We’re so proud of all we’ve accomplished in the past year, from the grand opening of the new boardwalk to hosting more events for Stewards members to continuing our strong support for the Discovery Center’s needs. Read on for a complete list of all we’ve done since our last annual meeting (and thanks to those of you able to make it to our October meeting for all members!)
- Celebrated the replacement of the Great Bay Discovery Center boardwalk, including a ribbon-cutting party with Stewards, donors, and other community members, all of whom helped raise more than $95,000 for the project.
- Continued participating in the Soak up The Rain-Great Bay community outreach program with NHDES to manage stormwater. The group has completed eight installations, including a restoration project at Ralston Park in Greenland.
- Secured funding to a new exhibit on Marine Debris at the Discovery Center.
- Installed new flooring in the vestibule, kitchen, and bathrooms of the Gregg Center.
- Received a pledge of support from Trammo Inc., the parent company of propane distributor Sea-3, for financial support totaling $100,000 over four years, as part of the company’s belief that supporting the vitality of the estuary is fully consistent with their commitment to be good corporate citizens wherever they operate. In September, employees from Trammo’s operations in New York, Florida, Texas, Iowa, and New Hampshire participated in a GBNERR – Trammo Work Program visit.
- Launched a new website for the Stewards, with more information on our events, Soak up the Rain Great Bay, photographs, maps, and even a dedicated “Wildlife Sightings” page.
- Provided funding for a graduate student intern to work with Reserve staff members to monitor salt marsh, plan a shoreline conference, and work on outreach materials for invasive species removal.
- Supported GBNERR research efforts on the invasive green crab.
- Hosted a summer kayak outing for Stewards members.
- Organized the 12th annual Art of Great Bay Show, with a theme of “Art Inspired by the Great Bay.” Nearly 60 artists participated in the show, with almost 700 visitors throughout the weekend, including a ‘senior tea’ hosted for several area retirement communities.
- Sponsored the 17th Great Bay 5K road race, with more than 800 registered runners.
- Supported the production, printing and mailing of Great Bay Matters.
- Continued to support the fall and spring school programs at the Great Bay Discovery Center.
- Provided assistance to the Reserve’s Teacher on the Estuary (TOTE) program.
- Held successful community suppers at Flatbread Pizza and Robert’s Maine Grill, as well as a Book Fair fundraiser at Barnes & Noble.