2014_Annual-Report-low-res_final_REV

2014
Annual Report
A non-profit organization studying, preserving and protecting wetlands and coastal ecosystems
About Us
The Wetlands Institute is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting appreciation, understanding and stewardship of wetlands and coastal ecosystems through
our programs in research, conservation and education. We inspire visitors of all ages to appreciate and steward wetlands and coastal ecosystems by teaching them
the importance of these systems and how they relate to their own lives. Visit our website at wetlandsinstitute.org to find out more about our programs and mission.
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Lenore P. Tedesco, PhD
Executive Director
Lenore joined The Wetlands Institute in
October, 2011 and set upon a course of
renewal and diversification of projects and
programs to strengthen the Institute. Since
her arrival, the Institute has built a core
leadership team, expanded and reorganized
the research and conservation department,
reimagined and repurposed the education
department, and rebuilt critical research
and education infrastructure. There is
now a renewed and expanded emphasis
on mission-centric projects and programs focused on coastal and
wetlands conservation and restoration programs, international wetland
education programs, and new conservation partnerships that together
are helping The Wetlands Institute achieve excellence in research,
conservation and education.
Dr. Tedesco has a PhD from the University of Miami, Rosenstiel School
of Marine & Atmospheric Science and a bachelor’s degree in Geology
from Boston University. Prior to coming to Stone Harbor, Dr. Tedesco
was a Professor in the Department of Earth Sciences at IndianaPurdue University (IUPUI) for 21 years. She was also the Director of
the Center for Earth and Environmental Science, where she worked
on wetland restoration, water resources, and environmental education
projects. She is the recipient of research grants in excess of $5.5
million and education grants totaling more than $3.6 million. She has
published 56 articles in scientific journals, presented more than 150
scientific papers, and given more than 160 invited lectures.
At The Wetlands Institute, Dr. Tedesco has focused her research and
conservation activities on coastal and wetland ecosystem dynamics
and restoration. She has been working on habitat restoration projects
on the Delaware Bay, Stone Harbor Point, and at the Stone Harbor Bird
Sanctuary. She is working on coastal resiliency issues and international
wetland center education programs.
Message from Dr. Tedesco
2014 was definitely a year for the Institute record books. The great plans we have
made and set into motion – with your support – have begun to bear fruit. New grants in
the Education and Research and Conservation Departments have brought a new level
of excellence to the Institute. The Institute’s excellence in environmental education will
be showcased on an international scale with the launch of the Russia-USA Wetland
Center Exchange Program funded by the US State Department. The Research and
Conservation Department experienced remarkable growth and launched several new
projects that would not have been possible just a few years ago. The department joined
two comprehensive project teams to work on significant conservation projects aimed at
improving coastal resilience and enhancing habitat for beach and marsh nesting birds.
All of these projects directly serve our mission and are working to solve complex
problems that face coastal and wetland ecosystems. They are applied projects that
link research and conservation to action and have public communication, outreach and
education as keystone components. The Institute is doing the critical work that Herbert
Mills envisioned when he set out to build this great institution.
I am certain that Herbert Mills and Marion Glaspy would be proud of our accomplishments.
In three short years, the Institute has climbed to a level of excellence that motivates us to
climb even higher. Through revitalized educational programs, diversified research and
conservation projects, and enhanced facilities, the Institute is generating benefit to our
communities.
I am proud to be at the helm of this amazing place and leading a remarkable team of
dedicated professionals. We have Made No Small Plans and with your support and
unwavering commitment, we have made so much progress.
I am excited to share this summary of our activities and accomplishments in 2014 and
provide a preview of things to come in 2015. We have so much more to do. I hope you
will be excited by how well we have stewarded your gifts and support – and continue to
join us as we forge ahead.
Lenore Tedesco, PhD
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Elevated Marsh Walkway
Damaged Walkway
Walkway Construction
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New Possibilities
The old wooden walkway damaged by Hurricane Sandy was removed, leaving in its place an unhindered marsh. Reconstruction was an opportunity to
rethink the possibilities for both research and education. We set upon a course to build to be better than before! The new walkway is a 720 ft. long loop
with unparalleled access to the marsh. Standing 4 feet above the marsh, the 6 ft. wide walkway features two sets of stairs to provide improved access to
the marsh for biological and environmental sampling and hands-on learning opportunities. The walkway is constructed using state-of-the-art methods, is
sustainably constructed and utilized local contractors and locally sourced material for the vast majority of the project. The walkway utilizes a steel helical pile
construction with more than 90 pilings that are screwed into the marsh more than 30 feet. The main walkway structure is aluminum with a polycarbonate
grated surface that is specially designed to allow sunlight and rainwater to reach the plants and animals below and support a healthy marsh ecosystem. This
remarkable project was made possible through the generosity of the following major funders: Spike and Mary Yoh for the Yoh Family Education Station, Bert
DeVries for the John B. DeVries Research Station, the Davenport Family Foundation, Wayne and Kay Renneisen, and Julian and Betsy Miraglia. Please
contact Lenore if you are interested in helping to support completion of the walkway.
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2014 Highlights
•
The Wetlands Institute had more than 17,000 visitors
•
Our membership roster counted more than 1,300 members
•
131 Volunteers donated 3,436 hours of service
Educating and Engaging Through Hands-On Experiences
•
50 Monarch butterflies hatched, tagged and released
•
Approximately 6,000 Horseshoe Crabs hatched and released
•
Over 1,900 fish and invertebrates caught, counted, identified and released
•
Over 11,000 children and young adults and150 schools and organizations participated
in education programs
•
Participated in 15 community outreach events and 4 invited talks and presentations
attended by more than 6,000 community members
•
160 pieces of artwork submitted to the Junior Duck Competition
Terrapin Research and Conservation – By The Numbers
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•
207 terrapins were rescued from roadways
•
751 eggs were removed from road killed females
•
373 orphaned terrapins hatched from our incubators
•
130 headstart terrapins were released back into Cape May County salt marshes
•
72 terrapin nests were protected from predation by exclosures
•
3 miles of terrapin barrier fence was installed and maintained
•
361 storm drains were monitored in South Jersey by 24 volunteers
•
460 hatchlings were rescued from storm drains
•
146 nesting terrapins captured: 99 were repeat recaptures, 6 were headstarters released at
least 6 years ago, including one that is now 15 years old!
New Grants Support
Research and Conservation
Our Staff
Work began on two exciting projects this year, both
funded by the Department of the Interior through the
National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Hurricane
Sandy Coastal Resiliency Competitive Grants Program.
Leadership:
Dr. Lenore Tedesco, Executive Director
Dr. Lisa Ferguson, Director of Research & Conservation
The first project will enhance nesting and roosting
habitat for coastal birds at Stone Harbor Point, as well
as provide additional resiliency to the community. We
anticipate the rewards of our planning and development
will be evident over the coming years, and will ultimately
return Stone Harbor Point to its fullest significance
for coastal birds. We are pleased to partner with NJ
Audubon Society, Niles and Associates, Conserve
Wildlife Foundation, NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife, The
Borough of Stone Harbor, and others on this project.
Brooke Knapick, Director of Educational Program Development
Bonnie Girard, Director of Finance and Administration
Christine Mattera, Director of Marketing and Communications
Heather Gee, Director of Development
Research and Conservation:
Brian Williamson, Research Scientist
Education:
Kaitlin Gannon, Outreach Coordinator
Sue Slotterback, Environmental Educator
We will also be participating in a project right in our
own backyard. Led by NJ DEP with The Nature
Conservancy, Green Trust Alliance, and others, this
project will test beneficial uses of dredge materials to
enhance and restore multiple degraded wetland sites.
Dredge materials that were applied to Ring Island
will be monitored intensively over the coming years.
The Wetlands Institute will contribute to biological
monitoring of the site by assessing the response of the
bird communities to these changes, and we’ll also help
to engage youth in the project.
