Citizen Science Helps Coastal Wildlife Thrive at Rookery Bay

At Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, protecting coastal habitat is a community effort. Through hands-on citizen science projects, residents, students and visitors are helping scientists understand how fish and wildlife use the Reserve before and after major restoration work. This data plays a critical role in ensuring restoration efforts truly improve habitat and strengthen coastal resilience.

Restoration projects at Shell Island Road and Marco Shores, supported by the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, focus on restoring natural water flow, mangroves and nursery habitat essential for juvenile tarpon and other fish and wildlife. These nationally recognized projects highlight the importance of Southwest Florida’s coastal ecosystems to both wildlife and the local economy.

Led by Coastal Training & Engagement Specialist Rachel Schenenberg, citizen scientists collect baseline data by surveying birds and wildlife, reviewing trail-camera footage, monitoring fish
activity and testing water quality. This information allows scientists to measure how restoration improves habitat over time as well as helps fish and wildlife thrive while keeping the community
connected to the science happening every day at Rookery Bay.

Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
239-530-5972
Just 15 minutes from downtown Naples 5th Avenue area
300 Tower Road, Naples, FL 34113
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