Learn about NREF and the Lighthouse Center
The Natural Resource Education Foundation of New Jersey provides immersive educational experiences for all ages at the Lighthouse Center for Natural Resource Education in Waretown, NJ.
NREF serves as the caretakers for the Lighthouse Center, a property owned by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. Located right on Barnegat Bay, this site serves as our natural laboratory where we work to understand and steward this coastal gem in the face of climate change.
Learn about our educational programs and explore how NREF can help you fulfill your educational goals.
Explore the research being conducted at the Lighthouse Center and catch the latest updates from our Shoreline Restoration Team.
Learn about the diverse suite of organisms that call Barnegat Bay home.
Need a venue for your next conference or professional development event? Plan your organization’s next visit to the Lighthouse Center!
Where in the world is the Lighthouse Center?
The Lighthouse Center for Natural Resource Education is located in the center of the Upper Barnegat Bay Wildlife Management Area in Waretown NJ, found within the Barnegat Bay watershed. This 194 state-owned property is home to a variety of coastal habitats, including salt marshes, maritime forests, and freshwater ponds. A vast array of wildlife species inhabits the property such as fresh, brackish, and marine fish and shellfish, reptiles, amphibians, resident and migratory birds, foxes, deer, and other spectacular fauna.
Contact Us
NREF is always looking for new ways to engage our community through environmental restoration and education. We are open to building new collaborations and meeting new partners.
We look forward to hearing from you!