What is it: Park-goers soon will have a new way to learn about and experience nature with the grand opening of The Roger Johnson Nature Center at
Osborn MetroPark. The celebration is scheduled for 11 a.m. Sept. 21 at Osborn MetroPark, 3910 Perkins Ave., Huron.
The new center replaces the Frost Center, which was built in the early 1930s and operated as a prison farm until 1974, according to Erie MetroParks Executive Director Melissa Price. The Frost Center has been used within the park system for about 50 years.
The Roger Johnson Nature Center is named after long-time volunteer and patron Roger Johnson. Johnson and his wife, Diane Hahler-Johnson, have been supporters of Erie MetroParks for more than 25 years, according to a press release from Erie MetroParks.
“Roger loved the outdoors and helping out at Erie MetroParks,” Hahler-Johnson says via the release. “He often brought his grandkids and great niece with him to enjoy and learn about Mother Nature and the parks.”
Project funding: Many local foundations and donors contributed to the Nature Center’s construction, including a $175,000 State Capital Improvement Community Park Grant secured by Sen. Theresa Gavarone, according to a press release from Erie MetroParks.
“The Roger Johnson Nature Center was built with funds from many sources and is debt free to all citizens of Erie County,” says Don Miears, chairman of the park board, via the release. “Additionally, our dedicated staff have worked long and diligently to make this happen on time and in budget. The Nature Center will be enjoyed by all visitors to Erie MetroParks for years to come.”
Why is it important: The new Center will be a benefit to the community, as “it will connect children and adults to nature, which has proven physical and psychological health benefits,” Price notes. “It will foster human connections as we host local schools, community groups, and families within a beautiful, free space.”
Additionally, Price says that the Center will “educate visitors on the importance of protecting our natural environment for future generations.”
How to get involved: After the opening ceremony, the Center will be open for the public. Nature Center houses will be from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday.
The grand opening coincides with Erie MetroParks largest annual event, the Osborn Fall Fest, which will take place from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. with food trucks, vendors, and free fall activities.