Activity Guide. cruises. Discover Nature DALTON DISCOVERY CENTER Wildlife Exhibits NEW. MORE Little Explorer Programs 6ROOKERY BAY NATURE

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1 EVENINGS at the Conservancy Guided KAYAK TOURS FREE NATURE WALKS Activity Guide MORE Little Explorer Programs Discover Nature DALTON DISCOVERY CENTER NEW Wildlife Exhibits 6ROOKERY BAY cruises SPECIALTY Generously underwritten by John R. Wood Properties

2 Protecting Southwest Florida s unique natural environment and quality of life... now and forever. welcome Goodlette-Frank Rd. Christopher B. Smith Preserve Smith Preserve Way Access to Naples Zoo & Gordon River Greenway Lutgert Commons Area Shotwell Wavering Family Filter Marsh to the Conservancy of Southwest Florida Nature Center 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples, FL (Just south of Naples Zoo off Goodlette-Frank Rd.) I HOURS: 9:30 AM 4:30 PM Monday Sunday (Open Sundays November 2016 thru April 2017) See full calendar of events, special days, holiday hours on page 38 or online NOW OPEN on SUNDAYS Thru April PARKING B PARKING B PARKING C Guest Entrance PARKING A Pricing Admission Map Key $12.95 ADULTS $8.95 CHILDREN FREE FREE (3-12 years) AGE 2 OR YOUNGER CONSERVANCY MEMBERS Dalton Discovery Center Ferguson Learning Lab Eaton Conservation Hall & Jeannie Meg Smith Theater Lew & Dawn Allyn Family Lagoon & Dock von Arx Wildlife Hospital Eva Sugden Gomez Environmental Planning Center & Sustainability Courtyard Bradley Welcome Center & Admissions Nature Trails & Kayak Rentals & Tours PARKING A Wildlife Nursery Viewing Window DeLong Mangrove Trail Sapakie Wildlife Exhibits von Arx Wildlife Viewing Pavilion 1

3 Boat Captains Dockmasters Camp Counselor Greeter Information Desk Horticulture Team Nature Store Docents Animal Care Giver Critter Courier Critter Crew Boat Tour Guide Trail Guide Boat Captains Information Desk Camp Counselor Greeter Dock Master Horticulture Team Nature Store Docents Animal Care Giver Critter Courier Volunteers making a difference I wanted to do something meaningful with my free time and was drawn to the boating aspects of the Conservancy. I also wanted to learn more about the ecology of the area I m living in. Vince Carbone, Conservancy volunteer boat captain Kayak Guided Tours 4 Nature Center What you can do at the Nature Center 6 Special Daily Programs 8 On the Water Enjoy an electric boat tour or rent a kayak 10 Dalton Discovery Center Touch Tank, live loggerhead sea turtle, baby alligators and much more 12 von Arx Wildlife Hospital Exhibits 14 Ferguson Learning Lab Hall of Invasive Species, crafts and Little Explorer Play Zone 16 great outdoors Christopher B. Smith Preserve, Shotwell Wavering Family Filter Marsh, Nature Trails, Eva Sugden Gomez Sustainability Courtyard 18 Evenings at the Conservancy Environmental education lecture series 22 Promotional Days and Family Fun Days 24 Earth Day Festival 25 Special Events 26 Group Tours 32 FREE Nature Walks 34 Eco-Cruises on Rookery Bay Shotwell Wavering Filter Marsh CONTENTS 12 von Arx Wildlife Hospital Exhibits CAMPS Dalton Discovery Center DISCOVER THE ECOSYSTEMS OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA 34 Rookery Bay Eco-Cruises 3

4 At the Nature Center CONSERVANCY OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA Nature Center the gateway to our mission OF PROTECTING SOUTHWEST FLORIDA S WATER, LAND, WILDLIFE AND FUTURE. all day activities ON THE WATER ALLYN FAMILY DOCK & LAGOON Electric Boat Tours 10 AM 3 PM Kayak Tours and Rentals Singles/tandems available DALTON DISCOVERY CENTER Live Animals Touch Tank & Patch Reef Aquarium Conservancy Story (7 minute film) Florida Habitat Exhibits FERGUSON LEARNING LAB Hall of Invasive Species Little Explorer Play Zone Nature Craft Room "There s something for everyone and they do a great job saving our environment." VON ARX WILDLIFE HOSPITAL Nursery Viewing Window NEW! Wildlife Viewing Pavilion NEW! Sapakie Wildlife Exhibits EATON CONSERVATION HALL Environmental Films THE GREAT OUTDOORS Eva Sugden Gomez Sustainability Courtyard Shotwell Wavering Family Filter Marsh Christopher B. Smith Preserve Nature Trails Site #69 on 1. Dalton Discovery Patch Reef Tank 2. Little Explorer Play Zone 3. Daily Programs 4. Earth Day Festival 5. Guided Kayak Tours Great Florida Birding Trail

5 At the Nature Center DAILY PROGRAMS Join us for our daily Nature Center programs as we explore the natural environments of Southwest Florida, meet native wildlife up close, and discover how the Conservancy of Southwest Florida works to protect our water, land, wildlife, and future. Get inspired to take action to make a difference for Southwest Florida s unique and important habitats and the wild animals that live in them. 11:15 AM BIRDS OF PREY: NIGHT AND DAY 12:15 PM REPTILE ROUNDUP 1:15 PM OCEAN DISCOVERIES 2:15 PM WILDLIFE 101 *Programs and times are subject to change. Look for our special summer programs beginning in May For the most up-to-date schedule, visit NOVEMBER APRIL 2017 SHORT TIPS Protecting Southwest Florida s unique natural environment and quality of life... now and forever. Like us. Follow us. Watch us. Join us. Get more information about the Conservancy online. Check out our newly upgraded website Go in-depth on issues such as oil legislation, invasive species research, and wildlife protection Take a look at inspiring pictures and videos Catch up on recent Conservancy news coverage Read staff blogs about current projects Sign up for ENEWS and ACTION ALERTS 6 7

