Environmental Education
Many unique and enjoyable educational opportunities await the visitor to the Salt Pond Unit of Ninigret. Each of the five trails provides a fun and safe way to see and actually be in nature. With assistance from refuge staff, some groups have been able to don waders and do some seine netting. In their nets they always bring to shore amazing samples of plants and animals that lie just below the surface (and out of view) of Ninigret Pond. Other groups participate in bird walks with experienced staff and volunteers, and are treated to an array of wildlife, from deer to butterflies, that would be difficult to find anywhere else.
At the Headquarters Unit of Ninigret NWR we have the impressive Kettle Pond Visitor Center.
With an award-winning, environmentally-friendly building, and fabulous exhibits, Kettle Pond is a treat for all. There are four trails that make for ideal segway to the outdoors after an enlightening program in the classroom. Various school groups and scout groups have made Kettle Pond Visitor Center their home for their programs related to the natural world. With various programs offered throughout the year, including Wildlife Wednesdays, summer nature classes, URI Native Plant Garden Tours, there is something here for everyone and for all ages.