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The current displays in the nature center are three dacades old and inadequate to support the educational objectives of the Fullerton Arboretum in providing environmental scientific education to elementary students and their families.
The Fullerton Arboretum's Nature Center is a major point of contact for many visitors and is the heart of education and interpretation at the Arboretum. It is in need of major renovation that will better connect with the educational community and display our core values of environmental education, sustainability, conservation and stewardship.
A significant population in area schools are disadvantaged or non-English speakers and the Nature Centure provides non-traditional hands-on expereience unavailable in a regular classroom. The intent is to expose children to scientific and environmental knowledge that will spark their interest in lifelong education.
The project wil meet the need by providing shadow boxes and display cases that illustrate the flora and fauna and agricultural history of Orange County. These display cases and interactive items will encourage a sense of wonder and excitement about the outdoors and prompt kids to look for the items they see in the cases on the Arboretum grounds and other open spaces. Over 2,000 area third graders, who visit the Arboretum as part of their science curriculum on an annual basis, will benefit from and enhanced Nature Center.
Project start is anticipated to be October 15, 2013 and completed by March 31, 2014. Funds will be used for display cases, basic repair materials (paint, plaster, wood), storage boxes and shed, and scientific equipment needed for hands-on activities.
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