Rookery Bay Launches Series of Community Events Promoting Environmental Education in Naples
By Marco Island Naples News Staff | October 27, 2025

NAPLES, Fla. — Southwest Florida residents will soon have a chance to dive a little deeper into the ecosystems that make their coastal home so unique. The Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve in Naples is hosting a new series of community events designed to connect locals with the region’s natural habitats, wildlife, and conservation efforts.

The lineup includes hands-on workshops, guided nature walks, and educational talks led by marine biologists, conservationists, and environmental educators. Topics range from mangrove restoration and sea turtle nesting to sustainable fishing and coastal resilience in the face of climate change.

“These events aren’t just about science—they’re about stewardship,” said Rookery Bay spokesperson Emily Santos. “We want families, students, and residents to come out and experience firsthand how fragile and fascinating our local ecosystems are. When people connect with nature, they’re more likely to protect it.”

Located where the land meets the Gulf, Rookery Bay spans more than 110,000 acres of mangroves, uplands, and protected waters, serving as a living laboratory for environmental research and public education. The Reserve plays a crucial role in monitoring coastal health and supporting wildlife habitats throughout Collier County.

Why It Matters

For many locals, the program offers more than a pleasant day outdoors—it’s a meaningful way to understand the very environment that shapes life in Southwest Florida. Naples is widely known for its beaches, golf courses, and luxury resorts, but initiatives like this highlight a different side of the community: one grounded in education, preservation, and sustainability.

Environmental advocates say the events can help foster a deeper sense of place and responsibility, especially among younger residents. “Getting kids involved early is key,” said Naples teacher and volunteer coordinator David Mendez. “When they learn why mangroves matter or how estuaries filter water, they grow up valuing the environment as something worth protecting.”

Get Involved

Rookery Bay’s event calendar runs through winter, with special “Eco-Adventures” for families and volunteer clean-upsopen to the public.

Those interested can visit rookerybay.org for a full schedule, registration details, and information on how to volunteer or donate.

Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a recent arrival, Rookery Bay’s programs offer a refreshing reminder: Naples isn’t just a place to relax—it’s a place to learn, explore, and give back to the natural world that defines it.

Follow more Southwest Florida community and environmental news at MarcoIslandNaplesNews.com.