Georgia Southern University to hold ribbon cutting for Waterfowl Pond

Georgia Southern University will hold a ribbon cutting ceremony for The Waterfowl Pond this Saturday, June 1, at 1:30 p.m.

The project began in 2009 as a part of the Phase II portion of the Center for Wildlife Education called the Wetland Preserve, with an educational focus on water and ornithology. Native species of waterfowl were released on the pond, and the exhibit was a success for several years.

In keeping with the theme of bringing man and nature closer together through the use of minimal barriers, nature began to take advantage of the situation. The pond was closed while it was reconstructed to protect the waterfowl from predators.

“The reopening of Waterfowl Pond will be an integral part of the Wildlife Center’s educational offering in addition to serving the Georgia Southern family and local community as a respite and place to connect with the natural world around us,” Executive Director of Center for Wildlife Education, Steve Hein said.

The pond will be home to 50 ducks of different species. In the weeks and months ahead, 50 or more ducks will be added along with various non-releasable wading birds (herons, egrets and storks).

Construction to enclose the Waterfowl Pond that is located on the Wetland Preserve began in fall 2018. The Wildlife Center serves kindergarten through 12 students from 33-county geographical area along with guests from across the country and beyond.

Members of the Wildlife Center’s Board, major donors, friends of the Wildlife Center and Georgia Southern President Kyle Marrero have been invited to participate in this event.