Lectures at the Lagoon

Join us for a Lecture at the Lagoon, where you will have the opportunity to hear from a diverse range of environmental experts. These knowledgeable speakers specialize in sharing captivating stories about a variety of fascinating topics, from the octopus population under the Blue Heron Bridge in Riviera Beach to the importance of manatees in our ecosystem. Our free lectures are held at 2:00 p.m. on the second Sunday of each month. Don’t miss this chance to learn and be inspired!

Mini-Lecture Series: Celebrating Manatee Migration

Join us for a special expanded lecture series as we celebrate the return of manatees to our warm waters! In place of our traditional Sunday lecture this month, we’re offering multiple engaging 15–30 minute presentations throughout the day from local experts.

Presenter: Amber Howell, Manatee Biologist, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Meet the manatees who call our lagoon home! Amber will share photos and stories of specific manatees frequently seen at Manatee Lagoon, including their rescue and rehabilitation journeys. Learn how to identify injured manatees while getting an inside look at FWC’s manatee rescue program.

Presenter: Kylie Ariotti, Senior Environmental Analyst, Palm Beach County Environmental Resources Management

Discover why the Lake Worth Lagoon is one of Palm Beach County’s most valuable natural treasures! Explore how this unique estuary supports wildlife, recreation, and our local economy, plus learn about ongoing efforts to protect it for future generations.

Presenter: Sarah Marmion, Executive Director, Friends of Manatee Lagoon

Ready to roll up your sleeves for manatees? Sarah will share the many hands-on ways you can make a difference – from volunteering at events like ManateeFest to participating in citizen science projects. Learn how you can become an active Friend and help protect manatee habitat.

Presenter: Rachel Shanker, Conservation & Education Manager, Manatee Lagoon

Perfect for all ages! Dive into the world of manatees through skeleton exploration, migration patterns, and real satellite tracking technology. See an actual satellite tag up close and discover the threats manatees face and how you can help protect these gentle giants.

11:30 AM – Manatee Photo ID and Rescue Presenter: Amber Howell, Manatee Biologist, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Meet the manatees who call our lagoon home! Amber will share photos and stories of specific manatees frequently seen at Manatee Lagoon, including their rescue and rehabilitation journeys. Learn how to identify injured manatees while getting an inside look at FWC’s manatee rescue program.

12:30 PM – DIVE-IN to Lake Worth Lagoon Presenter: Amber Howell, Manatee Biologist, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Discover why the Lake Worth Lagoon is one of Palm Beach County’s most valuable natural treasures! Explore how this unique estuary supports wildlife, recreation, and our local economy, plus learn about ongoing efforts to protect it for future generations.

1:30 PM – Want to Help? Become a Friend of Manatee Lagoon Presenter: Sarah Marmion, Executive Director, Friends of Manatee Lagoon

Ready to roll up your sleeves for manatees? Sarah will share the many hands-on ways you can make a difference – from volunteering at events like ManateeFest to participating in citizen science projects. Learn how you can become an active Friend and help protect manatee habitat.
2:30 PM – All About Manatees! Presenter: Rachel Shanker, Conservation & Education Manager, Manatee Lagoon

Perfect for all ages! Dive into the world of manatees through skeleton exploration, migration patterns, and real satellite tracking technology. See an actual satellite tag up close and discover the threats manatees face and how you can help protect these gentle giants.

This special lecture series is part of our Manatee Season Kickoff celebration, featuring environmental exhibitors, family activities, and more! All presentations are free of charge and are perfect for families. 

LECTURE SERIES ARCHIVE