Friends of The GTM

Family Hike - Leave No Trace Scavenger Hunt
2026-03-28 10:00 - 11:30 UTC | Guana Trailhead
Join us for a guided family experience that blends nature exploration with mindfulness. Together, families will participate in a Leave No Trace scavenger hunt while practicing observation, reflection and curiosity in the natural world.
This interactive program encourages teamwork, shared discovery and meaningful time outdoors — helping families slow down, connect and learn together.
Instructor: Erin Tyson, M.Ed., LMHC | Mandala Wellness
REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Space is limited.

Shuck Yeah! I ❤️ Estuaries!
2026-09-18 18:00 - 21:00 | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Celebrate I ❤️ Estuaries Week with a sunset evening of coastal flavors, community and a shared love for the estuary.
Shuck Yeah! is a casual oyster roast and Low Country boil at the GTM Research Reserve, set against the beautiful backdrop of the Guana River. The evening will be emceed by John Bachman and filled with great food, live music and coastal fun.
Your ticket includes:

Fresh oysters by Get Shuckin’
Low Country boil feast
Live music by Sea Level
Craft cocktails by Jon Mateer
Beer and wine
Sunset views
Games and coastal-inspired fun

Grab your friends and join us for a Friday night celebration of good food, good company and the incredible estuary we call home.
Join us for Shuck Yeah!
$125 Members | $175 Non-Members
TICKETS ON SALE NOW
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Sponsorship Opportunities
Pearl Sponsor — $2,500
Only 1 Available
• Top logo placement across event marketing
• Speaking opportunity at the event
• Premium signage placement
• 4 tickets included
Reef Builder — $1,000
Limited Availability
• Logo featured on event emails and signage
• Verbal recognition at event
• 2 tickets included
Half Shell — $500
• Logo placement on event signage
• Recognition during the event
• 1 ticket included
All sponsorships directly support GTM Research Reserve science, education, conservation, and stewardship efforts.
Become a Sponsor: Shuck Yeah! Sponsorship Form

Whales & Dolphins | Six-Week Educational Course
2026-09-30 10:30 - 12:00 | GTM Research Reserve, 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082, United States
Join us for a six-week journey into the world of North Atlantic Right Whales and Bottlenose Dolphins along Northeast Florida’s coast. Through expert presentations, film, discussion, and a guided sunset beach walk, you’ll explore the science, conservation, and stories behind some of the ocean’s most remarkable animals.
Whether you’re a lifelong marine mammal enthusiast or simply curious about the incredible wildlife found along our coast, this course offers a unique opportunity to connect with the ocean in a meaningful way.
RESERVE YOUR SPOT
Session Dates
Wednesdays: September 30, October 7, 14, 21, 28, and November 4
Instructor
Terran McGinnis, Founder, Wild Lessons
Time
10:30 AM – Noon
October 28 session meets at 5:30 PM for a sunset beach walk at Vilano Beach.
Location
GTM Research Reserve Visitor Center
Registration
Friends of GTM Members: $175
Non-Members: $225
Course Topics
Week 1: North Atlantic Right Whale
Learn about the North Atlantic Right Whale — one of the world’s most endangered whales — who returns each winter to our Northeast Florida waters to give birth and raise calves. Despite the challenges facing this species, this session offers a hopeful and empowering look at conservation efforts making a difference.
Week 2: “Last of the Right Whales” Film Screening
Experience the powerful documentary Last of the Right Whales, following the migration of North Atlantic Right Whales and the people dedicated to protecting them. The film explores the impacts of climate change, ship strikes, and fishing gear entanglements while sharing a message of hope for the future of the species.
Week 3: Marineland Right Whale Project
Discover the incredible work being done through the Marineland Right Whale Project and learn how researchers, conservationists, and everyday citizens are helping protect these remarkable animals.
Week 4: Common Bottlenose Dolphin
Explore the behavior, anatomy, hunting strategies, and social lives of our local bottlenose dolphins, along with the conservation challenges they face in Florida waters.
Week 5: Sunset Dolphin Beach Walk
We’ll head outdoors for a guided sunset beach walk at Vilano Beach, traveling south toward Porpoise Point. Along the way, we’ll discuss dolphin behavior and coastal ecology while enjoying one of the most scenic spots in St. Augustine. Dolphin sightings are possible, but not guaranteed.
Week 6: Marineland Dolphin Adventure — Past, Present, and Future
Take a look back at the fascinating history of Marineland, the world’s first oceanarium, and explore how it transformed our community’s relationship with dolphins and marine conservation from 1938 to today.
REGISTER NOW