6 At the Nature Center On the Water GUided Kayak Tours Enjoy a Naturalist-led kayak tour on the Gordon River. Paddle through a maze of mangrove trees, spot jumping fish, wading birds, and maybe even manatees! Discover the importance of mangrove estuaries as nature s nurseries and learn how you can help to protect local waterways. CONSERVANCY MEMBERS $40 PER PERSON NON-MEMBERS $50 PER PERSON Dates and times are online at Reservations required. Space is limited. Call " Beautiful and peaceful. A wonderful place to explore with or without children. Nature lovers - don t miss this place! " Members ONly Kayak Rentals Launch Daily Conservancy members can launch from the Allyn Family Lagoon and enjoy a two-hour kayak trip exploring a pristine mangrove estuary. Paddle down the Gordon River and discover the hidden treasures of this brackish water habitat, which provides a perfect sanctuary for many species including fish, turtles, and manatees. SINGLE: $20 TANDEM: $30 Ask about our kayak rewards program! Electric Boat tours 10 AM- 3PM Conservancy guests can enjoy a relaxing 45-minute nature tour along the Gordon River and learn first-hand about the importance of the majestic mangroves and the animals that inhabit this important estuary. Guides will point out the natural beauty surrounding the Conservancy Nature Center including wading birds, turtles, and more. This is a great way for families, nature lovers, and boaters to enjoy a unique experience on the water. Electric boat tours are frequently cited as visitors favorite part of the Nature Center experience! Reservations required. Space is limited. Call

7 At the Nature Center Dalton Discovery " A great way to learn about the real Florida" Center In the Dalton Discovery Center, imagine yourself as a drop of water, traveling on a journey through the different ecosystems of Southwest Florida. Along the way you will meet animals and plants that call these spaces home. You will discover uplands, Everglades, mangroves, beach and ocean habitats filled with interactive, informational exhibits and live animals. Touch Tank INteractive Exhibits For everyone! DENNIS GOODMAN Loggerhead Sea Turtle LUNA Meet the Conservancy of Southwest Florida s new loggerhead sea turtle, Luna. The juvenile loggerhead joined the Conservancy on March 30, Spanish for the word moon, the name Luna was suggested by two visitors at the Conservancy s Nature Center in light of sea turtle hatchlings night time trek from land to sea. Luna can be seen in the Ocean s Gallery where she serves as an ambassador for loggerheads, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about sea turtle conservation. 10 American Alligator 11

8 Veterinarian At the Nature Center The Conservancy of Southwest Florida is home to Collier County s only wildlife rehabilitation hospital. This emergency wildlife hospital provides quality medical care and rehabilitation for injured, sick and orphaned native mammals, reptiles, and birds. If you encounter an injured animal, please bring it to the wildlife hospital or call us at CARE (2273). While our state and federal permits do not allow rehabilitating wild animals to be viewed by the public, we do offer guests several engaging experiences to learn more about our hospital s work and how to help prevent injuries to wildlife. RALPH ARWOOD Guests can explore: WILDLIFE NURSERY VIEWING WINDOW Conservancy guests can take a peek inside the von Arx Wildlife Hospital through the wildlife nursery one-way glass viewing window. At times you may glimpse the hospital team caring for our youngest, most fragile patients. Just like a human hospital, wildlife patients need lots of peace, quiet, and rest to recuperate so that they can return home. von Arx Wildlife Hospital Exhibits NEW! Sapakie Wildlife exhibits Check out brand new exhibits that help you understand why wild animals are admitted to the wildlife hospital, the medical care and treatment they receive, and what you can do to help prevent wildlife injuries. Kids can transform into Junior Veterinarians and join Dr. Ollie Owl for hands-on activities emphasizing how the hospital cares for its patients. NEW! von Arx Wildlife viewing Pavilion Come face-to-beak with our wildlife ambassadors. These permanent residents are former hospital patients. Due to the severity of their injuries, they are unable to survive in the wild. As ambassadors, they play an important role teaching people about the threats facing wildlife and what can be done to help prevent injuries to wild animals. Dr. Ollie Owl 1. Bald eagle ambassador 2. Red-tailed hawk ambassador Horatio Recovering baby rabbits DENNIS GOODMAN

