June 17, 2016. The Wildlife Heritage Foundation of NH is proud to have provided a grant as part of the fundraising efforts to replace the boardwalk at the Great Bay Discovery Center, which was officially dedicated June 8th. After 22 years of service, the 1,700 foot boardwalk was in need of replacement, and it is now completed with the joint efforts of NH Fish and Game, the Great Bay Stewards, a community “Buy a Board” campaign, grants from NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), the Wildlife Heritage Foundation of NH, Fields Pond Foundation and Preston Family Fund, and a week of donated time from Americorp volunteers who removed the old boardwalk!
Since the spring of 1996, over 62,000 school children have participated in programs at Great Bay Discovery Center to learn about the natural and cultural history of Great Bay. In 2015 alone, the Center welcomed 4,535 visitors, 107 school programs, and 5,301 students.
Visitors, early morning walkers, and scientists all use the boardwalk as it is one of only a few public access points on Great Bay. The boardwalk provides birders access to a nationally recognized important bird area, and the boardwalk provides access to coastal scientists studying the marsh, and is used as a living laboratory to understand and teach about the function and value of salt marshes and mud flats.
The Foundation urges you all to visit this treasured gem in Greenland, NH. Stroll the boardwalk for great views of the estuary and wildlife, or bring your kayak or canoe to explore the bay. Visit the Special Collections Exhibit of historical artifacts relevant to the Great Bay Estuary region, or just relax under the outdoor Pavilion!
The new boardwalk, the Special Collections Exhibit, the Pavilion – all three supported by grants from the Wildlife Heritage Foundation of NH. We believe in the Great Bay Discovery Center! Learn more about the Center at www.greatbay.org.