The Wetlands Institute Marsh Campus Redevelopment

The Wetlands Institute will redevelop its 33-acre coastal campus in Stone Harbor, New Jersey, through the construction of a new elevated environmental research and education center, extensive site improvements, marsh restoration initiatives, and resiliency upgrades. The project will create a state-of-the-art destination that supports environmental research, conservation, public education, and community engagement.

The redevelopment will include a new approximately 18,640-square-foot mass timber facility featuring exhibit spaces, classrooms, laboratories, aquarium support areas, offices, a lecture hall, and visitor amenities. Designed to withstand the challenges of a coastal environment, the elevated structure will incorporate flood-resilient construction techniques while providing visitors with immersive views and educational experiences connected to the surrounding marsh ecosystem.

Site improvements will include new parking areas, accessible pedestrian connections, upgraded utilities, site lighting, standby power systems, and a relocated boathouse. In addition, approximately 1,165 linear feet of the Salt Marsh Trail will be elevated and reconstructed to improve accessibility and long-term resilience to sea-level rise and tidal flooding.

A key component of the project will focus on restoring and enhancing marsh habitats through grading, beneficial fill placement, and native plantings that support coastal resiliency and wildlife habitat. Upon completion, the redevelopment will establish a sustainable and resilient campus that advances The Wetlands Institute’s mission while serving as a model for environmental stewardship and climate-adaptive design.