The Nature Education and Wildlife Rehabilitation Center

The Nature Center will provide residents and students with a unique nature experience within an urban setting.  We live in an area rich in natural beauty, but the travel distance to participate in or observe nature excludes many from these experiences.  When this project reaches full development, individuals and families may observe the beauties of this region in a natural state without lengthy travel and large expense.

There are, of course, many public parks that offer wonderfully landscaped and well-maintained grounds.  While these parks provide a tranquil setting for playgrounds, picnics, and the like, one would hardly call these activities “getting back to nature.”  The purpose of the Valley Nature Education Center is not to provide another neighborhood park, but to provide families a peaceful area that evokes an appreciation for nature and an understanding of our environment.  If an activity can be accomplished at a regular park, it will most likely not be accommodated at this site.

The Valley Nature Education Center will also offer outdoor nature experiences to those in our community that have special needs of one kind or another.  The committee has recognized the success of the Flood Control District’s Oso de Oro Park in the City of Fresno; such a park, with a focus on the needs of those with physical disabilities, is possible at this site as well.  All the activities and sights at this location will be designed to accommodate those with disabilities and will allow many of these individuals the opportunity to observe nature in ways otherwise impossible.

In addition to catering to the needs of physically disabled individuals, the committee has expressed an interest in accommodating the needs of the elderly and other special needs groups such as at risk youth.  This project will provide a location for activities focused on the needs of these important groups in our community.

Nature Education

The Nature Center will also reflect a dedication to education.  Not only will the Center allow residents a peaceful area in which to enjoy nature, but it will also play a part in the educational process.  Education was addressed in each of the development committee meetings and discussions frequently revolved around how best to spread “nature awareness” to students, adults, and families as a whole.  Classrooms will be constructed for formal student instruction, a museum dedicated to native wildlife will be open for public viewing, and the grounds will be landscaped with native plants and flowers that will be identified by signs along the pathways.  The Center will play an important role in nature education for the Central Valley.