Graham Creek Interpretive Center Open House set for Aug. 19
Graham Creek Interpretive Center Open House set for Aug. 19
A ribbon cutting and open house will be held at the Interpretive Center at Foley’s Graham Creek Nature Preserve on Friday, Aug. 19 at 3:30 p.m. The public is invited to tour the new 10,000-square-foot addition that will serve as a welcome and educational center for Graham Creek Nature Preserve. After Sept. 6, the new center will open free of charge to the public Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.
The Interpretive Center will be decorated with wildlife and nature based displays, including several species of reptiles native to the region and the preserve, according to Leslie Gahagan, environmental director. Visitors can get up close to otherwise elusive animals found there, including the American alligator, box turtles, snapping turtles and several nonvenomous snakes. A children’s area will feature seating for enjoying nature-themed books and an arts and crafts corner. The building will also serve as headquarters for the city’s environmental department.
“I am excited to see us offer more opportunities to enjoy Graham Creek Preserve for our community,” said Foley Mayor John Koniar. “The new interpretative center will increase our capabilities to educate both children and adults on this living laboratory of almost 500 acres we have in our city. Thanks to Leslie Gahagan for all her hard work in bringing this center to our citizens, “ said Koniar.
The center will provide a convenient trailhead for already established walking trails and future boardwalk trails. These trails will allow visitors to hike through several ecosystems found in the preserve and a glimpse of the endangered pitcher plant.
With a 2,500-square-foot conference room that can comfortably accommodate 250 guests, there will be plenty of room for large groups. The center can be reserved for field trips, workshops, seminars or weddings. The center also includes a patio shaded by a large oak tree and deep verandas on three sides for outdoor activities. More information is available at grahamcreekpreserve.org.