Samantha Sorbello, Aquarist/Environmental Educator
Administration:
Terrie Campbell, Financial Administrative Assistant
Christina Faulk, Administrative Assistant
Joyce Ferguson, Tidepool Shop Manager
Stephanie Stroble, Front Desk Reception/Admissions Coordinator
Charlene Smith, Gardener
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Studying the Sanctuary
This fall, Joann Corn, professor of Biology at Bucks County Community
College, conducted a vegetation survey of the Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary
with assistance and guidance from The Wetlands Institute. The goal of this
survey was to develop a better understanding of vegetation communities in the
sanctuary, as well as understanding the impact of invasive plant species. The
information we gained during this study will be used to help make management
decisions to ensure that the Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary is able to support
healthy populations of birds and other wildlife for years to come.
Earning Our Stripes
This past summer, The Wetlands Institute began an effort to reduce bird
collisions on the property by covering the windows at the front of the building
with American Bird Conservancy’s Bird Tape. The reflections of trees and
sky in a window can confuse birds and cause them to fly into the window.
Thousands of birds are killed or injured this way each year. ABC’s bird tape
- and other products and approaches - disrupts the reflection of habitat that
is visible in the window and allows birds to recognize the windows as solid
objects, reducing or even eliminating bird-window collisions. Since installing
the tape, we’ve definitely noticed a lower number of bird collisions. Consider
earning your stripes and helping to reduce bird strikes at your home!
A Clean Sweep
This year, we again led two beach clean-ups in partnership with Clean Ocean
Action, the Borough of Stone Harbor, and the Stone Harbor Property Owners
Association. With the help of numerous volunteers, more 3,065 pieces of
trash and debris were removed from the beaches of Stone Harbor. We also
partnered with Clean Ocean Action to measure the amount of microplastics
found in water and sediment samples on Stone Harbor and Avalon Beaches,
with the help of the Wetlands Field Ecology class from Rowan College at
Gloucester County. We will continue working with Clean Ocean Action to keep
local beaches clean in 2015 – and hope you do too!
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Research and Con
nservation Projects
reTURN the Favor
We spent many hours - day and night, in the field and in the office - to help
the horseshoe crabs this year. With the support of volunteers, we conducted
spawning surveys at two Delaware Bay Beaches and led horseshoe crab
tagging events to mark 500 horseshoe crabs on Reeds Beach. Not only
that, we restructured the reTURN the Favor Program, a collaborative effort
that enables organized volunteer groups to save horseshoe crabs stranded
on New Jersey’s seasonally closed and open beaches. With program
upgrades and new partners for this second program year, we were able to far
exceed our goals for the season. Along with other RTF Steering Committee
members (NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife, Conserve Wildlife Foundation
of NJ, and Celebrate Delaware Bay), partner organizations (New Jersey
Audubon, The Nature Conservancy, Bayshore Center at Bivalve, Citizens
United to Protect the Maurice River and its Tributaries, and Friends of Cape
May National Wildlife Refuge), and our staff and volunteers, the program
conducted over 200 rescue walks and rescued over 31,000 crabs!
Meet Brick the Terrapin!
Diamondback terrapin mothers are incredibly determined, crossing roads
and risking injury to lay their eggs. This year, we even had a terrapin dig a nest
between two paver stones near our parking lot. Surprisingly, in September at
least one of the eggs hatched despite being laid in such a strange location.
This turtle, who we affectionately named “Brick” after its birthplace, was
born somewhat small and with a large number of shell deformities, but is
otherwise quite healthy. Brick is currently being headstarted at Stockton
College by John Rokita, where it will hopefully grow quickly to be released at
the Institute in 2015.
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Terrapin Conservation
This year, we continued to rescue female terrapins from roadways in Cape May County. In fact, by focusing our efforts on times
nesting terrapins were most active, we increased the number of terrapins rescued from roads. With continued support from
project partners, we successfully rehabilitated injured terrapins. We were able to retrieve over 750 eggs from female terrapins
found killed on the roadsand had good hatching success. These hatchlings currently reside at the Turtle Farm at Stockton
University and with dedicated classroom teachers for their year of advanced growth. We released 130 headstarters in 2014 that
we hope to see again in 7 or 8 years to have babies of their own. They are marked with a coded pit tag so we can track their
survival. This year we were lucky to see 6 headstarted terrapins from years past return to our property to nest!
On our property, we protected 72 terrapin nests with predator exclosures. To help visitors find them all, we created a map
of the exclosures and made it available to all visitors. In addition, to help educate visitors about terrapin conservation, we
made signs to attach to exclosures protecting particularly interesting nests, such as nests laid by returning headstarters.
The signs have been a big hit with visitors this year, and we plan on continuing in years to come. Try to find them all on your
next visit, and learn more about terrapins!
For the fourth consecutive year, The Wetlands Institute received a grant from the Disney Worldwide Conservation
Fund. This award will help us to continue our many diamondback terrapin research, conservation and education
projects, which include road patrols during the nesting season, our storm drain rescue project, terrapin barrier
fence installation and maintenance, as well as bycatch reduction device distribution. The grant also provides
resources to continue and expand our ghost trap removal program, which will allow us to further reduce the
threats derelict crab traps pose to terrapins in the salt marsh.
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Our Volunteers are
Conservation Heroes!
Citizen Conservationist Award
At The Wetlands Institute, we consider all of our
volunteers heroes; without their assistance, our
efforts could not be successful. This year three of our
volunteers, Joe Grottola, Steve Ahern, and Susan
Ahern, received the Disney Conservation Heroes
Award for their exemplary dedication to terrapin
conservation. A heroes medal and $1,500 is given
annually by Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund
to only a small number of applicants from
around the world. We congratulate
Joe, Steve, and Susan for their
achievement and thank them
for their ceaseless dedication
to the cause of diamondback
terrapin conservation.
The 2014 Citizen Conservation Award was deservingly
awarded to Steve and Susan Ahern for their tireless
efforts to support diamondback terrapin conservation.
The couple has donated thousands of hours for the
cause - spearheaded the Institute’s Turtle Fest event to
raise funds for our Diamondback Terrapin Conservation
programs, organized the Sea Isle Terrapin Rescue
Project, and rescued over 1,400 terrapins from local
storm drains. We deeply appreciate the work the Ahern’s
do to further terrapin conservation and their partnership
with The Wetlands Institute.
Looking for a Way to Share Your Talents?
The Wetlands Institute is always looking for new volunteers to help us achieve
our mission of promoting the appreciation, understanding and stewardship of
wetlands and coastal ecosystems through our programs in research, education
and conservation. Please consider joining us for special one-day volunteer
opportunities or on a more routine basis throughout the coming months! For
more information on our volunteer opportunities, please visit our website at:
wetlandsinstitute.org/about-us/help-us-grow/volunteer/
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Summer Research and Conservation Internships
The Wetlands Institute helped me use the knowledge I’ve acquired over the
past three years as a college student as well as the skills I’ve developed during
my previous internships and volunteering.... My summer in New Jersey was
a place where I learned a lot about how to go about wetlands research, but
honestly, a lot more about being a person. - CCRP Summer Intern
Each summer, the Coastal Conservation Research Program provides an opportunity for
undergraduate students to explore and learn about coastal and wetlands ecosystems.
By boots and boat, over roads and through mud and sand, the interns collected data, led
outreach programs, and conducted independent research projects, which were presented
at the Annual Intern Symposium in August.
Jillena Yeager (The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey) - Jillena, who returned
as lead CCRP intern in 2014, continued her research on the relationship between female
terrapin body size and reproductive potential. Jill counted and measured follicles from
road-killed terrapins collected and made our terrapin nest map and fact cards.
Katie Goplerud (University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point) - Katie conducted surveys to
determine how terrapin numbers varied with time of day and location. She kayaked through
the salt marsh to count terrapin heads as an indicator of the population abundance.
Mary Jo Monk (University of North Florida) - Using game cameras to take motion
triggered and time lapse photos, Mary Jo set out to determine if there was a significant
difference between the amount of terrapin nesting activity during the day and at night.
Mollie Nugent (State University of New York College of Environmental Science and
Forestry) - Mollie mapped the locations and elevations of bird nests located at The
Wetlands Institute, with a focus on Willet, Laughing Gull and Clapper Rail nests. The goal
of her project was to better understand the risk flooding tides pose to the survival of bird
nests on our property.
