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.
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/
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!
Water Quality School Field Trip
“We Are Water” Exhibit
KSMQ’s “Off 90” Video Series
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PmiwwQZ5dRc&feature=youtu.be&t=6m30s
ON THE CALENDAR
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!
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
Following the 2024 wettest spring on record in the state, flood risks have become a pressing concern for Minnesotans. Whether dealing with damage firsthand, volunteering in clean-up, or feeling the impact in another way, many realize that future planning for intensifying weather patterns is crucial.
Recently, I had the opportunity to join inspiring women leaders from across architecture, engineering, and construction at the AIA WLS. I left feeling energized by the conversations about the history of women in AEC, where we are now, and where we are headed as an industry.
The trend of multi-purpose athletic fields is rapidly growing in K-12 and community sports. This surge is driven by the escalating costs of construction and the increasing need for flexible fields that accommodate multiple sports and extend outdoor seasons.
Is your internet company seeking to expand its high-speed services through Fiber to the Home (FTTH) funding? With 21.3 million Americans—6.5 percent of the population—lacking access to broadband, expanding your services is more crucial than ever in closing the digital divide. While securing funding can be a game-changer, the process is considered by many to be daunting and complex.