Lobsters, turtles and hurricanes are on the agenda when the popular Discovery Saturday returns to Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center beginning in June. The first session, set for June 8 at 10:30 a.m., will feature a presentation by the National Park Service on the Dry Tortugas.
“Discovery Saturday was a cherished program in the Key West community until COVID shut down the monthly sessions,” said Sarah Fangman, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary superintendent. “After that, the center remained closed during renovations, but now, with the makeover complete and the facility buzzing with activity again, it seemed natural to bring back this popular program.”
Discovery Saturday is a free, monthly activity designed for children in grades 1-5. The sessions last 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the presenter, with new subjects slated for each month.
“The lineup is an awesome and diverse look at the people who participate in the community, and take care of the sanctuary,” said Kristina Agard, Eco-Discovery Center manager. “There’s not a lot to do in Key West for the littles. I have people who come every week because it’s free. Having somewhere for local families to be and things to do is really important.”
The presenters for 2024 include National Park Service (June 8/Dry Tortugas), FWC Lobster Lab (July 13/lobsters), Force Blue (August 10/sea turtles), National Weather Service (September 21/hurricanes), Reef Relief (October 19/marine ecosystems), Monroe County Sheriff’s Animal Farm (November 9/responsible pet ownership), and Key West Art & Historical Society (December 14/the whole Key West).Discovery Saturday sessions take place inside the classroom at Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, located at 35 East Quay Drive along the Truman Waterfront. Capacity is limited, and parents are encouraged to pre-register by email at FKECD@noaa.gov. The Eco-Discovery Center is open Wednesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and admission is free.
