Investing in the Future of Quogue Wildlife Refuge
∙ Preserve, Educate & Inspire ∙
Our Vision
At Quogue Wildlife Refuge, we embrace a bold vision: to preserve our natural heritage, ignite a passion for conservation, and foster meaningful connections between people and the environment. Through our new Preserve, Educate & Inspire initiative, we’re not just safeguarding habitats—we’re nurturing a movement. With the hopeful revitalization of our facility, we’re poised to elevate the visitor experience, enrich the lives of our beloved animal ambassadors, and expand the horizons of our educational programs, all while maintaining the rustic charm and panoramic views of Old Ice Pond. This project will establish a Nature Center befitting the standards of our esteemed community, providing an elevated experience for you, our valued benefactors. Your generous support is instrumental in realizing this vision, and we invite you to join us in this pivotal endeavor.
All donors of $5,000 or more will be recognized on a beautiful Donor Recognition Wall prominently displayed in the updated Charles Banks Belt Nature Center.
Measurable Impact
Over the past decade, the Quogue Wildlife Refuge has grown tremendously, with programs increasing from 224 in 2013 to 589 in 2023, serving over 15,000 participants annually. Additionally, the Refuge welcomes an average of 150,000 visitors each year, a number that continues to rise. However, our current Nature Center is no longer able to keep up with this demand. Outdated bathrooms and entrances need upgrades to improve accessibility, and limited space restricts our ability to provide the best possible experience for visitors. The planned first-floor extension will maximize public and educational space, allowing us to host more programs and create engaging exhibits. Meanwhile, the second-story addition will give our staff the workspace and resources they need to develop inspiring programs and create meaningful educational experiences for our growing community.
With your support, we will introduce an array of new and expanded programming, offering immersive experiences that deepen connections with the natural world. Your contribution will not only ensure the success of these innovative programs but will also enable us to accommodate increased staff, provide enriching habitats for more indoor animals, enhance the visitor experience, expand educational space, and curate more engaging museum-quality exhibits.
Building a Sustainable Future
Every aspect of the project reflects our commitment to environmental stewardship.
- We’re integrating energy-efficient infrastructure- like solar panels and a sustainable heating and cooling system.
- An updated driveway and parking area will promote proper drainage and prevent runoff into the pond and wetlands and DarkSky-approved lighting will minimize light pollution.
- To protect the headwaters of Quantuck Creek, we’re installing a constructed wetlands septic system that uses native plants and natural filtration to manage wastewater, reduce nitrogen levels, and prevent groundwater contamination.
These innovations will not only cut operational costs but also set a standard for sustainable Development in our community. By protecting the environment and promoting eco-friendly practices, we ensure a healthier, greener future for everyone.
Expanding the Nature Center
By the Numbers – Five Key Components
$2.25 Mil
Nature Center Renovation & Expansion
$250,000
Infrastructure (Entrance and Parking Area)
$500,000
Exhibits & Furnishings
$500,000
20% Contingency
$3.5 Mil
Total
$214,250
Septic System*
*The Constructed Wetlands Septic System is funded separately & entirely by a grant.
Progress to date
Exciting progress has propelled our capital campaign forward, building momentum and showcasing the strong connection our mission has with the community.
Over the past year:
$800,000 in grant funding has been awarded
$1,500,000 MM in pledges have been made by dedicated community members as of 01/30/2025
We need your help!
Supporting the Quogue Wildlife Refuge Capital Campaign is a unique opportunity for you to play a vital role in shaping our future.
Interested in Making a Leadership Gift?
For naming opportunities and corporate sponsorships, we’d love to speak with you directly. Please fill out the form below, and a member of our team will be in touch to discuss how you can make a lasting impact.
Click to fill out a contact us form, a member of our team will reach out to you.
Connect with us:
Help us meet our current proposed goal of 3.5 Million!
Quogue Wildlife Refuge Board of Directors
Mac Highet, President | Alan Lazarescu, Vice President | Marcey Becker Brody, Treasurer
Anthony Bonner | Ian Connett, Esq. | Edward Necarsulmer III | Robert A. Murray | Doug Nappi | Linda Schoeck | Gigi Spates
Quogue Wildlife Refuge Capital Campaign Committee
Cristina Kepner, Co-Chair
Laurie Baskin | Steve Fadem | Michael Kluger | George Kok | Linda Filardi | Heidi Greene
Linda Heinberg | Meredith Murray | Barbara Sartorius | Peter Sartorius | Michael Weinman