Upcoming Events at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center

Students Learn “By Doing” at Rookery Bay Research Reserve

A big part of the work of Rookery Bay Research Reserve is engaging with area youth about the importance of the coastal environment and the many different fish and animals that call Rookery Bay Research Reserve’s 110,000 acres home.

Rookery Bay student field trips begin in 4th grade, then progress to middle school and onto marine science students in high school. All programs are created specifically for each age group with a full-curriculum and materials for teachers to utilize.

Younger students visit the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, use microscopes to see live fish plankton and get hands-on with educators at the touch tank.

Older high school students also learn by doing with experiences on the water like pulling a net during a fish trawl to examine fish and marine life up close. Usually they’ll discover a net filled with
juvenile fish essential to the food web such as snapper, red fish, shrimp, blue crab and stone crabs. Some unique and unusual fish are also likely including the polka-dot batfish, tiny seahorses and
sea stars. All fish are examined with assistance of Rookery Bay biologists and returned to the waters.

Since 1990, these education programs have become a marine science cornerstone in Collier County. The programs not only increase students’ exposure to the backwaters of the Reserve, but also help them develop an understanding of the importance of protecting estuaries like Rookery Bay (that act as nurseries for so many species of juvenile fish).

Remember, Rookery Bay is here for everyone to experience and explore!

Spend some time at the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center or take a guided-kayak trip or scenic boat ride. Learn more at RookeryBay.org.

Upcoming Events at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center

Rookery Bay Science Nites – Where Have All the Mangroves Gone?

March 31, 2022
5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
$10
Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
Registration is required

Why not shake up your afterwork or dinner routine and come on out to one of Rookery Bay’s Science Nites for a little science and interesting information while you socialize? At our 2022 series of Science Nites, well-known area experts will treat you to a presentation and fun facts about some of Southwest Florida’s most interesting habitats and wildlife.

SIMS – Spring Institute for Marine Science Day Camp

March 15, 16 or 17 (Choose entire week or individual days)
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
$75 per day
Registration is required
A perfect half-day camp or 8th, 9th and 10th graders interested in marine sciences.

Family Camp Out

March 19-20, 2022
Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
$35 per campsite
Registration is required
Grab your friends and family and camp out under the stars with Rookery Bay educators. Enjoy nature activities, stargazing and beautiful lush green space. Access to indoor restrooms included.

Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
300 Tower Rd. Naples, FL 34113
Hours: Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m – 4 p.m.
Guided Kayak and Boat Tours:
(239) 530-5972