IMAG Center Reopens Rebuilt Marine Life Exhibit After Hurricane Ian

Fort Myers' IMAG History & Science Center brought back its water exhibit, Earnie's Estuary, on Sept. 25, 2025. Fish, turtles, and water plants from Florida now swim in the new lagoon-style space.

"We're very excited and thankful for our support from the Suncoast Credit Union," said Matt Johnson, executive director of IMAG, according to Cape Coral Breeze. "Working together, we are happy to create this wonderful new outdoor educational exhibit."

City leaders joined credit union staff to cut the ribbon at the opening event. Visitors watched staff feed the fish and learned facts about the creatures in the new lagoon.

The water space mixes Florida-born fish with those from other places, including blue gill, blue pilapia, Pangasius and redtail catfish, and Peninsula cooters, Suwannee River cooters, yellow-bellied sliders, and Florida softshell turtles.

The rebuild got help from many local hands. Honc Industries pitched in, along with Collaboratory and Lowe's. More help came from Greenway Landscape Supply, Florida Gulf Coast University, Taylor Landscape, Captains for Clean Water, and Mario Kotik.

If you've got a Suncoast card, bring it to buy one ticket and get another free. The center is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. The estuary is closed on Tuesdays.

IMAG is located at 2000 Cranford Ave. in Fort Myers.