Kelly Pittenger (Colgate University) - Kelly studied the impacts of tail injuries and
impingement hazards (such as jetties) on the Delaware Bay population of horseshoe
crabs. She identified stranding hotspots and worked to determine if crabs with tail injuries
are more likely to be stranded.
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Summer Environmental Education Internships
What an amazing experience - words cannot describe how grateful I am to
have had the opportunity to spend my summer at The Wetlands Institute…
I have learned so much and am happy to know that I can confidently say
Environmental Studies is certainly the right major for me! - Environmental
Education Summer Intern
Rachel Landman, Salt Marsh Ambassadors - Rachel created an activity guidebook
Internships with
the Future in Mind
focused on visitors aged 10-13. The book contains several activities including: a crossword
puzzle, an aquarium feeding survey, and a template to write a persuasive letter about the
importance of the salt marsh. The packet includes a conservation pledge that kids can sign
and take home, empowering them to be ambassadors.
The Environmental Education Interns
Gabrielle Hubbard, Putting the Pieces Together - Gabrielle created jigsaw puzzles
were responsible for leading all general
of their choosing that were personally
that represent the natural habitat of the Diamondback Terrapin, and the anatomy of the
Horseshoe Crab. These family-friendly activities are in Terrapin Station. Each activity is
also converted into a comprehensive lesson plan for use in 4th – 6th grade classrooms,
with optional extension activities to tailor the activity to lower and/or higher grade levels.
and/or institutionally beneficial. These
Alison Swan, Focusing on Community Connections - Alison created an interactive salt
admission programs, while developing
and implementing education projects
projects assisted them in honing skill
the field of environmental education.
marsh food web display on predatory-prey relationships to add to the interactive activities
in the aquarium. Her project also focused on revamping three exhibits at Ocean City’s
Bayside Center including the interactive salt marsh food web display, a Terrapin Learning
Station, and an exhibit on marine debris in our oceans.
This was a great summer and their
Celina Daddario, Salt Marsh Explorers - Celina created a learning tool to focus the
sets that are essential to creating
fundamentally successful programs in
commitment and dedication to leading
quality education programs has been a
wonderful asset! The interns presented
their completed projects at the Annual
Intern Symposium in August.
various learning styles of children aged 6-9 during guided programs and self-exploration
activities. The packet provides children with specific information and facts to listen for during
presentations, topics to study in the exhibits, fun salt marsh inspired games, restoration
of the Bev Henry rubbing post activity and suggestions for take home activities that give
parents/guardians a resource guide to further educate their child on the salt marsh.
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Education
Reaping the Rewards of Generosity
This spring, more than 240 students from Lawnside Public School, Middle Township
High School and Dr. William Mennies Elementary School received all expenses paid
scholarships to participate in environmental education programs. These three worthy
schools were the first recipients of scholarship money donated by generous supporters
at our Wings ‘N Water Benefit Auction. These environmental education scholarships
are very competitive and schools must complete detailed applications, demonstrate
high financial and/or student need and have full administrative support for program
participation. It was wonderful to see these students experience the wonders of our
coastal and wetland ecosystems first-hand and we are looking forward to many more
scholarships to come!
It is an honor and with great pleasure that I am accepting this
scholarship. - Jon Jenkins, Lawnside Public School
Just wanted to thank you for a great trip yesterday. Our students
had a blast! - Ashley Thomas, Dr. William Mennies Elementary School
Home, Sweet Home - Fostering Community Partnerships
For many years, The Wetlands Institute has maintained long-standing partnerships with
local schools in both Middle Township and Ocean City. Each year, approximately 450
children in grades K-2 from Middle Township Elementary and nearly 1,300 children in
grades K-9 from Ocean City Schools experience multi-day engagement environmental
education programs ranging from aquariums in the classroom to sustainable seafood to
beach and wetland explorations. All programs emphasize place-based education and
allow students to explore and understand the surrounding South Jersey ecosystems
they call home. From turtles to salt marshes, water testing to sustainable seafood, we
seek to leave a lasting impression on the students. As we reflect on the longevity of
these partnerships, we look forward to giving future students a deeper appreciation for
their local environment!
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Programs
A Fresh
Face
in the
Aquarium
Diving
Deeper
into
Scientific
Inquiry
This spring, we welcomed a fresh new face to the aquarium,
Samantha Sorbello, Aquarist and Environmental Educator.
Growing up, Sam spent her summers vacationing on the
New Jersey Shore. Like so many before her, it was here that
her fascination with the ocean and its associated marine
life blossomed. While attending Roger Williams University
in Rhode Island, Sam worked as an Assistant Aquarist and
Environmental Educator at Save the Bay.
This spring we elevated the scientific content of
After graduating in 2009, with a Bachelor of Science in
Marine Biology, and a double minor in Aquarium Science
and Psychology, Sam spent the next year at The College of
Marine Mammal Professions at Dolphin Research Center
getting an Associate’s Degree in Marine Mammal Behavior,
Care, and Training. In the aquarium, Sam has been working
on getting some new and exciting animals on display including
our juvenile smooth dogfish shark and several mantis shrimp.
Sam is very excited to be back at the shore and working with
the amazing people and animals at The Wetlands Institute!
organisms that are caught in the trawl net.
our Science Education at Sea (SEAS) program
by adding biodiversity assessments to the
program’s onboard trawl net activity. During
these assessment activities, using the same
methodology and procedures conducted aboard
actual marine research sampling vessels, the
students work to identify, count and record all
Efforts this spring assisted us in crafting baseline
data, allowing us to see and identify trends in
species populations over time.
For schools
that return annually, they will have a unique
opportunity to compare their student collected
data from year to year, seeking out and identifying
changes in species populations. This spring,
students identified nearly 50 different species of
marine and estuarine organisms including some
Having the opportunity to apply my academic
knowledge and passion for marine science is so
rewarding. - Samantha Sorbello
memorable moonfish, mantis shrimp, tonguefish,
and a 15 inch striped sea robin!
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New Jersey Teen Wins
National Junior Duck
Stamp Competition
Self-Exploration of
the Seasons
In
addition
programs,
to
engaging
exciting
live
public
animal
This was a very exciting year for the Junior
exhibits, and wonderful views along
Duck Stamp Program in New Jersey. For
the Salt Marsh Trail and elevated
walkway, visitors can now participate
in
self-guided
activities
at
The
Wetlands Institute.
The new Osprey Learning Station highlights our favorite summer resident ospreys. The remote camera on the Institute’s closest osprey nesting platform
feeds real time action to a large wall-mounted flat screen monitor allowing
visitors a close up view of these magnificent birds and their behaviors. A
nearby map locates the other five nesting platforms and hands-on games
and activities engage families in learning more about the osprey’s habits and
habitat.
the first time our State Best of Show won
First Place in the National Junior Duck Stamp Competition, becoming The
Junior Duck Stamp for the USA. The winning work was an acrylic painting of a
King Eider by Si Youn Kim of Tenafly, NJ.
There were over 160 pieces of art submitted
to this year’s New Jersey competition. The
works are judged in four groups according
to the age of the artists (K-3, 4-6, 7-9, and
10-12). There are three 1st, 2nd, and 3rd
place winners in each group. The state’s
Best of Show is chosen from the twelve first
Weekly Seasonal Science Activities including Sensational Seeds, Watery
place winners and is sent to the national competition to be judged among the
Ways, Being a Naturalist, Geocaching and Letterboxing, Backyard Birds, and
Best of Show winners of the other states and U.S. territories.
Nature Masks and Costumes give visitors a new way to explore their natural
environment. The popular Colors of the Season activity encourages visitors
to look at how color is used in nature. Visitors use a variety of media such
as crayons, markers, chalk, and pastels, and are given drawing prompts,
how-to-draw animals instructions, and nature journaling resources. They are
challenged to make their own “paint chips” and find those colors while taking
Throughout the year there are many opportunities to see the winning artwork.
While Si Youn Kim’s winning piece is on tour around the United States, a copy
can be seen on tour along with the rest of New Jersey’s Top 36 original works in
different venues around New Jersey. A smaller exhibit is on permanent display
at The Wetlands Institute.
a walk on the trail. Easels and watercolors are provided along the deck rail
for visitors to mix colors and match them to what they are seeing outside, or
they can paint the view or a close, natural object.
