Education programs are offered to the public in the categories below. To see a description of current offerings, go to our Newsletter. To register on-line Click here.

Scroll down for genreal descriptions of these programs:

• Family Programs
• Mini Explorers
• Junior Ecologists
• Mud Flat Safaris
• Beach Seines
• Adult Workshops
• Kayaking

Mini Explorers
These classes are for 3 to 5 year olds. We offer one new lesson each month, repeated four times on two consecutive days (10:00 and 1:00). Lessons include stories, games, hands-on activities, songs and crafts - all for learning more about estuary subjects. Register no more than two weeks ahead. Check the Calendar of events or the Newsletter for dates, subjects and times.

Junior Ecologists
These classes are for 6 to 9 year olds who have fun exploring the estuary. There's a new lesson offered twice each month on a Friday and Saturday. Lessons include stories, games, hands-on activities, songs and crafts - all for learning more about estuary subjects. Check the Calendar of events or the Newsletter for dates, subjects and registration.

Mud Flat Safaris
When the tide goes out at Padilla Bay, it goes all the way out! Come explore this huge expanse of mud, teeming with life. Fearless guides will lead you on a trek into the seldom seen world of the mud flat. Come with old shoes that tie or snug boots that don't pull off easily. These two-hour programs begin at the Interpretive Center and end at Bay View State Park. This program is only offered in the summer. Check the Calendar of events or the Newsletter for dates and registration.

Beach Seines
No need to get your feet wet to see what's living out there in the bay. Just meet on the beach at Bay View State Park and help pull a fish net to the shore. No registration necessary for this one-hour program. Check the Calendar of events or the Newsletter for dates and times. This program is only offered in the summer

Adult Workshops
We hire local experts offering instruction in subjects associated with estuary ecosystems such as estuary biology and ecology. Recent programs have included subjects such as marine algae, bird identification, and native plants. Check the Calendar of events or the Newsletter for dates, subjects and registration.

Kayaking
A guide from Island Outfitters and a naturalist from Padilla Bay lead these trips every month of the year, weather permitting. No experience is necessary, just come with a lunch, water bottle, and warm clothing (rain gear, non-cotton layers, hat). Minimum age is 12, with people under 18 accompanied by a parent. Participants meet at 10:30 at the Island Outfitters store on 24th & Commercial, Anacortes. Fee is $65 per person for a five-hour trip. Call Island Outfitters at 299-2300 to register. Check the Calendar of events or the Newsletter for dates and registration.