As the new Executive Director of Blandford Nature Center, I want to say hello, fill you in on some updates, and invite you to reconnect with Blandford.
You may or may not know that Blandford is no longer supported by the City Museum or the Grand Rapids Public Schools. In 2007, it became an independent, nonprofit organization. It is my hope that people just like you who have experienced what Blandford has to offer will become part of the "Renewed Blandford". Together, we can "blaze a new trail" that will keep Blandford as a natural treasure on the Grand Rapids landscape.
Along with the help of our fantastic staff and board, I am in the process of developing our strategic plan. I hope you will follow our plans for progress, upgrades, and expansions. One of my top goals for 2010 is to reopen on Saturdays so you and your family can enjoy the facility even more.
If you haven't been here lately, consider doing these things:
- Revisit our four miles of trails open year-round (some are handicap accessible).
- Reconnect with Mary Jane Dockeray, Founding Director of Blandford, when she volunteers on Wednesday mornings in the Visitor Center
- View our rehabilitated birds of prey and reptiles and check out the revamped turtle pond.
- Watch the progress our volunteers are making in restoring the log cabin as part of our Pioneer Village.
- Plan to attend our Homestead Holiday on December 12 from 4 to 8pm and our fabulous Sugarbush Festival throughout the month of March.
- Watch the Blandford Farm progress with a new greenhouse and garden expansion in the near future.
I ask you to please stay connected with us as we change and grow.
Comments or questions? You can reach me at 616-735-6240; I would love to hear from you. Thank you in advance for staying connected to Blandford as we blaze a new trail!
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