We are excited to offer a unique paid opportunity for UF undergraduate students to join the Operation TRAP project as a Gulf Scholar. As part of the Operation TRAP team, the Gulf Scholar will gain valuable hands-on experience in environmental conservation, including the installation and maintenance of cutting-edge litter interception devices, data collection, and public outreach efforts. Duties include maintaining litter interceptors, installing new devices, collecting data, training volunteers, representing Operation TRAP at events, creating content, attending team meetings, and presenting on the project. Open to UF undergraduate students only. Apply by November 23, 2025.
The UF/IFAS Nature Coast Biological Station (NCBS) K–12 Education Internship offers undergraduate students hands-on experience in coastal environmental education. Interns will assist NCBS educators in planning and leading field-based programs in Cedar Key, engaging K–12 students in activities such as seining, oyster reef exploration, and water quality demonstrations. The internship focuses on connecting science and stewardship, fostering communication and leadership skills, and contributing to a Gulf Impact Project that supports education and community resilience across Florida’s Gulf Coast. Open to UF undergraduate students only. Apply by November 23, 2025.
Visit the UF/IFAS Nature Coast Biological Station on Saturday, October 18th, 2025 for the annual open house event from 10AM-3PM.
This event overlaps the Cedar Key Seafood Festival which brings in hundreds of visitors and vendors. Our open house is free and open to all ages, providing natural resource and conservation research updates from the University of Florida and external agencies, interactive booths, and a scavenger hunt.
Stop by 552 1st St. in downtown Cedar Key while enjoying the festival for some family-fun and learning!
Visit Seahorse Key Marine Lab and the Cedar Key Light Station! Seahorse Key is an island adjacent to the mainland on Cedar Key, managed by the Lower Suwannee and Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuges. On these free open house dates, the public is welcome to check out the UF IFAS NCBS field research lab, or explore the historical light station. Visitors can become immersed in the islands flora and fauna, featuring a winding dune side trail leading to the Gulf-facing beach. Transportation by personal vessel or tour boat (includes fee from tour company). Please contact the Cedar Key Welcome Center regarding tour boat operations.
Please note: Trails leading to the light station and beach are steep and primitive in some areas. Take caution when loading and unloading vessels onto the floating docks, and navigating the natural areas of the trails and beach.
ALL 2025 DATES CANCELED DUE TO HURRICANE HELENE DAMAGES
Catch the Nature Coast Currents monthly webinar series that aims to communicate and catalog research and monitoring relevant to Florida’s Nature Coast. Talks are ~30-40 minutes plus Q&A, and focus on coastal and marine science topics. Webinars are free and all are welcome! Recordings are posted on our archive page for later viewing.
