Nature Center
Tama County Nature Center
The Tama County Nature Center is located at beautiful Otter Creek Lake and Park in central Tama County. The 5,600 sq. ft. facility is a popular experiential center serving as the primary location for environmental education activities of the Conservation Board and provides a top quality display room to inspire visitors. The Nature Center has been made possible entirely through use of non-property tax revenues including grants, donations and fundraisers.
A professional Naturalist is available to help plan and host field trips, summer camps, day trips, and more at Otter Creek Lake and Park. Click here for more information on educational programming.
Development
The display room reached completion on July 1, 2016, and provides visitors with many inspiring displays. The key component of the display room is a wrap-around diorama showcasing a riparian ecosystem with native flora and fauna. Children will enjoy our discovery wall and interacting with the exhibits, while adults will enjoy the peaceful sights and sounds of nature in an educational setting.z
The Exhibit Team members serving during planning and fabrication of the exhibits were: Chelsea- Josh Van Hamme, Dysart- David Hill, Cathy Wieck, Gladbrook- Geri Eilers, Montour- Melody Bro, Tama- George Corum, Ginny Elliott, Toledo- Dennis Appelgate, Bob Etzel, Jim Little, Denise Fletcher, and Traer- Yvette Berner, Judy Krebsbach. These individuals have graciously donated their time and talents to assure a quality display component of the Nature Center will be available to Tama County residents and guests.
Nature Center Hours
Open by appointment only
Using the Nature Center
Rental Fee: $250/day with $150 security deposit
While the facility's primary purpose is for environmental education activities, it may also be rented to serve as host site for private events such as training workshops, banquets, weddings and receptions. Overnight stays are not allowed in the nature center. Rentals must be made and paid at least 30 days in advance. For more information on renting the nature center, email tccb@tamacounty.org for an information packet.
