Who: UF/IFAS Nature Coast Biological Station

What: During this year’s Cedar Key Seafood Festival, festival-goers are invited to the Seahorse Key Marine Lab open house for the unveiling of the complete interior restoration of the historic Seahorse Key lighthouse. These restorations have returned the Civil War-era lighthouse to its original look, down to the heart pine floors. Local historians will lead tours of the lighthouse.

The restoration was largely funded by the Florida Lighthouse Association, a local donor, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge

Seahorse Key is accessible by water taxi or personal vessel. Water taxis are available through Tidewater Tours (352-543-9523), and Cedar Key Boat Rentals and Island Tours (352-231-4435 or 352-278-0065).

For those remaining on shore, the UF/IFAS Nature Coast Biological Station will showcase its completed 70-gallon aquarium, as well as interactive “creature tanks” where visitors can learn about native marine life up close.

When: October 20, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: UF/IFAS Nature Coast Biological Station,

552 1st St, Cedar Key, FL 32625

Contact: Samantha Grenrock, 352-294-3307 (office), 949-735-1076 (cell), grenrosa@ufl.edu

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The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS works to bring science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents. Visit the UF/IFAS web site at ifas.ufl.edu and follow us on social media at @UF_IFAS.

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