9 At the Nature Center Ferguson Learning Lab the coolest! Hall of Invasive Species Many are unaware of just how many exotic, invasive species live here in Southwest Florida. Walk through the Conservancy s Hall of Invasive Species to see animals such as the Burmese python, lionfish, and red-eared slider and learn how these species found their way into our ecosystems. Discover how these animals are able to survive so well in our environments and why these invaders mean trouble for Southwest Florida s native species. Cane Toad Little Explorer Play Zone Bring your little ones to play, learn, and explore in the Little Explorer Play Zone! Kids can discover the incredible animals of Southwest Florida as they crawl through a gopher tortoise burrow, run through a mangrove forest, and try on a pair of wings. Programs (Best for ages 5 and under) THURSDAYS & SATURDAYS 10 AM Sponsored by Join us monthly for programs. Explore nature and discover amazing animals through multi-sensory, interactive activities, stories, and crafts in the Little Explorer Play Zone. No registration required. DECEMBER 1 & 3: Stevie B. Seahorse DECEMBER 15 & 17: Tommie Turtle s Secret JANUARY 5 & 7: Little Owl Lost JANUARY 19 & 21: Osprey Adventure: Be a Jr. Wildlife Vet! LionFish & More FEBRUARY 2 & 4: Tap the Magic Tree FEBRUARY 16 & 18: E is for Everglades 14 Get Creative Come tap into your artistic side and make a nature-themed craft, complete a word search, or play a game in the arts and crafts room. Crafts and activities rotate monthly, so visitors always have something new to create! MARCH 9 & 11: Daylight Starlight Wildlife MARCH 23 & 25: I Don t Want to be a Frog APRIL 6 & 8: Where Should Turtle Be? APRIL 20 & 22 : The Lorax MAY 4 & 6: A Color of His Own MAY 18 & 20: Mary Manatee 15

10 At the Nature Center great " This should be everyone s #1 SPOT to visit while in Naples." Outdoors Explore our 21-acre Nature Center to learn more about Southwest Florida s water, land, wildlife and future Shotwell Wavering Family Filter Marsh A marsh worth exploring, the Shotwell Wavering Family Filter Marsh is a wetland system, engineered by Conservancy biologists, that uses natural filtration by plants and settling ponds to remove pollutants from the water before it empties into the nearby Gordon River. We frequently have visits from wood storks, great blue herons, snowy egrets, and many others. Christopher B. Smith Preserve Peek over the railing into the Christopher B. Smith Preserve and see if you can spot tracks, a burrow, or one of the gopher tortoises that live in this sandy scrub habitat. The threatened gopher tortoise is known as a keystone species without them, these scrub habitats would look entirely different. Lagoon and Hardwood Hammock Nature Trails Stroll through each of our nature trails and keep your eyes peeled for pileated woodpeckers, zebra long wing butterflies, and an assortment of dragonflies. Touch a leather fern or sabal palm - plant species that have lived on earth for millions of years. And look up to see epiphytes, commonly called air plants Wood Stork 2. Gopher Tortoise 3. Prickly Pear 4. Zebra Longwing 5. River Otters 2 1 JIM BIGELOW ELAM STOLTZFUS 4 Gopher Tortoise 5 Great Egret Eva Sugden Gomez Sustainability Courtyard We strive to incorporate environmentally responsible design and function into every element of the Conservancy Nature Center. From LEED certified buildings to geothermal solutions, solar panels, LED lighting, and an energy management system, the Conservancy is a model for sustainability in the community. In the Sustainability Courtyard you ll find ideas that anyone from homeowners to corporate leaders can use. The Conservancy of Southwest Florida has six buildings that meet or exceed LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification standards. We are one of the first nonprofits in the country to make this level of commitment to sustainable practices. 17

11 At the Nature Center evenings at the conservancy FREE TO CONSERVANCY MEMBERS! Never Say Goodbye Building Bridges for our Natural World Ricky Pires & Bryce Osceola Guardians of the Everglades The Power of Leadership Nicholas Petrucci & Connie Bransilver Kemp s ridley Continued Quest to Solve the Riddles Dr. Jeff Schmid Conservancy Environmental Research Manager The Conservancy s popular environmental education lecture series returns on select Tuesdays in 2017 with new topics and sell-out favorites. The lecture series frequently reaches capacity. We encourage you to reserve your seat for any of the upcoming presentations. To attend, please pre-register for the event by ing Sophia Navarra at sophian@conservancy.org or by calling MEMBERS FREE Supporting Sponsor NON-MEMBERS $10 Doors open at 6:00 PM. Program starts at 6:30 PM Additional dates may be added. Please visit www. conservancy.org/nature-center/evenings. MARCH 28 Sponsored by Fifth Third Bank APRIL 11 Sponsored by Auto Works APRIL 25 Why Solar? Investing in the Future Jim Henderon Owner of William C. Huff Picayune Strand State Forest A Story of Greed, Destruction & Restoration Kathy Worley Conservancy Environmental Science Director Bottlenose Dolphins Lessons from 45 Years of Research Dr. Randall Wells Chicago Zoological Society Mote Marine Laboratory Contested Ground History of the Western Everglades Nick Penniman Author & former Conservancy Board Chair Marine Life of the Ten Thousand Islands Gary Schmelz Paleontologist & Author Wildlife Rehabilitation An Insider s Look Joanna Fitzgerald Director von Arx Wildlife Hospital Smart Growth in Collier County The Economics of Comprehensive Planning Nicole Johnson Conservancy Director of Growth Management & Planning 18 JAnuary FEBRUARY FEBRUARY Sponsored by Century Link Sponsored by J.P. Morgan Private Bank 21 Sponsored by The Weston Foundation MARCH 14 Sponsored by Cummings & Lockwood MAY 09 JUNE 13 Sponsored by Stevens Construction JULY 11 19

12 21 Science and Research Policy and Advocacy Environmental Education Wildlife Rehabilitation What we do For more than 50 years, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida has been a leading environmental advocacy organization in our five-county region. Our teams include scientific research, policy, education, and wildlife protection and rehabilitation. This combination of expertise is unique to the Conservancy and enjoys a national reputation for excellence. The Conservancy of Southwest Florida is a 501(c)(3) not for profit. 100 percent of donations stay in our 5-county area. Help make a difference. Learn more at WATER FUTURE WILDLIFE LAND 20 21

