The Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge, the nation’s first, has ruffled quite a few feathers during the past 122 years, most significantly playing a vital role in protecting native bird species and preserving local ecosystems.
The Pelican Island Conservation Society, which is dedicated to promoting the awareness, conservation, stewardship and use of the refuge, hosted a series of special events over its birthday weekend to honor the sanctuary’s rich history and environmental significance. PICS is also committed to safeguarding the wildlife, plant life, and natural habitats along the Indian River Lagoon through education, advocacy, and public engagement.
Although the actual Pelican Island is tiny, the refuge encompasses more than 5,400 acres of protected waters and lands. On the barrier island, the refuge offers two three-mile loop trails around managed salt marsh and mangrove habitats, and an easy 3/4 mile Centennial walking trail ends with an observation tower and boardwalk with a view of Pelican Island, which is off-limits to humans.
The weekend started with a Friday evening ‘Fireside Chat’ with Pres. Theodore Roosevelt held at the Heritage Center, where Roosevelt reenactor Paul Wiegand transported guests back in time.
Roosevelt shared recollections of his fortuitous decision to designate Pelican Island as the nation’s first national wildlife refuge on March 14, 1903, and his commitment to safeguarding America’s natural treasures.
On Saturday, birders and nature enthusiasts headed to the Environmental Learning Center for a full day of activities, including another visit from Pres. Roosevelt, educational exhibits, a Treasure Coast Wildlife Center’s birds-of-prey exhibit, and live music. And later in the day, a small group took a sunset wine and cheese cruise to Pelican Island, getting an up-close look at the majestic pelicans as they settled in to roost for the evening.
The entrance to the refuge is off of A1A, 3.5 miles south of the Sebastian Inlet. It can also be accessed by the Historic Jungle Trail. Public use areas are open from 7:30 a.m. to sunset.
For more information, visit firstrefuge.org.
Photos by Joshua Kodis
