March 10, 2010
The Volusia County ECHO Board approved a $600,000 grant that will enable work to begin on the hatchery property. Along with $130,000 in match from the City of New Smyrna Beach, $10,000 from the Artist's Workshop and $10,000 from the Marine Discovery Center, the Wildlife Foundation of Florida provided $150,000 for demolition of substandard structures and the restoration of one building for use as an education and outreach center.
The Artist's Workshop and Marine Discovery Center will provide the education and outreach to over 25,000 children and visitors on the site through innovative programs designed to directly engage visitors in the marine environment. A classroom and wet lab on site will enable Volusia schools to provide hands on marine science and educational programs. In addition, an additional wet lab will be available for use by marine researchers in the area.
The master plan for the site is under development, but an early draft rendition shows the a possible future site with new facilities and extensive public access.
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