WHAT WE DO

RESEARCH

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RESEARCH

The Research Department monitors water, weather, and wildlife to detect short-term events and long-term change. Like watchdogs for wildlife and wild places, researchers can detect differences before they become problems for the environment, community, or local businesses.
Scientists also conduct research projects, develop maps for scientific, management, and educational projects, and encourage graduate students and visiting scientists to take advantage of the 110,000 acres of protected water and land to increase understanding of our unique habitat and natural resource management.

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EDUCATION

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EDUCATION

The Education Department coordinates programming at the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center for all ages. Reserve educators help schoolchildren on field trips as well as Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center visitors understand the role they play in preserving this unique coastal environment.

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Outreach Request Form

CONSERVATION

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CONSERVATION

Reserve resource managers work closely with all sectors here at the Reserve including research, education, and coastal training program teams to provide a strong science to management connection. Insuring that science is leading the way for innovative natural resource management is crucial to adapting to constantly changing ecological systems. Additionally, Reserve staff work hand-in-hand with contractors and volunteers to further protect habitat and sustain native biodiversity. Resource management team activities include land acquisition, habitat and hydrologic stranding response, prescribed fire and cultural resource monitoring.

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TRAINING

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TRAINING

The Coastal Training Program provides science-based information, training, and tools to individuals who make professional decisions that affect coastal resources. We serve as a forum for Southwest Florida professionals working to resolve environmental issues of local significance. A range of services are available and are aimed at a wide variety of professionals.
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Make a Difference

If you live in Southwest Florida, the Reserve protects YOUR backyard. If you live outside Southwest Florida, the Reserve lands impact YOU because many migratory birds visit or winter here. And, the seafood you eat may have started its life in our estuary waters, which are a “nursery of the sea.”

Become a Friend of Rookery Bay

Donate Now to support this amazing and important ecosystem, and your impact will be felt for generations to come.
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Drone Image of Rookery Bay Research Reserve | National Estuarine Research Reserve