Roaring Brook Nature Center lauded for work

Contributed story

CANTON — The Canton Chamber of Commerce held its fourth annual “Stars of the Town” celebration and dinner on Nov. 1. The honorees included Roaring Brook Nature Center as the business of the year. The award was presented by Chamber of Commerce President, Gary J. Roman to longtime director of the nature center, Jay Kaplan.

Roaring Brook Nature Center was among the honorees, which also included Claire Cote for service to the community, and Kathy Taylor for service to the business community.

Roaring Brook Nature Center has been a part of Canton’s community since 1948. Started by Una Storrs Riddle as a children’s museum, the nature center grew with the availability of Werner’s Woods being used as a sanctuary and outdoor class room, in 1964.

In 1973 Roaring Brook Nature Center cemented its relationship with The Children’s Museum in West Hartford.

This partnership has allowed for Roaring Brook Nature Center to become a leader in bringing next generation science standards and classes out into the surrounding communities, including those that might not have access to such information.

Housing five miles of trails, the nature center serves as a refuge and rehabilitation clinic to animals of all shapes and sizes. More than 600 have passed through the doors of the nature center. Those that can be, are rehabbed and released. Those that cannot are given or found a home. Native flora and fauna make the experience of Roaring Brook Nature Center complete, as families can tour at their leisure and take in the world around them.

Roaring Brook Nature Center is part of The Children’s Museum Group, a registered 501 (c)(3). Its mission is to increase awareness, appreciation, and knowledge of the natural world, and the interrelationships that exist between people and the changing environment. From yearround educational programs to all ages, seminars, concert series, educational outreach, and selfguided tours, Roaring Brook Nature Center is an educational resource for all. To learn more go to roaringbrook. org or thechildrensmuseumct.org.