About Us
Pink Siris by K.P. Wilska
A Common
Goal
On June 1, 1974, 40 individuals who shared a common goal of preserving and protecting the natural and cultural resources found at the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge established the Friends of the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge Inc. as a non-profit organization. The Friends have evolved over the years, from hands-on running of Nature Center programs in the early years to our present function as an organization whose sole purpose is to financially support the Nature Center. Friends members and supporters have made several significant benefits possible for the Nature Center in recent years:
01
Animal Care
Veterinary care for the bison herd and wildlife ambassadors
02
Improvements
Major capital projects, including the Bison Viewing Deck; upgrades at Greer Island; and the Lotus Marsh Pavilion for public, private, and education programs
03
Research
Research studies on trail usage, invasive species, and outdoor education programs that can be customized for schools to improve STAAR science scores
04
Programs
Camp Paddle & Cast program equipment and supplies
05
Native Plants
New greenhouse for native plant propagation and education programs
06
Internships
Intern positions to supplement Nature Center staff and provide career growth for future conservationists
Our Mission
To preserve and protect the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge for future generations
Honey Bee on Redbud by Judy Keown
What We Do
Supporting the Nature Center
Tax-deductible memberships, donations, and sales at the gift shop allow the Friends to provide critical services, programs, and improvements in partnership with the Nature Center. You can learn more about the Friends, including financial information and ways we support the Nature Center, through our most-recent annual reports here.
We should all take the time and opportunity to revel in the beauties and wonders that the Nature Center offers. Visit often, and each time, you will experience new adventures. It will be good for your body — and your soul.
Land Spit by Trinity Arts Photo Club
Leadership
The Friends’ Board of Directors currently has 17 regular members and two emeritus members. The organization is led by an executive director.
It is a blessing to have one of the largest urban nature parks in the U.S. right here in this great city.
Our History
The Friends of the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge officially formed on June 1, 1974, at a meeting of like-minded individuals on Greer Island. Today, the Friends have evolved into an organization whose sole purpose is to financially support the Nature Center, providing more than $3 million in funding since 2017. Visit our history page to learn more about the history of our organization and the founding of the Nature Center.
Need to Get in Touch?
If you have questions or comments, email us at info@naturecenterfriends.org. You can also contact us by phone at 817.932.7335.
