Harris Nature Center Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that garners broad community involvement and long-term support of the Harris Nature Center. The foundation funds programs, exhibits and capital improvements to enrich visitor experience. It was founded by Meridian Township in 2006. For more information, visit www.hncfoundation.org.

Harris Nature Center, 3998 Van Atta Rd., Okemos, comprises 48 acres of a larger Meridian Township park called Meridian Riverfront Park. HNC offers environmental activities and outdoor recreation opportunities that focus on protecting, promoting and interpreting the Red Cedar River. The Harris Nature Center building provides interpretive exhibits, live Michigan animal displays, nature murals by local artists and environmental programs for schools and the public. Park amenities include a half-mile paved trail, several miles of natural trails, the Nature Exploration Area where people can intuitively interact with nature, and a newly constructed pavilion. Also new is a handicapped-accessible observation deck with three commercial binocular stands that offers unobtrusive views of nature and wildlife.

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Photo caption:

Harris Nature Center Coordinator Kati Adams and Tyco the Eastern Box Turtle reveal the canvas design for HNC Foundation’s virtual painting fundraiser. Behind is the 6-foot-tall, climbable turtle sculpture within the center’s Nature Exploration Area.