Student Programs<br> & Field Trips

Environmental education is one of the primary objectives of the National Wildlife Refuge System. Merritt Island NWR is an excellent place to bring a class to conduct hands-on environmental education activities and programs. Seven distinct habitat types are found at the refuge and more than 500 species of wildlife make the refuge their home. It is a premier area for viewing wildlife, habitat diversity and natural processes. The refuge staff in cooperation with the refuge Friend's group, the Merritt Island Wildlife Association (MIWA), recognized the need to expand the refuge education program. MIWA received a generous gift from the Sendler family and in October 2002, the Sendler Education Outpost was dedicated for the purpose of providing a facility for environmental education. In addition to the Sendler Education Outpost, the refuge has a visitor center, five hiking trails, two wildlife drives, two observation towers, and a manatee observation deck. Access to the refuge property and facilities are free.

To better plan your visit, whether it is a self-guided or guided program, the refuge staff encourages teachers to make reservations. The difference between making your field trip a powerful learning experience depends on how well you and your students are prepared. An excellent way to prepare for a field trip is to visit the refuge prior to your class trip. There are many seasonal changes; therefore, it is best to visit during the same time of year as your planned trip. Free teacher orientation packets are available to aid in your trip preparation.

Equipment for Loan:
Field equipment including binoculars, field guides, water quality testing materials, hand lenses, discovery scopes, microscopes, and seine nets are available for loan to teachers. A refundable deposit is required.

Sunshine State Standard Based Programs:
Board of Education school teachers, in cooperation with refuge staff, are presently developing sunshine state standard-based environmental education programs.

Contact Information & Reservations
Please contact ranger Nancy Corona at 321-861-0668 or by email: Nancy_Corona@fws.gov

The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is located
on NASA's Kennedy Space Center.

The Merritt Island Wildlife Association is a non-profit organization.
Merritt Island Wildlife Association
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
P.O. Box 6504
Titusville, FL 32782
Phone: 321-861-2377