Designated in 1999 by the U.S. National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (GTMNERR) is an important refuge in St. Johns County for endangered species and critical wildlife habitat. The GTMNERR encompasses 55,000 acres of salt marsh and mangrove tidal wetlands, oyster bars, estuarine lagoons, upland habitats and offshore seas.

     Rep. Mica has helped secure more than $1.9 million in federal funds to assist in the construction of a major environmental education center which would serve as an invaluable resource for the study of natural sciences. Rep. Mica attended the grand opening of the new center was held on September 24, 2005.  This facility contains multiple classrooms, an extensive library, teaching and working laboratories, aquariums and touch tanks, and an auditorium to accommodate visiting classes and tour groups.

       Rep. Mica met with over 70 children from the Strong Tower Ministries at the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve Center on July 15, 2006.  During the visit, the children toured many educational exhibits highlighting aquatic animals and the natural environment.