Calusa Waterkeeper has opened enrollment for its Spring 2026 Ranger Academy Training program. Citizens interested in volunteering to help Calusa Waterkeeper protect and restore our Southwest Florida waterways can now register for the training to become a certified Ranger.
Ranger Academy is a science-based educational program that is facilitated through a combination of classroom lectures, interactive breakout activities and hands-on field experience. The training program consists of four courses that are designed to empower participants with the knowledge and skills needed to identify and monitor water pollutants, increase public awareness about water quality and advocate for clean water.
The Spring Session kicks off on Saturday, February 14th with Module 1: Ranger Program Introduction which provides an overview of the Ranger Program and Ranger Academy training. Module 2: Pollution & Monitoring is scheduled for February 28th, Module 3: Advocacy is scheduled for March 14th and Module 4: Restoration is scheduled for March 28th.Â
All classes will be held in the multi-purpose room at Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve located at 7751 Penzance Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33996.
Participants who complete all courses and each in-field training experience will graduate from the program as a certified CWK Ranger, equipped to serve as ambassadors of Calusa Waterkeeper prepared to achieve our mission To Protect and Restore the Caloosahatchee River from Lake Okeechobee to the Coastal Waters.
Enrollment in the Ranger Academy Training program is a $125 donation that helps to cover the cost of the educational materials. Participants will receive a Calusa Waterkeeper Annual Membership, a CWK Ranger baseball hat, and a certificate of completion upon graduation from the academy.
For more information about the Fall Ranger Academy Training or to register, visit CalusaWaterkeeper.org/rangers