Local girl scout, Sierra Ellemberger, has been working for over a year planning, fundraising and implementing improvements to the Echo Bend Camping area.  She has built benches, cleaned up brush with her troop members, and created a second camping area that backpackers can use complete with a food storage locker, fire ring, benches and clearing for tents.  Echo Bend is located 3 miles from the Nature Center along the Historic Iditarod/Crow Pass Trail and is a popular spot for backpackers.  Many thanks to Sierra for all her hard work!

JoAnn Jackson (1937-April 24, 2021) and her husband Francis Jackson spent two winters at the Nature Center as our volunteers in residence.  After their retirement they spent 20 years as full time RVers, traveling from Mexico to Alaska.  They volunteered as campground hosts at 13 agencies throughout 18 states.  The Nature Center was fortunate to have JoAnn and Francis as our full time winter hosts - greeting visitors and helping us in so many ways. We extend our deepest condolences to Francis and their children, grandchildren and family on their loss.