News Releases

News Release

For Immediate Release

Contact: Brandon Moore
bmoore@tampabaywater.org
(727) 791-2304

St. Petersburg, Fla. — Tampa Bay Water and Great Explorations Children’s Museum celebrated the grand opening of the new Wonders of Wetlands exhibit today with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by local families, museum supporters, and representatives from both organizations.

CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS

The exhibit features a large wetland terrarium that visually represents the relationship between the environment and our water supply. Kids can create their own rainstorm to explore how the aquifer is replenished and see how water travels through the wetland system before arriving at our taps. The interactive model highlights the importance of conservation and the role wetlands play in keeping our water clean and safe.

Another exhibit highlight is the water filtration display, which simulates how pollutants are naturally filtered out as water passes through soil and rock layers. Children can experiment and observe the effects of pollution and see how wetlands act as nature’s filter.

To help make these concepts come alive, the exhibit includes two species that live in and around Florida’s wetlands, including a corn snake and a green tree frog.

“Wonders of Wetlands helps kids see how wetlands connect to our daily lives and water we drink,” said Chuck Carden, the general manager at Tampa Bay Water. “It’s an invitation for children to be curious about the environment in a way that’s fun, memorable, and meaningful.”

In addition to the main exhibit, visitors will find new water bottle filling stations throughout the museum that feature Tampa Bay Water conservation messages at key use points.

"Wetlands are one of Florida’s most vital ecosystems. They filter our water, protect us from floods, and support a diverse range of wildlife,” said Angeline Howell, CEO of Great Explorations Children’s Museum. “With Wonders of Wetlands, we’re giving children and families the chance to explore these natural treasures up close and learn why protecting them matters for the future of our environment and our communities."

The exhibit is now open to the public and is included with regular museum admission.

The exhibit is part of a five-year, $250,000 investment from Tampa Bay Water aimed at inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards.

About Great Explorations Children's Museum
Great Explorations Children’s Museum is a nonprofit organization that has been enriching the lives of children and families across Tampa Bay since 1987. Designed for children 10 and under, the 23,000-square-foot museum is filled with hands-on exhibits that stimulate learning through creativity, play, and exploration. Great Explorations is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and is home to a nationally recognized preschool. The museum also offers camps, traveling planetariums, field trips, and dynamic community outreach programs that extend learning beyond its walls.

About Tampa Bay Water
Tampa Bay Water is the largest wholesale water supplier in Florida, providing high-quality drinking water to its members, who in turn, supply water to more than 2.6 million residents of the Tampa Bay area. Tampa Bay Water member governments include Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties and the cities of New Port Richey, St. Petersburg and Tampa. To learn more, visit tampabaywater.org.