EPIC conducted an audience needs assessment of teachers and a market analysis of environmental education (EE) providers during 2024 on behalf of the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve Education Department which offers field trips to local school children focused on estuarine, watershed, and ocean topics. The research objectives included:
1) Increase understanding of non-formal hands-on, outdoor, environmental education providers, with a specific focus on those providing estuarine, coastal or ocean education, serving kindergarten through college students and teachers in Collier County, Florida,
2)Increase shared understanding of the value and market niche of EE programs,
3) Assess the needs, interests and motivations of teachers for participating in field-based environmental programs, and,
4) Apply information gained to support program improvements and new program development.

Two reports with summary conclusions and recommendations were produced and the findings were presented to various audiences and at conferences.