Ostego Bay Foundation

Marine Science Center

The Original Museum, Nature and Science Center on Fort Myers Beach!

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

We are open by appointment due to existing construction. Please call us at 239-470-4993.

EVENTS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


ESTERO BAY CELEBRATED DURING NATIONAL ESTUARIES WEEK


Free community event features WGCU documentary, expert discussion and guided preserve walk


FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. — The Estero Island Historic Society and Ostego Bay will celebrate National Estuaries Week with a special community program, “Estero Bay: Our History, Our Water, Our Future,” on Saturday, September 19, from 10 a.m. to noon at 161 Bay Road, Fort Myers Beach.


Estero Bay has shaped the history, environment and character of Fort Myers Beach for generations. It is also home to the Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve, established in 1966 as Florida’s first aquatic preserve.


The morning will begin with a screening of the WGCU documentary Preserving Our Waters. The film explores the history of the Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve, the people who fought to protect it and the challenges the bay continues to face. The effort to protect Estero Bay later helped provide a model for Florida’s statewide aquatic preserve system.

Following the film, local historians, environmental experts and community representatives will take part in a question-and-answer session. Guests will have an opportunity to learn more about the bay’s history, wildlife, water quality and importance to the Fort Myers Beach community.


The program will also include a guided walk in Matanzas Pass Preserve, subject to weather conditions and preserve access. Participants will experience the island’s mangrove ecosystem and learn how estuaries provide vital habitat for fish, shrimp, birds and other wildlife while helping protect coastal communities from flooding and erosion.


Whether you have lived on the island for decades or are just beginning to discover its natural history, this program offers a chance to better understand the waters that surround and sustain our community.


The event is free and open to the public.


EVENT DETAILS

What: “Estero Bay: Our History, Our Water, Our Future”
When: Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 10 a.m. to noon
Where: Estero Island Historic Society, 161 Bay Road, Fort Myers Beach
Admission: Free


The program is presented by the Estero Island Historic Society and Ostego Bay in recognition of National Estuaries Week.

Ostego Bay Kids Fishing Tournament 2026

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Marine Science Center

Explore and discover the natural beauty of Southwest Florida. Learn about the unique ecology of the barrier islands and estuary ecosystem.


Welcome to the Ostego Bay Foundation Marine Science Center located at 161 Bay Road Fort Myers Beach, FL, the Center provides a Marine Science Experience through interactive exhibits, aquariums, touch tank, one of kind collections and unique displays.


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Whether you're a visiting fellow or grad student, let the Marine Science Center be your "base camp". We have local connections and provide local knowledge to help you with your research.

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