The Great Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (GBNERR)

Great Bay NERR is part of a national network of protected areas established for long-term research, education and stewardship. This partnership program between NOAA and the coastal states protects more than one million acres of estuarine land and water, which provides essential habitat for wildlife; offers educational opportunities for students, teachers and the public; and serves as living laboratories for scientists.

"The Great Bay Discovery Center hosts a variety of educational programs and activities throughout the year to teach visitors about the unique natural and cultural resources of Great Bay. In addition to scheduled programs for schools and adults, the Reserve offers kayak trips, summer camp activities for kids, and workshops for coastal decision-makers."

In 1993, the Great Bay Discovery Center (formerly known as Sandy Point) was constructed on the shores of Great Bay. Located in Greenland, NH, it serves as the conservation-education headquarters for the Great Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. A universally accessible trail and boardwalk allow visitors to explore a variety of habitats, including upland hardwood forests, freshwater wetlands, salt marsh and mudflats. Visitors can stand on the deck of a 19th century gundalow replica or wander through the native gardens surrounding the Center. Birders find the Discovery Center an excellent location to watch for Great Bay's wintering eagle population, migratory warblers, waterfowl, and locally nesting pairs of osprey.

Inside the Discovery Center, visitors are treated to interpretive exhibits about the Great Bay Estuary and the amazing creatures that call it home. Children can get their hands wet in an estuarine touch tank as they learn about lobsters, horseshoe crabs, mud snails and more! Interactive displays about salt marsh farming, salmon migration, plankton, tides and research on the Bay, allow children and adults alike to learn about the Estuary.

Learn more about The Great Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve by visiting their web site: www.greatbay.org