A former trailer for animal control has been transformed into a nature center at Thornwood Preserve.
Greenfield – The new Thornwood Nature Center will open in September, and a grand opening ceremony and ribbon-cutting event is planned.
Greenfield Parks and Recreation will have a celebration at 11 a.m. Sept. 20 at 1707 S. Morristown Pike, Greenfield.
Join the Parks Department, Greenfield mayor Guy Titus and the Greenfield Area Chamber of Commerce for this next evolution of Thornwood Preserve. There will be refreshments immediately after.
The nature center will be open to the public the next day.
According to a press release from the parks department, guests will enjoy several interactive exhibits and educational videos and displays, including a whimsical oak tree which houses a variety of wildlife.
Scotty the river otter, Beatrice the beaver and a wise old owl named Hootie have taken up residence at the new Thornwood Nature Center. The taxidermy wildlife is a key component of the new center, which sits just south of the entrance to the existing Thornwood Nature Preserve.
The department first started the project in 2022, seeking donations to transform a retired animal control trailer into a nature center.
“After many man hours and creative endeavors, the trailer has been transformed into a center that will educate and enlighten guests for years to come,” the press release states.
Next year, parks staff hope to offer a wide variety of events like scavenger hunts, campouts, and a “Night Owl” program with a Harry Potter theme, as well as opportunities to make bird feeders and other nature-inspired projects. The nature center will achieve the Greenfield Parks Department’s goal to grow its nature programming.
Thornwood Nature Preserve is a 40-acre woodland, donated in part by Herb and Judy Brown for the enjoyment of all. This park features seven trails, ranging in difficulty from moderate to rugged; a campground open weekends only; a diversity of habitats, wildlife, birds, native flora and fauna; 13 blue learning posts; three creeks; a suspension bridge; and a variety of family nature programming.
Learn more by calling 317-477-4340 or visiting parksingreenfield.com/events.
