The Sendler Education Outpost: A Hub for Environmental Education at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), established in 1963 as part of the Canaveral (John F.) Space Center, is a haven for migrating birdlife, hiking, and seasonal hunting. Recognizing the importance of environmental education, the Merritt Island Wildlife Association (MIWA), in cooperation with the refuge staff, sought to expand the refuge's education program. A generous gift from the Sendler family made this possible. In October 2002, the Sendler Education Outpost was dedicated as a facility for environmental education. This article explores the history, programs, and significance of the Sendler Education Outpost within the broader context of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.

The Genesis of the Sendler Education Outpost

The story of the Sendler Education Outpost begins with the recognition of a need. MIWA and the refuge staff understood that environmental education was crucial and that a dedicated facility could significantly enhance their efforts. The pivotal moment came with a generous donation from the Sendler family.

The project moved swiftly, MIWA received a generous donation from the Sendler Family for the purchase and construction of the facility. Board Member "Hutch" Hutchison took the lead in purchasing and overseeing the construction of the pavilion. All of this took place under the guidance and leadership of our president, General Forrest McCartney.

Key Figures in the Outpost's Development

Several individuals played crucial roles in bringing the Sendler Education Outpost to fruition:

General Forrest McCartney: As president of MIWA, McCartney provided guidance and leadership throughout the project.
George English: Our President Emeritus, George English, was instrumental in MIWA receiving a generous donation from the Sendler Family for the purchase and construction of the facility.
"Hutch" Hutchison: As a MIWA board member, Hutchison spearheaded the purchasing and oversaw the construction of the pavilion.

Construction and Dedication

Construction began in the summer of 2002, and the Sendler Education Outpost was dedicated in the fall of the same year. The rapid progress was due to the collaborative efforts of MIWA, the Sendler family, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The dedication on October 21, 2002, marked a significant milestone, celebrating the culmination of hard work and a shared vision for environmental education. The dedication included Chris DeLorey (Director of Education, Brevard Zoo), an owl, a plaque unveiling, and an environmental education activity.

Educational Programs Offered at the Outpost

The Sendler Education Outpost serves as a base for a variety of educational programs designed to engage students of all ages with the natural world. These programs leverage the diverse habitats and wildlife of the Merritt Island NWR, offering hands-on learning experiences. Some of the key programs include:

Hammock Hike: This program, appropriate for 3rd grade through adults, involves a guided walk along a 1/4 mile boardwalk, exploring a hammock and freshwater pond habitats. Participants investigate the physical and living components of these environments, using tools like microscopes, dip nets, and field guides.
Pond Exploration: Geared towards younger children (K-3), this program also utilizes the boardwalk to explore hammock and freshwater pond habitats.
Birding Tours: Expert volunteer birders lead these tours, teaching participants how to use binoculars, identify different birds, and understand migration habits.
Manatee Program: This program includes a presentation on the West Indian Manatee, followed by a visit to the manatee observation deck to view manatees in their natural habitat and record scientific data. The program concludes with an interactive field game at the Sendler Education Outpost.
Sea Turtle Program: Participants learn about endangered and threatened sea turtles through hands-on materials like shells and skulls. An interactive game teaches the challenges of sea turtle life, and participants create a sea turtle craft.
Lagoon Seining: Students work in teams to catch fish, plants, and invertebrates in the Indian River Lagoon using a seine net. They use field guides and hand lenses to observe the species before returning them to the water. This program takes place next to the Sendler Education Outpost.
Water Quality Testing: This program, often paired with the seining activity, teaches students about the physical parameters of the lagoon, such as salinity, pH, temperature, and turbidity. The program emphasizes the impact of human actions on the lagoon's ecosystem.

In addition to these programs, the refuge offers outreach programs like the "Manatee Treasure Box" and "The Way of the Right Whale," which provide educational materials for classrooms.

Facilities and Resources

The Sendler Education Outpost is not the only educational resource within the Merritt Island NWR. The refuge also boasts:

Visitor Center: The visitor center provides an orientation to the refuge, houses educational exhibits, and offers a nature-oriented bookstore.
Hiking Trails: Five hiking trails, including Oak Hammock and Palm Hammock Trails, offer opportunities for self-guided exploration.
Wildlife Drives: Black Point Wildlife Drive and Bio Lab Road provide scenic routes for observing wildlife from vehicles.
Observation Towers: An observation tower along State Road 406 offers panoramic views of the impoundment and its wildlife.
Manatee Observation Deck: A dedicated deck allows visitors to observe manatees in their natural habitat.

Field equipment, including binoculars, field guides, water quality testing materials, and seine nets, are available for loan to teachers.

The Refuge's Ecosystem and Wildlife

Merritt Island NWR encompasses a diverse range of habitats, including salt and freshwater marshes, hardwood hammocks, and the Indian River Lagoon. This variety supports a rich array of wildlife, including:

Birds: The refuge is a haven for migratory birdlife and hosts a variety of raptors, including ospreys, hawks, eagles, and falcons.
Manatees: The West Indian Manatee finds refuge in the Indian River Lagoon, particularly during colder months.
Sea Turtles: Endangered and threatened sea turtles nest on the refuge's beaches.
Fish and Invertebrates: The Indian River Lagoon teems with a variety of fish, plants, and invertebrates.

Management and Conservation Efforts

The Merritt Island NWR is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, with the goal of conserving and protecting its natural resources. Management efforts include:

Habitat Management: Techniques like prescribed burns are used to maintain and enhance habitats.
Mosquito and Exotic Species Control: Programs are in place to control mosquito populations and manage invasive species.
Protection of Endangered Species: The refuge provides habitat for several species protected by the Endangered Species Act, including bald eagles and sea turtles.

Recreational Opportunities

In addition to its educational programs, the Merritt Island NWR offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including:

Hiking: Five hiking trails provide opportunities for exploring the refuge's diverse habitats.
Wildlife Viewing: Black Point Wildlife Drive and Bio Lab Road offer scenic routes for observing wildlife from vehicles.
Kayaking and Canoeing: Several kayak/canoe launches provide access to the Indian River Lagoon and Mosquito Lagoon.
Fishing: Fishing is permitted in designated areas of the refuge.
Hunting: Seasonal hunting is permitted in designated areas.

The Haulover Canal: A Historic Waterway

The Haulover Canal, which runs through the Merritt Island NWR, has a rich history. Originally a shallow waterway used by Native Americans to portage canoes between the Indian River Lagoon and Mosquito Lagoon, the canal was later widened to accommodate steamships and cargo ships. The canal played a significant role in the region's development, facilitating transportation and trade.

Public Involvement and Future Planning

The Merritt Island NWR actively seeks public input in its management planning. The Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) process involves public meetings and comment periods to gather ideas and concerns from the community. This collaborative approach ensures that the refuge's management reflects the values and priorities of the public.

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