When people think of Florida, they often picture beaches, but some of our most vital ecosystems are inland. This summer, plunge into the state’s rich freshwater environments through the Florida Master Naturalist Program (FMNP) hosted at Mote Marine Laboratory.
Upcoming Course: FMNP Freshwater Systems Module
- 📍 Held at Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, FL
- 🗓 Hybrid course, August 11 – September 8, 2025
- in-person all day on Mondays, 9:30 am – 4:00 pm ET
- online on Wednesday mornings via Zoom, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm ET
- $350 Attendee Fee – Includes electronic file (PDF) of manual
- $425 Attendee Fee with Color Manual – Includes the PDF and a printed bound copy
- FMNP offers various scholarships depending on your need
- 🔗 Register today
This 40-hour course is open to anyone 18 years or older with a passion for Florida’s wild places. You’ll learn about the plants, animals, and physical processes that define our rivers, lakes, springs, and wetlands—plus how humans are affecting these essential systems.
Field experiences include:
- The Celery Fields: a thriving birding and stormwater site
- Myakka Headwaters at Flatford Swamp: a rare look at the source of one of Florida’s wildest rivers
What You’ll Gain
- A deeper understanding of Florida’s freshwater ecology and hydrology
- Hands-on experience in field observation and environmental interpretation
- Connections with conservation professionals and fellow nature stewards
- A certificate of completion, a program patch, and a program lapel pin
Think Like an Interpreter
- How would you explain a cypress dome to a 5th grader?
- What story could you tell to help someone see the value in a stormwater pond?
The FMNP doesn’t just teach you facts—it sharpens your storytelling skills as a nature interpreter.
🕵️ Mystery Florida Organism
Let’s test your skills. What organism is pictured here?
Clue: I eat vines but I’m no gardener. I was introduced on purpose, not by accident. I help keep an invasive plant in check. And even though I’m not native, I’ve made myself very useful.
Have you spotted one yet? If so, we want to know! Email us at MARVEN@mote.org
- 📸 Share your Florida freshwater finds using #FMNPAtMote
- 🎓 Ready to take the plunge? There are 10 spaces left. Register for the Freshwater Module today!