Montezuma Audobon Center Opens
Savannah-- State Senator Michael Nozzolio has announced that the Montezuma Audubon Center has opened its doors to the public, providing visitors with an exciting opportunity to learn about and experience the most magnificent freshwater wetlands complex in the northeast. The new Center features amazing exhibits highlighting the remarkable biodiversity found throughout the area. Senator Nozzolio was joined by representatives from Audubon New York and local officials at the long awaited grand opening ceremony.
"The opening of the Montezuma Audubon Center is the culmination of years of hard work and will help ensure that Savannah is among the top spots in the nation to observe and learn about wildlife and nature," said Senator Michael Nozzolio. "I would like to thank everybody that has worked on this project for their commitment to making this day a reality. The Montezuma Audubon Center is an excellent example of how our local and regional economy can benefit from preserving and protecting our environment."
“The Montezuma Wetlands Complex is a globally significant Important Bird Area and has become a popular destination for bird watchers, and the new Montezuma Audubon Center will provide model educational experiences throughout this incredible ecological resource, helping to connect more people to nature,” said Albert E. Caccese Acting Executive Director for Audubon New York. “Special thanks for making the vision of the center a reality goes to State Senator Michael Nozzolio, Congressman James Walsh and Town Supervisor Don Colvin.”
In addition to the opening ceremony, the 1st Annual Montezuma Audubon Center Wildlife Festival provided visitors with the opportunity to discover and celebrate the unique natural and cultural history of the wetlands complex. This family fun festival was active and alive with outdoor education activities, provided food and entertainment for all ages, and showcased new outdoor recreation products for the bird watching, fishing, hunting, canoeing, and hiking enthusiast.
The Montezuma wetlands have been recognized as an Important Bird Area by Audubon New York, and a State Bird Conservation Area for its critical importance to migrating water birds. The newly opened Montezuma Audubon Center (MAC) will provide public access, research, education, and incredible wildlife-related recreation opportunities. Audubon New York will operate the center, with assistance from the State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and other conservation groups in the planning of educational and interpretative programs and exhibits.
For more information on the programs visit the Wildlife Festival website: www.friendsofmontezuma.org/wildlifefestival.html or email montezuma@audubon.org
