After a five-month closure due to Covid-19, the Pascagoula River Audubon Center is proud to announce its reopening to the public. Although the Center was closed to the public, the birds, bees, flowers, trees and turtles have been putting on a daily show around the 10-acre site.
The National Audubon Society closed all of its nature centers nationwide in response to the pandemic to keep both its guests and employees safe from harm. As each individual state has differing numbers and mandates, the Center leadership has been given the approval to open with social distancing restrictions. In accordance with CDC recommendations, the facility will be implementing all necessary practices to ensure the health and safety of all employees and guests.
Guests are welcome to enjoy the native plants, birds, rocking chairs, kayaks, and trails outside of the center and to utilize the River Room and Art Gallery minimally. Sanitizing stations are scattered around the facility, and anyone entering the River Room must be wearing a mask. The temporary hours of operation will be Wednesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. until Labor Day. At that time, leadership will review current cases and follow suit with local schools and the government to possibly open for longer hours.
“We are excited about reengaging with our friends and supporters, but we want to keep everyone safe,” said Susan Stachowski, Center manager. “If all goes well in August, we are planning to restart our toddler and homeschool programming along with some Saturday activities.”
As part of the reopening plan, admission fees have been waived for all guests, but a donation is encouraged. Fees will be collected for educational programming, kayaking, rentals and purchases.
Upcoming plans include a modified Hummingbird Festival and fall native plant sale September 25 and 26. Specific event details will be announced as the dates draw near.
For more information, please call the center at (228) 475-0825 or visit the website at https://pascagoula.audubon.org.
