Who We Are
Mission: To connect people with the animals and plants of the Southern Appalachian Mountain region by inspiring appreciation, nurturing understanding, and advancing conservation of the region’s rich biodiversity.
Since its grand opening in May 1977, the Nature Center has been an integral part of the Western North Carolina community and contributed toward economic growth through tourism in the area. In 2008, City of Asheville residents were surveyed, and 85% felt the Nature Center was very important to the community. 73% felt that it was very important for the Nature Center to expand and/or improve.
As a result, the WNC Nature Center embarked on a journey in 2010 to develop a strategic plan to shape the future of the Nature Center. We’re proud to present VISION FOR THE FUTURE: Highlighting the unique wildlife of the Southern Appalachian region both past and present, the Nature Center will become a true gateway to the incredible world of the Southern Appalachian Mountains.
What We Do
The Friends of the WNC Nature Center create awareness and provide financial resources in support of the Nature Center- Asheville’s Wildlife Park. The Friends are dedicated to providing the resources to support high quality growth of the WNC Nature Center and its efforts to educate the public about the natural history and ecology of the Southern Appalachians Mountains.
