Environmental Education Center Project

Why We Must Do This

  • Provide Conservation Education- Staff and volunteers reach more than 20,000 people annually, providing outdoor learning experiences to students of all ages.
  • Attract Economic Development and Tourism– The Center will be a significant tourism attraction and welcome center for Jasper County, as well as a hub for promoting the use of all Jasper County Conservation areas.
  • Promote Sustainable Living- Jasper County has defined itself though the production of renewable resources from wind energy to biodiesel. This education center demonstrates conservation and sustainable design through the use of photovoltaic cells, passive solar energy, geothermal, and a living roof. Fulfill a Conservation Dream– This project has been discussed for more than 25 years by past and present conservation community leaders. Now is the time!

What Our Environmental Education Program Does For Jasper County

  • Awaken curiosity about the natural world and involve people of all ages in the outdoors
  • Enhance quality of life by creating an improved conservation ethic
  • Introduce outdoor learning and emphasize best management practices while providing discussion focusing on ecological diversity
  • Provide conservation programming for schools, civic groups, and the general public
  • Present classroom programs as well as presentations and field demonstrations
  • Reach out to all ages, from preschoolers to seniors, to help keep individuals active and continually learning

Making the Dream a Reality

The cost of the building and the site development is estimated at $2.2 million. The Conservation Board will seek local, state and federal grants for the project, but is also seeking individual and corporate one-time donations and multi-year pledges. It is our goal is to have the money raised within five years.

How to Donate

Your tax deductible gift may be a one time donation or a pledge over several years.  You may designate your gift in honor or in memory of a loved one, a gift of $1 million or more will allow for building naming rights.  As a legacy, your donation will continue to serve the public well into the future, as Jasper County residents and visitors to the area will enjoy the facility on a daily basis for years to come!

Jasper County Conservation has partnered with the Jasper Community Foundation in order to facilitate receipt of tax deductible gifts. Contributions can be made to: Jasper Community Foundation, c/o Environmental Education Center Project, PO Box 1332, Newton IA 50208.  Click here to download full informational brochure.