Par Gil Natural Resources Learning Center is owned and operated by the LaGrange County Soil & Water Conservation District. It was once a 40 acre Christmas tree farm. In 1991 Par Gil was donated to the District for conservation / environmental education. Programs on soil, water, forestry and wildlife are available to all citizen in LaGrange County.
The facility includes a beautiful outdoor pavilion, large pole building (serving as a classroom and office), walking, wagon, tree identification and natural resources trails, scout camping area, pond and wetlands, environmental team challenge course, recycling center, backyard habitat area, memorial tree garden, CRP trees, warm-season grasses planting and primitive sanitary facilities.
The development of the learning center was made possible by the dedication and love for the environment by adult volunteers and staff, plus many Boy Scout and Girl Scout projects. Funding was provided through individual donations, local foundations, a state forestry grant and county funding.
Par Gil is currently used to hold wildlife and conservation programs for school-aged children, Soil & Water Conservation District board meetings, various other meetings throughout the year, and occasional adult education programs. |