13 22 At the Nature Center Promotional DAYS FREE ADMISSION DAYS Mother s Day Thursday, May 11 Saturday, May 13, 2017 (Closed Sunday, May 14) Free admission for Mom when accompanied by another paid adult and child. MEMORIAL Day Thursday, May 25 Saturday, May 27 & Monday, May 29, 2017 (Closed Sunday, May 28) Free admission for current and retired military with valid ID. Father s Day Thursday, June 15 Saturday, June 17, 2017 (Closed Sunday, June 18) Free admission for Dad when accompanied by another paid adult and child. Independence Day Monday, July 3 and Wednesday, July 5, 2017 (Closed Sunday, July 2 and Tuesday, July 4) Free admission for current and retired military with valid ID. LABOR Day Thursday, August 31 Saturday, Sept. 2, 2017 (Closed Sunday, Sept. 3 and Monday, Sept. 4) Free admission for First Responders and current and retired military with valid ID. National Grandparent s Day Thursday, Sept. 7 Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017 (Closed Sunday Sept. 10) Free admission for grandparents when accompanied by another paid adult and child. Veterans Day Thursday, Nov. 9 Sunday, Nov. 12, 2017 Free admission for current and retired military with valid ID. VISIT US ONLINE See our full calendar of events online. FAMILY FUN DAYS Join us on the third Saturday of every month to celebrate Florida s unique habitats and wildlife, complete with exclusive live animal encounters, games, crafts, and more! Florida s Fabulous Birds January 21, 2017 Wonderful World of Wetlands February 18, 2017 Frogs of Florida March 18, 2017 Earth Day Festival April 22, 2017 FUN for the WHOLE FAMILY! Endangered Species May 20, 2017 SPECIAL EVENT RENTALS The NATURAL Choice Special Event Rentals at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida Treat your guests to a one-of-a-kind experience they ll never forget The Conservancy of Southwest Florida Nature Center is the natural choice for your corporate meeting, fundraising event, holiday party or wedding. Located on 21 acres, the Nature Center offers a variety of possibilities both indoors and out. INFORMATION & PRICING: Call or visit

14 At the Nature Center EARTH DAY April 22, :00 AM 4:00 PM FESTIVAL Sponsored by FREE FOR CONSERVANCY MEMBERS! Special events Help support the Conservancy s mission by attending any of our premier events throughout the year. Money raised during these events directly funds our efforts to protect Southwest Florida s water, land, wildlife and future ANNUAL EVENTS RedSnook Fishing Tournament Annual Members Meeting Water Works Luncheon NOvember 04 January 12 January 19 Join us for our biggest community celebration of the year! This year s Earth Day Festival at the Conservancy will feature guest speakers, live music, festival food, exhibits, crafts, live animal programs, boat rides, and more! The first 50 guests will receive a free t-shirt! Magic Patron Party Magic Under the Mangroves Earth Day Festival 24 ADULT $10 CHILD $5 February 04 MARCH 02 APRIL 22 25

15 At the Nature Center GROUP Guided Nature Center Tours EXPERIENCE SOUTHWEST FLORIDA S NATURAL BEAUTY IN THE HEART OF NAPLES tours With a Naturalist guide, encounter live animals, enjoy a narrated electric boat cruise and learn about our work inside the von Arx Wildlife Hospital. During your visit, you ll learn about the Conservancy s mission to protect Southwest Florida s water, land, and wildlife, and how you can get involved. Group tour participants also receive a 10% discount in our Nature Store. Reservations required. Tour Details LEngth: 2.5 hours Price: $199 per group Group Size: up to 20 people per group (Guided tours can accommodate up to two groups daily. More than two groups, please inquire about options.) GROUP ADMISSION Groups of ten or more can explore the Conservancy Nature Center on their own and take advantage of a group admission rate. Visit live animal exhibits, catch a glimpse inside the von Arx Wildlife Hospital, and stroll through the mangrove estuary before taking a guided electric boat ride on the Gordon River. Reservations required. Group ADmission Details: Price: $9.95 per person Group Size: 10 to 40 (Groups larger than 40, please inquire about options.) Ensuring Our Pristine Paradise for Future Generations We can t stop change, but we can do our best to slow it down and preserve what we have left. That s why the Conservancy is part of our estate plans. Ellis and Rieda Whaley Those who support the Conservancy of Southwest Florida believe in preserving our water, land and wildlife for future generations. A planned gift can help you achieve your philanthropic goals, and help to sustain the Conservancy s mission. We will work closely with your financial advisor to design a Gift Planning Option that will meet your personal, financial, and charitable goals. With your support, your children, grandchildren and all future generations will enjoy the natural beauty of Southwest Florida. (Federal Tax I.D ) Protecting Southwest Florida s unique natural environment and quality of life... now and forever. To schedule, please contact: info@conservancy.org or call To discuss the best gift option for you or to notify us of a gift you have already established, please contact: Aaron Lapp or AaronL@conservancy.org 1495 Smith Preserve Way I Naples, FL I 26 A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES 027 BY 27 CALLING TOLL-FREE WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. (800)HELP-FLA ( ), registration number CH8300.

