Fort Worth's nature enthusiasts have a new reason to celebrate this Earth Day with the opening of the expanded Marty Leonard Lotus Marsh Boardwalk at the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge. This outdoor shindig will kick off at 10 a.m. on Monday, April 22, at the nature haven located at 9601 Fossil Ridge Road. According to the City of Fort Worth, the walkway is newly decked out in honor of local conservationist Marty Leonard, who's been a staunch ally for Mother Nature in these parts.
The boardwalk expansion is more than just added planks and views—it's a multiphase project that added up to a hefty $3 million greenback. The Texas Parks & Wildlife Department forked over half that cash, while Meta - the tech giant formerly known as Facebook - chipped in $300,000. The Friends of the Fort Worth Nature Center, along with gas lease funds, the center’s coffers, and a slice from the City’s budget pie all helped to fully fund this sprawling addition to Fort Worth's green space.
History buffs might note that Phase 1 of this project first saw the light of day back in August 1978 and has been a local landmark since its dedication in March 2017. The boardwalk keeps getting better, having spruced up the spot with an amphitheater and picnic spots for those looking to snack 'n' learn in the great outdoors. The Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge itself isn't some fly-by-night operation; it's rolling into its 60th year of operation and the Friends of the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge are celebrating a golden 50 years of dedication to the cause.
As one of Fort Worth's crowning jewels, the center isn't just a walking trail—it's a whole lot more with 3,650 acres of nature to its name. The refuge is a heavyweight with designations like National Recreational Trail and National Natural Landmark, not to mention countless guests—80,000 annually, if the numbers don't lie—coming to soak in its natural splendor. As we gear up to officially cut the ribbon on this boardwalk expansion, Fort Worth is able tangibly to celebrate the hard work and generosity of its residents who have made and continue to make these green dreams a reality.
