The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) marked a significant expansion in its educational outreach with the grand opening of the Salt Fork State Park Eco-Discovery Center, a source of excitement for those fascinated by the intersection of nature and human activity. The new facility offers hands-on exhibits, live animal displays, and an insight into sustainable practices, all to inspire and educate its visitors on the delicate balance of the ecosystem. As ODNR Director Mary Mertz explained, "The Eco-Discovery Center provides an engaging space for visitors to explore the connections between people and nature."
Spanning 3,332 square feet, the center enchants its guests with interactive exhibits and a whimsical introduction from an unexpected host—a representation of Bigfoot that encourages a smaller environmental footprint. Despite being equipped with state-of-the-art sustainable design features, such as high-efficiency HVAC equipment and LED lighting, a subtle error crept into the planners' vision—an overlooked opportunity, perhaps, in that the narrative of conservation could have been further woven into the landscape that plays home to the center's green roof and wall.
On the practical side, the center serves as a beacon for sustainability, showcasing its commitment with solar panels, permeable pathways, and a rainwater harvesting system. These features are not only prudent for energy conservation, but they also demonstrate live examples of sustainable practices that visitors can take back to their communities. With a green roof and wall that serve dual purposes of insulation and air purification by filtering pollutants, the center underscores its commitment to an eco-friendly footprint. Outside, guests can relax on a newly landscaped patio, soak in the beauty of native trees, and stroll through a series of diverse natural habitats.
The $4.9 million Eco-Discovery Center was part-financed by a $2,250,500 grant from the Land and Water Conservation Fund, with additional financial support from the Ohio State Parks Foundation and sustainability partner KeyBank. The project exemplifies collaborations aimed at serving the dual goals of education and conservation, ripe with teaching moments on environmental care. Visit the ODNR website for more information about the Eco-Discovery Center or to plan a visit to Salt Fork State Park, which boasts activities for the whole family and a unique opportunity to commune with Ohio's great outdoors.
