Aquatic Resources Education Center (AREC)

Aquatic Resources Education Center Who We Are:

The AREC is a multi-use environmental education center located in Anacostia Park, SE run by DOEE.
It opened in 1986 and renovated in 2005 to include classrooms and aquaculture.
The center exhibits over 40 species of fish, amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates found in the District and the Chesapeake Bay.

AREC Hours of Operation:

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

AREC
Closed

10 am-12 pm - Open for school programs

1-3 pm - Open for school programs & walk-in visitors

10 am-12 pm - Open for school programs

1-3pm - Open for school programs

10 am-12 pm - Open for school programs

1-3 pm - Open for school programs & walk-in visitors

10 am-12 pm - Open for school programs

1-3 pm - Open for school programs and
walk-in visitors

You can learn more about the AREC and wildlife found in the District by watching this virtual AREC tour.

Programs We Offer

Pre-K-12th Grade Field Trips: The Aquatic Resources Education Center (AREC) is open for field trips for Pre-K-12th grade students. We offer tours of the AREC and aquatic based environmental education lessons. Please signup using our Office Form and email [email protected] with any questions.

Professional Development:

Teacher Trainings: Training workshops are available for formal and informal educators. We train educators using Project WILD, Aquatic WILD and Growing Up WILD curricula. We also provide Angling Instructor workshops. Read more>>

Angler Education & Clinics:

Fishing Clinics: The AREC staff will host free fishing clinics throughout the spring and summer in various locations throughout the District. Take a minute to explore DOEE's Learn to Fish and Fishing in the District pages.

Take a minute to explore DOEE’s Learn to Fish and Fishing in the District pages.