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The Barrier Island Center Offers Amazing Array Of Environmental Adventures

There are a multitude of ongoing exciting events and programs at the Barrier Island Sanctuary Management and Education Center, less formally known as the Barrier Island Center. The Center is located at 8385 South Highway A1A, Melbourne Beach - right in the heart of the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge. The Refuge was established by Congress in 1989 to protect sea turtles now threatened with extinction throughout the world. The Sea Turtle Conservancy, through a partnership with the Brevard County Environmentally Endangered Lands Program (EELS), manages and conducts the educational programs offered at the Barrier Island Center. The Center provides exhibit space, a presentation hall, a small research library and unique ongoing educational programs that promote conservation of our local fragile natural resources.

One of the events that caught my eye in the Brevard Island Center’s February events flier was a “Wild Florida” film which will be screened Saturday, February 2nd at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.  You can join adventurer and former fashion model, Hunger Reno as she explores the Sunshine State by seaplane, airboat and wetsuit. The film’s running time is 105 minutes.

If you’re looking for an opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy this glorious weather, consider the Mullet Creek Islands Paddle. This guided tour takes place Saturday, February 9th from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Paddlers are to meet at Aquarina Country Club, 7500 South Highway A1A in Melbourne beach and enter the security gate together. It’s important to wear water shoes and bring drinking water and a snack. Children under 12 must paddle tandem with an adult. Reservations must be made by February 7th.

An absolute must is the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge Eco-Cruise, scheduled for Saturday, February 23rd at 5:30 p.m. You’ll observe thousands of migratory birds that return to roost nightly on Pelican Island, America’s first National Wildlife Refuge. Participants are to meet at the Sebastian Inlet State Park south side boat launch, 9700 South Highway A1A in Melbourne Beach. Reservations must be made by Thursday, February 21.

There are many other exciting and educational adventures to be had at the Barrier Island Center – including many for children. Brevard County is so fortunate to have this amazing resource right in our own backyard!

For more information about events and programs at the Barrier Island Center, please call 321-723-3556.