MDC Features Bats in October Public Lecture Series

Bats are the fascinating and mysterious mammals of the sky and will be featured this Thursday in the Marine Discovery Center’s October Public Lecture Series. Ariel Horner of Casselberry will be the guest presenter on Thursday, Oct 13, at 6:30 p.m. The event will be held in MDC’s Learning Lab. Horner is a volunteer and board member with Florida Bat Conservancy (FBC). She operates Bat … Continue reading MDC Features Bats in October Public Lecture Series

Marine Discovery Center Celebrates 25th Anniversary

The Marine Discovery Center (MDC) has spent the past 25 years informing and educating citizens and visitors about the amazing biodiversity of the Indian River Lagoon. A 25th anniversary party is planned for Saturday, March 19 (originally scheduled for March 12, but postponed due to inclement weather) at the Hunter Amphitheater on-site outdoor venue. During the free event, guests are invited to come and listen … Continue reading Marine Discovery Center Celebrates 25th Anniversary

Marine Discovery Center EcoTours

Everyone is invited to explore one of Florida’s natural treasures with the Marine Discovery Center (MDC) by booking a spot on one of their guided ecotours. You can kayak the waters of New Smyrna Beach, or relax on their pontoon boat tour of the Indian River Lagoon. They also offer walking tours where you can learn about Florida’s local flora and fauna, as well as … Continue reading Marine Discovery Center EcoTours

Conservation Science Coordinator Jessy Wayles overlooks the marsh in 2015 during Marsh Madness

Marine Discovery Center’s Restored Salt Marsh Hits Milestone

Text/Photos by Lisa D. Mickey, Marine Discovery Center Earlier this spring, the restored salt marsh at the Marine Discovery Center hit an important milestone. The on-site Mosquito Lagoon Marine Enhancement Center (MEC), a partnership between the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), MDC and others, harvested its 20,000th plant from the donor marsh. The new harvest mark was set when Dr. Linda Walters and her … Continue reading Marine Discovery Center’s Restored Salt Marsh Hits Milestone

Buddy Davenport State Farm: 46 Years in the Making

There is something so special about living in a small town like New Smyrna Beach. From residents to business owners to visitors, there is a strong sense of community that holds us all together. A place where locals genuinely support locals, and the passion about protecting our little piece of paradise is at the top of everybody’s list.  It’s the type of small town where … Continue reading Buddy Davenport State Farm: 46 Years in the Making

alligator snapping turtle

Learn Wild Facts on Local Eco-Tours

Feature photo by Sherry Taylor, Daytona/NSB Discovery Map Did you know alligator snapping turtles laugh so hard, no sounds come out? Just kidding! The fact is these guys do not have vocal cords. Also like most turtles, they make a range of hissing sounds (think air escaping a balloon). So, why are their mouths agape all the time? Because alligator snapping turtles are ambush predators. … Continue reading Learn Wild Facts on Local Eco-Tours

Movies by the Marsh

WHOOO’s up for a night of family fun!? Marine Discovery Center will feature the fun, family film Hoot, presented by AdventHealth, on Friday, March 5 in the Hunter Amphitheater at MDC. This film is rated PG with a run time of 91 minutes. March 5 @ 4:45 – 8 PM at the Marine Discovery Center, NSB  Join MDC for this feature presentation PLUS a visit … Continue reading Movies by the Marsh

Marine Discovery Center Announces Reopening and Events

Marine Discovery Center Reopens to the Public on May 18 Due to COVID 19, Marine Discovery Center (MDC) has taken precautionary steps to ensure the safety of our guests, staff and volunteers. These steps include the following: Limiting tours to 10 guests Increased sanitation of all high touch areas (boat, kayaks, outdoor seating areas, and indoor facilities Temperature checks for staff Face Masks: All guests … Continue reading Marine Discovery Center Announces Reopening and Events

The Marine Discovery Center – “Nature Is Always Open”

A message from MDC’s Executive Director I hope this note finds each of you well, both mentally and physically.  Our lagoon, creeks, and ocean are beautiful this time of the year.  The water is still very clear and the neoprene warmth that accompanies Winter is no longer required.  I know it’s challenging for some of you, but we highly encourage you to get outside and explore … Continue reading The Marine Discovery Center – “Nature Is Always Open”

Sea Squirts

The Sea Squirts Program introduces marine life to children ages 2-5 years. Adults will accompany their children to the program. Activities may include examinations of species both skeletal and alive, arts and crafts, stories, audio visual presentations, and games. Reservations must be made in advance so we can prepare materials for arts and crafts. Cancellations must be made 24 hours in advance to receive a … Continue reading Sea Squirts