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The Wetlands Institute is looking for a sponsor of the
Junior Duck Stamp Conservation Program. Contact us
if you are interested in learning more.
Russia-USA Wetland Center Exchange Program: Linking People and Wetlands
Having been awarded a grant through the US State Department’s US-Russia Peer-to-Peer Dialogue Program, the Education
Department at The Wetlands Institute, Wetland Link International based in the UK, and Wetlands International Russia based in
Moscow, have teamed up to generate a beneficial international dialogue between wetland centers in the US and Russia. The
Russia-USA Wetland Center Exchange Program: Linking People and Wetlands program will bring staff from wetland centers in
the US and Russia together to share best practices in environmental education and support the development of effective outreach
and education activities. In the coming months, The Wetlands Institute is excited to coordinate and participate in this international
exchange program and share our long history of expertise in wetland education with our collaborative partners in Russia and
across the US. Look for program updates and an international conference at the Institute in fall 2015.
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Time for a Bigger NEHST
Having Fun in the Jersey Sun
Our popular Nature Education for Homeschool Students
and Teachers (NEHST) program is already reaping the
benefits of sowing new seeds this season as evidenced
by an exponential growth in program participation. New
this year, we are offering a second day of programming
each month so we can reach more homeschooling
families. Each programming day is comprised of a
morning session for younger children ages 5-8, and
an afternoon session for children ages 9-16. Having
sessions divided by age allows for both younger and
older children to participate more fully in authentic
activities geared specifically for them.
Summer Nature Program has never been so much fun! With new
iconic themes or new twists on our classic programs, this popular
summer program has a rich and remarkable history. This year,
program participants enjoyed Forces of Nature, Eco-Trails and
Treasures, Fins, Scales, and Tails, Thar She Blows, See Life at
the Seashore, Bugs, Bats, and Butterflies, Oh My!, and All Hands
on Deck! Each program explored our south Jersey environment in
enriching ways.
New topics and activities have been a source of
enrichment. Each year, there are three overarching
themes, each theme is explored for three months and
each month focuses on a more specific topic. For each
theme, interdisciplinary take-home Branching Activities
and Family Field Trips are offered, providing opportunities
for families to continue exploring the themes on their own.
Throughout the year, when participating in programs,
children are encouraged to create a Nature Discovery
Journal. These journals give children the opportunity
to reflect on their experiences and express themselves
through language arts and/or art.
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One of the most incredible legacies of the Summer Nature Program
has been its impact on families over the generations. We are
constantly told of wonderful memories from our adult members about
their experiences in summer programs. The joy on parents faces as
they bring their kids in for the summer is inspirational. Grandparents
commonly come in with their grandkids and tell us of the family
traditions they have from when their children came to the Institute.
I participated in the Summer Nature Program during my elementary
school years – spending my summer days wandering through the
muddy trail, catching fiddler crabs, eating pickle grass, and learning
about all of the wonderful things the wetlands has in its bright
green grasses and salt waters abundant with life. The amazing
experiences I have had at The Wetlands Institute as both a camper
and a volunteer have influenced me to consider a career as a
marine biologist. - Celina Cebellos
Leaving a Legacy
Long-time supporter of the The Wetlands Institute, Barbara Eckhardt recalls, “Driving into Stone
Harbor for the first time in 1977, Dick and I spotted that wonderful building nestled so comfortably
into the wetland landscape and promised ourselves that we would investigate what goes on there.
We were not disappointed. With my husband’s enthusiasm for nature and my degree in zoology,
we quickly embraced a love for the natural wonders of this South Jersey area. Along with many
fascinating hours watching and learning about all the birds that frequented our small piece of
paradise, regular trips to The Wetlands Institute encouraged us to learn as much as we could”.
When asked why she decided to leave a legacy to the Institute, she replied, “The mission of the
Institute is such an important one: to preserve this crucially important saltwater marshland area
with all its flora and fauna, to care for the local ecological habitats, and through education, to
help the human occupants of this land understand its role in our lives as well as to engender an
appreciation of that which is mercifully still here, alive and well. I support this mission and from the
beginning I felt that I had found a home here. I hope there continues to be a bright future for The
Wetlands Institute both scientifically and as a place where the wonder of this local natural habitat
can be shared and enjoyed with all.”
Barbara and Dick are founding members of The Wetlands Institute Legacy Society because she
simply notified the Institute of her intention to include The Wetlands Institute in her estate plans.
Before Dick died, they sold a piece of land, now a part of New Jersey’s State Park system, and with
the proceeds created a Charitable Remainder Trust to benefit The Wetlands Institute. Barbara has
also named The Wetlands Institute as a beneficiary of her will. Barbara’s love of and appreciation
for the Institute’s research, conservation and education work is undeniable and, while the Institute
will not benefit from these planned gifts until well into the future, Barbara continues to generously
support the Institute year after year. She is a shining example of what it means to leave a legacy!
For more information about how to leave a legacy to The Wetlands Institute, please contact the
Development Department at 609-368-1211 or email Heather Gee at hgee@wetlandsinstitute.org.
19
Board of Trustees
•
•
•
•
Raymond M. Burke, Chairman – President, Burke Motor Group – Director, Sturdy Savings Bank
Deborah A. Hays, Vice Chair – Attorney/Partner, Archer & Greiner
Jane Rakestraw, Treasurer – Retired, VP Human Resources, Saks Fifth Avenue NY
Anne Galli, Secretary – Retired, Environmental Educator – Vice Chair,
New Jersey Commission on Environmental Education
• Michael Craig – Owner, The Washington Inn
• John Cuthbert – Physicist, Technical Manager, Bell Laboratories, Retired
• Roberta DeVries – Philadelphia Zoo Travel Planner & Program Coordinator
• James Donohue – Retired Partner, White and Williams, LLP, Litigation Attorney
• John Flynn – NJ DEP/Green Acres Program, State Trails Coordinator
• Lois Hamilton, Chair, Education Committee – Community Volunteer
• C. Lee Harp, Chair, Governance Committee – Of Counsel, Attorney/Partner, Archer & Greiner
• Dorothy Ives-Dewey, Ph.D., Chair, Research and Conservation Committee – Professor of
Geography and Planning, West Chester University
• Daniel Klem, Jr. Ph.D. – Professor of Biology & Sarkis Acopian Professor of Ornithology
and Conservation Biology, Muhlenberg College, PA
• Mary M. Millar – Principal, Avalon Flooring
• G. Wayne Renneisen, Chair, Finance Committee – Retired Attorney, Harvey, Pennington, LTD
• Henry E. Schellenger, Chair, Development Committee - President/CEO, DelWebb LLC
A Word from Ray Burke,
Board Chairman
2014 has been an extraordinary year. The core positions of Dr.
Tedesco’s Leadership Team have been filled and the Institute
now possesses the critical management elements to implement
Lenore’s operational objectives. She has assembled a highly
capable team of professionals who are focused on moving the
organization to great new heights.
The Institute is viewed by local and regional organizations as a
dependable resource for analysis and advice in the formulation
of environmental public policy. Dr Tedesco and her team are
regularly sought by key policy makers in need of practical well
balanced assessments of complicated coastal environmental
issues. The reputation of the Institute has rapidly expanded
beyond local and regional dimensions and the Board now
regularly evaluates opportunities to participate in projects of
national and international scope.
I am pleased to work with one of the hardest working and focused
Boards that any Chairman has ever worked with. This year, we
added two outstanding members that are already immersed in
the very demanding task of supporting Dr. Tedesco’s aggressive
agenda.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I want to thank all of our
members who have stepped up to support our efforts to make
this organization worthy of the vision of its founders. These are
historic times at The Wetlands Institute and yet the possibilities
are almost endless. Thank you for your support of this wonderful
adventure.
