Salt Marsh Nature Center is our main hub for nature appreciation, educational activities and community engagement. Opened on Earth Day in 2000, the Salt Marsh Nature Center is the largest of New York City’s five nature centers.
The Architects of Record from Cardiullo describes the building: “A stone tower highlights the entrance to the Nature Center from the city-side of the building. Once inside, the entrance floor is detailed with a mural of local wildlife such as butterflies, birds, insects and sea creatures. Off the main entrance are two wings that contain exhibit, classroom, office and meeting space. A wood slatted canopy supported by a row of bluestone columns extends over the walkway that leads to the entrance facing the bay, welcoming hikers from the nature trails.”
The building also serves as the perfect base of operations for the Brooklyn Urban Park Rangers overlooking the expanse of Marine Park’s Forever Wild Preserve. Urban Park Rangers lead workshops and tours for park visitors of all ages. The Salt Marsh Alliance is a group of volunteers who assist the rangers, maintain the gardens outside the building and tend the Salt Marsh Nature Trail. They organize community events including a Harvest Dance, an Earth Day celebration, a Native American festival and yoga classes.
Salt Marsh Nature Center is located at 3301 Avenue U, Brooklyn, NY 11234. The Center is open to the public depending on staffing availability.