The mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System is to administer a national network of lands and water for the conservation, management, and where appropriate, restoration of the fish, wildlife, and plant resources and their habitats within the United States for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.

Description:
The John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum preserves approximately 1000 acres of wetland and upland habitat in both Delaware and Philadelphia Counties. The refuge was established in 1972 with three congressional mandates: 1) Preservation of Tinicum marsh, the largest remaining freshwater tidal marsh in Pennsylvania; 2) Provide opportunities for wildlife observation and recreation; 3) Provide an environmental education center for the region.

The Refuge has over ten miles of hiking trails where nature related activities such as bird watching, photography, drawing, fishing (with a valid PA fishing license), and walking are encouraged.

The Cusano Environmental Education Center, constructed with environmentally sustainable design features and recycled materials, serves as a gateway to the Refuge. The buildings house a resource library, exhibit area, multipurpose room, wildlife observation area, water filtration system, and classrooms.

History:
The Lenape were the first known people to use the marsh - a place they called Tinicum - islands in the marsh. European settlers arrived in the region in 1634. Swedes, Dutch, and English pioneers diked and drained parts of the marsh for animal grazing. The marshes began their slow decline from nearly 6000 acres to less than 300 acres by the mid 1900s.
In 1969, the remaining marsh was threatened with destruction by the construction of Interstate 95. Citizen action saved the marsh and forcing the interstate to be moved.

In 1972, Congress created the Tinicum National Environmental Center to be managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. The refuge's name was changed in 1991 to honor the late Senator, John Heinz.

Contact person: Suzanne Kelley, (phone), (email)
Office fax number: (215) 365-2846

Address:

8601 Lindbergh Blvd. Philadelphia, PA 19153 (See a map)

Web Site: http://heinz.fws.gov

Directions:

Located at the intersection of 86th Street and Lindbergh Blvd. Public transportation is available to site.   Nearest Bus Stop: 37 and 108 buses/84th and Lindbergh Blvd., 10 minute walk For maps or information, please see http://www.septa.com/

Miscellaneous Information

Are court referrals welcomed?
	No