Public Programs
WRWA offers hands-on, interactive programs in the River Center and outdoor exploration opportunities in natural places throughout the watershed.
In the River Center
Open Days in the River Center
The River Center will host themed children's events throughout the year. The events will feature our fish tanks, interactive sand table, high powered microscope as well as themed activities and crafts for children. All ages are welcome and admission is free!
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​Upcoming Open Days:
January ​9-10: Ins and Outs of Nature
February 6-7: Winter Wonders
March 14: Signs of Spring
April 4: Closed for Easter Weekend
May 2: Bloom & Buzz
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Special School Vacation Days
February - Stay tuned, these special days will be hosted by Westport High School Students.
April 22 and 23 - Sustainability and Citizen Science
Nature Talks
These science and nature themed talks are offered in-person at the River Center, 493 Old County Rd., Westport MA, or via zoom on select Thursdays from 5-6 p.m. Geared more for adults, they are still appropriate for ages 10 and up.​
Advanced registration is required.
January 29
Restoring the Reefs
Daniel Goulart, Coastal Project Manager with The Nature Conservancy
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Wild Eastern oysters are a foundational estuarine species that have been pushed to the brink of extinction in Massachusetts. The oysters and reefs they form play a vital role in ecosystem health by providing structural habitat, stabilizing sediments, and filtering excess nutrients and algae from the water. These reefs also support vibrant coastal communities by enhancing recreational and subsistence fishing opportunities. In this talk we'll examine the historical extent of wild Eastern oysters, the ecosystem services they provide, and the path to restoring them in estuaries all over the state.​​
February 26
Ecology in Motion: Tracking the Striped Bass
Parker Mauck and Chris Killenberg of Westport Fly
Mike Sullivan, WRWA President
​​​​Discover the story of one of our most iconic fish! This talk dives into the natural history of the Striped Bass, the challenges it faces in a changing environment, and an exciting new tagging program revealing its remarkable migration patterns. Learn how science and technology are helping us protect and understand this powerful traveler of our coastal waters.
IG: @katyroddenwalker
April 30
Where Eco-Art meets Action: Building Resilience through Community Creativity
Katy Rodden Walker, Professional Artist
Artist Katy Rodden Walker will discuss her process of artmaking with the community. Through art, she raises awareness about plastic pollution in our oceans and other environmental issues while exploring the interconnectedness of humans and nonhumans in the natural world.
In the Watershed
Come back in 2026 to learn more about off site programs
Wonders of the Watershed
​Join us each Saturday in June to celebrate National Rivers Month!
Programs traditionally include a Hike to the Headwaters, Birding on Gooseberry, Cherry & Webb Dune Hike, and River Day
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Proud partner of Science Near Me
Science Near Me is a free, nationwide directory of STEM opportunities, including citizen science projects, museum events, science festivals, out-of-school time programs, Maker Fairs, public science policy forums, astronomy clubs, science cafes and more. The goal is to connect anyone— anywhere in the U.S. — to participate in engaging science, technology, engineering and math that matters.
Find them online:
Website: ScienceNearMe.org
Instagram: @science_near_me
Facebook: @find.science.near.me
LinkedIn: @science-near-me/
Cancellation Policy for Family Programs:
Any cancellations made at least 48 hours in advance will receive a full refund. Cancellations made after that will not receive a reimbursement.
If WRWA has to cancel a program, full reimbursements will be provided.
Don't see what you're looking for?
Check out our EVENTS PAGE for electronics recycling, summer concert, gala, and more!
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Need help registering or have questions?
Please contact:
Kim Botelho, Education Director
508-636-3016 ext. 1006, WEP@WRWA.com