News Details (Posted: November 2, 2006):

Manatee Viewing Season Officially Starts

Full Description:

The Manatee Viewing Center in Apollo Beach begins its 2006-2007 season Nov. 1, following a record-breaking 20th season with 270,000 visitors.

The center opens to the public from Nov. 1 through Apr. 15 every year and showcases as many as 300 manatees that gather in the warm water reservoir next to Tampa Electric's Big Bend Power Station. Featured is an expanded boardwalk and an interactive Web camera with a live view of the center.

New additions to this year is a solar energy display with 40 solar panels that converts sunlight to electricity, built on the roof of the Manatee Museum, which includes 40 solar panels that convert sunlight to electricity. Visitors can also view the center's bird and plant life, gift shop and educational center.