The pride and product of the JSWCD’s successful efforts in the county is its Blue Heron Nature Center. The Blue Heron Nature Center, built through collaborative and community fundraising efforts, was created to address the natural resource education needs of the local community. The goal of the Center is to provide quality environmental education and technical assistance for visitors, teachers, students of all ages.
Constructed in 2000, the 4,200 square foot log cabin Nature Center sits on 10 acres of green space. The Center also boasts a ½ mile nature trail featuring native plants and wildlife, a butterfly garden, a 65 seat outdoor classroom, an indoor classroom that can accommodate 90 people, and an exhibit room displaying local wildlife and historical and cultural resources. Currently, one Center Director and various volunteers provide learning opportunites to approximately 2,000 students annually. Every year, the Center hosts 1,000 to 4,000 visitors, sponsors teacher workshops, and provides access for community clinics, board meetings, conferences, and adult education, among other things.
