March Newsletter 2026
Earth Hour
Earth Hour is a global movement organized by World Wildlife Fund for Nature that encourages individuals, businesses, and communities to switch off non-essential lights for one hour to show support for our planet. More than just a symbolic gesture, Earth Hour is a reminder that small actions can spark meaningful change — from conserving energy to protecting wildlife and natural habitats. Join us in taking a moment to reflect on how we can all make a positive impact for the Earth, not just for one hour, but every day.
Download our app
Looking for a new way to connect with the Aquarium Encounters? We are excited to share our newest project with you! Download our new free app to enjoy live webcams, webinars, animal quizzes, live feeder cameras, and more! You can now immerse yourself in the wonders of the ocean from anywhere in the world! To download our app, head to your app store and search “Aquarium Encounters”!
World Wildlife Day
World Wildlife Day, established by the United Nations, is a global celebration of the incredible diversity of wild animals and plants and a reminder of the importance of protecting them for future generations. It’s a time to recognize the vital role wildlife plays in healthy ecosystems and to reflect on how our everyday choices can support conservation efforts. By learning, sharing, and acting, we can all help ensure a thriving planet where wildlife continues to flourish.
Manatee Update
We are proud to be the only manatee rehabilitation facility in the Florida Keys, providing specialized care for animals that need medical attention, monitoring, and long-term support. From routine health assessments to daily nutrition and habitat care, our team works to ensure each manatee has the best possible chance to thrive. Facilities like ours are a crucial safety net, helping injured or vulnerable animals recover while also educating the public about the importance of protecting this species.
Two of the manatees in our care, Luca and Giovanni, continue to show just how impactful dedicated care can be. Giovanni now weighs an impressive 630 pounds, while Luca has reached 606 pounds — strong signs of their continued growth and overall health. These milestones reflect the importance of regular monitoring, proper nutrition, and individualized care plans, and they serve as a reminder of how meaningful conservation work can be when a community comes together to support it.
Our ability to provide this level of care is made possible through our R3EACH program, which supports rescue, rehabilitation, veterinary care, and conservation education. Through R3EACH, we can continue advancing our mission while raising awareness about the challenges manatees face in the wild. The program helps fund everything from daily food and medical care to habitat maintenance and outreach efforts that inspire people to care about protecting marine life.
World Water Day
World Water Day, led by the United Nations, highlights the importance of freshwater and the need to protect this vital resource for people, wildlife, and ecosystems around the world. It’s a reminder that clean, accessible water supports healthy communities and thriving habitats, and that even small actions — like conserving water and reducing pollution — can make a meaningful difference. Together, we can help ensure that this precious resource is protected for generations to come.