The Wetlands Institute

06/02/2026

Summer’s here, and that means our interns are back!

Over the coming months, our summer interns will be getting hands-on experience in research, conservation, and education projects that help move ’s mission forward.

Follow along as we introduce our interns, showcase their work, and share what they’re learning throughout the season. ☀️

06/01/2026

Did you know there’s a correct way to “right” a stranded Horseshoe Crab – and it’s not by picking it by the tail? These marine arthropods can succumb to predators or overheating if they’re trapped on the beach. The Delaware Bay is home to the largest concentration of spawning Horseshoe Crabs in the world, but this population is still recovering from a significant decline.

Our Director of Research and Conservation, Dr. Lisa Ferguson, shared these facts and more when she joined Still Time for Joy Host Sandra Levine for “Horseshoe Crabs Along the Delaware Bay Get a Helping Hand from reTURN the Favor.”

Lisa discussed how and why Return the Favor NJ rescues overturned or impinged horseshoe crabs stranded on New Jersey’s Delaware Bay beaches, including:

• How program volunteers have helped over 1,300,000 Horseshoe Crabs in the last 13 years.
• Why doing so during the May through June spawning season matters for recovery of this marine species and the broader ecosystem it supports.
• How multiple partners, including the lend a hand to get these vital creatures back on their feet and into the water.
• How you can participate by volunteering or attending guided walks.

We thank Sandra Levine Productions for spotlighting this important work. Check out the staggering stats, cool facts, and captivating volunteer video of her timely video podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bEWvNn-gUa8

06/01/2026

05/31/2026

We celebrate our sky travelers, including our Egrets Partying in the Marsh – on this final day of !

Shorebirds move through our rich coastal flyway. 🌊
They rely on healthy wetlands for food and safety. 🌿
Every acre at strengthens their survival. 🌍

Your support helps keep their habitats thriving.

https://wetlandsinstitute.org/about-us/help-us-grow/

05/30/2026

Help us protect our marsh and the creatures in it. is a fantastic way to mark . Choose from a variety of packages to protect American Oystercatchers, Horseshoe Crabs, or Diamondback Terrapins. Your contribution funds our research and conservation efforts. Don’t miss out! The deadline for experience-based adoptions is Sunday, May 31.

https://wetlandsinstitute.org/adopt/

05/29/2026

Your generosity helps offer life- and career-enhancing programs in research, conservation and education. Support of our staff’s research fuels conservation efforts to protect our coastal and wetland ecosystems, fisheries, and barrier islands. And it contributes to educational programs we offer students of all ages at the Institute and in the community.

Visit us to experience why our work matters: https://wetlandsinstitute.org/visit-us/.

05/27/2026

Wondering about benefits of wetlands?

• Wetlands act as natural filters, trapping runoff and excess nutrients before they reach coastal waters, helping keep bays and estuaries healthy.

• Wetlands store carbon at a rate up to 10 times greater than mature tropical forests, helping reduce the impacts of climate change.

Join us in protecting nature’s nutrient nets and celebrating these carbon-capturing champions. For more information about visiting, joining, or donating to the Institute, visit: https://wetlandsinstitute.org

05/25/2026

We're grateful to everyone who supported the today. In true Stone Harbor Life fashion, runners, walkers, and spectators didn't let the wet weather dampen their spirits or their stride! We thank the Stone Harbor Chamber of Commerce for designating a portion of event proceeds to benefit our Terrapin Conservation Program at .

05/24/2026

How do wetlands quietly protect our communities and strengthen coastal economies?

Fun Facts and Staggering Stats for a Sunday:

• Just one acre of marsh can absorb as much water as 75 swimming pools (1.5 million gallons), soaking up floodwaters and wave energy during storms.
• Wetlands can reduce property damage in nearby communities by up to 20% providing an average of $695,000 in value per square mile during storms by lowering flooding and storm surge impacts.

During , we celebrate these stunning statistics. Marsh conservation matters!

05/23/2026

This , we're highlighting turtles and the ecosystems they rely on and that also rely on them. Diamondback Terrapins and their salt marsh habitat need steady care. Each year the Institute staff, interns, and volunteers help thousands of these special creatures that contribute to the health of wetlands and life on Earth.

Consider to support our research, conservation and education efforts aimed at protecting terrapins and their marsh home.

Don’t miss the May 31 deadline for experience-based adoptions for an up-close look at the impact your donation and our team have.

Learn about adoption levels and why your gift matters here:
https://wetlandsinstitute.org/conservation/terrapin-conservation/adopt-a-terrapin/

It’s a great way to mark , too!