16 > ACTIVITY GUIDE // be a conservation champion! STEM LEARNING ADVENTURES For registration call Ext. 266 camps AWARD-WINNING WINTER CAMP December 28-29, 2016: 9 am 4 pm SUMMER CAMP Weekly Sessions beginning June 2017 Summer camp sponsored by awardwinning nature discoveries! Learn more and register at School Outreach & Field Trip Programs Funding for STEM Learning Adventure programs provided, in part, by these generous supporters: 28 Aileen S. Andrew Foundation Francis Pew Hayes Family Foundation van Otterloo Family Foundation

17 Offsite Programs // CONSERVANCY ACTIVITY GUIDE CONSERVANCY OUTREACH SPEAKERS Let the Conservancy of Southwest Florida bring our traveling group presentations to you. We offer a variety of engaging, informative and interesting topics on a wide range of environmental issues. Interested in a guest speaker for your next club, community, or organizational gathering? It was our pleasure to host the Conservancy especially when the presentation and subject matter was so interesting and important! Joe Taylor, President Florida Title Solutions, LLC On behalf of the Estero Chamber of Commerce THE Conservancy Story Southwest Florida is an ecosystem so rich with diversity it rivals the wildest places on earth. For more than 50 years the Conservancy of Southwest Florida has been working to protect our natural assets for future generations. Learn about our unique approach to finding a sensible balance between a growing population, and preserving the very reasons that attracted all of us to Southwest Florida. The Conservancy Story is offered as a complimentary program. Donations to the Conservancy are welcome. The following programs are presented by a Conservancy of Southwest Florida Naturalist and include a live animal. FLorida s Endangered Species Southwest Florida provides critical habitat for many threatened and endangered species including manatees, gopher tortoises, Florida panthers, sea turtles and many more. Learn about the Conservancy s endangered species protection projects, including the Sea Turtle Monitoring and Protection Program, one of the longest standing sea turtle research projects in the country. SCHEDULING $199 $199 $199 CUSTOM TOPICS Predators of the Sky From tiny screech owls to majestic bald eagles, Southwest Florida serves as a vital habitat for a diversity of bird species including raptors! Explore unique adaptations of birds of prey and discover the importance of each species in Florida s ecosystems. Discuss human-introduced threats, how the Conservancy s von Arx Wildlife Hospital cares for these unique patients, and how you can help. Alien Invaders Southwest Florida is under attack! Discover how so many exotic plants and animals have invaded Southwest Florida and the threats they pose to our native species. Discuss the research techniques used by Conservancy of Southwest Florida biologists to study and track invaders like the Burmese python. Learn what you can do to get involved and help prevent future invasions. To schedule any of these exciting adventures for your group call or info@conservancy.org. 30 Looking for a topic not listed above? Please call for additional information and scheduling. LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR WORK!

18 32 Offsite Programs FREE nature see unique animals and plants Rookery Bay Briggs Boardwalk Open Year-Round DAwn to Dusk for Self-Guided walks January March (Except Holidays) guides available seven days a week 9AM-12PM; guided walks at 10 am Conservancy guides will walk you through five unique habitats from scrub to brackish ponds. See unique animals and plants in a land virtually unchanged for thousands of years. Guided walks meet in the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission office parking lot located on Shell Island Road (2.7 miles south of the intersection of U.S. 41 and 951). Naples Clam Pass PArk December April (Except Holidays) Monday Saturday, GUided Walks at 9AM; Sunday Birding, anytime between 9AM - 11AM Take a guided walk along the boardwalk, bay, and beach. Learn more about the importance of mangroves and see some of the fascinating creatures and plants that flourish in this unique habitat. Clam Pass Park is west of U.S. 41 on Seagate Drive. Meet your guide at the tram stop for an approximately two hour walk. No reservations required. On Sundays, find out what birds are resting at Clam Pass and why they chose to stop there. Look for guides in orange vests on the beach near the pass. Feel free to ask questions and learn more about the shorebirds that rely on Southwest Florida s beaches. Marco Island Tigertail Beach January 2 - April 21, 2017 (Except Holidays) Monday Friday 8:30 AM Meet your Tigertail Beach guides at the kiosk for a two hour walking tour. A designated destination on the Great Florida Birding Trail, this beautiful natural beach tidal lagoon and mudflats offer great views of many of the Gulf Coast s seasonal and year-round avian residents. Bring water shoes and binoculars. Great Blue Heron Fan Favorite conservancy.org/offsite FOSSIL DIGS C ollect up to 1.2-million-year-old specimens with Dr. Gary Schmelz at an exciting fossil site in Southwest Florida. Specimens include giant apple murex, cowries, miters, vase shells, fossil corals, crabs and more. During a lunch raffle, you may even win some fossils from Dr. Schmelz s private collection. Lunch cost not included in program fee. Registration required. To register for a fossil dig, info@conservancy.org or Offsite Programs " You will impress your friends and family with the discoveries you will make about South Florida s ancient environments during this fabulous fossil bonanza. " DR. GARY SCHMELZ February 18, March 4, march 25 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM MEMBERS $70 OTHERS $105 33

19 Offsite Programs Rookery Bay 34 ECO Cruises Lowest-priced eco-cruise in the area! The Conservancy was formed as a result of a group of citizens coming together to save Rookery Bay in Now, you and your guests can enjoy the majestic beauty of Rookery Bay too. Come aboard the Good Fortune II led by Coast Guard-certified captains and a Conservancy naturalist. This exclusive experience allows passengers to see some of the most spectacular waterways, wading birds, and perhaps even a dolphin. Four Eco-Cruise Options: Lunch / Sunset / specialty / Charters Lunchtime cruise December 15 April 30 Daily 10 AM 1 PM A daytime favorite! Set off on a midday cruise; enjoy a one hour lunch stop on Isle of Capri. Meander back through beautiful Rookery Bay. Lunch not included in the program fee. MEMBERS: ADULT $37 CHILD $15 (12 and younger) OTHERS: ADULT $47 CHILD $20 (12 and younger) Eco-cruises are offered seven days a week. All cruises subject to weather conditions and tides. To register for a Good Fortune II cruise call or visit Classic Sunset Adventure December 15 April 30 Daily (Departure time varies based on sunset) Pack a small cooler, bring a snack, and let us take you on a beautiful sunset ride, you and your visitors are sure to love. This two-hour sunset cruise is offered seven days a week. Reserve your Seat ONLINE Today! Have a group of 10 or more? Book together and save! Your out-of-town guests will love this unique Southwest Florida experience. Groups will join others aboard this tour. MEMBERS: $325 (up to 10 people) OTHERS: $425 (up to 10 people) Private Charter Two-Hour Available all year. Reserve your private event. It s perfect for photography clubs, small receptions, and any special gathering. MEMBERS: $799 (up to 35 people) OTHERS: $899 (up to 35 people) 35