With best wishes,
20
Raymond M. Burke, III
Chairman
Donations
$100,000 and up
The Laura Hare Charitable Trust
$25,000 to $99,999
Davenport Family Foundation
Dr. Constance P. Dent Mr. and Mrs. G. Wayne Renneisen Hank and Julie Schellenger
$10,000 to $24,999
Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Burke, III Mr. Michael Craig
Roberta G. DeVries
Mr. and Mrs. Barry Hamilton Mr. and Mrs. C. Lee Harp, Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. J. Robert Herd Mr. and Mrs. James McEntee
Mary Millar Mr. and Mrs. Julian Miraglia Mr. and Mrs. James Summers
$5,000 to $9,999
Anne Galli Dr. Ann T. Gundry Rev. and Mrs. Jan Koczera Mr. and Mrs. James D. Miller PA Lumbermens Mutual Ins. Co
Mr. and Mrs. Charles G. Roach, Jr. The Thomas Family Gift Fund
Mr. and Mrs. Harold Yoh, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth B. Zeigler
$2,500 to $4,999
James J. Donohue and Carol Mager Lang Rogers Family Foundation
Ms. Jane Rakestraw
$1,000 to $2,499
AGP Holdings, L.L.C.
Anonymous
Bayview, Galloway, Ocean Heights
Animal Hospitals
Mr. James J. Cahill Ms. Beverly Cassidy Mr. and Mrs. Richard Clark Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Colalillo Covidien, Ltd.
Mr. and Mrs. Benton Crisman Mr. and Dr. John Dewey Mr. Dennis T. Dutton EarthShare of New Jersey
Mrs. Barbara R. Eckhardt Eden Charitable Foundation
Therese Esperdy and Robert Neborak Mr. and Mrs. Cameron Fowler Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Georganna Ms. Joanne Greenspun The Hall Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Harry E. Hill Mr. Joseph Jehl Mr. and Mrs. Edward L. Jones, Jr. Drs. George and Lisa Kenis The John Lazarich, III Foundation
Margate Bridge Co./Downbeach Express Mr. and Mrs. John Mazzo Mr. and Mrs. William McMahon, III Mrs. Marge Moretzsohn
Jeannie Morris Moselem Springs Golf Club
North American Sea Glass Association
Mr. and Mrs. James Quinn Mr. and Mrs. Robert Rich Tim and Cindy Roach Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Sandmeyer Mr. and Mrs. John Shamlian Silverstein Properties
Steen Outdoor Advertising
Dr. Lenore Tedesco and Ms. Nancy Fribley Mr. and Mrs. Roy Tedesco Union League of Philadelphia
Ms. Patricia Weiser Ms. Karen E. Welke Mr. and Mrs. Philip Welsh Mr. and Mrs. Robert G. Williams Mr. and Mrs. Carter Worth
$500 to $999
Avalon Home and Landowners Association
Mr. and Mrs. John Baer Barrier Island Quilters
Maury and Laurie Blumberg Brown & Brown of New Jersey
Mrs. Audrey Buckingham Don and Libby Steckler Charitable Lead Trust
Cleveland Family Foundation
Mr. and Mrs. Perry Conte Mrs. Margaret Corson and Family Dr. and Mrs. Marc Daniel Mr. and Mrs. Joseph P. Denny Ms. Heather Evans Mr. and Mrs. Ritson Ferguson Dr. and Mrs. J. Alan Ferner Andree Finkle Dr. Loretta Finnegan Mr. John Flynn
Ms. Joan Galli Glass Roots Gallery Mr. and Mrs. George Gowen, Jr. Harbor Outfitters
The Charles and Mary Louise Hartman Fund
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Hays Mr. and Mrs. Coleman Henry Mr. and Mrs. Harry J. Hoplamazian, Jr. IBM International Foundation
Matching Grants Program Mr. and Mrs. E. Richard Irrgang Johnson & Johnson Matching Gifts Program Ms. Barbara Keefer Mr. and Mrs. Fredrick J. Killmeyer Mrs. Ellen Kravet Burke The Honorable William H. and Mrs. Lamb Ms. Jennifer Lavin Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Majka Mr. and Mrs. Michael Mallon Margate PBA No. 65
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph G. Mattos Mr. and Mrs. William E. McCracken Mr. Stephen W. Miller Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Moceri Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Parker Pfizer Foundation Matching Gifts Mr. and Mrs. Richard Redeker Ms. Victoria D. Rosskam Herman and Dot Saatkamp Seashore Ace
Barry and Sandra Slabik Mrs. Glenna G. Stewart Dr. and Mrs. Ronald B. Stump The Robin and Susan Tafel Charitable Fund
Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Toolen Mr. and Mrs. Vincent J. Trosino, Sr. William Ris Galleries
Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Willis Laura J. Wilson and Mark Menting Dr. and Mrs A.F. Wood
Mr. and Mrs. Ronald L. Workman Ms. Janice Zimmerman
$250 to $499
Ms. Gwendoline E. Alexander Lee and Jim Amigh Jennifer Armstrong Coccodrilli Mr. and Mrs. Robert B. Asher Mr. Paul R. Barbin Mr. and Mrs. Peter Beyda Wally and Patricia Bishop Ms. Lisa Black Ralph Boerner and Betsy Wrobel-Boerner Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Branda, Jr. Mr. Tarry Bratton Mr. and Mrs. Chris Brown Dr. and Mrs. Christopher Brown Ms. Margot Brubaker 21
Donations
Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. Bugden Joanne Carrocino
Dr. and Mrs. Gregory Carolan Mr. and Mrs. Steven Cheryba Clarke’s Sunset Market
Mr. and Mrs. Dennis J. Colgan, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. John Connor The Craig Family Foundation
Mr. and Mrs. Philip Dahlen Mr. and Mrs. William Dahms Dr. and Mrs. Robert M. Davis Days Inn & Suites Wildwood
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Disdier Mr. and Mrs. Louis Eni John H. Fahnestock and Martha Heller Mr. and Mrs. James Faulk Mr. and Mrs. Lewis E. Ferguson Mr. and Mrs. William R. Flippin Mrs. Alfred M. Frank Fred’s Tavern Liquor Store
Mr. and Mrs. Clayton French Mr. and Mrs. Harry French Mr. and Mrs. Ned Galbally Ms. Wendy Lee Garthwaite Ms. Heather Gee Mr. and Mrs. Thomas L. Glenn, III Mr. and Mrs. Gary Glynn Chris and Kathleen Gubanich Ms. Rebecca Gustafson Greg and Debbie Hamilton Mr. and Mrs. Edward H. Hanway Ms. Graysha K. Harris Ms. Kathe Hocevar Mr. and Mrs. Edward K. Hueber Ms. Mary Lou Ireton Ms. Bonnie Bell Jack Jackson Family Wine
Mr. and Mrs. Peter Jespersen Mr. and Mrs. Quincy T. Jones Ms. Linda Keil Mr. and Mrs. William J. Koehl, Jr. 22
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Kosteva Mr. and Mrs. Larry Kravet Ms. Helen Kushla Ms. Carol D. Lane Mr. and Mrs. William Lauth Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Lee, III Mr. and Mrs. Milton Levy Mr. and Mrs. Charles Q. Livingston Ms. Kristin Long Mad Batter Restaurant
Ms. Gloria McNutt Julie Mealo
Mr. and Mrs. David Merlin Mimi’s and Suncatcher
Mr. and Mrs. Hugo Monformoso Mr. Hector Negroni and Ms. Kimberly Weil Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Nicholson Osborne’s Furniture
Mr. Steven B. Pfeiffer Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Phillips, III Mr. Richard O. Pike Mr. and Mrs. Seymour S. Preston, III Ms. Diana Prokapus Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Pruitt Ms. Elizabeth Rita Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Robinowitz Ms. Sharon Rothwell Mr. and Mrs. William Ruhling, Jr. Mr. Grant Salstrom Rodney and Tracey Sandmeyer Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Schneid Mr. Robert Schroeder Heidi Setz-Kelly and Peter Kelly Mr. and Mrs. John J. Sideravage Mr. and Mrs. Charles O. Slugg Ms. Eileen A. Smalfus Mr. Stan Sperlak Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Stiles Stone Harbor Elementary School Maj. Gen. John K. Stoner, Jr. Strathmere Fishing & Environmental Club Summer House Design Group
Mr. and Mrs. Phil Tedesco The Diving Horse The Koenig Family Charitable Fund of
The Philadelphia Foundation
The Reeds at Shelter Haven Mr. James Thomas Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Thomas Ms. Michele Thompson Mr. Ellsworth B. Thorndike Turtle Crossing Café
Lise Twiford Mr. and Mrs. Mark Van Kooy Mr. and Mrs. Dan Very Herman C. Voellm Mr. and Mrs. Robert Vogel Mr. and Mrs. Bud Waisbren, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Walck Mr. and Mrs. Charles Walsh Mr. Larry A. Wehr Mr. Geoff Coe Mr. and Mrs. Louis J. Zucca, Jr.
