With summer upon us, so is the completion of the much-anticipated and long-awaited Herbert H. Bateman Educational and Administrative Center. Although the project, like most multimillion dollar construction projects, has experienced its share of delays (most of them reported in previous issues of the Piping Plover), the center, when completed, will instantly become the most-visited U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service facility.

Presently, staff are preparing to move into the administrative space of the complex in mid-June. New furniture has been placed in all of the offices, as well as the common space, which will be shared by visitor services staff, biological staff , and interns. Additionally, new computers, a photocopier, and other necessary equipment have been ordered. The staff in our crowded trailers is teeming with anticipation as they anxiously await their exodus to the new facility.

Exhibits for the educational/visitor center area are now in the final fabrication stage and are scheduled to be installed by September 15. Design and Production, Inc., the fabrication firm, has done an excellent job of coordinating with all of the subcontractors and refuge staff to build a stunning series of exhibits. A grand opening is tentatively scheduled for late fall.

Angela Tracy
Supervisory Outdoor Recreation Planner