Eco tour operator workshops offered at Rookery Bay

From Media Release

NAPLES, FL - The Coastal Training Program at Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve has announced that registration is now open for the summer 2004 Eco tour Operator Stewardship Series. This is the second year the series of free workshops has been made available at the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center.

The monthly program series includes five workshops beginning in July. Because eco tour operators and nature guides serve a critical role in educating the public about Florida's natural resources, the programs are geared toward any individual or business that leads the public on excursions into natural areas as part of their commercial operation. The program's objectives are to provide science-based information on coastal resources, help participants enhance their interpretive skills, and provide tips on educating the public while promoting stewardship of Florida's natural environment.

Four of the five workshops will take place in the auditorium at the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, from 6:30 - 9 pm. The schedule is as follows:

July 15:Southwest Florida Coastal Upland Plants
August 19: Southwest Florida Sharks
September 16: Coastal processes
October 21: Florida Native Snakes*
November 18: Florida Black Bears

*Due to the inclusion of a live animal demonstration, the October workshop will be held at Caribbean Gardens - the Zoo in Naples.

Although free of charge, registration is necessary. Participants or businesses completing at least four of the five series sessions will receive a certificate of participation. The Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Canter is located at 300 Tower Road, in Naples. For more information or to register, please call the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve at 217-417-6310 or e-mail, ctp@rookerybay.org.