Joppa Flats Education Center

Who We Are

Overlooking the Merrimack River and near the entrance to Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, the Joppa Flats Education Center offers unique educational opportunities for people of all ages. Here, you can explore the region’s wildlife-rich habitats (salt marshes, mudflats, rivers, bays, and coastal waters) through guided tours and programs for the public, marine touch tanks, and interpretive displays. 

  • Excellent year-round wildlife viewing opportunities from the sanctuary grounds and in-door observation areas as well as magnificent views of the lower Merrimack River and Plum Island estuary.
  • Birding programs for participants of all abilities; more than 300 species of birds recorded locally each year.
  • Annual events, including the Superbowl of Birding and Merrimack River Eagle Festival.
  • Marine touch tank interactive programs for families, both on and off the sanctuary grounds, in the summer. Tide pool tanks, local trails information, and wildlife interpretation by Joppa Flats staff and volunteers throughout the year.
  • Green features including two recharging stations for electric vehicles, photovoltaic panels, and a rainwater catchment system for toilet flushing.

What We Do

We have lots of opportunities for volunteers at Joppa Flats Education Center. Fill out our volunteer interest form to connect with us!