Is this activity suitable for young children?

Yes, the seine and dip netting experience is designed for families and is safe and engaging for children with adult supervision.

Do I need prior experience with seine or dip netting?

No prior experience is necessary; educators provide all instruction and equipment needed.

What wildlife can I expect to see?

Participants may encounter small fish, crabs, shrimp, and various aquatic plants native to the Indian River Lagoon.

Is equipment provided for the netting activity?

Yes, all seine and dip netting gear is supplied by the River Center educators.

What should I wear for this trip?

Wear water-friendly shoes and lightweight clothing suitable for wading in shallow waters, along with sun protection.

Are pets allowed on this trip?

Pets are not permitted during the seine and dip netting program to protect local wildlife and habitats.

Seine & Dip Netting Adventure at Blowing Rocks Preserve | Fishing | Water Activities

Located along Florida's scenic Atlantic coast, the Blowing Rocks Preserve on Jupiter Island offers a distinctive hands-on marine adventure perfect for families and nature lovers. This two-hour program invites participants to discover the rich ecosystems of the Indian River Lagoon through the engaging activity of seine and dip netting. Guided by expert educators from the River Center, visitors wade into shallow waters alive with vibrant sea grasses and tangled mangroves. This preserved natural environment is one of the few remaining coastal habitats supporting a diverse array of aquatic life, from tiny crustaceans to juvenile fish species that are essential to the area’s ecological balance.

Blowing Rocks Preserve is noted for its rare Anastasia limestone formations, a type of fossilized reef rock unique to the region, creating a jagged shoreline that contrasts with the lagoon’s tranquil waters. This geological feature not only shapes a dramatic natural coastline but also provides vital habitats for various marine creatures. The Indian River Lagoon itself is one of the most biologically diverse estuaries in North America, home to more than 4,000 plants and animals.

The Seine and Dip Netting program stands out as an immersive educational experience, blending outdoor activity with environmental learning. Participants gain direct interaction with coastal wildlife while understanding the importance of preserving these delicate habitats. The River Center’s commitment to conservation enhances the value of this excursion, making it a singular offering in the region. Situated near Jupiter, Florida, this adventure makes an ideal addition to any coastal getaway, connecting travelers to the pulse of local marine life through active participation and observation.

About Loxahatchee River Center

Located in Jupiter, Florida, the Loxahatchee River Center (River Center) is a community-focused environmental education facility dedicated to connecting people with the Loxahatchee River and Indian River Lagoon. The River Center offers a wide range of free and low-cost programs for families, students, homeschool groups, and teens, including field trips with interactive tours, touch tank demonstrations, and state-of-the-art aquariums that showcase local ecosystems. Regular public programs include Science with Sam (weekly science sessions for ages 6–12), Green Teens (science for ages 13–17), Bloomin' in the Garden (monthly pollinator garden activities), Nature Journaling, and a monthly lecture series featuring local environmental organizations.

For school groups and homeschoolers, the River Center provides curriculum-aligned field trip experiences at Burt Reynolds Park that emphasize hands-on learning and environmental stewardship. The Center also offers unique outreach experiences such as seine and dip netting at Blowing Rocks Preserve and a Boating Safely Course for ages 12 and up, presented in collaboration with the US Coast Guard Auxiliary and sponsored by the AustinBlu Foundation. Educators and volunteers staff programs, ensuring safe, engaging interpretation of local habitats and wildlife.

With a focus on accessibility and stewardship, the Loxahatchee River Center has established itself as a trusted local resource for environmental education in Jupiter, Florida. Its combination of professional partnerships, free community offerings, and hands-on exhibits supports lifelong learning about the region’s waterways. Visitors can check the River Center's event calendar for registration details, schedules, and seasonal topics that help families plan visits and join conservation efforts year round.