River Bend Nature Center
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
River Bend Nature Center is a non-profit day-use nature center in the city of Faribault, Minnesota. It was established in the late 1970s as a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people discover, enjoy, understand and preserve the natural world. The nature center encompasses 750 acres (3.0 km²) cradling the Straight River. There are 10 miles (16 km) of formal hiking trails with some also available for skiing, snowshoeing, biking, and snowmobiling. The main Interpretive Center houses naturalist staff, displays, gift shop and the Carlander Nature Library. The Trailside Center is a 3-season programming and maintenance facility. Five peripheral parcels of River Bend are owned by The Nature Conservancy.
Contents |
[edit] Notable Flora and Fauna
The center contains a variety of habitats including wetlands, forests, and more than 55 acres of restored and original prairie. The center contains some specimens of the endangedered dwarf trout lily. There is also a population of wood turtles.
[edit] Programming and Staff
River Bend has a staff which conducts interpretive programs for adults and children throughout the year.
[edit] Location
River Bend is located just off state highway 60 in the southeast corner of the city of Faribault in central Rice County.
