Listen to the Lagoon
The aquatic plant and marine life of the Indian River Lagoon has much to teach us about nature, science, balance, and respect – for the ecology and for ourselves.
Our Mission
The Manatee Center fosters curiosity and discovery of our unique coastal ecology, where people gather to learn, commune, and conserve the beauty and wild wonder of the Indian River Lagoon.
Our Vision
Creating water-keepers everywhere who passionately protect the natural waterways and marine habitats all living things depend on.
We Believe In
Curiosity and Discovery
We welcome seekers and explorers to learn in blue-green wonder and listen to the lagoon.
Courageous Conservation
We raise up river warriors young and old, life-long keepers of our irreplaceable eco-system.
Interconnection
Nature forms us in diverse community, where all living things need one another to thrive.
Manatee Wisdom
These playful, gentle creatures reflect humanity at our best, inviting us to live in joy and harmony with the world.
Science and Stewardship
We are a center of environmental education and advocacy,
furthering the knowledge and protection of local marine ecology.
Our Story
The Manatee Center began as the Manatee Observation and Education Center on November 1, 1996. Funding for construction and exhibits was secured with a grant from the Florida Inland Navigational District and support from the City of Fort Pierce, Fort Pierce Utilities Authority (FPUA), local businesses, and community leaders.
Once completed, oversight for the Center was transferred to the publicly-owned Fort Pierce Utilities Authority, which continues today. This vital support allows MC to focus on its purpose — sharing scientific study of the Treasure Coast marine ecology to further better outcomes for manatees in Fort Pierce and beyond — and delivering exceptional experiences for children and families to learn how we can work together to conserve our fragile habitats here in Fort Pierce and wherever our visitors live.
Since opening, more than one million visitors have joined us to Learn at the Lagoon, taking some Manatee Wisdom with them after a day of discovery and wonder.
Friends of Manatee Center
Friends of Manatee Center, also known as Treasure Coast Manatee Foundation, is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 1998 by community volunteers and leaders to support and enhance environmental awareness, education, conservation, and stewardship of local endangered species and natural resources.
Friends of Manatee Center fulfills their purpose to raise funds for Manatee Center educational programs and initiatives provided by and through the MC.
You can be part of our story!
Help us advance environmental education and advocacy for healthy, thriving manatees. If you love manatees and the wild beauty of their world, consider a gift to MC today.