ANERR Nature Center

Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve Nature Center

108 Island Drive
Eastpoint, FL 32328
850-670-7700
Open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve Nature Center (ANERR) offers free admission to the public. The Nature Center Building is nestled along Apalachicola Bay, amidst scrub live oaks, saw palmetto and pines. The center features 18,000 square feet of learning space, including two working wet and dry research laboratories.

Three large walk-around tanks are on exhibit inside and represent the river, bay and Gulf of Mexico habitats found in Apalachicola. Each tank holds more than 1,000 gallons and houses a variety of native plant life and creatures. A mural stretching along the nearby walls demonstrates the connectivity among the river, bay and gulf habitats as one continuum instead of discrete, separate systems.

Additional exhibits highlight the rich history of the area with descriptions and testimonials of life working on the bay and waterfront, and an oyster boat is on display outside the entrance to the education center to highlight the importance of oystering in the community.

Incorporating the idea of education and environmental stewardship, the facility is built to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) silver certificate standards. Many of these environmentally friendly features become a part of the exhibit with explanations about their function and how they help protect the environment.

The center includes a central area that can be closed off for special events without disturbing visitors to the rest of the center. There is also an auditorium and an outside amphitheater for workshops and presentations. Educational offerings include ongoing guest lecturers for the community and coastal management workshops for environmental professionals.

For more information about the research and education programs offered, please contact ANERR at 850-670-7700.