Bay Futures

Bay Futures

Embark on an exciting journey into the world of marine and environmental science with Bay Futures, Tampa Bay Watch’s program designed for teens interested in the ocean and its preservation. Gain hands-on experience, dive into real-world research, and contribute to conservation efforts that protect our planet's future. 

Through immersive fieldwork, interactive activities, and expert-led lessons, Bay Futures offers a unique opportunity to explore marine ecosystems, tackle environmental challenges, and uncover innovative solutions that drive sustainable change. Whether you’re passionate about marine life, environmental stewardship, or aiming for a career in science, this program will provide the knowledge, skills, and confidence to propel you toward your professional dreams. 

Join a Bay Futures program today and take your first step on the path to becoming a future marine scientist or environmental leader! 

Upcoming Programs

Hooked on Ichthyology
Date: March 15, 2025, 10am - 1pm
Location: Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center
Ages: 13+
Cost: $35 per participant

Join us for a fun, hands-on three-hour course at the Discovery Center, where we’ll dive into the world of fish! We’ll kick things off in the lab with interactive activities that explore fish anatomy, reveal how scientists age fish, and highlight the importance of sustainable fishing for keeping our waters healthy.

Next, participants will board the eco-vessel for a fishing workshop to learn everything from bait selection and gear handling to fishing regulations and identifying local species. Gain the skills you need to fish responsibly—and enjoy the stunning beauty of Tampa Bay along the way! Click here to register.

Summer Camp 2025: Guardians of the Gulf
Tampa Bay Watch Headquarters (Tierra Verde, FL): July 7-11, 2025, 9am - 4pm M-F
Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center (St. Pete Pier): July 14-18, 2025, 9am - 4pm M-F
Ages: 13-15
Cost: $360 per participant

Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a marine biologist? This week, teens are invited to embark on a citizen science adventure led by our staff scientists. We’ll study seahorses and scallops, dive into dissections, separate plankton from plastic, and contribute to real research projects designed to help us understand and protect the ocean. Explore potential career paths, hear from local experts, and discover how to become an environmental advocate starting today! Click here for summer camp registration.

Summer Camp 2025: Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Leadership Program
Tampa Bay Watch Headquarters (Tierra Verde, FL): Offered weekly June 2 - August 8, 2025
Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center (St. Pete Pier): Offered weekly June 2 - August 8, 2025
Ages: 13-18
Cost: The cost to participate is $180 per week, due at time of acceptance, which supports the supplies and dedicated staff time necessary to deliver a high quality learning experience.

Teens with a passion for marine science, leadership, and working with kids are invited to apply for our Bay Futures Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Leadership Program. Gain hands-on experience guiding younger campers while honing key skills in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving—plus, earn volunteer hours! This exciting opportunity is available at both Tampa Bay Watch locations. Click here to learn more - your teen can apply today through our website and take the first step toward becoming a future leader!

Participants will:

  • Receive a CIT uniform t-shirt

  • Assist with one full week of camp from 8am - 4:30pm M-F with a 30-minute break for lunch

  • Be eligible to receive credit for 40 hours of volunteer service

  • Gain valuable experience that can be highlighted on college applications and/or resumes

  • Attend daily guided sessions to explore specific leadership topics and skills

  • Apply what they have learned while supporting camp programs indoors, outdoors, and on the water

  • Be expected to help counselors and engage with campers in a friendly, supportive manner that enhances the summer camp experience

Click here to apply. Applications must be completed by April 25th, 2025. Successful applicants will be notified via email of their acceptance by May 9th, 2025.