Participants in this program get closer to the Bays than ever before as they explore the shallow waters of the Indian River Bay for aquatic life and handle living organisms! This program will focus on invasive and native crabs that call the Inland Bays home. As a group, we identify and discuss different fish, crabs and other plants and animals that we can find here at the James Farm Ecological Preserve!

Discover the life of this prehistoric creature up close and personal at the James Farm Ecological Preserve. Learn about horseshoe crabs, why they make their way onto the beaches of the Inland Bays, and participate in a demonstration survey. This program dives into the ecology, anatomy, and benefits of horseshoe crabs using a lifelike model (and hopefully a living organism!). 

Participants in this program get closer to the bays than ever before as they search in the shallow waters of the Indian River Bay for aquatic life. As a group, we identify and discuss different fish, crabs, and other plants and animals that we can find here at the James Farm Ecological Preserve! 

Join us for a guided nature walk throughout the Preserve! Learn all about estuaries and why they are important for humans and wildlife. Participants will hear about some ways they can help to preserve, protect, and restore the Inland Bays!

Participants in this program get closer to the Bays than ever before as they explore the shallow waters of the Indian River Bay for aquatic life and handle living organisms! This program will focus on how forage fish and minnows fuel the food web in the estuary. As a group, we identify and discuss different fish, crabs, and other plants and animals that we can find here at the James Farm Ecological Preserve!

Learn the basics of birding techniques and how studying birds can help us understand the health of the environment. Use your newfound skills to find and identify local avian species and hear more about each bird group as you move through each of the seven habitats at the James Farm Ecological Preserve!

Participants will walk towards the marsh at the James Farm Ecological Preserve and learn why marshes are one of the most important habitats in our Inland Bays watershed. We’ll also talk about the Center’s various research and restoration projects that focus on salt marshes!

Discover the power of the oyster! Sometimes referred to as “nature’s engineers” or “vacuums of the bay,” oysters play a critical role in keeping our bays clean. They also provide structural support for reefs for additional marine life. Participants will get a closer look at these bivalves in action, watching as they filter water. People will also explore the beach, where they will catch and observe other filter-feeding organisms.

This event is your chance to unwind after a long day by enjoying the beauty of the James Farm Preserve. You will get to explore the Preserve at sunset and learn about all of the different organisms that call this place home.