20 Offsite Programs Rookery Bay Specialty Cruises Reserve your Seat ONLINE Today! \\ ACTIVITY GUIDE MEMBERS: ADULT $37 CHILD $15 (12 and younger) OTHERS: ADULT $47 CHILD $20 (12 and younger) From mangroves to sea turtles to Florida s rich history to photography, these specialty eco-cruises are unlike any other. Each cruise is led by a Conservancy staff member who speaks on topics related to their work at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. Specialty cruises (other than the sunset photography cruise) depart at 10 AM. Complete the morning with a delicious lunch at the Isles of Capri before cruising back at approximately 1 PM. Lunch is not included in the program fee Mangroves Secrets of Hidden Predators of Endangered and More March 23/ April AM - 1 PM Led by Kathy Worley, Conservancy Director of Environmental Science This special cruise into Rookery Bay explores the importance of mangroves and the many lives that depend on them for survival. Conservancy mangrove expert Kathy Worley will help you discover how wildlife and people benefit from the magic of mangroves. *All cruises subject to weather conditions and tides. Sea Turtles Led by Dr. Jeff Schmid, Conservancy Research Manager Come aboard and meet one of the premier Kemp s ridley sea turtle experts, Dr. Jeff Schmid. Dr. Schmid will discuss the unique features of the Rookery Bay sea turtle habitat and provide a glimpse into his research on one of the most endangered species of sea turtles in the world, the Kemp s ridley. History Cruise Led by a Conservancy Naturalist The Rookery Bay area is rich with history archaeological, anthropological, and ecological. Discover hidden history among the mangrove trees and hear long forgotten stories of this estuary s colorful past. Explore the threats that this ecosystem faces and how the Conservancy has worked to preserve this pristine environment for future generations. the Sky Led by Nicki Dardinger, Conservancy Director of Education Eagles, ospreys, falcons, oh my! Rookery Bay provides excellent habitat for several species of raptors, including our national symbol, the bald eagle. Join the Conservancy s Director of Education to learn more about these unique birds of prey and discover why they are critical to Southwest Florida s ecosystem. Species of the Estuaries March 7/April 4 Feb. 7/March 15/ March 1/April AM - 1 PM April AM - 1 PM Feb. 22/March AM - 1 PM 10 AM - 1 PM Led by a Conservancy Naturalist The estuaries of Southwest Florida provide vital habitat to many threatened and endangered species including loggerhead sea turtles, manatees, least terns, and a variety of insects, crustaceans, birds and small mammals. Join us as we explore the threats facing these species and learn how you can make a difference to protect these animals. Wildlife Photography Sunset Cruise Feb. 15/March 22 Times VarY Led by award-winning photographer Dennis Goodman Join nature photographer, Dennis Goodman, on a special sunset cruise to learn expert tips and techniques for capturing spectacular wildlife and sunset photography. Bring along your camera so you can put his professional tips to work and capture the essence of beautiful Rookery Bay

