From the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...
The Kansas Wetlands Education Center (KWEC) marked an exciting milestone with a special Great Bend Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting on Friday, September 27th at 12:00pm, celebrating the grand opening of their new interactive feature—the Melody Marsh. Nestled within KWEC’s vibrant pollinator garden, Melody Marsh is an innovative installation of five outdoor, nature-themed musical instruments that welcomes visitors of all ages to connect with nature in a unique and engaging way.
The Melody Marsh, made possible by a generous donation from the Dorothy M. Morrison Foundation, invites guests to explore the harmonious sounds of the outdoors with instruments such as the harmony bells, a bongo drum, cattail chimes, the cyclone (which mimics the sound of rain as it turns), and the sunflower petal drum. Each instrument offers a chance for creative expression while fostering an appreciation for the beauty of nature.
In addition to the musical elements, the Melody Marsh features a concrete parkway embedded with fun animal tracks and a beautifully crafted vinyl fence showcasing two eye-catching murals, painted during KWEC’s summer day camps. Under the guidance of local art teacher Mairaya Starnes, camp participants contributed their talents to bring these murals to life, adding a splash of color and creativity to the area. A third mural, completed during the Butterfly Festival, will soon be added to complete the artistic display.
The Melody Marsh is just one example of how KWEC fulfills its mission of providing visitors with an educational and memorable experience. Located at Cheyenne Bottoms—one of the most ecologically significant wetlands in North America—KWEC is
a collaborative effort between Fort Hays State University, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, and The Nature Conservancy. The center serves as a hub for conservation education and ecotourism, offering programs for schools, families, and nature enthusiasts. Admission to the KWEC is always free, making it accessible for all who wish to explore and learn.
Beyond its exhibits, KWEC plays an active role in the community by providing educational opportunities, supporting scientific research, and promoting the economic impact of Cheyenne Bottoms to the local and state economy. The center is dedicated to offering an inclusive environment for all, ensuring accessibility for visitors with physical disabilities and other special needs.
The Kansas Wetlands Education Center team—Curtis Wolf, Mandy Kern (Program Specialist), Dayonna Nett (Senior Administrative Assistant), and Jim Bowman (Maintenance Technician)—invite everyone to explore the new Melody Marsh and experience the serene beauty of the wetlands. Admission into KWEC is always free and is open April through October, Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and on Sunday from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. From November through March, the center is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm and closed on weekends.
For more information, visit wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu or call 877-243-9268.