Located in the heart of the Kissimmee River Basin, the Riverwoods Field Laboratory (Riverwoods) provides a home and support for extensive research and educational activities related to the restoration of the Kissimmee River.
Riverwoods, established in 1995 and managed by Florida Atlantic University’s Center for Environmental Studies (CES) in partnership with the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD), hosts research scientists, students, and technicians from all over the state, the nation, as well as international countries. Organizations include universities, K-12 school districts, water management districts, environmental and non-profit agencies interested in learning or conducting research on the KRR.
As a result of this collaboration, the Kissimmee River serves as a living laboratory and model for river restoration on a global scale. Lessons learned here in the one of the world’s largest restoration efforts ever attempted underscore professional research activities while a comprehensive environmental education and research program targets secondary and post-secondary students, educators, university faculty, scientists, and environmental professionals.
Eco-tours for Adults – Exploring the Kissimmee River
Since 1998, CES has been offering Explore the Kissimmee River Eco-tour field trips for adults. We host interested residents, visitors, and environmental professionals from all over the state, country and world. So, pack your lunch, wear cool and comfortable field clothes, and sneakers/sandals that can get wet – we will get off the boat at a restored sandbar. Don’t forget your sunglasses, hat and sunscreen!
- Take the Kissimmee Explorer II tour to experience, firsthand, the successful and beautiful restoration of the river
- Spend a day that includes an introduction at our Visitors Center
- Cruise the river on a 3 hour interpretive tour of the old river, the channelized C-38 canal and into the restored Kissimmee River
- Participate in Citizen Science “diversity and abundance” bird surveys
- Learn about the rich agricultural history of Florida’s Heartland
- Get the “big picture” of the importance of the Kissimmee River Restoration to the Greater Everglades watershed
Our fee-based program has a maximum of 17 and minimum of 14 guests in order to comply with our US Coast Guard Certification. The rate is $25 per person.
Art in Nature
We offer specialized Art in Nature Workshops such as Yoga, Tai Chi, and Nature Photography. If you are interested in leading an Art in Nature Workshop or scheduling your group (Professional, Home Owners or Church) for our Explore the Kissimmee River Eco-tour, please contact Loisa Kerwin at lkerwin@fau.edu
Contact Riverwoods
100 Riverwoods Circle, Lorida, FL 33857
Phone: (863) 801-5145
Manager: Amber Moore
ambermoore@fau.edu