Located in the heart of The Ward Melville Heritage Organization’s 88-acre wetlands preserve, the Erwin J. Ernst Marine Conservation Center (EMCC) is a site of scientific education. Named after Dr. Erwin J. Ernst, an educator and naturalist, the Center has been an important part of WMHO for more than 50 years.
When Dr. Ernst convinced Ward Melville to save the wetlands from being developed, Melville began to purchase parcels of land from individuals. He then designated the entire 88-acres as a wetlands preserve. Mr. Melville subsequently deeded the preserve to The WMHO. It continues to be one of the most pristine wetlands on Long Island.
The Marine Conservation Center (MCC) houses two classrooms, a learning lab, microscopes, touch tank and video conferencing equipment. On-site programs allow students to explore the salt marsh ecosystem and learn the importance of salt marshes and food web interactions. These hands-on programs enables students to identify plants, animals, shells, rocks and marsh grasses. Distance learning initiatives are also offered at the MCC, enabling students to immerse themselves in the environment from afar.