21 LITTLE EXPLORERS ANNUAL MEETING ECO-CRUISES EVENINGS NATURE WALKS WATERWORKS ACTIVITIES CALENDAR NOvember Nature Center Hours 9:30 AM- 4:30 PM 7 days a week Special Daily Programs 11:15 AM - 2:15 PM Daily Page 6 Kayak Rentals (Members only) Daily Guided Kayak Tours Reservations required Electric Boat Tours 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Daily Page RedSnook Fishing Tournament Fri-Sat-Sun Page Special Admission Current & Retired Military Free 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM 24 Closed for Thanksgiving EDITOR S PICKS JANUARY DECEmber Nature Center Hours 9:30 AM- 4:30 PM 7 days a week ANNUAL MEETING: Conservancy Nature Center 5:30 PM-8:30 PM Special Daily Programs 11:15 AM - 2:15 PM Daily Page 6 Kayak Rentals (Members only) Daily Guided Kayak Tours Reservations required Electric Boat Tours 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Daily Page 9 Free Nature Walks Clam Pass 9:00 AM Mon - Sat 1 & 3 Stevie B. Seahorse 15 & 17 Tommy Turtle s Secret JANUARY Good Fortune II Lunch Cruise 10 AM -1 PM Daily Page 34 Good Fortune II Sunset Cruise Daily, Times vary Page Nature Center Closed Winter Camp 9 AM - 4 PM Page 30 January Closed for New Year s Day 2-31 Nature Center Hours 9:30 AM- 4:30 PM 7 days a week Special Daily Programs 11:15 AM - 2:15 PM Daily Page 6 Kayak Rentals (Members only) Daily Guided Kayak Tours Reservations required Conservancy Nature Center 11:30 AM January 2017 Electric Boat Tours 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Daily Page 9 Free Nature Walk Clam Pass 9:00 AM Mon - Sat Free Nature Walk Briggs Boardwalk 10:00 AM Mon - Sun Free Nature Walk Tigertail Beach 8:30 AM Mon - Fri Good Fortune II Lunch Cruise 10 AM -1 PM Daily Page 34 Good Fortune II Sunset Cruise Daily, Times vary Page 34 5 & 7 Little Owl Lost 12 Annual Members Meeting 5:30 PM -8:30 PM Thurs Page WaterWorks Luncheon 11:30 AM Thurs Page & 21 Be a Jr. Wildlife Vet 21 Family Fun Day 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM Sat Florida s Fabulous Birds 24 Evenings at the Conservancy 6:30 PM Tuesday Jim Henderson: Why Solar? Page 18 FEBRUARY Nature Center Hours 9:30 AM- 4:30 PM 7 days a week Special Daily Programs 11:15 AM - 2:15 PM Daily Page 6 Kayak Rentals (Members only) Daily Guided Kayak Tours Reservations required Electric Boat Tours 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Daily Page 9 Free Nature Walk Clam Pass 9:00 AM Mon - Sat Free Nature Walk Briggs Boardwalk 10:00 AM Mon - Sun Free Nature Walk Tigertail Beach 8:30 AM Mon - Fri 1-28 Good Fortune II Lunch Cruise 10 AM -1 PM Daily Page 34 Good Fortune II Sunset Cruise Daily, Times vary Page 34 2 & 4 Tap the Magic Tree 7 Specialty Eco-Cruise Hidden History 10:00 AM 1:00 PM Wed Page 36 Evenings at the Conservancy 6:30 PM Tuesday Kathy Worley Story of Greed & Destruction Page Specialty Wildlife Photography Sunset Cruise Times Vary Page & 18 E is for Everglades 18 Family Fun Day 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM Sat Wonderful World Wetlands Fossil Dig with Dr. Gary Schmelz 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM Sat Page

22 ACTIVITIES CALENDAR KAYAK TOURS MAGIC UNDER THE MANGROVES ECO-CRUISES FREE NATURE WALKS SPECIALTY ECO-CRUISES LITTLE EXPLORERS FEBRUARY Evenings at the Conservancy 6:30 PM Tuesday Randall Wells Bottlenose Dolphins Page Specialty Eco-Cruise Endangered Species 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Wed Page 37 MARCH Nature Center Hours 9:30 AM- 4:30 PM 7 days a week Special Daily Programs 11:15 AM - 2:15 PM Daily Page 6 Kayak Rentals (Members only) Daily Guided Kayak Tours Reservations required Electric Boat Tours 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Daily Page 9 Free Nature Walk Clam Pass 9:00 AM Mon - Sat EDITOR S PICKS FEBRUARY 1-28 Free Nature Walk Briggs Boardwalk 10:00 AM Mon - Sun Free Nature Walk Tigertail Beach 8:30 AM Mon - Fri Good Fortune II Lunch Cruise 10 AM -1 PM Daily Page 34 Good Fortune II Sunset Cruise Daily, Times vary Page 34 1 Specialty Eco-Cruise Predators of the Sky 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Wed Page 37 2 Nature Center Closed Magic Under the Mangroves 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM Thursday Page 25 4 Fossil Dig with Dr. Gary Schmelz 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM Sat Page 33 7 Specialty Eco-Cruise Secrets of Sea Turtles 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Wed Page 36 FREE NATURE WALKS Clam Pass, Tigertail Beach & Briggs Broadwalk Location times vary. See page 32 9 & 11 Daylight Starlight Wildlife 14 Evenings at the Conservancy 6:30 PM Tuesday Nick Penniman History of Western Everglades Page18 15 Specialty Eco-Cruise Hidden History 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Wed Page Family Fun Day 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM Sat Frogs of Florida 22 Specialty Wildlife Photography Sunset Cruise Times Vary Page Specialty Eco-Cruise Mangroves & More 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Thurs Page & 25 I Don t Want to be a Frog ECO-CRUISES ON GOOD FORTUNE II LUNCH OR SUNSET Rookery Bay Location times vary. See page 34 MARCH Fossil Dig with Dr. Gary Schmelz 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM Sat Page Evenings at the Conservancy 6:30 PM Tuesday Ricky Pires & Bryce Osceola Building Bridges for our Natural World Page Specialty Eco-Cruise Endangered Species of the Estuaries 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Wed Page 37 APRIL Nature Center Hours 9:30 AM- 4:30 PM 7 days a week Special Daily Programs 11:15 AM - 2:15 PM Daily Page 6 Kayak Rentals (Members only) Daily Guided Kayak Tours Reservations required Electric Boat Tours 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Daily Page 9 MARCH 2 Free Nature Walk Clam Pass 9:00 AM Mon - Sat Free Nature Walk Briggs Boardwalk 10:00 AM Mon - Sun Good Fortune II Lunch Cruise 10 AM -1 PM Daily Good Fortune II Sunset Cruise Daily, Times vary Page Free Nature Walk Tigertail Beach 8:30 AM Mon - Fri 4 Specialty Eco-Cruise Secrets of Sea Turtles 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Wed Page 36 6 & 8 Where Should Turtle Be? 11 Specialty Eco-Cruise Hidden History 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Wed Page 36 Evenings at the Conservancy 6:30 PM Tuesday Nicholas Petrucci & Connie Bransilver Guardians of the Everglades Page Nature Center Closed 19 Specialty Eco-Cruise Predators of the Sky 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Wed Page & 22 The Lorax 21 Nature Center Closed 22 Earth Day Festival 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Sat Page Evenings at the Conservancy 6:30 PM Tuesday Dr. Jeff Schmid Solving the Riddles of the Ridley Page Specialty Eco-Cruise Mangroves & More 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Thurs Page 36 CONSERVANCY NATURE CENTER 5:30 PM-9:30 PM Presented by Northern Trust & William Raveis Real Estate. Supporting sponsors: Gulfshore Life, Florida Weekly, Naples Daily News & NBC

