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The Jackson Bottom Wetlands Education Center

2600 SW Hillsboro Hwy., Hillsboro, OR 97123
(503) 681-6206) FAX (503) 681-6277

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It became clear in 1997 that a formal education center was needed for the enriching field programs and events provided to the northwest community. With the help of generous donations and dedicated volunteers, the Jackson Bottom Wetlands Education Center opened on September 27th 2003. The 12,000 square-foot farm-style building blends well with its natural surroundings with a 3,000-square foot wraparound deck that connects the Center to the trails leading into the Preserve. With over 25,000 people engaged in programs or visiting the Preserve annually, the Wetlands Education Center will provide better opportunities for people of all ages to interact and participate in the rich natural ecology of the Preserve.

History of the Wetlands Education Center

The Jackson Bottom Wetlands Education Center was a key item from the original Concept Master Plan for Jackson Bottom from 1989. The idea was the result of a broad community commitment to create a regional education and research facility at the edge of Hillsboro. The Preserve itself is a regional partnership that brings together individuals, regulatory agencies, major corporations, higher education institutions, non-profit organizations, public schools and civic organizations. These partners recognize that a healthy economy in Hillsboro and the region is directly tied to healthy educational natural resources. The geographic area Jackson Bottom is a 3,000 acre wetland and wildlife habitat, with 710 acres within the Preserve. This area is a valuable resource used by thousands of songbirds, waterfowl, and other animals - but there were few resources available to the human visitor. The Wetlands Education Center provides resources that enhance the experience and accessibility of learning and involvement for citizens of all ages and abilities.In 1992, the Jackson Bottom Board of Directors formed a working group to plan an education and research center at the Preserve. After years of planning, the capital campaign for the center began in 1997. A feasibility study was conducted, and the design of the Jackson Bottom Wetlands Education Center was completed.

The Jackson Bottom Wetlands Education Center is an active field station and gateway to involvement, experiences and hands-on learning in Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve and the community. Every aspect of the Center is intimately tied to the programs of the Preserve. The design for the Center -- the parking area, native plant landscaping, an experimental wetland, a butterfly garden, and even placement of the building overlooking the Preserve, invites active participation by visitors of all ages. The Center is an invitation to the student, the parent, the grandparent, the teacher, the scientist and the visitor to experience the natural richness of Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve and the Tualatin River Watershed. The Center provides opportunities and experiences that are available nowhere else in the region.

The Center encourages active participation to promote learning and participation. Visitors have access to a variety of learning experiences to connect with the resources of the Preserve. Some visitors observe wildlife from a viewing shelter; others visit the Center to interact with the hands-on exhibits; some choose to hike the four-miles of trails in the Preserve. Other opportunities include classes, research projects, education programs and volunteer involvement projects. Volunteers engage in a wide variety of programs, both inside the Center and in the Preserve such as, wetland and habitat restoration, wildlife or bird inventories, leading interpretive walks, trial improvement and as Center Guides who work with visitors in the exhibit area and the nature store.

Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve, Connecting Water, Wildlife and People.

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