The mission of the Ballard Nature
Center is to provide high quality environmental education to students, educators,
organizations and individuals through visitor interpretation, educational displays,
natural community restoration and management. Environmental education will emphasize
the importance of natural communities and their associated ecosystems especially those
communities found in south eastern Illinois.
Ballard Nature Center Maintains A Web Site
Recreational Trails Grant
For a Bridge and Trail System
This $25,600.00 grant will allow for the placement of a bridge over Second Creek and
for trail signs. Eighty percent of the money for this grant is from the federal
Recreational Trails program with local sponsors, like Illinois Consolidated Telephone
Company, contributing to a 20 percent match.
The nature center has property on the east side of Second Creek (the creek that runs
along the entrance road) that has not gotten much use. The placement of a bridge across
the creek will give visitors access to a trail system that is being developed. As part of
this grant, interpretive trail signs with be installed along the trails.
A wetland was developed on the east side of the creek through WRP in 2002 and signs
have been placed along the wetland through a Wildlife Preservation Fund grant.
After the bridge has been installed, be sure to head across the creek and explore the
new trails.
The Ballard Nature Center consists of 210 acres, including 100 acres of
woodland, 15 acres of restored prairie, 10 acres of shallow water wetlands and 85 acres of
agricultural land.
History of the Nature Center
Ernie Ballard's donation of 210 acres for the site of a nature center
and the funds to construct a visitor center, show of his great generosity, concern for the
environment, and his foresight for the future. He developed a non-profit 501 (C) 3
foundation, in August 1999, to oversee the development and management of the center.
Construction of the log building began in October 1999 and was opened to the public
in July 2000. His gift is a culmination of Ernie's interest in conservaion and
helping people. He and his wife Wanda view the property as a "valuable legacy
for future generations".
The purpose of the Ballard Nature Center is to provide high quality
environmental education, and a place for the enjoyment of nature. Educational
programs have been developed for schools, who come to the center on field trips.
Educational exhibits on Illinois' natural resources have been designed for all ages to
enjoy, and are continuing to be added. Topics of displays include, trees, birds,
bats, insects, and mammals. Adult and family programs are offered throughout the
year, as well as summer nature study classes for children. Prairie restoration,
wetland develpment, and trail development projects are ongoing. Many projects at the
center have been accomplished with volunteer help. The center is a wonderful
resource for 4-H, scouts, schools, and environmental organizations.
Ballard Nature Center receives no government funding, and is supported
largely by donations and memberships.
Ernie Ballard
The 4,300 square foot handicapped accessible building includes a library, office, bird
viewing area, exhibit room, featuring interpretive displays on various interesting
"bits of nature" relevant to the area, and a full basement with kitchen,
restrooms, classroom/meeting rooms. A picnic area and pavilions are available for
reservation, when they become available. The lower level is available for use by
school groups, educators, organizations, and for workshops. Walking trails through
prairie, woodlands, and wetlands are available, and interpretive trails are being
developed.
Director and Naturalist Karan Greuel is on hand each day for those who
wish to visit. If interested in bringing a group for a tour, give Karan a call at
618-483-6856.
Scenes from inside and outside the center
Ballard Nature Center Also Maintains A Web Site
Directions
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From
Altamont: |
Take US Route 40 east
approximately 2.25 miles to entrance on the right. |
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From
Effingham: |
Take US Route 40 west
approximately 8.75 miles to entrance on the left. |
Email us at: bnc@altamont.net