$100 to $249
Ms. April Adams Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Adams Ms. Nedra Adelizzi Mr. and Mrs. James Agger, Jr Mr. and Mrs. James Agger, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Steve Ahern Mr. and Mrs. David E. Albrecht, Jr. Kathleen Allen
Mr. and Mrs. Tom Anderson Anonymous Mr. Robert Arnold Mr. and Mrs. David Atkinson Mr. and Mrs. John Avallone Avalon Free Public Library
Avalon Golf Club Avenues to Independent Living
Ms. Margaret Bacigal Mr. and Mrs. Henry Bain Ms. Virginia H. Banks Mr. Bill Barber Mr. David Barry Anna and Rick Baumgartner Mrs. Pat Begley Ms. Carrie Bell Bellevue Tavern
Peter Benedict Ms. Ann E. Benjey Mrs. Susan A. Benner Alfred Bergbauer
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bernhardt Mr. Alexander Berol Mr. and Mrs. John Berrigan Dr. Sue Binkley Tatem Mr. Andrew R. Blair Mr. and Mrs. David Blom Blooms Flowers
Robert Blumberg and Jessica Cuevas Dr. and Mrs. William R.A. Boben Mr. Brian Borak Mr. and Mrs. William Bowen Ms. Lynn Bowlby Ms. Jenny Bowman Mr. and Mrs. Craig Boyd Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Brace Ms. Roseanne Braiotta Mr. and Mrs. Edward Breen The Arielle and Jerald Brodkey
Philantropic Fund
Mr. and Mrs. Jon Brooks Mr. Kernan Brooks Mr. Arthur Brown Ms. Ashley Brown Daniel Brown Mrs. John Brown, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Buechele Mrs. Harriet Burg Mr. and Mrs. John Burke Ms. Kitt Burlington Donations
Mrs. Barbara Burton-Sharp Mrs. Susan Byer Café Loren
Stewart and Terrie Campbell Cape May Day Spa
Cape May National Golf Club
Cape May Winery
Mr. and Mrs. Jim Carll Mr. William J. Carney Everett Cassel and Lucina Johnson Mrs. Cindy Catanoso Mr. and Mrs. Ed Caterson Ms. Joan Cavalier Dr. Young Chung and Ms. Kristen Beyer Mr. and Mrs. John Clapham Mr. and Mrs. Robert Clark Ms. Lisa Clayton Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Cloetingh Mr. and Mrs. Frederick L. Cole, Jr. Concord Café
Concord Suites
Congress Hall - Blue Pig Tavern
Mr. and Mrs. George Connors
Mrs. Joann Corn Mr. and Mrs. John Corrado Mr. and Mrs. Osman M. Corson, Jr. Crab Trap Restaurant Mrs. Geraldine Crudele Mr. and Mrs. James G. Cullen Ms. Judy Cunningham Michael Daddario and Nancy Demkosky Mr. and Mrs. Paul Daggett Mr. and Mrs. Douglass Davidson, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. James W. Davis Kenneth and Nancy Davis Mr. Robert T. DeGavre Mr. and Mrs. Robert DeMento Vivian Dent and Don Hazen Mr. and Mrs. Jack Devery Ms. Lisa DiLullo Dennis DiMarco Ms. Lisa Doherty Ms. Tracy Doherty Jenn Dolan Donna’s Place
Mr. and Mrs. William Dougherty Mr. and Mrs. William Doughty Ms. Barbara Driscoll Mr. and Mrs. Paul Driscoll Judee and Brian Dunn Ebbitt Room/Virginia Hotel
Ms. Ingrid Eberly and Ms. Liz Wallace Mr. Lee F. Eberly Ms. Judith A. Ehlerman Mr. Bill Ehrenstrom Mr. William J. Eisenbrey Ms. Wendy Eisenhofer Mrs. Azalea Ellis Mrs. Mary Anne Ellmer Mrs. Joanne English Mr. and Mrs. Paul Fahey Mr. Mark Falcone
Ms. Christina Faulk Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Fay Mr. Ronnie Fay Ferguson-Dechert Real Estate
Donna and Jack Ferraioli Mr. and Mrs. Joe Ferrier Mr. James C. Finkle, Jr. Ms. Susan Fiori Ms. Kay Fitzgerald Mr. and Mrs. Michael Flemming Mr. and Mrs. Robert E. Flinchbaugh, Jr. Mr. Bruce Folsom Mr. Alan M. Ford and Elaine M. Braccio Patricia Ford-Roegner
Ms. Julia Forrest Mr. and Mrs. Terry Fortino Mrs. Jane Foster Terry and Lawrence Frangiosa Michael Franklin Mr. and Mrs. Rufus Fulton Mr. and Mrs. William Furge Mr. and Mrs. Donald R Furmanski, Jr. Fuze Italian
Fuze Restaurant & Mirage Lounge
Andrea Gaglio and Benjamin Lammers Mr. and Mrs. W. Roderick Gagne Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Galatola Carla Gallelli Mr. and Mrs. Phil Galperin Mr. Robert Gannon Chris Garvey Mr. John Gaydos and Ms. Dawn Pistilli Ms. Norma Jean Geesey Dr. and Mrs. Gary S. Gehman Ms. Valerie Gehr Ms. Katherine Gifford Bob and Bonnie Girard Ms. Joyce Gitin Global Pursuit
Mr.and Mrs. John Glomb Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Goldstein Mr. and Mrs. Henry Gorelick Mr. and Mrs. Barry Grass Mr. Edward Grassi Mrs. Patricia B. Greenwood Ms. Amy Gustafson Ms. Bobbi Hainey Mr. and Mrs. John Hallinan, Jr. Mr. Robert B. Hamilton Mr. and Mrs. Jim Hampton Mr. and Mrs. Warren Harlan Harpoon Henry’s Ms. Mary Ann L. Hart Mr. and Mrs. George E. Hassel Ms. Alexa Hays Ms. Stephanie Hays Ms. Linda Kay Heckert Ms. Stacey Helmers Mr. and Mrs. Michael F. Henahan Mr. and Mrs. John F. Hentz Mr. John J. Herd, II Mr. and Mrs. George Hermann Ms. Bonnie Higgins Mr. John Hinkle, Jr. Jonathan and Becki Hirsh Mr. and Mrs. Steven Hirsh Ms. Sue Hobbs and Mr. Phil Dietz Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Hober Ms. Augusta Hogan Ms. Janice Holden Mr. Peter A. Holter Mr. and Mrs. Tim Horn Michele Horvath
Ms. Helen Hovdesven Hoys 5 & 10
Mr. Timothy Hughes Ms. Elizabeth Hulitt Ms. Holly Hummel Mr. and Mrs. Harry Hurley, III Mr. Thomas F. Hynd Mrs. Lynne Ives Ivy Hill Cemetery Jack’s Shack
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Jacovini Jay’s On Third
Mr. and Mrs. George P. Jennings Mr. and Mrs. Michael Jobes Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Johnston Mr. and Mrs. David M. Junkin Mr. and Mrs. Tac Justi Mr. and Mrs. Bob Karasik Ms. Hazel S. Kavle Dr. and Mrs. Francis X. Keeley Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Keightley Ms. Valerie Keller Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Kelly Mr. and Mrs. Paul Kelly Mr. Robert Kelly Ms. Mary Kay Kennedy Dr. Richard B. Kent Mr. Stephen Kepchar, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. James R. Kern 23
Donations
Ms. Kathleen Keyser Julie and Kara Kircher Mr. and Mrs. Michael Kirchhoff Mr. and Mrs. Todd Klein Brooke and Ryan Knapick Mr. and Mrs. Bill Knous Karen Knudsen and Charles Hetzel Mr. and Mrs. James J. Koegel Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Kosloski Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell B. Kowal Mr. John Kowchak
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Krafczek Mrs. Joan Kramar Mr. and Mrs. David S. Kratz Mr. and Mrs. Larry Kratzer Mr. and Mrs. Cary Kravet Mr. Scott Kravet Jane G. Kurtz Lace Silhouettes Lingerie
Mr. and Mrs. Bill Laffey Ms. Jean M. Laning Ms. Anita M. LaPlaca Mr. and Mrs. Christopher P. Laux Law Office of Donald M. Doherty, Jr.
