Save the Manatee® Club offers free in-service programs on the West Indian manatee to educators throughout Florida. In-services are available in 2 to 4 hour blocks of time and cover general description, physiology, behavior, communication, reproduction, habitat, range, food, related species, mortality / endangered status, and ways we can all help. Various activities to enhance student learning will also be shared. For more information, contact SMC's Communications Director at (407) 539-0990.

Looking for a speaker to discuss manatees with your class?

Save the Manatee® Club has put together a manatee speaker's list. Contact SMC's Volunteer Director at (407) 539-0990, for possible speakers in your area.

Free Materials For Student Projects

Students can call or write Save the Manatee® Club, give their grade level, and request a free "student education packet" on the West Indian manatee.

Manatee Related Field Trips in Florida

Citrus County: Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park.
Year-round. Several manatees can be viewed from an underwater structure at the spring's headwaters. Interpretive program and group rates available. For more information, call (352) 628-5343.

Dade County: Miami Seaquarium.
Year-round. Interpretive program and group rates available. For more information, call (305) 361-5705.

Hillsborough County: Tampa Electric Big Bend Manatee Viewing Center.
An environmental education facility with exhibits about manatees and their habitat. Open Wednesday through Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and on Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. No entry fee. Opens the day after Thanksgiving and closes on March 31. Call (813) 228-4298.

Hillsborough County: Lowry Park Zoo.
Year-round. Self-guided program. Guided tours also available at group rates - 3 weeks notice required. Call (813) 935-8552 ext. 200.

Orange County: Sea World.
Year-round. Behind-the-scenes interpretive program and group rates available. Call Guided Tours at (407) 351-3600.

Osceola County: Walt Disney World Epcot Center - Living Seas Pavillion.
Year-round. Call (407) 824-4500.

Volusia County: Blue Spring State Park.
Winter months only. Observation deck for viewing manatees in their natural habitat. Interpretive programs available. Park fee will be waived with a school letterhead letter. For more information, call (904) 775-3663.