving on utilities
  • Recycling and reuse
  • Protecting water resources, from ponds to seas
  • Florida-Friendly Landscaping™
  • Disaster preparedness
  • Identifying beneficial insects and pests

Starter Kit classes began Jan. 17, 2023, with new offerings available every two weeks thereafter. Classes are free, open to everyone, and offered online, to increase accessibility from wherever residents might be. Find upcoming classes at our "Sarasota County Starter Kit" Eventbrite collection.

photo-illustration with cartoon alligator icon carrying a uf/ifas extension sarasota county tote bag packed with new resident items, passing a direction sign while walking onto a beach

RESOURCES

Click on a topic below to see (or hide) more content (or, show all content).

Introduction
Sustainably Savvy — An Introduction to the Green Living Toolkit
Growing Gardeners
Explore the Possibilities of 4-H for Youth
What Wildlife Lives in My Neighborhood?
Can I Plant This?
Understanding Your Utilities
More Resources