23 ACTIVITIES CALENDAR EARTH DAY FESTIVAL SPECIAL ADMISSION DAYS ECO-CRUISES SUMMER CAMP LITTLE EXPLORERS CINEMA SATURDAYS MAy Nature Center Hours 9:30 AM- 4:30 PM Monday - Saturday Special Daily Programs 11:15 AM - 2:15 PM Daily Page 6 Kayak Rentals (Members only) Daily Guided Kayak Tours Reservations required Electric Boat Tours 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Daily Page 9 4 & 6 A Color of His Own 9 Evenings at the Conservancy 6:30 PM Tuesday Dr. Gary Schmelz Marine Life of the Ten Thousand Islands Page Special Admission Days 9:30 AM-4:30 PM Thurs - Sat Mothers Free EDITOR S PICKS 18 & 20 Mary Manatee 20 Family Fun Day 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM Sat Endangered Species Special Admission Days 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM Thurs-Sat Current & Retired Military Free JUne Nature Center Hours 9:30 AM- 4:30 PM Monday - Saturday Special Daily Programs 11:15 AM - 2:15 PM Daily Page 6 Kayak Rentals (Members only) Daily Guided Kayak Tours Reservations required Electric Boat Tours 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Daily Page 9 1 & 3 Over the Ocean 10 Summertime Cinema Earth 11:00 AM & 2:00 PM 13 Evenings at the Conservancy 6:30 PM Tuesday Joanna Fitzgerald An Insider s Look at the von Arx Wildlife Hospital Page & 17 Commotion in the Ocean Special Admission Days 9:30 AM-4:30 PM Thurs - Sat Fathers Free 17 Family Fun Day 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM Sat Outstanding Oceans JUne :00 AM Thurs Little Lazy Lizard JULY Nature Center Hours 9:30 AM- 4:30 PM Monday - Saturday Special Daily Programs 11:15 AM - 2:15 PM Daily Page 6 Kayak Rentals (Members only) Daily Guided Kayak Tours Reservations required Electric Boat Tours 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Daily Page 9 Kids Free Saturdays 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Daily 1 10:00 AM Sat Little Lazy Lizard 3-5 Special Admission Days 9:30 AM-4:30 PM Thurs - Sat Current & Retired Military Free APRIL EARTH DAY FESTIVAL MAY EVENINGS AT THE JULY CONSERVANCY NATURE CENTER CONSERVANCY AM-4 PM SATURDAY DR. GARY SCHMELZ Join us for our biggest community celebration of the year! Page 19 4 Nature Center Closed 8 Summertime Cinema Oceans 11:00 AM & 2:00 PM Saturday 11 Evenings at the Conservancy 6:30 PM Tuesday Nicole Johnson Smart Growth in Collier County Page & 15 10:00 AM Sat Small Green Snake 15 Family Fun Day 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM Sat Sensational Snakes 27 & 29 10:00 AM Sat Oozey Octopus August Nature Center Hours 9:30 AM- 4:30 PM Monday - Saturday Special Daily Programs 11:15 AM - 2:15 PM Daily Page 6 Kayak Rentals (Members only) 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Daily Guided Kayak Tours Reservations required Electric Boat Tours 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Daily Page 9 10 & 12 10:00 AM Sat In the Tall, Tall Grass 12 Summertime Cinema Wings of Life 11:00 AM & 2:00 PM Saturday 19 Family Fun Day 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM Sat Honeybee Hoopla 31 Special Admission Day 9:30 AM-4:30 PM Thurs - Sat First Responders Free SUMMERTIME CINEMA: OCEANS Bring the family and enjoy a nature-inspired film. 11:00 AM & 2:00 PM Showings 42 43

24 OUR YEAR IN NUMBERS 24,465 11,000 3,200 Mangroves Got a Physical Children Educated Wildlife Patients Admitted 525 2,000 2,077 Sea Turtle Nests Protected (loggerhead, green and leatherback) Pounds of Pythons Captured Rookery Bay Eco-Cruise Passengers LOST ONLY FAMILY TO A CAR ACCIDENT. 365 $1.2 Million 50,000 Protect our wildlife. Preserve their home. Days a Year the Von Arx Wildlife Hospital is Open Volunteer Time Donated People Reached by a Conservancy Program this Year. Made possible because of you! See life through their eyes at

25 Protecting Southwest Florida s unique natural environment and quality of life... now and forever. Your Membership Makes a Difference PUT SOUTHWEST FLORIDA IN YOUR HANDS Environmental Science & Research Environmental Policy & Advocacy von Arx Wildlife Hospital Environmental Education Nature Center Become a Conservancy of Southwest Florida member and support our work to preserve the water, land and wildlife for future generations to enjoy. We re constantly working to achieve our mission by finding a sensible balance between the demands of a growing population and the preservation of our natural resources. Our 21-acre Nature Center serves as the gateway to that mission. Filled with hands-on educational and fun activities, it s perfect for all ages and Conservancy member families get in free all year! Become a Conservancy member today. Join the 6,000+ supporting families today Smith Preserve Way Naples, Fl