Meet Forest Parker
Say hello to our mascot, Forest Parker!
Every great mascot needs a beginning. This is true of the natural wonders around us; these beginnings happen right in our parks and preserves. It is a simple truth we live by: It Starts In Parks.
This applies to the many trees, wildflowers and wildlife that call these spaces home. It is also true for Forest Parker, whose journey started in parks alongside countless other plants and animals. Our parks are the ultimate launching pad for nature, community and the incredible creatures—both wild and legendary, like me—that thrive within them.
Hi! My name is Forest Parker. If we haven't met before, let me catch you up.
I stated out as just a little sapling in 2023. I sprouted after Hurricane Ian as a reminder of how parks help our communities recover, grow stronger and stay connected.
Ever since then, I've been branching out and exploring all the parks Sarasota County has to offer.
My parents are two mighty live oak trees growing at Old Miakka Preserve.
They are pretty rooted in one place, so family road trips aren't really our thing—but they are the reason I grew up loving nature!
In between Agents of Discovery missions, you can find me hard at work as the official mascot for Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources.
What does a mascot do? So glad you asked.
I visit over 150 parks, meet awesome people, celebrate exciting events and get involved in the Sarasota County community.
Basically, I go wherever I'm needed to spread a little sunshine... and maybe a little shade.
Being a mascot is a lot of fun, but my biggest mission is helping people discover why trees and parks are so important.
Trees clean our air and water, help reduce flooding, provide homes for wildlife, support our health and well-being, and create amazing places to explore, play and connect with nature.
Some days I get my feet dirty. You might spot me cheering on runners at our annual Sandy Claws Beach Run or exploring one of our beautiful parks.
No two days are ever the same—and that's exactly how I like it!
Other days, I’m a little more hands-off. Every great project needs someone to stand back, admire the work and offer a few encouraging nods.
Not a bad gig, right?
Find volunteer opportunitiesBut even hardworking trees need a little rest and relaxation.
On the weekends, you’ll usually find me playing pickleball. Luckily, when you’ve got branches like mine, covering the court is easy.
No matter which park I’m in, my favorite part is meeting members of our community—both my human friends and my furry friends.
I especially love dogs. They’re always excited to see me! I’d like to think it’s because of my charming personality … but it might just be because squirrels usually hang around trees.
As you can probably tell, my schedule is pretty packed. But I'd love to stay in touch!
Download the Agents of Discovery app and let me guide you through interactive missions at several Sarasota County parks.
We'll explore, solve challenges and uncover the amazing ways parks help people, plants and animals thrive!
Until next time...
Forest Parker, out! 🌳
Want more Forest Parker?
Check out the Forest Parker Prescribed Fire Coloring Book! Get to know Forest Parker and learn about the benefits of prescribed fire and how it keeps nature and our community happy, healthy and safe!