Street Audubon Nature Center
The Street Audubon Nature Center, owned by the Lake Region Audubon Society and operated by its volunteers, is a hidden gem located at 115 Lameraux Road in Winter Haven, Florida. Nestled in a quiet neighborhood, the center spans a 42-acre wooded lakefront tract on Lake Ned, offering a serene environment for nature enthusiasts and visitors of all ages.
History and Significance
The Street Audubon Nature Center, housed in a converted 1912-vintage house, has been a significant asset for environmental education and conservation meetings in Polk County for several decades. Established by the Lake Region Audubon Society, the property was deeded to Audubon of Florida in 1970 by Luella Street, the widow of local banker Norman Street. This generous donation led to the establishment of the center, which was dedicated on May 20, 1973, with the intention of advancing the work of the local Audubon chapter that had been chartered in 1959.
Educational Programs and Facilities
The center offers a variety of educational programs and classes for youths and adults, aiming to foster an appreciation for nature and wildlife. It houses a meeting room, a classroom, an exhibit room, a natural history library, and a kitchen. The exhibit room showcases stuffed birds, bird eggs, nests, and other natural history artifacts, as well as the remains of a pre-Columbian Timucuan dugout canoe. The Cooper library contains field guides, wildlife reference books, conservation literature, and vintage Audubon periodicals. Moreover, the property features a demonstration butterfly garden, attracting diverse wildlife and serving as a model for native plant landscapes in home environments. The center’s grounds are open to the public from Monday to Saturday, from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, providing ample opportunities for visitors to engage with nature and wildlife. Read another article.
Conservation and Community Engagement
The Street Audubon Nature Center has been a focal point for conservation and community engagement, hosting events such as Naturefaire, intended to introduce residents, particularly children, to nature through fun and educational activities. The center’s involvement with young people and community projects reflects its commitment to fostering a new generation of environmental stewards. Despite the encroaching suburban development, the center remains a nature refuge, home to diverse wildlife species such as the great horned owl, wood duck, tufted titmouse, and gopher tortoises.
Conclusion
The Street Audubon Nature Center, nestled in the heart of Winter Haven, Florida, continues to be a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering a rich tapestry of educational, conservation, and recreational opportunities. Its serene surroundings, diverse wildlife, and commitment to environmental education make it a cherished resource for the community, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation for the natural world.
For more information, visit the Lake Region Audubon Society’s official website or contact them at 115 Lameraux Road, Winter Haven, FL 33884, or by phone at 863-259-8497.
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