Dr. and Mrs. Louis Leaff Ms. Polly Lessig Jonathan LeVeen and Mary McPherson Ms. Janet Levine Mr. and Mrs. James Lim Dr. and Mrs. Gary Linton Mr. and Mrs. Don Liskay Ms. Marie Litman Ms. Carolann Littzi Mr. Anthony Lombardo Mrs. Phyllis A. Lowe Mr. and Mrs. Martin Lukacs Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. MacFarland Mr. and Mrs. Larry Magid
Mr. and Mrs. Bucky Mansuy Ms. Elizabeth Martin Mr. and Mrs. Keith Martin 24
Dr. and Mrs. Terry L. Master Mr. Ajit Mathur Mr. and Mrs. Chuck Matthews Mr. and Mrs. Michael Mattise Mrs. Marjorie Mattos The Matus Family Mr. Edward S. May, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Jay Mayes Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Mazur Dr. and Mrs. Joseph McCadden Mr. Robert McClennen Mr. and Mrs. Dave McClung Dr. and Mrs. Hugh McFadden Signian McGeary Mr. James McGivern and Family Ms. Suzanne M. McGowan Mr. and Mrs. Bernard McGrann Ms. Marylou K. McHugh Dr. Mari Margaret McLean
and Ms. Ann W. James Mr. Wallace McMichael Dr. and Mrs. John McNichol Dr. Kathleen W. McNicholas Mr. and Mrs. Thomas C. Melzer Ms. Judith Merlin Mr. and Mrs. Robert C. Metz Mr. and Mrs. Allen Meyer Mr. and Mrs. William H. Michael Mr. and Mrs. John Michalski Mr. Hal Miller Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Milnes Mrs. Carol M. Miner Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Monk Mr. Christopher Mooney Morey’s Piers Ms. Mildred Morgan Mr. and Mrs. Albert Morrison Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Moss Mr. Daniel Mowday Ms. Joan L. Murray Mr. and Mrs. Charles Nash Mr. Tom Naughton Mrs. Cassandra S. Naylor Mr. and Mrs. Joel Neigh Mr. Rich Noon Mrs. Cindy O’Connor Mr. Henry Ohls Mr. Emil Oscar Mr. and Mrs. Timothy O’Shaughnessy Dr. and Mrs. Robert Owen Ms. Fay Oxenreider Adolf Paier
Paisley Christmas Shop
Mr. and Mrs. Richard T. Palmerchuck Ms. Elizabeth Papastavros Mr. John J. Paris Ms. Jan Pask Mr. and Mrs. Richard Payne Mr. and Mrs. Davis Pearson Mr. and Mrs. James P. Penders Pete Smith’s Surf Shop Peter Shields Restaurant Mrs. Gail Pfeifer Mr. and Mrs. Jim Picanza Alice and Ned Powell Ms. Jane Prinski Ms. Janice M. Pruch Mr. and Mrs. Paul Purcell Mr. and Mrs. R. Brian Radcliffe Mr. and Mrs. Michael P. Ramage Ramsey Teachers Association Ms. Phyllis Reger Mr. Harry Reichert, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. William A. Remo, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Brian Reynolds Ms. Patty Reynolds Ms. Evelyn A. Rider Dr. William H. Roberts, Jr.
Rob and Carolyn Robertson Mr. Atlee Robinson Ron Jaworski Golf Clubs
Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Rosenberg John and Ruth Rosser, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Mark Rothenberger Dr. and Mrs. Craig Rothman Mr. and Mrs. Dale R. Rothrock Mr. and Mrs. David G. Rowland Mr. Philip H. Rowland Patrick Sahukar Sand Barrens Golf Club
Mr. and Mrs. James V. Sandor Mr. Larry Sarner Mr. and Mrs. Ferd Sauereisen Mr. Gerald Savitz Mr. Hank Schellenger Ms. Susan Schmidt Robert and Diana Scott
Dr. and Mrs. W. Eric Scott Ms. Kathleen Scullion Seashore Wealth Management Ms. Patricia Seliga Karen and Aaron Serfass Shades of Stone Harbor Eileen Sheehan Shore Gate Golf Club The Architecture Teams at Siemens
Skimmer Tours, LLC Skirt of Stone Harbor
Mr. and Mrs. John B. Smiley Mr. Michael L. Smith Mr. and Mrs. Scott Smith Mr. and Mrs. William Smith, Jr. Mr. Craig S. Socie Mr. and Mrs. Peter Sollimo Ms. Leslie Sours Judith Stagg and William Zumach Mr. and Mrs. John Staley Ms. Allison Stattner Ms. Elizabeth M Stattner Mr. and Mrs. George Steele Mr. Anthony Stefano Mr. and Mrs. Bud Stein Mr. and Mrs. Ray Stercula Donations
Ms. Helen J. Wallace Rabbi Ariel Walsh Mrs. Suzanne Walters Mr. Robert Ward Mr. and Mrs. Joe Waterman Wawa
Ms. Evelyn Blake Weaver Ms. Sandra Weidner Dr. and Mrs. Timothy Welby Mr. and Mrs. Will Wermuth Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Werner Mr. and Mrs. Tedor Whitman William Whitmore Ms. Rosemarie Widmer Mr. and Mrs. Brian Wilcox Wildwood Golf & Country Club
Mr. and Mrs. H. Drake Williams, Jr. Windrift Resort Hotel
Mr. Ken Witterholt Dr. and Mrs. Charles Wolfe Mr. and Mrs. Frank A. Wood Ms. Mary Wood Dr. Roger C. Wood Mr. George Woodward Mr. and Mrs. Robert Wurzbach Mr. and Mrs. Tom Yoder Dr. and Mrs. Joseph J. Zaladonis, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. James Zdancewicz Mr. and Mrs. Richard A. Zimmerman Ms. Martha Andes Ziskind Mr. and Mrs. Greg Zollner
Mrs. Jones
Mr. Robert Oberholtzer
Ms. Doris Raker
Ms. Barbara Rooney
Dr. and Mrs. Craig Rothman
Dr. and Mrs. S. Kenneth Schonberg
Mrs. Patricia Schroeder
Mrs. Sarah Zimmerman
Mr. Brian Zogas
Legacy Society
Recognizing all of our friends who
have included us in their estate plans,
past and present.
Jim and Lee Amigh
Anonymous
Ruth H. Berry
John and Roberta DeVries
Richard and Barbara Eckhardt
Marion Glaspey
Maxine G. Haneman
Lee and Nicky Harp
Bob and Sally Herd
Joseph E. LaVance, Jr.
Mary Millar
Jane Rakestraw
Wayne and Kay Renneisen
Sam and Nancy Roberts, Sr.
