Are you a new resident or business manager to Sanibel or Captiva Islands within the last two years? Do you want to learn more about what makes the islands' environment so special and unique? Join the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) for a FREE day-long adventure exploring Southwest Florida's coastal environment by land and water.

We'll start at SCCF's Bailey Homestead Preserve at 8 a.m. to learn about early settlers to the islands, visit the Native Landscapes & Garden Center, and come to understand the basic ecology of the islands. The group will also travel to SCCF's Marine Laboratory to see what researchers are doing to understand the waters within the estuaries of Pine Island Sound.

We'll meet with members of SCCF's Wildlife and Habitat Management staff to hear how SCCF manages over 2,100 acres for the benefit of wildlife and also hear from the Environmental Policy team about water quality on the islands. For the afternoon, we'll travel to Captiva and board one of Captiva Cruises' motorized catamarans to get an up-close look at Pine Island Sound. We'll explore some of SCCF's restoration work, learn about mangroves and their importance, and explore ocean creatures with Sanibel Sea School educators.

Meet at 8 a.m. at 1300 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL and park in the western-most lot at the Bailey Homestead. Meet at the Kiosk on the western side of the Shipley Trail.

Transportation throughout the rest of the day and lunch will be provided.

Please be prepared for outdoor conditions, including sun, heat, and bugs. Hats, sunscreen, a water bottle, and bug spray are recommended. Please wear shoes that are able to get sandy and wet, and be prepared to potentially wade through knee-deep water. You may also want to bring binoculars.

Because there is limited space in this workshop, please only register if you plan to attend. If you you can no longer participate after reserving a seat, please cancel your order so that others can take advantage of this educational opportunity.

Contact the host of Environmental Orientation for New Residents & Businesses