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!
Open 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
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​Upcoming Open Days:
May 2: Bloom & Buzz
June 6: World Environment Day - Nature Art Celebration
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Special School Vacation Days
April 22 and 23 - Sustainability and Citizen Science
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Summer Schedule:
July 9 - August 22: Weekly themes, Thursday - Saturday, (Closed Saturdays 7/11 & 8/8)
Workshops
Trash to Treasure: Jellyfish
Meet local artist Katy Rodden Walker and learn to make jellyfish using beach plastics and other upcycled materials. Feel free to bring your own cleaned plastic or other supplies. Take your creation home or let us put it on exhibit in the River Center for one week until her EcoArt and Ocean Plastics Nature Talk on April 30. Suitable for adults and children ages 6 and up. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
$10/person
If you would like to attend but cost is a burden, please email Kim to request a discount code before registering.
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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
​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
EcoArt and Ocean Plastics
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
Southcoast Strolls with WLCT
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Old Harbor Refuge
Thursday, May 14 at 10 am
Join us for the last spring walk with the Westport Land Conservation Trust at Old Harbor Refuge This property can get wet so just in case wear good walking shoes you don't mind getting muddy. Register at WLCT.​
Wonders of the Watershed
​Join us on Saturdays in June to celebrate National Rivers Month!
Programs traditionally include a Birding on Gooseberry, Cherry & Webb Dune Hike, and River Day.
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Gooseberry Island Birding
Saturday, June 6 at 7 a.m.
Join Master Bird watcher and photographer, Paul Champlin, at 7am on Gooseberry Island. This is a major stopping off point on the migration path of many birds. We will meet in the parking area. Don't forget your binoculars. If you need a pair, just let us know.
$10/person
Cherry & Webb Dune Hike
Saturday, June 13 at 8 a.m.
Explore the wondrous dunes and paths of the Cherry & Webb Conservation Area with WRWA Education Director Kim Botelho. This protected area by the ocean is filled with interesting plants and animals, and affords spectacular views of the southern shore. Participants will meet at 8 a.m. at the Westport Town Beach Parking Area on Cherry & Webb Lane. One day permits will be available for anyone who does not have a Town Beach Permit.
$10/person
River Day
Saturday, June 20
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
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Free fun for the whole family! Explore exhibits, listen to music, make nature crafts, play drums, and much more. No registration required. Visit event page for more details.
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