Donna and Craig Rothman
Jim and Barbara Summers
Albert E. Wood, PhD
Ken and Jennifer Zeigler
Donations in Memory of
Edith Bray Robinson
Shirley Cummings Moyer
John DeVries
Elizabeth Hewitt Barber
Joseph Lasprogata
Joyce Leonard
Finnegan Maybury
Rachel H McBride
Geoffrey Moskowitz
John D. Ohls
Julia Peifer
Robert J. Piefer
Marion Reilly
Agnes Robinson
Patricia Schroeder
Virginia Schwartzlow
Thomas Swank
D
US
I NG SUS
TA
ABL
ER
HO
E MAT
IA
LS
AND M
E
T
Mr. and Mrs. Steve Ahern
Mr. Raymond Burke
Mrs. Margaret Corson
Mrs. Roberta Dean
Mr. Jay Drasher
Mrs. Barbara R. Eckhardt
Mr. Robert Haines
Mr. C. Lee Harp
D S P R I NT E
Donations in Honor of
IN
Mr. and Mrs. Rich Stingle Stone Harbor Golf Club
Mr. Philip K. Stonier Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Storer Mr. and Mrs. Timothy M. Stout George Strassner Mr. and Mrs. Stewart Stroble Mr. and Mrs. William Struble Dr. and Mrs. William Studt Mr. Christopher Sullivan Mr. and Mrs. James Sullivan Mr. Mike Surak Kent and Patricia Swan
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Switick Sylvester’s Seafood Restaurant
Andrew Talone, Jr. and Christine Talone Mr. and Mrs. John Taube Ms. Carolyn Taylor Philip and Nancy Tedesco The Law Offices of Carol N. Goloff
Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Thru Our Eyes
Ms. Kelly Tjoumakaris Ms. Christine M. Tomlinson Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Torpey, Jr. Gerard Toscani Mr. and Mrs. John C. Trinkl Mr. and Mrs. Miles Truesdell, Jr. Mr. Chris Tsiouris, Jr. Ms. Delina A. Tumolo Mr. and Mrs. John E. Tunnell Ms. Patricia Turbett Mr. Bob Turkelson Mr. Gary Turner Dr. and Mrs. Charles Valentine Mr. and Mrs. Richard Vance Mr. and Mrs. Michael Veneziano Verlasso Salmon
Mr. Samuel C. Vrooman Ms. Catherine Ann Wagner Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Waldner As a conservation organization, we have a special
responsibility to address the global challenges
of climate change and sustainability. We are
committed to minimizing environmental impacts in
all aspects of our operations. Visit our website at
http://wetlandsinstitute.org/about-us/sustainability/
for more on our sustainability initiatives.
25
PLAN FOR THE FUTURE
Programatic Underwriting
The Wetlands Institute is grateful to the many passionate
donors who financially support our mission each year.
Unrestricted gifts allow us to do our vital work. Gifts to our
annual appeals, general contributions and membership
dues are critical for the operation of the Institute and allow
us the flexibility to respond to ongoing needs and provide
meaningful and impactful research and conservation
efforts and excellent educational programming for free or
a nominal fee.
SEAS School Program
Other donors believe that their support would be best used
for a specific program or project. We are especially grateful
to the following donors who invested in specific programs
and projects.
The Delaware Bay is home to the world’s largest
spawning population of horseshoe crabs and their
eggs supply fuel for migrating shorebirds. With
numbers drastically reduced, conservation of this
remarkable species is critical. Your support will go to
our impactful outreach and volunteer conservation
programs.
Connie Dent, Anne Gundry, Jane Dent and Evelyn Rider
have all helped to sponsor the Coastal Conservation
Research Intern Program providing much needed support
for the 2015 undergraduate research summer interns. We
are still in need of support to fully fund this program, as well
as the environmental education intern program.
Bob and Sally Herd know how difficult and important it is to
fund maintenance of the physical facilities of the Institute.
We thank them for their annual support!
Jennifer and Ken Ziegler and Anne Galli support the Joe
Jacobs Fund established in honor of Jennifer’s father, a
renowned ornithologist that pioneered work on osprey
platforms and whose work is credited with helping bring
the majestic bird back to our marshes. Their generosity
supports the avian research and conservation program and
has been critical to the growth and development of this key
area for the Institute.
Programmatic funding opportunities are many and varied
and allow donors to see the immediate impact of their gift.
If you are interested in directing your giving to a high impact
project, please consider the following:
26
The SEAS (Science Education at Sea) Program is
conducted entirely on a boat with hands-on activities
for all students. Unfortunately, boat charter fees
raise the cost of the program and prohibit some
schools from participating. Sponsor a class or help
us purchase underwater equipment to expand and
diversify this important program.
Horseshoe Crab Conservation
Diamondback Terrapin Conservation
Each year, The Wetlands Institute staff and volunteers
work to conserve diamondback terrapins by protecting
them on our roadways and in the marshes. This work
is a major undertaking of the Institute that requires
substantial internal funding. Help us continue this
critical conservation work that has been at the core
of the Institute’s conservation programs for so long.
Your support will be used to purchase materials and
supplies and to support the many projects we do to
protect terrapins.
Capital Improvements
Capital repairs and equipment upgrades are
mandatory every year, especially for our wooden
building situated in the harsh marsh environment. In
2015, the Institute needs to repair our iconic tower,
replace the awning that covers the Wetlandia Deck
for school and summer nature programs, and make
repairs to the salt water pumping station that supports
the aquarium.
Corporate
Sponsors
The Wetlands Institute would like to
thank our Corporate sponsors for their
support in 2014.
Archer & Greiner, PC
Atlantic Capes Fisheries, Inc.
Atlantic City Electric
Atlanticare Regional Medical Center
Avalon Flooring
Burke Motor Group
Cape Bank Charitable Foundation
Fitzpatrick, Bongiovanni & Kelly, PC
Hays Sheet Metal, Inc.
Holman Automotive Group Inc.
Kindle Ford Mercury Lincoln, Inc.
The Lomax Consulting Group
Lucky Bones Backwater Grille
PSEG Services Corporation
Rental City
South Jersey Industries
Sturdy Savings Bank
Subaru of America, Inc
Washington Inn
Corporate giving helps us to continue
our impactful programs that are making
a measurable difference in the coastal
ecosystems that we all cherish.
For more information about Corporate
Sponsorship Opportunities, contact
Heather Gee at 609-368-1211.
Fiscal Year 2014
Financial Report
(1/1/2014 – 12/31/2014)
The Wetlands Institute grows and flourishes through the generous
support of our members and donors. We take great care in stewarding
your gifts wisely and directing gifts to impactful projects and programs.
1%
2%
2014 was another exceptional year. Operational expenditures totaled
$1,332,298, an 8% increase from 2013. This increase is from a
combination of expenses to meet new compliance regulations and
unreimbursed construction costs related to Hurricane Sandy. Hurricane
Sandy rebuilding expenditures for 2014 totaled nearly $415,000.
To date, we have only been partially reimbursed by FEMA and have
struggled to manage this budget stress.
Our staff are dedicated to providing beneficial and engaging research,
conservation and education programs and are working to solve complex
issues facing our coastal and wetland environments. New externally
funded grants in both Education and Research and Conservation are
diversifying revenues and will be important assets to the future health
and sustainability of The Wetlands Institute.
As we close yet another transformational year, thank you for being a
part of the bright future and for enabling us to Make No Small Plans!
10%
6%
36%
84%
Over the past 2 years, the Institute has undertaken a major growth,
development, and revitalization plan. The progress we have made has
been remarkable and is largely due to the amazing and unwavering
support of our donors. The Trustees embraced an aggressive plan
to professionalize staff, diversify programs, and rebuild Hurricane
damaged facilities. This Plan for the Future increased expenses as an
investment in tomorrow.
With the close of 2014, we are happy to report that revenues continue to
increase and since 2009, we have seen an increase of more than 28%
in revenues. We have continued to enhance administrative efficiencies
and reduce fund-raising costs. We have completed the rebuilding of
Hurricane damaged infrastructure and the dock and walkway are key
catalysts supporting research and education programs.
FY2014 Expenditures
FY2014 Revenues
61%
Contract/Grants
Gifts / Memberships
Program Income
Invested Funds
$24,838
$730,432
$427,412
$13,332
Total Revenues
$1,196,014
Programs
Development
Administrative
Total Expenditures
$1,124,140
$75,854
$132,303
$1,332,298
Annual Operating Revenues and Expenditures, 2009-2014
$1,400,000
Revenues
Expenditures
$1,200,000
$1,000,000
$800,000
$600,000
$400,000
$200,000
$-
FY2009
FY2010
FY2011
FY2012
FY2013
FY2014
*FY2014 reported financials are pending final audit.
27
The Wetlands Institute
wetlandsinstitute.org • 609.368.1211
1075 Stone Harbor Blvd
Stone Harbor, NJ 08247
A non-profit organization studying, preserving and protecting wetlands and coastal ecosystems