GTM RESEARCH RESERVE CELEBRATES NATIONAL ESTUARIES DAY

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Sept. 23, 2014

CONTACT: Patrician Price, 904-823-4506, Patrician.D.Price@dep.state.fl.us

GTM RESEARCH RESERVE CELEBRATES NATIONAL ESTUARIES DAY

~ Participate in family friendly events with educational workshops and all-day activities ~

PONTE VEDRA BEACH The Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve hosts its National Estuaries Day celebration, “Family EcoMENTALITY,” on Saturday, Sept. 27, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Environmental Education Center. Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Herschel T. Vinyard Jr. will attend the celebration and welcome guests to the event.

“These estuarine activities shine a light on the importance of unique coastal habitats,” Secretary Vinyard said. “A family wide approach to ecosystem restoration ensures that all generations are learning what is necessary to keep Florida healthy and vibrant.”

Each September, Restore America's Estuaries and member organizations, the National Estuarine Research Reserve System and the National Estuary Program organize special events across the country.

“This year’s event is filled with 26 family friendly workshops and three all-day activities,” said Michael Shirley, Ph.D., director of the GTM Research Reserve. “The activities will provide you and your family with the resources to implement environmentally inspired ideas at home.”

In addition to the GTM Research Reserve’s scheduled classes, there will be a green-cleaning stand, a fish-printing booth to create wearable art and “The Blue Balloon” book readings and signings. Some of the workshops and activities being offered are listed below.

  • Basics to Beekeeping
  • Creating a Butterfly Garden
  • Eco Tech Café and Native Cocktails
  • Family Seining
  • Kids Eco Cooking and Sustainable Seafood Cooking
  • Living Shorelines Tours
  • Native Plants 101/102
  • Prehistoric Ceramics
  • Ripple Effect Ecotours Kayak Tours

More than a quarter century after the first National Estuaries Day in 1988, there is more evidence that estuarine ecosystems serve as natural barriers to buffer against storms and floods, absorb and store carbon, and provide critical habitat for commercial and recreational fisheries. The 2014 National Estuaries Day focuses on increasing national awareness of estuaries and how estuary conservation efforts support our quality of life and economic well-being.

Early registration for the GTM Research Reserve’s NED workshops and activities is encouraged because classes are limited. For more information or to sign up, click here or call 904-823-4500.