Friends of Rookery Bay’s ongoing mission is to help connect people with southwest Florida’s dynamic coastal environment in support of Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. The Friends provide vital monetary and in-kind support for Reserve programs and operations. Our members, volunteers and donors enable us to be a reliable partner to the Reserve and an advocate for preservation and coastal protection.
The Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center (Nature Center): Explore our two story, 16,500 square-foot facility with four research laboratories, classrooms and 140-seat auditorium. The Center offers a variety of hands-on experiences, including a 2,300-gallon aquarium and interactive exhibits addressing research and stewardship efforts on-going within the Reserve, as well as a nature store, art gallery and picnic area.