#WorldEnvironmentDay – A Year in Review for the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center

It’s been more than a year since the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center open its doors to the newly renovated exhibit, classroom, and community space in Austin, Minnesota. In honor of #WorldEnvironmentDay, we’re looking back at some of the highlights from the new facility’s first year, ongoing efforts to support the Center as a regional destination for environmental learning, and the nature-based program opportunities for explorers of all ages in the coming months.

REGIONAL PARK + TRAIL DESIGNATION

‍In April of 2017, the Austin City Council voted in approval for the Hormel Nature Center to pursue status as a regional destination. If the application is successful, the 500-acre site and new facility would be eligible to receive hugely impactful funding to continue providing and enhancing the nature-based learning opportunities offered year-round. Check out the full article below:

‍https://www.austindailyherald.com/2018/04/nature-center-seeking-regional-park-trail-designation/

NEW FACILITY + NEW WAYS TO CONNECT WITH NATURE

The new facility’s flexible programming capabilities has allowed the Nature Center to continue providing the diverse community programs and events for which it is well known, now in an inspiring space with additional classrooms and both permanent and rotating exhibit areas. Here’s a snapshot of some of the exciting events and press surrounding the facility in its freshman year, as well as a sneak peek into the Nature Center’s summer line-up of programs!

IN THE NEWS

Water Quality School Field Trip

‍https://www.austindailyherald.com/2017/10/7th-grade-is-all-wet-kids-find-nature-center-and-its-streams-a-great-place-to-be/‍

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“We Are Water” Exhibit

https://www.austindailyherald.com/2018/01/we-are-water-mn-heading-to-austin-exhibit-focuses-on-connections-of-people-and-water/

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KSMQ’s “Off 90” Video Series

‍https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PmiwwQZ5dRc&feature=youtu.be&t=6m30s‍

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ON THE CALENDAR

Daily, June 11 - June 15

Survival Week with Derek Barkeim & Dan Block (ages 13-16)

Daily, June 25 – June 26; July 23 - July 24

‍Nature Photography with John Duren (ages 12-14)

‍July 12

Bill Cagley – Senior Special, Family Program!, and Evening Concert

August 18

Natural Community Art and Talent Show

‍Click here to view the full list of summer events at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center!

‍RECONNECTING COMMUNITIES TO OUR WORLD’S NATURAL LANDSCAPES

‍Whether it be through water recreation and urban trail systems or regional nature preserves and park facilities, investing in meaningful infrastructure can help reconnect communities to nature and the world around them in ways that are strategic and environmentally sustainable. The Jay C. Hormel Nature Center is an example of the Austin community’s ongoing commitment to doing just that, while educating and engaging the next generation of outdoor advocates and enthusiasts.

To learn more about the Nature Center and how its design and construction embodies sustainability in the modern world, check out ISG’s blog post from the building’s grand opening.

#WordEnvironmentDay