Estuaries Day at Rookery Bay

By Coastal Breeze News Staff

Looking for a free, family-friendly activity on Saturday, Sept. 27? Then head to Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve for a day of free staff-narrated boat tours, introductory 30-minute kayaking trips, paddle boarding on Henderson Creek and marine critter touch tanks and other live animal presentations. The event runs 10 AM-3 PM.

Following a short hiatus in operation which began Sept. 15, this event — Rookery Bay’s Grand Reopening Estuaries Day — is part of an annual celebration of the 28 national estuarine research reserves. The day’s activities aim to recognize the importance of the habitat where rivers meet

the sea.

Smokey Bear also will be on site that day, and the Reserve’s prescribed fire program will have a hose demonstration and fire truck on site. Additionally, there will be games and crafts for children, behind-the-scenes tours of the science labs, films, food and more.

A special art exhibition by marine life artist Guy Harvey will be on display in the gallery and brand new merchandise will be available for purchase in the nature store.

Event supporters include Old Naples Surf Shop, Everglades Area Tours, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida and Marco Island Shell Club.

For more information, check out the Reserve’s web site at www.rookerybay.org.